Renovating isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be ridiculously hard, either. You can take steps to keep things organized even as you’re knocking down walls and flinging paint everywhere. Here are just four tips for your next renovation!

1. Document Everything

Hang onto your receipts. Take pictures of schedules, budgets, contracts and business cards. Put all of your paint samples in a color-coded binder. Documents are the lifeblood of a remodeling project, especially if you’re dealing with a bunch of different professionals who are drifting in and out of your home. Make them leave a paper trail as they go.

2. Have Your Home Inspected

Bring in the inspectors before you start any large-scale renovation projects. Not only can they offer advice, but they’ll also be able to point out potential problems. For example, if you have any mold growing in your walls, your contractors might not be allowed to start work until you take care of it. It’s a safety issue. You’ll want to know this in advance before you get halfway through a project and have to call it to a halt!

3. Make a Timetable

It’s rare for a renovation to go according to schedule, but there’s no harm in trying. In fact, having a timetable can keep your appointment book from spiraling totally out of control. Even if you aren’t able to prevent the occasional delay, you can stay focused and keep things mostly on track if you have something to mark your progress.

4. Stay Within Budget

You might be tempted by upgrades and add-ons during the course of your renovation. Resist these urges! You have a budget, and it’s important that you stick to it. You’ll regret letting yourself get caught in a whirlwind when the final bill comes and puts your bank balance into the red.

These are just a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for your next remodeling project. Whether you’re replacing countertops in Miami or investing in custom home additions San Diego, you can make it a lot less stressful with advanced preparation!…

Now that the fall season is starting, many homeowners start to think about getting their homes in good shape for the winter. After all, for many people, the summer season is one of spending time outdoors and enjoying your yard and patio. Fall and winter, however, can mean bad weather that necessitates spending more time inside. That’s why the beginning of the fall is the perfect time to reassess your home and see if there are any big repairs that need to be made. Is your home ready to face the fall and winter weather? If not, here are some tips to get it ready.

First of all, you should start by making any repairs that are essential for your home. When the temperature drops, you don’t want your home to be missing any pieces or allow any leaks. Make sure that your roof is in good repair and get any problems fixed right away. It’s easier and cheaper to make repairs as soon as you see a problem rather than waiting for the problem to get bigger. If you need glass replacement Dallas TX this is also a good time to get that done. This way, when the fall and winter storms begin, your house will be ready for them.

Next, make smaller but equally important improvements. Clean out all of your gutters so that they’re ready for the coming rains. This is especially true if your home is surrounding by trees that will drop their leaves in the fall, clogging up your gutters and leading to leaks. Look for cracks in your foundation and drafts in your home and repair them if you need to. Also, check for signs of pests that may have joined your home in the past few months. Get all of these things dealt with before the weather gets more severe.

Finally, take some time to enjoy your home this fall. Celebrate the holidays with family and friends in your home and be grateful for it. After all, you deserve to enjoy your fall in the comfort of home.…

Chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are dangers of not doing that cleaning. A Chimney Sweep removes buildups of highly flammable creosote along with making sure that smoke, soot, ash, gases, vapor, and bird nests present no obstructions. Creosote can form when wood is incompletely burned and builds faster on exterior chimneys than on interior ones because of lower temperatures outside.

How often should a chimney be cleaned?

According to The National Fire Protection Association, chimneys, vents, and fireplaces should be inspected at a minimum of once a year for soundness, correct clearances, and freedom from deposits. Cleaning, repairs, and maintenance should be done when necessary.

If a fire is smoky, it is without enough oxygen and emits unburned tar vapors that could condense inside the flue in the fireplace and stick to it. How can you reduce the buildup of creosote? Provide adequate combustion air, and that will encourage a clean-burning and hot fire.

How to tell when it’s time to clean the chimney

Although there are methods to check for yourself, that requires making sure there is no downdraft, wearing goggles and a disposable dust mask, scratching with a fireplace poker in a designated area, checking with a flashlight, and other steps. Chimney cleaning is extremely labor-intensive and dirty, and most homeowners just do not have the time, tools, energy, or experience to get the job done correctly.

