ConstructionDeal.com Update

Remodeling Trends: Wrought Iron Elegance

2006-11-27T13:10:00.000-08:00

Many homeowners are remodeling to return their home to its former glory. Homes that were originally built with a Tuscan, French, or Spanish design are being revitalized to match that historic past. Old world elegance and charm is the latest trend whether homeowners are restoring a Craftsman house or an old farmhouse. The idea is to bring in all the correct flooring, stucco, tile roofs, and iron accessories. It increases the home value and really makes a unique statement in any neighborhood.

Many are choosing to add back the architectural details of handcrafted wrought iron. Whether they add a balcony, gate, stair railing, or fence, these iron accessories bring a rustic and warm feeling to the house. They are the final touch to add to the remodel to go along with the old wood beams, the rustic cabinets, and the natural stone floors. Wrought iron and aged wood go great together and make a complete package that homeowners love.

Adding wrought iron accessories to your remodeling plans can have its disadvantages. Wrought iron can be expensive, especially if you're having custom work done. Iron can be high maintenance because it can rust when exposed to the elements. And wrought iron is not always practical for gates or fencing if you're looking for privacy. But there are ways around everything with technology today. They can be galvanized, painted, and finished to be protected and still provide the perfect accents.

Many people forget about any wrought iron additions when planning their remodeling project because it can so easily blend in with the look and feel of the rest of the updates. Wrought iron staircases, railings, gates, and even furniture are functional, aesthetically pleasing, durable remodeling options and can be customized and hand-crafted to fit your needs.

The Decorative Concrete Overlay Process

2006-11-20T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here's a Before and After account of a Concrete Overlay project from our friends at Stained By Design, the concrete specialists, down in Louisiana:

"Recently, Stained By Design was contacted by a homeowner to stain three bedrooms and a hallway in an existing home. The rooms all were previously covered with carpet. One of the bedrooms had a very rough finish on the concrete and a low spot of 1/4 inch about the size of a Stop Sign. This room would not look very good if stained in that condition. Plus, the 10 year old Princess who lived in the room wanted a castle floor in Purple and Coral - Princesses can be demanding that way. Since those colors are out of the range of traditional Acid Stains, a Concrete Overlay was the way to go.

The concrete was cleaned and a Skim coat (seen as White in the picture) was applied to bond to the existing surface. The next day a wet bond coat was applied in advance of 1/4" of Texture Pave which was used to re-level the surface. A screed was used over the low spot so the floor would end up flat and even.

Very little of this re-level coat will be seen in the finished product. It was mixed in gray so when the grout lines are scored, they will be dark. This coat had to dry overnight.

The next two days were spent doing the color coats, scoring the pattern and sanding for a smooth surface. As a final touch, Pink, Purple and Silver glitter was sprinkled on the floor before the sealer was applied. While not seen in the completed picture, the glitter sparkles quite a bit as you walk over the area.

The Princess was very happy.

Joe Welch
(337) 316-4505
www.stainedbydesign.com
Art you can walk on"

If you don't live in Louisiana and would like to find a concrete overlay pro in your area, you can post your request on the Construction Deal website. It's a free way to find a professional in your area -- they contact you so it also saves you time!

technorati tags: concrete overlay, concrete specialist, concrete installer, concrete company, concrete contractor, decorative concrete, decorative cement, overlay installation, before and after concrete, decorative concrete photos, acid stained concrete, acid stained, stained by design

Remodel Your Kitchen - Save Your Sanity

2006-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

Two friends of mine, one an editor over at the Kitchen & Bath Design News, wrote a really informative and very entertaining (re: funny) book on how to keep your cool while going through a kitchen remodel. It's called "Everything and the Kitchen Sink: Remodel Your Kitchen Without Losing Your Mind."

If you get a chance, check it out. Here's a sample:

"If you're still looking for a way to justify your new kitchen, here is our list of the top ten reasons to remodel:

You Are What You Eat.
Are you beginning to worry that the guy Burger King knows your kids by name? When you try out a new hair color, does the Chinese food delivery guy notice before your spouse does? A new kitchen might just inspire you to spend less time driving through or eating out. Even better, the latest appliances speed up cooking times, while offering all kinds of extras to help you make better-tasting, healthier foods.

