Ask Mason - January 2008

On Becoming a Cellar Dweller

Mason — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -1800

I am trying to figure out how to make the basement a livable space. The partial earth covering 4-7 feet of the front and side of the foundation needs to be excavated and moisture proofed before backfilling. Instead would in be a reasonable proposition to remove the soil and add four windows across the bottom of the house for a two-story look? There are homes in Longwood Acres that were built with windows and very little earth against the home..

Basement space is GREAT spa [...]

Question Me an Answer - Remodeling Porn

Mason — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -1800

Surfing the remodeling industry blogosphere, I found this thought-provoking post on Remodeling Magazine’s website blog.

The topic is certainly of interest to remodelers and prospective remodeling homeowners alike, so I thought I’d share it with you, Dear Readers. My short answer to the question (THAT is out of character for me!), is that HGTV and the like have been both wonderful (spurring interest) and horrible (let’s just say that many of us refer to it as &l [...]

Getting Decked-Out

Mason — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -1800

Dear AskMason:

My wife and I are planning to build a new deck soon. It seems like salt-treated wood is not used too much anymore. Why? We have heard about and seen Trex, as well as Ipe and other materials. We’re confused! Which is the best??

John in Goochland

John:

Advance congratulations on your upcoming improvements! A deck is a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Central Virginia!

I love your question for two reasons: 1) Ob [...]