JUNE/JULY 2010
PORTLANDHOME VOL XXXV • NO. 4 • EVEN
JULY/AUGUST 2014
PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
10 - 12 Concrete Furniture? Find The Perfect Fit For Your Floors
13 A Convenient And Affordable Kitchen And Bathroom Makeover
14 - 17 Access Granted With Residential Elevators And Lift Systems If It’s In Your Crawl Space, It’s In Your Home Keeping You And Your Loved Ones Independent Longer
18 - 36 Eco-Friendly Roofing Takes Portland By Storm The Best Outdoor Kitchen In The Neighborhood How To Find A Great Remodeling Firm Need A Change From Plain Or Damaged Concrete? Maximizing The Life Of Your Cedar Shake Roof Beautiful Garage Floors In One Day Cost Effective Recycled Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Stonework And Stamped Concrete Transform Your Garage Interlocking Paving Stones–An Efficient Choice Tired Of Cleaning Out Your Gutters? Concrete Maintenance And Repair What Is Artificial Grass? How Functional Is Your Patio Or Deck? Now, You Can Have Your Very Own Treehouse A Brand New Look For Your Outdoor Environment
37 Losing Energy Dollars From Ductwork?
ON THE COVER As shown on the cover, interlocking paver systems add a certain element of artistic beauty to any outdoor living area. An incredibly versatile alternative to traditional surface selections, pavers let you infuse creativity and personality into your outdoor living spaces while introducing elegance and sophistication. For more about interlocking paving stones and other products, Prestige Design & General Contracting can help. You can visit their showroom at 12302 NE Marx Street in Portland. You can also call them at 503-477-5550 or visit www.prestigedesigninc.com. CCB #199616. WA PRESTDG874MK. See their article on page 28. A product of Belgard Hardscapes
PORTLANDHOME Publisher Wally Hicks III
Production Managers Dawn Dowlatshahi, David Marchand Writer/Copy Editor Caitlin Feener Marketing Manager Debbie Tarnoff Home Furnishings Director Deborah Mesna Marketing Specialists John Davis, Eric Tushman Publisher’s Representative Market Link Administrative Coordinator Sarah Carlisle
ADVERTISING MAILING ADDRESS
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
For comments to the publisher: wally@keyaccess.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 928178507. 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.
Reach Your Best Buyers Get your company’s message out to homeowners that are interested in upgrading their home and lifestyle at a very economical price per household. Utilize the attractive format and long shelf life of Portland Home to reach qualified buyers that are interested in the products and services you sell. Our circulation is based specifically on the demographics your company needs to reach. For more information on how we can help you grow your business, you can call:
John Davis (503) 888-1560
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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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homefashion
Concrete Furniture?
V
ersatile and virtually indestructible, concrete furniture is a practical and stylish alternative to more common materials. Most people think of concrete as a rough gray paving surface, not as a sophisticated material that can be an integral part of your living space. Traditionally used in building construction and sidewalks, concrete is known for its strength and durability. Interestingly, this cold, rigid medium has taken off as a flexible material to sculpt organic and fluid furniture. From countertops and fireplace surrounds to bathroom sinks and lounge chairs, it can be formed into practically any shape. Concrete can take on almost any style, from ultra-modern to traditional craftsman. It offers incredible durability, lasting far longer than most other materials. It will never rust like metal or rot like wood and certainly will not blow away, even in the most severe Oregon storms. Many ancient Roman concrete structures are still aging beautifully after thousands of years. Concrete is becoming a popular choice for interior designers looking for custom pieces to accentuate their designs. It offers infinite color possibilities and can be molded into any shape or style. Concrete has a long history as an extraordinarily flexible artistic and architectural medium. Thomas Edison made concrete cabinets for his phonographs. Frank Lloyd Wright used concrete in many of his designs and visionary designer Willy Guhl was making modern concrete chairs and tables in the 50s that are still popular today. Another feature that makes concrete attractive to homeowners is its environmental qualities. Recycled content is often added to the mix, which actually takes material out of the waste stream instead of contributing to it. Fabrication can be a very green process, where almost everything can be reused and recycled.
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PORTLAND HOME • JULY/AUGUST 2014
If you have any concrete questions, you can contact Coulee Concrete Design, a Portland based design and fabrication shop made up of concrete artisans and furniture designers who create products for residential and commercial settings. Working with an array of materials, including wood and steel, Coulee Concrete Design specializes in a blend of cement and crushed recycled material that is transformed into high-strength, eco-friendly works of art. For more information about concrete for your home, you can call them at 503-895-2621 or visit their website at www.couleeconcrete.com. OR LIC #172059 / WA LIC #COULECD898JM. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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homefashion
Find the Perfect Fit
FOR YOUR FLOORS
U
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.
