On December 4th, 2009, President & CEO of 3 Pillar Homes, Zenios Michael Zenios, was named the new President of the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
New President of the Building Industry Assocation of Central Ohio
On December 4th, 2009, President & CEO of 3 Pillar Homes, Zenios Michael Zenios, was named the new President of the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Adding Style through Hardscape Options
It wasn't long ago that the most you could expect for your new house was a white slab of concrete approaching your garage and your front door. Maybe another slab on the other side as a small patio. That was the only option offered by most new home builders.
Thankfully, those days are past. Now the best builders recognize that such "hardscape" areas are essential to the curb appeal of their new homes. What was formerly a neutral -- or detrimental -- feature now delivers distinctive style and a boost to the overall value of the house.
Builders and homebuyers have several options available to vary their hardscape areas and bring a little zing to this neglected element of a home's style. Here are a few to consider:
Stamped concrete. Just as it sounds, the masonry or concrete contractor places textured panels of various sizes over an area of newly poured concrete and applies a slight bit of pressure to make an impression. Once the concrete sets, the panels are removed to reveal a permanent pattern.
Stamped concrete is an excellent and cost-effective way to add the three-dimensional look of a custom-etched or troweled concrete surface, hand-laid bricks or stone pavers. Several patterns, from uniform bricks to more abstract textures, enable builders and homebuyers to satisfy their personal tastes and to compliment the style of the new home. Stamped concrete can be used to highlight the walkway to the front door or create a consistent, dimensional look for all of the home's hardscape areas.
Colored concrete. When colored concrete is desired, a pigment is added as the concrete is being mixed (called an "integral" coloring process). This means that the color is mixed through the depth of the hardscape area, not just painted on the surface. Colored concrete is often used to highlight a hardscape feature, such as a walkway. Used in conjunction with stamped concrete technique, the integral coloring process can enhance the authenticity of a pattern, such as red bricks or dark stone pavers.
Aggregate. Another option that adds dimension to a standard concrete surface is exposed aggregate. Small rounded stones are added to the concrete mix. Then the concrete surface is brushed before the concrete sets, exposing the texture and slight color variations of the authentic pebbles. Exposed aggregate can add interest to an otherwise featureless expanse for a relatively low cost.
Bricks and pavers. There's no substitute for the "real thing" if it fits the budget. Laying individual bricks or stones -- available in various sizes, shapes, and colors -- is a labor-intensive (and thus more costly) endeavor. The preparation for a brick or stone path, patio, or driveway is much the same as that for a poured concrete hardscape. However, laying each brick (and sometimes cutting it to fit), maintaining a pattern and straight lines, and securing the pieces in place with either mortar or sand takes much more time and skill.
One practical advantage of this option: replace individual damaged pieces as necessary. For this reason, we recommend ordering about 5% more material than the job requires so that a consistent appearance can be maintained as pieces are replaced over time. Of course, the greatest advantage to hand-laid bricks and pavers is aesthetic. The natural materials show slight undulations and variations in color and texture that are unmistakable.
Thin (or veneer) bricks and stones can help lower the cost of the hand-laid approach, but these are most suitable as accents, such as lining a concrete driveway or walk. They are less suited to high-traffic areas that must carry greater weight.
Used in creative combinations, the options available for hardscapes offer builders and homeowners unlimited ways to achieve unique surfaces. Effective hardscapes will enhance a new home's architectural style, increase its value and bring long-term satisfaction to the owner.
Thankfully, those days are past. Now the best builders recognize that such "hardscape" areas are essential to the curb appeal of their new homes. What was formerly a neutral -- or detrimental -- feature now delivers distinctive style and a boost to the overall value of the house.
Builders and homebuyers have several options available to vary their hardscape areas and bring a little zing to this neglected element of a home's style. Here are a few to consider:
Stamped concrete. Just as it sounds, the masonry or concrete contractor places textured panels of various sizes over an area of newly poured concrete and applies a slight bit of pressure to make an impression. Once the concrete sets, the panels are removed to reveal a permanent pattern.
