Remodel Now 2018

Remodel Now 2018 / 2019

Inside ...

Your wish come true!

Remodel planning for a fairy tale ending

Universal Design Aging at home with practical changes

Latest Design Trends It’s all about creativity!

a special supplement of The Olympian

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2018/2019 edition

Photo courtesy of Ross Irwin of Cabinets By Trivonna

Remodel Now 2018 / 2019

Contents

Features 5

Welcome!

From OMB Remodelers Chair Chris McDonald and Executive Officer Angela White

9

Pest control woes Get tips from the pros

by Rebekah Finn

23

1211 State Avenue NE • Olympia, WA 98506 360.754.0912 • FAX 360.754.7448

Your wish come true!

Remodel planning for a fairy tale ending

by Barb Lally

17

www.omb.org

President

Executive Officer

Communications Director

Karen McClennen

Angela White

Jill Williams

Olympia Master Builders

Olympia Master Builders

Olympia Master Builders

Latest design trends Go bold and be creative!

29

Universal Design Aging at home with practical changes

36

Tour of Homes and Chefs on Tour Don’t miss out on this year’s fun event!

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Vice President

Advertising Sales Manager

Dawn Leibold

Melissa Jenkins

Key Accounts Manager

Karen McClennen REMODEL NOW

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Capital Heating & Cooling Family owned and operated

C

apital Heating & Cooling was started in 1937 by two German immigrant business partners, William Schmidtke and Helmut Klein when they purchased Tobin Sheet Metal.

Their company began as Capital Sheet Metal and was located down on State Street in a 500 square foot shop. Over the years, sheet metal fabrication led into the building of ductwork, which in turn moved the company into a fully

fledged heating and air conditioning contractor.

Today, Capital Heating & Cooling is owned by the Schmidtke brothers, Bill, Chuck, and Dean. We have a dedicated staff of trained technicians, sales specialists, and HVAC experts.

We serve the South Sound areas of Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, Lewis and Pierce Counties. We specialize in both residential and commercial HVAC systems - installation, repair and maintenance.

Since our grandfather started our

Bill, Chuck and Dean Schmidtke

company nearly 80 years ago, our family has been dedicated to bringing our customers the highest quality comfort systems and custom sheet metal.

Celebrating over eighty years serving the community!

HEATING HEATING && COOLING COOLING

Delivering Comfort Since 1937 • Gas, Oil & Electric Furnaces • Heat Pumps & Air Conditioners • Ductless Heat Pumps • Repair & Maintenance Agreements • Air Duct Cleaning & Sanitizing • Custom Sheet Metal • Great Financing Options Available

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CapitalHeatingAndCooling.com

Capital Heating and Cooling has been owned and operated by the Schmidtke family for three generations and is proud to be a part of the South Sound community.

Representing innovative and quality products from TRANE since 1963 CARE #CAPITHC948N3

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CARE

Maintenance Program

2018/2019 edition

Photo courtesy of Lifespan Construction Inc.

From the OMB Remodelers Chair

Welcome!

W

elcome to the latest edition of Remodel Now Magazine, where local businesses and tradespeople get to show off their projects to the public.

Remodel Now, in it’s 13th year of publication, is provided to you by OMB Remodelers. What is OMB? Olympia Master Builders is a professional trade association representing companies located in Thurston, Lewis, Grays Harbor, Mason and Pacific counties.

Members come from all sectors of the building trades including

2018/2019 edition

home builders, remodelers, bankers, plumbers, electricians and attorneys.

OMB is committed to “building strong communities, one home at a time.”

This issue of Remodel Now allows you to pursue the latest happenings in the Olympia area. In this issue you will find before and after photos of various remodel projects and articles that cover topics like universal design, how to protect your home from the booming rodent population, and what’s trending in remodeling.

As a remodel company business owner, I get to meet with homeowners on a daily basis. I often see and hear horror stories of homeowners hiring unlicensed contractors. From skipping town

CHRIS MCDONALD Chair of the OMB Remodelers Council Lifespan Construction Inc.

with their remodel money, to using the cheapest products and poorest methods...I’ve seen it all.

If you want to avoid the headache of hiring the wrong contractor, visit OMB’s website for a searchable database of quality local members.

Visit omb.org/ or call the OMB office at 360-754.0912.

Hope you enjoy this issue of Remodel Now!

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Photos courtesy of Carolyn Beers of Interior Dimensions

OMB is committed to building strong communities, one home at a time.

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Tools to get your project started and more ...

H

ello homeowners, future homeowners and home improvement fans! We, at Olympia Master Builders (OMB), are happy to be partnering with The Olympian to bring you the 2018/19 Remodel Now Magazine!

If you are reading this, you’re in for a treat! The pages of this beautiful magazine are full of highly qualified professionals sharing their tips, personal expertise and experience with you on all things home and remodeling.

OMB is a foundation of diverse industry professionals that have come together from all sectors of the building trades including home builders, remodelers, bankers, plumbers, electricians, cabinet companies, flooring specialists and the list goes on.

OMB’s primary goal is to provide affordable housing for all economic segments of society. This is achieved by improving the construction industry and the business climate in which our members operate. We do this through: ADVOCACY: Providing a voice before government.

EDUCATION: Developing a professional building industry.

PROMOTION: Marketing member services.

OMB boasts an active Remodelers Council that promotes

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Remodel Now 2018 / 2019

Heading for inside article goes here Sub-heading for article

Heading for inside article goes here Sub-heading for article

Heading for inside article goes here

a special supplement

Sub-heading for article

of The Olympian

On the cover ANGELA WHITE Executive Officer, Olympia Master Builders

the remodeling industry by offering members education, information, networking opportunities, the exchange of ideas and the ability to recognize quality craftsmanship through the Remodeling Excellence (REX) Awards.

