Land Buying Checklist - Use My Checklist to Save You Lots of Money Are you one of many who are thinking of fleeing bigger cities to get away from crime, pollution, higher taxes, never-ending traffic jams, and a laundry list of other pesky problems? You’re not alone. You might be one of the millions like Read More »
Caulking Doesn’t Have to Be Hard QUESTION #1: Tim, my husband caulked a few things in the bathroom and made an enormous mess. The caulk is smeared and there are gaps. Can it be repaired? He had the best of intentions but didn’t seem to be concerned about the final appearance. How does one get Read More »
Concrete Block QUESTION #1: I’ve been researching foundation types for both new homes and room additions. I’ve narrowed it down to either poured concrete or concrete block. Many websites thump their chests saying poured concrete is better than concrete block. What’s your opinion, Tim? Have you worked with both materials? Carol Ann S., Richmond, VA Read More »
Ask the Builder Podcast 7 Highlights: Karen from Texas has some cantankerous soil around her house that's causing cracks Corey's got a stunning IPE hardwood deck - what's the best way to clean and seal it? Tom has a pergola over his rear deck. The idiot who built it made a big mistake Read More »
Building On Rocky Land TIPS This article led to Tim doing a video conference with Ms. Chantell Mason's school classes. They had questions on building on rocky soil. Read about this amazing video conference in Tim's April 29, 2018 Newsletter. Groundwater moves sideways towards home Create a space or trench between footing and rock wall Read More »
Clearing land for a house can be expensive. If you are doing your own site clearing, be sure to use all the proper safety equipment. Check with a tree service in case you have high-price timber.
Soil strength and quality are extremely important when building a new home since most house foundations contact soil, not bedrock. Not all soils are the same, so it is vital you get a valid soil test and inspection.
Clearing land to build a new home may not be a do-it-yourself project. Land clearing can involve heavy land clearing equipment, depending on the size of the construction project. You might start with some simple hand tools, an industrial grade chainsaw and end up with a bulldozer.
Compact Fill Under Slab TIPS Concrete bends and breaks Use self-compacting fill Water helps compact Concrete block ledges on footer CLICK HERE to Get Tim's FREE & FUNNY Newsletter! DEAR TIM: My new home is under construction. I'm in a disagreement with my builder about what's going to happen under my garage slab. Right now Read More »