Home Inspection

Watch videos that point out important problems so you know how to prioritize your exterior and interior repairs.

1. How to Inspect the Exterior of Your House: A simple inspection of the exterior of your house can help you prevent problems and save money on repair bills.
2. Home Inspection Problems: ServiceMagic.com Home Improvement Expert David Lupberger takes a look at what home inspectors say are the most common problems they end up noting in their home inspection reports.
3. Home Inspection Moisture Tools: Russ Fasullo of Avanti Home & Mold Inspections demonstrates the correct way to diagnose moisture problems.
4. Home Inspection for Radon: With radon testing you can find radon in your home and install a radon mitigation system.
5. Home Inspection of Insulation: Home inspector Jamie Dunsing explains what to look for during a home inspection of your insulation in the attic and around the hot water heater.
6. Home Inspection Training – Electrical: Learn how the pros inspect the electrical systems in homes.
7. Home Inspection Issues to Look out for: A professional home inspector identifies common problems in home inspections.

Exterior Repairs

8. Different Types of House Siding: Add value to a home by building up higher-quality siding.
9. Exterior House Painting Tips: Learn how to check a house’s paint job to see if sanding, scraping or power washing needs to be done with help from a professional carpenter, woodworker or handyman.
10. Exterior Painting: Tim Carter, of Ask the Builder, demonstrates the proper way to paint a house.
11. How to Fix Rotting Siding on Your Home: An important step to ensure that your home’s siding is properly installed is to mark the walls where siding repairs need to be installed.
12. Removing Vinyl Siding: How to remove vinyl siding from a mobile or modular home.
13. Staining an Exterior House and Deck: In this video, Gary Sullivan with HomeWoRx and CertaPro reviews the results of staining a deck and house.
14. Vinyl Siding Installation: How to Install vinyl siding on mobile and manufactured homes.
15. Wood Home Exterior Painting Techniques: Learn about exterior painting instructions and techniques.
16. Wood Siding Repair: Tim Carter, of Ask the Builder, shows a few easy tips for painting wood siding for your house.
17. Home Repair Termites in Wood Rail: See and hear how to repair damaged wood from termites.
18. How To Install A Pre-Hung Exterior Door: Learn how to install a new pre-hung exterior door with the following instructions.
19. How to Replace Caulking on the Outside of Your House: Replace caulking on the exterior of a home.
20. Installing Gutter Guards: Keep gutters clean and clear by installing guards using these tips.

Windows

21. How to Measure for House Replacement Windows: When measuring a house’s windows for replacements, it’s important to get exact measurements to take to the salesperson at a home improvement store.
22. Replacing A Window: Tim Carter, of Ask the Builder, demonstrates how to install a new window and frame.
23. Retrofit windows: Learn how to replace aluminum windows with energy efficient vinyl retrofit windows.
24. How to replace a second-story window: Learn how this DIY builder replaced a second-story window.
25. Window sill repair: Learn how to cover your old wood window sills with vinyl so you never have to paint again.

Electrical

26. Electrical Symbols Used in the House Wiring Industry: Learn about symbols for a number of electrical fixtures with help from a home remodeling specialist.
27. How to Tell if a Circuit Breaker Is Bad: Determine if a circuit has shorted or if a breaker is defective.
28. About Old House Wiring: Find out how to figure out the wiring of an old house with tips from a licensed remodeling contractor.
29. How to install an electrical outlet: Ron Tanner, of Houselove.org, shows how to install an electrical outlet in a wall using simple tools.
30. How to Replace a Light Switch: Replace a light switch with tips from a certified HVAC tech and plumber.
31. Replace Outdoor Electrical Plug and Cover: Learn how to safely replace an outdoor plug and its cover.
32. How To Install a Dimmer Switch: Learn how to easily and quickly add a dimmer switch to an interior light switch.
33. How to Install a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): Learn how to install the GFCI plug for kitchens and bathrooms.
34. Installing a Ceiling Light Video: Mark Donovan of HomeAdditionPlus.com shows how to install a ceiling light.
35. Replacing a Home’s Exterior Light Fixture: Mark Donovan now shows how to replace a home’s old exterior light fixture with a new one.
36. How To Replace or Install a Ceiling Fan: The Home Depot shows how easy it is to replace an old ceiling fan with a new one.

Plumbing

It seems that James Drew, a certified HVAC tech and plumber from JNCHomeRepair.com, is the highest-rated video king for plumbing repair at YouTube. Here are a few examples of his videos:

37. How to Replace a Sink Drain: Replace a sink drain with tips from a certified HVAC tech and plumber in this free video on plumbing repairs.
38. How to Repair a Leaky Pipe Quickly: Repair a leaky pipe quickly with tips.
39. How to Unclog a Sink: When unclogging a sink, oftentimes a P-trap must be removed.
40. How to Unclog a Toilet: If a plunger doesn’t work in unclogging a toilet, the only other option is to use a snake.
41. How to Fix a Leaky Toilet Tank: Fix a leaky toilet tank.
42. How to Repair a Running Toilet: When a toilet is running all of the time, it’s usually because the flapper valve isn’t getting a good seal.
43. How to Repair a Dripping Shower Head: A dripping shower head is caused by a problem with the shower valve or a leak in the head itself.

Other Repairs

44. Professional Basement Wall Crack Repair Instructions: This video properly shows the process of repairing poured foundation wall cracks using low-pressure concrete crack injection.
45. How to Replace Cracked Tile: Replace cracked tile floor tiles using a grout scraper, pry bar, hammer and safety glasses.
46. How to Repair Concrete Steps: How to repair, patch or restore broken, chipped or damaged concrete steps.
47. How to Replace Caulk on Bathtub: How to remove and replace bathtub sealant or caulk and get a smooth bead on the new caulk.
48. Painting Kitchen Cabinets: Painting kitchen cabinets is an easy and inexpensive way to bring old cabinets — and your entire kitchen — back to life.
49. How to Repair Cracks and Holes in Drywall: This video shows ways to repair small cracks and holes in drywall to repair damage.
50. Repairing a Large Hole in Drywall: This video covers repairs to very large holes created by home repair and remodeling.