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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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kitchen&bath
A Convenient and Affordable Kitchen and Bathroom Makeover
I
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, ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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. JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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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
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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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homeinteriors
If It’s in Your Crawl Space,
a
It’s in Your Home
dirt crawl space under a home is a very bad idea. As warm air rises, replacement air enters from the lowest part of your home, your crawl space. Properly sealing the crawl space and removing the moisture can provide mold free, radon free, and insect deterrent living spaces: which leads to a healthier and more energy efficient home. There are three things that destroy materials in general, and wood in particular: water, heat, and ultra-violet radiation. Of these, water is by far the most damaging. 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 numerous locations throughout
Natural air flow from the ground up.
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After
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 tri-patented 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), e-mail 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
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homeinteriors
Keeping You and Your Loved Ones
INDEPENDENT LONGER
T
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. Which types of assistance are right for you.
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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.
JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping
Eco-Friendly Roofing Takes Portland by Storm
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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 14 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—
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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 visit www.euroshieldroofing.com. Also, Keith Green Construction, Inc. is a certified installer that you can visit online at www.keithgreenconstruction.com, or by phone at 503-681-7912. They can answer any questions you might have. CCB OR #109148, WA#keithgc948kh. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
exteriorslandscaping
The Best Outdoor Kitchen In the Neighborhood
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s the weather starts to warm up, you probably can’t wait to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. What is more soothing than the time we spend breathing fresh air and enjoying the sounds of nature? On a beautiful afternoon or night, a well-furnished outdoor space becomes the perfect alternative to the living room. Your backyard becomes a place to read, play games, or simply sip cocktails with friends. This is why it is important to pay as much attention to the outside of your home as you do to the inside. Having an outdoor kitchen complete with all the right accessories and furnishings will create the ultimate gathering place for you and your family. From grills, fireplaces, fire pits, fire tables, bars, furniture, all-weather compatible televisions, and more, get ready to create the most spectacular backyard retreat imaginable. Yet, there is one thing that deters homeowners from following through with an outdoor kitchen project—the building process. It can be quite disruptive having an on-site crew working in your outdoor space for an indefinite period of time. When the weather clears and the sun comes out, you want to be able to enjoy your outdoor living spaces immediately. The good news is, now you can! When you work with a company who actually custom designs your unique outdoor kitchen in their facilities instead of working on it at your house over an extended period of time, the day that your kitchen is delivered and installed is the same day that you can enjoy it! You don’t have to put up ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
with invasive demolition that seems to never end, there’s no installers taking up your yard space day after day, and there’s no mess. Professionals will work with you to finalize exactly what you want. CAD rendering designs ensure that you know exactly how things are going to look—this way there are no surprises when your kitchen is built. Outdoor experts will iron out the small details so that your kitchen complements both your home and lifestyle. There are three main types of barbecue grills: gas, charcoal and pellet. Deciding which one is right for you depends on how often you’ll use your grill and how much space you have for it. If you are the type that likes to have people over for late-night parties, fire pits and fire tables might be the perfect way to add some ambiance to your events. An outdoor kitchen or fire pit not only increase the social time at your gatherings or events, they actually increase the value of your home. If you are ready to create a beautiful and functional place where all of your family and friends will want to spend their spare time, then Sunset Outdoor Living can help. All units are custom built in their facility, delivered, and professionally installed. Making Portland homes a better place to live, you can call them at 503-831-4677 or make an appointment to visit their showroom at 888 SE Monmouth Cut Off Road in Dallas, Oregon. You can also visit their website at www.sunsetoutdoorliving.com or email them at info@sunsetoutdoorliving.com for more information. CCB #200298. WA #603-309-098. JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping
How to Find a Great Remodeling Firm (And How to Avoid the Bad Ones)
A
