Category Archives: Drafting Software

Floor Plan Design Software

Draw floor plans with professional results every time with CAD Pro’s floor plan design software. Quickly create floor plans like a pro, Cad Pro is the leading source for designing any type of floor plans. Creating and designing floor plans does not have to be difficult, Cad Pro provides quick placement of doors, windows, electrical outlets, switches, sinks and much more.

Share your floor plans with contractors, clients or team members using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export them to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, PDF, or PowerPoint® with a single click.

“Our design team feels that CAD Pro is the best floor plan design software for the price. We use it for communicating with contractors, submitting building permits and customer presentations.” – Becky Stevens, Home Designer, Phoenix, AZ   ★★★★★

Floor Plan Software

Floor Plan Software

Cad Pro is an award-winning floor plan design software.

No experience necessary when using Cad Pro to design your floor plans. Quickly add cabinets, appliances, furniture, and other interior designs when using this award-winning floor plan design software.

Professional Floor Plans Included
Quickly view and print professionally designed floor plans. CAD Pro includes some of the most popular floor plans built. Simply open any of the CAD Pro floor plans and quickly modify any aspect to meet your specific requirements.

Floor Plan Design Software with Interactive Features
Communicate your floor plan ideas more effectively. CAD Pro is the only software that allows you to add these interactive web features.

  • Record your ideas and incorporate voice instructions into your floor plans.
  • Add pop-up text memos to your floor plans to support areas in detail.
  • Add pop-up photos and transform floor plans into designs you can visualize.

Cad Pro is also great for creating net-zero floor planscommercial floor plansbuilding floor plansfacility plansconstruction detailsrestaurant drawings and much more.

Home Improvement Projects & Plans
Add immediate value and comfort to your home with CAD Pro’s floor plan design software home improvement projects and plans. Valued at over $10,000, each project plan is a CAD Pro drawing, enabling you to print them as they are or quickly modify them to meet your specific needs. All plans include several views and a complete materials list. Project Plans include Garages, Outdoor Kitchens, Shade Arbors, Decks, Tree Houses and Lake House Plans.

Cad Pro is your best floor plan design software solution on the market.
CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders, and contractors plan and design all types of floor plans. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors as well as the NALP National Association of Landscape Professionals.

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Net Zero Construction

Three key factors for net zero construction. Net Zero Home Construction is easy, and they are just like any other home, but they help reduce or eliminate carbon emissions. Here are professional guidelines for net zero homes.

  1. Energy Conservation. It’s important that your Net-Zero construction process provides a high-quality building envelope. A building envelope is the exterior materials that wrap around your home. One of the best products is the Zip System. The Zip System by Huber is an innovative structural material for roofs and walls. Zip Systems are an integrated water resistant and air barrier that will streamline the weatherization process of your new net zero home. The Zip Board system also includes a taping process for the seams of each board that will assist you in an airtight and water-resistant envelope of your home.
  2. Passive Solar Energy. The site location and orientation of your net zero construction is very important. When designing passive solar building plans, windows, walls, and floors are designed to collect, reflect, store, and distribute solar energy, in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. Four main elements of passive solar energy are overhangs or shades on south facing windows, thermal mass, cross ventilation, and shade trees.
  3. Energy Production. It’s important to remember that net zero energy home will produce as much energy as the home will consume. These building products will help you in your net zero construction a super tight air and water barrier between the inside and outside, solar panels, above code wall a ceiling insulation, energy efficient windows and doors, and energy efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs as well as energy efficient appliances.
Net Zero Construction

Net Zero Construction Software

What does net zero construction mean?

It’s the balance between the power a home requires and the renewable energy you can generate with the home’s construction methods. With the new advancements in heating technology and lower-cost renewable energy systems, any home can get to net zero.

Is net zero construction worth the additional effort?
Yes, the main reason the additional effort is worth it, is because it is affordable, and it leaves a positive investment for the planet. These homes will hold their value because they are built for the future. Net zero homes will provide you with a higher resale value while reducing carbon emissions.

What is the cost of net zero construction?
Always remember material prices and labor shortages will have a big impact on any building project’s cost, on average net zero homes can be built for $170 to $185 per square foot. Always remember if you can afford a new home, you can afford a net zero energy home and you will feel better knowing you have helped to save our beautiful planet.

