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
•
May 9, 2025
May 9, 2025
The cost to build a brick house is high, but the aesthetic and durability can be well worth the investment if you’re looking for something unique.
White house patio family table
Dan Simms
•
May 9, 2025
May 9, 2025
Dreaming of building your own home from the ground up? Learn how much it costs to build a house yourself and if it’s worth it to skip the pro on this project.
Mother and daughter running upstairs
Tyler Lacoma
•
May 9, 2025
May 9, 2025
While it isn't easy to expand your property, you can consider building up. The cost of adding a second story has quite the range. We'll break it down here.
modular home on land
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 7, 2025
May 7, 2025
Prefab and modular homes have a lot in common, but also some key differences. Learn about prefab vs. modular homes and which is the best choice for you.
A modern concrete house
Dan Simms
•
May 8, 2025
May 8, 2025
Concrete is a more durable building material than lumber. Learn how much a concrete house costs to build and what factors may affect your pricing.
Gray new construction modern cottage home
Dan Simms
•
May 7, 2025
May 7, 2025
It’s exciting to start planning your dream home, but first, you need to find the right professional to manage the work. Discover who to hire to build a house.
Need help finding the right pro?
Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.
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Brass hinge installed on an interior door
C.E. Larusso  •  May 12, 2025
How to Get Paint Off Door Hinges
Learn the various, effective methods for easily removing old paint from door hinges without damaging them, and what to do when you encounter stubborn paint.
Sunny interior room
Taylor Sansano  •  May 12, 2025
How to Install a Slab Door From Scratch
The steps for installing a slab door are more time-consuming and intensive than you may think, with success greatly hinging on your math skills. Learn more.
A happy baby in front of an open door
Jouviane Alexandre  •  May 12, 2025
Solid Core vs. Hollow Core Doors: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into home renovations, get to know both sides of the solid core vs. hollow core door dispute and why there's a time and a place for each one.
Large sliding door
Jouviane Alexandre  •  May 12, 2025
4 Types of Patio Doors and How to Choose the Right One
Patio doors do more than just open to your outdoor space. Learn how the type of door you choose impacts the lighting, airflow, and atmosphere of your home.
A white room with Victorian style accents and a pocket door
Timothy Moore  •  May 12, 2025
How to Install a Pocket Door in 9 Steps
Learn how to install a pocket door, including measuring the space, removing the existing door and wall, and hanging the new pocket door correctly.
Mother and daughter running upstairs
Tyler Lacoma  •  May 9, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Add a Second Story to Your Home? [2025 Data]
While it isn't easy to expand your property, you can consider building up. The cost of adding a second story has quite the range. We'll break it down here.
White house patio family table
Dan Simms  •  May 9, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Build a House Yourself? [2025 Data]
Dreaming of building your own home from the ground up? Learn how much it costs to build a house yourself and if it’s worth it to skip the pro on this project.
Children play in front of a brick house
Dan Simms  •  May 9, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Brick House? [2025 Data]
The cost to build a brick house is high, but the aesthetic and durability can be well worth the investment if you’re looking for something unique.
Room door hinges
Jouviane Alexandre  •  May 9, 2025
How to Lubricate Door Hinges
Your doors shouldn’t be squeaky, stiff, or grinding. Use this step-by-step guide to teach you how to lubricate your door hinges in less than five minutes.
Cozy windowsill with blanket
C.E. Larusso  •  May 9, 2025
How Long Do Vinyl Windows Last?
Want to know how long vinyl windows last? Learn the average lifespan of vinyl windows and the core factors that affect their performance over time.
spacious living room with skylight
Xiao Faria daCunha  •  May 9, 2025
Skylight Sizes and Dimensions to Consider for Your Roof
Skylight sizes and dimensions suit different household needs, see which type is best for your home and fits with your roof style.
A farmhouse with french doors
Jouviane Alexandre  •  May 8, 2025
Who Should You Hire to Install French Doors?
If you’re unsure who to hire to install French doors, this guide outlines the pros that can tackle the task and whether it’s an achievable DIY project.