Stamped concrete is an excellent and cost-effective way to add the three-dimensional look of a custom-etched or troweled concrete surface, hand-laid bricks or stone pavers. Several patterns, from uniform bricks to more abstract textures, enable builders and homebuyers to satisfy their personal tastes and to compliment the style of the new home. Stamped concrete can be used to highlight the walkway to the front door or create a consistent, dimensional look for all of the home's hardscape areas.
Colored concrete. When colored concrete is desired, a pigment is added as the concrete is being mixed (called an "integral" coloring process). This means that the color is mixed through the depth of the hardscape area, not just painted on the surface. Colored concrete is often used to highlight a hardscape feature, such as a walkway. Used in conjunction with stamped concrete technique, the integral coloring process can enhance the authenticity of a pattern, such as red bricks or dark stone pavers.
Aggregate. Another option that adds dimension to a standard concrete surface is exposed aggregate. Small rounded stones are added to the concrete mix. Then the concrete surface is brushed before the concrete sets, exposing the texture and slight color variations of the authentic pebbles. Exposed aggregate can add interest to an otherwise featureless expanse for a relatively low cost.
Bricks and pavers. There's no substitute for the "real thing" if it fits the budget. Laying individual bricks or stones -- available in various sizes, shapes, and colors -- is a labor-intensive (and thus more costly) endeavor. The preparation for a brick or stone path, patio, or driveway is much the same as that for a poured concrete hardscape. However, laying each brick (and sometimes cutting it to fit), maintaining a pattern and straight lines, and securing the pieces in place with either mortar or sand takes much more time and skill.
One practical advantage of this option: replace individual damaged pieces as necessary. For this reason, we recommend ordering about 5% more material than the job requires so that a consistent appearance can be maintained as pieces are replaced over time. Of course, the greatest advantage to hand-laid bricks and pavers is aesthetic. The natural materials show slight undulations and variations in color and texture that are unmistakable.
Thin (or veneer) bricks and stones can help lower the cost of the hand-laid approach, but these are most suitable as accents, such as lining a concrete driveway or walk. They are less suited to high-traffic areas that must carry greater weight.
Used in creative combinations, the options available for hardscapes offer builders and homeowners unlimited ways to achieve unique surfaces. Effective hardscapes will enhance a new home's architectural style, increase its value and bring long-term satisfaction to the owner.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Media Room
The concept of a "media room," as a space specifically devoted to home theater and audio systems, is more popular than ever. New home designers and builders, responding to the demand of their buyers, have incorporated media rooms into the floor plans of many new homes, all along the price spectrum. Such rooms are designed for comfortable television and movie viewing and are acoustically separated from the rest of the house.
Now, professional homebuilders and their design teams are responding to the evolution of media technology with new "media room" features. These new, sophisticated spaces can incorporate multiple, flat-panel plasma or LCD displays for watching broadcast television, surfing the Internet, and playing video games. Also included -- by client demand -- are surround-sound audio, multi-port outlets and docks. These enable a wide range of consumer electronics, multipurpose furnishings and built-ins that suit both card and electronic game players.
Yes, the media room has become the game room, again driven by homebuyer demand and a host of new (mostly electronic) toys. Builders are educating their buyers about the lifestyle advantages of including such a project and the value it adds to their property.
Consider some of the special features that a true Game Room encompasses, all of which are easily accommodated in a new construction project:
Acoustics. Sound transmission in or out of a game room can be disruptive. Builders incorporate products that block or deaden sound through the walls, floors, and ceilings. Special membranes and laminated drywall and plywood panels meet the need without adding a lot of extra cost, rendering the Game Room almost a separate acoustical zone within the house.
Light and shading. Everyone enjoys natural light ... except when there's a movie playing. Windows are a prime consideration that maintain flexible use of the room when the house is sold. The home's exterior appearance must be considered, as well. To create the optimal movie-watching experience, builders turn to motorized screens and draperies that smoothly draw across the windows. Controlled by remote devices or wall-mounted panels, such screens retract into the wall when not in use or disappear into a subtle housing to retain the room's overall aesthetic design.
