Damp proofing is an important type of barrier built into the walls and floors of buildings in order to keep moisture from penetrating the surfaces, causing serious damage. This is an issue that’s most common in residential homes and smaller buildings. Damp proofing is worth …
Can Drywall Mud Freeze?
Drywall mud is a water-based product that contractors and home renovators use to seal drywall seams and patch holes. It can be used to make your home project easier when it comes to sealing seams and holes. Because it’s a water-based product, drywall mud has …
How Long Does it Take for Scratch Coat to Dry?
Scratch coats are one of the most important parts of doing your own masonry or putting together a new decorative concrete look to your home. It has a reputation for being a “make or break” point–especially when it comes to the drying process. How long …
Can you Convert a Crawl Space into a Basement?
If your house has a crawl space under the floor, converting it to a basement can seem like an easy way to add some much-needed space to your home. Just dig down a little, shore up the posts a little, and you have a new …
Is Blocking Required for Floor Joists?
Skipping the installation of blocking on floor joists can be tempting as the process is somewhat labor-intensive. However, blocking can provide both rigidity and stability to a frame and, depending on the size of the joists, may even be required by code. Is blocking required …
What is the Purpose of a Bond Beam?
Bond beams, also called lintel blocks, are used in masonry construction to provide continuous horizontal reinforcement. This is typically achieved by filling U-shaped masonry units with grout or concrete and steel reinforcement. The purpose of a bond beam is to provide horizontal structural support above …
Do Drywall Seams Have to Be on a Stud?
When installing or detailing drywall or gypsum board, you may wonder if you need to dimension the pieces centered on the studs of the wall or ceiling you are working with. Ideally, you want to ensure that the drywall seams are centered on a stud …
The Difference Between Damp Proofing and Waterproofing
Building foundations are in constant contact with the earth and as a result, are regularly subjected to moisture from groundwater. This can be problematic in areas with high water tables or where soils drain poorly. To prevent structural damage, damp proofing and waterproofing are commonly …