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Home-Building Cyclopedia

Get clear explanations of the essential concepts in residential design, construction, and remodeling.

What Are Passive Houses?

These high-performance building standards and certification guidelines help architects and builders create comfortable, super-energy-efficient houses.
Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless heaters don't take up much room, and they don't waste energy on hot water you're not using.
Don’t Forget the Flashing

Easily overlooked and sometimes installed incorrectly, flashing keeps water out and rot at bay.
Spray-Foam Insulation

Learn about the pros and cons of spray polyurethane foam—a high-performance material found in the walls and roofs of many of today's energy-efficient homes.
Rigid-Foam Insulation

This versatile building material is a key component in most energy-efficient new homes and remodeling projects.
Deciphering Local Building Codes

These construction rules are meant to protect homeowners from harm; just make sure you're using the right ones.
Heat-Pump Water Heaters

Higher efficiencies than electric-resistance heaters will save money, but upfront costs are higher.
Do You Need a Building Permit?

Only your local building official can say for sure, but you better check before you start to work.
Sizing Up Electrical Cable

Choosing the right kind of electrical wire for a circuit in your house depends on how much current it will carry, where it's going, and what local codes require.
Air Barriers Are Essential for a Modern, High-Performance Home

Controlling air movement through the walls and ceilings is a key step toward comfort, energy efficiency, and building durability.