| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| Floor Joist Load Capacity | 11/12/2009 |
Q: I am renovating a former warehouse into a restaurant/bar. The existing joists are turn-of the ...
A: Depending on the areas over the joists, they may support tables and seating for example - but they ...
|
| Driveway | 11/5/2009 |
Q: Zona, A while back I asked you some questions about my new driveway that was poured last Aug.The new ...
A: I remember your original letter. It sounds as though the contractor is not doing his job properly. ...
|
| Surveys | 10/29/2009 |
Q: Mr. Zona: You mentioned earlier that a parcel of land could have an unrecorded easement on it, and ...
A: Austin, My son's circumstances are somewhat easy. The neighbor who's driveway was in the wrong ...
|
| Surveys | 10/29/2009 |
Q: Mr. Zona: You mentioned earlier that a parcel of land could have an unrecorded easement on it, and ...
A: Yo Austin - - - Undoubtedly there are many pitfalls in the world of real estate and construction! ...
|
| Surveys/Residential Fire Sprinklers | 10/28/2009 |
Q: Mr. Zona: You mentioned earlier that a parcel of land could have an unrecorded easement on it, and ...
A: In my haste to be brief but informative, I failed to mention that a recording of a deed requires ...
|
| Buying Land | 10/23/2009 |
Q: Mr. Zona, I was asking so many questions the system told me to start over. There is one more topic ...
A: It has been said that Michigan has two seasons - August and winter! My place is in Bay View, a ...
|
| cement patio cracked | 10/22/2009 |
Q: 2 years ago i poured a 12x20 patio slab,I poured five 4ft deep footings 12in dia, at the outside of ...
A: With a frost line approaching 4 feet, you slab should have had one or two control joints. That is ...
|
| Adding addition to house/remodel | 10/22/2009 |
Q: I am considering buying a house and putting an addition on it as an alternative to building one from ...
A: You picked a beautiful area - if you can tolerate the winters!! I can't anymore so I have a summer ...
|
| Adding addition to house/remodel | 10/21/2009 |
Q: I am considering buying a house and putting an addition on it as an alternative to building one from ...
A: I fully expected you would have more questions - but that's what I'm here for! I could be a little ...
|
| Adding addition to house/remodel | 10/20/2009 |
Q: I am considering buying a house and putting an addition on it as an alternative to building one from ...
A: You pose a common problem - live with the old or create the new. Regarding the existing - the 1st ...
|
| Permits | 10/19/2009 |
Q: I am frequently asked to not apply for a building permit. I don't like to turn down work but I know ...
A: The law is the law! If you break the law intentionally, it has a serious consequence. Do not take ...
|
| Resurface a sidewalk | 9/29/2009 |
Q: I am getting ready to resurface the walkways on a 6 story building in South Florida. The walkway is ...
A: The "pitch" you refer to is minimal but if it is doing its job (no ponding against the building) ...
|
| Old Garage Rebuild or Repair | 9/29/2009 |
Q: Condition of garage: It is a standalone garage built in the 40's. The roof, windows & doors are ...
A: I'm in Florida where hurricanes are our biggest worry. Every time we have one, the building code is ...
|
| Old Garage Rebuild or Repair | 9/28/2009 |
Q: Condition of garage: It is a standalone garage built in the 40's. The roof, windows & doors are ...
A: Williams, I'm very surprised the stucco has withstood earthquakes and the weather. Also, the ...
|
| waterbed/piano weight load on floor | 9/22/2009 |
Q: Older house built 1970-1972, floor joist are either 2X6, or 2X8(owner not certain), and 12 inches ...
A: 2x6 joists would seem unlikely. Even a 2x8 is only good for short spans - under 10'. Measure the ...
|
| Cleaning Travertine | 9/16/2009 |
Q: Is it advisable to use the Shark Steam Mop on Travertine floors? Thanks
A: Travertine is a natural stone product and has been described as a "soft" marble. It is not as hard ...
|
| rebar for garage slab | 9/12/2009 |
Q: We're building a 22x36' garage in Omaha, Ne. We have a 42" deep block foundation. The block wall ...
A: Sounds like a good project. Since garages are seldom heated the frost will extend into the garage - ...
|
| SIP construction | 9/3/2009 |
Q: I am wondering if SIP can be used to replace concrete for the main material for the house envelope. ...
A: There is a web site for the SIPA (Structural Insulated Panel Assoc. www.sips.org). Yes, you may ...
|
| How much can my second floor hold | 8/28/2009 |
Q: I just set up heavy wood bedroom furniture and am concerned about the safety of the flooring on the ...
A: You shouldn't worry if you know the home was built according to the codes in your area. Typically, ...
|
| building an interior wall | 8/25/2009 |
Q: Can you extend a half interior wall into a full wall or do you need to remove the half wall and ...
A: Adding cabinets poses additional problems - but not overwhelming ones. In order to hang the upper ...
|
| building an interior wall | 8/24/2009 |
Q: Can you extend a half interior wall into a full wall or do you need to remove the half wall and ...
A: Yes, you can "complete" the half wall - but a couple things should be checked first. Is the wall ...
|
| Large concrete/glass suppliers | 8/21/2009 |
Q: I am doing research to determine the largest concrete and glass suppliers in the US and in the ...
A: Since you are computer savvy, I think you could find that information by Googling the subject. My ...
|
| Heavy RCC structures | 8/19/2009 |
Q: Q-1 What is difference between cubical strength and cylindrical strength in Reinforcement cement ...
A: Q-1. Cubical strength is the design strength while cylindrical strength is determined by a slump ...
|
| floor joist dead load | 8/18/2009 |
Q: Two Questions, I am trying to do my own remodel drawings before sending them into my local building ...