You Support Energy Conservation.
Many older appliances consume enough energy to power a small third world country. Your parents taught you to clean your plate because kids are starving in Africa. Shouldn't you be equally conscientious about saving energy?

College is Over.
Just because you made it through four years of higher education with only a hot plate and a toaster oven doesn't mean you should cook that way for the rest of your life. You've got a grown-up job and a mortgage now. It's time to live like an adult.

Remodelers Need your Money more than Doctors do.
Cracked surfaces are havens for dirt and bacteria that can be dangerous to you and your family. Wouldn't you prefer the short-term inconvenience of a renovation (where you at least end up with a brand new kitchen) to a long hospital stay for food poisoning (where your doctor ends up with a BMW, and all you get is green Jell-O)?"

If you'd like to order the book, here's a link to the Amazon.com page: Everything and the Kitchen Sink

To find a quality Kitchen Designer, post your project free with Construction Deal.

technorati tags: kitchen remodeling, kitchen contractor, new kitchen, home improvement, kitchen renovation

Decorative Concrete Overlays

2006-11-15T15:42:00.000-08:00

Our friends at Stained by Design have sent along some more great information on concrete. We've have several quality posts on acid stained concrete and this one covers information on decorative concrete overlays. Overlays are a way to cover up a current interior or exterior concrete application. If you are a Do-It-Yourselfer, here are some application guidelines. If you prefer to have a concrete company do the work, use this info as a guide to make sure they're doing it right. Joe's the expert in our book and anything he says goes:

"Decorative Concrete, or Architectural Concrete, as it is also called, is a way to put a new face on existing concrete. The existing concrete may be pitted, aggregate-exposed or have a mix of both a smooth and rough finish. Several new thin layers of a specially modified concrete mixture are applied to the existing concrete to create a new surface. As the name implies, the finishes are decorative enhancements that add to the architectural beauty of existing concrete, but they are not structural in nature.

Concrete Overlays fall into different categories but share steps in the evolution of the final product. The installation time runs from 3 - 7 days depending on the size of the area, the selected style and complexity of the pattern. There are many manufactures of overlay systems. Some require primers, some call the steps or mix a different name. This is intended to be generic in nature, but I have to call the steps/mix by the name that I use.

The typical steps are as follows:

1. Preparation. This step is common to all applications.

a. The surface is pressure washed or cleaned with a floor prep machine depending on if Exterior or Interior.

b. A mild Acid bath is done and then neutralized. This opens the pores of the concrete and prepares it to bond with the next application. (An Acid Bath is NOT done for staining a Concrete Slab). For those interested in staining concrete slabs, please see the archives sections for previous posts about acid stained concrete.

The following steps only apply to concrete overlays.

2. A Skim Coat (also called a Base, Bond or Scratch coat.) This step is common to all overlay applications:

a. Cracks in the surface are treated if needed.

b. A Skim or Scratch/Base coat is applied to the surface and allowed to dry.

*** The steps below are by style. Depending on the complexity of your desired surface, modifications may be made.

3. Texture Applications: There are several styles that fit this category (a Knock-Down finish is in this category.)

a. Basic Spray Texture would have an additional Base Coat added before the Top Coat is Sprayed on. I feel the additional base coat is needed to give strength to the final product. After the second Base Coat, the Top Coat is sprayed over a Stencil, Tape or a Seamless pattern.

b. Flagstone coatings also receive two Base Coats for the same reason above. The next step is to apply a 1/2" Nylon Tape to the surface to mark off the "rocks/stones."

c. The Flagstone pattern is then coated with the Top Coat and after a dry time, misted with additional colors.

d. The tape is then pulled off to reveal the pattern and the surface is then sealed.

