Blog
How Long Does It Take To Build A House?
Construction could take between 4 to 8 months from issue of construction permit to finish for a average sized home. A larger house, with more options custom features, fancier finishes, and more owner involvement — especially if the owner has little construction experience — may take longer. The actual schedule of completion for your specific project will vary based upon many factors including,... [Read more about this property]
Read This CNN Article On Chinese Drywall
(CNN) — Strontium sulfide, a material that can emit corrosive gases in moist air, was found at trace levels in testing of Chinese-made drywall, the Florida Department of Health said. Gas emitted from defective drywall corrodes copper wiring, turning it black, some Florida homeowners say. The drywall samples gave off a sulfurous odor when heated, and in at least one case, sulfide gases corroded... [Read more about this property]
How Can I Tell If I Have Chinese Drywall?
Smell Does your home smell like rotten eggs or ammonia (sometimes a sweetish smell)? Is it more noticeable when entering your home and then seems to dissipate? The level of odor varies greatly in each home as does each person’s ability to detect the odor. Of course, the strength of the odor also depends on how much drywall was used in the home. Significantly, some homeowners report no smell,... [Read more about this property]
Preventing Builder Fraud
When selecting a home professional, using a few guidelines can help protect you from fraudulent contractors. These warning signs indicate a contractor who may be running a scam: Does not list a number in the phone book. Asks you to get required building permits. Only accepts cash. Solicits door-to-door. Says you will get a discount if you find other customers for that contractor. Says your job... [Read more about this property]
How to Hire a Contractor
By: Tom Silva, This Old House magazine 1. Get recommendations Start with your friends and family and then check in with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry for a list of members in your area. You can also talk with a building inspector, who’ll know which contractors routinely meet code requirements, says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva, or pay a visit to your... [Read more about this property]
