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A Checklist for Building a House
An owner-builder looks for a checklist or spreadsheet to guide construction
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Does Spot Ventilation Work in an Ultra-Tight House?
A homeowner wonders where makeup air comes from
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How to Finish Exterior Foundation Insulation
Options abound for covering up above-grade rigid foam insulation, including one that may surprise you
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How to Keep the Noise Down
What's the best approach for sound-proofing bedrooms?
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Vapor Barriers, Radon, Basement Slabs, and VOCs — How to Stop the Poison?
When radon or volatile organic compounds are a threat from below, the barrier needs to stop more than moisture, and it needs to be continuous and tight
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Beefing Up Insulation (and Making it Easier to Hang Cabinets) in a Kitchen Remodel
An opportunity to improve insulation and air sealing in an old home with 2x4 wall
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Q&A Spotlight: Will One Radiant Floor Heat Two Stories?
A radiant-floor heating system in the basement of a tight house may work for both floors of a ranch, but the devil will be in the details
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Basement-to-Living-Space Moisture Problems
Does humid air come from water problems inside or poor storm water management outside? And what about foundation waterproofing?
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Should Insulated Concrete Forms be Air-Sealed?
Where airtight construction is a central goal, are the joints between ICFs a weak point?
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Building an Energy-Efficient Home on a Budget
Of the many available wall options, what's the most cost-effective for a cold New England climate?