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Q: Do so-called "double-cell" insulating window shades perform as advertised? One salesperson claims R-3 if they are installed with an airtight edge seal. But what if they are installed without the perimeter track?
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It's good insurance against problems caused by wind-driven rain, but experts wonder whether the additional cost is necessary.
No-itch batts are made from natural stone and slag.
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Nanogel material can be mixed with plaster and stucco to improve thermal efficiency.
Study finds that modest upgrades in insualtion and HVAC equipment dramatically reduce energy use in warm, humid climates.
With careful air-sealing and the right insulation details, a leaky older home becomes a tight and thrifty one.
Take pains to seal all possible leaks, then run a blower-door test before insulating.
Reducing indoor humidity was a critical first step.
Q: I am about to start a basement remodel project in a cold climate. I plan to apply a waterproofing product to the inside of the basement wall, then stick a sheet of polyethylene directly to the basement wall over the waterproof coating. Once that is in place, I'll frame a 2x4 wood-frame wall on...
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Q: I understand that fiberglass batt insulation can allow air to move through it and that this air movement degrades the insulation's R-value. Two causes I've heard about are wind-washing at the eaves and convective loops that can start in a wall cavity on really cold days and wick warmth from...
Advanced framing and exterior foam reduce conductive heat loss and provide good air-sealing opportunities.
Compacted drainage stone and a thick layer of foam prevent frost damage and keep the heat inside the building.
PVC trim provided the depth needed to accommodate an inch of insulation board.
Improved materials and hybrid systems make it easier to build energy-efficient houses.
An engineer’s report shows that in snow country, soffit-to-ridge venting is typically the most practical way to prevent ice dams in cathedral ceiling assemblies.
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Q. While preparing for an extensive remodeling project, we discovered that the housewrap was installed underneath the exterior 7/16-inch plywood rather than on top. According to the scope of work, we are supposed to install 1/2-inch foam board with taped seams over the entire exterior. Will the...
Owens Corning’s EnergyComplete System has two components: a latex-based spray foam and blown-in fiberglass insulation.
You bet it can: When it comes to this pervasive fungus, a little can go a long way toward wrecking a job.
Closed-cell polyurethane provides a vapor barrier and good R-value in a single application.
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Coordination between subs; barrier-free showers vs. code; don’t ventilate crawlspace with moist outdoor air; code article misses the boat; more