Q: How does the ZIP system compare to standard sheathing? It seems like 9 out of 10 new homes and remodels in my area (northern New England) are using green ZIP sheathing on the walls and some use the red version of the roof as well. How does this product compare to using plywood and a housewrap such as Tyvek? — Tom A: Zip System sheathing was introduced by Huber Engineered … [Read more...] about ZIP Sheathing Vs. Plywood & Housewrap?
Energy Conservation
Will Furnace Condensate Corrode Plumbing?
Q: I have a century-old home with copper and cast-iron drain pipes. I recently installed a high-efficiency furnace but learned the condensate may be corrosive to the drain pipes. I am wondering what pH level can harm the drain pipes. Also should I filter the water though a material such as limestone to reduce the pH. Would this an effective solution for treating the water … [Read more...] about Will Furnace Condensate Corrode Plumbing?
Casement Vs. Double-Hung Windows
Q: We are building a new home – a contemporary Cape – and are trying to decide between casement and double-hung windows. We like the look of casements, but have heard that they can be trouble. We are also trying to decide between vinyl-clad and solid-vinyl windows. Any suggestions would be appreciated. – Tom C. A: There are definitely pros and cons to each type of … [Read more...] about Casement Vs. Double-Hung Windows
Air-Sealing An Unvented Cathedral Ceiling
Q: We live in Kingston, NY and cathedral ceilinged the main living space of our 1925 raised ranch. The rafters are 2×6's. we used R-21 fiberglass batts (5 1/2 " thick) and 1" pine tongue and groove boards. The roof is an unvented shingle roof. Is there an affordable solution to prevent humidity build up? – Kate A: In cold climates, unvented roof cavities can lead to moisture … [Read more...] about Air-Sealing An Unvented Cathedral Ceiling
Is Attic Air Sealing & Insulation Worth It?
Q: Jonathan asks: We recently purchased a three-level townhome in Virginia, built about 15 years ago. The third floor, where the bedrooms are located, stays about 5º F colder than the main living area on the second level. There is only one heating zone with the thermostat on the second floor. A heating technician has balanced the ductwork, but said he cannot get more heat to … [Read more...] about Is Attic Air Sealing & Insulation Worth It?
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
Basement Vapor Barriers
Pierre writes: My basement wall is insulated with a 2 inches of Styrofoam on the interior and I built a 2×4 wall and added Roxul insulation. I planned to install vapor barrier on top. Is it OK to add this vapor barrier? It is for a bathroom with a tiled shower. I live in central Ontario, Canada. Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, writes: The short answer is: Don’t use a … [Read more...] about Basement Vapor Barriers
Is Radon Mitigation Worth the Cost?
Don asks: Our house measures just over the EPA limit for radon. Is this something we should be concerned about or are the risks overblown? How effective are radon mitigation systems and what do they cost? Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, responds: While radon stories rarely appear in the news anymore, the health risk from exposure to high levels is real and significant. … [Read more...] about Is Radon Mitigation Worth the Cost?