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 Bathroom Remodel

Not to get personal, but let’s talk bathrooms! A bathroom could be considered a little oasis inside of your home; a place to escape the chaos and enjoy a private moment alone. It is also the most important room in a home and in today’s modern standards wouldn’t be livable without it.

If your bathroom is outdated or too small for your family, perhaps you have considered a bathroom remodel or upgrade. Although a bathroom renovation is no small task, it can increase a home’s value, improve functionality on a day-to-day basis, and maybe stop a fight or two between siblings. Whether it’s enlarging a bathroom, installing cosmetic updates, or a complete renovation, careful planning from start to finish is necessary for a successful outcome.

The first thing to consider for this type home improvement project is budget. The budget depends on how extensive the bathroom remodel will be. For example, enlarging a bathroom will be much more expensive than say, a few cosmetic updates. A moderate cosmetic update can easily run $5,000, while a more extensive remodel or addition can be anywhere from $15-$50,000. Once a reasonable budget is determined an essential question to ask yourself is how you want to be able to use the bathroom. Aside from the obvious reasons, is it a place to escape and meditate? Who in the family frequents the bathroom the most? What are the style goals of the bathroom remodel? How long are you planning to live in the house?

Answering some of these essential questions will help determine if you should consider enlarging the bathroom, maintaining the same footprint and doing a complete renovation, or perhaps some simple cosmetic updates will be adequate. After these questions are answered and the goal of the bathroom remodel is decided, let the planning commence!

Enlarging a bathroom

This concept can be translated a few different ways. For example, it could be enlarging a half-bathroom into a full, or a full bathroom into a master. Either way, it’s a big undertaking for a bathroom remodel.

There are two ways to enlarge a bathroom, either steal space from another room or create an entirely new space by adding on. The latter is much more expensive. Utilizing space from another room can be more cost effective yet produce dramatic results. For example, using a closet on an adjacent wall can enlarge an existing bathroom or a large closet could even be converted into a small or medium-sized powder room. A guest bedroom is another space that could be converted into a bathroom. For a two-story home, the location underneath the staircase is often a unique way to utilize extra space for a small bathroom.

If there is no additional space to spare there are a couple other options for your bathroom remodel project: A bump-out wall or cantilevered wall projection can provide up to two feet of extra space. Although it doesn’t sound like much it can make a significant difference in a small bathroom. The alternative option is a full-blown bathroom addition. Although the measurements are custom to the needs of the bathroom this is, by far, the more expensive option.

Complete bathroom renovation

If the current bathroom has adequate space but needs a style renovation or an overall update, this is a great option. Like every home improvement project, determining the budget is the first step. Next, determine the style of the bathroom renovation. Although every bathroom style is different following are three common themes.

Modern/Contemporary: This style is a sleek and forward-thinking design, and usually incorporates contrasting patterns and textiles that catch the eye.

Classic: If the overall design of the home is historical or colonial the classic style is a good option. The elegant hues and luxurious touches create a relaxing space.

Rustic: If you are looking to bring the outdoors inside, a rustic renovation is a good option. This design embodies nature and usually has large windows and plant or rock accents.

After the style is decided on, it’s necessary to map out where all the fixtures will go. It often helps to solicit the assistance of someone experienced in design and building codes. A designer can also offer valuable insight on space saving fixtures. For instance, a pedestal sink vs. a vanity is less bulky in a small bathroom. Feasibility of plumbing and sewer line placement are also important considerations.

Once a floor plan is mapped out and the fixtures (tub/shower, toilet, and sink) are decided on, next is flooring. A couple common flooring options are:

Wood plank tile: This flooring has the look of wood, but the durability of tile. Ceramic and porcelain wood tiles are designed to look like they have wood grain but stand up to moisture and easy to clean.

Bamboo/Cork: An environmentally friendly option that resembles wood, yet more durable. It is also resistant to mold and mildew.

Another big decision for a bathroom renovation is deciding on the countertop, assuming you are going with a vanity style sink. Three common options are:

Granite: This is a beautiful option to add to any bathroom. It is durable and easy to clean, but more expensive than some alternatives. If you really do some shopping, you might find an unused, smaller piece of granite that was part of a larger piece for say a kitchen countertop. Think the remnant table at a fabric store.

Manufactured Quartz: This looks like granite but is more cost-effective and has most of the same qualities as granite.

