ASHI logo
The Inspector
May 2007 - Vol 2, Issue 5
In This Issue
Sign Up
ASHI NE Sponsors
Dear Walter,

Recently a friend and fellow home inspector from the West Coast approached me to join a think tank of some of very intelligent home inspectors from around the country. We talk often about the future of our field and how critical education is -both formal and informal- to this thing we all do: the practice of home inspections. My colleague wants desperately to develop an accredited degree program for home inspectors, and if perseverance counts for anything in this world, I think he just might pull it off. I believe that would be an enormous step forward toward legitimizing our field. And I think it's inspirational.

When I was a kid, the field of home inspections was in its infancy. HI's back then were the white knights of the real estate transaction and there was an element of nobility to it. We existed to protect and educate the consumer. We made our living telling the truth to people who were used to being lied to all day. Maybe it sounds pollyanna, but it was honorable. From time to time, it was even fun.

Somehow, we got away from that, though I don't know how, and I'm not sure when. Maybe our field got too big, too fast, but I don't hear anyone describing home inspections as honorable or noble or fun anymore. It's sad, because we've come a long way, but we could be doing so much better.

Did you get into this field because it looked like easy money? Or did you really just want to make your living putting your skills to work helping other people? I think most ASHI New England members would answer the latter. In fact, I know you would. I would too.

And it's got me to thinking: Beyond doing my best work for my clients, what has been my contribution to the profession? To the Chapter? To the national organization? This field has given me a lot, but how much have I given back? What about you?

Come to our next meeting on May 24th with a fresh set of eyes. Look around and listen. Do you see what I see? I see more new faces than I have in years. I see a couple of folks who haven't even started doing inspections yet coming to our lectures, doing ridealongs, asking -and even answering- questions. I see folks who want to associate with the best in the business in the hopes of becoming one of the best in the business, and that's emboldening. The next generation of home inspectors will be smarter and better than we are today. It feels like things are turning back toward the way they used to be.

What role will you play in building our field? What can you contribute today?
Jim Morrison, President

The ASHI-NE Chapter April 26th seminar was well attended and was a big success, in spite of a "no- show" by one of the speakers. The "Glass Doctor" still has not returned my emails with an explanation - my apology to all who attended. If I learn more, I will let you know.

James Acara from HUD did a great presentation regarding being a HUD inspector. I spoke next about problem recognition and accurate reporting. During the afternoon session Mike Bernasconi from Central Cooling and Heating did a unique presentation by simply answering questions from the audience. His many years of experience in the profession were quickly apparent, and we all took advantage of his knowledge with probing questions. I know I gained a lot of valuable information. Sherman Price was the closer for the seminar and he spoke about the dynamics of the roof structure with slides and explanations regarding the roof truss.

During the evening meeting, John Frye was a powerful speaker who explained all about whirlpool tubs and the red flags to watch for. He certainly is a great information resource for home inspectors or clients. David Ducharme from Total Home Technology spoke next about yesterday, today and tomorrow with a smart wiring presentation that proves I am a dinosaur.

The next Chapter meeting on May 24th should be interesting also. John Woodward from Sandwich Sales Institute will speak about The Business of Making Sales, and the next speaker Matt Knights from FLIR Systems will speak about the latest infrared technology. I have Peter Hotton, the Mr. Fix It Globe Columnist, scheduled to speak in the evening of the June 28th meeting, but I have requested he switch to our May 24th meeting also due to another big speaker coming to our Chapter in June. I am still waiting for Peter's confirmation at this time, but he will speak eventually and maybe we can get some free press in the Globe.

June 28th will be the next full day seminar and evening Chapter meeting. Bob Kille will be with us for the day. He will be teaching and explaining the use of the 3D Reporting System in the morning session and will be speaking on new construction phase inspections in the afternoon.

The big news is that for those who could not get into the state run seminars on the 7th edition of the MA Building Code, I did attend and I approached their speaker and extended an invitation. So, the big news is that Mr. Mark Tibbets from the ICC will be present as the keynote speaker for the evening Chapter meeting on June 28th. He even agreed to tailor a presentation just for our needs. Based on what I learned at the seminar, ALL home inspectors need to hear about the changes in the MA Building Code in order to give accurate information and to cite a credible resource accurately.