A: Eric, I understand your wanting to produce the drawings for your project. However, you are dealing ...
|
| drivit/dryvit question | 8/16/2009 |
Q: We have on the front facing of our house a drivit wall that is fairly empty and we would like to ...
A: I am surprised to hear you have "Drivit" on a residence. Here in Florida it was used more for ...
|
| High Rise Construction Supervision | 8/4/2009 |
Q: In general, what are the main teams required for high rise construction (those who are with the ...
A: Please excuse my delay in responding to your question. The last High Rise building I built had ...
|
| LIEN | 8/3/2009 |
Q: MY COMPANY DID WORK FOR A CLIENT, IN NAPLES FL. WE RECEIVED DEPOSITS FROM THE HOME OWNER , BUT HAD A ...
A: You failed to do what so many subcontractors fail to do - send a notice. There are service ...
|
| Attic Load for Solar Heat Storage | 8/2/2009 |
Q: Roger, We have recently moved into a new Modular home and I am in the process of finishing the ...
A: Your question comes up quite often - how much weight will my floor system support. I wished I had a ...
|
| Venting Common Dryers In Older Condo Building | 7/30/2009 |
Q: Our condo building was built back in 1973. 5 floors, all but 1st floor house 2 washers/2 dryers. ...
A: Without seeing the building plans, I can only make assumptions. Most condo buildings have a "chase" ...
|
| joist hangers | 7/24/2009 |
Q: During our house remodel we salvaged some old beams and planed them to use them as decorative beams ...
A: Jennifer, You selected the correct web site of "Simpson" for joist hangers. These work well when ...
|
| Best tool to scrape off polyurethane | 7/5/2009 |
Q: I've been remodeling my roof and I filled the interior of my roof with hard polyurethane foam, but I ...
A: Isn't that expanding foam a great product??? I use it frequently to fill openings and as an ...
|
| Load bearing capacity on a deck | 7/1/2009 |
Q: I recently purchased an above ground 9' x 15' swimming pool. I would like to place it on our deck. ...
A: The 2" difference wouldn't improve the live load significantly. What would help - shorten the span. ...
|
| Load bearing capacity on a deck | 7/1/2009 |
Q: I recently purchased an above ground 9' x 15' swimming pool. I would like to place it on our deck. ...
A: Your calculations are close. The 9'x 15' pool equals 135s.f. Divide the total weight including the ...
|
| Puddles forming in new driveway | 6/22/2009 |
Q: I recently had my driveway removed and repaved with a new asphalt one, but I get temporary puddles ...
A: I live in Florida where the sun evaporates rain water quickly - but not in two hours. The water is ...
|
| Puddles forming in new driveway | 6/20/2009 |
Q: I recently had my driveway removed and repaved with a new asphalt one, but I get temporary puddles ...
A: I don't agree with your contractor. There should not be any "ponding" or "puddling" if installed ...
|
| Floor Loading | 6/3/2009 |
Q: I wish to put a 600 pound safe in my first floor residential office. The footprint is 720 sq ins or ...
A: My mistake - a typo error. You are correct, the dead load I meant is about 6#. All weights are ...
|
| Floor Loading | 6/3/2009 |
Q: I wish to put a 600 pound safe in my first floor residential office. The footprint is 720 sq ins or ...
A: Don't forget, you will probably put papers and such in the safe so the total weight will exceed ...
|
| Weight, hot tub on second story deck. | 5/28/2009 |
Q: a customer has asked me to build them a deck off there second story bedroom.(24x18)And they would ...
A: You were right! A hot tub full of water and people suspended on a wood deck could be a recipe for ...
|
| Concrete Slabs | 5/17/2009 |
Q: I am currently building a house and the builder has told me that i will need to upgrade my slab. ...
A: I need a few more facts - but with certain assumptions, there probably is a logical reasons for the ...
|
| Spawling | 5/15/2009 |
Q: Any techniques to stop/retard rebar corrosion before spawling is noted aside from coating concrete ...
A: There are so many factors that can effect a building - weather conditions at the time of ...
|
| Spawling | 5/14/2009 |
Q: Any techniques to stop/retard rebar corrosion before spawling is noted aside from coating concrete ...
A: Years ago, when a rebar inspection was made, the rebar had to be clean and free of rust, grease, ...
|
| glass exterior wall | 5/12/2009 |
Q: I have plans on remodeling my beach home. I ran across these two companies ...
A: I know of the two companies you mentioned. I like the Nanawall products but they are pricey. ...
|
| Adding ceiling joists into existing brick walls | 5/11/2009 |
Q: I live in a 14' wide brick rowhome and I'm adding a rooftop deck. I'll need to add additional ...
A: You have two choices - as you wrote, removing enough bricks to allow you to add another joist or--- ...
|
| building project | 5/5/2009 |
Q: i want to build a open carport but city said i need to get letters of permission from all utility ...
A: I don't know where you're located, but every state, county, township, city, etc. have different ...
|
| high rise constrution | 5/5/2009 |
Q: How deep is the hole dug for a 20 to 30 story building approximately . Conditions similar to Calgary ...
A: Again, there's no hard and fast rule. The height of a "story" depends on the intended use of the ...
|
| high rise constrution | 5/3/2009 |
Q: How deep is the hole dug for a 20 to 30 story building approximately . Conditions similar to Calgary ...
A: There's no simple answer to your question. It depends on the soil conditions primarily. Usually a ...
|
| floor framing leveling | 4/28/2009 |
Q: We have a 2 story wood frame house with a 4 foot crawl space under the entire house. Four years ago ...
A: Yes, the area that buckled could very well contribute to the problem in the other rooms. The blue ...
|
| floor framing leveling | 4/27/2009 |
Q: We have a 2 story wood frame house with a 4 foot crawl space under the entire house. Four years ago ...