4. Faux Slate/Tile Applications:

a. The Top Coat material is mixed and applied with a pool trowel to achieve a look that resembles a light Slate Texture or a swirl-type texture found on some tiles.

b. After drying overnight, the desired pattern is marked and scored.

c. Stain is applied to the surface in several coats to achieve the desired color, tint and tone.

d. After an overnight dry, the surface is sealed.

e. NOTE: This texture may also be referred to as a "Knock-Down" when it is done to resemble Cool Deck.

f. There are other variations of this style that can create a personalized tile unique to your home.

5. Micro-Finish Overlay:

a. The most common use of Micro-Finish is to overlay a slab that would not react well to acid stain. The final result is a surface that actually achieves a higher degree of mottling and tone than concrete.

b. A Micro-Finish job will get a second Base Coat.

c. Two applications of Micro-Finish are applied with a pool trowel. This process fills in the small voids in the surface and results in a smooth even surface.

d. The floor is machine-sanded to further smooth the surface and remove any trowel marks.

e. The pattern is scored and the surface is stained in the desired color. After the stain works for about 4 hours, it is neutralized and rinsed.

f. Once the surface is dry it is sealed.

6. Thin-Stamped Overlay:

a. Texture Pave is the ultimate top-coat that is applied to the surface and accepts the stamp pattern.

b. A "Wet Bond" coat is put down in advance of the Texture Pave.

c. The Texture Pave is spread out with a Gauge Rake to ensure a consistent application.

d. After the surface has set up enough, it is stamped with the Texture Skin.

e. The Texture Skin makes the Slate pattern in the surface.

f. After the Stamp, the material will dry over night.

g. The pattern is then scored and stained in the desired color.

h. Once the surface is dry it is sealed.

7. Sealer Options:

There are several sealers available and the choice of sealer should be determined by environment and use. Some of the overlay styles/staining required longer dry times than others. Most surfaces can be sealed the day after staining.

a. CSS. This is the Primary sealer for Exterior applications. CSS is a 53% solids, UV inhibiting sealer. It penetrates the surface and prevents mold and mildew from getting a foot-hold on the surface.

b. AUS-G: This is a Aliphatic Urethane sealer. It is UV stable and offers higher abrasion resistance. It requires a longer cure time.

c. Clear Epoxy: This is the best sealer for Industrial use. It cures up to over 14,000 PSI and is odorless. However, it requires the longest cure time and does scratch easily. It is often selected to support forklift traffic. I can be used in a residential application, but should be top coated with AUS-G for better wear.

d. Colored Epoxy: Colored Epoxy comes in 10 colors and is the best coating for areas such as loading docks where high wear and heavy weight is the primary concern.

e. Wax: All interior applications should receive coats of a commercial quality liquid wax. This wax is applied with a looped-end Rayon mop. The purpose of the wax is to provide a sacrificial coat to absorb the scuff marks and prolong the sealers life. An analogy for wax is to think about a car. The car color (the stain on the concrete) is covered with Clear Coat (the sealer) and car wax protects the clear coat. So long as you keep up with the wax, you won't have to have your car painted or your floor resealed."

To find out more about Architectural and Decorative Concrete Overlays, visit Joe's site. You can also call Joe if you're near Louisiana at (337) 316 - 4505. If you need to find a decorative concrete specialist in your area, you can post your project for free with Construction Deal.

technorati tags: decorative concrete, decorative overlays, concrete overlays, architectural overlays, stamped concrete, acid stained concrete, faux flagstone, faux slate, concrete companies, stained by design, concrete contractors, cement contractors,

Travertine Tiles

2006-11-19T16:07:00.000-08:00

Have you been considering travertine as a remodeling option? If not, you might want to put it on your list. It's been used for thousands of years but not many people are as familiar with it as they should be. Travertine is in the marble family and it's incredibly durable -- in fact, the Coliseum in Rome has travertine as part of its building materials.

It's great for use in flooring and as a wall tile. It has a hard, smooth finish with a porous surface. It's so durable it can be used not only in residential indoor settings but is perfect for commercial applications and even outdoor use. Travertine has an old world look caused by creamy color in all the pores on the surface. The pores are caused by gases escaping as the travertine is formed in underground springs and rivers (usually in and around Italy and Turkey.)

