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Resolved Question: I'm confused about this question ? Please help me?

I want to block out the sound of road noise from my bedroom. It is at least 1 block away but I can still hear it. I put some suspeding ceiling tiles and it didn't cover it. I may receive more today? I bought some pink insulation - the styrafoam nice. Not the soft itchy stuff. I nice of have OCD about glass and fiber glass. bringing home the stryrafoam home last night made me itchy and yet they said it has no fiber glass. But I hear some styrafoam can cause allergies. 1. Should I use this pink styrafoam? I am afraid to touch it again as it is in my garage. I would like to put it between my windows. Will the snow or condensation make it mold? 2. Will my current ceiling tiles placed between the windows go moldy in the winter too? condensation? I'm a student and need a cheap way to quite my room. Does that pink styrafoam have any nice of fibers? I heard it is made of chemical bubbles - very tiny. Couldn't they shedd from inside my window when the wind blows and then it would receive my bedroom and hit in the eye? Please help this needy ocd gir. Thanks, JOsie

26 Aug 2010, 11:59 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Help with Neighbors and Dog upstairs, PLEASE!!!!!!!?

After looking at the tardy Show w/ David Letterman, I truly believe the dog from upstairs is a HELL DOG!!!! This dog does not take a breath and ever stops barking. I live in an appartment complex. The neighbors on top of me are renting. They possess a dog who makes a lot of noise and sometimes, he starts barking for hours and hours without stopping when the neighbors are not home. Apart from that, the neighbors also too make a lot of noise. This building was constructed in 1990 (20 years old). It was made the cheapest way possible, without noise cancellation of any nice and/or insulation or fireproofing... If we would have known, we would have never moved here. Anyways, we have tried to talk to the upstairs neighbor and he apologizes, but continues. The thing is, this happens during the day and never at night when the noise ordanance laws are in place (11pm - 7am). Association sucks... I don't know what to do and I can't move... Any suggestions????

27 Jul 2010, 9:50 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Inspector reported that I had blown insulation in the attic. Just noticed that it doesn't. Is he Responsible?

I bought this home 14 months ago. I just notice that only 20% of my attic has insulation. The inspection report says it was fully insulated. Now that I bought the home, is the inspector liable to help out with the cost of insulating? The home is in florida. The report read like this: Combination of Batt and Blown Fiberglass Informational Conditions The attic fiberglass batt insulation is approximately __ 9 __ to __ 11 __ inches and the blown fiberglass insulation as approximately __ 9 __ to __ 11 __ inches.

24 Aug 2010, 1:58 pm | click here to view more

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Resolved Question: Wood frame home brick insulation joists damaged cellar to attic wall loose. Where do I start?

1909 home,brick insulated. Gutters caused excessive water damage. Joists damaged on ends, cellar to ceiling Where to start work being as outside wall beams are rotted too. Cellar ceiling rotted. Made this discovery during demo HELP. LG

8 Aug 2010, 9:41 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: What materials make for the best insulation on a home?

Conrete walls? Wood? Im talking about sound and temperature.

27 Aug 2010, 5:16 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Electrical feeling in body?

A month and a bit ago I got electrocuted - I plugged in my ipod touch charger and went to touch it and some of the insulation wire had been torn off of the charger so i touched the live wires and got electric shock in my left hand for a couple of seconds max. I'm not sure whether I was touching a conductor of electricity with my other hand, but later on that day I could feel both hands burning. I went to casualty, they did an ECG and said I had a slightly irregular heartbeat but they said this can be normal for people of a young age like me, so they sent me home. Now, any time I use the computer sometimes my hands start to burn in places a bit... and sometimes my hands and legs feel weird - as if they're vibrating or have electric in them... Today my left hand felt as if it were vibrating, the feeling was getting stronger and stronger, until I touched the hand with my other hand - then it suddenly stopped. Sometimes I receive this sort of vibrating feeling at the very top of my head as well. Any ideas?

31 Jul 2010, 2:10 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Problem in induction between two coils..!!?

I made two coils using wire having think insulation (i gues its rubber insulation or something)...i connected a 100 watt bulb in primary coil and gave supply 2 it dat v receive in our homes(220 V,50 hz)...then i connected a 15 watt bulb in secondary coil...nd brought it close to primary coil...bt nthing happened...is its becoz i used wires with thick insulation...??....plz help...i hav 2 submit the project in skul...

