Installing hardwood floors over concrete slabs is a risky proposition due to moisture content. So what do you do when you have to match existing floors for an addition that's built on a slab? Working with architect James Bush we devised a plan to vent the slab by installing our subfloor over furring strips that vent to the walls. We stoppped the drywall short of the floor, left a gap where subfloor and hardwood meet the wall and installed the base trim with a small gap at the bottom. This in addition to a 12 mil vapor barrier and rigid insulation will ensure that moisture from the slab doesn't affect our nice oak flooring. - Kenny

The Cost vs. Value 2007 remodeling report is out for Philadelphia. Check it out at http://www.costvsvalue.com/philadelphia.html

We're excited to be working on our first project with Qb3. It's an artist studio for a ceramicist. You can see that and some of their other cool projects on their new and improved website: qb3design.com
- Kenny