While clean up is going to take awhile, after an F-5 tornado wiped out nearly 8,000 buildings in Joplin, Missouri on May 22, 2011, once residents start to rebuild, they’ll need some help. Construction companies and contractors are going to start coming out of the rubble, if they haven’t already, offering low quotes and amazing service, but they aren’t all they appear to be.
How Traveling Contractors Woo You
You probably approach every meeting for your construction needs with the assumption that you’ll be able to distinguish the trustworthy companies from the swindlers. However, many people aren’t prepared for how good a traveling contractor presents himself. He’ll say things like “we’ve set up an office right here in Joplin” to make you believe the company’s around for the long haul; and they may even have a small travel trailer or RV based as an office – something that can be easily uprooted.
The big head turner, however, is when these fly-by-night contractors tell you they can complete your project cheaper than anyone else can. Let’s say you’re getting $45,000 from your homeowners insurance company to cover repairs to your home after the Joplin tornado. Scamming contractors will come in and tell you they can complete the project for $35,000 – and suddenly you’re envisioning a new jet ski too (or something more practical, such as paying off other debts).
They’re In It For The Money
The unfortunate truth, however, is that many of these out-of-town contractors are only in it for the money. Many times these construction companies will ask you for a down payment (often up to half of the project total or more) to start on the job. Truth is, if they need money up front to pay for the job, then the company isn’t very well established.
You’ll notice a lack of commitment once the project starts, such as arriving late, missing entire days of work, or claiming to have other projects to balance. Then, the unthinkable happens – you’ve paid the contractor over half of the project fees, the project is only a quarter of the way done, he hasn’t showed up for days and won’t return your calls.
You just got swindled. He took your money, and ran.
Why A Local Contractor Is Better
Admittedly, some out of town companies may, in fact, have the compassion, resources and expertise to legitimately help Joplin tornado victims rebuild, but once the project is over, they move on to the next job in the next town, and you’re left on your own if something comes up. With a local construction company, you’re able to build a relationship with the contractor. Trust becomes the foundation for your business dealings and you learn how to work together so future projects are completed more efficiently.
HA Construction, and other Joplin area construction companies and contractors, are focused on the community. They want to help those close to home because the impact of the Joplin tornado may directly affect them and those they care about. Even if these companies don’t know someone affected, something that happens so close to home really resonates on a personal level.
Adversely, fly-by-night contractors flock to locations devastated by natural disasters, such as Joplin, Missouri, looking to make an extra buck. Then they’re off and running to another project following a different tragedy. Additionally, even after the project is complete, trustworthy local contractors are there for you to answer questions, follow-up and make sure everything is to your expectations.
Don’t go with just anyone to help you rebuild your life after the devastation of the Joplin tornado, or any other home repair/renovation project. Know the important information to look for when choosing a contractor, like HA Construction, to ensure that you and your family are well taken care of.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
HA Construction Is Available For Joplin Tornado Recovery Efforts
On May 22, 2011 an F-5 tornado that reached over ¾ of a mile wide (one of the deadliest in the history of the nation) ravished the town of Joplin, Missouri, leaving 142 (as of May 28th) lives lost and over a third of the town in utter ruin. As families work to literally rebuild their lives from the ground up, there will be many that come across their path to help. The outreach to the community has already been utterly overwhelming, but help is still needed and will be for months to come.
We’re Here to Help
HA Construction-Design of Nixa, Missouri is among the many businesses ready and willing to offer volunteer services to Joplin residents in need. More importantly, on a ministry level, HA Construction-Design would like to reach out to those that find themselves in over their heads with the need for repairs and rebuilding after this devastating tornado.
Andy Flint and his team are eager to do whatever is needed (from hauling off debris to securing windows and roofs) for those that may be falling through the cracks during the Joplin recovery efforts, such as the elderly, single mothers and handicapped individuals that just don’t have the means to do it all alone. What about people that didn’t have adequate insurance coverage to take care of the thousands of dollars in repair and rebuilding costs? HA Construction-Design is more than willing to help these individuals, too.
HA Construction-Design also wants to aid in the Joplin recovery process by teaming up with local churches and organizations as they arrange joint efforts with multiple businesses and volunteers.
