Construction

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.

By Shanna Freeman

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?

By Melanie Radzicki McManus

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.

By Becky Striepe

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?

By Melanie Radzicki McManus

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.

By Shanna Freeman

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

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.

By Becky Striepe

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.

By Colleen Cancio

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?

By Laurie L. Dove

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.

By Laurie L. Dove

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

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?

By Melanie Radzicki McManus

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.

By Becky Striepe

It's easy to rail against the new big thing, but prefab homes aren't that new or (in the U.S.) widely popular. So how have they affected the industry?

By Allison Wachtel

How are cities coping with population increases and construction demands? We've got 10 of the most environmentally conscious urban spaces for you to consider.

By Jeff Harder

Concrete may seem dull and gray. But the superplasticizers in fluid concrete are actually pretty intriguing. How do these little buggers make wet concrete flow like a river?

By Clint Pumphrey

Building permits are the way counties, towns and municipalities enforce their codes to ensure that all buildings meet minimum safety and structural standards. When do you need one, and what does the process of getting one entail?

By John Kelly

Green homes have been trendy for some time, but now commercial buildings are getting in on the eco-building act. From living walls to mushroom bricks, check out 10 of the raddest advances in the field.

By Shanna Freeman

Linoleum has something of a reputation for being old-fashioned and drab. But brands such as Marmoleum are proving that the material can be eco-friendly and fun, too.

By Cynthia Pasquale

Before any major remodeling job, you have to accurately measure the work space. Learn about how to square a building in this article.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

You'd like to build a magnetic generator as you've heard it's just the thing to provide cheap energy for your house. Read on and learn how to build a small model magnetic generator before you progress to the bigger version.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

To be really eco-friendly, you want your roof to be cool, so you'll need one with reflective properties and the best insulation value possible. So what are some of your options when it comes to roofing materials?

By Rebecca Fairley Raney