Field Notes
Straight talk from the job site.
Practical, honest advice on building, remodeling, and protecting a home in this part of California. No jargon, no sales pitch, just what Sam wishes more homeowners knew before they start.
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Protect & restoreWildfire hardening for mountain homes
Living at the wildland edge changes how you build. Here is what hardening a mountain home actually involves, from siding and vents to the space around it.
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New builds & ADUsBuilding an ADU in the South Bay
California has made it easier than ever to add a unit for family or rental income. Here is a plain-English look at what it takes to do it right.
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Hiring a builderHow to hire a contractor you can trust
The hardest part of any project is deciding who to trust. Here are the questions to ask, and the red flags to watch for, before you hire anyone.
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More notes are on the way, on coastal salt-air durability, Santa Cruz County permitting, and owning a home in the redwoods.
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