Home Construction & Remodeling - 2018 by Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier

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Construction & remodeling Sunday, April 29, 2018

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■ Kitchen trends ■ Hiring a contractor ■ Outdoor living

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Why Go Outside... When it Feels so Good Inside? Make It

hot trends for kitchen design

t’s your home’s focal point. The site of some of your best moments and the base of operations for entertaining — it’s your kitchen, and no room in your home is more valuable. A magnificent kitchen defines a home, and bringing your kitchen to this level means capitalizing on today’s top trends. Many of the trends that will define kitchens

for the year appear first at KBIS, the kitchen and bath industry convention held every year in January. More than 600 brands attended this year’s event, and here are the five trends that stood out from the show and are sure to dictate kitchen styles for the rest of this year and beyond. Please see 5 TRENDS, Page 4

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I’m a designer, a project manager and an estimator. Yes, I do everything for your project except actually build it. I see your project from start to finish; from drawing your ideas and consulting on product choices to scheduling and coordinating our carpenters and installers. You can count on me to get your job done, and done right!

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5 trends From 3

Appliances that can do it all

As home chefs have become much more refined, the need for kitchen appliances capable of delivering to these expectations has increased. Signature Kitchen

Suite, the new-to-the-scene luxury brand, for example, debuted the first-of-its-kind prostyle range with built-in sous vide for the ultimate in precision cooking. The range is among the most versatile available with two extra-high burners that deliver 23,000 BTUs of cooking power and two ultra-low burners to maintain temperatures as low as 100 degrees. This appliance

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is also Wi-Fi enabled, which means you can monitor and control your kitchen wherever you are.

Unique backsplashes

The tile backsplash still has plenty of staying power, but the latest trends are upping the wow factor of this kitchen mainstay. From mirrored glass and backlit onyx to decorative sculptures, the kitchen backsplash is becoming the statement piece of any kitchen and a unique way to express your own style and taste.

Matte black finishes

The standard appearance of kitchen fixtures is taking on a darker tone in 2018, as matte black finishes are flourishing in a big way. This elegant, luxe appliance finish complements any kitchen and is also designed to conceal fingerprints and smudges. This smooth, lowgloss design option enhances any style kitchen, from modern to farmhouse, traditional to contemporary and every style in between.

Design elements everywhere

Long a place of functional purity, the kitchen is getting a dramatically artistic makeover in 2018. Designers from one side of KBIS to the other were showcasing lavish kitchens complemented with unique patterns, angles and texture choices. You simply wanted to go out and touch and savor every single detail they offered. The takeaway? It is possible to enjoy looking at your kitchen as much as you enjoy working in it.

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The Modern Kitchen, Designed for Real Life: Samsung Showcases Latest Home Appliance Innovations at the 2018 Architectural Digest Design Show.

Smarter kitchens

New Wi-Fi enabled appliances are helping people control their homes in new ways, allowing for greater convenience—either through the touch of a button on their smartphone or via voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Want to preheat the oven before you head home from work? Done! Need a fresh batch of ice before company arrives? You don’t even have to get up. Forget to turn on the dishwasher? No problem. Choose a cycle and turn it on from virtually anywhere. Smart home leaders like LG have also teamed with food and recipe services such as Innit and SideChef to better assist home chefs with planning, shopping, preparing and cooking delicious meals. The latest and greatest innovations for your kitchen were on display at KBIS, but bringing them home is up to you. Need more renovation inspiration? Check out new virtual design tools to experiment with different styles and appliance combinations to create your dream kitchen. You may just find a whole new look for your kitchen. Source: Brandpoint

