Remodeling and Home Improvements Atlanta: 2010

Sunday, August 15, 2010

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Saturday, July 10, 2010

Shingle Manufacturing Process With GAF-ELK

Shingle Manufacturing Process With GAF-ELK

By Joseph Hamby

The definitions of shingles can be broke down into organic or asphalt definitions. Organic shingles are really asphalt shingles that are made with an organic mat underneath. Organic mats, which are typically made from recycled paper that is formed into rolls of felt mat. Sometimes people make the mistake of thinking that organic shingles are the only type of asphalt shingles, which is not true. There is asphalt in both the organic shingle and the fiberglass shingle. Organic shingles require more asphalt since they rely on the asphalt to make the mat stronger.

Fiberglass mats are used because they have a UL class A fire rating, they provide long-term warranties, which can be anywhere from 20 years to 50 years depending on the warranty. Fiberglass shingles provides long term protection in almost all climates, which makes it the most durable shingle in most homeowner's minds.

GAF-Elk provides total quality through total control of the process by making their own glass fibers, by making their own fiberglass mats for the shingles, then by making and manufacturing their own Micro Weave Core for the fiberglass shingles.

By processing their own asphalt, this makes sure that the shingles meets their high standards. Controlling the granule quality which is produced with the highest quality assurance directed by the GAF Elk team. The granules are diamond cut for added strength and depth. Granule colors are then ceramic ally fired using a unique Color Lock system to lock in shingle color. Finally, by manufacturing their own adhesive self seal, which gives the shingles one of the strongest sealants' around.

GAF/ELK shingles are manufactured with the most innovative technology process available. The fiberglass mats are started out as large rolls of fiberglass, they are coated with asphalt, the asphalt penetrates the mat, the granules are then added, back surfacing is added, and the granules are then embedded into the shingle. Sealant is added along with sealant protector, the shingles are cooked to help with the curing process, and they are then cut to size, and finally cut and shipped to their destination.

To find out more about Asphalt Roofing Shingles please visit the following links: Asphalt Roofing Shingles or Carrollton Roofing Contractor.This article was author and Submitted by Joseph Vann Hamby. All editing and summaries are Authored by Joseph Vann Hamby in a collective effort to encourage publishing of how a shingle is made.

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Sunday, January 24, 2010

Price and Quality

Is the Lowest Bid, The Best Bid
LOW BID HARD TO IGNORE

Building Insights by Allen Gorin
(Excerpt from the Sacramento Bee, November 12, 1994)

Let's try an experiment, you and I. I promise I won't share the results with anyone, and you may learn something important about yourself in the process. Pretend you're doing a family room and half-bath addition to your home, and you're down to choosing between two contractors.

The first contractor appears to be well organized in his initial presentations. He explains what you will be getting in the way of a final product by showing you pictures, diagrams from remodeling magazines, and testimonials from previously well-serviced clients. When you ask him questions, he appears to think through each answer before giving you his opinion. His business manner is, in a word, thorough.

Contractor Number Two, on the other hand, appears more tentative. Sure, he smiles a lot and has a firm handshake, but his proposal is generally vague. You have to draw many specifics out of him, which if you didn't press him for them, wouldn't become clear until much later on in the project. Furthermore, when you ask Contractor Number Two a question, he seems to be scanning you in order to give you what he thinks you'd like to hear as an answer. His business manner, in the lingo of the Old West, is probably "shoot first, ask questions later" (if he even thinks to question).

Based on the profile I've given you to this point, which contractor would you choose for your project? Contractor Number One, you say? I thought so. So would I.

Oh, I neglected to add one tiny bit of information. And in all fairness, I have to share it with you in order to make this experiment as realistic as possible. Contractor Number One's estimate is $41,550: a mainstream price, you quickly determine. For everything. No hidden costs. Cast in concrete. Contractor Number Two's estimate is $32,762.00, about 20% less than the first contractor's proposal. For everything (we assume). No hidden costs (we hope). Cast in concrete (before it's had a chance to harden).

Now which contractor would you choose? I can hear the gears turning between your ears. "Hmmm, that $8,800.00 differential is mighty tempting. Think what I could do with that extra dough. More amenities, ceramic tile instead of a vinyl laminate in the bathroom?" And so on and so on.

But what about our mental reservations about this contractor? "Maybe he had a lot on his mind the day he compiled and presented his proposal, and just made some honest oversights. It can happen to the best of us."