You don’t even have to go green for reasons of the environment if you don’t want to. After all, making green changes to your home can save you money over time. When you green your home, you are creating a home that uses fewer resources, saving you money. On top of that, some green home improvements that you make come with tax credits, lowering your tax liability. Here is a guide to “greening” your home:

Energy Efficient Home

The first thing that most people think about when they consider greening their homes is energy efficiency. You can make changes to reduce your energy consumption, saving the planet and saving money. This is also the category that offers all of those juicy tax breaks for green home improvements. Consider the following projects:

Heating System: The first thing to look at is your heating system, since most of your energy use during the cold winter months is for eating. Have your furnace checked. If it is more than 20 years old, consider replacing it with an EnergyStar model. Next, go through and seal your ducts to prevent leakage. You can also close doors to rooms you don’t use, keep drapes from hanging in front of vents, and keep your furnace filters clean to increase the efficiency of your heating system. As part of your heating/cooling, install a programmable thermostat, and set it so that the house is a little less comfortable while you are at work.

Windows: One of the biggest energy leaks is through windows. If you can, the best option is to replace all of your windows with upgraded versions. Use double pane and triple pane windows. Go through your home and fix loose window panes. You should also check to make sure of a tight fit between window and house. Seal cracks and leaks to keep heat from escaping during the winter and getting in during the summer. Check with your city and state; some local areas have special no-interest loan programs if you replace your windows and then make payments for three years.

Insulation: Add a little more insulation to your home. You’d be surprised at how much just adding six to 15 inches of insulation can help with heating and cooling costs. In some cases, you can save between 10% and 20% a month on health and cooling costs. You don’t have to do a total renovation, using fiber insulation, either; spray foam insulation can be a great alternative.

Water Heater: Water heaters last about 15 years. Once again, this is something you can upgrade to an EnergyStar model. But that’s not all. Even if you have a new water heater, you can make improvements. Set the temperature to 120 degrees, and then get insulating jackets for the tank, and the water pipes. This will reduce heat loss through your water heating system.

Plug the Leaks: Look around for other leaks. These can be around doors, electrical outlets, attic access and old fireplaces. There are a number of products that can be used to help improve your thermal envelope, including insulated garage and home doors, weather stripping, foam insulating gaskets (for outlets), and modern dampers. A home energy audit can also help you identify problem areas.

Roof: Upgrade your roof to improve energy efficiency. You can use reflective roofing to reduce energy loss, as well as double check your shingles to make sure they are tight. If you want to get really creative, you can actually create a habitat up there, with organic roofing, or just paint your roof white.

Power Your Home: If you are into the really big projects, you can add solar panels to your roof, or get a small home wind turbine to provide electricity. If you combine solar and/or wind power with other energy efficiency changes, you can do a great deal in terms of saving money. It is worth noting that you can start small, with a modest solar power system for heating your water and then expand from there as you have the money and tax credits.

Tax Credits

Here are the juicy federal tax credits you can get for green home improvements. Just realize that for small home improvements the energy efficient tax credits expire at the end of 2010. So you need to make the changes in 2010. For the small home improvements, you can get 30% of what you spent to make changes, up to $1,500. Additionally, they are only available for existing homes. These items include:

• HVAC system
• Non-solar water heaters
• Windows
• Doors
• Roofing
• Biomass stoves
• Insulation

If you are more into the big changes, and want to install solar panels, wind turbines, fuel cells or geothermal heat pumps, you can get a bigger tax break. Credits for these items are available until the year 2016, so you have time to save up. You get tax credits for 30% of the cost of installation — with no upper limit. You can also put these energy systems on new homes as well as existing homes.

Landscaping

It’s not just what’s inside that can make your home green. You can also green your home with kind of landscaping that you choose. When you are careful about how you landscape your home, you can increase the “greenness” of your home, and save money on water costs, when you are careful about how you set up your yard.

You can go completely green, and use rain water collection with a rain barrel and set up a drip system to distribute the water to your plants. You can also find water saving sprinkler systems. Find out how much water your lawn needs for your area, and then set a timer. Be careful not to over water — just as you are careful not to under water.

Add some xeriscaping to your landscaping. This is especially appropriate in drier climates. Consider hardy plants that need very little water to survive. If you are interested in having some lawn, look for drought-resistant grass. You can also have a greener yard by choosing plants that are suited for the area, and planting perennials and other plants that generally need less care. Place trees so that they shade the house, and you will also help the energy efficiency.

Finally, consider planting an organic garden. You can use earth-friendly methods to grow a good garden, providing you with healthy produce, and reducing your need to get produce that has been shipped across the country. You’ll get good exercise, and enjoy delicious food.

Bottom line: Greening your home isn’t just about helping the environment (although that is a good reason to do it). You can also save money by going green. You might be surprised at how quickly some green home improvements pay for themselves when you add up the tax credits and the consumption savings.

Make Multiple Graphs

You can make a number of different graphs and charts with these applications, suiting your visual aids to your needs.

1. Create a Graph: This offering from the National Center for Education Statistics provides the chance to create different kinds of graphs. It’s mainly for the kids, but it does a great job at simple graphs.
2. Smart Draw: You can try this for free, creating a number of different graphs and charts, and then copy them into different applications you use, from PowerPoint to Word to Excel.
3. ChartPart: Create bar, line, and pie graphs, as well as venn diagrams and scatter plots with this online tool.
4. IntelliPRINT: You can get a free trial of this product that can turn your Lotus Notes into usable data in the form of graphs and charts.
5. JS Charts: Generate JavaScript graphs for free. There is also a commercial license available.
6. Web Chart Creator: Enjoy a 30-day free trial of this graph and chart generator that can help you make dynamic 3D graphs.
7. ChartAll: Turn boring data into interesting visuals with this customizable graph and chart program.
8. ChartGizmo: Generate bar and line graphs, as well as pie charts and other interesting and helpful visuals.
9. GraphsCharts.com: Create graphs and charts to spice up your web site. Includes paid options as well as free options.
10. ChartGo: Use this free graph generator to create a number of different kinds of charts and visuals.
11. AnyChart: This is another graph application that offers a free trial. Just make sure you cancel before the trial period is over.
12. Graph ZX: Create pie charts, bar graphs and more with this Shareware application.
13. Chart Tool: Use this to design a number of different types of graphs and charts.
14. Grapholic: Get your graph on — in a number of different ways — with this tool that allows you to create a number of different graphs.
15. amCharts: Use different versions to create bar graphs, line graphs, pie graphs, and scatter charts.