How We’ll Make it Happen
Current and future clients might be wondering how HA Construction-Design plans to help with Joplin tornado recovery efforts and still be available to everyone else. It’s simply a matter of designating a day to help and shifting current project schedules a bit to accommodate that – and Andy has no doubt that HA Construction-Design's clients will be more than willing to share a little construction time with those in need.
Handling the extra workload in order to volunteer in Joplin is a process of communicating with subcontractors to make sure they are also willing, and able, to help. Additionally, Andy and Lisa realize that HA Construction-Design's employees still need to bring money home for their families and can’t necessarily afford to take a day off without pay, no matter how much they want to help – which is why HA Construction-Design is more than willing to pay its employees to help with Joplin recovery efforts.
In conclusion, Andy and Lisa Flint, the subcontractors and employees of HA Construction-Design are ready and willing to help with Joplin tornado recovery efforts and start the process for rebuilding lives. Contact Andy directly at (417) 224-2129 to see what HA Construction-Design can do to help you.
We’re Here to Help
HA Construction-Design of Nixa, Missouri is among the many businesses ready and willing to offer volunteer services to Joplin residents in need. More importantly, on a ministry level, HA Construction-Design would like to reach out to those that find themselves in over their heads with the need for repairs and rebuilding after this devastating tornado.
Andy Flint and his team are eager to do whatever is needed (from hauling off debris to securing windows and roofs) for those that may be falling through the cracks during the Joplin recovery efforts, such as the elderly, single mothers and handicapped individuals that just don’t have the means to do it all alone. What about people that didn’t have adequate insurance coverage to take care of the thousands of dollars in repair and rebuilding costs? HA Construction-Design is more than willing to help these individuals, too.
HA Construction-Design also wants to aid in the Joplin recovery process by teaming up with local churches and organizations as they arrange joint efforts with multiple businesses and volunteers.
How We’ll Make it Happen
Current and future clients might be wondering how HA Construction-Design plans to help with Joplin tornado recovery efforts and still be available to everyone else. It’s simply a matter of designating a day to help and shifting current project schedules a bit to accommodate that – and Andy has no doubt that HA Construction-Design's clients will be more than willing to share a little construction time with those in need.
Handling the extra workload in order to volunteer in Joplin is a process of communicating with subcontractors to make sure they are also willing, and able, to help. Additionally, Andy and Lisa realize that HA Construction-Design's employees still need to bring money home for their families and can’t necessarily afford to take a day off without pay, no matter how much they want to help – which is why HA Construction-Design is more than willing to pay its employees to help with Joplin recovery efforts.
In conclusion, Andy and Lisa Flint, the subcontractors and employees of HA Construction-Design are ready and willing to help with Joplin tornado recovery efforts and start the process for rebuilding lives. Contact Andy directly at (417) 224-2129 to see what HA Construction-Design can do to help you.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Bathroom Renovation – Part 1: Layout Design
There are many elements that go into a bathroom remodel, but the most crucial is determining the layout of your new space. Form and function are a must, as well as finding a way to fit in a bit of luxury to create that spa atmosphere we all desire our bathrooms to be.
What are You Looking for?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the design process, you need to determine what you’re looking for in a bathroom. Do you want that spa feel? Is this a bathroom for just you and your spouse, just the kids or will everyone be sharing this space? These are important questions that will help you decide on a slew of things. Here are a few more items to consider:
Flow of Your Bathroom Space
The most important aspect of planning your new bathroom space is making sure that the design optimizes flow and function. You certainly don’t want a toilet or sink making it hard to get into your bathroom because it’s too close to the door.
Keep in mind, however that, while kitchens generally have a rectangular layout, bathrooms can come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so there is more to consider. First, try and utilize the current wet wall (the location of all the plumbing) for the location of your tub/shower, toilet and sink. While moving these access points is possible, it will cost you a lot more money on the renovation. Of course, if the sink is so close to the bathroom door that you have to pass it in order to get the door closed, then utilizing that wet area may not be an option.