Many have been using travertine as a complete flooring system in living spaces, such as family rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and even as outdoor patios. It's also being used as tiles for bathroom walls and showers. It can also be applied as a kitchen backsplash.

Keep in mind that, like most natural stones, it requires an aggregate sealer to protect against stains and spillage. Also, there can be big color variances for you batch because of the varying degree of mineral deposits in the stone material. And travertine is not inexpensive. Finally, travertine can scratch easily. Despite these disadvantages, it's a very rich and beautiful tile material that will last a very long time in your bathroom or kitchen... and it could even increase your homes value.

If you're going to go with travertine tiles in your home, do not use polished travertine on the floors. Using honed travertine is the best option to avoid scratches. And, the polished material would be too slippery for areas of heavy traffic.

To save time, post your travertine project with us. You'll get calls directly from tile installers instead of calling someone at random from the yellow pages. And, as always, it's free to find a local travertine tile company when you're ready to remodel your kitchen or bathroom.

technorati tags: travertine, travertine flooring, honed travertine, polished travertine, flooring companies, floor companies, travertine tiles, travertine bathroom, residential flooring,flooring contractors, flooring installation, travertine installers, travertine contractors,travertine companies

Bamboo Countertops? Yes, Bamboo Countertops...

2006-11-08T11:22:00.000-08:00

Bamboo has been huge in flooring lately. Well, now there is a bamboo option for countertops. Can't imagine using wood on your kitchen counters? There's a company close by in North Hollywood, California, called Totally Bamboo that carries many bamboo products -- but they've also developed a bamboo counter application.

According to their site, "Ready for contractor installation, Totally Bamboo brand countertop sheets are constructed with cross-band laminates that we call Multilam(TM) (patent pending). In early testing, we discovered that this is the ideal way to glue bamboo. This method keeps the sheet both flat and true, as well as lessens the tendency to twist or warp."

The other great reason to use this for your next countertop, besides the fact that bamboo is a more renewable resource than wood -- it uses a Formaldehyde Free Adhesive. In 2004, the World Health Organization re-designated formaldehyde-based glue as a proven human carcinogen. The company has several styles and several sizes as well as a choice in thickness.

If you're going for a totally unique look for your countertops and kitchen islands, bamboo is an amazing choice to make your new kitchen the talk of the neighborhood.

And if you decide to order your bamboo countertop from the company, you'll need to find a countertop contractor to install it for you. Construction Deal has a full network of countertop contractors and we'll find someone in your area to install this beautiful and unique product!

technorati tags: countertops, countertop installation, countertop installers, counter installers, bamboo counters, bamboo installers, bamboo companies, totally bamboo, countertop companies, counter companies, install a bamboo counter, find a countertop installer

Housing Bubble Humor - Real Estate Dictionary

2006-11-03T11:42:00.000-08:00

From the folks at Washington State University, in the Department of Mathematics of all places, has a listing of real estate terminology. I thought with the current state of the housing market, it might be time to inject a little humor into the situation:

"It took me a considerable amount of time to learn the true meaning of phrases used in real estate ads. I offer the following dictionary for the benefit of those who search for a house and want to save their precious time.

Old charmer - an old and ugly house

Stunning house - the house is not ugly

Tudor - two bedrooms are in the attic which is not insulated; very hot in summer and very cold in winter

Cape Cod - styled after Third World slum dwellings

Sunny corner lot - noisy intersection of two busy streets

Easy freeway access - noisy arterial street close to freeway

Low maintenance lot - no yard; the kids will have to play in the street

Meticulously maintained in the original condition - the appliances are 50 years old

Ready to remodel - the house is about to collapse; you will have to invest twice the asking price in remodel before you can move in

Newly remodeled kitchen - 50-year old cabinetry and faucets have been replaced with cheap modern equivalents

Ready to move in - the interior has been painted with one coat of cheap paint

Desirable neighborhood - this little house is extravagantly overpriced because the neighborhood has a snobbish reputation

1 car garage - you can drive your Ford Escort into the garage but there is no room to open the door

