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FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE CLICK THE 'GET AN ESTIMATE' BUTTON AT SPECIAL FEATURES AND START YOU HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOW.
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~ The Benefits of Wood Flooring ~
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Nothing replaces wood flooring for it's beauty, warmth and value. It enhances the design of any room and provides natural beauty that will increase in value over the years. Real Estate agents say that houses with wood floring sell faster and for higher prices than without.
Maintenance of wood floors today are easy, new technology in stains and finishes call for regular cleaning that takes little more than sweeping and vacuuming and common floor cleaning products.
Wood floors are ecologically friendly. As a natural resource it is renewable and rycyclable. A lot of wood flooring is recycled from wood previously used. Since wood does not collect dust and other allergens, many health associations agree that that wood floors are the perfect choice for a healthy home.
Wood flooring is affordable and come in a great variety. Wood flooring has come a long way in the past few years. Today, there are more styles, colors and species of wood to choose from, each to go with your home's personality. To get a free quote on wood flooring for your home improvement project, call us at 674-5855 or pop in at our SPECIAL FEATURES area to email us at GET AN ESTIMATE.
A well informed window customer should know some basic terms about windows. The following is a list of terms that will help you in your search for quality and energy efficient windows:
CASEMENT: A casement window opens with a crank or lever. Because casement windows have fewer moving parts and seal tigher than double-hung windows, they are usually more energy-efficient.
DOUBLE-HUNG: These windows open by sliding up and down. With double-hung windows, both the uper and lower sashes are movable. In a single-hung window, only one sash is movable while the other is fixed.
LOW-E: Short for "low emissivity", a measurement of how much heat a material radiates. Window manufactureres use invisible low-e coatings (made of metal oxide or even semi-conductor material)on window panes to reduce the amount of heat radiating from the glass.
U-VALUE: U-value, or U-factor measures how much heat the window conducts.
ARGON GAS: No, it's not gas from the planet Argon ; )...Argon is an intert gas that window manufacturers seal between the panes of glass. Because it is inert, it acts as an insulator, drastically slowing the heat transfer throught window.
-FRAME TYPES-
ALUMINUM FRAMES: Aluminum window frames are strong, durable, light-weight and easily molded into complex shapes required for window parts. This kind of frame is available in different finishes and is known to be extremely durable. The advantage to having aluminum window frames is that it conducts heat very well. In cold climates.
WOOD FRAMES: The traditional window frame material is wood, due to it's availability and ease of building into various shapes. Aesthetically, it's highly valued but it is susceptible to rot. Well maintained wood frames can have a long life though.
VINYL FRAMES: Plastics are fairly new to the North American market, often times this is referred to as PVC ( polyvinyl chloride . Vinyl is very versative and a good insulator. Because it's color goes all the way through the material, as opposed to being only a finish, it cannot deteriorate through time. Some manufactureres offer surface laminates to offer more variety of surface appearances. Vinyl frames are comparible with wood for it's value in thermal performance. Small, hollow areas inside the frames add insulating value.
FIBERGLASS FRAMES: Window frames can be made of glass-fiber reinforced polyester, or as we all know it: fiberglass. It is dimensionally stable and has air vaities like vinyl frames. When these cavities are filled with insulation, fiberglass frames have thermal performance superior to wood or viynl.
~ BUYING AND INSTALLING DOORS ~
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Q. How does a door keep the elements outside from getting in?
A. The door works in conjunction with the weatherstipping, door frame and the threshold to keep the elements out. Usually the door itself has insulating material in it's core. The weatherstripping, door frame and threshold prevent air penetration around the door.
Q. What is the difference between the outside door( Storm Door )and interior door?
A.The exterior door must be finished with weather resistant material such as vinyl, steel or aluminum.
Q. Are interior doors held up to the same standards as exterior doors?
A. In terms of ability to withstand things such as warping, cracking and physical damage, interior doors have similar standards. Interior doors do not have to be able to withstand the environmental extemes nor do they need weather stripping. As such, the interior door can be constructed of different materials, commonly, wood.