4 Aug 2010, 1:50 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: Is 62,000 too much for these home improvements?

I Live in a 1 family home in the Bronx ny, I'm getting 1. A basic full bathroom in the living room 2. Replacing the old bathroom upstairs stuff with new stuff,tub,tiles,floor,sink,new paint job..Nothing major 3. A full bathroom put in the basement along with new walls and insulation, and ceramic tiles 4. Putting a awning in the back yard, I know for sure the awning is about 2000-3000, i know for sure be because i put one of the same size from a different company a week ago. 5. French Doors on my existing backyard doors. 6. New carpet on my stairs 7. New ceramic tiles for the basement hallway. the awning was in my front porch

30 Jul 2010, 1:20 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: Inspector reported that I had insulation in the attic. Just noticed that it doesn't. Is he Responsible?

I bought this home 14 months ago. I just notice that only 20% of my attic has insulation. The inspection report says it has insulation. The report read like this: Combination of Batt and Blown Fiberglass Informational Conditions The attic fiberglass batt insulation is approximately __ 9 __ to __ 11 __ inches and the blown fiberglass insulation as approximately __ 9 __ to __ 11 __ inches. Now that I bought the home, is the inspector liable to help out with the cost of insulating? The home is in florida.

24 Aug 2010, 4:16 pm | click here to view more

Voting Question: Condo upstairs flooded my condo! Help!?

I live in CT. The guy upstairs decided to use drano to unclog a plug in his sink. He then turned the hot water on and him and 3 other grown adults left the complex for a walk. While they were gone, the sink overfilled and flooded my condo (right below his). When they finally came back, they close off the water and he verbally agreed to pay for every damages. I took pictures of the aftermath (I was too paniced to take pictures during-my mistake). I then asked him for his insurance and he told me "we dont have insurance" CT law requires anyone with a mortgage to have home owners insurance, so he is lying to me. I have tried to contact the condo association nonstop but they are ignoring me as well (basically the condo association is the builder because the condos are below construction; he went bankrupt; he still collects the condo fees but doesnt doing any upkeep- a complete other legal mess) I tried contacting the condo association insurance (primary insurance) but they refuse to help me because I am not the president of the condo association or the builder. I finally contacted my insurance which advised me to open a claim (will this effect my future rates?) My insurance sent out a clean up crew which has tore out the sheet rock and the insulation. My insurance is sending out one of our adjustors on monday to assess the damage. Any advise on what to do? I want to tell my adjuster I want everything back to original condition (no patch jobs or short cuts) When I resell, I want my unit to pass a mold/ water damage inspection.

1 Aug 2010, 2:29 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: The guy upstairs went for a walk and flooded my condo! Help!!!?

1 Aug 2010, 2:29 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Should I be concerned about what the city estimates my house to be worth?

Last year I was planning on selling my home and it was appraised at 275K almost exactly a year ago. Since then, I decided to take my home off the market and keep it, so I have done MANY home improvements- brand new roof, central air conditioning, new furnace and water heater, new windows, a deck restoration, new insulation, and brand new carpet. I am also going to receive my kitchen cabinets refinished and updated. I figured my home would be worth more than 275K now since I did so many improvements. However, I received my yearly property tax statement a few days ago and the city estimates my home to be worth 232K. I doubt they know about my home improvements, but I cannot figure out how it could possibly have lost that much equity, especially when I've done close to 30K in home improvements. Keep in mind I live in a really nice neighborhood, one of the best areas in the valley. How accurate are these property tax estimates? I am NOT planning to sell my home now, but it just upsets me that they estimated it so low... just last year they estimated it to be 265 (even though it appraised at 275, but that was somewhat accurate). Another thing that's disturbing is my parents have a home much smaller than mine in a neighborhood that is not nearly as nice as mine, and there's was estimated at 230K. My home is 3000 square feet and there's is only 1800. Do you think the city made a mistake? Should I be concerned about this? FYI When I had it appraised last year it was so I could refinance it. Are city estimates for property taxes comparable to appraisals?

28 Jul 2010, 11:22 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: how much should i epxect to pay in Georgia to have freon put into my home air conditioning unit?

We have a two story home and a air conditioning unit for both upstairs and downstairs. The up stairs unit was replaced with a new one just about 6 years ago right before we moved in. Downstairs is staying nice at 77 degrees. Upstairs is never reading below 85 degrees on days like today where it is 97+ degrees out even with it set at 73 degrees. Our home is 20 years old, poorly insulated and the attic door wont close every the way and the attic is defintely like being in a furnace. We are trying to figure out if we need freon put in the unit or if it is just so hot and the insulation so needy that upstairs cannot receive it chilly. Honestly, when I put my hand to the air coming in the ceiling vent it feels warm and not chilly. Is there something we should easily check before we call Heating and Air company out? If it is just freon, on average how much should we expect to pay?

