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2×4 vs 2×6 Framing, Which Is Better?

Written by on November 28, 2011 · Leave a Comment


Some realtors have asked recently if the construction on the house that was built was 2×4 or 2×6 construction? What is 2×6 construction? It is the 2×6 stud that is used to frame the exterior walls and doors around the whole house. 2×4 studs are used for interior walls that are non supportive, and not the exterior frame. Whether a house is built by 2×4 or 2×6 may or may not be importnant to you. However, it is something you should think about and decide when deciding to build or purchasing.

When building or purchasing your dream house, there are a various opinions regarding 2×6 construction. Some would say, that it is cheaper to build with 2×4′s, because there is less wood, and less cost, plus it requires less insulation. One builder I heard from stated ” 2×6′s may add an increase in depth for and to include a ‘thicker’ insulation but this insulation alone will not insulate a home ‘better’ than a 2×4 wall with proper treatment…”

I would disagree. The benefit of more insulation is long term. It can increase energy efficiency, and if combined with 2×6′s with a 24-inch center, rather than 16 inch,can reduce labor cost. I also can allow for more spacing for insulating around pipes, wiring, duct work, and also provide more room for R-19 or R-21 wall insulation. It is far more economical in houses that are in a more harsh weather climate, or homes in which windows and doors occupy 10 percent or less of the total wall area.

There are some significant costs to 2×6 construction, the window and door jambs must be wider, requiring the purchase of a jamb extender which can increase the cost by $12 to $15 per opening. The cost of 2x6x8′ studs is 40% more than 2x4x8′ studs. On top of that, there are the bottom and the two top plates. Then there is the added cost for the extra insulation, as well as deeper windowsills.

Some contractors will say that 2×4 construction is structurally as good as 2×6. 2×4 framing can easily support the house structure and weight. Most would agree, the main saving is in the insulation and the energy benefits. I prefer 2×6, and most Realtors and buyers ask about this, and prefer it as well. Is it necessary? Its debatable,. All of my houses that I built were 2×6, and I think the costs paid off.

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Installing Roofing and Roofing Options

Written by on October 15, 2011 · Leave a Comment




If you are looking to replace your roof, or are building new, you might consider the different choices you have on price. Roofing shingles are one of the costs you need to think about when replacing your roof. Not only the price, but the style, color and general look it will have on your house. There are a many colors to choose from in shingles. There are also different types of shingles as well.

One option is the Three-tab fiberglass shingles. They are the most common, usually because they are cheaper in price. The look is also different than architectural shingles; however, there is argument that the durability of the three tab is as good as some of the other types. In most cases, the three-tab shingles will last less than 10 years, especially where the weather is more severe. If you are lucky and get the right kind and install it properly, you will be lucky to have it last almost 25 years. Prices can vary, but typically can be from $29 to $60 per square.
The next option is laminated shingles or architectural shingles. These are usually more expensive; however they are more common and also very popular, plus they look more professional. These shingles usually have a 30 year warranty on them with a replacement guarantee after 10 years , while others even give you a lifetime warranty if installed correctly. Prices for the architectural shingles vary, but can be from $39 to $140 per square.

If you are looking to replace your roof and save money, then you should look into getting the three tab shingles. However, in some cases if you are looking to keep the value of your house, and if you are planning to stay in the house for a long time, you may consider the architectural shingles. Even though the price is higher, you may need to consider your roof as a long term investment. Longer lasting roofing shingles with a lifetime warranty can give you a sense of security. When having your roof installed, remember that if the installer doesn’t install it correctly, the warranty will be void. You cannot install shingles over two layers of existing shingles. Also, the shingles must be nailed, not stapled. There must be lumber sheeting beneath the shingles along with tar paper etc. If you have one layer of existing shingles, this may be a way you can save money because you don’t have to tear off the existing shingles. Shop and find the best deal for you and for your house.

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Resurfacing Your Kitchen Cabinets

Written by on October 9, 2011 · Leave a Comment




A great way to upgrade your kitchen and save money, is by changing the look of your kitchen. There are a couple of ways to change the look of your kitchen. One way is to replace your cabinets with new upgrades, which can be done by yourself or a licensed contractor. This can be very expensive, plus you are depending on another’s person’s time and efforts to get the job done.   Another way you can save money is by installing them yourself, but even that  may not be worth it.  If you do it yourself, it still will cost thousands of dollars, depending on the type of cabinets and the layout. Not to mention all the time and effort it will take to install them.

The best way to update the look of your kitchen is refacing or resurfacing your cabinets. Refacing your cabinets means replacing the doors, drawer fronts and hardware, and covering the sides and framework with a stick-on veneer or glued-on plywood.  This is a very inexpensive way to upgrade the look of your cabinet, at a very low cost.

Another way to change the look  is by painting your cabinets. Painting is much cheaper than refacing , and depending on finances, it may be your best choice. Some people also prefer the look of a painted cabinet to a natural wood surface. Like refacing, preparation for the job is crucial for a successful result.

Either way, the end result is a new-looking cabinet at half the cost. You also avoid the stress and inconvenience of completely removing and replacing your old cabinets. Not only is it cheaper, but it is faster, and less work. You can usually resurface your cabinets in a day, and get the satisfaction of having done it yourself.


 

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