Home remodel projects are exciting and a little scary, so it’s important to find a professional remodeler that you trust and feel comfortable with. For information on hiring a contractor see page 38. Before you hire, always check on the Department of Labor and Industries website to verify licensing.

If you’re getting ready to remodel you home, I would highly encourage you to visit omb.org for an online, searchable directory of OMB members. We’re proud to have so many quality members to choose from!

Now you can move on to soaking in all the valuable information on the pages of this magazine. Enjoy!

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Beers of

Interior Dimensions

Photos by contributing Contractors and Designers Cabinets By Trivonna Photos courtesy of Ross Irwin Pages 3, 13, 23, 26, 27

Dickey’s Remodel & Repair Photos courtesy of Tim Dickey Pages 10, 11, 30, 33

Interior Dimensions Photos courtesy of Carolyn Beers Pages 6, 9, 12, 15, 24, 31

Lifespan Construction Inc. Photos courtesy of Chris McDonald Pages 5, 14, 25, 29

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Looking for a Change?

Don’t Move - Remodel!

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BEFORE

Remodel & Repair

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Photo courtesy of Carolyn Beers of Interior Dimensions

Your wish come true!

Y

Remodel planning for a fairy tale ending

ou may have lived in your home for years and want to update it. Or, perhaps you just moved into a house that needs improvements. Maybe you are figuring out how to adapt your home as you approach retirement.

You love its location and floor plan and you want to stay put.

For whatever reason, you are ready for a remodel to update your kitchen, refresh your bathrooms or revitalize your entire living space.

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But, where do you begin? What does a remodel entail and how can you prepare for it?

Many people love watching home makeovers on TV and want the same glowing transformation in their own home. While it would be nice to wave a magic wand and have it done instantly, fairy godmothers do not exist in remodeling. However, experienced remodeling companies do, especially here in the South Sound.

They will tell you that remodeling is a process, one that may not be quite as pretty as the “happily-ever-after” ending.

The more homeowners understand their part in the process, the better the experience and outcome of their remodel. And, with the current high demand for skilled contractors, it is best to think ahead.

Though practices may vary a bit

among remodelers, the following top South Sound experts offer their insights to help homeowners understand the process and prepare for a remodel.

Budget is First The first and most important conversation homeowners have with their contractor is what they are willing to spend on their remodel.

“I don’t ask, ‘How much do you think your project is going to cost?’” says John Erwin, owner of John Erwin Remodeling, Inc., voted the Best of South Sound Remodeling Contractor by The Olympian newspaper readers the last seven years in a row. “I ask what their budget is. That is a very different question because it is what they are comfortable investing in their house.”

Erwin’s company receives about 40 requests for work monthly, nearly

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three times what they can take on. It requires them to qualify who they can serve so they can maintain the quality that people expect. It is one of the reasons budget often comes up on the first phone call.

they are comfortable with their target budget, we can give them a ballpark figure and try to create a project that fits within it.”

A Clear Vision & Choices

“We know historically that the average kitchen remodel is about $35,000, with some upgrades, maybe $45,000,” Erwin gives as a rough example. “If a customer calls thinking it is going to be $25,000, they may decide they can’t afford it or they may adjust their budget.

Clients need to have a clear vision of what they want and John Erwin notes how to best communicate that vision.

“With searches in Google and Houzz, people can find all sorts of pictures that are so valuable for contractors, especially for design and build companies like ours,” he says.

“The pictures help us understand the level of quality they want and the products and materials we will use. It paints a picture for us.”

“If customers are adamant about an unrealistic budget, we just can’t help them. Not everyone can afford our level of service.”

BEFORE REMODEL : Photo courtesy of Tim Dickey for Dickey’s Remodel & Repair

“It’s an investment in their home and typically, their home is their largest investment,” he says. “We want to be smart about it. Once

Once they meet, Erwin says they give their clients an important homework assignment.

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“We go out to their house and take our measurements and plan, but then we send them to see our vendors and suppliers, like the great kitchen designer at Bayview Building Materials to select cabinets or to Great Floors to pick out flooring, countertops and tile backsplash. We carefully review the clients choices to make sure they work with their project and within their target budget.”

by selecting your products, you will not be running out to make last minute choices, everything is ordered. Then, you can pour yourself a glass of wine and relax.

Erwin explains that starting a remodel without making those choices results in all sorts of things happening.

Consulting a Designer

“Remodeling is not an exact science,” he says. “On any one job, there are many balls in the air. But, if the homeowner picks out specific products, it takes those balls out of the air.”

“Some of the deco tiles take a month of Sundays to get,” Erwin adds.

“If you have completed your homework

“If homeowners need additional advice to make sure their Cherry Shaker cabinets match their choices in countertops, backsplash and flooring, we can refer them to a design company.”

Some clients have time constraints or are not comfortable choosing finishes, colors and textures for their project.

Others want the luxury of working with a designer to take their project over the top.

A designer helps clients visualize their individualized projects and guides them confidently through the design process.

“Our goal is that our clients are never left with, ‘Now, what do I do?’” says Diane Gassman, the owner and award-winning designer at Interior Dimensions, LLC, one of the most respected interior design firms in the South Sound.

“People can be overwhelmed and find it hard to visualize the end result,” says Gassman. “As one of the first people to meet with clients, I listen carefully to their wishes and help translate them into their space planning, style and products for a look and feel that in the end, exceeds their expectations.”

Creating Your Picture Together Diane Gassman’s skill and more than 35 years as an Interior Designer help her guide clients to a style that

Hiring an experienced contractor with a skilled team goes a long way ...

– Tim Dickey, Dickey’s Remodel & Repair

AFTER REMODEL : Photo courtesy of Tim Dickey for Dickey’s Remodel & Repair 2018/2019 edition

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personally fits them best. She helps them create beautiful, functional and pleasing spaces that suit their family needs and lifestyle.

