Projects
Workbench
A workbench is a useful tool for every homeowner. The work bench makes a solid platform for your projects, if your workbench plans are carefully thought-out. Don’t make your garage workbench too deep if you plan on having pegboard or cabinets above the bench.
Projects
Glass Block Greenhouse
Glass block can be used for numerous projects. Wondering how to build a greenhouse? I used glass block to build a greenhouse. Installing glass blocks with plastic spacers is easier than ever. Caulk instead of mortar connects one block to another. The row of glass block is important because it must be level.
Projects
Dining Room Table
Dining room tables can be made quickly and cheaply. Plywood and cable reels are the parts you need. Usually, cable reels come free from an electric parts business. You can pick up the 3/4 inch plywood from any hardware store.
Projects
Dress Up a Plain Mirror
Regular float glass mirrors are plain. These mirrors are held to the wall by small metal clips. With prefinished rabbet joint trim and epoxy glue you can create a border to dress up that boring bathroom mirror.
Projects
Wet Bar - Plans and Construction Tips
A wet bar is a fairly simple project to construct. Plan ahead to get your home wet bar dimensions, supports, and electrical needs correct for starters. These wet bar plans and construction tips will help get all those desired wet bars out there underway.
Projects
Wet Bar Photos
If a wet bar is in your plans, these pictures of my home wet bar may spark your imagination. Wet bars offer a convenient way to relax with guests. Wet bar plans can include an array of finishes and a wet bar counter of granite, like mine, if you prefer.
Projects
Use Crown Molding to Make Decorative Shelves
Crown molding can be used to create shelves of beauty. These wall shelves can display plates, trinkets, collections, knickknacks. Your wall mounted shelves will take a few hours time and a few special tools. These photos will show you how.
Projects
Patriotism is Never Out of Style
Flag poles can be bought or they can be created. You can create a home built flagpole that will be durable and maintenance free for many years. The supplies to build the flag pole cost just a little over $100.00.
Projects
Flagpole Tips
Flagpoles can be purchased, or use these ideas for your homemade version. These flag pole tips and facts will help assure that your residential flagpole is installed well and will properly support our American flag, even in strong winds.
Projects
Flag Pole Manufacturers and Companies
Here's a list of flag pole manufacturers and companies selling flags and flagpoles. Check these residential flagpole tips to be sure you are flying your American flag on a quality flagpole that will support Old Glory.
Projects
Wine Storage Solutions
Here are some examples of wine storage solutions. Visit this company for their complete line of wine cellars, wine storage racks and wine cellar equipment.
Projects
Wine Storage System Manufacturers
These wine storage system manufacturers provide a variety of wine cellars, wine storage racks and wine cellar accessories. Anything from 10 bottles to entire rooms. They do custom wine cellars with murals, ceramic tile, wood carvings, inlay flooring. If wine is your hobby, you will want to contact them.
Projects
Wine Storage Systems
Considering a wine cellar or wine storage racks for your home? Many baby boomers are looking for wine storage. There are several factors to consider when building wine cellars, including temperature, humidity and lighting. A good vapor barrier is also a must for that wine storage cellar.
Projects
Custom Wine Cellars
Custom wine cellars can be built in your home. The trick is to create the artificial environment of a cool cellar home wine storage. Insulation, lighting and tile flooring should all be considered. Pre-made wine storage kits are available as quick shelving.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
ELECTRICAL
Electrical
4 Way Switch
Wiring a 4 way switch is not as complicated as it seems. The four way switch circuit requires a special 4-way switch and two 3 way switches. Each wire needs to be connected to the proper terminal screw on the light switches.
Electrical
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety should always be in the forefront of peoples' minds. It is a great idea to develop a home electrical safety program, even a simplistic one. Electrical safety requirements like using the correct sized cable and minimizing the use of extension cords are wise choices.
Electrical
Electrical Wiring
Electrical wiring is a job for a person with experience. You can start an electrical fire very easily if the wiring you install is not done to minimum national electric code standards.
Electrical
Light Bulbs Burn Out Quickly
Light bulbs can flicker or burn out long before they are supposed to. The failure is not in the wiring and it can almost always be traced to an operator-error problem.
Electrical
Lights Dim When AC Comes On
Do your lights dim when AC comes on? One AsktheBuilder.com reader has this problem - do you? Read on to find out why and how you can fix it.
Electrical
Electrical Extra Touches
Electrical outlet placement depends on the needs you have in your home. National electric code dictates where they can be or not. Consider having your builder install extra electrical outlets outdoors, in bathrooms or in a study where there is a lot of electronic equipment. Plan for your electric circuit breaker panel to have six or even 10 empty spots for future circuit breakers.