Meeting Building Codes
The codes differ for each state (and sometimes even within each city) so you’ll want to double check on requirements. Per Springfield Missouri Building Development Services, for a bathroom renovation in Springfield, you will need a Building Permit, Electrical Permit and Plumbing Permit at the least. For projects in Nixa, Missouri, you or the contractor will need to fill out and submit Residential Remodel Permit Application. Generally HA Construction will obtain these permits for the project, but it is a good policy to request a copy from Andy.
Many cities and states will likely follow the International Residential Code (IRC) for remodels and construction. In regard to bathrooms, a few of the IRC requirements include:
Additionally, you need at least one GFCI outlet (although its good practice that all of them are), and it must be within three feet of the sink. GFCI outlets monitor the current in an outlet and trip that outlet if an imbalance occurs. This, of course, is a measure for preventing a surge when water is present, since water and electricity don’t mix well. All electrical outlets must be wall mounted (i.e. nothing facing upward from the counter top).
Appeal to the Masses
Even if you plan on growing old in your current home, it’s a good investment to design a bathroom renovation that will appeal to buyers, if you ever have to sell. One element to consider is “universal design.” This design concept, consisting of wider doorways, roomier floor plans, curbless showers and taller toilets, is usable by most anyone (even handicap accessible), which is what makes it “universal.”
The Little Things
While most people don’t think about items such as the toilet paper roll, it’s an important element to plan at the beginning of the renovation process. The little things aren’t actually so little, because you may end up not having enough wall space for your toilet paper hanger or towel rack if you don’t plan.
Lighting is also an important element that goes unnoticed – that is until that first time you attempt to put makeup on and can hardly see. Consider all types of light (accent, ambient, task and decorative) and plan your bathroom design accordingly.
If you find the whole design process overwhelming for your bathroom renovation, HA Construction Design will happily help you come up with a stellar plan. Simply tell Andy what you need and what you like, and you’re bound to come up with something fabulous (and far better than what you currently have) together.
Part 2: Bathtubs
Part 3: Showers
Part 4: Choosing Tile
Part 5: Sinks, Toilets & Fixtures
What are You Looking for?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the design process, you need to determine what you’re looking for in a bathroom. Do you want that spa feel? Is this a bathroom for just you and your spouse, just the kids or will everyone be sharing this space? These are important questions that will help you decide on a slew of things. Here are a few more items to consider:
- Do you want a bathtub, shower or both? If both, do you want them separate? Will space allow that?
- Do you need more storage?
- Would dual sinks be a necessity or luxury?
- How and when will the space primarily be used?
- Is your current bathroom too small? Is there a way to expand it?
Flow of Your Bathroom Space
The most important aspect of planning your new bathroom space is making sure that the design optimizes flow and function. You certainly don’t want a toilet or sink making it hard to get into your bathroom because it’s too close to the door.
Keep in mind, however that, while kitchens generally have a rectangular layout, bathrooms can come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so there is more to consider. First, try and utilize the current wet wall (the location of all the plumbing) for the location of your tub/shower, toilet and sink. While moving these access points is possible, it will cost you a lot more money on the renovation. Of course, if the sink is so close to the bathroom door that you have to pass it in order to get the door closed, then utilizing that wet area may not be an option.
Meeting Building Codes
The codes differ for each state (and sometimes even within each city) so you’ll want to double check on requirements. Per Springfield Missouri Building Development Services, for a bathroom renovation in Springfield, you will need a Building Permit, Electrical Permit and Plumbing Permit at the least. For projects in Nixa, Missouri, you or the contractor will need to fill out and submit Residential Remodel Permit Application. Generally HA Construction will obtain these permits for the project, but it is a good policy to request a copy from Andy.
Many cities and states will likely follow the International Residential Code (IRC) for remodels and construction. In regard to bathrooms, a few of the IRC requirements include:
- The center line of a toilet must be at least 15 inches from any other wall, fixture, or obstacle in the bathroom
- Clear floor space in front of a toilet, lavatory and tub must be at least 21 inches
- Minimum clear floor space in front of a shower must be 24 inches
Additionally, you need at least one GFCI outlet (although its good practice that all of them are), and it must be within three feet of the sink. GFCI outlets monitor the current in an outlet and trip that outlet if an imbalance occurs. This, of course, is a measure for preventing a surge when water is present, since water and electricity don’t mix well. All electrical outlets must be wall mounted (i.e. nothing facing upward from the counter top).
