Home Construction and Design

Deciding to design and build your dream home opens the door to an exciting new chapter. However, home construction and design require a practical approach that encompasses all of the moving parts and anticipates any potential challenges. Whether you're just diving in or needing advice for a particular phase of the project, you'll find what you need with our library of helpful resources, checklists, and cost guides.

A woman in sitting behind a desk
Photo: Getty Images 1210334452 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
A woman in sitting behind a desk
Photo: Getty Images 1210334452 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Children play in front of a brick house
Dan Simms
•
Oct 4, 2023
Oct 4, 2023
Considering new construction? Use this guide to the cost to build a brick house to see if this type of construction falls within your budget.
A construction site on the exterior of a house
Ginny Bartolone
•
Aug 22, 2024
Aug 22, 2024
Understanding the true cost of building a house is the first step in your construction journey. Take a look at all the house-building cost factors that affect your bottom line.
fenced backyard with small shed
Taylor Freitas
•
Feb 6, 2024
Feb 6, 2024
If your shed has seen better days, it may be time to fix it up. So, how much does a typical shed repair cost? Here’s what you can expect to spend.
Tiny house in front of nature
Dan Simms
•
Dec 19, 2023
Dec 19, 2023
Use this comprehensive guide to see the cost of building a green home and decide whether or not it’s worth considering for your new construction project.
Glass sliding doors of a renovated barn home
Stephanie Mickelson
•
Feb 2, 2024
Feb 2, 2024
A barndominium offers lots of advantages, including durability and versatility. But is building a barndominium the right choice for you? Let’s find out.
Row of brick houses with a below-ground storm shelter
Amy Freeman
•
Aug 17, 2023
Aug 17, 2023
Above- or below-ground, which is the best storm shelter? Use this guide to determine which type of storm shelter best meets your needs.
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A construction site on the exterior of a house
Ginny Bartolone  •  Aug 22, 2024
2024 Cost to Build a House From Top to Bottom
Understanding the true cost of building a house is the first step in your construction journey. Take a look at all the house-building cost factors that affect your bottom line.
Mother opening front door and hugging her children
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Aug 22, 2024
How Much Does Exterior Door Installation Cost? [2024 Data]
Welcome home! How much does exterior door installation cost when it's time to add a new entryway to your front or back porch? Let's take a look.
A living room with stone flooring
Allie Ogletree  •  Aug 21, 2024
How Much Does Stone Restoration Cost? [2024 Data]
Stone restoration costs around $850 on average. It can range from $1 to $20 per square foot depending on the type of stone and method. Read on to learn more.
The exterior of a brick family house
Heather Ayer  •  Aug 20, 2024
Your Guide to Common Masonry Materials
Discover the wide variety of masonry materials for your next home upgrade project. Our guide covers the different types of materials to choose from and more.
Master saws paving slabs with a grinder
Timothy Moore  •  Aug 20, 2024
How to Cut Stone For Your Project
Have a design idea for a stone walkway, walls, or steps? Learn how to cut stone and boost your home's curb appeal.
The exterior of a stone house
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Aug 20, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Stone House? [2024 Data]
The cost to build a stone house is pricey. Learn why you need specialized workers to build the house to a level that’s good enough for you and the city.
Couple sitting on a couch reading a book
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Aug 20, 2024
How Much Does Brick Wall Repair Cost? [2024 Data]
This guide features information on the costs to repair a brick wall, whether or not you need a brick mason to complete spalling, tuckpointing, or a full restoration.
Natural stone retaining wall
Xiao Faria daCunha  •  Aug 20, 2024
What is Masonry? Definition, Contractor Credentials, and More
If you're considering building a home with brick or stone, you need to know what is masonry? Learn the answer to ensure the finest quality.
Woman crouching while renovating house
Nick P. Cellucci  •  Aug 20, 2024
How to Repair a Brick Wall Yourself: Repointing, Replacing Bricks, Aftercare, and More
When you notice small cracks or damaged sections of a brick wall, they need your attention. Use this guide to handle minor brick wall repairs.
A father and his son exiting a brick house
Timothy Moore  •  Aug 20, 2024
How Much Does Repointing Brick Cost? [2024 Data]
Need to repoint brick in your home to make your home look fresh and new? Use this guide to repointing brick cost to price out your project before starting.
A house with a driveway and garden
Kelly Weimert  •  Aug 20, 2024
What Is Cobblestone? Definition, History, and More
Discover what cobblestone is, its types, history, and the unique process of making this enduring and charming paving material.
An engineer writing on a notepad
Lauren Bongard  •  Aug 20, 2024
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2024 Data]
The cost of a structural engineer is easily justifiable given the value they bring to the table. Use this guide to see what hiring your professional will total.