Paradeofhomes 2013 2

cedar val l eypar adeof homes. com

T O U RD A T E S

WEDNESDAY Sept ember18

6: 00PM -8: 00PM

FRI DAY Sept ember20

6: 00PM -8: 00PM

SATURDAY Sept ember21

1: 00PM -5: 00PM

SUNDAY Sept ember22

1: 00PM -5: 00PM

wcf cour i er . com

S P O NS O R E DB Y cedar val l eyhomebui l der s. com

ver i di ancu. or g

2014 HBANEI SCHOLARSHIP

The Home Builders Association of Northeast Iowa helps the next generation of professional home builders master their craft, donating thousands of dollars to deserving students each year.

The Board of Directors, HBANEI, offers qualified students up to $1,500 to pursue a major course of study in the home building trades or related industry. The scholarships are awarded to students who will attend a local college or university in the Northeast Iowa area.

To be eligible for a scholarship from HBANEI, students should meet the following requirements: • You must be a high school senior or current college student • Be enrolled in an approved major of the home building trades or related industry • Be a resident of the state of Iowa

Members of the Home Builders Association of Northeast Iowa have been extremely busy this summer building a variety of homes for you to browse through during this year’s annual Parade of Homes.

If your future includes building a new home or remodeling an existing home, the Parade of Homes gives you a golden opportunity to discuss your project directly with the builder and subcontractors who could potentially be doing your work.

I would personally like to invite you to the 2013 Cedar Valley Parade of Homes sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Northeast Iowa, Veridian Credit Union and Courier Communications. Please make sure to mark your calendars for the following dates and times.

Wednesday, September 18 - 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday, September 20 - 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, September 21- 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday, September 22 - 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Proceeds from the parade are used in part to award scholarships for local students pursuing careers in construction-related fields.

Congratulations to our 2013 scholarship winner:

Scholarships are paid directly to your school in your name after your enrollment has been verified.

Christian Woods from Fairbank, Ia. Attended Wapsie Valley High School. Going to Hawkeye Community College.

A scholarship committee appointed by the Board of Directors, HBANEI, reviews all applications and awards the scholarships.

From all of our members and numerous subcontractors we would like to thank you for making the 2013 Parade of Homes a success.

Mail your request for an application to:

I look forward to seeing many of you browsing the homes and planning for the future.

Home Builders Association of Northeast Iowa P.O. Box 1857, Waterloo, Iowa 50704

Check us out online at www.cedarvalleyhomebuilders.com.

Deadline for all submissions is April 30, 2014.

For additional information, call us at (319) 233-0565.

Scholarship application may be made online at our website: www.cedarvalleyhomebuilders.com.

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE 2013 CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES COMMITTEE FOR MAKING THE EVENT A SUCCESS Committee members: Kyle Larson, Ron Knudsvig, Bill Kugler, Jackie Kugler, Adam Varney, Jake Smalley, Sheila Kerns, Bruce Radue, Bob Manning, Ron McCartan, Reed Hunemuller

TO OUR SPONSORS

Kyle Larson President

Mark your calendar for the HBA’s 1st Annual Vendor Showcase DATE: Saturday, September 28th TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

PLACE: Gallagher-Bluedorn Lobby Sponsored by the HBA, Veridian and the Courier.

CONTACT BRUCE ON EVENT QUESTIONS Leave a message at 233-0565 -OR- email hbaneiowa@yahoo.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

w w w.cedar valleyparadeofhomes.com

(NO TOUR OF THIS HOME ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18)

PRESIDENT Kyle Larson 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Jake Smalley 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Vic Schrage SECRETARY Sheila Kerns TREASURER Bob Manning PAST PRESIDENT Ron McCartan

Robson Homes

DIRECTORS

House Contractor

Page

1

10

Koch Construction 903 Iowa St. Cedar Falls

2

Skogman Homes

12

4207 Sonoma Dr., Wild Horse 2nd Addition, Cedar Falls

3

Craig Fairbanks

16

802 Lake Ridge Dr., The Ridges Addition, Cedar Falls

4

18

1407 Algonquin Dr., Greenhill Village, Cedar Falls

5

Robson Homes

20

1419 Algonquin Dr., Greenhill Village, Cedar Falls

6

LGC Homes

22

2012 Green Creek Rd. Cedar Falls

7

LGC Homes

26

4023 Wedgewood Rd. Cedar Falls

8

Kugler Construction

30 The 2013 Parade of Homes publication is a supplement of

4751 Luxley Dr., Nottingham Addition, Waterloo

9

Robson Homes

34

4164 Mourning Dove Dr., Crossroads Estates, Waterloo

10 Dhani Construction

36

4719 Luxley Dr., Nottingham Addition, Waterloo

11 Randy Pearson 2022 Erik Dr. Cedar Falls

Ryan Beckman Scott Cessna Reed Hunemuller Max Kline Ron Knudsvig Bill Kugler Jackie Kugler Steve McDonald Zach Stuart Brad Trees Adam Varney Deb Waterman

100 East 4th St Waterloo, IA 50703

(319) 291-1448

PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . .David A. Braton AD DIRECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tara Seible

38

EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Melody Parker PROJECT MANAGER . . . . . . . . Sheila Kerns PROJECT ASSISTANT . . . . . . . . Lisa Boleyn

CHECK OUT OUR FOLDOUT MAP ON THE BACK COVER!

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CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

GRAPHIC DESIGN . . . . . . . . Michelle Seeks

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Your Home is an Expression of You!

Look for our fixtures in the Parade Homes McDonald Supply, with over 4,000 square feet, is the Cedar Valley’s best, most innovative, and largest working Kitchen and Bath Showroom.

We have partnered with the area’s best plumbers and offer one-stop shopping!

Burrier Plumbing & Spa Waverly, IA (319) 352-1185 Chad’s Plumbing Dunkerton, IA (319) 822-3131 Curran Plumbing, Inc. Waterloo, IA (319) 233-0353 Crystal Plumbing & Heating Waverly, IA (319) 352-3241 Dalton Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling Cedar Falls, IA (319) 266-3513 Davis Plumbing LaPorte City, IA (319) 239-3939 Elliott’s Plumbing & Heating Tripoli, IA (319) 239-5810

G & G Plumbing Waterloo, IA (319) 232-9842 Hudson Hardware Hudson, IA (319) 988-3231 Independence Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling Independence, IA (319) 334-7008 Plumbing Concepts Waterloo, IA (319) 833-0523 Waschkat Plumbing Waterloo, IA (319) 234-3456

Monday 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

3310 University Avenue, Waterloo 319.234.6853 | find us on facebook PAGE 3

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Custom homes stand out from crowd

By The National Association of Home Builders

Custom builders create homes designed for each owner individually or from their own, private stock of designs. While production builders build communities by restricting design to a group of preselected home types lots they have picked and purchased themselves, custom builders tend to build on land owned by the customer and start fresh with each design. Custom builders also spend more time on each project and often work on fewer than 10 homes a year.

Custom homes stand out from the crowd.

They are each one-of-a-kind and are typically upscale with luxury upgrades and unique architectural design. These homes can be more stylized than many production homes—a buyer can contract anything from a luxury log cabin in the woods of Vermont to a pueblo-style home in New Mexico.

Home buyers choose their ideal location and environment, so custom homes often

See CUSTOM, page 5

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11

th

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CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

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CUSTOM From page 4 incorporate elements of the landscape into the design and can be built to fit each sites’ outstanding feature; whether that is a view of the ocean, a natural stream, or the distinct colors and plants of a desert landscape.

Custom home trends Concern for the environment is growing among U.S. households — and so are energy costs. 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.

To find out more about green building you can visit NAHB’s Green Building & Energy Efficiency page.

ers are beginning to expect a custom home to do more and be “smart.” Nowadays you can control many features in your home using a phone, controlling energy usage, security systems, lighting and even the music playing in each room.

New amenities

Whether it’s aging parents moving in with their adult children or young adults living back with Mom and Dad, multigenerational households have specific needs when it comes to a home.

Custom builders are seeing an increasing need to tailor homes to this lifestyle. According to a 2011 study by the Pew Research Center, 39 percent of adults ages 18 to 34 have had to move in with their parents in recent years. 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

Specialized amenities really set custom homes apart. Today home owners like to see features that will improve their lifestyle through health, entertainment or comfort. Yoga studios, resistance pools and fitness rooms can be added to encourage healthy living; game rooms, theaters and even a bowling alley can be added for fun; and for comfort, breezy, screened-in porches or warm hearths can make your home feel cozy and welcoming.

Custom amenities are also taking a turn to the world of tech. In world where there’s an app for everything, buy-

Multigenerational living

often build homes that include the traditional “mother-inlaw suite” or even feature a locked-off living space within the home. These apartmentstyle spaces can have their own kitchenette, full bathroom and living areas to provide a sense of privacy and independence.

Universal design As the country grows older and many baby boomers look to retirement, Universal Design (UD) 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.

Custom Interior

design

Make your house home with a style all your own. Interior designer Carrie Buschmann turns your vision into reality by incorporating cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, and flooring to create a one-of-a-kind design.

Schedule Your Appointment Now 215 East Main Street Cedar Falls, IA 50613 319-553-0553 | signature@cfu.net

WWW.KOCHCONSTRUCTION.ORG/SIGNATURE-DESIGN-AND-CABINETS PAGE 5

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Take care when choosing a home builder National Association of Home Builders

If you’re in the market for a new home, shop for a builder as carefully as you shop for your home. You want to know that you are buying a good quality home from a reputable builder.

Here are a couple of tips to help choose a builder.

Make a list of builders Contact the local home builders’ association to obtain a list of builders who construct homes in your area. Find a local HBA at nahb.org/findanhba or look on Move.com, NAHB’s official new homes listing website.

Look in the real estate section of the local newspaper for builders and projects. Looking through the ads and reading the articles can show which builders are active in a specific area, the types of homes they are building, and expected prices.

Make a list of builders who build the type of home you’re looking for in your price range.

Local real estate agents may also be able to help in the search.

Ask friends and relatives for recommendations. Ask about builders they have dealt with directly, or ask them for names of acquaintances who have recently had a good experience with a builder.

Do your homework Once a list of builders has been compiled, find out about their reputations and the quality of their work. The best way to learn about builders is to visit homes they have built and talk with the owners.

Ask builders on the list for the addresses of their recently built homes and subdivisions. Builders may even be able to provide names of some home owners who would be willing to talk

Confidence makes you feel warm all over.

with you.

Drive by when home owners may be outside doing chores or errands. Introduce yourself and say you are considering buying a home from the builder who built their home. Talk to several owners, and try to get a random sample of opinions.

The more people you talk with, the more accurate an impression of a builder you are likely to get. At the very least, drive by and see if the homes are visually appealing.

When talking to builders and home owners, take along a notebook to record the information you find and personal impressions about specific builders and homes. Doing so will help you make comparisons later. Some questions to ask people include: Are you happy with your home?

If you had any problems, were they fixed promptly and properly? Would you buy another

home from this builder?

Usually, people tell you if they are pleased with their homes.

And if they are not, they’ll probably want to tell you why.

Shop for quality, value Look at new homes whenever you can. Home shows and open houses sponsored by builders are good opportunities to look at homes. Model homes and houses displayed in home shows are often furnished to give you ideas for using the space. You may also ask a builder to see unfurnished homes.

When examining a home, Inspect the quality of the cabinetry, carpeting, trimwork, and paint. Ask the builder or the builder’s representative a lot of questions. Get as many specifics as possible. If you receive the answers verbally rather than in writing, take notes. Never hesitate to ask a question.

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PAGE 6

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Hit the mark when finding a builder or remodeler National Association of Home Builders

Use this checklist to help select a home builder or home remodeler.

■ Contact a local home builders’ association for the names of member builders and remodelers: nahb.org/findanhba.

■ Ask family, friends or coworkers for recommendations.

■ Make sure the builder or home remodeler has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.

■ Find out how long they have been in the building business. It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. Make sure they will be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties.

■ Check out the company’s rating and if there have been any complaints filed with the

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO

local Better Business Bureau: bbb.org.

■ Make sure the builder/ remodeler has sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance. If not, the homeowner could be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises.

■ Ask the builder/remodeler

for names of previous customers. If they won’t, beware. If they do, ask the customers if they would hire the builder/ remodeler again.

■ Ask to see the builder/ remodelers work, both completed and in progress. Check for quality of workmanship and materials.

■ Communication is key when a homeowner and builder/remodeler are in such close contact both during the construction process and afterward in a new/remodeled home.

■ Make sure the builder/ remodeler provides a complete and clearly written contract.

The contract will benefit both of you. If you are having a new home built, get and review a copy of the home warranty and homeowner manual as well.

■ Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids. If the builder/remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem.

■ Verify that a remodeler is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Renovator if work is planned in a pre-1978 home that will disturb more than six square feet of painted surfaces inside the home or 20 square feet on the exterior of the home.

2012 Green Creek Rd., Cedar Falls 4751 Luxley Dr., Waterloo 2022 Erik Rd., Cedar Falls 4023 Wedgewood Dr., Cedar Falls

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Boomers dominate new housing trends ■ Improved lighting, first-floor bedrooms are among priorities.

By the National Association of Home Builders

The largest American generation is either retired or quickly nearing retirement age.

Baby boomers, the generation born between 1946 and 1964 and who count more than 76 million, may be getting older, but they aren’t headed to elder care centers yet.

Some features that home builders and remodelers are seeing as they begin to cater to the boomers include: 1. Home offices — Many boomers are continuing to work past age 65 either because they love their work,

or because their retirement savings lost value in the recession. As they transition from a traditional 9-to-5 job, however, many want home offices for flexibility.

