I have to say I am frustrated for all building owners. I know there are great craftspeople and honest contractors everywhere, although I am seeing less and less work done right. I call it “The Race to The Bottom”. This…
2013 New Year’s Revolution
There is one thing many profess but yet cannot find the time or gumption to do: New Year’s Resolutions. I propose we switch it up a bit and make it something with a bit more impact, and maybe easier: A…
Quick Fix Maintenance
Quick fixes are an essential part of maintenance. Exposure to the elements are a building’s worst enemy, and there are plenty of times we feel as if we cannot catch up. Failing gutters, leaking roofs and general water management are…
Homeowner VS. Professional
There is a clear distinction between homeowner and professional home improvement. Homeowners learn from the web, salespeople, tv shows, commercials and trial and error. Professionals should learn from mentors, and with time and interaction with other professionals, products and techniques. …
What Is Your Idea Of Good?
What is your idea of good? There are several levels of good I tolerate, A or B, maybe C, but then there are the levels I would never do. I know my limits. I bring in a practiced, skilled contractor…
Get Involved in Your Project
One of the biggest issues we see in existing and historic buildings is the continuity of the envelope, or function of the exterior. Too often we see single source contractors failing to combine the function of a building. Redoing a…
Saving Old Windows Is Green and Efficient
Each year our houses get a bit older; parts continue to wear, fall off or just stop functioning all together. A house has parts meant to protect and parts meant to operate. Windows, especially ones over 100 years old, operate…
7 Common Mistakes Homeowners Can Make
Some recent emails have prompted me to revisit how to get work done on you house. Buildings need maintenance. People want change. That’s how it starts at least. I recently wrote about picking a contractor, although that is just…
A Great Project Starts with the Right Contractor
One of the most vital aspects towards any successful home project is to choose the right contractor. Don’t get caught in a tough situation when some preliminary homework could avoid a lot of stress, and money.