Bar Graphs

If you are interested primarily in bar graphs, there are a number of applications you can use.

16. 3D Graph Generator: This bar graph generator creates “fly-through” graphs that feel as though you are moving through the chart, and viewing it from different angles. Try the free trial first.
17. Clustered/Stacked Filled Bar Graph Generator: This generator can help you create bar graphs that are either clustered or filled, adding visual variety to your presentations.
18. BARCHART Tool: Generator your own bar graphs by punching in information and watching the product appear.
19. Bar Graph Generator 1.0: Lite bar graph generator that is easy to use.
20. 3D Stacked Vertical Bar Graph: Create stacked bar graphs with ease when you use this software.
21. Bar Chart Tool: Simple bar chart creator that can also create cluster charts.
22. Bar Graph Generator: This online tool from MrNussbaum.com offers a quick way to create bar graphs.

Pie Graphs

Pie and donut charts are interesting and easy to understand. Here are some ways to generate pie graphs.

23. Yellowpipe: Designed to great pie graphs in 3D.
24. MapTools.org: Create pie charts that you can use for a number of presentations.
25. PieColor: A fun app that allows you to use crazy colors and customize your pie graph.
26. AT Pie Chart 1.2: Use simple PHP script to create a display using a pie graph.
27. 1-2-3 PieCharts: Step by step process helps you create attractive pie charts.
28. Pie Chart Creator: Create pie graphs with this free demo version. Or you can pay for a more advanced version.
29. Free Pie Chart Generator: Make a pie chart with up to six slices quickly and easily.
30. SpiceCharts 3D Pie Chart v1.6: Create pie graphs in 3D with this expressive app.

Line Graphs

While not always a lot of fun, line graphs can nevertheless get the point across. Here are some places for making line graphs.

31. Graph 4.3: Create line graphs using mathematical functions. Great for problem solving or visualization.
32. Make a Line Graph: Fill in the fields with different values, and watch a line graph appear before your eyes.
33. ZGrapher: Line graphs made easy with this plot utility.
34. Grapher: This graph creator has a demo form, and is marketed to engineers and scientists.
35. A Line Graph Generator: Create a line graph on the fly, adjusting backgrounds, axes and more as you work.
36. LINECHART Generator: Fill in the fields to customize your line graph.
37. 2D/3D Line Graph for PHP: Create line graphs, and then get the PHP script to embed it online.

Animated Graphs

Add a little fun to presentations with animated graphs. You can get your point across online especially well with these.

38. Animated Chart: Create charts using flash animation. A free version and a paid version.
39. Swiff Chart: Interesting animated graphs. Free trial version and paid version both available.
40. FusionCharts: Use the free demo trial to get an idea of what you can accomplish with these animated charts.
41. XML/SWF Charts: Use this tool to create a number of different charts, including animated charts.
42. Rich Chart Live: Use the free version of this graph generator to create attractive animated charts.
43. CoPlot: A free version of this graph tool can allow you to animate your data in interesting ways.
44. FlyCharts: Create interactive and animated graphs using the free version, or pay for a license.
45. AmiChart: Sign up for a free trial and make professional looking animated graphs and charts until it runs out.

Miscellaneous Graphs

There are a number of other graphing programs that offer unique and interest data displays.

46. Gliffy: Includes flow graphs, and different types of charts and diagrams for more interesting presentations with a free trial.
47. Family Tree Builder: Create a visually interesting graphs showing different aspects of your genealogy.
48. Online Function Grapher: Solve problems and see graphs of solutions with this mathematical graphing tool.
49. Scatter Plot Maker: Generate a scatter plot graph with this simple and straightforward tool.
50. StatPlanet Map Maker: Put your data in map form, adding different graphical information as needed.