2. Technology — The techsavvy boomer generation wants a home that will support all their personal technology. That can mean structured wiring that can drive a network of services.

3. Wider doors and hallways — Designing a home that is livable now but can transition and be functional as the occupant ages is important in ensuring that the home will be a good long-term investment.

Wider doors and hallways are useful for moving larger furniture today, and will allow the home owners to use mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs.

4. Better lighting and windows — The need for more lighting increases as we grow older. To accommodate this, builders are adding more windows. They also are adding more light fixtures in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and stairways, where dim light can lead to accidental injury.

Switches at the top and bottom of a stairwell, and the use of dimmer controls to eliminate glare are other helpful options.

5. First-floor bedrooms and bathrooms — NAHB data shows that 73 percent of buyers aged 55 and up don’t want a second-floor master suite.

Today’s bedrooms are also bigger, with larger walk-in closets and bathrooms that often have a separate tub and shower and dual sinks.

6. Easy-to-maintain exte-

riors/landscaping — People who move to a new home when they retire may opt for a maintenance-free community. Those that choose to stay in their homes might make improvements to exterior surfaces such as installing stucco, brick or low-maintenance siding. Lawns are being replaced with outdoor rooms, decorative landscaping, or flower beds — either at ground level or raised for seated access.

7. Flex space — Flex spaces are rooms that serve the present home owner’s needs but can adjust to changes as they occur. What may have once started out as a child’s bedroom can be redecorated to serve as a hobby room, library or home office and can be repurposed later for a bedroom for visiting grandchildren or for an in-home caregiver.

Iowa Wall Systems staff and employees take pride in a being good steward for our community. Serving the community for over 57 years.

Offering: Drywall/ Kal-Kote Exterior Stucco (EIFS) Metal Stud Framing Painting & Staining Iowa Wall Systems would like to thank the Parade of Home Committee and special thanks to Sheila Kerns for their work on 2013 Parade of Homes.

4601 Crestwood Drive Waterloo, IA

319-296-1663

www.iowawallsystems.com PAGE 8

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Painting interior doors adds ‘wow’ to rooms AMY LORENTZEN Associated Press

If you’ve got your decor looking just about right but want that extra “wow” factor, consider painting interior doors.

“Address other main features in the room first, and then if something is still missing, painting the door provides that ‘Aha’ moment,” says Natalie Myers, principal designer with Veneer Designs in Los Angeles.

“It changes everything.”

Painting a doorway is easy and inexpensive, depending on your preferred paint and supplies.

It’s a low-commitment project, since you can simply repaint if you don’t like the outcome. And you can customize the color and design to any decor.

What are designers seeing most on interior doors?

Interesting colors, especially teal blues and nature-inspired

greens, with yellows and pastels for a more playful look in warmer climes and vacation homes. For the less adventurous who still want a bold statement, it’s classic colors such as black, charcoal, chocolate and navy.

Before you coat your entire door, test a small spot to make sure you like the color. Many interior designers will do a color consultation for a small fee. Or if that’s not in your budget, Myers suggests searching for inspiration at sites such as Houzz.com and DesignSponge. com, where designers feature their projects, or at Pinterest. com, where do-it-yourselfers post their own interior door transformations.

You can also find inspiration at ApartmentTherapy. com, where founder Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan and his team offer design tips.

Gillingham-Ryan recommends choosing a gloss finish, not matte, of whatever hue you choose for your interior door.

Transforming your door can increase the impact of any architectural details in the room.

It “helps to define the space visually while adding personality, color and, in the case of (a glassy) finish, texture and light reflection,” explains Gillingham-Ryan.

If you want the door to blend into the look of the room, choose colors that complement your wall shades, experts say. Pick an accent color or something bold if you want the door to pop out as its own statement.

Painting the trim the same color as the door or walls, or an entirely different color, can also add dimension.

Once you’ve decided on your color palette and finish, it’s time

to get down to painting. Experts suggest setting aside at least a couple of hours; plan to apply at least two coats for rich, full coverage.

It’s usually best to take the door off and remove the hinges and other hardware before painting.

At ValsparPaints.com, experts recommend starting with the edges. Then, for flat doors, start by rolling paint on the top half of the door and work your way down. Use light pressure strokes with the roller to smooth out the paint. Let the first application dry, then follow the same process with the second coat of color.

For paneled doors, start from the top applying paint to the panels first, then to other areas of the door. Foam brushes and small rollers can be helpful in smoothing paint in tight spots and deep panels.

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PAGE 9

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1

KOCH CONSTRUCTION | 903 IOWA ST. CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS Energy Efficient Clean Burning Fireplace Wood Floors Sculptured Carpet Steel Roofing Super Insulated with spray foam and panel foam insulation Woodharbor Cabinetry Paneled Doors Simonton Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows Brand new energy efficient water heater and furnace New detached garage with storage trusses and 220v wiring New vinyl siding, New Electric Service New Plumbing and Fixtures throughout

SPECS Price Range: $200,000.00 Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 2 Square Feet: 1,804

www.kochconstruction.org

This is a 100+ year old home This is a 100+ year old home that has been completely refurbished. This home has all of the character and charm of the original house with all of the energy efficiency of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes. If you are looking for a home in an established quiet neighborhood with lots of trees and within walking distance to Lincoln School this is the home for you. This home features 2 bedrooms and a bath on the second floor with a large TV/playroom for the kids. Living room, dining room, kitchen, laundry, and bed and bath on the main

floor. Lots of closet space throughout. Mudroom at back entry. All new front porch, detached garage, mechanicals, roofing, siding, insulation, wall and ceiling finish and floor coverings. Lots of natural light and a wood burning fireplace make this the perfect cozy home.

Home Remodeling & Design All-in-one building experts working to take your home from average to amazing.

Schedule your free consultation today:

319-266-0807

SATISFACTION...

TODAY AND TOMORROW Since 1980

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319-266-0807 | KochConstruction.org PAGE 10

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SUBCONTRACTORS FOR KOCH CONSTRUCTION | 903 IOWA ST. CEDAR FALLS Wiring Homes For Over 50 Years

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Office: 319-287-7792 Fax: 319-287-7793 Toll Free: 877-427-7792 Call: 319-415-8407 Email: jason.hirsch@abcsupply.com

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Brick · Pavers · Stone · Retaining Walls Landscape Products · Concrete Masonry 110 Dunham Pl · Waterloo · (319) 233-8421 www.marquartconcreteproducts.com

It’s Our People Who Make It Possible.

Ryan Clark

Jason Roberts

James Toulouse

Karl Koch

Carrie Buschmann

Justin Manifold

Dusty Schlette

Ken Langston

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319.266.0807 PAGE 11

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2

SKOGMAN HOMES | 4207 SONOMA DR., WILD HORSE ADDITION, CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS

9’ & 10’ ceilings throughout 3 car garage Split BR ranch plan Drop zone with built ins for storage at garage entrance Outlets in BRs with night lights Outlets with USB connections throughout for charging your phones and Ipods Qwest Cape Cod Grey double 4 vinyl siding on exterior with 5” perfection shake shingle and lineal accents 5 ½”/3 ½ ” painted shaker stylebase and casing throughout main floor Aristokraft cabinetry in Painted/Stained combination with soft close drawers Quartz tops in the kitchen and master bath (Hanstone Aspen/Hanstone Venetian) Direct Vent gas fireplace with full stone wall J and N Stone’s Buck’s Creek Laytite stone elevation 3.25” English Leather birch floors in the Foyer, Kitchen, Nook wet bar finish in the LL

SPECS

Price Range: Floor Plans Base Price is in the $250,000s without Lot Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 1.75 Square Feet: 1850 sqft above grade 1 270 sqft LL finish

www.skogmanhomes.com

PEYTON FLOOR PLAN Introducing Skogman Homes “NEW” Peyton floor plan. This floor plan is new to the Cedar Valley in 2013. As always Skogman Homes strives to provide the amenities in a plan that constantly meet your lifestyle as an owner. In the Peyton, Skogman Homes has continued satisfying the public’s strong desire for a ranch with split BRs. Along with the privacy of the split BRs we have continued to provide you space at the garage entrance to drop coats, bags, and shoes in an organized fashion. We have also taken convenience one-step further by creating space next to the master BR for the laundry. Now

as you settle in for the evening and have that one last chore to finish you can do so right outside the door of your MBR. Makes catching that tv show at night or reading that one extra page even easier.

The features of this parade home portray some of today’s popular finishes. Highlighting the finishes are quartz tops, wood and tile flooring, and accents throughout using combinations of painted cabinetry and wood work mixed with medium stained accents.

Stop out and see why Skogman Homes is the right choice!!!

Growing Together

IN THE CEDAR VALLEY

Model Home

Homes available in Cedar Falls, Waterloo, and Surrounding areas. Our lot or yours.

4207 SONOMA DR. Model Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10-5 & Sat.-Sun. 12-4 Phone Number: 319-277-7862

ASK US ABOUT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS AND HOMES

WILD HORSE

“GRAND OPENING” 61 Lots starting at $43,000

KLINGAMAN PARK CROSS ROADS ...YOUR PERSONAL LOT PAGE 12

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

Homes starting in the 230s Homes starting in the 150s

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Commercial and Residential Concrete Work Material Placing Rubberwall Waterproofing

Mailing: P. O. Box 598 Waterloo, IA 50704

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We appreciate your business!

Kyle Langenberg 553-3851

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NO 1% ORIGINATION FEE PAGE 13

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A huge selection of quality building products are available at ProBuild.

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WATERLOO 319.232.7116

Location: 517 Rhey Street Waterloo, IA 50703

Office: 233-0955 • Fax: 233-0963

Bill Tye 553-3743

& Exterior Finish

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Office: 319-373-2287 Fax: 319-447-0382 6245 Partners Ave. Marion, IA 52302

Country Floors & Interiors 23 Main St Newhall, IA 52315 (319) 223-5744 WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Improvements can be beautiful and functional Do the words â&#x20AC;&#x153;aging in placeâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;home improvementâ&#x20AC;? conjure images of institutionallooking grab bars in bathrooms and overhead kitchen lights that could illuminate an airport runway? Many people eschew certain types of home improvements for the same reason others refuse to wear hearing aidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; the negative connota-

tions of age.

Changes in mobility, vision, hearing and stability are a reality of growing older for many Americans. Certain types of home improvements can make your home safer and more comfortable as you age, allowing you to live there longer. From lovely skylights that ďŹ ll rooms with vision-friendly natural

light and fresh air to slip-resistant ďŹ&#x201A;ooring in designer colors, those â&#x20AC;&#x153;aging in placeâ&#x20AC;? home improvements can be beautiful as well as functional.

Here are a handful of agingin-place upgrades that shout â&#x20AC;&#x153;fabulousâ&#x20AC;? instead of â&#x20AC;&#x153;fogey.â&#x20AC;?

In the kitchen

can necessitate increasing the amount of light in your kitchen.

Task lights and under-cabinet lighting can focus illumination where you need it most, and hide discretely out of sight without disrupting the clean lines and unmarked beauty of kitchen cabinets.

See AGE IN PLACE, page 15

Age-related vision changes

Mark your calendar for the HBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1st Annual Vendor Showcase DATE: Saturday, September 28th TIME: 10:00 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:00 p.m.

PLACE: Gallagher-Bluedorn Lobby Sponsored by the HBA, Veridian and the Courier.

CONTACT BRUCE ON EVENT QUESTIONS Leave a message at 233-0565 -OR- email hbaneiowa@yahoo.com

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR SKOGMAN HOMES | 4207 SONOMA DR., WILD HORSE ADDITION, CEDAR FALLS +

â&#x20AC;˘ Windows â&#x20AC;˘ Doors â&#x20AC;˘ Mouldings â&#x20AC;˘ Hardware â&#x20AC;˘ Stair Parts â&#x20AC;˘ Specialties â&#x20AC;˘ Cabinets 319.294.5475 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1.800.332.6455 FAX 319.294.5480 1950 Progress Drive, Hiawatha, IA 52233

1010 BROADWAY ST., WATERLOO, IOWA 50703

THERE'S NO WRONG WAY TO CELEBRATE. PAGE 14

!

Since 1909

Waterloo: 319-233-8411 Charlie Cedar Falls: 319-268-9110 Fereday Fax: 319-233-8400 www.feredayheating.com

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

+

Cedar Falls/Waterloo & Surrounding Areas Tom Fereday

319-266-7877

" "

â&#x20AC;&#x153;WE STAND BEHIND OUR WORK & OUR TROOPSâ&#x20AC;?

Everyone likes seeing their photo in Celebrations!

Now you can upload and share your celebrations online in a snap. www.WCFCourier.com/celebrations.

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BPT PHOTO

AGE IN PLACE From page 14 Overhead lighting is also important, but rather than opting for industrial-type lights that may cause harsh glare, consider introducing natural light. Research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that natural light may be better for aging eyes than artificial light. A skylight is an upscale, beautiful home improvement that can benefit boomers with natural light.

Skylights also can help improve indoor air quality. Most exposure to environmental pollution occurs by breathing indoor air, according to research by the Greenguard Environmental Institute. No leak solar powered fresh air skylights, like those made by Velux America, not only provide healthful natural light, they also provide passive ventilation to reduce fumes, humidity and stale air — improving overall indoor air quality.

You can increase a skylight’s energy efficiency with solar

PAGE 15

powered blinds. The complete daylighting system, plus installation, is eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit. To learn more about these Energy Star-qualified skylights, visit www.veluxusa.com. The website offers a skylight planner app to show you exactly how skylights and blinds will look in your home, as well as a tax credit calculator to figure your savings.