A: Laminate flooring is an excellent product but has it's failings as well. Did your contractor ...
|
| Materials for a mag-train | 4/22/2009 |
Q: Roger, We are trying to put together a draft for a mag-lev train contained within a tube. We would ...
A: I don't know where you are located. I'm in southeast Florida and we have many Structural Engineers ...
|
| Materials for a mag-train | 4/20/2009 |
Q: Roger, We are trying to put together a draft for a mag-lev train contained within a tube. We would ...
A: An admirable project - but history has already met the problem and came up with a couple solutions. ...
|
| removing bearing wall | 4/14/2009 |
Q: I am removing a first floor 2x6 bearing wall that supports the 2nd floor & roof. Span is approx 12'. ...
A: I think I get the picture. The 1st floor joists are parallel to the bearing wall. Usually a ...
|
| romoving bearing wall | 4/13/2009 |
Q: I am removing a first floor 2x6 bearing wall that supports the 2nd floor & roof. Span is approx 12'. ...
A: Is there a basement below? If so, what is supporting the bearing wall? If not, what is the bearing ...
|
| where free british standard avilable? | 4/5/2009 |
Q: Roger Zona, I serve in a Chinese state own constructing company. Our company will get a contract of ...
A: There are several web sites regarding the British Concrete Standards. Check these addresses: ...
|
| Low points on walkway and driveway | 4/4/2009 |
Q: We recently had a house built. Whenever it rains we have a large area on our walkway leading from ...
A: "Ponding" of a walkway or driveway is not acceptable. If properly installed, the walkway should be ...
|
| Floor Reinforcement? | 3/28/2009 |
Q: I have a 180 gallon aquarium that I will be setting up in our home. There is currently a 75 gallon ...
A: That's a big aquarium!! And a good idea - reinforcing the floor. Probably you would not have a ...
|
| LIEN AND FORCLOSURE | 3/23/2009 |
Q: Sir, I am the president of a small (12 unit)Condo, which is 40 years old. I had a discussion about ...
A: Apparently you did a couple of "no-no's"! 1st you should have asked for and the contractor should ...
|
| concrete forms | 3/22/2009 |
Q: I have an idea for making a round chair for my daughter and I thought a concrete form would make a ...
A: The largest I have ever seen available at places like Home Depot or Lowes is 36". They also have ...
|
| FOOTERS | 3/20/2009 |
Q: We are going to build a 20' x 18' wood frame garage at our cabin. It will be located a the lake's ...
A: That depends! Are you in a cold climate area? Does it snow and freeze? That could be a hindrance ...
|
| Travertine in Steam shower | 3/15/2009 |
Q: Have you ever used travertine for the interior of a "STEAM" shower? Thank you.
A: Yes - I've used it many times. Travertine is a marble that was formed with less pressure than ...
|
| installing pipe vents on a flat torchdown roof | 3/11/2009 |
Q: I need to install additional venting for multi-family dwellings. There are 8 bldg, each is a 2 story ...
A: Mark, I'm not quite sure what you mean by "pipe vents". If you can detect moisture in the truss ...
|
| Basement floor in new home construction | 3/10/2009 |
Q: I am purchasing a home that is being built now. The basement floor was poured last week and now has ...
A: No, my answer doesn't change. The system you described is more commonly used for suspended floors ...
|
| Basement floor in new home construction | 3/10/2009 |
Q: I am purchasing a home that is being built now. The basement floor was poured last week and now has ...
A: I must agree - a newly poured slab does not crack so quickly. Yes, drying to rapidly can be one of ...
|
| Basement Finishing | 3/7/2009 |
Q: I would like to finish my basement, and I have two steel posts I would like to remove in order to ...
A: Obviously the two steel columns are there for a reason - to support the floor above. It is possible ...
|
| pitting in concrete | 2/26/2009 |
Q: I just read your response about the Ohio driveway that has pitting in it. We also live in Ohio and ...
A: I regret your driveway was not installed properly. Pitting usually is caused by allowing the gravel ...
|
| Raised cement after a freeze | 2/11/2009 |
Q: Is there any way after cement has raised after a freeze to get it to go back down to or close to ...
A: Sorry to have to say - concrete that has buckled because of a freeze generally will never go back to ...
|
| notice to lien time requirements | 12/29/2008 |
Q: i am a materialman to a subcontractor working on a commercial project in florida. i have delivered ...
A: It is imperative that you file the Notice to Owner now!! You have 45 days from the last delivery ...
|
| rafter selection | 12/29/2008 |
Q: I need to build a roof that will have an 8/12 pitch and an 18' run. There is no snow load calc. ...
A: That's an unusually high roof pitch unless you intend to use the interior space. However, I would ...
|
| Live loads | 12/16/2008 |
Q: Calculating point loads on a sporting staduim what would a typical live load for a seated arena be ...
A: You have selected a particularly difficult condition to analyze. Given the crowds and temperment of ...
|
| Adjust the RUN cut on installed stair stringer? | 12/13/2008 |
Q: I have an enclosed staircase with a knee wall & banister on the right side. The stringers, 5 treads ...
A: Mike, It sounds as though the carpenter made an allowance for a thicker finished floor and made the ...
|
| Adjust the RUN cut on installed stair stringer? | 12/13/2008 |
Q: I have an enclosed staircase with a knee wall & banister on the right side. The stringers, 5 treads ...
A: Sounds like a challenging project. A reciprocating or saber saw would seem to be a good choice. I ...
|
| Floor load-bearing capacity | 12/10/2008 |
Q: I am looking at renting warehouse space that allegedly has a load-bearing capacity of 2500 kg/m2 ...
A: Andris, The weight limits you noted are very good. Your limits would be just what you calculated ...
|
| Older Construction (7) Stories | 12/10/2008 |
Q: Seeking start up guidance in researching and evaluating installing washer/and dryers, dryers vented ...
