Four independent experts weigh in on low-E coatins, orientation-specific glazing, window-selection tools, and more
Practical insights on combining deep energy retrofits with affordable housing for 12 Cleveland homes
Factory-cut engineered joists and rafters can reduce labor costs and job-site waste
Openings in a braced wall could interrupt the load path
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Working around existing attic insulation to seal air leaks may be more cost-effective than removing and replacing it
Excluding heat and humidity saves energy, improves comfort, and increases durability
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Feedback from a JLC reader
Chasing down and fixing energy leaks in an old house can be tricky and expensive, but utility incentives may help.
Biophilic design is gaining traction in residental construction as an ancillary component of green building.
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A successful drywall installer explores the pros and cons of adding home performance contracting to his business
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Conductive heat loss through a glulam beam may be a minor problem in the context of whole-house heat loss.
Sealing the air barrier and eliminating thermal conduction minimizes heating loads.
Q: Is it possible to create a thermal break by fastening a layer of rigid foam to the underside of the joists before hanging the drywall?
This airtight, superinsulated home was built using familiar methods and materials.
The pros in the JLC Forums post news videos and newspaper reports about decks that have collapsed around the U.S. They swap stories and photos of structural flaws and decay that they find in decks they’ve been asked to inspect. One contractor, says, “Whenever I come across a situation deck built...
Use specialized tools and materials and a methodical approach.
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Tips for creating a community for learning, networking, and sharing with construction peers.
There are more than 100 million homes and approximately 20 billion square feet of clear-glass residential windows in the U.S. Most of those homes are more than 30 years old, and as a result, the market is growing for replacement windows with energy-efficient insulating glass.
Q: Builders in cold climates often go beyond code-required attic insulation levels, especially when using a relatively inexpensive material like blown-in cellulose. Is the same approach helpful in cooling climates?