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Finding Insulation That’s Safe
Having a child with chemical sensitivities complicates the search for the right insulation — and the right insulation contractor
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If Ants Like Rigid Foam, Should We Stop Using It?
Rigid foam insulation is routinely used in high-performance buildings, but it also seems to attract carpenter ants
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Do Green Roofs Temper Urban Heat?
Vegetated roof surfaces make compelling green PR, but how do they compare to ‘cool roofs’ in reducing the heat island effect?
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Is This Ground-Source Heat Pump Plan Workable?
The contractor wants to oversize the horizontal ‘slinky loop’ field, but his plan seems neither economical nor efficient
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Solar Now or Later?
A homeowner wonders whether investing in a modest photovoltaic array is a good use of his money
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Why Is It So Cold In Here?
The furnace can put out plenty of heat, but the house feels cold unless the furnace is running
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Foundation Plan for a Snowy Climate
When building on a slab, how much distance should separate wood framing and grade to prevent rot?
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Solar Panels or Exterior Foam?
A homeowner weighs the benefits of two possible energy upgrades to a pre-war Cape
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Choosing the Right Water-Resistive Barrier
Are there times when a rubberized asphalt membrane makes more sense than ordinary plastic housewrap?
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What To Do With All That Recessed Lighting?
A new homeowner weighs his options for stemming the heat loss from recessed can lights
