In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Eric Larson and Jaden Jaloon to discuss the impact of mold on homeowners. Jaden shares his personal experience of discovering mold in his newly built home and the health issues it caused for him and his wife. They discuss the importance of mold testing and remediation, as well as the genetic factors that can make some individuals more susceptible to mold toxicity. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and education about mold and its potential health effects. The conversation explores the topic of mold testing and inspections in homes. Jaden shares his personal experience with mold-related health issues and the challenges he faced in identifying the problem. The discussion covers different types of mold tests, including urine mycotoxin tests and blood tests for mycotoxin antibodies. The importance of comprehensive mold inspections, including evaluating moisture intrusion and humidity levels, is highlighted. The conversation also emphasizes the need for increased awareness and testing for mold in homes.

Takeaways

Mold can have serious health effects and should be taken seriously
Mold testing and remediation are crucial for maintaining a healthy home
Some individuals may be more genetically susceptible to mold toxicity
Awareness and education about mold are important for homeowners Mold-related
health issues can be difficult to diagnose and often go unnoticed.
Common mold tests include urine mycotoxin tests and blood tests for mycotoxin antibodies.
Comprehensive mold inspections are essential, including evaluating moisture intrusion and humidity levels.
The ERMI test is recommended for screening houses for mold.
Increased awareness and testing for mold in homes is crucial.

Chapters

00:00 Introductions and Background
07:55 Mold Testing and Results
15:22 Treatment and Recovery
32:19 The benefits of offering mold testing
38:44 The comprehensive nature of mold inspections

In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, Reuben and Tessa discuss gas leaks and how to detect and document them during home inspections. They talk about the different tools and methods used to find gas leaks, including electronic gas detectors and liquid soap. They emphasize the importance of only reporting gas leaks when there is definitive proof, such as the presence of bubbles. The conversation also touches on the challenges and frustrations home inspectors face when dealing with gas leaks. The conversation discusses the issue of gas leaks and the differing perspectives between home inspectors and gas companies. The hosts share their experiences with finding gas leaks during inspections and the challenges of getting them addressed. They highlight the importance of distinguishing between minor leaks and emergencies. The hosts also discuss the frustration of inconsistent responses from gas company technicians and the need for better communication and understanding between home inspectors and gas companies. They express hope for improved procedures and increased safety for homeowners.

Here is the link to the product that we talk about:
https://structuretech.com/toptes-pt205/

Takeaways

Gas leaks can be detected using electronic gas detectors or by using liquid soap and looking for bubbles.
Only report gas leaks when there is definitive proof, such as the presence of bubbles.
Gas leaks are relatively rare during home inspections, but it is important to be thorough in checking for them.
Home inspectors may face challenges and frustrations when dealing with gas leaks, including skepticism from gas companies and irate sellers. Gas leaks found during home inspections are often minor and do not pose an immediate threat.
Calling the gas company is necessary for emergency situations, but for minor leaks, hiring a plumber is sufficient.
There is a lack of consistency in how gas leaks are assessed and addressed by gas company technicians.
Better communication and understanding between home inspectors and gas companies is needed to ensure the safety of homeowners.
The issue of gas leaks requires ongoing attention and efforts to improve procedures and increase awareness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
04:55 Discussion on Fluoride and Cavities
05:02 Detecting and Documenting Gas Leaks in Home Inspections
09:14 Tools and Methods for Finding Gas Leaks
13:56 The Importance of Definitive Proof in Reporting Gas Leaks
15:48 Challenges and Frustrations of Dealing with Gas Leaks
16:15 Understanding the Severity of Gas Leaks
21:23 Inconsistent Responses from Gas Company Technicians
23:37 The Need for Better Communication and Understanding
29:37 Working Towards Improved Procedures and Safety

In this conversation, Reuben and Tessa discuss various home improvement projects that Reuben has undertaken, highlighting both successful and unsuccessful experiences. Reuben shares stories about remodeling his story and a half house, including a catastrophic water leak, as well as his bathroom remodel hacks. He also talks about installing a point-of-use water heater and a urinal in his basement office. The conversation emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and being persistent in home improvement projects. In this conversation, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Marie discuss various home improvement projects and experiments, including installing a urinal in the basement, dealing with Christmas lights, testing air admittance valves, and using solar tubes for natural lighting. They share their experiences, successes, and failures, providing valuable insights and tips for homeowners and inspectors.

Please check the link below for the video about Air Admittance Valves:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9zhu_9ZdxI&ab_channel=StructureTechHomeInspections

Takeaways

Home improvement projects can have both successful and unsuccessful outcomes.
Learning from mistakes and being persistent is key in home improvement.
Remodeling bathrooms can include installing speakers, mirrors with built-in lighting, and in-floor heating.
Installing a point-of-use water heater can provide instant hot water and save energy.
Adding a urinal to a basement office can be a convenient upgrade, but caution is needed when drilling holes in floor joists. Installing a urinal in the basement can be a fun and unique addition to a home, but it's important to consider functionality and aesthetics.
When installing a urinal, it's essential to ensure proper plumbing and water pressure to avoid leaks and ensure a good flush.
Christmas light installations can be challenging and time-consuming, but with proper planning and equipment, they can create a beautiful and festive display.
Testing air admittance valves can help understand their functionality and potential issues, such as leaks and sewer gas escape.
Solar tubes can be a cost-effective alternative to skylights, providing natural light in rooms without windows, but proper insulation and installation are crucial to prevent condensation and heat loss.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Topic
06:29 Lessons Learned from a Catastrophic Water Leak
13:38 Installing a Point-of-Use Water Heater
32:19 Testing Air Admittance Valves
41:27 Solar Tubes: Cost-Effective Natural Lighting Solutions