In-city living - it is not safe to walk in this neighborhood after dark

Recreation room with wet bar - basement has been painted and has a faucet

Large family room - large basement

Bedroom in basement - basement has a 1' by 2' window

Lots of storage space - basement too small to be called a family room

Partial mountain view - you can see the tip of Mt. Olympus if you climb the roof

Territorial view - good view of your neighbor's bedroom window

Build sweat equity - the house is not inhabitable

Storybook - the house is old and the roof is not flat

Efficiently designed kitchen - the kitchen is too small to fit two people at the same time"

technorati tags: real estate, housing market, housing sales, housing bubble, housing humor

Home Theater Installations

2006-11-03T12:36:00.000-08:00

You're finally ready to buy an HDTV system and set up a home theater? Well, before you run off to Costco or Sam's Club to buy a new plasma TV, you might want to plan out what you want from your setup.

I would suggest talking with a home theater specialist. The kid with the braces at the local Circuit City is nice and all, but he's no expert. And you're making what will amount to a very large investment in your home theatre system -- so you're going to want to get it right.

A home theater installer has a lot of knowledge and expertise to be able to evaluate your needs to give you what you want. You can schedule a consultant to come to your house and talk about your plans and expectations, review your room size, the viewing distance, and your budget. Then he or she can let you know what the best equipment for you will be. No guessing, no problems, no returns.

Here is what you need to think about before your home theater installation consultant shows up:

What type of TV do you want? HDTV, of course. But do you want LCD, DLP, Plasma? Do you want rear projection, flat screen, front projection? Of course, these are some things the consultant will be able to help you with. For example, a brightly lit room is not the perfect fit for a front projection TV.

Where do you want your Speakers? You have options - you can set them on speaker stands, mount them on the wall, or even hide them in the walls. Also, what are your plans for the wires? Taping them down... Not a good idea. Under the carpet? Mmm. No. You might need to run wiring through walls or ceiling. You might be able to go wireless, as well.

Where will the television go? Will you have a flat screen hanging on the wall? Will the projection TV sit on a console or a piece of furniture? One big trend are flat screens that can rise up and drop down - very stylish but can be very expensive setups.

Think about your equipment location - if you put the receiver, DVD player, DVR system and others into a cabinet or other furniture, you will be limiting your access to it. Do you have a separate room for a/v access, like a spare closet, to house everything?

Plan for Lighting: you'll want more than just great equipment. You need to be able to set the home theater mood with dimmable lighting options. Just turning off all the lights is not a great option for watching high-def television because it can cause eye strain.

Also, consider the room usage when it's not your home theater. If you don't have a room completely dedicated for home theater use, you'll need to plan how all your new equipment will fit in the room.

Before talking with a consultant, draw up a plan of your room and play around with the possibilities. Plan for furniture placement, TV location, power outlet availability, lighting, and window treatment options. Doing a little research and hard work before you buy can make sure you're totally satisfied with your high definition entertainment system.

If you need to find a local home theater installation pro, post your request on our website and receive multiple bids from several experts - this can save you tons of time and a better bid can save you money. The kid with the braces at Circuit City will understand...

technorati tags: home theater, home theater installation, home theater companies, HDTV installation, rise up plasma, plasma tv, plasma tv installation, home theater installer, lcd installation, dlp versus lcd, lcd vs plasma, home theatre lighting

Remodel Your Homeowner's Insurance

2006-10-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

So, you found a Home Addition Contractor on ConstructionDeal.com and you added a master bedroom and new master bath to your house. The question is -- did you notify your insurance company?

The folks over at the INSWEB.com recommend that you reevaluate your insurance coverage -- just after you have remodeled or upgraded your home -- before disaster strikes.

"Home remodeling quickly adds to a houses value, but many homeowners fail to increase their homeowners insurance coverage accordingly. It is not until a disaster strikes that many homeowners realize that they haven't reevaluated their coverage to include any work done on the house. After already undergoing the tragedy of losing your home, you don't want to also find out that your insurance policy only covers what your house used to be rather than what you have made it into. Imagine that you renovated a small one bedroom fixer-upper into a modern 3 bedroom home with a new yard or deck - the difference in replacement value would be considerable."

