Sarasota Aluminum And Screen Enclosure Contractor - Latest Blog Entries

How much does a pool cage cost

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:36:00 -0600

How much does a pool cage cost in Sarasota?

Costs will depend on some factors:

Size: square footage or the height of the screen enclosure, one or two story pool cage
Style: Mansard, gable or flat
Existing or new construction swimming pool: existing may have a footer issue, this means the size of the existing concrete footer may not be large enough for the new screen enclosure.
Stainless steel fasteners or regular carbon steel. Stainless steel fasteners I highly recommend, because of the Resistance to corrosion. Though the upgrade to stainless is a additional cost to factor in when pricing out pool cages.
Wind Bracing: "K" Bracing in my opinion is better than cable ties (cable ties will loosen in high wind situations) Though "K" bracing will run more.
Screen

With the information above lets take a standard pool cage and factor in a square foot price:

Deck size: 24' side wall of screen enclosure x 42' back wall of screen enclosure 24' side wall of screen enclosure

Screen Doors: (2) in each side wall

Patio Screen Type: 18/14 standard mesh patio screen 20/20 screen "no-see-um" screen would add an additional .50 cents a sq. ft.

Wall height or fascia height: This measurement would be from the finished concrete deck to the bottom of the drip edge. In this example we will use 10' high walls.

Style Roof: Mansard, flat or gable, mansard is the most popular roof, style, though the above mentioned does not reflect a increase in price.

Equation: 24' side wall + 24' side wall + 42' back wall= 90 l/f x the wall height of 10'= 900 sq. ft . this is the square footage of our walls of the screen enclosure.

Roof: would be 24' x 42' = 1008 sq.ft.

Take the roof and add the walls together: 900 walls + 1008 roof = 1908 total square footage

1908 total square footage x $3.50 a square foot.= $6678.00 this should include permit, materials and labor + engineering

Home remodeling tips

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:48:00 -0600

Home remodeling is a quite regular event that the home owners undertake. This is true for I know that all of us wanted our homes to look nicer and happy to live. So for those who are thinking for home remodeling, here some tips to help you in your home remodeling.

Home Design

At first many people think on what way will their home look nicer and what’s the possible design that will fit for the natural aura of the place. The concept of design for home remodeling in this sense comes in. So for the design for home remodeling you should decide if you want to hire an architect, an interior designer, and other home remodeling masters to create your home remodeling ideas. It is necessary to consider for the design for home remodeling that you can afford and you really feel comfortable. A certain understanding with the home remodeling contractor is very important for a solid work. And make a decision for a certain budget for your home remodeling and stick with it.

Implementation

In this step for your home remodeling, you must plan and analysis your home remodeling design with your contractor for any ideas that will help you in your home remodeling whether about the flow or about the costs. And then choose materials and products for your home remodeling project. If possible try to choose first those materials for your home remodeling project that is needed first and those that need enough time. The time for the home remodeling contractor to come up with a detailed construction schedule and procedures and to get some construction crews must also be given attention.

Consultation

It is important that in every home remodeling project, there should be a consultation between the home owner, the home remodeling contractor and his job site supervisor, the architect or designer, any other construction members who will be working with your home remodeling project. In this case, you must take note some of the important matters involved in your home remodeling project and send memos for any possible changes from the original plan. It is important that you set ground rules for your home remodeling project between you and your home remodeling contractor or the job-site supervisor, and if possible try to think for a communication plan that will definitely take place between you and your home remodeling contractor and the other important persons under your home remodeling project. The common noted primary contact person is the job-site supervisor. If you are really serious with your home remodeling project, then you should pay attention to every details or comments or questions regarding your home remodeling project.

Finally, the tips for setting up some things in your home remodeling project must also be considered. Take away the personal things from the working area and if possible you try to put up a temporary mini kitchen in another part of the house. And for your home remodeling, try to set up some trash bins, portable toilet, and construction fence for better movement. And make room for large belongings which are delivered at this point.

For more information and tips on home remodeling, visit us at http://www.homesmart.info.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kenny_Yong

The Pros and Cons of Bathroom Remodeling for Resale Homes

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:44:00 -0600

On each flip project a decision must be made as to whether or not the bathroom(s) need to be remodeled. The decision to remodel the bathroom of an investment property is one of the biggest you'll make as it will also result in one of the largest costs in terms of time and money. The net financial result is what should concern you. Will the remodeling yield a profit on it's own, or at least contribute proportionately to the overall profit.

The Pros of Remodeling the Bathroom of an Investment House:

Give it the WOW factor! The Wow factor is probably the major reason you would renovate the bathroom. There are three rooms that you want to be impressive; and the bathroom is arguably number one. Mr. and Ms. Buyer will often make their decision based on the condition of the bathroom.

Whether you choose to remodel the whole thing or just replace certain components should be based partly on the criticality of the bathroom in the buy-decision. Done properly a bathroom renovation could well be the deciding factor between getting your price and not selling your house.

An ugly, poorly maintained bathroom will have the potential buyers lowering their pricing expectations disproportionate to the amount it would cost to renovate it. A buyer purchasing a renovated house has expectations that certain things are in good shape – that’s why they’re buying a house that’s already been renovated.

Whether it’s a facelift or a total gut, that one room can make or break the deal.

If you’re working with a very limited budget you can decide which particular parts of your bathroom that you would like remodeled, such as the tub or the toilet or the sink.

If money is not an issue, you may make the decision to remodel your whole bathroom. In addition to deciding what parts of your bathroom you would like remodeled, you will also have complete control over the products and materials used.

For instance, if you wish to replace the toilet, you can choose the quality which suits the budget. What matters is that it’s new. Knowing that the toilet is new and has never been used is a big deal to some people. They may think “I will replace that toilet someday”, but it’s good enough to help facilitate a good overall impression.

Bathroom remodelling can be relatively easy to do depending on the depth you want to go. It is something an average handyman can do by themselves in order to save expenses.

Although you can save yourself money by doing your own remodeling, you may not want to or you may be unable to do so. If that is the case, you still have a choice. That choice is seeking assistance from a professional contractor.

Despite costing more money, your bathroom will be remodeled professionally and often in less time.

It is also important to mention that bathroom remodeling projects can help to increase a home’s value. That is one of the biggest pros to having your bathroom remodeled. The increase in value, if there is one, will depend on a number of different factors. Those factors include what type of remodeling is done, as well as how well it is done. Whether you choose to hire the services of a professional bathroom remodeling expert or if you have prior home improvement experience, the decision to remodel your bathroom could significantly increase the value of your home.