Multiple displays. One screen may not be enough in the modern Game Room. Though builders usually leave the purchase of consumer electronics up to the homebuyers after the house is finished, high-tech game rooms must be designed and wired to accommodate several displays and multiple signals. These may include satellite, wireless and wired Internet, cable, personal computers, and (don't forget!) electricity.
Seating, storage, and snacks. Like its media room predecessor, the new Game Room is a gathering place for family and guests, often engaged in multiple activities at the same time. Space for several zones of comfortable seating is very popular, as is built-in cabinet storage for all of the game players, audio and video equipment, and other components. Small kitchen setups, complete with sink, under-counter appliances, and counter work space, provide family and guests with additional convenience in this self-contained haven.
Media rooms are among the new wave of distinct, specialized areas within today's new homes. The "Game Room" reflects the development of high-tech consumer electronics and the consumers' desire to maximize enjoyment of these new toys. As a Professional homebuilder, we are equipped to suggest ways to create space for a Game Room and to deliver an amenity that satisfies every goal.
Now, professional homebuilders and their design teams are responding to the evolution of media technology with new "media room" features. These new, sophisticated spaces can incorporate multiple, flat-panel plasma or LCD displays for watching broadcast television, surfing the Internet, and playing video games. Also included -- by client demand -- are surround-sound audio, multi-port outlets and docks. These enable a wide range of consumer electronics, multipurpose furnishings and built-ins that suit both card and electronic game players.
Yes, the media room has become the game room, again driven by homebuyer demand and a host of new (mostly electronic) toys. Builders are educating their buyers about the lifestyle advantages of including such a project and the value it adds to their property.
Consider some of the special features that a true Game Room encompasses, all of which are easily accommodated in a new construction project:
Acoustics. Sound transmission in or out of a game room can be disruptive. Builders incorporate products that block or deaden sound through the walls, floors, and ceilings. Special membranes and laminated drywall and plywood panels meet the need without adding a lot of extra cost, rendering the Game Room almost a separate acoustical zone within the house.
Light and shading. Everyone enjoys natural light ... except when there's a movie playing. Windows are a prime consideration that maintain flexible use of the room when the house is sold. The home's exterior appearance must be considered, as well. To create the optimal movie-watching experience, builders turn to motorized screens and draperies that smoothly draw across the windows. Controlled by remote devices or wall-mounted panels, such screens retract into the wall when not in use or disappear into a subtle housing to retain the room's overall aesthetic design.
Multiple displays. One screen may not be enough in the modern Game Room. Though builders usually leave the purchase of consumer electronics up to the homebuyers after the house is finished, high-tech game rooms must be designed and wired to accommodate several displays and multiple signals. These may include satellite, wireless and wired Internet, cable, personal computers, and (don't forget!) electricity.
Seating, storage, and snacks. Like its media room predecessor, the new Game Room is a gathering place for family and guests, often engaged in multiple activities at the same time. Space for several zones of comfortable seating is very popular, as is built-in cabinet storage for all of the game players, audio and video equipment, and other components. Small kitchen setups, complete with sink, under-counter appliances, and counter work space, provide family and guests with additional convenience in this self-contained haven.
Media rooms are among the new wave of distinct, specialized areas within today's new homes. The "Game Room" reflects the development of high-tech consumer electronics and the consumers' desire to maximize enjoyment of these new toys. As a Professional homebuilder, we are equipped to suggest ways to create space for a Game Room and to deliver an amenity that satisfies every goal.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Maintenance for Major Appliances
Major kitchen and laundry appliances are among the most reliable products in a new home. As professional builders, we select appliances to provide the best balance of performance, energy efficiency and budget to ensure the maximum satisfaction for our new home buyers.
But the performance and durability of these items doesn't happen by accident. It's true that appliances are built better these days but they are also more complex. Periodic care and maintenance by homeowners is essential to keep them in optimum working order. Lack of cleaning or care can force an appliance to work harder than it needs to, straining its motor and other moving parts and, in turn, shortening its usable life. Major repairs and replacement costs can be expensive so routine preventive maintenance is worth a small effort.
Appliance manufacturers do a good job of providing maintenance tips for homeowners, as do warranty service providers for each appliance or brand. We make sure to supply those manuals to our buyers when they move in to a new house and add our recommendation that they follow the tips provided.