And it's not just if you've remodeled. If you have upgraded any safety functions in your home since you started your policy, let your insurer know because it may mean additional discounts for you. If you have a fire sprinkler system installed, smoke detectors, CO2 detectors, fire extinguishers, or even home automation or home security features, you could save a lot of money on your homeowners insurance policy.

They have some other great tips on insurance for homeowners, so check it out -- and tell them ConstructionDeal.com sent you!

technorati tags: fire alarms, fire extinguisher, homeowners insurance, fire sprinklers, insurance discounts, home addition, master bath, master bedroom, insurance coverage, home improvement, remodeling, renovation

Home Decoration: a Portable Fireplace?

2006-11-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

Humans have been fascinated by fire since the dawn of our existence. But, for many, having fire in their home or apartment may not be a practical option. Many long for the warmth and comfort of a fireplace or they're looking for the perfect decorative touch that is the talk of the party.

I've found a company in South Africa that gives you a portable option for having a fire in your home. It's considerably safer than a standard fireplace and lantern because it's not burning wood, propane, or kerosene. The company is called BioFires and it makes two main products, GlassFires and BioFireplaces, that don't require any chimney installation and don't release harmful gases.

The products use BioFuel, which is made from potatoes, wheat, or sugarcane (in S.A. only), to burn a real flame. It's has a renewable source of energy and it only releases small amounts of Carbon Dioxide and steam as a byproduct. Because of the CO2, you need to have it in a well-ventilated area or have a window cracked open.

The GlassFires produce no heat on the bottom of the glass, so each design can be put on a table or floor or counter and not cause any damage to the surface. The BioFireplaces can be placed in a bedroom, apartment, or any place you'd love to have a fireplace. And, best of all, you can take it with you when you move!

The only problem I've found is that there do not appear to be any distributors in the U.S. However, they do ship overseas and you can also order their BioFuel from the as well. However, if you're still longing to have a traditional fireplace installed in your home, you could find a local masonry company - free - through Construction Deal.

technorati tags: portable fireplace, fireplace installation, glassfire, biofuel fire, biofireplace,masonry company, masonry installation

Home Remodeling Trends for 2006

2006-07-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

What's in store for the rest of 2006 when it comes to Home Improvement, Remodeling, and Construction? Homes are aging (the average U.S. house is 30 years old) and, as interest rates continue to rise, many are renovating instead of relocating. Homeowners today want to modernize, expand, and keep their houses low maintenance.

As the baby boom generation moves into retirement age, many are demanding options as they "age-in-place" (staying at home and foregoing the retirement communities.) They desire to remain in their single family home as long as it is safe and comfortable. Younger generations are interested in expanding the size of their homes, adding technical goodies, and increasing property values with the latest products and materials.

- Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling will still be Number One on everyone homeowners remodeling wishlist. They want to expand the kitchen - it's the center of their home - or add or update a bathroom. It will be a big deal to re-do not only the tiles and counters in the bathroom, but also to add new ammenities - spa tubs, steam showers, rain (overhead) shower heads, radiant heat, flat screen TVs behind two-way mirrors and more!

- Home Technology Upgrades: Home Security - closed circuit cameras, alarms, & safes; Home Theaters - stylish theater components with controllable lighting and sound; and Smart Homes - home automation products that control media, lighting, security, and temperature.

- Garage Improvements or Additions: homeowners are adding garages, expanding existing ones, and finishing their garage to add workrooms that give plenty of storage with comfortable flooring.

- Home Restoration: returning the house to its original character - something that won't look dated in a few years. After many years of home flippers and home remodelers adding granite counters to every period of house, a home restoration can be in order to bring back and highlight the homes original architecture.

- "Specific Rooms" are hot: purpose-built rooms in new construction or current rooms that can be converted. Homeowners will want to add a library, home theater, gym, or wine cellar.

- Low Maintenance - everyone wants products and materials that are easy to clean, easy to fix, and easy to replace. This includes countertops, floors, windows, and appliances.