Although there are a number of pros to bathroom remodeling, there are also a number of cons. Those cons mainly include the cost of doing so. When it comes to deciding whether or not you want to remodel your bathroom, you will have to make up your own mind; however, when doing so you may want to keep the above mentioned points in mind.

The Cons of Remodeling the Bathroom of an Investment House:

There are two major cons to remodelling for a flip; cost and the impact of a poor job.

If you are contemplating a bathroom remodeling project, these cons may make you want to rethink your decision.

The biggest con to remodeling is the cost, particularly if you go high end on your fixtures. Remodeling for resale is not the same as remodeling for yourself. You must keep this in mind for a flip. The character of the end result should match the character of the house not your idea of what the perfect bathroom should be. Remember, you are in this for profit.

The extent to which you remodel will affect the price as well. If you gut the bathroom down to the joists you will be looking at a lot more than if you simply replaced the toilet and added a tub surround. In addition to the cost of supplies and materials, you also need to determine whether or not there will be any additional costs. For instance, if you make the decision to have your bathroom professionally remodeled, you will need to pay a professional contractor. Although a professional contractor often produces better results, you will find the cost of hiring one fairly high.

In addition to the cost of bathroom remodeling, it is also important to note the time that it will take. How long a bathroom remodeling project lasts will all depend on what is being remodeling. If you are simply looking to replace your toilet, you will find that your remodeling project takes less time than it would if you were planning on remodeling your entire bathroom. The amount of time it takes for remodeling will also depend on how much time can be devoted to it. If you make the decision to hire a professional contractor to remodel your bathroom, the remodeling will likely be done quicker. In addition to knowing exactly what they are doing, professionals can usually devote more time to work than someone who is only doing the work on the side.

Another one of the many cons to remodeling your bathroom is what it can do to your home. As you may already know, it is possible for a bathroom remodeling project to increase the value of your home. While an increase is likely to occur, it is not guaranteed. If your home’s value does increase because of a bathroom remodeling project, it will all depend on how much remodeling was done and the result of that remodeling. A professional or quality remodeling job is likely to produce the best increase in value.

What you need to be aware of is what a poor remodeling project can do for your home. There is a chance that a poor bathroom remodeling project could also decrease the value of your home. The chances of that happening are slim, but there is always a chance.

As previously mentioned, when having your bathroom remodeled, you have a choice as to whether you want to do your own remodeling or a have a professional do it for you.

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, you will find that are more cons to do it yourself bathroom remodeling.

As you can see, there are a number of bathroom remodeling cons. Although it may seem as if it isn’t worth it to remodel your bathroom, there are also a number of bathroom remodeling pros. These pros include a new bathroom and the possibility of increasing your home’s value. If you are interested in remodeling your bathroom, only you can decide whether or not it would be worth it and given your skill set and time, what the best approach would be.

Steve Leighton

Real Estate Investment Consultant

http://www.HouseFlipOnline.com [http://ebook1.HouseFlipOnline.com]

steve@housefliponline.com

Author of "Guide to Buying and Selling Fixer Upper Homes"

Get your FREE copy today and sign up for the HouseFlipOnline

News Letter Today!

Visit: http://www.HouseFlipOnline.com [http://ebook1.HouseFlipOnline.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Leighton

2009 Tax Credits for replacement windows and doors get up to $1500.00 cash back

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:34:00 -0600

If you're planning a window or door replacement project, then now's the time. That's because you can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost of qualified energy-efficient windows and doors, up to $1,500.

This is a huge opportunity for you. The tax credit was originally a measly $200 for windows and up to $500 for doors. Now Congress and the President have passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, aka "The Stimulus." Inside is a provision that triples the old tax credit.

This isn't just a handout. To qualify for the new Tax Credit, you have to be a smart shopper and buy the most energy-efficient windows. Energy Star certification, the old standard, doesn't cut it anymore. The new standard will help our country become energy independent. Plus, better windows save you money on energy bills and keep you comfortable all year round.

What Windows and Doors Qualify For The Tax Credit?

Only windows and doors with a U-Factor of .30 or less qualify. U-Factor is a measure of the window's overall energy-efficiency. Many windows have U-Factors of .31 or .32. Those don't qualify.

Windows and doors also need a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of .30 or less. A low SHGC blocks the blistering heat that comes through windows in the summer, reducing the load on your air conditioning. Once again, .31 or .32 aren't good enough. It has to be exactly .30 or less.

U-Factor and SHGC are independently tested and verified for windows by the National Fenestration Rating Council. Any reputable window will have a NFRC sticker.

How To Make Sure Your New Windows Qualify

To get your $1,500 tax credit, you need to shop smart. Many windows and doors out there don't meet the new requirements-even some high-end brands you've heard of. A lot of companies haven't processed or don't even know about the new tax credit. There's a lot of confusion about this right now-you don't want to be left empty-handed.

Here's what you need to do: Make sure that any replacement window or door you buy has a U-Factor and SHGC of .30 or less. If the window company won't show you the NFRC sticker certifying the ratings, walk away. If you're unsure or suspicious, visit the NFRC at http://www.nfrc.org. You can verify ratings in the product directory or contact them directly.

How To Claim Your $1,500 Energy-Efficient Window and Door Tax Credit

1. Purchase and install any replacement window, patio door, or entry door with a U-Factor and SHGC of .30 or below between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010.
2. Save your receipt and each window and door performance label (NFRC label) with your tax documents.
3. Claim your tax credit on your Federal filing for the 2009 or 2010 tax year.

Terms and Limitations

The tax credit is for the cost of the product only and does not include installation costs. Be sure to ask for a sales receipt that shows the cost of the product only.
The tax credit is 30% of the amount paid up to a $1,500 maximum.
If a combination of windows and doors are purchased, the total maximum credit is $1,500.
This is a new tax credit for 2009/2010.

Be confident that you're getting replacement windows and doors that qualify you for the $1,500 tax credit. Mr. Rogers Windows has a large selection of windows and doors that are NFRC-certified to have U-Factors and SHGCs of .30 or less. You'll find windows, doors, and patio doors in all styles that meet federal requirements. Plus, they're professionally installed and backed by a Lifetime Performance Guarantee.

Visit http://www.mrrogerswindows.com/energy-efficiency.php for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gerry_Rogers

Top Ten ways to save energy in your home

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:56:00 -0500

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

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10 Easy Ways to Save Energy in Your Home

By Nick Gromicko, Ben Gromicko, Rob London and Kenton Shepard

Most people don’t know how easy it is to make their homes run on less energy, and here at InterNACHI, we want to change that. Drastic reductions in heating, cooling and electricity costs can be accomplished through very simple changes, most of which homeowners can do themselves. Of course, for homeowners who want their homes to take advantage of the most up-to-date knowledge and systems in home energy-efficiency, InterNACHI energy auditors can perform in-depth testing to find the best energy solutions for your particular home.

