Ipé Decking
02/06/2012 02:50 PM Filed in: Remodeling | Products
Ipé (pronounced e-pay) is a wood becoming more commonly used as a decking material as it is durable and naturally resistant to rot, abrasion and weather, unlike traditional decking materials. Additionally, it is almost five times harder and twice as dense as most woods. There are also similar products such as Tiger Wood, Jatoba, and some species of Mahogany. We have had very good success using this product and think it is one of the best looking decking options available. It is not an easy product to work with but with the right tools and some patience the finished product is very rewarding.
Here are some care and use tips for Ipé:
Sealing: Ipe has its own natural defense against decay, water absorption, cupping, splintering and twisting, so sealing is not necessary. However, if you choose to seal your deck, be sure to coat the entire length of each board without stopping in the middle, which will be obvious when it dries.
Finishing: If left untreated, Ipe will stay smooth and splinter free and will weather to a silver-gray color in six to 12 months. However, to help prevent surface discoloration and checking, which is a naturally occurring lengthwise separation of the wood, you can add a finish with a penetrating, high-quality, water-seal product immediately after installation. No further maintenance will be needed except for regular cleaning.
As with almost all building materials, direct exposure to the sun will degrade the finish and turn Ipé a grey color more quickly so a high-quality penetrating oil finish with a high UV inhibitor rating should be used for installations if you want a "finished wood" appearance. To maintain the desired color, the finish should be applied periodically depending on sun exposure and surface wear. Don't excessively apply an overcoat as this may cause the surface to become sticky and can create a "puddle" look. You should always apply a thin coat using small paint roller or pad when the deck is clean and use a clean rag to remove any of the excess. If, however, you would like the deep brown color back again, you can use a pressure washer to get the original color back. Pressure washing can cause damage if not done carefully so test a small area before you do the whole deck.
Cleaning: Keep your deck free of leaves, pine needles and other debris as they can retain water and clog drainage, which doesn't allow the deck to dry properly. Cleaning an Ipe deck can bring out the original colors and protect it. You can begin by sanding scratches or blemishes using an 80-grit sand paper. Before applying the cleaner, the deck should be thoroughly wet with water using a garden hose to remove dirt and avoid streaking. After the cleaner is applied using a garden sprayer or hand sprayer, allow it to set for 30 minutes. Dirt should be removed with a stiff bristle that isn't made of metal. Before applying the deck finisher, the deck should be hosed down with water again and allowed to dry thoroughly.
Posted by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.)
Here are some care and use tips for Ipé:
Sealing: Ipe has its own natural defense against decay, water absorption, cupping, splintering and twisting, so sealing is not necessary. However, if you choose to seal your deck, be sure to coat the entire length of each board without stopping in the middle, which will be obvious when it dries.
Finishing: If left untreated, Ipe will stay smooth and splinter free and will weather to a silver-gray color in six to 12 months. However, to help prevent surface discoloration and checking, which is a naturally occurring lengthwise separation of the wood, you can add a finish with a penetrating, high-quality, water-seal product immediately after installation. No further maintenance will be needed except for regular cleaning.
As with almost all building materials, direct exposure to the sun will degrade the finish and turn Ipé a grey color more quickly so a high-quality penetrating oil finish with a high UV inhibitor rating should be used for installations if you want a "finished wood" appearance. To maintain the desired color, the finish should be applied periodically depending on sun exposure and surface wear. Don't excessively apply an overcoat as this may cause the surface to become sticky and can create a "puddle" look. You should always apply a thin coat using small paint roller or pad when the deck is clean and use a clean rag to remove any of the excess. If, however, you would like the deep brown color back again, you can use a pressure washer to get the original color back. Pressure washing can cause damage if not done carefully so test a small area before you do the whole deck.
