Author Archives: Cari

About Cari

Cari Barron, owner and founder of Contractor Hotline, purchased a home in need of various repairs in 2002. The process to find a quality home remodeling contractor proved to be a complex challenge. The first-hand experience was the inspiration behind founding Contractor Hotline in 2006. Connect with her on Google+

Planning a Successful Remodel

Successfully pulling off a large-scale home improvement project requires careful planning. You may spend hours, weeks, and even months working on preliminary design and choosing finish materials. Just as important, if not the most critical part of a successful remodel, is hiring the right contractor to execute your plan.

Following are some considerations when planning a remodel and deciding who to hire. Taking time to go through these steps will greatly improve the chance of your project being completed to your satisfaction.

Design

The first step involves working with an architect or designer to create a conceptual design you can share with prospective contractors.

This first phase provides a rough idea of your overall project and allows you to explore estimated budget numbers and timeline. Expect to pay a fee for this service. However, it will be much less than the cost of a detailed set of building plans.

Some remodeling or design/build firms provide in-house design services. Others collaborate with business partners who specialize in design and architecture. If you don’t already have a contact for design, this can be a convenient alternative. In this case, you will typically pay an upfront fee as well. If you proceed with the same contracting firm for the construction portion, there will later be a construction proposal and contract.

Whichever direction you take, this first step is necessary to establish a budget and to begin seriously vetting contractors.

Interview Contractors

You could be working closely with a contractor in your home for many months. Selecting a professional who is experienced with your type of project and has an agreeable personality are both important considerations.

Take a few minutes initially on the phone with each prospective contractor to help determine who you want to consider for your project.

Have they worked on similar projects as yours?
Do they provide references?
Will they share financial references from suppliers?
What is their availability?

Narrow it down to a few contractors who satisfied your initial questions and schedule an appointment to meet in person.

In the meantime, check with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and Better Business Bureau for any disputes with clients or subcontractors. For video instructions on how to verify a contractor in Washington State, click here.

Review Budget Proposal

In your initial meeting, be prepared to share your design concept with prospective contractors. From this preliminary design, the contractor can provide a budget proposal and estimated time to complete the project. A budget proposal is usually provided with no monetary obligation. The exception may be when working with a design/build firm as there may be billable hours to create your initial plans.

If the project exceeds your budget or will take longer to complete than you can allow, now is the time to revise your plan.

If the budget proposal meets your expectations, you are ready to decide on a contractor.

Choose a Contractor

Review the list of questions from your initial phone interview and request references or other supporting documentation. Don’t rely on testimonials, speak with their references.

Ask if you can see a finished project or visit an active job site.

Does the job site appear safe?
Are subcontractors and employees professional and courteous?
Are proper measures being taken to protect the homeowner’s property?

At this point, you should feel confident in your decision and ready to proceed toward a contractual agreement.

Complete Building Plans & Proposal

Once you decide on your contractor the next step is to finalize the building plans. Typically, you, your designer, and your contractor will collaborate to prepare a comprehensive set of building plans that include material selections and finishes. Depending on the complexity of the project, this process can take 50-200 professional hours to complete.

A detailed construction proposal is prepared from the final building plans. It should include a scope of work, materials needed/agreed upon, subcontractors to be used, estimated time to complete the project, price, permit fees, payment terms, warranties, and procedures for change orders.

Finalize a Contract

A typical contract includes the detailed proposal, proof of liability insurance, a security or performance bond, start date and projected completion date, and a requirement that the contractor obtain lien releases from all subcontractors and suppliers. For residential jobs over $1000, the contractor must provide the property owner a Disclosure Statement, outlining the customer’s rights and responsibilities and information regarding liens.

Work in Progress

Once the job is underway, take time to meet with your contractor regularly to ensure the work is progressing according to the contract and schedule. Check that proper permits have been obtained and required inspections are conducted.

Once the project is complete, do a final walk-through with the contractor. Make sure any items on the punch list are completed before making final payment. If you request lien release documents, avoid making final payment until you have received the lien release.

