Q: I have received proposals for re-roof of my house however each proposal calls for different underlayments with significant price differences. I live in Southeast Florida. I would appreciate guidance as to what makes the most sense. Thank you for your input; it is greatly appreciated! Proposal 1: - Install on Roof Deck Area: 2.1 One layer of 30# ASTM D-226 asphalt … [Read more...] about Peel-and-Stick vs. Hot Mop For Florida Roof Underlayment
BUILDING Q&As
How To Fire A Contractor — The Right Way
Q: We built a custom home. Builder did not follow installation guidelines for siding, roof or paver driveway. We are withholding last payment which puts us in violation of OC. No ice shield, missing drip edge, wavy roof. The lists are long. Incorrect installation voids the manufacturer's warranty. We don’t want builder’s incompetent workers to “fix” issues. How do we move … [Read more...] about How To Fire A Contractor — The Right Way
Retesting A Site That Failed to Perc?
Q: I am looking to purchase two properties -- both of which failed to perc back in 2005. I am not 100% sure if this was a perc test or a soil site evaluation, but after speaking with the county, they stated I could have it tested again to see if I could get different results. This new test would for sure be a soil site evaluation (hope that is the correct lingo). My … [Read more...] about Retesting A Site That Failed to Perc?
Are Cracks in Concrete Slab Normal?
My new house, built on a concrete slab, is about 60% done, framing and drywall are in. My concern is I have several hairline cracks throughout the slab. I purposely had the slab made thicker (6 inches) with heavier rebar and a fiber- type additive to hopefully minimize this from happening. Is there anything I should do prior to having my flooring installed or something I … [Read more...] about Are Cracks in Concrete Slab Normal?
How To Install Foam Sheathing: Thickness, Vapor Barrier & Housewrap?
Q: I'm tearing the house down to bear studs inside and outside. I'm putting 1-inch rigid foam board on the outside. Do you suggest foil-faced or unfaced foam board? Where and how should I use moisture barriers in the construction of the interior walls? I live in zone 5, should I use rain screen? What do you think of cement lap board for siding? – Ron B. A: Foam … [Read more...] about How To Install Foam Sheathing: Thickness, Vapor Barrier & Housewrap?
Fitting Drain Field On A Small Lot
Q: We are planning to sell our house on a 0.6 acre lot, and have been told that we need to replace the drain field before selling. However, there is nowhere on our site that qualifies due to modern regulations, which require the drain field to be at least 50 ft. from a stream and 100 ft. from a well. There is really nowhere on my site that qualifies. Are there any options … [Read more...] about Fitting Drain Field On A Small Lot
Should I Pay Extra Charges at End of Remodeling Job?
Q: At the end of remodeling my home (original contract price $149,000) I was hit with an extra $24,500 for items I was unaware of. The contractor said every time that they were ordered by my architect. But I don't have an architect! I only had the architect to draw up the original plans but not stay involved with the project. Some of the items are door change, tearing down … [Read more...] about Should I Pay Extra Charges at End of Remodeling Job?
Concrete Patio Tiles Crumbling; Manufacturer Denies Claim
Q: We live in Los Angeles County, California. We extended our concrete patio in 2013 and had it finished with concrete patio tile that look like terra-cotta. We were told this tile is more expensive, but it will last us a lifetime. There is a lifetime warranty on this material. Now - only 6 years later - the tile is blistering and corroding. We contacted the tile … [Read more...] about Concrete Patio Tiles Crumbling; Manufacturer Denies Claim