Cleaning: Keep your deck free of leaves, pine needles and other debris as they can retain water and clog drainage, which doesn't allow the deck to dry properly. Cleaning an Ipe deck can bring out the original colors and protect it. You can begin by sanding scratches or blemishes using an 80-grit sand paper. Before applying the cleaner, the deck should be thoroughly wet with water using a garden hose to remove dirt and avoid streaking. After the cleaner is applied using a garden sprayer or hand sprayer, allow it to set for 30 minutes. Dirt should be removed with a stiff bristle that isn't made of metal. Before applying the deck finisher, the deck should be hosed down with water again and allowed to dry thoroughly.
Posted by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.)
Remodeling Trends for 2012
01/30/2012 07:59 AM Filed in: Remodeling | Design Ideas & Trends
With the holidays all tucked away for a while, many homeowners return their focus to sprucing up their house. Due to the effects of our economy’s depreciation, many remodelers have a modified goal of making clients’ homes more comfortable without overspending by incorporating practical trends that are not only cost-effective, but useful as well. When tackling remodeling projects, you’ll find some pay off more handsomely than others if you decide to sell.
Here’s our 2012 list of where and how to get the biggest bang for your home buck:
Kitchens are still a popular project and certainly one of the most scrutinized areas of the home during resale. Kitchen design is moving toward more simplistic styles. Heavy detailing such as corbels, carvings, etc. are out. Heavy glazed finishes are also becoming less popular as homeowners are requesting more simplistic paint and stain finishes. Clean lines and "Shaker" style doors and drawers will be a popular selection.
Bathroom Renovations continue to be popular with the goal of becoming spa-like retreats as opposed to utility-type rooms. Rain heads, body sprays, steam units, TVs and more are being incorporated to make the bathroom a true relaxation area. Tubs continue to see a decline as homeowners opt for larger showers. Freestanding tubs are popular but only where there is adequate space to accommodate both a tub and large shower. Curbless showers, accessibility, and other "Aging In Place" items will gain in popularity.
Open Floor Plans will increase in demand. People will continue to knock down walls to create larger spaces with more open floor plans. The focus on "gathering" and "entertaining" areas for family and friends will continue to be a popular theme.
Outdoor Living Areas will remain high on many homeowners’ wish lists. These once very elaborate outdoor areas have been scaled back to meet the needs and budgets of many. The trend will still be toward a covered area with some sort of fireplace or fire pit, sitting areas, dining table alongside a grill area. The true "outdoor kitchen" is still a wish-list item but often becomes a budget buster.
Flooring will still be one of the best "bang for your buck" projects a homeowner can undertake. Hardwood flooring still remains popular and wider plank flooring is still a big request. Take out old carpet and replace with hardwoods or other bare flooring materials. This will improve the look of your home and help curb allergies as dander and dust often become trapped in carpet.
Paint Colors are another safe investment with many experts agreeing calming colors will be among 2012’s top sellers. We can thank the economy for this because when times are tough people tend to use color conservatively; longevity colors in natural tones such as stone gray and driftwood taupe will be popular. Accent colors can balance out the neutral direction but also are trending toward conservative tones. Two predictions: Bright splashes of red feel iconic and patriotic, and navy blue feels stable and comfortable. On the other hand, paint is easy to change so if you crave color, you can reserve neutrals for sofas and other more expensive items. Popular choices will comprise nature colors such as blues, greens, and grays perhaps complemented by a medium-pink raspberry pop of color to perk up the senses. Finally, of course retro black and white these days delivers a contemporary flair giving a room a sophisticated, fresh, stylish makeover.
LCD Lighting is becoming a very popular request. Prices will continue to come down and the light quality is now on par or even better than that of traditional incandescent lighting. The energy savings and life expectancy of LED lighting are making it one of the best energy-efficient upgrades you can make.
Weatherization and other energy-saving projects will also remain popular. Insulation, air sealing, window replacement, improved indoor air quality, and energy efficiency are all very important features of any home and are becoming feature requests by prospective homebuyers. These projects will have an impact on your home -- both now and in the future. They may not be the sexiest changes to make but if done correctly can save you money in the coming years, plus they make your home a healthier place to live.
By going green, a homeowner can make a difference in the environmental footprint left on a daily basis. To do so, incorporate sustainable practices into the home such as installing energy-efficient appliances and double-paned windows and using eco-friendly materials such as flooring, cabinets, and paint.
