How Much Does an ADU Cost in Sacramento vs. the Bay Area? (2026 Guide)
I get this question almost every week. Someone calls, tells me they want to build a backyard cottage or convert their garage, and the first thing they ask is: “How much is this going to cost me?” Honest answer? It depends — but I can give you real numbers, not the vague ranges you find […]
Air Sealing Explained: What It Is, Why It Matters More Than Insulation, and How We Detail It in the Field
Welcome to the Hand + Hammer Building Science Blog — your weekly deep dive into how air sealing contractor work actually shapes high-performance homes. Real knowledge, no fluff, straight from the field. If you’ve spent any time researching home energy efficiency, you’ve heard the word “insulation” a hundred times. Insulation gets the headlines, the marketing […]
Insulation Explained: Spray Foam, Mineral Wool, and Fiberglass Batts — What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Actually Need?
Welcome to the Hand + Hammer Building Science Blog — your weekly deep dive into insulation types, building science, and the smarter way to build. Real knowledge, no fluff, straight from the field. If you’ve ever gotten a bid for a remodel or new construction project and seen “insulation types” listed as a single line […]