Archives: Structure

Proper Window Flashing

By Todd Fratzel on Windows

How To Properly Flash Windows Recently I’ve had several questions about leaking windows. Most window leaks can be traced back to poor installation. Today there are many self adhesive flashing products available to make weather proofing much easier. Grace Construction Products has a whole line of Window, Door and Deck Flashings for every construction task.…

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Engineered Lumber

By Todd Fratzel on Framing

Engineered Lumber Framing Today I was looking at some old photos from last year when we started framing the new house. One of the things that caught my eye was this photo of the floor framing. Engineered lumber products have drastically changed the residential home market. As you can see in the photo I used…

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Ridge Vents

By Todd Fratzel on Roofing

Recently I wrote about ice dams and the need for good ventilation. Since writing about that topic I received several questions about what types of ridge vent I prefer. I definitely prefer the rigid type ridge vents. ShingleVent®II is one such type that works very well. It maintains it’s shape after nailing on the cap…

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Wainscoting Adds Elegance To A Room

By Todd Fratzel on Finish Carpentry

DIY Wainscoting Wainscoting is an easy way to add some elegance to a room. In our new home I wanted to have a more formal feeling dining room and wainscoting helped us achieve that feeling. Do-it-yourself wainscoting can be achieved in a couple different approaches. You can create faux wainscoting by applying small pieces of…

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Window Condensation – Part II

By Todd Fratzel on Windows

I recently posted about winter window condensation and I’ve received a lot of questions. I found some more information that should be useful in answering some of the questions: Humidities should be controlled so that little or no condensation appears on the inside surface of the glass. With double glazing this still permits quite high…

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Selecting Replacement Windows

By Todd Fratzel on Energy Conservation, Windows

Trying to decide what type and brand of replacement window to purchase is a difficult decision. There are so many different styles, manufactures, options and details that I suggest you spend quality time researching and evaluating different windows. The most important feature will be the energy efficiency or rating for the window. Three key measures…

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Vinyl Railings Are a Great Home Improvement Idea

By Todd Fratzel on Finish Carpentry

A really great home improvement project that can add beauty and years of maintance free use is to replace old wooden railing systems outside with new vinyl products. I’m going to fall back again on my experience with my new home. I have a huge farmers porch on the front of the house and a…

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Roofing Types and Relative Costs

By Todd Fratzel on Roofing

Here is a great article about roofing types and relative costs. This will help you with a great overview if you’re thinking about a new roof for your house. Home Building – Roofing by Tammy Crosby-Editor, Dream Designs The type of roofing material you choose for your new home will depend on the style of…

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