Materials & Techniques Flashcards

An adjuster inspects a property after a hailstorm and finds 'spatter marks' on soft metals like gutters and window screens. What is the significance of this finding?

Answer: Spatter marks on soft metals confirm the hailstone size and corroborate roof damage claims

Spatter marks and dents on soft metals (gutters, downspouts, screens, AC fins) serve as independent corroborating evidence of hail size and density, supporting the legitimacy of roof damage claims.

What is the purpose of 'ice and water shield' underlayment in roofing, and under what climatic condition is it most critical?

Answer: It creates a self-sealing waterproof membrane at vulnerable areas to prevent ice dam leakage

Ice and water shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane applied at eaves, valleys, and penetrations to prevent water infiltration from ice dams in cold climates.

When documenting a structural claim involving a 'cantilever,' what structural concern should the adjuster prioritize?

Answer: Deflection, cracking, and potential collapse of the unsupported overhanging section

A cantilever is a beam or slab projecting beyond its support; damage claims must evaluate deflection and structural integrity of the unsupported overhang, as failure can lead to collapse.

What is 'balloon framing' and how does it affect fire damage claims differently than 'platform framing'?

Answer: Balloon framing has continuous wall studs from foundation to roof allowing fire to travel vertically through open cavities

In balloon framing (pre-1940s), wall studs run continuously from sill plate to roof rafters without fire blocking, allowing fires to travel rapidly up the wall cavity to the attic.

A property adjuster finds 'tenting' or 'buckling' in laminate flooring after a water loss. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Water absorption causing boards to expand beyond the available space

Laminate flooring tenting occurs when water causes boards to swell and expand horizontally; if insufficient expansion gap was left at the perimeter, boards buckle upward.

What is the purpose of 'flashing' in building construction, and which areas are most critical to inspect after a storm claim?

Answer: Flashing is metal or membrane material sealing transitions and penetrations; inspect valleys, chimneys, and skylights

Flashing is waterproofing material (usually metal) installed at joints and penetrations (valleys, chimneys, vents, skylights) to prevent water intrusion at vulnerable transition points.

In evaluating a concrete slab claim after a plumbing leak, what term describes the process of cutting the slab to access and repair under-slab pipes?

Answer: Saw cutting and trenching

Saw cutting and trenching (also called 'open cut') involves cutting through the concrete slab with a concrete saw and excavating a trench to access and repair buried plumbing.