I’m all for prefab construction elements, but often find that prefab houses are a poor fit for many applications – too rigid in their limitations relating to module size and finishes. A great exception are prefabricated Accessory Dwelling Units – they largely can fit into the size constrains of one transportable prefabricated module and the finishes are driven (in many cases) by affordability/relation to a rental balance sheet so light-weight, flexible finishes are more acceptable. Here’s a good article on Roger and Martha’s prefabricated ADU as well as an architect’s approach to the space. Here is Wolf Industries working in the niche up in the Pacific Northwest.
Charles Buell digs into the Western States Roofing Contractors Association‘s view on dimensional asphalt shingles on roof slopes below 3.5/12. In brief – allowed by code and manufacturers but not recommended by (at least one) industry association. Here is their technical bulletin on the subject which I have rehosted.
You know, I’ve never thought about the sex of the trees around my house, but now I’m going to start thinking about it.
Allison Bailes once again knocking it out of the park with an introduction to understanding filter ratings. The lesson: it’s all about the MERV rating.
Club of the Week: To become a member of the Caterpillar Club you need to (successfully) use a parachute to bail out of a disabled aircraft. Related clubs: The Goldfish Club for disable aircraft survivors who survive exposure at sea and the Martin-Baker Ejection Tie Club for those who survive an ejector seat launch (not sure the aircraft has to be disabled for this one, ejection sheets are enough of a gamble already). I first heard of the Martin-Baker club in relation to whether the tourist in this story would receive one.
TYPD 