26 Jul 2010, 4:50 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: way to better insulate my mobile home?

winter heating bills were through the roof probably do to needy insulation in my 18 year old mobile home. I had to take one of the interior walls down to make a repair and found that every there was between the sheet rock and the exterior metal was a cheap yellow insulation. Is there anything else I can do in addition to replacing the insulation that will better insulate my mobile home? Any product or material I could put between the studs next to the exterior metal to keep the warm air in, in the wintertime? http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p278/georgew84/10091309.jpg

26 Jul 2010, 1:58 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: A very serious and moral question about asbestos... Please Read!?

I'll try to make this as short as I can. A few months ago, my family found an absolutely beautiful home for sale. It was custom designed by a locally renowned architect and a few celebrities have even lived in his homes. It was in my families price range so my dad put an offer on it. The current owners of the home are currently living somewhere else, but they left copies of the original brochure of the home from the 60's. My dad became curious about the building materials used in the home. The home is a solid block home. He found out the the insulation in Zonolite(?) and with a little research he found out the ugly truth... This Zonolite is pure asbestos! And not just any old asbestos, the worst possible asbestos you can breath in, Very tiny, and with nasty barbs. When my parents found out, they withdrew the offer immediately, and they told our realtor. She decided to turn the other cheek, at least I'm quite sure she has since it hasn't been mentioned in the disclosure... I have been thinking about this a lot, perhaps too much... And I am feeling a world of weight on my shoulders. My parents had mentioned from time to time on blowing the whistle about the asbestos so other families who are less informed wouldn't be in danger. So far, my parents have failed to do this, and just the other night I mentioned if they were going to say anything. They became irritated and told me I should take care of it. I retaliated saying I'm the child, I shouldn't have to do their dirty work and blah blah blah... They said those were bad excuses and that I am perfectly capable of doing it. However, I think they could care less if I don't.... So the question is, How do I even go about blowing the whistle if I wanted to? If I decide to blow the whistle on the asbestos, I would feel so guilty that not only am I going to make something historically significant an abandoned home, but I could ruin the other family who currently owns it financially! I also know if I don't do anything, the icy difficult truth is that if a family with kids moves in, my not telling could cause these kids to die horrible deaths in their 40's and 50's because one girl failed to do anything! Honestly, I am technically an adult now, but I feel emotionally unprepared to deal with this. It is stressing me out, I have mentioned this to my parents but they receive mad and say they have too much to think about to discuss it. I feel it's my duty as a human being to do SOMETHING. I'm just not sure how! I know I will have guilt no matter what I do! I just want to make the right choice as smoothly, and as quietly as possible. I just need a little help on how to do this emotionally, and politically. Thank you so much for reading... PS: I did a little research on the celebs who lived in these homes. A few died of emphyzima... A disease which can commonly be confused with dying from asbestos!!!

17 Aug 2010, 10:33 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Plumbing and cold weather (Re-post)?

I posted the following a couple of days ago but I think everyone took advantage of the wk'nd. :) Thanks. Plumbing and icy weather? We're rehabbing an old brick school home (circa 1908) in central Mn. Many years ago a big addition was added to one side with a block foundation crawl space and 2x6 floors and the plan is install a 1/2 bath and laundry room into a portion of the addition. Currently there is no heat, never was, (we've got a hvac people coming out to analyze this and several other issues) and we don't know yet if we'll be using forced air, baseboard heat, or another method. I finally convinced my partners that the sink and washer will go on interior walls. Because the crawlspace has no entrance once the floor is put back in it'll be basically sealed. Since I'm the amateur plumber that has to make this work and I'm starting to receive hammered about getting started I thought I'd receive some opinions about my concerns. My main concern is how avoid freezing pipes. (It gets icy (-20) up here) I can route through a 14" foundation into the crawl space or possibly go thru the main building at a higher level with minor modification to the kitchen plan. Would it be recommended to run the pipes down from the ceiling or below the floor? (Only 2x6 floor so I don't trust the insulation to keep warm) Heat tape? Run lines thru the icy air return? I keep hearing ... "they do to mobile homes every the time!" to the point I'm ready to snap.:) Should any special attention be paid to the drain lines? I'm ready to hear even to unconventional ideas. Thanks Yes, this has a basement and we could go either straight thru to the crawl space or by going up to main floor and then over into the addition. The number and size of the holes needed at this time are not a concern. thanks

23 Aug 2010, 11:09 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: What is this thick grey carpet fuzz?

We just moved into an older home. The carpet is not new. It is a light oatmeal color. Every time I vacuum, coarse grey fuzz fills the receptacle. The vacuum worked well in the last home and is a quality bagless machine. It has to be emptied twice when I vacuum. The fuzz is not the color of the carpet and not carpet fuzz. It vaguely looks like blown-in insulation. I have looked closely at the pile and there is nothing grey colored there. Has anyone had this problem?