Tile: This is another common bathroom countertop option that is a much more cost-effective option than quartz or granite, but it is harder to clean and maintain because of the grout lines.

Although there are more decisions to be made for a complete bathroom renovation, including lighting, sink and tub/shower faucets and valves, and paint colors, the above items are the most essential and can help you determine the overall direction you’d like to go with your bathroom remodel project.

Cosmetic bathroom update

If a complete bathroom renovation is too large of an undertaking, consider a simpler cosmetic update. It can still make a huge difference in look, functionality, and resale value. One of the easiest updates that can be done to refresh the look of a bathroom is a new coat of paint. To take a paint job to the next level crown molding is another option that helps modernize a bathroom and give it a finished look.

Another easy and inexpensive way to brighten up any bathroom is to replace the light fixtures. It can make a bathroom seem larger simply by exposing hidden corners.

New plumbing fixtures in the shower and sinks are also an instant face-lift for a bathroom, as is, adding a curved shower rod and new curtain for another way to help create a new look.

When thinking about what’s most important for a cosmetic update consider longevity and functionality. For example, decorative grab bars and a shower step are something to think about for the future or a multi-generational household.

All things considered, a bathroom remodel is no small feat with many variables that need to be kept in mind. Make sure your plans are in order before “breaking ground,” for your bathroom remodel.

Working with a professional remodeling contractor will help make your bathroom renovation go smoothly. Let us help you find a remodeling contractor today!

Exterior Home Care

Spring is an excellent time to inspect your home for exterior damage caused by winter weather conditions. A properly maintained home will ensure its overall longevity, protect the interior from the elements, and make the exterior look its best.

Start by doing a visual assessment of the full exterior and compile a list of any noticeable damage or areas that need improvement. Dividing the home into sections will make the inspection and list of potential repairs more manageable. Areas to pay special attention to include roof and gutters, siding, paint, windows and doors, chimney, the deck or porch, and fences. Below is a list of suggested maintenance procedures and preventive care for each area to make sure the home stays in top condition.

Buckling Shingles

Roof & Gutters

Roof and gutters are the home’s first line of defense against the elements. Being proactive about maintaining the roof and gutters will protect your home and help to prevent future costly repairs. Follow the list below for preventive maintenance and to spot potential repairs. If roof repairs are more extensive than these simple fixes, or if the roof needs to be replaced, make sure a certified roofing contractor is used.

Replace curling, buckling, cracked or missing shingles
Ensure flashing is firmly adhered around skylights, vent pipes, and chimneys
Clean debris from roof and valleys
Apply moss retardant, if needed
Ensure gutters are secured and sloped correctly for proper drainage
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent leaks and back-up
Seal all gutter seams where leaks are evident

Siding

Most people don’t think about maintaining siding until visual issues appear such as mold, mildew, dirt build-up, and cracks or holes. With a little preventive care, siding repairs will be minimal, the product will last much longer, and will ensure the outside of the home looks its best. Someone who specializes in siding is often best used for significant siding repairs or for siding replacement.

Vinyl Siding

Although mostly maintenance free, vinyl siding must be checked regularly for cracks and broken or missing pieces. It should also be washed regularly to prevent dirt and mildew build-up.

Fiber-Cement Siding

Annual DIY inspections are recommended to spot any cracked or broken siding. Where accessible, cleaning when needed with a low-pressure garden hose is usually adequate. Avoid pressure washing.

Cedar Siding

To avoid permanent damage to a cedar or wood siding exterior, regular maintenance is important. Moisture is the biggest enemy of wood, so make sure the siding is properly sealed or painted. Termites or other pests can be detrimental; regular inspections are recommended. Other things to look for are cracks or breaks in the wood, which can lead to moisture leaks. Like all siding, cleaning the exterior regularly is important to keep dirt and mildew from growing. This also provides a clear view of any potential areas in need of repair.

While every type of siding requires slightly different care the most important thing is to prevent moisture from getting past the siding, thus shortening the lifespan of the product. Regular inspections and cleaning will minimize siding repairs or the need for siding replacement.