The annual Chapter conference is still set for September 24-25 at the Old Sturbridge Village and the Sturbridge Hotel, so mark your calendar for an exciting two days and 12 CEU's and MRC's. Some big names including Doug Hansen (from Code Check), and Ted Benson (the renowned Timber Framer from NH) will be keynote speakers.

In closing, if you know of a good speaker or have a request for a topic of interest, please let me know and I will gladly follow up by sending and invitation on behalf of the Chapter. Thank you to those members who have made and continue to make suggestions for continuing education speakers. FYI, the ASHI NE Chapter is offering 62 MRC's and CEU's for the year, far more than any other ASHI chapter!
Bob Mulloy, Education Chairman

ASAP Environmental

HEALTHY HOMES FOR BETTER LIVING
  • Indoor Air Quality
  • Lead Paint Inspections
  • Mold Testing & Analysis

1 Arcadia St. Dorchester, MA 02122
inspections@asapenvironmental.com
800-349-7779

www.asapenvironmental.com

ASHI logo
Whether it is a restaurant's rooftop patio or a townhouse complex's series of open-air terraces, a dearth of usable space means many urban projects are claiming their roof systems as pedestrian areas. Unfortunately, roofing products are rarely intended for this sort of traffic. Protective carpeting or treated wood can be placed over an assembly, but these materials are still susceptible to damage from the elements. Similarly, applied coatings and fiberglass have been used with limited success due to the inherent deficiencies in the materials themselves. For multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) and light commercial projects, walkable decks finished with heavy-duty polyvinyl chloride (PVC) thermoplastic waterproofing membranes have been used successfully in Canada for several decades, and are now growing in popularity in the United States. However, these systems are not without their limitations, and design professionals must understand the installation considerations.

Problems with deck waterproofing
Often built with a wood or concrete substrate, pedestrian roof decks can be waterproofed using various systems. In 'protected' assemblies, the waterproofed membranes are shielded from the elements by another surface (e.g. concrete pavers, tiles, or wood deck boards). However, these traditional methods can result in numerous problems, ranging from deterioration to delamination, that require costly maintenance and expensive repairs. For example, while treated wood decks can have a unique aesthetic appeal, long-term exposure to moisture can cause decking to split, warp, shrink, crack, and/or rot. Wood assemblies can also be highly combustible and slippery when wet, requiring constant maintenance, regular repainting, and restaining to ensure safety and acceptable appearance. There are also difficulties with paver overlays since the structure has to be designed to accept the additional weight and clearance. Additionally, drainage is critical to the waterproof membrane underneath the paver system, which is difficult to get at should maintenance, repair, or replacement become necessary. In exposed assemblies, the waterproof membrane- either a liquid-applied coating or a PVC product-is left open to the elements. However, since concrete substrates tend to shift in response to daily temperature fluctuations, the use of epoxy, urethane, and acrylic coatings can be challenging. Constant movement can put enormous stress on these waterproofing products, resulting in pinholes, blisters, or surface cracks that allow moisture to penetrate the membrane and cause further deterioration. Even PVC is by no means problem-free. While normal pedestrian traffic should not damage the vinyl, removing snow, moving equipment, or sharp impact can cause mechanical damage, extreme ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure can fade or 'chalk' the membrane, and abrasion can scuff the printed pattern. To combat these issues, roof-grade PVC decking membranes should withstand the same rigorous material standards testing as thermoplastic single-ply roof coverings. In high traffic zones, solid-colored products are recommended to minimize issues of scuffing or abrasion.

Vinyl advantages
PVC membranes are extremely durable-even when exposed to heavy traffic and severe weather conditions, they do not peel, chip, delaminate, or crack. The product offers varying degrees of slip resistance as required for the particular project and can consequently be considered safer than traditional surface materials that become slippery when wet. Walkable PVC membranes are designed and tested to offer a static coefficient of friction (or slip resistance) of: Dry conditions: equal to or greater than 0.50 for leather and equal to greater than 0.70 for rubber; and Wet conditions: equal to or greater than 0.60 for leather and equal to or greater than 0.65 for rubber. Since it is pre-manufactured, the material can be fabric-reinforced to provide additional stability and multi-directional strength. Walkable PVC roof membranes can cost up to 50 percent less than conventional membranes installed with a protective overlay. They also feature benefits in terms of its easy installation and low maintenance requirements - while coated systems can require recoating, vinyl deck systems are maintainable with periodic washing to remove surface dirt. Rougher membranes can require washing with a scrub brush and mild detergent or pressure washing. Regular inspection of caulking and immediate attention to any loose seaming help ensure the PVC membrane lasts for years to come. A properly specified PVC membrane should incorporate mildew inhibitors, be fire-retardant, resistant to chemicals, and meet all building code standards. It should also have UV ray and heat stabilizers to resist the potential of vinyl cracking, embrittlement, and discoloration. While waterproofing is the most significant attribute of a PVC membrane, appearance is also important. Vinyl products come in a wide variety of patterns, colors, and textures geared to diverse needs and budgets that can create complimentary or contrasting borders.

