Jean writes: I have a concrete tile roof and live in the Pacific Northwest where we have a lot of moss on our roofs. Over the years, the moss removal folk have broken many of my concrete tiles and we no longer can get replacements. The roof is 30 years old, and I am wondering if I should just remove it and get a composite or asphalt shingle roof. Would removing the extra … [Read more...] about Best Roofing for the Pacific Northwest
BUILDING Q&As
Low-E Storm Windows & Low-E Films
Kanil writes: I need to build a few interior storm windows by mounting energy-saving clear window film to contain the heat, but still have high light transmission. I have seen a lot of articles online that mention clear low-E window films with high VT (visible-light transmission). But I couldn't find a commercially available film of this kind. Could you please recommend … [Read more...] about Low-E Storm Windows & Low-E Films
How Durable is Mahogany Decking?
John asks: My local lumberyard stocks mahogany decking at a good price. How durable is this compared to other hardwoods? How would you recommend finishing? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: Most wood decking sold in the U.S. as “mahogany” is actually dark red meranti or, in some cases, red balau. Meranti and balau are in the same family as lauan, also called … [Read more...] about How Durable is Mahogany Decking?
Soundproofing a Wall
Dave asks: We are remodeling a bathroom that connects to our bedroom and shares a wall with another bedroom. What steps can we take to soundproof the bathroom walls and door? It’s rather loud in both bedrooms when the shower is running. Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: While it’s not possible to make walls 100% “soundproof,” it’s pretty easy to get significant … [Read more...] about Soundproofing a Wall
Getting Rid Of Carpenter Ants?
Jonathan writes: I have been finding little piles of wood shavings on my backyard deck, along the bottom of the exterior wall of the house (see photo). Does this look like a sign of carpenter ants or termites? I suspect ants as I sometimes see large, black ants in the house. What's the best way to get rid of carpenter ants? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: … [Read more...] about Getting Rid Of Carpenter Ants?
Building New Slab Over Foundation Rubble
Kevin writes: In 2013 we decided to demolish our existing home (build in 1941) and build a new home in the same place. Because our neighborhood is built on 85-foot-deep clay over a glacial lake, the old cinder block foundation had failed in the basement and we had serious moisture problems as a result. To prevent a repeat, we chose to not have a basement in the new home. Our … [Read more...] about Building New Slab Over Foundation Rubble
How Much Slope for Walk-Out?
Karen asks: We are considering buying a property that's labeled as "gently rolling". Do we need a builder to look at it in order to tell us if a walk-out basement is possible? How much slope is required? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: Assuming an 8 ft. foundation wall, and assuming your foundation projects one foot above grade at the front of the house, you … [Read more...] about How Much Slope for Walk-Out?
Metal vs. Plastic Roofing for Carport
Jill asks: What is the best roofing product to use on a carport and pergola? The carport roof covers both, which are part of the same structure. I am aware that there are plastic-coated steel sheets, polyester-coated, zinc, and polycarbonate sheets. It’s a minefield. There are lots of trees overhead, so everything goes green including the roof and patio. I was thinking of maybe … [Read more...] about Metal vs. Plastic Roofing for Carport