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gandalf_nomad1902
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RE: When “Smart” Devices Aren’t So Smart After All
WHEN “SMART” DEVICES AREN’T SO SMART AFTER ALL - Sticking to one system is definitely the way to go. Mixing brands is where most people run into real headaches - protocol mismatches, apps that don’t talk, etc. - That ...
RE: Weighing the pros and cons of switching to a 15-year mortgage
- Couldn’t agree more on the flexibility part. I’ve seen folks go all-in on a 15-year, then scramble when the roof starts leaking or the furnace dies mid-winter. - Higher payments look good on paper, but in reality, hous...
RE: ARE BUILDER REFERENCES REALLY THAT HELPFUL OR JUST FLUFF?
ARE BUILDER REFERENCES REALLY THAT HELPFUL OR JUST FLUFF? - Couldn’t agree more - brand new projects look great, but you really want to see how things settle over time. - I usually ask for references from jobs that we...
RE: What happens if your house isn’t finished when it’s time to switch loans?
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOUR HOUSE ISN’T FINISHED WHEN IT’S TIME TO SWITCH LOANS? - I get the frustration, but from a design/build side, those “little” things can actually matter for code compliance and resale value. - Lenders ...
RE: Need advice on replacing an old leaky roof
- Architectural shingles do make a big visual difference, especially if the roofline has a lot of angles or dormers. They add some depth and texture that flat 3-tabs just can’t match. - If you’re dealing with leaks, chec...
RE: Building a greener city, one quirky apartment at a time
Building A Greener City, One Quirky Apartment At A Time - Totally agree, there’s a difference between a stash that sparks ideas and one that just collects dust. - In my experience, rotating materials libraries work best...
RE: Building base structures - what if you had to start over?
BUILDING BASE STRUCTURES - WHAT IF YOU HAD TO START OVER? - Worked on a retrofit last year where the client insisted on triple-pane windows. Their house was in a pretty mild zone, and honestly, the numbers didn’t justif...
RE: Sink fixtures driving me nuts lately
- I hear you on the “miracle” cleaners - most of them just end up being overpriced soap, honestly. - I’m with you on the baking soda trick. For tough limescale, a little vinegar soak does wonders too, but you have to be ...
RE: Building base structures - what if you had to start over?
BUILDING BASE STRUCTURES - WHAT IF YOU HAD TO START OVER? You nailed it - nobody cares about fancy finishes if the base is a mess. I’d add: compacted gravel is just as important as the vapor barrier. Skimping there lead...
RE: Building base structures - what if you had to start over?
BUILDING BASE STRUCTURES - WHAT IF YOU HAD TO START OVER? I get where you’re coming from, but I think built-ins get a bad rap for being “permanent.” If you plan right, they can actually be pretty versatile. For example:...
RE: Finally upgraded my living room lights - anyone else tried smart bulbs?
- Ran into the same issue during a kitchen reno - old wiring, no neutral in half the boxes. - Ended up chasing wires through plaster just to get a single smart switch working. - Honestly, there’s a tactile satisfacti...
RE: Why does yard work always seem never-ending?
That nails it. I’ve designed a few “low-maintenance” yards for clients, and honestly, there’s always some trade-off: - Gravel and pavers: weeds love the cracks, and you end up with a leaf-blower as your new best friend....
RE: Finally visualized my apartment layout and it changed everything
Totally get the need for breathing room. I’ve seen so many spaces where people overdo the “cozy” and it just feels cramped, not inviting. I usually stick to these: - One solid focal piece (like a killer chair or bold la...