In the bath Falls are a leading cause of injuries that result in hospitalization of older people. Most falls in the home occur in the bathroom, so taking precautions in this much-used room makes sense. Like them or not, grab bars improve safety in the bathroom. Fortunately, bathroom fixture manufacturers seem to understand the need for products that blend safety and beauty. It’s now easy to find grab bars in a variety of attractive finishes and designs that complement your interior decor.

Lighting is also important in the bath, and a fresh air skylight can be beneficial in this

room. Skylights provide natural light and passive ventilation while ensuring privacy in the bath. If your bathroom is on the ground floor, without direct roof access, you can still enjoy natural light by installing a Sun Tunnel tubular skylight.

Flooring is another opportunity to blend beauty and practicality in the bathroom.

Replacing slick, traditional ceramic tiles with slip-resistant flooring such as stone, vinyl or textured ceramic tile, can be visually pleasing and safety-enhancing at the same time.

Outside the house Navigating from the car to the front door can be fraught with peril for older folks, yet many people dislike the way certain assistive devices, like ramps, look in front of their home. If you’re not ready to add a ramp, a decorative railing for outdoor stairs is a great alternative.

Make sure walkways are well lit with low lamps that put illumination directly at your feet.

New high-output solar lights are a great way to effectively light a path while minimizing energy costs.

Source: BPT

Think Fereday Heating Stop in or call us for a FREE estimate on Heating and Air Conditioning bid on your new home

Best Prices • Quality Installation • Quality Service

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

104 YEARS 190

9 - 201 3

Tom Fereday Owner

Charlie Fereday Vice President

Fereday Heating 1010 Broadway, Waterloo 319.233.8411 Cedar Falls 319.268.9110 www.feredayheating.com

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

3

CRAIG FAIRBANKS | 802 LAKE RIDGE DR., THE RIDGES ADDITION, CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS Multi- Generational Home Living plan 2 full Master Suites on 1st and 2nd floors 2 story vaulted Great Room with full glass wall Contemporary Cherry Crestwood cabinetry Garage Kitchen Massive artisan stone and brick exterior Dual system Geo Thermal HVAC Walk out Lower Level Custom granite counter tops with exquisite back splash touch Unique contemporary custom stairway with open balcony iron balusters 14â&#x20AC;&#x2122; entertainment theatre wall with 100 inch screen Unique one of a kind custom bar in Lower Level Formal Dining Room Fully equipped pocket office at entry Spacious deck for entertaining

SPECS Price Range: $650,000-$850,000 Bedrooms: 6 Baths: 7 Square Feet: 6,000 Finished

www.CraigFairbanksHomes.com

MULTI GENERATIONAL LIVING Times are changing and a trend of the past is making a comeback. Parents, grandparents and children are choosing to live under one roof to ensure that their family is taken care of while saving on the cost of outsourced healthcare.

This lavish, contemporary home is a perfect example with 2 full master suites and a soaring great room for daily enjoyment with extended family. Luxury Living makes a statement with a full 2nd floor balcony overlook and a featured lower level with an entertaining theatre room

and bar. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find that the kitchen, complete with cherry cabinets and a relaxed dining area, presents a communal gathering space in front of the floor to ceiling stone fireplace. With its attention to detail, it will surprise you that the cost to build this home is just over $100 per Square foot.

NO TOUR OF THIS HOME ON WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 18TH

IS WHAT A WOMAN CALLS

BECAUSE IT IS HERS. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Just Ask A Woman

by Mary Lou Quinlon

CRAIG FAIRBANKS HOMES IS YOUR

Woman-Centric Builder!

www.CraigFairbanksHomes.com where Imagination comes to life!

319.553.1457 PAGE 16

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

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SUBCONTRACTORS FOR CRAIG FAIRBANKS | 802 LAKE RIDGE DR., THE RIDGES ADDITION, CEDAR FALLS

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50

“Where great ideas for your home come together.”

KITCHENS • LIGHTING • FURNITURE FIREPLACES • SIDING • WINDOWS 5515 Council St. NE • Cedar Rapids

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• Whole House Music • Custom Home Theater • Computer Network Wiring • Sony, Samsung, LG, Bose • Crestron, Control4 System • Security • Central Vac 4017 University Ave., Waterloo

234-0344

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WATERLOO, IOWA

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MARTINSON c o n s t r u c t i o n

M

Commercial and Residential Concrete Work Material Placing Rubberwall Waterproofing

WWW.SURFACESOLUTIONSIA.COM

Laser Screed Floors

adam@surfacesolutionsia.com 319-287-5056 Cell Phone 319-269-8568 Fax 888-871-5053

3842 West Airline Hwy., Waterloo 319-232-4000

“Built With Care From Concept To Creation”

- Custom Homes - Finish Carpentry - Painting and Staining - Remodels mcdonsaa@aim.com

OVERHEAD DOOR CO. OF WATERLOO

233-0471

319-610-5590

800 Commercial St.

concepttocreation@gmail.com www.concepttocreationdesign.com

THE CEDAR VALLEY’S BEST WILL BE REVEALED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24 DON’T MISS IT. LOOK FOR IT IN YOUR COURIER

PAGE 17

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

4

ROBSON HOMES | 1407 ALGONQUIN DR., GREENHILL VILLAGE, CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS 8’ Walls With Vaulted Ceilings 3-Stall Garage Paneled Doors Larger Trim Maple Cabinets Granite Countertops Tiled Fireplace Hardwood Floors in Kitchen & Dining Room Tile Floors in Bathrooms Large Walk-in Tiled Shower w/Rain Head in Master Bathroom Maintenance Free Siding w/Stone Accents on Exterior 12x12 Exterior Deck w/Metal Balusters Large Family Room in Basement w/Extra Bedroom & Bathroom

SPECS Price Range: $250,000-$300,000 Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 3 Square Feet: 2,000

www.robsonhomes.net

YOU WILL BE AMAZED AT THE AMOUNT OF LUXURY THAT IS GIVEN IN THIS AMAZING HOUSE PLAN. Robson Homes is proud to bring you the “She Be Smokin’” house plan. This one of a kind home has everything a person would need. You walk in the front door and your eyes are drawn to the tiled fireplace with custom mantel in the very bright Great Room. With the wide open concept that was purposely thought out, the Great Room flows into the Dining Room and Kitchen giving you one large entertainment space.

The Kitchen & Dining room provide hardwood floors as well as stainless steel appliances and Sleek Granite Countertops.

The 1st floor laundry leads you out to the large 3-Stall garage.

The first floor is set up as a “split bedroom” plan. You have two bedrooms on one side of the house with a full bathroom with tiled floors. On the other side of the house you will find

the Master Bedroom suite. In the Master Suite you have a large walk-in closet as well as a large master bathroom. The master bathroom is not short on luxury, his & hers sinks and a large walk-in shower that is tiled floor to ceiling with a rain head and glass door.

If you are into entertaining you will love the large family room in the lower level. With over 600 square feet of finished area which also includes a bedroom and bathroom, you will not be short on space.

Impressive…gorgeous…beautiful are just a few of the words to describe this must see property. Be a part of this friendly and fast growing community on the latest extension of Algonquin Drive.

Affordable Homes...

8QSDUDOOHOHG 4XDOLW\ Robson Homes was established by Joe Robson in 1995. The company specializes in building affordable quality built condos, townhouses and single family homes. Robson Homes started building homes in Cedar Rapids. The popularity of their homes has allowed them to expand their operations to communities such as Cedar Falls, Waterloo, North Liberty, and now the Quad Cities. They are known for their affordability while still maintaining a high level of quality. The company prides itself on allowing almost anyone to achieve the dream of owning a brand new home.

319-845-4062 • 563-271-6684 robsonhomes.net • 5901 Williams Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 PAGE 18

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR ROBSON | 1407 ALGONQUIN DR., GREENHILL VILLAGE, CEDAR FALLS

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50 Renewable Energy Experts 7 Days/Week–24 Hr/Day •Fully Licensed & Insured

319.462.3638 Heating & Air Conditioning • Commercial Contractor • New Construction Air Purification • Geo-Thermal • Boilers

We appreciate your business!

“Ask Sherwin Williams” WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

Dry Wall, Wall,Plastering Plastering, Painting, Dry & Painting

Residential Commercial New Construction Remodels Service

& Exterior Finish

WATERLOO, IOWA

319-296-1663

CARPET•HARDWOOD•TILE LAMINATE•VINYL•AREARUGS

CEDARRAPIDS WATERLOO www.carpetlandusa.net

319-846-7063

CV Insulation, LLC. The Most Trusted Name in Insulation on Eastern Iowa

We Specialize In: • blown fiberglass • blanket • open and closed cell poly-urethane foam • 5” Seamless Gutters

319.533.0807

1862 E. Avenue NE. CR, IA 52402

319-361-7384 2886 61st Street Lane, # 19 Vinton, IA 52349

CONNECT WITH US LIKE NEVER BEFORE.

BUNTING

CONSTRUCTION

WCFCourier.com

319-330-9691 Eastern Iowa’s #1 Choice 200 Holiday Lodge Rd North Liberty, IA 52317

2630 Wiley Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, IA Phone: (319) 362-3115 Fax: (319) 362-1484

for Residential and Commercial Roofing

Follow us:

100 E. 4th Street, Waterloo | 319.291.1444 | 800.798.1730 PAGE 19

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

5

ROBSON HOMES | 1419 ALGONQUIN DR., GREENHILL VILLAGE, CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS 9’ Ceilings Throughout 3-Stall Garage Paneled Doors Larger Trim Maple Cabinets Granite Countertops Tiled Fireplace Hardwood Floors in Kitchen & Dining Room Tile Floors in Bathrooms Large Walk-in Tiled Shower w/Rain Head in Master Bathroom Maintenance Free Siding w/Stone Accents on Exterior 12x12 Exterior Deck w/Metal Balusters Large Family Room in Basement w/Extra Bedroom & Bathroom

SPECS Price Range: $250,000-$300,000 Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 3 Square Feet: 2,095

www.robsonhomes.net

HARD TO IMAGINE THAT YOU COULD FIND THIS MUCH HOUSE FOR THIS LOW OF A PRICE!!

Robson Homes is proud to bring you the “Let’s Get two full baths with tile floors. The large master Crackin’” house plan. This gorgeous home has all the amenities. You walk in the front door and your eyes are drawn to the tiled fireplace with custom mantel in the very bright Great Room. With the wide open concept that was purposely thought out, the Great Room flows into the Dining Room and Kitchen giving you one large entertainment space. The Kitchen & Dining room provide hardwood floors as well as stainless steel appliances and Sleek Granite Countertops. The 1st floor laundry leads you out to the large 3-Stall garage.

You have three bedrooms on the main floor and

bedroom has a large walk-in closet and a large master bath with tiled floors and walk-in tiled shower with a glass door and rain head.

If you would like to enjoy the big game in comfort go to the lower level and watch it in your oversized family room. With over 700 square feet of finished area which also includes a bedroom and bathroom, you will not be short on space.

This is a must see property. Be a part of this friendl and fast growing community on the latest extension of Algonquin Drive.

Affordable Homes...

8QSDUDOOHOHG 4XDOLW\ Robson Homes was established by Joe Robson in 1995. The company specializes in building affordable quality built condos, townhouses and single family homes. Robson Homes started building homes in Cedar Rapids. The popularity of their homes has allowed them to expand their operations to communities such as Cedar Falls, Waterloo, North Liberty, and now the Quad Cities. They are known for their affordability while still maintaining a high level of quality. The company prides itself on allowing almost anyone to achieve the dream of owning a brand new home.

319-845-4062 • 563-271-6684 robsonhomes.net • 5901 Williams Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 PAGE 20

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR ROBSON HOMES | 1419 ALGONQUIN DR., GREENHILL VILLAGE, CEDAR FALLS

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50 Renewable Energy Experts 7 Days/Week–24 Hr/Day •Fully Licensed & Insured

319.462.3638 Heating & Air Conditioning • Commercial Contractor • New Construction Air Purification • Geo-Thermal • Boilers

We appreciate your business!

“Ask Sherwin Williams” WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan ly 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

Residential Commercial New Construction Remodels Service

Dry Wall, Wall,Plastering Plastering, Painting, Dry & Painting & Exterior Finish

WATERLOO, IOWA

319-296-1663

CARPET•HARDWOOD•TILE LAMINATE•VINYL•AREARUGS

CEDARRAPIDS WATERLOO www.carpetlandusa.net

319-846-7063

CV Insulation, LLC. The Most Trusted Name in Insulation on Eastern Iowa

We Specialize In: • blown fiberglass • blanket • open and closed cell poly-urethane foam • 5” Seamless Gutters

319.533.0807

1862 E. Avenue NE. CR, IA 52402

319-361-7384 2886 61st Street Lane, # 19 Vinton, IA 52349

2630 Wiley Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, IA Phone: (319) 362-3115 Fax: (319) 362-1484

BUNTING

CONSTRUCTION 319-330-9691 Eastern Iowa’s #1 Choice 200 Holiday Lodge Rd North Liberty, IA 52317

PAGE 21

for Residential and Commercial Roofing

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

6

LGC HOMES | 2012 GREEN CREEK RD. CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS Spacious Open Concept Custom Thermofoil Cabinetry 4cm Solid Surface Countertops Urban Doors and Trimwork Wide-plank Maple Flooring Mosaic Glass Tile Features Modern Hardware and Fixtures Extensive Raku-fired Brickwork Five-star Energy Rated

www.onlylgc.com

CUTTING-EDGE STYLE AND AFFORDABILITY

SPECS Price Range: $250,000’s Bedrooms: 5 Baths: 3 Square Feet: 1,470

PAGE 22

This beautiful, custom home offers a unique and edgy feel upon entry. As you come through the inviting foyer, there is an element of surprise in the pops of color, contrasted against stark white. The lighting and fixtures are distinctive and trendy, and this theme continues into the kitchen, dining space and beyond.