Why make your home more energy efficient? Here are a few good reasons:

Federal, state, utility and local jurisdictions' financial incentives, such as tax breaks, are very advantageous in most parts of the U.S.
It saves money. It costs less to power a home that has been converted to be more energy-efficient.
It increases indoor comfort levels.
It reduces our impact on climate change. Many scientists now believe that excessive energy consumption contributes significantly to global warming.
It reduces pollution. Conventional power production introduces pollutants that find their way into the air, soil and water supplies.

1. Find better ways to heat and cool your house.

As much as half of the energy used in homes goes toward heating and cooling. The following are a few ways that energy bills can be reduced through adjustments to the heating and cooling systems:

Install a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans can be used in place of air conditioners, which require a large amount of energy.
Periodically replace air filters in air conditioners and heaters.
Set thermostats to an appropriate temperature. Specifically, they should be turned down at night and when no one is home. In most homes, about 2% of the heating bill will be saved for each degree that the thermostat is lowered for at least eight hours each day. Turning down the thermostat from 75° F to 70°F, for example, saves about 10% on heating costs.
Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat saves money by allowing heating and cooling appliances to be automatically turned down during times that no one is home and at night. Programmable thermostats contain no mercury and, in some climate zones, can save up to $150 per year in energy costs.
Install a wood stove or a pellet stove. These are more efficient sources of heat than furnaces.
At night, curtains drawn over windows will better insulate the room.

2. Install a tankless water heater.

Demand water heaters (tankless or instantaneous) provide hot water only as it is needed. They don't produce the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which will save on energy costs. Demand water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. Therefore, they avoid the standby heat losses required by traditional storage water heaters. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. Either a gas burner or an electric element heats the water. As a result, demand water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water. You don't need to wait for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water.

3. Replace incandescent lights.

The average household dedicates 11% of its energy budget to lighting. Traditional incandescent lights convert approximately only 10% of the energy they consume into light, while the rest becomes heat. The use of new lighting technologies, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), can reduce energy use required by lighting by 50% to 75%. Advances in lighting controls offer further energy savings by reducing the amount of time lights are on but not being used. Here are some facts about CFLs and LEDs:

CFLs use 75% less energy and last about 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
LEDs last even longer than CFLs and consume less energy.
LEDs have no moving parts and, unlike CFLs, they contain no mercury.

4. Seal and insulate your home.

Sealing and insulating your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a home more comfortable and energy efficient -– and you can do it yourself. A tightly sealed home can improve comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills. An InterNACHI energy auditor can be hired to assess envelope leakage and recommend fixes that will dramatically increase comfort and energy savings.

The following are some common places where leakage may occur:

electrical outlets;
mail slots;
around pipes and wires;
wall- or window-mounted air conditioners;
attic hatches;
fireplace dampers;
weatherstripping around doors;
baseboards;
window frames; and
switch plates.

Because hot air rises, air leaks are most likely to occur in the attic. Homeowners can perform a variety of repairs and maintenance to their attics that save them money on cooling and heating, such as:

Plug the large holes. Locations in the attic where leakage is most likely to be the greatest are where walls meet the attic floor, behind and under attic knee walls, and in dropped-ceiling areas.
Seal the small holes. You can easily do this by looking for areas where the insulation is darkened. Darkened insulation is a result of dusty interior air being filtered by insulation before leaking through small holes in the building envelope. In cold weather, you may see frosty areas in the insulation caused by warm, moist air condensing and then freezing as it hits the cold attic air. In warmer weather, you’ll find water staining in these same areas. Use expanding foam or caulk to seal the openings around plumbing vent pipes and electrical wires. Cover the areas with insulation after the caulk is dry.
Seal up the attic access panel with weatherstripping. You can cut a piece of fiberglass or rigid foam board insulation the same size as the attic hatch and glue it to the back of the attic access panel. If you have pull-down attic stairs or an attic door, these should be sealed in a similar manner.

5. Install efficient shower heads and toilets.

The following systems can be installed to conserve water usage in homes:

low-flow shower heads. They are available in different flow rates, and some have a pause button which shuts off the water while the bather lathers up;
low-flow toilets. Toilets consume 30% to 40% of the total water used in homes, making them the biggest water users. Replacing an older 3.5-gallon toilet with a modern, low-flow 1.6-gallon toilet can reduce usage an average of two gallons-per-flush (GPF), saving 12,000 gallons of water per year. Low-flow toilets usually have "1.6 GPF" marked on the bowl behind the seat or inside the tank;
vacuum-assist toilets. These types of toilets have a vacuum chamber which uses a siphon action to suck air from the trap beneath the bowl, allowing it to quickly fill with water to clear waste. Vacuum toilets are relatively quiet; and
dual-flush toilets. Dual-flush toilets have been used in Europe and Australia for years, and are now gaining in popularity in the U.S. Dual-flush toilets let you choose between a 1-gallon (or less) flush for liquid waste, and a 1.6-gallon flush for solid waste. Dual-flush 1.6-GPF toilets reduce water consumption by an additional 30%.

6. Use appliances and electronics responsibly.

Appliances and electronics account for about 20% of household energy bills in a typical U.S. home. The following are tips that will reduce the required energy of electronics and appliances:

Refrigerators and freezers should not be located near the stove, dishwasher or heat vents, or exposed to direct sunlight. Exposure to warm areas will force them to use more energy to remain cool.
Computers should be shut off when not in use. If unattended computers must be left on, their monitors should be shut off. According to some studies, computers account for approximately 3% of all energy consumption in the United States.
Use efficient “Energy Star”-rated appliances and electronics. These devices, approved by the DOE and the EPA’s Energy Star Program, include TVs, home theater systems, DVD players, CD players, receivers, speakers and more. According to the EPA, if just 10% of homes used energy-efficient appliances, it would reduce carbon emissions by the equivalent of 1.7 million acres of trees.
Chargers, such as those for laptops and cell phones, consume energy when they are plugged in. When they are not connected to electronics, chargers should be unplugged.
Laptop computers consume considerably less electricity than desktop computers.

7. Install daylighting as an alternative to electrical lighting.

Daylighting is the practice of using natural light to illuminate the home's interior. It can be achieved using the following approaches:

skylights. It’s important that they be double-pane or they may not be cost-effective. Flashing skylights correctly is key to avoiding leaks;
lightshelves. Light shelves are passive devices designed to bounce light deep into a building. They may be interior or exterior. Light shelves can introduce light into a space up to 2½ times the distance from the floor to the top of the window, and advanced light shelves may introduce four times that amount;
clerestory windows. Clerestory windows are short, wide windows set high on the wall. Protected from the summer sun by the roof overhang, they allow winter sun to shine through for natural lighting and warmth; and
light tubes. Light tubes use a special lens designed to amplify low-level light and reduce light intensity from the midday sun. Sunlight is channeled through a tube coated with a highly reflective material, then enters the living space through a diffuser designed to distribute light evenly.

