Home Construction & Remodeling - April 2021

& REMODELING Home Construction

Comforting

SUNDAY, APRIL 25, 2021 |

Kitchen & bath trends Hiring a contractor Wood floors

color

Use new neutrals to convey sense of calm APRIL 25, 2021

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HOME CONSTRCUTION & REMODELING

Call today for your Home Improvement project!

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Choose new

Urban Bronze SW 7048

‘Urbane

Bronze’

to create sanctuary space

‌W

arm and sophisticated, Urbane Bronze is Sherwin-Williams 2021 color of the year.

“The home is now the ultimate retreat from the world, and color is an easy and effective way to create a personal haven,” said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “Urbane Bronze encourages you to create a sanctuary space for mindful reflection and renewal.”

The “stay at home” mantra has directed where we go and what we do in 2020, but it will also influence interior design trends for 2021 and beyond. The color is part of the “Sanctuary” palette in

Sherwin-Williams 2021 Colormix Forecast, which predicts a need for balance in design for the year ahead. The new decade ushered in a return to rich, bold colors, stepping away from the cool neutrals of the 2010’s in an effort to bring more personality into design.

“Urbane Bronze is a comforting color, drawing from nature for a feeling of relaxation and serenity,” explained Wadden. “There’s also reassurance in its sentimentality, with nostalgic ties to the design of the 1970’s and 1990’s, but with gray undertones that give it a distinctly modern twist.”

Please see URBANE, Page M4

ABOVE: SW 7048 Urbane Bronze, Vintage Revival Photo LEFT: Urbane Bronze SW 7048, John McClain Photo

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HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

Urbane From M3

Here’s how to use it:

Bold and understated at the same time, Urbane Bronze is the new neutral that can be used anywhere in the home, inside or out. Whether used as a primary or accent color, Urbane Bronze has an anchoring quality that conveys a sense of comfort and sanctuary in bedrooms, living rooms and dens, or calm concentration in home offices and kitchens.

“Complement the simplicity of Urbane Bronze with natural materials — like wood finishes, organic stone accents or woven textiles — and a variety of mixed metals to create a serene space grounded in nature,” recommended Wadden.

For an updated take on minimalism, pair Urbane Bronze with other warm neutrals, including elegant bone whites like Modern Gray SW 7632. To bring in more color and a hint of the bold pairings of the ‘70’s, add a modern green like Messenger Bag SW 7740. A monochromatic look with Urbane Bronze on all four walls and trim creates a soothing site for working from home.

Urbane Bronze SW 7048, John McClain Photo

Urbane Bronze SW 7048, Thistlewood Farms Photo

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BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

Top kitchen and bath

DESIGN TRENDS TO WATCH BRANDPOINT

‌ o you want to know what’s popular for kitchen D and bath spaces for 2021? There’s no better barometer for the biggest trends than the annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, where top designers and brands gather to hobnob about the year’s leading innovations and trends.

Although KBIS was virtual this year, there are plenty of exciting trends that homeowners will want to see as they plan their home improvement and interior design projects: Purposeful designs: Today’s designs can’t just look good; they need to stand up to the high demands of busy households. For example, luxury kitchen brand Signature Kitchen Suite blends innovation and high-end design with a brand new—and highly customizable—undercounter convertible drawer refrigerator. Precise temperatures make this the perfect way to maintain the freshness and integrity of foods, with six temperature zones—pantry, fridge, bar, seafood, meat or freezer settings—flexing from -7 to 50 degrees independently in each drawer.

Hands-free options for cleaner spaces: With a focus on cleanliness, touchless options are being seen in countless products. If it can be handsfree, it’s in demand in 2021. Hands-free options

are more user-friendly than ever before, with motion-control lights and smart home features that make living easy and limit the spread of germs. Even self-closing lids are becoming common, making it easier to live well and minimize contact.

Space-saving appliances: With more time being spent at home, space is at a premium. Bulky appliances have given way to space-saving counterparts that don’t skimp on performance.

For example, the LG STUDIO WashTower’s single-unit, vertical design makes the most of space efficiency while tackling ultra-large loads to deliver a complete clean in under 30 minutes—all with a sleek, streamlined design. Plus, the convenient center control panel is positioned with both washer and dryer controls in the middle so it’s easy to reach.