The kitchen and dining area is perfect for entertaining with its open-concept. The stylish details in the sleek cabinetry and contrasting countertops are very alluring. The solid surface countertop is thicker than standard, and adds another unique custom-

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

designed element.

When moving to the other end of the home, the modern features flow from one room to the next.

The shared bathroom space has a beautiful, glass mosaic floor, paired perfectly with contemporary, foil wrapped cabinetry. All of the faucets and fixtures throughout enhance this home’s edgy presence.

The finished lower level provides an additional full bathroom and bedroom with a large family room with plenty of windows– all just as cool as the rest.

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR LGC HOMES | 2012 GREEN CREEK RD. CEDAR FALLS A Beautiful Door For A Beautiful Home...

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50

Dry Wall, Wall,Plastering Plastering, Painting, Dry & Painting & Exterior Finish

Visit our showroom at

WATERLOO, IOWA

Showroom moved to

1905 State St., • Cedar Falls, IA

Hwy 63/1 mile s. of 20, Waterloo

988-4200

www.christiegaragedoor.com

319-296-1663

MARTINSON c o n s t r u c t i o n

M

P.O. Box 583 Cedar Falls, IA

New Construction Painting, Irrigation Installation & Service, & Landscaping Install.

Shane Krogmeier • 319-931-3559 Jared Schulte • 319-464-2577

Commercial and Residential Concrete Work Material Placing Rubberwall Waterproofing

WWW.SURFACESOLUTIONSIA.COM

Laser Screed Floors

adam@surfacesolutionsia.com

3842 West Airline Hwy., Waterloo 319-232-4000

Jesup

LAND IMPROVEMENT & EXCAVATION

2224 Black Hawk Rd. • Jesup

319.827.3626

mcdonsaa@aim.com

319-287-5056 Cell Phone 319-269-8568 Fax 888-871-5053

Al Gordon PLUMBING & HEATING Phone: (319) 233-3991

Sales - Service - Installation Licensed - Bonded - Insured 3855 W.Airline Hwy., Waterloo, IA 50703

We appreciate your business!

NATE NEUMAN Installation & Repair FIRE ALARM - INTERCOM - NURSE CALL SECURITY SYSTEMS - CCTV- CLOCKS 8120 Jennings Drive, Cedar Falls, IA 50613 www.SystemServicesLC.com

PAGE 23

Ph: (319) 226-5348 Cell: (319) 269-8347 nate@SystemServicesLC.com

“Ask Sherwin Williams” WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

319-352-2732

mjjames@james-concrete.com WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Thinking about remodeling? What to consider Sooner or later you may join the millions of people who remodel their homes each year. Perhaps it was that moment when you realized that avocado green and harvest gold are no longer the “in” colors for today’s trendy kitchens. Or maybe you had an epiphany one day as you stood in line to use your own bathroom. Whatever the impetus, the thought has crossed 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 with new windows, doors, insulation, and climate control systems

■ Increasing the resale value of your home

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. For different financing options, click here.

Where to begin The first step is to develop an idea of what you want to do with your home remodel. Write a prioritized list of your needs and wants. Look at magazines and websites and collect pictures of what 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-in-Place Specialist.

Choose options

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO

You may want to improve home efficiency and hire a remodeler for green home remodeling.

These projects include replacing windows and doors, upgrading heating and cooling systems,

Once you have created a list of what you would like out of your home, the next step is deciding how to accomplish your vision.

■ Hire a professional home remodeler. The best way to ensure your home dreams become reality is through the work of a professional home remodeler. These remodelers are of the highest integrity and standards in the industry.

See REMODEL, page 25

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR LGC HOMES | 2012 GREEN CREEK RD. CEDAR FALLS

Joel & Laura & Laura Moorhead Owners Budget Blinds of Waterloo office: 319.242.7088 319.242.7088 fax: 319.242.7089

Budget

Bllnds n

®

a style for every point of view ®

moorhead@budgetblinds.com

Commercial • Residential Sales • 24 Hour Service • Installation

www.budgetblinds.com/WaterlooIA

Serving Waterloo, Denver & Surrounding Areas

Shutters, Wood Blinds, Draperies and more!

319-939-5251 Corey Arians

An Independently Owned and Operated Franchise

Mark your calendar for the HBA’s 1st Annual Vendor Showcase DATE: Saturday, September 28th TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

PLACE: Gallagher-Bluedorn Lobby Sponsored by the HBA, Veridian and the Courier.

CONTACT BRUCE ON EVENT QUESTIONS Leave a message at 233-0565 -OR- email hbaneiowa@yahoo.com

PAGE 24

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Let neighbors know about plans

By The National Association of Home Builders

While home remodeling can be an exciting adventure, it’s important to remember that neighbors may not be quite as thrilled with the project as you are. While a professional home remodeler will help lessen the impact on the neighbors, here are some additional tips to help keep the peace in the neighborhood.

Let neighbors know well in advance about your home remodeling plans and keep them apprised of progress. Tell them when work will begin, the approximate completion date,

what type of work will be done and whether workers might have to come onto their property.

Make sure noisy power tools are only used during standard business hours.

Try your best to have materials dropped off in your driveway or yard rather than the street, and keep your yard as tidy as possible. Watch for debris that might find its way onto your neighbors’ yards.

Remove dumpsters as quickly as possible. If you have room left in your last dumpster, invite neighbors to dump anything they might have lurking in their garage that needs tossing.

the handyman or woman, a do-it-yourself project is both rewarding and cost-effective.

However, more than 30 perSee the professional home cent of all jobs home remodelers perform come from failed remodeler difference.

■ Can you do it yourself? For do-it-yourselfers.

REMODEL From page 24

LET US HELP CREATE YOUR DREAM

WITH CUSTOM LIGHTING DESIGN

Cedar Valley Electric RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL PROVIDING ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING | LIGHTING UP THE CEDAR VALLEY SINCE 1998 | 5743 WESTMINSTER SUITE A | CEDAR FALLS, IA | 319-266-1134 PAGE 25

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

7

LGC HOMES | 4023 WEDGEWOOD RD. CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS Exotic Ipe Wood Deck Sunken Patio and Firepit Ipe Wood Flooring Matte European Cabinets 6cm Waterfall Countertops Custom Stainless Railings Waterfall Faucets Freestanding Soaking Tub Large Tiled Shower Tray Ceilings Modern Wet Bar

SPECS Price Range: Custom Design Bedrooms: 4 Baths: 3 Square Feet: 1,760 Main

PAGE 26

www.onlylgc.com

REINVENTING THE MODERN PRAIRIE This unique, custom home is a fusion of Prairie and modern northern-European design notes.

The clean lines of the stucco and raku-fired brick exterior continue the experience as you proceed inside. The foyer opens up to a loft-like living and dining area with stunning exotic ipe wood flooring and custom stainless steel balustrade around the stairwell.

In examining the minimalist kitchen you see this simple beauty is achieved with European style cabinets in two matte finishes. The cabinetry is complimented by coordinating 6cm quartz countertops. Adjacent to the kitchen the oiled ipe

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

wood continues onto the deck. This sleek outdoor space leads down to the sunken walkout patio where the same ipe is used for a custom bench that surrounds an intoxicating linear open fire pit with a glass rock base.

Throughout this striking home you will find impressive yet subtle details resulting from clever design; the master bathroom with its freestanding tub and waterfall faucet and the basement wet bar with glass cabinetry to name a few. The dĂŠcor and modern accents make for a sophisticated and pleasantly exciting experience.

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR LGC HOMES | 4023 WEDGEWOOD RD. CEDAR FALLS A Beautiful Door For A Beautiful Home...

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50

Dry Wall, Wall,Plastering Plastering, Painting, Dry & Painting & Exterior Finish

Visit our showroom at

WATERLOO, IOWA

Showroom moved to

1905 State St., • Cedar Falls, IA

Hwy 63/1 mile s. of 20, Waterloo

988-4200

www.christiegaragedoor.com

319-296-1663

MARTINSON c o n s t r u c t i o n

M

P.O. Box 583 Cedar Falls, IA

New Construction Painting, Irrigation Installation & Service, & Landscaping Install.

Shane Krogmeier • 319-931-3559 Jared Schulte • 319-464-2577

Commercial and Residential Concrete Work Material Placing Rubberwall Waterproofing

WWW.SURFACESOLUTIONSIA.COM

Laser Screed Floors

adam@surfacesolutionsia.com

3842 West Airline Hwy., Waterloo 319-232-4000

Jesup

LAND IMPROVEMENT & EXCAVATION

2224 Black Hawk Rd. • Jesup

319.827.3626

mcdonsaa@aim.com

319-287-5056 Cell Phone 319-269-8568 Fax 888-871-5053

Al Gordon PLUMBING & HEATING Phone: (319) 233-3991

Sales - Service - Installation Licensed - Bonded - Insured 3855 W.Airline Hwy., Waterloo, IA 50703

We appreciate your business!

NATE NEUMAN Installation & Repair FIRE ALARM - INTERCOM - NURSE CALL SECURITY SYSTEMS - CCTV- CLOCKS 8120 Jennings Drive, Cedar Falls, IA 50613 www.SystemServicesLC.com

PAGE 27

Ph: (319) 226-5348 Cell: (319) 269-8347 nate@SystemServicesLC.com

“Ask Sherwin Williams” WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

319-352-2732

mjjames@james-concrete.com WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

What to know about your remodeling contract

By The National Association of Home Builders

Once you’ve picked a home remodeler, work should not begin until you have reviewed and signed a written agreement or contract that spells out in detail the what, where, how, time span and cost of your project.

What should your home remodeling contract include?

■ The contractor’s name, address, telephone number, and license number (if applicable).

■ A visual representation (blueprint, floor plan, sketches) that shows what the home remodeler will do and where.

■ The timetable for the project, including approximate start and completion dates.

■ The price and payment schedule.

■ Detailed specifications for all products and materials. The

description of each item should provide enough detail to clearly identify it, such as the brand name, model number, color and size. This section of the contract may also describe any materials that will be selected later, who will choose them, and the amount of money (called an allowance) set aside to pay for each item.

■ Information on who will obtain and pay for necessary permits and other approvals.

■ Insurance information.

■ Procedures for handling change orders.

■ Lien releases to ensure that you are not held liable for any third-party claims of nonpayment.

■ Provisions for conflict resolution in the event of a contract dispute.

■ Notice of your right under the FTC’s Cooling Off Rule to cancel the contract within three

days if it was signed someplace other than the remodeler’s place of business.

■ Details on issues like access to your home, care of the premises, phone and bathroom use, and cleanup and trash removal.

Once you read your home remodeling contract care-

fully, review it with your home remodeler to clarify any wording you do not understand. If you still have questions after this meeting, you should discuss them with your attorney.

When all your questions have been answered, you’re ready to sign the contract.

Fire protection takes on new look First Alert’s new Atom and Maximum Protection alarms are designed with aesthetics in mind. They’re less bulky than traditional alarms, so they blend better with a home’s decor.

The Atom is a compact smoke and fire alarm that comes in various finishes and has a long-

life lithium battery. Suggested retail is $39.99.

The Maximum Protection line comprises both battery-operated smoke alarms and combined smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. One of the smoke-CO alarms has a recorded human voice to alert occupants.

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR LGC HOMES | 4023 WEDGEWOOD RD. CEDAR FALLS

Commercial • Residential Sales • 24 Hour Service • Installation Serving Waterloo, Denver & Surrounding Areas

319-939-5251 Corey Arians

PAGE 28

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Congratulations Cedar Valley Builders on another successful Parade of Homes

PAGE 29

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

8

KUGLER CONSTRUCTION | 4751 LUXLEY DR., NOTTINGHAM ADDITION, WATERLOO

HIGHLIGHTS Natural stone accents James Hardie siding Grey stained maple floors Maple stairway Galvanized railings Glazed painted cabinetry Cambria tops Custom tile shower Freestanding soaking tub Finished basement with wet bar 3 stall garage Covered screened in porch Two level patio Central Vac

SPECS Price Range: Custom Built Bedrooms: 5 Baths: 4 1/2 Square Feet: 4,100

www.kuglerconstruction.com

MODERN SOPHISTICATION Clean, sleek, simple, but also sophisticated. The attributes of modern design are apparent in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parade Home. Welcomed at the 8 foot front door with a natural soothing ambiance, you start to notice the continuity between not only the inside of the home but also the exterior. Clean lines highlight the exterior along with subtle color variances and natural stone front entry. Painted and glazed cabinets in the kitchen stay consistent with the neutral color palette throughout and also compliment the grey stained maple floors and grey stained trim. A stylish fireplace wall with shelving built-ins on both floors gives

a contemporary focal point to each level, as well as the galvanized railings that tie the upstairs with the downstairs. The master bath expresses the modern design with a spacious custom tile shower and an elegant, freestanding soaking tub. Uncluttered, spacious areas also attribute to the clean, sleek description of this home. Couple this with the use of the neutral colors and simple design elements and you are sure to recognize the sophistication of modern design.

CUSTOM BUILT HOMES | ADDITIONS SIDING | DECKS | REMODELING | WINDOWS

319-233-0011 1610 JEFFERSON STREET | WATERLOO, IOWA

WWW.KUGLERCONSTRUCTION.COM

Our goal at Kugler Construction is to provide high quality custom built homes at an affordable price.