8. Insulate windows and doors.

About one-third of the home's total heat loss usually occurs through windows and doors. The following are ways to reduce energy lost through windows and doors:

Seal all window edges and cracks with rope caulk. This is the cheapest and simplest option.
Windows can be weatherstripped with a special lining that is inserted between the window and the frame. For doors, weatherstrip around the whole perimeter to ensure a tight seal when closed. Install quality door sweeps on the bottom of the doors, if they aren't already in place.
Install storm windows at windows with only single panes. A removable glass frame can be installed over an existing window.
If existing windows have rotted or damaged wood, cracked glass, missing putty, poorly fitting sashes, or locks that don't work, they should be repaired or replaced.

9. Cook smart.

An enormous amount of energy is wasted while cooking. The following recommendations and statistics illustrate less wasteful ways of cooking:

Convection ovens are more efficient that conventional ovens. They use fans to force hot air to circulate more evenly, thereby allowing food to be cooked at a lower temperature. Convection ovens use approximately 20% less electricity than conventional ovens.
Microwave ovens consume approximately 80% less energy than conventional ovens.
Pans should be placed on the correctly-sized heating element or flame.
Lids make food heat more quickly than pans that do not have lids.
Pressure cookers reduce cooking time dramatically.
When using conventional ovens, food should be placed on the top rack. The top rack is hotter and will cook food faster.

10. Change the way you wash your clothes.

Do not use the “half load” setting on your washer. Wait until you have a full load of clothes, as the “half load” setting saves less than half of the water and energy.
Avoid using high-temperature settings when clothes are not that dirty. Water that is 140 degrees uses far more energy than 103 degrees for a "warm" setting, but 140 degrees isn’t that much better for washing purposes.
Clean the lint trap before you use the dryer, every time. Not only is excess lint a fire hazard, but it will prolong the amount of time required for your clothes to dry.
If possible, air-dry your clothes on lines and racks.
Spin-dry or wring clothes out before putting them into a dryer.

Homeowners who take the initiative to make these changes usually discover that the energy savings are more than worth the effort. However, you should consider that inspectors can make this process much easier and perform a more comprehensive assessment of energy saving potential than you can. For a qualified inspector, visit www.InspectorSeek.com. Ask the inspector if they are trained in performing energy inspections.

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How to make your home more energy efficient

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:52:00 -0500

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

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Increasing Home Energy Efficiency

By Nick Gromicko, Rob London and Kenton Shepard

Energy-efficient homes require less energy to perform household functions as homes that are less energy-efficient. There are many adjustments that homeowners can make to reduce the amount of energy required by their homes.

Interesting facts about energy consumption in the United States and Canada:

The United States is the world’s largest consumer of energy, and the world’s seventh largest consumer of energy per capita.
Canada consumes more energy per capita than the United States.
Buildings account for 72% of all energy consumed in the United States.
18% of all emissions in the United States comes from operating homes.
In the average household, the TV is left on stand-by for 17 hours per day.

Why make your home more energy-efficient?

Federal, state, utility and local jurisdictions' financial incentives, such as tax breaks, are very advantageous in most parts of the U.S.
It saves money. It costs less to power a home that has been converted to be more energy-efficient.
It increases indoor comfort levels.
It reduces our contributions to climate change. Many scientists now believe that excessive energy consumption contributes significantly to global warming.
It reduces pollution. Conventional power production introduces pollutants into the air that find their way into the soil and water supplies.

Heating and Cooling

As much as half of the energy used in homes goes toward heating and cooling. The following are a few ways that energy bills can be reduced through adjustments to the heating and cooling systems:

Add insulation to the building envelope (walls, floors and ceiling) to bring the home up to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-recommended limits for the climate zone in which the home is located.
Insulate heating ducts. Up to 40% of energy can be lost in uninsulated heating ducts routed through unheated space. This means that up to 45 cents of every dollar spent on heating can be wasted.
Install a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans can be used in place of air conditioners, which require large amounts of energy.
Periodically replace air filters in air conditioners and heaters.
Set thermostats to an appropriate temperature. Specifically, they should be turned down at night and when no one is home. In most homes, about 2% of the heating bill will be saved for each degree that the thermostat is lowered for at least eight hours each day. Turning down the thermostat from 75°F to 70°F, for example, saves about 10% on heating costs.
Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat saves money by allowing heating and cooling appliances to be automatically turned down during times at which no one is home and at night. Programmable thermostats contain no mercury and, in some climate zones, can save up to $150 per year in energy costs.
Install a wood stoves or a pellet stove. These are more efficient sources of heat than furnaces.
At night, curtains drawn over windows will better insulate the room.

Appliances and Electronics

Appliances and electronics are responsible for about 20% of household energy bills in a typical U.S. home. The following are tips that will reduce the required energy of electronics and appliances:

Refrigerators and freezers should not be located near the stove, dishwasher or heat vents, or exposed to direct sunlight. Exposure to warm areas will force them to use more energy to remain cool.
Computers should be shut off when not in use. If unattended computers must be left on, their monitors should be shut off. According to some studies, computers account for approximately 3% of all energy consumption in the United States.
Use efficient “Energy Star” -ated appliances and electronics. These devices, approved by the DOE and the EPA’s Energy Star program, range from TVs, home theater systems, DVD players, CD players, receivers, speakers and more. According to the EPA, if just 10% of homes used energy-efficient appliances, it would reduce carbon emissions by the equivalent of 1.7 million acres of trees.
Chargers, such as those for laptops and cell phones, consume energy when they are plugged in. When they are not connected to electronics, chargers should be unplugged.
Laptop computers consume considerably less electricity than desktop computers.

