We live in an age of information overload – supported by expanding traditional and electronic / online media.  Direction and data on all things is available at our fingertips, or otherwise unavoidably thrown at us from all angles, typically in flashy “bites”.  Everyone that has cable or a computer with an internet account has the opportunity to become an “instant expert”.

I work in a traditional field – one that, since ancient times, has its product delivered by the toil of artisans and craftsmen.  Compositions of “sticks and bricks”, ultimately creating one of man’s most basic needs – shelter.

Certainly, in addition to the necessity of hard work, there is a great deal of expertise that goes into the proper assembly of these elements.  From the accommodations derived from good design practice, through the technical application of proper detailing and systems, we are concerned at the highest levels with comfort, structural soundness, durability and certainly, beauty.

While much is to be learned from the old-time tradesman that declares “this is the way I’ve always done it”, even more may be leveraged toward our ultimate end via the use of new-technology products, as well as the study, analysis and correct application of  the endless information that is available toward refining our trade and practices.

I hope that this blog (Aha!  There’s one that we didn’t use ten years ago!) will help those of you so interested in incorporating best practices for residential design, building, remodeling and repairs.  Whether it’s guidance toward a professionally-performed project or a “DIY”, I pledge to apply my own knowledge and experience, that of the HomeMasons team, our skilled and knowledgeable trade partners, and whatever other resources I can put my hands on, to helping out in this little piece of the online community.  I also look forward to how our readers’ and contributors’ feedback may further our experience and expertise.

A couple of things immediately come to mind that should make things exciting….  1) There are typically no absolutes in terms of “right and wrong” when it comes to our practice.  Most issues involve a continuum between the two, where one attempts to find the best answer, based on a set of prioritized objectives (these might include price, durability, available resources, appearance, etc.).  2)  In this world, especially as filtered through my eyes, even the simplest tasks are fraught with condition particulars, details, and options.  Compounded by my natural long-windedness and conflicted by the quick-fix, sound-bite mentality of modern media, well, we’ll see how all that works itself out.

It will be interesting to see how this develops!   I look forward to hearing from you.

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