See what is happening here? That $8,800.00 is tempting you to rationalize the contractor's initial behavior, so that you can find some way in your mind's final analysis to get the product you want at the bargain-basement price you desire. Say it isn't so and I will exclude you from the manifold group of homeowners who always fall for the lure of the low bid. What we're faced with here is the widespread tendency to accept the lowest-priced proposal which, to be fair, is not simply endemic to homeowners and the world of home improvement.

In fact, a while back I was one of several guest speakers at a meeting of the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, at which a fellow speaker went so far as to address the matter as a national problem. According to this fellow, an American businessman by the last name of Deming was courted by the nation of Japan sometime shortly after World War II. His reputation was that of a man of vision, one who had consulted for American industrialists and the war ravaged Japanese wanted his guidance in rebuilding their industrial economy. He established a number of principles around which the Land of the Rising Sun should rebuild.

Near the top of the list was the following mandate: to end the practice of awarding business strictly on the basis of price. The Japanese business sector took Deming's advice to heart and quickly changed their collective mindset from one that was price-driven to one that was value-driven. They began shunning the low-bidding contractors and suppliers and opting for those mid-ranged estimates which, while competitive (yet not cheap), offered long-lasting parts and equipment, iron-clad warranties, and great service.

They changed from short-term to long-term thinkers. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Back to our experiment. Based on Deming's principle, let's realistically re-examine our two contractors, and let our analysis be objective and long-term in perspective. The first contractor's proposal, reflecting an accurate grasp of the construction marketplace, was competitively priced and thoroughly thought through. Reality suggests that his work performance would reflect his estimating acumen. Translation: minimal change orders, minimal time delays, no hidden charges, more dependable subcontractors, fewer disputes, probable elimination of lien problems, stronger warranties, and generally a more pleasurable renovation for the homeowner.

The low-bidding contractor, on the other hand, gives the homeowner the chance to win big. But so do the blackjack tables in Vegas. And in both cases, the reality of what usually happens is that you can come out a loser. You could follow the advice of another sage, John Ruskin: "If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run. And if you do that, you will have enough to pay for something better."

Allen Gorin is a consultant and seminar speaker on the subject of remodeling.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Replacement Siding Has the Greatest Return on Investment - Even More Than Replacement Windows

Replacement Siding Has the Greatest Return on Investment - Even More Than Replacement Windows

By Lenny Scarola

DreamHome Remodeling Inc recently concluded a survey of all its past customers on which home improvement project they believe results in the highest return on investment (ROI).

Here are the results, followed by the true findings:

A. Replacement Windows 63.64%

B. Replacement Siding 9.09%

C. Bathroom Remodel 18.18%

D. Adding a Deck or Patio 9.09%

The True Findings

The actual research finds that replacement siding has the greatest return on investment, as high as 102%, as backed by the Qualified Remodelers magazine. This study has been done by many times over by both home remodelers and real estate research groups.

Second, is remodeling your bathroom, then replacing your windows, and lastly, adding a deck or patio. It's important to note, however, that all four home improvement projects do have a great return on investment, some just increase the value more than others.

Why Replacement Siding?

When you think about it, replacement siding covers the most square footage than any of the other projects. When you are changing this much of your house, it only makes sense that it also affects the value of the home the most.

In addition, vinyl replacement siding can radically change the look of a house. It can literally make a 40 year old house look nearly brand new. With today's home buyers making snap judgments based on initial curb appeal, this can really go a long way.

Why so many thought Replacement Windows

Windows received the greatest number of responses most likely because of how much they are in the news. The Federal Energy Tax Credit includes new windows and doors, but leaves out replacement siding (even though replacement siding can also have a dramatic effect on energy savings).

It is often the case, that whatever is in the news the most, is what sticks in people's minds, and will greatly affect their perceptions.

Lenny Scarola is the owner of DreamHome Remodeling of Northern Virginia and Maryland. DreamHome has installed vinyl replacement windows for over 10 years, in over 5,000 customer's homes. Go to Northern Virginia Windows more information on vinyl replacement windows, Gorell Windows, or to receive a free replacement window price quote.

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Tuesday, January 19, 2010

The Green Building Code and me!

By Joseph Hamby

Whatever your opinion is about global warming, you cannot ignore the fact that the cost of energy of every kind has gone up and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. It's also not difficult to understand how these increases filter into every aspect of the home building business and into the costs of living for the homeowner, especially the cost of heating and cooling.