Electric Lighting

The average household dedicates 11% of its energy budget to lighting. Traditional incandescent lights convert approximately only 10% of the energy that they consume into light, while the rest becomes heat. The use of new lighting technologies, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), can reduce energy use required by lighting by 50% to 75%. Advances in lighting controls offer further energy savings by reducing the amount of time lights are on but not being used. Here are some facts about CFLs and LEDs:

CFLs use 75% less energy and last about 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
LEDs last even longer than CFLs and consume less energy.
LEDs have no moving parts and, unlike CFLs, they contain no mercury

Daylighting

Daylighting is the practice of using natural light to illuminate the home's interior. It can be achieved using the following approaches:

skylights. It’s important that they be double-pane or they may not be cost-effective. Flashing skylights correctly is key to avoiding leaks.
light shelves. Light shelves are passive devices designed to bounce light deep into a building. They may be interior or exterior. Light shelves can introduce light into a space up to 2½ times the distance from the floor to the top of the window, and advanced light shelves may introduce four times that amount.
clerestory windows. Clerestory windows are short, wide windows set high on the wall. Protected from the summer sun by the roof overhang, they allow winter sun to shine through for natural lighting and warmth.
light tubes. Light tubes use a special lens designed to amplify low-level light and reduce light intensity from the midday sun. Sunlight is channeled through a tube coated with a highly relective material, then enters the living space through a diffuser designed to distribute light evenly.

Cooking

An enormous amount of energy is wasted while cooking. The following recommendations and statistics illustrate less wasteful ways of cooking:

Convection ovens are more efficient that conventional ovens. They use fans to force hot air to circulate more evenly, thereby allowing food to be cooked at a lower temperature. Convection ovens use approximately 20% less electricity than conventional ovens.
Microwave ovens consume approximately 80% less energy than conventional ovens.
Pans should be placed on the correctly-sized heating element or flame.
Lids make food heat more quickly than pans that do not have lids.
Pressure cookers reduce cooking time dramatically.
When using conventional ovens, food should be placed on the top rack. The top rack is hotter and will cook food faster.

Leakage Through the Building Envelope

Sealing holes and cracks in the home’s envelope helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen and noise. A tightly sealed home can improve comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills. Tightening the home reduces the number of air changes per hour. The following are some common places where leakage may occur:

electrical outlets;
mail slots;
around pipes and wires;
wall- or window-mounted air conditioners;
attic hatches;
fireplace dampers;
weatherstripping around doors;
baseboards;
window frames; and
switch plates.

Strategies for filling cracks:

Caulk can be used to fill small gaps. Caulk can be obtained at hardware stores.
Expandable foam can be used to fill larger gaps.
Foam gaskets can be used to seal electrical outlets.

Windows and Doors

About one-third of the home's total heat loss usually occurs through windows and doors. The following are ways to reduce energy lost through doors and windows.

Seal all window edges and cracks with rope caulk. This is the cheapest and simplest option.
Windows can be weatherstripped with a special lining that is inserted between the window and the frame. For doors, weatherstrip around the whole perimeter to ensure a tight seal when closed. Install quality door sweeps on the bottom of the doors, if they aren't already in place.
Install storm windows at windows with only single panes. A removable glass frame can be installed over an existing window.
If existing windows have rotted or damaged wood, cracked glass, missing putty, poorly fitting sashes, or locks that don't work, they should be repaired or replaced.

Indoor Water Conservation

The following systems can be installed to conserve water usage in homes:

low-flow showerheads. They are available in different flow rates, and some have a pause button which shuts off the water while the bather lathers up.
low-flow toilets. Toilets consume 30% to 40% of the total water used in homes, making them the biggest water users. Replacing an older 3.5-gallon toilet with a modern, low-flow 1.6-gallon toilet can reduce usage an average of two gallons-per-flush (GPF), saving 12,000 gallons of water per year. Low-flow toilets usually have "1.6 GPF" marked on the bowl behind the seat or inside the tank.
vacuum-assist toilets. These types of toilets have a vacuum chamber, which uses a siphon action to suck air from the trap beneath the bowl, allowing it to quickly fill with water to clear waste. Vacuum toilets are relatively quiet.
dual-flush toilets. Dual-flush toilets have been used in Europe and Australia for years, and are now gaining in popularity in the U.S. Dual-flush toilets let you choose between a 1-gallon (or less) flush for liquid waste, and a 1.6-gallon flush for solid waste. Dual-flush 1.6-GPF toilets reduce water consumption by an additional 30%.

Solar-Thermal Heating

Solar water heating first became popular in the 1970s when federal, state and utility incentives encouraged their installation, as is happening again now. Inspectors will see many of these older systems still in place but no longer working. In practice, inspectors will encounter a wide variety of system configurations and components, and recommending a specialist inspection is a good idea in order to pass on liability. These systems can be expensive. The idea is fairly simple. Solar insolation heats a circulating fluid which transfers its heat to a storage tank from which home hot water can be drawn, either directly to plumbing fixtures, or to supply pre-heated water to boilers or hot water heaters.

Various types of solar-thermal heating can be installed, such as:

evacuated tube collectors;
flat-plate collectors; and
parabolic through-collectors.

In summary, there are a variety of adjustments to the home that homeowners can make to increase the energy-efficiency of their homes.

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Fiberglass Insulation, History, Hazards, Alternatives.

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Wind Mitigation Inspections by Inter NACHI Member

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:49:00 -0500

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

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Wind Mitigation

By Nick Gromicko, Rob London and Kenton Shepard

Wind mitigation is the implementation of certain building techniques in order to limit damage caused by intense wind.

A few facts about windstorms and wind insurance:

In 2006, Citizens Insurance, one of the largest property insurers in Florida, requested a 45% rate increase for wind insurance. Other insurers took similar actions.
In Florida, the portion of a homeowner's premium covering wind damage can be up to 70% of the total, depending on location.
Wind mitigation benefits homeowners, private insurers, and all levels of government.

Incentives for Wind Mitigation

In some states, homeowners can benefit from reduced insurance premiums. The Gulf Coast states, which are most prone to windstorm damage from hurricanes, have each considered mandating incentives to mitigate damage due to wind. Mississippi and Texas currently do not have such legislation, although Florida has been successful. Following Hurricane Andrew, Florida passed a law requiring insurance companies to offer their customers discounts and credits for existing building features and home improvements that reduce damage and loss from wind. In order to qualify for this discount, homes must undergo a certified home wind inspection. However, many Floridians do not know of this law because insurers are not required to tell their customers that the law exists.
Those with windstorm insurance can avoid a costly deductible. Deductibles for homes in hurricane-prone areas can exceed $20,000, meaning that mild to moderate wind damage might not be covered by insurance at all. If proper wind mitigation techniques have been used, these expenses can be avoided altogether.
Wind mitigation helps protect the home from damage. Even if a home is insured, it is always costly when a house is damaged, both for the homeowner and the insurer. Repairs can take months, especially during material shortages that follow massive destruction to entire communities, as was the case after Hurricane Katrina struck Louisiana.
Lenders in Florida require homeowners to carry windstorm insurance in order to be approved for a mortgage. Insurers may not provide windstorm insurance to homes that are vulnerable to wind damage.

