February 3rd, 2011
Critical Deck Connections
1. Ledger-to-Wall Framing
Correct ledger attachment is critical when a deck is attached to another structure. One of the most common causes for deck failures is ledgers that are not properly secured and pull away from the primary structure, resulting in collapse. The two most common ways to correctly attach the ledger to a structure are lag screws or machine-bolts through the ledger and into the rim joist of the supporting structure.
2. Joist-to-Ledger
When joists terminate into a beam or ledger, a connection is required to provide bearing. In cantilever applications, the connection also must resist uplift. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Building a Deck, Deck Planning, Decks, Outdoor Living, Outdoor Living Planning, Simpson StrongTie
Posted in News, Tips for Homeowners | No Comments »
October 11th, 2010
Constructing a safe deck requires research, proper hardware, regular maintenance and oftentimes, help from a professional builder or inspector. Many Americans, however, still view adding a deck to their home as a simple, Do-it-Yourself project for Memorial Day weekend. Over the last 10 years, there have been more than 800 reported injuries and 20 deaths as a result of deck collapse.
Of the 40 million decks in the United States, Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Building a Deck, Decks, Simpson StrongTie
Posted in News, Tips for Homeowners | No Comments »
July 31st, 2010
Building the perfect deck; What you should be considering when building your perfect deck.
Deck design is a very important process if you actually want to use it. There are a lot of things to consider and hopefully this article will enlighten you to a lot of things. The design itself is important because you are adding value to your home and also providing a focal point where you can actually see everything around you. These are great for late summer night parties or just sitting outside having tea and watching the deer and other random animals play. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Building a Deck, Decks, Homeowner Tips, Outdoor Living
Posted in Tips for Homeowners | 8 Comments »
July 18th, 2010
They say the devil is in the details. That is certainly the case when it comes to remodeling. One example is in the area of insurance. It is probably common knowledge that the contractor or contractors you hire to remodel your home should be insured but what exactly does that mean?
Contractors carry 3 basic types of insurance: vehicle, liability and workman’s compensation.
Everyone is familiar with the first type. It covers accidents to persons or property caused by or involving Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Contractor Insurance Requirements, Contractors Insurance, Insurance
Posted in Contractor Insurance, News | 6 Comments »
June 16th, 2010
Example of a Garage
When you decide to extend the functionality of your home by adding a garage, you’ll want to begin by calculating the costs. Several factors can make big impacts on your budget.
Permits
Your first step is to contact the local authorities and inform them of your home addition plan.
Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Garage, Garage Addition, Garages
Posted in Additions | 14 Comments »
June 10th, 2010
The reality is that many people think that they can be a qualified contractor. The BBB has some guidelines that are important to follow.
Homeowners – The Better Business Bureau has warned consumers of some issues or schemes to watch out for. At MCM Contractors we believe that you should always pay close attention to what people are telling you when you are looking for a qualified contractor for your project.
Watch for these schemes also:
Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: BBB, Homeowner Tips
Posted in News, Tips for Homeowners | No Comments »
June 7th, 2010
BBB Recommends that you ask questions when hiring a contractor
27 Questions For Home Owners (from the Better Business Bureau)
The best way to avoid trouble with any business transaction is to be a knowledgeable consumer. Better Business Bureau has prepared the following 27 Questions For Homeowners to quiz your knowledge about remodeling, re-roofing, re-siding, waterproofing and other home improvements. Each question indicates an area in which complaints have been reported to BBB. Weigh every word carefully and check every question. If you already have an offer for the work compare it against the quiz and see if you should proceed. Regardless of all 27 Questions, if you find an advertiser is a “Bait” advertiser of any articles or services for the home, don’t do business with them! Baiting is “Knocking” the advertised job or its unavailability. If they try to trick you by “Bait” advertising, the chances are they will try to trick you some other way too, for their profit and your loss. You can’t trust Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: BBB, Homeowner Tips, Remodeling Tips
Posted in Tips for Homeowners | 3 Comments »
Do you ever wish that you had bought a three-bedroom house instead of a two-bedroom? What about your