She can provide advice to enhance and implement anyone’s ideas, saving remodel clients time, energy and even dollar savings. It can be quite refreshing to work with top-level designers and glean the expertise and ideas at their fingertips.

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Beers of Interior Dimensions

“We can help clients with a lot of the legwork involved in finding a product that they absolutely love,” Gassman explains. “We will flesh out two or three options and narrow that down to find a product that will work in their home.”

Another benefit of working with designers is their awareness of new products and design trends

and how they can look in a space.

“I maintain wonderful relationships with trustworthy and quality local vendors and suppliers that take care of my customers,” shares Gassman. “They update me on current trends and provide samples that my clients can see and feel right in their own home or at the design studio.”

Gassman helps put the entire picture together with an attention to detail that makes for stunning results.

“After listening and compiling all of the client’s needs, my team and I develop three-dimensional renderings of their project with computer soft ware so clients can have the feeling of walking into their finished project before construction even starts,” she explains.

With decisions finalized, Gassman

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and her team work in constant communication with client and contractor to complete the Scope of Work.

Scope of Work & Schedule A “Scope of Work” is the compilation of all the decisions and choices that will guide both homeowner and contractor in the remodel.

“The Scope of Work is presented to our clients to describe every aspect and step of the project, from demolition to clean-up and is included in our final contract agreement,” says Tim Dickey whose company, Dickey’s Remodel & Repair, has won repeated Remodeling Excellence (REX) awards since its inception nearly two decades ago.

“With the Scope of Work, we also alleviate any ambiguity about who does what, so it is clear, for example, whether the homeowner is responsible for installing new appliances as opposed to the contractor installing customersupplied appliances. Everyone knows who is responsible for what.”

Dickey also emphasizes the importance of a client being able to visualize their final project to avoid disappointment.

“They select their products, but they may not have the visual of what they will look like all together,” he says. “If our clients work with Diane Gassman, which they do often, she can provide excellent computer drawings with top views and 3-D elevations so homeowners can see what the finished remodel will look like.”

Before work begins, Dickey’s also gives the homeowner a detailed project schedule.

“We use Microsoft Project soft ware to outline the step-by-step progression of the project and who will be at the home each day, like the electrician who is coming out to do the rough-in,” Dickey says. “For someone who is not familiar with the remodel process, it helps put a picture to the process.”

Trusting Your Contractor Remodeling often presents challenges and when things aren’t perfect, an experienced contractor will have the solution.

“Hiring an experienced contractor with a skilled team

It’s an investment in their home and typically, their home is their largest investment.

– John Erwin, John Erwin Remodeling, Inc.

Photo courtesy of Ross Irwin of Cabinets By Trivonna 2018/2019 edition

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goes a long way towards avoiding heartache and headaches,” explains Tim Dickey, whose shop has four journeyman carpenters and a production manager. “If something unique arises we have the pool of expertise to find the solution.”

To attain the “wish-cometrue” ending to their project, homeowners must also see themselves as a critical part of the remodel team.

Photo courtesy of Lifespan Construction Inc.

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“One of the key things in a successful remodel is that it is a team effort—not just between the contractor and the employees, sub-contractors and designer− it is a team effort with the homeowner, too,” says Dickey. “It works better all-around if everyone works together towards the same end.”

Communication is Key Top remodeling professionals understand the importance of communication during a remodel.

“We make sure the homeowner can always reach us, whether it’s the project lead’s phone or a direct call to our office,” says Tim Dickey. “We update homeowners daily. If they are not around when we wrap up every day, we leave what we call, ‘Just a Note,’ to update them on progress and where we are going the next day.”

John Erwin, who has been in the remodeling business for 25 years, keeps a sign on his shop door that reads “Communication is the key to success” and says he lives by it.

“We use a ‘low-tech email tool’, a spiral communication log, on the

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job site for both homeowners and our workers to write down notes, questions and concerns,” Erwin says.

“That log becomes an agenda for our weekly meeting with clients and helps avoid misunderstandings.”

a beautiful reality,” says Diane Gassman.

Good communication leads to a better creative result, a transformation that is everything clients want and more.

“Every employee I have ever hired has been a ‘people pleaser,’” Dickey concludes.

“They consider building an art form and feel really good when clients tell them that the end result is just want they wanted in their dream remodel.”

“As a designer, I approach the design process as a collaborative effort while building lasting relationships with our clients based on openness, trust and a creative exploration so their vision becomes

With the fairy tale ending come exciting rewards not only for the homeowner but the entire remodeling team.

Graphic courtesy of Interior Dimensions

I listen carefully to their wishes and help translate them into their space planning, style and products for a look and feel that in the end, exceeds their expectations.

– Diane Gassman, Interior Dimensions LLC

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Beers of Interior Dimensions 2018/2019 edition

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Pest control woes

O

Is your current strategy really working?

ne consideration that isn’t always at the forefront of a building or remodeling project is how the structure may either attract or deter unwanted visitors.

Insects, rodents and other pests can have a significant negative impact on the health and safety of human occupants, and it seems to be a growing concern. In 2016, the U.S. pest control industry generated over $8 billion, a 4.6% increase compared with the previous year.

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Here in the South Sound region, that increase is apparent in the growing building industry, which includes several thriving pest control companies.

One such company is PCI Pest Control, founded by Matt Purcell in 1997 and took the company full time after retiring from the military in 2007. Having grown up in the business, Matt’s daughter Kaylee took over the operations side as general manager in 2011. Her vision for growth has taken the one man show to a full service staff of eight.

In 2001, Dan Carnahan began his own company, Carnahan’s Pest Control, after working construction for a contractor who also did pest control.

It was a natural transition for Carnahan, who wanted to continue providing a quality service that wasn’t so hard on his body.