Checklist for Wind Mitigation Techniques:

garage doors: These commonly fail during windstorms due to:

inadequate door-track strength and mounting systems; and
flimsy metal panels.

The following features can protect a garage door from wind damage:

no windows;
the tracks for the door that have six to nine mounting brackets, or continuous mounting;
track brackets that are securely attached to the wall; and
horizontal and/or vertical reinforcement on all panels.

opening protection: Glass doors and windows should be replaced with impact-resistant glass. They should be structurally attached to the building in order to prevent the entire window from popping out of its frame. Sliding glass doors are especially vulnerable to flying debris due to their large expanse. Once an opening is created during a windstorm, the pressure within the house can rise high enough to cause the roof to fail in areas of low pressure. The picture to the right demonstrates how these areas of low pressure can form.
roof covering: There are many kinds of roof covering materials, and some resist wind damage better than others. The most common roof covering materials in Florida are composition shingles and tiles. A key factor in roof covering performance is the method of attachment of the roof covering material to the roof deck. Nails, not staples, should be used to fasten these materials.
roof shape: "Roof shape" refers to the geometry of the roof, rather than the type of roof covering. The end-walls of gable roofs extend vertically to the sloping roofline. These gable end-walls, if not properly built or braced, have been known to fail outward due to the negative suctions on the wall. Additionally, field testing has shown that hip roofs receive up to 40% less pressure from wind than gable roofs.
roof deck attachment: According to insurance claim data, a house becomes a major loss once the roof deck fails, even partially. The most common roof deck types are plywood and OSB. The most important feature of the roof deck by far is the attachment to the framing compared to the deck's thickness. The following building techniques can help prevent wind damage:

roof coverings using shingles that meet the FBC requirements;
roof decks that have been installed with large nails and close spacing;
hurricane clips/straps that hold the roof structure to the walls; and
protection of windows and glass doors with impact-resistant glazing or other protection systems.

roof-to-wall connections: This connection is a critical safeguard that keeps the roof attached to the building and acts to transfer the uplift loads into the vertical walls. This connection is crucial to the performance of the building due to the large negative pressures acting on the roof. Proper installation is essential to connector performance.
secondary water resistance: This is a layer of protection that shields the home in the event that the roof covering fails. It will reduce leakage if the shingles are blown off. A secondary water barrier is relatively rare in homes. The two most common types are:

self-adhering modified bitumen underlayment, which is applied to the exterior of all joints; and
foam seal, which is sprayed onto the underside of the decking.

In 2009 the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) developed an online, video wind mitigation course for inspectors. The course is approved by most insurance companies.

In summary, wind mitigation is a strategy designed to limit the amount of wind damage inflicted on a structure. Various incentives are in place to motivate homeowners to implement these enhancements, and qualified inspectors can determine which improvements are necessary.

Tie-downs for manufactured homes

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Fifteen tools every homeowner should own

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:44:00 -0500

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors

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15 Tools That Every Homeowner Should Own

By Nick Gromicko and Rob London

The following items are essential tools but this list is by no means exhaustive. Feel free to ask an InterNACHI inspector during your next inspection about other tools that you might find useful.

1. Plunger

A clogged sink or toilet is one of the most disturbing problems that you will face. With a plunger on hand, however, you can usually remedy these troubling plumbing issues relatively quickly. It is best to have two plungers -- one for the sink and one for the toilet.

2. Combination Wrench Set

One end of a combination wrench set is open and the other end is a closed loop. Nuts and bolts are manufactured in standard and metric sizes and because both varieties are widely used, so you’ll need both sets of wrenches. For the most control and leverage, always pull the wrench toward you, instead of pushing on it. Also, avoid over-tightening.

3. Slip-Joint Pliers

Use slip-joint pliers to grab hold of a nail, a nut, a bolt, and much more. These types of pliers are versatile because of the jaws, which feature both flat and curved areas for gripping many types of objects. There is also a built-in slip-joint, which allows the user to quickly adjust the jaw size to suit most tasks.

4. Adjustable Wrench

Adjustable wrenches are somewhat awkward to use and can damage a bolt or nut if they are not handled properly. However, adjustable wrenches are ideal for situations where you need two wrenches of the same size. Screw the jaws all the way closed to avoid damaging the bolt or nut.

5. Caulking Gun

Caulking is the process of sealing up cracks and gaps in various structures and certain types of piping. Caulking can provide noise mitigation and thermal insulation, and control water penetration. Caulk should be applied only to areas that are clean and dry.

6. Flashlight

None of the tools in this list is of any use if you cannot visually inspect the situation. The problem, and solution, are apparent only with a good flashlight. A traditional two-battery flashlight is usually sufficient, as larger flashlights may be too unwieldy.

7. Tape Measure

Measuring house projects requires a tape measure, not a ruler or a yardstick. Tape measures come in many lengths, although 25 feet is best. Measure everything at least twice to ensure accuracy.

8. Hacksaw
These are great for cutting metal objects such as pipes, bolts and brackets. Hacksaws look thin and flimsy, but they’ll easily cut through even the hardest of metals. Blades are replaceable, so focus your purchase on a quality hacksaw frame.

9. Torpedo Level
Only a level can be used to determine if something, such as a shelf, appliance or picture, is correctly oriented. The torpedo-style level is unique because it not only shows when an object is perfectly horizontal or vertical, but it also has a gauge that shows when an object is at a 45-degree angle. The bubble in viewfinder must be exactly in the middle, not merely close.

10. Safety Glasses / Goggles
For all tasks involving a hammer or a power tool, you should always wear safety glasses or goggles. They should also be worn while you mix chemicals.

11. Claw Hammer
A good hammer is one of the most important tools you can own. Use it to drive and remove nails, to pry wood loose from the house, and in combination with other tools. They come in a variety of sizes, although a 16-ounce hammer is the best all-purpose choice.

12. Screwdriver Set
It is best to have four screwdrivers: a small and large version of both a flat-head and a Phillips- head screwdriver. Electrical screwdrivers are sometimes convenient, but they're no substitute. Manual screwdrivers can reach into more places and they are less likely to damage the screw.

13. Wire Cutters

Wire cutters are pliers designed to cut wires and small nails. The “side-cutting” (unlike the stronger "end-cutting" style) style is handy, but not strong enough to cut small nails.

14. Respirator / Safety Mask
While paints and other coatings have become less toxic (and lead-free) over time, most still contain dangerous chemicals, which is why you should wear a mask to avoid accidentally getting them in your lungs. A mask should also be worn when working in dusty or dirty environments. Disposable masks usually come in packs of 10 and should be thrown away after use. Full and half-face respirators can be used to prevent the inhalation of very fine particles that ordinary facemasks will not not stop.

