Chimney Crowns and Repairs A chimney crown, also known as a chimney cap or chimney top plate, is a slab or layer of concrete that covers the top of a masonry chimney. It serves as a protective barrier for the chimney structure, helping to prevent water damage and deterioration. The chimney crown plays a [...]
Drywall Ghosting Ghosting in interior drywall refers to the appearance of faint, sometimes shadow-like patterns or discoloration on the wall surface. This phenomenon is also known as "thermal tracking" or "soot staining." Ghosting typically occurs in areas where there is a temperature difference on the surface of the wall. The most common causes of [...]
Radiant Electric Ceiling Heat: Why There Are Better Heating Alternatives When it comes to keeping our homes warm and cozy during the chilly months, a properly working and efficient heating system can make a huge difference in occupant comfort and energy cost. Radiant electric ceiling heating systems were installed in some homes in our [...]
Importance of Floor Insulation When we think of home insulation, we typically think of wall and ceiling insulation. However, floor insulation is also critical for a proper thermal envelope for the home. Properly insulating your floors is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, improving energy efficiency, and reducing heating and cooling costs. Why [...]
Sewage Ejector Pump A sewage ejector pump is a device used in plumbing systems to pump wastewater, particularly sewage, from lower to higher elevations. It is commonly employed in homes or buildings where the plumbing fixtures, such as bathrooms or laundry rooms, are located below the level of the main sewer line or septic [...]
Carpet Filtration Soiling Carpet filtration soiling, also known as filtration soiling or filtration lines, refers to the accumulation of dark, grayish lines or streaks along the edges of carpets, near walls, and underneath doors. These lines are often more noticeable on light-colored carpets. The primary cause of carpet filtration soiling is airborne particulate matter [...]
Vent Free Fireplaces A vent-free gas fireplace is a type of gas fireplace that doesn't require a traditional chimney or venting system to expel combustion byproducts outside. Instead, these fireplaces are designed to burn gas cleanly enough that the resulting byproducts, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor, can be released directly into the [...]
Sacrificial Anode for Water Heater Replacement A sacrificial anode is a component used in water heaters and other metal structures that are in contact with water. Its purpose is to protect the metal tank from corrosion. Water heaters typically have a metal tank, often made of steel, and water is an electrolyte that can [...]
Manufacturers Installation Instructions and Local / National Building Codes Residential building codes are a set of regulations and standards that dictate the design, construction, and maintenance of residential buildings to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of the occupants and the surrounding community. These codes cover various aspects of construction, including structural integrity, fire [...]
The Importance of Proper Fasteners and Hardware in Construction of Decks According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 20,000 deck collapses occur annually in the United States and approximately 6,500 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for injuries related to deck or porch collapses. An average of around 20 [...]
