A $30 repair that will save you thousands.

Which type of washing machine hose is best?

The best type of washing machine hose to use is steel braided hoses.  Typically cost under $30 for the pair.  These hoses have higher pressure resistance, heat resistance, and an anti-corrosive coating at the fittings. 

When is the last time you looked behind your washing machine?  I bet its been awhile.  I also bet you have black rubber supply hoses feeding your washing machine.  Here’s our problem!  Those black rubber hoses are rated to last 5 years.  Most hoses have an expiration date printed on the hose.   We find these black rubber hoses in 95% of the homes we inspect.

What the problem with them?  As they age, the hose’s pressure resistance degrades and makes the hose prone to bursting.  Also, the fittings start to rust, then leak.  This is a concern in all applications, especially with laundry rooms on the second floor.

The solution is stainless steel braided hoses

Washing Machine Hoses

Stainless steel braided hoses cost slightly more than rubber hoses.  Typically, these hoses are purchased the same time as the washing machine.  So, it could be tempting to pinch a few dollars and purchase rubber hoses, don’t do it!  Nothing lasts forever, including stainless steel hoses.  Most manufacturers recommend changing the hoses every five years.

How do I inspect my washing machine hoses?  First, grab a flashlight.  Locate the hoses behind the washing machine and first examine the connection points.  You’ll see two connections at the washing machine and two connections at the wall.  These fittings should be dry, clean, and free from rust.  Fittings are the most common failure point.  Next, check the hoses.  Look for signs of wear and age.  Use your hand to feel for bulges or weak spots in the hoses.  Lastly, an obvious one, make sure the floor is dry behind the washing machine.  If any of these defects are present, replace both hoses.

Now go check your washing machine and upgrade those hoses.  And don’t forget the PLUMBERS TAPE at the fittings!

Drip edge flashing is installed at the roof’s edge to protect the roof sheathing and ensure rainwater enters the gutter.  Drip edges are metal sheets, usually “L” shaped.  This flashing’s function is to direct rainwater away from the fascia and into the gutter.

Without drip edge flashing, water may intrude beneath the shingles and will cause damage, include rot, to the roof sheathing.

Roof Drip Flashing

Your home may not have been constructed with drip edge flashing, but today, most building codes across the United States require this flashing to protect the home from damage.

Purpose of Roof Drip Edge Flashing

Drip edges have two main purposes.  The first, is to direct water rainwater into the gutters.  If your home is built in an area where gutters are not needed.  This drip edge flashing helps direct rainwater away from the fascia.  Controlling rainwater is a very important factor in protecting homes in all climates.

The second purpose of drip edge flashing is to protect from wind-driven rain.  With heavy wind and rain, the wind pushes water around on a roof.  Shingles are there to protect the roof’s deck (sheathing).  The edges of the roof are where the wind can up-lift shingles.  The drip edge needs to hang significantly off the edge of the roof and have two to four inches of lower flange to combat this.  Obviously, without drip end flashing, heavy rain and wind will compromise the roof.

 

Materials for Drip Edge Flashing

Drip edge flashing is sold of various plastics and metals.  With plastic flashings, it is recommended to reserve this material for over windows and doors.  Use corrosion-resistant or galvanized metal for roofs.

Common drip edge flashing materials:

Aluminum – sold in colors to match the home and won’t corrode.

Galvanized Steel – Drip edges are designed to be in contact with water.  They need to be galvanized to prevent rust.  Thicker the better to withstand strong winds.

Copper – Copper is for a more unique look.

Drip Edge Flashing Shapes

Type C – Most common edge flashing is the “L” shape.  The drip edge is formed at a 90-degree angle with a lower “kick out” flange and the bottom.

 

Flashing Type C

 

Type D – This type forms a “T” shape, with a lower “kick out” flange.  Sometimes it is called, “T-style” or “D metal”.  This type is preferred by most asphalt manufacturers.

 

Flashing Type D

If your Site Tech Home Inspector recommended drip edge flashing for your roof, you should have it installed before your roof is damaged.

 

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