15. Duct Tape

This tape is extremely strong and adaptable. Originally, it was widely used to make temporary repairs to many types of military equipment. Today, it’s one of the key items specified for home emergency kits because it is water-resistant and extremely sticky.

In summary, the above is a list of tools that every homeowner should have.

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Pool and patio screens, how to clean and mantain them.

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:38:00 -0500

Pool and patio insect screen: How to mantain the screen?

To wash pool and patio screens, just use regular dish-soap and lather and rinse the residue away with a garden house or pressure washer.I do not reccomend harsh chemicals or chlorine , this can strip the film or coating from the insect wire. Also be careful with pressure washing, high pressure can cause older screen to rip at the posts or beams.

How long does pool and patio screen panels last?

The average life span of Phifer screen is usually between 8 to 10 years. This all depends on the circumstances. Was the screen properly installed ? Most times I have found Companies or Individuals who have installed the pool screen improperly. Some have installed the spline in backwards or have not rolled the screen tight enough.

Are there large trees or branches resting against the screen?

Sometimes branches or leaves can cause damage and or shorten the life of screen. Bushes around pool cages can have the same effect. Make sure to always clean off pollen and leaves off of pool and patio screens.

The above mentioned items can cause your pool or patio screens life to be shortened.

Home Inspections in Sarasota FAQ

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:11:00 -0500

Home Inspections in Sarasota County, Manatee and Lee Counties

What do Home Inspectors look for?

Home Inspectors follow a guideline when inspecting a home, here is a helpful link: NACHI's Residential Scope ( this link is very helpful and detailed on what and what should not be inspected, plus certain guidelines followed by Home Inspectors)

Not all Home Inspectors are created equal.

In Florida there is no testing requirements to become an inspector. This means anyone without experience can qualify to inspect your home. Scary, right. Also most Home Inspectors do not carry Liability Insurance. This means if a oversight is made on a property by and individual and a structural component fails on the home you purchased, there is no recourse on the individual. Always hiring an Inspector that carries Liability Insurance. I carry liability for my Remodeling firm and for Inspections, just makes sense. I am also a Licensed General Contractor through the State of Florida. This helps for knowledge knowing what to look for and spot future problems.

What is Chinese Drywall and where to look for it?

Chinese Drywall was introduced to Florida during the shortage of Gypsum products a few years back. Knauf is the company who introduced this product to Florida. Great link to learn more about Chinese Drywall.

How Much is a Home Inspection?

Home inspections for a Single Family Home run up to $250.00. I charge $230.00 and here is what I offer for that service:

Free Wind Mitigation Inspection a $150.00 value
Complete interior and exterior Inspection
Background check on the property IE: year built, UN-permitted structures anything that pertains to the property.
Computer based reports that are easy to read.
Digital pictures any trouble areas can be documented.

Why chose Kevin Boyer for your next Home Inspection?

Professionalism
Experience: State Certified General Contractor, local resident in Sarasota County for over Thirty years. Over Twenty years in the Remodeling and Construction field in Sarasota County.
Punctual: Every Inspection is on time and delivered to you or your clients when requested.
Ethical: When each Home Inspection is done, the inspection is based upon the property. The seller or the buyer has no influence on the final reports, only the property.

For a Quality Home Inspection or Wind Mitigation Inspection call on Kevin Boyer for all your Home Inspections and Wind Mitigation Inspections. 941.735.1413

How much does a pool cage cost?

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:18:00 -0500

Pool cages and how much they cost:

Pool cages are used for a variety of situations: Safety, Keeping bugs and also debris out. But they can also make the back of your home an oasis. Letting you and your family enjoy the backyard again. Known facts about pool cages in Sarasota County:

All new pool cages have to be built to with stand 130 MPH wind loads.
Standard Screen is 18/14 mesh and charcoal colored.(18/14 means 18 squares across and 14 squares down)
Pool cages have Two prominant colors: White or Brown
New Pool Cages have to use Site Specific Engineering
Pool Cages usually connect to a Super gutter that is attached to the fascia.
Pool cages can usually be installed in about Two to Three days depending on the size.
Screen is rolled in the extrusion using Flat spline, this spline has to be rolled in correctly or the spline will fall out over a period of time.
The most common design of a pool cage is the " Mansard Style"

Most cages that are single story should run about $4.00 a square foot.

Kevin Boyer is a Licensed General Contractor who builds Pool Cages in Sarasota County.

Chinese Drywall, How do I know if my house is affected?

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 13:55:00 -0500

Chinese Drywall issues in Florida

Most home buyers and sellers are concerns about the Chinese drywall mess in Florida. I have compiled some information and data to help you along with this concern. This is a very informative link concerning Chinese drywall http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090201/ARTICLE/902010371 First I would suggest legal counsel. Second there are a numerous tell tale signs to look for:

Strong smell (like rotten eggs or sulphate smell)
Knauf manufacturing band or stamp on the drywall board. Got the attic access or pull down ladder and check to see if the stamp is visible.If you cannot read or get into the attic call an inspection company to verify the markings.
Air conditioning coils are corroded. Electrical wires are also tend to corrode.
Chinese drywall tends to be lighter than regular drywall.

What to look for in a Home Inspector

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:20:00 -0500

Always meet the Home Inspector

When finding the home to purchase, choose the right Home Inspector. Home Inspectors can point out potential problems. These problems can cost you the homeowner a lot of money in the future. When I go to an inspection first I meet with client. Always be present when the inspection takes place. I encourage homeowners to walk the inspection with me. This gives them a chance to ask questions abou the home. If the homeowner is not present, these questions cannot be answered and maybe the inspection gets rushed through.

Find out the qualifications of the Home Inspector

Where my business is established in Sarasota County Florida, there is no special qualification or license. But some States do require Home Inspectors to complete a test. Since there is no license in the State of Florida (Charlotte County, Fl requires a County license) most inspectors join Home inpsector Associations. NACHI is one of the associations these inspectors will join. Another well known association is ASHI. Both these associations are very informative and reputable to the industry. Make sure your inspector has more criteria than just an association badge. I am a State Certified General Contractor in the State of Florida. This means I took a test and paased the State's requirements and also had the required on the job training. I also have a small remodeling business doing residential and commercial projects. So by having this experience of opening up walls and seeing plumbing, electrical and structural problems first hand. I have also been in the Construction Industry in Sarasota County for over Twenty years. I have been surprised though to see some individuals in my area with relatively no experience. This can cost you the homeowner.

Computer based inspection software

Believe it or not is a big one. If you cannot read the inspectors notes than the inpsection is no good. Ther are believe it or not still some inspectors that hand write there results. With new technology and sodtware, I can generate a home inspection report in a Twenty Four hour turnaround. Which is categorized and ledgible to read.

