Author Archives: KippH

The Trouble With Building Science

Posted on May 1, 2012 by KippH

Few people understand it. Nobody agrees what it is, how to learn about it, or who’s responsible for it. It has never been more important When builders began to insulate houses in the 1920s and 1930s, the exterior paint began … Continue reading →

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Paint Primers

Posted on March 15, 2012 by KippH

What’s the Difference: Primers Learn what the difference is between latex, oil-based and shellac-based primers and how to choose the right one for the job. For most paint jobs, both inside and outside the house, latex paint is preferred. Latex … Continue reading →

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How to Insulate a Cold Floor

Posted on March 8, 2012 by KippH

Properly air-sealed floors exposed on the underside to outdoor temperatures will have better energy performance Floors that are exposed on the underside to outdoor temperatures are often poorly insulated. Such floors can be found in homes with post foundations, in … Continue reading →

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Air-Sealing a Basement

Posted on January 25, 2012 by KippH

Once you’ve sealed the air leaks in your attic floor—the cracks where warm air escapes from your house during the winter—it’s time to turn your attention to the basement or crawlspace, where cold air leaks in. If you turn off … Continue reading →

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Code Alert: New Jersey UCC

Posted on January 25, 2012 by KippH

The New Jersey Uniform Construction Code Advisory Board announced the proposed adoption to the 2011 National Electrical Code (NEC). The Board reviewed and approved the proposed amendments to the 2011 NEC recommended by the Electrical Subcode Committee. The recommendation includes … Continue reading →

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Code Alert: Pennsylvania UCC

Posted on January 18, 2012 by KippH

At the January 18, 2012 meeting of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Review and Advisory Council (RAC) the Council voted to recommend to the Pennsylvania Legislature that a six year code adoption cycle be instituted under the Uniform Construction Code. … Continue reading →

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The New International Green Construction Code

Posted on November 9, 2011 by KippH

Future Outlook Contractors and building owners of new construction, renovationing or retrofitting existing buildings know they must abide by building codes that ensure safety and protect human health. Soon, they will also have to adhere to codes designed to protect the … Continue reading →

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Private Residence in Gladwyne, PA

Posted on October 26, 2011 by KippH

 Betzwood Associates completes a residential addition & renovation project in Gladwyne, PA. General Contractor Frank Mariani, Inc. Interior Designer Joanne Bateman Interior Designs, LLC Photographer Peter / Kubilus

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How to Seal Air Leaks

Posted on September 5, 2011 by KippH

How to Seal 4 Typical Hidden Air Leaks in Your House A 1⁄8-in. crack doesn’t seem like much to worry about, but a 1⁄8-in. crack that runs the length of your house amounts to a square hole 8 in. on … Continue reading →

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Roof Ventilation

Posted on July 20, 2011 by KippH

A Crash Course in Roof Venting Understand when to vent your roof, when not to, and how to execute each approach successfully So much information has been devoted to the subject of roof venting that it’s easy to become confused … Continue reading →

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