Wall Removal Considerations: What to Know Before Creating Open Spaces
Thinking of removing a wall for an open floor plan? Learn what a structural engineer, permit and utility check involve before any demolition starts.
Author
Ryan
Ryan writes Home Remodel Guidance's planning guides: the order of a remodel, permits, contracts, budgets and contingencies, room-by-room renovations, and which jobs a homeowner can do versus which need a licensed trade.
Ryan has written most of Home Remodel Guidance, covering a renovation from first plan to final inspection: the sequence of work, permits and inspections, contracts and change orders, contingency budgets, financing and insurance, and guides for kitchens, bathrooms, additions and home systems. His DIY-versus-professional guides separate the jobs a careful homeowner can take on from those that need a licensed electrician, plumber or engineer. Guides on this site cite their sources and are updated when the facts change.
Articles by Ryan
Countertop Materials: A Complete Comparison Guide
Compare countertop materials side by side: granite, quartz, marble, porcelain, solid surface, laminate and wood by sealing, heat, cleaning and repair.
Custom Built-Ins: Design, Shelf Spans and Safety Rules
Plan custom built-ins that last: where they fit, how far shelves can span, fireplace clearances, wiring, older-home lead rules and DIY or pro choices.
Kid-Friendly Home Renovations That Grow With Your Family
Plan a kid-friendly renovation by life stage: window cord, window fall, tip-over and lead-paint safety plus flexible rooms, storage and finishes.
Laundry Room Makeover Ideas: Layout, Venting and Storage
Plan a laundry room makeover: layout, dryer venting limits, ENERGY STAR washers, storage and what to hire out, with sources for every number.
Hardwood vs. Engineered Flooring: How to Choose
Solid hardwood vs. engineered wood flooring compared on moisture, refinishing, installation level and humidity, so you can pick the right floor.
The Best Smart Home Devices to Simplify Your Daily Routine
Build smart home routines for mornings, leaving, arriving, evenings and bedtime, with the devices each one needs and what to check before you buy.
Lighting Layers: How to Plan Home Lighting
Layered lighting combines ambient, task and accent light. Plan each layer by room, pick bulbs by lumens and color, and know when to hire an electrician.
Smart Home Trends: What's New and What's Worth the Investment?
The smart home trends that matter now, from Matter compatibility to energy management and privacy, and which ones are worth paying for.
Kitchen Backsplash Ideas: Styles, Colors, and Layouts
Kitchen backsplash ideas by style, color and tile layout, with pairings for white, wood and dark cabinets, small kitchens, budgets and outlets.
