Who should Build Your Deck?

March 23, 2017 by ·

Who should Build Your Deck?While homeowners can make their own decks, it is no easy project. It can be difficult even for experts. Some designs are more ambitious than others. There are definitely times where a professional deck builder is needed. For example, look at this DIY Network article that shows the steps you’ll need to take to build your own deck. Here are some steps you can take to make building your deck go smoothly.

First, make some decisions. How big would you like the deck? It would be good to get some rough dimensions to tell your builder. Also, think about the style you would like and find pictures that will help your builder know exactly what you want. Granted, some things may not be possible on your lot or within your budget, but giving your builder an idea of what you want is a good idea.

Another thing to consider is whether you want features like a fire pit or outdoor dining. These things are better decided before your builder gets to work. The clearer the idea you have for your deck and the clearness with which you communicate to your builder will make for a better project with fewer delays.

Hiring a deck builder

Now you need to hire your deck builder. Here are some things to look for when you’re hiring a professional to do the work for you:

  • A good builder with have insurance
  • Choose someone that has been in business for a long time
  • Find someone that can get to your project in a timely fashion
  • Builders that have been working locally for a long time are better because they have more connections to other professionals you may need to utilize later on.
  • Look for someone that can give you a reasonable timeline for completion of the work
  • Find a builder that will give you lots of options when it comes to design and materials
  • Feel free to ask for references and even look at samples of the builder’s work. Then call the references. Ask the reference if they’re happy with the results they got and if the job was completed in a timely manner and on budget.
  • Make sure you hire a builder that will give you a written estimate

You don’t have to stick with the first builder you call. If you realize that they are uninsured or don’t have experience, move along to the next one. You don’t want your project to be someone’s first attempt at building a deck, especially if they’re uninsured.

A good deck builder will get all of the needed permits and take care of all of the work. All you need to do is be able to communicate what you want with your builder. Communication is key on both ends. Don’t be afraid to tell your builder what you want. Miscommunication can cause wasted time and money. No one wants that to happen. So, be ready to tell your builder exactly what you need and hire a builder that will listen to you.

Filed Under: Decks ·

Common Mistakes When Building a Gazebo

March 16, 2017 by ·

Common Mistakes When Building a GazeboHere in Brazos Valley, the weather is great for most of the year so having an outdoor space like a gazebo makes sense. However, when starting any new construction project, it’s important to make sure you’ve got a good set of plans.  Every aspect down to the correct hardware needs to be considered.  Here are some common mistakes you can make when building your own gazebo.

Buying the wrong materials

If you have good plans make sure you follow them exactly, even when it comes to the type and thickness of the wood you’re using. Don’t substitute one kind of wood for another unless you’re certain it will turn out the same. Not all wood is the same strength so if the plans call for a particular type of board, think twice before making a substitution.

Another thing to consider is getting the correct hardware. While two different screws might look basically the same, remember that plans call for certain types of hardware because they’re better for the job. Using screws and nails that are too short and fasteners that are too weak could reduce the integrity of the gazebo you’re building.

Failing to get a permit

Depending on where you live, adding a structure to your yard could require a permit. Even if you get a permit from the city you may need to think about getting permission to build from your HOA. When getting a permit, make sure you have good plans and are prepared for a possible inspection. When getting approval from your HOA, read your HOA rules first to make sure the building complies. Then, submit the plans for the gazebo to the appropriate committee, usually the architectural committee.

Taking on more than you can handle

When you try to DIY a project you may not have considered all of the work involved and the tools required to get it done right. Hiring an experienced builder will ensure that your project will be completed correctly and with the right tools. It’s better to have a builder from the start than hiring a builder to fix your mistakes. However, it’s never too late to call a professional for some help with any DIY project.

Crooked boards

While boards that aren’t laid properly may still be structurally sound, they detract from the appearance of your gazebo. An experienced builder won’t make that mistake. When you hire a builder to do the work, you can be sure that whatever pattern you’ve chosen for the floorboards will be executed properly.

If you hire an experienced professional, these problems can be avoided. Your builder will use the right materials, get permits, and install the floor boards in a correct and attractive fashion. While you may be able to build a gazebo yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional if you run into some problems. You don’t just want a completed gazebo, you want a gazebo that is built correctly the first time. That way you can get enjoyment from it for years to come.

Filed Under: Porches Decks Pergolas ·

Renovation – Where to begin

February 24, 2017 by ·

Renovation – Where to begin

If your home needs a lot of updating, it can be difficult to prioritize the work that needs to be done. While a coat of paint can make the place feel like new, you might want to hold off on painting any areas that might need new fixtures, like a bathroom. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Find out want needs to be done

While you may associate a home inspector with buying a new house, getting an inspection before renovation can help you decide where you really need to spend your money. An inspector checks the structure of your home and its systems like air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical. You’ll find out if there are any safety issues and if you have enough insulation. A home inspection is a great first step to home remodeling.

When you fix any major issues in the home it’s time to decide what sort of general remodel work you want done for your home.  You can do this by assessing your priorities and what areas of the home matter the most to you.

