Recent Q&A

• Improve Poor Attic Insulation

  My ranch home was built in Wisconsin in 1979 and we all know insulation wasn't a high priority at that time. The roof has a relatively low slope and the…

• WRB over fiberboard sheathing

  As part of a whole house remodeling project, were going to be replacing the siding on a house built in 1979 which was sheathed in asphalt impregnated fiberboard (blackboard, celotex,…

• Rim joist condensation

  My 1979 house is what I'll call traditionally built; 2x10 floor joists & rim joist. The rim joist cavities are insulated with fiberglass and its causing condensation as it's currently…

• Draining/drying capability of insulated vinyl siding

  I'm interested in using insulated vinyl siding on a remodel project, more for the rigidity then the thermal value which is negligible. One of the major benefits of standard vinyl…

• Replacing siding, sheathing, and insulation from exterior

  我们买了一个家and the exterior is in need of attention. Everything (wood siding, soffit, gutters, doors, windows, etc.) is original from 1979. I also know from doing some…

• Foundation wall drainage

  To create better drainage, I'm considering extending the aggregate from around the drain tile up the foundation/basement wall closer to grade instead of just using regular soil backfill. I can't…

• Foundation waterproofing membranes

  I want to specify a spray applied foundation wall waterproofing membrane that is not asphalt based. From what I understand, there's polyurethane and rubber based. What's the difference? Pros/cons of…

• Foundation Waterproofing & Insulation Treatment

  My new home design has an 8' basement and an attached garage with a 4' foundation. Is the garage foundation poured at the same time as the house or separately?…

• Foundation insulation & moisture protection

  I would like to insulate and protect my basement foundation walls using a water based spray on waterproofing, XPS insulation board, and a dimple mat. In what order would they…

• Does exterior foam sheathing create a second vapor barrier?

  What I never quite understood is that in cold climates (I'm in Wisconsin, climate zone 6) vapor barrier is required on the warm side of the wall (under the gyp).…