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The Basics of Makeup Air

Code expert Glenn Mathewson describes how to provide makeup air for a kitchen exhaust fan to prevent backdrafting of water heaters, furnaces, and other fuel-burning appliances.
A New Old Way to Vent a Kitchen Island

The combination waste and vent system is a simpler alternative to island fixture vents and air-admittance valves, and a recent code change may make it more popular.
Changes to the Building Codes

Code expert Glenn Mathewson explains how changes are made to the International Residential Code, with a chart detailing the code-development process.
Site-Built Shower Pans

Code expert Glenn Mathewson explains the details required by code and modern plumbing standards when fabricating a shower pan, including the two-part drain assembly, the subbase material and slope, the…
Landings for Exterior Doors

Get the specifications you need to install stairs, porches, decks, and more to ensure that a home provides safe, code-compliant means of egress.
Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings

Learn how a sleeping room is legally defined and what sort of egress openings are mandated by building codes.
Electrical Outlets by the Numbers

Building codes dictate specific height and spacing measurements for receptacles and switches. Learn what the most common dimensions are and why.
The (Often Painful) Evolution of Residential Fire Sprinklers

Get an understanding of 3 unique sprinkler systems designed to meet building codes, to maintain healthy domestic water, and ultimately to help save lives.
Tiny Homes Get Big Recognition

Know The Code: Master the rules of home building