About the author

Todd Fratzel

I'm full time builder for a large construction company in New Hampshire. I run their design-build division that specializes in custom homes, commercial design-build projects and sub-divisions. I'm also a licensed civil and structural engineer with extensive experience in civil and structural design and home construction. My hope is that I can share my experience in the home construction, home improvement and home renovation profession with other builders and home owners. I'm also the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, suggestions or you'd like to inquire about advertising on this site.

Getting Bids When You Build A New House

By Todd Fratzel on Home Improvement Cost Savings

As I continue this series, Total House Construction Series – Foundation to Finish, I want to focus on getting bids and estimates for the work that needs to be performed. You’ve finally got your blue prints so now you’re ready to get bids and estimates from contractors. Now getting bids and estimates can an overwhelming…

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Kreg K3MS K3 Master Pocket Hole Jig System

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools, Product Reviews

The Kreg K3MS K3 Master Pocket Hole Jig System is one of those tools that is a must have for carpenters that enjoy building fine furniture and casework. This kit contains everything you need to create really strong pocket hole connections. The Kreg Jig contains: Pocket hole joinery combination kit; everything you need in one…

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First Step in Building A New House – Blue Prints

By Todd Fratzel on Design

Last night I announced a new series of posts that I’ll be writing over the coming months; Total House Construction Series – Foundation to Finish. In the series I’ll document all the major tasks in building a new 2,400 sq. ft. ranch style home. The first major step required prior to building a new house…

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Rockwell Jawhorse Plywood Jaw RK9109

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools, Product Reviews

Rockwell Jawhorse Plywood Jaw The Rockwell Jawhorse Plywood Jaw RK9109 is a really amazing idea and product. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve struggled with large sheets of plywood on sawhorses when trying to cut them with a circular saw. This ingenious product allows you to clamp the sheet you’re working on with…

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Total House Construction Series – Foundation to Finish

By Todd Fratzel on Framing

I’d like to announce a series of posts that I’ll be doing over the next few months: Total House Construction Series – Foundation to Finish. Over the next several months I’ll document the construction of a new home from the foundation all the way to the finished product. When we built our new home I…

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DIY Tips to Remodel your Bathroom

By Todd Fratzel on Bathrooms

Today’s guest blogger is Sarah Scrafford who writes for International Listings. Bathrooms have come a long way from the utility rooms they were a few years ago. Most people are now looking to create a private space where they can unwind after a long day’s work soaking in a bubble bath with scented candles, music…

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How To Get A Construction Loan

By Todd Fratzel on Financing

Construction Loan Building a new home is certainly stressful but getting a construction loan shouldn’t be that difficult if you understand how the process works. One of the biggest questions I hear from potential customers is how to we finance a new construction project. How do we get a construction loan? Are there different types…

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Add Elegance To Your Cabinets with a Few Simple Details

By Todd Fratzel on Cabinetry, Finish Carpentry, Kitchens

Cabinet Moldings Many home owners are installing new cabinets in their homes as a DIY home improvement project. You can add elegance to stock and semi-custom cabinet lines by adding a few simple details. Almost all semi-custom cabinet lines come with a very generous selection of matching moldings. When I designed our new kitchen the…

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