1. Under the floor heating with an automotive radiator: If you don’t have all the parts, find something you do have. This under the floor heating and plumbing project certainly gives new meaning to the word “recycle.” These are pipes that go with a wood burning stove boiler. An automotive radiator is attached to the floor joists as a main system component, and no one really knows where the mish-mash of pipes (some of them quite rusty) came from. According to This Old House, this system never worked as well as the Ozark mountain engineers had hoped. Surprised?
2. “Efficient” air exchange: When you are properly ventilating your home, and setting things up so that you end up with vents to blow hot or cold air into the home, you also have to have return registers. These help keep the flow of air circulating properly in a well-ventilated home. But what happens when you don’t think things through? Well, you might end up with your hot air flowing directly back to the furnace. Which means that, not only will you be getting poor air circulation, but the rest of your house will be less than warm and cozy this winter.
3. Chimney stack right next to the window: Chimney safety and planning is one of those important things that shouldn’t be overlooked. Unfortunately, some don’t think everything through when planning their DIY home projects. This home has the chimney stack right up to the window. That means that all of the smoke, soot and carbon monoxide can easily get in. Unless, of course, it’s blocked by the air conditioning unit. Of course, it doesn’t look as though the air conditioner has been properly installed, either…
4. Cardboard to keep PVC pipe from toughing the hot water heater flue pipe: The fact that this set up could result in a house fire is the biggest of problems. This DIY home project features PVC pipe installed next to the hot water heater flue. Of course, PVC pipe is plastic and can melt. So, the do it yourselfer decided to separate the pipe from the flue with the help of some cardboard. Of course, the fact that cardboard is flammable is not really a very good solution to the problem.
5. Nails to secure the floor: Whether building a first floor, or building a second floor onto your home, the DIY home project needs proper planning for a way to secure the floor. This usually involves securing a column to an I-beam supporting the floor. Generally, sturdy bolts or a welder is required to properly ensure safety and security. But if such things aren’t on hand, perhaps some nails will do? It’s amazing that all sorts of problems didn’t manifest themselves before the problem was discovered and corrected.
6. Flue pipe made of aluminum foil: For some reason heating systems seem to be quite popular in terms of DIY home projects. Perhaps because it is a relatively small system that is easy to get to, and that seems easy to work on. Why, you can even construct your own flue pipe if you like. This do it yourselfer made a section of water heater flue entirely out of aluminum foil. Unfortunately, foil is highly corrosive and likely to degrade rather quickly. Which will mean a rather large mess at sometime in the very near future.
7. I-Beam support with…shims: Sometimes, you might find that the I-beam is not long enough. Or perhaps the pocket cut into the foundation is too deep. In any case, a pile of shims was used to make up the difference. Just putting the shims in there was a foolhardy and risky move, as the intrepid do it yourselfer was risking life and limb. Hopefully, this is just a temporary solution, rather than expected to be a long term building component. After all, any number of natural events could easily dislodge the shims — and the floor.
8. Homemade humidifier out of a whipped topping container: Some DIY home projects include attempts to make homes more comfortable, as with a humidifier. And it is possible to make your own humidifier, with the help of a whipped topping container. Really, though, any plastic container will do just as well. Just fill it with water and hook it into the system some how. You’ve installed your own whole-house humidifier! Of course, one isn’t sure how successive owners will react to this type of home appliance.
9. Duct tape can fix anything: It’s been said that duct tape is the ultimate fix-it tool. It holds many things together. Additionally, it can be used to create purses and luggage, and even act as fabric for those who construct clothing out of the many different colors of duct available these days. But perhaps using it to repair a broken framing member is going a bit too far. It just seems as though duct tape is a little insufficient when it comes to structural repairs — even if it is this confidence-inspiring shade of industrial gray.
10. Sideways water heater: Many people choose to install their own water heaters. This is because it can be accomplished with an intermediate amount of DIY skill. However, sometimes things still go wrong. These intrepid do it yourselfers installed a water heater on its side. And then they took away the pressure relief valve and replaced it with a pressure gauge. That way, they could see how much pressure was building — but have no way to relieve it. If this thing were pressurized enough, it could actually explode. And we all know how messy and painful that would be.

The follow fifty free open courseware classes, resources and courses are divided into categories such as landscape architecture, engineering, math-based studies and more. Each link is listed alphabetically within those categories to show readers that we do not favor one resource over another. This list is not all-inclusive, as hundreds of Web sites exist that expound on various architectural aspects. Use the links listed in the “Resources” category to help refine your search for even more information.

Basics

1. American Landscape and Architectural Design 1850-1920: This study collection was gathered from the Harvard Graduate School of Design and showcases an historical view of American buildings and landscapes built during the period 1850-1920 [Library of Congress].
2. Berkeley Institute of Design: This research group offers information on human-computer interaction, mechanical design, education, architecture and art practice [Berkeley Institute of Design].
3. Exploring a Romano-African city — Thugga: This course offers a detailed investigation in the archaeology and history of a Roman North African city [The Open University].
4. Famous Architects: Learn from and about the masters at this site, which is devoted solely to architectural biographies. You might also enjoy the BBC Interviews with Architects [Various].
5. Great Buildings Collection: This is a leading architectural reference site that focuses on architecture around the world and through time [Great Buildings].
6. Information Competencies for Students in Design Disciplines [PDF]: Use this paper to learn more about core information literacy skills for higher learning students in disciplines such as design, architecture, architecture history, landscape architecture, planning and interior design [Art Libraries Society of North America].
7. Introduction to Building Technology: Students are guided through the different components, constraints and systems of a work of architecture [MIT].
8. Learning Tools: Take virtual tours of the Acropolis, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Waters and build a Ebryologic House through these interactive tools [Columbia University].
9. Two Introductory Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Courses [PDF]: Recognizing the importance of communication and cooperation among the three disciplines of civil, architectural and environmental engineering, two courses common to all three majors at Drexel University were developed in 2007, and you can view the results here [Drexel University].
10. Urban Planning, 1794-1918: These documents provide primary source materials on urban planning through the end of World War I [Cornell University].

Digital Design

11. Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D Education Curriculum: Civil 3D is a civil engineering application that implements a civil model to help build student projects with increased accuracy [OpenOCW].
12. Autodesk Sustainable Design Curriculum: This course introduces students to sustainable concepts and building information modeling [OpenOCW].
13. Digital Design: This is a graduate course designed to help students through the process of using rapid prototyping and CAD/CAM devices in a studio environment [MIT].
14. Digital Urban: Dr. Andrew Hudson-Smith takes aim at examination of latest techniques used to visualise the cityscape via digital media work at the Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis [University College London].
15. Introduction to Design Computing: Learn architectural design and computation through computer modeling, rendering and digital fabrication [MIT].
16. Revit Architecture BIM Curriculum: Utilize professionally developed lecture notes, student workbooks and datasets that integrate seamlessly to allow you to teach building information modeling and design visualization [OpenOCW].
17. CADD Primer: This entire site is devoted to learning CADD for architectural and engineering drawings. Be sure to delve into their library, which holds dozens of links for resources devoted to CAD education [CADD Education Center].