Painting

In addition to enhancing the appearance of your home, paint also helps protect the exterior surfaces. Different maintenance depends on the siding or material used on the home. Bi-yearly check-ups are important to make sure the paint isn’t chipping or acquiring rot or mold. The Pacific Northwest climate is mild but damp, so although the paint will last longer than some other locations, the likelihood of the paint acquiring mold and mildew is higher. To avoid mildew or mold there are special paints with additives to help prevent it from building up on surfaces. Regular cleanings will also help. Staying on top of minor repairs and regular touch-up painting will help maximize the overall life of the paint job.

Windows & Doors

Windows and doors are constantly being opened and closed and if not properly maintained will allow moisture and other unwanted elements into the home, not to mention, increase your energy bill. Check doors and windows for air leaks. It’s also important to keep your door and window tracks free of dirt. Every six months windows and doors should be checked for condensation, mold, and properly working locks and hinges. Once a year clean all frame surfaces, tracks, check for sealed joints, and ensure all windows and doors open and close with ease.

How To Stop Cold Air Leaks In Winter

Chimney Care

Although not all homes have a chimney to maintain, those that do are often older so maintaining it is even more important. If you use the fireplace regularly during the heating season, the chimney should be cleaned annually. Doing so in the spring will avoid the fall rush. From the outside, inspect for any mortar or brick damage. Cracked or crumbling mortar should be removed and replaced, known as repointing. If you find significant mortar or brick damage it is generally best to consult with a professional.

Decks & Fences

As summer approaches and everyone’s spending more time outdoors you’ll want your deck and/or fence looking its best.

Decks

Deck, Shoreline

Decks are exposed to weather conditions year-round, which is why it’s important to understand how to protect and care for your deck to prevent expensive repairs. A comprehensive cleaning and inspection will ensure it’s ready for all those spring and summer BBQ’s. However, different types of decks require slightly different cleaning methods. Choose an appropriate cleaner for your type of deck. These vary for wood, composite, and vinyl surfaces.

To begin, look for debris build-up between deck boards. If the debris build-up is excessive remove using a putty knife. Before starting to clean, do an overall sweep of the deck. Next, thoroughly clean the deck with the cleaner specifically intended for your type deck. Most of the time a soft to medium bristle brush or push broom is a sufficient tool, followed by a rinse with the garden hose. If using a pressure washer, take care to use the right tip, or nozzle, for the job. Using a pressure washer incorrectly can cause a lot of damage, and even injury.

Once the deck is clean, inspect for rot. Also make sure all wood posts, beams, planks, and stairs are secure. Re-secure or replace any loose or broken sections.

Painting a wood deck with a sealer will ensure its longevity and protect it from the elements.

Fences

Fence, Brier

Inspect the full perimeter of the fence for any weak spots, loose nails or planks, or loose and damaged posts. If your fence is constructed of wood, mildew can be a problem when maintaining your fence. To prevent mildew build-up from happening scrub the fence with a mildew cleaner. If you want to give your fence a facelift and extend its longevity, painting or staining will do just that and is only necessary every couple of years.

Follow the steps above to make sure your home is well-maintained and beautiful. Utilizing preventive care will save time and money in the long run. If you need assistance with any of these projects or repairs, we can connect you with the appropriate service professionals for your specific needs. Just let us know how we can help by clicking on the work request today!

Siding Repair and Siding Replacement Options

Pacific Northwest weather can take a toll on a home not properly protected. Selecting a quality siding product and ensuring it is properly installed is paramount in protecting your home from sun, wind, and moisture. In addition to protecting the home from outdoor elements, updating the exterior can also increase energy efficiency, raise the value of a home, and update its overall appearance.

Some common siding products are vinyl, fiber cement, and cedar or wood siding. When choosing which siding product will work best with your home consider the maintenance, cost, longevity of the product, and similar architectural styles in the neighborhood.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is an affordable, resilient, and versatile product. It’s constructed out of a PVC plastic resin, which makes it strong, resistant to rust and rotting, and if properly installed will hold up well against the elements. Vinyl is man-made and can be produced in any shape or color and can imitate textures such as painted wood. In addition to its strong exterior properties it is one of the more affordable options and relatively easy to install. Upkeep for vinyl siding is as simple as an annual cleaning. Because the color, or dye, is cast throughout the entire product you never have to paint vinyl siding. A downside to this type of siding is the color can fade over time from extensive exposure to sunlight.