Our expertise is matching customers with the most appropriate service professional for their home improvement project. Let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request.

Home Health & Safety

Pest Control

Routine pest control of rodents and insects is an important part of your home maintenance. Left unchecked, pests such as rats, ants, bees, and roaches pose health risks to your family and can cause substantial damage to your home.

There are steps you can take to help keep your home healthy and free of pests. If you need help sealing openings or have a pest problem, your local pest control service can assist.

Outdoors

Keep outdoor garbage cans sealed with a tight-fitting lid.
Pet food bowls should be brought indoors overnight.
Compost is an attractive food source for pests. Consider a closed compost bin system.
Seal any cracks and holes on your home’s exterior, top to bottom. Look for gaps around attic vents, soffits, foundation, crawl space covers and vents, doors, windows, and where plumbing and utility lines enter the home. Secure screens over attic and crawl space vents.
Cut back vegetation to prevent contact with your home’s structure.
Keep firewood stacked off the ground and away from the house.

Indoors

Pests are often attracted to water sources. Repair any plumbing leaks around appliances, fixtures, and piping in the crawl space.
Store food in sealed containers. Keep kitchen countertops and sink clean and free of food waste.
Seal openings around windows, doors, in the attic and crawl space, and where utilities enter the home – the same places you identified around the outside.

Tree Maintenance

Trees require ongoing care to keep them strong and healthy. A diseased or damaged tree can be a danger to you and your property. Trees and other vegetation growing near your home also provide easy roof access for rodents and raccoons. Larger tree work is best left to the professionals.

Take special care to have any dead or diseased branches removed from trees that may fall and cause injury, damage property, or take down power lines.
Trim back limbs or vegetation extending over the roof and gutters. This helps to prevent potential damage from a falling limb and limits rodent access.

Fireplace & Chimney Care

Nothing is more inviting on a chilly evening than relaxing in front of a cozy fire. Whether you have a traditional wood burning, gas, or electric fireplace, there is a certain amount of maintenance required to keep them functioning properly and safely.

For more information visit American Lifestyle’s Fireplace Maintenance Tips, by Nathan Smith.

Wood Burning Fireplace

Have the chimney inspected and cleaned annually, especially if you use a wood stove or fireplace regularly. On average, the chimney should be cleaned after every two cords of seasoned, dry wood is burned.
Clean the firebox weekly during the burning season. Take caution that the coals have cooled (at least 12 hours) before disposing. Use a metal ash can for added safety.
Always have a glass or metal screen in front of the firebox to block sparks and embers.

Gas Fireplace

Your gas fireplace should be cleaned and serviced annually. This will include an inspection for gas leaks and proper ventilation.
Carefully vacuum the inside of the fireplace monthly to prevent dust build up. Clean doors with fireplace glass cleaner.
Check the gas connection regularly to ensure it is secure.
Periodically check the external vent to ensure there are no obstructions.

Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces require the least amount of maintenance. Other than periodically checking the electrical cord for fraying or damage, you can enjoy this type of low maintenance fireplace worry free.
Dust the vents and full appliance as needed.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Clogged dryer ducts can be a fire hazard. Clean the dryer duct annually and clean the lint trap after each load of laundry.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms

According to South County Fire, most deadly house fires occur during the night when you are sleeping. Smoke alarms provide early warning and save lives.

Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries annually, or sooner if needed.
Install a smoke alarm in each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every floor of your home.
Replace smoke and CO alarms when 10 years old, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Fires

Modern, open floor plans and newer furnishings made of synthetic materials often contribute to how quickly fires spread.

Sleep with bedroom doors CLOSED to help slow the spread of fire and reduce heat and smoke exposure.
Minutes matter! Prepare and practice a home fire escape plan at least twice a year with everyone in the household. If possible, identify at least two ways out of each room.
Check for damaged electrical cords and avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under rugs or across high traffic areas.