Important Tip: Use the Sun for Renewable Energy
Grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) panels currently provide the most cost-effective form of renewable energy for net zero construction. They can power all the energy needs of a home including lighting, heating and cooling systems, appliances, and hot water. However, they are the most expensive component of a zero-energy home and strategies for reducing or mitigating those costs are important to consider.

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The agency known as U.S. Green Building Council will help you define the process and assist you in refining your net zero construction process. Their mission is to assist you in the ways buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated while enabling environmentally responsible methods for improving the overall quality of life on our planet.

Cad Pro is also great for creating commercial floor plansbuilding floor planshome floor plans, facility plansconstruction detailsrestaurant drawings and much more.

CAD Pro’s professional floor plan designer has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders, and contractors design all types of floor plans. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Optimizing Net Zero Homes

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Net-Zero Construction Guidelines

Building and designing affordable zero energy or green construction jobs – the ultimate in energy efficiency – involves integrated net-zero construction guidelines along with net-zero building ideas that utilize commonly available building materials and equipment along with easy-to-learn building strategies. By following these guidelines, you can design and build an affordable and cost-efficient commercial building or home.

Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive design software. Cad Pro is great for creating technical design plans, net-zero smart home designs, custom home plans, net-zero commercial building plans, office plans, construction details, and much more.

CAD Pro allows anyone to share their net-zero construction guidelines and plans with clients, colleagues or professional remodeling contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

Net-Zero Construction Guidelines and Net-Zero Building Ideas

Net-Zero Construction Guidelines and Plans

Net-Zero Construction Guidelines

Start with Smart Net-Zero Design
Cost-effective energy efficient homes begin with smart designs. Designers and architects, as well as builders, should be familiar with all the necessary net-zero construction guidelines. They should design the home so that subcontractors can implement these steps as cost-effectively as possible. There are several design parameters to which builders should ask designers to pay special attention. Detailed communication between the builder and designer will ensure that these critical details don’t fall through the cracks.

Use Energy Efficient Modeling
During the design phase, the home’s energy use should be estimated using energy modeling software to ensure that the goal of net zero energy can be achieved while keeping costs down. Based on the results, design choices can be made or modified to balance building performance and construction cost.

Super-Seal the Building Envelope
Super-sealing the building envelope is the single most cost-effective measure builders can take to improve their net-zero construction guidelines. Several proven, air-sealing approaches are available. Choose an approach that matches your climate, skills, and budget while implementing these net-zero building ideas and plans.

Super-Insulate the Building Envelope
After making your design airtight, super insulating the building design may be the second most cost-effective strategy for implementing your net-zero construction plans. Energy modeling, as mentioned in step 2, above, can help you optimize the insulation levels for the ceiling, walls, and floors. Select a framing strategy that makes it easier to insulate the building envelope and minimize thermal bridging.

Heat Water Efficiently
Water heating is often the largest energy expense in zero-energy construction after heating and cooling. So, it is important for designers and builders to select and locate efficient hot water heating technology, along with other measures, to minimize hot water use.

Use Highly Insulated Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are like big energy holes in a well-insulated, airtight building envelope and are the third most cost-effective strategy for making energy efficient designs. Control window and door heat loss and gain by selecting appropriate window and door products, carefully locating them, and optimizing their size and orientation.

Use the Sun for Solar Tempering
Using the sun for heating through south facing windows during the winter lowers heating costs. Shading those same windows in summer lowers cooling costs. Solar tempering aims to optimize this passive use of the sun’s heat, without incurring the added cost of thermal mass needed to achieve maximum passive solar heating and quality air flow.

Energy Efficient, Fresh Air Supply
Since zero energy construction projects are so airtight, a continuous source of fresh filtered air and moisture control are critical when implementing your net-zero construction guidelines. This need for ventilation has a silver lining: zero energy designs are healthier and more comfortable than standard construction design projects. Highly energy efficient ventilation systems, known as heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems or energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems expel stale air while recovering its heat and returning that same heat to the building with the fresh air.

Energy Efficient Heating and Cooling System
Highly efficient, cost-effective, heating, and cooling systems are essential to meeting the net zero energy goal. One good choice is an air source ductless heat pump, also called a mini-split heat pump. These systems are highly energy efficient and don’t have the shortcomings of central, forced-air systems or the high costs of thermal heat pumps. These systems are great for your net-zero building ideas and designs.

