The surface material of a roof is important, but no matter what you use to cover it, a roof wouldn't be possible without the base material below. The perfect base, or roof sheathing, material is lightweight, dimensionally stable, strong, and affordable. Here's how some popular sheathing options stack up.

Building codes are put into place to avoid snow-related catastrophes. Snow and ice buildup can cause sagging in roof that’s not strong enough, which will then lead to pooling water when the rainy seasons come around. If the roof isn't framed to code, snow buildup could cause it to collapse.

It’s important to consider wall sheathing materials and methods when planning a new home build. But it's also something that many homeowners don’t account for – mostly because they don't know about the available options. Here are some of those options and how they affect your house as a whole.

Many components go into a roof to make it a cohesive unit. All are crucial, but nothing gives it “personality” like the materials used on the surface. Asphalt, metal, tile, and the like provide not only aesthetics but the durability and longevity that serve as the roof’s true value.

Implementing proper wall bracing increases the structural quality of the home and makes it much safer to live in. Bracing that is installed according to building code guidelines protects against collapse during high winds or earthquakes as well as the stress on wall components from supporting the heavy roof.

Some materials have obvious natural insulating and temperature-regulating properties and excel at battling the weather, like brick or stone, but they are also very costly. A form of modern stucco – called Exterior Insulating and Finishing System (EIFS) – withstands the elements, is energy efficient, and not surprisingly, is growing in popularity.

Energy efficiency and eco-friendliness should be at the forefront of every homeowner's mind. But despite the shift to LED lighting and efficient HVAC systems, many homes are still lagging behind when it comes to their walls and insulation. Insulated Concrete Form construction may be the answer for your next home!

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home Loan and other housing programs help veterans, service members, and surviving spouses purchase, build, adapt, and renovate homes. Traditionally used for mortgages, some loans can also be used to build a new home – but it can be a tricky road to construction.

The American desire to build one’s own home is strong and growing across the U.S. housing market. More homes are being built, and they’re bigger than ever. But, the trends are much more significant than just size. Our closer look at the just-released U.S. Census Bureau’s annual housing survey report reveals important insights that you should know about before building your own home.

You're in the market for a new home, and you've been searching through umpteen house plans to find your dream home. But don't forget about the builder. You should shop just as carefully for your contractor. Here are some things to watch out for.