We spoke with both Kaylee Purcell and Dan Carnahan to find out more

about what people can do to deal with unwanted wildlife in and around their homes and offices. With decades of experience between them, they both have plenty of insight to offer. As is the case with so much of life, the best solution is usually to avoid the problem in the first place.

Rodents In Western Washington, the biggest pest problem we see is rodents. “Rats have really been on the increase for the past five years or so,” explains Carnahan.

“I used to just do rats in the winter, and now we’re seeing them all year.”

Purcell attributes the issue to the large ships that have come into the ports from overseas, bringing in rodent species not native to the area, as well as the growing population of people and pets.

When land development or remodeling

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takes place it disperses more rodents seeking shelter, food and water. “We have a very large rat population, both in the city and in rural areas,” says Purcell. “There are two different types here in the PNW: roof rats and wharf rats. Then there are a few different types of mice, with deer mice and house mice being the most common.”

Rodents notoriously carry viruses, but another concern is the costly damage they may cause to a home or building. Rats and mice often nest in the insulation, which can cost thousands of dollars to clean up and replace. Not to mention the potential danger of breathing in the filth they leave behind.

Rather than having to clean up waste and repair damage, both Carnahan and Purcell advise clients to take preventive action, with the first step being finding entry points

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

where rodents can get into a building.

Surprisingly, rats can squeeze into a hole as small as the size of a quarter.

Mice can squeeze into even tighter spaces, as small as a dime.

“The first thing I do is check all vents and crawl space access covers.

Those are the places where you can often find holes,” says Carnahan. “The key to controlling pests is to find out where they’re getting in.”

PCI takes the prevention approach to a systemized level. “We’re a prevention-focused company,” explains Purcell. “We believe in what’s called IPM—Integrated Pest Management. It’s a multi- step system that starts with an inspection to see what could be a problem and how to eliminate those environmental factors.”

In addition to checking for holes

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in the structure and entry points of a building, an inspection will also include checking for bushes, trees and shrubs that are touching or close to the building. Those plants often provide ways for rodents to climb to the roof or attic, or provide cover where rodents can hide as they enter the crawl space or basement.

Pet waste and food can attract rodents and insects, who will feed on whatever they can get to. Cleaning up pet waste in the yard can be a huge help, as can keeping pet food in lidded containers, especially if kept in the garage.

Insects & Wood Destroying Organisms After rodents, the next most common pests in the region are ants.

“Odorous house ants have been on

the rise as well,” explains Carnahan.

Known as the tiny ants that come after the sugar in people’s kitchens, odorous house ants get their name from the way they release a rotten smell when crushed.

Purcell goes on to explain that while the odorous house ants are a nuisance, there are two other types of ants that can be a bigger problem: “carpenter ants and moisture ants are both in the wood destroying organism category, meaning they actually do damage to the wood in homes.”

Dealing with these types of insects is how PCI got its start. Matt Purcell started out as an inspection services business, focusing solely on Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) reports for home inspections. Now, PCI inspectors help their clients prevent an infestation of wood destroying organisms by pointing out

inviting habitats around the home like rotting wood, railroad ties and chopped wood piles stacked against buildings.

Another attractive habitat for insects is standing water. Objects where water might pool, like empty buckets or wheelbarrows, can create the perfect breeding environment for mosquitos and other flying insects.

Lastly, birds can bring in problemcausing pests if they nest in the home.

“Birds will enter the bird block holes to nest, and often we find them inside dryer and microwave exhaust vents,” explains Purcell. “More than once we’ve seen homeowners get infestations of mites and even bed bugs coming through the vent over their stove because of birds nesting in the kitchen vent.”

Dan Carnahan’s background in

If anyone’s not sure, they should call and ask questions.

– Dan Carnahan, Carnahan’s Pest Control

Photo courtesy of Getty Images 2018/2019 edition

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construction helps him spot areas that may allow pest access, and know how to fix the issue to prevent entry.

Similarly, PCI’s technicians maintain their general contractor licenses in order to be able to make minor fixes as needed. Both companies agree that considering ways of deterring pests from entering buildings is the best way to deal with the issue before it becomes a problem.

Alternative Options

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

For those who may be concerned about the health effects of chemicals used to deal with pests, there is assurance that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the industry very carefully. All of PCI and Carnahan’s pest control products must be approved to be used in homes and around children and pets.

“We do offer chemical-free solutions, but they come with the education that those options work better for prevention, and the chemicals will be more effective for a current infestation,” says Purcell.

Again, preventing the problem is always going to be the way to go. So for new projects and home maintenance, be sure to keep in mind the expert tips on how to keep the pests away. If you end up having to deal with an infestation, remember that the expertise and resources you need are just a phone call away.

“If anyone’s not sure, they should call and ask questions. Call me for advice any time with no obligation or cost of any kind,” offers Carnahan.

(2017, May). U.S. Structural Pest Control Market Surpasses $8 Billion. http://magazine.pctonline.com/ article/may-2017/us-structural-pest-control-marketsurpasses-8-billion.aspx

Simple ways to boost curb appeal Now is the perfect time to invigorate your home’s façade.

Even if you aren’t trying to sell your home but merely want to spruce it up, there’s a definite benefit to enhancing and preserving your home’s curb appeal. Exterior upgrades consistently rank among the best home improvement projects for their strong return on investment. That’s because many of these strategies are fairly simple and relatively affordable.

The first step is to assess your home’s appearance, but this time, look at it from a home buyer’s perspective. Try to pretend you’re seeing it for the first time, and then make a list of which characteristics stand out immediately, and which ones you want to highlight. Here are some areas to evaluate: Clutter: Getting rid of any excess items and lawn ornaments is a great place to start. Stow away—or throw away—old furniture, bikes, knick knacks or any other items visible from the front yard that do not add to the aesthetic of the home.