Deflection considerations
The deck's ability to control surface water is affected by several factors, including slope, drip edges, and diverters. For the best performance, the structure should be sloped to eliminate ponding water, while accounting for building shrinkage or settlement. When the deck is designed with the correct slope, water should flow away from the building into a gutter system or over a drip edge away from the exterior wall system. On new construction, wood-frame buildings can shrink as much as 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) per floor, which can result in the balcony sloping in the wrong direction-a situation that can have adverse consequences for controlling surface water. Furthermore, building settling can make things worse if enough slope has not been built in. Nevertheless, given the proper grade-approximately two percent 1:50-a simple drip edge detail is usually the most expedient way of removing surface water from the deck surface. (False fascia detailing can be used to hide the gutter, fascia, railing mounts, and deck slope.) Severe structural damage can occur when the waterproofing detail is incorrect. To address this situation, simple pre-manufactured diverters can be installed and waterproofed to steer water away from adjoining walls and other critical junctions.

Dealing with drainage
Drainage is dependent on flashing, the proper sequencing of moisture barriers, and the detailing of wall openings. Special attention to flashing is important, as incorrect detailing of these elements invariably leads to leaks and water damage. For example, curbs or knee walls higher than 76 mm (3 in.), or higher than a wall opening, result in a 'trapped' deck system that needs special drainage. Should a trapped deck occur, the top plate of the curb or knee wall must slope back toward the deck surface. The PVC membrane should also extend to the line of the outside drip edge, which, in turn, should extend well beyond the building wall surface. Proper sequencing of moisture barriers is critical, and installing the PVC membrane after the wall assembly has been completed almost always leads to failure. In the first step, the vinyl is installed on the floor and extended up the wall at least 152 mm (6 in.), with the actual height dictated by the local building code. Vertical surfaces are then covered by a building paper (or other wall moisture barrier) that overlaps the vinyl by at least 52 mm (2 in.). Horizontal surfaces (e.g. the top of stub walls or solid railings) should be covered with a peel-and-stick membrane, with special attention paid to the 'saddle' where they meet vertical surfaces. Many decks have posts and columns that need proper construction and sequencing of moisture barriers to prevent water from seeping under the PVC. Water may find an entry point in the post itself and get in behind the waterproof membrane. As wood posts or columns can crack and allow water to get into the subsurface, they should be covered with a moisture barrier and then finished with siding. Where the aesthetic effect of a rough-hewn wood post is required, special consideration must be made for post attachment. Curbs, knee walls, posts, and wall openings must be built and detailed to ensure membrane performance. In constructing or modifying door openings, door sills should be sloped toward the deck surface for optimum drainage, and the waterproof membrane should continue into the rough door opening saddle to deflect any moisture intrusion. Building authorities can require overflow drains or scupper boxes on trapped decks to provide a path for water to drain from the deck. Drains and scuppers should be sloped toward the outside, and scuppers should be inserted into the deck surface to prevent ponding. Scuppers are generally quite difficult to detail in such a way that makes them impervious to wind, rain, snow, and structural deflection. Drains should be approved roof products- acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)-shower drains are only acceptable for showers and are unsuitable for any roof deck or multiple-unit residential building (MURB) application. PVC-coated drains or drains with a positive clamping system are suitable to allow water to drain into the building's stormwater system. With PVC-coated overflow devices; the decking membrane can be welded directly to the PVC-coated surface, without caulking.

