The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

How To Remodel Basements And Attics

Wood posts

Here are the items to look for:

1. Cracks and splits. If the posts are cracked or split, especially near their tops and bottoms, they may be overloaded. In such case, additional posts would be required (see page 82, Chapter 8).

2. Leaning. If the posts are not perfectly vertical there is a chance that they may not safely support the beams. Additional posts would be required.

3. Rot. Any "punky" or soft spots in posts indicate rot. Such posts should be replaced (see page 82, Chapter 8).

Sill plate

See B in Fig. 1. Here is what to look for:

Rot. If the sill seems to be crushed by the ends of the floor joists you can be sure that some form of rot is taking place. There is nothing you can do to correct this and, as the condition progresses, walls may settle and cause plaster cracks and other undesirable results.
Joists

See C in Fig. 1. Here is what to look for:

1. Sagging. If the mid-points of the joists have sagged or bent downward they may be too small or too far apart (see page 83 in Chapter 8).

2. Rot. Any signs of rot constitute a dangerous situation. The only remedy consists of placing new joists between the rotted ones.

Termites

In many parts of the country, especially the southern and southwestern parts, termites are an ever-present danger. If any wooden details in a house are badly affected, they are not safe. Here is what to look for:

1. Tunnels. Termites often construct small tunnels, about the diameter of the lead in a pencil, between soil and wood details. Such tunnels can be found on foundations or piers. They definitely indicate that termites are at work.