Q. What is a 'pre-hung' door?
A. Pre-hung doors are installed in the frame before they are shipped to the installer or building site. As such, they simplify the installation significantly. In the old days, a skilled installer was required to construct a frame, install hinges and carefully fit the door so that it operated correctly.
Q. What are the various parts of a frame?
A. The top of the frame is called a header, also called a head frame. The side on which the lock fits is called the strike frame where the strike plate for the lock is installed. The side with the hinges is the hinge from and the bottom is called the threshold.
Q. What is a louver door?
A. A louver door consists of slats, usually arranged horizontally and held together between vertical structures. They are frequently used in situations where it is desirable to have air flow, such as closet spaces.
Q. What is a good material for doors?
A. Wood is good for various reasons, it's naturally sound absorbant, it can be sculpted with surface designs, it can be cut to fit irregular frames, it is more energy efficient than metal and aluminum and most people agree, they simply look better. Wood is more environmentally friendly as well.
Q. How is a door installed?
A. Installers will first take outside measurements of the opening then place the door in the opening to check the fit. Then, they mark and cut the hinge side Z-bar at a slight slope to the outside if necessary. The door, in a closed position, is then put in hinge side first, pushing it firmly against the door jamb and securing it with screws, tighter the better. There are other parts to the door which may or may not have to be installed separately. Parts such as the lock and deadbolt. Many doors are prehung so that they can be installed straight out of the package but there are several types of hardware, doors and entry ways that require a skilled installer to see that your door does not give you difficulties down the road.
As you exercise your do it yourself skills, develop safe work habits and stick to them. Work patiently. If you become confused, frustrated or in too much of a hurry, chances are greater that mistakes will be made. It’s very important to check local building codes and permit requirements before beginning work. Before starting a project, think about what it will involve and prepare all the necessary tools and safety items. If possible, print this off your browser and post it in your work area. Frequent reminders can help you and the people you are working with avoid harm.
Always keep a FIRST AID KIT handy. Be sure it has all the things you may need in case of an accident. The contents include:
antiseptic wipes / bandages /cold compresses /adhesive /astringent coagulant
disposable gloves /scissors /antibiotic ointment /burn treatment bandages and lotions
arm splint /tweezers /safety pins /pain reliever /ammonia inhalant /instant ice packs
sponges / eye washes /rubbing alcohol
1. Do not work with tools when you are tired, stressed out, distracted, or emotionally unwell. That is when most accidents occur.
2. Read and follow the specific safety rules of every tool and material you will be using. This can prevent painful and costly mistakes.
3. Unplug tools when changing blades or making adjustments. This small extra step will give you the reassurance that no accidents will occur from machinery that are plugged in. You may not have heard of such accidents but they do occur and usually have devastating results.
4. Wear heavy soled boots on any construction site; rubber soles when working on the roof. Steel toes boots are often required.
5. Wear gloves while handling lumber or cleaning up potentially dangerous materials.
6. Wear protective eyewear whenever power tools are in operation. If you or someone is working near machinery that could potentially be harmful to eyes, it’s wise to play it safe and wear use protective eyewear anywhere near power tools.
7. Wear ear protection when using power tools as some operate at levels that can damage hearing.
8. Tie long hair back so as not to catch it accidentally in power tools. This is standard practice in factories and the same principle applies for DIY jobs.
9. Keep work surfaces and traffic areas free from scraps and debris. While this can cause unforeseen accidents it can also cause damage to property.
10. Select the appropriate tool for the job and keep all tools sharp and in good working condition. Always cover or put tools in a safe, out-of-the-way place when you are not using them.
11. If an object is too heavy or awkward, get assistance in moving it; bend from the knees when picking up large and heavy items. Often a small strain can escalate into an injury if you continue working after you strained your muscles. Doesn’t be a hero; ask for assistance in moving heavy objects. Also, be sure you’ve got a clear plan on where you are moving it and the procedure. Sometimes moving large objects in small spaces, on stairways or near vulnerable objects requires a little planning before execution.
12. Hard hats are recommended when working under or around overhead construction.
13. Do not wear baggy or loose clothing as they may get caught in the tools. Roll up your sleeves and take off all jewelry.
