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. More
Q: What type of preparation work is needed before placing a 4 1/2-inch-thick topping over an existing slab? More
Plastic laminate flooring, new protections for small businesses, thawing a frozen site More
Q: My company has done plaster repair work for many years. After repairing water-damaged walls or ceilings, we occasionally get called back to "fix" an unsuccessful repair. Our second repair attempt involves digging out a very bumpy, chalky substance, and more often than not, we have to repeat this process a number of times until the patch finally takes hold. What causes this reaction on some water damage jobs and not others? What is the most efficient way to deal with this problem? More
Even “flat” roofs need some pitch to ensure proper drainage. A California production framer describes the techniques he uses to quickly create slopes on flat roof decks of any size. More
U.S. Gypsum removes barrier EIFS from market, Big Apple plagued by exploding toilets, electrocution by crane, low-odor paints More
It’s inevitable: A concrete slab is going to crack. But how much it cracks, and where, depends on the amount of water in the mix, where you place control joints, and how you finish the slab. Here’s what you need to know for good results. More
Q: What causes a concrete slab to form a thin top coat that can flake off or, if... More
Q: We recently encountered crumbling waferboard sheathing, which had been installed right down to grade. This sheathing wicked water about two feet up the wall of an enclosed porch. The clapboards and sills were so rotten they fell apart in our hands, but the rest of the wall appears sound. If the edges are protected from water, can we leave the old sheathing in place? Also, the framing and rim joist behind the rotted sheathing appear solid, though the surface of the lumber is black. Is this discoloration a type of rot? More
