Tim Carter describes the importance of a treated lumber sill plate in a wood-framed house. In addition, a layer of foam between the masonry foundation and the sill plate will help stop drafts into your house.
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Tim Carter describes how stacked framing is the best structural way to construct a wood-framed house. Stacking the roof rafters directly over the wall studs, which are directly over the floor joists, from the top of the roof down to the foundation, will provide a strong house frame.
Tim Carter describes several ways to use diagonal bracing while constructing a wood-framed house. The bracing keeps the house square while it is under construction. The weight from other components or the affects of wind can cause problems without this bracing.
Tim Carter shows a valley rafter in a common-framed roof. The valley rafter is part of the roofing framing on a house under construction.
OSB sheathing has now pushed plywood aside as the main stay for housing construction. The fiberboard sheathing serves several purposes mainly it is a structural material. The sheathing prevents the wall from racking from side to side.
Wood beams can be found in many homes. Remodeling may require you to install a new beam next to an existing beam that may be too short or too weak. Wood ceiling beams need to be through bolted when they are connected. You must use the right through bolts and drill holes through the wood beams that match the diameter of the bolts.
Both old and new homes should incorporate cat5 cable. This new house wiring standard is low voltage cable that provides options for networking appliances, telephone lines and computers all in one. Cat5 provides for future additions of these electronic devices-- and others we may not even have heard about yet!
If you are remodeling and have major roof and attic modification underway, now is a smart time to upgrade and add some other projects. Consider additional insulation, wiring, ventilation and wire conduits for starters. Adding one of the great central vacuum systems will also make your home more efficient and pleasant.
Ask your builder about special roof trusses that will gain storage space for your home. You can mix standard trusses with scissors, attic, or storage trusses, and avoid losing valuable space that is paid for but unusable. Call in a pro engineer before converting a traditional roof to a vaulted version.
Skylights bring light, stars and the outdoors in to other parts of your room. Constructing a skylight with a flared, rather than straight, shaft will gain much more light with a simple expansion. Consult a professional structural engineer before tearing into your trusses, however!
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