15 Aug 2010, 5:05 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Fireplace Smell ...help wanted !?

Hi, We are living in a home that is only 4 years old and we aren't the original owners. During this summer we have noticed that on days when the sun is beating down on the side of the home where our gas fireplace is that it seems to odor from the fireplace. At first we didn't know if was coming from the fireplace and thought it had something to do with our dishwasher or something but then we determined where the odor was coming from. It only smells on days when the sun is out and usually from mid afternoon to early evening ( i.e. when the sun is on the side of the home with the fireplace ). The fireplace is a gas fireplace with a vent to the side of the home which I have checked and it didn't seem to have any animals in it. The odor is kinda a musty odor. I've read on some sites that it could be the insulation in the fireplace unit but I'm not sure. Also , the odor is occurring when the fireplace is off ( we don't use it very often ) . Any ideas would be great because it's driving us nuts !

9 Aug 2010, 6:09 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: What are my rights if my landlord isn't repairing damages to the house NOT created by us?

First, we have lived here for 3 years. We are stuck. The housing market has caused people to walk away from their mortgages and every the rentals are gone. Second, the problems started with the landlord raising our rent without a new lease. We didn't have enough money to arrive up with a security/1st/last again so we just accepted it. Third, we had a roof leak that damaged the hallway ceiling and my son's bedroom ceiling and wall. He said he would fix it in the spring and that was two years ago. Then tells us he can't afford repairs so he will have to sell if we make him repair. There isn't insulation. He had a new roof put on way before we moved in and they didn't insulate. Our heating bill is almost as much as our rent during the winter. Now our hot water heater (gas) has a major leak. My utility bill tripled due to the constant heating and the sump pump. He still hasn't repaired and it has been two months. We have not paid June rent, but paid July's. What else can we do to make him repair without threatening to evict us. We cannot afford to carry these big bills with us to another home and arrive up with every the money to rent a new place. Well, he waited until our initial lease was expired to lift the rent 120.00 more a month. I have yahoo'd and googled for rentals as well as local papers and there really isn't anything that would accomodate my entire family. I need at least a 3 bedroom. Nothing like that in the paper for two years now. Any suggestion of where else to look? We are not on government assistance so we don't qualify or HUD. We are trying to make it without going into the system. We also have mold growing up the stairs and along the basement walls. Can we make the repairs ourselves and then deduct it from rent? I'm willing to do that.

26 Jul 2010, 11:38 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Is it fair that politicians or ministers are blamed for things that they do not have much control over?

An example would be former Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd. He implemented a national home insulation scheme which led to a few fatal accidents because some people did not do things professionally. People full blamed him. Kevin Rudd is has to bear some responsibility and he did make some mistakes, but he can only do what is in his control. There are many things out of his control that can cause things to go wrong (e.g. the behaviour of individual people). So, to attribute every blame to him can be irrational. The same applies to medical malpractise. Sometimes, the politicians are blamed. Some people would argue, that politicians are paid well, they have a high status job and with every these perks must arrive greater responsibility regardless of whether they have control or not or regardless of whether they are directly responsible. What is your view?

22 Aug 2010, 8:27 am | click here to view more

Open Question: what is the formula to determine the r-factor per inch of blown in insulation ?

I am blowing my attic w/cocoon insulation ( new construction) in my Florida home, and need to know what the ratio is so I can determine how thick I of a "blanket" I want to lay down ? Thanks

1 Sep 2010, 4:36 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: I think I have a phobia of murder?

Haha, this is a bit crazy, but I think I have some sort of phobia of being murdered. I'm like crazy about that and I receive scared easily. Like, I always feel like I'm being watched. And this is gonna sound really crazy again, but I nice of train for moments such as being kidnapped or something. Lol. I like practice throwing knives into the wall (harder than it sounds) and I workout and I always keep a knife on me. Also, in some movies when people have those band type things around the thigh with guns in them, I do that, but I use a headband and I stick knives every around it. I don't even like when my curtain is the slightest bit open. I always need to have a light on and whenever I hear something I have 911 on speed dial. And I hear a lot of things in my home and outside of my home when I'm home alone. Like once I heard footsteps or something in my attic over my room in the middle of the night. I wasn't home alone but everyone else was asleep and you can't walk in my attic because it's every insulation and that freaked me out a bunch. And I locked both locks on our front door and I left the room, and when I came back, one of them was unlocked. I probably just psyche myself out about this stuff and think about it too much, but that really scares me that i'm crazy like this. And, once our screen door came off, but it was gently placed on the side of our home and I didn't do, and my mom and brother said they didn't so we don't know how that happened. I'm pretty sure it was my mom that did that, but it was still creepy. And every time I close my eyes for 3 seconds or more I think there'll be someone in front of me trying to kill me or something. And about 2 years ago, I saw Nightmare On Elm road, and I wasn't scared when I watched because I know it's fake, but I didn't go to snooze for two days after seeing it.