re you thinking about a siding, window or roofing project? When looking for an exterior remodeling firm, it seems your choices are limitless and it can be very difficult to know where to start. Fortunately, there are many resources available today that allow a homeowner looking for a reputable contractor to find exactly what they’re looking for. So, what can you do? There are a few steps you should take that will ensure you are choosing a high-quality remodeling firm. First, require at least 10 references with both phone numbers and addresses. A quality contractor should hand them over with pride. You should also ask to see if the contractor has been given any awards from major remodeling publications, such as Professional Remodeler or Remodeling Magazine. Education. A quality exterior remodeling firm should come to your home and offer education on the siding, window or roofing process. This not only includes the high quality materials that are being used, but the installation practices that ensure the job is done right. Great remodelers are proud to educate their clients right up front as they know the work being done will be in line with what is discussed in the home. Service. It is also imperative that the person you initially speak to in the home will also be running the project from start to finish. This ensures that the promises
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that are being made are by somebody who understands the challenges of running a remodeling project. Salespeople typically make promises that can’t be kept by the production team in order to make the sale. They do this knowing that they can remove themselves from the project once the sale is made, leaving their production department to pick up the pieces. Honesty. Another aspect to consider is whether the company that you are hiring is subcontracting out the work to another company. It is meaningless to get a great salesperson, only to find out that the sub installing the materials is cutting corners with zero accountability. Great companies use in-house crews for the majority of the work they do. Hiring a siding, window or roofing contractor can be a bit like gambling—you may hit the jackpot, or you might get cleaned out. In order to avoid having a nightmare experience, it is necessary to follow the steps outlined above. By doing so, you will have ensured that you’ve hired a company with your best interest in mind, and you’ve received a remodeling job that lasts as long as you own your home. Lifetime Remodeling Systems specializes in siding, window and roofing replacement. They have won multiple awards and are certified by Hardieplank and GAF. For more information, you can call them at 503-242-4242 or visit them online at www.lifetime-remodeling.com. CCB #170747. WA:LIFETRS947NB. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping
Before
After
Need a Change From Plain or Damaged Concrete?
c
Resurface with Decorative Concrete Coatings
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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
PORTLAND HOME • JULY/AUGUST 2014
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. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
exteriorslandscaping After
Before
Maximizing The Life of Your Cedar Shake Roof
n
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 ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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 JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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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.
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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
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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping
Cost Effective Recycled Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Stonework and Stamped Concrete Eye-Catching Yet Functional Solutions for Outdoor Living
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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, but with the housing market still in the decline, it’s no time to sell and start over somewhere else. Adding on is always an option, but breaking the bank with major construction costs isn’t. Why not better 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 800-228-9255 or 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.
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exteriorslandscaping
TRANSFORM YOUR GARAGE
with Durable, Cost-Effective, and Beautiful Garage Coatings
I
f you open your garage door every day and don’t like what you see, then perhaps it is time to do something about it. Flooring is one of the major factors that separates your garage from the rest of your home and often gives it a drab appearance, which makes the space undesirable for a variety of uses. Imagine the ways a clean, beautiful garage floor could expand your living space. Convert the most viewed space in your home into the most admired sight in your neighborhood. Whether you dream of transforming your garage into a workout room, a home office, or just a nicer looking space, the first step should be getting those floors looking fabulous. Homeowners are flocking to the next generation of polyaspartic floor coatings, which can give your garage a durable, cost-effective finish that will increase your home value and leave you smiling. This improved garage coating formula is truly a step above traditional floor coatings, which are prone to problems like fading, yellowing, and peeling. The new formula boasts many advantages over its predecessor. This formula is UV-resistant, twice as thick, and four to five times more abrasion- and chemical-resistant than traditional coatings. Perhaps best ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
of all, installation can be completed in one day and you drive on your brand new garage floor the following day! The application process begins with your floor being diamond ground to remove any oil, grease and stains and to ensure the very strongest chemical bond to the concrete. All cracks are filled and a neutral base coat is applied. Then the pores of the concrete are opened using a dustless diamond floorgrinding machine to allow the best possible bond with the surface. After sanding, a neutral-colored prime coat is applied that forms a chemical bond with the existing concrete. Then a clear second coat mixed with colored chips is applied, providing the finished color of the floor. There is a wide assortment of colors to choose from, ensuring that all homeowners can find a perfect fit. Finally, a third clear coat is applied to seal your new floor and the process is complete! Within four hours you are walking on your new floor and can move your personal belongings back into the garage. For more information on garage floor coatings for residential and commercial applications, you can contact Alternative Surfaces at 503-830-0207 and you can visit them online at www.AlternativeSurfaces.net. CCB #185031 WA #ALTERSL913BG JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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Interlocking Paving Stones— An Efficient Choice
