All posts by Todd Remington

Todd Remington is an architect, researcher and author with too much to say.

Featured Term: 16d Nail

From the Buildwise Unauthorized Dictionary

Common Definition: A 16 penny nail. The size of a framing nail used to fasten studs, plates and joists together.

hammer-nailsUnauthorized Definition: The penny, symbol “d”, refers to nail size. Penny is a confusing term based on obsolete traditions, but it’s still used daily. Carpenters don’t call a nail that is one inch long, a “one inch nail”.  No, that’s too logical. Besides, how could they tell the salty journeyman from the crass beginner? Instead a 1″ nail is really a 2d nail. Nail length increases with the number. A 2d (1″) nail is smaller than a 16d (3-1/2”) nail. Continue reading Featured Term: 16d Nail

Door Handing is Confusing, Even for Pros

Colorful Front Doors
The Doors

In a meeting this week, I came to the frightening realization everyone present was assuming something different. Yes, we were all there to finalize the door order. But the supplier, builder, designer, client and even myself had different ideas about how to specify the door’s swing or “handing”. I made a joke of it and chuckles rang out. But then we spent several minutes agreeing on the rules to avoid a bad order. Continue reading Door Handing is Confusing, Even for Pros

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

fall-colors-cabin
Maybe I’m just a neurotic architect. Or maybe seasonal change encourages existential reflection for everyone. Whatever the reason, as the leaves turn I’m acutely aware of a dependence on home for shelter and survival.  Which means fall is a great time for a home maintenance check. I relish the thought of discovering small problems when easily fixable. And I laugh out loud when fixing them. Because a nasty winter catastrophe is avoided. Thought I’d share a list of maintenance items I diligently check. Just in case you feel the same about fall.  Continue reading Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Welcome to Buildwise

Image: A row of pink houses
“Little pink houses for you and me”, philosopher John Mellencamp.

Welcome to the new and improved Buildwise. A website for anyone navigating the frustrating building industry. Let’s face it, home is the one place we all need. It’s more than a tax shelter. Home also provides physical and emotional shelter. Yet, building and maintaining a condo or house wisely today is more difficult than ever. Continue reading Welcome to Buildwise