A: Barbara, Thank you for your inquiry. Clothes dryers can be a fire hazard if not properly installed ...
|
| floor psf | 12/8/2008 |
Q: the ceiling joist are 2x8x12@16"oc. joist are supported by 6x15x24 Glulam beam every 12'. the floor ...
A: Mel, The structural strength of a wood floor system depends on the kind of wood used and how it is ...
|
| floor cracking noise | 12/8/2008 |
Q: We just had our bedroom floor replaced. I observed that they constructed it using new wooden joists ...
A: Greg, Your assumption is correct. When the outside temperature cools down (even during the summer) ...
|
| ceiling tile | 11/29/2008 |
Q: We just purchased a house built in 1958. The attic had minimal insulation, some sort of rolled in ...
A: The tiles in your home probably do not contain asbestos. But - to be on the safe side - wear a face ...
|
| Overhead door blues! | 11/22/2008 |
Q: I own two properties in Athens, Ohio. There are 3 overhead doors, ranging in age from wooden pannels ...
A: Kirk, Overhead operating doors can be dangerous to work on without the proper tools or experience. ...
|
| retaining wall anchoring systems/rods | 11/20/2008 |
Q: I would like to anchor an existing brick masonry wall in place in order to do some work in front of ...
A: Ernie, I understand that you probably want to install the anchor rods with the minimum of exposure. ...
|
| Stucco Wall | 11/18/2008 |
Q: I have a very weird question, but I don't know where to begin to get help. I just purchased a house ...
A: Sounds like your breaker panel wasn't "educated"! Now comes the tedious task of identifying all the ...
|
| Excavating under front porch | 11/17/2008 |
Q: When I purchased my brand new home I opted out of the "cold storage" cellar located underneath the ...
A: Dennis, The supporting walls of the outer perimeter of the porch probably do not extend down as far ...
|
| Stucco Wall | 11/17/2008 |
Q: I have a very weird question, but I don't know where to begin to get help. I just purchased a house ...
A: What you describe is very very abnormal. Methane gas would only produce heat when ignited. I ...
|
| Finishing the drywall around a shower flange | 11/15/2008 |
Q: I am remodeling my bathroom as I found mold in the sheetrock. What is the best way to finish the ...
A: Question - is the existing sheetrock a "green board" or moisture resistant? If not, that could be ...
|
| Electrical Cables | 11/11/2008 |
Q: What does the typing shown on wiring cables like 300/500V or 450/700V actually mean?
A: The markings on electric cable indicate the limits of electrical voltage that the wire supports. If ...
|
| problem with laser level | 11/10/2008 |
Q: I don't know if I'm on the right board but hopefully you will have had some experience with this. I ...
A: There are several laser level manufacturers out there and you didn't say what make, model and year ...
|
| Concrete walkway next to house | 11/10/2008 |
Q: I am having a concrete walkway put next to my house. There is a grade from front to back resulting ...
A: Steve, That's much clearer - now I have a better idea of what the conditions are. I assume that the ...
|
| Concrete walkway next to house | 11/9/2008 |
Q: I am having a concrete walkway put next to my house. There is a grade from front to back resulting ...
A: Steve, The hollow sound you encounter could well be loose stucco which is not a good condition. It ...
|
| Porch Columns | 11/3/2008 |
Q: Roger, I have a situation where I noticed that the porch columns holding the roof over my front ...
A: Robert, Your question has several answers depending on how the structure was assembled. 1st - is ...
|
| support | 11/1/2008 |
Q: i have 2 1'x56' & 2 1'x14' i beams off a mobile home. i would like 2 use 1 at full 56 length & the 2 ...
A: Debbie, I'm sorry - I just don't have enough information. What type of construction are you ...
|
| Air condition capacity | 10/19/2008 |
Q: Please i want to know how to calculate for the capacity of the aircondition to be used for my room. ...
A: Samuel, I don't calculate in metric - but I can approximate that your dimensions are for a small ...
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| capacity of air condition | 10/12/2008 |
Q: My room area is 2.6 by 2.8 square meters what capacity of Air condition can i use and how is it ...
A: Samuel, Some contractors regularly use quick and incorrect methods when sizing a heater or air ...
|
| Stair Wall Trim | 10/11/2008 |
Q: What is the best approach to cut a 1 X 12 for the wall trim on an interior stair case so it fits ...
A: Dan, You have a couple alternatives. One - remove the treads and risers, install the stringer ...
|
| concrete | 10/11/2008 |
Q: Sir I am an architect doing my masters in Building science and technology. I am not able to find ...
A: Nidhi, An inescapable fact of life is that concrete shrinks, but shrinkage alone is not much of a ...
|
| concrete | 10/10/2008 |
Q: Sir I am an architect doing my masters in Building science and technology. I am not able to find ...
A: I can't be specific because the strength changes with the mixture - the amount of cement, agragate, ...
|
| footer reinforcement | 10/10/2008 |
Q: I work in Collier County (Naples), the worst county for inspections. These guys fail at least 50% ...
A: John, Isn't it a pain!!! Inspectors carry a badge and have arrest powers so it can become a ...
|
| concrete | 10/8/2008 |
Q: Sir I am an architect doing my masters in Building science and technology. I am not able to find ...
A: Please excuse my delay in answering your question. I had an emergency that required immediate ...
|
| patio walls | 9/26/2008 |
Q: Our apartment exterior patio wall which I think has stucco has peeled off and the exposed surface is ...
A: James, From your description, I would guess you have a lath material that is made with a cement ...
|
| colored concrete is blotchy | 9/22/2008 |
Q: We had colored concrete poured on Friday, September 5th (in Minnesota). Now, some 2+ weeks later, I ...
A: Kristi, There are two ways to create colored concrete - add color at the batch plant and add color ...
|
| Building a Restaurant | 9/18/2008 |
Q: I am putting together a bid for a fast food restaurant (Sonic Drive In) and I am looking for some ...
