Category: Home Remodeling
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Crawl Space Vapor Barriers: Why You Need One & How to Install It
A crawl space vapor barrier is a crucial component of any crawl space that helps protect your home from moisture damage and improves energy efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss why crawl space vapor barriers are so important, provide tips for choosing the right material, and give step-by-step instructions for proper installation. What…
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How to Repair a Brick Chimney
A brick chimney is a classic architectural feature that adds beauty and character to many homes. However, exposure to the elements can cause wear and tear over time. Cracks, crumbling mortar, missing bricks, and other damage may occur, potentially creating safety hazards and reducing the chimney’s functionality. Thankfully, most brick chimney issues can be repaired…
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How to Cut and Remove Brick: 5 Methods
Brick is a versatile and attractive building material used in everything from historic homes to modern architecture. However, there may come a time when you need to cut or remove brick from a structure. Knowing the proper techniques for cutting and removing brick safely and efficiently is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will overview…
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Life in a 1900 House
At the dawn of the 20th century, daily life in America and much of the Western world looked quite different than it does today. The technological innovations and cultural shifts that would define the modern era were just beginning to take shape in 1900. From the foods people ate to the clothes they wore, the…
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Building Permits: What to Know
Building permits are an important part of the construction process. They help ensure buildings are structurally sound and meet local safety codes and zoning regulations. Understanding when you need a permit, what the permit covers, and how to get one can save homeowners and contractors time, money, and headaches down the road. When Do You…
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Tuckpointing: A Comprehensive Guide to Repairing Brick Mortar Joints
Tuckpointing is the process of repairing damaged or deteriorating mortar joints in brickwork. It involves removing old, cracked mortar and replacing it with new mortar to restore the look and structural integrity of the masonry. Proper tuckpointing requires specialized skills and tools to achieve lasting results. This comprehensive guide provides homeowners and professionals with a…
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Renovating and Modernizing a Ranch House
Ranch-style homes are an iconic part of American architecture, known for their long, low-slung profile and sprawling layout. While these homes were hugely popular through the mid-20th century, their aesthetics and functionality may start to feel dated over time. Renovating or modernizing a ranch house presents unique opportunities to update its look and layout to…
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Building a House Addition: Pros and Cons
Adding space to your home can be an exciting prospect. Whether you need more room for a growing family, want a new kitchen, or are looking to enhance your home’s resale value, a house addition allows you to expand and customize without the hassles of moving. However, building a house addition also represents a major…
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Ranch Style House Plans From the 1950s
The ranch style house is an iconic architectural design that originated in the United States in the early 20th century and came into prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. With its long, low-slung profile, simplistic layout and sprawling presence, the ranch embodied the casual, laidback sensibilities of postwar life in America. During the 1950s, ranch…
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How to Dig a Sewer Line Trench
Digging a trench for a new sewer line is a big project that requires careful planning and execution. A properly installed sewer line is crucial for ensuring waste water flows away from your home without backups or blockages. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to dig and install a sewer line trench correctly. Gather…