Electrical
DIY Electrical Repairs
Wiring electrical outlets should be done carefully. While standard duplex electrical wall outlets are great for strategic lighting in a room, things can go wrong inside the box. Electricity safety requires unbroken wires attached to the four screws inside the outlet. Contact and hire an electrical professional if your electrical outlets are misbehaving.
Electrical
Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches can save you money and make your light bulbs last longer. Dimmer switch installation is relatively simple. Turn off the electricity flowing to the circuit before you work on the dimmer switch.
Electrical
Dimmer Switches Manufacturers
Dimmer switches come in different varieties. Lutron Electronics has been developing dimmers for many years. Their dimmer switch fits in a regular outlet and tells you how much light is on in the room with a hi-tech LCD. Other dimmer switches are controlled by remote control.
Electrical
Buyers Guide to Dimmer Switches
There are many dimmer switches out there. You can find dimmer switches in the Yellow Pages under "lighting controls." For the best dimmer product selection, go to a specialty electric store.
4 Way Switch
Wiring a 4 way switch is not as complicated as it seems. The four way switch circuit requires a special 4-way switch and two 3 way switches. Each wire needs to be connected to the proper terminal screw on the light switches.
Electrical
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety should always be in the forefront of peoples' minds. It is a great idea to develop a home electrical safety program, even a simplistic one. Electrical safety requirements like using the correct sized cable and minimizing the use of extension cords are wise choices.
Electrical
Electrical Wiring
Electrical wiring is a job for a person with experience. You can start an electrical fire very easily if the wiring you install is not done to minimum national electric code standards.
Electrical
Light Bulbs Burn Out Quickly
Light bulbs can flicker or burn out long before they are supposed to. The failure is not in the wiring and it can almost always be traced to an operator-error problem.
Electrical
Lights Dim When AC Comes On
Do your lights dim when AC comes on? One AsktheBuilder.com reader has this problem - do you? Read on to find out why and how you can fix it.
Electrical
Electrical Extra Touches
Electrical outlet placement depends on the needs you have in your home. National electric code dictates where they can be or not. Consider having your builder install extra electrical outlets outdoors, in bathrooms or in a study where there is a lot of electronic equipment. Plan for your electric circuit breaker panel to have six or even 10 empty spots for future circuit breakers.
Electrical
DIY Electrical Repairs
Wiring electrical outlets should be done carefully. While standard duplex electrical wall outlets are great for strategic lighting in a room, things can go wrong inside the box. Electricity safety requires unbroken wires attached to the four screws inside the outlet. Contact and hire an electrical professional if your electrical outlets are misbehaving.
Electrical
Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches can save you money and make your light bulbs last longer. Dimmer switch installation is relatively simple. Turn off the electricity flowing to the circuit before you work on the dimmer switch.
Electrical
Dimmer Switches Manufacturers
Dimmer switches come in different varieties. Lutron Electronics has been developing dimmers for many years. Their dimmer switch fits in a regular outlet and tells you how much light is on in the room with a hi-tech LCD. Other dimmer switches are controlled by remote control.
Electrical
Buyers Guide to Dimmer Switches
There are many dimmer switches out there. You can find dimmer switches in the Yellow Pages under "lighting controls." For the best dimmer product selection, go to a specialty electric store.
VIDEOS
tag below for the end of the div-->
Videos
When to Install a Stainless Steel Sink Video
Tim Carter demonstrates why the size of your overmount stainless steel sink determines whether you should install your sink before or after the countertop is in place. Sinks come in various sizes. Check your kitchen sink before you install the countertop.
Videos
Easy Faucet Body Installation Video
Tim Carter shares some of his faucet installation wisdom to make installing a sink faucet much easier. This tip will save you time on your next sink faucet project.
Videos
How to Pressure Wash Your Roof Video
Tim Carter walks you through how to use a pressure washer to clean moss, lichen and algae off your roof without damaging the shingles.
Videos
Drilling Holes for PVC Pipe Fittings Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to drill holes for pvc pipe fittings so that you don't waste valuable time enlarging a mis-drilled hole.
Videos
Right Angle Drill Versus a Hole Saw Video
Tim Carter demonstrates why a right angle saw, rather than a hole saw, is a much better tool in particular situations.
Videos
Plumbing Vent Pipe Tip Video
Tim Carter shares a quick lesson to help you out of a tough spot when working with plumbing vent pipe.
