boiler...size matters

A replacement boiler will vary depending on features and size, which will vary according to local climate, local labor costs and construction of th...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

503

Views

flat or satin, I agree with you

The idea of putting a paint with any sheen on stucco does not make aesthetic sense to me. I have always used flat finishes on stucco, and don't ex...

almost 9 years by tomh

2

answers

204

Views

Replace skylight avoid patch

I agree with this approach. A new skylight can be purchased with a built-up roof dam or flashing. The new materials should be able to be sealed aga...

almost 9 years by tomh

3

answers

384

Views

cedar ceiling patch job

The roofer's solution is going to look really bad. You need to find and buy the materials to make as good a repair as possible. I assume this is ...

almost 9 years by tomh

3

answers

199

Views

Painting over stain

I am painting a house using a stain blocking primer (Kelley Moore Acryl-shield 255) and Acryl-shield 100% acrylic paint. I tested for adhesion, an...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

431

Views

Window confusion

I have purchsed lots of windows for both new construction and replacement. I never use the large retailers, but instead identify the quality of wi...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

714

Views

Lumber selection - screen porch

I would use as little pressure treated lumber as possible. The sill plates in contact with cement floor or ground is about it. Any above grade fr...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

456

Views

Yes Thermostat controlled outlet

We built a wine cellar and used a thermostat to control the electric power to a small AC unit that is used to maintain a contant temperature. This...

almost 9 years by tomh

7

answers

364

Views

Saw shop

Take a look in the yellow pages for a saw shop or small power tool dealer. Consumer saw bars come in various lengths and use just a couple differe...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

155

Views

perimeter drains

I'm not sure the Health Department has jurisdiction, or that codes even specify the design of permimeter foundation drains to this extent. The argu...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

742

Views

Squeaking subfloor

The sound comes from the floor moving against the nails the hold down the subfloor. Over the years, they have loosened up enough to let the floor ...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

844

Views

roof windows

The standard flashing kits with roof windows are designed for a 3:12 slope. You have about a 2-1/4:12 slope. The windows can be installed on a fl...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

339

Views

floor deflections

Your subfloors are inadequate and should be 3/4 inch minimum thickness T&G plywood or OSB. If you do not replace subfloors, the hardwood flooring ...

almost 9 years by tomh

4

answers

314

Views

propane and cold weather

The initial boiling point of propane is -44 degrees F at 14.7 psia (NFPA LP Gas Code Handbook). You would need sustained cold weather below this p...

almost 9 years by tomh

3

answers

764

Views

Floating floor: more information

Grant, floating a floor refers to a method of installation. It could include a wide variety of surface materials and substrates. Common surfaces ...

almost 9 years by tomh

3

answers

682

Views

no guarantee

Pressboard is bonded with urea formaldehyde resin. Ammonia probably was not the best thing for that resin bond. I don't think sophisticated chemis...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

917

Views

porch stair riser

Maybe this is a trick question, but the tread width does not affect the riser calculation. You have a vertical rise of 23 inches. Assuming 3-step...

almost 9 years by tomh

3

answers

418

Views

Walking in the attic

Trusses will easily support your weight, as well as any engineered wind and snow loads, but they are not designed for any significant dead load on ...

almost 9 years by tomh

1

answers

182

Views