A: Patrick, There are no set rules on estimating. However, I use the listing of the AIA (Architects) ...
|
| Flooring Project - resubmit | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I am resending this because I mistyped my e-mail address the first time :-) Please ignore the ...
A: Rich, I opened this file after already responding to your 1st transmission. Your e-mail address is ...
|
| Flooring project | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I am remodeling my kitchen and dining room. I have torn out the wall between them (non load bearing) ...
A: Please excuse my delay in responding - we are preparing for hurricanes here in S.E. Florida. I ...
|
| company organization | 9/3/2008 |
Q: what are 300 of the duties that a construction company must perform in order to be fully successful, ...
A: Serge, Please excuse my delay in responding - we are preparing for the hurricanes in S.E. Florida. ...
|
| Garage walls built around slab | 8/20/2008 |
Q: my garage was built in the late 70's & it appears as though the builder may have used the exterior ...
A: I'm glad you investigated further. In your area (sounds terribly cold) a footing just 16" below ...
|
| Garage walls built around slab | 8/20/2008 |
Q: my garage was built in the late 70's & it appears as though the builder may have used the exterior ...
A: I don't mean to be vague about your question, but I need more information, please. What area of the ...
|
| Concrete expansion joints | 8/19/2008 |
Q: Having driveway torn out and replaced with 4 inches of 3500 psi concrete (19 yds) and reinforce with ...
A: Jennifer, Yes, an expansion joint is recommended. Use either a neoprene/rubber material or the ...
|
| Do I need a footer for a two-brick high wall? | 8/18/2008 |
Q: I want to build a low 3-sided wall out of cinder blocks only two rows high to serve as a planter ...
A: Craig, Your logic makes perfect sense. I suspect your winters are rather mild and the freeze is ...
|
| Do I need a footer for a two-brick high wall? | 8/16/2008 |
Q: I want to build a low 3-sided wall out of cinder blocks only two rows high to serve as a planter ...
A: Craig, You didn't say in what climate area the planter area is to be built. Weather conditions call ...
|
| Bracing sonotube | 8/13/2008 |
Q: I have 12" holes drilled and will be pouring concrete in them for pillars under the ...
A: Jason, Have you ever noticed how a newly planted tree is braced? Three pieces of scrap lumber can ...
|
| slope of concrete | 8/12/2008 |
Q: what formula do you use to figure it out?
A: John, First you must know the high point and the low point. Lets make some assumptions. Lets say ...
|
| Hiring a General Contractor | 8/8/2008 |
Q: My wife and I are in the process of opening a patio style take-out restaurant (southern cooking). ...
A: Welcome to the world Of "unknowns"! Not really, but you are starting out right by getting ...
|
| center drain for garage | 8/1/2008 |
Q: when do i install the piping and drain. do you do it after rebar or wire mesh like a day before you ...
A: Mark, No - pipes and conduits should be installed before you pour the slab. The plumber will ...
|
| uneven driveway | 7/30/2008 |
Q: We just moved into a new construction home and found out the concrete driveway is uneven. Our home ...
A: Sitra, Without a doubt - the contractor should correct the problem! Normally you have a one year ...
|
| Fill that is placed below a concrete slab and compacted | 7/24/2008 |
Q: What kind of fill do I need below a slab? What is it called and where would I buy it? I understand ...
A: Larry, We call it "Structural Fill" - clean with no roots, debris or trash - and usually a ...
|
| Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions | 7/23/2008 |
Q: We have two condominium buildings in Pensacola built in 2002 and 2004. Each with Ground level ...
A: Rick, The classification of your buildings depends on your local code and zoning. For example, ...
|
| How is a garage floor/slab (formwork)incorporated into a monolithic house slab? | 7/20/2008 |
Q: How is a garage floor slab incorporated into a monolithic house slab? In particular, how is the ...
A: Larry, If you would trust me with your email address, I will send you an Excel sketch showing the ...
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| How is a garage floor/slab (formwork)incorporated into a monolithic house slab? | 7/19/2008 |
Q: How is a garage floor slab incorporated into a monolithic house slab? In particular, how is the ...
A: Larry, I'm sorry my answer was so short and basic. Yes, the forming of the garage area takes a ...
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| Dryvit or lap siding? | 7/19/2008 |
Q: We are in the process of building an optometry office. We have planned to place Silverdale stone ...
A: Carol, If you are in an area that has extreme temperature changes (warm summer and cold winter) ...
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| How is a garage floor/slab (formwork)incorporated into a monolithic house slab? | 7/18/2008 |
Q: How is a garage floor slab incorporated into a monolithic house slab? In particular, how is the ...
A: Larry, Yes, the entire monolithic slab (on a typical house) is formed and poured all at once. ...
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| Question about responsibility of a general contractor | 7/14/2008 |
Q: In 2/ 08, our basement flooded. We didn’t have a waterproof system, so everything was torn out. The ...
A: Keri, My apologies also. I had forgotten that a "sump pump" is still used in some areas. I'm in ...
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| Question about responsibility of a general contractor | 7/13/2008 |
Q: In 2/ 08, our basement flooded. We didn’t have a waterproof system, so everything was torn out. The ...
A: Keri, It sounds as though your contractor is trying to do the right thing. The size of the pump ...
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| garage flor drain? | 7/11/2008 |
Q: it is converting living space back to the garage . the problem is the village inspector told me that ...
A: Tom, Apparently the garage has been living space for some time. My first recommendation would be ...
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| Rock salt finish on driveway, grey concrete | 7/9/2008 |
Q: Roger, I'm experiencing a rust color stain in the small salt created pockets of the rolled finish ...
A: Brian It could be the water used in the cement mixture. Water with a high iron content. My ...
