|
 |
A Guide to Making Energy-Smart Purchases
Being more energy efficient can be as simple and inexpensive as buying and installing caulk and weatherstripping or as complicated and expensive ... |
|
|
A Panelized Home: Beginning the Finish
Throughout this project one recurring theme constantly re-emerges—hire the right people and take the time to do it right. |
|
|
A Panelized Home: Factory-Built Homes With a Custom Flair
Panelized construction offers many benefits. Efficient use of time and materials, custom design options, and cost savings are just the beginning. |
|
|
Air Duct Cleaning
If not properly cleaned and maintained, air ducts can become a breeding ground for molds and other air pollutants. |
|
|
Altering Stock Home Plans
Stock plans are a great, affordable option for new home design. These plans can be customized and altered, but only in accordance with copyright law. |
|
|
Ask Before You Hire
Although you may be in a rush to get the repairs done, there are many important steps to hiring a contractor. Make sure the firm you hire is the ... |
|
 |
Bad Wiring
Electrical wiring should always be installed by a licensed electrician and inspected by your local wiring inspector. Your house or apartment may ... |
|
|
Blasting Stone
If you have stone ledges on your building site, you will need to hire a licensed blasting contractor before you dig a foundation hole. The first ... |
|
|
Blocked Chimney
A blocked chimney can cause combustion by-products to leak into your home, and that is very dangerous to your health. Take few moments each fall ... |
|
|
Budget Decorating
Here's how to get the most from your home decorating efforts without breaking the bank. Look for good quality furniture with refinishing potential ... |
|
|
Builder Check
If you plan to buy a lot on which to build a home, have a builder (preferably the one you plan to use) review any properties you are considering, ... |
|
|
Building Permits
Contact your local building inspection department to check for permit and inspection requirements. Be wary if your contractor asks you to get the ... |
|
|
Building Scams
The National Association of Attorneys General lists home-improvement scams as one of the top-ten consumer problems. The most important thing to ... |
|
|
Cancelling a Contract
Under the Home Solicitation Sales Act, you have a three-day right to cancel a contract if the contract was signed in your home. During those three ... |
|
|
Ceiling Fan Installation
Because it's much more complicated to install a ceiling fan than a ceiling light fixture, you might want to consider having your ceiling fan put ... |
|
|
Chimney Liners
Have your chimney sweep ensure that your chimney has an appropriate liner. Chimney liners are required in new construction to separate hot heating ... |
|
|
Choosing a Contractor
Before selecting a contractor for your next job, contact your local or state consumer agency and Better Business Bureau for information on ... |
 
|
 |
Choosing a General Contractor
Bob and Joe cover the best ways to choose a general contractor. Joe feels the number one way is by referrals. Start with your architect, if you ... |
|
|
Choosing the Right Architect
Each architect has his or her own style, approach to design, and methods of work. So it's important to find an architect who understands your ... |
|
|
Contract Details
When hiring a contractor, insist on a complete written contract. Know exactly what work will be done, the quality of materials that will be used, ... |