Install Energy Efficient Lighting
Minimizing energy use for lighting, while optimizing light for residents, is an important feature of net-zero construction. LED lights are the perfect match for these tasks. They are more energy efficient than CFLs, last many years longer, and contain no mercury. In addition, they can meet a variety of lighting needs from very bright white light to soft, warm light. Selecting the right LED lights for the task, locating lights strategically, and utilizing natural light as effectively as possible can drastically reduce a buildings energy use.

Energy Efficient Appliances and Electronics
In a typical zero energy building just over 40% of the building’s energy use is accounted for by heating, cooling, and hot water, while appliances and plug loads may account for up to 60% of the load. Thus, selecting energy efficient appliances and managing “phantom” plug loads for electronics is essential. “Phantom” loads are hard to find and continue to draw energy unseen, day, and night whether or not the devices are being used. Several buildings that were modeled and built to zero energy standards have ended up not meeting zero energy requirements in practice because of the unanticipated energy waste caused by “phantom” plug loads on electronics.

Sun for Renewable Energy
Grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) panels currently provide the most cost-effective form of renewable energy for a net-zero construction project. They can power all the energy needs of a building including lighting, heating and cooling systems, appliances, and hot water. However, they are the most expensive component of a zero-energy construction job and strategies for reducing or mitigating those costs are important to consider.

Guidelines for Warmer Climates
While thick layers of insulation get most of the attention in cold climates, insulation needs less emphasis in warm climates. There are several other issues that would be treated differently in warm climates.

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Computer-Aided Design Software
CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders and contractors plan and design all types of net-zero construction projects. When starting your plans be sure to use these Net-Zero Building Ideas.

CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Home Energy Saving Tips

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Top 5 Kitchen Range Brands

These top 5 kitchen range brands offer premier performance, features, and options. These are the best kitchen ranges you will want to keep in mind for long-term appreciation and enjoyment.

Top 5 Kitchen Range Brands

Gourmet Kitchen Appliances

Top 5 Kitchen Range Brands

The kitchen range is one of the most important appliances to take into consideration when building and designing your new home, vacation home, or when remodeling your existing home.

The range is the centerpiece and focal point of the kitchen. It must provide the latest in modern features, quality performance and innovative design, along with a stylish exterior that will withstand time. When choosing one of these top 5 kitchen range brands, the initial investment will be offset by the durability, dependability, and maintenance-free quality that makes the best kitchen ranges worth the upfront cost.

Viking
Viking ranges are one of the best kitchen ranges. Viking offers freestanding with exterior widths ranging from 30 in. to 66 in. The Viking cooktops have four to eight burners or elements. Practical features include the Gourmet Glo Infrared Broiler for intense heat. And Viking’s Vari-Speed Dual Flow Convection System stands as the largest bi-directional oven fan in the industry and therefore making this brand one of the top 5 kitchen range brands.

Wolf
The Wolf gas ranges start at $4,700, the dual fuel ranges start at $6,400 and the induction ranges at $6,500. While the Wolf ranges are expensive we have found that they are worth the investment because Wolf ranges are among the very best in the industry. The Wolf brand offers a wide variety of features along with a professional and classy exterior presence. Making Wolf one of the top 5 kitchen range brands.

Forté
The Forté brand is well known for their top-of-the-line range hoods, Forté offers a ideal match with a line of 30, 36 and 48 in. ranges. These professional-grade gas ranges provide the power needed by seasoned chef in both single and double oven configurations. They offer durable edge-to-edge grates which allows for easy cookware maneuvering. The Forté precise temperature controls ensure exact heat levels. When you combine all of these features and durability you get one of the top 5 kitchen range brands.

Bosch
We think that the Bosch lineup is one of the best looking and most durable gas ranges you’ll get for the price. Bosch ranges offer a multitude of options in dual fuel, electric, and gas power models. Their design simplicity contradicts the multitude of benefits and features they offer, including warming and storage drawers, a variety of pre-set oven cooking modes and convection cooking. Bosch are considered one of the best kitchen ranges and are a part of the BSH Corporation along with Thermador and Gaggenau.

Fisher & Paykel
The brand is one of the top 5 kitchen range brands from New Zealand. They come with a selection of ranges in different styled collections consisting of the Classic, Contemporary, and Professional Series. The dual fuel, electric, and gas models come in widths of 30”, 36”, and 48”. which can include a griddle or grill. Many Fisher & Paykel models are Wi-Fi enabled for the latest in convenience.

