Tag Archive for ‘Construction’
Understanding R-Value and Insulation
This post is provided by Earthcore SIPs.
There are many conditions that determine the effectiveness of any building material to provide comfort and energy efficient performance. R-Value is only one of these factors or measurement tools.
R-Value is the measure of resistance to heat flow through the defined material. The higher the R-Value the less heat will [...]
Repairs to Concrete Foundations Made Simple Using Carbon-Fiber Kevlar Grid Straps
EVstudio recently met with Pinnacle Construction where they introduced us to Carbon-Fiber and Kevlar Grids used to repair foundation walls. Carbon-fiber has recently been introduced into the construction industry due to its very high tensile strength, lightweight and workability. Sections of the grid can be adhered to the concrete surface using a high strength epoxy [...]
Basics of Radiant Heating and Cooling with Hydronic Systems
A radiant system is based on the concept of radiant heat transfer in order to warm and cool a space. Typically we see the floor as the main medium for this system but it can also be incorporated into baseboards, walls and ceilings.
There are three varieties of radiant floor heat: air-heated, electric and hydronic systems. [...]
The Components of Solar Hot Water – Collectors and Circulation
In the world of solar hot water there are many names for systems that are identical or do similar things. It is important to know the basics and general components of any system one is working with. Once the basics are understood and mastered then it is possible to have intelligent conversations about a subject [...]
2010 Lumber Costs Soaring in First Quarter
I just received this data regarding current market data for lumber and OSB for the first quarter of 2010. The graphs pretty much speak for themselves.
As you can see, the days of the lower cost building materials appear to be largely behind us, with the trend continuing to rise well above the 5 year averages. [...]
Solar Hot Water Radiant Heat
I was recently asked about heating a home with a radiant floor heating system that utilized solar hot water. This seems a counterintuitive at first since the sun only shines during the day and it shines for less than 12 hours during some of the coldest times of the year. However, we have to remember [...]
Three Wood Framing Methods – Balloon, Platform & Advanced
We recently talked about a variety of building methods. Within each method are different ways to build. Here we talk briefly about three wood framing methods.
Balloon Framing -This method of framing was fairly popular on the east coast and parts of the Midwest in the past. Today it is not generally allowed by current building [...]
Terms to Know When Choosing Windows – U-Factor, SHGC & VLT
There is more to know about windows than casement, double-hung, Low-E, double or triple pane. While Low-E and the number of panes can give a basic idea on the performance characteristics of a window assembly, it is also good to know a couple other key terms.
U-Factor – This is equivalent of R-value for insulation. The [...]
Why Hire an Architect When a Contractor Offers to Design-Build
Design-build is a common delivery method in construction and a popular buzz word in the industry. What it generally means is that you hire a single person or company who both designs your project and builds your project. Design-build can be great and it can be a real mistake. What is important is to know [...]
Top 10 “Alternative” Construction Methods
There is a lot of conventional wisdom out there about what is “typical” for building construction practices. While the collective experience of available labor and availability of materials tends to drive how things get designed and built, it is important not to get stymied by routine practices. With progressive thinking about sustainable design and new ideas about [...]
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