The HTRC

The Homeowners & Trades Resource Center

Wacky Weds: Water Waster

Are they serious – the 6 steps are; Wet Soap Wash for 20 Seconds Rinse Dry Turn off water with paper towel (Say what???) But wait it gets better… Yep that is one of those new power air dryers with a sticker on it saying… “Using these energy-efficient hand dryers reduces paper towel consumption.” Oh & […]

Home Maintenance Packages or DIY?

One of the most dreaded items for Homeowners is dealing with all the Maintenance tasks aka chores that need to be done around the house. Lets be honest, it is easy to let them slide as even I do it myself sometimes. (Cobblers kid anyone?) Yes that is even though we know it may cost us […]

Why is everyone so vague on pricing?

How much will it cost to do X, or how much per square foot (SF) or linear foot (LF) to install Y… are the two most frequent questions asked during the initial phone call. The fact of the matter though is most legitimate remodeling and renovations contractors don’t even think in terms of SF or […]

Wacky Weds: Levels of Perfection / Fit & Finish

One of the terms I use when talking with individuals is what level of perfection are you looking for especially on older historic homes… Do you like the squeaks & occasional dips, do you want the floor true though it may not be level or are you looking for perfectly flat & level? Well this terms […]

What a summer – updates & happenings

How does the saying go, life can come at you fast? A little over 3 months ago I couldn’t imagine all the changes that were in store & would have laughed at you & wondered what were you smoking… With that, I wouldn’t change the where, the who, or even the why it all happened. So […]

Wacky Weds: It doesn’t matter where you go…

Well hello Chicago… I got to say I was impressed at the detailing they did for the duct work & even this panned joist return (tongue firmly planted in cheek – really these are a bad idea but…), well until I got to the end of it.

Kicking your Outdoor Patio up a Notch

With the beautiful summer weather slowly making its exit, you’re probably nearing the end of your outdoor patio party season. Whether you’re still hosting parties or want to get a leg up on next summer’s festivities, there are ways you can improve upon your patio and backyard. In this weeks guest piece Rachael Jones who […]

Wacky Weds: Just because it meets code…

Yes folks, just because something meets codes, doesn’t mean it is a good idea… This is from a hotel I stayed at & I got to say the fumes & heat that it generates when it is on are not ideal. M1804.2.6.2 The vent terminal shall be located not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) below, 4 […]

Adding a Solar Array: It’s More Science than Plug-and-Play

This week we have a great guest post from Christine Maddox. Currently she is pursuing a Master’s degree from the University of Texas as well as blogging for www.4nannies.com. She primarily loves to write about anything related to parenting, kids, nanny care, but also has an interest in solar power. While we have covered many topics revolving around alternative […]

Insulation Issue, the fix & prevention

Last Wednesday as you may recall I showed you this picture from a house that had already passed the pre-drywall inspection which any rater or inspector out there could tell you should have failed. This leads to a few questions, just how did it pass, why did it happen, what was the fix & more even more importantly […]