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| concrete driveway | 7/9/2008 |
Q: We moved into our new house last Sept. We prepaid for a concrete driveway that was to be poured ...
A: Bob, Yes, that is an excessive amount of fill and I'm sure you are experiencing settlement ...
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| concrete driveway | 7/9/2008 |
Q: We moved into our new house last Sept. We prepaid for a concrete driveway that was to be poured ...
A: Bob, First of all, you should not have had to wait for your drive. Fill being brought to a job ...
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| load psf | 7/7/2008 |
Q: I have an existing interior structure. 32 X 12 made of wood. One supporting wall is cinder block ...
A: Debbie, I'm afraid your load capacity is not extremely high. A 2 x 8 span is at it's limit for ...
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| concrete slurry for drive way (barney run?) | 6/30/2008 |
Q: Is concrete slurry a viable option for my currently gravel driveway? The drive is sloped and I need ...
A: Matt, Concrete slurry is a watered down cement mixture with little or no aggregate which means it ...
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| Financing and lien law | 6/27/2008 |
Q: I am considering offering my customers in house financing for projects of $3,000 and more utilizing ...
A: Eric, A construction lien is for your protection. You can have an air-tight contract but you would ...
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| New Leadwalk and Driveway Problem | 6/24/2008 |
Q: We had a new leadwalk and driveway poured last Wednesday afternoon (June 18th)and we are having ...
A: Sheila, I must first apologize - the term "leadwalk" is new to me - but you are obviously talking ...
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| concrete driveway repair | 6/9/2008 |
Q: We live in central Ohio and have a concrete driveway that is about 35 years old. Over the past ...
A: Unfortunately, you live in an area that has extreme temperature changes - cold, freezing, thawing, ...
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| New Concrete Driveway Problem | 6/4/2008 |
Q: Just had a new concrete driveway poured and have issue with the top portion of the drive looking ...
A: Concrete, when finished properly and cured properly should have a smooth and stone free surface. ...
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| Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions | 5/30/2008 |
Q: We own a unit in a seriously flawed building that leaks rain water into the living spaces and wall ...
A: Rick, The current code requires that if windows are replaced, you must install impact rated windows ...
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| joist floors | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I have 10 inch wood joists under my first floor. However the floor shakes noticeably (china ...
A: The dimensions seem very typical. My first impression is that the joists were not "bridged". Your ...
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| Construction Defects, Design Errors and Statutory Omissions | 5/28/2008 |
Q: We own a unit in a seriously flawed building that leaks rain water into the living spaces and wall ...
A: Rick, Your apartments are much too new to experience such severe defects. As for rental property ...
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| old garage repair | 5/27/2008 |
Q: My recently purchased home has a one car garage, approximately 50 +/- years old. The garage ...
A: You are undertaking a great project. Garages are neglected more than a basement. The Beaverboard ...
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| washer and dryer installation | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I intend to install a stacked washer and dryer in a hair salon, in a 1hr rated wall, I know that I ...
A: Carlos, Yes, I live in Palm Beach County and visit Kissimmee (Disney World)at least once a year. I ...
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| washer and dryer installation | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I intend to install a stacked washer and dryer in a hair salon, in a 1hr rated wall, I know that I ...
A: Carlos, If you submit your plans for a permit, Energy Calculations generally are required. That is ...
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| washer and dryer installation | 5/15/2008 |
Q: I intend to install a stacked washer and dryer in a hair salon, in a 1hr rated wall, I know that I ...
A: Carlos, My first impulse to answer is - yes, move it to another wall. Penetrating firewalls ...
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| construction engineering career | 4/30/2008 |
Q: Good morning, I am a 5th grader in Mississippi exploring a career in your field. I have a few ...
A: I will attempt to answer your questions - although some of the answers may be rather lengthy! I ...
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| older elevated garage with basement underneith | 4/13/2008 |
Q: My wife and I bought a 1970's ranch home with an elevated garage floor and basement underneith.The ...
A: You are correct in being concerned about the added weight with a concrete topping. I wouldn't ...
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| General Contractor | 4/9/2008 |
Q: Roger - I hired a GC to do demolition work for a small commercial space. A contract for the ...
A: Deb, I don't wear a "legal" hat but I can tell you of my experiences. Obtaining subcontractor bids ...
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| construction bond | 3/24/2008 |
Q: "Typically in international trade LC's, shipping documents, inspection certificates and contracts ...
A: Mike, I guess I'll need to wear my "legal" hat! The "Contract" is the main instrument to insure ...
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| concrete surface | 3/24/2008 |
Q: About 10 months ago we had a concrete driveway installed. We desired a "pebbled" finish whereby the ...
A: Gerald - I'm sincerely surprised on how many letters I get about concrete failure in the northern ...
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| Cranes | 3/22/2008 |
Q: I was just wondering what are common dimensions for the cross section area of the beams and cables ...
A: Eric, I'm afraid your question has too many answers. What kind of crane? truck crane, hydraulic ...
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| Driveway Pitting/Raising | 3/20/2008 |
Q: I had a new cemente driveway installed last June. I live in Ohio and I am currently noticing ...
A: Ben, The pitting in your concrete is because the finisher "over worked" the process and caused the ...
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| slope of concrete sidewalks | 3/18/2008 |
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the general formula for figuring the percentage of slope on an ...
A: Ellis, There a two ways to figure the slope of a walk or driveway, or patio slab. Engineers use a ...
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| Construction Lien Law, Florida | 2/25/2008 |
Q: I was hired by verbal contract, as a contractor and given a notarized authorization to precede ...
A: Syed, If you signed the permit application and, hopefully the owner signed the permit and filed for ...
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| MI Builders Exam Questions | 2/14/2008 |
Q: What height can a ladder jack plank system be used to? Can scaffolding go 3 times or 5 times the ...
