DIY Builds
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What should I put between insulation and roof?

A vent baffle should be installed between the insulation and the roof decking to maintain the ventilation channel. Consider using high-density R-30 batts, which are as thick as R-25 batts, but fit into 2x10 framing.

How do I insulate my shed?
How do I insulate my shed?

To insulate a shed via its walls, there's a choice of materials, including bubble wrap, foam boards and fiberglass. Use bubble wrap in a shed made...

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Do I need planning permission for a shed attached to the house?
Do I need planning permission for a shed attached to the house?

You must apply for householder planning permission to erect a garden building, greenhouse or shed if: the total area of ground covered will be...

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For optimal energy efficiency, your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to its foundation. The illustration above shows all the areas of the home where there should be insulation. The numbered areas shown in the illustration are as follows: 1. In unfinished attic spaces, insulate between and over the floor joists to seal off living spaces below. If the air distribution is in the attic space, then consider insulating the rafters to move the distribution into the conditioned space.

(1A). Insulate the attic access door

2. In finished attic rooms with or without dormers, insulate (2A) between the studs of "knee" walls, (2B) between the studs and rafters of the exterior walls and the roof, (2C) and ceilings with unconditioned spaces above.

(2D) Extend insulation into joist space to reduce air flows.

3. Insulate all exterior walls, including (3A) walls between living spaces and unheated garages, shed roofs, or storage areas; (3B) foundation walls above ground level; (3C) foundation walls in heated basements. 4. Apply insulation to floors above unconditioned spaces, such as vented crawl spaces and unheated garages. Also insulate (4A) any portion of the floor in a room that is cantilevered beyond the exterior wall below; (4B) slab floors built directly on the ground; (4C) as an alternative to floor insulation, foundation walls of unvented crawl spaces. (4D) Extend insulation into joist space to reduce air flows.

5. Do not forget to insulate the band joists.

6. Caulk and seal around all windows and doors.

In addition to insulation, consider moisture and air leakage control in each area of your house. If radon is an issue where you live, you’ll also need to consider radon and radon-resistant construction techniques as you research foundation insulation options. In addition, if you live in an area with termites, you’ll have to consider how termite protection will affect the choice and placement of insulation in your home and plan for a means of inspection.

How much money can you have in the bank and still get the pension?
How much money can you have in the bank and still get the pension?

It comes down to the amount of savings you already have, plus all sorts of asset types combined. For example, if you are a single homeowner you can...

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Can you leave an electric blanket on all night?
Can you leave an electric blanket on all night?

While a modern, well-maintained electric blanket is unlikely to cause problems with proper use, it is not recommended to keep electric blankets on...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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What is the best insulation to prevent mold?

Stone wool insulation offers excellent drying potential and does not promote mold growth.

Energy efficiency has become a key objective in today’s built environment. It’s an important goal, given that buildings currently consume 30 percent of the world’s energy use, and it’s estimated that up to 30 percent of that is wasted. To address the issue, architects and designers are looking to improve energy performance by increasing building insulation levels and creating tighter building envelopes. Both are important strategies that can lead to improved comfort and durability, reduced environmental impact, and long-term energy savings over the life of the building. That said, high-performance envelopes can bring their own set of challenges, especially if moisture issues arise. Why? Higher levels of insulation can lead to less energy transfer through the building envelope which slows or prevents drying of any moisture present in the wall assembly. In addition, tighter envelopes can result in higher concentrated air leakage areas. Without adequate air ventilation, this can lead to mold, bacterial growth and rot, which ultimately can impact the durability and safety of the structure and the health and wellbeing of its occupants. However, it is possible to effectively prevent mold if you understand the fundamentals. That’s where mold- and mildew-resistant insulation and other water-resistant building materials should be considered with every project to create a healthy and productive living environment. This article is structured in five sections beginning with what is mold and what causes mildew, working into preventing mold in your indoor environment, a case study on resilient building practices, the codes and standards you need to know, and finally, mold and mildew proof insulation solutions.

What is the safest insulation to install?
What is the safest insulation to install?

5 Healthiest Insulation Options For Your Home Cork. When it comes to healthy insulation, cork tops the list, at least according to a report done by...

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Where do you empty a compost toilet?
Where do you empty a compost toilet?

Here are some places you should be able to empty the urine bottle from your composting toilet: At a dumping station. This is a sure place for safe...

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Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

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What would it cost to build a 10x20 shed?
What would it cost to build a 10x20 shed?

Shed Cost by Size Size Average Cost (Labor Included) 10' x 10' (100 sq.ft.) $5,000 10' x 12' (120 sq.ft.) $6,000 10' x 16' (160 sq.ft.) $8,000 10'...

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Do you fit hinges to door or frame first?
Do you fit hinges to door or frame first?

Place your new door into the frame, and use wedges to hold it in position. Now, take your screwdriver and screw the hinges into the hinge rebates...

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