Do-it-yourself Home Improvement Ideas and Resources

Roofing and Waterproofing: Construction, Codes, Insulation
From DoItYourSelf.com, a plethora of information on how to build a roof, including all codes to finish the job. Topics covered include trusses, layout, framing, sheathing the roof, soffits, felt, gutters, shingles and a checklist and glossary. Miscellaneous roofing articles cover such topics as fallproofing a roof, framing hip roofs, how to buy roofing, ice dames, mold growth, roof flashing, rubber roofs, slate roofs, ventiliation, water holes, why roofs leak, and roof inspection and certification. The site offers a discussion forum on roofing and waterproofing issues.

Kitchen Renovations in this Old House
"Renovating your kitchen is usually the most cost effective upgrade you can do to your home." Yes, but how much will kitchen renovations cost? This site provides cost estimates for a wide range of kitchen renovation projects as well as other helpful hints for ways to upgrade your kitchen yet preserve its historical "style" at the same time. Some of the helpful hints include how much you should spend on a kitchen remodel if you just plan to upgrade and sell—and how much to spend if you intend to live in the home for a while and enjoy the fruits of your labors. All spending suggestions reflect the intention that you should make a profit from your kitchen remodeling efforts when it is time to sell your home. Cost estimates are provided for everything from a simple "facelift" (new cabinet doors, hardware, faucets and fixtures), all the way to a complete high quality makeover. Budgeting techniques are also discussed so homeowners on a budget can prioritize the types of renovations they are going to do so they can stretch their renovation dollars to the limit.

Six Steps to Building Indoor Wall Water Fountains
Wall water fountains make a dramatic and sophisticated statement to any space. Did you know that you can install your own in six simple steps? It's true and this site will guide you through the process, which may take less than an hour to complete. A list of tools is provided and you will still need to read the instructions that comes with the model you have selected to make sure that you are installing the unit correctly. A great tip provided here is to place the fountain on a 2x4 after you remove it from the packaging; this will make the wall fountain easier to life when the time comes to lift it into place.

NOFMA Guidelines for the Handling, Installation and Care of Hardwood Flooring
For more than half a century, the Wood Flooring Manufacturers Association has been setting and administering the industry standards for wood flooring. As befitting this mission, the NOFMA's site provides the basics on wood flooring for non-professionals. Information on the shrinking and expansion of wood floors, on the causes of gaps, on the cures for panelizing and the need for a vapor retarder can be found under "Tip Sheets," along with pointers for treating powderpost beetle infestation, handling and storing oak flooring, avoiding "chatter" marks, restoring flood-damaged floors. A great feature of this site is the Hardwood Strip Flooring Square Foot Java Calculator and a manual for finishing hardwood floors that includes professional answers to frequently asked questions.