Violations of the building code can cause serious danger and life safety hazards. Building codes are the law. If you need to hire an attorney to settle a dispute with your builder over defects in your house, see if these building code violations are visible at your home.
Conflict between you and your builder. And it is time to hire an attorney. A legal battle is expensive and very stressful. Here is my story about a court case. Attorney fees can rack up quickly. Do your homework when hiring an attorney. Get the right one.
Builders have known for years that water and wood don't mix. A barrier is required to keep the water and/or moisture out of the wood framing. An air and water barrier is wrapped around the house to keep the moisture outside. Older barriers, such as synthetic stucco or EIFS, blocked water transfer in both directions. A major mistake. Current products include a new generation of drainable EIFS.
The following companies make or distribute modern air and water infiltration barriers. Proper installation of the vapor barrier and the use of the approved tape is required to create a long lasting waterproof seam.
Want to keep water from touching your wood framing members? These water barrier installation tips will get you started.
Y2K are you prepared? Do you need to get prepared? Just in case, here is a survival checklist for preparing your family and home for the pending doom.
Certificate of insurance are necessary. Contractors should provide you with a copy of the insurance certificate. Extended warranties are available for new houses and sometimes for existing houses. A true professional gives copies of the certificates of insurance without being asked.
Housewrap is thin plastic that stops air infiltration into your house. Some housewraps let water vapor pass between the fibers. Installation and manufacturers of these air infiltration barriers are outlined.
Construction photographs help in many ways - details the construction, shows faulty workmanship, locates pipes years down the road, etc. Here is a list of fifty photographs every homeowner should have.
Trees add value to your home, besides providing shade. Consult an arborist before construction begins to protect your trees from construction shock.
Subscribe to the FREE Ask the Builder newsletter to receive professional advice for your home. Complete the form below and each week you'll get:
Unsubscribe at any time. We respect your email privacy.