Videos
How to Wire a 4 Way Switch Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to wire a 4 way switch and where to place a 4 way switch in a circuit. The location of a four way switch is critical. It must be between two 3 way switches.
Videos
Roof Moss Video
Tim Carter shares an easy way to keep your roof shingles free from moss, algae and mildew. With the natural wonders of copper, you'll never have to clean green scum off your roof.
Videos
Gutter Protection Video
Gutter protection comes in many different forms, and to find the best gutter guard, Tim Carter, prepares to test several different gutter guards models on his home.
Videos
Cobb Salad History Video
While hiking the hills overlooking the historic Cobb Estate in Altadena, California, Tim explains the discovery of the Cobb Salad. Historic fact or ????
Videos
Security Cameras Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how easy it is to set up home security cameras and walks you through some useful features to look for when considering to buy security cameras.
Videos
How to Install a Kitchen Faucet Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to install a kitchen faucet. Putting in your own kitchen faucet isn't as hard as you think. This video walks you through hooking up the waterlines and a veggie sprayer.
Videos
Stump Removal Video
Tim Carter demonstrates one method for removing stumps. This method is especially effective if you have many stumps to remove in a short amount of time.
Videos
Mixing Joint Compound Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to mix drywall joint compound. From getting the right consistency to time saving mixing techniques, discover some secrets about how to prepare joint compound.
Videos
Toilet Flapper Valve Video
Tim Carter helps YouTuber Paul, of the 7seveng7 channel, diagnose and fix his leaking toilet. Over the phone, while Tim is up on the roof. Replacing the toilet flapper valve is one toilet repair you can do yourself.
Videos
Utility Truck Beds Video
Tim Carter explains the advantages of using work truck bodies over regular truck beds. Discovery some truck utility body features you should look for when selecting the utility truck bed for your job.
Videos
Pot Filler Faucet Video
Tim Carter explains the purpose of pot filler faucets. He then shows how to install a kitchen faucet above a cook top.
Videos
How To Cut Ceramic Tile Video
Tim Carter demonstrates a simple way to cut a circle out of the center of ceramic tile. This is helpful when installing ceramic tile on your next ceramic wall tile and ceramic floor tile project.
Videos
When to Install a Stainless Steel Sink Video
Tim Carter demonstrates why the size of your overmount stainless steel sink determines whether you should install your sink before or after the countertop is in place. Sinks come in various sizes. Check your kitchen sink before you install the countertop.
Videos
Easy Faucet Body Installation Video
Tim Carter shares some of his faucet installation wisdom to make installing a sink faucet much easier. This tip will save you time on your next sink faucet project.
Videos
How to Pressure Wash Your Roof Video
Tim Carter walks you through how to use a pressure washer to clean moss, lichen and algae off your roof without damaging the shingles.
Videos
Drilling Holes for PVC Pipe Fittings Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to drill holes for pvc pipe fittings so that you don't waste valuable time enlarging a mis-drilled hole.
Videos
Right Angle Drill Versus a Hole Saw Video
Tim Carter demonstrates why a right angle saw, rather than a hole saw, is a much better tool in particular situations.
Videos
Plumbing Vent Pipe Tip Video
Tim Carter shares a quick lesson to help you out of a tough spot when working with plumbing vent pipe.
Videos
How to Wire a 4 Way Switch Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to wire a 4 way switch and where to place a 4 way switch in a circuit. The location of a four way switch is critical. It must be between two 3 way switches.
Videos
Roof Moss Video
Tim Carter shares an easy way to keep your roof shingles free from moss, algae and mildew. With the natural wonders of copper, you'll never have to clean green scum off your roof.
Videos
Gutter Protection Video
Gutter protection comes in many different forms, and to find the best gutter guard, Tim Carter, prepares to test several different gutter guards models on his home.
Videos
Cobb Salad History Video
While hiking the hills overlooking the historic Cobb Estate in Altadena, California, Tim explains the discovery of the Cobb Salad. Historic fact or ????
Videos
Security Cameras Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how easy it is to set up home security cameras and walks you through some useful features to look for when considering to buy security cameras.
Videos
How to Install a Kitchen Faucet Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to install a kitchen faucet. Putting in your own kitchen faucet isn't as hard as you think. This video walks you through hooking up the waterlines and a veggie sprayer.
Videos
Stump Removal Video
Tim Carter demonstrates one method for removing stumps. This method is especially effective if you have many stumps to remove in a short amount of time.
Videos
Mixing Joint Compound Video
Tim Carter demonstrates how to mix drywall joint compound. From getting the right consistency to time saving mixing techniques, discover some secrets about how to prepare joint compound.