Visit South County Fire for helpful resources and more lifesaving tips.

Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit for you and your family in the event of a power outage or other emergency. This kit will be helpful even during temporary power outages.

Your kit should include at least a three-day supply of food, water, medications, pet supplies, flashlight, battery-powered radio, spare batteries, and a first aid kit.
Emergency kits can also be purchased at the Red Cross Store.

If you need assistance with any projects or upgrades, we can connect you with the appropriate service professionals for your specific needs. Just let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request.

Best Value Home Improvement Projects

As we near the half-way mark of 2021 you may be thinking of home improvement projects you want to tackle yet this year. Now, more than ever, planning and budgeting is important.

The great thing is, you don’t have to research for hours to have a good understanding of what different projects cost and what you can expect to recoup on your investment. The Remodeling 2021 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) is a concise and accurate tool, all in one easy to navigate report.

Featured below are the top 5 projects in Seattle. Download the free Cost vs. Value Report to see all 22 featured projects and a more in-depth scope of work for each. Input your zip code for information that more closely resembles those projects in your neighborhood.

Garage Door Replacement

Garage Door Replacement

We all know the importance of first impressions. It’s no wonder four of the five top improvements all enhance street appeal. According to the Remodeling 2021 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com), replacing the garage door tops the list with a potential 98% return on investment.

The example includes replacement of an older garage door and tracks with a new, four-section, insulated, high-tensile steel door, with lifetime warranty. Includes new heavy-duty galvanized steel tracks (reusing existing motorized opener), factory-applied paint, thermal panel seals, insulated windows in the top panel, galvanized steel hinges, and ball-bearing urethane rollers.

Average cost $4,068. Average resale value $3,986.

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Stone Veneer Accent

The second project with the highest possible return includes adding a stone veneer accent to the front of the home. This relatively modest investment can dramatically change the exterior and increase curb appeal.

Imagine a street of similarly designed homes and one of them has been upgraded with this classic look. If you were shopping for a home on that street, which one would pop out at you?

At a significant potential return of 93%, this upgrade has great value. The example includes removing 300 square feet of vinyl siding from the entire bottom third of the front of the home. Replace with a manufactured stone veneer, two layers of water-resistant barrier over bare sheathing, corrosion-resistant lath and fasteners, and a ½ inch mortar scratch coat and setting bed.

Average cost $11,265. Average resale value $10,477.

Siding Replacement

Vinyl: Upgrading your home with new vinyl siding rates as the third highest valued investment. This improvement could yield a return as high as 87.6%. It includes replacing 1250 square feet of siding with factory trim around openings and at corners.

Fiber-cement: Another popular siding product is fiber-cement. It too has a significant 85.6% return. The example includes the same specifications as above in addition to being factory primed and painted before installation.

Average cost $19,620. Average resale value $17,301 – Vinyl.

Average cost $23,240. Average resale value $19,887 – Fiber-cement.

Minor Kitchen Remodel – Midrange

Minor Kitchen Remodel

Coming in at number four is a modest remodel of a 200 square foot kitchen that is currently functional but in need of cosmetic updates.

Leaving the cabinet boxes intact it includes replacing the cabinet and drawer fronts with shaker style wood panels and new hardware. Replace laminate countertops, sink, faucet, and flooring. Paint ceiling, walls, and trim. Replace cook top/oven range and refrigerator with new energy-efficient models.

Being careful to stay within a modest budget this type of remodel could yield an 87.7% return.

Average cost $29,183. Average resale value 25,599.

Window Replacement

Window Replacement (Wood)

Vinyl: The last, but not least improvement, includes replacing ten, older 3×5 double-hung windows. New windows are insulated, low-E and include simulated-divided-light panes and custom exterior paint finish. Exterior trim to match existing and is not disturbed. This upgrade is expected to bring an 87.6% return on investment.

Wood: Upgrade from vinyl to wood windows with the same specifications as above and see just a slightly lower return at 84.4%.

