Construction
Construction is happening all around the world. Construction may bother people but without it, none of the world's great cities would exist. Gain an appreciation for construction by learning about the planning, materials and projects involved.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Soapstone Countertops?
Soffits Play a Key Role in Proper Home Design
How Formwork Works
How Much Does It Cost to Build a House in the U.S.?
6 Things to Know About Well Water Before Digging
How to Extend an Existing Deck
Green Roofs And White Roofs: Low Tech Ways To Save Tons Of Energy
10 Ways Hospital Construction Can Go Green
How to Run Your House Solely on Solar Power
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Many say the pioneer of green design was the irascible Frank Lloyd Wright, but others note that sustainable architecture has been around forever. Regardless, who are some of the leading figures in the field today?
The production of traditional cement accounts for 5 percent of human-generated carbon dioxide emissions. Could carbon negative cement change all that at a reasonable price?
By Chris Warren
Is your new home proceeding on schedule or is your contractor just blowing smoke at you? Here's how to tell.
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Is your contractor buying shoddy materials, then pocketing the remainder of the dough you gave him for quality materials? Yep, it's time to fire him.
By Garth Sundem
The identical ranks of cookie-cutter neighborhoods have been immortalized (and often satirized) in American pop culture, but who first came up with the idea for these "little boxes on the hillside?"
These days, homeowners have add-on options that previous generations could only dream of. From integrated electronics to secret rooms, we'll scope out 10 of the best.
It's study, durable and can be poured into any shape under the sun. Concrete has long been used as a basic home building material, but unlike others, it doesn't catch fire. See how you can use concrete in your bathroom, kitchen and backyard.
By Chris Opfer
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Fly ash concrete is considered a green building product. But some think it could have potential hazards. We'll tell you both sides of the story.
By Mark Boyer
While some people use the terms "general contractor" and "construction manager" interchangeably, these are actually two different jobs. What specific role do construction managers play in building projects big and small?
Hospitals are some of the biggest generators of waste; so when they become more environmentally conscious, they have some of the biggest impact. What steps are hospitals taking today?
You may already know about solar heaters and rain barrels, but what about geothermal pumps and backyard wind turbines? Find out what's the latest in home green technology.
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Is it possible for a stream of air to behave like a door? Surprisingly, yes. This door may not block out burglars, but it can certainly fight against cold winds, flying insects and pollutants.
By Garth Sundem
You don't have to be a home design expert to know that granite countertops are all the rage for kitchens and baths -- and have been for quite some time now. But has their popularity finally peaked?
Even if you're not in the habit of noticing the flooring under your feet, chances are good that you've trod on terrazzo before. Meet mosaic's sturdy cousin.
When you're making home improvements or trying to buy or sell a home, eco-friendliness and energy efficiency matter. So how can an inspector help?
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Inventive manufacturers have transformed the once dark and dim building material called concrete into light transmitting blocks that remain sturdy and compact. Here's how it works.
By Chris Opfer
Papercrete is a lightweight alternative to regular concrete that incorporates would-be trash paper into its mix. But what are the benefits and limitations of such a concoction, and is it green?
Strong, well-enforced building codes can save lives and reduce property damage in the event of a natural disaster. But who sets these standards? And how are they enforced?
By Chris Warren
Worried about getting burned on your upcoming home construction project? Here are some golden ways to save money.
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When you see a fire burning buildings on TV, do you ever wonder why some remain standing and others fold? Concrete has a lot to do with it.
If you're tempted to choose a countertop for its form, stop to consider its function, too -- or it may not look nice for long. What surfaces do best?
Looking for a DIY project? Prebuilt cabinets aren't quite endlessly useful, but there's no need to confine these storage solutions to kitchens alone.
It's tough to read house plans when they're thick with seemingly cryptic symbols. How can you interpret their mysterious language?
By Garth Sundem
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Pretty much anyone can learn to paint drywall. However, to get the best results, you should follow a specific process -- which includes a certain amount of prep work. What steps should you take before starting your paint job?
Renovating your home is a big job. But making a mistake before or during construction can make the job even bigger. Here are 10 to avoid.