Built-in intelligence: From precision-baking ovens to intelligent, fabric-detecting washers, homes are getting smarter than ever. The new LG STUDIO WashTower has built-in intelligence that uses sensors to detect fabric texture and load size, and then automatically selects the right wash motions, temperatures and more for precision fabric care. With Smart Pairing, the washer can even tell the dryer the right compat-

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ible drying cycle.

Growth of the healthy home: With health and wellness centerstage, home upgrades that support well-being are particularly popular. From advanced home air filters to bacteria-resistant surfaces, cleanliness is integrated into virtually everything. Families suffering from allergies should look for laundry appliances that are certified “asthma & allergy friendly” by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. LG offers an expansive portfolio of certified laundry products, from laundry appliances to vacuums and air purifiers.

Rich metals and clean lines: Clean lines continue to be integrated into designs to elevate spaces in a modern way, while making them accessible to transitional style homes that want to blend traditional with contemporary. Matte finishes are gaining popularity from faucets to cabinetry. Black and steel offer a fresh way to upgrade hardware and appliances for a sleek, eye-catching look that stands out from everyone else on the block.

Focal-point faucets: The Tone collection from Kohler offers five configurations including a Semi-Pro, a standard single-handle pull-down with upgrades

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As homeowners plan their annual im-

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BRANDPOINT PHOTO

is simply beautiful.”

Topping it off

If your kitchen feels a little bland, luxury homebuilder Matt Cain from Dallas-based Tatum Brown Custom Homes says what’s overhead is often overlooked.

“In kitchens, we typically install a wood plank ceiling treatment to add visual texture and

Add dash of

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In today’s homes, kitchens serve a multitude of purposes beyond being a space to whip up a meal. They’re the heart of your home; the command center; the family gathering spot. So it’s no wonder why kitchens are where homeowners invest their renovation budget and why homebuyers pay a premium for an updated look. And savvy design professionals agree, spicing up your kitchen with stylish, timeless and natural materials—like cypress—is a recipe for success.

Laying it out

Planning a new or remodeled kitchen can be an exciting, yet overwhelming time. Designer Erika Powell from Urban Grace Interiors in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, says making the process less stressful boils down to ensuring the layout meets your needs.

“When starting a project, we first like to sit down with our clients in order to get to know them and how they will be using their kitchen,” she says. “If an architect

is involved, we also like to work hand-in-hand with them so that any overarching architectural vision they may have is included in the interior design as well.”

Nowadays, homeowners are mostly looking for open concept floorplans with kitchens that open up to living and dining rooms. And because there’s less available wall space, there are fewer upper cabinets. To compensate, modern kitchen layouts feature expansive islands with seating and storage, a pantry for canned and dry goods, and a butler pantry to hide away less frequently used items.

“Once we determine the layout, then we get to work on selecting building products and finishes,” Powell says. “While there is a wide range of products to choose from, our style focuses on fine materials and classic design elements. Being near the beach, our clients gravitate toward light and natural materials—and products like real wood are just more beautiful. A wood like cypress is stable and durable with unique

aesthetic warmth,” he says.

“There are a lot of materials to work with, but I prefer cypress— especially pecky cypress—because it offers such a specific look and homeowners just fall in love with it. In fact, I’ve never painted a cypress ceiling; it’s too beautiful to cover up.”

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charm. It’s a fixture in many of our kitchen projects.”

Deciding on cabinets

When it comes to choosing cabinetry, architect Ben Patterson from Bossier City, Louisiana, says it doesn’t take long to notice the difference between cabinetry that’s built with solid wood and what you can find at the big box stores.

“In my experience, homeowners value the natural character and quality of solid wood cabinets,” he says. “I’m a full-service architect and usually design custom cabinets for the projects I work on. And I like working with local materials, so my cabinet designs usually have a cypress face with a birch box.”