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projects that will

recreate your kitchen

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s the hub of activity in a home, the kitchen serves many purposes: meal prep base, dining area, family gathering place, celebration zone, and entertainment center, to name a few. Does your high-use, heartof-the-home kitchen meet the challenges and needs of your family life? If not, then it’s time for a renovation. A kitchen remodel can be inspired by lifestyle changes, the need for energy efficiency, upgrading of decades-old styling, or simply that you are ready for a change. The good news is that remodeling the most used room in your house not only improves the space itself, it increases the overall

value of your home. Research from Remodeling magazine shows homeowners who undergo a midrange kitchen remodel can expect to recoup 81 percent of their spend upon selling their home. A major kitchen remodel will recoup 59 percent, according to the same study. With statistics like these, remodeling your kitchen has the potential to be good for you now and in the future. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your kitchen remodeling project today. Here are six ideas, ranging from minor to major: Please see 6 PROJECTS, Page 6

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Minor & major projects make the most of remodeling

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For homeowners who enjoy crafting delectable meals for family and friends, an upgrade to the GROHE Essence semi-pro faucet provides the perfect combination of modern functionality and high style.

Replace your faucet.

For the amount you use your kitchen faucet, functionality and ease-of-use should be top priorities — highlighted with stylish designs lines, of course. The Avery Selectronic hands-free pull-down kitchen faucet from American Standard features a three-function spray that can handle any kitchen challenge. Plus, this higharc touchless faucet offers flexibility to suit user preference — simply switch to manual function for guests not familiar with touchless operation.

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6 projects From 5

Paint your cabinets.

If replacing your kitchen cabinets is not in the budget this year, repainting them is the next best thing. A fresh coat of paint can dramatically change the appearance of your kitchen. Select a paint that dries hard so it can stand up to wear and tear; choose a satin finish paint to hide imperfections in the cabinet surface. To complete the look, consider replacing the cabinet hardware. Pick the style that appeals most to you and remember knobs are more common on cabinets, handles on drawers.

Add a backsplash.

Create an instant wow factor by enhancing the walls above the work areas of your kitchen. The use of varying shapes and materials can really showcase your creative side.

Today’s homeowners are choosing larger sized subway tiles, introducing a bit more color to this traditionally neutral-colored area of the kitchen, experimenting with varying tile patterns, and choosing metallic and mirrored finishes. Extending the backsplash all the way to the ceiling, with the use of shelving instead of cabinets for storage, is a new trend gaining ground. Whatever your choice, a new backsplash can delight you every time you enter the kitchen.

Elevate your faucet.

replaced in a variety of rainbow colors for an instant kitchen “perk-up.”

Explore sink options.

Whether it’s for food preparation, dish washing or bathing a small child, families depend on the kitchen sink for a lot of things. The DXV Hillside stainless steel sink exhibits the rich character of popular farmhouse sink styling with a refined sophistication ideal for the modern kitchen. Made from 16-gauge stainless steel, its clean apron-front design makes it perfect for under-counter, flush countertop or above-counter custom installation. The result is a high-style sink that can meet any kitchen need.

For homeowners who enjoy crafting delectable meals for family and friends, an upgrade to the GROHE Essence semi-pro faucet provides the perfect combination of modern functionality and high style. Change out those It features convenient onecabinets. hand operation, full 360-degree sink mobility and two high-perWhile repainting cabinets can formance sprays. Plus, this high- change the look of your kitchen, arc faucet features a flexible replacing them can totally upsilicone hose that can be easily grade the room’s core style and

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Gourmet kitchen features white shaker cabinets with marble countertops and stone subway tile backsplash. functionality. Select new cabinets based on the current needs of your kitchen, considering accessories that can improve functionality. Think slow-close drawers and doors, turntable corner cabinets, pullout trash can cabinets, plus many innovative storage features. The choice of design styles — framed or frameless — will impact your kitchen’s look. Cabinets vary in price, depending on whether they are stock, semi-custom or custom.