Drying and durability
Drying can be aided by the use of a rainscreen wall assembly or the venting of trapped air spaces. To reduce moisture buildup, venting of the space underneath decks, balconies, and walkways with a closed soffit or ceiling is especially important. (To be effective, the vent area should have a 1:150 ratio to the insulated ceiling area.) If equal venting cannot be provided at both ends of the joist runs, then purlins should be installed above the joists to allow for cross- ventilation. Some manufacturers also offer snorkel- like deck ventilation systems (with mesh bug screens) that allow for venting of the roof space joists in new and retrofit construction. While drying helps prevent mildew, mold, and rot, the roofing components must also be tough enough to stand up to foot traffic, chemicals, and other environmental conditions. The assembly's durability is affected by the quality of the waterproofing membrane and its overall maintenance. While two membranes can have a similar appearance, the quality of their ingredients can give the product a price differential of up to 25 percent, and a difference in life expectancy of as much as 75 percent. Walkable PVC roof deck membranes have to go through the same rigorous product 'material standards' and 'fire test of roof coverings' as thinner thermoplastic single-ply roofing membranes, respectively: ASTM International D 4434 , Standard Specification for Polyvinyl Chloride Sheet Roofing; and Either ASTM E 108, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings, or Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) 37.54-95, Polyvinyl Chloride Roofing and Waterproofing Membrane. When evaluating a thermoplastic roofing that will face light pedestrian traffic, it should be subjected to additional abrasion and slip resistance testing. Any alternative material, type, or method of construction can be accepted as long as it demonstrates compliance with the performance features of the applicable code. In the United States, the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) evaluates membranes in accordance with AC 39, Acceptance Criteria for Walking Decks. Roof and walking deck membranes can be listed by ICC as 07 18 00 - Traffic Coatings or 07 54 00 - Thermoplastic Membrane Roofing. Waterproofing membrane products must also be manufactured under an approved quality control program with visits by an inspection agency under the International Accreditation Service (IAS). It is also important to ensure the compatibility of the waterproofing system's components (e.g. membrane, tapes, sealants, adhesives, drains, scupper boxes, flashings, and perimeter fastening devices). With proper care and cleaning, waterproof PVC membranes can be expected to last for 10 to 15 years or more. De-mountable flashing systems are one way to reduce the deconstruction required when one must eventually repair or replace a membrane. These systems are easy to remove, and allow the PVC to be repaired or replaced quickly and easily with minimum destruction. Membrane and trim panels can be replaced without disrupting the existing wall system and doors, which means one need not remove the siding or stucco or compromise the second waterproofing job

Pre-installation decisions
For best results, installation and seaming plans showing joints, termination details, and material interfaces should be prepared, along with two labeled samples (216 x 279 mm [8.5 x 11 in.]) of the specified PVC membrane illustrating finish, pattern, color, and backing. At least one week before installation, a pre- installation meeting should be held involving the client's representative, manufacturer's representative, contractor, and installer to discuss pedestrian deck waterproofing practices, as well as any precautions applicable to the specific project. When it comes to the actual PVC product used for the roof deck system, there are several factors to keep in mind. It is important to specify a polyester-reinforced PVC membrane with UV resistance for fully adhered installation with heat-welded seams and perimeter attachment. One must always specify overall sheet thickness, as well as width and color. With the exception of cap flashings (which are typically manufactured and installed by other parties), all perimeter fasteners and PVC-coated metal scuppers, overflow drains, roof drains, and trim should be provided by the membrane manufacturer. Whenever possible, the color of the perimeter fasteners should be coordinated with the membrane. Prior to installation, an examination should be conducted to verify the existing deck is secure and solid in accordance with local code structural requirements, and that the surface is clean and smooth, free of depressions, waves, and projections, and properly sloped to drains, valleys, and eaves. Any joints, voids, or low areas of a wood deck should be filled and sanded smooth. Any surface imperfections or variations on a concrete deck should be filled with leveling compound and the surface cleaned of any contaminants.