15 Aug 2010, 5:59 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: lyrics...rate them please?

took me about 5mins to do n i think they're pretty good what do you think and please rate them we got kidz ere smokin crack sellin smack nuthin ta lose so theyre fytin back awl they need iz a bit of adore wen theyre feelin down a cuddle n a hug but instead theyre being neglected no adore they aint bein respected every they look is the struggle n theyr bein affected itz bein reflected on their lives they walk around with guns n knives they call it protection therez nowan to guide em in the right direction so they live how they wna live make sum quick cash sell drugs hang around in the streets n stay strapped therez no future in this but what can they do they need ta support their families n put some food on the table at home they got no sky or cable no heating or insulation new government but we still aint seein changes

27 Jul 2010, 11:46 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: Is there general help for the elderly. Like home repairs and weatherization.?

Cool seal, some plumbing repair, front steps need help, insulation and things like that.

28 Aug 2010, 9:59 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: HELPPPPP...?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

can you rate my lyrics and tell me how to improve pleaseeeeeeeee any advice would be greatly appreciated we got kidz ere smokin crack sellin smack nuthin ta lose so theyre fytin back awl they need iz a bit of adore wen theyre feelin down a cuddle n a hug but instead theyre being neglected no adore they aint bein respected every they look is the struggle n theyr bein affected itz bein reflected on their lives they walk around with guns n knives they call it protection therez nowan to guide em in the right direction so they live how they wna live make sum quick cash sell drugs hang around in the streets n stay strapped therez no future in this but what can they do they need ta support their families n put some food on the table at home they got no sky or cable no heating or insulation new government but we still aint seein changes 2nd tune now this is for every you livin in a struggle in the hoodz creatin trouble coz yu gt nuthin ta du and you tryna stay humble yu tryin ta stay true ta your roots buh wen the chance comes by yu willing to do wateva yu gt to to receive away from the life you livin everyday yu sinnin robbin anywan for a bit of cash yuu need ta pay for ya coke n hash yur addicted cant pay the rent jus got evicted i dnt look no help coming the government keepin us runnin whyle theyr sat back n countin their stash makin laws to receive us back n wer stuck in the dark n this aint no 'walk in da park' these are just rough drafts atm can you tell me how to improve the lyrics please and rate them in their current condition

2 Aug 2010, 10:40 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: Should you put insulation behind drywall?

My husband and I have an older home where the previous owners enclosed the garage and turned it into a living room. There is wood paneling on every the walls. Behind some of that is drywall. We are going to tear every the wood paneling down and replace it with sheetrock. One wall is an exterior wall that faces our carport and driveway. My question is this, should we put insulation behind the new sheetrock? My husband thinks we don't have to and that the sheetrock acts as insulation. I thought you should have insulation in the walls. The biggest part of that question is whether we need to put insulation behind the drywall of the exterior wall. I think at least the exterior wall needs the added protection of insulation. What is the correct way to do this? Thanks!!

30 Aug 2010, 3:31 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: which home insulation theory is better,the thermos bottle effect or breathable insulating?

24 Jul 2010, 10:47 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: best type of ducts to put under a house?

I have an older home and the original ac/heat duct work has rusted out...need to replace. I have limited crawl space and was wondering if there were any new type of duct material that I could use instead of the round galvanized type that then is wrapped with insulation...thanks

27 Aug 2010, 10:02 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: Science help please thank you so much i promise to rate you best?

1. Which type of current flows only in one direction? A) Alternating B) Direct C) Indirect D) Opposite 2. The unit of measurement for electric current is the A) ohm. B) volt. C) amp. D) coulomb. 3. A substance that will allow an electric current to flow fairly easily is called a A) conductor. B) insulator. C) resistor. D) superinsulator. 4. Alternating current A) regularly reverses its direction. B) does not reverse its direction. C) is not typically found in homes. D) None of the over are true. 5. What must flow through a substance to allow it to conduct electricity? A) Water B) Conductors C) Insulation D) Charged particles

26 Aug 2010, 1:41 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Renovating a Storage Room?

Hey guys, So its been 11 years I'v have lived in my home. I have used the icy room in the home as a storage for the decade +1. Anyhow after throwing away much of the junk inside its in dire need of repair. My plan is not to renovate it into a icy room but rather just a storage room by adding insulation, fixing the ceiling, the floor and one deteriorating wall. I live in the Toronto, Ontario area and wondering if you guys could possibly recommend a contractor/organization that can carry out this job. Preferably ones that you have had good experiences with. Thank you!