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With kitchen cabinets accounting for up to 40 percent of a full kitchen remodeling budget, invest time in choosing the style and function that will make you love your new kitchen. Whatever your level of kitchen remodeling, these upgrades are sure to make life easier and more enjoyable in a room that is the focal “living” room in any home. Go ahead and plan your renovations today — and experience the benefits for years to come. Source: Brandpoint

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Remodeling trends that can BOOST your home’s values

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strong housing market is giving homeowners the confidence to invest in remodeling. In fact, homeowner spending on improvements and repairs will approach $340 billion in 2018, an increase of 7.5 percent from

estimated 2017 spending, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. Remodeling can add value to your home while also making it more livable, but not all remod-

eling projects are created equal. While the choice to remodel is individual, there are many studies that show some projects return more on your investment than others. Fortunately, some of 2018’s leading remodeling trends also have great ROI.

Trend 1:

Bathroom additions

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Adding a bathroom can add comfort and convenience for current homeowners, plus catch the eye of potential buyers. A bathroom addition recoups about 60 percent of the cost, according to Remodeling magazine’s 2018 Cost vs. Value report. A top trend in 2018 is adding bathrooms to unique spaces, meaning not letting existing plumbing limit your options. This might include adding a small powder room on the main floor or adding a full bathroom to the basement where there is no current drainage. Homeowners can get the valuable bathroom addition they want without cutting concrete or undermining the structural integrity of the home by opting for above-floor plumbing features such as a macerating toilet and drain pumps from Saniflo. The Saniaccess3 is a smart choice for full baths, and the Saniaccess2 is ideal for powder rooms. These compact systems can fit into a closet, beneath a stairway or even be built into the wall. When the project is complete, it will look like any conventional bathroom, but above-ground plumbing options make it possible to put a bathroom virtually anywhere — even in the garage or outside. Learn more at www. saniflo.com.

Trend 2:

Home exterior updates

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and this is true for houses as well. With this in mind, homeowners

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

A bathroom remodel recoups about 60 percent of the cost of remodeling. are focusing their efforts on the house exterior in 2018. Some exterior remodeling projects can be costly and time-consuming, such as replacing siding and windows or redoing landscaping. To get a big visual bang for your buck with great ROI, consider replacing your garage door. The average garage door replacement job cost is $3,470, according to the Cost vs. Value report, plus it has a whopping 98 percent cost recouped at resale. Want to take exterior upgrades one step further? Consider replacing your existing entry door with a new steel option that matches your new garage door. Your house’s facade will be completely refreshed, plus that door recoups 91 percent of the cost.

want to bring the convenience of technology into your remodeling projects with a smart home. Smart homes have been trending for some time, but in 2018 this trend could reach a tipping point thanks to wider availability and more affordable options. What used to cost thousands may now only cost hundreds, and you might be surprised how many DIY options you can now find at your local home improvement store. Some of the most popular technological enhancements for the home include smart lighting controls that save energy and let you customize lighting in every room of your home. Smart door locks and security systems are also valuable additions. If you’re looking for an affordable way to enter into the smart home market, consider a smart thermostat or smart smoke detector. Technology is bound to Smart home upgrades make your home more comfortYou have a smartphone, able and safe while boosting the smart watch and smart TV; it bottom line come sale time. only makes sense that you also Source: Brandpoint

Trend 3:

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ltra Violet is a bit too refined to be psychedelic, but Pantone’s 2018 color choice definitely will have interior designers and DIY homeowners in a purple haze. That isn’t to say the color isn’t intense — or as color experts describe it — “a dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade. Evoking a counterculture flair, Pantone Vice President Laurie Pressman called the color “that complexity, that marriage, between the passionate red violets and the strong indigo purples.” Visually, it complements the ubiquitous grays in today’s homes. Sue Wadden, Sherwin Williams color expert, says “purple is a key color, really rich and complementary to what we’re

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seeing in homes now.” Purple has gained global momentum “as a symbol of creativity, exploration and individuality,” says Renee Hytry Derrington, global design lead at Formica Group. “Formica Laminate’s ‘Cassis’ design is our take on this visionary purple for surfaces,” she says. From Formica’s 180fx collec-

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Use it:

Voyage Elemental Lucius medium amethyst vase

In the bedroom: Choose a deeper shade of violet for a restful look, or brighter for a playful vibe. A less saturated hue is a softer look. For fabrics, think texture – silk, velvet, chenille, prints – and not flat fabrics. Amethyst accents add a sophisticated feel.