Fiber-Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a cost-effective material that can imitate the appearance of wood, requires little maintenance, can withstand extreme weather conditions, and provides fire protection. Combined with certain weather barriers and insulation it will increase the home’s energy efficiency. It is impervious to damage caused by heat, wood-boring insects, rot, and is resistant to deterioration from salt and UV rays. Its impenetrable exterior requires no maintenance and usually comes with a 50-year warranty. Due to its strength and durability fiber cement siding is often favored by home owner insurance companies. A drawback to fiber cement siding is the cost. It is priced much higher than vinyl siding. Special tools and additional labor is required to install properly.

Wood Siding

A visually appealing and natural look for the outside of a home is cedar or wood siding. Cedar can be cut into various styles and stained into several shades that fade handsomely over time. Cedar or wood siding is the product that vinyl and cement try to emulate. It matches almost every architectural style and is an eco-friendly choice that is 100 percent biodegradable and can last up to 75 years. Since the siding is natural wood, it is flammable, prone to rot and insects, and needs re-staining or painting periodically. It is also expensive when compared to other siding options.

LP Siding

If your house was built in the late eighties or early nineties, there is a good chance it is covered in LP (short for Louisiana-Pacific) siding. If this is the case, you may be due for siding replacement. LP siding was made from wood chips glued together to form a board, such as plywood, and was meant to look like real wood. The issue with this type of siding is that it fails wherever it’s exposed to weather (which in the Pacific Northwest, is often). Once water clings to the bottom edge of the siding it saturates, swells and deteriorates. If your home has LP siding that is deteriorating, let us help you find a qualified contractor to assist with your siding repair or siding replacement.

If you are looking to update your siding and give your home a facelift let us help you find the best siding replacement contractor for your home improvement project!

Planning A Kitchen Remodel

For many, the kitchen is considered the most important room in the house, whether it’s for entertaining, family gatherings, cooking a meal, or enjoying a moment of silence at the beginning or end of the day. Because the kitchen is a such a significant room in the home, renovating it can be daunting and expensive. From minor kitchen updates to a complete kitchen remodel, it is necessary to carefully plan your kitchen remodel. Soliciting the help of professionals who specialize in kitchen design and remodeling is crucial.

When deciding if a kitchen remodel is in your future, there are some important things to first consider.

What is the overall goal of the kitchen remodel?
Does it need modest cosmetic updates or a more extensive renovation?
How often is the kitchen used?
Will it be used for entertaining?
What is the maximum budget?

Considering these questions will give you a starting place in your kitchen design and remodeling plan.

The design is an essential aspect of a kitchen renovation. Considering the questions listed above is beneficial in discovering which design and style will fit the kitchen’s remodel goals. It’s necessary to align your kitchen’s style so it’s coherent with the rest of your house. Below, are five of the most popular design-styles used in kitchen remodels today.

Country Kitchen

Cozy, comfortable, and inviting are the goals for a country-style kitchen. Farmhouse tables and rustic-looking pieces will significantly elevate this theme. Although wood is the main aspect of a country-inspired kitchen, splashes of red, yellow and blue tones are usually present.

Modern Kitchen

A modern design is sleek and minimalistic. A kitchen with this style has shiny surfaces and high-tech appliances. Gray, white, or black colors with granite countertops and small wood accents set a nice scene for someone looking for a sophisticated update.

Contemporary Kitchen

This kitchen style is ideal for entertaining and has an overall, “welcoming” look to it. The curated old and new materials are usually casual, but polished. An island is an ideal addition to this remodel because it allows more counter space and room for people to interact.

Traditional Kitchen

A traditional kitchen is perfect for a life that revolves around family activities. Its comfortable, timeless style is welcoming to everyone. The kitchen has a “vintage” look and may include white tiles, cupboards, or paneled glass cabinet fronts. This kitchen design is a classic and will never go out of style.

Old-World Kitchen

Solid craftsmanship is the goal of an old-world kitchen design. Combining history and luxury, this style utilizes dark woods, detailed wood carvings, and stone or wood floors. This type of kitchen incorporates a seasoned beauty in a historic home.

Although the payoff is worth the inconvenience, living through a remodel while trying to go through everyday life can be challenging. Some common renovation issues to anticipate (and get accustomed to) for the duration of a kitchen remodel is the mess, dust, contractors moving in and out of the house, noise, and to assume the unexpected.