We believe that we are not just building homes, but that we are also building relationships with our customers and their families that will last for years to come. Our family at Kugler Construction is fully committed to providing your family with a quality built home. A home that is Built by Family. Built for You.

PAGE 30

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR KUGLER CONSTRUCTION | 4751 LUXLEY DR., NOTTINGHAM ADDITION, WATERLOO

• Whole House Music • Custom Home Theater • Computer Network Wiring • Sony, Samsung, LG, Bose • Crestron, Control4 System • Security • Central Vac

319-277-1091 | Cedar Falls 319-232-0900 | Waterloo 319-352-4099 | Waverly

4017 University Ave., Waterloo

234-0344

ony’s 5630 Westminster • Cedar Falls, IA 50613

319.277.2750

tony@tonysphc.com

A Beautiful Door For A Beautiful Home...

Jesup

LAND IMPROVEMENT & EXCAVATION

2224 Black Hawk Rd. • Jesup

319.827.3626

1905 State St., • Cedar Falls, IA www.christiegaragedoor.com

MARTINSON c o n s t r u c t i o n

Kitchens • Entertainment Centers Bathrooms • Accessories Timbergate Interior Doors • Countertops

David Chapman ph: 240-0589 www.chapmanelectricinc.com

1930 Main St., Cedar Falls | 319-266-6654 1201 W. Bremer Ave., Waverly | 319-352-4480

Licensed - Bonded - Insured

www.cabinetsgalore.com • cabinetsgalore@cfu.net

M

Commercial and Residential Concrete Work Material Placing Rubberwall Waterproofing Laser Screed Floors

3842 West Airline Hwy., Waterloo 319-232-4000

Nantucket® PowerRise® 2.1 with Platinum™ Technology

319-352-2732

mjjames@james-concrete.com PAGE 31

mcdonsaa@aim.com

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Frequently asked questions about remodeling Q. When is it time to remodel?

By The National Association of Home Builders

Why remodel my home?

When is it time to remodel my home?

What are some home remodeling ideas?

How do I plan a home remodel?

How do I pay for a home remodel?

How do I find a professional home remodeler?

What should I expect during the home remodel?

Why remodel?

Remodeling your home can modernize the style, make it more comfortable, improve energy-efficiency and functionality, increase the value of your home and help with upkeep and maintenance. Home remodeling is a sure investment in your home to ensure longevity, usefulness and home value.

your wants and needs: Decide what changes you A. Perhaps it was that moment want to make.

Ask yourself and other famwhen you realized that avoily members what you like and cado green and harvest gold dislike about the house, then are no longer the “in” colors for today’s trendy kitchens. Or create a prioritized list.

Look at magazines and collect maybe you had an epiphany one pictures of what you like. day as you stood in line to use Think about traffic patterns, your own bathroom. Whatever furniture placement, colors, the impetus, the thought has lighting, and how you want to crossed your mind: Maybe it’s use the remodeled space now time to remodel. and in the future.

If you decide to follow Visit here, for more ideas on through on that thought, you’ll remodeling your home to make join millions of others who it more comfortable, modern, decide to remodel their homes each year. The reasons for home and valuable. remodeling are as varied as the projects we undertake.

Q. How do I plan a home remodel?

Q. What are some home remodeling ideas?

A. The first step is to develop an idea of what you want to do.

Write a prioritized list of your A. Before you head too far down the remodeling path, it’s needs and wants. Look at magazines and websites and collect a good idea to think through

pictures of what 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-in-Place Specialist.

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

If you’ve decided you want to hire a remodeler, learn how to choose a professional, avoid contractor fraud, and make your dream home reality.

See REMODEL, page 33

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR KUGLER HOMES | 4751 LUXLEY DR., NOTTINGHAM ADDITION, WATERLOO We appreciate your business!

“Ask Sherwin Williams” WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

266-2668 Cedar Falls, IA

1620 Jefferson street, Waterloo, IA 50702

Matt Nolting

mnolting@allenglassco.com www.allenglassco.com

PAGE 32

(319) 232-0461 FAX (319) 236-7981 Cell (319) 610-1449

adam@surfacesolutionsia.com 319-287-5056 Cell Phone 319-269-8568 Fax 888-871-5053

“Where great ideas for your home come together.”

ALLEN GLASS CO., INC.

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KITCHENS • LIGHTING • FURNITURE FIREPLACES • SIDING • WINDOWS 5515 Council St. NE • Cedar Rapids

319.393.5885 • ar-jay.com

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

Custom Drywall “Northeast Iowa’s Premier Finishing Team” Over 35 Years Experience Quality, Service & Professionalism Commercial & Residential Installing • Taping • Texture • Repair

Waterloo, IA www.waterloodrywall.com

(319) 236-7736 WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

REMODEL From page 32 Q. How do I pay for a home remodel?

A. One of the most important considerations for your home improvement project is financing. Fortunately, there are several options that can provide the dollars you need. Four of the most common are a home improvement loan, a home equity line of credit, a home equity loan (second mortgage), and a cash-out refinancing of your current mortgage. However, the simplest method of financing is cash.

page for tips, questions to ask potential remodelers, qualities to look for in a remodeler, and a searchable directory to find a professional home remodeler in your area.

Mark your calendar for the HBA’s 1st Annual Vendor Showcase

Q. What should I expect during the remodel?

A. While remodeling can be an exciting process, it can also present unexpected challenges.

Many problems can be avoided by planning ahead.

Owners of homes built before 1978 who are contemplating any work that will disturb more than six square feet of painted surfaces inside the home or 20 square feet on the exterior of the home — for example, Q. How do I find a professional replacing a window, installing cabinets, or adding on to the home remodeler? home — the contractor you hire is required by law to be trained A. When you hire a remodand certified by the EPA. Learn eler, you are buying a service more about EPA Lead-Safe rather than a product. Look Certified Renovators and lead at the How to Hire a Profespaint. sional Remodeler resource

DATE: Saturday, September 28th TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

PLACE: Gallagher-Bluedorn Lobby Sponsored by the HBA, Veridian and the Courier.

CONTACT BRUCE ON EVENT QUESTIONS Leave a message at 233-0565 -OR- email hbaneiowa@yahoo.com

When Experience Matters...

NEW CONSTRUCTION LENDER NEW PURCHASE LENDER REFINANCE LENDER HOME EQUITY LOAN SPECIALIST PREFERRED LENDER BY MANY LOCAL BUILDERS

Bob Manning NML# 593746 3229 Greenhill Circle Cedar Falls, Iowa 266-0474 PAGE 33

3600 Lafayette Rd. Evansdale, Iowa 235-6731

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

Rmanning@fssbonline.com

www.fssbonline.com WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

9

ROBSON HOMES | 4164 MOURNING DOVE DR., CROSSROADS ESTATES, WATERLOO

HIGHLIGHTS 8’ Walls Including Vaulted Ceilings 2-Stall Garage Paneled Doors Maple Cabinets Granite Countertops His & Hers Closets In Master Bedroom Hardwood Floors in Kitchen, Dining Room, & Great Room 10x10 Exterior Deck w/Metal Balusters Large Family Room in Basement w/Extra Bedroom & Bathroom

SPECS Price Range: $150,000-$200,000 Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 3 Square Feet: 1,623

LET SOMEONE DO THE WORK FOR YOU. Robson Homes is proud to bring you the “Affirmed” twin home plan. If you are tired of having to mow your grass in the blazing heat shovel your driveway in frigid temperatures than this place is for you. Enjoy coming home and enjoying life. You could not find a better twin home in a better location. You are within walking distance to the mall and grocery store as well as many other points of interest. This one of a kind home has everything a person would need.

You walk in your private entrance and you are able to see the entire first floor with the wide open concept that Robson Homes is known for. The great room is centrally located in between the dining area and the kitchen. The kitchen is outfitted with granite counters and stainless steel appliances which we all know is something that is very rare to find in condo living.

www.robsonhomes.net

As we all know today’s family is fast paced. This makes the position of the second bedroom and main bath right across from the main floor laundry so handy. The master bedroom is outfitted with his & hers closets and a large master bathroom that will make you never want to leave.

If you are into entertaining you will love the large family room in the lower level. With over 500 square feet of finished area which also includes a bedroom and bathroom, you will not be short on space.

Robson Homes thought of everything when they created this twin home plan. You have everything you need within walking distance plus the ability to come home and enjoy life to the fullest. Watch someone else do the work for you. Be a part of this friendly and fast growing community. Don’t kick yourself for not doing it.

Affordable Homes...

8QSDUDOOHOHG 4XDOLW\ Robson Homes was established by Joe Robson in 1995. The company specializes in building affordable quality built condos, townhouses and single family homes. Robson Homes started building homes in Cedar Rapids. The popularity of their homes has allowed them to expand their operations to communities such as Cedar Falls, Waterloo, North Liberty, and now the Quad Cities. They are known for their affordability while still maintaining a high level of quality. The company prides itself on allowing almost anyone to achieve the dream of owning a brand new home.

319-845-4062 • 563-271-6684 robsonhomes.net • 5901 Williams Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 PAGE 34

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR ROBSON HOMES | 4164 MOURNING DOVE DR., CROSSROADS ESTATES, WATERLOO

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50 Renewable Energy Experts 7 Days/Week–24 Hr/Day •Fully Licensed & Insured

319.462.3638 Heating & Air Conditioning • Commercial Contractor • New Construction Air Purification • Geo-Thermal • Boilers

We appreciate your business!

“Ask Sherwin Williams” WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

Residential Commercial New Construction Remodels Service

Dry Wall, Wall,Plastering Plastering, Painting, Dry & Painting & Exterior Finish

WATERLOO, IOWA

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CARPET•HARDWOOD•TILE LAMINATE•VINYL•AREARUGS

CEDARRAPIDS WATERLOO www.carpetlandusa.net

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CV Insulation, LLC. The Most Trusted Name in Insulation on Eastern Iowa

We Specialize In: • blown fiberglass • blanket • open and closed cell poly-urethane foam • 5” Seamless Gutters

319.533.0807

1862 E. Avenue NE. CR, IA 52402

319-361-7384 2886 61st Street Lane, # 19 Vinton, IA 52349

2630 Wiley Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, IA Phone: (319) 362-3115 Fax: (319) 362-1484

BUNTING

CONSTRUCTION 319-330-9691 Eastern Iowa’s #1 Choice 200 Holiday Lodge Rd North Liberty, IA 52317

PAGE 35

for Residential and Commercial Roofing

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

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10

DHANI CONSTRUCTION | 4719 LUXLEY DR., NOTTINGHAM ADDITION, WATERLOO

HIGHLIGHTS 9-12 ft. ceilings Custom Cabinets Heated Floors Central Vacuum.

Custom Shower system with Jet & Rainfall showers Hardwood/Bamboo Flooring Covered Balcony and Patio Granite Counter tops Whole home audio Automatic cellular shades 3 stall attached garage Modern Gas Fireplace Spacious Modern Design Unique Fire Pole Control 4

SPECS Price Range: $ Bedrooms: 5 Baths: 2-Full; 2-3/4; 2-1/2 Square Feet: 6,000

www.dhaniconstruction.com

UNIQUE LUXURY A taste of modern design marries materials, finishes & technologies to create a comfortable environment inside and out.

Dhani Construction debuts their work in the Cedar Valley with this beautiful spacious home in the Nottingham Addition of Waterloo.

This contemporary home sports some of todays most popular features 17 foot all ceilings and extra large windows, throughout every one of it’s spacious rooms.

The finished walkout basement allows for

additional bedrooms with private baths and plenty of open space for entertainment.

Take a stroll through the house and I promise you, you will admire the modern motif.

You Dream It,

We Build It!

3025 Marnie Ave. Waterloo • 319.610.7150 • dharam@dhaniconstruction.com PAGE 36

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR DHANI CONSTRUCTION | 4719 LUXLEY DR., NOTTINGHAM ADDITION, WATERLOO Kitchen Design Gallery Alyse Hayes Designer 1922 Main Street Suite A Cedar Falls, IA 50613

David Chapman

p: 319.277.1477 f: 319.268.4290 alysehkdg@cfu.net

ph: 240-0589 www.chapmanelectricinc.com

mcdonsaa@aim.com

Licensed - Bonded - Insured

TRUST OUR NAME WITH YOUR COMFORT

and Hudson Hdwe.,Plumbing and Heating, two names you can trust.

3052 Marnie Avenue Waterloo, IA 50701 p 319.232.7467 â&#x20AC;˘ f 319.232.0403 hojowaterloo@gmail.com hojo.com/waterloo Continental Breakfast â&#x20AC;˘ WiďŹ Indoor Heated Pool Pets Allowed â&#x20AC;˘ All Rooms Include Freeze/Microwave and More

For reservations 1-800-406-1411 THE WATERLOO MOTEL 6 IS LOCATED JUST 5 MIN FROM THESE AREA ATTRACTIONS & RESTAURANTS 2343 Logan Ave., Waterloo

PRWHO _ ZHE PRWHO FRP AT MOTEL 6 YOU ENJOY MANY OF THE AMENITIES AT A LOWER RATE â&#x20AC;˘ FREE Local Calls and Long Distance Access â&#x20AC;˘ FREE Wireless Internet â&#x20AC;˘ Indoor Swimming Pool â&#x20AC;˘ FREE Morning Coffee in the Lobby â&#x20AC;˘ FREE HBO & ESPN â&#x20AC;˘ Kids 17 & Under Stay FREE â&#x20AC;˘ Pets Stay FREE â&#x20AC;˘ Honeymoon Suites Available

PAGE 37

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

11

RANDY PEARSON | 2022 ERIK DR. CEDAR FALLS

HIGHLIGHTS Tile floors in baths & laundry room Tile backsplash in kitchen Wood floors in kitchen, foyer, dining area, & upper hall Onyx walk-in shower in master bath Wet bar in lower level family room Gas fireplace in living room Cheery cabinetry & folding area in laundry room

FINE QUALITY AND DETAILED WORK

Constructed in 2012/2013

Fine quality and detailed work by Pearson Construction are showcased in this fabulous vaulted ranch-style condominium! Quality upgrades include cherry cabinetry throughout the home in addition to an airy sunroom off the spacious main floor master suite with a spectacular view of the neighborhood garden area. A full finished walk-out lower level with family room, additional 2 bedrooms, full bath, and storage galore round out the living area.

