Expert: Dave Johnson - 2/5/2008

Question
Sir
I will be inspecting a remodeled 1929 Tudor home in Dallas, Texas.  This will be a first for this age.  Can you advise me on construction methods/material for this time period.  Particulary, plumbing, types of pier and beam foundations and what types of wiring used?  For your convienance, can you refer web resources?  My google search has not produced what I was looking for.
Thanks,
Brian

Answer
Hi Brian,
I'm in Maine, and am not sure about these answers...but should be fairly close...
The wiring will probably be "knob and tube" meaning single wires running parallel on porcelain knobs and thru framing members with
porcelain tubes.
Plumbing will more than likely be galvanized pipe supply and cast iron waste lines.
Foundation could be concrete or brick piers, full foundation of the same, many variables.
Framing could be 16" or 24" on center... but a tudor is most often post and beam...from 4"x4" thru 6"x8"...
The chimneys are usually very large in a tudor, so a good foundation is essential there.

Also, tudor can mean large elaborate homes to cottage types.
I realize i haven't been a great help, but there are so many
variables here...
best of luck, and if I can be of any more help...mail me.

Dave