Selecting a finish can be tricky, but Patterson says trends come and go. “Painted cabinets seem to be all the rage these days, but a natural wood finish is tasteful and timeless,” he adds. “And that’s another reason I love cypress. Whether new growth, old growth, sinker, or pecky, cypress

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HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

Custom homes incorporate green, tech and universal design trends NATIONAL HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

While production builders ‌ build communities by restricting design to a group of preselected home types on lots they have picked and purchased themselves, custom builders tend to build on land owned by the customer and start fresh with each design.

Production builders typically construct a large number of homes throughout the year; these may offer a variety of options, but production builders generally do not use construction plans other than the ones selected by the building firm.

Custom builders spend more time on each project and often work on fewer than 10 homes a year Concern for the environment is growing among U.S. households — and so are energy costs.

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

Because of this, many custom builders are embracing green building techniques. Features like solar panels, water-saving appliances, insulation to improve heating efficiency and the use of renewable or recycled building

materials are all popular techniques to improve a home’s efficiency. Custom builders allow buyers to include a wide range of green products and give them the opportunity to weigh each cost and benefit to create a home that

is stylish, comfortable, but also eco-friendly.

Custom amenities are also taking a turn to the world of tech.

In a world where there’s an app for everything, buyers are beginning to expect a custom home to do more and be “smarter.” Nowadays you can control many features in your home using a phone, including energy usage, security systems, lighting and even the music playing in each room.

Custom builders are seeing an increasing need to tailor homes to the multigenerational household lifestyle. A recent Pew Research Center study shows that 39% of adults ages 18 to 34 have had to move in with their parents.

In the same year, the U.S. Census reported that 4.3 out of 76 million households were made up of at least three generations.

Multigenerational families of-

ten build homes that include the traditional mother-in-law suite or even feature a locked-off living space within the home. These apartment-style spaces can have their own kitchenette, full bathroom and living areas to provide a sense of privacy and independence.

As the country grows older and many baby boomers look to retirement, Universal Design features are an ever-growing priority for many custom buyers and builders. UD is used to ensure that features like wider doors, lower countertops and fewer stairs are used to create a home that everyone can enjoy comfortably. An accessible home allows owners to age in place, prolonging their ability to stay in the house independently and can also increase value by opening the market to any future buyer, despite age, stature or ability.

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Tips for cozying up your

sleep sanctuary

and mattresses to make the biggest difference to your sleep and comfort.

Both recommend high end, handcrafted mattresses for an upgraded sleep experience.

The certified Master Craftsmen at Stearns & Foster design and handcraft every mattress using plush memory foam and patented, supportive coils—all wrapped in a navy blue velvet

border to provide the most luxurious night’s sleep for years to come.

Additionally, Cho recommends soft textures for every layer—from your mattress to your duvet cover, comforter and sheets. Cozy bedding looks and feels luxurious, and when paired with a high-quality mattress, is both classic and made to stand the test of time.

BRANDPOINT PHOTO

Y

BRANDPOINT

ou put a lot of care into curating your bedroom, but these days, it may look more like a gym or an office than your sleep sanctuary. In fact, Stanford News points to several nationwide surveys, which found that more than half of Americans now working from home are doing so from their bedrooms.

To help reclaim your bedroom as a place designed for sleep, Joy Cho and Corey Damen Jenkins, interior design experts who work with Stearns & Foster—a luxury mattress company known for handcrafted style and comfort— have identified the following design tips and trends to inspire your bedroom design and help you get the sleep sanctuary of your dreams.

Relax with color

For a fun and easy weekend project, Cho—founder and creative director of the lifestyle brand and design studio, Oh Joy!—recommends adding a fresh

coat of paint to give new life to your bedroom space. Consider painting an accent wall behind your bed, choosing a color that ties into other areas of the room using accessories, throw pillows or art.

Often, people assume they need to start from scratch and then feel overwhelmed while making their bedroom seem more inviting and cozy. Instead, Cho encourages thinking about color like layers—adding pops of a varying shade in small areas or using easily changeable items.

Start with a limited color palette and utilize patterns to add depth to your space.

“The proper color palette is essential for creating the best sleeping sanctuary,” states Corey Damen Jenkins, the nationally acclaimed interior designer behind Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates. “Certain color combinations may seem amazing in theory, but in application, disrupt sleeping patterns. Everyone is different, so it’s important to know what works for you.”

