Illinois builder Mike Hoch explains why he uses engineered members for rafters and offers tips on handling, cutting, and installation. Read more
A veteran tile contractor describes his favorite pan materials and techniques for a durable, leak-free job. Read more
There’s more to concrete than water, cement, sand, and stone. An experienced batch plant manager talks about the admixtures that help you match the mix to the job. Read more
A third-generation structural repair contractor tells how to diagnose and fix rotted sills and joist ends. Read more
As skilled labor grows scarcer, reliance on subs is increasing. To protect yourself from legal liability and tax penalties, make sure you follow these guidelines. Read more
Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
They’re pretty to look at, but they may not last as long as expected unless installed properly and maintained. Read more
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? Read more
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? Read more
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Do Radiant Barriers Work?
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Vented vs. Unvented Crawl Spaces
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Vapor Barriers & Insulation at Band Joists
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Vapor Barrier vs. Exterior Air Barrier
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Best Foam for Foundation Insulation
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Foam Sheathing & Moisture Problems
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
Q&A: Optimal R-Values for Building Shell
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues. Read more
You Are What You Read Read more
Wood-Framed Glass Block Read more