Pairings: Use it as a supporting player, paired with celadon green, lavender and soft pink. Shades of gray, khaki, white, olive, camel and chocolate are fresh combos. Steer clear of red.

On walls: Test your violet color choice in a large swatch before painting it on your walls. Look at it under artificial and natural light. Use it as an accent wall or part of a wallpaper pattern.

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‘Black’ to basics: The year’s top trending color

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hether you’ve been a loyalist to the same shade of green for the last decade or if you’re an evolving follower of trends whose color choices have shifted over the years, the trending color of 2018 is sure

to surprise and intrigue you. Indeed, black is back. But how was this classic shade named the trending color of the year? While many assume the choice is random, trending colors are based on many influencers, but where do they really begin? Trend-

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ing colors arise from consumer preferences, which are formed by societal influences, such as politics, economics, lifestyle and overall sentiment. We as a society hold the power of prompting new color trends based on our ever-changing attitudes, ideas and actions. Dee Schlotter, senior color marketing manager for PPG, a leader in paint and color, understands the path to determining each year’s top trending color. Schlotter and more than 20 PPG color stylists from around the world meet annually at the company’s Global Color Trends Workshop. “Our team of global color experts assess societal and cultural influences to forecast what colors will be popular in home decor, consumer goods, automotive and even airplanes for the upcoming year,” Schlotter says. “We also look at what’s happening in society, and the state of people’s emotions because of current events. All of this information helps us predict what colors will truly resonate with people in the coming year, especially when it comes to the paint in their homes.” 2018 finds its color of the year in a reflection of people’s daily lives and their need to find an escape.

‘Black’ to basics‌

“The PPG Paints brand’s 2018 Color of the Year is “Black Flame” (PPG1043-7). It offers the silencing impact of black with the possibility and hopefulness of indigo seen in the color’s undertone,” says Schlotter. Schlotter adds that black will be very popular in 2018 because it offers a break from an often chaotic and over-worked world. “With society facing overstimulation and a need to take refuge, the color black offers a comforting retreat, and a chance to start new and get back to the basics,” she says. “’Black Flame’ represents that necessary void and the need for nothingness that helps us recharge, making it a timeless and classic color in

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

home decor.”

A palette of options‌

While going darker can seem intimidating at first, incorporating black into your existing decor is a lot easier than you think. Many people mistakenly believe that all blacks are the same. However, black, like any other color, is available in a wide array of shades. For example, Glidden paint’s 2018 Color of the Year, “Deep Onyx” (00NN 07/000), is a deep and rich black that encourages a less-is-more attitude when applying to home decor, while “Black Magic” (OL116), the 2018 Color of the Year for Olympic paints, is more glamorous and looks great as a statement color for walls. And, if you’re looking for some darker inspiration outdoors, Olympic stain’s Maximum product in a Cinder semi-transparent stain color (905) is a great complement to “Black Magic” when applied to exterior surfaces like doors, window trims and shutters. Any of these black hues can

be a defining piece in your decor while providing you with the mental escape you need. Schlotter adds that capitalizing on this year’s color trend isn’t solely about the color itself, but what you pair it with. Consider some of her other tips and tricks, including: Pairing the PPG Paints brand’s “Black Flame” with Millennial orange-pinks, teals and warm gray or mocha browns for an enveloping, rich look and feel. Feeling a bit more daring? Make an impactful statement with black by applying it from floor to ceiling on an accent wall or in an entire room. Completing the look with lighter elements and furnishings will make the decor stand out, because the dark walls will highlight artwork and accessories while providing depth and character, creating a perfect space for respite and conversation. To keep a space more fresh and modern, consider pairing a black hue with whites, matte finishes or light-grain wood finishes. Source: Brandpoint