Deck, patio, and irrigated landscape add to the beauty of this finely crafted home.

Main floor master bedroom

SPECS Price Range: $ Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 3 Square Feet: 2,300

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â&#x20AC;¢ NEW CONSTRUCTION â&#x20AC;¢ REMODELING â&#x20AC;¢ CABINETRY AND INSTALLS

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PAGE 38

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SUBCONTRACTORS FOR RANDY PEARSON | 2022 ERIK DR. CEDAR FALLS A Beautiful Door For A Beautiful Home...

We appreciate your business!

Setting the Standard 57 Years for Over 50

Dry Wall, Wall,Plastering Plastering, Painting, Dry & Painting & Exterior Finish

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask Sherwin Williamsâ&#x20AC;?

1905 State St., â&#x20AC;˘ Cedar Falls, IA www.christiegaragedoor.com

Wiring Homes For Over 50 Years

WATERLOO 1411 E. San Marnan 319.234.6138

CEDAR FALLS 5212 University Ave. 319.277.1034

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where great ideas for your home come together.â&#x20AC;?

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+

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Quality Since 1957 201 E. 22nd Street Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613

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" "

â&#x20AC;&#x153;WE STAND BEHIND OUR WORK & OUR TROOPSâ&#x20AC;?

Delta

Masonry B i k&S Brick Stonework k Creatively Constructed

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YOUR MASONRY LANDSCAPE SOURCE

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TRUST OUR NAME WITH YOUR COMFORT

and Hudson Hdwe.,Plumbing and Heating, two names you can trust.

PAGE 39

CEDAR VALLEY PARADE OF HOMES

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Home trends that can work for your remodel If you’re planning to renovate your home, you can tap some of the hottest trends showing up in new-home designs. Here are four new-home trends that offer strong returns on your time and money: 1. Creating a view. Americans continue to embrace all things green and that trend is showing up in new home construction in a number of ways, including an emphasis on energy-efficient windows that bring the outdoors inside with a great view.

If your home has older windows, they’re likely not as energy efficient as newer options, so replacing them can improve your heating and cooling efficiency. Window replacements typically provide a high return on investment at the time or resale, too — more than 73 percent for wood windows and 71 percent-plus for

BPT PHOTO

Up-flush toilet vinyl, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report.

While you’re replacing your windows, you also have the opportunity to open up your home more to outdoor

views. Work with your architect or designer and contractor to determine where the best views are, and how much additional glass you can incorporate into your renovation to capitalize on those views.

2. Adding a bathroom. When it comes to renovations that improve resale value and enhance a home’s usability, adding a bathroom is at the top of the list for many homeowners. While today’s new smaller homes often have less square footage, demand for multiple bathrooms has not changed.

In existing homes, adding a bathroom can sometimes pose plumbing challenges.

Up-flush plumbing can solve a lot of them. Up-flush systems pump waste and water from a toilet, sink or bathtub up and out.

Up-flush toilets enable homeowners to easily and costeffectively install a bathroom virtually anywhere without breaking through the floors — a special advantage when those floors are made of concrete.

See TRENDS, page 41

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* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/14/13 – 12/17/13 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings. Rebate offers may not be combined; for each qualifying purchase, the higher applicable rebate amount will apply. Rebates will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations apply. Ask participating dealer for details, rebate form and information on qualifying purchases. ** For tax credit details and restrictions and a list of qualifying products, see the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement and FAQs at hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit. Hunter Douglas and its dealers are not tax advisors. Consult a tax professional regarding your individual tax situation and ability to claim a tax credit related to the purchase of the qualifying Duette Architella Honeycomb Shades. © 2013 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

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TRENDS From page 40 That means adding a basement bathroom doesn’t require cutting into a home’s concrete foundation, and you can easily add an attic bathroom without tearing up the first-floor ceiling.

According to Saniflo, makers of up-flush plumbing products, adding a bathroom using this type of plumbing can cost about $5,000 less than one that uses conventional plumbing.

3. Defining the kitchen. Kitchens are another popular renovation that pays off in a number of ways. Architects are fine-tuning the popular wide-open floor plan concept, and the change is showing up in the kitchen. Favored designs now open the kitchen on one side to an adjoining room, such as the family room, but enclose the other three walls to create a more defined space, as well as more storage and cabinet options.

This trend works particularly

well in older homes where you frequently find a completely separate kitchen. Now, rather than ripping out three walls to create an entirely open flow, you can tap the latest kitchen design trend by opening up just a single wall in the kitchen. This leaves the space well-defined, but also adds the open, social feeling that is so appealing in many new home designs.

4. Maximizing every inch of space. With smaller floor plans gaining popularity, making the most of every inch of space is vital. New-home design employs entertaining nooks, breakfast alcoves, built-ins, pocket doors and other tricks to use every inch of space wisely.

It’s a trend that also works well in older homes that may have smaller rooms and less square footage than the McMansions popular a few years ago. For example, it’s easier to add a builtin desk to a spare corner and create an office alcove than it is to add an entire office to your floor plan.

Pay attention to radon Radon is a class-A human carcinogen recognized as the leading cause of lung cancer in the United States among nonsmokers. The National Academy of Sciences and the Surgeon General estimate that as many as 21,000 lung cancer deaths that occur in the U.S. annually may be a result of radon exposure. As part of its mission to promote lung health, the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest disseminates information pertaining to radon risks.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released during the decay of thorium and uranium, which are common elements found in varying amounts in rock, soil and water. Radon is also colorless, odorless and tasteless, making it undetectable to human senses. When radioactive elements such as radon decay, radiation is released.

It is estimated that 37 percent

of the radiation that people are exposed to comes from radon and radon decay products.

Radon can enter a home from the soil via cracks in floors and walls, floor drains, sump pumps and construction joints and can build up in the house, says Lonnie Mallon, president of Mallon Construction & Radon Mitigation. Radon is usually, but not always, more concentrated in basements and ground floor rooms that have contact with the soil. This gas is transferred through the house by your heating & cooling system.

Mallon’s company has mitigated radon in more than 1,000 homes, businesses and multifamily dwellings in the Cedar Valley since 1992.

The primary route of exposure to radon is by inhalation. Exposure to alpha radiation from radon and its decay products produces significant adverse health effects.

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Tips for living with your remodeling project

By The National Association of Home Builders

Remodeling your home is uniquely different from building a new one. With remodeling, your home becomes the worksite. You live side by side with the project from start to finish. Once construction begins, you’ll probably long for simple pleasures like a dustfree home or a fully functioning kitchen or bath. But the end result will be well worth these inconveniences.

Consistent and open communication between you and your remodeler will enhance your understanding of the project, provide an opportunity to exchange ideas, and ultimately help to make the experience a positive one for everyone involved. To facilitate this process, you need to:

■ Determine who you and your remodeler should contact for daily decisions or an afterhours emergency. For example, your contact may be the lead carpenter for the job, while the remodeler’s contact could be your spouse.

■ Designate a backup for each contact person to assure continuity in anyone’s absence.

■ Create a place in your house

where the contact persons can leave messages for each other (a securely anchored notebook is a good idea since it is less likely to disappear).

■ Speak up. If you are uncertain about any aspect of the project, be sure to let the contact person know.

of your project is to plan for and actively participate in a preconstruction meeting. This allows your remodeler to clarify procedures and explain how the job will progress. It also offers both you and your remodeler an opportunity to prepare for those issues that may arise later. You should think of this meeting as a forum for all participants to define their expectations and agree on the anticipated outcome.

Some of the issues you may wish to cover at this meeting include: ■ Will you allow your remodeler to place a company sign on your property? Remember that, in addition to being a marketing tool, signs help contractors and suppliers locate your home.

Pre-construction meeting See TIPS, page 42

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TIPS From page 42 ■ What areas of your home will be off limits to workers?

■ Does your house have an alarm system? Will workers need a key or will someone always be there?

■ How will you ensure that your children and pets stay out of the work space?

■ How will trash removal be handled? Where will the remodeler locate the dumpster on your property?

■ Does the remodeler anticipate any interruptions of utilities during the project? If so, when and for how long? At certain stages of construction, the project may affect basic household necessities like water and electricity. Will you need to vacate the house at any time?

■ What are your expectations regarding clean up? Will sweeping be sufficient for a daily cleaning, or will you need

a more thorough cleaning in order to use the space?

You should also use the preconstruction meeting to establish guidelines for the remodeling crew working on the project: ■ Determine who you and your remodeler should contact for daily decisions or an afterhours emergency. For example, your contact may be the lead carpenter for the job, while the remodeler’s contact could be your spouse.

■ What times will workers begin and end work at your home?

■ Where can workers park near the jobsite?

■ Will you allow workers to use your phone for local business calls?

■ Will bathroom facilities in your home be available to workers?

■ What is the remodeler’s policy on smoking on the jobsite?

■ What is the remodeler’s policy on the use of profanity?

■ Will you allow workers to

play their radios at a reasonable in your home where you can volume? escape from the chaos and commotion.

Prevent remodeling fever ■ Guard against dust. During The train-station atmosphere a remodeling project, dust has of a remodeling project can the unfortunate tendency to lead to remodeling fever. The appear everywhere from lampmain symptom of this tempo- shades to plates stacked inside rary affliction is feeling a loss of your kitchen cabinets.

To keep out as much dust as control that results from disrupted routines and the impact possible: 1) Seal off doorways on your personal space. The and stairs; 2) Turn off central air best way to prevent this fever is or heat when workers are sandto prepare well, remember that ing and stock up on extra filters “this too shall pass,” and focus so that you can change them on the progress being made. often; 3) Have deliveries made A few other suggestions from though a designated entrance; 4) Use doormats and temporary remodeling pros: ■ Prepare for inconvenience. floor coverings where approA remodeling project can turn priate; 5) Remove anything that your home and — on some days might get damaged by the dust — your life upside down. Set or at least cover it with plastic up a temporary cooking quar- drop cloths that are taped shut. ters by moving the refrigerator, ■ Maintain a sense of humor. toaster oven, and microwave to ■ See the remodeling process as an adventure. Tell the kids another room.

■ Arrange a dishwashing sta- that you are “camping in” and tion in your laundry room. If transform inconvenience into the weather is warm, fire up the fun. Along the way, celebrate as different stages of the project grill and dine alfresco.

■ Designate a safe haven are completed.

Young Plumbing & Heating Co. Congratulates the Home Builders on another successful Tour of Homes!

Dedicated to the growh of businesses in the Cedar Valley st

1 PAGE 43

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Multitasking homeowners demand more of space

By MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON The Associated Press

Washing clothes in the bedroom. Sending email from the laundry room.

Busy Americans are demanding more from each room in the house, and spaces designed for multiple functions are popping up all over floor plans, design blogs and magazine spreads.

“People multitask all the time.

There is a definite correlation and carry-over in the home,” said Wendy Danziger, owner of Danziger Design in Bethesda, Md. She has helped clients create rooms for eating and watching television; housing guests and working from home; sleeping and doing laundry.

Some homebuilders have added space for seating, desks and charging stations in the laundry room.

“It’s happening all over,” Danziger said. “There’s a lot of strategy that goes on — a lot of compromise.”

Furniture manufacturers, too, are helping to make every square

inch count, said Pat Bowling, spokeswoman for the American Home Furnishings Alliance in High Point, N.C. Modern pieces include end tables that double as file cabinets, coffee tables with adjustable heights to accommodate working at a computer or eating, and chests with docking stations for electronics.

The portability of laptops, tablets and other devices means you don’t need a dedicated home office to work at home.

People can — and do — use electronics in the family room, bedroom and kitchen.

“Today’s furniture is multitasking furniture that can help you stay organized, stay connected and keep clutter at bay,” said Kim Shaver of Hooker Furniture in Martinsville, Va. “In versatile styles and silhouettes, these pieces fit any room — from the kitchen to the bedroom and from the family room to the entry hall or foyer — and provide multiple functions in each room.”

Danziger says a console table with hinged leaves is a good

option for a TV room that sometimes needs to become a dining room: When guests come for dinner, just slide the table away from the wall under the television and extend the leaves to create a table that seats up to six people.

Nesting tables — stacking tables of different sizes — also help increase the functionality of a space, she said. She often puts them on wheels so they can easily be rolled to another area of the room for another use.

She has worked with retirees downsizing to a smaller home and with young professionals squeezed into urban apartments.

“Once home offices were the rage,” she said. Now, “it is not unusual to see living spaces where people eat, sleep, work and play games just for the sake of living in a city where one can walk to everything, including their office.”

Frank Pitman of Frank Pitman Designs in Orange County, Calif., also has seen the trend.

“There’s a lot of dual -purpose space happening,” he said.

He has had a growing number of clients putting laundry facilities in their bedroom closets.

“They are already storing the clothing there. Why not wash the clothing right there?” he said.