Make it personal

Decorate using objects with stories to tell, such as heirlooms passed down between generations and items picked up from travel or found at a vintage market. “Pieces that are collected and well-worn add meaning and therefore end up looking much more intentional and thoughtful,” affirms Cho. “Nightstands will always be both in vogue and in need for the bedroom,” says Damen Jenkins. There are countless options to match your personal style and he encourages people to “think beyond the box,” especially in smaller spaces, as unusual alternatives such as a martini table can sometimes fit a space better than a traditional nightstand.

Cozy up in bed

While the right décor is important for creating a cozy and inviting space while you are awake, both Damen Jenkins and Cho encourage their clients to invest in top-quality bedding

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Should I hire a contractor for my remodel or DIY? NATIONAL HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

‌Sooner or later you may join the millions of people who remodel their homes each year.

Perhaps it’s at that moment when you realize that avocado green and harvest gold are no longer the “in” colors for today’s trendy kitchens. Or maybe you have an epiphany one day as you stand in line to use your own bathroom.

Whatever the impetus, the thought crosses your mind: Maybe it’s time to start a home remodel. The reasons for home remodeling are as varied as the projects we undertake.

Some of these include: Adding more space Upgrading cabinets, counters, appliances and fixtures Creating a floor plan that’s customized for your lifestyle Improving energy efficiency

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

with new windows, doors, insu- Where to begin‌ lation, and climate control sysThe first step is to develop an tems idea of what you want to do with Increasing the resale value your home remodel. Write a priof your home oritized list of your needs and

wants. There are many sources to find design ideas for your home remodeling project. Look at magazines and websites and collect pictures of homes or remodeling projects you like. The more clearly you can envision the project and describe it on paper, the better prepared you’ll be in making your decision.

Think about traffic patterns, furniture size and placement, colors, lighting and how you expect to use the remodeled space.

If your decision to remodel involves creating better access for someone with limited mobility, you may want to consider contacting a Certified Aging-inPlace Specialist.

You may want to improve home efficiency and hire a professional remodeler for green home remodeling. These projects include replacing windows and doors, upgrading heating and cooling

systems, adding insulation, and other remodeling to make the home more energy-efficient, easier to maintain, and comfortable.

Figure out how much money you have to spend on the home remodeling job, furnishings, landscaping or any other cost you might incur.

Can you do it yourself?‌

Once you have created your list of priorities, you’ll need to decide how to accomplish that vision.

For the handyman or woman, a do-it-yourself project can be both rewarding and cost-effective. However, more than 30% of all jobs home remodelers perform come from failed DIY projects.

Hiring a professional remodeler is the best way to ensure your project’s success. These remodelers are dedicated to maintaining the highest integrity and standards in the industry.

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E

BRANDPOINT

xpect some of the cool and minimalistic trends of the past to be replaced with more approachable designs that convey comfort, warmth and positivity.

“Darker colors, natural textiles—like wood, and soft lighting are great ways to make a room feel warm and inviting,” says Jen Meska, director of merchandising at LL Flooring.

“Also, decorate with items and patterns that bring you joy to add a sense of your personality and unique style.”

To bring warmth into your home and enjoy this growing trend for years to come, LL Flooring offers this advice:

Determine color schemes For many years, cool color schemes have dominated home design. White kitchens, gray walls and black countertops were top choices by homebuilders and renovators. People have tired of these styles and are seeking to add warm colors and materials in their home.

Colors with yellow undertones are in high demand, from wall paint to furniture and beyond.

Warm accent colors are being used by top designers in decor like accent pillows and throw blankets, including soft yellow and rich cinnamon. Brass and bronze are popular in hardware and accessories, and mixed metals are featured to add visual interest.

Update flooring

Achieve warm interiors through

natural wood floors BRANDPOINT PHOTO

Not only do hardwood floors like this add a warm element to a space, but they also feel warmer on the feet than tile and laminate flooring alternatives.

Analyze lighting

Light can add to or detract from the feeling of warmth in any space. Natural light sources are always welcome, so make sure to open shades to illuminate spaces. Of course additional light sources will be necessary, so think about how overhead, task and accent lighting can best work together in areas. Lamps, wired wall sconces and picture wall lights are easy to install and instantly add style and glow to a room.