14. Turn off all utilities before beginning work. Remember that pilot lights must be relit.
15. Wear a respirator or face mask when sanding, sawing or using substances with toxic fumes.
16. Always use the right tool for the job, including the appropriate workbench furniture for the activity performed.
17. Repair or replace tools that have cracks in the wooden handles or chips in the metal parts.
18. Never drill, shape or saw anything that isn't firmly secured.
19. Take care when you store or discard oily rags, as these items are spontaneously combustible.
20. Keep tools out of the reach of small children.
21. Be extra careful regarding the use of the table saw fence settings
22. Equip your shop with a smoke or carbon monoxide detector and the appropriate fire extinguisher.
23. Make sure that there is a telephone in reach when you are in your shop to make a call if something goes wrong.
24. Make sure that your shop or workplace is well lit and well ventilated.
~ CABINET REFACING ~
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The cost of kitchen cabinet refacing is much less than the cost of completely gutting your kitchen and in a much shorter time period.
Kitchen cabinet refacing can be a terrific option to consider if you want a whole new look to your kitchen without going over your budget. Kitchen cabinet refacing usually includes covering the exterior surface of your existing cabinets with a new laminate. The old doors and drawer fronts are then replaced with new custom-made doors and drawer fronts. The types of cabinet front choices are laminate and solid wood. When doing this remodeling it's a good time to look into different handle designs, this can add a nice touch to your home.
Some homeowners intend to keep the layout of their kitchen the same particularly if the kitchen is well designed, well built and functional. So there is really no reason to tear the cabinets out. A new kitchen project can leave your kitchen unusable for some time. If this is unavoidable, make arrangements to deal with your kitchen needs.
Refacing can also include completely replacing cabinets doors in a new style using new materials. Cabinet refacing can range from simply repainting existing cabinets and drawer fronts and updating hardware to stripping cabinet doors and applying verneer or other decorative elements.
You may find that depending on how old they are the existing cabinets are often of better quality construction than those made by today's standards. That is especially true of the quality sturdier cabinets you will find in vintage homes. In this case you may not want to replace the cabinets themselves.
You can save a substantial amount by updating ( refacing ) your existing cabinets since they are already installed, leveled, finished and operational.*The point is, by going with a kitchen cabinet refacing instead of replacing the cabinetry, you will actually be getting the advantages of a remodeling job at a more affordable price.
Siding is one of the most important components of a home. It influences a home's overall appearance and value. Siding is not meant to act as a waterproof barrier. It is an architectural finish that protects the waterproof barrier that lies between it and the wall framing beneath. Choosing siding that is good-looking and compatible with your home's architecture is essential. Also important is the quality of the material and how well it is maintained. You can have the best, most architecturally attractive material in the world, but, unless it's properly maintained, it becomes shabby and leads to structural problems with the house.
Unless you are re-siding, building or remodeling your home, you are stuck with the material that was used when the house was constructed. That's not a problem if you like that style of material and it's in good condition, however, if the siding on your home needs replacement due to neglect or you want a new look for your, you might be in the market for new siding.
Shopping for new siding can be exhausting. There are many choices in style, composition, size and color.
You should consider factors that influence your choice of material in this order of importance:
1. Product quality
2. Architectural compatibility with your home
3. Appearance
4. Maintenance requirements
5. Ability to repair-replace damage
6. Cost.
Most people want the best quality for the lowest cost but realistically, when choosing something as important as siding, you should consider the above points in that order for your long-term benefit. For most homeowners, a home is the biggest investment in a lifetime. Therefore, we suggest following the selection criteria above and figure out how you will pay for it once you have narrowed down your choices.
Wood siding is one of the oldest and most attractive choices. It's hard to beat especially when it comes to finishing a home but it can be costly and it can be the most maintenance intensive. If you choose wood siding, the best defense against rot and premature aging is stain or paint. We suggest the best that money can buy. A premium-quality stain or paint will protect the material from mold, weathering and ultraviolet sun rays that cause deterioration. Using the best quality stain or paint will mean less maintenance and will make the material last longer: you won't need to re-paint or re-stain as often. In the long run, the most expensive product might end up being the least expensive choice.