Some of his clients like having a room’s secondary use come as a surprise: Television or computer screens that seem to “appear from nowhere” are good examples, he said.

Murphy beds, which are stored vertically in a cabinet along a wall, or murphy desks, which slide out bookshelves, are another way to keep a space’s other function hidden.

Often the need to get more use out of a space arises when an elderly parent joins the household, a grown child returns home or a young family hires a live-in nanny, said Amy Albert, editor of Custom Home Magazine in Washington, D.C. “Multiple generations needs multifunctioning space,” she said.

Upcycling: Breathe new life into decor with DIY inspiration If you’ve ever looked around your house and gotten the urge to purge, you might consider pausing and first thinking about how you could transform that old, damaged piece of furniture or outdated light fixture into a fresh-faced showpiece for your home.

This notion of restoring and reusing items that would otherwise be cast aside to the junkyard or thrift store is called “upcycling,” and it’s a trend that has caught on quickly, especially in home design.

With a little inspiration, creativity and the right tools, you can tackle countless decorating projects with things you already

PAGE 44

have around your home. And the best part? Upcycled pieces make for great conversation starters, often tell a good story and can even be sold for a much higher price than you put into them.

Start with a little inspiration Take a look through magazines, home design blogs and websites to gather inspiration.

Look for pieces that catch your eye and have the same structure and “bones” as the items in your home that you’d like to restore.

For example, DremelWeekends.com is filled with inspiring and low-cost do-it-

yourself projects, tool recommendations and step-by-step instructions to help you transform just about anything while bringing a new perspective to home renovation and decoration. You can even sign up to receive weekly project inspiration right to your email inbox.

Decorating your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Look around your basement, attic, or at yard sales and consignment shops for free or inexpensive items that you might be able to breathe new life into. The old adage “never judge a book by its cover” would apply here.

Do your best to look beyond an item’s current condition

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and let the inspiration you’ve gleaned take over as you see its full potential in a different light.

If the piece has some defects, don’t immediately overlook it.

Sometimes perfection and personality can be found in the imperfection.

The secret to any do-it-yourself project is to plan ahead.

Beyond finding the inspiration for a project, gather the supplies and tools you’ll need, read up on step-by-step instructions, dedicate a roomy workspace where everything is at your fingertips, and be sure to carve out time to focus on the project.

Source: BPT

WWW.CEDARVALLEYPARADEOFHOMES.COM

Apps put great design at your fingertips The Washington Post

There is always “an app for that.”

If you are in the process of revamping or remodeling a room in your home, there are lots of mobile resources to help you pick a paint color, a couch or a designer. We’ve rounded up some of the top-rated design apps for smartphones and tablets.

If you want some inspiration: Houzz, the website and online community dedicated to home design, architecture and more, is available in app form. Browse thousands of photos for inspiration and find designers in your area. Redoing a playroom or child’s bedroom? Try the Houzz Kids’ Rooms app.

More details: Both apps are free. Available for iOS and Android.

If you want make a floor plan: Try out Home 3D, which lets you create 3-D floor plans that include windows, doors and more. You can e-mail the plans or save them to Dropbox.

More details: $3.99. Available for iOS. If you need to keep track of measurements: The My Measures & Dimensions app lets you save the measurements around your house for easy access. If you have windows that needs new curtains, take a photo and add text, arrows and notes. Once you make it to the store for the new window treatments, just pull up the photo.

More details: $2.99. Pro version, which includes iOS iCloud syncing and backup and a camera-zoom option, costs $5.99. Both are available for iOS and Android.

If you want to try out a couch without making a commitment: There are a few good options.

Try the new Furnish app to browse items from Ikea, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn and Herman Miller. The app lets you superimpose the furniture over photos of your living space to “virtually” try them out. If you like what you see, you can you buy the item directly from the retailer. Another very similar option? Download the Home Depot mobile app to superimpose chairs, light fixtures and more onto photos of your room. You can save the photos and share them through email, Facebook and Twitter.

More details: Both apps are free and available for iOS and Android.

If you want to find the perfect color: There are lots of options,

mainly from paint companies.

Try out Behr’s ColorSmart app to browse the company’s paint colors, preview colors in different rooms and save your selections. The app also lets you upload a photo, which it scans to find a matching paint color. Benjamin Moore’s Color Capture app also lets you take a photo to find a match from any of the company’s more than 3,300 paint colors.

More details: Both apps are free and available for iOS and Android.

If you have a do-it-yourself project to complete: The Handy Man DIY app lets you store room dimensions and create shopping lists, gives you video tutorials and can help you estimate how much a home improvement project will cost.

More details: $1.99. Available for iOS.

New Home Construction | Remodeling | Additions | Roofing Specialt | Concrete | Fire, Wind and Water Loss Reconstruction

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Kitchen remodeling 101: Brush up on the basics In this economy, taking on a kitchen remodel can be a scary proposition. You’re probably asking yourself plenty of questions. How drastically should you change the room?

Do you need to hire a professional? Can you still recoup money spent on remodeling if you sell the house?

Have no fear — these six tips from Summer Baltzer, interior designer and former host of HGTV’s “Design on a Dime” will get you remodeling like a pro without losing your mind or breaking the bank.

Tip one: Breathe in.

Breathe out. Break it down.

Before starting, take a deep breath and know that your project is going to turn out great. The key is to break your remodel down into manage-

BPT PHOTO

able steps that you can wrap Tip two: Identify the both beautiful and functional, your head around: cabinets, function of the room. so make sure you’re not getting counters, floors, paint and caught up in just color swatches, accessories. Although it can Take a second to think about seem like a daunting process, how you use your kitchen. The there is no need to freak out. best outcome is a kitchen that’s See KITCHEN, page 47

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KITCHEN From page 46 paint samples and tile styles.

Ask yourself a few simple questions: Who primarily uses the kitchen? How much foot traffic will there be? What are the main tasks occurring in the space? Pausing to think about how the space will be used helps you create a kitchen that works for your life.

Tip three: Make the space work for you.

If you are considering a new layout, first think about how you move around the kitchen.

There’s nothing more frustrating than furiously trying to get dinner on the table for a group of friends when you can’t find anything or move around your kitchen with

ease. Determine the types of stations you always use and what you need in each station.

Add drawers or containers for utensils or herbs — anything you might need to quickly grab while standing in that place. If you can’t recreate your floor plan, sometimes it’s simply a matter of reorganizing. Don’t assume you’re stuck with what you’ve got.

Tip four: Understand the scope of your work.

Is this kitchen makeover going to involve a partial or complete demolition, or are you going to be implementing simple fixes that you can pull off in a weekend? The work you’re looking to do will determine whether or not you need to hire a contractor and apply for permits or, if it’s just you, bribe your friends and buy that bucket of paint. It’s often smartest to look to a

trained professional to handle the trickier parts of a kitchen makeover. Hire contractors who carry insurance to deal with your electrical and plumbing issues, use a professional installer to replace that countertop and keep in mind that you may void the warranty on items if you install them incorrectly.

Tip five: Make a budget Though not as much fun as picking colors and fixtures, having a clear idea of what you can afford is important. Determine your budget and consider funds for unanticipated issues such as mold or plumbing pitfalls. If you have enough in the budget to deal with problems as they arise, you’ll be less stressed and can complete the project without a hitch. Finally, consider eco-friendly and durable materials that can be

more affordable, including reclaimed wood, low-VOC paints, and countertops made from recycled fibers such as Wilsonart HD High Definition Laminate that can give the look of granite at a fraction of the cost. They’ll keep more of the green in your kitchen and in your wallet. Learn more at www.wilsonart.com.

Tip six: Keep track of your paperwork.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of remodeling a kitchen, but the business end of a makeover is just as important. Keep track of contracts, warranties, manuals and receipts. Numbers used to identify paint colors and finishes are important too.

Having everything accessible in a “kitchen makeover file” will make it easy to call for repairs or even simple touchup if need be.

Source: BPT

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Refacing makes old cabinets instantly new The Home Depot surveyed customers who had recently renovated their kitchens and found that almost all customers were motivated by the desire for a new, more modern aesthetic. Several remodeling options deliver a new look in no time, by simply updating the existing cabinets. Current kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts can be refinished through a sanding process or the wood can be renewed through a restorative process that brings out the original brilliance and luster.

Refacing is a more bold option, if you are happy with the layout of your current kitchen but are tired of a dated look with worn cabinets, doors and drawers. Doors, hardware and shelves are all replaced and the cabinet shells are completely refinished through the refacing process to create an entirely new look.

BPT PHOTO

years to come, it is important to take into account your future Start your kitchen cabinet plans for new appliances, fixrefacing project by creating a tures, paint colors, counters and wish list of material attributes. backsplashes.

For example, if your household includes children and pets, con- Expressing your style sider Rigid Thermofoil doors A new vision for this hardto safeguard against denting working room should take into and for an easy-to-clean sur- account both your home’s style face. To ensure that your space and your personal style. The will remain visually cohesive in adjacent room’s color palette,

Mapping dream kitchen

the amount of natural light in the space and what is seen first when entering the kitchen are important factors, in addition to stylistic preferences.

Sarah Fishburne, director of trend and design for The Home Depot, shares the most popular cabinet trend right now.

“Recessed doors continue to dominate the kitchen market, because the design is universal and fits in any home style from classic or cottage to arts and craft and modern homes. Homeowners feel more comfortable installing a universal style that will have longevity.” The National Kitchen and Bath Association also points out that darker wood finishes have grown more popular over the past two years.

Visit www.homedepot.com; get inspired by the possibilities at The Apron blog.

Source: BPT

from roof to floor

WE'VE GOT

IT ALL

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Six tips to liven up your laundry room Often out of sight and out of mind, most laundry rooms are designed like closets rather than efficient utility rooms.

But according to decorator Jenny Komenda, who blogs at The Little Green Notebook, with just a few inexpensive changes, you can brighten your clothes and your mood by transforming your dark and dingy laundry room into a bright, functional (and even enjoyable) place.

Check out these tips from Jenny, The Home Depot, Tide and Maytag for the Brilliant HE Clean campaign on how to create more efficient and enjoyable laundry rooms: 1. By taking off the doors on a few of your upper cabinets, you’ll open

up the space and create a place to store baskets.

Assign baskets for every member of the house.

2. Why not decoupage or paint the insides of your cabinets for a fun pop of color? Also don’t ignore the door. Adhere some cork panels on the inside of the cabinet doors and create a space to pin all those stain removal tips.

3. Don’t like the cabinets, floors and countertops in your laundry room? Every surface can be painted or resurfaced. Update your laundry room with paint and a concrete overlay for less than $30 in materials.

4. A rolling laundry butler can be your best friend, doing triple duty with a hanging bar, a rolling basket and a drying rack.

5. Don’t neglect your laundry room walls.

Hanging interesting art and mirrors will elevate your room and make it feel less utilitarian and a little homier.

6. A folding station makes all the difference.

Use a slab of stone or a simple piece of painted medium-density fiberboard on top of washer/dryer units to create a folding station that also prevents socks from slipping in between the appliances.

Learn more about the campaign and enter to win a $5,000 laundry room redesign from Jenny and a Maytag Washer and Dryer by visiting www.tideandmaytag.com.

Source: BPT

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Home energy makeover a wise idea You can improve your home’s comfort while helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Here are some tips to get you started.

Schedule an overall home energy audit: Annual analysis of home energy efficiency can save you money in the long run and ensure your home runs smoothly. A certified energy auditor will complete an energy analysis of your home by measuring windows and checking insulation, ductwork and building materials. Identify local certified professional energy assessment services through Residential Energy Services Network. Taking five minutes with energy bills at hand, you also can input your

information online at Home Energy Yardstick by Energy Star to receive a home energy analysis.

Improve comfort: Not only can dirty air make your family less comfortable, but it also can pose problems for how efficiently your systems continue to work. By installing a reliable indoor air cleaner, you can remove irritating particles such as dust, pollen, pet hair and dander, dust mites, mildew, lint, fungus and bacteria, which can slow the performance of your heating and cooling system. An energyefficient model, such as the AccuClean from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, an Ingersoll Rand brand, removes up to 99.98 percent of allergens down to 0.1 micron in size, making it

Learn more For more information on reducing energy use, visit www. epa.gov/greenhomes/ReduceEnergy.htm.

100 times more effective than a standard one-inch throwaway filter.

Adjust your thermostat: For every degree you raise your thermostat in the summer, you can cut cooling costs up to 6 percent; for every degree you lower your thermostat in the winter, you can save about 3 percent. (Potential energy savings may vary, depending on lifestyle, system settings, equipment maintenance, local climate, equipment and duct systems.) Setting a programmable thermostat can reduce

energy consumption up to 15 percent.

Manage energy efficiency: Monitor and adjust your home’s ecosystem from anywhere using most Webenabled mobile devices. Nexia Home Intelligence, also an Ingersoll Rand brand, combines wireless technology with simple Web access. You can use it to reduce energy consumption and costs by putting your heating and cooling system into an energy savings mode while you’re not there, plus control numerous functions to manage the comfort, safety and efficiency of your home while you’re away.

Choose energy efficient products: Ensure doors, windows, etc., Energy Star designation.

Source: BPT

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Pamper yourself with a built-in home spa ■ Bigger bathrooms with options such as surround sound entertainment systems are popular.

By The National Association of Home Builders

Today’s home owners aren’t saving decadent spa experiences for once-a-year vacations anymore; they’re remodeling their own homes to have luxurious spa-like baths for everyday enjoyment.

In fact, making the bathroom a place to slow down and relax is one of today’s most popular home remodeling projects.

