Traditional wood framing is out, and insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are in. An ICF wall system can come in preformed interlocking blocks or as separate panels connected with metal ties. As the name suggests, the concrete is also insulated, typically with high-density Styrofoam or another lightweight material. ICFs can be used for below-grade foundations as well as above-grade walls up to two stories high. Because insulated concrete formwork is becoming so popular across the country, we put together this post to cover a few of the reasons to consider ICFs. Keep reading to learn why you should consider ICFs and... View Article
Many businesses and industries are doing their part to go green these days by doing things to help the Earth and eliminate their carbon footprints. This is especially true in the construction industry, where eco-friendly house construction has really taken off. Eco-conscious building methods can take many forms, and it can be applied in nearly every aspect of a new home. This post will cover some of the many components of green construction. Construction materials Construction companies can start their building process off on the right foot by using sustainable building materials. These materials are obtained from natural, renewable sources... View Article
Many people opt to build their own home rather than purchasing an existing one. Building your own home gives you total control over the design, so you can get a house that meets your exact needs and specifications. Of course, the prospect of starting from scratch with home construction can be a bit overwhelming. So, if you’re planning on building your house, where do you get started? The first thing you’ll need to do is choose where you’re going to build the house. Here’s an overview of some of the key considerations to factor into your search for the best... View Article
There are so many factors that go into determining a home’s lifespan that it’s hard to deliver a straight answer to this question. So, let’s take a look at some studies and some of the factors likely to influence how long you can expect your house to last. What does the research say? One study analyzed a couple hundred buildings that were condemned and demolished in North America. Of these, a majority were less than 50 years old. But when broken down by age group, 12 percent of the buildings were less than 25 years old, and many more were... View Article
Real estate can be a significant investment. If you’re considering purchasing a cabin or cottage, whether for year-round use or as a vacation home, there are several things to keep in mind. Use these tips on how to buy a cabin to make the best investment decisions. Top factors Before you choose a cabin, consider four crucial aspects: Personal appeal: How does the cabin feel? You want to feel at home in the space and comfortable in the surroundings, so you’ll want to spend time there. Local weather: Do you plan to visit your cabin during different times of the... View Article