Average cost $20,788. Average resale value $18,209 – Vinyl

Average cost $24,539. Average resale value $20,718 – Wood

If you need assistance with any projects or upgrades, we can connect you with the appropriate service professionals for your specific needs. Just let us know how we can help by giving us a call at 425-775-9085 or submitting an online Work Request.

Hiring A Contractor During High Demand Times

Due to a higher than usual volume of projects this year, contractors of most trades are in high demand.

Many homes have been on double duty for much of the year. Working and schooling from home, preparing more meals, and even socializing at a safe distance with friends and neighbors has caused many to reconsider how to effectively use living spaces.

Some of the more popular projects have been creating a home office or home classroom, kitchen updates, a place to exercise, and outdoor socializing spaces. For many, these types projects require the assistance of a home improvement professional.

In addition to increased contractor demand, vendors are experiencing a shortage of building materials, such as lumber, plumbing, and electrical supplies. City building departments struggle to keep up with the volume of construction permits. These are just a few things contributing to longer than usual delays and increased costs.

It appears current demands are not likely to ease anytime soon. If you plan to make home improvements in the coming months and hire a contractor to help, there are some things you can do to expedite the process. Preparing ahead of time and a little patience will go a long way toward getting the best results from your favorite contractor.

GET YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW

Depending on the size of your job there can be a lot to consider when planning a home improvement project. Prior to meeting a contractor, take some time to prepare. This will show the contractor you are serious and ready to proceed and will help you get that much closer to starting your project.

Larger projects may require plans prepared by an architect or designer. You can hire a design-build firm that can take you through the entire process. Alternatively, you can start with an independent architectural designer. Either way, you will need completed building plans to apply for a permit and an idea of finish materials (cabinets, countertops, flooring, fixtures, etc.) for contractors to be able to provide a comprehensive proposal.

The more research you can do in advance, the better. Keep your ideas organized in a paper or electronic folder, or both. Keeping a visual list of your favorite floor plans, finish materials, and colors will help the designer or contractor better understand your preferences and needs.

BUDGET

Decide on a budget before meeting with contractors. You may not know at this point what your dream kitchen would cost, but you likely have a limit as to what you are willing to spend.

Sharing your budget up front will help the contractor or designer steer you in the right direction. If your budget for a kitchen remodel is $50,000, but your tastes reflect a $100,000 remodel, you can spend a lot of time and money on design only to discover you need to revise your plan.

THINK OFF-SEASON

Many trades have a high and low season. Scheduling your projects during the off-season whenever possible is worth considering. Contractors may be more readily available, and you may save some money. Some trades even offer discounts during the off-season. Be sure to ask!

In the Pacific Northwest there are many opportunities throughout fall, winter, and spring where the weather cooperates for these often overlooked ‘seasonal’ projects. Following are a few.

ROOFING

Most roofs can be removed in a matter of hours, promptly followed by the installation of a waterproof felt paper. It usually only requires one reliably dry day for this procedure. The new roofing material can be installed during inclement weather. Most roofs will be completed in less than a week, start to finish.

DECKS & FENCES

Calls for deck and fence repair and new installations peak in spring and summer. Fall is a great time to start talking with these type contractors. They are winding down from summer and welcome your business in winter. Your project could be completed and ready to enjoy come spring and summer.

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS

Remodeling contractors do not have much down time these days. That said, there is still a spike in spring and a slow-down during the winter months and holidays. This can be a tremendous opportunity to get your remodeling project completed timely and with less competition than the rest of the year.

Remember, a remodel requires some advance planning. If you are close to finalizing your plans, this could be a great time to get on your contractor’s schedule for winter.

Improve Your Home’s Comfort and Efficiency

Home energy audits help you understand how much energy your home uses and identify ways to improve its efficiency. There are many things you can do on your own such as caulk and weather strip around doors and windows or wrap exposed water pipes. But many homes are so inefficient that even after completing the more obvious improvements, there are still many ways to further reduce your home’s energy consumption and increase comfort.

