A vapor barrier is essential to stop water vapor from the soil from penetrating through your basement and crawl floors and walls. Vapor barriers of polyethylene have been used as a vapor retarder for some years now, but it has limitations. Newer high performance, high density polyethylene sheeting is the key to stopping water vapor from finding its new home in your wood floors, insulation, or carpeting.
Condensation, water vapor, moisture and water damage are catalysts for mold growth. Mold can be toxic and cause serious health problems. Search these excellent articles and sites for information on mold, mold removal, mold prevention and clean-up.
Determining the cause of damage in your home may need an attorney to sort out. Is it a flaw that goes undiscovered or is it a loss that your insurance carrier should cover.
Have your contractor install your gas fireplace following the manufacturers instruction. Make sure the size of the fireplace fits your needs. A ventless fireplace could increase the water vapor in your home.
Replacing older siding on your home may be easier than you think. Ask demolition companies to be on the lookout for it. Check with neighbors to see if they can help.
Condensation problems frustrate homeowners in nearly every part of the U.S. High humidity and water vapor from the ground and indoor sources are culprits forming those dreaded water beads all over your new windows! Fight condensation problems with high quality replacement windows, foundation vapor barriers and control of humidity inside your home.
A high quality vapor barrier is not usually found at the average home center. Check supply houses for contractors in the yellow pages.
Check for quality of replacement windows by their labels that certify standards created by the AMA and NWWDA, as well a possible energy star rating. Vinyl replacement windows that pass the AAMA/NWWDA standard are above average windows. Energy star certification shows energy savings, and usually exceeds most building codes, while the NFRC standards also measure energy efficiency. Check this list of manufacturers for the "seals of approval" they carry.
Correctly installing a staircase and handrails is a time consuming job for the professional. Stairs, handrails, balusters and newel posts, along with a host of other staircase parts is a difficult endeavor, and not for the rookie carpenter. Preassembled handrail and staircase systems save the day for the DIY'ers intent on building their own stairs. Patience is still required.
These manufacturers make pre-assembled staircases and/or handrail systems. Many of them also offer highly detailed literature showing their full line of products, measuring methods, and other things needed when considering stairs to purchase.
Subscribe to the FREE Ask the Builder newsletter to receive professional advice for your home. Complete the form below and each week you'll get:
Unsubscribe at any time. We respect your email privacy.
