SLS

Monday Musings: 2021 IECC – Illinois Commercial Proposals

In the last few articles, we have discussed the timeline for the 2021 IECC adoption process in Illinois and looked at the residential proposals. Normally you might see 10 “commercial” proposals but this year there are a whopping 17 proposals, and I can say a few of them are doozies. It appears that the group […]

Monday Musings: 2021 IECC – Illinois Residential Proposals

This adoption cycle is going to be interesting for not only Illinois but also for other states as they consider adopting the latest IECC. Why might you ask? Well, that is because the same group that threw the code process on its head isn’t done just yet & if this state is any indication… they […]

Wacky Weds: Roof Ventilation 101

Heh – this doesn’t work folks. Guess where that Powered Attic Ventilator is going to get its exhaust from or the three turtle vents when the PAV isn’t running… Sorry but not only is this a waste of money but so is the alternative solar unit. Ventilate it right, insulate properly, or consider a Hot […]

Wacky Weds: Forgot the board stretcher?

Sometimes all you can say is what the… I can see the framers now – what do you mean you forgot the board stretcher? Ahh no big deal, I am sure everyone else will cover over it & if not at least the gutter will & no one will be the wiser.

Monday Musings: “We need more Ventilation?”

Ahh here we go again… another magazine article, talking head on TV, or post where someone simply goes on about – “We need more Ventilation.” Really? Why are so many people still missing the boat and directing their efforts in the wrong direction? Of course, most then turn around and go “Oh you disagree, what […]

Know Thy Numbers: Ice & Water Shield / Barrier

For a mere 162 words, why is there so much confusion on just how much Ice & Water Barrier / Shield (herein called IWS) that needs to be installed? You distill it down to the root and it simply states that said IWS, when required by the … “shall be used in place of normal […]

Wacky Weds: Spot the Issues

Care to play a quick game of spot the issues? Ready, Set, Go… So how many did you spot & how quick? At least 4? Hmm let’s try a slightly better angle with some hints… A = Gutter apron used not drip edge. Fortunately, they had a large gap, or the water issues would be […]

2021 IECC & Illinois – Timeline

Here we go again… the 2021 IECC has officially been published (February 2021) so the State of Illinois is now under the clock to adopt the latest IECC per the EEB Act. It is supposed to reviewed & adopted within 1 year of publication & take effect within 6 months of adoption. The tentative timeline […]

Common Sense Building: How much insulation should I install?

Lately we have been covering the newest insulation requirements found in the 2021 IECC. Needless to say, some are saying “about time,” while others are left wondering, just when will it stop (aka the law of diminishing returns)? Another twist is the new allowable options for wall insulation & is that really a better option? […]

FAQ: Should I always use the Bathroom Fan when taking a Shower?

I am sure you have heard it all before; start the bathroom exhaust fan before your shower or bath, use a timer, run it for 10/20/30 minutes after… The question though is do I really need to always use the bathroom fan; does anything change based on it being summer or wintertime? Heh, does this […]