Materials & Techniques Flashcards

A claims adjuster is inspecting a property with 'galvanic corrosion' on copper pipes where they connect to galvanized steel fittings. What causes this?

Answer: Electrochemical reaction between two dissimilar metals

Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals are in electrical contact in the presence of an electrolyte (water), causing the less noble metal to corrode.

What is 'oriented strand board' (OSB) and how does its performance differ from plywood in water damage claims?

Answer: OSB is engineered wood panels that swell and delaminate more severely when wet than plywood

OSB is made from compressed wood strands and adhesive; it absorbs water at the edges and swells significantly, whereas plywood dries more uniformly and retains more structural integrity.

During a fire damage inspection, an adjuster notes 'alligatoring' on painted wood surfaces. What does this pattern indicate?

Answer: Extreme heat exposure causing paint to crack in a reptile-scale pattern

Alligatoring in fire-exposed areas indicates the paint experienced rapid extreme heat, creating a characteristic scaly cracking pattern used to estimate heat intensity.

What is the function of 'weep holes' in brick veneer construction, and when would their absence be relevant in a water damage claim?

Answer: They allow water that enters the cavity to drain out and prevent moisture buildup behind the veneer

Weep holes are small openings at the base of brick veneer that allow any infiltrated water to drain out of the wall cavity; their absence can trap water and cause hidden moisture damage.

A homeowner claims their EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) stucco exterior was damaged. What unique concern should an adjuster investigate?

Answer: EIFS can trap moisture behind the cladding causing hidden rot in the substrate

Traditional EIFS without a drainage plane can trap water that penetrates through cracks, leading to hidden rot in the wood sheathing and framing behind it.

In a residential plumbing claim, what distinguishes a 'polybutylene' pipe system and why is it significant for adjusters?

Answer: Polybutylene is a gray plastic pipe used 1978–1995 prone to failure from oxidizing agents in water

Polybutylene (PB) pipe, common from 1978–1995, reacts with chlorine and other oxidants in municipal water, degrading from the inside out and leading to sudden failures; its presence can affect insurability and claim outcomes.

What is 'dead load' versus 'live load' in structural construction, and why must adjusters understand this distinction?

Answer: Dead load is permanent structural weight; live load is variable weight like occupants and snow

Dead load is the permanent static weight of the structure itself (framing, roofing, etc.), while live load is variable (people, furniture, snow); adjusters must understand this when evaluating structural damage from overload events like snow accumulation.