John asks: Is it better to use Icynene (open-cell) or closed-cell spray foam in an unvented cathedral ceiling? We are building a new home in Atlanta, GA. Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: I don't really like unvented cathedral ceilings, also called "hot roofs", because they are very unforgiving. If the roof sheathing or rafters ever gets wet from a roof leak, or … [Read more...] about Spray Foam For Unvented Cathedral Ceilings
BUILDING Q&As
Cost-Plus: Are Supervision Costs Billable?
Brad asks: On remodels, are supervision costs typically included in contractor's percentage fee or are these billable? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: There is no definitive answer to your question as different contractors handle this issue differently. Some bill for all supervisory time, some bill for only specific types of supervisory time, and some bill for … [Read more...] about Cost-Plus: Are Supervision Costs Billable?
Are Alternative Septic Systems Allowed?
Richard writes: My lot will not accommodate a conventional leach field. What alternatives can you suggest and who would you recommend to design alternative septic systems? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: What is acceptable in your area after a failed perc test is determined by local building codes and health department regulations, so you should first check … [Read more...] about Are Alternative Septic Systems Allowed?
Black Stains Around Windows From Flashing Tape
Bill writes: We are having an issue with our 13-year-old house where it appears that the flashing membrane material has leaked out along the edges of our windows. This leakage appears black and we cannot figure out what else it could be. Since we are planning on replacing all the front windows of the house that face the summer sun, we are looking for other materials to use so … [Read more...] about Black Stains Around Windows From Flashing Tape
Treatments for Acidic Water
Daryl writes: I purchased a vacation home last year and noticed blue stains in the shower and bathroom sink. Is this due to acidic water and is it detrimental to a person’s health? Can you drink acidic water? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: Your problem is most likely acidic water. A water test, which you can arrange with your town’s health department for a … [Read more...] about Treatments for Acidic Water
Refinishing Cracked, Weathered Decking
Q: I have several cracked deck boards and wondered if they can be repaired or should be replaced. Also, what would be the best finish to help prevent further cracking? The current finish is a solid stain that is worn badly and peeling. The decking is treated wood.— Susan R. A: Pressure-treated wood decking will not rot, but it certainly will weather and crack if not … [Read more...] about Refinishing Cracked, Weathered Decking
Is Earnest Money Refundable?
Gina writes: We recently bought a lot in Point Cook, VIC, Australia. We signed the contract and made a 10% deposit, but the deal has not closed yet. Before we signed the contract, the master plan showed that the lots across the road were individual lots. The salesperson told us that these lots would be used for display homes. But now the five lots cross road are being used … [Read more...] about Is Earnest Money Refundable?
Building on Poor Soils
Sandy writes: We were told the lot we were buying had "bad dirt" which didn't compact properly. So the builder is supposedly removing all the bad dirt and replacing it so that a home on a slab foundation can be built. How common is this practice and what can we do to ensure everything was done properly? Also, my husband saw them removing dirt and dumping it on the lot next door … [Read more...] about Building on Poor Soils