Videos
Toilet Flapper Valve Video
Tim Carter helps YouTuber Paul, of the 7seveng7 channel, diagnose and fix his leaking toilet. Over the phone, while Tim is up on the roof. Replacing the toilet flapper valve is one toilet repair you can do yourself.
Videos
Utility Truck Beds Video
Tim Carter explains the advantages of using work truck bodies over regular truck beds. Discovery some truck utility body features you should look for when selecting the utility truck bed for your job.
Videos
Pot Filler Faucet Video
Tim Carter explains the purpose of pot filler faucets. He then shows how to install a kitchen faucet above a cook top.
Videos
How To Cut Ceramic Tile Video
Tim Carter demonstrates a simple way to cut a circle out of the center of ceramic tile. This is helpful when installing ceramic tile on your next ceramic wall tile and ceramic floor tile project.
headting design
Heating Design
Home Heating
What is the best way to save energy this winter? Programmable thermostats help with energy savings by lowering the temperature while you are working or sleeping. This thermostat lowers the temperature so the furnace does not run all day while you are gone. Savings depend on the temperature set-back, type of furnace or heat pump.
Heating Design
Gravity Furnaces
The furnace in the older house is a still working gravity furnace. Not many moving parts in this old furnace. But unlike modern gas furnaces, these coal furnaces are very inefficient. Asbestos was a common covering for the ductwork. Asbestos removal should be done by a certified removal company. The fibers in asbestos are know carcinogens. So, asbestos exposure is a very serious issue.
Heating Design
Heating Installation
Heating installation is not a do-it-yourself job. I know you want to save money, because the price of heating systems with installation is high. Working with sheet metal requires lots of skill. Making connections to the fuel line and exhaust piping is not for the timid. Invest your time in finding a professional who will do the job correctly.
Heating Design
Pilot Light
A pilot light is an endangered species. Some gas appliances still have them, but more and more electronic ignition is how a furnace, water heater or gas cooktop starts up. Finding a pilot light is easy.
Heating Design
Electronic Programmable Thermostat
Electronic programmable thermostats have a switch setting called auxiliary. This setting switches the heat pump into emergency heat or electric-resistance-coil heating. This is an expensive way to heat your home and should only be done when the heat pump breaks. If this happens, call a service technician.
Heating Design
Electronic Digital Thermostat
Setting the temperature ranges on a programmable thermostat is critical. The lower you set the setback temperature the more money you save. You save lots of money if the length of time is long before the furnace or heat pump starts to raise the temperature.
Heating Design
Heating Consulting
Heating consulting bid estimates generated each day by hundreds of contractors for thousands of homeowners often seem high. But the homeowners often fail to understand all of the hidden costs attached to a job. For example, the contractor has all sorts of fixed expenses that need to be passed on to the customer. All businesses do this or they eventually go out of business.
Heating Design
Water in Heating Ducts
Water in heating ducts is more common than you might imagine. Some houses built on top of concrete slabs have the heating and air conditioning ducts buried in the ground under the concrete. Water can enter these heating ducts when it rains heavily as the water table starts to rise and pushes water up into the soil under the slab and then into the ducts. It is easy to remove the water and to permanently stop the water from entering the ducts. You have to divert the ground water away from the house with a special outdoor trench drain.
Heating Design
Duct Noise
Metal ductwork, plastic piping and any other object that might expand and contract can rub against wood framing. The movement, in almost all cases, creates annoying noises anytime of day or night.
Heating Design
Heating Design
Heating design is very important. If your heating ductwork or forced air system isn't built properly for good air flow, you'll end up with a cold room. Heating systems can sometimes become blocked by debris or a damper control could be blocking the air. Another possibility is a poorly designed duct system.
Heating Design
Wood Pellet Stoves
A wood pellet stove may save energy dollars when heating your home, but do some calculations to see if staying with your natural gas home heating is more cost effective. Pellet stoves do allow for zone heating, but you may be surprised to know that your automated heating system will probably save you more money than the stove.
Heating Design
Programmable Thermostats Save
Old thermostats keep the house at a certain temperature until you moved it. If you forgot to set it back, it would cost you on the energy bill. Modern programmable thermostats do that for you. You set up your programs and the thermostat will adjust the temperature every day for you.
Heating Design
Programmable Thermostat Sources
Nearly thirty different companies manufacture thermostats. That is a lot to wade through and make sense of all the specifications. Here is one that I have personal experience using.
Home Heating
What is the best way to save energy this winter? Programmable thermostats help with energy savings by lowering the temperature while you are working or sleeping. This thermostat lowers the temperature so the furnace does not run all day while you are gone. Savings depend on the temperature set-back, type of furnace or heat pump.
