Practical Details for Durable Buildings

From roof to basement, here's a practical guide for contractors on how to keep moisture out of a house. The editors of JLC have pulled together the best advice from dozens of experts on foundations and drainage, air and vapor control, exterior cladding, roof systems, and mechanical ventilation. It's filled with practical details and effective solutions for the kinds of serious moisture problems afflicting today's tighter and better sealed houses. And it includes a comprehensive troubleshooting guide, including advice for dealing with mold and rot.

• Vapor barrier do's and don'ts
• Practical advice for cold, mixed, and hot climates
• How to keep basements and crawlspaces dry
• Proper flashing for windows and doors
• Water-managed wall systems for optimal siding performance
• Storm-proof stucco details
• Keeping paints and stains on exterior wood
• Vented and unvented roof solutions
• Leak-free flashing details
• Low-cost whole-house ventilation

Fully illustrated and written in plain English, this book is perfect for contractors looking for practical ways to combat the costly damage caused by vapor, water, and ice in today's homes.