What Can a Remodeling Project Do For Me?

Home improvements can modernize your living space, enhance your level of comfort and add to the resell value of your home. With a range of home improvement projects, large and small, which projects generate the greatest resell value for home owners?

Zonda, a housing market research firm, recently released a Cost vs. Value Report , which tracks the ratio of the value over the cost for 22 common remodeling projects. The report authors note that the pandemic highly influenced the data this year. The highest return on investment was found in exterior home projects. Also, the returns were slightly lower than previous years, given the increase material costs, especially for decking and framing lumber, despite the project’s value.

Garage Door Replacement Remodeling Projects

All areas of your home need regular maintenance and garage doors are no exception. Exposure to the elements or general wear and tear can serve as good reasons to upgrade or replace a garage door. According to the Cost vs. Value Report, home owners can recoup a whopping 94 percent of the cost of a garage door replacement. If you consider taking on this remodeling project, experts recommend choosing a door that fits well with your overall architectural style and price point of your home.

Minor Kitchen Remodel

Home owners who make kitchen upgrades are likely to recoup more than 70 percent of their investment. Smaller in scope and size, minor kitchen remodels do not generally involve a complete demolition or new layout. This type of project will allow for certain features of your kitchen to remain in place, such as cabinets, while other materials such as flooring or appliances are replaced.

Roof Replacement

Roofs do more than protect your home from the elements. A new roof adds to your home’s curb appeal as one of the most visual exterior components of your home. More than half (56 percent) of home owners will recoup the costs from their investment with an asphalt shingle roof replacement. A professional roofer can discuss the many roofing options available for home owners, from a variety of colors and textures, enhanced energy efficiency and extended warranties.

Window Replacement

Another eye-catching investment is upgrading to vinyl windows. Home owners investing in this project can expect to recoup 70 percent of their costs. One of the benefits of these types of windows is their low maintenance and durability. Vinyl windows are resistant to moisture, humidity and are generally energy efficient and affordable.

Entry Door Replacement

One of the best ways to make a good impression for a future home buyer is an inviting entryway. It is no surprise that a majority (65%) of your investment will be recouped by updating your entrance with a steel entry door. Durability and security are two of the primary benefits of a steel door. The material is stronger than a wood door and more resistant to cracks and warping. While the strength of the door is a valued feature, it doesn’t come at the expense of a stylish aesthetic. Steel doors can match any color or style to fit your home.

To learn more about remodeling projects that prove their value, or to find a remodeling contractor in Pierce County, contact us at Master Builders Association of Pierce County by calling (253) 272-2112

Experience on the Job Site

Do you know what to expect when you remove a wall? How will you dispose of the old materials? Exactly how much new material are you going to need? What is the precise sequence of steps to finish the job? Professional remodelers understand all the intricacies of the project and can provide you with a project timeline. Plus, many contractors have specialized knowledge and contacts to get the best prices on materials and labor. As a trained expert, a remodeler has a firm grasp of the requirements to meet city ordinances, regulations and permits.

Business Management and Integrity

A large component of being a professional remodeler is maintaining a reputable business. This includes integrating best practices, writing clear contracts, having insurance, providing warranties, and more. A professional remodeler will be able to provide you with a copy of their business license, as well as show proof of their workers’ compensation and liability insurance. This will protect yourself from liability in situations involving job site injuries or property damage resulting from the work being done on your home. Better business management means better service for home owners because they can rely on the remodeler to perform with integrity.

Customizing to Fit Your Needs

Home remodeling frequently involves problem solving, such as maximizing existing space, strategically building additions or navigating limited budgets. Professional remodelers can help home owners manage such challenges and meet their needs while staying within the budget. Proper training and invaluable experience help remodelers identify the various options and solutions to satisfy their customers.

If your goal is a well-executed project, then your best bet is to hire a professional remodeler. By investing in their expertise now, you will get to enjoy the tangible benefits of high-quality craftsmanship for many years to come. To find a professional remodeler in your area, search our Directory or contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com .

Yet, many home owners quickly become frustrated when the beautiful furniture and fabrics they select do not survive the outdoor elements. Fortunately, manufacturers are now creating more durable outdoor furnishings to help your decorating dollars go even further.

Outdoor fabric companies, such as Sunbrella and Perennials, offer expanded lines of sun- and weather-resistant products that are made to withstand harsh weather. These resilient fabrics are low-maintenance and can easily be cleaned by hand. Despite the increased durability of these fabrics, they remain soft and comfortable for everyday use.

Retailers also are responding to the popularity of outdoor rooms by increasing their inventory of indoor/outdoor rugs, weatherproof cushions and fabrics, and all-weather furniture. Residential architect Amy Stacy, owner of Stacy Studio in Silver Spring, Md., has noticed the difference. “Even last summer, big-box stores may have only had three or four color choices for outdoor cushions. Now, you can choose from a wide variety of durable solids, patterns, florals, and stripes, both online and at all of the major home retailers,” Stacy said.

Home owners also want to spend more time enjoying their outdoor space and less time maintaining it. “Screened-in porches are hot right now,” according to Stacy. “Home owners are looking for low-maintenance options and decks require a lot of upkeep.”

