An insulated basement or crawl space provides many benefits year-round, and the rim joist (or band joist) is often a focal point in energy-saving initiatives. Installing insulation at the rim joists ...

Q. What are rim joists, and how do you insulate them? Our home was recently inspected and the buyer asked that we pay for the repairs. Is this something I can do myself? A. Rim joists are the boards ...

Q: Should we insulate the rim-joist cavities of a crawlspace foundation? I am a builder, and where I live the codes require insulation, but I have discovered that the insulation causes decay and mold ...

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us? Here’s what you’ll learn when you read this story: How to identify common wood rot ...

Q: I have a crawlspace under my house. Last fall, I put insulation between the joists of one room to try to warm the floor somewhat. I put roll insulation between joists and nailed 4-by-8 ½-inch foam ...

Question: What are rim joists, and how do you insulate them? Our home was recently inspected and the buyer asked that we pay for the repairs. Is this something I can do myself? Answer: Rim joists are ...

Dear Pat: There were some drainage problems around my home (has siding), and the mudsill on top of the foundation is rotting. How can I repair the bad lumber so my house remains stable? -- Kim S. Dear ...

Q: My house has a lot of wood-framed windows. The windows are in good condition, but several of the sills have rotted areas. I know it is best to replace those sills, but I can’t afford it right now.

Rot and warped floors rarely start where you can see them. They usually begin in the crawlspace, with one everyday habit that feels harmless: letting moisture build up and linger. When you treat that ...

Q: Several years ago when I purchased my home I had the home inspected by a professional home inspector. Now that I'm moving on the buyer had the home inspected by a different person. The second ...