Materials & Techniques Flashcards

What is the difference between 'Grade A' and 'Grade C' exterior plywood in terms of claims replacement?

Answer: Grade A has knots filled and sanded smooth; Grade C has open knots and defects permissible

Grade A plywood has a smooth, sanded face with repaired knots suitable for painting, while Grade C allows open knots and defects, making it appropriate only for concealed structural applications.

When an adjuster encounters 'engineered lumber' (LVL beams or I-joists) in a fire or water claim, what special consideration applies?

Answer: Engineered lumber can delaminate or lose structural integrity faster than solid wood when exposed to fire or prolonged moisture

Engineered lumber (LVL, I-joists) relies on adhesive bonds that can fail faster under heat or moisture than solid dimensional lumber, requiring careful structural assessment after fire or water events.

A commercial property adjuster is evaluating a roof claim on a building with a 'TPO membrane' roof. What type of roof system is this?

Answer: Thermoplastic Polyolefin — a single-ply flat roof membrane welded at seams

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is a single-ply roofing membrane commonly used on low-slope commercial roofs, with seams heat-welded together to create a watertight bond.

What is 'subrogation relevance' when an adjuster discovers that a contractor used substandard materials that contributed to a loss?

Answer: The insurer may pursue the contractor for reimbursement of claim payments due to faulty materials or workmanship

When defective materials or workmanship by a third party contributed to a covered loss, the insurer who pays the claim may subrogate (step into the insured's shoes) to recover from the negligent contractor.

Which type of window glazing should a property adjuster specify in a replacement estimate for a bathroom window to meet current building codes?

Answer: Tempered or laminated safety glass

Building codes (IRC Section R308) require tempered or laminated safety glazing in hazardous locations including bathrooms, within 60 inches of a tub or shower.

What is 'joint compound' (mud) and how does it factor into drywall repair cost estimates?

Answer: A finishing material applied over drywall tape and fasteners requiring multiple coats and drying time

Joint compound is the finishing material applied in multiple coats over drywall seams, tape, and fasteners; its multi-coat application and drying time between coats significantly affects labor cost estimates.

An adjuster must estimate replacement of 'wainscoting' damaged in a water loss. What is wainscoting?

Answer: Decorative paneling applied to the lower portion of interior walls, typically 36–48 inches high

Wainscoting is decorative wall paneling (wood, beadboard, tile, or MDF) installed on the lower portion of interior walls, typically 36–48 inches high, requiring specialized measurement and material matching.