All of these range brands are far above average kitchen range and they are worth the cost in performance, features, and reliability that will provide worry-free, repair-free value for years to come.

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Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive home design software programs. Cad Pro is great for creating kitchen design plans, innovative smart home designs, custom home plans, building plans, office plans, construction details, deck plans and much more.

CAD Pro allows anyone to share their ideas and plans with clients, colleagues, and professional remodeling contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders, and contractors plan and design all types of home floor plans. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Popular Kitchen Design Trends

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Sprinkler System Diagrams

This is a general guide for creating your sprinkler system diagrams. The following guidelines are the same for almost any irrigation system and will help you get started with your new sprinkler system.

Sprinkler System Diagrams
Sprinkler Systems

Creating Sprinkler System Diagrams

Step1: Collect Information
When designing your sprinkler system diagrams, the first decision you need to make is if you want a manual or automatic sprinkler system. The process for these types of systems is the same, except system controller, automatic valves and wire are necessary for designing and operating an automatic sprinkler system.

One of the questions you need to answer, do you have city water. If you do have city water, then you need to contact your local water department to determine if you need a pressure gauge or garden valve output.

The next step when designing your sprinkler system , you will need to check your water meter and contact your local water department to determine the gallons per minute you will need to run your system.

How to calculate gallons per minute (GPM). Divide the container size (in gallons) by the seconds it takes to fill the container and multiply it by 60. Here is an example; if it takes 30 seconds to fill a 5-gallon container, then you have 10 GPM available for your sprinkler system.

It’s very important when designing your sprinkler system that you contact your city hall. You will need to research the local codes and building permit regulations before you start the work. It’s very possible that your will have to pay a fee and submit your sprinkler system diagrams to obtain a building permit.

Step 2: Create a Layout
Programs such as CAD Pro can provide the necessary design tools for creating your diagrams on a Windows computer. These types of software programs will help you create an accurate grid as well as the ability to draw your diagrams to scale.

It will be important that you include the location of your house, driveways, walkways, sidewalks, fences, outside buildings, patios, planters, trees, and shrubbery. This information will be necessary when creating your sprinkler system layout. Be sure that you indicate the water supply locations.

Step 3: Choose the Necessary Materials
It’s a good idea to create a materials guide to assist you when creating and installing your sprinkler system. Your materials guide needs to contain the type of sprinkler heads and the gallons per minute (GPM). Design your water pattern for the type of sprinkler heads you choose and the necessary spacing of the sprinkler heads.

When creating your sprinkler system diagrams you will need to determine the size of your water supply line. The supply line is the piping from your water source (water meter) or well. Be sure to determine the type of pipe you will use. It’s recommended that you use Schedule 40 PVC for the supply valves. PVC is very common and easy to purchase, it’s also semi-ridged and comes in 20’ lengths with glue type joints. You can also choose Poly-pipe which is a flexible hose type pipe, it comes in 100’ or larger coils/spools.

Now you will need to determine the size, number, type, and location of your valves. This information can be easily determined by visiting your local sprinkler system supply company. It’s important to remember that valve sizes are determined by the size of your water meter and the size of your service line. Be sure that your valve sizes do not exceed your service line size.

Step 4: Install Your Sprinkler System
Group your sprinklers and graph your piping. A sprinkler group is the number of sprinkler heads adjacent to each other and they are connected to the same control valve.

Determine the number of circuits you will need and the maximum GPM flow that will be drawn from the circuit. Flow rate depends on 3 factors: service line size, static water pressure, and the type of sprinkler heads.

Set the controls for your sprinkler system diagram. Layout your system piping from the service line (water source) to connect with the first set of valves, then from the first set of valves to the second set, etc. and from the valves to the sprinkler heads.

Important: Use as many straight runs of pipe as possible, avoid turns which will result in loss of pressure. Be sure to avoid from going under sidewalks and driveways if possible. Now setup your control valves and position sprinkler heads. You will need to flush the entire sprinkler system.

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Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive design software programs. Cad Pro is great for creating kitchen design plans, innovative smart home designs, custom home plans, building plans, office plans, construction details, deck plans and much more.