Even so, here are a few basic appliance care tips that have a positive impact on the durability and performance of these products:
Dishwasher. Give dishes at least a light scrub and rinse before loading them. That eases the strain on the dishwasher's built-in system that breaks down and disposes of food particles. Dishwashers also benefit from a routine interior wash with special scale-reducing solutions to help keep the parts working properly. The dishwasher drain should be cleaned out at least twice a year.
From time to time, inspect the door seal and keep it clean. Soil, food and soap build-up on the seal can cause deterioration or mold. Replace a loose or broken seal to avoid leaks.
Refrigerator and Freezer. At least twice a year, vacuum the front grill and the radiator coil on back of the refrigerator and freezer (if you have two separate or multiple units), to help ensure proper air circulation and optimum efficiency. Don't forget to empty and clean the drip trays located underneath the appliance.
As with the dishwasher, inspect and clean the perimeter door seal and replace any loose or moldy seals. Good seals help the appliance maintain the temperature settings with less stress to the motor.
Defrost and clean the freezer regularly, as ice build-up will block proper airflow and lower the appliance's efficiency. To maintain an even energy use and extend motor life, keep temperatures constant and within the recommended range.
A stand-alone freezer, that might be put in a garage or on a covered porch, should be located away from direct sunlight or heat sources so that the appliance does not work harder or less efficiently than it has to. Ideally, find a cool, level and dry spot with adequate clearance at the back for good air circulation.
Laundry Equipment. Today's increasingly popular (and more energy-efficient) front-load washers require more care than their predecessors to prevent the build-up of mold, which can cause myriad problems. To reduce that possibility, leave the door open once all of the laundry is done and wipe down the rubber gasket.
Manufacturers note that we consumers have a tendency to overload both washers and dryers. Each brand of appliance has its practical capacity, but overloading puts a strain on the belt that turns the drum. The extra strain can accelerate wear and lead to repair or replacement costs. Overloading also leads to higher energy consumption and less effective cleaning.
To maintain the dryer, disconnect the dryer duct and vacuum the duct, the areas surrounding the dryer and the dryer's vent hood outside the house. Restricted air flow can tax the motor. If the lint filter and the areas around it are clean, the dryer will operate more efficiently and safely.
Our best advice? Review the manuals for your major appliances. But if you don't know where they are or if you're short of time right now, don't wait: Follow these few maintenance tips for a longer and happier life with your appliances!
But the performance and durability of these items doesn't happen by accident. It's true that appliances are built better these days but they are also more complex. Periodic care and maintenance by homeowners is essential to keep them in optimum working order. Lack of cleaning or care can force an appliance to work harder than it needs to, straining its motor and other moving parts and, in turn, shortening its usable life. Major repairs and replacement costs can be expensive so routine preventive maintenance is worth a small effort.
Appliance manufacturers do a good job of providing maintenance tips for homeowners, as do warranty service providers for each appliance or brand. We make sure to supply those manuals to our buyers when they move in to a new house and add our recommendation that they follow the tips provided.
Even so, here are a few basic appliance care tips that have a positive impact on the durability and performance of these products:
Dishwasher. Give dishes at least a light scrub and rinse before loading them. That eases the strain on the dishwasher's built-in system that breaks down and disposes of food particles. Dishwashers also benefit from a routine interior wash with special scale-reducing solutions to help keep the parts working properly. The dishwasher drain should be cleaned out at least twice a year.
From time to time, inspect the door seal and keep it clean. Soil, food and soap build-up on the seal can cause deterioration or mold. Replace a loose or broken seal to avoid leaks.
Refrigerator and Freezer. At least twice a year, vacuum the front grill and the radiator coil on back of the refrigerator and freezer (if you have two separate or multiple units), to help ensure proper air circulation and optimum efficiency. Don't forget to empty and clean the drip trays located underneath the appliance.
As with the dishwasher, inspect and clean the perimeter door seal and replace any loose or moldy seals. Good seals help the appliance maintain the temperature settings with less stress to the motor.
Defrost and clean the freezer regularly, as ice build-up will block proper airflow and lower the appliance's efficiency. To maintain an even energy use and extend motor life, keep temperatures constant and within the recommended range.
