1. Essentials of Structure – A Case Study
Presented by:
The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
and
The Chicago Chapter of NACHI
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

2. Essentials of Structure – Basic Framing Members
Column, Post
Beam, Girder, Joist
Plate, Stud, Header, Trimmer
Sub Floor
Plates, Bottom, Top and Wall
Rafter
Ridge board
Roof Deck
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

3. Let’s examine a simple structure to understand the basics.
Essentials of Structure – A Case Study
Let’s examine a simple structure to understand the basics.
Simple, but essential.
An old, revered, beloved and trusted structure, it has faithfully served mankind almost from the beginning of history, bringing much needed relief to all that use it.
It is found in every culture and has passed down, through mankind’s history, virtually unchanged. Functional, yet beautiful.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

4. Essentials of Structure – A Case Study
The Outhouse.
A simple, but essential structure.
Must be durable, sturdy and protect one from the elements at very important times.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

5. Essentials of Structure – Design Essentials
Merging time tested design with modern technology, we can see that the structure is simple.
A square foundation base, 4 posts, a simple roof, wall covering and a high tech seating structure.
The fundamentals!
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

6. Essentials of Structure – Classic Designs
A classic example of the Greco - Appalachian Style.
This is on the National Registry.
Designed by Gropius, it shows the beginnings of the American Bauhaus style.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

7. Essentials of Structure – Classic Designs
An example of Neo-Georgian style. Rundown, but still functional.
This style was first seen in the 16th century and served the Czars.
It is sad to see such a fine specimen so deteriorated.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

8. Essentials of Structure – Classic Designs
An outhouse recently built by the National Park Service. Cost? $750,000
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

9. Essentials of Structure – Classic Designs
This is a fine example of the Craftsman Kansas style.
Note: this is the first use of the ‘shed’ roof style.
Sadly, this classic has sunk into disrepair.
The National Outhouse Conservancy Fund is currently raising money for restoration.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

10. Essentials of Structure – Classic Designs
The first example of outhouse segregation.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

11. Essentials of Structure – Classic Designs
The new and exiting Origami design school. Paper and paper products used in dramatic new ways.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

12. Essentials of Structure – Inspection Points
Key points to remember in outhouse inspection.
Nose clips are essential
Check the venting
Vapor barrier damage?
NEVER check the crawlspace!
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

13. Essentials of Structure – Classic Literature
“There is no boring repetition in outhouses. Each had its own distinctions, either in workmanship, finish, furnishings or aroma, as opposed to the modern convenience in which, though the arrangement may be varied, the necessary components are all virtually identical.”
- Thomas Crapper, 1823
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

14. Essentials of Structure – Modern Design Attempts
The ultimate expression of modern personal hygiene architecture, currently in use in Switzerland.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

15. Essentials of Structure – Construction Details
Simple
Exacting
Elegant
Functional
Everything a structure should be.
Basic, stick built structure. Note the precision detail of the rafters and the ridgeboard.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

16. Essentials of Structure – Master Workmanship
Construction continues as master craftsmen ply a trade handed down, from Father to Son for countless generations.
Never hurry. Take pride in building this edifice to humanity.
Note the fine exterior detailing.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

17. Essentials of Structure – Roofing and Venting
Roofing detail is key. A classic cedar shake roof and a modern venting system assures long life and shelter for all who find relief and comfort within.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

18. Essentials of Structure – Certification of Occupancy
Once completed, this premier privy is moved by highly skilled specialists to its carefully chosen and freshly excavated site.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

19. Essentials of Structure – The Finished Product
Finally, a structure that will serve for mankind for many years and provide comfort to all who use it, long term or short.
Note the addition of another essential modern convenience.
Copyright 2006 National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
National Association of Certified Home Inspectors