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things to do before re-roofing

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ith spring officially arriving, home improvement season is swinging into full gear. Fair warning to homeowners looking to hire a professional, 2018 is predicted to be a record-breaker. A recent study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University projects home improvement spending will approach $340 billion this year — the strongest gain for remodeling in more than a decade. Among the costliest of projects is roofing, a large expense with serious implications if put off or improperly done. When you add 2018’s remodeling demand with the muchtalked-about skilled labor shortage, on top of the recovery from last year’s hurricane season, homeowners could be tempted to jump right into major home work, all without doing their homework first. As this could prove costly, consider the following before anyone sets foot on your roof:

Check contractor qualifications.

Choose a local, reputable contractor. These contractors should have the best knowledge of local building codes, state codes and required certifications and licenses. Ask the contractor to see their certificate of insurance before stepping onto the roof. Consider going the extra mile and choosing a contractor certified by the manufacturer of the shingle the contractor installs. Improper installation is considered one of the major reasons roofs fail prematurely, so finding a contractor with knowledge and experience in the correct application of a particular product is of the utmost importance.

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Check the weather.

It may seem obvious, but a simple check of the weather before starting a roofing project could prevent a big headache later. Avoid starting a project with wet plywood or underlayment, or when the forecast indicates a strong chance of rain. Also, many manufacturers of asphalt shingles, the most pop-

ular form of roofing in the U.S., do not recommend installation in below-freezing temperatures or in excessively high temperatures. Careful consideration of these steps during your next home exterior project could save you from costly and lengthy rework years later. Source: Brandpoint

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Determine layover or tear off.

Many times, contractors will push for a removal of all existing shingles, or a tear off, over adding another layer of shingles on top of an existing roof, a layover. Although a complete tear off is more expensive due to increased labor costs, there are some advantages. “When you tear off, you get a chance to look at the roof deck and repair any deteriorating wood or substrate,” said Rick Taylor, longtime roofing contractor and a trainer for shingle manufacturer TAMKO Building Products Inc. Typically, doing a layover is more economical, although homeowners need to discuss relevant factors with their contractor, including local building code requirements and implications for the manufacturer’s warranty.

Research the warranty.

It is important to understand the warranty specific to the roof product you have installed. Educate yourself on requirements for installation, including whether a shingle layover is applicable (as mentioned above).

“Some shingle manufacturers won’t warranty the roof unless it is a complete tear off,” Taylor said. “TAMKO is one that actually does have the option to warranty a laminated shingle applied over one other layer of 3-tab shingles.” Other warranty concerns to consider include proper installation, the required steps to register your roof after installation and the time period allowed for transferring that warranty to future owners of the home.

Assess ventilation needs.

Inadequate roof ventilation is another major culprit behind premature roof aging. There are a variety of options for roof ventilation; however, it is generally recommended to incorporate proper ventilation into the original re-roof, rather than add it later. The recommended ventilation depends on the size and architecture of the home, but when done correctly, the air inside the attic should be near the same temperature as the ambient temperature of the air outside it.

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Good gutters can save on water damage

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ouses with properly installed and maintained gutters will decrease the likelihood of wood rot to your home’s soffits, fascia, caulking or paint. Plus, moving water away from your home is healthy for your foundation.