A stand-alone freezer, that might be put in a garage or on a covered porch, should be located away from direct sunlight or heat sources so that the appliance does not work harder or less efficiently than it has to. Ideally, find a cool, level and dry spot with adequate clearance at the back for good air circulation.
Laundry Equipment. Today's increasingly popular (and more energy-efficient) front-load washers require more care than their predecessors to prevent the build-up of mold, which can cause myriad problems. To reduce that possibility, leave the door open once all of the laundry is done and wipe down the rubber gasket.
Manufacturers note that we consumers have a tendency to overload both washers and dryers. Each brand of appliance has its practical capacity, but overloading puts a strain on the belt that turns the drum. The extra strain can accelerate wear and lead to repair or replacement costs. Overloading also leads to higher energy consumption and less effective cleaning.
To maintain the dryer, disconnect the dryer duct and vacuum the duct, the areas surrounding the dryer and the dryer's vent hood outside the house. Restricted air flow can tax the motor. If the lint filter and the areas around it are clean, the dryer will operate more efficiently and safely.
Our best advice? Review the manuals for your major appliances. But if you don't know where they are or if you're short of time right now, don't wait: Follow these few maintenance tips for a longer and happier life with your appliances!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Treating Guests Like Royalty
We see it every day...
No sooner does a client take ownership of their new home, their out-of-town friends and relatives are anxious to visit and share in their excitement and pride. In today's higher-end homes, these guests may also be pleasantly surprised by their accommodations. Guest rooms are no longer limited to a den with a sleeper-sofa, a spare kids room upstairs, or a nearly finished attic or basement.
The boom of bounce-back children, in-laws, and out-of-town guests has created a generation of visitors who are more likely to stay longer and require ample space in the home for a comfortable visit. As a result, guest suites - complete with a full bath and other amenities - are moving into the mainstream of new-home design. In these homes, guests receive the royal treatment.
The latest (and greatest) version of the guest bedroom is a private suite. Luxury suites can come complete with a separate bathroom, away from the family's bedrooms and in close proximity to public spaces, such as the kitchen. Many are accessed by a vestibule or short hallway to create privacy. Private courtyards or balconies, or at least exclusive access to a pool or outdoor eating area, are fast becoming expected (and appreciated) features, as well.
In addition, the guest suite may also have its own heating and cooling system, or at least a branch of the home's main system controlled by guests on a separate thermostat. This provides maximum personal comfort without affecting the rest of the house.
In some cases, guest suites offer separate, private entrances. For guests or an adult-child living at home, a separate entry allows them to come and go without disturbing the rest of the family in the main living areas. Concealed from view and located on a side or rear elevation to maintain security, private entrances are a convenient perk for guests, live-in caretakers, or family members occupying the suite.
Today's guest suites can be designed to rival the master suite in luxurious finishes, if not in square footage. For many of our clients, a regular, year-round flow of short-term guests is commonplace. Homebuyers in need of dedicated guest quarters appreciate the accommodation of space, comfort, and privacy afforded by guest suites in today's upscale new homes.
No sooner does a client take ownership of their new home, their out-of-town friends and relatives are anxious to visit and share in their excitement and pride. In today's higher-end homes, these guests may also be pleasantly surprised by their accommodations. Guest rooms are no longer limited to a den with a sleeper-sofa, a spare kids room upstairs, or a nearly finished attic or basement.
The boom of bounce-back children, in-laws, and out-of-town guests has created a generation of visitors who are more likely to stay longer and require ample space in the home for a comfortable visit. As a result, guest suites - complete with a full bath and other amenities - are moving into the mainstream of new-home design. In these homes, guests receive the royal treatment.
The latest (and greatest) version of the guest bedroom is a private suite. Luxury suites can come complete with a separate bathroom, away from the family's bedrooms and in close proximity to public spaces, such as the kitchen. Many are accessed by a vestibule or short hallway to create privacy. Private courtyards or balconies, or at least exclusive access to a pool or outdoor eating area, are fast becoming expected (and appreciated) features, as well.