Remember, updating your home by following remodeling trends is a great way to improve your space’s functionality and efficiency while working to increase your house’s market value.
Writing collaborated by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.) and Ginger Sprinkle @ nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
Here’s our 2012 list of where and how to get the biggest bang for your home buck:
Kitchens are still a popular project and certainly one of the most scrutinized areas of the home during resale. Kitchen design is moving toward more simplistic styles. Heavy detailing such as corbels, carvings, etc. are out. Heavy glazed finishes are also becoming less popular as homeowners are requesting more simplistic paint and stain finishes. Clean lines and "Shaker" style doors and drawers will be a popular selection.
Bathroom Renovations continue to be popular with the goal of becoming spa-like retreats as opposed to utility-type rooms. Rain heads, body sprays, steam units, TVs and more are being incorporated to make the bathroom a true relaxation area. Tubs continue to see a decline as homeowners opt for larger showers. Freestanding tubs are popular but only where there is adequate space to accommodate both a tub and large shower. Curbless showers, accessibility, and other "Aging In Place" items will gain in popularity.
Open Floor Plans will increase in demand. People will continue to knock down walls to create larger spaces with more open floor plans. The focus on "gathering" and "entertaining" areas for family and friends will continue to be a popular theme.
Outdoor Living Areas will remain high on many homeowners’ wish lists. These once very elaborate outdoor areas have been scaled back to meet the needs and budgets of many. The trend will still be toward a covered area with some sort of fireplace or fire pit, sitting areas, dining table alongside a grill area. The true "outdoor kitchen" is still a wish-list item but often becomes a budget buster.
Flooring will still be one of the best "bang for your buck" projects a homeowner can undertake. Hardwood flooring still remains popular and wider plank flooring is still a big request. Take out old carpet and replace with hardwoods or other bare flooring materials. This will improve the look of your home and help curb allergies as dander and dust often become trapped in carpet.
Paint Colors are another safe investment with many experts agreeing calming colors will be among 2012’s top sellers. We can thank the economy for this because when times are tough people tend to use color conservatively; longevity colors in natural tones such as stone gray and driftwood taupe will be popular. Accent colors can balance out the neutral direction but also are trending toward conservative tones. Two predictions: Bright splashes of red feel iconic and patriotic, and navy blue feels stable and comfortable. On the other hand, paint is easy to change so if you crave color, you can reserve neutrals for sofas and other more expensive items. Popular choices will comprise nature colors such as blues, greens, and grays perhaps complemented by a medium-pink raspberry pop of color to perk up the senses. Finally, of course retro black and white these days delivers a contemporary flair giving a room a sophisticated, fresh, stylish makeover.
LCD Lighting is becoming a very popular request. Prices will continue to come down and the light quality is now on par or even better than that of traditional incandescent lighting. The energy savings and life expectancy of LED lighting are making it one of the best energy-efficient upgrades you can make.
Weatherization and other energy-saving projects will also remain popular. Insulation, air sealing, window replacement, improved indoor air quality, and energy efficiency are all very important features of any home and are becoming feature requests by prospective homebuyers. These projects will have an impact on your home -- both now and in the future. They may not be the sexiest changes to make but if done correctly can save you money in the coming years, plus they make your home a healthier place to live.
By going green, a homeowner can make a difference in the environmental footprint left on a daily basis. To do so, incorporate sustainable practices into the home such as installing energy-efficient appliances and double-paned windows and using eco-friendly materials such as flooring, cabinets, and paint.
Remember, updating your home by following remodeling trends is a great way to improve your space’s functionality and efficiency while working to increase your house’s market value.
Writing collaborated by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.) and Ginger Sprinkle @ nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
Make the Most of Your First Meeting
01/23/2012 08:27 AM Filed in: Remodeling
Many homeowners reach out to a contractor without taking the time to get their notes in order before they meet. Often, there is a tendency to put off remodeling projects and then suddenly get the urge to move forward. Thus, the call to a contractor without first doing any homework.