A kitchen remodel is a significant project not to be taken lightly. If a kitchen improvement project is in your home’s future, first establish a comprehensive plan, design, and budget. Additionally, it’s essential to hire a contractor who understands your remodeling goals and can transform them into your dream kitchen. Keep in mind you will be working closely with this contractor and their team for several months. Choosing a remodeling contractor with the ability to achieve your goals and whose personality is compatible with your own is essential to the success of any large-scale home improvement project. Let us help you find the right contractor today!

Roof Replacement or Roof Repairs

Roof Replacement

When it comes to home improvement, replacing or repairing a roof might not be as exciting as say a kitchen remodel, but what good is a nice kitchen when the roof is falling in, right? Your home is a big investment. Just like a car, proper care is necessary to keep it well maintained and beautiful.

The following describes the many different types of roofs and the pros & cons of each.

The term, “putting a roof over one’s head,” is usually used as a figure of speech, but the saying should be taken literally when thinking about the best type of roof for your home. Whether you are looking to hire a roofing contractor for roof repairs and maintenance or roof replacement, we can help!

The Pacific Northwest has an array of weather patterns that might leave you confused as to which type of roof replacement is the optimum choice for your home improvement project. Just like roofing contractors, not all roofing material is created equal so it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each and the role each plays as your home’s first line of defense against the elements.

Asphalt:

Asphalt composition shingles are the most popular roof replacement, because of their versatility in look, color and low-cost in maintenance and installation. Asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass and organic products that are mixed with asphalt and coated in colored mineral granules.

While the cost to install asphalt shingles is low, many have limited warranties of 15-30 years, and can be easily damaged in rough weather. High winds, heavy rain, and excessive heat can cause the shingles to blow off, crack, curl, or streak, which decreases the roofs’ effectiveness and appearance.

To ensure your asphalt shingle roof stays in optimum condition, it’s important to regularly check for issues. Look for debris buildup near drains or areas behind structures, such as a chimney. In damper climates, like the Pacific Northwest, it is also common for moss or algae to build up and deteriorate your shingles. Zinc strips or various treatments will minimize this issue.

Pros: Easy to install, low-cost, versatile color and texture, deflect UV-rays

Cons: Easily damaged in weather, doesn’t last as long as other roof varieties

Cedar:

Cedar roofing is a beautiful and long-lasting way to upgrade your home. In addition to “aging well,” it can last 30 to 40 years. Cedar is a natural insulator and is an energy efficient way to be eco-friendly and save on heating and cooling bills.

Regular maintenance is required to keep the moss, debris, and rogue tree branches at bay. To help control moss, zinc or copper strips are often installed. Overhanging branches should be trimmed away from the roof to prevent debris from building up and minimizing damage by a falling limb.

Pros: Long-lasting, natural insulator, visually appealing

Cons: Hard to install, expensive, frequent maintenance required

Metal:

Metal roofing is an easy and quick way to update your home. Its durability and simple installation is eco-friendly and lasts 40 to 70 years. It is primarily made of aluminum or steel, but copper, zinc, and titanium are also used. Metal roofing is perfect for keeping out water leaks, resistant to high winds, sheds snow, and does not burn.

Upkeep of this roof style is minimal because of its resistance to mildew, insects, and rot. It can resemble other roof varieties, and it can often be installed over an existing roof.

Pros: Lightweight, recyclable, deflects UV rays, long-lasting, weather resistant, low-maintenance

Cons: Noisy during heavy rainfall and hail, temperature fluctuations might cause panels to loosen

Tile:

If roofing materials had a “best in class” contest, tile roofs would take the cake. It lasts more than 100 years, is visually appealing, durable, and can withstand high winds, hail, rain, and fire. Tile is usually made of terracotta, slate, concrete or plastic and is available in a variety of styles and colors to match any home design. Like aluminum, it is impervious to rot, mold, insect damage, and decay; because of these reasons it requires little maintenance and when properly installed, will never leak.

Pros: Recyclable, eco-friendly, helps regulate indoor temperatures, long-lasting, weather resistant, invulnerable to decay

Cons: Expensive, difficult to install, heavy, tiles are brittle

If you have a flat or low pitch roof we can also connect you with the right roofing contractor for the job. Flat roofs can double as a roof-top deck or allow for the easy installation of new technology, such as solar panels. They also require less material and therefore can be less expensive than steep-slope roofs. Below are common materials and coatings used for flat or low pitch roofs.