Digits: Possibly the simplest project on the list is to upgrade the address numbers on your home. Installing larger, bolder numbers can instantly make the home seem more modern.

Illumination: A dimly lit walkway is not only dangerous, it’s also uninviting. Pathway lighting products are available in a wide variety of designs and price ranges.

Grime: You might think a heavy rainfall is like a shower for

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your home, when in fact, it’s probably only making things dirtier. Invest in (or rent) a high-powered pressure washer and give your driveway, front steps, walkways and vinyl siding a once over. You’ll be amazed by how much cleaner they look.

Paint: A fresh coat of paint on the front door, garage door and window trim can make a huge difference. However, if your front door has seen a lot of use and abuse over the years and it’s beyond repair, it might be time to have it replaced.

Grass: If you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, having a well-maintained lawn is critical. The National Association of Realtors studied which outdoor features are most appealing to prospective buyers, and having a nice lawn was at the top of the list.

Landscaping: Before you start planting your flowers this year, go online or consult a landscape architect for some new ideas to freshen things up. One suggestion is to install flower boxes under windows, which will make your home look much more warm and welcoming.

Boosting your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to consume all of your spare time and your spare cash. While some projects are certainly bigger investments than others, some of the most effective tactics require little more than some good old-fashioned elbow grease. If you are looking to improve your home, visit omb.org to find local contractors!

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REMODELING EXCELLENCE AWARDS

OLYMPIA MASTER BUILDERS

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Photo courtesy of Ross Irwin of Cabinets By Trivonna

Latest design trends

A

s more and more people choose to stay in their homes with plans of updates and alterations, knowing the ins and outs of what is hot can make modernizing your home fresh and fun! Based on what we are seeing so far in remodeling trends, 2018 is the year to let your inhibitions go and really feel good about going bold when you remodel your home.

2018/2019 edition

It’s all about creativity!

The focus this year is all about getting rid of the old and bringing in new materials, splashes of color, and being open to new ideas.

old news and are being replaced with materials such as quartz and concrete, bold colors and even gold and traditional brass in various tones.

According to Tina Allen of Great Floors, it is important to know where to start when planning on remodeling.

“Bathrooms and kitchens typically get remodeled first and they are followed by great rooms, family rooms, master bedrooms and then the other bedrooms in the home,” she explained.

It wasn’t long ago that highend companies such as Viking were being called on to provide beautiful commercial-style ranges finished in stainless steel and black. Viking and similar companies now offer ranges in colors like bright orange, yellow, turquoise, purple and dark blue. Kohler is offering fixtures and faucets in like colors and refrigerators can also be ordered in shades to match. It is even possible now to order refrigerators that look like giant pieces of art.

Kitchens take on a bold new look Homeowners interested in remodeling their kitchens this year will only be limited by their budgets and the amount of creativity that they are willing to put into a project. Traditional items like small subway tiles, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops are

One of the boldest looks for kitchens this year is the removal of traditional cabinets. This hot trend makes kitchens appear bigger but can also present storage issues. This is where creativity really needs to come into play.

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To counter these storage challenges, homeowners are starting to look for better storage solutions within the cabinetry. These can include: appliance garages for small appliances, built-in drawer dividers for cutlery and utensils, pullouts for spices, tray dividers, roll-out trays and caddies for pots & pans; as well as wastebasket cabinets for garbage and recyclables and/or deep drawers.

distinctive designs that stand out as uncommon and bold.

“We, at Cabinets by Trivonna enjoy introducing our customers to new looks and features. It’s fun to see their eyes light up when they see something they like, but didn’t know it was an option,” said the company’s President and CFO, Ross Irwin.

In addition to creative cabinetry designs, another big trend for kitchens is using bold backsplashes to create a focal point but that is not always easy to do. Special consideration has to be taken when there is no wall cabinetry above the countertop. It is natural to want to still place the tile straight across in the same location as if there had been wall cabinetry but resisting that step and thinking outside the box will make for a more creative installation.

Companies willing to go the extra mile to provide creative storage solutions that mix style and function are leading the industry in directions that it has never gone before and customers are appreciating their service.

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Beers of Interior Dimensions

One such company, Olympia’s Cabinets by Trivonna, is known for working closely with customers to create unique solutions and

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2018/2019 edition

Breathe new life into your kitchen and create a unique focal point by taking tile backsplashes to the ceiling.

Update the space with a refreshing spin on large patterned tile.

Higher backsplashes can unite all aspects of the space, and brighten up the room with the reflective qualities of the tile itself.

Create a spacious, open kitchen and add a pop of color or texture with tiling to break up the cabinetry. A bold variety of hues and patterns can create an elegant workspace that’s uniquely you.

Remodeling your home should also be fun, so make sure to save room in your budget for toys. One of the biggest buzzes in homeownership these days is smart homes. From smart thermostats and smoke detectors to wireless speaker systems

to automated lighting and everything in between, there’s no question that progressive, Internet-based technology can make a home more safe, fun, and convenient.

In addition, the benefits you enjoy as a smart home owner can also make convincing selling points, should you choose to sell your home. And, Smart thermostats can save you close to 12 to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs.

According to Jeff Scott, Owner of Desco Audio And Video, “Real estate studies show that home buyers prefer to buy a home equipped with smart technology. As technology continues to improve and more smart devices are added to services the demand for buyers to invest in smart homes will only continue to rise.”

Luxury in the bath never goes out of style Kitchens are not the only room in the home benefiting from creative trends in 2018.

The 2018 bathroom interior design trend will be towards smaller bathrooms with a focus on efficiency and small-scale luxury.

Maximizing available real estate can turn a small, cramped bathroom into a comfortable, effective space. Freestanding, single-person tubs are becoming an increasingly popular option to get the most out of limited bathroom space. You don’t have to sacrifice style for efficiency; sleek toilet and sink designs take advantage of available space in a modern way.