CAD Pro allows anyone to share their ideas and plans with clients, colleagues or professional contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders and contractors plan and design all types of sprinkler system diagrams. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Best Smart Home Products

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Whirlpool Third Rack Dishwashers

When dinner is done, do not let dishes keep you away from family time. Whirlpool third rack dishwashers and trash compactors help you finish post-meal chores quickly and easily thanks to advanced features, efficient cleaning cycles and intuitive controls. Want to make sure your dishes are thoroughly cleaned in one wash? Choose a dishwasher with Soil Sensor technology. Need more room in your garbage can? Whirlpool trash compactors help reduce volume so you can reduce your trips to the big bin.

The extra rack is designed to fit mugs and bowls, freeing up space on the adjustable lower levels. Whirlpool is introducing a new line of largest-capacity third-rack dishwashers—model numbers WDTA80SAK, WDT750SAK, WDTA50SAK, WDT970SAK.

Whirlpool Third Rack Dishwashers

Whirlpool Third Rack Dishwashers

Compared with existing Whirlpool third rack dishwashers, these models’ larger third racks designed to accommodate smaller items, such as mugs and bowls, and provide extra usable space for large items on other racks. The second rack is adjustable, allowing users to raise or lower the rack depending on need, and the lower rack’s silverware basket may be separated into three pieces and rearranged to accommodate other dishes.

Whirlpool brand designs innovations knowing what customers want, top priority is caring for their families, and that was the inspiration behind our the largest-capacity third rack dishwasher line that helps families to load more dishes at one time and run their dishwasher less often. Everyone knows how frustrating it can be when there’s a few dirty dishes left behind in the sink. So, the Whirlpool third rack dishwashers help families with a dishwasher that can fit a lot in one load.”

The dishwashers are available in fingerprint-resistant black stainless or stainless steel finishes, as well as matte black, white, and biscuit. Each one features a leak detection system with a flashing light to alert users of a leak as the tub is drained. whirlpool.com

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Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive design software programs. Cad Pro is great for creating kitchen design plans, innovative smart home designs, custom home plans, building plans, office plans, construction details, deck plans and much more.

Quickly create floor plans that can place your Whirlpool third rack dishwashers. CAD Pro allows anyone to share their ideas and plans with clients, colleagues or professional remodeling contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders and contractors plan and design all types of bathroom designs. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Net-Zero Home Design

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Take Amazing Landscape Photos

Learn how to take amazing landscape photos with your phone. With most of us having a phone with a camera in our pocket at all times, people take a lot of photos. In fact, it is believed that over 1.4 trillion photos will be taken in 2020 alone. Some will be landscape shots, some will be pictures of food and some will focus on pets. However, most of them will be us. A ton of selfies will be taken, and everyone wants the selfies they take of themselves to be the best possible.

While you need to work on mastering selfie techniques and finding your best smile, how you look isn’t the only important part of a great photo. You also need to think about the location where you are. A nice landscape can often make or break a picture.

With that in mind, this blog post is going to go through a few of the best landscapes that will help you learn how to take amazing landscape photos.

Take Amazing Landscape Photos

Learn How to Take Amazing Landscape Photos

How to Take Amazing Landscape Photos

How to take amazing landscape photos

The Mountains
Few backdrops and landscapes offer as much to photos as the mountains. They are incredibly beautiful, can come in a range of different colors and shapes, and show off a sense of adventure unlike any other landscape out there. This goes for rocky mountains, snow-capped mountains, mountains lined with trees and any others out there. They provide a stunning background, but can also be the subject of photos as well.

Also, mountains overlooking cities or towns also look incredible, and can show just how high up you are. Photos on these mountains are also more rare, as it often takes a lot of work to get all the way up there to take the photo. There should be a sense of pride in each photo you take at the top of a mountain that you just had to spend hours climbing to the top of.

How to take amazing landscape photos

The Beach
The beach is another gorgeous landscape for you to learn how to take amazing landscape photos. Between the sand, the views and the beautiful water, there is a lot to love about the beach when it comes to taking photos. It is also quite versatile. You can take action shots in the water, pictures on a beach towel or chair, poses near the water, or even funny photos in the sand. It provides a ton of different opportunities for taking a wide range of different photos.

Just like with mountains, there are all different kinds of beaches that can provide interesting backdrops for your selfies. Some have long and expansive sandy beaches, while others are more secluded. Some are incredibly private, while others are lined with people. Sunrise and sunset photos on the beach are also some of the best you can possibly get.

