Segmental retaining walls are made from interlocking pieces of decorative concrete or concrete block. Each wall system relies on its own weight to hold up the fill behind it. Each wall comes with easy to follow instructions.
The vinyl fence got its start from the process of coextrusion - the process that slows the breakdown of vinyl by ultraviolet light. Styles include picket fences, vinyl privacy fences, wrought iron and cross buck. It can cost twice as much as a wood fence and requires more accurate post placement, but usually comes with good, long warranties.
EIFS (exterior insulation and finish) with a special water management system is available. Synthetic stucco problems (rot, mold) may become a thing of the past.
Dishwashers can be quiet. A dishwasher can now "spy" on us to save energy and get dishes cleaner. Installing a dishwasher can be a DIY project.
Aluminum gutter systems have improved. Seamless gutters come in lengths up to 37 feet and two sizes, 5 inch and 6 inch. They don't attach using ferrules and spikes, but instead attach by hidden hangers.
Plaster cracks on walls are usually the stress release points of the wall. To prevent old plaster from cracking, maintain a constant humidity in your house. To repair cracks in plaster, apply tape or large sheets of thin fiberglass mesh and spread the joint compound over this.
Closets are wonderful storage spaces. Cedar closets are a trip down memory lane. Transform an existing closet into a cedar closet of your own.
Stamped concrete can take on the appearance of wood boardwalk, cobblestone, brick, etc. You may have walked on it not knowing it was "just" a stained concrete. Concrete stains and stamped concrete have been used for years in residential and commercial applications.
A screened porch is an excellent addition to a bug filled backyard. Screened porches can be built on a budget, and there are many screened porch design books to help you with your screened porch plans.
House wrap will save money by adding a waterproof skin to your home, and serving as an air infiltration barrier. House wraps guard against heavy air leaks, which provides energy savings.
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