Constructing a new Retaining Wall

Finally, your perfect lot has been located.  The view is spectacular.  Here in Panama, you may have a view of the Bay of Panama, or of the Anton Valley, known as “El Valle”.  It doesn’t matter what the view is.     BUt, in order to get this view, your lot is sloped.  That’s what allows the great view.  What ever the reason, a retaining wall needs to be built.   A retaining wall can be a good do it yourself project.  You just have to follow some simple steps.   First of all, figure out the required height.  Walls...

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How to Build a Brick Patio

When it comes to enjoying your home, there is not much that you will bring you more pleasure than an outside living space.  And this space starts with a new patio. Your patio can be built in a number of different ways, ranging from concrete and tile to brick and pavers. Today, we are going to discuss installing a brick or concrete pavers patio.  While there are certain differences in these two construction methods, they are very similar.  And you will find once you know how to do one, you can easily modify your procedures for the other. Like most construction projects, building...

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Repairing a Cracked Tile Floor

Tile floors are getting more and more popular.  In Panama, just about every building, home or office contains tile floors.  This popularity is due to both tiles looks and durability. However, tile floors are not indestructible.  And sooner or later, if you have tile, you may have to deal with a crack. Fortunately, tile can be repaired, but only if you can find a matching tile.  So, it pays to have your contractor leave you a few extra if at all possible. If you can’t find an exact match, you are going to have no choice but find one that is as close as possible. ...

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5 Tips for Energy Efficient Building

Historically, Panama building practices have ignored energy efficiency.  However, as energy costs continue to rise here in Panama, like everywhere else, this is finally beginning to change.  More and more customers, especially clients coming from the US and abroad, are insisting that their homes be built to the highest standards in order to reduce air-conditioning and other costs.  You are finally beginning to see Panama buildings and structures created in a way that takes the cost of electricity into account. Panama buildings may lag behind other countries in this...

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