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#732: Indoor Humidity, Spreading Kneewalls, and Interior Air Barriers

⏱️ 58:52 🎀 Patrick McCombe, Grant Baver, Ian Schwandt, Cari Delahanty
AUDIO EPISODE
#732: Indoor Humidity, Spreading Kneewalls, and Interior Air Barriers
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Sponsor Announcements
    Introduction to sponsors Typebond and Versatex.
  • 1:50
    Host & Guests Introduction
    Patrick welcomes Grant, Ian, and Carrie, discussing Grant's recent fieldwork photographing articles.
  • 4:09
    Troubles with Pre-Hung Doors
    Grant shares a challenging experience with incorrectly sized pre-hung doors during a photoshoot, highlighting common installation issues and a solution.
  • 12:12
    Innovative Cabinetry Solutions
    Ian discusses using standard kitchen cabinets for custom closet and wardrobe designs, showcasing creative problem-solving.
  • 16:03
    Fallingwater Restoration Costs
    The team debates the reported cost of preserving Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater and the challenges of specialized historic repairs.
  • 22:00
    Indoor Humidity Control
    Listeners share experiences with whole-house humidifiers, outdoor sensors, and the complexities of managing indoor humidity in various climates.
  • 35:39
    Spreading Kneewalls in a Bunkie
    A listener asks for advice on fixing spreading kneewalls and a damp concrete slab in a bunkie, prompting a discussion on structural solutions.
  • 40:17
    Ridge Beam & Rafter Ties
    Grant and Ian explain the structural differences between ridge boards and ridge beams, emphasizing the need for a bearing ridge beam to prevent roof spreading.

Speakers

P
Patrick McCombe
Host β€” Senior Editor
G
Grant Baver
Host β€” Associate Editor
I
Ian Schwandt
Host β€” Contributing Editor and Production Manager for TDS Custom Construction
C
Cari Delahanty
Host β€” Producer

Key Takeaways

✦

Always double-check product specifications, even if labeled correctly, as manufacturing errors can lead to significant on-site challenges like mis-sized door jambs.

✦

Consider using standard kitchen cabinets for custom storage solutions beyond the kitchen; with thoughtful design, they can create built-in looks for closets or entryways.

✦

For historic or specialized projects, engage contractors with proven experience and be aware that unforeseen issues can significantly escalate costs and complexities.

✦

When installing whole-house humidifiers, ensure proper wiring of outdoor sensors to automatically adjust humidity levels based on external temperature, preventing condensation and potential mold.

✦

To address spreading kneewalls in a rafter-framed structure without ceiling joists, install a structural ridge beam with adequate support posts and footings to bear the roof load.

✦

When jacking a roof to install a ridge beam, plan for solid shoring or temporary posts that bear directly on the foundation, not just the floor, to avoid deflection.

✦

For damp concrete slabs without a moisture barrier, consider specialized finishing systems that accommodate moisture or address the underlying drainage issues before applying floor coverings.

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