Fire is one of the primitive holdovers from the Stone Age, like shelter and clothing that we still hold sacred. Everyone enjoys a good campfire. Humans have improved upon it, we have accessorized it and no longer use it as our primary cooking tool, unless you are...
Foundation vents are a common device found in most forms of residential construction. They are a necessity but usually obscured by mature shrubbery and are never accentuated. In fact, you could have lived in your home for over 50 years and have never noticed them....
According to my concrete contractor John. "There are only two types of concrete, that which is cracked already, and that which has the potential to crack." Although your slabs may be "cracking up"...it is no laughing matter. Using cement wisely and properly is an art...
Here in the Treasure Valley Idaho we had a big hail storm September 5th 2013. It came in from South West and clobbered the North West end of the valley hard, especially Eagle, Idaho. Roofers all over the region started licking their lips and scouting out the areas...
Most folks don't think much about dishwashers, they have become a necessity of modern life. Most kitchens have them and if they do, the most common decision is what color they will be. Stainless is all the rage right now but black and white are still selling according...
I saw a heartfelt plea from a gentleman on the internet that had a 9 volt battery cause a serious house fire. Part of his concern is that he felt very responsible because he was ignorant of the danger and asked that I pass this information along. I'm doing my duty to...
Redefining a Ranch-Style Home: Levco’s Second Story BreakthroughThe Challenge Our client, who is an Architect, wanted to add square footage to her home. Her lot was constrained and could not go sideways or down.The Idea To use bonus room trusses to create a second...
North End Historic Basement & Master Suite AdditionThe Challenge The Owners had a new son and no Master Suite. They already had a basement but the home was just too small.The Idea The home built in 1943 it was in the North End Historic District and contributing....
Basement wet bar from a storage areaThe Challenge Our client had a walkout basement room that was used for relaxing and entertainment. There was a TV and a couch plus a pool table. They used a vintage cabinet to hold liquor, but the idea of a wet bar in the room was...
Basement Finished in StyleThe Challenge The basement of this home had a chronic water problem. A previous contractor had done a wimpy repair and another contractor was planning to dig a trench around the room to add a pump system to allow water that came in to be...