Architectural Math

18. Mathematics and Architecture: A very basic course with topical links and a research library [University of St Andrews, Scotland].
19. Mathematics in Art and Architecture: This module focuses on how mathematics is not just about formulas and logic, but about patterns, symmetry, structure, shape and beauty [National University of Singapore].
20. Polygons, Tilings, & Sacred Geometry: Study plane figures such as polygons, triangles, hexagons and more and how these figures apply to design [Drexel].
21. Some Mathematical Principles of Architecture: Learn about the tangible and intangible aspects of architecture, with highlights on the Golden Ratio and the use of the Fibonacci series [Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute]

Engineering and Planning

22. Basic Structural Theory: This course introduces the static behavior of structures and strength of materials [MIT].
23. Civil Engineering in Developing Countries: This course uses developing countries’ socio-cultural aspects such as roles of (consulting) engineers and contractors, local materials, techniques and knowledge and environmental issues to learn project planning and management [Delft University of Technology].
24. Engineering Statics: This is a sophomore-level engineering course that focuses on methods of quantifying the forces between bodies [OpenLearningInitiative].
25. Extreme Engineering: This long-running show may have set off your interest in engineering. Gain access to interactive tours and view all the projects used in this television show [Discovery Channel].
26. Sustainable Development for Engineers: Independent study of the book, Sustainable Development for Engineers, is the focus for this course [Delft University of Technology].
27. Uncertainty in Engineering Analysis: Learn applications of probability and statistics related to problems in civil and environmental engineering [Utah State University].

Landscape Architecture

28. Architecture Studio — Building in Landscapes: This is an introduction to skills required for building continuities between built and natural worlds. This is one of two 2005 courses, and a 2002 course also is featured [MIT].
29. Environmental Design Archives: Though the archives’ primary focus is the San Francisco Bay Area during 1890-1990, designers and projects from throughout the world are found in over 100 collections that document the built and landscaped environment [University of California, Berkeley].
30. Groundswell — Constructing the Contemporary Landscape: This Web site features all twenty-three projects in a 2005 exhibition that showcased reinvented and reclaimed urban public spaces [Museum of Modern Art].
31. I Want to be a Landscape Architect: This is a careers Web site that combines arts and sciences, design and the environment [The Landscape Institute and CABE].
32. Landscape Design Knowledge Base: This is a growing resource of authoritative reference materials selected from the Green Places journal [Landscape Design Trust].
33. Nature and the Built Environment: Open to graduate students and upper division undergraduates, this course explores the evolutionary roots of form and order in the built environment [Notre Dame].
34. Site/Lines: Learn about park and garden history, theory and design as well as city planning through these PDF journals [Foundation for Landscape Studies].
35. Water management in Urban Areas: Master course on design and planning of the urban water management system [Delft University of Technology].

Theory

36. Architectural Design, Level I: Perceptions and Processes: Learn about the relationship between intervention and perception, between representation and notation and between the fixed and the temporal [MIT].
37. C5 Theory as Product: C5 is a profit-sharing ensemble of artists and academics, based chiefly in the USA. Utilize their research papers, a freeware digital elevation model browser and more to learn theoretical models, analysis and tactical implications of “theory as product” [C5].
38. Cities and Media — Cultural Perspectives on Urban Identities in a Mediatized World: This page holds the proceedings from the 2006 ESF-LiU Research Conference by the same name. Not all papers from the conference are included, but an overview is provided in those instances [Linköpings universitet].
39. Radical Urban Theory: Read donated papers and book exerpts that touch on subjects such as urban sprawl, architectural fantasy, social interaction with architecture and open space and much more [Various].
40. Research into Practice Cluster: The projects in this cluster are staffed by postdoctoral researchers and include theoretical and foundational aspects of advancement in the creative and cultural industries [University of Hertfordshire].
41. Theory and Method in the Study of Architecture and Art: This is a graduate-level course that pursues selected methodologies and thinkers in art history [MIT].
42. Theory of Architecture: This is the opening to a learning process on architectural theory. Learn thematic theories and theories of synthesis through an easy-to-understand English language overview [taik.fi].

Resources

43. Akropolis: This is an Internet community for architecture, design and construction that showcases modules and applications [Akropolis].
44. AMSER — Architecture: At least six dozen Web sites pertaining to construction, math and architecture, sciences and architecture and more are listed in this database [National Science Foundation and National Science Digital Library].
45. archINFORM: This database includes information about over 21,000 twentieth-century built and unrealized projects from various international architects and planners [Various].
46. Athena Institute: This site offers software, tools, databases, projects and more to help architects, engineers and others to factor environmental considerations into the design process from the conceptual stage onward [Athena Institute].
47. Death by Architecture: This site contains architectural news, a plethora of links to all things architecture and current international architecture competitions [Mario Cipresso].
48. Intute — Architecture and Planning: Use this database to discover worldwide resources on over a dozen architectural topics.
49. RUDI: Featuring more than 5,000 documents and more than 9,000 images, RUDI is one of the largest Web resource dedicated to urban design and placemaking [Various Universities].
50. Whole Building Design Guide: This resource continues to add over two million documents per month pertaining to integrated design in various categories [Various].
]]> http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/50-free-open-courseware-classes-for-architects/feed/ 2 http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-50-construction-blogs/ http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-50-construction-blogs/#comments Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:43:24 +0000 Linda http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/?p=36 Are you a construction business owner, or are you a home owner who seeks advice on rebuilding or remodeling? Or, perhaps you’re a designer who likes to stay on top of architectural or landscape architecture news. If so, the following list of top 50 construction blogs might whet your appetite to build, rearrange or redesign your surroundings.

The following list has been categorized for construction businesses, consumers, green construction, architecture and design and landscape design and construction. The links within those categorized alphabetically to show readers that we do not value one blog over another. All blogs have been updated within the past month, so you can read the latest information from each source.