Torch Down:

Torch down is a type of flat roof which got its name from the administration used to install it in your home. The material that makes contact with the covering underneath is torched to seal the material, which secures the hold and creates a waterproof seal. Torch down roofing can last 15 to 20 years, and provides resistance to leaks and protection from the heat.

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin):

TPO, short for thermoplastic polyolefin, is a newer roofing material that is energy efficient, UV-resistant, and heat-resistant. TPO is a single ply roofing membrane consisting of three layers. Polymer base, polyester-reinforced fabric center, and thermoplastic polyolefin compound top ply. Usually filled with fiberglass, carbon fiber, and talc. This roof home improvement is economical and affordable, fits different home styles, is durable against mold, dirt, and its lightweight material is easy to install.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride):

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a formula when ethylene and chlorine are combined to produce a vinyl glass that’s converted into a powder and compounded. The PVC membrane comes in rolls of various sizes and thickness and are bound together through heat welding. The material is resistant to chemicals, grease, acid, oil and UV-rays. It’s a lightweight and cost-efficient option.

Whatever type roof you have, proper maintenance, including cleaning and moss treatment, will prolong the life of the roof and keep it protecting your home for many years to come. Regular maintenance and annual inspections are as important as changing the oil in your car. Ignoring a leak or not replacing the roof before it begins to fail is like throwing money to the wind.

If it’s time to replace your roof, we suggest you get several bids and carefully review the fine print, including warranties. Hiring the best roofing contractors for your home improvement is important to ensure your roof is installed correctly and will last as long as possible. We can connect you with a roofing contractor that aligns your wants and needs into a roof best fit for your home.

Contact us for free roofing contractor referrals, roof assessments, and free proposals.

Our expertise is matching customers with the most appropriate service professional for their project. We take the initial steps to ensure they are professional and dependable. Each contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured, successfully passed a thorough screening process including reference checks and regular credential audits, and continue to meet high standards of workmanship. We are committed to helping our customers achieve their home improvement dreams and goals, safely and efficiently.

Demand for Good Contractors is High

Demand for good contractors is high as the summer home improvement season heats up. Don’t be a victim to unscrupulous contractors and business practices. Only hire Licensed, Bonded, and Insured contractors and carefully check credentials and references. Click here to learn how state regulation protects consumers and for useful online links to help screen contractors.

Don’t have time to research contractors? Contact us, we have already done the work for you! We will connect you with dependable, pre-screened contractors for your home maintenance, repair, or remodeling needs.

Vacation Proof Your Home

Returning home from a well-deserved break, only to discover a flooded laundry room or kitchen is not how most people want to end their vacation. Follow these simple steps to avoid coming home to a big mess or costly repairs.

Turn Off The Water

Water leaks can cause devastating damage to your home in a short amount of time. A failed hose connection, plumbing fixture, pipe fitting, or appliance can leak gallons of water in no time, resulting in costly repairs.

Turn off the main water supply completely unless someone will be watering plants or pet sitting in your absence.
Turn off individual water supply to unused sinks, toilets, and washing machine.

Most hoses that come standard with new washing machines are low quality, often lasting less than five years. High quality burst proof replacement hoses, such as those available at Floodchek, can be purchased for around $40. This small investment can potentially save thousands of dollars in damages. Due to the high risk of failure and associated repair costs, many condo associations require burst proof hoses in each dwelling.

Unplug Appliances and Electronics

Defective household appliances, electronics, and wiring can be a fire hazard. Some are also prone to damage from power surges. In addition to fire risk and damage they can draw power and waste electricity, even when not in use.

Unplug kitchen appliances and household electronics like the TV, DVD player, and computer.
Turn down heat or air-conditioning to conserve energy or turn it off completely, if practical.

Secure Your Home

Nothing speaks louder to a potential intruder than an overgrown lawn or newspapers piled on the porch. Secure your home by taking some simple steps to make it look lived in during your absence.