System installation
This author recommends walking membranes be adhered directly to the structural deck, either concrete or plywood. In wood-frame construction, this can be achieved under typical 'cold roof' design, with the batt insulation installed between the roof joists. In concrete's case, when the insulation is applied atop the slab, this author recommends the plywood substrate be fastened to wood blocking/sleeper/purlins. The concern is when the insulation is sandwiched between the plywood layer and the structural deck, it could compress (even in the case of high-density expanded polystyrene [EPS]), allowing the fastener to ride up and create a 'nail pop'. Before the product hits the deck, there needs to be a thorough examination of the space to be covered. Sanded plywood or cement board provides the best finished surface possible. For the flattest face, it is recommended to use minimum 16-mm (0.63-in.) and preferably 19-mm (0.75-in.) plywood-anything thinner can warp due to the material's absorption of moisture from the atmosphere. The deck must also be secure, well-supported, clean, smooth, and properly sloped to drains, valleys, or eaves. PVC deck membranes should not be applied directly to treated structural deck panels. Additives used in the various factory- applied treatments have caused 'backup' staining in the past. When pressure-treated plywood is required for deck construction, this author recommends an overlay with the aforementioned recommended plywood. Surfaces and site conditions should be ready to receive the PVC membrane, and conform both to the membrane manufacturer's requirements and to local building code standards. If problems are seen, the installation consultant must be notified, with further inspection necessary in cases where a waterproof PVC membrane is being installed over an existing system. The deck must be thoroughly inspected for rot, weakness/delamination of plywood, loose panels, or spalling concrete hidden under the existing waterproofing membrane. The surface must then be prepared. For wood decks, this mean filling in joints, knot holes, voids, and low areas with filler and sanding until a smooth surface is achieved. For a Class A fire-rated application, a plywood deck should be covered with a cementitious board that meets all requirements. For concrete decks, surface imperfections and variations must be filled with leveling compounds. It is also important to test for-and remove-surface contamination. Waterproof PVC membranes should not be installed when temperatures are below -4 C (25 F), above 37 C (98 F), or when winds are more than 48 km/h (30 mph). To ensure adequate adhesion, installers should glue a small test patch of the PVC membrane (about 0.2 m2 [2 sf]) to the existing surface. After 24 hours, the adhesion should be checked. If there are any concerns about the membrane's ability to bond to the existing surface, the coating must be removed and the deck resurfaced with a suitable underlay. The process of seaming two sheets of PVC membrane together is the most critical element of a PVC system. The vinyl sheets should be overlapped and heat-fused, with the membrane affixed to the substrate with as few seams as possible. However, all seams should be extremely strong and visible. Offering invisible butt seams, as has been done in the past, compromises the waterproofing. To allow for a strong, hot-air-welded seam, adjacent membranes should overlap by a minimum of 19mm (0.75 in.). It is important to remember proper fusing cannot take place when the back of the overlapping piece of PVC has been glued. Seam strength and integrity should be checked every few feet-if the seam comes apart, the welding is incomplete and must be redone. Extreme care must be used when welding a PVC membrane where the seam runs into a 90-degree corner and vertically up a wall or over an edge. All wall and corner seaming must be carefully inspected for pinholes. A strip of PVC can be welded on top of any critical junctions for added security. Although building papers do not cause an issue, asphaltic products (e.g. peel-and-stick membranes) must be separated from PVC membranes with metal flashing, asphalt-compatible modified thermoplastic membrane, or aluminum foil tape. On projects where the deck is to be used as a staging area for other trades, protective panels should be applied over the finished membrane.

PVC and metal
For a roof deck installation with PVC and metal elements, the inside back corner and outside front corner of the PVC membrane are folded and welded, rather than cut. Galvanized flashing with a PVC clip holds the membrane in place, as does a roof-quality drain with clamping ring. Colored metal flashing is also used to hold the PVC membrane in place and prevent it from curling or shrinking.

PVC and coated metal
For a roof deck membrane installation featuring PVC and coated metal elements, the PVC membrane is heat-welded to a PVC-coated flashing that provides a drip edge at the outside perimeter of the deck surface. The membrane is also heat-welded to a PVC- coated scupper box and a PVC-coated overflow drain-both allow drainage, even for trapped or curbed decks.

L-trim
In some roof deck membrane installations, a metal L- trim is used to secure the PVC membrane to both the outside and inside edges of the deck, balcony, or walkway surface, and extended up the wall by a minimum of 152 mm (6 in.) to meet some building codes. To ensure a waterproof installation, the PVC membrane is overlapped by the building paper and exterior finish.
By: John Ogilvie
FREA

E&O Insurance for Home Inspectors
  • Best Rates
  • Lowest Deductible

800-882-4410
www.frea.com
ASHI logo
Cape Cod Lumber Co. at 403 Bedford St in Abington, MA has announced dates for their very successful "Architectural Luncheons and Educational Seminars" for 2007. Classes are 11 am and 1 pm (1 hour each class) and are held at the above location. Lunch will be provided from 12-1 pm.

