Installed correctly, ground-source heat pumps can provide comfortable, efficient heating in many climates. Here’s an overview of the available options. Read more
Framing Layout Rules of Thumb
A California framer tells how to translate the information on the blueprints into a fast, accurate layout of walls and headers. Read more
Getting the Final Payment
If you’ve ever had a problem collecting that last check, you’ll appreciate the value of this builder’s systematic approach to getting what he’s owed. Read more
Remodeling an occupied home creates clouds of dust, splatters of drywall mud, and dings and dents in existing woodwork. Fortunately, there’s a slew of products designed to help you get a messy job done neatly. Read more
Repiping with PEX
Corrosive water is a major problem in many areas of the country, causing copper pipe to degrade prematurely. A plumber tells how he installs new domestic piping, using cross-linked polyethylene. Read more
Troubleshooting Roof Leaks: Problems & Solutions
A small roof leak can create expensive problems. An inspector with years of experience surveys the trouble spots on both flat and steep roofs. Read more
Q: What’s the right way to vent a dryer? The standard plastic flex-hose with the spiral wire always collects condensation and sags. There’s got to be a better way. Would metal or plastic pipe work? Read more
Q: I want to lower receptacle outlets from 4 feet off the floor to 18 inches. I plan to make a splice at the existing receptacle and extend the new wire down through the stud cavity. Can the junction box be inside the wall or does code require that you have access to it by using the existing outlet box as a junction box with a solid cover plate? Read more
Q: A client wants a portion of a basement slab to have radiant heat to take the chill off the floor of a planned playroom (there will be supplemental heat). The hvac contractor wants the radiant tubing, which will be attached to wire mesh, to be lifted into the middle of the slab during the pour to put the heat closer to the surface. The concrete contractor doesn’t want to do this because he insists that cracks will show up along the tubing. He wants to leave the tubing at the bottom, and says the insulation board will drive the heat up anyway. He recommends at least 3 inches of concrete-above the tubing. Which is correct? Read more
Good reasons for resisting growth Read more
Express vs. implied warranties Read more
This selection of products will help you design, install, and customize functional, attractive kitchens and bathrooms. Read more
Ergonomic hand-sanding block Read more
Sales advice for novice remodelers Read more
