Portland Home April/May 2015 by Affluent Target Marketing

JUNE/JULY 2010

PORTLANDHOME VOL XXXVI • NO. 2 • ODD

APRIL/MAY 2015

PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

Publisher Wally Hicks III Marketing Specialists John Davis

8 10 - 13 14 - 18 19 - 33

ADVERTISING MAILING ADDRESS

ON THE COVER Featured on the cover, innovative gutter protection systems ensure that you will never have to climb a ladder to perform the potentially dangerous task of cleaning those gutters, again. These gutter guards can be installed on new or existing gutters, offering a convenient solution for any home, and come with customizable color options. Gutter Helmet allows you to avoid excess risk and cost by addressing maintenance before any build up occurs. For more information about Gutter Helmet, you can call them at 503-305-9103 or visit www.gutterhelmetoregon.com. See their ad on page 5 and article on page 23. CCB #195693.

Staff

PORTLAND HOME • APRIL/MAY 2015

Affluent Target Marketing, Inc. P.O. Box 18507 Anaheim Hills, California 92817-8507 (714) 446-6280 FAX (714) 446-6294 (888) 612-7400 portlandhomemagazine.com The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Portland Home. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, we cannot supervise the way in which information found in Portland Home is used. Portland Home is produced bi-monthly by Affluent Target Marketing, Inc., P.O. Box 18507, Anaheim Hills, California 92817-8507. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submitted materials, including images, logos, and text, for advertising and editorials are assumed to be the property of the provider, and Affluent Living Publications can take no responsibility for unintentional copyright infringement. Affluent Target Marketing, Inc. has the right to refuse advertising. CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY U.S. POSTAL RECEIPTS.

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

kitchen&bath

A Convenient and Affordable Kitchen and Bathroom Makeover

f you are finally ready to tackle that kitchen and bath remodeling project, you are probably also coming to terms with how much money it’s going to cost. Of course, you can always cut corners and leave things out in attempt to appease your budget, however what’s the point of a remodel if the end result isn’t exactly what you’ve always dreamed about? Fortunately, there are ways to attain that perfect kitchen or bathroom at an affordable price, without having to compromise a thing. In a kitchen remodel, new cabinets easily take up the greatest portion of your overall budget. Not to mention, new cabinet installation can take weeks to months and your old cabinets will likely end up in a landfill. If this sounds invasive, expensive and wasteful to you, then it’s time to discover the benefits of refacing. Cabinet refacing only takes a few days to complete, and costs a fraction of the price to replace. Along with gorgeous cabinets that look and feel brand new, you will also save time and natural resources. Essentially, any look that new cabinetry provides can be achieved with refacing. You can choose the style, wood species, finish and hardware, and professionals will remove and replace your old doors, drawer fronts, and other aspects to achieve a complete cabinet transformation. Additionally, genuine wood veneers are applied to all exposed frames and boxes,

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including inside of the frames (something that is often overlooked). The finished product will surpass your expectations—those old, worn-down cabinets will be beautiful once again. Upgrades are easy to include, from complete drawer replacement, full extension glides, tilt-outs, lazy Susans, rollouts, and even crown molding. Cabinet refacing can also work wonders in the bathroom— transform old vanities and kitchen sink cabinets into stylish new focal points. Another convenient way to give a kitchen or bathroom a revamped look is with new countertops. From the elegant touch of quartz or natural stone to the timeless look of granite, an upgraded countertop will be the finishing touch to your rejuvenated environment. A professional can help you make the right choice for your lifestyle—whether your focus is on convenience, hygiene, aesthetics, or durability. The time has come to stop putting off the remodel that you truly desire. Improving the look and functionality of your kitchen space and/or bathroom is not an idea that’s out of reach—there are options for every budget, so discover your ideal solution today. At Surface Solutions, your satisfaction is the ultimate goal. There are no high-pressure salesmen, and no hidden costs. Each custom project is designed with the utmost care, attention to detail, and sensitivity to your specific needs so your kitchen and bathroom remodel is done right the first time. For more information about cabinet refacing, countertop fabrication and installation, or more, you can call Surface Solutions, LLC at 503-369-1988. You can also visit their website at www.surfacesolutionsnorthwest.com. OR Lic. #197242. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

homefashion Nurture Your Child’s Imagination With Beautiful Custom Art ith elements such as color, texture, and design, an artist can turn any uninspired area of the home into a room of imagination. This is especially important for children because the world of play and exploration is so crucial to the growing mind. Harboring positive artistic energy can lead to problem solving, critical thinking, and the ability to express complex life experiences. This is why a custom art creation for your home can be such a beneficial addition to your living space—providing both a beautiful aesthetic element and a thought-provoking aspect for your child’s environment. With faux finishes, portraits, custom canvas pieces, and murals of any sort, a professional artist can dress up any room, including children’s bedrooms, play

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spaces, and even nurseries. No matter what your budget, there’s something for everyone when it comes to custom art. Because these are walls your children will remember forever, custom art will provide a nostalgic memory for everyone. Imagine if your son or daughter could wake up in a spaceship every morning and look out to another astronaut? Or open their eyes to a garden landscape, filled with color and detail. There are virtually no limitations when it comes to creativity. As a double major in Art and Design Education and Painting at Pratt Institute, Nicole Fontana can make empty flat walls come to life. Along with classical training in the fine arts, Nicole also spent a summer studying painting in Venice, Italy. If you would like to schedule a consultation, Nicole at Fontana Painting, LLC will meet with you to discuss your artistic vision. You can call her at 503-305-3805 or visit www.FontanaPainting.com.

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

homefashion

Find the Perfect Fit

FOR YOUR FLOORS

pgrading your floors not only provides value, it creates a brand new look that makes walking in the door exciting once again. When you get new floors, you have a chance to completely reinvent your living space, as well as go green by choosing an environmentally friendly and sustainable product. However, starting a new flooring project can be a daunting task. Where do you start, and how do you know that the product is right for you? This is where the help of a professional comes into play, making sure that you are aware of the different flooring options available and how they can benefit you. Bamboo flooring is the perfect option for those who appreciate beauty, longevity and sustainability. New pre-finished bamboo floors offer simple installation, durability and ease of cleaning with a no-wax surface. Strand woven bamboo floors are stronger and more durable than any hardwoods, are renewable and LEED-certified. For both contemporary and traditional home dĂŠcor, strand-woven floors create long-lasting impressions for comfort and style. Elegant interlaced patterns are achieved through an extensive weaving and carbonizing process.