With bathroom upgrades being

It’s fun to see our customers eyes light up when they see something they like!

– Ross Irwin, Cabinets By Trivonna

Photo courtesy of Lifespan Construction Inc. 2018/2019 edition

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Cleverly concealed With the variety of appliances being used today, it gives us opportunities to be creative with the storage space around (or underneath) the appliances.

Photos courtesy of Ross Irwin of Cabinets By Trivonna

Tucking the microwave into a drawer helps to streamline the kitchen and makes it easier for everyone in the family to reach.

Drawers that tuck away under the stove and sink are coming into play in our newest designs. Spaces once overlooked are now used as storage for pots and pans as well as everyday items.

Making items more accessible follows the newest trend of Universal Design for aging in place.

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4444 Lacey Blvd. SE, Lacey, WA 360-539-5057 www.CabinetsbyTrivonna.com

Creating Nurturing Environments Because Life Takes Place in the Kitchen 26

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the most popular avenue for home improvements, thoughtfully curated additions that stand the test of time are in demand.

Scaled-down bathrooms are also seeing cabinets swapped for shelving, walk in showers, and floating vanities to visually open the space.

The addition of a bright, textured wallpaper or a pop of color in floor detail can also help to increase the perception of size in the room.

Great floors tie your whole project together While kitchens and bathrooms are seeing the most upgrades in 2018, creative flooring options are bringing all of the rooms in the home together.

Materials such as carpet and linoleum are being set aside as customers are opting for wood tiles and luxurious vinyl planks.

locally and we are seeing flooring trends lasting between seven and 10 years.”

Allen was also keen on pointing out a quote by famed designer Charles Eames that rings true in every stage of design.

According to Eames, “Recognizing the need is the primary condition of design.”

“I am seeing an interest in grey and white wood plank tile and luxury vinyl plank,” said Tina Allen of Great Floors.

“These are the most popular options

These are the most popular options locally and we are seeing flooring trends lasting between seven and 10 years.

– Tina Allen, Great Floors

Photo courtesy of Ross Irwin of Cabinets By Trivonna 2018/2019 edition

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Photo courtesy of Lifespan Construction Inc.

Universal Design

T

Aging at home with practical changes

he term, “Universal Design” is currently a popular buzzword that is hard to miss when watching various home design and remodeling programs but it is much more than just a buzzword.

There is also a sense of empowerment and selfdignity behind the term that is not often talked about.

Coined by architect, Ronald Mace in 1997, the term Universal Design

2018/2019 edition

is defined as the process of creating products that are accessible to people with a wide range of abilities, disabilities, and other characteristics. Universally designed products accommodate individual preferences and abilities; communicate necessary information effectively (regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities); and can be approached, reached, manipulated, and used regardless of the individual’s body size, posture, or mobility.

Mace and a working group of architects, product designers, engineers and environmental design researchers set out to create a series of principles that would further define Universal Design.

The Seven Principles of Universal Design are as follows: 1. Equitable Use. The design is useful

and marketable to people with diverse abilities.

2. Flexibility in Use. The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.

3. Simple and Intuitive Use. Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

4. Perceptible Information. The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.

5. Tolerance for Error. The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

6. Low Physical Effort. The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.

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7. Size and Space for Approach and Use. Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of the user’s body size, posture, or mobility.

Application of universal design principles minimizes the need for assistive technology, results in products compatible with assistive technology, and makes products more usable by everyone, not just people with disabilities.

INTERIOR OF ELEVATOR: Photo courtesy of Tim Dickey of Dickey’s Remodel & Repair

In regard to empowerment and self-dignity, Tim Dickey of Dickey’s Remodel & Repair in Olympia explained how one job that his company worked on made it clear to him that Universal Design could be very empowering and helpful to his clients.

“About 13 or 14 years ago we received a call asking us to do some work on the home of a woman

who had just undergone a massive mastectomy resulting in a loss of upper body strength,” explained Dickey.

“When we met her we became aware that her husband had been caring for her to the best of his ability but was struggling to keep up with her needs. The woman had gone from working in a professional environment as an engineer to not being able to care for herself. Her husband wanted to know if the couple’s home could be made more accessible for her.”

“A couple of weeks after the work was complete we went back to the home and the woman answered the door. She looked happier and more confident than we had ever seen her before and that was very rewarding to our team.”

Dickey and his crew are not alone

Our primary goal is to provide affordable housing for all economic segments of society.

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2018/2019 edition

in their feelings about working with clients requiring Universal Design services.

“There is something about providing Universal Design services to clients that warms our heart,” said Amy Winters of CW Construction in Olympia. “It is one of our favorite types of jobs. To see a client be able to navigate life with a sense of independence is satisfying for us as well as our clients.”

Another buzzword that is used often lately is “Aging In Place.” This describes the ability for seniors to be able to live in the same home that they are used to as they age.

According to The National Aging In Place Council, more than 90% of senior citizens would rather reside at home as they age than have to move to a care home or other retirement community where they are forced to

rely on others for care.

Universal Design services make aging in place possible by making homes easier to navigate and more comfortable to live in by applying practical changes.

Jennifer Hopps of Adaptive Living, LLC adds, “The thing I like about Universal Design is that it’s inclusive. The principles apply to all ages of various physical and mental capabilities. I use Universal Design as a starting point when providing home assessments. I then individualize the recommendations to fit the clients lifestyle, abilities and needs.”

For example, widening doors to 32” allows more room for items such as walkers and wheelchairs, and clearing room in kitchens, bathrooms and living areas to allow

for 5-foot by 5-foot clear/turning space makes navigating wheelchairs easier. Lowering countertops and vanities outfitted with levercontrolled or pedal-operated faucets make access to them easier, whereas base cabinets with roll-out shelves and lazy susans make reaching for small appliances and cookware less challenging. Adding non-slip flooring offers better stability for less falls and sensor lighting outdoors provides both security and safety.

