UBuildIt - Home

The Builder In You

Home Building & Remodeling Advice
for Owner Builders

What should you consider when you buy new appliances?

March 7th, 2008

Whether you are remodeling or building your dream home, you will more than likely be purchasing one, if not several, new appliances. There are so many brands and models on the market, how do you decide which one is right for you and your family? The following are some elements you will want to take into consideration: Read the rest of this entry »

What Are the 12 Types of Windows Available?

February 28th, 2008

A window performs many functions. It brings light into a room, aids in heating, cooling and ventilating the room. It can be an architectural focal point as well as a means of emergency escape. These functions are found to differing degrees in all 12 types of windows on the market today. Read the rest of this entry »

What are the most common materials used in countertops today?

February 21st, 2008

Countertops are a major element in the design and feel of your kitchen. They are the showpiece of that room, setting the tone for its style and character. Whether planning the kitchen for your new dream home, or considering a kitchen remodel, there is a huge array of colors, textures and materials from which to choose. As you look at the many counter tops available, you will most likely base your decision on your own personal style, the functionality you need and the budget you have available for your project.

There are nine different materials that most countertops are made from today. They vary greatly in price, functionality and look. Read the rest of this entry »

General tips for controlling construction costs

February 21st, 2008

Cost overruns can plague any construction project. This occurs so frequently that it is recommended you include a 5 - 10% contingency fund in your budget. This will be used for items that you will have no control over, such as problems found with the land once excavation has begun.

Cost overruns may be minimized by following these steps to prevent them: Read the rest of this entry »

Hardwood and laminate flooring

February 11th, 2008

Laminates and hardwood floors offer timeless beauty and charm. They are never out of style and can add considerable value to your home. With advances in technology, these two types of flooring are more durable and can more readily adapt to different areas of your home. Read the rest of this entry »

What you need to know if you are considering tile flooring

February 11th, 2008

Tile flooring is one of the earliest man-made building materials, dating back centuries, and has maintained an enduring and elegant appearance throughout time. Tile offers you unlimited decorating possibilities while providing durability, ease of care, resistance to fire and water, and environmental friendliness for you and your family for many years. Tiles can range from 4 to 24 inches in size and are available in many types, each having their own qualities and uses. Read the rest of this entry »

Moisture in Crawl Spaces or Basements

February 4th, 2008

Moisture can be a concern with a crawl space or a basement. Let’s look at some steps to prevent the formation of moisture. Read the rest of this entry »

Flooring from renewable resources - Bamboo and Cork

February 4th, 2008

Many alternatives to the traditional flooring products have become very popular in recent years. Two of those are bamboo and cork. These are both made from renewable resources and provide beautiful, durable flooring for your home. Read the rest of this entry »

What are the different types of insulation in a home?

January 28th, 2008

Today, there are nine (9) types of insulation used in home construction and remodeling. The type of insulation used can be based on the area of the house needing insulation as well as the budget requirement for that item. Read the rest of this entry »

5 Secrets to Designing Home Plans to Fit Your Family

December 13th, 2007

While finding or designing the perfect home plan for your family may seem like an easy first step, we can assure you, it’s not. Many building or remodeling projects are over budget and behind schedule before they ever begin simply because too many people assume that developing a home plan is easy.

When you discover and implement the “5 Secrets to Designing Home Plans that Fit Your Family”, you will:

  1. Customize a home to your family’s needs
  2. Create a healthy, happy home
  3. Balance your home and budget goals
  4. Save money
  5. Streamline your time

One family, already thousands over budget and months behind schedule, recently discovered these 5 secrets,

“If we had followed these steps to begin with we would have money in the bank and our project would be done. We didn’t understand how important it was to plan for our home plan. Now that we know we tell everyone to stop and follow the steps.” Read the rest of this entry »