Appeal to the Masses
Even if you plan on growing old in your current home, it’s a good investment to design a bathroom renovation that will appeal to buyers, if you ever have to sell. One element to consider is “universal design.” This design concept, consisting of wider doorways, roomier floor plans, curbless showers and taller toilets, is usable by most anyone (even handicap accessible), which is what makes it “universal.”
The Little Things
While most people don’t think about items such as the toilet paper roll, it’s an important element to plan at the beginning of the renovation process. The little things aren’t actually so little, because you may end up not having enough wall space for your toilet paper hanger or towel rack if you don’t plan.
Lighting is also an important element that goes unnoticed – that is until that first time you attempt to put makeup on and can hardly see. Consider all types of light (accent, ambient, task and decorative) and plan your bathroom design accordingly.
If you find the whole design process overwhelming for your bathroom renovation, HA Construction Design will happily help you come up with a stellar plan. Simply tell Andy what you need and what you like, and you’re bound to come up with something fabulous (and far better than what you currently have) together.
Part 2: Bathtubs
Part 3: Showers
Part 4: Choosing Tile
Part 5: Sinks, Toilets & Fixtures
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Everything You Ever Needed to Know About Windows
If you’re looking for new windows, you’ll soon find far more information than most know how to effectively process. Should you get single or double hung? Vinyl, aluminum, wood or fiberglass? What about casement windows? Well, never fear – you’ll find many of the answers you need right here.
Replacement vs. New Construction
There’s no denying that replacement windows are cheaper than new construction and a much quicker remedy. Additionally, you can utilize the old frame of the original window, since replacements are usually custom made. Another benefit is that you’ll have little to do to make everything look uniform after the windows are in, because there will be little or no painting and the exterior of your home won’t be altered.
Of course, there are several disadvantages to getting replacement windows. First, replacements most always come in vinyl only. While you can do many things to try and get the windows to match the style of your home, they still may not look quite right. Additionally, if there are issues with the insulation around windows, replacements won’t fix this problem.
Vinyl replacement windows give you less viewing surface and are also limited in style (only single and double hung options) and color. While they may be an easier and cheaper fix, they’re not the best idea for all homes. They’re ideal for older, smaller homes or single family rental properties, but definitely aren’t the best option for larger homes, especially those in which you want to maintain the highest quality.
Keeping Temperatures Where They Belong
Regardless of whether you have HA Construction build or replace windows, most all windows come with the same quality glass insulation. Usually this is a combination of two elements: low-e coated glazes and gas fills.
Argon is most commonly used for gas fills in window glass because it is more cost efficient and provides optimal thermal performance. It is a colorless, odorless, inert gas that is non-flammable, non-reactive and denser than air. The gas is put between double pane windows to prevent the loss of desired temperatures within the home by reducing the transfer of heat conductively and convectively.
Low emission (low-e) coating is a thin, transparent material made of microscopic metal and metallic oxide layers and placed on the inside of window panes. This coating allows the short-wave energy from the sun to enter a room, while preventing the escape of the internal warm (or cool) air.
Types of Window Materials
There are four essential materials used for windows, each with their benefits and disadvantages.
Vinyl – Vinyl windows are the cheapest, making them the most common. The quality continues to show improvements, but vinyl still has a reputation for being flimsy compared to other materials. They can often become brittle and see fading over time.
Aluminum Clad – Aluminum clad windows are more commonly used in commercial properties because they provide more strength than the other materials, but not without sacrificing the retention of heat.
Fiberglass – The construction of fiberglass windows closely resembles that of modern boats. It’s ideal for larger window spaces. While there were initial concerns over strength, durability and resistance to temperatures, those concerns are diminishing.
Wood – Wood is structurally sound, but you want to avoid exposed wood on the exterior of the window. Wood is prone to damage when left out in the elements and requires frequent painting maintenance. If you opt for wood, get aluminum clad on the exterior.
