The HTRC

The Homeowners & Trades Resource Center

You are here: Home / Home

First Look – The 2015 IRC Changes

This is part two of our series on the 2015 code changes. The first one dealt mainly with the Energy portion (2015 IECC) while this one will focus more on the building side. As many know the Building Code & Energy Codes are updated every three years. Every code update cycle seems to focus around or is […]

Notes from the field: Finding the leaks

Quick Note: As many know “The HTRC” was created and brought to you by SLS Construction & Building Solutions LLC. Many of the articles on here are based on projects we work on, questions that are asked, etc… In this case, this piece was brought about by a few recent tests we did & basically covers […]

Wacky Weds: Follow the Manufacturer’s Directions…

Sometimes it amazes me the shortcuts some people take… One of the biggest things that has come out over the years is when installing a product make sure you read & follow the manufacturers directions. Bah, this way is faster & we have never had a call back… This is from a window with a nailing […]

Safety Sunday: Raised Fireplace Hearth & Kids

A few weeks ago we talked about kid proofing a home & one item I spaced was a trick we used for our raised fireplace hearth. As most know, when your kid starts trying to learn to walk they aren’t the most graceful so hard sharp edges are not something most parents like to see […]

Safety Sunday: Window Blinds & Cords – a simple how to

First a quick note & warning – some may consider the advice in here as something one should never do. Why, well because they are worried that having all the cords tied together could equate to a chocking / hanging hazard. From what I have seen, just a simple string that is long enough, is enough […]

Getting ready for 2016 – Energy Code Changes & Other Items of Note

Well it is official – The Illinois “CDB received a Certification of No Objection from JCAR at Tuesday’s meeting (Dec. 15th, 2015), meaning that our rules were accepted.  The effective date of the 2015 IECC (with amendments) as the Illinois Energy Conservation Code is January 1, 2016.” (Final 2015 Illinois Specific Amendments – these are the changes […]

Child / Pet Proofing your Home – Tips & Tricks

Believe it or not, Matthew just turned one & when he gets moving watch out. One of the more interesting aspects is looking at all the information out there on topics like kid proofing a home. We have two guest posts on this topic from 6 easy tips, to renovations. Needless to say some you find out […]

FAQ – Do I need storm doors or windows?

As the weather starts turning colder many start wondering – should I replace my windows, get a storm door, install storm windows, or??? Shoot I live in an area governed by an HOA and they won’t allow them, are there other options? For others, I replaced my windows last year & I still have condensation […]