Heating Design
Gravity Furnaces
The furnace in the older house is a still working gravity furnace. Not many moving parts in this old furnace. But unlike modern gas furnaces, these coal furnaces are very inefficient. Asbestos was a common covering for the ductwork. Asbestos removal should be done by a certified removal company. The fibers in asbestos are know carcinogens. So, asbestos exposure is a very serious issue.
Heating Design
Heating Installation
Heating installation is not a do-it-yourself job. I know you want to save money, because the price of heating systems with installation is high. Working with sheet metal requires lots of skill. Making connections to the fuel line and exhaust piping is not for the timid. Invest your time in finding a professional who will do the job correctly.
Heating Design
Pilot Light
A pilot light is an endangered species. Some gas appliances still have them, but more and more electronic ignition is how a furnace, water heater or gas cooktop starts up. Finding a pilot light is easy.
Heating Design
Electronic Programmable Thermostat
Electronic programmable thermostats have a switch setting called auxiliary. This setting switches the heat pump into emergency heat or electric-resistance-coil heating. This is an expensive way to heat your home and should only be done when the heat pump breaks. If this happens, call a service technician.
Heating Design
Electronic Digital Thermostat
Setting the temperature ranges on a programmable thermostat is critical. The lower you set the setback temperature the more money you save. You save lots of money if the length of time is long before the furnace or heat pump starts to raise the temperature.
Heating Design
Heating Consulting
Heating consulting bid estimates generated each day by hundreds of contractors for thousands of homeowners often seem high. But the homeowners often fail to understand all of the hidden costs attached to a job. For example, the contractor has all sorts of fixed expenses that need to be passed on to the customer. All businesses do this or they eventually go out of business.
Heating Design
Water in Heating Ducts
Water in heating ducts is more common than you might imagine. Some houses built on top of concrete slabs have the heating and air conditioning ducts buried in the ground under the concrete. Water can enter these heating ducts when it rains heavily as the water table starts to rise and pushes water up into the soil under the slab and then into the ducts. It is easy to remove the water and to permanently stop the water from entering the ducts. You have to divert the ground water away from the house with a special outdoor trench drain.
Heating Design
Duct Noise
Metal ductwork, plastic piping and any other object that might expand and contract can rub against wood framing. The movement, in almost all cases, creates annoying noises anytime of day or night.
Heating Design
Heating Design
Heating design is very important. If your heating ductwork or forced air system isn't built properly for good air flow, you'll end up with a cold room. Heating systems can sometimes become blocked by debris or a damper control could be blocking the air. Another possibility is a poorly designed duct system.
Heating Design
Wood Pellet Stoves
A wood pellet stove may save energy dollars when heating your home, but do some calculations to see if staying with your natural gas home heating is more cost effective. Pellet stoves do allow for zone heating, but you may be surprised to know that your automated heating system will probably save you more money than the stove.
Heating Design
Programmable Thermostats Save
Old thermostats keep the house at a certain temperature until you moved it. If you forgot to set it back, it would cost you on the energy bill. Modern programmable thermostats do that for you. You set up your programs and the thermostat will adjust the temperature every day for you.
Heating Design
Programmable Thermostat Sources
Nearly thirty different companies manufacture thermostats. That is a lot to wade through and make sense of all the specifications. Here is one that I have personal experience using.
HOME BUILDERS
Home Builders
Tipping Etiquette for a Builder
Tipping a builder is not a bad idea, especially if he does superb work and you might use him again for different projects. But what to tip and how much can be a perplexing problem. You might be surprised at what could be the perfect tip.
Home Builders
Construction Quality Control and Bad Home Builders
Construction quality control is important to people building new homes. They want to avoid bad home builders. Quality construction and construction quality inspections are two things that are very important to people buying new homes. The trouble is, most builders do not take the time to actually define quality.
Home Builders
Visiting Your New Home
Jobsites are different with each contractor. Some are neat and very safe while others are not. New home builders need to walk through their job site often. Read my tips on what to look for about how your home is being built. If you don't like something, talk to your contractor right away.
Home Builders
Different Construction Quality Levels
Quality construction seems to be, in some cases, what the customer is willing to accept. Not all contractors do quality work. Some are not as skillful as others. And some building materials will not withstand poor workmanship. New home construction customers should work hard to find a contractor that will perform quality work.
Home Builders
Construction Bids and Quotes
Construction bids can be confusing if you are comparing one to another. Sometimes one contractor is listing different things than the other. Sometimes you have trouble getting construction bids from a contractor at all. And, why is the price so high? Is it all profit?
