Monthly Archives: June 2012

I “closed” on this house two days ago and am now the proud owner of real property.  After stroking my signature or initials in fourty-seven places in two dozen documents, a deed of ownership with my name on it is … Continue reading →

In a way, all those homes with conventional pitched roofs are missing out on certain house function opportunities.  Consider what many commercial buildings put on the roof:  heating, air conditioning, ventilation, skylights, and nowadays, solar panels and sometimes even live … Continue reading →

I knew it was likely, but the first roofing contractor confirmed it. “The roof is shot and needs to be completely replaced.”  His matter of fact tone and manner, derived from years of roof installations and repairs, presented his diagnosis … Continue reading →

Rain garden is a new term for me.  My friend Rich introduced it to me a few years ago when he built one, but I promptly forgot what its purpose was. I shouldn’t have.  This has become an important part … Continue reading →

My son reviewed the photos of This Odd House and declared it awesome.  What needs to be changed?  It is already distinctive.  How can it be made any more so? After explaining my plans to replace the kitchen counters with … Continue reading →