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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 ... |
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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. |
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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 ... |
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Asbestos in Your Home
Once a common element in a wide range of building materials, asbestos is now known to be a serious health risk. Before you ... |
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Bad Wiring
Electrical wiring should always be installed by a licensed electrician and inspected by your local wiring inspector. Your ... |
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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 ... |
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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 ... |
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Building Permits
Contact your local building inspection department to check for permit and inspection requirements. Be wary if your contractor ... |
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Building Scams
The National Association of Attorneys General lists home-improvement scams as one of the top-ten consumer problems. The most ... |
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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 ... |
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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 ... |
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Chimney Liners
Have your chimney sweep ensure that your chimney has an appropriate liner. Chimney liners are required in new construction to ... |
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Choosing a Contractor
Before selecting a contractor for your next job, contact your local or state consumer agency and Better Business Bureau for ... |
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Contract Details
When hiring a contractor, insist on a complete written contract. Know exactly what work will be done, the quality of materials ... |
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Contractor Caution
Be especially cautious if a contractor: comes door-to-door or seeks you out; just happens to have material left over from a ... |
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Contractor Credit
Pay your contractor by credit card when you can. Under federal and state law, in most cases, you have the right to assert any ... |
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Contractor Insurance
Be sure your contractor has the required personal liability, property damage and worker's compensation insurance for his/her ... |
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Contractor Payments
When working with a contractor, don't make final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you are satisfied with ... |
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Crane Rentals
When undertaking an attic or third floor renovation, consider using a crane for the heavy materials. For about $500 a day you ... |
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Deck Maintenance: Sealing and Staining
To ensure a safe deck with a long life, you need to properly maintain it. Sealing or staining the deck protects it from ... |
