Archives: Structure

WoodTrac Ceiling System Review

By Todd Fratzel on Basements, Finish Carpentry

WoodTrac Ceiling System I’m a huge proponent of using suspended ceilings (drop ceilings, acoustic tile ceilings) for finished basements because they allow easy access to electrical, plumbing and heating utilities that are typically suspended from the floor framing above.  Lots of my customers cringe when I make this suggestion because they don’t like the appearance…

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Walk-Out Basement Wall Insulation

By Todd Fratzel on Insulation

Insulating Wood Framed Walk-Out Basement Walls Walk-Out foundations create an interesting dilemma in when considering wall insulating details. I’ve written extensively on the subject of how to properly insulate basement walls which deals with concrete (and block) walls but I’ve never addressed the occasional wood framed walk-out walls that exist in some many homes today.…

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Outdoor Timber Pavilion by Western Timber Frame

By Todd Fratzel on Landscaping, Structure

Timber Frame Pavilion Project Outdoor living spaces have become one of the most popular landscaping projects for home owners looking to expand their yards and gain useful spaces to entertain and relax. Last Spring we started an extensive year long outdoor living project including a custom patio with built-in fire pit, retaining wall, outdoor pavilion,…

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Vinyl Siding Leaks – Period!

By Todd Fratzel on Siding & Trim

Understanding The Limits of Vinyl Siding Today as I was driving home for lunch I passed a new home under construction and witnessed something that really bothered me. A contractor was installing vinyl siding on a new home that was sheathed with OSB. However, there was one very crucial detail missing that really bothered me.…

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Spring Decking and Fencing Projects

By Todd Fratzel on Decks & Porches

Tips for Deck and Fence Projects With Spring finally here many of us are considering deck and fencing projects. Maybe you’re considering having a new deck or fence built. Maybe it’s time to refinish your deck or add some new decorative touches to your tired deck. Spring is the perfect time to plan these projects…

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Attic Vapor Barrier & Insulation

By Todd Fratzel on Insulation

Attic Vapor Barrier for Insulation in Cold Climates? Insulation details change about as often as the weather here in New England. One question that seems to come up is whether or not to use a vapor barrier with attic insulation in cold climates? The answer to this question seems to have changed in recent years…

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Bay Window Floor Insulation Detail

By Todd Fratzel on Insulation

Bay Window and Floor Deck Cantilever Insulation Details I’ve written quite a few articles on how to insulate basement walls and floors but one more specific topic related to this subject keeps coming up and that’s how to insulate a bay window floor or cantilever floor framing. In this article I’ll share a detail for…

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Custom Colonial Style Fireplace Mantel

By Todd Fratzel on Finish Carpentry, Interior Decorating

Custom Fireplace Mantel There’s something about a beautiful fireplace and mantel that really makes a home feel warm and inviting. A fireplace mantel can also be a beautiful prominent architectural feature. I’ve built a couple custom mantels over the years and the one featured in this article is my latest one in our new home.…

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