PORTLAND HOME â&#x20AC;˘ APRIL/MAY 2015

Another great option, engineered hardwood floors are a more ecofriendly alternative to solid wood floors and combine elegance with affordability. With classic style and natural beauty, engineered hardwood floor collections feature pre-finished, premium-grade wood species that include oak, hickory and birch. With a goal to ensure a positive, hassle-free experience, Simple Floors will work with you in order to find the perfect floor for your home. Their professionals will assist you in selection, installation and provide you with the freedom to go at your own pace. Along with bamboo and engineered hardwood flooring, Simple Floors also offers hardwood, laminate, cork, luxury vinyl tile, vinyl, and carpet. For more information, you can call them at 503-715-5532 or visit them at 3477 NW Yeon Ave. in Portland. www.SimpleFloors.com.

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

homeinteriors

iving in a multi-level home provides challenges for anyone who has trouble navigating stairs due to age, wheelchair, or other mobility issues. With the addition of a custom home elevator, stairlift, or vertical platform lift, homeowners and their loved ones can safely and easily access all levels of their home, despite physical limitations, with an added sense of independence. Residential elevators designed by trusted manufacturers like Waupaca Elevator Company, Inc. are ideal for homeowners looking for mobility solutions as well as those who desire the added value and convenience that a home elevator will bring to their home. A residential elevator can be retrofitted into an existing home or designed into your dream house. As people grow older, they often need to move from their home, relocating to an unfamiliar neighborhood, because of the increased difficulty in safely using the stairs. An elevator eliminates the need to move from your home and can be significantly less costly than selling your home—especially in this real estate market. A home elevator can greatly improve your quality of life. While stairs are great for exercise, they are incredibly inconvenient—and dangerous—when carrying heavy loads or bulky items from one floor to another. Modern technology has made home elevators dependable, safe, quiet, durable, and a considerable complement to any home. Elevator car designs can be customized to suit your tastes and blend seamlessly with the style of your décor.

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For homes or budgets where a residential elevator isn’t an option, the Stannah 260 custom stairlift offers a wide variety of features and is custom designed to fit your staircase, ensuring optimum performance. The chair and track’s attractive, compact design takes up a minimum amount of space, making it ideal for narrow staircases. When not in use, it is easy to fold up and offers a convenient lever that allows the user to raise the footrest without bending down. The entire journey, controlled by a simple armrest rocker switch, is ultra-quiet and smooth, while conveniently located swivel handles allow riders to easily get on and off the chair. Because the Stannah 260 attaches to the stair treads, it can be mounted on either side of the staircase to suit your preference. For indoor or outdoor applications such as porches, decks, or other raised levels in the home that require elevation of up to five feet, the Genesis OPAL vertical lift, manufactured by Garaventa Lift, is ADA-compliant and easily transports passengers short distances. Ideal for wheelchair-bound residents and guests, the platform walls, platform gate, and optional automatic folding ramp travel with the platform to create a safety barrier around the passenger. For more information or to arrange a no-obligation consultation or demonstration, you can call Elevator Solutions, Inc., a locally owned and operated company, at 503-285-4222. Their trained staff can offer assistance with choosing and/or designing your residential elevator, chair, or lift system. CCB #143436, WA #ELEVAS1000L8. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

homeinteriors

Keep Your Home Healthy— If It’s in Your Crawl Space, It’s in Your Home

healthy home begins at the bottom. Many homeowners often ignore their home’s sub areas, such as basements and crawl spaces, until moisture causes costly structural and health problems. Neglecting these areas leaves your home open to a variety of pollutants. Crawl space encapsulation systems and basement drainage systems allow homeowners to address standing water issues to prevent future damage, and keep your family safe. Dirt crawl spaces are never-ending sources of moisture. Even if the dirt’s surface seems dry, digging down a few inches reveals moist earth. Moisture ruins houses by providing a hospitable environment for mold, fungi, and insects that destroy wood framing. Moisture in a crawl space affects not only the floor system directly above it, but also the entire house. Warm air in a heated building rises. As it rises, replacement air is sucked from the lowest part of the house – your house is actually sucking the ground. This natural air movement, called the stack effect, is how chimney’s work. Consequently, whatever is in the air at the lowest point eventually flows up into the living sections. Up to 40% of the air we breathe on the first floor of our home comes from the crawl space. To avoid moisture’s negative affects, a crawl space should be fully sealed and isolated from the ground and the outside. A new innovative and effective method has been tested and perfected in

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numerous locations throughout the country and is now available to Portland and southwest Washington homeowners – the CleanSpace® Crawl Space Encapsulation System ™ by Basement Systems Inc. This technique involves placing a 20-mil 7-ply sandwich of high- and low-density polyethylene with polyester-cord reinforcement on the dirt (or concrete) floor and up the walls. This pool-liner-like sheeting is made especially for this system and is treated with an antimicrobial finish that protects against mold and mildew growth on the liner. Lower energy loads, as a result of the encapsulation system, translates into a profitable return on the initial investment. It is strong enough to crawl on and store materials on, and is blue on the bottom and bright white on top to really brighten a crawl space, making it a relatively pleasant storage place. Many crawl space foundations leak. Such cases require a drainage system appropriate to the details of the crawlspace. Basement Systems, the makers of CleanSpace®, designed a tripatented sump pump system, the SuperSump®, that works in conjunction with the liner to create an airtight seal to keep moisture and bugs out. The SuperSump features a built-in WaterWatch® alarm system to let you know if there is ever a pump or power problem before the crawl space floods. Just remember that your crawl space, although often neglected until

it’s too late, is one of the most important spaces in your home. It can be a spawning ground for mold, bugs, smells, odors, and radon gas. The moisture generated in the crawl space can lead to structural damage in your home and loss of energy. While on the other hand, a clean, sealed crawl space can be an extra source for much needed storage while making your home a healthy and safe one. To learn more about the CleanSpace ® Crawl Space Encapsulation System™ or other innovative crawl space solutions, you can call Interstate Pest Management at 503-636-0565 (Portland) or 360-693-5029 (Vancouver), email them at info@interstatepest.com for a free estimate, or visit them on the Internet at www.InterstatePest.com. They are licensed, bonded, and insured, and can fix your crawl space quickly with little or no disruption to your daily routine. The CleanSpace® encapsulation system comes with a 25-year warranty against rips and tears, and from having groundwater on top of the liner. CCB#127319. Before

APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

homeinteriors

WHAT DUST? Dustless Refinishing Leaves Your Hardwood Floors Brand New

THE PROCESS OF REFINISHING WOOD FLOORS HAS CHANGED dramatically in recent years as the industry has evolved in response to homeownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; desire to minimize the mess that occurs during hardwood restoration. Traditionally, sanding and refinishing hardwood floors has been a dusty mess, requiring extensive masking with plastic sheeting. Adjacent rooms, cabinets, counters, and other surfaces needed to be covered, making them useless until the project was completed. Even with all of this effort to protect the home, inevitably dust would get through, creating the need to have a professional cleaning crew come in to remove the evidence. Traditional floor sanders use a dust bag to collect and attempt to filter the dust generated by the sanding process and blown out of the exhaust pipe. Air passes through the bag and back into the room while attempting to filter out the dust, but due to the porous nature of the bag, fine particles of dust are blown through with it. This problem is compounded as the bag fills up with dust and there is less effective surface area to work with. The filter is getting smaller! The same amount of air trying to go through a smaller cross section has to go faster, increasing pressure as well as the amount of fine dust that is blown through. This also hurts the ability of the sander to collect the dust from the floor. You might see more dust being left behind or becoming airborne as the bag gets full. Industry leaders have maximized efficiency with the use of dust-free technology to eliminate the amount of particles stirred up during

PORTLAND HOME â&#x20AC;˘ APRIL/MAY 2015

the traditional sanding process. Hoses remove the dust from the home during sanding so that it never has a chance to become airborne and settle on furnishings or be breathed in by homeowners and their families. While the traditional refinishing process wreaks havoc on allergies as well as housekeeping, dustless refinThe dust containment system Traditional refinishing creishing offers the ideal solution for removes the dust from the ates a cloud of dust that sanding process leaving your settles on furnishings and removing the mess and allergens cabinetry. home virtually dustless. from inside the home. An experienced technician will advise you on the best finish to fit your taste and style, whether it be up with a fan to place in the window. Swedish, water-based (green), or a penetrating Professional-grade machinery and finishing products are the mark of an experienced wood stain and wax. Sanding and finishing wood floors is a floor refinisher. For more information, you can call Treadline highly specialized process that requires the touch of skilled technicians well-versed in the Construction at 503-855-3740. To view their proper techniques and equipment. Many com- online portfolio, you can also visit their website at panies advertise dustless refinishing and show www.Treadline.net. CCB #170878. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

homeinteriors

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE

Keeping You and Your Loved Ones

Independent Longer

he first waves of baby boomers are joining the many seniors that want to remain at home as they age. And younger boomers need solutions as they help aging parents in their households. The focus of aging in place is to help seniors (or anyone with physical transitions) be ensured that they can live where they choose and get the help they need for as long as they can. Even more, the goal for someone wanting to age in place should be to maintain or improve quality of life. In order to do that, a good plan that focuses on your quality of life and covers your self, home, finances, care and other items should be created as early as possible, and maintained over time as your situation changes. Deciding you wish to age in place means you are choosing how you want to spend your later years. This includes: How you want your home to be set up. What your healthcare choices will be.

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Which types of assistance are right for you. What your wishes are for major life events (such as sickness, housing transitions, and financial decisions). Making these choices gives you control over your independence, quality of life and dignity. Most important, aging in place does not mean you have to do everything yourself; it means you get to plan how your needs are met, who meets them and when. Reliant Construction Solutions & Mobility provides all forms of traditional to specialty installations, from home elevators to exterior/interior wheelchair lifts, in-home stair lifts, ceiling gantry lifts and many other products from well-known manufacturers. With the future in mind, Reliant integrates construction and equipment into the home while keeping aesthetics appealing. For more information or a free in-home analysis, you can call them at 503-643-9417 or visit www.mobilityremodeling.us. CCB #198886. WA RELIACS875D2. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

How Functional

IS YOUR PATIO OR DECK?

f there’s one thing Oregon homeowners can always count on, it’s the rain. Over the course of a year, it rains approximately 155 days in the Portland/Vancouver area. That is almost half of the entire year. While this might not be a problem for some, it can definitely become an issue for homeowners that have decks and patios—especially if those architectural structures were built many years ago. However, even newer structures can suffer if they have been coated in urethane. An older, and still commonly used, technology from the 1950s is the urethane fluid-applied deck coating. While urethane has a lower initial expense, the re-coating costs that accompany it are much higher. With a typical lifespan of just five-to-eight years, urethane is subject to UV degradation from both the inside and out. As it degrades, microcracks open up and leaks begin before you are aware of the problem. Urethane is easily stained and cut, and it dulls with time. Take a good look at your home patio and deck area. Do you see rotting wood or cracking concrete? Do you notice any discoloration, rust, sagging and rot? If you observe any areas of concern, one of the best decisions you can make is to properly waterproof your patio or deck ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

while it’s still in decent shape—saving both time and money before the problem becomes a major repair issue later on down the road. A new acrylic polymer technology offers a more comprehensive system for those outdoor structures—professionals will both waterproof and resurface your deck. Not susceptible to UV degradation, the coating will not crack and is extremely chemical and stain resistant. This technology has been tested to withstand liquids such as bleach, vinegar, transmission fluid, brake fluid, surface cleaners, blood, iodine, ketchup, red wine, and much more, proving it to be an ideal surface solution for any sort of high-traffic area. Your new waterproof surface will not crack, keeping the structure dry underneath. One of the most attractive benefits is the versatility. While urethane coatings are only available in single-color, monochromatic finishes, your newly coated deck or patio can have any texture, stain or color that you choose. Once everything is finished, maintenance is extremely minimal. Cleaning will entail a light pressure washing, and a new top sealer can be applied every five-to-ten years, depending on use. Rock Solid Waterproofing has been providing residential and commercial waterproofing and drainage solutions in the greater

Portland/Vancouver metropolitan area since 2006. Because all waterproofing projects require a high level of expertise, innovative solutions, and attention to detail, each technician looks not only at the symptoms, but focuses on the root problems. Along with decks and patios, Rock Solid Waterproofing also provides services on basements, roofs, foundations, flooring and other specialty jobs. For more information, you can call them in Portland at 503-245-3313 and in Vancouver at 360-887-0421. You can also visit their website at www.rocksolidwaterproofing.com. Oregon CCB #177980. WA CL #ROCKSSW926C6.

APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

exteriorslandscaping

The Complete Outdoor Experience— A Truly Wise Investment

one are the days of being forced to shift uncomfortably on uninspired aluminum chairs and nylon webbing when the time comes to take the entertaining outdoors. Modern homeowners want a complete outdoor experience with friends and family. Outdoor rooms can now boast a kitchen, gas grill, refrigerators, pizza ovens, larger patios for dining and relaxing. The calm, soothing sounds of water and fire not only promote the feeling of being one with nature, but have also been known to lower blood pressure. Gorgeous outdoor living spaces have not only become a popular trend with savvy homeowners. In fact, they are slowly becoming a musthave space that essentially provides your family with an extra room to enjoy. An upgraded landscape provides you with a valuable space for entertaining and relaxing, however perhaps even more important, it’s also a wise financial investment! Not only can an outdoor living and landscaping remodel reduce the time a home stays on the market by as much as six weeks, but it can also add up to 14% to the resale value of a property. Statistics show that a 5% investment in landscaping can raise the value of a home by 15%—which is a substantial 150% return on your investment. While this is great news for a homeowner, it’s not a good idea to run outside and start planting trees and flowers everywhere. You want to take some time to create a cohesive landscape and outdoor remodeling project in order to maximize your livable space. First, you should put some serious thought into what you and your family would like to have in your yard. If you are the type of person who finds

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solace outdoors, would the addition of a pond or water feature create the ambiance you desire? Can you envision yourself spending evenings unwinding next to a beautiful outdoor fireplace, or even under a stylish pergola so you can stay covered when the weather is less than ideal? Once you’ve realized what your top outdoor priorities are, the next step is to find a professional who can help you bring that vision to reality. Design and build landscape experts have the knowledge and experience to create your perfect space. They understand how certain elements work together in order to achieve the mood you want. For example, incorporating plants that provide both privacy and block wind. Building walkways and landscape walls with beautiful natural stone can create borders and sitting areas, which brings balance and structure to the yard. With over 25 years of experience in landscape design and installation, Northwest Outdoor Living & Landscapes is positioned to help you with any landscape project, from simple to complex. The improvement to your property will reflect the passion they have for creating outdoor spaces and gardens. For more information, you can call them at 503-740-7733 or visit their website at www.northwestoutdoorliving.com. Oregon landscape contractor’s license #8431. Washington license #ALLNANL866N6

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exteriorslandscaping

Eco-Friendly Roofing Takes Portland by Storm

s your greatest and most personal investment, it’s important to protect your home from the elements and the roof of your home is of primary importance in that consideration. In today’s environmentally conscious world, recycled building materials are also of primary importance. But going green with your home doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, aesthetics, and affordability. As an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional roofing systems, EUROSHIELD™ covers your home in style while reducing your carbon footprint. This roofing system offers function and durability as well as beauty. EUROSHIELD™ roofing products were created 15 years ago with the goal of utilizing mountains of rubber tires that have been amassing on the landscape since the dawn of the automobile. Up until recently there has been little use for them. Years of research and development led to the creation of a unique formula, containing over 75% recycled materials, for the production of the finest synthetic rubber roofing products available on the market today. Between 600 and 1,000 rubber tires are used in the production of a EUROSHIELD™ roof for an average-sized home. Scrap material generated during the installation process can be collected and recycled again—virtually eliminating environmentally harmful waste. Heat, wind, rain and snow will take its toll on any roof, but you can rest easy no matter what Mother Nature brings your way— ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

EUROSHIELD™ roofing systems are rain, wind, hail, and fire resistant. As an added bonus, many homeowners comment on the difference the product has made in keeping their homes cooler in the summertime, and also about the superior sound-deadening qualities this roofing system has to offer. EUROSHIELD™ offers two types of roofing systems; a thicker heavier panel that replicates either slate or shake and features a locking “tongue and groove” butt edge, and a thinner lighter panel that also replicates shake or slate, that is lower cost and faster to install. The primary advantage to the lighter product is its lower price point, bringing rubber roofing within reach of more homeowners, while offering a similar slate or shake look. The slate profile is designed to accurately replicate the look and texture of a traditional heavy chiseled-edge slate tile, but without the considerable weight and high cost associated with slate. The shake profile is the perfect choice for those who want the look of a wood roof without the worries of premature failure due to rotting, cracking and warping. EUROSHIELD™ roofing systems are available in three standard colors: black, grey, and brown. When it’s time to sell your property, your EUROSHIELD™ roof increases your home’s resale value by adding to the design, beauty, and durability, and in green Portland, eco-friendly features are always a plus. For more information on EUROSHIELD™ roofing systems, you can contact Keith Green Construction, Inc., a certified installer, online at www.keithgreenconstruction.com, or by phone at 503-681-7912. Keith Green Construction, Inc. (KGC, Inc.), can answer any questions you might have. You can also visit the product website at www.euroshieldroofing.com. CCB OR #109148, WA#keithgc948kh. APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

exteriorslandscaping

Taking It Outdoors

ummer will be here before you know it. For some people, the sight of trees and shrubs starting to bud and the warmer weather sends an overwhelming urge to start tearing into projects and getting the home ready for the outdoors. Oregonians are truly blessed with a climate that gives us all four noticeable and livable seasons. We don't get six-to-eight feet of snow in the winter and we don't experience 120-degree summers. We do, however, get rain— and lots of it. Here in the Northwest, there are so many homes with decks, and for most decks, those many months of rain can take its toll. The average deck lasts about 10-15 years in the Northwest, and if yours is approaching that age, it may be time to take a serious look at its structural integrity. Most catastrophic deck accidents are from structural failures due to improper attachment to the house or simply neglect in detecting potential problems. Nails, screws, and bolts that hold it together will start to walk out or loosen as the wood gets wet and dry throughout the years. Preserved or pressure treated wood will rot through time. If you're not comfortable with doing a self-diagnosis on your deck, it's in your best interest to call a professional. The last thing anyone wants is to start the summer with loved ones or friends getting hurt on your deck from a loose railing giving out, or worse yet, the entire deck falling away from the house. To see examples of this, go to Youtube.com and type in, "why do decks collapse?" The beginning of spring may bring the idea of building that great outdoor entertainment space you've always dreamed of. A trend that's gaining popularity is the outdoor living room, giving homeowners the opportunity to entertain around a bar or outdoor fireplace, or simply enjoy the big game on television. The outdoor living room is the perfect answer to those “let's take it outdoors" evenings.

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Finding reputable companies who specialize in all outdoor living spaces can be daunting. Some only do decks, while others only do hardscapes, not to mention the kitchen professionals. If an outdoor living space is in your future, look for a company that can take care of all your needs at once; a company that you feel comfortable and confident with. How long have they been in business and will they stand behind their work by offering written guarantees for the structure and workmanship? Do they get all the proper permits required by the county you live in, and will your project be inspected by that same county to ensure that it's all in compliance? We all look forward to the spring and summer months ahead with the people we enjoy. Have the time of your life and be safe when you're "taking it outdoors.” Being with friends and family and enjoying it outdoors is one of Oregon’s greatest gifts. For more information about a complete project for your outdoor spaces, Archadeck of West Portland can help. You can call them at 503-925-8756 or visit www.westportland.archadeck.com. CCB #204750.

