Concrete Foundations: Under-Slab Vapor Barriers Done Right
WEBSep 23, 2019 · Vapor Barrier Installation Basics. The most obvious best practice is to install a sub-slab vapor barrier in the first place. I recommend a minimum 10-mil-thick polyethylene material, even if your local building code allows a 6-mil, as it lasts longer and is less prone to punctures. Some builders in desert climates ignore this advice, figuring ...
Proper Backfilling and Grading for a Dry Foundation
WEBMar 28, 2017 · Downspouts: Make sure that all downspout extensions direct water 5 to 10 feet away from the foundation. Underground downspouts to a yard bubbler can be a more attractive option. 6. Separation from grade: Maintain 6 to 8 inches of separation between final grade and the siding material above.
5 Steps to Proper Roof Sheathing Installation | ProBuilder
WEBNov 17, 2014 · Follow these 5 simple construction steps when installing roof sheathing: (and scroll down to see more details on each, with installation hints and tips, below) Step 1: Check the nailing surface is level. Step 2: Ventilate the roof according to current building codes. Step 3: Properly fasten panels (including fastening and spacing hints)
7 Easy Systems to Help You Construct a Curbless Shower
WEBAug 12, 2019 · ARC. Available in 13 sizes up to 71 inches long, TrueDEK Classic is a shower base that makes building curbless showers easy and fast, without having to cut into joists, the manufacturer says. The pre-sloped, structural bases comes with a complete waterproofing system to prepare the pan for tile.
9 Common Subfloor Installation Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them
WEB5. Not Gluing the Subfloor's Tongue-and-Groove. Applying a small bead of glue in the tongue-and-groove can significantly help reduce any movement and noise. 6. Delaying Fastening the Panels. Again, it’s tempting to tack the corners and come back to screw all the panels down at once. But by then the glue is already set.
Tips for Choosing the Right Housewrap | Pro Builder
WEBNov 28, 2018 · Whatever wrap is right for you, it must be installed with at least 6-inch horizontal laps and 12-inch vertical laps. Layer all flashing components in shingle fashion and tape every seam, and always use button-cap fasteners. Remember: Water management details and materials are never the place to cut corners or cost.
The Best Way to Install Housewrap - ProBuilder
WEBOct 14, 2021 · The good news is, installing building wrap is simple if you stick to these four easy steps: Step 1: 12-inch overlap and 1-inch overlap on the sill plate. For max protection, aim for 2-4 inches. Building wrap should be installed from the foundation upward, making sure to overlap joints with the higher course overlapping the lower.
A Checklist for Building Party Walls the Right Way - ProBuilder
WEBJuly 6, 2021. This party wall includes the best practices mentioned in this article: fiberglass-mat faced gypsum shaft liner, gypsum blocking in the gap between the liner and the wall top plate, and fire-rated foam. | All photos: courtesy IBACOS. Inspections ensure that party walls between townhome units meet fire code requirements.
Do Concrete Slabs Really Need Welded Wire Mesh? - ProBuilder
WEBSep 1, 2021 · The past decade has seen many production builders switch to synthetic fiber mesh reinforcement for concrete slabs to help reduce surface cracking. In the process, many of these builders have completely eliminated traditional welded wire mesh (WWM). But while fiber mesh has advantages, it also comes with potentially costly drawbacks.
Proper Flashing Practices for Fascia - ProBuilder
WEBJul 30, 2021 · Fasten the flashing membrane to the wall along the top edge only. The bottom edge must be free of fasteners to allow it to be layered over the WRB later. At a minimum, the flashing should extend at least . 6 inches in every direction from the face of the wood fascia return. • Complete the installation of the roof and fascia return.