In reality when the entire building process is examined there is no point at which we can afford to not pay attention to methods and practices that save energy. The almost universal terminology for these practices is "going green". As Kermit, the frog, sang: "it's not easy being green."

Last spring, it got a bit easier. The International Code Council has adopted the National Green Building Standard ICC-700. The standard's rating system allows builders, designers and communities to choose the levels of high-performance green buildings that best suit their needs. Key provisions include:

* Land conservation

* Rainwater collection

* Construction of smaller homes to conserve resources

* Energy performance starting at 15 percent above the baseline requirements of the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code

* The use of low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) materials and detached garages or carports to improve indoor environmental quality

Homeowner education on proper maintenance and operation to maintain its green status throughout its life cycle

Training on ICC-700 already is available. Check with the ICC to your local Home Builders Association for more information on scheduled training opportunities.

And just so the rest of the industry won't feel left out. The Code Council is finalizing its Green Building Technologies Certification program for building officials, inspectors, planners, zoning personnel, mayors, city council members, developers and other interested parties. Again check with the ICC for more info.

Also many utilities working with the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency have developed guidelines and green codes. Georgia Power and the Southern Companies have been leaders in this program called Energy Star.

The National Home Builders Association working through state and local chapters have created workshops and encouraged builders to work together to strengthen green practices and codes.

Now it's up to you and me. First as good business people: going green and the green codes will save money and make you money as more and more consumers understand the impact of energy conservation on almost everything. Second as responsible citizens of our planet and guardians of the future for all generations to come. The time to start is today. Doesn't it just make good sense?

To find out more about green building please visit the following links: Building Codes or Atlanta Remodeling Contractor.This article was authored by V.C Fuqua and Submitted by Joseph Vann Hamby. All editing and summaries are Authored by Joseph Vann Hamby in a collective effort to encourage publishing of V.C. Fuqua's brilliant View of Building Codes.

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Sunday, January 17, 2010

Remodeling marketing in a tough economic time

Saturday, January 9, 2010

The Residential Building Code and Me

By V. C. Fuqua

Home Builder, Architect, Inspector, Carpenter, Plumber, Electrician, HVAC Contractor, who ever you are in the business of building residential homes, the Residential Building Code touches your life daily. "Oh, I haven't looked up anything in the Code for years." Well maybe it's time you did!

In some form or other, building codes have been in existence for hundreds of years. They have evolved to protect the safety and well being of people who live in houses, which includes almost everybody. The Code is the first line of defense to prevent and stop property damage, injury, and death from fire, weather related occurrences, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods. earthquakes, and more recently from man made materials that when misused can present a danger to health and well being. As everyone recognizes, in the modern world things are forever changing. So, on a national, state and local jurisdictional level the Code is updated regularly. So not keeping up with what's in the Code cannot be considered the path of a wise man or woman who builds houses

And it can cost you! The money lost due to inspection failures adds up to millions and millions of dollars in the USA, even in these lean times, when nobody can afford it, as if we ever could. Add in the loss of time, the frustration, and the hidden costs like that interest on the construction loan for a house still on the market because you can't go to closing until all the permits and inspections are passed and we're talking real pain. And another good reason to keep up on the Codes.

The case can even be made that even do-it-yourselfers should check out the Code for major projects around the home. It's not unusual with the increasing sophistication of building suppliers and the easy access of "how to" information for the average "joe" to add a deck, an extra room, or make a reasonably significant addition or change to their residence.

Americans are a confident people, which is a good thing. It makes us move forward in a very positive way. But the over confidence that can lead us to neglect available information, even the law; (the Residential Building Code is the law of the land when it comes to building homes) should be a concern of their pocketbooks and their conscience.

For more information on Residential Building Codes please visit http://www.codecoachresidential.com.

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Flooring Ideas For the Perfect Kitchen Design

It is shrewd to use your time when deciding kitchen flooring, of course it can be exciting moving off to the DIY shops after you have studied some interior planning publications but don't procure purely on looks only. Make sure that you look about initially and obtain a few favourites in mind before you journey over to the floor covering stockroom to pay money for the merchandise.