A: Heather, My apologies for the delay in responding. Your email was mis-placed. I am in Florida and ...
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| 10' cut out for a garage door(12" block,2 story commercial) | 2/13/2008 |
Q: recently i cut out block for a garage door and i have installed the headers,in this case i have way ...
A: Bill, I'm not entirely sure I understand your question. A garage door opening in a masonry wall ...
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| insurance in construstion industry | 1/27/2008 |
Q: Please explain the advantages and disadvantages of taking insurance in construstion industry. ...
A: Eric, As I said before - there is no "disadvantage" since it is mandatory that a contractor be ...
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| floor shakes furniture and wood floors loose | 1/26/2008 |
Q: I recently bought a house that had hardwoods under carpet.I removed the carpet and noticed the ...
A: Jim, Nail in 2"x8"x 10½" pieces between each joist and in two rows equally spaced - this is about 5' ...
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| insurance in construstion industry | 1/25/2008 |
Q: Please explain the advantages and disadvantages of taking insurance in construstion industry.
A: Erik, I don't think it's a question of advantage or disadvantage - it's the LAW. All Contractors ...
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| floor shakes furniture and wood floors loose | 1/25/2008 |
Q: I recently bought a house that had hardwoods under carpet.I removed the carpet and noticed the ...
A: You didn't mention how old your house is but, by your description, I would assume it is 25 or more ...
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| Stiffening of existing Floor joyces | 1/4/2008 |
Q: I have a 20 year old two story house. My Dining room China Closet rattles and shakes as I walk by. ...
A: Lynn, Your description of the floor framing sounds like you have a well constructed floor. The ...
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| adding a drain to a three car garage after construction | 12/28/2007 |
Q: Is it possible to add a garage drain after construction? We did not have one put in when building ...
A: Tammie, You couldn't have picked a more difficult job!! I'm afraid that once that slab is poured ...
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| Constr Engg | 12/6/2007 |
Q: What are EGP sheets ? How are they different from PGI sheets ? ANSWER: Dear Girish, EGP - Exterior ...
A: Girish, GSM - Galvanized Sheet Metal on the face of gypsum board which is used for a wall covering. ...
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| tips for setting up a construction company | 12/1/2007 |
Q: please i need your advice on issues surrounding setting up a construction company. my uncle who is ...
A: BIG question - and it needs a big answer! There are so many things to think about when setting up a ...
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| Constr Engg | 11/29/2007 |
Q: What are EGP sheets ? How are they different from PGI sheets ?
A: EGP - Exterior Grade Plywood. Is used for sheathing, decking, floor underlayment, gussets, etc. PGI ...
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| archs | 11/26/2007 |
Q: I am doing my science project on eggs....whether they break more easily laying on its side or ...
A: Jake, Yes, the arch is a strong shape which supports the load above it. There are several varieties ...
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| subdividing raw land | 11/24/2007 |
Q: I think you are perfect for my question, I am really interesed in residental developing field at the ...
A: Your question is difficult to answer in the short space I have here. I live in South Florida and am ...
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| basement leveling - drain | 10/21/2007 |
Q: I would like to level my basement. The house was built in 1949. It has a drain in the middle of ...
A: Kristina, I would suggest you determine which direction the drain flows. Hopefully it will go thru ...
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| residential damage from adjacent construction | 9/27/2007 |
Q: my home was damaged when piles of dirt/sand/debris piled at adjacent construction site sand-blasted ...
A: Mark, Licensed contractors and jobs that have a permit, must carry insurance. Don't let them get ...
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| Sidewalks, fence posts, & shrinkage | 9/26/2007 |
Q: I secured chain link fence posts with about 160# of bagged concrete. Less than three weeks after, I ...
A: Warren, The best subgrade base would be crushed limestone or "road rock", at least 4" thick and well ...
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| Sidewalks, fence posts, & shrinkage | 9/25/2007 |
Q: I secured chain link fence posts with about 160# of bagged concrete. Less than three weeks after, I ...
A: Warren, Please excuse my delay in responding. (My wife and I just celebrated an anniversary) ...
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| Garage Floor | 9/24/2007 |
Q: I purchased an 11 year old house with a 3 car garage. The garage is called an elevated slab and has ...
A: Vic The simplest solution is to provide a new drain. Run water on the floor to see where it ...
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| civil | 9/8/2007 |
Q: Why is it required to provide D.P.C ( DAMP proof course) in houses ?. Which is best method to ...
A: Raju, Building codes vary from city to city, state to state, etc. DPC & DPM requirements are not ...
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| CONSTRUCTION | 9/5/2007 |
Q: pl let me know 1) what are the benefits of stone masonry over brick masonry in foundation 2) What ...
A: Raju, One of the oldest materials in the world - concrete - is still the best product for ...
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| pitched basement floor | 8/29/2007 |
Q: I want to finish my basement but the floor is pitched toward the floor drain. I wanted to finish ...
A: Darren, I think it would depend on how severe or steep the pitch is whether or not to level the ...
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| backfill after basement waterproofing | 8/23/2007 |
Q: We had our weeping tile done and waterproofing (leaky basement). They backfilled with the dirt they ...
A: Jennifer, The correct way to provide drainage to a basement is: after pouring the footing and walls, ...
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| QS- Commercial | 8/15/2007 |
Q: i would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of using approximaate quantites as an ...
A: Rebekah, Quantity surveying will not change between now and 2010. The Surveyor must "quantify" land ...
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| QS- Commercial | 8/14/2007 |
Q: i would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of using approximaate quantites as an ...
A: Rebehka, As a general rule, "approximate" and "estimates" are somewhat interchangeable, but - as a ...
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| concrete floor refinishing | 8/8/2007 |
Q: My house is 32 years old. We are refinishing the garage, 470 sq. ft. The concrete floor is cracked, ...