May 23rd 11:00 "Changing Codes Impacting Your Life" presented by Marvin Windows and Doors
This presentation covers hurricane history information and the forces driving code development. It also covers International Residential Code, IBC and IECC and construction solutions.
1:00 "AAMA 2605-02" presented by Marvin Windows and DoorsThis includes information on AAMA 2605 specifications and how to compare them. Explains the tests that the product must pass, details why finishes fail and how you can achieve a more durable finish than typical 70% Kynar.

June 27th 11:00 "Engineered Lumber" presented by Bluelinx
Learn about its benefits, how to size, use, installation and how it compares to regular lumber. Also addresses new code changes.
1:00 "Hardy Frame Shearwall" presented by Bluelinx
This class will be addressing new code changes, specifically Chapter 6 referring to shearwall-wall bracing.

For further information and to register please call 800- 698-8225 ext. 7120 or email registration@cclco.com.
l
CORCORAN & HAVLIN INSURANCE GROUP

THE SUPERIOR HOME INSPECTOR ERRORS & OMISSIONS INSURANCE PROGRAM!
Underwritten by AIG's Lexington Insurance Company - Rated A++ by A.M. Best

Home Inspector E&O Coverage offers these features:
  • Claims Made Policy Form
  • Prior Acts Coverage Included @ No Additional Premium
  • Pest Inspection, Premises Liability, Radon and Commercial Inspections Available
  • Additional Discounts For Firms With More Than Two (2) Inspectors

For a quote or more information, please call Debi Drury (x244 or ddrury@chinsurance.com) or Mike Curtis, Marketing Manager (x243) or visit website at www.chinsurance.com

287 Linden Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
800-304-8242
Fax 781-235-7190
Flooding is a serious problem in some parts of the country. Are your clients aware of where their homes (or soon to be homes) are located?

First American Flood Data Services is the leading information provider of flood risk analysis throughout the U.S. We offer nationwide flood analysis reports reflecting FEMA flood hazard information, including the flood zone status and distance to zone. Contact us to learn how to expand your business - and your profits - with a flood analysis for your clients.

ASHI and First American have partnered to offer ASHI members the opportunity to build their business and increase profits with First American's Flood Analysis services. A Flood Analysis report from First American adds value to a standard inspection report by illustrating the following:
·An aerial view of a property
·Whether or not a property is located within a high- risk flood zone
·Whether or not a property is located within 1,000 feet of a high-risk flood zone
·If the community currently participates in FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program
CRACK-X

Got water in your basement?
Since 1985, CRACK-X has been a full service company specializing in residential and commercial foundation welding of cracks and other concrete repairs such as bulkheads, penetrations, cold joints, elevator pits, and slabs. We are committed to 100% customer satisfaction and back up all vertical wall crack repairs with an unconditional 10-year warranty.

25 Washington Avenue, Natick, MA 01760
877-272-2539
www.crackfx.com
B-Dry Systems

20 YEARS OF SOLVING WATER PROBLEMS
Written warranty for the full life of the structure.

800-320-2379
The National Fire Protection Association will hold its World Safety Conference & Exposition on June 3-7, 2007 in Boston at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. This annual conference will have 156 select education sessions, dozens of case studies, changes, and code update sessions. All education topics are based around the four points of security, electrical, building and fire & life safety. In addition there will be more than 250 exhibitors.
Vent Master

ATTIC VENTILATION SPECIALISTS
Inspectors, when you see signs of:
  • Excessive Heat Build-up
  • Ice Dams
  • Damaged Roof Shingles
  • Peeling Paint
  • Mod, Rot & Mildew