For Construction Businesses

1. Best Practices Construction Law: Matthew J. DeVries from Smith Cashion and Orr, PLC focuses on best practices within the construction industry.
2. CELOG: CELOG stands for Construction Equipment [B]log, a site that brings the construction equipment industry news from throughout the world to readers who love construction equipment.
3. Collaborative Construction Blog: This blog provides information that helps stakeholders in the construction industry take advantage of collaborative agreements, Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and technologies and Lean Construction techniques.
4. Construction Informer: This blog provides readers with construction resources, news, commentary and discussion through blog entries, podcasts, downloads and marketing tools.
5. Construction Marketing Ideas: Mark Buckshon specializes in marketing for construction, and he offers tips and ideas to construction business owners on this blog.
6. Construction News: This blog, produced by Science Daily, is for construction business workers as well as for the general public. News, new developments and videos help keep readers up-to-date on construction trends.
7. Federal Construction Contracting Blog: This blog, produced by Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman, provides readers with legal information and resources for federal construction contracts.
8. Midwest Construction Law Blog: This blog is produced by Dave at Spencer Fane Britt & Brown, LLC in Missouri. Posts include information about green building laws, licensing issues, economic news and more.
9. Safety & Health in Construction: VPPAC.org is a non-profit organization that is singularly focused on safety and health issues in the construction industry, and this blog provides insight into their activities.
10. The Construction Contractor’s Digest: Follow this blog for advice, project listings and more, all directed to construction executives.

For Consumers

11. 100K House: Although this blog began as a record of one team’s attempt to build a LEED Platinyum home for $100k, it has become a broader project that covers current work, insights, ramblings and more that is both entertaining and educational.
12. Handyman and Home Repair Professionals: Although not filled with fancy photos, this blog provides a professional perspective on handyman stories, instructions and more for any home owner who is serious about home remedies and DIY.
13. Home Building, Renovation and Eco-friendly Blog: Learn about home building, renovation and eco-friendly choices from the Canadian family as they build a home in Calgary.
14. Home Construction and Improvement: Todd Fratzel is a full-time principal engineer for a large design-build construction firm. his goal with this blog is to create a home improvement and construction blog that provides accurate and reliable information for any home owner.
15. Homeowner’s Blog: Follow this blogger as he rebuilds a run-down ranch house located in the southeastern Catskill Mountains of New York State. You’ll learn many do-it-yourself projects, learn which projects best left to pros and more.
16. Let’s Blog Construction: Learn more about landscaping, rebuilding, building and all the tools and tips you’ll need to do it yourself.
17. New Construction Advice: Learn more about building a new home, from buying a piece of land to dealing with your general contractor and his staff. You also can ask questions about everything from buying land to taking care of a brand new home.
18. One Project Closer: Every home owner knows that the list of home and community projects never ends. This blog looks at a variety of projects and solutions that can help your tasks become easier and more enjoyable.
19. Tiny House Blog: Learn how to build and live in a tiny house. And, we mean tiny. Kent Griswold brings his love of small spaces to small space advocates.
20. Young House Love: These Richmond homeowners are young, and the house is “old enough” be be a parent to this couple. While not quite a ‘this old house’ blog, it is a place where you can learn how to upkeep, change or rebuild your house.

Green Construction

21. Building Green: Katie Zemtseff, environmental reporter at Seattle’s Daily Journal of Commerce blogs about green building issues in Seattle, the Pacific Northwest, and anywhere that might interest you.
22. BuildingGreen.com: This blog, which is part of a larger venue on green building, provides real-time event coverage, news and opinion on the latest news in the green building world.
23. Earth Architecture: Some green, some architecture, a lot of construction going on in this blog that focuses on architecture and construction from around the world.
24. Green Building and Environmental Trends: Richard Cartlidge is a third-year student at Stetson University College of Law and a LEED AP interested in the areas of real estate development, land use and environmental law. Follow his insights in this frequently updated blog.
25. Green Building Law Update: Learn more about green building codes, regulations, legal developments and trends through this blog provided by Chris Cheatham, a construction attorney and a LEED-Accredited professional.
26. Green Goddess: Tanya Stock is the principal of Vida Verde, LLC, a green consultant who focuses on residential remodeling for consumers and trade professionals who want to build green.
27. Greenconstructionuk’s Blog: This blog is about green construction, eco homes, low energy building and sustainable construction efforts.
28. Jetson Green: This popular green magazine/blog is obsessed with green building and everything related to green construction including sustainable architecture, good design, green prefab and more.
29. LEED Pro: A LEED consulting service provides tips, advice and news about the LEED-certified building industry.
30. The Green Building Inspector: Sure, you can build green – but what if you want to buy green? This inspector has gained an appreciation for sustainable construction and offers tips on how to find this rare construction. Let Gary Smith educate you on all aspects of green living and construction.

Architecture and Design

31. A Daily Dose of Architecture: If you want a daily architectural musing and image or both from New York City, this is your blog.
32. A456: Enrique Ramirez uses this blog as a place to post thoughts about architecture and a wide variety of design- and built environment-related ideas.
33. anArchitecture: This is an Austrian-based but internationally-focused blog related to architecture and architectural thinking aimed to broaden the horizons that belong to current architectural design.
34. Archinect: The goal that drives this blog is to make architecture more connected and open-minded by bringing designers together from around the world to introduct new ideas from all disciplines.
35. BLDGBLOG: Geoff Manaugh writes about architectural conjecture, urban speculation and landscape futures as he tackles various design issues.
36. Build Blog: Join this blog’s discussion on modern design from the Northwest. The team at Build LLC authors this blog, which includes popular posts such as the “Construction Cost Cheat-Sheet.”
37. Inhabitat: What construction or design blog list would be complete without this site? Inhabitat brings the latest in architecture, interiors, products, technology, energy and more to readers on a daily basis.
38. Interactive Architecture: Learn more about emerging architecture and artistic practices where digital technologies and virtual spaces merge with tangible and physical spatial experiences. This is a blog filled with constant flux!
39. Life Without Buildings: This blog’s focus is architecture out of context, along with observations on the built environment. The leaning here is toward pop culture, and it’s a focus for Jimmy Stamp, a designer and freelance writer based in San Fransisco.
40. Super Colossal: This blog is written and maintained by an architecture office in Sydney, Australia. They offer readers a look at projects, news and off-the-wall architectural images.