11 Aug 2010, 10:35 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Electric or Gas hot water?

This summer I will be converting my homes steam heating from oil to gas to keep money. Oil is horribly expensive, you have to keep getting the tank filled, and is a disaster wiating to happen when the tank eventually does start to leak and creates a hazardous waste spill that you receive charged an arm and a leg to clean up... at least with gas I only have to worry about the home blowing up. Anyways, my question is should I covert the hot water from electricity to gas at the same time? The hot water heater is working fine right now and probably still has some years left in its lifetime. I bought the home last year so I'm not sure how old it is. It is chilly to the touch though so it must have some decent insulation. Gas as of May 2010 costs $5.23 + $0.7442 per ccF. In February 2010 it was $5.23 + $1.5875 per ccF. In November 2009 it was $5.01 + $1.4631 per ccF. Electricity is currently about 14.6 cents per kWh. In February 2010 it was 14.7 cents per kWh. In November 2009 it was 15.6 cents per kWh. The kWh cost is nice of estimated because they use a really complex formula, I took total bill divided by usage. Bassically it is $4 + a variable rate (it gets more expensive after 600 kWh). Then after that total is added up they add another 2% as an 'underground surcharge' even though my electric service is over ground... gotta adore utilities. I guess my other question would be given the prices listed for electricity and gas, would the gas water heater offer enough savings to offset the increased installation cost and equipment cost? They would also have to install the exhaust into the existing chimney.

4 Aug 2010, 9:58 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: can i use the insulation in the speaker box which contains tweeter, mid range and a speaker?

I have a home made speaker box, measures (12inches x 7.5inches x 20inches), which contains tweeter, mid range of Sony measures 4inches and a speaker of Sony measures 8inches. Speaker is a little bit nice of a woofer. i am wandering that can i put the insulation only at the back of the speaker to receive the pure bass.

26 Jul 2010, 9:59 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: What does Q/t mean in this?

Hey guys, i'm doing an insulation assignment in heat and homes, and i have the following question. "For each of the three insulations, calculate the total value of R, and Q/t for a 100m2 roof/ceiling." Thanks guys, really urgent, it's due monday Thnks a lot dude..saved my ass

14 Aug 2010, 7:18 am | click here to view more

Open Question: Why install backed insulation with insulation against the dry wall (in the ceiling)?

Instructions always say to install the backing against the dry wall, every time I have installed it this way within a year or 2 it has settled so much it has little or no insulation value. The home that I live now (only 2 years old), the insulation has settled so much that it is only about 2 inches thick, i.e. its doing nothing. The insulation is R19 4" Corning. Why not install the backing up, stapled to the joist so it will maintain its thickness?

4 Sep 2010, 12:16 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: air conditioning cycles?

I had a similar question earlier but decided to delete it. Here it goes again: I have a 2700 sq ft home with a 4 ton unit. I've had it on since yesterday but have been keeping a log every day today. I have the thermostat set at 78 with the temp outside being 84. Most of the day it comes on for about a 8 minute cycle and then shuts off for about 12 minutes. Is this too frequent of cycles? I read that one problem might be an oversized unit? I just feel that with it being only 84 outside my air should not be running that frequently. I'm sure needy insulation might be part of the problem. Any help would be much appreciated!

4 Aug 2010, 6:19 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Repair Insulation under a DW Mobile Home?

You know that giant black trash bag type stuff that's holding the insulation up below a mobile home, well my dog tore it up & ate the insulation, what do I use to replace it? I've heard vapor barrier, not sure what that is, but I need perhaps a 10mil thick roll of..... trash bag....i guess?

9 Aug 2010, 2:28 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: would a mobile home built in 1969 be likely to have asbestos in it?

i am looking at getting a 1969 mobile home because it is very cheap and i would like to fix it up but i am worried about asbestos. is it likely that asbestos was put in mobile homes in the 60s? and how do i tell. If it has pink fiberglass insulation then i shouldnt worry right?

5 Aug 2010, 2:26 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: How to increase upstairs cooling in a home with central air?

The main level is very comfortable, but when it's sunny the upstairs takes hours to chilly down after I receive home. I've added adequate insulation to the attic, new windows, but one downfall I can look is not enough vents. It's not a lot of sq. ft., maybe 350 - 400, but only 2 tiny vents. The home has central air. How difficult would it be to run another vent to an upstairs room?

5 Aug 2010, 1:52 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Thermal conductivity problems...plz help...thanks guys!!!?