We posted a blog awhile back regarding how to best prepare for hiring and working with a remodeler. To recap, keep in mind the importance of two aspects: determining how much time will be needed for the initial meeting and assuring everyone who will be involved -- such as spouses or partners – will be present. It is probably better to not bring along any children so you can focus all your attention on the discussion.
Here are some additional tips to help make the most of your introductory meeting:
1. Take a moment and jot down all the things -- large and small -- you would like to do around the home.
2. Prioritize the list from most important to least important.
3. List what you like and don’t like about the current layout of the home, kitchen, bath, etc.
4. Gather photos, articles, online content, or other items you have collected, which you can share with your contractor.
5. Know your budget. It is understandable you may not know what things cost but you certainly know what you can spend. Determine if there will be any financing requirements.
6. Arranging financing takes much longer than in the past; you may want to call your lender and get pre-qualified.
7. Have pertinent home info on hand such as the year of construction, time lived in, any existing drawings, plot plan or survey, deed restrictions, and homeowner association guidelines.
8. Use online sights such as houzz.com, pinterest.com, and others that allow you to look at photos and other information and bookmark them for future use.
9. Ask the contractor what to expect at the first meeting so you are prepared.
10. Make sure you know your timetable and availability to be involved with the project both pre-construction and during construction.
Last of all, keep in mind everyone’s time is valuable so having all your information ready to share with a contractor will make the initial visit more productive for all involved.
Writing collaborated by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.) and Ginger Sprinkle @ nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
We posted a blog awhile back regarding how to best prepare for hiring and working with a remodeler. To recap, keep in mind the importance of two aspects: determining how much time will be needed for the initial meeting and assuring everyone who will be involved -- such as spouses or partners – will be present. It is probably better to not bring along any children so you can focus all your attention on the discussion.
Here are some additional tips to help make the most of your introductory meeting:
1. Take a moment and jot down all the things -- large and small -- you would like to do around the home.
2. Prioritize the list from most important to least important.
3. List what you like and don’t like about the current layout of the home, kitchen, bath, etc.
4. Gather photos, articles, online content, or other items you have collected, which you can share with your contractor.
5. Know your budget. It is understandable you may not know what things cost but you certainly know what you can spend. Determine if there will be any financing requirements.
6. Arranging financing takes much longer than in the past; you may want to call your lender and get pre-qualified.
7. Have pertinent home info on hand such as the year of construction, time lived in, any existing drawings, plot plan or survey, deed restrictions, and homeowner association guidelines.
8. Use online sights such as houzz.com, pinterest.com, and others that allow you to look at photos and other information and bookmark them for future use.
9. Ask the contractor what to expect at the first meeting so you are prepared.
10. Make sure you know your timetable and availability to be involved with the project both pre-construction and during construction.
Last of all, keep in mind everyone’s time is valuable so having all your information ready to share with a contractor will make the initial visit more productive for all involved.
Writing collaborated by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.) and Ginger Sprinkle @ nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
Go Green to Increase Home Value
01/09/2012 07:57 AM Filed in: Green Remodeling
Many homeowners are hesitant to implement green improvements into residences based on the initial costs to do so. However, those who are more astute have recognized and are taking advantage of the benefits, including a boost to the home’s future resale value.
Another mistake when purchasing a new home is to focus solely on the home’s bottom-line price and not pay as much attention to green features designed for maximum efficiency and to save money over the long haul. Savvy homebuyers understand the value of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, which consists of a suite of rating systems for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green homes and neighborhoods.
Perhaps a way to get the point across is to give features such as improved energy efficiency and air-quality systems the same star billing as elements such as granite countertops and hardwood floors when marketing a home. It also seems not all types of green improvements or products have the same return on investment. Solar panels, for example, are quite good at recouping their installation costs because they can be seen whereas “hidden” enhancements such as insulation and air sealing are less obvious and thus do not attract the same level of attention from a homebuyer.
New Research Supports Trend
It is encouraging to note the public is becoming more aware of the advantages of green homes, as discovered in new reports based out of the Pacific Northwest; additional research shows this trend holds true across the US.
