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Q&A Spotlight A discussion on wood species, moisture, and detailing for long-lasting outdoor timber-frame structures By Chuck Bickford | April 13, 2026 A timber frame gets its insulation on the outside. One approach is to wrap the frame in structural insulated panels. Another is to frame exterior walls conventionally with dimensional lumber. A GBA reader […]
Revised Coal Ash Rules Focus on Recycling and Flexibility The proposal aims to increase permitting flexibility and encourage the recycling of coal ash into construction materials to reduce waste. By Jesse Jacobs April 13, 2026 Revisions to regulations governing the disposal and “beneficial use” of coal combustion residuals, commonly known as coal ash, were announced […]
Hi, I am a homeowner trying to figure out how to insulate the attic and room below of part of a old 1.5 story house in Minnesota, zone 6a on the most recent map (zone 7 previously). I have a general plan but still have a few questions that I have not been able to […]
I have a bit of a conundrum regarding venting of my (proposed) house build. The house is a fairly straightforward rectangle, with a 6/12 gable roof. No hips, valleys or dormers. Located in BC, CZ 6. Required venting design to BC Building Code would be for “a vent area of not less than 1/300 […]
“Does the rigid foam have to go directly on the studs under the sheathing like zip” NO It would not be allow. Zip can do it because they jumped thru the hoops to get their product approved. Random combinations of material are unlikely to perform as well as the highly engineered and thoroughly tested commercial […]