Building codes usually come up in the context of safety – a properly constructed building can help prevent injury or death from fires, earthquakes, and extreme weather. But they’re also essential for ...

In Massachusetts, the statewide building code mandates a set of energy efficiency standards, like, for instance, your walls and windows need to hold in a certain amount of heat. A little over a decade ...

The magnitude 7.0 earthquake that rattled Alaska’s largest city cracked roads and collapsed highway ramps, but there were no reports of widespread catastrophic damage or collapsed buildings. There’s a ...

Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct a quote from Boulder County chief building official Ron Flax. He said “I think (the new restrictions) would have reduced the magnitude of the ...

Having spent 30+ years in residential construction, contracting, remodeling, maintenance and home repair, Deane now contributes DIY, informational and financial content as a freelance writer and ...

Building codes and local, state and federal laws can present a labyrinthine path to securing the approvals, permits and compliance with legislation required to commence construction of a new or ...

Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection is now required for outlets in the kitchen, bathroom and garage, and for all outdoor circuits. It cuts power to a circuit if it detects a current ...