Homes certified as eco-friendly in the Seattle area sold for 8.5% more per square foot and were on the market 22% less time than other homes, according to a report that tracks new sales from September 2007 through December 2009. The homes that underwent the strictest certification -- being tested by third parties and thus likely to be the greenest -- performed even better by commanding prices 25% higher than regular homes, says the ECert report by Seattle-based GreenWorks Realty.
In another report last year from the Portland-based, non-profit Earth Advantage Institute in the city’s metro area, green-certified homes sold for 12% more -- an average of $408,915 -- than non-certified homes from May 2008 through April 2009. Regional Multiple Listing Service data also revealed a premium per square foot with eco-friendly homes getting $193 compared with $173 for other homes.
In both studies, eco homes make up an increasing share of the overall new home market. In the Seattle report, the 973 green-rated homes that sold made up 33% of the total market. In the Portland metro study, 674 such homes sold, representing 16% of all sales. In both studies, the homes are considered green with LEED certification.
The reasoning varies from homeowners who are enticed by the ability to lower utility bills to those who are keen on buying homes built with nontoxic materials, which makes the indoor-air quality cleaner than traditional counterparts -- and many other benefits to both the residents and the environment.
If you are remodeling, building or buying a house, why not stay ahead of the curve by embracing the advantages for both your bank account and health by investing in an environmentally friendly home?
Writing collaborated by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.) and Ginger Sprinkle @ nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
Another mistake when purchasing a new home is to focus solely on the home’s bottom-line price and not pay as much attention to green features designed for maximum efficiency and to save money over the long haul. Savvy homebuyers understand the value of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, which consists of a suite of rating systems for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green homes and neighborhoods.
Perhaps a way to get the point across is to give features such as improved energy efficiency and air-quality systems the same star billing as elements such as granite countertops and hardwood floors when marketing a home. It also seems not all types of green improvements or products have the same return on investment. Solar panels, for example, are quite good at recouping their installation costs because they can be seen whereas “hidden” enhancements such as insulation and air sealing are less obvious and thus do not attract the same level of attention from a homebuyer.
New Research Supports Trend
It is encouraging to note the public is becoming more aware of the advantages of green homes, as discovered in new reports based out of the Pacific Northwest; additional research shows this trend holds true across the US.
Homes certified as eco-friendly in the Seattle area sold for 8.5% more per square foot and were on the market 22% less time than other homes, according to a report that tracks new sales from September 2007 through December 2009. The homes that underwent the strictest certification -- being tested by third parties and thus likely to be the greenest -- performed even better by commanding prices 25% higher than regular homes, says the ECert report by Seattle-based GreenWorks Realty.
In another report last year from the Portland-based, non-profit Earth Advantage Institute in the city’s metro area, green-certified homes sold for 12% more -- an average of $408,915 -- than non-certified homes from May 2008 through April 2009. Regional Multiple Listing Service data also revealed a premium per square foot with eco-friendly homes getting $193 compared with $173 for other homes.
In both studies, eco homes make up an increasing share of the overall new home market. In the Seattle report, the 973 green-rated homes that sold made up 33% of the total market. In the Portland metro study, 674 such homes sold, representing 16% of all sales. In both studies, the homes are considered green with LEED certification.
The reasoning varies from homeowners who are enticed by the ability to lower utility bills to those who are keen on buying homes built with nontoxic materials, which makes the indoor-air quality cleaner than traditional counterparts -- and many other benefits to both the residents and the environment.
If you are remodeling, building or buying a house, why not stay ahead of the curve by embracing the advantages for both your bank account and health by investing in an environmentally friendly home?
Writing collaborated by Duane Johns (Advanced Renovations, Inc.) and Ginger Sprinkle @ nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).
DIY Bathroom Remodeling
12/19/2011 08:14 AM Filed in: Remodeling
The bathroom is not only a place to take your daily shower, but it is also a place to rejuvenate, relax and enjoy. And what’s more rewarding than having an inviting bathroom.