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ave you been longing to give your outdoor living spaces a new look? A versatile alternative to traditional surface selections, interlocking paver systems allow homeowners to bring an artistic eye to their outdoor living space. Pavers let you infuse creativity and personality into your outdoor living spaces while introducing the elegance and sophistication that is often lacking in more traditional surfaces. However, there are quite a few components that you should take into consideration before making a paver purchase. Here are a few characteristics that both the product and company of your choice should offer to ensure that you are completely satisfied with the end result. Quality. The perfect surface to add elegance to your environment, interlocking paving stones can be used for driveways, patios, walkways, and more. Accompanied with a lifetime guarantee, pavers won’t crack, break or discolor like other forms of pavement. A company should offer a large selection of different styles, colors and patterns to choose from so you can create the ambiance you desire. Whether you prefer a natural look or something more on the modern side, you can rest assured knowing that your paving stones are both beautiful and durable (about four-times stronger than concrete). Environmental awareness. Construction debris in landfills is a huge problem. When you choose pavers over other surfacing options, you are already doing the environment a favor by selecting a permanent product that will last a lifetime. However, there’s even more that an environmentally friendly company can do to take the efficiency to a new level. Utilizing a local
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interlocking paver company helps directly support your own economy, as well as reduces the pollution needed to ship products to far away locations. During installation, a professional job done right will ensure that your pavers won’t need to be torn out and reinstalled later on down the line. Additionally, all removed materials (such as concrete or soil) should be recycled and reused in other products. Versatility. Finally, you should have access to unique paving options that go above and beyond the norm. Permeable paving stones allow rainwater to naturally flow back into the ground instead of into sewers. Living in Oregon, this can be an extremely useful technology—a water penetrating system provides storm water management, relieves overburdened drains and serves as an alternative to expensive sewer systems. If you are specifically working on a patio project, Slimline patio pavers offer a thinner profile for overlays where height is a concern or pedestrian areas that will never receive vehicular traffic. If you have any questions about interlocking paving stones and much more, Prestige Design & General Contracting can help. Specializing in all interior and exterior remodeling and construction products, Prestige Design also creates outdoor kitchens, bars, water features, retaining walls, garages, railing, decks, synthetic turf, outdoor lighting, and much more. Featuring an incredible showroom, located at 12302 NE Marx Street in Portland, you can visit and see what Prestige Design has to offer. You can also call them at 503-477-5550 or visit www.prestigedesigninc.com. Please mention this article to receive a 15% discount. CCB #199616. WA PRESTDG874MK. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping Before
After
After
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!
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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 ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
exteriorslandscaping
CONCRETE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR—
Be Proactive and Protect your Home Investment
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aintaining your concrete, cosmetically and structurally, is a concern for a lot of homeowners. The concrete areas around the home say a lot about your neighborhood and you to others. Those areas also provide you with a comfortable space to enjoy your time with friends and family. Therefore, it’s important to consider certain aspects of comfort and liability. Does the driveway welcome you home? Does the entryway feel inviting? Do you notice pooling water? Does the walkway pose a tripping hazard? There are several ways that you can safeguard the longevity of your investment. Professionals are available to put in the time and extra effort on your behalf; the home will thank you later. Flat-rocking slabs You can maintain existing slabs that have settled, or concrete sections that have drifted apart and have become uneven with this "one of a kind" process. Flat-rocking saves your concrete and your money. By bringing slabs up to their original posi-
tion, professionals will help restore concrete areas around your home. Keep concrete surfaces looking top-notch and avoid the troublesome process of removal and the cost of a new pour. This innovative process can extend the life and use of your concrete areas. Crack repair and expansion joint replacement Repair cracks as early as possible. This stops sections from drifting farther apart (which becomes unsightly, creates pest problems, and could cause concrete sections to crumble and become unable to repair). There are multiple options available for crack repair to suit your budget. It is also good to have professionals remove rotten expansion joints in order to stop the growth of weeds and moss. Always be sure to consult a professional in making informed decisions on what would be best for your home's expansion joints. Pressure washing and sealing High quality workmanship should be performed with attention to every detail, and extra care should be taken with your furnishings and décor. A team should be thorough and professional, demonstrating integrity from arrival to departure. Ask service providers about sealing product options; because you don’t want a faulty or slippery surface. Consider these details when planning; proper surface preparation, proper cleaning services to suit customer preferences, sealing products and application, site cleanup, and quality control; these are all paramount to a job’s success. By following these few simple maintenance and repair solutions, your concrete surfaces can last longer, be safer, and look better. When it comes to your concrete, don't delay. You can call Flat Rock Concrete today at 503421-8580, or find out more at www.flatconcrete.com. Lic #FLATRRC892MA / CCB 192071
