Archives: construction

Paslode PF150S-PP Review

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools, Product Reviews

PF150S-PP Positive Placement® Metal Connector Nailer Over the last couple of weeks we’ve had the pleasure of testing the all new Paslode PF150S-PP Positive Placement® Metal Connector Nailer. Paslode asked us to give it a test drive and we obliged on a large framing job that requires several dozen large metal joist hangers. Engineered Lumber…

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One TIME Wood Protector – 10 Months Later

By Todd Fratzel on Decks & Porches, Painting and Finishing

One TIME Wood Protector Last summer I tested a product called One TIME Wood Protector on our Cambara Decking. In the past we’ve had horrible luck finding a product that could seal our beautiful deck and stand up to the harsh New England weather (extreme cold winters and searing hot sun in the summer). However,…

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Prefabricated Wall Panels Save Time

By Todd Fratzel on Framing, Green Building

Using Prefabricated Wall Panels I’ve written about using prefabricated wall panels before and how they can save time on a job. Today I wanted to show an example of a job that really benefited from the use of prefabricated wall panels. Today one of our crews set wall panels on the 2nd floor of a…

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Cost Of Asphalt Driveways

By Todd Fratzel on Landscaping

Asphalt Driveway Update: This article was written in 2009. This article has been updated for current 2014 prices. However, it should be noted, the prices are averages and will vary greatly depending on geographical location, and size of the job. Asphalt Driveway Cost First let me point out that this article is only a guide…

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AutoCAD Freestyle – Inexpensive Drafting Tool

By Todd Fratzel on Design

AutoCAD Freestyle AutoCAD Freestyle is a new 2D drafting/drawing software that DIY’ers, homeowners and small contractors can use to create professional looking drawings. I’ve been using AutoCAD software for 25 years and it’s an integral part of my profession. However, full blown versions of the software are just too pricey for the average homeowner looking…

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New Lead Paint Law – Handbook for Contractors

By Todd Fratzel on Painting and Finishing, Safety

Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right EPA’s Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program The EPA’s new Lead Paint Law takes effect on April 22, 2010 and there seems to be more questions than answers especially from small business owners. Many of the smaller contractors have questions about Contractor Lead Paint Certification, waivers, personnel…

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New Lead Paint Laws Effective April 22, 2010

By Todd Fratzel on Remodeling

New EPA Lead Paint Laws Effect Remodeling Projects The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has new lead paint laws going into affect on April 22, 2010. The new lead paint laws require any renovation work performed on houses built before 1978 to be performed by a certified contractor. Obviously his new law is causing some…

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Framing Walls – Reference Guides

By Todd Fratzel on Framing

Framing Walls Before I begin please note that my dad (standing on top of that step ladder) is breaking a major ladder safety rule! This photo was taken when my father and I started framing our new home. Lately we’ve had quite a few emails and questions about framing walls and more specifically if we…

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