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.

Recessed Vs Surface Mounted – Basement Lighting

By Todd Fratzel on Basements, Electrical

Last week one of my readers asked a question: Which is better? Recessed lights or surface mount ceiling lights for basement lighting? Basement Lighting Options For starters basements typically have a lower ceiling height than the main floors. Most modern construction today results in the ceiling joists (1st floor joists) being 7′-6″ above the concrete…

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Owens Corning Roofing Contest

By Todd Fratzel on Roofing

The folks at Owens Corning are promoting their Duration Series Designer Colors Collection shingles this summer and fall with a great contest. The That’s My Roof Contest runs until October 2010 with monthly winners and one grand prize winner who will have their new roof completely refunded up to $10,000. Ownens Corning Duration Series Designer…

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Makita Launches New Paddle Switch Angle Grinder

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools

MAKITA’S NEW 4-1/2” PADDLE SWITCH ANGLE GRINDER WITH ERGONOMIC BARREL DELIVERS BEST-IN-CLASS PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT New GA4534 combines power, durability and ergonomics. La Mirada, CA – Makita, a worldwide manufacturer of technologically advanced power tools that are more compact with less weight yet deliver industrial strength power and results, is proud to announce the release…

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Mixed HardiePlank Colors Hightlight School Addition

By Todd Fratzel on Siding & Trim

HardiePlank ColorPlus® Technology Featured On School Addition We recently built a three story wood framed addition for a local Montessori School which featured HardiePlank® Lap Siding with ColorPlus® Technology. Over the years we’ve become huge fans of HardiePlank® Lap Siding for both residential and light commercial projects. In this article I wanted to point out…

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Milwaukee® Introduces New Voltage Detector with LED

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools

MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation continues to expand their Test and Measurement line with the introduction of the new CAT IV 1000 volt Voltage Detector with LED. Serving as a solution for two user needs, the product not only detects voltage at a wide range of 50-1000 AC with the highest safety rating…

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School Addition Goes Green with Radiant Heat

By Todd Fratzel on Heating

Radiant Heat Keeps School Comfortable and Healthy Radiant heat has long been classified as a Green Construction method for several reasons. Most importantly is the elimination of duct work which potentially creates poor air quality. Additionally radiant heat is considered by many to be a much more efficient heating system. We recently designed and built…

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Remodeling Expected To Accelerate In 2011

By Todd Fratzel on Remodeling

Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) According to the Joint Center For Housing Studies at Harvard University there may be some good news for the remodeling industry as we move into 2011. According to their study it appears homeowners are beginning to feel more optimistic and likely to start investing in their homes again. The…

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Colonial Style Fluted Window & Door Trim

By Todd Fratzel on Design, Doors, Finish Carpentry, Windows

Window & Door Trim Today’s mass produced homes rarely use architecturally pleasing window and door trim. Most homes today are built with a very basic colonial trim with mitered joints. Obviously this is done in an effort to reduce building costs while providing a basic look. Older homes traditionally featured very ornate and detailed window…

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