If you don’t want that responsibility and chore, it is recommended that you have a checkup and inspection by a certified Chimney Sweep who will determine what, if anything, is needed and make the proper repairs. The job is done effectively, quickly, and safely.

How to choose a Chimney Sweep

Deal with a company whose technicians are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and/or the National Fireplace Institute. That ensures the highest level of professionalism, knowledge, and extensive training to recognize venting problems or deterioration. You will be provided with a written report of the findings. If you proceed with the cleaning, they will use a Power Brush on extension rods and also use industrial-sized vacuums to keep the home dust-free and clean.

High’s Chimney would be happy to be your Chimney Sweep Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas and make sure that you don’t have one of the millions of homes with chimney problems.…

The bathroom is a space that is used every day, and you want to make sure it is always clean. There comes a time when you need to hire a residential cleaning Silver Spring MD service for the job. A professional cleaning service gives your bathroom the thorough cleaning it deserves. If this is your first time hiring a professional, here is an idea of the routine when you hire a professional to clean your bathroom.

A professional cleaner is going to dust the light fixtures and remove the cobwebs that they can reach. There are many professionals who use a ladder or special equipment to reach higher areas such as the light bulbs or upper corners. The dusting does not end with the light fixtures. They also dust surfaces such as your shelves, window sills, ledges and blinds.

Your cleaner also wipes down the light switches, doors, door knobs and door jambs. This is done to remove any fingerprints or soil that has accumulated from daily use, and it keeps bacteria from spreading throughout your household.

The next thing your cleaner is going to focus on is your vanity. Your mirror and faucet are both wiped down to give them a shine. The counter and sink are both cleaned and sanitized. The front and sides of your cabinets are also dusted or wiped down.

A professional cleaner never leaves without cleaning your shower or bathtub. They make sure every area is cleaned and sanitized, from the corners and edges to the shower door, frames and walls.

It is no secret that cleaning the toilet is not a fun job, but you can rest assured that your cleaner is not going to forget to clean this fixture. Your toilet is cleaned and sanitized from the inside-out to ensure it is ready for the next use.

Your cleaner finishes the job by mopping and vacuuming the floors. They also remove the trash from the bathroom, but you do need to provide a liner if you want it replaced.

If you are looking to enlist in help with cleaning your bathroom, you can hire a professional residential cleaning Silver Spring MD service for the job.…

When you own a home, the roof is always going to be a top priority. If it isn’t maintained, it could end up causing a lot of dangerous and costly issues. If you are in need of a new roof or repair of some damage, you need to find a quality Jacksonville roofing specialist to hire, such as the ones found at www.acrownroofing.com. Below are some qualities a good roofing company should have.

Proper Insurance And Licensing

Most states in the nation will require a roofing company to carry a specific amount of licensing and insurance coverage. Before hiring any contractor to do work on your home, ask to see their license and insurance information. It could be a costly mistake on your part to accidentally hire a company that is not properly insured. If someone gets injured while working on your home, you could end up being liable.

Certifications

A reputable roofing contractor should also carry the proper manufacturer certifications. These will give you some insight into the quality of the work a company performs because they have to pass certain requirements and maintain standards to stay certified. Contractors who are certified give customers access to products that are industry-leading and come with superb warranties.

Communication

Whenever you hire any kind of contractor, having good communication with them is essential. Maintaining a good line of communication is important for staying on budget and schedule during the whole project. Before you hire a contractor, establish expectations with them and have it put in writing.

