Caulking is a key homeowner skill because it's used in so many parts of the house, and you'll need to caulk year after year. Caulking is the material used to fill gaps where building materials meet. On your home's exterior, you caulk around doors and windows where they meet the siding. Inside you …
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S is for Siding
Siding is the exterior material, like a protective coat, that's applied to the walls of a house. The purpose of siding is to protect your home from the harsh effects of weather, and most importantly, to shed water and keep your house dry to prevent wood rot and mold. There are many different …
B is for Bathrooms
Bathrooms might be the smallest room in most houses but they're full of special features that make bathing, dressing and relaxing enjoyable in the US and other western countries. There's a real renaissance in bathrooms with lots of contemporary designs changing the look of our bathrooms, so keep …
G is for Gutters
Gutters are used to capture water falling on a roof, and controlling where it goes when it reaches the ground. This water needs to be channeled away from the house or it is likely to find it's way through the foundation, and into the basement. Gutters may be strictly functional or decorative like …
V is for Ventilation
Ventilation is the process of exchanging or replacing air inside your house, with air from outside to improve indoor air quality. The most common form of ventilation is attic ventilation to release moist, warm air. Learn more about ventilation's role in protecting your home and family. For other …
W is for Windows
Windows are a key component of every home. They provide natural sunlight, fresh air and views of the outdoors. Find definitions for different types of windows and window technology in our homeowner glossary. We also define new building codes, materials and other functional improvements, like updates …
