Why Eco-Friendly Materials Matter Did you know that buildings account for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions? This number includes the energy needed to heat, cool, and power the buildings, as well as the carbon emissions from the materials and construction. Hence, selecting the right materials for your building can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. […]
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The growing threat of wildfires makes it more important than ever to build homes that can withstand heat and flames. Whether constructing a new home from scratch or upgrading an existing structure, understanding which materials offer protection against fire is key to safeguarding your investment and your safety. This guide explains the differences between fire-resistant, […]
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Is Mold in My Home a Big Deal? No one wants mold to grow in their home, but did you know that mold can lead to health problems for some people and magnify issues for others with existing conditions? For individuals with allergies and asthma, mold can be a serious problem. When most people think […]
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Crawl spaces play a crucial role in the structural integrity of a building, and one common type is the vented crawl space. But what is a vented crawl space, and why do they matter? Defining Vented Crawl Spaces Crawl spaces are integral components of a building’s structure. There are two types of crawl spaces, vented […]
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In construction, stem walls are a part of the foundation of a building that plays a vital role in its structural integrity and insulation. Before embarking on your construction project, it’s essential to understand what a stem wall is, when it’s needed, and how it compares to other foundational elements like slab foundations. In this […]
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Faswall is an eco-friendly, easy-to-use building system that creates sturdy, breathable walls and foundations. These trademarked blocks have been produced since 1987, and have been manufactured and distributed exclusively by ShelterWorks Ltd. in Philomath, Oregon, since 2008. This month, Faswall is proud to announce the manufacture of its millionth building block! What is Faswall? The […]
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Allowing for the release of vapor, breathability in walls is the ability to buffer moisture — to soak it up and then release it. Most people would agree that it is healthy to get some fresh air everyday. Opening your doors and windows to exchange indoor air with fresh, clean outdoor air is a healthy […]
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If you’re new to building with ICFs or composite ICFs (which Faswall is), you may have had people try to steer you away from this construction method due to concerns about potential “blowouts.” But as anyone regularly building with ICFs or composite ICCFs can reassure you, blowouts are no longer much of a concern. A […]
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Beyond Beauty: Plaster and Stucco are Natural Winners for Sustainable Walls: Many people love plasters and stucco as sustainable building finishes because they look nice. But the advantages of a plaster and/or stucco for walls instead of paint go far beyond appearances. The ingredients in these finishes are found in nature, and they have been […]
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Is there anything else that can be done with Faswall building materials other than build homes or buildings? Yes! In the case of a homeowner with a Faswall home in Washington, an outdoor mosaic bench was the perfect entry focal point. Frank Bauer is a ceramic artist who makes his own tiles for his art. […]
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