Not surprisingly, today’s screened porches reflect the growing trend of creating outdoor spaces with indoor amenities. Stacy says her clients are requesting fireplaces and other features – such as finished wood floors – to help their screened porches feel like luxurious indoor spaces. Other home owners are adding kitchens to their screened porches, allowing them to more easily cook outdoors year-round.

Easy Maintenance Tips

After you’ve furnished and decorated your outdoor space, be sure to follow a few simple tips to ensure that you can enjoy it for years to come.

• Protect outdoor furniture with weatherproof covers during the times of year when it’s not in use. Or, bring smaller furniture items inside.
• Store cushions in weatherproof containers during winter weather – or if a big storm is on the way.
• Spot clean spoils or spills on outdoor fabric right away to prevent the growth of mildew. Use a mild, bleach-free soap-and-water solution and rub gently with a cloth or sponge.
• Always air dry outdoor fabrics, which generally are made of synthetic materials. Never dry clean or tumble-dry these fabrics – or the protective finish will begin to erode.

For more information about creating and maintaining outdoor rooms in the South Sound, contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com .

Wired vs. Wireless Electronic Doorbells

The two main types of electronic doorbells are wired or wireless. The most common doorbell is wired, which is connected to your home’s electrical system. A wired doorbell doesn’t require batteries, has a potentially longer live span and has a clear and dependable sound. A wireless doorbell doesn’t have to be connected to your home’s electrical system making it easy to install, flexible with placement near your door and requires batteries.

Mobile App Accessibility

If you want a doorbell that connects to your mobile device, you should consider purchasing a “smart” doorbell. This device connects to your home WiFi and is available for both wired and wireless doorbells. Home owners can also view what’s happening at their front door step via video through a mobile app. Most smart doorbell apps can be customized to send alerts to notify you of activity at your front door.

Type of Material

Wired and wireless doorbells are in available in standard sizes and neutral colors. If you like your current doorbell cover and would like to keep it, make sure to select a doorbell that will fit. Covers are available at hardware stores to help personalize your doorbell and are available in all shapes, colors and sizes.

Sound and Video Quality

You can customize both wired and wireless sounds to play chimes, music or even spoken words. The sound quality for these electronic based doorbells is generally good. You may want to take a closer look at the sound range capabilities depending upon the size of your home. The density of your walls (like stone) may interfere with wireless signals so you may opt for a wired doorbell. When it comes to video features, it is best to compare image resolution and field of view capabilities. The higher the resolution the better the video quality and some cameras only capture what is directly in front and no side views.

Special Features

Both wired and wireless doorbells have options for features that can improve your home comfort. For example, some models have flashing alerts for hearing impaired individuals or motion sensors to alert you to movement or sound outside your door. Since your doorbell may have to endure the elements, double check to make sure the device you select is weatherproof.

For more information on how to outfit your home with the latest technology contact Master Builders Association Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com .

>>Check out our local member companies that specialize in home security.

Photo Credit: Global Security & Communication, Inc.

With so many options, where do you begin your search for a professional? The best place to start is by utilizing a directory of professional remodelers. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has a directory of professional remodelers in your area dedicated to the highest professional and ethical standards in the home building industry. After you’ve narrowed down your search, take note of the following characteristics to ensure that you will enjoy your completed project.

Experience. Ask how long the remodeler has been in business. Longevity suggests financial stability, which is necessary for the remodeler to complete the job and still be available if problems arise after the job is finished. Also, the more jobs the company has completed, the more expertise the remodeler will bring to your project.

Reputation. Ask the remodeler for customer names and phone numbers so you can call to get their impressions of the company’s work and customer service. Ideally, ask to be in contact with customers whose projects were similar to the one you’re planning. Ask whether these home owners would hire the company again.

Business Credentials. Ask your remodeler about their involvement with your local builders’ association and its affiliated local Remodelers Council. Groups like these keep their members informed about new products, construction techniques, business practices and industry issues. Participation can be an indicator of a remodeler’s commitment to professionalism and to the remodeling industry.

License and Insurance. Ask to see a copy of the remodeler’s license, if your state has such requirements, and call the licensing agency to find out if there are any unresolved complaints against the company you might hire. It is also important to verify that the remodeler carries workers’ compensation and liability insurance. Insurance certificates protect you from liability in situations involving job site injuries or property damage resulting from the work being done on your home.

For more information on finding, evaluating and working with a remodeler, contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com .

Create a List. If you are navigating many websites or watching hours of home videos online, make a list of the homes you enjoyed viewing. Keep careful notes of the listing descriptions. By creating a note taking system that works for you, you’ll be able to easily compare properties when you are ready to narrow down your list. Don’t forget to make a list of questions about the property you may have for the realtor.

Ask About Floor Plans. If you’re not physically walking through the home, it might be challenging to visualize the space by only scrolling through photos online. Ask a realtor for a copy of the home’s floor plan. Once you have an idea of the layout and size of the space, you’ll be able to get a better grasp of the photos or videos of the home.