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exteriorslandscaping

Innovative Gutter Protection for Your Home

utters represent a part of the house many homeowners would prefer to forget about in the hopes that they’ll just clean themselves. No one wants to brave the ladder to remove the debris that accumulates there, but if neglected, extensive damage to your home can result, including mold and mildew, rot, cracked foundations, landscape erosion, and insect infestation. Now there’s a cutting-edge solution to control rain water runoff and eliminate the risk posed by climbing the ladder and the cost of having the work done. Gutter Helmet® installs over new and existing gutters to protect them from leaves, needles, dirt, and other debris that will cause them to clog and overflow. Made with patented, anti-corrosive PermaLife™ coating, its textured surface increases surface tension and tensile strength, enabling it to withstand extreme winds as well as heavy rainfall and snow loads. This preventative product extends the life of your home and gutters, avoiding rot caused by backed up gutters. Ideal for any home, leaves and other debris slide off the cover while water is

directed through the gutters and deposited away from the home, preventing mold and mildew in attics, basements, ceilings, and wall spaces, rotten wood on your fascia, siding, and roof edge, and landscape and foundation damage. Customized color options allow homeowners to blend Gutter Helmet so that it appears to be an extension of the roof. Unlike traditional gutters that can inhibit the curb appeal of a home, Gutter Helmet finishes off the look of a house. Avoid excess risk and cost by addressing this maintenance issue the smart way— stop the build up before it happens. A lifetime warranty on materials, workmanship, and performance ensures you’ll never have to climb that ladder again or have to hire someone to do it for you. For more information, you can call Gutter Helmet of Oregon at 503-305-9103 or you can visit their website at www.gutterhelmetoregon.com. CCB #195693.

Now, your concrete floors can look as beautiful as the rest of your home. Specialty Coatings installs a wide variety of decorative finishes for your garage and shop floors. Our exclusive Acryli-Guard 4-coat flooring system can be installed in one day and you can drive on it in less than 1 hour. And it's guaranteed for life not to peel—even under hot tires! These seamless coatings are easy to clean and will dramatically improve the appearance of your floor. We also do commercial and industrial work. Call today for a FREE estimate!

(503) 644-7500

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

exteriorslandscaping

“The average home in the U.S. loses about 25 to 40 percent of heated and cooled air through leaks found throughout the home’s air duct system.”

Losing Energy Dollars From Ductwork? Seal In Your Savings From the Inside

hat is the single most effective thing you can do to save on the cost of heating and cooling your home while creating a greener neighborhood? Recent reports cited by the US Department of Energy found the single most effective means of conserving home energy for many homeowners is air duct sealing. And, according to the EPA’s Duct Investor Calculator, duct sealing in a home with a three-ton system and 30% leakage with a reduction to 2% leakage can save 300 trees a year, plus 20% to 40% on utility bills. That’s a lot of green! While all of these measures help reduce energy waste, recent reports cited by the U.S. Department of Energy found the single most effective means of conserving home energy for many homeowners is air duct sealing. As surprising as this may seem, the evidence is clear. The average home in the U.S. loses about 25 to 40 percent of heated and cooled air through leaks found throughout the home’s air duct system. Even newly built homes are, more often than not, plagued by leaky air ducts—leaks that divert heated and cooled air from their intended destination, reduce the efficiency of your furnace and air conditioner, and ultimately increase your monthly utility bill. So, how do you find and seal air duct leaks in existing homes without having to tear down walls or strip the insulation? After years of testing, scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory came up with a solution based upon revolutionary thinking: If you can’t access the leaks from the outside of the ductwork, let’s do it from the inside. The breakthrough sealant they developed is applied as a nontoxic aerosol mist that is pumped throughout the inside of the home’s air duct system. The aerosol particles, about the size of smoke particles, stay suspended in the air until they come across leaks in the ductwork. There they accumulate and bond together around the holes until the leaks are filled.

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The new aerosol technology, commercially called AeroSeal, is applied with the help of specialized software that controls the flow of the sealant and provides a real time progress report of the process. When the job is completed, the homeowner is given a printout report that shows the before and after leakage amounts and the overall reduction levels attained. In addition to energy savings, effective duct sealing can have an immediate impact on home comfort and issues related to air quality. Allergens such as dirt and pollen from outside the home are regularly sucked into the air duct system by the furnace or air conditioner. Leaks and gaps in the air ducts allow these allergens to bypass filters and spread throughout the house. While a number of air conditioning and heating service providers in the greater Portland/Vancouver area offer ductwork testing for air leaks and provide an estimate of how much air you’re losing, when it comes to sealing, ENTEK Corporation is your local contractor that has the technology, product and training to accurately test and seal your ductwork from the inside out. A complete design/build heating, air conditioning and energy solutions company, ENTEK is dedicated to providing services that empower people to take control of their own living environment and energy use. Duct sealing with AeroSeal is just one of the many energy solutions ENTEK can offer—your entire house is a system that must be assessed in order to be truly comfortable and efficient. For more information and a list of all available products and services, you can visit their website at www.ENTEKhvac.com or call 1-800-633-1354.

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Need a Change From Plain or Damaged Concrete?

Resurface with Decorative Concrete Coatings oncrete may seem like an unlikely canvas, but resurfacing with decorative concrete coatings can instantly transform boring or unsightly surfaces into a work of art. With a variety of possible applications including garage floors, interior floors, large commercial floors such as restaurants, and even waterproofing basement floors, decorative concrete coatings offer homeowners the freedom to create unique designs while adding dramatic visual appeal. Resurfacing your existing concrete surfaces can be at least half the cost of tearing it out. Like other elements of your home, why replace it, when you can reface it? High-end, quality coating systems offer a resilient, flexible surface that resists chipping, mildew, oil, and rust. Easy maintenance, slip resistance, and extreme durability—four times the strength of normal concrete—make decorative concrete coatings the perfect solution for enhancing high traffic areas. Resurfacing is faster and more economical than removing and re-pouring new concrete. This superior solution allows you to have the flooring of your dreams, without a messy process that disrupts the flow of your everyday life. Additionally, with an extensive selection of colors, patterns, and textures, there’s an attractive combination to fit any style and budget with minimum hassle and low-maintenance materials. Homeowners have the opportunity to customize their concrete surfaces to coordinate with their home and complement their personal style in as little as one to three days, depending on the design and system

