All Forum Posts by: Allen Bounds

Repointing is needed when the mortar between the bricks is (or has) deteriorated. For a quick observation I will see if I can scratch out some mortar with a knife or key. If it comes out (sandy) then you are probably ready for repointing. Find an old mason if you can...they have seen it all, ha!

BTW tuckpointing is slightly different than repointing. It adds an aesthetic contrast in the mortar.

6. Is it in a floodzone?

7. Is it sloped enough to require large amounts of dirt moved?

8. Are there any known environmental issues?

9. Is there a future land use change?

Whatever you choose make sure the painters apply 2 coats. If you don't apply 2 coats any touch-ups you do in the later years will be noticeable.

...and I have heard all the painter excuses and "thick coat" arguments. 

Try one of the Habitat Re-Stores in Austin. These are slow moving items for them so you can get them very inexpensively. Also - some tank lids are interchangeable.

Make some friends with general contractors. It is our job to continually find these type of people.

A good way to find out the lowest cost to build in area is to look up a national builder house for sale in your area. Take the price, knock off 7% profit for low end builders (11% for higher end builders) then back out the land price which can usually be found on the county property appraisers website.

That will give you pretty much the lowest cost to build at that given point in time. Custom or quality wanted? Start raising the price.

Thanks @Caleb Drake! I didn't know these groups existed, too cool.

Once again, fantastic idea. I found and reached out to 2 FB groups. They aren't super active but it will help my learning either way. I will do some digging on local meetups, nothing is popping up under a quick search.

 Thanks for the welcome Brett! I may take you up on that as I get a plan established. 

Thanks @Caleb Brown. The partnership idea might work and I really like your idea of expanding to better markets. There are some within 2 hours that are much more profitable.

Do you have any suggestions on finding partners? I am well connected in Pensacola but that is somewhat limiting (generally repressed area in terms of $).