Many people embark in remodeling their bathrooms. This can, however get pretty costly for those people who are working on a very tight budget. The good news is, you may actually be able to do it yourself. Here is some basic DIY bathroom remodeling tips to get you started in your journey to having a bathroom paradise.
Planning
In bathroom remodeling, it is very important to determine the level of remodeling you are planning to take on. It can be as simple as changing out a few fixtures or as complicated as a total makeover. Another thing to consider is the number of people who will be using the bathroom and if they have any special requirements such as accessible showers and tubs, grab bars, etc. If planned well, you can expect great results.
The availability of inexpensive software programs nowadays can make planning much easier. Having a proper layout, you can make changes to your bathroom’s color scheme, cabinets, fixtures and finishes.
The duration of the remodeling must also be included in the plan. Usually a DIY bathroom remodeling project will take a week to a month to finish depending on the amount of work needed as well as the availability of your time.
Your plan must also touch legal and health safety issues related to bathroom remodeling. Keep in mind that major changes to electrical and plumbing systems by homeowners may be prohibited by the law. You can ask your local building department regarding the necessary permits required when remodeling a bathroom.
Cost
The cost of bathroom remodeling will depend ultimately on the amount of work that needs to be done. The "Fixtures and Finishes" can have a dramatic affect on the overall cost so choose your products wisely and be cost conscious. To get a rough estimate, you may consult a professional renovator and ask them about the cost. Visit a local home improvement store and get a quote for all the materials you will need on the project. Subtract the costs of the materials from the quote from the professional renovator and you will get a clearer picture if whether or not to hire a professional or just proceed with your DIY plan. Be sure to factor in a "what if" cushion in your budget. Chances are you will find something unexpected or decide to change something along the way that could potentially drive up the cost.
Keep in mind that remodeling projects general take more time and effort than you may initially think. Professionals look for pitfalls such as structural issues, potential hidden damage, unforeseen items, etc. that the average homeowner may not think of. Determine the value of your time and see if DIY is the right fit for you.
This blog post was in collaboration with Fred Sexton at NC Design Online
Many people embark in remodeling their bathrooms. This can, however get pretty costly for those people who are working on a very tight budget. The good news is, you may actually be able to do it yourself. Here is some basic DIY bathroom remodeling tips to get you started in your journey to having a bathroom paradise.
Planning
In bathroom remodeling, it is very important to determine the level of remodeling you are planning to take on. It can be as simple as changing out a few fixtures or as complicated as a total makeover. Another thing to consider is the number of people who will be using the bathroom and if they have any special requirements such as accessible showers and tubs, grab bars, etc. If planned well, you can expect great results.
The availability of inexpensive software programs nowadays can make planning much easier. Having a proper layout, you can make changes to your bathroom’s color scheme, cabinets, fixtures and finishes.
The duration of the remodeling must also be included in the plan. Usually a DIY bathroom remodeling project will take a week to a month to finish depending on the amount of work needed as well as the availability of your time.
Your plan must also touch legal and health safety issues related to bathroom remodeling. Keep in mind that major changes to electrical and plumbing systems by homeowners may be prohibited by the law. You can ask your local building department regarding the necessary permits required when remodeling a bathroom.
Cost
The cost of bathroom remodeling will depend ultimately on the amount of work that needs to be done. The "Fixtures and Finishes" can have a dramatic affect on the overall cost so choose your products wisely and be cost conscious. To get a rough estimate, you may consult a professional renovator and ask them about the cost. Visit a local home improvement store and get a quote for all the materials you will need on the project. Subtract the costs of the materials from the quote from the professional renovator and you will get a clearer picture if whether or not to hire a professional or just proceed with your DIY plan. Be sure to factor in a "what if" cushion in your budget. Chances are you will find something unexpected or decide to change something along the way that could potentially drive up the cost.
Keep in mind that remodeling projects general take more time and effort than you may initially think. Professionals look for pitfalls such as structural issues, potential hidden damage, unforeseen items, etc. that the average homeowner may not think of. Determine the value of your time and see if DIY is the right fit for you.
This blog post was in collaboration with Fred Sexton at NC Design Online