Finally, when looking at lights, consider the type of bulbs you use and opt for options that project warmer light rather than those with cooler light tones that have white or blue undertones.

Floors are the foundation of any room, providing ample opportunity to update the space to bring in warmth. Because organic materials typically convey warmth, hardwood floors are a worthwhile investment. The visually interesting and intricate wood grains can be enhanced with any color stain, although warm hues are trending. The rich browns in Bellawood Manhattan Chevron Engineered Hardwood is Use mirrors strategically a great example, as featured in Mirrors serve multiple purthis year’s HGTV Dream Home. poses in a room: They add artis-

tic style, they visually expand their real counterparts. You trends for 2021 and how to bring the space and they reflect light. might be surprised how realis- them into your home, visit LL Designers often strategically tic modern faux plants appear. Style www.llflooring.com/inplace a mirror to bounce natTo learn more about top spiration. ural light or reflect the exterior landscape, helping bring the feeling of the outdoors inside in a subtle yet meaningful way. Your single source for all your interior needs!

A mirror can further add to the warmth of a space depending on the frame material. Some popular options for frames include wood, resin or gold-hued metals. If you have an old mirror you want to revive, consider painting the frame in an appropriate accent color and you’ll breathe new life into an existing piece.

Add plants and foliage

A simple way to add life into your home is adding plants.

Humans are naturally drawn to nature, so adding foliage brings a warmth to any room. If you’re not much of a green thumb, consider low-maintenance houseplants like snake plant, spider plant and succulents. If you love the look of plants but just don’t want to deal with the real things, shop for plastic alternatives that closely mimic

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Sunday, April 25, 2021 | 13

HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

4 home improvement ideas Whether you’re think‌ ing about a bathroom update, kitchen overhaul or any other type of home improvement project, these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and eLivingtoday.com can help you get started.

Create a plan‌

Improving your home can be one of the most exciting projects to undertake. Start by setting realistic expectations, determining your goals and needs, finding inspiration and, perhaps most importantly, setting a budget.

Renovate the bathroom‌

You can improve your home’s usability and increase its value with bathroom updates or a full renovation. Before you get started, think about these factors: the amount of space and

FAMILY FEATURE PHOTO ‌S

storage you need, features that Start a remodel are important to you, sustainIf it’s time for a serious unability concerns and accessibil- dertaking, a full-blown remodel ity considerations. may be necessary (or simply desired). Remodeling typically calls for hiring a professional contracUpdate the kitchen‌ The kitchen serves as com- tor, a process you can go about mand-central for most homes, by gathering local recommenand you can get the most en- dations, asking for licensing and joyment out of yours by mak- insurance, checking references ing purposeful changes, re- and comparing bids. considering the physical space, Find more home improvement re-evaluating your shopping ideas and solutions at remodstyle and choosing appliances elingdoneright.com and eLivwith care. ingtoday.com.

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HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

5 ways technology makes home maintenance easier temperatures via your phone or even keep inventory for you, the latest connected appliances may have you relying on tech to make every aspect of your life simpler.

Embracing technology can be a plus for your daily life, especially if you learn to use tools

BRANDPOINT

‌ ven if you’re not the tech E savviest person, you probably already use some technology to make your life easier, from your smartphone giving you directions to a digital calendar that keeps track of appointments.

Today’s technology has made staying on top of many tasks a whole lot easier.

If you’re interested in exploring more ways to make your busy life a little less complicated, here are some ideas to get you started on automating essential household tasks.

1. Take advantage of subscription services From HVAC filters to batteries or other products you need for your home on a regular basis, see if your preferred vendor now offers a subscription service. You can set up how frequently you want the items delivered, and most will allow you to adjust the frequency of delivery over time.

And there’s a bonus: Most vendors offer discounts for anyone signing up for a subscription service.

2. Use a smart app to monitor appliances like your water softener How do you remember when to refill your water softener with salt? Most people don’t think about it until the dishes get spotty or the laundry comes out stiff and scratchy. Then suddenly you’re arranging a special trip to get more salt.

Those last-minute trips to buy salt are a thing of the past with the Connected Salt Level Sensor and the Pentair Home app.