Window Styles
Replacement windows are usually either single hung or double hung. These styles have less viewing surface area over all and you can only open half of the window at a time. However, there are several benefits to these styles. Specifically single and double hung windows:
Finally, as you keep all of this information in mind when exploring new window options, it’s important to also compare warranties offered by window and construction companies. Some warranties are far better than others, with companies offering a lifetime replacement, even if your son purposely chucks a rock through your window. Others may only offer a warranty on manufacturer defaults.
If in doubt, give Andy at HA Construction a call and have him come out and explore your window options with you. Sometimes an outsider’s perspective is all it takes to gain a clear understanding of the best options for your home and budget.
Replacement vs. New Construction
There’s no denying that replacement windows are cheaper than new construction and a much quicker remedy. Additionally, you can utilize the old frame of the original window, since replacements are usually custom made. Another benefit is that you’ll have little to do to make everything look uniform after the windows are in, because there will be little or no painting and the exterior of your home won’t be altered.
Of course, there are several disadvantages to getting replacement windows. First, replacements most always come in vinyl only. While you can do many things to try and get the windows to match the style of your home, they still may not look quite right. Additionally, if there are issues with the insulation around windows, replacements won’t fix this problem.
Vinyl replacement windows give you less viewing surface and are also limited in style (only single and double hung options) and color. While they may be an easier and cheaper fix, they’re not the best idea for all homes. They’re ideal for older, smaller homes or single family rental properties, but definitely aren’t the best option for larger homes, especially those in which you want to maintain the highest quality.
Keeping Temperatures Where They Belong
Regardless of whether you have HA Construction build or replace windows, most all windows come with the same quality glass insulation. Usually this is a combination of two elements: low-e coated glazes and gas fills.
Argon is most commonly used for gas fills in window glass because it is more cost efficient and provides optimal thermal performance. It is a colorless, odorless, inert gas that is non-flammable, non-reactive and denser than air. The gas is put between double pane windows to prevent the loss of desired temperatures within the home by reducing the transfer of heat conductively and convectively.
Low emission (low-e) coating is a thin, transparent material made of microscopic metal and metallic oxide layers and placed on the inside of window panes. This coating allows the short-wave energy from the sun to enter a room, while preventing the escape of the internal warm (or cool) air.
Types of Window Materials
There are four essential materials used for windows, each with their benefits and disadvantages.
Vinyl – Vinyl windows are the cheapest, making them the most common. The quality continues to show improvements, but vinyl still has a reputation for being flimsy compared to other materials. They can often become brittle and see fading over time.
Aluminum Clad – Aluminum clad windows are more commonly used in commercial properties because they provide more strength than the other materials, but not without sacrificing the retention of heat.
Fiberglass – The construction of fiberglass windows closely resembles that of modern boats. It’s ideal for larger window spaces. While there were initial concerns over strength, durability and resistance to temperatures, those concerns are diminishing.
Wood – Wood is structurally sound, but you want to avoid exposed wood on the exterior of the window. Wood is prone to damage when left out in the elements and requires frequent painting maintenance. If you opt for wood, get aluminum clad on the exterior.
Window Styles
Replacement windows are usually either single hung or double hung. These styles have less viewing surface area over all and you can only open half of the window at a time. However, there are several benefits to these styles. Specifically single and double hung windows:
- Have hardware that is less prone to failure
- Are more durable
- Have more standard sizes available
- An interior screen that is removable
- More versatility in sizing for every possible opening
- Allow you to open the whole window
Finally, as you keep all of this information in mind when exploring new window options, it’s important to also compare warranties offered by window and construction companies. Some warranties are far better than others, with companies offering a lifetime replacement, even if your son purposely chucks a rock through your window. Others may only offer a warranty on manufacturer defaults.
If in doubt, give Andy at HA Construction a call and have him come out and explore your window options with you. Sometimes an outsider’s perspective is all it takes to gain a clear understanding of the best options for your home and budget.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Adding a Sunroom to Your Home
If you’re looking to add space and value to your home, but are on a tight budget, then a sunroom is likely the best option. Just imagine enjoying the beauty of the outdoors without full exposure to bugs and the elements. HA Construction has optimal experience with sunroom additions and can help you to create a space that is all your own.
