Pressure Treated lumber (PT lumber) is a very convenient and affordable choice to offer your home buyers for exterior applications. It offers durability, rot resistance and termite protection. The chemical process which infuses these characteristics, however, can have some undesirable consequences. One such consequence is twisting over time. How Pressure Treated Lumber is Created Originally, manufacturers preserved Pressure Treated lumber with a chemical known as Chromated Copper Arsenic. The EPA eventually decided that the toxicity of this chemical was quite dangerous and recommended that such wood be treated with a penetrating oil finish bi-annually. But over time, lumber manufacturers stopped … Read more »

Tile is still an exciting trend in new home construction and in remodeling as well. But as with most trends, the styles and patterns for kitchens and baths are changing for 2017. We’ll let you know how! Subway Tile In recent years, subway tile, with its clean lines and pristine white glaze, has become a staple for kitchen and bathroom walls. This style is still going strong, but with a twist. Instead of only the white glaze, manufacturers are promoting pops of color for subway tiles. From pastel pinks to bold turquoise, subway tile options are booming. In addition, installation … Read more »

As we noted last year, a trend began in 2016 which sought to bring the outdoors inside. This trend utilized large windows and expansive patio doors which opened to an outdoor space. The outdoor living trend has only intensified in 2017. Spacious entertaining and cool areas without using a lot of energy are the primary driving forces which are promoting this trend. Top Remodeling Project Adding a fully functional outdoor living space is one of the most requested remodeling projects reported by contractors across the US. Qualified Remodeler Magazine reports, in its April 2017 issue, that 84.4% of remodeling contractors … Read more »

In the past, we’ve discussed the use of technology in construction from a homeowner’s viewpoint. It is true that the Internet of Things has blossomed wide open for homeowners to have “smart” homes. But tech is not only transforming the construction experience for the homeowner – it’s changing the way builders work as well. We will examine several innovations which will make your job, as a builder, easier. Headgear Wearable gear is one way to use technology to both enhance your capabilities or to increase your safety. For example, Augmented Reality glasses or a visor can superimpose 3D models on … Read more »

In the past few decades, the most important room for family gathering and social interaction was primarily a family room or great room. That was a shift away from the kitchen’s being a traditional gathering spot in the mid Twentieth Century. However, in 2016, this trend has begun to shift away from the family room. Now, the room which families often designate as important for gathering and socializing is once more the kitchen. As a builder, what can you do to meet this growing need in homes you build? We’ve gathered the latest kitchen trends for your enlightenment! The Appliances … Read more »

Many homeowners, who purchase a new home, opt to have basic landscaping done as part of their home package, but then later fill in the flower beds and garden areas with more lush plantings gradually. But before you start digging, you should know that if you have young children or pets, a number of lovely posies can be toxic landscaping plants, and even fatal if ingested. Knowing these dangerous plants and avoiding them in your landscape will keep your loved ones safe. The Most Toxic Landscaping Plants: Whether it’s the foliage, the flowers or the berries, all of the following … Read more »

Codes, they are a-changin,’ and the builder who stays on top of current codes is a wise person. One of the most important codes in the home building industry is the IRC, or the International Residential Code. What is the IRC? The IRC is quite comprehensive, and addresses building standards, energy conservation, plumbing standards, mechanical standards, gas provisions and electrical provisions for one- and two-family homes as well as town homes. This code seeks to offer the new home owner the highest protection of health, safety and welfare by utilizing innovative and cutting-edge technologies. In addition, best practices which have … Read more »

What does a structural warranty cover? We have put together an info-graphic which gives you a comprehensive overview of exactly what an American eBuilder warranty could cover, when you get one with your new home. Coverage is subject to terms and conditions specified in your written warranty, so please refer to that for details. Year 1 Warranty Coverage In year 1, the builder is responsible to repair defects in workmanship and materials. This is comparable to a 1-year call back or punch-list. In the warranty booklet, a detailed chart lists specific home components as well as the tolerances for each. … Read more »

Summer is nearly here! And with the warmer weather, many homeowners are considering including a deck in their new home construction. In addition, existing homeowners are thinking of adding or updating an existing deck. Whether you build or remodel, you must stay abreast of building code standards, and they are changing! Check out the newest standards at the Journal of Light Construction: JLC Treated Wood Deck Framing  

Have you noticed the latest home design trend? It’s sweeping the country, with one goal in mind: creating a space in a home which connects and merges into the outdoors. This harmonizes well with the use of natural materials and artisan touches which recently has also become a prominent design trend. There are several ways to incorporate this “inside out” feel into the homes you build – some rather traditional and some quite innovative. WINDOWS The first way to open up a room to the outdoors is with windows. Floor-to-ceiling windows which hinge or slide open onto a patio, terrace … Read more »