Expert Home Improvement Advice
Energy Efficient Door & Window Headers With a continued focus on energy efficient construction (Green Construction) we are always looking for ways to improve upon residential construction techniques. Insulated door and window headers are one way to improve on standard framing methods. Old School Headers Years ago we used to build door and window headers…
Framing Window Openings One of the most basic framing techniques involves framing window and door openings. Understanding the anatomy of a framed window opening will help you properly frame both window and door rough openings. The adjacent diagram shows a traditionally framed window opening from a recent project. Each of the major components are labeled…
Window Well Installation Installing window wells is a very good way of preventing unwanted water from entering into your basement windows. Window wells also allow the finish grade to be brought to an elevation higher than the window while still letting light into the window. How To Install Window Wells Window well installation is fairly…
Replacement Windows Are A Great Return On Investment It’s not a mystery that replacement windows can help make your home more energy efficient resulting in significant energy savings each year. However, what some of you might find interesting is the fact that replacement windows are considered one of the best return on investment when it…
Replacement Windows This weekend I helped my dad install some new replacement windows. Installing replacement windows isn’t really that hard and it’s certainly a great DIY project for anyone with moderate DIY and construction skills. We replaced five double hung windows in about six hours. Replacement windows are installed in a way that doesn’t require…
Window & Door Trim Today’s mass produced homes rarely use architecturally pleasing window and door trim. Most homes today are built with a very basic colonial trim with mitered joints. Obviously this is done in an effort to reduce building costs while providing a basic look. Older homes traditionally featured very ornate and detailed window…
Framing Rough Openings Framing rough openings for windows and doors (standard door and windows openings) is really straight forward if you follow some simple dimensional rules. For standard wood framed construction the rough openings for doors and windows is typically the actual unit size plus 2-1/2 inches in height and width. Standard Door Rough Openings…
BetterGrain™ Review Harvey Building Products recently introduced their new BetterGrain™ Simulated Wood Grain Finish for Vinyl Windows. The new BetterGrain finish option allows homeowners the ability to choose a maintenance free, energy efficient vinyl window without sacrificing the warm look of a traditional wood window. I must admit that my first reaction to the mention…
How To Insulate Basement Walls Insulating a basement properly is rather challenging in cold climates. In this article I'd like to discuss how to insulate basement walls in cold climates. Insulating basement walls in cold climates is a great way to keep your home warmer and drier. However, special care should be used when insulating…
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Tips for Deck and Fence Projects With Spring finally here many of us are considering deck and fencing projects. Maybe you're considering having a new deck or fence built. Maybe it's time to refinish your deck or add some new decorative touches to your tired deck. Spring is the perfect time to plan these projects…
New DEWALT Job Site Table Saws Models DWE7480, DWE7490X, and DWE7491RS DEWALT recently introduced a new line of portable table saws that include significant updates and features. The new line includes 3 new models; DWE7480 - 10" Compact Table Saw, DWE7491X - 10" Table Saw with Scissor Stand, and DWE7491RS - 10" Table Saw with…
I'm full time builder for a large construction company in New Hampshire. I run their design-build division that specializes in custom homes, commercial design-build projects and sub-divisions. I'm also a licensed civil and structural engineer with extensive experience in civil and structural design and home construction. My hope is that I can share my experience in the home construction, home improvement and home renovation profession with other builders and home owners. I'm also the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, suggestions or you'd like to inquire about advertising on this site.
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