A simple Wi-Fi-enabled device clips easily into your softener’s brine tank and monitors your salt level. When salt starts to run low, it sends alerts to your smart device, so you can buy salt when it’s convenient for you—not when it feels like an emergency.

With life being super busy, it’s nice to have to think of one less

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

Connected Salt Level Sensor from Pentair thing, like refilling the salt in your a security system, once you’ve water softener. Learn more about learned how to use them, you’ll how the Connected Salt Level appreciate their benefits.

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Programming your thermostat to keep your home’s tem3. Use your digital perature on an even keel—lowering it at night and when you’re calendar for home away—will save both money and reminders energy, helping your wallet and Similar to keeping up with the environment. If you “set it your water softener’s salt level, and forget it,” you’ll eliminate it can be hard to remember when family squabbles about turning to check your smoke detector’s the heat or air conditioning up batteries, when to have your and down. gutters cleaned, or other annual And if you can program your or semi-annual maintenance lights and security system to chores. help protect your home, espeMake full use of your digital cially when you can’t be there, calendar by inputting all these you’ll have even more peace of items on a recurring basis, so mind. you’ll never forget about one of these crucial tasks again. It can 5. Upgrade to a smart give you peace of mind knowing appliance you’re up to date on any and all important safety and mainteNext time you need a new nance tasks. appliance, take a look at recent smart technology innovations.

4. Learn to use From laundry you can moniprogrammable features tor on your phone while you’re away from home to ovens you From your smart thermo- can preheat from anywhere or stat to programmable lights or refrigerators that can adjust

that are the most helpful to you.

Smart apps can not only simplify that endless “to do” list— making sure you never forget anything important—but can also help your house stay safer, cleaner and healthier for your entire family.

Sunday, April 25, 2021 | 15

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16 | Sunday, April 25, 2021

HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

5 qualities to look for in reputable home contractor

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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:

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

1. Focus‌

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.

2. Livability‌

Professional: Well-equipped 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

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.

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

doesn’t care about — building codes, required permits and health and safety regulations.

Leaves you liable for any improper work, mistakes and in a potentially dangerous situation.

5. Value‌

Professional: Communicates with you to establish an estimate and negotiate a fair contract and payment schedule.

Amateur: Underbids a project by thousands of dollars and is likely to cut corners to meet the budget or overwhelm you with costly change orders.

For more information on selecting a professional contractor, visit: livableremodeling.com.

Before you go to settlement on your purchase of a newly constructed home, you and your builder will do a walk-through to conduct a final inspection, says the National Home Builders Association.

This walk-through provides an opportunity to spot items which may need to be corrected or adjusted, learn about the way your new home works and ask questions about anything you don’t understand.

Often, a builder will use the walk-through to educate buyers about: The operation of the house’s components.

The buyer’s responsibilities for maintenance and upkeep.

Warranty coverage and procedures.

The larger community in which the home is located.

Part of your walk-through will

be learning about maintenance and upkeep responsibilities.

Most new homes come with a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials. However, such warranties do not cover problems that develop because of failure to perform required maintenance. Many builders provide a booklet explaining common upkeep responsibilities of new home owners and how to perform them.

Should a warranted problem arise after you move in, the builder is likely to have a set of warranty service procedures to follow. Except in emergencies, requests for service should be in writing. This helps to ensure that everyone clearly understands the service to be performed.

Create a checklist when inspecting the house. The list should include everything that needs attention, and you and your builder should agree to a timetable for repairs. Builders prefer to remedy problems before you move in because it is easier to work in an empty house. Some items may have to be corrected after move-in.

It is important that you be thorough and observant during the walk-through. Examine all 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.

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Sunday, April 25, 2021 | 17

HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

Consider options for major expense of reroofing home ‌After a year filled with anxiety, the last thing homeowners need is anything else that adds to their stress. But as a result of extreme weather events experienced by many regions, having to worry literally about the roof overhead is especially unwelcome these days.

That’s why, as homeowners begin to prioritize their spring home improvement projects, the experts at the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) say the best method for ensuring peace of mind and long-term satisfaction starts with asking installers the right questions, well in advance of when a replacement project starts.

