Q&A / 

I have lost track of the number of room additions I have built. But each time we had to demolish the existing house wall where we connected the addition, there was asphalt felt paper under the outer skin of the house. Old builders knew that water could get behind every outer building material. Now builders can use high-tech house wraps. Is your builder choosing wisely?

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Cabins are cozy buildings. Cabin floor plans are only as limited as the number of people sleeping in the cabin at one time. The smallest workable footprint is one that is 16 feet wide and 12 feet deep. Take into design consideration room for skylights and a sleeping loft.

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Carpenter bees rarely sting, but they do drill holes into bare or unpainted wood regularly to deposit their young. Pest control methods are primarily to get rid of the larvae by spraying insecticidal dust inside the holes. Another method to kill carpenter bees is to keep susceptible wood painted or apply chemical repellents every 2-4 weeks.

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New homes can hide a number of mistakes and problems if you aren't alert. Quality is not accidental, and regular quality control inspection by the homeowner is wise. Learn here what to look for when you are at your construction site.

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Construction contracts can save you headaches and money. Plans and specifications when added to the contract become an integral part of it. Deadlines, change orders and inspection issues should also be addressed.

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Urethane house paint is an exterior paint that will cover well, stick even over dirty, glossy surfaces, and last. Paints that last for years and years have resins or glue in the paint that are very sticky.

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Many people complain to me about unwanted noise that drifts into their homes. Other people complain about noise within the house that pollutes other rooms where family members want peace and quiet. The solutions are not always easy once a home is built.

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A chain link fence with vinyl coated chain link is very durable and comes in different colors. Look for a high quality chainlink fence constructed with fabric that is 11.5 or 11 gauge, and make sure local zoning laws allow you to install taller fence heights before installing chain link fences.

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Painting your walls without getting paint on the woodwork can be done. High quality paint brushes and a steady hand will help keep a fine line between your walls and wood trim.

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