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.

Kenmore Pro Side-By-Side Built-In Refrigerator

By Todd Fratzel on Kitchens, Product Reviews

We are building a house at work for a customer and they’ve chosen Kenmore Pro Series appliances. The Kenmore Pro Side-By-Side Built-In Refrigerator was delivered the other day and it’s impressive to say the least. Then again any refrigerator that costs more than $5,000 should be quite impressive. If you’re looking for professional grade appliances…

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Can House Trusses Be Modified?

By Todd Fratzel on Design, Framing

Can Truss Members Be Cut? I received an email from a reader today asking me some questions about trusses in his home. The homeowner is interesting in creating a spare room in his attic. He noticed that there’s lots of room up in the attic that might have the potential for a spare room. So…

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Where To Buy Refrigerator Water Filters Online

By Todd Fratzel on Appliances

Where To Buy Refrigerator Water Filters I recently wrote a post about how to replace a Kenmore Elite Refrigerator water filter. Since then I’ve been asked several times where to buy refrigerator water filters for other refrigerator makes and models. So I thought I’d write another post with links to some of the more popular…

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Window Blinds On A Budget

By Todd Fratzel on Interior Decorating, Windows

We still need window blinds in several rooms on the second floor and I’ve been looking around for a place to buy them on a fixed budget. We’ve been searching for some pleated blinds for the kids play room. I found the pleated blinds in the photo for a great price from a website called…

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Icicles Tell Which House Has Enough Insulation

By Todd Fratzel on Insulation

I’ve been writing about ice dams and attic insulation quite a bit lately because of the weather. I’ve also pointed out that you can tell when a house doesn’t have sufficient insulation. I ran across two photos yesterday that really tell the story better than I can write it. The folks over at Bangor Bungalow…

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Toro Electric Snow Thrower

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools

If you have a small driveway or a walkway that you’d like to keep clear of snow without shoveling then maybe you should consider buying a small electric snow thrower. Electric snow throwers are an inexpensive alternative to a full size gas powered snow blower. These snow throwers will surely help save your back this…

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Stanley 99 Piece Socket Set

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools

One of the best home improvement tool gifts I ever got was a really good socket set. I always say this and I’ll say it again, buy yourself a good quality tool that will last a lifetime. This Stanley 99 Piece Black Chrome and Laser Etched Socket Set is exactly what I’m talking about. The…

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Recommended Insulation Levels

By Todd Fratzel on Energy Conservation, Insulation

Insulation Saves Money We’ve been having another record winter here in New Hampshire and quite a few people are asking me if they have enough insulation in their homes. The expensive cost of fuel and rough economy has forced folks to re-evaluate their current insulation levels. By making sure you have the proper levels of…

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