Recent Q&A

• Multiple Minisplits vs. Multizone System

  To go ductless means a lot of miniplit heads. On top of that my local energy codes demand a minisplit system that is energy star certified. That is easy to…

• Largest Possible Residential Electrical Panel

  What's the largest electric service you can "normally" get for residential? Here in CO xcel gives me the option of 400A. My electrician says that usually means a 320A meter…

• Durability issues with wooden rainscreen furring

  The most recent post on GBA is all about moisture concerns with exterior insulation. But no one seem to be concerned with the long term structural integrity of the furring…

• Foam strips as furring for rain screen.

  I'm looking at the different solutions to fasten 2" foam to zip sheathing and studs, followed by a rain screen and corrugated metal siding. I see that the most common practice…

• Total energy use from manual J

  I have a manual J report and its a bit over my head. I can see where it shows peak equipment loads to size a/c and furnace, but where can…

• Drywall requirements for interior shearwalls, under TJIs etc.

  What are the requirements for using drywall as a flame break for:1. Under TJI joists2. Interior shearwalls (7/16" sheathed 2x4 walls)?3. Interior side of exterior shearwalls4. Interior non structural walls.In…

• Zip liquid flash ONLY for foundation to sill plate

  I have searched and read many threads on the discussion of using sill seal/owen foam/EPDM gaskets + some type of sealant/liquid flashing between foundation and the sill plate. But I…

• Foam instead of drain board behind foundation wall

  Very typical scenario: sloping lot with daylight basement. The uphill concrete foundation wall is 10' tall x 70' long and will be below grade (its a very steep slope -…

• Minisplit comparisons

  Is there a somewhat comprehensive comparison of minisplit systems on the market today? There're a lot of talk between Mitsubishi and Fujitsu, and a bit of Daikin. I'm particularly interested…

• Inconsistent air-sealing plan

  Is it common to have the exterior sheathing to be the airtight layer, and then transition to an air tight drywall ceiling? So the air sealing plain goes from outside…