Paint Stucco – or Not?
Stucco allows water absorption. Water rots sheathing. Masonry stain or penetrating finish helps stop water entry and still allows vapor release to the outside.
Author Archives: Tim Carter
Why Cork Flooring
Cork floor tile is very resilient, offers a unique look and is easily installed with adhesive. Maintenance is similar to wood flooring - simple vacuuming and moping. Heavy furniture or objects can hurt cork floors, so pads should be used underneath furniture legs.
Hot Water Heater Failure
Hot water heaters can have short lives. Hot water heater problems include corrosion from moisture and oxygen damages the tank and fittings of the heater. Plumbers can add a backflow device to help.
Poured Concrete Walls vs. Concrete Block
Concrete block was used to build thousands of basement foundation walls in Cincinnati and other parts of the nation in the 1950's building boom. Many of the builders and block layers failed to realize that block mortar typically only has 1/3 the strength in tension as concrete. Those block walls have a long horizontal crack in the bed joint about four feet from the floor. But you can build block walls that withstand the test of time.
Roof Plywood Swelling – A Case Of The Bumps
Buckling roof plywood below asphalt shingles is a result of many things. Wood expands and contracts, so there may not have been adequate planned spacing between plywood boards. Check for proper attic ventilation. A buildup of water vapor is a problem.
Drywall Finish Problems
Joint banding or telegraphing in drywall is caused by the drywall paper and the joint compound having different textures. They both absorb liquids differently. Seeing shadows on the drywall is a result of this. To repair your drywall, create a uniform textured surface that absorbs liquids evenly.
Concrete, Snow and Ice
Concrete driveways are susceptible to damage from deicing salts and freezing temperatures. Ice crystals form in the cement and need a place to expand. Your concrete should have an additive mixed in to create air pockets for these ice crystals.
Allowances – The Financial Black Hole
Financial woes can be leveled by avoiding contractor allowances. Pre select all items before getting the quote and signing the contract.
Front Door Locksets and Handles
Residential locksets fall into two different classifications: mortise or cylindrical. Disadvantages and advantages lie in the way they are constructed and installed.
Caulks
Your choices of caulk at the store will be mind blowing. Not every caulk works well for every job. There are caulks for porous and non-porous materials. Make sure you pick the right one.