While most contractors you interview will claim they deliver the best quality services, it is up to the homeowner to do their due diligence in hiring a reputable company. Companies with proven character and experience will give you references and phone numbers to call. Be sure to call a few of their past customers and ask them questions about the experience they had with a particular contractor. Customer satisfaction is and will always be the greatest measure of a company’s success and their professionalism working in the community.…

The Dreaded Groan

It’s hot outside. However, it seems as though it’s even hotter in your house. How can that be? You have air conditioning. It should be a nice and cool temperature. Instead, you find yourself sweating more indoors than outdoors. After inspecting your thermostat, you may come to the realization that the AC unit isn’t making an odd noise. This is a noise that you have come to dread. The air conditioning is broken. Before you start to consider staying in a comfortable hotel for a few days, you may want to Chrismon a call. They specialize in repair of HVAC Greensboro NC and come with quite a few features that many other HVAC repair companies lack.

The Benefits

What makes them stand out from the rest? For one, they actually offer a unique membership. This is especially useful for businesses who want to ensure that their AC unit is running at peak performance throughout the year. Because a faulty HVAC unit can lead to higher energy bills, both commercial and residential clients would be wise to have someone ready to respond in the case of an emergency. More than that, it’s better to have someone perform regular maintenance, so your HVAC unit is always working at peak order.

The Priority Club Program at Chrismon provides just that for its members. Not only do they offer one free trip charge per year, but they also offer a 20% discount off of a total repair job–and not just the parts. In addition, they also provide a free annual dryer duct inspection. Because dryer ducts are often the leading cause of house fires, this annual inspection could potentially save your life and your house. Finally, the Priority Club Program offers 24/7 service every single day of the year. So, if you have an emergency, you can be sure that the experienced team at Chrismon will come to your aid.

For those who are serious about HVAC, consider Chrismon.…

Most families that invest in a quality deck spend more time outdoors than previous to the purchase. It is something about the feel of freedom mixed with comfort makes it a favorite spot to socialize and catch up at the end of the day. You can choose a deck company Waldorf MD that will have your new addition built in no time.

Attractive Addition for Any Home

A quality constructed deck looks great with any type of home. You can add the outdoor furniture you wish that enhances the overall appearance. It is another way to infuse a project with your own individual style.

Customize the Deck Size to Suit Your Needs

Not everyone wants a huge wrap-around deck. A smaller 10-foot by 20-foot might suffice. A larger deck is desired by those that frequently entertain or have a large family. It can also be a shared space for duplex living situations or a multi-family dwelling.

Simulated Wood Made of Composite or Vinyl

Using a composite or vinyl product for an outdoor deck is a sensible solution for those needing durability in all weather conditions. The material will retain the good looks of initial installation for years. You never have to worry about wood rot associated with traditional wood decks, yet it gives a remarkably similar look as a finished project.

Zero Maintenance Beyond Hose Cleaning

Taking care of this type of deck material is simple. All you have to do is set aside a little time to hose the surface down once or twice each year. It involved no painting or staining of the deck surface.

Sometimes the best home additions are reserved for outdoor spaces. Create an outdoor entertainment and relaxation spot that you can enjoy for years.…

If you’re like most homeowners in Pittsburgh, you’re probably not thrilled about having to take care of certain household tasks. While it is possible to safely procrastinate on some things, roof leaks should always be a top priority. Even if you are only experiencing occasional leaks relegated to one area, there are some unexpected dangers associated with leaving leaks linger that could contribute to even more damage.

1. Ceiling and Attic Damage

When roof leaks go undetected, it’s usually because water seepage occurs in a place where most homeowners don’t regularly look. One such place is the attic, where an undetected leak may damage stored items or weaken roof and wall supports. Big leaks may make their way to upper floor ceilings or nearby walls. Ceiling fans and ceiling-mounted lights could also be affected.

2. Mold and Mildew Problems

Smaller leaks that aren’t easily noticeable sometimes contribute to potentially dangerous damage. This is especially true if the added interior moisture results in mold and mildew growth. The real danger is from mold that gets into your HVAC system and spreads via airborne particles throughout your home.

3. Fire Risks from Electrical Damage

It’s not unusual for a typical home today to having an abundance of wiring nestled in ceilings for everything from ceiling fans and recessed lighting to home security systems and wired smoke detectors. Water from roof leaks can quickly increase the risk of fire and other types of damage that may occur when electrical wiring meets water.