If you have a home security system, contact the service provider with the dates you will be gone and how best to reach you. Instruct the house sitter how to operate the system.
Place a hold on mail and newspaper delivery. Visit the United States Postal Service website to cease mail delivery for the dates you specify.
Ask a friend or neighbor to keep an eye out for door flyers or packages. If possible, ask the neighbor to park their car in your driveway.
If leaving garbage bins out to be emptied, arrange for someone to remove them from the curb once the garbage is collected.
Arrange for the lawn to be cut in your absence. Store tools and ladders out of sight and lock outdoor shed or storage area.
Remove outdoor spare keys.
Keep trees and bushes trimmed away from windows and doorways.
Install timers for interior and exterior lights and set them to mimic your regular habits.
Ensure all windows and doors are locked, including basement windows and the door from the garage leading into the house.
Move expensive electronics and jewelry out of sight from windows and doors. Secure valuables in a home safe or safe deposit box.
Leave a house key, contact information, and itinerary with a friend or neighbor.
Notify the local police station with your plans so they can include your home on their neighborhood watch list.

Think Before Sharing

Social media has made it easier than ever to publicly share personal information. This information can then be shared with friends of friends, potentially hundreds or more often complete strangers.

Think twice before publicly sharing pictures and trip highlights on social media while you are gone on vacation.
Keep the same greeting on your home phone and turn off the ringer. A ringing phone left unanswered is a tip to an intruder that no one is home.

Last But Not Least

Throw out all perishable items in the refrigerator.
Take out the trash, making sure lids are secure on outdoor garbage.
Water plants (indoor and outdoor)

Enjoy a worry free vacation!

Aluminum and Cedar Fence

This unique and attractive fencing system is designed to hold up to the harsh Pacific Northwest weather, combining the strength of metal with the warmth and beauty of wood. The support posts and panel stringers are black powder coated aluminum and the panels are constructed of 6” cedar boards. Cedar panels have been finished with Penofin Oil to bring out the natural beauty of the wood and protect against weather and UV radiation.

Porch and Stairs Restoration

This is one of the latest projects completed for one of our Greenlake area customers. Restoration of the front stairs and porch flooring (as needed) on this beautiful, 1913 Greenlake craftsman home. Project included removing existing stairs and portion of porch flooring, installing new decking, constructing new handrails and posts, building new stair stringers, and installing new decking on stair treads. To be finished with Penofin RenewAll elastomeric waterproof coating.

Biggest Bang For Your Buck

Everyone wants the most bang for their buck, especially when it comes to home improvement, right? Ideally, you want to make improvements or upgrades that benefit you and your family’s needs and lifestyle, while also making smart investment decisions. It can be challenging and time consuming to research the myriad options. Luckily, there is a handy resource available to help. The Remodeling 2017 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) is a valuable tool for homeowners.

The Cost vs. Value Report examines 29 popular projects ranging from lower cost improvements to upscale remodels and home additions. It compares average costs by region across the U.S. and the value those projects are expected to yield at resale. Below you will find the top five projects in the greater Seattle area, according to and more fully described in the Cost vs. Value Report.

Garage Door Replacement

Topping the list with a potential 115% return on investment in Seattle is the replacement of an older garage door and tracks with an upscale, 4-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.

Alternatively, replacement with a mid-range, 4-section door and galvanized steel tracks yields a lesser, but still significant return of 84.6%. The example used also includes reusing the existing opener, and is an uninsulated, single-layer, embossed, painted steel door with galvanized steel hinges, nylon rollers, and 10-year limited warranty.

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 102%, 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.

Attic Insulation (fiberglass)

Adding or upgrading fiberglass insulation in the attic comes in as the third highest valued investment. It is estimated the improvement could yield as much as a 96.2% return on investment.

The project example describes air-sealing a 35×30 attic floor to address air leaks from conditioned space to unconditioned space. Fiberglass loose-fill insulation is then added, placing it over the top of any existing insulation that may already be present, until an R-30 insulation value is reached.

Minor Kitchen Remodel

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, flooring, wall covering, and paint the 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 a 94% return.

Entry Door Replacement (Steel)

We all know how important first impressions can be. Nothing spruces up the look of a home quite like a new front door. Replacing the entry door is a relatively quick and easy job and adds instant curb appeal. For those handy around the home, it might even be a DIY project.

Ideally this investment may reduce utility costs and has a potential 91.5% return on a midrange 20-gauge steel door, including half-glass panel, new jambs, aluminum threshold, and new bored-lock lockset.

Our expertise is matching customers with the most appropriate service professional for their project. Each contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured, has successfully passed a thorough screening process including reference checks and regular credential audits, and continues to meet high standards of workmanship and professionalism.