Other stories by Henry Spikes

• Q&A: Tying Into Concrete Block

  Q: What is the best way to tie a new block addition into an existing block building?

• Q&A: Unvented Roof Problems

  Q: We have been asked to bid on a home in upstate New York that has a "hot roof." Are moisture problems likely in this unvented roof assembly?

• Q&A: Bonding Treated Wood

  Q: What kind of adhesive should I use to bond CCA-treated decking to treated joists?

• Q&A: Waterproofing vs. Dampproofing

  Q: There seem to be a lot of products on the market that solve problems with leaky basements. Some are for "dampproofing" and others for "waterproofing." What is the difference?

• Q&A: Drywall Callback in Bathroom

  Q: We are getting a callback on drywall screws in a bathroom that are showing through the paint and getting darker with age. What might be causing this?

• Q&A: Redwood Stains

  Q: On elevated decks, the redwood decking often causes black streaks on the joists below. How can we prevent this?

• Q&A: Concrete Tile on Shallow Roofs

  Q: We are getting a lot of jobs with Mansard-type roofs. The roof covering is concrete tile, but much of the roof has a slope of only 2:12. What precautions should we take?

• Q&A: Reroofing Over Asphalt Shingles

  Q: Are there any drawbacks to reroofing over asphalt shingles? How many layers can accumulate before you should tear them off?

• Q&A: Preserving Seaside Shakes

  Q: What is the best finish for the cedar shakes on a coastal home that is exposed to strong sun and lots of fine salt spray? Should the finish be sprayed, dipped, or brushed for best results?

• Q&A: Painting Asphalt Shingles

  Q: Our clients are unhappy with the color of their roof now that the house has been painted. The asphalt shingles are less than two years old and are in very good condition. Is there any way to change the color of the shingles without replacing them?