A professional audit can cost upwards of $400 or more but when used wisely can pay for itself in a short amount of time. If this is out of your budget, there are do-it-yourself alternatives. For starters, there are easy online surveys such as Energy Star’s Home Energy Yardstick. The survey compares your home’s efficiency to similar homes in your area.

Another, more comprehensive self-study is the Home Energy Saver. Snohomish County PUD also offers a free online energy audit called the Home EnergyAdvisor.

While an online audit can be a good starting point, it is no substitute for a home inspection by a professional energy auditor. A Home Energy Audit is an investment to help you determine the best steps to increase your homes efficiency.

The many benefits to a Home Energy Audit and related improvements include:

Improved comfort & safety
Enhanced appearance
Increased salability
Reduced environmental impact
Assists in tenant retention of investment properties

Many home improvements such as adding insulation or replacing the furnace are not inexpensive. Having an audit conducted before making these improvements will help you prioritize the best approach for long term value. It doesn’t do much good to install a new heating system if the air leaks have not been addressed. Planning a remodel? Having an audit completed before starting a remodel will help you plan and incorporate energy saving upgrades into your project.

The following are questions to consider when determining if your home is operating as efficiently as it could.

Is your home comfortable during hot and cold seasons?
Are your energy bills excessive?
Does your heating/cooling system run constantly to maintain a comfortable temperature?
Are there drafty rooms or variable temperatures throughout the house?
Do you have cold floors in the winter?
Is moisture on the windows?
Do you have excessive dust?

A thorough inspection will determine what components are negatively affecting the comfort and efficiency of your home. Based on the inspection results, you should have a good understanding of recommended repairs and improvements, along with an idea of estimated costs and potential annual savings in energy bills.

A professional auditor uses a variety of techniques and equipment to determine the energy efficiency of your home. A thorough audit will include:

Blower Door Test (used to de-pressurize the home and expose air leaks)
Infrared Camera Scan (used to reveal hard-to-detect areas of air infiltration and missing insulation)
Combustion Safety Testing (detects carbon monoxide leaks)
Complete Basement to Attic Inspection
Survey of Appliances & Lighting Systems

The following video Energy 101: Home Energy Assessment provided by the Department of Energy explains each of these steps in detail.

Home Energy Audits alone won’t save energy. You need to implement the recommended improvements. The results of the audit will help prioritize repairs and put a short, or long term plan in place, depending on the extent of improvements needed and your budget.

A Home Energy Auditor should be certified through either the Building Performance Institute (BPI) or Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). Both BPI and RESNET have set standards for home energy professionals and are recognized by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency. View a list of certified BPI accredited contractors near you.

Seattle City Light customers have many options to save money and energy for both their home and business. For more information visit the Energy Conservation page of their website or call an Energy Advisor at 206-684-3800.

Puget Sound Energy (PSE) offers its customers a variety of rebates for energy efficient products and services. You can review the rebates currently available for PSE customers at www.pse.com/rebates. If you are ready to move forward with an Energy Efficiency project, you may also wish to request a referral for a PSE Recommended Energy Professional (REP) by visiting www.pse.com/rep. For more details, contact a PSE Energy Advisor at 1-800-562-1482.

Snohomish County PUD customers with electric heat may qualify for cash incentives toward energy-saving home improvements. The Weatherization & Heating program includes eligible upgrades toward floor, wall & ceiling insulation, insulated windows, and duct sealing & insulation. Contact the Energy Hotline with questions at 425-783-1700.

Beware – Energy Saving Scams! Snohomish County PUD warns of scams committed by phone, mail, text, and even in-person visits to homes and businesses. If you received a notice in the mail, someone visited your home or business, or you received a text or phone message demanding payment of an unpaid bill, please beware. Visit Snohomish County PUD or call 425-783-1000 for more details to report or avoid becoming a victim of an energy saving scam.

