A patio that suits its purpose requires some thought in creating the best patio design with enough space. Patios should be oriented toward the best view of your backyard and take sun and shade into consideration, along with present or future backyard landscaping. Beautiful outdoor rooms can be created with walkways to link your new living spaces.
Storage for bulk items is often overlooked when shopping for your new home. Garage storage can be gained if trusses are built in a specific way. Storage containers, storage cabinets, garage storage systems and shelving in garage, basement and attic are efficient home storage solutions for those items you need but don't use regularly. Storage needs will not be a frustrating shock on move in day if you look ahead.
Drain tile systems serve two purposes. Water removal away from the house and water injection into the soil foundation during drought. Drought conditions can cause the soil of your foundation to shrink, causing foundation and footer to fall. Installing drainage systems to prevent two problems is discussed in this column.
Home plans with detailed interior and exterior elevations and exact specifications will help make your dream home become reality. Be specific with house floor plans, and make your plans reflect exactly what you want down to the smallest detail. Avoid problems by drawing up precise home plans before your new home construction begins.
First time new home buyers should plan needs, amenities and budget before starting your venture. Ample space and storage are top needs in new home plans. Consider, too, garage, closets, yard space and your favored orientation of the sun. Your new home will be a joy if you plan well upfront.
During winter, ice dams on roofs can melt and soak the inside of exterior walls and ceilings. While you can't stop them, you can prevent their damage by installing ice dam membranes underneath your shingles. Even though ice dams may form, the membrane won't let the water into your house.
Asphalt driveways can remain in great shape for decades. The right base and proper asphalt sealing are the keys.
Remove the sink stopper from your sink to get at tough clogs. If you remove the P trap under the sink and water is still sitting in the bowl, what do you do?
Electrical outlet placement depends on the needs you have in your home. National electric code dictates where they can be or not. Consider having your builder install extra electrical outlets outdoors, in bathrooms or in a study where there is a lot of electronic equipment. Plan for your electric circuit breaker panel to have six or even 10 empty spots for future circuit breakers.
Saving on home building costs by cutting out special features when building your new home may not be worth the cut. Home construction costs aren't often shaved much by reducing the size of features such as higher ceilings. How to save money, then, you wonder? Reducing the overall size of your home is likely the only way to achieve significant money savings.
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