We do the majority of our action in the kitchen while we are upright so it is clever to shop for flooring that is unproblematic on the legs. It may sound ridiculous, but while you are in the warehouse try taking off your shoes and test out the flooring in your socks or undressed feet. Do the soles of your legs find the flooring you are trying to be pleasant and snug or too unyielding to march on?

Put your shoes back on and move out for a pace and investigate how the floor sounds on the sound level. The majority of new kitchens are seen to be right next to the living room. If other individuals are playing video games or looking at the TV, they may well be bothered.

Make certain that you also pick floor covering that should last the test of time, with kitchen rooms being one of the more eventful rooms in the house it is clever to get something hard wearing. With the kids and the animals it doesn't take long to erode the floor down, not to point out all the food and spills. Strength is crucial in today's kitchens for big families and simplicity of preservation could be taken into significance too.

For a properly insulated selection you ought to take a view to acquiring a wood floor, not only does this kind of floor keep the temperature in but it is also quite quiet to move on too. The sort of wood you make use of for your floor covering does possess an effect on the safeguarding and durability of the floor so be aware. One of the doubts with wood is that it possibly will be spoiled, but wood floors can constantly be sanded and refinished.

For homeowners who desire extremely durable flooring and one that needs little looking after, laminate is a wonderful option. Even if you already have your floor covered, you can easily put laminate floor types on top making it effortless to install too. Although laminate has its advantages, it lacks the warmth and quality classically connected with untreated timber and several may perhaps find it loud.

Ceramic clay tile allows for a wonderful deal of customization in terms of colours and displays. However grout is able to be a bit of a pest when attempting to polish these tiles although not including grout, they are painless to maintain. Also ceramic tiling can be a little solid on the legs so if you suffer from some leg or feet issues you might want to steer clear of this option. Using ceramic tiling can furthermore be a little chilly especially in the winter months so make sure you have on a few thick socks while running on it.

If money is an issue then catch a browse at a number of the reasonable vinyl and peel & stick tiles accessible out there. With an innumerable quantity of customisation possibilities, vinyl is also pretty effortless to settle down in your kitchen floor as well. One of the negatives to vinyl floors is that the sides are able to curl and peel.

For the power aware linoleum may well be the right floor cover for you. Made from linseed oil, cork powder, timber flour, tree resins, pounded sandstone and pigments; this kitchen flooring is environmentally friendly. Linoleum is not the lone ecologically aware option out there, there are numerous with their particular positives and negatives. The key is to work with your individual kitchen floor cover ideas and in the lengthy run your floor will indicate your taste and suit with your standard of living.

What Should You Do Next?

If you think you could do with some help from a professional then why not try out Mayfield Interiors? They are an Edinburgh kitchen design company and have many years experience. If you are looking for more info on other aspects of your house then they can also help with painting and decorating too!

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Friday, January 8, 2010

Best Roofing Shingles You Can Put on Your Home

Best Roofing Shingles You Can Put on Your Home

By Lawrence Cunningham

Choosing the best roofing shingles for your home is important. Not only do they add to the beauty of the place, but they can also protect it against sun damage and other damage from the weather. Different materials can provide different protection, and for the best protection that is also the cheapest, you should choose asphalt ones.

Asphalt shingles are the most common type and offer the best cost per year yield to having them on your home. This also allows for a double layer of protection to be laid on your roof, which allows them to have a longevity and durable wind resistance.

Strip shingles are the most common type, and these are laid out with a tab system. The tabs are what make the roof appear to be shingled, and these are what are seen as the roof itself. They are made to fit together to minimize misplacing the seams which in turn allows the roof to let less water to the frame, and causes less damage over all.

You also can have a laminated, or architectural, type of these shingles. These asphalt shingles are made up of more then one layer to the asphalt matting, and it allows it to appear multidimensional. Currently, these are the shingles of choice for homeowners, since they look good, closely resembling slate, and are very durable. Many of thee types have a warranty of 30 years to lifetime, and can handle winds of up to 100 MPH.

Research the different brands that make these shingles. Not everyone reports having the same success with different makers, and by arming your self with these reviews you can make an educated choice. You will be able to see how they deal with warranty problems and which of them perform best in your area.

Always find a contractor in good standing whose reputation is very good if you choose not to install this yourself. Asphalt makes the best roofing shingles and should be researched to ensure you have a roof that will last for many years.

Continue to read more all about roofing at: http://www.roofing-world.com

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Remodeling and Home Improvements Atlanta