“Replacing a roof is a major expense and it has a big impact on how a home looks and performs,” said Renee Ramey, MRA executive director. “Because there are so many variables, it can be stressful and anxiety-producing, causing homeowners to feel uneasy about whether they are making the right choices. But it doesn’t have to be that way: asking good questions goes a long way towards making a worry- and hassle-free decision.”

According to MRA, the first step is finding a reputable, qualified pro who will conduct a thorough and honest evaluation of your roof’s current condition and determine whether replacement is necessary.

From there, key questions before making a roof replacement investment include: 1) Based on my region, what are the best options for protecting my home?

To get the best roof, plan for the worst. Hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, snow, hail, ice, driving rain and winds: consider the challenges in your region and make sure your roof is designed to withstand them. The ultimate security comes from knowing your roof offers maximum protection for whatever Mother Nature throws at it, not just hoping it will.

Be sure to consider needed accessories such as snow guards, heavy duty gutters and waterproof underlayment that can provide extra security and avoid added hassles and expenses later on.

2) What are the ongoing main-

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

A metal roof is a highperformance option when considering a new roof. tenance needs and requirements?

No matter what the material, all roofs typically look great when they are brand new. But certain materials such as asphalt, shake and clay can be particularly prone to maintenance issues such as moss, algae and fungus especially in wet and humid climates.

Left unchecked, these issues are at best unsightly and at worst, shorten the lifespan and cause serious damage to a roof. Regular, professional treatments can be expensive and environmentally harmful. Ask about low maintenance options such as metal roofing that often require just plain water and gentle soap to keep looking great.

3) Beyond warranties, what credible, third party ratings can verify performance?

Warranties are very important, including both material and labor. Beyond that, make sure a roof is rated by independent, credible sources for fire and hail resistance, as well as energy efficiency. Roofs that carry a Class A fire rating and are an ENERGY STAR qualified “Cool Roof” add up to great peace of mind when it comes to wildfire protection and maximizing efficiency in both cold and hot weather. Be sure to ask your installer about proper insulation and underlayments designed to meet or exceed regional building codes for ongoing savings and protection.

4) What are my choices for a strong, yet structurally sound, roof?

There are lots of strong roofing options out there, including slate and clay, but these heavyweights may require additional reinforcement (and expense) of a roof’s underlying structure. Snow and ice loads can add significantly to that weight, so homeowner who want a similar look may want to opt for metal roofing that can mimic those materials. Metal offers superior strength under the most severe conditions, yet is much lighter per square foot, so additional structural reinforcements typically aren’t necessary.

5) Who is the manufacturer and what is their reputation?

For roofs designed to last and deliver carefree performance and protection, quality matters.

The cheapest bid is often not the best deal. Learn more about the material being proposed, where it is sourced and whether the manufacturer has a solid reputation and will stand behind their products. Be sure they use high quality techniques and materials.

For example, high tech paint and coatings can make a huge difference in the durability, performance and ongoing maintenance of a roof. Ask for details and verification from your installer regarding the material specs being proposed.

6) How do I choose the right style for my home?

Ideally, a new roof will last a very long time, so choosing the right look matters. Again, it is important to consider regional conditions and never prioritize design over performance. For example, even if you love the look of wood shake, do not use it in a wildfire prone area. Instead, choose a material like metal that can mimic the look but won’t compromise on protection. Try on colors and different designs before deciding: use online tools such as the MRA visualizer https://mra.renoworks.com to see how a new roof will actually look on a home.

7) What are the most sustainable roofing choices?

Consider the lifecycle of a roof, from tear off to manufacturing to

longevity. Some materials, like metal roofing, can be installed right over an older asphalt roof to avoid tear off and landfill waste.

They also can be 100% recycled at the end of their long life and last up to three times longer than other roofing types. In ad-

dition, quality metal roofs with high performance coatings offer among the best energy efficiency of any roofing material.

For more information and a comprehensive Buyer’s Guide available as a free download, visit http://www.metalroofing.com.

Committed to Quality & Customer Satisfaction • Garages • Hobby Shops • Commercial • Storage • Metal Homes • And More!