Home insulation, such as glass fibre batts and double glazed windows, is usually described in terms of its R-value. R is measured by placing warmer air on one side of a material and cooler air on the other, and it is defined as the ratio of the applied temperature difference to the resulting rate of heat flow per unit area. a)If radiative heat flow is important, then the definition of R is problematic. Why? b)In cases where heat flow is entirely due to conduction, what is the relationship between R and thermal conductivity k? c)If the thermal conductivity of glass wool is 0.05W m−1 K −1 , what thickness of glass wool is re- quired to make a batt with an R-value of 5.0m2 K/W (i.e. an R5 batt)?\ d)Glass wool batts have a higher thermal conductivity than air (kair = 0.025). Why would we replace air with batts? e)The ceiling of a home is insulated with 160m2 of R5 glass wool ceiling batts, about the best you can buy in Australia. On a icy winter’s night the ceiling cavity is at 2◦ C while the home is at 22◦ C. What is the rate of heat loss through the ceiling space?

26 Aug 2010, 12:49 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: My air conditioning was at 80 and took over two hours of continuous running just to reach 78. Is this normal?

Bear in mind I just got home from a trip and the temp outside was in the tardy 90s. Just concerned tho that my ac is blowing constantly for 2 hours and can only lower it a petty two degrees in the home. I have a newer home with good insulation too.

10 Aug 2010, 11:02 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: questions on insulation for a 32 X 48 steel post frame home?

I am building a steel (pole barn) home and plan to super insulate it. (R-30 walls) Will a foil radiant energy barrier for every 4 walls and ceiling really help reduce my AC cost? and if I use the Spray instead of the Foil will it also act as a sealer ?

29 Aug 2010, 12:33 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: penn foster appliance repair exam help PART 2?

4. Your workbench should be made of A. steel, for strength. C. plastic, for low cost. B. aluminum, for light weight. D. wood, for insulation. 5. The recommended flux for electrical soldering is A. antimony. C. sal ammoniac. B. muriatic acid. D. rosin. 6. For home service calls, the ideal soldering tool is A. a soldering gun. C. a gas torch. B. a soldering iron. D. an alcohol torch.

31 Jul 2010, 1:24 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Does the Energy Bill require retrofitting homes before reselling?

I have been finding buzz that the Cap and Trade bill passed by the home (but not the Senate) contains provisions that would require retrofitting homes before they can be sold. (This reference is actually a letter to the Editor) "Every single home that is sold or built will have to be updated to California's standards of energy efficiency that the bill used as a guide, including: insulation, appliances, A/C unit performance, and water usage. In reading some of the standards it looks like approximately $15,000 in upgrades to sell my home." http://www.newsherald.com/articles/bill-75423-boyd-vote.html More in DB. Can anyone find this stuff in the bill? Or find a copy?

29 Jul 2010, 9:53 pm | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Burning hands after electric shock?

A few months ago I got electric shock - I touched the wire of an Ipod charger (the insulation wire had worn away) for a second or two, and my other hand was touching the ipod so the shock grounded - went through my chest I guess. I had a burn on both hands - nothing MAJOR - just redness and burning feeling... They did an ECG and said "Your heartbeat is a little irregular but this can be normal for young adolescents like yourself" and they sent me home. After I noticed that whenever I use the computer my hands will develop a red patch somewhere and start burning. This started a few days after the incident and carried on for weeks - I even tried using gloves on the computer and wrapping the mouse in paper but it didnt work. Eventually after a month or so it disappeared... But now (3 weeks or so since it disappeared, its arrive back and its starting to do it again) Any ideas?

22 Aug 2010, 8:33 am | click here to view more

Open Question: i woke up in the attic and my parents will probably kill me!?

okay they wont really kill me but yea i f***'d up! i have a loft bed, thought it was a good idea at the time, but now im done with it! i had a nightmare about an hour ago and i thought i was being crushed, it felt so real cuz i was pushing on the ceiling to receive free, when i managed to break free i was covered in dirt and plaster, not to mention every that fluffy insulation that rats probably live in. so now that i've managed to clean that up and make my new home on the sofa...how do i tell my parents? i mean the hole is huge! like 2-3 ft! lol, ima idiot! so how do i tell them that i did that and what should i do in the morning, i've got new classes that i have to receive to and i dont wanna be tardy. heehee...i mean i was unconscious- it wasnt my fault, some people kill in their snooze- so i think im lucky that i only kicked the ceiling! how do i receive outta this? im 21 now as of 8/29 1. i have to completely redo my room now, i share it too so...that sux! even though it's not expensive and the landlord will probably fix it, i'm still gonna receive yelled at like a bitch...its....embarrassing... 2. lol- i'd adore to move out rite now! "They can't kill you if you kill them first" .... :D

2 Sep 2010, 6:10 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: list in detailed dot points form the shedule for a construction of a brick veneer building with an iron roof?

well really i just need some help with my tafe home work here is the question List in detailed dot points form the schedule for construction of a brick veneer building with an iron roof from unlevelled block to hand over. there will be over 25 steps including foundation, white ant treatment insulation of wall and ceilings differnt times for wall and ceiling, plastering painting and site clean up PLEASE can u help thx :P

16 Aug 2010, 12:38 am | click here to view more

Voting Question: PROBLEMS WITH A NEW ROOF!!! Please help!?

