DIY Builds
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How long will a concrete block house last?

50-80 years If built properly by professionals, a block construction structure lasts up to 50-80 years.

Is thick bubble wrap a good insulator?
Is thick bubble wrap a good insulator?

Bubble wraps serve as a good insulator because of its design which has small air pockets. Because the base material for bubble wraps are plastic,...

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How long does a gravel foundation last?
How long does a gravel foundation last?

You can expect a gravel driveway to last 4 to 10 years, and an average of 5 years, before requiring repair and refreshing of gravel. Jun 7, 2020

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Get Your Cinder Block House Built in 2022 by a Legend! Choose Masonry Chicago Amongst the land prices rising and the scarcity of land increasing, cinder block construction is rapidly gaining popularity in the U.S. Cinder block houses are affordable and quite easy and fast to build. The house plans with cinder block walls can be super versatile — you can get a spacious residence or a modest, low maintenance healthy home. Low cost is probably the main characteristic why homeowners choose this type of construction. Here at Masonry Chicago, we have been in the construction business for more than 20 years. We know all the little details in order to build a strong, warm, and cozy home for you from just about any masonry material available on the market. Give us a call today on 773 231 5371 and let us know your budget to find out your best option, get an estimate — or a free consultation from our pros.

What are cinder blocks?

Cinder blocks are a type of concrete masonry unit (CMU), widely used in residential or commercial construction. Usually, they are produced from a mix of concrete, coal cinders, sand, and cement. They come in various forms and, therefore, are easy to assemble. Concrete blocks from cinder have one to five cut-out cavities in the center and have a rectangle shape. The builder can cut them in half, or shape them according to the structure he’s constructing, too. One of the main characteristics of this building material — it cannot withhold big weights because of the lower density and lightness. This CMU is mostly found in non-bearing walls, — retaining walls, fencing, outdoor structures, separation walls, etc. It is never used for building foundations, bearing, or basement walls. Nonetheless, this does mean that the final result does not have structural integrity. It does! But this concrete block construction has to be performed by the real pros in order to assure safety and compliance with all of the legal regulations.

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Should you drill pilot holes for nails?
Should you drill pilot holes for nails?

A: Yes, creating what are called “pilot holes” will help prevent your wood boards—solid or MDF—from splitting or cracking when you drive a nail or...

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Are nails cheaper than screws?
Are nails cheaper than screws?

Nails are driven by a hammer into materials to hold them together. They can be installed faster and are cheaper than screws. Jan 29, 2018

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Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

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What type of driveway adds most value?
What type of driveway adds most value?

Why Is An Asphalt Driveway The Best Option? Pound for pound, asphalt is the building material that gives you the most bang for your buck. Concrete...

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What kills mold better than vinegar?
What kills mold better than vinegar?

Pour 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a spray bottle and shake well. Spray the moldy area with the baking soda mixture and use a...

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How do you keep a shed warm in the winter?
How do you keep a shed warm in the winter?

How to Heat a Shed Without Electricity: 10 Practical Ideas and... Make Sure It's Well Insulated. Let Some Sunlight In. Build A Solar Window Heater....

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These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

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How much should I pay someone to hang a door?
How much should I pay someone to hang a door?

These costs include materials (the door itself, supplies, and hardware) and labor; contractors provide their own tools. Labor costs between $40 and...

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