Q: We are building a family home in Toronto, Canada using a local builder. Due to soil conditions, we had to raise our founding level. The code requires the underside of footings to be 4 ft. below grade for frost protection. In our case with a sloping grade, the footing depth is 4 inches less than the required 4 ft in some locations. The structural engineer’s opinion is … [Read more...] about Frost-Protected Shallow Foundations
BUILDING Q&As
Patios & Decks for Coastal Homes
Q: A storm in January destroyed the brick patio at our beachfront property in New Hampshire. Looking for advice on environmentally appropriate, durable patio materials. Wondering if brick is the best material as it is easy to repair and if we should just fix it. -- G.M. A: Salt water (assuming you are on the ocean), is a harsh environment for most building materials. If … [Read more...] about Patios & Decks for Coastal Homes
Can I Foam Basement Wall With Existing Studs?
Q: We are looking to refinish our basement in Portland OR. Because 2x4 wood studs are already installed, we can’t install foam board tight to the poured concrete foundation. Can closed cell spray foam provide effective barrier and insulation instead? Or will thinner spots behind studs limit effectiveness? - James A: It sounds like you have some space between the studs … [Read more...] about Can I Foam Basement Wall With Existing Studs?
Is Top Railing On Deck Code-Approved?
Q: With a cable railing system, do you have to install a wood railing at the top going post to post? Or would cable only be OK? I cannot find any guidance online. I have seen it done both ways in the field, but not sure what code requires for top railings on decks. -- Baron A: The International Residential Code (IRC) distinguishes between a handrail and guardrail or “guard” … [Read more...] about Is Top Railing On Deck Code-Approved?
How To Diagnose Leakage In Finished Basement?
Q: I had some moisture in my basement this winter--got onto the carpet foam and made a mess. I removed some drywall to see if there was a leak, but the only obvious issue is wetness on the vapor barrier directly behind the drywall and dampness in the drywall as well (see photo). Any ideas how to deal with this? The foundation and fiberglass insulation appear to be … [Read more...] about How To Diagnose Leakage In Finished Basement?
Why Is Water Leaking Above Windows?
Q: During wind driven heavy rain, I get water coming in at the top of several windows. The single-story ho me is sheathed in plywood that is cover in poly sheeting. I removed the top outer trim on top of a leaking window and found no water behind the trim or on the exterior portion of the metal window frame. The water appears to be coming down the sheathing BEHIND the poly. … [Read more...] about Why Is Water Leaking Above Windows?
How to Tile Over a Wood Deck
Q: I am redoing my wood floor balcony by sloping it, using a little dry pack mortar and then waterproofing the surface using Henry BlueSkin (peel-and-stick butyl membrane roof flashing). Can I apply thinset directly to the BlueSkin? I would like to use this as a waterproof barrier and cement the backer board on top of it. Then set the tile on the backerboard. The photo … [Read more...] about How to Tile Over a Wood Deck
Should I Acclimate Hardwood Flooring & Leave Expansion Gap?
Q: I hired a 20+ year veteran flooring pro to install red oak hardwood floors. After the install, I was told by a friend about expansion gaps needed around the perimeter to prevent buckling, etc. as humidity changes and the house settles, in New England. When I asked, the contractor said this was unnecessary because he had stored the wood for several weeks where it could … [Read more...] about Should I Acclimate Hardwood Flooring & Leave Expansion Gap?