How to take amazing landscape photos

Places with Unique Architecture
Any landscape that is home to some unique and beautiful architecture is a great place for learning how to take amazing landscape photos. They can provide you with unique photos that you simply aren’t able to get at any other place on the planet. These photos are also great keepsakes to remind yourself of your travels to such unique places.

This could be at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Pyramid of Giza in Egypt or any other. When you take amazing landscape photos at these locations it provides you with incredibly beautiful backgrounds that most people are going to recognize instantly, or at least appreciate the beauty of. Any photos you get in a cool place with great looking architecture are sure to become some of your favorites and never let you forget that particular day or trip.

In conclusion, we hope this article has been able to help you learn about some of the most amazing landscapes for taking photos. They are far from the only places to take great selfies, but are certainly some of the most beautiful.

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Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive design software programs. Cad Pro is great for creating kitchen design plans, innovative smart home designs, custom home plans, building plans, office plans, construction details, deck plans and much more.

When you take amazing landscape photos, CAD Pro allows anyone to share their photos, ideas and plans with clients, colleagues or professional remodeling contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders and contractors plan and design all types of home designs. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

10 Best Backyard Landscape Ideas

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Green Building Construction

As the world turns an eye toward sustainability, green building construction must follow suit. But what is sustainable construction, and how does one transition into a more sustainable method of development?

Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive design software programs. Cad Pro is great for creating kitchen design plans, innovative smart home designs, custom home plans, building plans, office plans, construction details, deck plans and much more.

CAD Pro allows anyone to share their ideas and green building construction plans with clients, colleagues or professional building contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

Green Building Construction methods

Green Building Construction with CAD Pro

Sustainable Green Building Construction

Sustainable construction is the practice of creating a healthy environment that’s based on ecological principles. Sustainable construction focuses on six principles: “conserve, reuse, recycle/renew, protect nature, create non-toxic and high quality.”

The goal is to reduce the industry’s impact on the environment by utilizing sustainable development practices, employing energy efficiency, and taking advantage of green technology.

Although many different business sectors are doing what they can to be more sustainable, the construction sector is unique because it has the chance to significantly affect the way these practices are applied. This is because of the large amounts of materials and energy that the industry uses.

Different Types of Sustainable Construction
Construction techniques, resources, and building practices have evolved over the years, and with the increased interest in sustainability and energy conservation, new methods of green building construction that focus on sustainability have been developed. There are two things that go into sustainable construction: the materials that are used and the methods that are utilized.

Types of Materials
One of the best ways to practice sustainability in construction is through the materials that are used. A new generation of stronger, lighter and more sustainable building materials can help solve many problems in the industry as well as push current practices to be more sustainable.

These materials have the added benefit of protecting the environment by reducing the carbon footprint of the buildings that use these materials. They promote a cleaner Earth and a future of sustainability while also being aesthetically appealing and much more efficient.

Building Methods
Sustainable green building construction isn’t just about using the newest materials; it’s also about using building methods that enhance renewable and sustainable efforts. Some of these methods include:

  • Cutting materials precisely to reduce waste
  • Controlling waste management, such as separating and recycling waste
  • Constructing green buildings
  • Managing construction sites to improve the environment
  • Examples include treating water on-site, no smoking, recycling food containers, etc.
  • Conserving Energy
  • Selecting sustainable and recycled materials

Benefits of Sustainable Construction
Sustainable building is not just good for the environment, although that is a fantastic reason to adopt sustainable practices. There are many benefits to adopting eco-friendly methods in the construction industry, such as:

ONE: Promotes Healthier Living
Green building construction projects are not only beneficial to the environment; they also provide many psychological benefits to the people inside them. For example, in an office building, cognitive function scores rose by 61%. It was also reported that employees were 44% better at making decisions that achieve workplace goals. In green hospital buildings, 56% were satisfied with the cheerfulness of the hospital after the green renovations. Plus, Seasonal Affective Disorder was reduced.

TWO: Reduce Waste
The reduction of construction waste is also a beneficial side effect in building more green buildings. By their nature, they already use fewer resources, relying on recycled and renewable materials along with more sustainable construction methods. The use of sustainable materials is also beneficial to overall human health as paint, industrial cleaning products and building materials can be dangerous for human health.