Home Builders
Negligent and Arrogant Builders
New home builders won't scare you off if you consider adding the right provisions in your contract. Specifications will keep your contractor from bullying you into accepting his poor workmanship. Contract law attorneys can help with the contract and save you from stress.
Home Builders
Hunting For A Professional
Contractors come in all skill levels. To find the plumber, carpenter, painter or roofer that will do a professional job you must go where they go. Check with the supply houses who sell to these contractors, ask for recommendations. Get the right information about the right contractor for you.
Home Builders
15 Helpful Clauses for Construction Contracts
Deposit clauses, insurance warranties and escrow? You'll have to know the following terms and more in order to write construction contracts. Here is a list of 15 helpful clauses to know before you sign a construction contract.
Home Builders
Construction Contract Plans & Specifications
Construction contracts can be very complex or they can be simple. The best ones I have seen contain easy to understand language and are written as a person talks. The sentences are short, concise and clear. You know exactly what is going to happen. You can get into trouble with contracts if they become long, complicated and wordy. In fact, some contracts are so goofed up that they actually contain conflicting statements!
Home Builders
Construction Contracts
Construction contracts can save you headaches and money. Plans and specifications when added to the contract become an integral part of it. Deadlines, change orders and inspection issues should also be addressed.
Home Builders
50 Contractor Interview Questions
The following contractor questions may make a few of you uncomfortable. You may gulp at trying to ask them. Well, before you give up, I want you to close your eyes and imagine $5,000, $10,000 or $25,000 of your money just vanishing in thin air. If you hire the wrong contractor for your job, this is a distinct possibility. I know, because I get numerous e-mails each week from people who have been cheated by bad contractors.
Home Builders
Building & Remodeling Trade Magazines
There are many, many different trade magazines. Virtually each aspect of building and remodeling has its own. For example, there are ones that cover just concrete, brick, heating and cooling, roofing, tile, etc. There simply are not enough hours in the day to read all of them!
Home Builders
Asking Your Contractor Questions
One of my editors asked me to write this particular column. We were together with several other people in the press lounge at the National Association of Home Builders Show in Dallas, Texas. One of the people in the group needed to hire a contractor and asked me exactly how to spot a pro. Once I finished answering the question, the editor said that she wanted me to write a column about the same subject.
Home Builders
Find a Pro by Asking the Right Questions
Job interviews are the best way to see if the contractor you want to hire will be able to do the work you want. Ask the contractor about his business, the kind of trade magazines he subscribes to, his management habits. Get references from the supply houses where he buys materials. What do they know about the quality of his work?
Home Builders
New Home Construction Cost Breakdown
New home construction is a major undertaking for a non-builder general contractor. House plans and details specifications are important means of conveying information to the sub-contractors. A new home construction cost breakdown list just might save you money.
Home Builders
General Contracting 101
General contracting on your new home construction is a huge undertaking for the non builder. House plans and specifications are your best means of communicating with your sub-contractors. Make sure the quality of these is the best. Be there when your subs are working. Don't assume that things will be done the way you want if you aren't there.
Home Builders
Contractor Selection
Contractors need to go through a job interview with you in order for you to know what type of abilities they have. Ask about professional designations, association memberships and the types of trade journals he reads. Verify the memberships by making a few calls. Learn all you can about what your contractor knows.
Home Builders
Building & Remodeling Magazines & Associations
When it comes to building and remodeling, both homeowners and remodelers/builders have a wealth of information from which to choose. There are countless magazines, books, periodicals, technical journals and trade association literature to stay informed. All it takes is a little initiative on the part of an individual who wants to learn.
Home Builders
Watch Out for Bad Contractors
Homeowners across the nation are victimized each and every day by builders and remodelers who really don't know what they are doing. These builders and remodelers are often referred to as non-professionals. While that is true, very few people that I have come into contact with have ever discussed the root of the problem. Unfortunately, many problems occur long after the contractor is gone.
Home Builders
Tips for Finding a Professional Contractor
Probably the most frequent question I am asked is "How do I spot a professional builder or remodeler?" When selecting a contractor, ask questions. A professional will not dodge a question. He or she will answer each and every one. The anxiety that you are feeling should diminish with each answer. If not, something is wrong. The answers that a professional will offer should help to make you feel more comfortable.
Home Builders
Finding A Professional Contractor
Contractors seem to abound in the yellow pages. Plumbers, painters, roofers...who do you pick? What are their skill levels? Get all of your questions answered by going to supply houses where these contractors purchase material. Get references and information about the quality of their work.