COVID-19 and Construction

All residential construction (considered essential, or not) is now permitted in both King and Snohomish counties. Contractors have a general obligation to keep a safe and healthy worksite in accordance with state and federal law and must comply with COVID-19 worksite-specific safety practices.

Changing Things Up

STORAGE

Sheltering at home meant stocking up on extra supplies. Everything from non-perishable food items to cleaning supplies overloaded many a kitchen and pantry. If you find yourself dodging rogue rolls of toilet paper (no overstocking shame intended!) every time you open the closet, you may be due for a storage upgrade. Even the novice DIY’er can make simple, yet significant space saving improvements.

Stand back and take a good look at the closet or pantry. Is there open space above the items on each shelf? If so, this unused space could be easily converted to more storage simply by adding a few extra shelves. Relatively inexpensive closet organizing kits and a la carte items can be found at your favorite home improvement store. Everything from shelving, cubbies, and slide-out wire baskets can be easily installed in less than a day with a few basic hand tools.

If you really want to maximize efficiency a custom storage system can be professionally installed. ShelfGenie is one solution. Systems are custom designed for your existing cabinetry and what you plan to store. Glide-out shelves for those hard to reach pots and pans, dividers for baking sheets and lids, to spice cabinets sized specially to meet your needs, are just a few options.

HOME OFFICE

I was lucky in this respect, as my business was already home-based. Many of you have not had it that easy. Some are still working from the couch or dining room table. I suspect that is getting old and uncomfortable.

There are many ways to get creative with some underutilized space that may not be living up to its potential. One of my favorites is the home office armoire. A friend of mine lives in a lovely yet compact, one-bedroom apartment on Queen Anne. Her computer and work supplies are tucked away in a beautiful, antique armoire. When work calls, she has everything she needs at her fingertips. At quitting time, her home office quickly reverts to a lovely antique, simply by closing the doors. Adding some shelving/cubbies and a pull-out shelf for the keyboard will help house and organize electronics and other supplies. An antique armoire can be converted to accommodate modern day equipment, or you can purchase a new armoire already outfitted for the task.

HOME CLASSROOM

Just as the home office was a challenge for many, those of you with school age children had to quickly convert a space for the kiddos to study full time from home. The same area used for homework during normal times likely needs to be modified for long term use.

Reducing distractions and organizing the space to reduce clutter is paramount for home school success. Proper lighting for different tasks, access to electronics for remote learning, and variety (think family room for reading and a separate desk with computer for online sessions) are all considerations to keep kids interested in learning and help them stay focused.

Click Here for some useful ideas to help create a productive learning space.

KITCHEN

For many, sheltering at home meant a lot more time preparing meals at home. Even under normal circumstances, the kitchen is often the most utilized and highly trafficked room in the house. Preparing meals at home daily and sitting down as a family to enjoy them put many a kitchen and dining area to its maximum efficiency test.

Even small modifications, such as re-organizing storage, improved lighting, or upgrading appliances can make a big difference in how well your kitchen functions. If you need more room, consider what is adjacent to the kitchen. Capturing space from an underutilized formal dining room is a popular way to open and enlarge the kitchen. Modern families often gravitate toward more informal seating. A well-placed breakfast nook or dinette area saves space while still providing a place to sit together. Adding an island provides additional storage, prep space, and even seating. An extra wide counter with bar stools creates a useful, multi-purpose space.

BATHROOM

Plumbers have had no shortage of business while families shelter at home. Older piping or outdated fixtures pose a variety of problems under high use. Upgrading outdated systems can save money and headaches by avoiding emergency services or damage from an overflowing toilet or plumbing leak.

Upgrading the plumbing is a good time to replace outdated fixtures. Low-flow toilets, tankless or instant hot water heaters, and vanities with more functional counter space and storage, are just a few upgrades to consider.

OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

Being able to get outside and enjoy the weather has helped keep cabin fever at bay. Imagine how much harder staying at home would be if it were not spring.