In addition, the guest suite may also have its own heating and cooling system, or at least a branch of the home's main system controlled by guests on a separate thermostat. This provides maximum personal comfort without affecting the rest of the house.
In some cases, guest suites offer separate, private entrances. For guests or an adult-child living at home, a separate entry allows them to come and go without disturbing the rest of the family in the main living areas. Concealed from view and located on a side or rear elevation to maintain security, private entrances are a convenient perk for guests, live-in caretakers, or family members occupying the suite.
Today's guest suites can be designed to rival the master suite in luxurious finishes, if not in square footage. For many of our clients, a regular, year-round flow of short-term guests is commonplace. Homebuyers in need of dedicated guest quarters appreciate the accommodation of space, comfort, and privacy afforded by guest suites in today's upscale new homes.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Roofing and Gutters
While not among our homeowners' favorite weekend chores, periodic roof and gutter system maintenance is essential. As professional builders, we strive to select and install products on our homes that will last and perform for many years. To protect both the roof and our owners' investment in them, we encourage our customers to include roofing and gutter care on their annual home maintenance calendar.
Roofs: Think about it. A roof takes more abuse from the weather than any other part of a house. It is the area that is the most vulnerable to potential damage. Twice a year, ideally in the early spring and late fall, we recommend that homeowners hire out or personally conduct a thorough inspection of the roof: Gently walk or visually inspect the entire roof, looking for damaged material or areas where the roof structure (usually covered with a black tar paper) is exposed. Then replace (or have a professional replace) any damaged or exposed areas with new material.
In addition, it is important to clear off any debris, as it can hold water and hasten deterioration. Trim back overhanging tree branches so that they don't scratch and damage the roofing material or drop their leaves or needles directly onto the roof and into the gutters.
Removing overhanging branches will make debris clean-up easier and safer.
Proper roof maintenance should include checking the condition of any exposed metal sections. Typically, exposed, galvanized sheet metal is found around vent and chimney penetrations through the roof. It is also located along the roof's valleys, where two roof sections meet to form a V-shaped gutter to shed water. Make sure the sheet metal sections are tightly fastened, show no rust, and are free of damage that might cause water to seep in underneath them.
A roof checklist should include inspection of the mortar around the chimney and/or parapet walls. Have the mortar repaired right away if it shows wear, such as cracking, flaking, or gaps.
Lastly, make sure that the attic space or framed roof structure is adequately vented so that air can circulate and moisture is kept in check.
Gutters: Not every house has a gutter system, but for the majority that do, gutters are a critical element of overall roof "health," performance, and durability. We recommend troubleshooting the gutters, downspouts, and splash blocks at the same time as a roof inspection to make sure that everything is working as designed.
The critical chore is clearing the gutters of debris. From leaves and twigs to rocks and sludge, debris not only clogs the system but can also cause damage or loosen gutter supports. At the same time, identify and repair any gaps in the gutters or downspouts and make sure their supports hold these components tight to the structure.
Clearing debris and repairing gaps will ensure that water and light debris are carried to the downspouts and completely flushed out. To make sure that's happening, hose down and flush the inside of the gutters once they're clean, gap-free, and properly supported. Clearing the gutters can be hazardous to the owner and the roof. Consider hiring a professional. Whenever possible, use a ladder (safely!) to clean out the gutters instead of walking on the roof, which can damage that surface.
Lastly, make sure water exits the downspouts away from the foundation to avoid water pressure on the home's structure. Extend the downspouts, if necessary, and consider installing splash blocks at the end of each downspout to divert and dissipate water instead of allowing it to pool.
Whether the task is performed by the homeowner or by a hired professional, regular roof inspection is essential to the preservation of the home's integrity.
Roofs: Think about it. A roof takes more abuse from the weather than any other part of a house. It is the area that is the most vulnerable to potential damage. Twice a year, ideally in the early spring and late fall, we recommend that homeowners hire out or personally conduct a thorough inspection of the roof: Gently walk or visually inspect the entire roof, looking for damaged material or areas where the roof structure (usually covered with a black tar paper) is exposed. Then replace (or have a professional replace) any damaged or exposed areas with new material.