BEFORE
BEFORE
BEFORE
AFTER ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
AFTER
AFTER JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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What is Artificial Before
After
Grass? A
rtificial grass is more than just the turf grass itself. It's a complete landscape system. The artificial turf system includes preparation of the ground the synthetic turf will be installed on, the drainage through the synthetic grass backing, the infill material used to keep the artificial grass blades erect and provide ballast, and the yarn that creates the "fake-grass” blades. The synthetic grass product itself is sometimes referred to as fake grass, grass carpet, or an artificial lawn. The best artificial lawn is comprised of fibers or yarn that are tufted or quilted into a backing to create the appearance of an organic lawn. Polyethylene or polypropylene fiber, or yarn, should be used, simply because they are superior quality. Nylon is not an ideal choice because it has absorptive qualities and it does not drain clean. This fiber option is found in inferior synthetic grass products. Additionally, drainage is of vital importance, especially if dogs will be enjoying the turf. A synthetic grass product that has been supplied with the patented MaxxFlow drainage technology has a 100% permeable backing, and will ensure suitable drainage. Turf backing with holes burned or drilled in it does not drain effectively and often causes urine odor to develop in a very short period of time. Weeds can also grow through the pre-punched holes. Lower quality turf companies will lay a weed barrier underneath the turf
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in an attempt to prevent weeds. This creates a space for water and urine to collect under the turf. A company should routinely replace hole-drilled turf products due to the intolerable urine odors and other drainage issues. Dog owners and dog care facilities are among the most interested groups seeking synthetic grass due to the related problems of dogs and natural lawns. Selecting the right turf product is especially important in these cases. The grass blades need to withstand the abuse that dogs dish out and still provide the necessary drainage. If you are considering an artificial grass turf lawn over a natural grass sod lawn, XtremeGreens is a superior alternative. XtremeGreens’ synthetic grass is one of the most effective water conservation products available today, allowing you to save up to 70% on your water bill. With XtremeGreens you can solve common lawn problems with an ultra-realistic looking artificial grass turf lawn, such as issues with dog urine killing your grass, grass for shade, drought tolerant grass and lowering lawn water and maintenance costs. Unique multi-colored blades match the look of real grass, proprietary technology allows for amazingly fast, clean drainage, and your lawn comes with a 15-20 year life expectancy. For more information, you can call 509-961-2030 or visit www.xtremegreens.com. WA # BL-074519 ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping
How Functional
IS YOUR PATIO OR DECK?
I
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
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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.
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exteriorslandscaping
Now, You Can Have Your Very Own Treehouse Complete with its own tree.
i
magine having your very own treehouse ready to be enjoyed by your entire family. This unique clubhouse is authentic to the core... the log a real, old fallen tree, actually hollowed out using a chainsaw. And the charming house that jauntily crowns it is made from old, recycled barn wood. Armed with the acceptable password, simply enter the door in the hollow log, climb up the ladder in its center, and pull yourself through the trap door in the clubhouse floor. Just as no two trees are exactly alike, each house is a unique creation. The recycled barn wood varies as well, with colors that range from old barn-red to a natural, weathered look. Although each differ, they’re all extraordinary... and extraordinarily fun! The standard reaches about 14’ tall, with logs about 5’ in diameter and 6’ tall. It’s a snug fit, but a large adult can easily climb inside and stand straight up in the middle with room to spare. Standard options include a front porch, fireman’s escape pole, flip down loft bed, rope swing extending from the side of the log, a roof dormer on one or both sides, and a slide coming out of the back of the clubhouse. Nothing is more exciting than the challenge of a custom order, though! So clear out the cobwebs and stir your imagination. If
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you can describe it, they can build it! The treehouse can be shipped anywhere in the country and comes in two units: the clubhouse, and the log. Installation services are available and lead time runs between 6-8 weeks. For more information on The Ultimate Treehouse, you can call (888) 612-7400 x 321, visit www.affluentproducts.com, or email products@keyaccess.com. A child’s dream, it’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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exteriorslandscaping
after
before
A Brand New Look
for Your Outdoor Environment
b
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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PORTLAND HOME • JULY/AUGUST 2014
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
foryourinformation
Losing Energy Dollars From Ductwork? Seal In Your Savings From the Inside
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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. ONLINE AT PORTLANDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM
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. WA #ENTEKC*893WE – OR Lic #CCB4902
JULY/AUGUST 2014 • PORTLAND HOME
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