THREE: Boost Economy
Sustainable green building construction can also provide many jobs and boost the economy. As climate change devastates the world, efforts to combat its effects have increased, resulting in an increased demand for construction workers and a hike in construction jobs. According to the USGBC, the green building industry contributed $134.3 billion of labor income to US workers, making it a major economic driver in the country.

FOUR: Promotes Sustainability
Sustainable construction also promotes sustainability and efficient energy use. With renewable energy construction on the rise, coupled with sustainable construction methods, more people are beginning to see the importance and efficiency of using sustainable methods. It also sends a clear message to the industry and everywhere else: sustainability is viable and important.

The Challenges of Sustainable Construction
Although the benefits to sustainable green building construction are present and obvious, transitioning isn’t an overnight process. It takes time and preparation to utilize the best practices. Training needs to be implemented to start practicing sustainable methods, and that takes time and money.

Another obstacle that many companies may come across is the actual principal cost of sustainable construction. The consensus is that sustainable construction comes at a premium and the cost is higher than what the demand is, despite the evidence to the contrary.

Nevertheless, as more interest in sustainability efforts continue to rise, more construction firms are making the switch to sustainable construction, with green building activity on the rise.

Importance of Sustainable Construction
Whether it’s the price tag for the materials, the training that goes behind it, or resistance to adapting to new methods (why fix if it ain’t broke as the old saying goes), there is some push-back on green building construction.

Despite that pushback, however, more owners and developers, both public and private, are turning to a greener and more sustainable form of construction. Especially since the effects of climate change can already be felt across the globe.

Sustainability is important for a variety of reasons, including a better quality of life and environmental quality. In order to have thriving and healthy communities, we need to have clean air, natural resources, and a non-toxic environment, and the construction industry can lead the way for greener projects.

Sustainable green building construction is developing each and every day, with more demand for cleaner and greener spaces. As the effects of climate change increase, sustainability becomes even more important. While there are challenges, the benefits involved with sustainable construction can create a pathway to a cleaner future.

Large construction companies are not the only ones that can change their methods for the betterment of the environment. Regular people working on their own private projects can also focus on utilizing sustainable construction methods. Whether it’s using the right equipment, or simply doing your best to be energy efficient, anyone can help progress sustainability efforts.

CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders, and contractors plan and design all types of green building construction plans. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

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New Home Building Plans

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Vinyl Window Replacement

Replacing old windows can enhance the look of your home and make it quieter and less drafty with vinyl window replacement. Many double-hung windows currently on the market are now easier to clean and maintain than older windows with combination screens and storm windows.

Given the high cost of replacing windows, the more you know, the more informed a choice you can make. Contractors often have their preferred brands, but do not rely on a contractor to choose your windows for you.

Vinyl Window Replacement

Vinyl Window Replacement Ideas

Full-frame vinyl window replacement

  1. To create a water-tight seal when replacing vinyl windows, it is best to completely remove the old window (including its nail fin) and install a new window frame with an integral nail fin that can be properly flashed. The shortcut of sawing off the old nail fin creates an unstable water plane that could result in water damage, an unhappy homeowner, and an expensive callback. The proper removal method often involves removing or cutting back the siding on the home, adding time and creating extra trim work. Best practice for vinyl window replacement requires a water-resistive barrier, sealant, and flashing tape, in conjunction with the integral nail fin frame.
  2. With fewer finished trim pros around today, the task of measuring, bending, cutting, and mitering a 5- to 6-foot piece of sharp, wobbly aluminum is often left to inexperienced hands. That results in jobs that often take too long and have high scrap, driving up the cost of the job.
  3. Aesthetic variability is a subtle but expected part of trimming out replacement windows. A seasoned pro is skilled at presenting the homeowner with a uniform, pleasing aesthetic across all installed windows. Less experienced crews will find it challenging when addressing this variability.

Solving these issues is not easy. One leading industry player has heard the concerns and understands the difficulties with vinyl window replacement. The work of window manufacturer Alside presents the trade with a replacement window product that breaks new ground with material and time saving value, unmatched trimming simplicity, and the kind of high-quality aesthetics contractors can count on. Alside recently introduced a contractor-friendly window system that features a breakthrough called Trimworks with SwiftLock Technology.