Landscape Design/Construction

41. Garden History Girl: Have you ever met someone with a degree in Garden History? If not, visit Arcady and her blog, where she focuses on recent and historic garden spaces and objects of interest.
42. Landezine: This hot little contemporary landscape blog covers diverse topics such as cemeteries, memorials, gardens, green roofs and walls and much more.
43. Landscape Architeck: Learn more about the world of landscape architecture and the interdisciplinary fields of architecutre, urban design, city planning and more from this landscape architecture student.
44. Landscape+Urbanism Blog: Join Jason King, landscape architect, as he focuses on landscape architecture, sustainable urbanism, vegetated architecture, living walls, green roofs and more from Portland, Oregon.
45. Places and Spaces: Stayon top of comments and news about environmental planning and design in the landscape industry, including environmental geomatics, environmental planning and landscape architecture.
46. Pruned: From photographs of odd objects to signage to soil samples, this site brings a plethora of information to its readers.
47. The Dirt: This blog is produced by the American society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), which is a national professional association that represents landscape architects.
48. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon: This blog is for anyone who is passionate about green technologies, green roofs and rooftop gardens, urban farming, sustainable living, vertical gardens and more.
49. Veg.itecture: This blog is a spin-off site from Landscape+Urbanism (see above). The focus here is on green roofs, living walls and vertical farming solutions from around the world.
50. World Landscape Architect: This blog is for landscape architects who view themselves as planners, urbanists, managers and engineers. This site brings the latest landscape news, events and information from around the world.
]]> http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-50-construction-blogs/feed/ 2 http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-50-diy-home-improvement-blogs/ http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-50-diy-home-improvement-blogs/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:54:46 +0000 Miranda http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/?p=25 For some, very little compares the the feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment that can come with a successfully completed home improvement project. Home improvement can bring greater enjoyment in your home, and when you do it yourself, it can even save you money. But sometimes you need inspiration, advice and someone to show you how it’s done. That’s where the blogosphere comes in. Here are 50 of the top DIY home improvement blogs that can get you moving on the right track:

Home Improvement Inspiration

These blogs provide you with a little bit of help in coming with ideas for home improvement projects. Figure out how to get started, and even get some encouragement for continuing or finishing current projects.

1. Home Suite Homes: Get ideas on decor, projects and ways to make your home a more pleasant place to be.
2. Floors, Walls & Ceilings: Focus is on projects you can do to enhance certain areas of your home — on a budget.
3. Apartment Therapy: Learn how to improve small spaces. Loads of DIY ideas that can be accomplished no matter how little your home is.
4. House in Progress: Look at what’s going on with a total remodel of a home — and get great ideas for your own remodeling project.
5. A Constructed Life: Get ideas for home remodeling, with focus on the kitchen. Oh yeah. And stay sane while doing it.
6. Home Improvement Ninja: Pictures and information about the efforts to remodel a 100 year old townhouse. Solid ideas from someone who is learning along with you.
7. Hooked on Houses: Images of different homes that can give you great fodder for DIY home improvement projects.
8. DIY & Decor: Tons of ideas on DIY decor and other home improvement ideas.
9. BBC Homes: Get home improvement ideas from those folks in Great Britain.
10. Rate My Space: Look at others’ photos from home improvement projects, and upload your own.

Home Improvement Advice

Need a little input on how to do something right? Learn the ins and outs of home improvement, and get some useful tips and information on how to get your DIY home improvement project done.

11. Diva Toolbox: Learn how to get things done around the house. Written from a female perspective, but still plenty of good info for everyone.
12. Handyman and Home Repair Professionals: Get solid information on home improvement from a professional builder.
13. Ask the Builder: Home improvement advice straight from the source. This blog answers common DIY questions.
14. I Can Fix Up My Home: Specific information on completing some projects and insight into how to accomplish your DIY home improvement projects.
15. Renovation 101: Learn the basics of home remodeling and how to make your DIY projects a success.
16. Builders Share: Great blog with tips and tricks. The blog went inactive in 2008, but the archives have loads of helpful information.
17. Let’s Blog Construction: Step by step instructions for completing some common DIY home improvement projects.
18. One Project Closer: Learn about remodeling and home improvement projects that can enhance your home, as well as useful tips, hacks and information.
19. Home DIY Tips: Just what it sounds like. Plus, helpful information on projects around the yard and garden.
20. Howsed: Get helpful how-tos on a number of DIY projects from leaking valves to hanging drywall.

Specialty DIY Home Improvement

If you are looking for specific advice on specific types of home improvement projects, there are a number of very helpful blogs. Here are some blogs that can get you headed in the right direction on a number of DIY projects:

21. Ask the Electrician: Helpful articles, diagrams and how-tos on all things related to wiring.
22. Ask a Plumber: Articles on plumbing, plus forums and other useful information related to getting your pipes in good order.
23. That Painter Lady: Learn about painting projects and doing what you can to make your home beautiful inside and out.
24. Lighting and Ceiling Fan Blog: Learn about lighting and installing ceiling fans. Product reviews and helpful diagrams included.
25. The Happy Shower: This is a blog devoted to bathrooms. Learn about putting in different types of bathroom fixtures — including luxury fixtures.
26. Home Theater System Advice: There are few things as frustrating as DIY home theater. But this blog can help ease your pain.
27. 1800 AnyTyme: A number of helpful tips and information on a number of subjects. However, there is special emphasis on air conditioning and heating.
28. Toolmonger: Learn how to use different tools, and what projects they are for. Also includes helpful product reviews.
29. Today’s Green Construction: Great information on DIY home improvement to make things a little green. Tips on making a more sustainable lifestyle.
30. The Safety Blog: Information on staying safe, making repairs and other subjects related to DIY. There are even some great DIY car care tips.

DIY Plans and Designs

Need some help planning your DIY home improvement project? Want some design ideas? These blogs can provide you with a helping hand.