An alternative to wood is wood composite or fiber cement. Some brands of wood composites have performed well while others have failed miserably. Some of the best performing wood imitations are the fiber cement materials. They mimic the look of natural wood better than most other look-alike wood products. Some of the advantages of fiber cement siding are that it won't twist, melt, warp or burn, it is also pest-resistant. Also, fiber cement is more impact-resistant than aluminum, steel or vinyl which retain permanent marks if scratched or dented. Fiber cement must sometimes be painted and can be subject to winter damage if not properly sealed.
When choosing a composite or fiber cement product, select a major brand that has been around for a while and comes with a good product warranty.
Masonry ( brick, block or stone ) is a popular choice due to it's beauty and resilience but due to cost, is rarely used these days to side an entire home. Brick and stone are used almost often as an architectural element to accent another siding material. Masonry generally requires the least maintenance and has a consistently attractive appearance over the years. As with fiber cement, masonry is subject to damage from freezing and thawing. Mortar used at joints sometimes need to be restored. Painting masonry offers limited protection and can be a maintenance headache. While it's not recommended we would advise using a high-quality acrylic or silicone sealer to prevent freeze-thaw damage in from the seasonal changes.
Vinyl will soon account for more than half of all siding sold according to building industry statistics. What's fueling the vinyl siding trend? For starters: affordability, product improvements, good marketing and vinyl requires the smallest initial investment. A huge selling point among consumers is that it doesn't need to be painted. Vinyl siding is said to be "maintenance-free," but no siding is truly maintenance-free. You don't have to paint it, but you do need to clean it regularly. Over time it will oxidize, which can require more hard work than any paint job. If you like to change the color of your house every few years, siding may not be for you because you'll be stuck with the color until you have. Vinyl is resistant to water and insects, but can chip or crack in with the expanding and contracting of seasonal changes.
While it is true that vinyl is less expensive initially, its estimated life (25 to 50 years) is shorter than some of the other choices. In this way, cost can be deceiving. If vinyl is what you want to install on your house, look for a thicker panel (0.044 to 0.046). A double-hem mounting tends to be more wind-resistant than is a single hem mounting.
Feel free to forward any questions to us at our FEEDBACK area. We'll be happy to help you decide what product is right for you.
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Why You Should Consider Remodeling
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Statistics show that the average person moves once every six years. A house therefore can be regarded not just as a home but as an investment in the real estate market. Many contractors and homeowners alike would like to believe that money spent on a house automatically adds to that home's value. This is not always the case because different home improvement projects will effect the re-sale value of your home.
Which home improvements would attract a potential buyer and give you the best return? What remodeling project would be a good investment in your family's quality of life now and benefit you in the future should you decide to sell your home?
While you are considering remodeling take a look at our COUPONS AND SPECIAL DEALS for great savings.
Here are some points to consider:
The Product - What is the cost at time of purchase and does it have long term performance. How is the maintenance? What are the health effects? Is it a "Green" product (environmentally friendly)?
Design Trends - Remember the Brady Bunch house? In it's day it must have appeared as good looking and modern but today a lot of people might be put off by it's dated appearance ( no offense to the Brady family of course ). If you remodel your home according to today's trends you may find it harder to sell when 'the kids have moved out' or when these trends have changed. It's worth taking some time to consider.
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-Dealing with Window Condensation Problems-
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Moisture can be a significant cause of damage to both exterior and structural elements of your home. In addition, it can create conditions for mold and mildew problems which are potentially harmful to you and your family's health. This article discusses some simple ways to reduce condensation and its associated problems. Serious condensation problems should be referred to a professional before the costs of damage mount.
Water May Form Anywhere Cold Meets Hot Air
The cooler the room, the less its ability to absorb water vapor, so heating a room decreases the potential for condensation. However, water will condense on cold surfaces such as un-insulated exterior walls and windows inside heated rooms. As the air touches the surface, the decrease in temperature robs the air of its ability to hold water, and droplets form on the cold surface.
