Settlement cracks can occur in a concrete foundation wall or concrete slab shortly after being poured. But most concrete cracks are caused by shrinkage. Soil quality, footer design and steel reinforcements can all help prevent cracks.
Solid masonry built homes fare well in the south due to climate and termites. Elsewhere, masonry homes are more costly to build than their wood frame counterparts. Masonry construction is durable but insulates poorly, requires additional costs in framing for the interior and takes more time.
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.
If you are building a home that has brick or stone that needs the support of the foundation, a flat foundation may not be a wise choice. A ledge can be poured so your masonry sits above it to prevent water from leaking in.
Ceramic tile installation can be successful if your builder and tile installer work together. You may need to have steel studs or engineered lumber installed first. Concrete sheets can be installed for tile installation.
Custom woodwork is not costly when you realize how much it adds to your homes beauty and worth. Wood trim must be the right scale for your room size and ceilings.
Downspouts and gutters will collect and send out hundreds of gallons of water during a storm. Splash blocks only serve as a way to absorb and spread the energy of the falling water. Drain lines of durable 4 inch diameter plastic can capture and move the water to a better place on your lot. Read my column for more tips.
Garage plans are essential to your new home creation. Your garage will receive much use in a variety of ways. Most garages have far too little space, inadequate garage doors and little if any garage storage area. Planning your perfect garage with the ample space you will need will save you years of discontent.
New construction blues for builder and homeowner can be avoided if you select all features of your new home first and nix change orders. New home construction can suffer cost overruns, time delays and price gouging by a contractor when you decide to change some aspect of your job while work is in progress.
Mold prevention in your home is managed with simple materials and techniques as you build. Mold, mildew and wood rot problems can be circumvented with good and proper workmanship. Toxic mold prevention can be accomplished by utilizing the good building practices of many older homes, which created an air gap between the exterior of your home and the structure behind it.
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