The Planning Process
While HA Construction can help you plan every last detail of your sunroom addition, there are a few things you should probably think about in advance. First of all, you need to have a budget in mind. The cost depends on several factors, including where you put the sunroom, how big it will be, the design you want, the type of glass used and extras you may desire. Typically, sunrooms cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.
Once you’ve established your budget, consider the following to help determine the design you’re looking for:
Types of Sunrooms
There are a few types of sunroom designs available for your consideration:
HA Construction can build a sunroom with materials that match the rest of your home’s exterior, providing the appearance that the sunroom was built with the rest of the home, rather than as an addition. This adds square footage to your home and usable value.
Sunroom companies (or even the DIY sunroom kits) often install aluminum products combined with composite or fiberglass materials, and the end result looks nothing like your home. These low grade materials are often marked up so high that a sunroom company will offer to install the room for free. The end result can actually detract value from your property in the future.
One reason why many people opt to do a sunroom rather than a home addition is because of the expensive of a roof. However, HA Construction recommends building a roof on your sunroom that matches the style and materials of the roof on the rest of your home. It is a bit more expensive than a flat roof or a roof of windows, but it will last much longer and will, again, look as though it was an original part of the house (and add value).
Options for the Future
As you plan your sunroom, keep the future in mind; HA Construction likes to leave all options open for progressive building. If your ultimate goal is to put on a full addition to your home, but your current budget won’t allow that, then HA Construction can build your sunroom ready for future renovations. For example, you may want to run heat and air-conditioning to the sunroom down the road. In that case, HA Construction can build a knee-wall so that you can easily add vents and outlets later.
Should you choose to build your sunroom on a concrete slab, have HA Construction pour the slab with an 18 inch footing (foundation). That way, it is already on par with building codes for future conversion to a year-round livable space.
Sunrooms are a great way to expand your home and enjoy more of what nature has to offer, without the full-blown expense of adding on. HA Construction can help you to envision your dream space and make it happen.
The Planning Process
While HA Construction can help you plan every last detail of your sunroom addition, there are a few things you should probably think about in advance. First of all, you need to have a budget in mind. The cost depends on several factors, including where you put the sunroom, how big it will be, the design you want, the type of glass used and extras you may desire. Typically, sunrooms cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.
Once you’ve established your budget, consider the following to help determine the design you’re looking for:
- Do you prefer screens (used only from spring to fall) or windows (for all year use)?
- If you do windows, do you want them to open with screens or to be solid, stationary glass?
- Would you like to have ceiling fans installed?
- How about a skylight or two?
- Is security an issue?
- Do you want to install French doors or a slider?
- Do you prefer floor to ceiling windows/screens or knee-walls (a wall from floor to the bottom windowsill)?
Types of Sunrooms
There are a few types of sunroom designs available for your consideration:
- Seasonal Sunrooms have single-pane windows with screens and are tempered by natural weather conditions (i.e. no heat/air-conditioning), which means they are used from spring to fall in most locations.
- Solariums (Conservatories) provide a panoramic view of your outdoor surroundings, usually with nothing but windows or a full composite roof. This style is best with heating/air-conditioning installed for year round use.
- Screened or Patio Rooms are used from spring to fall. All of the walls are made with mesh screens, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without having to deal with insects.
HA Construction can build a sunroom with materials that match the rest of your home’s exterior, providing the appearance that the sunroom was built with the rest of the home, rather than as an addition. This adds square footage to your home and usable value.
Sunroom companies (or even the DIY sunroom kits) often install aluminum products combined with composite or fiberglass materials, and the end result looks nothing like your home. These low grade materials are often marked up so high that a sunroom company will offer to install the room for free. The end result can actually detract value from your property in the future.
One reason why many people opt to do a sunroom rather than a home addition is because of the expensive of a roof. However, HA Construction recommends building a roof on your sunroom that matches the style and materials of the roof on the rest of your home. It is a bit more expensive than a flat roof or a roof of windows, but it will last much longer and will, again, look as though it was an original part of the house (and add value).
