The shelf behind
the lessons.
The Before You Buy lessons teach a decision. This is the reference behind them: the codes and permits you build under in Middle Tennessee, every standard and mark on a label, and the words on a bid, a spec sheet, and a warranty. Cited to the source, dated when we checked, and written the way the counter would say it.
Three Libraries
Codes, labels, and words.
Codes & Permits
Codes, permits, and inspections in Middle Tennessee
Who issues your permit, which edition of the code you build to, what the energy code actually asks for in climate zone 4, and what the inspector looks at, from Cheatham County out.
Open it →On the Label
The standards, ratings, and marks on the label
NFRC, NAFS, UL classes, ASTM numbers, APA stamps, treated-wood tags, ICC-ES reports, KCMA seals. What each one certifies, where you see it, and which lesson uses it.
Open it →Glossary
The builder's glossary
The words on bids, spec sheets, warranties, and permits, defined the way the counter would say them. Framing to finish, codes to money.
Open it →The Lessons
Start with the decision, then look things up.
Twelve materials, three lessons each, and a whole-house spine for the builder who has to answer to the money. Every lesson links into this reference and this reference links back.
Frequently Asked
About the reference.
Where can I look up the building code for a house in Cheatham County, Tennessee?
What do the ratings and stamps on building materials mean?
Is this reference the same as the Before You Buy lessons?
Stop By the Desk
Let’s talk it through in person.
Bring your plans or just your questions. We’ll get you squared away.
119 Cumberland St, Ashland City. The coffee’s on.