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installed. Concrete specialists will work with you to transform an oily, mildew, or rust-stained surface into a colorful, textured finish that will retain its elegant appearance for years to come, enhancing curb appeal while creating an eye-catching surface that will become the envy of the neighborhood. Combine stamped concrete with other decorative concrete applications such as staining for maximum appeal. Transform your garage floor and create an attractive living space that can be used for more than just storage, polish some life back into a large and busy space such as an office or restaurant, or reclaim your basement by waterproofing and rejuvenating the floors and turning it into an entertaining game room or a quiet reading area. With non-porous, easy-to-maintain coating systems, you only have to reseal every five years, and with full-service specialists offering a written warranty as well as cleaning and sealing options, taking care of your concrete surfaces has never been easier or more convenient. For more information or to schedule an appointment to view samples and color options, you can call NW Creative Resurfacing at 503-750-4330 or e-mail NWCreativeResurfacing@gmail.com. NW Creative Resurfacing uses products that have been time tested for more than 50 years. To view their online portfolio, you can visit their website at www.NWCreativeResurfacing.com. CCB #180848, WA #NWCRECR925JZ. APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

Cost Effective Recycled Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Stonework and Stamped Concrete Eye-Catching Yet Functional Solutions for Outdoor Living

s families change, many homeowners find themselves feeling cramped in what used to be ample living space. With the kids getting older and the puppy now a full-grown dog, you’ll need more room. With real estate and new construction costs rising daily, now is a good time to utilize the existing space you have outdoors. Outdoor living options offer endless opportunity for expanding your home beyond its four walls. The starting point to creating outdoor living space is a patio or deck, and you’re not limited to the ground floor. If your house has the perfect space off an upper story, a custom deck is the only way to go. Choose a traditional all-wood deck or a wood deck structure with a concrete or stone surface. For living space at ground floor, a concrete patio is ideal in the Pacific Northwest as wood decks will decay, are prone to moss, and can become slippery. Concrete patios are low-maintenance and visually appealing, with installation options available in a wide variety of finishes, including stamped concrete, which comes in an array of colors, stone patterns, and textures. Concrete pavers are another option, available in many eye-catching colors and styles. For homeowners that want the underlying durability of concrete but a different look, stone and brick surfaces can be applied over a concrete installation. If you think your outdoor area is hopeless because of sloping or other space issues, consult an experienced hardscape contractor that also specializes in retaining walls. They can add curb appeal to a front yard by bringing definition to your property and creating a more manageable landscape, as well as develop areas of your property that are sloped or otherwise unusable. Installing retaining walls enables you to add sport courts, patios, children’s play structures, and garden areas, making it easier to maintain while maximizing your square footage. Constructed with a range of attractive products and materials like recycled concrete, stone, block, brick, and poured concrete, retaining walls don’t have to be an eyesore, in fact, quite the opposite. Gorge Stone, a stone veneer product that resembles local indigenous stone, can be used for retaining walls, fireplaces, and building siding for a more natural look. As a green product, recycled concrete walls provide the look of stone at about half the price while using a waste product that is neither manufactured nor quarried and often takes advantage of on-site recycling from a driveway, sidewalk, or patio that has been removed for replacement. As part of any well functioning landscape, pathways and stairs allow homeowners to enjoy their yard year-round, while a well-constructed driveway adds value and curb appeal. Driveways, pathways, and stairs can be constructed with concrete in finishes that include exposed aggregate, stamped and colored, sand finish, or a standard broom finish, as well as concrete pavers, stone, and brick. With the addition of features such as built-in barbecues and firepits constructed with brick or stone and fueled by natural gas for durability and convenience, you can transform your backyard into a functional and beautiful environment ready for friendly get-togethers and relaxing nights with the family. For more information, you can call The Wall, member of the Association of Oregon Recyclers, at 503-735-9255 and e-mail info@bythewall.com. Serving Portland Metro homeowners since 1985, The Wall is a complete design-build company offering full-service design. They are also members of the Home Builders Association of Metro Portland and The Oregon Remodelers Association. www.ByTheWall.com. OR #54495, WA #WALL***991OO, Metro lic. #1363. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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our gutters and downspouts perform an important job in funneling rainwater away from your house, so it's important to keep them free flowing. Clogged gutters can cause major damage to your fascia, foundation, siding, and landscape, not to mention possible mold issues. However, as most homeowners know all too well, keeping those gutters clean can be quite an uphill battle. They get blocked by everything; from leaves and pine needles to tennis balls and insect nests. Not to mention, when it comes to keeping your gutters clear, the choices can seem quite limited. You have the option of getting up on a ladder, balancing carefully as you hold your bucket in one hand, and clean your dirty, smelly gutter with the other. Alternatively, you can hire a gutter cleaning professional to come do the dirty work for you, which gets pretty expensive. Luckily, there is another way! ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

The ideal solution is the Premier Gutter Cover, a unique self-cleaning system that uses both gravity and rainwater to shed debris from your gutter and prevent gutters from clogging and overflowing. It’s unique, patented, louvered design works with rainwater to keep your gutters clear.

Blocked Gutter The Premier Gutter Cover was put through rigorous testing for over 10 years in the heart of the Mt. Hood National Forest, which has almost 100" of annual rainfall. Even in this harsh environment, the cover shed debris so effectively, not even small debris such as pine needles or seeds are trapped. In addition, the cover virtually eliminates any snow or ice damage to gutters.

Premier Gutter Covers reduce access for animals, which deters birds, wasps, and bees nests. In addition, by encouraging water movement through your gutter, the Premier Gutter system helps deter mosquitoes. The sleek design has a powder-coated finish, which blends with your home’s exterior and does not alter your home’s appearance. The tempered aluminum will not rust or suffer sun damage. The Premier Gutter Cover works with your existing gutters and won’t penetrate your roof. Premier Gutter Covers are environmentally friendly and made locally, here in Oregon. All packaging materials are recyclable. The professionals at Fisher Roofing can install your Premier Gutter Cover system without damaging your roof warranty. For over 30 years, Fisher Roofing has established a reputation as one of the finest roofing contractors in the Portland Metro area. For information, you call Fisher Roofing at 503-227-ROOF (7663), or visit www.FisherRoof.com/noclog. CCB #45970 APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