If your outdoor space is not quite living up to its full potential, perhaps this is an opportunity to consider upgrading or adding a patio or deck. The options are endless from stamped concrete or paver patios, to a new or refurbished deck. Traditional wood decks are less expensive to build but require regular maintenance. Decks made from engineered products, such as Trex or Azek cost more initially, yet longer-lasting and easy to maintain.

If you want to get more elaborate, consider an open-air roof or covering to protect you and your furnishings from inevitable rain showers and sun. Outdoor kitchens fully equipped with a plumbed sink and gas range are gaining popularity. Lighting, a heat source, and even a fireplace are more significant creature comfort improvements to make your outdoor living space a year-round gathering spot for friends and family. The options are endless, limited only by budget and available space.

COVID-19 Update & Essential Services

During the Coronavirus outbreak, we remain open to take your calls and help any way we can. Many of our contacts are deemed ‘essential services’.

Generally, we can help connect you with cleaning/disinfecting services, repairs to plumbing, electrical, and heating/air-conditioning systems, repairs due to water intrusion or leaks, and some exterior cleaning of roofs and gutters. Items that leave your home vulnerable to further degradation if left unchecked are likely considered essential.

Additionally, we can help with mitigation services due to damage caused by fire, smoke, water, sewage, or mold. Our team will work closely with your homeowner’s insurance company, leaving you free to focus on other things.

If you need help and unsure what is considered essential or allowed at this time, please give us a call at 425-775-9085.

CAN-Do Checklist, Using This Time Wisely

So much of the current news is full of what we cannot do, and for good reason – it’s working! Let’s not forget there is also plenty that we CAN do. Now, more than ever, we need to remain positive and use this time wisely. Before you know it, we’ll be back to our routines and maybe wishing we had done a bit more with our time while ‘stuck’ at home.

For many, doing our part by staying home provides an opportunity for spring cleaning and de-cluttering. Tackling a spring to-do (or can-do) list can lift spirits, create a fresh space to enjoy, and free up valuable time to enjoy your favorite summer activities (it’s coming!).

While you’re at it, this is a good time to take a closer look around your home and note anything that may need some attention. As with most repairs, early detection is key to the least expensive solution. This gift of time may help you identify some potentially costly repairs if left unnoticed. Make a list of anything that’s not a DIY project. Contact those service providers right away, before they are released back to work. Waiting may prove difficult to get on busy contractor’s schedules.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Clean walkways, driveway, porches and decks.
Trim plants and shrubs back from the side of the home or overhanging the roof.
Weed beds and add new mulch.
Add some contrast and color with plants and flowers.
Consider painting the front door or replacing worn out hardware.
Add some colorful potted plants to the front porch or steps.

While you’re at it…

Inspect the roof for any signs of compromised or missing shingles, flashing that doesn’t appear firmly attached, and moss or debris buildup.
Check that gutters and downspouts are firmly secured, free of debris, and properly sloped. Organic buildup or discoloration are signs there may be a blockage or they aren’t properly diverting water from the house.
If you have a chimney, check for any mortar or brick damage. Is the chimney cap and spark arrestor secure.
Inspect soffits (or eaves), looking for discoloration, cracks, wood rot, peeling paint, or anything that appears compromised. Continue your way down paying attention to siding and trim. Look for cracked or missing pieces of siding, signs of pest intrusion (birds, rodents, and insect), peeling paint, and mildew build-up.
Check around windows and doors. Make sure there aren’t any air leaks or failed caulking. Look for cracked or broken windows, or condensation/fogging between double pane windows.
Inspect decks and fences for loose or cracked boards and support pieces, missing nails, and mildew.
The foundation is often overlooked, yet such an important element in supporting the rest of the home. Look for signs of uneven settling or cracks. Look for indicators that water may not be properly diverted away from the home or ponding alongside the foundation.

DE-CLUTTER AND ORGANIZE (great projects for those rainy days!)