Adapting a two-story home with an elevator will also allow mobility and access to the entire home that would not be possible with only stairs. Handrails in bathrooms and showers are also important as is having at least one ramp attached to the home at an entry door.

Tim Dickey of Dickey’s Remodel & Repair reflects on another project

There is something about providing Universal Design services that warms our heart.

– Amy Winters, CW Construction

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Beers for Dickey’s Remodel & Repair 2018/2019 edition

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CABINETRY BUILT TO WITHSTAND THE TEST OF TIME Our cabinets are designed to be a constant in your new kitchen; we install them and let them do their job.

We produce cabinets that showcase everything that a high-quality cabinet should be. In addition to our solid construction, soft close drawer guides and hinges come standard on all of our cabinets.

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that allowed for a client to age in place. “Together with an occupational therapist and a designer we installed a lower vanity with a wall-mounted mirror in a client’s bathroom where she could easily apply her makeup, a 5’ x 5’ shower with safety bars that was easy for her to maneuver in and a wall-mounted toilet that was easier for her to use and required little strength to operate,” says Dickey.

Technology also has a place in Universal Design. Smart Home technology allows for lighting, security systems, large and small appliances and entertainment systems to be operated remotely by apps on smartphones, tablets and computers. This can help the occupants of the home manage their surroundings easier and for others including caregivers and family members to offer assistance without

being too intrusive.

One company known as Evermind makes a system that allows household items to be plugged into a module and then into a wall outlet. Any item connected to a module can then be monitored and powered on and off from anywhere with Internet access.

Those suffering with memory loss can live more freely knowing that they have less to remember and worry about when someone else is receiving updates about the status of the items in their home such as coffee pots, irons and other possibly dangerous items.

as one that advertises on late-night television. Many of the companies that advertise this way are known to use traveling contractors that are not always properly licensed or qualified to apply the same services to every home they work on. These companies can also be hard to reach if problems arise. Local companies are always available, willing to make in-home visits and offer more educated recommendations.

Specialists in the fields of Universal Design and Aging In Place recommend that those interested in services contact them for information that is more personal and informative than the information that they may receive by calling a company such

Our client looked happier and more confident than we had ever seen her.

– Tim Dickey, Dickey’s Remodel & Repair

EXTERIOR OF ELEVATOR: Photo courtesy of Tim Dickey of Dickey’s Remodel & Repair 2018/2019 edition

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

You’re so smart!

T

Technology improves energy efficiency

oday’s home buyers and those looking to remodel are looking for ways to incorporate home technologies that increase the long-term value of their house but also provide convenience, safety and comfort. In fact, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) research shows that most homeowners desire an energy-efficient home and are willing to pay more for it.

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NAHB’s consumer preferences survey of more than 3,600 recent and prospective home buyers examined the features, products, amenities and layouts preferred in a new or remodeled home.

In the home technology category, home buyers highly ranked features that improve a home’s efficiency, including multi-zone heating, ventilation and airconditioning (HVAC), lighting controls and a programmable thermostat.

By incorporating the following technologies, homeowners can save money on their utility bills and see a return on investment when and if the time comes to sell.

Automated HVAC systems can maintain a more energy-efficient temperature while the homeowners are away at work, but switch to a more comfortable temperature prior to their arrival home. Zones can also

be created to heat or cool only the areas most used by the occupants, keeping other areas, such as guest bedrooms, shut down until they are needed. According to ENERGY STAR, a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, programmable thermostats can save consumers about $180 per year in energy costs.

Tankless water heaters — which save energy by heating water only when needed — are comparable in cost to traditional gas water heaters but are 30% more efficient, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Lighting can make up 10-20% of the total electrical usage of the home. Installing an automatic dimmer, which adjusts to the home owner’s needs based on time of day or occupancy, will lower electricity bills and increase the life expectancy of light bulbs.

Blinds and drapes can be programmed

2018/2019 edition

to close during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun; keeping the house cooler. In the colder winter months, they can open up to allow the sun in to warm the house, which helps regulate the room temperature.

When it comes to remodeling or planning for new construction, there are some amazing advances in building science that lead to more energy efficient buildings.

Jason Taellious, Marketing Coordinator & Permitting Specialist with Artisans Group says, “From computer aided solar studies that allow us to see how the sun will interact with a potential building design faster than any time in the past, to a better understanding of material science, more efficient lighting and whole home HRV and ERV (Heat Return and Energy Return Ventilation) systems that recycle and redistribute the heat in a building;

we have a lot of modern tools at our disposal to help our clients achieve large and quantifiable results in energy efficiency.”

Jason also states that, “One particularly crucial aspect of technology improving energy efficiency is that the building sciences have been hard at work developing ways to effectively measure the energy efficiency of materials, systems and entire buildings.

There’s a lot of ingenious innovation that the designers and builders before us did (harvesting sunlight for warmth in the winter, designing cupolas to help vent warm air, etc.), but the methods of measuring the relative successes and failures were less refined. With infrared heat maps we can see precisely where buildings fail, with accurate modeling soft ware we can test potential solutions before they even get built, independent research

labs consistently provide updated information on the energy efficiency of insulation and other building materials, and then we get to see, measure, and log real world performance. We’ve had numerous clients happily show us winter and summer energy bills that reported less than $20 of energy use. We can build an entire home that stays around 70°F with appliances and the people in it as the primary sources of heat. This is real - it has been done - and we can do it thanks to the technological advances of the tools in our belts.”

Whether you are looking to remodel, build a new home of your dreams or make steps to advance your current home, by incorporating technologies that help make your home operate more efficiently, ENERGY STAR estimates that homeowners can save $200 to $400 annually on their energy bills.