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Concrete Lifting:

s a homeowner, you work hard at maintaining and protecting what is, in most cases, your largest single investment: your home and property. And while every homeowner knows there are important reasons for maintaining a home, what about the concrete? Sidewalks, steps, porches, driveways, patios, and pool decks all represent very permanent and costly parts of your property made up of concrete that all require maintenance. Concrete cracks, sidewalks fail, driveways and walkways erode, pool patios sink, and porches settle. When homeowners are left with concrete conditions like these, a cost-effective concrete repair is in order. Here are the top five reasons to repair your concrete. 1. Safety. The safety of family, friends, and visitors should be of utmost importance to any homeowner. Serious falls put mature adults at risk and tumbles are rising for those over 65. Don't risk a guest tripping on steps in poor shape or a child falling off a bike in the driveway because of uneven joints in the concrete; get these repaired before it's too late. 2. Liability. Why increase your risk of a costly trip-and-fall lawsuit due to an uneven sidewalk hazard or broken front step? Avoid scams by hiring the right concrete expert for your situation. A concrete repair contractor charges far less than a lawyer! 3. Appearance. The first impression of a sharp looking driveway, clean even steps, or a pressure-washed and sealed porch can really give your home that well-maintained look. Increase curb appeal by treating concrete surfaces like you do your yard. Brighten up an old yard with some concrete repair and maintenance. 4. Property Value. Repairing a crumbling step or sealing up a cracked driveway can help maintain the overall investment value of your home.

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Research shows that when selling a home, well-maintained properties have a higher resale value. 5. Preventative Measures. It's common for concrete areas to sink or settle, especially in our wet climate. This may cause steps, sidewalks, or entryways to be out of code. A simple, early repair through the use of flat-rocking can remedy this condition. Tree root issues get worse the longer you wait. Cracks turn into crumbles if you continue to neglect repair. Because concrete is highly durable, preventative maintenance is frequently ignored until signs of deterioration become evident. Concrete loses its ability to function as designed due to improper maintenance, damage, and deterioration. These factors combine to shorten the life of concrete structures and surfaces. For good quality concrete maintenance on cracks; providing treatment with cutting-edge crack repair products and penetrating sealers can help avoid replacement needs and can further the life of a concrete surface. The first step for preventative measures is to follow good construction practices regarding mixture proportions, covering reinforcement, and proper curing. The second is monitoring, inspection, and maintenance. You can learn more about this resourceful list or take an active interest in repairing the concrete around your home immediately. Flat Rock Concrete Leveling professionals have extensive knowledge in the industry and possess a meticulous skill that must be learned through construction experience, which the Flat Rock family has acquired over 25 years. For more information on services or to schedule a free estimate, you can call their dedicated and qualified individuals at Flat Rock Concrete at 503-421-8580. You can also learn more at www.flatconcrete.com. Washington lic. #FLATRRC892MA. Oregon CCB #192071 ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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Enjoy the Outdoors Comfortably inding the perfect outdoor patio or deck system that allows you to spend time outdoors any time you want can be a serious challenge. Some enclosed patio covers keep you dry when it’s raining, but what happens when the sun comes out and you want nothing more than to relax outside and gaze at the beautiful sky? Finding that perfect medium, where you can adjust accordingly depending on both your mood and the environment, seems almost impossible for most homeowners—until now. American Louvered Roofs provide you with the ambiance you desire at the exact moment you need it, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor living space virtually every day of the year. This system can open for the warm sun and natural light, and close when you want cool shade, or to keep you dry when it rains. When you want to barbeque, the smoke can escape easily. When it’s hot outside, you can protect your home from the heat and reduce the temperature. When it’s nice and sunny, you can bask in the sunlight. The choice is completely up to you! American-made and designed, professionals can customize and install your state-of-the-art patio or deck cover. The ultimate outdoor living experience, American Louvered Roofs extend memorable experiences into nature ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

while assuring your comfort. When you plan outdoor parties and gatherings, you will have confidence knowing that your louvered roof will provide infinite adjustability so your family and friends feel confortable at all times. Available in three stunning standard color options to match your home with over 100 custom colors available, systems are crafted from heavy-grade extruded aluminum and powder-coated paint. Featuring a lifetime limited warranty, the high-quality louvered roof will give you years of trouble-free performance. Engineered for extreme wind and heavy snow loads, the louvered roof system also lowers the temperature of your deck by 15-to-20 degrees, allowing you to save on your cooling bill. Standard remote control motorized operation makes for easy transitions, adding the ultimate in quality and comfort to your outdoor space. Portland Willamette has been in business since 1946, and one of their newest products is the American Louvered Roofs. With years of experience producing the world’s most innovative solutions in architectural metals, American Louvered Roofs represents the best in your home so that you can add more cherished moments with the security of rain and sun protection. For more information about American Louvered Roofs, and more ideas on how to expand your living spaces and make the most of your home, you can visit www.newpatiocover.com or email cs@portwill.com. You can also call Portland Willamette at 503-288-7511. APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

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Maximizing The Life of Your Cedar Shake Roof

obody wants to spend money on a roof. Certainly it would be more fun to put that money aside for a new RV, boat, car, etc.—anything besides a roof! Unfortunately, the simple economics are that once your roof is allowed to deteriorate beyond restoration process capabilities, you will spend from $300 to $450 per square foot to replace it. The vast majority of today’s cedar shake roofs carry a price tag of from $9,000 to $30,000. Under conditions commonly found in the Northwest, total deterioration can take place in less than 10 years. The problem is, your roof gets “Oregonized.” When wood is exposed to the effects of sunlight and moisture, it changes both physically and chemically—commonly called weathering. First the color changes from reddish brown to silvery gray. This happens within the first year. Gradually the roof will take on a darker gray color, indicating it is being colonized by microfungi. As the roof continues to age, wood-destroying organisms slowly degrade the shingle’s surface and edges. Debris from trees accumulates in the valleys and between the shakes. After each rain these areas remain moist longer, encouraging the growth of

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other troublesome plants, primarily lichens and mosses. Your roof is now “Oregonized” and deterioration will rapidly accelerate. Moss and fungus growing on your roof does double damage: (1) During rain, it retards the shedding of water, which promotes leaks. (2) When the rain stops, it prevents the surface from drying, and wood-rotting organisms begin to grow. The accumulation of leaves, needles, and other debris has the same harmful effects and increases the chance of fire damage. Preventative maintenance and specialized treatment is a process and is the key to maximizing the life and beauty of your cedar shake roof. Be wary of roof cleaner contractors who solicit door to door or leave flyers promising quick fixes. Demand their license or CCB numbers as well as references, and choose an experienced roof cleaning company. Quick-fix solutions to revitalize your roof should be approached with extreme caution. Pressure washing makes your roof look brand new, but the problem is that 6 to 36+ gallons per minute of water under 1,500 to 3,500 lbs. per square inch of pressure tears at the shingles, leaving them 1/8 to 3/16 of an inch thinner, removing years of life from your roof. Do not pressure wash.