Hello. I just got new roof and siding put on my home by a reputable company. I looked them up at BBB and every other site I could think of and they are very reputable and have been in business for 35 years. Well 2 weeks after the roof was put on there was a storm and I was getting water coming down through the attic! They were out at 10:30pm on a Sunday trying to fix it. About a week later we got hit with another huge storm and the water coming down was even worse! I got in touch with someone at 12:30am on a Saturday night and they were out the next morning. They are standing behind their work and there has been rain since and no water coming from the attic. However there are some bubbles now on my bathroom ceiling and I still have to go up in the attic to look if the insulation is molded. They also put a gable vent up that looks like crap and needs to be painted again. My question is...after every this, what should I ask for as a "repayment" for every my troubles. I told them I didn't want them in my home and I would fix the bathroom ceiling and repaint the vent. Should I ask for a monetary amount off of the job (it was a $16000 job and I've only paid them $6500 so far)? Should I ask them to do something additional to my home for no charge? I'm mad and I don't want to be unreasonable so I'm asking everyone's opinions. Thank you so much!

10 Aug 2010, 9:49 am | click here to view more

Resolved Question: Induction between two coils..!!?

i made a coil wid magnet wire of length 880 cm..(copper wire wid thin insulation)....wid 20 turns,14 cm diameter...(inductnce--0.871 uH)..used it as primary coil and gave it the supply wich v receive at homes (240 V,50hz)...i connected a 100 W bulb in the circuit 2 prevent short circuit.....nd i made a secondary coil wid a wire of 480 cm (17 turns,diameter 9 cm,0.476 uH)...connected a LED 2 it....wen i brought secndry coil close to primary coil...nthing happened.....i mean,no induction...what could b possibly wrong..?...m i going wrong smwhere?

6 Aug 2010, 6:45 am | click here to view more

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Voting Question: Husband forced me to buy a house i didnt want?

My husband back in 2006 fought with me till i agreed to sign on a home i did not want. His mom kept calling him a lot when we rented a home. We both agreed to rent for awhile till something that came along that suited us both. But his mom's persistent nagging got him to go on home shopping spree so he found this home that was run down..no insulation in walls needed electrical work..needed gutting and yes i was in my last year of college when he pulled this..i kept saying no lets not buy it and he fought with me so bad i had to sign ...i was unhappy from the time we looked at till. Now after about 3 years in a run down home which is taking forever to remodel i am still very unhappy and resentful. Everyday i am here i have to look at unfinished drywall that keeps getting dirty and i can not clean, no carpet thought out the home just bare sub floors upstairs and really worn out plank floors down stairs. the basement smells bad. the home is nothing more then a lemon. It has put a rift in our marriage. some days i just cant bare to stay here..he says oh well nothing we can do about it now just live with it and be glad however the thing is i was never glad since day one. Not having a nice home to bring friends or family in is getting on my nerves big time..i do not even have kitchen cabinets no counters only a deep sink in place of a regular kitchen sink. Am i wrong for still feeling so meisable? I feel a great amount of resentfulness towards him and his mom..why is it i cant be glad with this home..He said he bought it to make me glad but thing is i told him straight up i did not want to buy the home because it needed too much work..and he fought with me till i agreed (yes i should have stood my ground) but am i wrong for feeling this way..i feel its put a huge wedge in our marriage and fear its going end in divorce.. yes i could have said no but you did have to deal with the man when i said no and yelled and fought like there was no tommorrow..walk in my shoes for a bit and look how you like it

15 Aug 2010, 11:37 pm | click here to view more

Voting Question: do you have to report an arrest to cvs if you are employed by them?

Ok, i just got the job at a cvs pharmacy about a month ago. Then a few days ago i was working with a pal, we went to home depot, and while purchasing the products and walking out a guy stopped us and pulled out merchandise that was not payed for from a bag of insulation. After this me and my pal and i were arrested but only given citations. I had no idea someone stuffed the bag with other products and there was no taped evidence of me putting things in there. Im going to court and pleading not guilty. My question is should i report this to CVS because im gonna plead not guilty? I have found things online and some people said they were terminated and every these things. I just dont want to receive fired for something i didn't do and because my pal actualy recommended me there. If i do report it it isnt going to look good because i have been working there for a month at most. What should I do? :\ The police officer said it was a summary crime.

7 Aug 2010, 11:01 am | click here to view more

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