HowTos

Concrete Foundation Footings

Concrete foundations used in home and commercial construction come in many different configurations and are made up of many different parts. The four basic types of foundations used in residential construction include: Slab, Kneewall, full basements and post and pier. Each of these require some type of footing. The main reason for a foundation is to support the structure and to provide a level starting point for building. The main function of the footing is to provide a stable base …

Concrete in residential construction

Concrete is one of the most versatile products used in construction. From the well known like foundations and walkways to the more innovative uses found in countertops and exterior siding concrete products are proving that they are cost effective, durable and worth a second look.

If you are building a foundation you may order cubic yards by the truckload or you can quickly build up walls with Pre-Cast blocks.

Pre-cast concrete is also used for …

Steel and Wood Beams

Steel and Wood beams are used throughout homes and commercial buildings to provide proper distribution of floor and wall loads. There are a few different types of beam designs and various materials that can be used but the most important factor is matching the structural rating of the beam to the loads being supported. For this reason under most conditions Beams will need to be specified by an Architect or Structural Engineer.

Mid-span Beams are the most common type used …

HowTo – Staining Your Deck

With proper maintenance your deck can last years longer so taking a half a day to paint it should not be looked at as a nasty chore but a protection of your investment.

Penetration into the wood is the main difference between Paints and Stains.

Paints can be thought of as a thick outer shell that will fail once it is chipped off. Stain will enter into the wood and continue to protect the wood …

Planning your Deck Project

Every good project starts with a good plan and although Decks are a pretty simple project you will probably need to submit plans to your Building Official to get a permit for construction.

For specifications of how detailed your plans need to be you should call your local permit office and ask them what they will need from you.

Most areas will require:

• A Plot Plan of your homes lot showing the location and …

Flooring Manufacturers

Laminate Floors

Abet Laminati
Alloc, Inc.
Armstrong World Industries
BHK of America
Bruce Laminate Floors
Classen USA
Columbia Forest Products
Duramar
Faus Group, USA
Faus Floor
Kaindl Flooring
Kronotex
Mannington Mills
Mohawk Laminate Flooring
Pergo
QuickStyle Industries
Quick Step Laminate Floors
Roysol
Shaw Laminates
Uniboard of Canada
Hardwood Floors