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One way to ensure a dry basement is to coat the foundation with a waterproof membrane. We look at the available options and explain how to prepare for and apply them properly.
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Leave remodeling to professionals, base flashing detail for irregular foundations, pros and cons of forced-hot-air zoning
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Remote-mounted vent fans, flexible gas tubing, OSB with layout lines, MDF molding, electrical box extender, weatherproof adhesive, two-part urethane foam, tall entry doors, foil-faced bubble wrap, heavy-duty lockset, water purification system, laminate flooring, steam bath generator
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A concrete contractor and consultant explains how proper finish grading and footing drain details keep surface runoff and underground water away from the foundation.
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Truss brace question, kudos for housewrap article, a better tape measure, missing bath remodel permits
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Q: We are planning to use 1-foot-square granite tiles in a kitchen counter application because it is more affordable than granite slabs. Can I install the granite right over plywood, or do you recommend Durock as an underlayment? What type of grout would work best? How wide a space should we leave...
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Roofing membranes are not the only way to protect living space located beneath exterior decks. Adapting a technique from the boat-building industry, this builder uses two-part fiberglass resin to provide a durable, watertight deck surface. Here’s a step-by-step description.
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We’ve fielded a lot of questions from builders who use housewrap air barriers, but wonder how these new mate-ials compare with felt paper when it comes to keeping water out of the walls. An expert in wood technology draws on his own research to explain how the properties of housewraps and felt...
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Defect litigation has become a billion-dollar industry in Southern California, driving many contractors out of business. A defect specialist describes the most frequent errors he encounters — from structure to finishes — and tells how to prevent them.
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Tool belt system, tailgate step, cold weather paint, stronger felt underlayment, retrofit downlight kits