Recommend Vent Master

For a FREE consultation, call Don Marcoux at Vent Master
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Coast Spas with Franklin Electric Motors
Units: 8,000
Spa Manufacturer: Coast Spas Manufacturing Inc., of Langley, British Columbia, Canada
Motor Manufacturer: The Engineered Motor Products Division of Franklin Electric Company Inc., of Bluffton, Ind.
Hazard: The recalled spas have a circulating pump and motor assembly, which can overheat and pose a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Coast Spas has received 30 reports of spa fires. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recalled spas were manufactured from January 2002 through October 2004. Only spas manufactured during this time frame with either red or yellow pump and motor assemblies are included in this recall. The spa manufacturer's name and date code and the pump and motor assembly can be located in the spa compartment as shown below. Consumers can access this compartment by lifting out the compartment door and setting it aside.
Sold at: Spa dealers nationwide from January 2002 through October 2004 for between $7,000 and $15,000.
Manufactured in: The spas were manufactured in Canada, and the motors and pump assemblies were manufactured in the U.S.
Remedy: Consumers should contact Coast Spas immediately to arrange for the installation of a free retrofit by a service technician.
Consumer Contact: For more information, consumers should check the firm's Web site at www.spamotorretrofit.com, or call Coast Spas toll-free at (877) 534-5255 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.
Peter Greifer Enterprises

ASBESTOS REMOVAL & MOLD REMEDIATION
Serving Eastern Massachusetts & Rhode Island

800-582-5288
401-946-4506 (Rhode Island)
peter.greifer@verizon.net
The ASHI NE Chapter maintains a library of educational books, video tapes and CD's for Chapter members and candidates to utilize for personal and business growth. Those who wish to sign materials out may do so for a fee of $16 per item ($10 per tape) which covers two-way shipping and handling. Library materials may be used for a two week period, beginning on the date of shipment. Those who fail to return library materials on time will be assessed a fine of $1 / day. If the materials are not received back within two months of date of shipping, you will be charged the cost of replacement. To sign materials out, there is a form that is posted on our web site that is to be completed and sent to the executive office. It is always recommended that you call the executive office to check on the availability of an item. Once this form is received, the executive office will ship the items out with a postage paid return envelope. The list of the materials that are currently available in the chapter library is on the web site as well.
Rene Mugnier Associates

When in doubt, refer to a structural engineer specializing in the investigation of homes and commercial structural problems.
REHABILITATIONS & INVESTIGATIONS
  • Evaluations of Structures
  • New Construction of All Kinds
  • Expert Witness

777 Concord Ave., Ste. 201, Cambridge, MA 02138
617-547-7773
The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Home Inspectors holds meetings on a regular basis that are open for home inspectors to attend. These board meetings are usually held at 239 Causeway Street, 2nd Floor, Room 204 in Boston from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

The upcoming meeting dates are as follows:
June 20, 2007
August 8, 2007
September 12, 2007
November 14, 2007

You are encouraged to call the board office at 617-727- 4459 for any posssible changes in location and time of these meetings.
ATLAS Logo
Atlas Watersystems

WE DON'T MAKE THE WATER.
WE MAKE THE WATER BETTER!!

Residential & Commercial Water
Filtration & Purification

Water Testing & Analysis
Radon & Arsenic Remediation
Softeners * Filters * Purification


800-215-9966
www.atlaswater.com

"Bringing Technology to Water"
President Jim Morrison / james_morrison@earthlink.net

Vice President Mike Atwell / m.atwell@rcn.com

Secretary Lisa Alajajian / homequest1@comcast.net

Treasurer Tom Towle / tom@hdbco.com

Immediate Past President Paul Kristenson / absinspections@comcast.net

Directors
Paul Cornell / pcornell@inspecthouses.com
Paul Rogoshewski / paul@harmonyhomeinspection.com

Council of Representatives
Paul Kristenson / absinspections@comcast.net
Lisa Alajajian / homequest1@comcast.net
Bill Sutton / wsuttoninspector@hotmail.com

Committee Chair
By- Laws: Mike Atwell / m.atwell@rcn.com
Communications: Mark Forkey / mark_forkey@msn.com
Education: Bob Mulloy / rmulloy@verizon.net
Legislative: Jim Morrison / james_morrison@earthlink.net
Membership:Ernest Simpson / esimpson@evergreenhomeinspection.com
John Romano / romanohomeinsp@aol.com

Executive Director Walter Perry / wperry@choiceonemail.com

We look forward to seeing you at our chapter meeting on May 24th.

Sincerely,


ASHI New England

phone: 800-248-2744

Forward email

This email was sent to wperry@choiceonemail.com, by clough@choiceonemail.com

ASHI NE Chapter | 53 Regional Drive | Suite 1 | Concord | NH | 03301