One Thing HGTV's Mike Holmes Insists On For Passing A Home Inspection

Ensuring a deck passes its final inspection, particularly regarding newel post integrity, is crucial for both safety and code compliance. Newel posts, which are foundational to the railing system, must be securely anchored to the deck's framework. A poorly secured newel post compromises the entire railing, reducing it to a merely decorative feature rather than a functional safety element. Building inspectors are meticulous about checking the stability of these posts, often employing a method akin to a 'bump test' to assess their robustness. This involves applying significant lateral pressure to the post to ensure it withstands force and returns to its original position without yielding. Different types of railing systems dictate varying methods for securing newel posts. For aluminum and PVC railing systems, newel posts typically come with a molded flange at the base or a steel insert with an integrated flange. These designs require strong, adequately sized screws, generally 5/16" to 3/8" in diameter and six to eight inches long, to fasten the base to the deck. Crucially, these screws must penetrate solid blocking underneath the decking material, not just the deck boards themselves, to ensure a firm hold. The absence of solid blocking means the screws would only anchor into thin decking, leaving the post unstable. Local building supply dealers are a valuable resource for specific screw recommendations tailored to regional building codes and material specifications. For PVC and composite railing systems that utilize a sleeve over a 4x4 treated post, the 4x4 lumber provides the primary structural support. In these cases, it is often recommended that the 4x4 posts extend below the deck surface and are securely tied into the joist system. This deeper integration provides enhanced stability compared to surface-mounting. While some specialized systems, like the Titan mechanism, allow 4x4 wooden newel posts to be securely surface-mounted, they still necessitate a steel base flange hammered into the 4x4 and solid blocking underneath. The Titan mechanism essentially recreates the secure anchoring found in aluminum or PVC newels, ensuring the post is firmly affixed to the deck structure. Conversely, less robust methods, such as toe-nailing or drilling a few screws up through the decking planks from underneath to surface-mount a 4x4 wooden newel, are generally inadequate and unlikely to pass inspection. These methods do not provide sufficient long-term stability and will almost certainly fail the 'bump test.' This test, performed by building inspectors, involves applying substantial lateral force—up to 200 pounds—to the upper part of the newel post. The post must demonstrate resilience by returning to its original level state without significant deflection or loosening. Failure to meet this standard means the homeowner may be required to dismantle and re-install the entire railing system to meet safety and building code requirements. Therefore, it is imperative for homeowners to follow engineering instructions precisely when installing newel posts to ensure a secure and compliant deck railing system. #DeckConstruction #NewelPosts #BuildingCodes #HomeImprovement #DeckInspection #RailingSystems #HandymanTips

When viewing rental apartments, especially in space-constrained cities like New York, it is highly advisable to bring a measuring tape. This seemingly old-fashioned tool can prevent numerous inconveniences and identify potential design flaws that might not be immediately obvious. New York City apartments are notoriously small, and designers or landlords may compromise on functional aspects to maximize the number of units. This can result in shallow drawers, cabinets incapable of holding standard items, or closets too narrow for full-sized hangers. Such issues are prevalent in both older, reconfigured units and new constructions. A measuring tape serves several critical purposes. Firstly, it helps assess whether existing or new furniture will fit comfortably. Many individuals overlook this step, leading to issues with oversized items. The current supply chain challenges further emphasize the importance of immediate measurement, as it allows for prompt ordering of furniture. Without a measuring tape, one might find a living room too cramped to accommodate a couch, chair, desk, and dining table, or realize a television placement blocks a window. It is also crucial to avoid being overly attached to large pieces of furniture that disrupt the apartment's balance, even if they are family heirlooms, as temporary storage might be a better solution. Secondly, a measuring tape is essential for verifying if a bedroom meets legal size requirements. Unusually shaped rooms with angled walls can be deceptive, and a quick measurement can confirm if a bed will fit with adequate clearance. Beyond two means of exit (a door and a window), a legal bedroom must have a minimum ceiling height of eight feet and a floor area of at least 80 square feet. Additionally, the placement of radiators and heating vents needs consideration; a bed placed too close can block heat or pose a burn risk. Ensuring sufficient electrical outlets is another safety concern, as excessive extension cords can create hazards. Thirdly, closet functionality can be thoroughly checked. Limited closet space is common, and many closets are too shallow for standard 17-inch clothes hangers. Measuring the depth can confirm this, allowing potential renters to prepare for alternative storage solutions, such as using children's hangers or storing clothes at an angle. The swing of closet doors is another important detail; measuring their width and arc helps determine the maximum bed size that can be accommodated. If a door poses an obstacle, removing it and installing a curtain, with landlord approval, might be an option. For apartments with minimal or no closets, creative storage solutions like platform beds with under-bed storage or utilizing kitchen cabinets for non-kitchen items might be necessary. Fourthly, kitchen specifics, particularly drawer depth, can be examined. Small kitchens often present unique challenges, such as high shelving or inconveniently opening refrigerators. While some issues are evident without measurement, pulling out drawers and measuring their depth can reveal practical limitations. Drawers with a depth of two inches, for example, are less practical than those of three or four inches, potentially preventing standard silverware caddies from fitting. Cabinet depth is also critical, especially in older or less expensive units where oversized plates might not fit. It is also important to verify that what appears to be a cabinet is actually functional storage, as decorative panels can sometimes be misleading. For renters with limited kitchen space, purchasing bulk groceries can lead to clutter, emphasizing the need for mindful shopping habits. Finally, measuring windows is important because landlords are not typically required to provide curtains or blinds. New York City windows often come in non-standard sizes, leading renters to repeatedly purchase ill-fitting window treatments. Measuring windows before moving in can save money and frustration. Although landlords typically do not provide window screens, there are inexpensive and readily available window treatment options that can be explored once accurate measurements are known. By taking these measurements, renters can gain a clearer understanding of an apartment's practical living conditions and avoid unexpected problems after moving in. #apartmentViewing #measuringTape #NYCRealEstate #rentalApartment #furnitureFit #legalBedroom #closetSpace #kitchenStorage #windowMeasurements