Options for the Future
As you plan your sunroom, keep the future in mind; HA Construction likes to leave all options open for progressive building. If your ultimate goal is to put on a full addition to your home, but your current budget won’t allow that, then HA Construction can build your sunroom ready for future renovations. For example, you may want to run heat and air-conditioning to the sunroom down the road. In that case, HA Construction can build a knee-wall so that you can easily add vents and outlets later.
Should you choose to build your sunroom on a concrete slab, have HA Construction pour the slab with an 18 inch footing (foundation). That way, it is already on par with building codes for future conversion to a year-round livable space.
Sunrooms are a great way to expand your home and enjoy more of what nature has to offer, without the full-blown expense of adding on. HA Construction can help you to envision your dream space and make it happen.
Monday, February 21, 2011
How to Maintain the Beauty of Your Deck
You’ve gone through the process of having HA Construction Design build a beautiful deck for you, completing the landscape of your backyard oasis. Now, the question remains, how do you maintain your deck and keep it in top form for years to come?
If you’ve yet to have your new deck built, then request one important thing from HA Construction as you make plans for the project. Essential to the longevity of your deck is the use of pressure-treated lumber that has been rated for ground contact. This will be much more resistant to rot over time. Untreated wood can be easier on your budget now, but it will cost you more in maintenance and repairs down the road.
While it may take a couple of years for your new or newly restored deck to start showing signs of use and the effects of weather, you’ll want to start on maintenance now. Making a habit of these routine steps will most certainly give your deck a long life.
Keep it Clean and Dry
While a bit of rain here and there won’t hurt your deck, you need to make sure that it dries sufficiently after the clouds part. Use a rubber broom (a large squeegee) to remove the water from your deck and clean off debris. Look around the area of your deck and remove any overhanging tree limbs or repair guttering that may cause excess water to hit the deck.
Check between boards and next to the house for dirt and be sure to remove it. While you’re friends may not be able to see it when they come over for a deck party, dirt in the cracks soaks up water and promotes rot. A putty knife is a great tool for this simple maintenance step.
While you may be tempted to use a pressure washer on your deck to get off all the grime from the past couple of years, and many other resources will tell you that a pressure cleaning is a good idea, avoid doing this task yourself. One false move and you’ve caused irreparable damage to your deck . Instead, have HA Construction do the big cleaning jobs for you, so that you can be sure your deck will look the way it’s supposed to when finished.
Mopping Up the Mildew
Alright, it’s not as easy as mopping, but a deck that begins to have dark stains or turned a weathered gray may have some mildew you need to tackle. Incidentally, keeping your deck dry as previously explained will help curb this problem, but sometimes mildew is unavoidable. Keep in mind before you proceed that decks built with redwood are often left untreated so that they turn gray, for a desired silvering effect.
Clean sporadic mildew stains with a mixture of soap, water and just a bit of bleach. Make sure that the area you clean is allowed to dry out to avoid reoccurrence. If the whole deck needs a good scrub down, you’re better off purchasing a commercial grade cleaner or a TSP heavy-duty cleanser. Thoroughly read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but it generally means scrubbing the deck with the cleanser and then rinsing it off.
Resealing the Deck
After a thorough cleaning, and allowing for enough time for the deck to dry, sprinkle a few drops of water on the wood. If it beads up, you’re in good shape for another season. However, if the wood soaks up the water, it’s time to restain. HA Construction can give you great recommendations on the right stains for your specific deck.
It’s important to note that you should avoid using paint on your deck if it’s built with treated wood, because the chemicals in the treated wood will cause the paint to peel – it won’t adhere to the wood well at all. Instead, use a stain. If you want the look of paint, then get a solid-body stain. If you prefer to see the wood grain in your deck boards, then a transparent stain is the way to go. Most stains have a built in sealer (just check to make sure).
Keep in mind that it needs to contain oil or paraffin as a means of repelling moisture. If you don’t want your deck to turn gray from the sun, then the stain also needs to contain UV blockers or coloring (pigment). Additionally, if you have bugs around that enjoy wood as their main course, get a stain that contain an insecticide. Most stains last three to five years. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Your beautiful new deck is an essential element to your home’s landscape and curb appeal. Take the time to perform these maintenance tasks regularly, and your deck will be the exclamation point of your home for years to come.