Realtor's Home Inspectors

This can be a touchy subject with some Realtors. I do work with some great Realtors, but I have been contacted in the past by some who were looking for a quick "for the sale inspection" ethically I do not operate that way. I base the inspection upon the house. Not the Buyer and not the Owner. Some Inspectors work for the Realtors. This means they receive alot of work from an individual or a firm and they feel commited. Always hire your own Inspector. Take the Realtors names and numbers for inspectors but interview them. Ask them there background and there experience. Also how long have they lived in the area. In my business my clients are from Northern States and may not know anyone local and they take there Realtors advice on who to choose. Rememeber you pay for this service do not pick the first Inspectors name that comes up.

What is the best pool cage screen?

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:25:00 -0500

What is the best pool cage screen?

My opinion on the subject would have to be broken down into Two segments. One being the best 18/14 patio screen (18/14 means 18 squares across and 14 down per square inch) which my answer would be Phifer wire the reason for this would be longevity. I have been using Phifer wire for over Twenty years, without an incident. They will back there product and pay me to fix any factory flaws. Which I do not run across very often. Second would be a product called Super Screen. A 10 yr warrantied product that is a heavier cloth that can withhold unbelievable weight. This product made by Twitchell Ind. is a awesome product. The only downfall to this product is it is hard to roll into the aluminum extrusion panels. Look back for other products in Remodeling projects.

Kevin Boyer is a licensed State Certified General Contractor

To contact Kevin about questions call 941.735.1413

How much do Lanai conversions cost?

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:28:00 -0500

Converting screen lanais in to living area:

Lanais are a great area to relax on the back of the house. Though with the Florida heat they can become obsolete. So, what to do with a dust collecting screened in lanai? Convert the room into living space. Most lanais are incorporated under an existing wood/shingle roof system. And most also have the block columns, so this makes it easier to convert an existing lanai into a living area. If you have an existing wood/shingle roof here is what you will need to have to convert the existing screened lanai into a operable living area.

Permit and hire a Licensed Contractor
Drawings and Engineering stamps and approvals ( Contractors handle this) the drawings will give you the layout of room and electrical and plumbing (if any) these drawings can be changed.
Concrete cap ( this is needed in order to bring the lanai floor flush with the interior floor for code).
Footers if needed.
A/C vents or returns
Electrical rough
Plumbing rough if needed
Exterior walls wood or block
Stucco
Windows
Interior walls
Remove any glass sliders and wrap with drywall
Drywall and texture, tape and paint
Interior doors
Flooring
Inspections per each phase electrical, plumbing and structual

Remember a good rule of thumb is $50.00 a square foot for a project of this size. Though each project is different and each location can bring different aspects that can change pricing.

Kevin adds a in house kitchen designer

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:14:00 -0500

We are proud to announce that we have added a new additon to our family. KB now can offer you kitchen designing with 3D rendered drawings. This unique feature can allow you to see visually what your new Kitchen or Remodeled bathroom will look like. KB can add textures, colors, lighting and kitchen cabinet locations. Plus adding kitchen storage solutions to help you complete your new kitchen. Give us a call today and see the difference.

941.735.1413

From Bathroom to Beautiful Remodeled Walk -in Shower

Thu, 14 May 2009 17:20:00 -0500

I recently wrote about a bathroom we tore apart. The problem was odor and mold. Both of these issues can be bad for your health and your nose. The quick fix for the odor was the previous plumbers did not add a studor vent, this allowed water to become trapped in the vents and become stagnate. The other was a mold issue, that untreated could have reared its ugly head. Not to mention the clients health. This problem had to be addressed by completely gutting the clients shower. Removing the old drywall, which was "old green board" this board has a paper outside which can suck up water and hold on to it. These photos are the finished project. Enjoy.

Home Remodeling Costs

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 09:12:00 -0500

I have receved a few questions about remodeling costs. This is a subject that is very tough to answer. It can seperated into many different segments. First and most important is:

COST VS. QUALITY
This is big one. What is Quality worth? My opinion is that you cannot place a pricetag on Quality. Cost on the other hand (If the price on the project is to low) could cost the owner more. What do I mean by this? Let say ABC Remodeling contracts to remodel your Kitchen. ABC is not licensed and there experience is very low. The customer and ABC receive a stop work order issued by the Local Building Department. So, ABC did not pull a permit the homeowner then is also in voilation and now has a complete mess on there hands. I think you get the point. Do not let Cost be the only factor in hiring a Contractor. Cost can cost you more money in the long run. But, also this is your home ( the most valued possesion you own)

APPLES TO APPLES

We have heard this phrase since we where young children. I strongly believe in this phrase when it comes to my Remodeling Business. A remodel project can have over 100 tasks. Now with that said, when proposals are coming in do you every notice the One or Two that sticks out? Well I see those proposals or hear the prices all the time. Our bid will come in let say about $25,000.00 for a kitchen remodeling project. There is always one company or contractor who will come in at $12,000.00. Does this mean he really likes you? Or is doing a favor for your family? No, it means he or she has missed very crucial infromation containing to his ot her bid. In plan English he or she was not listening to you. Missing key elements in a bid is going to be a thorn in the homeowners side later. What do I mean? This project that you now have contracted with someone is going to cost you more money and aggrevation, delays, arguements and maybe Hiring a whole new company to finish there mess. Not all estimators are created equal.

Remodeling Costs are based on the companies overhead (office,staff wages,showrooms, insurances,licenses) direct costs + Labor ( skilled+ Workers Comp.+ FUTA+FICA+SUTA+SOC.SERCURITY)+ Cost of materials which can be a huge factor. All Contractors basically buy from the same place, but some buy low end products.

So the final equation equals this: CHEAP PRICES= CHEAP COSTS + CHEAP LABOR +CHEAP MATERIALS= CHEAP JOB

QUALITY PRICES= QUALITY COSTS+ QUALITY LABOR + QUALITY MATERIALS= QUALITY JOB

Kevin Boyer is the owner of KB Remodeling and Construction LLC, KB serves the Sarsasota Florida Remodeling Market. 941.735.1413

Before and after pictures Juno Job

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 19:41:00 -0500

This is a picture of the project before ground broke.

This photo shows the final phase, just before the driveway was laid out.Our roof lines match perfectly, along with paint colors. Also shows the half round window we added in the existing garage.

Boynton Project

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:01:00 -0600

This is the Boynton project located in South Venice, Fl. The Boynton project consisted of a new garage converting an existing garage into a office/laundry room. This picture notes the office area. One divider walls seperates the office from the laundry room.