In addition, it is important to clear off any debris, as it can hold water and hasten deterioration. Trim back overhanging tree branches so that they don't scratch and damage the roofing material or drop their leaves or needles directly onto the roof and into the gutters.
Removing overhanging branches will make debris clean-up easier and safer.
Proper roof maintenance should include checking the condition of any exposed metal sections. Typically, exposed, galvanized sheet metal is found around vent and chimney penetrations through the roof. It is also located along the roof's valleys, where two roof sections meet to form a V-shaped gutter to shed water. Make sure the sheet metal sections are tightly fastened, show no rust, and are free of damage that might cause water to seep in underneath them.
A roof checklist should include inspection of the mortar around the chimney and/or parapet walls. Have the mortar repaired right away if it shows wear, such as cracking, flaking, or gaps.
Lastly, make sure that the attic space or framed roof structure is adequately vented so that air can circulate and moisture is kept in check.
Gutters: Not every house has a gutter system, but for the majority that do, gutters are a critical element of overall roof "health," performance, and durability. We recommend troubleshooting the gutters, downspouts, and splash blocks at the same time as a roof inspection to make sure that everything is working as designed.
The critical chore is clearing the gutters of debris. From leaves and twigs to rocks and sludge, debris not only clogs the system but can also cause damage or loosen gutter supports. At the same time, identify and repair any gaps in the gutters or downspouts and make sure their supports hold these components tight to the structure.
Clearing debris and repairing gaps will ensure that water and light debris are carried to the downspouts and completely flushed out. To make sure that's happening, hose down and flush the inside of the gutters once they're clean, gap-free, and properly supported. Clearing the gutters can be hazardous to the owner and the roof. Consider hiring a professional. Whenever possible, use a ladder (safely!) to clean out the gutters instead of walking on the roof, which can damage that surface.
Lastly, make sure water exits the downspouts away from the foundation to avoid water pressure on the home's structure. Extend the downspouts, if necessary, and consider installing splash blocks at the end of each downspout to divert and dissipate water instead of allowing it to pool.
Whether the task is performed by the homeowner or by a hired professional, regular roof inspection is essential to the preservation of the home's integrity.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Backyard as Destination Resort
Most of us have fond memories of family barbecues in the back yard or running through the sprinklers. Only the clairvoyant among us could have imagined the new 'back yards': the highly appointed outdoor spaces that are becoming increasingly popular in today's new homes.
Long gone are the days of the patio slab, rectangular swimming pool, and rolling kettle grill. Current outdoor living features and materials are just as stylish and creative as the homes they serve, providing multifunctional destinations for owners and guests.
Professional designs ensure a smooth transition to and from the indoors, provide artful square footage, and the proper utility connections for all of the desired features. Careful planning can even accommodate year-round enjoyment through creative options for shade, sun, and other weather conditions.
One of the primary requests for outdoor space is a fully functional kitchen. A built-in, gas-powered barbecue grill, complete with warming drawers, heating elements and plenty of grilling surface, is essential equipment for today's outdoor chef.
Because an outdoor kitchen is often designed within a covered patio or veranda, grills are usually supplemented with a ventilation system to exhaust smoke and odors. Other conveniences include a sink and faucet, an under-counter refrigerator/ice maker, and a row of base cabinets topped by a weather-tough countertop.
An outdoor kitchen logically demands an outdoor eating area. Weather-resistant furnishings and upholstery are available in an increasingly wide range of styles to suit any taste and need, from formal dining tables to casual, plushy seating options. Outdoor rooms might also include a bar island between the cooking and eating areas. Such islands double as serving areas for casual meals.
Another popular feature of outdoor rooms is a fireplace-television combination. Modern gas-powered fireplaces are designed to simulate authentic wood-burning units, but with better energy use, heat distribution, and ventilation. Such chimneys can accommodate a niche for a flat-screen television, easily supplemented by small, outdoor-rated speakers for surround-sound. What used to be a plain patio has now become an enviable destination for family and guests.