Types of gutters‌ Aluminum gutters are low maintenance and come in a variety of colors to accent your home Most common gutter product used today in the United States Never rust or need to be painted Many color options Copper gutters add elegance and class to your home. Incredibly durable making it a sound choice for parts of construction that are subject to excessive wear and tear or significant rainfall

Although a bit more expensive than other options, they are longer lasting and will not need to be repainted or resealed Steel gutters are strong, durable, long-lasting and can withstand a variety of weather conditions. Durability make them more resistant to damage from hail, ice and snow Resist damage from other sources such as ladders or heavy branches Vinyl gutters will not rust and are easy to cut to size for any home Weigh very little making them easy to install Do not rust nor require painting Lowest cost gutters Keep them cleaned out as leaves and debris can clog them Source: Menards

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Seamless aluminum gutters

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hen it’s time to build a new home or remodel your existing home, it’s important to find a reputable and dependable home contractor so your project is a success. Do your research, read reviews and check references, says the National Home Builders Association. Look for these qualities:

Focus

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qualities to look for in reputable home contractor

Professional: Puts clients first and will work with you to make sure your goals are feasible and that the project can get done on time and on budget. Treats customers, their families and their homes with respect. Amateur: Focuses on finishing the job as quickly as possible, with little regard for your family’s personal needs and schedule.

Ethical

Professional: Proactively addresses challenges head-on, immediately notifying you of an unexpected issue. Amateur: Ignores problems uncovered during the project in order to keep it moving. Leaves behind things like hidden mold, leaky pipes or structural issues, putting the health and safety of your family at risk.

Risk

Professional: Has a license, certifications and insurance. Obtains all necessary permits, protecting you against unsafe work and legal issues. Guarantees their work. Amateur: Unaware of — or doesn’t care about — building codes, required permits and health and safety regulations. Leaves you liable for any im-

surfaces of counters, fixtures, floors and walls for possible damage carefully. Sometimes disputes arise because a buyer may discover a gouge in a counter top after move-in, and there is no way to prove whether it was caused by the builder’s workers or the buyer’s movers. Many builders ask their buyers to sign a form at the walk-through stating that all surfaces have been inspected

and that there is no damage other than what has been noted on the walk-through checklist. Ask a lot of questions during the walk-through and take notes on the answers. Don’t worry about asking too many questions. That is how you learn. It is important to view the walkthrough as a positive learning experience that will enhance the enjoyment of your new home.

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Livability

Professional: Wellequipped to deal with the No. 1 threat to livable remodeling — dirt and dust. Protects you and your family from annoying and potentially dangerous air particles by using the most effective tools and processes for dust elimination, such as the BuildClean Dust Control System. Amateur: Doesn’t have a proactive strategy to manage indoor air quality and jobsite dust.

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proper work, mistakes and in a The larger community in potentially dangerous situation. which the home is located. Part of your walk-through will Value be learning about maintenance Professional: Communi- and upkeep responsibilities. cates with you to establish an Most new homes come with a estimate and negotiate a fair one-year warranty on workmancontract and payment schedule. ship and materials. However, Amateur: Underbids a project such warranties do not cover by thousands of dollars and is problems that develop because likely to cut corners to meet the of failure to perform required budget or overwhelm you with maintenance. Many builders provide a booklet explaining costly change orders. For more information on se- common upkeep responsibilities lecting a professional contractor, of new home owners and how to perform them. visit: livableremodeling.com. Before you go to settlement on Should a warranted probyour purchase of a newly con- lem arise after you move in, the structed home, you and your builder is likely to have a set of builder will do a walk-through warranty service procedures to to conduct a final inspection, follow. Except in emergencies, says the National Home Builders requests for service should be in Association. writing. This helps to ensure that This walk-through provides everyone clearly understands the an opportunity to spot items service to be performed. which may need to be corrected Create a checklist when inor adjusted, learn about the way specting the house. The list your new home works and ask should include everything that questions about anything you needs attention, and you and your builder should agree to a don’t understand. Often, a builder will use the timetable for repairs. Builders walk-through to educate buy- prefer to remedy problems beers about: fore you move in because it is The operation of the house’s easier to work in an empty house. components. Some items may have to be cor The buyer’s responsibilities rected after move-in. for maintenance and upkeep. It is important that you be Warranty coverage and pro- thorough and observant during the walk-through. Examine all cedures.

