Recent Q&A

• Vinyl siding over Zip system

  If you intend on installing vinyl siding over zip system, should you be using galvanized or stainless fasteners to install the zip sheathing? I am at a point of starting…

• Zip System vs. OSB

  I am in the process of choosing between zip system and osb sheathing for the exterior of a new home project. I have read through a lot of articles on…

• Attic insulation question

  I am starting framing on a new house this week and I am still trying to work out a few details. The house is a cape-style design. I know this…

• 1-1/2″ wide rigid foam strips on interior of wall studs?

  I was recently speaking with a contractor who said a builder he knows of is installing 1-1/2" wide strips of rigid foam on the interior side of each wall stud…

• Average quality built homes needing makeup air because they are airtight

  I have a question in regards to homes being built (not necessarily green homes) that are subject to the new energy code with air sealing and blower door tests. These…

• Venting a roof framed over a roof

  I have a ventilation question I have just thought of while designing a home. The house is a 1.5 story home (framed as a cape style but turned 90 degrees…

• New concrete foundation is damp and basement is humid

  Hello, I am asking this question for a family member who is building a house right now. They hired a concrete contractor to pour the foundation. The foundation has had…

• PV panels on the roof or in the yard?

  I am in the process of designing a new house and I am trying to decide whether or not to place the PV panels on the roof or in the…

• Building a new house, looking for opinion on insulation/exterior foam combinations

  I am currently in the process of designing a new home. I built one four years ago that we have decided is too big and inefficient for what we need.…