Even insulated walls or windows can experience condensation as a result of a "cold bridge"-a term referring to any solid element that extends from the cold outside air into the warm air inside, transferring the cold with it. Masonry, solid timber, or a solid metal frame surrounding the panes on a window, for example, could conduct cold into the heated area of the house and cause condensation to form on that element.
Condensation often forms first on glass. Condensation forms rapidly on un-insulated windows which are the only barrier between the heat inside and the cold outside. It accumulates into drops which can run down into the wooden areas of the window causing mold and rot. The potential for this problem can be reduced by adding storm windows or sheet plastic barriers to the outside of the window.
Single pane windows could also be replaced by modern, double-glazed windows. Double-glazed windows have two panes of glass which are usually separated by a sealed space which contains an inert gas ( Low E Argon Gas ). With this type of construction the glass is insulated from the thermal extremes imposed on a single pane, therefore reducing the potential for condensation. This type of window can help save on energy bills.
Improper Insulation can Prevent Ventilation
Insulation which blocks and prevents ventilation in an attic can also result in condensation creating a condition that encourages mold in the framing elements of the house. Depending on the severity, this can affect your home's structural integrity. Eave vents should not be covered by insulation blocking air passage through ridge vents.
A Potential Pipe Problem
Un-insulated pipes pose potential problems. Warm air contacting cold pipes causes condensation to accumulate on the pipe. As it accumulates, water runs and drips can create a moisture problem in your home. Pipes can be insulated with a kind of foam that is formed into sleeves designed for the purpose. These sleeves have a slit down their length and just slip in place on the pipes. You can cut them to fit as closely as possible at all ends. Wrap up by covering the slits and joints with vinyl duct tape.
Controlling Sources of Humidity
Controlling sources of humidity is an important first step in reducing condensation and its associated problems. Try the following:
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- Provide Proper Heating
Dry heat will reduce humidity, decreasing the potential for condensation. Be aware that heating with kerosene heaters can make condensation problems worse. The process of burning kerosene creates water vapor, increasing the moisture level in the room and increasing the chance of condensation forming on walls, windows, or any element which conducts cold into the heated airspace. It may be necessary to use an alternate form of supplementary heating if you experience condensation problems.
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- Provide Adequate Ventilation
Unlike older houses, today's super-sealed and insulated homes are often air tight. This can create condensation problems by reducing air exchange. For this reason, providing adequate ventilation becomes a priority in situations that generate moisture. A lot of moisture is generated during hot baths & showers. Bathroom exhaust fans are relatively simple to install if you don't have one. Running your bathroom exhaust fan for 15 minutes after you shower can significantly reduce moisture build up in the bathroom area. All gas burners and clothes dryers should be vented to the outside
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- *Use a Dehumidifier
If high humidity is a problem which cannot be overcome by heating or ventilation, use of a dehumidifier can reduce the potential for condensation
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House Doctor Carpet Care Tid-bit
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When rearranging furniture we often find that furniture has made a depression mark on our rugs. This discourages a lot of people from rearranging their furniture leaving us to look at the same interior design day in and day out. Don't be discouraged; try this old-fashioned remedy for pulling depressions out of your rugs. To fix those bits of carpet that have been flattened by your furniture, just place an ice-cube on the spot, wait for it to melt ,dry, and presto!
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Step 1. Find the flattened areas of your carpet, usually under tables, sofas and chairs. Be sure to have someone help you move furniture or take precautions not to hurt yourself. It's always good to draw out a new design/layout for what you want your living space to look like BEFORE YOU START MOVING FURNITURE.
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Step 2. Get an average sized ice cube.
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Stage 3. Place the ice cube in the center of the depression on your carpet and let it melt.
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Step 4. After the ice cube has fully melted, fluff up the matted down area with a brush.
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| Step 5. While the carpet dries continue to fluff up the area, you can try using a blow dryer. |
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When putting furniture back or moving to a new location you can place rubber coasters under the furniture legs that are causing these marks. Some people like to cut out small pieces of cardboard to avoid creating indentations in your carpet. |
Buffalo's Home Improvement Contractor For Over 50 Years.
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