4. Higher Utility Costs

Intruding water from a roof leak sometimes soaks insulation in attics and parts of walls. If insulation gets saturated enough, you may experience higher utility costs as more air escapes through walls that aren’t as well protected. Added moisture in a home can also affect how HVAC systems operate, which may further boost utility expenses.

5. Structural Integrity Issues

Rafters, wall framing, ceiling joists, fascia boards, and exterior trim are just some of the core components of your home that could be damaged by prolonged water exposure from roof leaks. If water breaks down underlying parts of your roof, the necessary repairs could be fairly extensive, costly, and complex.

A reputable roofing company Pittsburgh PA homeowners call on for leak repairs often makes every effort to correct the leak itself and any related problems. But if you have recurring roof leaks or leaks affecting multiple parts of your roof structure, attic and ceilings, and exterior walls, it may be time to consider a complete replacement or a re-roof, especially if your roof is at the end of its natural lifespan.…

Replacing the flooring in your home doesn’t have to be difficult. You can achieve a beautiful look using flooring that is easy to maintain and that offers several options if you choose laminate. Before getting the materials needed and planning a design, consult with a laminate flooring Lewisville contractor to examine the areas in the home you want to renovate. Create a plan so that you know what colors and designs you want to use and so that you have the measurements needed to get enough supplies to complete the project.

There are two trends to consider with the colors of the laminate flooring that you can use in your home. An extreme dark option creates a warm and inviting look while an extreme light option offers an open appearance and can make a small room seem like it’s larger. If you have pets, then consider a lighter color because it can hide pet hair a bit better than darker colors. Textured flooring is a popular type to consider in all rooms of the home. Distressed laminate is also an option available that gives a rustic look in the home, especially in the kitchen or the living room.

Instead of a plain and simple flooring design, consider a pattern that runs throughout the room. These patterns can range from diamond designs to wide planks. Waterproof laminate is an idea to consider if you have children or pets in the home. You also need to think about how much time you have to devote to keeping the floors clean as some types trap dirt more than others. Avoid getting laminate that has a lot of texture and grooves because it will be harder to keep clean than flooring that has a smooth surface. Get creative with the flooring that you use in the home so that it’s yours instead of a manufactured look.…

Gazebos are a beautiful, functional addition to any outdoor space. If you’re considering adding a gazebo to your backyard, however, you may be spoiled for options. Here are a few criteria to consider when choosing your new gazebo.

Function

Function should be the first factor you consider. Is your gazebo for a special occasion, like a wedding reception or a birthday party? How often do you plan on using it? Do you want it to add to the value of your home, or do you simply want a cozy outdoor escape? Does it need to be kid-friendly? Is your gazebo going to house a hot tub, outdoor yoga studio, or garden? Once you’ve decided what you’re going to use your gazebo for and how often you’re going to use it, you can start thinking about your style options.

Gazebo Materials

Most gazebos are constructed out of wood or vinyl. Common wood options include pine, cedar, and redwood. While wooden gazebos have classic style appeal, they do require more maintenance than vinyl options. Vinyl gazebos, on the other hand, are less likely to warp or rot. When choosing between wood and vinyl gazebos, consider the importance of aesthetics and upkeep.

Size and Shape

You can find gazebos in every size and shape imaginable. If you have a small backyard, opt for a small gazebo with a built-in bench. If you have plenty of room in your backyard, you can choose a large, complex gazebo structure. Common gazebo shapes range from dodecagonal to octagonal to oval.

Professionals v. DIY

Before you purchase a gazebo, decide whether you’re going to hire a professional to put it together or try to DIY your gazebo project. If you’re not an expert craftsman, don’t try to build a dodecagonal gazebo with a complex pagoda roof. Choose gazebo kits commensurate with your skill level, or choose a local contractor who can help you assemble your gazebo kits.

If you want to brighten up your backyard, you can’t go wrong with a quaint, classic gazebo. Make sure to consider function, style, and materials before you make your purchase.…