One at a time, tackle closets, bathroom vanities, under the kitchen sink, pantry, and garage/storage space. Wherever there is a door hiding the contents, clutter tends to accumulate.
Have a donation box nearby. Items that are no longer needed or haven’t been used or worn in a year, add to the box. Properly dispose of old cleaning supplies, paint, make-up, or prescriptions.
Re-organize the remaining contents and return to the respective shelf or drawer.
Group all items to be donated somewhere out of sight until it can be collected or dropped off at your preferred charity.

WINDOWS & DOORS

Wash the windows, inside and outside.
Clean door and window frames and tracks.
Check for air leaks, caulk as needed.
Check for condensation, properly working locks and hinges, and that windows open properly.
Remove storm windows and repair damaged screens.
Clean blinds and curtains.

FLOORS

Deep clean hard surface floors.
Shampoo carpeting and area rugs.
Wipe down baseboards.

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Deep clean fixtures, countertops, cabinets, and appliances.
Re-caulk around sinks and tub/shower as needed.
Don’t forget to disinfect light switches, doorknobs, and faucets – all high touch areas that harbor germs.

While you’re at it…

Much like outside, keep your eyes open for areas of concern that may be evident inside the home. If the attic is accessible, start here. Signs of mold, mildew, or moisture on the sheeting and insulation are all indicators the roof might be leaking.
Check for ducting that may not be sealed. This includes ducting from kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans. These should be securely attached and vented out the roof or side of the home.
Roof leaks often go undetected inside closets or may be evident around door and window frames and exhaust covers in kitchens and baths. Check these areas for moisture or discoloration.
Heating season is nearing an end. Replace furnace filters now and you’ll be ahead of the game this fall.
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Change the batteries, if due.
Check for air leaks around electrical outlets and plumbing sites on exterior walls. Seal as needed.

Take advantage of this extra time now. You’ll enjoy summer that much more once you are free to get out and socialize, AND all your spring cleaning and repairs are completed or ready to be scheduled.

Keep in mind, some things are considered essential services and still allowed at this time. We can help connect you with cleaning/disinfecting services, repairs to plumbing, electrical, and heating/air-conditioning systems, repairs due to water intrusion or leaks, and some exterior cleaning of roofs and gutters.

Items that leave your home vulnerable to further degradation if left unchecked are likely considered essential. If you’re not sure, give us a call at 425-775-9085. We’re open and available to answer any questions.

If you need assistance with any of these projects or upgrades, we can connect you with the appropriate service professionals for your specific needs. Just let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request.

Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Special Coronavirus Announcement

We hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy while navigating through these uncertain times. While our individual circumstances vary, clearly we are all impacted. Let us take comfort knowing that we are all in this together and share many of the same needs and concerns.

Contractor Hotline is available for you throughout this entire process. If you have an urgent home repair need, or simply want to start discussing some longer-range plans, we are here to help.

In general, commercial and residential construction is not authorized under the current Proclamation because construction is not considered to be an essential activity. However, it recognizes several different home service professionals as part of the essential workforce.

This includes but is not limited to emergency repairs and projects necessary to ensure structural integrity. Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, heating/cooling services, and others who provide services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences are authorized to perform services.

All construction activity must meet social distancing and appropriate health and worker protection measures.

We can also help with insurance claim work. We can recommend mitigation services due to water, fire, and smoke damage, mold remediation, and assist with the necessary repairs to restore your home back to its original condition. Our contractors are experienced working with insurance adjusters and can help turn an often stressful and confusing occurrence into a manageable situation.

Many other home service providers are considered ‘non-essential’ and will not be able to conduct in person meetings for at least the next two weeks. If you are planning a project for the spring, summer, or fall and would like to begin the process talking by phone with a contractor, acting now can be a great opportunity. Once the current sanctions are lifted, we expect contractors will be in high demand. Take advantage of this time now and let’s start planning your next home remodel or upgrade.

We can be reached at 425-775-9085, email me at cari@contractorhotline.net, or you can submit a work request 24/7 by clicking on the following link. https://contractorhotline.net/find-a-contractor/

Stay safe, stay healthy, and let us know how we can help!