A: Ron, The polymer concrete is strong and probably very durable. I would be cautious about existing ...
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| Load capacity per psf | 8/1/2007 |
Q: I have built a 16'x18' room in a warehouse. I planned for a floor on top for lockers for the guys to ...
A: David, I suspect you should have asked the question before doing the work. I am not sure, by your ...
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| Tile over Asphalt tiles | 7/26/2007 |
Q: I'm would like to tile my house with ceramic tiles the only problem is there all ready is Asphalt ...
A: Not a good idea. Ceramic tile is set in either a mortar (cement) mixture or a premixed "thin set" ...
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| concrete recipe | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I need to know the best recipe to produce 1 cubic meter of concrete 350 grade. specific gravity of ...
A: John, I am accustomed to dealing in cubic yards or square feet so you will have to transpose for ...
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| how could someone become entwined in a crane's arm and crushed? | 7/2/2007 |
Q: This happened to someone on a construction job site and I don't know what that means and how it ...
A: James, Keep in mind - OSHA is a federal government agency and the bureaucratic process is slow. I'm ...
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| how could someone become entwined in a crane's arm and crushed? | 7/1/2007 |
Q: This happened to someone on a construction job site and I don't know what that means and how it ...
A: James, Yes - very possible. And yes, it could be either an operator error or mechanical failure. ...
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| Concrete Slab on Grade | 6/19/2007 |
Q: I am having a new nome built in Florida and I noticed that the contractor placed the block on the ...
A: Neil, You are correct. Normally a three day cure time is minimum. Slabs on grade are not as great ...
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| Plumbing vent | 6/10/2007 |
Q: I am designing a coffee shop in an existing space. The kitchen is going to have a 3 compartment ...
A: Carlos, Foremost - you should not open or penetrate the 2 hour wall. A penetration will destroy the ...
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| Strongest building material | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I have a project in which I have to build a biosphere that will last 1000 years under water/ground ...
A: Who thinks up these projects?? I suppose the day will arrive when we will need biospheres to ...
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| Project management question | 5/17/2007 |
Q: Discuss how the criteria used in the selection of the appropriate procurement system can dictate the ...
A: The construction industry is huge, cumbersome and fragmented which is dependent on small businesses. ...
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| Spotted Concrete | 5/14/2007 |
Q: My house is one year old. Our concrete driveway, front sidewalk and porch have spots all over them. ...
A: I wish there was a really good solution to your problem. Concrete has many variables including, ...
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| concrete driveway problem | 4/25/2007 |
Q: I am buying a new construction home. The driveway was poured about 6 months ago in the winter. The ...
A: Concrete poured in freezing conditions can certainly have problems if not properly prepared. When ...
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| tendering | 4/24/2007 |
Q: Please could you tell me the meaning of the terms open tendering and selective tendering with ...
A: "Tendering" is a word used when "making an offer" or when proposing an offer such as "tendering a ...
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| FRP fiberglass reinforced plastic | 4/10/2007 |
Q: Do you have idea where could I get two sheets 4x8' FRP panels smooth finish (white). Thank you ...
A: My apologies for taking so long to answer. I think you should consider "plastic laminate" sheets ...
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| FRP fiberglass reinforced plastic | 4/8/2007 |
Q: Do you have idea where could I get two sheets 4x8' FRP panels smooth finish (white). Thank you
A: I went to the internet and on Google search found any number of manufacturers and/or sellers of FRP ...
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| grade line transfer | 4/4/2007 |
Q: im learning how to lay storm &sewer pipe and im put in a situation to were i need to know how to use ...
A: Please excuse my delay in answering you query. I have unexpected house guests (snowbirds). A ...
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| Shower | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I have a friend who had a shower installed by a well known company. They had a smaller shower the ...
A: Please excuse my delay in responding. (Living in Florida attacts long lost relatives and I had five ...
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| Shower | 3/29/2007 |
Q: I have a friend who had a shower installed by a well known company. They had a smaller shower the ...
A: I need a little more information to be sure I understand the question. It sounds like your friends ...
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| Blotchy Concrete | 3/26/2007 |
Q: Last year I hired a local concrete guy to come and do the steps up to my house and the sidewalk in ...
A: Michael, Perhaps - because next winter it will freeze again and if there are any weak spots in the ...
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| Blotchy Concrete | 3/25/2007 |
Q: Last year I hired a local concrete guy to come and do the steps up to my house and the sidewalk in ...
A: Michael, I don't quite understand what you mean by "long term effects". Concrete will change with ...
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| Blotchy Concrete | 3/24/2007 |
Q: Last year I hired a local concrete guy to come and do the steps up to my house and the sidewalk in ...
A: Concrete in the winter can be a problem. Adding extra cement is not necessarily recommended. More ...
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| wood boxes | 3/5/2007 |
Q: I am biulding wood boxes.The butt hinges I am using for the lids do not lay flat against the back. ...
A: Butt type hinges are generally mortised into the wood so the hinge plate is flush with the wood. ...
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| tool needed | 1/28/2007 |
Q: This may be a dumb question, but I am just looking for a type of tool and need to know what to shop ...
A: Know the problem and I hope this is a help. Unfortunately, it may require two people but one will ...
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| plaster cracks | 1/8/2007 |
Q: What are various factors of plaster cracking?How should we come to know whether the particular crack ...
A: There are several reasons or causes of plaster cracks. First though - is it really plaster? ...
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| strongest building material | 12/19/2006 |
Q: I'm in sixth grade doing a project and needed help. what would be the strongest building material ...
A: If we look to history, the temples and buildings of ancient Rome and Greece would give us a clue. ...
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| water proofing solutions | 12/12/2006 |
Q: i am researching about methods of water proofing on an old flat felt roof through which water leaks ...
A: Repairs vary depending on what you consider a "flat" roof. A level roof, with no pitch, is best ...
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