Clients who overspend allowance prices can take a bite out of your profit. Accurate pricing and clear specs are the keys to this system for surviving allowance overruns. Read more
It’s getting harder to find suitable soil for in-ground septic systems. A consulting engineer examines two new technologies for handling residential wastewater. Read more
Paint that deteriorates prematurely makes the whole job look shoddy. Here are the most common causes for water-based paint failures, and what to do about them. Read more
For occasional hot water usage, or when fixture groups are located far from a central storage tank, instantaneous or point-of-use water heaters can be an economical option. Read more
Roof Framing with Wood I-Joists
When wood I-joists are used as rafters, connections at the structural ridge and the tops of exterior walls must be detailed properly. An industry troubleshooter explains where to make the cuts and how to install the steel connectors that make for a sound engineered roof. Read more
Q: When installing drywall over existing wall finishes, we often need to use long fasteners to reach the underlying framing members. Can galvanized roofing nails be used to fasten drywall in these situations? Read more
Q&A: Leveling the Transit Base
Q: It sometimes takes me forever to level the base for my builder’s level. Any tricks? Read more
Q: We’re considering installing a layer of 1-inch rigid foam insulation on the underside of a cathedral ceiling framed with scissor trusses. Is the foam a vapor barrier, or will we need to install a poly vapor barrier on the interior side of the foam? Will the foam cause problems when it comes time to finish the drywall? Read more
Squeezing space from a small bath Read more
Consequences of bidding errors Read more
Resisting wind uplift at the eaves Read more
Low-profile undercabinet lighting Read more
Cordless circular saw test Read more