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18 | Sunday, April 25, 2021

HOME CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING

Delicate

BRANDPOINT

harmonies

create balance in bath

‌ he bath space should feel spaT like in nature and create a sense of tranquility. To establish balance within the bath, coordinate different design styles and incorporate striking natural details. Bathrooms that push the boundaries on contrast, while maintaining a minimalistic tone, create the most coveted sanctuaries.

Natural minimalism‌

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Minimalist colors like mocha, rust and chrome bring warmth and richness to a bath.

12TH STREET

Consider choosing earth tones like mocha and rust to bring richness and warmth to the bath. The addition of texture also disrupts the uniformity of a space. For instance, larger visual elements like pebble flooring, a stone tub or a concrete window bench deliver unexpected interruption without feeling obtrusive. Additionally, incorporating organic touches such as live plants or greenery balances the raw minimalism of the unfinished materials. Complete the space with a custom-made mirror with warm backlighting for a functional and luxurious finishing touch.

Stunning combinations‌

Nero Marquina is renowned for its rich black hues and distinctive white veining. Movement varies by slab, and when paired with hand-selected stone that complements or contrasts the marble, the space becomes the perfect backdrop for a luxurious soak. Further experiment with hardware and fixtures throughout the space to create additional smaller pops of contrast. For instance, the classic combination of gold and onyx works effortlessly as a standalone element, or beautifully when incorporated against a monochromatic feature.

Perfect imperfection‌

Embrace the beauty found in imperfections, a key element of the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi.

A deeply veined marble wall, such as Calacatta Macaubas Quartzite, alludes to both the principles of wabi-sabi and to “Kintsugi,” the Japanese method of repairing broken pottery using lacquer dusted with powdered gold. Select addi-

tional elements that carry these philosophies through the space, such as the Single-Handle Lavatory Faucet from the Kintsu Bath Collection by Brizo. The faucet handle displays clean, unbroken lines while in the off position, demonstrating the streamlined form of Scandinavian minimalism.

When in use, the handle creates a broken visual line, celebrating the principles of wabi-sabi.

Exquisite details‌

Opt for strong geometric shapes as both primary and supporting elements within the bath. A cherry wood vanity can act as the focal point or as an understated base to house a variety of accessories. Create stunning contrast with light and dark tones by adding a mother of pearl soap dish or inlaid cabinet hardware against black lacquered surfaces. From small accents to larger statement pieces, establishing a balanced aesthetic within the bath will instill a sense of peace and make for a calming space.

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Sunday, April 25, 2021 | 19

HOME CONSTRCUTION & REMODELING

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20 | Sunday, April 25, 2021

HOME CONSTRCUTION & REMODELING

Introducing the

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You deserve exceptional energy efficiency, sound control and value – that’s why we’re redefining performance to include it all. Introducing, Pella® Lifestyle Series wood windows and patio doors, offering performance options that reduce 52% more sound and are on average 79% more energy efficient than single-pane windows.

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Performance solutions require upgrades to triple-pane, AdvancedComfort Low-E and mixed glass thickness. Based on comparing product quotes and published STC/OITC and U-Factor ratings of leading national wood window and patio door brands.

Performance solutions require upgrades to triple pane and mixed glass thickness. Reduction in sound based on OITC ratings of Pella Lifestyle Series windows to a single-pane wood or vinyl window with an OITC of 19. Doublehung windows are not available with triple-pane glass. Calculated by using the sound transmission loss values in the 80 to 4000 Hz range as measured in accordance with ASTM E-90(09). Actual results may vary.

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Performance solutions require upgrades to triple pane and AdvancedComfort Low-E. Window energy efficiency calculated in a computer simulation using RESFEN 6.0 default parameters for a 2000 sq. foot new construction single-story home when comparing Pella Lifestyle Series windows to a single-pane wood or vinyl window.

Double-hung windows are not available with triple-pane glass. The energy efficiency and actual savings will vary by location. The average window energy efficiency is based on a national average of 94 modeled cities across the country and weighting based on population. For more details see pella.com/methodology.

Based on comparing written limited warranties of leading national wood window and wood patio door brands. See Pella written Limited Warranty for details, including exceptions and limitations, at pella.com/warranty, or contact Pella Customer Service at 877-473-5527.