Recent Q&A

• Minisplit Head Locations for PGH Renovation Project

  I'm planning the HVAC layout for my 'Pretty Good House' renovation project. I will be using minisplits for heating and cooling. The recommendation is to install 36,000 - 48,000 BTU…

• Which paints are durable and colorfast for vinyl skinned exterior doors?

  Exactly what the title says. For my Pretty Good House renovation of a mid century ranch, I would like to paint the front door in a bright, vibrant color and…

• Ownes Corning Thermafiber vs. Rockwool Comfortbatt – any reason to choose one over the other?

  I'm getting ready to insulate my 'pretty good house' and considering insulation. The Owens Corning Thermafiber and Rockwool Comfortbatt are close to the same price. The Rockwool has a slightly…

• Sourcing Circuit Breakers

  Where are good places to shop for Square D QO GFCI and AFCI breakers? The best prices I'm finding so far are ~$32-$35 each with most of the suppliers that…

• Sourcing Spray Foam Insulation Kits

  I'm considering getting a spray foam insulation kit to finish sealing my rim joist insulation and looking for a reputable supplier. I have installed 3 1/2" polyiso blocking to the…

• Durable decking materials for a floating deck

  I'm in Zone 5, Central NY, and will be building a floating deck as part of my pretty good house MCM ranch renovation. What are good decking materials these days in…

• HVAC for a gut job remodel

  I'm rebuilding a 1600 sqft ranch in Zone 5 central NY. The wall insulation will end up being a little better than R30 (R19 between 2x6 stud wall with 2.5"…

• Sources for window glazing materials and gasketing

  I'm relocating a Four Seasons brand sunroom to my "Pretty Good House" renovation project where it will be part of a porch/spa enclosure. When it comes time to reinstall the sunroom,…

• Repairing Windows and Energy Efficiency

  I'm salvaging an older Four Seasons tinted curved glass sunroom for use on my "Pretty Good House" renovation project. I will be using the glass for a partial South Wall…

• Claw-Foot Tub Installation with Concrete Slab

  I'm helping one of my kids with a bathroom renovation in his raised ranch and am having problems figuring out the best way to plumb it into the slab. Hopefully,…