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Q: To dry out damp crawlspaces in Virginia, I have had success closing the crawlspace vents and installing a dehumidifier. Are there any other measures I could be taking? What is an appropriate relative humidity level for a crawlspace?
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Central vac is gaining in popularity, both in new homes and remodels. Here are the rules to follow for trouble-free installations, from experts of 20 years’ experience.
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Q. I plan to install rigid foam insulation in a crawlspace. As far as I know, most types of rigid foam insulation can’t be left exposed, but need to be covered with a layer of drywall for fire resistance. Is there a type of rigid foam insulation panel available that can be left exposed?
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Q: Within 60 days of pouring a concrete basement, some vertical cracks appeared. The cracks are between 1/32 inch and 1/16 inch wide, and extend from the top of the foundation wall down about 4 to 5 feet. My subcontractor tells me that the foundation is s
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Adding a second story to a ranch
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A custom builder explains the simple steps he takes at the framing stage to create a tight, energy-efficient house.
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Q: I am installing an in-floor ejector pump for a basement toilet. Obviously, a wet vent is not possible, since I don’t want any upstairs fixtures discharging into the sump pit. How do I vent the toilet?
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Q: A homeowner wants me to eliminate the moldy smell from a crawlspace. The crawlspace has a concrete floor, with fiberglass batt insulation between the floor joists. There are two louvered vents that are left open year-round. Would it help to insulate the walls with rigid foam and seal the vents...
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Q: The pros and cons of water-based urethane finishes; fixing a moldy crawlspace; reinforcing and sealing a concrete topping slab; more
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A manufactured staircase can outstrip the site-built version in price and quality. A custom builder takes us into the stair shop and onto the job site for a firsthand look.