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16 | Sunday, April 29, 2018

10 tips about working with pro remodeler

‌I

f you are considering a home remodeling project, the most important decision you can make is selecting a professional

home remodeler to do the job. Follow these tips when you Your home is too important to embark on an exciting home reentrust to anyone but a profes- modeling project. sional home remodeler. 1. Establish effective twoway communication with the home remodeler. It’s essential to have good communication for a smooth home remodeling project. Does he or she answer questions clearly and candidly? Can you reach him when you need to? Does he let you know when problems arise and work with you on solving them? 2. Make sure you are compatible with the contractor. It’s important to have a good rapport and trust in him or her. 3. Set a clear and mutual understanding about the schedule. Agree on the schedule upfront to avoid conflict and problems later in the project. Kitchen & Bathroom Design • Cabinetry & Countertops 4. Request a written proFlooring • Backsplashes In Home Design Consultations posal. Get the proposal in writing and work with the remodeler to ensure it reflects your wishes. Ferson Kitchen & Bath Design 5. Get a clear and mutual 1925 Center St. Cedar Falls understanding on miscellaLike Us neous details up front. There 319-429-6934 are a lot of little details that need fersonkitchenandbath.com to be settled before work starts.

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What times of day will they be working? How will he or she access the property? How will cleanup be handled? 6. Remember to be flexible. Remodeling is an interruption of your normal life. Being flexible means you can handle the unexpected. 7. Discuss and agree on how change orders will be handled. With home remodeling there is always the chance you may want to change materials or other project details during the job. Before work starts, make sure you agree with your remodeler about how these changes will be handled. Also understand that

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changes could affect the schedule and the budget, so it’s important you have changes in writing. 8. Agree on a well-written contract that covers all the bases. The contract should include these elements: a timetable for the project, price and payment schedule, detailed specifications for all products and materials, insurance information, permit information, procedures for handling change orders, lien releases, provisions for conflict resolution, notice of your right under the Federal Trade Commission’s Cooling Off Rule (your right to cancel the contract within three days if it was signed someplace other than the remodeler’s place of business), and details on the important issues (such as access to your home, care of the home, cleanup and trash removal). 9. Ask for a written lien waiver from the home remodeler upon completion of the work. If the remodeler hires subcontractors for portions of the work, then it is their responsibility to see the subcontractors compensated. In order to ensure this has been done and to protect yourself, ask for a written lien waiver when the work is finished. This document will verify everyone has been paid. 10. Establish a project plan, covering all phases and dependencies in the work. Plan your big picture goals with the remodeler and discuss your needs. Hire a remodeler who will plan with you, listen to concerns and answer questions. Source: National Home Builders Association

HOME IMPROVEMENT

OUTDOOR LIVING Minimal upkeep, maximum style

‌O

utdoor living spaces rank first among special function rooms desired by consumers, according to the American Institute for Architects, and so homeowners are expected to be going all-in for the outdoors in 2018. Trex Company, a maker of premium decking and railing, has gleaned insights from contractors, homeowners and industry experts to compile the following outdoor living trends that will dominate this year:

Sunday, April 29, 2018 | 17

tures and outdoor lighting.

Residential goes commercial While railing matched to the decking remains popular, an increasing number of homeowners are taking advantage of the complementary decking and railing pairings afforded by new railing materials

in modern, metal finishes, as well as sleek designs inspired by commercial architecture. More homeowners are inspired by outdoor spaces they find in commercial settings, such as hotels and urban rooftops, and want to replicate those looks in their homes. A prime example of this commercial-to-residential Please see OUTDOORS, Page 18

Year-round enjoyment Among the biggest trends is a shift away from seasonality as consumers adopt more of a year-round mindset, no longer restricting outdoor living to spring and summer. Thanks to new high-performance materials and innovative design approaches, homeowners everywhere are transforming their outdoor spaces into multi-seasonal extensions of their homes. For example, Trex contractors have reported an uptick in requests for its RainEscape deck drainage system by clients looking to add multi-seasonal living space underneath an elevated deck.

