Structure Talk

By: Reuben Saltzman
  • Summary

  • Structure Talk is a podcast about houses, home maintenance, home ownership, buying and selling houses, and of course, home inspections.

    The show is hosted by Reuben Saltzman at Structure Tech and Tessa Murry, the House Coach.

    Our podcast is sponsored by Inspector Empire Builder.
    Email us at podcast@structuretech.com

    © 2024 Structure Talk
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Episodes
  • Yes, you can paint stucco (with Dennis Fiorilli from Sherwin Williams)
    Sep 23 2024

    In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, Ruben Saltzman interviews Dennis Fiorilli, the Director of Product Excellence at Sherwin Williams, about a product called Loxon Concrete Masonry Coating. The conversation revolves around the challenges of painting stucco homes and the traditional belief that stucco should not be painted. Dennis explains that Loxon is a breathable coating designed specifically for stucco and other concrete surfaces. It allows water vapor to escape while preventing water penetration. The discussion also touches on the preparation required before applying the coating, the expected lifespan of the product, and other solutions for paint problems on different types of surfaces.

    Takeaways

    Loxon Concrete Masonry Coating is a breathable coating designed for stucco and other concrete surfaces.
    The coating allows water vapor to escape while preventing water penetration.
    Proper preparation, including cleaning and ensuring the substrate is clean, dull, and dry, is essential before applying the coating.
    Loxon Coatings are readily available at Sherwin Williams stores throughout the country.
    Other solutions, such as oil-based primers for wood siding, can help address paint problems on different surfaces.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
    01:04 The Challenges of Painting Stucco Homes
    05:39 Introducing Loxon Concrete Masonry Coating
    08:09 Preparation for Applying Loxon Coating
    15:38 The Lifespan of Loxon Coating
    18:21 Other Solutions for Paint Problems
    25:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

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    24 mins
  • Water Woes with Reuben & Tessa
    Sep 16 2024

    In this episode, Reuben and Tessa share stories about storm damage and water problems in their homes. Reuben talks about door knockers who claimed hail damage on his roof, but he discovered that the damage was not significant enough to warrant an insurance claim. Tessa shares her experience with a leaking on-demand water heater and subsequent water damage in her rental property. Reuben also discusses a water leak in his rental property's basement caused by a clogged condensate pan. Both hosts highlight the challenges and frustrations of dealing with home maintenance issues.

    Takeaways

    Be cautious of door knockers claiming storm damage and offering free inspections, as their assessments may not be accurate.
    Not all granule loss on shingles indicates hail damage, and it does not necessarily shorten the life of the roof.
    Water problems can occur in rental properties, and it is important to promptly address leaks to prevent further damage.
    Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for identifying and resolving issues before they escalate.
    Owning a home or rental property requires being prepared for unexpected maintenance and repair issues.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
    03:01 Beware of Door Knockers Claiming Hail Damage
    12:04 Dealing with a Leaking On-Demand Water Heater
    17:15 Water Problems in Rental and Owned Properties
    21:07 The Importance of Promptly Addressing Leaks
    23:31 The Joys and Frustrations of Homeownership



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    25 mins
  • Foundation Repair Options (with Michael from Standard Water)
    Sep 9 2024

    In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry interview Michael from Standard Water about helical piers. They discuss the process of stabilizing homes using helical piers, the different applications for helical piers, and the cost associated with the installation. They also touch on the benefits of helical piers for decks and the limitations of helical piers for foundation walls with significant bowing or horizontal cracks. In this conversation, Stephen from Standard Water explains different methods for stabilizing foundation walls. He discusses using fortress carbon fiber straps, power braces, and earth plates. He also mentions push piers as a solution for foundation settlement. The cost of these systems ranges from $1,000 to $1,450. Stephen emphasizes the importance of addressing foundation issues early and provides tips for homeowners to monitor cracks and movement. He also mentions the use of benchmarks and laser measurements for long-term monitoring.

    Takeaways

    Helical piers are a popular method for stabilizing homes and structures.
    Helical piers are like giant corkscrews that are driven into the ground using hydraulic pressure.
    The length of the helical piers depends on the depth required to reach a load-bearing strata.
    Helical piers can be used to stabilize various structures, including front porches, garages, and decks.
    The cost of helical piers varies depending on the size and complexity of the project.
    Helical piers are not suitable for foundation walls with significant bowing or horizontal cracks. Fortress carbon fiber straps are recommended for stage one or stage two foundation issues, as long as lateral movement is under two inches.
    Power braces and earth plates are alternative options for stabilizing foundation walls when movement exceeds two inches.
    Push piers lift settled foundations and can be a non-invasive solution.
    The cost of stabilization systems ranges from $1,000 to $1,450.
    Homeowners should monitor cracks and movement in their foundation walls and seek professional help if they worsen.
    Benchmarks and laser measurements can be used for long-term monitoring of foundation stability.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    01:39 What is a Helical Pier?
    06:35 Applications of Helical Piers
    12:23 Cost of Helical Piers
    13:18 Helical Piers for Decks
    17:12 Limitations of Helical Piers for Foundation Walls
    18:23 Methods for Stabilizing Foundation Walls
    20:48 Fortress Carbon Fiber Straps: A Solution for Stage One and Stage Two
    21:36 Power Braces and Earth Plates: Alternative Options for Foundation Stabilization
    23:50 Cost of Foundation Stabilization Systems
    28:02 Monitoring Foundation Cracks and Movement
    29:12 Long-Term Monitoring with Benchmarks and Laser Measurements




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    33 mins

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