Digital documentation

Photos of work as you go…gives x-ray “smarts” later… when you need to know.

Doing major repair work such as opening up walls, adding a room or wood-paneling your halls? Making a visual record of your work is an important part of any project -- one that's often overlooked by homeowners. Keeping a record of what was done and, most important, what's inside of walls and ceilings is easy if you do it as you go. One of the best ways is to take photographs. This provides an x-ray of sorts for work in the months and years ahead. While making sketches works quite well, taking photos is better yet. And, the process has gotten easier with the advent of digital cameras. Just click as you go, and then transfer results onto your computer or a CD. Want to install shelving on a wall? Wondering where those studs and cross braces are, as well as wiring, plumbing, vents and ducts? With a digital camera and a computer, you'll know. For more tips, visit our Web site at onthehouse.com. And that's the On The House tip for today.

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