Home Builders
Eliminate Delays with Job Schedules
Planning your material shipment will require working with your contractor to determine how long each job takes. Schedules are the only way to keep work delays to a minimum. Having a good set of drawings will help. Talk to each supplier to find out how long each item takes to deliver. Then check up on the orders. Charting your project is the only way to keep sane.
Home Builders
AWOL Builder
Advance payment to your contractor only when the work is completed. Make a schedule with a detailed cost breakdown that your builder will help you with at the beginning of the job.
Home Builders
Job Scheduling Made Easy
Up front planning and job scheduling will help you, your contractor and subcontractors keep your building project running smoothly. Special orders will be spelled out and the delivery time determined up front. Each job listed should specify when it will be done.
Tipping Etiquette for a Builder
Tipping a builder is not a bad idea, especially if he does superb work and you might use him again for different projects. But what to tip and how much can be a perplexing problem. You might be surprised at what could be the perfect tip.
Home Builders
Construction Quality Control and Bad Home Builders
Construction quality control is important to people building new homes. They want to avoid bad home builders. Quality construction and construction quality inspections are two things that are very important to people buying new homes. The trouble is, most builders do not take the time to actually define quality.
Home Builders
Visiting Your New Home
Jobsites are different with each contractor. Some are neat and very safe while others are not. New home builders need to walk through their job site often. Read my tips on what to look for about how your home is being built. If you don't like something, talk to your contractor right away.
Home Builders
Different Construction Quality Levels
Quality construction seems to be, in some cases, what the customer is willing to accept. Not all contractors do quality work. Some are not as skillful as others. And some building materials will not withstand poor workmanship. New home construction customers should work hard to find a contractor that will perform quality work.
Home Builders
Construction Bids and Quotes
Construction bids can be confusing if you are comparing one to another. Sometimes one contractor is listing different things than the other. Sometimes you have trouble getting construction bids from a contractor at all. And, why is the price so high? Is it all profit?
Home Builders
Negligent and Arrogant Builders
New home builders won't scare you off if you consider adding the right provisions in your contract. Specifications will keep your contractor from bullying you into accepting his poor workmanship. Contract law attorneys can help with the contract and save you from stress.
Home Builders
Hunting For A Professional
Contractors come in all skill levels. To find the plumber, carpenter, painter or roofer that will do a professional job you must go where they go. Check with the supply houses who sell to these contractors, ask for recommendations. Get the right information about the right contractor for you.
Home Builders
15 Helpful Clauses for Construction Contracts
Deposit clauses, insurance warranties and escrow? You'll have to know the following terms and more in order to write construction contracts. Here is a list of 15 helpful clauses to know before you sign a construction contract.
Home Builders
Construction Contract Plans & Specifications
Construction contracts can be very complex or they can be simple. The best ones I have seen contain easy to understand language and are written as a person talks. The sentences are short, concise and clear. You know exactly what is going to happen. You can get into trouble with contracts if they become long, complicated and wordy. In fact, some contracts are so goofed up that they actually contain conflicting statements!
Home Builders
Construction Contracts
Construction contracts can save you headaches and money. Plans and specifications when added to the contract become an integral part of it. Deadlines, change orders and inspection issues should also be addressed.
Home Builders
50 Contractor Interview Questions
The following contractor questions may make a few of you uncomfortable. You may gulp at trying to ask them. Well, before you give up, I want you to close your eyes and imagine $5,000, $10,000 or $25,000 of your money just vanishing in thin air. If you hire the wrong contractor for your job, this is a distinct possibility. I know, because I get numerous e-mails each week from people who have been cheated by bad contractors.
Home Builders
Building & Remodeling Trade Magazines
There are many, many different trade magazines. Virtually each aspect of building and remodeling has its own. For example, there are ones that cover just concrete, brick, heating and cooling, roofing, tile, etc. There simply are not enough hours in the day to read all of them!
Home Builders
Asking Your Contractor Questions
One of my editors asked me to write this particular column. We were together with several other people in the press lounge at the National Association of Home Builders Show in Dallas, Texas. One of the people in the group needed to hire a contractor and asked me exactly how to spot a pro. Once I finished answering the question, the editor said that she wanted me to write a column about the same subject.
Home Builders
Find a Pro by Asking the Right Questions
Job interviews are the best way to see if the contractor you want to hire will be able to do the work you want. Ask the contractor about his business, the kind of trade magazines he subscribes to, his management habits. Get references from the supply houses where he buys materials. What do they know about the quality of his work?