To make the space accessible to the indoors and to merge indoor and outdoor entertainment space, many designs feature all-glass folding or pocket doors that create wide-open passages. When designed with the home's micro-climate in mind, these doors may also help to cool the house with natural breezes. Ceiling fans keep the air moving through the outdoor room, while outdoor-rated lights in the ceiling and on the walls allow its use after dark.
To keep less-desirable weather out of both the house and the covered outdoor space, motorized roll-down screens -- ideally concealed in the structure -- keep pests, winds, rain, and other debris out. Such screens come in a variety of weights and are easily controlled by a remote device or wall switch.
The living space extends beyond the covered area, of course. Patios can be equipped with interlocking pavers, flagstones, or stamped or colored concrete to add dimension and interest. The open-air space might be a deck, increasingly finished with weather-resistant engineered planks that require little maintenance, maintain their color and structural integrity, and are eco-friendly. To complete the look, consider adding comfortable built-in seating and a freestanding fire pit.
Finally, modern pools and spas, are becoming works of art, incorporating fountains and waterfalls, rock formations, frameless edges, and other landscaping features.
Combined, a covered outdoor room, open deck or patio, and pool/spa feature create a value-added feature for any new home. By extending the living space with year-round options to enjoy it, the modern back yard provides years of enjoyment and boosts property value for any homeowner.
The old backyard has become a destination resort.
Long gone are the days of the patio slab, rectangular swimming pool, and rolling kettle grill. Current outdoor living features and materials are just as stylish and creative as the homes they serve, providing multifunctional destinations for owners and guests.
Professional designs ensure a smooth transition to and from the indoors, provide artful square footage, and the proper utility connections for all of the desired features. Careful planning can even accommodate year-round enjoyment through creative options for shade, sun, and other weather conditions.
One of the primary requests for outdoor space is a fully functional kitchen. A built-in, gas-powered barbecue grill, complete with warming drawers, heating elements and plenty of grilling surface, is essential equipment for today's outdoor chef.
Because an outdoor kitchen is often designed within a covered patio or veranda, grills are usually supplemented with a ventilation system to exhaust smoke and odors. Other conveniences include a sink and faucet, an under-counter refrigerator/ice maker, and a row of base cabinets topped by a weather-tough countertop.
An outdoor kitchen logically demands an outdoor eating area. Weather-resistant furnishings and upholstery are available in an increasingly wide range of styles to suit any taste and need, from formal dining tables to casual, plushy seating options. Outdoor rooms might also include a bar island between the cooking and eating areas. Such islands double as serving areas for casual meals.
Another popular feature of outdoor rooms is a fireplace-television combination. Modern gas-powered fireplaces are designed to simulate authentic wood-burning units, but with better energy use, heat distribution, and ventilation. Such chimneys can accommodate a niche for a flat-screen television, easily supplemented by small, outdoor-rated speakers for surround-sound. What used to be a plain patio has now become an enviable destination for family and guests.
To make the space accessible to the indoors and to merge indoor and outdoor entertainment space, many designs feature all-glass folding or pocket doors that create wide-open passages. When designed with the home's micro-climate in mind, these doors may also help to cool the house with natural breezes. Ceiling fans keep the air moving through the outdoor room, while outdoor-rated lights in the ceiling and on the walls allow its use after dark.
To keep less-desirable weather out of both the house and the covered outdoor space, motorized roll-down screens -- ideally concealed in the structure -- keep pests, winds, rain, and other debris out. Such screens come in a variety of weights and are easily controlled by a remote device or wall switch.
The living space extends beyond the covered area, of course. Patios can be equipped with interlocking pavers, flagstones, or stamped or colored concrete to add dimension and interest. The open-air space might be a deck, increasingly finished with weather-resistant engineered planks that require little maintenance, maintain their color and structural integrity, and are eco-friendly. To complete the look, consider adding comfortable built-in seating and a freestanding fire pit.
Finally, modern pools and spas, are becoming works of art, incorporating fountains and waterfalls, rock formations, frameless edges, and other landscaping features.
Combined, a covered outdoor room, open deck or patio, and pool/spa feature create a value-added feature for any new home. By extending the living space with year-round options to enjoy it, the modern back yard provides years of enjoyment and boosts property value for any homeowner.
The old backyard has become a destination resort.
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