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

 

Just because you draw it doesn't mean they'll build it that way. Know what makes sense, what the framer can execute, and forget about designing in two-foot modules

Glue the rim joist, caulk the gaps, and overhang the wall sheathing to tighten this leaky building assembly

Tropical hardwood beams, locally-fashioned framing connectors, and mahogany siding. Who needs a view?

Whether using roof trusses or stick framing a roof frame, if you make space above the exterior walls, your energy performance will thank you.

Construction methods differ from country to country but are especially different in Japan.

I’m kicking myself for not already knowing this amazingly simple trick!

Exterior insulation can create transition problems. Here are a few solutions

Old-school framing meets new-age materials.

Equatorial sun changes the priorities in a construction sequence

Begin with the end in mind. And some construction materials, too.

Here’s how to stiffen walls that are too narrow to resist the force exerted by high winds and earthquakes.

This Roomba-like device can navigate a room and print complicated layout on the floor.

Tie the walls to the foundation, the floor to the walls, and add shear strength for lateral support

Better insulation, drier walls, lower HERS scores, and labor savings.

A collection of five videos on a Passive House Retrofit in Sharon, CT (climate zone 5) executed by Ben Bogie, Built to Last, LLC

Keep mechanical equipment within the envelope to improve the quality of houses and homes

The most effective (and easiest) time to detail the air barrier is during the framing stage. If it isn't specified during design, ain't no way the framers are gonna get it right.