It turns out, 5/8 plywood is about the best window insurance you can buy

 

Raised heel trusses and a sealed roof deck make a fast energy efficient roof system

The top reason to study engineering in college: Wall of Wind. Yay Science!

A field-tested collection of videos, articles, and animated details on practical improvements to the framing process that strips out the less-valuable 'advice' often passed on by others

Peel and stick Z-flashing and some padding pushes a ledger flush with the face of the thick panels. A cover sheet of peel and stick completely waterproof the ledger before the deck is framed 

Mark the trusses before you unbundle them

Draw a full-scale mockup and snap a line with fascia in kind

Continuous exterior insulation means smaller studs and higher performance

What's worse than a plumber with a Sawzall? A carpenter who causes it.

Floor layout and framing, some good news from the building inspector, and a pleasant surprise on the adhesive front

A simple stairway Answers the question of why. Why regulations?

Why square pencils are better than round ones, and a handful of trick-sharpening methods from a master carpenter

Old school and new tools on display in a two-video mashup

 

This first video in the series focuses on the existing conditions and the demolition sequence. Following videos look at the foundation, framing, exterior shell, and exterior finishes.