Clients show us winter and summer energy bills that reported less than $20 of energy use.

– Jason Taellious, Marketing Coordinator & Permitting Specialist with Artisans Group

Photo courtesy of Getty Images 2018/2019 edition

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Tour of Homes

B

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Free event showcases the best!

uilding a new home or remodeling your old one can be scary. Television is full of shows about worst case buying scenarios and well-meaning DIY projects gone wrong.

help you find the right people for your job.

Hiring skilled, licensed builders and contractors not only saves time and money but guards against common project pitfalls. Choosing a name from a general internet search or surfing images on a screen isn’t the best way to select talented tradespeople. Organizations like the Olympia Master Builders (OMB) can

OMB Executive Officer Angela White states that the “greatest thing about the Tour is that it’s free and lets you go in and see the work first-hand, as well as actually meet the remodelers and builders.” This year’s OMB Tour of Homes is scheduled for September 15-16th from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. each day for interested visitors.

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For one full weekend in September, OMB hosts their annual Tour of Homes, which is an amazing opportunity to explore the craftsmanship of the South Sound region’s finest. Typically between fourteen and eighteen homes will be open throughout Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater, and Yelm for the public to view new construction and completed remodel projects, meet the teams behind the work, and ask questions about your own upcoming plans.

With approximately 400 visitors per day in each home, the Tour of Homes has been a celebrated annual event for the South Sound community year after year. And as much as the public looks forward to the chance to explore top of the line new construction and remodels, the contractors also love the show because it gives them a chance to showcase their quality of work and meet potential clients face-to-face.

Since 1995, U.S. home improvement and repair industry has grown from a $149 billion industry to $317 billion. With buyers, sellers, and renovators cautiously optimistic in today’s strengthening

2018/2019 edition

TOUR OF market, meeting the craftsmen directly makes all the difference.

In September, OMB will release the 2018 map of homes, complete with detailed driving directions, which can be found at any Olympia Federal Savings branch, Olympia Overhead Doors, or from the OMB offices at 1211 State Avenue NE downtown.

You can also download maps from the Olympia Master Builders website at omb.org.

Also, make sure to mark your calendars for this year’s 3rd annual Chefs on Tour, scheduled for Friday, September 14th. Chefs on Tour is an

exclusive new way to experience the Tour of Homes. A ticket to this event lends guests the opportunity to mix and mingle with the builders and chefs themselves, in a fun-filled atmosphere.

Each builder and chef team has the chance to be creative in their own way by providing a unique experience to their guests. Chefs on Tour tickets will go on sale at the end of August.

Watch omb.org for more information.

Along with the purchase of a Chefs on Tour ticket, you will be invited to attend a VIP “prefunk party” on Thursday, September 14 at 6 PM 8 PM, hosted by last year’s “Best Chef” Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar.

The greatest thing about the Tour is that it’s free and you get to meet the remodelers and contractors.

HOMES

The 2018 Chefs on Tour is scheduled for Friday, September 14th, and tickets will go on sale at the end of August.

The Tour of Homes is open Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16 from 10 am to 6 pm daily and is free to the public.

Visit omb.org for additional information.

– Angela White, Executive Officer OMB

2018/2019 edition

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Need some help?

Tips for hiring a contractor

M

ost homeowners will experience at some time the need to hire a contractor. This could be an unplanned event, such as needing to hire a contractor quickly to make repairs after damage is done by a broken pipe or fallen tree. Or this could be the culmination of a year’s planning to transform your dated kitchen into a gourmet cook’s dream, or to enlarge your cramped bedroom into a luxurious master suite.

Whatever the situation may be, hiring a contractor to make repairs or improvements to your home is not a decision to take lightly. Below are some tips and suggestions to help you make good decisions when hiring a contractor.

Is the contractor licensed, bonded, and insured?

You can verify this by calling the State of Washington’s Department of Labor and Industries at 1-(800) 6470982 or visit the L&I website at www. lni.wa.gov. Ask if there have been any complaints about the contractor, and if any, their status.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions Good communications with your contractor is vital to a successful project as it helps clarify exactly what you want done. Get the answers that satisfy your needs; after all it is your home!

• Are they a local company?

• How long have they been in business?

• What types of work are they licensed to do?

• To what local trade associations do they belong?

• How many jobs have they done similar to yours?

• Have they done work before that requires a permit?

• Who are their materials supplier references?

Does the contractor possess a good reputation among customers and industry peers?

Ask the contractor to share names and numbers of customers. Check references thoroughly. Visit past work done by your contractor and ask the homeowners for their opinions on the work done.

Examine your bids carefully Bids that are noticeably lower than all others should be questioned. The difference may be in the quality of the materials used, experience of the crew doing the actual work, something is missing on the bid requirements, or it can be an indication that the contractor is not covering all the legitimate business costs.

Don’t automatically disregard a high or low bid, ask questions!

Obtain a written contract Be sure that it includes price, payment terms, sales tax, permit fees (if applicable), the specific work to be performed, materials to be used, warranties, and payment schedules. It is also a good idea to include changeorder processes, final review, sign-off procedures, and cleanup. Put all changeorders in writing and ask questions as work progresses. Avoid verbal contracts, and be very cautious about paying for incomplete work.

Permits are for your protection!

Make sure permits are in place and inspections are made as the work progresses. Make sure the name of your contractor appears on the permit.

Does the contractor offer a warranty?

If so, what kind, and for how long?

Be sure you understand what is covered under the warranty and what isn’t.

Is the contractor a member of Olympia Master Builders?

The Olympia Master Builders (OMB) is a professional trade association representing member companies. OMB helps educate members on new products, construction techniques, business practices, and industry issues.

If you need a contractor, visit omb.org and download OMB Mobile in your app store

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