Research the neighborhood. Not all websites with home listings will give you a sense of the neighborhood. To help get a complete profile of the home and make an informed decision about the area around your home, conduct a general online search about the neighborhood. You’ll be surprised the amount of information you can learn about the activities that happen in the area or the local school system.

Drive by the home. If you are ready to get out of the house while maintaining social distancing, what better way than to drive by the homes you are considering. You’ll gain a better understanding of what amenities are nearby and a sense of the community. If you are not working from home or will be returning to work soon, try out your work commute.

For more information on how to find a home in Pierce County, contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com or check out www.newhomesource.com/mbapierce.

Aging in place is more than living in your home, it is about enjoying your space safely, independently and comfortably regardless of your age or ability level. Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) professionals help people throughout Pierce County find solutions to address the unique needs of aging adults, such as widening doorways or installing grab bars in showers, without sacrificing the aesthetic value of the home.

Installing smart home technology also offers a level of support for aging home owners. The Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University (JCHS), defines smart home technology as a product connected wirelessly or through the internet that can be remotely accessible with a mobile device. Smart home products such as thermostats, lighting and electronic locks are options for persons with mobility challenges and can complement other aging-in-place modifications.

A recent JCHS study asked remodelers about the home automation products or systems installed with aging-in-place renovations. The top home automated systems installed as part of an aging-in-place strategy included items related to safety and security (94 percent), climate control (83 percent) and lighting, electric and/or shade controls (67 percent). Remodelers reported that they most commonly received request for smart technology for the living room (94 percent), kitchen (93 percent) and home office (90 percent).

Aging home owners interested in renovations need to be able to find a remodeler who is knowledgeable about smart home technology and home modification. The CAPS designation helps home owners have confidence that they’re working with an expert in aging-in-place renovation. If you’d like to find a builder or remodeler in your area with a CAPS or other designation, contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com . You can also search the online directory at nahb.org.

Budgeting. Home projects can really add up if you avoid mapping out all the materials, tools and equipment needed to complete your project. If you are not a home remodeling professional, chances are you will not purchase exactly everything you need the first time you go shopping. A good rule of thumb is to budget for at least a 10 percent overage for project materials.

Permits. Adding a wall or a deck? You might need a permit to complete your project. If you are not sure, contact your local city hall. Not all permits are intended to drain your home remodeling budget or serve as a roadblock to building, in many cases it is to ensure the job is done correctly. Avoiding this step can yield negative consequences such as being ordered by the city to stop work and paying hefty fines. Professional remodelers are knowledgeable about the permitting process.

Tools and Equipment. If you’re a home owner, you likely have at least one tool to manage small home repairs. New home projects may require specialized tools or equipment outside of your usual toolbox. Specific tools can make the difference for making the job easier, safer and avoiding damage to your home. Some specialized equipment can be costly for a single use. Hardware stores often have tools available to rent but make sure you know how to use it to avoid injuring yourself or ruining your project.

Materials and Measurements. One of the attractive parts of DIY projects is saving money on labor costs. Should you also save money on materials? The cheaper option when buying materials for your home may not always be the best one. Installing or replacing materials with flimsy or ill-fitting items not measured correctly can cost more money in the long run. If you work with a professional remodeler, he or she will be able to recommend the most cost-effective materials to complete your project.

Completing a home project can be rewarding with the careful preparation or with the right contractor. To learn more about finding a qualified contractor for your home, contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com . To see a list of members who are residential remodelers in Pierce County, click here.

Classic Blue. This timeless hue was selected as the Pantone color of the year. The classic blue is as simple as the name implies. Color trend analysts at Pantone say classic blue “brings a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit.” Not to be outdone, ‘Naval SW’ was the top choice from Sherwin-Williams as a “rich navy that creates a calm and grounding environment.” A blue hue was also a hit among PPG paint global color experts who selected Chinese Porcelain as the standout this year. Colorists describe the choice as blend of “cobalt and moody, ink blue that imparts calmness and restful sleep…”

Back to Nature. Similar to the serenity of classic blue, Behr selected a ‘Back to Nature’ theme for inspiration this year. The unfussy palette was taken from “natural elements such as sky, earth, water and plant life.” An array of colors with names like Light Drizzle, Secret Meadow and Dragonfly invites elements of the physical world into your home. Dunn Edwards also took a cue from nature with ‘Minty Fresh’ as the color of the year. This cool and calming shade of green is described by Dunn Edwards as garden inspired from “grasses to mints.”

First Hue. This is the pick of the year for Benjamin Moore. While the name itself is a bit mysterious, once you actually see the soft rosy color you may understand why this soft pink-like hue was the first pick. Benjamin Moore describes the choice as “A fresh palette, a revitalized spirit…the backdrop for a bright new decade.”

A Bit of Everything. While not the official name of Valspar’s colors of the year, a bit of everything is the best way to describe its selection. Similar to the other leading paint manufactures, nature, tranquility and warmth are obvious themes for Valspar’s palette picks for 2020. Colors like Canyon Earth, Bombay Pink, Utterly Blue and Mint Whisper are sure to bring a slice of serenity into your home.

For more home design ideas, contact Master Builders Association of Pierce County at info@masterbuilderspierce.com .