National Home Inspector Exam Prep Podcast
The Complete National Home Inspector Training Manual—In Audio Form
Welcome to National Home Inspector Exam Prep Podcast—the most comprehensive audio course for aspiring home inspectors preparing for the National Home Inspector Exam.
Your Complete Exam Preparation Resource
This is a complete professional training program based on the National Home Inspection Training Manual, transformed into detailed audio lessons you can study anywhere, anytime. Whether you're commuting, at the gym, or reviewing before bed, master the entire home inspection curriculum.
Complete 16-Discipline Coverage:
This training program covers ALL major areas tested on the National Home Inspector Exam:
📋 Analysis & Reporting - Professional report writing and communication
❄️ Cooling Systems - Air conditioning, heat pumps, and distribution
⚡ Electrical Systems - Service equipment, panels, circuits, wiring, safety devices
🏠 Exterior Components - Siding, trim, doors, windows, finishes
🔥 Fireplaces & Chimneys - Masonry and factory-built systems, venting, safety
📖 Complete Glossary - Essential professional terminology
🔥 Heating Systems - Furnaces, boilers, distribution, controls
🌬️ Insulation & Ventilation - Attic ventilation, insulation types, energy efficiency
🍳 Kitchen Appliances - Ranges, ovens, dishwashers, disposals, built-ins
🚰 Plumbing Systems - Supply, drainage, water heaters, fixtures
👔 Professional Responsibilities - Ethics, standards of practice, business practices
🏚️ Roof Components - Coverings, flashings, drainage, structural elements
🌳 Site Conditions - Grading, drainage, driveways, landscaping
🏗️ Structural Components - Foundations, framing, load paths, structural defects
🪟 House Interior - Walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, doors, windows
200+ Detailed Episodes
Each episode provides in-depth coverage of specific topics within each discipline. Episodes are designed to be studied in sequence, building your knowledge systematically from fundamentals to advanced inspection techniques.
Who This Is For:
✅ New home inspectors studying for the National Home Inspector Exam
✅ Career changers entering the home inspection profession
✅ Real estate professionals expanding technical knowledge
✅ Anyone preparing for state licensing exams
✅ Practicing inspectors seeking continuing education
Why This Training Works:
🎯 Exam-Focused - Aligned with National Home Inspector Exam requirements
🎯 Field-Tested - Based on real inspection scenarios and common defects
🎯 Code-Referenced - Current IRC standards and industry best practices
🎯 Comprehensive - Complete coverage, not just highlights
🎯 Audio Learning - Study while driving, working out, or multitasking
🎯 Sequential Structure - Logical progression builds expertise systematically
Study Approach:
For best results, listen to episodes in numerical order within each discipline. Take notes, pause to review complex topics, and re-listen to challenging sections. This is professional training designed for exam success.
Beyond the Podcast:
This podcast is part of our complete National Home Inspector Training program. For comprehensive training including visual materials, practice exams, hands-on demonstrations, and certification support, visit [YOUR WEBSITE URL].
National Home Inspector Exam Prep Podcast
10 - DECKS (PART 3) AND GARAGE DOORS
Our final episode covers deck stairs, handrails, guards, plus a complete examination of garage vehicle doors and operators.
Deck stairs and landings:
- Stringer attachment (hangers preferred; nails common but may withdraw)
- Cut stringers from 2x12 lumber (2x10 acceptable if reinforced)
- Maximum 6' span between stringer supports
- Drop header concerns (bolt attachment acceptable; screws/nails not recommended)
- Riser height (7¾" maximum) and tread depth (10" minimum)
- Maximum ⅜" variation between risers or between treads
- Open riser spacing (4" sphere test)
- Landing requirements (36" minimum width, 36" minimum depth, solid surface)
Deck handrails (4+ risers):
- Height: 34-38" above sloped line connecting treads
- Returns or posts at beginning/end
- Approved graspable sizes/shapes (common 2x4 NOT acceptable)
- Baluster spacing (4" sphere test)
- Attachment (two ring-shank nails or screws per baluster)
Deck guards:
- Required when walking surface >30" above surface below
- Minimum 36" height (42" in some jurisdictions)
- Posts minimum 4x4 unnotched, maximum 6' on center
- Post attachment to joists (not just rim joists)
- Must resist 200 psf concentrated load
- Baluster spacing (4" sphere test—different from stairs!)
- Special considerations for cable/horizontal fills (climbing hazard)
Garage vehicle doors:
- Types (sectional, single panel, roller) and materials (wood, steel, aluminum)
- Weight considerations (100-400+ pounds)
- Spring types (torsion vs. extension with containment cables)
- Installation requirements (attach to solid framing, not drywall)
- Spring adjustment (door should stay open at ~4' height)
Garage door operators (openers):
- Motor sizes (⅓, ½, ¾ HP) and drive types (chain, belt, screw, jackshaft)
- Installation (cross-bracing, proper attachment)
- Safety features: reverse sensors (≤6" above floor), wall switch (≥60" high), manual release (≥72" high)
- Testing controversy (pressure reverse using 2x4 vs. hand-stopping)
- Safety label near wall switch
This comprehensive finale emphasizes that deck defects cause more injuries/deaths than any other home system, making thorough inspection absolutely critical.
For complete training with visual materials, practice exams, and certification support, visit nhiexamprep.com
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