If you’ve yet to have your new deck built, then request one important thing from HA Construction as you make plans for the project. Essential to the longevity of your deck is the use of pressure-treated lumber that has been rated for ground contact. This will be much more resistant to rot over time. Untreated wood can be easier on your budget now, but it will cost you more in maintenance and repairs down the road.
While it may take a couple of years for your new or newly restored deck to start showing signs of use and the effects of weather, you’ll want to start on maintenance now. Making a habit of these routine steps will most certainly give your deck a long life.
Keep it Clean and Dry
While a bit of rain here and there won’t hurt your deck, you need to make sure that it dries sufficiently after the clouds part. Use a rubber broom (a large squeegee) to remove the water from your deck and clean off debris. Look around the area of your deck and remove any overhanging tree limbs or repair guttering that may cause excess water to hit the deck.
Check between boards and next to the house for dirt and be sure to remove it. While you’re friends may not be able to see it when they come over for a deck party, dirt in the cracks soaks up water and promotes rot. A putty knife is a great tool for this simple maintenance step.
While you may be tempted to use a pressure washer on your deck to get off all the grime from the past couple of years, and many other resources will tell you that a pressure cleaning is a good idea, avoid doing this task yourself. One false move and you’ve caused irreparable damage to your deck . Instead, have HA Construction do the big cleaning jobs for you, so that you can be sure your deck will look the way it’s supposed to when finished.
Mopping Up the Mildew
Alright, it’s not as easy as mopping, but a deck that begins to have dark stains or turned a weathered gray may have some mildew you need to tackle. Incidentally, keeping your deck dry as previously explained will help curb this problem, but sometimes mildew is unavoidable. Keep in mind before you proceed that decks built with redwood are often left untreated so that they turn gray, for a desired silvering effect.
Clean sporadic mildew stains with a mixture of soap, water and just a bit of bleach. Make sure that the area you clean is allowed to dry out to avoid reoccurrence. If the whole deck needs a good scrub down, you’re better off purchasing a commercial grade cleaner or a TSP heavy-duty cleanser. Thoroughly read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but it generally means scrubbing the deck with the cleanser and then rinsing it off.
Resealing the Deck
After a thorough cleaning, and allowing for enough time for the deck to dry, sprinkle a few drops of water on the wood. If it beads up, you’re in good shape for another season. However, if the wood soaks up the water, it’s time to restain. HA Construction can give you great recommendations on the right stains for your specific deck.
It’s important to note that you should avoid using paint on your deck if it’s built with treated wood, because the chemicals in the treated wood will cause the paint to peel – it won’t adhere to the wood well at all. Instead, use a stain. If you want the look of paint, then get a solid-body stain. If you prefer to see the wood grain in your deck boards, then a transparent stain is the way to go. Most stains have a built in sealer (just check to make sure).
Keep in mind that it needs to contain oil or paraffin as a means of repelling moisture. If you don’t want your deck to turn gray from the sun, then the stain also needs to contain UV blockers or coloring (pigment). Additionally, if you have bugs around that enjoy wood as their main course, get a stain that contain an insecticide. Most stains last three to five years. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Your beautiful new deck is an essential element to your home’s landscape and curb appeal. Take the time to perform these maintenance tasks regularly, and your deck will be the exclamation point of your home for years to come.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
The New Year,
Here at H A construction we are excited about the construction projects for 2011. like every year we will be building; room additions, detached garages, decks, lake house additions, as well as remodeling; kitchens, bathrooms, whole house remodeling, and office.
We are especially excited to be kicking off the year constructing a sports clips hair salon in springfield Mo. we do all the steel framework, sheetrock, millwork trim and finish. although we do enjoy the creative design work on a tipical commercial project, this particular construction project will be following a design that is particular to the franchise floorplan requirments.
We are especially excited to be kicking off the year constructing a sports clips hair salon in springfield Mo. we do all the steel framework, sheetrock, millwork trim and finish. although we do enjoy the creative design work on a tipical commercial project, this particular construction project will be following a design that is particular to the franchise floorplan requirments.
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