31. A Daily Dose of Architecture: Learn about architecture and the essentials of building. Some great imagery that is sure to inspire.
32. Best House Design: Get ideas and look at home design plans.
33. Best Houses and Home Design: Interesting pictures of unique homes and home floor plans.
34. House Design News: Emphasis is on luxury homes. Interesting images and information about home design.
35. Attic Insulation: A look at how to plan your attic, and better insulate it — especially if you are upgrading you insulation.
36. Inhabitat: A design and planning blog with an emphasis on sustainability. Information on planning a greener home.
37. Pruned: Learn about exterior design, including gardening and landscaping DIY home improvement.
38. Charles & Hudson: Helpful planning and design hints, as well as tips on making the best decision for your home improvement project.
39. DIY Home Improvement Help: Plans and design ideas for various home improvement projects.
40. Furniture Fashion: Design ideas for sprucing up your home’s interior.

Home Improvement Videos

Many DIY home improvement blogs are kind enough to offer a number of videos to better illustrate how things are done. Here are some good ones.

41. The Money Pit: Video eatures on different types of home improvements, in addition to helpful articles.
42. HomeTime: See clips from the popular show, and learn how to do a number of DIY projects by watching the pros.
43. Ask the Decorator: Online show that provides helpful information and demonstrations on a variety of DIY decorating projects.
44. Home Wizards: Great videos on a number of DIY home improvement projects, along with answers to questions.
45. Fine Home Building: Watch videos on completing a number of home improvement projects.
46. Bob Vila: Well-known home improvement expert Bob Vila offers video tutorials on completing a number of DIY projects.
47. 4Homes: Another British offering, this site offers videos of different homes, as well as helpful how-tos.
48. Image Home Improvement LIVE: See online Webisodes twice a month on different home improvement subjects.
49. DL.TV: Great videos and information on DIY digital home improvement projects.
50. Handyguys Podcast: This is actually a podcast rather than a video, but it is nevertheless full of helpful information and tips for completing DIY home improvement projects.
]]> http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-50-diy-home-improvement-blogs/feed/ 1 http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-10-diy-home-repair-reference-sites/ http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-10-diy-home-repair-reference-sites/#comments Tue, 16 Jun 2009 05:58:19 +0000 admin http://www.bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/?p=15 DIY means do it yourself. Most people nowadays are being encouraged to take up an active role in the maintenance of things around them. One of the crucial things that need to be repaired is our homes. Home repair is not necessarily a difficult task and most of the times; it is just a matter of finding out which tools to use and for what particular purpose. Some are quite difficult to do e.g. fixing a broken roof and they require an expert. However, some home repairs like fixing loose boards and painting are easy and can be managed by any family member with the right tools and of course the right information.

Some websites have been created to provide you with guidelines and steps to follow when performing house repairs. Remember that not all the information you get is useful or accurate and thus it is important to crosscheck information from more than one site. Some of the best reference websites include doityourself.com which is a very detailed site on things like home repair. It covers everything from electrical appliances, energy saving to concrete and woodworking.

The better homesandgardens.com is another great tool that will enable you to handle house repair projects in a systematic manner. The site contains well illustrated, step-by-step instructions in a handy and printable format which is good for reference purposes. Amazon.com home Page contains various suggestions and numerous ideas on making home improvements. The hgtv.com is another very useful resource site that gives tips on repair, refinishing and restoring furniture whether its your first effort or not. Ehow.com is an interesting resource center for gardeners and those who are keen on maintaining gardens. The resource site contains details on how to grow and maintain a garden in your home without extra muscle. You also get to learn how to trim and manicure lawns and hedges.

The askthebuilder.com is also a reliable DIY online that is very resourceful on matters involving do-it-yourself home improvement, repair and decoration. All the details that you need are adequately illustrated in the encyclopedia thus it is very reliable. It also has tips on gardening. The gardenweb.com does not just give you a guide on home repairs and improvements; it gives you links to important home related magazines and online shops where you can get the latest trends.

Want more, then log into thisoldhouse.com. This is another interesting resource that enables you to access 25 different home repair and improvement topics in its How-To center. You will definitely find it user-friendly. repairclinic.com is actually a nationwide resource team that is formed by home improvement experts who have joined to make a more successful home-reconstruction and re-modeling process for home owners and the service providers. It gives you a detailed guide on home improvement projects.

Besides the above there is bobvila.com which is a reliable popular online resource that enables you to decide how you would like to re-model and repair your house to make it more comfortable. It also has nice tips on decoration and the colors to use. All these sites are insightful and will make home repair an entertaining activity for you.

]]> http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/top-10-diy-home-repair-reference-sites/feed/ 0 http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/online-construction-management-degree/ http://bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/2009/online-construction-management-degree/#comments Thu, 28 May 2009 07:11:24 +0000 admin http://www.bestconstructionmanagementdegree.com/?p=3 Construction industry is among the leading industries accounting more than 10 percent of the gross national product constructors are the key players. In order to manage design plan this huge industry constructors are required to have the skills and knowledge which can only be acquired through education and experience.

There are three type of top construction management in construction programmes in the field. Construction degree can be archived through traditional full-time study part-time study, or online study. There is associate degree can be earned in two years term while bachelor degree ca be earned in four years. Post graduate usually takes two years while doctorate demand extensive research in construction and management field before acquiring one. Associate degree distinctions in building construction technology are the programmes centered on production and management skills instead of design and craft skills.
The students majoring in bachelor degree in construction usually get a Bachelor of Science degree and acquire management position in the field. There are various scholarship chances available which mostly are granted by the colleges or the some major companies and organization though some of the scholarships are not directly subjected to a single field some national construction companies like (ABC) Association Builders and constructor award scholarship specifically for the management students.
By the time of college completion graduate end up understanding basic business principle and acquire broad knowledge in both technical and operational aspects of the construction industry. Students are able to fit well. Degree graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in varying construction management roles for contractors in both home office and project office/field situations. In some colleges management concentration supports the students desiring career in renovations maintenance decommissioning or operation of existing facilities. Upon the completion of degree students can expect excellent starting salaries new graduates mostly begin employment with construction firms as either assistant project managers or assistant estimator among others before climbing up the ladder

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