The patented SwiftLock Technology provides the means to quickly and simply finish off the trim work needed on each window. “The challenge of welded vinyl windows is an inherent but slight variability in window dimensions,” explains Alside Senior Vice President Shawn Hardy. “SwiftLock Technology addresses variability with a snap-in-place trimming solution that exactly matches and fits the window frame, no matter size or configuration. Beyond the simple attachment, it requires no work to be done on the job site and doesn’t rely on accessory grooves at all.”

For an industry looking to improve productivity through reduced crew size and lower talent requirements, the timing couldn’t be better for vinyl window replacement. Contractors now have a proven workaround that eliminates the metal bending, measuring, cutting, and mitering that can easily add up to 40 minutes of time to each window installation. Now any rookie can trim out a high-performing, thin-line frame in under a minute. The time savings can mean nearly seven fewer hours for every 10 windows on a job, taking days off the time needed to complete larger jobs. Those days can then be used on the next job, providing window dealers the opportunity to complete more jobs per year. This can not only improve revenues, but it can enhance profitability, too.

To learn more about Trimworks with SwiftLock Technology, part of the Mezzo Full-Frame Replacement System, visit alside.com/mezzo.

There are many window styles and manufacturing companies to choose from. Here are a few we recommend; Renewal by Anderson , Pella Windows and Doors , Jeld Wen Windows and Doors , Home Depot and Lowes.

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Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive design software programs. Cad Pro is great for creating kitchen design plans, innovative smart home designs, custom home plans, building plans, office plans, construction details, deck plans and vinyl window replacement.

CAD Pro allows anyone to share their ideas and plans with clients, colleagues or professional remodeling contractors using Dropbox®, Google Drive™, OneDrive®, and SharePoint®. Export files to Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and PowerPoint® with a single click.

CAD Pro has helped thousands of homeowners, professional designers, builders and contractors plan and design all types of floor plan designs. CAD Pro is used by NARI professional remodelers and contractors and the NRCA roofing contractors. CAD Pro is also used by NHBA home builders and contractors, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). as well as the (NALP) National Association of Landscape Professionals.

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Outdoor Kitchen Equipment

Sales in the market are projected to grow 6.3% annually through 2024. While sales for outdoor kitchen equipment are expected to stall amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Freedonia Group projects sales will rise an average of 6.3% annually through 2024. On the basis of the strong annual growth, the Cleveland-based research organization projects the outdoor kitchen market will increase to a value of $780 million in four years.

Growth in the market segment is projected to be positively impacted by new installations stemming from strong consumer interest in outdoor living. The ongoing introduction of mass-market products, including modular islands with built-in cooking fixtures, that can broaden the outdoor kitchen consumer base is also expected to contribute to the growth in the market segment. High activity in the add-on/upgrade segment of the outdoor kitchen equipment market is also predicted to have positive impacts on the overall market growth.

Outdoor Kitchen Equipment

Outdoor Kitchen Equipment and Designs

While COVID-19 is having “major near-term effects” on sales in the market segment, The Freedonia Group does not project the virus will have a significant impact on the overall long-term forecast. Sales in 2020 are expected to remain flat because of COVID-19. Government shutdowns of nonessential businesses, including outdoor specialty retailers, are limiting sales opportunities in the early months of 2020. The Freedonia Group predicts outdoor kitchen sales will return to higher levels as safety restrictions are gradually lifted.

Innovation in Outdoor Kitchen Equipment

Innovative products such as pellet and kamado grills, smokers, and pizza ovens are projected to grow at a faster rate than gas grills through 2024. Add-on fixtures such as side burners and griddle plates are expected to see the fastest growth from a smaller consumer base, according to The Freedonia Group.

The outdoor kitchen equipment market penetration will likely be aided by the rising availability of modular outdoor kitchens, which are less expensive than custom versions. The Freedonia Group projects the best growth opportunities are for products that allow custom configurations of islands to accommodate various spaces, include pre-cut compartments that support cooking fixtures and appliances, and offer aesthetic customization.

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Cad Pro is an affordable and easy alternative to other more expensive outdoor kitchen design software. Cad Pro is great for designing outdoor living projects, DIY home projects, smart home designs, technical drawings, electrical drawings, construction details, and much more. Anyone can start their new outdoor living space designs with CAD Pro.

There are many outdoor kitchen equipment manufacturing companies to choose from. Here are a few we recommend; Masterbuilt, Vicking, AJ Madison, BBQGuys and Kalamazoo.

Home Building Permit Drawings

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