Free: InterNACHI's NHIE® Prep Webinar: Roof & Structure

Quick recap

This was a National Home Inspector Exam® prep webinar focused on roof and structural components, presented by Andy Kuszak with AJ from InterNACHI as the media specialist. The session covered 12 questions covering roof coverings, flashings, drainage systems, skylights, and structural components, with detailed explanations of different question types including deep analysis, memorization, and applied reasoning questions. Andy provided test-taking strategies including smart guessing tactics, read-aloud checks, and matching language patterns, while also discussing how to properly report findings without dictating repairs. 

Summary

National Home Inspector Exam Preparation

Andy discussed exam preparation strategies for the National Home Inspector Exam, focusing on question types and techniques to avoid common mistakes. He explained key approaches including identifying "hunting the wrong one" questions, handling true/false statements, and recognizing "loaded words" like "only" and "prohibited." The discussion then moved to specific exam content, covering the roofing section (questions 21-32) which represents 6% of the exam and includes topics like roof coverings, flashings, drainage systems, and penetrations. Andy also clarified that the National Home Inspector Exam content differs from the InterNACHI Florida Home Inspector Licensing Exam, recommending separate preparation courses for each.

Roofing Concepts and Exam Preparation

Andy discussed various roofing concepts and exam preparation strategies. He explained the function of cricket saddles and why they are required for chimneys wider than 30 inches. Andy also covered building code limitations on asphalt shingle layers, roof drainage components, and proper fastening techniques for slate roof tiles. He provided tips for exam success, including how to identify key words like "minimum" and strategies for ranking answers when faced with memorization questions.

Roofing and Flashing Installation Standards

Andy discussed various aspects of roofing and flashing, including the correct gap ranges for wood shingles, the critical location for step flashing, and common defects in flashing installations. He emphasized the importance of identifying improper or failed flashing as the primary cause of skylight leaks and highlighted the need to check for moisture staining and deterioration around plumbing vent pipe penetrations. Andy also stressed the significance of proper flashing installation and the use of temporary fixes like caulk, noting that they are not durable solutions and should be addressed with proper repairs.

Home Inspection Certification Exam Strategies

Andy discussed exam strategies for home inspection certification, emphasizing the importance of carefully reading questions and understanding the context without relying on diagrams, as they are only provided about one-third of the time. He used a specific example about stained and rotting siding to illustrate how to identify the most likely cause, which was missing kick-out flashing, particularly in homes built before 2008 when this requirement was implemented. The session concluded with a brief overview of the exam structure, noting that the current section on structure would cover 8 questions representing 4% of the total exam.

Building Science Foundation Issues Discussion

Andy discussed several building science questions, focusing on identifying causes of foundation and structural issues. He explained that a horizontal crack at mid-height of a poured concrete basement wall most likely indicates lateral soil or hydrostatic pressure, not concrete shrinkage. For a scenario where doors bind in winter and cracks open at the foundation, Andy determined the most likely cause was footings placed above the frost line, allowing frost heave. He also covered topics including garage-to-house fire separation requirements and the proper terminology for short studs under and above windows, identifying cripple studs as the correct answer.

Construction and Inspection Guidelines

Andy discussed various construction and inspection topics, including truss modifications, safe access requirements for attic appliances, and proper installation of anchor bolts and hold-downs. He emphasized that truss modifications require engineer approval with certification paperwork attached, and explained that inspectors should report missing safe access passages rather than dictating repairs. Andy also shared exam-taking strategies including smart guessing tactics, read-aloud checks for grammar, and the importance of not leaving questions blank, encouraging students to trust their initial instincts when unsure of answers.

National Home Inspector Exam Preparation

Andy provided detailed guidance on preparing for and taking the National Home Inspector Exam, including arriving early to the testing facility, doing a practice run, and reducing stress through familiarization with the location. He advised leaving personal items in a locker and following security procedures during the exam. When asked about questions on precast concrete foundation walls and R-value insulation, Andy indicated he hadn't encountered specific R-value questions but noted that the exam may include newer content not covered in the printed study materials, which haven't been updated in about 9-10 years.

Code Standards and Webinar Updates

Andy discussed how code and standards constantly change across different jurisdictions, making InterNACHI the best source for up-to-date information. He explained that while national code changes occur every three years, states and local authorities implement updates at different times, and new products like Simpson StrongTie's brick veneer attachment system may not be immediately recognized in current codes.