Home Builders
New Home Construction Cost Breakdown
New home construction is a major undertaking for a non-builder general contractor. House plans and details specifications are important means of conveying information to the sub-contractors. A new home construction cost breakdown list just might save you money.
Home Builders
General Contracting 101
General contracting on your new home construction is a huge undertaking for the non builder. House plans and specifications are your best means of communicating with your sub-contractors. Make sure the quality of these is the best. Be there when your subs are working. Don't assume that things will be done the way you want if you aren't there.
Home Builders
Contractor Selection
Contractors need to go through a job interview with you in order for you to know what type of abilities they have. Ask about professional designations, association memberships and the types of trade journals he reads. Verify the memberships by making a few calls. Learn all you can about what your contractor knows.
Home Builders
Building & Remodeling Magazines & Associations
When it comes to building and remodeling, both homeowners and remodelers/builders have a wealth of information from which to choose. There are countless magazines, books, periodicals, technical journals and trade association literature to stay informed. All it takes is a little initiative on the part of an individual who wants to learn.
Home Builders
Watch Out for Bad Contractors
Homeowners across the nation are victimized each and every day by builders and remodelers who really don't know what they are doing. These builders and remodelers are often referred to as non-professionals. While that is true, very few people that I have come into contact with have ever discussed the root of the problem. Unfortunately, many problems occur long after the contractor is gone.
Home Builders
Tips for Finding a Professional Contractor
Probably the most frequent question I am asked is "How do I spot a professional builder or remodeler?" When selecting a contractor, ask questions. A professional will not dodge a question. He or she will answer each and every one. The anxiety that you are feeling should diminish with each answer. If not, something is wrong. The answers that a professional will offer should help to make you feel more comfortable.
Home Builders
Finding A Professional Contractor
Contractors seem to abound in the yellow pages. Plumbers, painters, roofers...who do you pick? What are their skill levels? Get all of your questions answered by going to supply houses where these contractors purchase material. Get references and information about the quality of their work.
Home Builders
Eliminate Delays with Job Schedules
Planning your material shipment will require working with your contractor to determine how long each job takes. Schedules are the only way to keep work delays to a minimum. Having a good set of drawings will help. Talk to each supplier to find out how long each item takes to deliver. Then check up on the orders. Charting your project is the only way to keep sane.
Home Builders
AWOL Builder
Advance payment to your contractor only when the work is completed. Make a schedule with a detailed cost breakdown that your builder will help you with at the beginning of the job.
Home Builders
Job Scheduling Made Easy
Up front planning and job scheduling will help you, your contractor and subcontractors keep your building project running smoothly. Special orders will be spelled out and the delivery time determined up front. Each job listed should specify when it will be done.
DVDS
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DVDs
Insulation DVD
Insulation is important, and you need to know which insulation to use and how best to do it. Tim Carter shows you some of the tips and tricks he learned working with the different insulation materials for over 20 years. There is lots of great information in this fast-paced High-Definition DVD!
DVDs
Cement Mud Floor DVD
A Cement Mud Floor must be installed under ceramic tile in a shower. This solid base prevents cracks in the tile. The cement mud floor must be installed perfectly or it will be very difficult to install the tile.
DVDs
Shower Pan Liner DVD
A Shower Pan Liner must be installed under ceramic tile shower floors. The liner waterproofs the floor so water from the shower flows directly into the drain. This DVD shows you how to install one that will perform well for generations.
DVDs
Crown Molding DVD
Cutting crown molding is now infinitely easier. My crown molding DVD is as powerful a tool as the power miter box you will use to create perfect cuts. Just follow the steps I show you on this interactive DVD and your spouse, friends and neighbors will be amazed.
DVDs
Insulation DVD
Insulation is important, and you need to know which insulation to use and how best to do it. Tim Carter shows you some of the tips and tricks he learned working with the different insulation materials for over 20 years. There is lots of great information in this fast-paced High-Definition DVD!
DVDs
Cement Mud Floor DVD
A Cement Mud Floor must be installed under ceramic tile in a shower. This solid base prevents cracks in the tile. The cement mud floor must be installed perfectly or it will be very difficult to install the tile.
DVDs
Shower Pan Liner DVD
A Shower Pan Liner must be installed under ceramic tile shower floors. The liner waterproofs the floor so water from the shower flows directly into the drain. This DVD shows you how to install one that will perform well for generations.
DVDs
Crown Molding DVD
Cutting crown molding is now infinitely easier. My crown molding DVD is as powerful a tool as the power miter box you will use to create perfect cuts. Just follow the steps I show you on this interactive DVD and your spouse, friends and neighbors will be amazed.
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