Bathroom remodels also add value to your home.

Home owners are knocking down walls to make their current bathroom larger, more functional and comfortable.

Expanding the size of the room allows home owners to design “his and hers” private space, such as separate showers, deep double sinks, dual mirrors and adjustable vanities.

More than ever, home owners are opting for showers with automatic temperature controls and frameless edges that present a “clean” look in the bathroom. For home owners yearning for a relaxing bath, consider a near total immersion whirlpool bathtub that continuously re-circulates heated water.

All of this down time can be made even more enjoyable while listening to music from a surround sound entertainment

system or speakers built into the shower head and wirelessly connected to your iPod. Or, watch a flat-screen television that is built into your mirror or shower or tub wall.

Home owners are including furniture like chaise lounges, chairs and recliners for reading and relaxing in their remodeled bathrooms. Even gas or simulated fireplaces are making their way into master baths to help complete the warm and inviting haven.

Include nontraditional furniture such as an armoire for linen storage or as an entertainment center in your new bath. More home owners are selecting vintage pieces to use as vanities or for decorative accents such as towel racks or sitting chairs.

Bring the outdoors in by

installing a retractable wall next to your tub or shower leading to your private patio, or put in skylights to let in natural light.

Heated tile flooring will take the edge off stepping out of your warm shower or bathtub.

Brilliantly colored tile floors now come in myriad designs and materials, allowing home owners to create personal designs.

Not only are home owners using tile on the floor, but they are creating unique designs for the shower and tub area.

Consider using ocean colored glass tile to create a warm and relaxing shower atmosphere.

To create the look on a budget, many home owners are opting to combine glass and porcelain tile to craft accents or borders that are more affordable.

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Walk-through a chance to learn about home

By The National Association of Home Builders

Before you go to settlement on your purchase of a newlyconstructed home, you and your builder will do a “walkthrough” to conduct a final inspection.

This walk-through provides an opportunity for you to spot items that may need to be corrected or adjusted, and gives you an opportunity to 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.

When you buy a new appliance or piece of equipment, such as a digital video recorder or washing machine, you usually have to read the instructions before you can understand how to use all of the features.

With a new house, you will be receiving a stack of instruction booklets all at once. It helps if someone takes the time to show you how to operate all of the kitchen appliances, the heating and cooling systems, the water heater and other features in the home. Such an orientation is particularly useful since people often are so busy during a move that they have trouble finding time to carefully read instruction booklets.

Part of your walk-through will be learning about maintenance and upkeep responsi-

bilities. 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 is not because the builder is trying to be bureaucratic, but to ensure that everyone clearly understands the service to be performed.

The person receiving a service request is not likely to be the person performing the work,

and you don’t want to rely on word of mouth for transmission of your service order.

Many builders schedule two visits during the first year — one near the beginning and the other near the end — to make necessary adjustments and to perform work of a non-emergency nature. You should not expect a builder to rush out immediately for a problem such as a nail pop in your drywall.

Such problems occur because of the natural settling of the house and are best addressed in one visit near the end of the first year.

If you have moved to a new home from a nearby area, you probably will not spend much time at the walk-through talking about the larger community in which the home is located.

See WALK-THROUGH, page 54

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WALK-THROUGH From page 53 However, if you are moving to a new community, a builder can often provide a packet of material to help you become familiar with your new community.

When inspecting the house, an effective way to handle this is with a checklist. 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 since it is easier for them to work in an empty house.

Some items may have to be corrected after move-in. For instance, if your walkthrough is in the winter, your builder may have to delay landscaping adjustments until spring.

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.

Many builders ask their buyers to sign a form at the walk-through stating that all surfaces have been inspected and that there were no damage other than what has been noted on the walk-through checklist.

Ask a lot of questions during the walkthrough and take notes on the answers.

Never be afraid to appear stupid by asking too many questions. It is important to view the walk-through as a positive learning experience which will enhance your enjoyment of your home.

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Concrete makes for durable homes ■ Energy savings another reason to consider concrete.

By The National Association of Home Builders

All builders, from the country’s largest production companies to the smallest custom home builder, have used concrete in their projects. From driveways and walkways to segmental retaining walls and pools, concrete has been an essential home building material for the past century.

Recently, concrete construction has risen to new heights.

With more unpredictable weather conditions in some areas and rising costs in heating and maintenance, today con-

crete is becoming an increasingly popular primary building material for many homes.

Concrete and masonry wall systems conserve energy through the use of thermal mass and reduced air infiltration. The continuous insulation barrier offered by most concrete wall systems reduces drafts and keeps a more even temperature throughout the house.

The combination of these factors often can cut heating and cooling bills by more than 30 percent.

Concrete is also lauded in green building circles for being made with a combination of recycled and natural products and for producing less waste.

Concrete is unquestionably one of the most durable building products available. Concrete homes have withstood

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fires, rains, floods, and hurricane-force winds with minimal or no structural damage.

Homes built with insulated concrete walls effectively buffer the home’s interior from the outside. The weight and mass of the concrete can reduce the amount of external noise entering the house by as much as two-thirds.

Concrete construction can provide a tight thermal building envelope, which can reduce a home owner’s heating and cooling bills.

The concrete, insulation, and steel in a concrete wall system are much more mold- and insect-resistant than traditional wood studs, joists, and wall sheathing.

The inert properties of concrete provide a good alternative for those concerned about

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unhealthy airborne solvents and product residues from other common building materials.

Many insurance companies offer lower premiums for fireresistant concrete constructed homes.

The cost of the basic components of concrete — cement, water, sand and aggregate — are more stable than the cost of framing lumber. While lumber prices can fluctuate wildly, concrete costs have remained steady in recent years, allowing for greater planning and financial forecasting.

Concrete construction also boosts profits by increasing the speed of construction and completion times, reducing workplace theft, and virtually eliminating call-backs. Insurance costs for concrete builders also may be lower.

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Modern log homes feature innovative designs

By The National Association of Home Builders

If you’re dreaming of buying and building a log home, you are not alone. More people live in these modern, rustic residences today than at any time in history. The warmth of wood, the solid construction and the powerful connection to nature, all add up to a feeling of safety and sanctuary unlike any other type of home.

Though log construction is timeless classic, the log homes of today can be quite different than their early American counterparts. Today’s log homes often feature innovative designs that feel modern, open, and upscale. Many builders include large windows with outstanding views of the outdoor landscape, cathedral ceilings for a light and airy feel

NAHB PHOTO

and modern kitchens perfect for entertaining the scores of guests who always flock to any cozy log home.

homes is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to build, each new home brings a host of choices concerning style and materials.

Types of log homes To start, there are more than Though constructing of log 17 common tree species used

in the log and timber home industry, each with its own unique properties—grain pattern, color, size (diameter and length), thermal performance and resistance to decay are all important considerations.

Plus, logs can be fashioned into a host of different corner styles and profiles, using different fastening and sealant systems.

There are also two distinct kinds of logs that make up most homes today. Manufactures of milled logs that are precut to fit a particular home design are the most popular choice today, making up 90 percent of homes constructed. Still, 10 percent of log homes use handcrafted logs with many custom buyers still preferring this look of construction.

See LOG HOMES, page 57

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Energy-efficient

LOG HOMES From page 56 While logs from a mill can be identified by their uniform diameters, handcrafted logs will vary slightly for a handhewn appearance.

Once you pick the basics of what they want in a log home, there are more than 400 companies in the United States and Canada vying for your business. These companies range from small mom-and-pop minimum during milling proshops to large-scale, multi- cess, as manufacturers utilize state operations. all portions of the log. They use everything from bark and other sources made into mulch Benefits Log home construction earns to wood scraps that become for points in the green building raw material used in carvings standard for the many ways it and other home products.

2. Delivered all at once — the saves energy and protects the homes can be sold as kits or environment, including: 1. A green building material — “packages” with the bulk of Trees are a renewable resource. building materials delivered at On top of this waste is kept at a one time. This method reduces

27

NAHB PHOTO

fuel costs and carbon emissions compared to traditional site building.

3. Less waste — Pre-cut log home packages go up quickly and leave less waste on the job site than conventional construction. Walls are completed simply by stacking logs, which means there is less energy consumed to craft the home and less man-made materials used in construction.

The massiveness of the logs plays a vital role in conserving energy. Logs absorb heat energy during the day and radiate it at night, keeping occupants feeling comfortable while also using less energy over the life of the home. In fact, homes built with solid log walls are typically 2.5 to 15 percent more energy efficient than standard stick-frame construction, according to an NAHB study.

In addition to the benefits of solid timber construction, Log Homes Council member companies engineer their log wall joinery and roof systems to eliminate air infiltration and moisture, conserve energy and increase comfort.

Go to www.loghomes.org or nahb.org/logdirectory for a full list of manufacturers who belong to the National Association of Home Builders’ Log Homes Council.

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Modular building systems offer fast turn-around

By The National Association of Home Builders

A modular home is a house built in one or more sections in a factory, then transported and installed on a permanent foundation at the home site. Modular homes are designed and constructed to meet all state or national building codes in your home’s final location.

Once the main modules of your new home are constructed in the factory, complete with attached walls, floor, ceiling, wiring, plumbing and interior fixtures, they are transported to your lot and placed on a permanent foundation by a crane.

Depending on the size of your new home, it could be fully set onsite and weathertight in as little as one day. Your local builder will do final finish work.

Modular construction allows for a quick turnaround between

groundbreaking and occupancy. Custom modular homes are often built in a fraction of the time needed for a comparable custom site-built home.

Most work is done in the factory, so weather delays, missing materials and subcontractor no-shows are all but eliminated, saving time and money.

While most modular home manufacturers have a portfolio of home plans to choose from, computer-assisted design allows limitless design and customization possibilities when planning your new modular home.

Building homes in a factory setting allows for more consistent quality due to uniform construction processes, training techniques and inspections.

All homes are inspected by an independent, third-party home inspection agency before leaving the factory. Once on

site, they are again inspected, this time by a local building inspector.

Modular homes often are more tightly built and thus more energy efficient, which can result in lower heating and cooling costs for the home owner.

Modular homes are green by

their very nature. Assembly in an enclosed indoor environment allows them to fulfill some key components of green building certifications, including the ICC 700 National Green Building Standard.

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Tankless water heaters prove to be popular ■ Energy efficiency, near endless supply of hot water are among the benefits.

By ANGIE HICKS McClatchy Newspapers

For years, traditional gaspowered tank water heaters have been one of the biggest energy hogs in the home. With tank heaters, you have to pay to heat water you aren’t even using.

Not so with a tankless water heater.

Tankless water heaters are a fraction of the size of tank systems — roughly the size of a circuit breaker box — and mount to a wall instead of taking up valuable space in the basement or garage.

The most popular benefit of a

tankless water heater, though, is an almost endless supply of hot water it provides by heating the water via an internal heat exchanger.

Though gas tankless water heaters cost about twice as much as their conventional predecessors — ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 on average — they are easily repairable compared to a tank unit that usually needs to be replaced when it fails. Tankless heaters last 20 years on average and are more energy efficient, making them more environmentally friendly than the traditional models. Qualifying tankless water heaters are eligible for a $300 federal tax credit. Some utility providers also offer rebates for qualifying purchases.

Electric tankless heaters are available as well, but use a lot of power and typically require the electrical service to be

upgraded.

Tankless water heaters require minimal maintenance, other than periodic flushing to descale them of mineral buildup.

A plumber can do that service, typically for around $100 to $150.

Tankless water heaters do require venting and should be placed close to gas lines to oper-

ate at their highest efficiency.

A licensed plumber who has a good history of working with tankless heaters can help ensure it’s installed correctly and is properly sized to accommodate your family’s needs.

Angie Hicks is the founder of Angie’s List, a resource for local consumer reviews on everything from home repair to healthcare.

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Garage door tops list of high-impact improvements A front-facing garage door packs a big punch and dramatically improves the curb appeal of the entire home.

That’s one of the big revelations from the 2012-2013 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine. In the report, a garage door replacement again ranked in the top three in “cost recouped” on a list of 35 common home remodeling projects.

“No other exterior home project transforms such a large space at such minimal cost and time,” says Tom Wadsworth, long-time editor of a garage door trade magazine. Since a home’s garage doors can take up more than a third of the front elevation of the home, a new garage door can make a big difference.

And a stylish new garage door can actually pay for itself, according to a Stratamark Research survey. When

BPT PHOTO

The windows of the new garage doors blend well with the windows on the house.

Plus, the long vertical panels on the bottom of the garage doors complement the shapes of the shutters and the overall shape of the windows.

also feature appealing designs, striking colors, rich finishes and decorative window options that can flatter any home.

To get a taste of the latest innovations, Wadsworth urges homeowners to go to GarageWowNow.com, a non-commercial website developed by the garage door industry.

The site includes before and after photos and displays many styles introduced in recent years.

Not a DIY project nationwide real estate agents were shown before and after photos of houses with new upscale garage doors, they increased the list price of the home anywhere from 1 to 4 percent. That means a $2,000 garage door investment could increase the sale value of your home by as much as $8,000 if you’re selling a $200,000 home.

Maximizing design “The most stunning doors integrate with the design of the home,” says Wadsworth.

“Look for colors, lines and shapes that match other exterior components.”

The styles of today’s garage doors have advanced far beyond the all-too-common rows of rectangles. New doors

One word of caution. Don’t try to install a garage door yourself. “Your garage door system is under high tension that can cause severe injury or even death if improperly installed,” says Wadsworth. Plus, an experienced installer knows how to install the door for correct balance, maximum energy efficiency, smooth operation, low noise and longest life.

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