The other most common method of restoring your cedar roof to its original luster is replacing the natural oils. Never do it! These oils account for less than three percent of the cedar’s total mass, and that was when the tree was alive! Furthermore, petroleumbased products are oxidized and broken down fairly quickly and increase the flammability of your roof. Taking care of your cedar shake is a responsibility; it’s a process—not an event. Putting the care of your roof in the hands of a cedar shake expert is among the wisest dollar decisions you will ever make on your home! There is a specialist who has pioneered a process that is neat, clean, simple, and safe. This process won’t rot your gutters or stain your concrete, won’t harm your lawn or shrubs, won’t injure animals, is virtually odor-free, and, best of all, is guaranteed. Cedar Tech has a completely biodegradable and environmentally compatible process that is time-tested on numerous sensitive applications, including the Inn at Otter Crest and the Leach Botanical Garden. To contact the experts and seasoned pros at Cedar Tech, caring for cedar roofs since 1991, you can call Kevin Stinson at 503-643-9303 or visit their website at www.CedarTechRoofCare.com. Cedar Tech is licensed, bonded, and insured, with extensive references throughout NW Oregon and SW Washington. CCB #160333 ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME

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A Brand New Look

for Your Outdoor Environment

reathe new life into your home by rejuvenating outdoor surfaces such as wood decks, railing, fences, and outdoor structures. Wood can fade and rot over time and significantly decrease the curb appeal of your home. Instead of replacing unsightly, weathered wood surfaces, try turning to the specialists who use a complete system of quality products from trusted manufacturers— like Superdeck—to revitalize your outdoor living space and ensure maximum life and beauty. Stripping a deck using a biodegradable product and agitating with a stiff deck brush will clean the pores of the wood, remove the bond between the oil and stain pigments, and allow them to be washed away with a low-pressure power washer. This will also remove the ground-in dirt and stains, including mildew and algae growing below surface level. It is important to remember that wood fibers are soft and can be damaged by a pressure washer if used incorrectly. Sanding alone will only remove the surface level grime and oil, and will not separate old product that is solidified deep in the pores of the wood. By not removing the

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old product, the new oils and stain are prevented from penetrating deep into the wood, likely making the finished product appear blotchy. Once the wood is free of old pigment and oils using the process above, a brightener should be applied to the wet deck. This will neutralize nail bleed and dark tannin bleed from tannin-rich cedar, redwood, mahogany, ipe, and other woods. Care should be taken around glass windows because brighteners can permanently etch your glass. After allowing the wood to dry completely (time may vary by weather conditions), a stain containing penetrating oils should be applied. Using such oils allows the wood to breathe and water to evaporate from the wood after it rains. Sealing a deck is not recommended. Sealing the pores on the top surface of the wood prevents water from penetrating into the wood, but it also does not allow moisture that is wicked into the wood from the sides and bottom to escape. This traps the moisture in the wood, making it susceptible to premature rot and decay. Experts agree that the best way to increase the longevity of your wood is to treat it with penetrating oils, not a sealer. Superdeck uses three different oils—

paraffin, linseed, and tung. Each oil plays an important role in protecting the wood. As with all products, following manufacturer instructions will ensure a safe work environment. Choose from a wide selection of colors in transparent stains, ranging from natural to dark brown, or semi-transparent stains that can be tinted to almost any color. A deck, gazebo, or spa enclosure is an integral extension of an outdoor living space, while fences and other wood surfaces make a dramatic impact on the overall visual appeal of a home. By taking preventative measures to revitalize these exterior wood surfaces, homeowners can avoid the costly, time-consuming frustration of replacement. Each application is unique, whether you want to take a painted surface down to the bare wood or rejuvenate a badly weathered deck. Expectations and limitations should be communicated during the initial meeting with a wood restoration specialist to be sure the desired results are obtainable and realistic. For more information on maintaining outdoor wood surfaces, maintaining composite decking, or repairs of either, you can call Custom Deck and Fence Maintenance, serving Portland Metropolitan homeowners since 1991, at 503-658-1936, or visit them online at www.cdfm.biz. OR CCB #200701. WA # CUSTODF87506 ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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Beautiful Garage Floors In One Day

t used to take three to five days to install an epoxy three-coat flooring system in your garage. Typically, the floor was prepared and primed on the first day, a body coat installed on the second day, and a clear coat on the third day. Depending on the time of year, the coating then took anywhere from one to three days to cure before you could walk or drive on the floor. Now with AcryliGuard, a four-coat concrete flooring system can be installed in one day and you can drive on it within an hour. Although this technology has been around for more than 30 years, this is the first time AcryliGuard has been used in the residential market. The material is basically a liquid plexiglass that is 100% solid and doesn’t contain any solvents. When the material is activated, its chemical structure simply changes from a liquid to a solid within about 30 minutes and doesn’t require any time to dry. Like any coating system, the preparation of the concrete surface is the main key to success! Shot blasting (like sandblasting, but without the mess) is the best method to prepare concrete because it removes contaminants, opens the pores of the concrete, and increases the surface area 200% to 300%, allowing the coating materials to penetrate and anchor. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

The biggest cause for coating failures in the Northwest is hydrostatic pressure. Since concrete is a porous material with microscopic air passages, moisture passes from the ground, through the concrete and into the atmosphere. The amount of pressure is determined by the volume and strength of the moisture. Most epoxies can withstand about three pounds of pressure before delaminating, whereas the AcryliGuard can withstand about 11 pounds, which provides superior adhesion and performance. This is due to the penetrating characteristics and strength of the primer. In fact, this product comes with a lifetime warranty not to delaminate—even under hot tires! Unlike epoxies and urethanes, the AcryliGuard will never turn yellow or become brittle, which makes a coating more susceptible to chipping and cracking. One significant benefit of this flooring system is that it doesn’t become slippery when wet. This is why Fred Meyer uses this product in their produce departments. Most other coating systems require the addition of aluminum oxide for non-slip, which is effective, but makes a floor more difficult to clean. AcryliGuard costs slightly more than a standard epoxy floor due to the fact that

more material is applied to the floor. An average epoxy system is between 10 and 30 mils thick (mil = 1/1000 of an inch), whereas the AcryliGuard system is approximately 80-100 mils thick. Considering the amount of material used and the life expectancy of the floor, AcryliGuard offers tremendous value with a low cost of ownership. For more information on making your concrete beautiful or to schedule a free estimate, you can call Specialty Coatings at 503-644-7500. CCB# 151176

APRIL/MAY 2015 • PORTLAND HOME