Hire a reputable professional to do the work

A good local builder can help your project move forward quickly and easily. If you have home renovation projects in College Station, TX hire a local construction company. Choose one that has been in business for a long time and knows the area. With that knowledge and experience you can get better deals than if you go with a newer company.

A professional can help you decide what work needs to be done and when.

Windows

Replacing windows can increase energy efficiency while adding light. Suntunnel Skylights add light to your space as well. Here in Texas, we have a lot of sunlight to take advantage of.

Adding living space

Adding additional living space doesn’t have to cost a lot of money if you add on a screened porch or sunroom.  Decks and pergolas also provide additional living space particularly in Brazos Valley, TX where home remodeling includes the outdoors because of the beautiful weather.

Updating your kitchen and bathroom

When someone is remodeling their home, the kitchen and bathroom are the targets of a lot of the work. Updating fixtures, replacing countertops, or gutting the whole thing and starting from scratch are all on the table depending on your budget. This is where working with professionals is key. They can help you decide what work will be within your budget and what you can schedule for another time.

There are some projects you can handle yourself with the right instructions if you like to DIY. Installing fixtures, painting, and installing new flooring are all options.  If you do it right, it can blend in with the professional work you had done in other areas of the house. If you’re not very handy, don’t fret. There are plenty of professionals willing to help. Home remodeling in Brazos Valley is popular right now, so hire someone you can trust to do the work.

Filed Under: Renovation ·

11 myths about home renovations

February 17, 2017 by ·

11 myths about home renovationsWhile cruising around remodeling blogs, a wonderful article popped out at me. Not only does it provide some useful helpful tips for home remodeling, it also offers some great advice on how to view projects before they are tackled. Topics covered in this article on Curbed.com include:

 
 

  1. Remodeling is Easy
  2. Remodeling is Inexpensive
  3. You Can Do It Yourself
  4. The Low Bid is the Best Value
  5. Products That Look the Same, Are the Same
  6. Remodels Always Take Longer Then Planned
  7. Remodels Always Cost More Than Bid
  8. Good Planning Can Outwit Surprise
  9. You Can Make It Up As You Go Along
  10. Fancy Trappings Make a Good Contractor
  11. You Will Be Bitter When It’s Over

The author of the original article, Mary Joe Bowling, does a great job explaining important items to consider for your home remodeling and DIY projects.  Click here to read the full article.

 
 

Filed Under: Home Remodel College Station TX ·

8 Home Renovation Mistakes You Can Avoid

February 10, 2017 by ·

8 Home Renovation Mistakes You Can AvoidWhen you decide to renovate your home, you can get in over your head fast if you don’t watch out for some common mistakes. Setting a budget that allows for overages, setting realistic expectations, and working with the style of your home are all important steps.  Here are some common mistakes that homeowners make when the embark on a home renovation

  1. Expectations that don’t match your budget

If you’re doing the work yourself or if you’re hiring a contractor, you have to work with the home and budget you have. It’s not going to look just like a picture in a magazine because that picture wasn’t taken in your home. You can, however, get close. If you’re reasonable and patient, you can feel good about your renovation.

  1. Choosing the wrong professionals

Whether it’s the designer or the construction company, you need to be sure you’re working with the right people. Hiring the first name you see or just taking the lowest bid will not always lead to quality work. Hire experienced professionals. When it comes to your home there’s never a good time to let someone that’s inexperienced take a shot.

  1. Gutting everything

A small job can get much bigger if you aren’t careful. With a good plan, you can make sure you don’t get in too deep. Hiring a professional to do the work will prevent some of the drama.

  1. Renovating for a future buyer and ignoring your own needs

Unless you can see the future and read minds, renovating for a potential future buyer is a mistake. If you think about what a future buyer might want, the renovation won’t work out as well for you. Design and build to suit your own needs.  If you are planning to sell in the next few years, you can keep the colors neutral to appeal to a larger audience, but don’t skip out on features that you like.

  1. Skipping important rooms

Opening up space in a bedroom and living area is a wonderful idea, but don’t forget other rooms that you use frequently. The kitchen and bathroom can often use remodeling to make better use of space than the home builder had in mind. A home remodeling project that doesn’t include the kitchen and bathroom is a missed opportunity.

  1. Not considering your location

Home remodeling in a sunny place like Bryan-College Station, Texas will often take a different turn than a home remodel up north. Here in Brazos Valley, TX home remodeling can include outdoor spaces like decks and sunrooms. There’s plenty of sunshine to enjoy in our part of the state.

  1. Ignoring needed renovations

Granite countertops are more fun and attractive than replacing moldy drywall, but if you have mold, you need to get that taken care of. Not all renovations will be apparent. Some things just need to be done for health and safety reasons.

  1. Trying to do it all yourself

You may be very good at DIY projects, but there are times when you need to bring in a professional. Hiring professionals can ensure that you get the right permits and that the job is done well the first time. Also, having a construction crew in your house will get the job done faster.

Most of these mistakes can be avoided with the right professionals by your side. Hire a professional crew and your life will be easier.

Filed Under: Remodeling ·
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