sfusselman

Jim: One last question. Any specifics on what type of wood boring beetle. They look to oval to be Powder post beetles. Just curious if you know exactly what beetle it is doing this creative art work.

Jim: Thanks for the help very informative feedback. Just so I'm clear you feel it is in this condition even before the fence company installs it in the backyard right? I will start paying attention to some of the newer fence boards I run across now too. Thanks again you all were great help.

Thanks all for the help. I did not think they were from bees because those holes would be a little bigger and perfectly round about the size of dime. I figured they were beetles but never saw the bug so was not sure. Again I appreciate the help. Also if any of you are performing WDI inspections would you write this up as a previous infestation even if they are not directly against the home?

These are small elongated holes in cedar fences. Find them a lot here in Houston. When you probe the hole no bugs ever come out but a fine muddy substance can be dug out. I have a few pictures I have attached. Would like to know what kind of wood destroying insect this is that is creating this. All help much appreciated. Thanks Click to Enlarge 74.81 KB Click to Enlarge 90.12 KB Click to Enlarge 68.08 KB

I have heard a number of inspectors throw different numbers around so I wanted to get the popular vote. I recommend that we should be able to see 2" to 4" of the foundation between grading at siding (hardi-plank, brick, stone, etc.) When it comes to stucco I recommend at least 6" of exposure. What do you guys recommend?

Question about painting plumbing vent stacks at roof top. Down here in Texas all PVC vent pipes are painted to protect the PVC from getting brittle from UV rays. I have always had this thought but wanted to see what everyone else thought about it. If we paint PVC to protect it from the sun then why every home I go to that has pool equipment (PVC lines) do not have their lines painted to protect them. Thanks in advance for any thoughts.

Thanks David, I got a lot of looks at my question but must be a tough one because only one reply. Thanks for the response it did help answer my question.

I have noticed here in Houston new builders posting these energy certificates in the main electrical panel. I have listed below what I have found regarding this certificate. Is this required now in all new homes across the country or more specific in the Houston area? Thanks The International Energy Conservation Code 2012 requires a Certificate, listing the energy conservation measures, be posted on the electrical panel at the time of the project?s final inspection. A permanent certificate shall be completed and posted on or in the electrical distribution panel by the builder or registered design professional.