Manufacturers and Contractors Links The links on this page lead to the best Web sites in this subject area. All are rated and reviewed. If you don't see what you're looking for in the list below, don't despair. We may have recently discovered your dream site and added it to the updated links collection we maintain on the Web. To see the updated lists, and other features for the home improver, go to Home Central at http://www.homecentral.com/home by clicking the button on the right.

A-Ball Plumbing Supply (http://www.a-ball.com/) Graphics: Lots

If you're repairing or replacing old-style plumbing fixtures, A-Ball is a grade-A Web site. In their catalog, you'll find the unique and the antique from around the world. And check out their "Helpful Hints" for renovation guidance and design ideas. (Preview)

Allan Block Retaining Walls (http://www.allan-block.com/) Graphics: Few

Even if you don't plan to use Allan Block for your retaining wall project, you'll find plenty of general information on site preparation and retaining wall construction. And if you do choose Allan Block, this is the place to locate a local distributor.

ALNO - The World's Kitchen (http://www.alno.com/) Graphics: Lots

If you're thinking of remodeling your kitchen, this online cabinetry catalog is a good source of ideas. They'll even create a 3D design of your kitchen if you send them your floor plan.

Arrow Storage Buildings (http://www.arrowsheds.com/) Graphics: Few

This online catalog of outdoor storage buildings has a nifty search feature that allows you to enter the specifications of the structure you want and returns a list of Arrow products that fit the bill. However, you'll have to go out and buy your dream shed the old-fashioned way.

Ask The Builder (http://www.AskBuild.com/) Graphics: Few

If you can't find answers in the archives of columnist and contractor Tim Carter, there's a good chance he'll personally reply to your question. But don't wait--if this burgeoning Web site lives up to its promise, homeowners will be lining up for miles. (Preview)

Blind Alley (http://www.neosoft.com/~blinds/) Graphics: Lots

From the bustling metropolis of Humble, Texas comes this source for custom-made wooden & aluminum window blinds, fabric vertical blinds and pleated shades at manufacturer direct prices.

The Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.org/) Graphics: Few

Usually you don't turn to them until it's too late. This time try an ounce of prevention and browse through the home-related publications on this site.

Build.com Home Page (http://www.build.com/) Graphics: Few

If you're looking for products or services, this site is the grizzled veteran of industry information providers. There's also an active bulletin board where the discussion level is right for the intermediate to advanced home improver.

Builder Online (http://www.builderonline.com/) Graphics: Few

Some of the professionals attracted by this largely trade-oriented site can be found lurking around the "Consumer to Pro Forum" bulletin board, and they'll often answer your questions in exchange for the opportunity to slip in a quick plug for their business.

Carpeteria (http://carpeteria.com/) Graphics: Few

This online store carries a wide variety of carpeting and wood flooring, and offers care and selection tips.

Curtis Lumber Company (http://www.curtislumber.com/) Graphics: Few

Try out this site for mail order of reasonably-priced exotic hardwoods. If you live within 200 miles of Albany, NY, Curtis is also a good source for more run-of-the-mill wood species.

Delta Faucets (http://www.deltafaucet.com/) Graphics: Lots

Experience the feeling of power that comes with knowing exactly which faucet you want before you even set foot inside the plumbing supply store. Here you'll find the pictures, the specs, and even the replacement parts.

The Fireplace Man (http://www.hansenwholesale.com/) Graphics: Lots

Curl up in front of this Web site if you're thinking of remodeling your wood stove or fireplace.

Frigidaire (http://www.frigidaire.com/index.html) Graphics: Lots

Check out the features on all of Frigidaire's appliances. You can also find out where to go for parts and service.

The Hardwood Store (http://www.erinet.com/hardwood/hardwood.html) Graphics: Few

Woodworkers will find a wide selection of hardwoods and discounts offered for large orders. The Hardwood Store is also a source for router bits and books on woodworking.

Home Depot (http://www.homedepot.com/) Graphics: Few

This site is aimed at Home Depot stockholders rather than those interested in the stock on Home Depot's shelves. It's most useful for its "Environmental Greenprint" section, which provides tips on minimizing your home's impact on the world outside, and for its guide to Home Depot store locations.

Lowe's Home Improvement Wherehouse (http://www.lowes.com/) Graphics: Few

This is everything a home & garden store's Web site ought to be! There's detailed how-to information for all the most common DIY jobs, indoors and out. Highlighted products and tips are appropriate for the season. Lowe's does it right!

Masterlock (http://www.masterlock.com/) Graphics: Few

There are some good home security tips here and a general run-down of the types of locks available from Masterlock. But if you're looking for a detailed catalog or lock installation instructions, you won't find them here.

PDRA: Paint and Decorating Retailers Association (http://www.hygexpo.com/ndpa/) Graphics: Few

If you're wondering how to get started on a painting, wallcovering or floorcovering project, the NDPA pages have what you need in an easy-to-read Q&A format.

National Wood Flooring Association (http://www.woodfloors.org/) Graphics: Few

If you have a question about purchasing or maintaining a wood floor, the NWFA has what you're after. The quality of the writing is occasionally cause for a bit of head scratching, however. And they don't cover wood floor installation.

Pella Windows and Doors (http://www.pella.com/) Graphics: Few

Whether you end up buying from Pella or not, their extensive primer on shopping for windows will have you tossing around terms like low-emissivity and cladding in no time.