Q&A / 

Architectural services are not all the same. Some architects are full service and offer all sorts of assistance while others just like to pump out plans. If you are building for the first time, the extra services a good architect offers may be worth their weight in gold.

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The gravel or sand base beneath concrete, flagstone, blacktop, or any other finish material must often be very accurate. If you have too much base material in place, the finish material can be too thin. If you have too little base material in, you can waste expensive concrete or worse yet, come up short! You can learn quickly how to install and level sand or gravel by reading this column.

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Photos can help you track home building or remodeling projects and help find hidden structures in walls or underground. A photo can help you if the relationship between you and your builder starts to sour. Photographs can help you avoid or settle a dispute.

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Quality construction seems to be, in some cases, what the customer is willing to accept. Not all contractors do quality work. Some are not as skillful as others. And some building materials will not withstand poor workmanship. New home construction customers should work hard to find a contractor that will perform quality work.

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Concrete block construction has many advantages. Concrete homes do not suffer from insect damage and do well in hurricane conditions. Concrete block makes an energy efficient home.

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Special lots need an architect with vision. The right professional to design your new home views is the one chance you have to do it right. Good architects will make the most of your lot or land to showcase your home.

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Rehab of an older home can be a daunting task. You need to make a list of some of the challenges you face. Your fixer upper may take some financing. It will definitely take tools, lumber and fixtures of many types. Talk with others who have rehabbed houses to get their input.

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