Most fire damage is obvious where the wood has charred or been consumed, the steel is deformed, the masonry exhibits a pink hue and spalling, the concrete exhibits a pink hue and punky sound when struck with a hammer. But… Read More
News & Resources
Threshold Vehicle Impact Damage
Most damage to a building resulting from a vehicle impact is relatively obvious because it is so severe; however, as the severity of the damage diminishes at distances farther from the point of the impact discerning vehicle impact damage from… Read More
“Blessed is the Nation….”
On this 243th commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence let us remember this forgotten truth: ………… “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. From heaven the LORD looks… Read More
A Few Ways NOT Fasten Shingles
This is how NOT to fasten common asphalt shingles: With a nail driven at an angle, thus, reducing the pull through strength and causing a hump that lifts the overlying tab. With nails over driven so that they are cutting… Read More
You Can’t Do THAT
We have been told by some masons that a new concrete block wall can’t be toothed into an existing concrete block wall. Well…… Yes and No. Apparently, it can be done, as shown in Figure 1. However, since the new… Read More
Memorial Day – 2019
On this Memorial Day, as we remember those who have given the full measure of devotion for freedom from tyranny on behalf of their fellow Americans, (May they rest in peace), . Let us not forget that the Creator Himself… Read More
What Can We Tell From These Photos? (Case Study 19)
The roof surface exhibits a deep trough near scupper through which the roof drains. The roof runoff can’t drain off the roof until it fills and overflows the trough. The trough has been present for months, as evidenced by the… Read More
What Can We Tell From This Photo? (Case Study 18)
One of my favorite sayings is, “When something doesn’t look quite right, it probably isn’t.” This maxim has served me well, both professionally and personally. Some would probably call it “instinct” or “the subconscious mind.” Whatever it is called it… Read More