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

Comfy cozy Among the hottest design influences right now is “hygge” (pronounced hoo-gah) — the Scandinavian term for a feeling of coziness and comfort. This

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year, outdoor spaces will beckon homeowners and their guests to relax and rejuvenate with hygge-inspired accents, from plush cushions and throws to protective pergolas, cozy warming fea-

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Upkeep Just because people are spending more time outdoors doesn’t mean they’re willing to put in extra hours for upkeep. In fact, high-maintenance materials like wood are seeing a decrease in demand as people are opting for offerings that deliver better performance and sustainability. Unlike wood, high-performance composites resist fading, staining, scratching and mold — and won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter. No sanding, staining or painting is required, and food and drink spills wash off easily with just soap and water.

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18 | Sunday, April 29, 2018

5 home-building secrets to know

Outdoors From Page 17

trend is the growing popularity of horizontal railings such as rod rail — a sleek, industrial look that’s ideal for optimizing a panoramic view.

Hide and chic With the increased usage of outdoor living spaces comes higher demand for chic decor and privacy. An easy design trick that adds personal style and functionality, lattice panels are perfect for enhancing privacy and concealing storage areas or unsightly views. With styles ranging from romantic to deco, lattice panels can be integrated into any outdoor area and applied to structures such as arbors, trellises and gazebos, or used as decorative wainscoting or deck skirting.

who enjoy playing outside. Outdoor play spaces for all ages are on the rise, including everything from swimming pools and embedded sandboxes to regulation cornhole courts, horseshoe pits and dedicated spaces for volleyball, badminton and bocce ball. Beyond yard games, electronics manufacturers now offer televisions and entertainment Fun and games systems specifically designed Kids are not the only ones for the outdoors, taking into

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

consideration differences in lighting and outdoor acoustics. Meanwhile, new storage options include durable wall-mounted television and entertainment centers that beautifully protect pricey electronics from the elements, while concealing all of the unsightly — and potentially unsafe — cords and cables. For more information about outdoor living trends, go to www.trex.com.

‌Any professional builder will tell you, the secret to building a truly great house isn’t what fixtures you choose or the type of crown molding you install. The most important components of a house are hidden behind the build. 1. Proper insulation. Good insulation not only saves money, but keeps your furnace and AC units working longer and more effectively. In cold areas, proper insulation is key to preventing destructive ice dams from forming. 2. Subflooring. All flooring materials need a solid subfloor. Like a box-spring for your mattress, AdvanTech(R) subflooring from Huber Engineered Woods provides a solid foundation that prevents sagging and squeaking, keeping your finished floor look-

ing better, for longer. 3. A smart house, including appliances, thermostats and other functions. Consider your WiFi router placement, USB outlets, etc. 4. Modern kitchen solutions. Install a sound subfloor to support the weight of heavy appliances, stone countertops and larger floor surface area. 5. Choose the right exterior walls. New products and practices are being used to help reduce air leakage as part of the overall energy efficiency design. Consider next-generation exterior sheathing systems like ZIP System sheathing and ZIP System tape that have built-in water barriers and taped panel seams. Source: Brandpoint

BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME DOESN’T HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT Collins Community Credit Union is here to give you peace of mind, helping you turn your dream home into a reality. With a construction loan from Collins Community Credit Union you can build your dream home on a secure financial foundation. We’ll partner with you to finance the lot, construction, and mortgage, saving you time and money. So, dare to dream knowing Collins Community Credit Union has you covered from the ground up.

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20 | Sunday, April 29, 2018

Cedar Falls Newest Subdivision

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Welcome to Pinnacle Ridge! Build your new home surrounded by beautifully landscaped streets. Boulevards, green spaces, and parks compliment this neighborhood nestled between the Cedar Valley Trail System and all the conveniences of everyday life. Shopping, medical, and school all within 3 minutes. Come and experience something different! New Townhomes

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