- Synthetic Materials - they are cheap, easy to maintain, and last longer so they won't have to be replaced anytime soon.

- Green - people will want more solar, biodegradable, and energy efficient materials and appliances.

- Outdoor Kitchens - this is the big trend for '06. Moving the indoor outside by hiring a Deck & Patio Expert. Homeowners feel this is a great way to expand their home without having the added cost of the construction of new rooms. Homeowners want to bring it all outdoors this summer: state-of-the-art grills and cooktops, sinks, fireplaces, wet bars, islands, and more.

technorati tags: remodeling trends, trends, renovation, home improvement, kitchen remodeling,bathroom remodeling, new trends, outdoor kitchens, energy efficient, home theater, home gym home remodeling trends, improving home value, green construction, sustainable remodeling, increasing home value

Acid Stained Concrete Flooring 101

2006-07-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

One of the friends of ConstructionDeal.com has submitted some information on how to turn that boring old gray concrete into something very special:

Acid Stained floors are growing in popularity. Many people are looking to stained floors as an alternative to carpet, tile and wood. In addition to the marbled beauty of the surface, acid stained floors are low maintenance and don't retain dust which may affect some peoples' allergies. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the first people to use Acid Stain on floors in the 1920's.

Acid Stains are not paints. They are a coloring process involving a chemical reaction on a cementitious material. Acid Stains are a mixture of Hydrochloric Acid, water, and inorganic salts. The acid is not the ingredient that creates the color. The acid opens the pores of the concrete (this is referred to as etch). Once the pores are open, the metallic salts in the mixture react with the hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) in the hardened concrete. When this solution is placed on concrete it colors the concrete by chemically combining the metallic ions with the particles in the concrete to form oxides. It is this reaction – at the ion level - that creates color. The stain mixture needs to react with the concrete for 4 - 6 hours. Many stain artists leave the stain on the slab overnight.

There are many manufactures of Acid Stain and most produce stain in 8 colors that are variations of three basic color groups: black, brown, and blue-green. The basic 8 colors are: Black, Brown, Umber, Red, Tan, Gold, Green and Blue. Some stain manufactures may use adjectives such as Vintage or Antique to describe their color version.

Acid Stain gives concrete a mottled, variegated, marble-like look. An acid stained floor will not look like a paint swatch – it will look like multiple swatches in a basic color range. Never expect Acid Stain to be uniform or have an even tone, you will get different reactions from slab to slab, and even on the same job you may see different coloration patterns. Variations of colors and mottling are to be expected and enjoyed. It is the random mix of tones and shades that gives an acid stained floor its unique beauty.

Some factors that affect the outcome of the finished stain project include:

Cement properties and mix design
Admixtures
Type of aggregate
Concrete finishing methods
Concrete age and moisture content when stain is applied
Weather conditions when concrete is poured and stain is applied
Efflorescence

In general, cements that produce larger amounts of calcium hydroxide during hydration will show more stain color, and higher cement contents produce more intense colors. A smooth surface may require a stronger stain mixture while a "garage floor" finish will stain at a weaker concentration. If they are near the surface, calcium-based aggregates, such as lime-stone, take stain readily and deepen the color of the concrete above them. Solid aggregates, such as gravel, don’t react with the stain.

Acid stains, unlike paints, are not opaque - they are translucent. Some areas will be darker than others, similar to marble, granite or other natural stone. Along with the naturally occurring variegations and marbling - any blemishes and imperfections in your concrete simply add character and charm. Even cracks can add to the look.

However, each slab is different and there may be problem areas that need to be Faux Finished. This is most often caused by things that may have already reacted with the concrete or things that were spilled/dropped on the concrete. These may include Plumber’s Flux, Construction Adhesives, Paints and other such items. When talking to your stain contractor, question them on what they do for these areas. If their response is "You can’t control the stain", "Acid does what it does" or "You get what you get"; get a second opinion. A reliable stain contractor will know how to treat these areas and should not charge extra to do so.

Good luck on your staining project!

Joe Welch
joe@stainedbydesign.com

For additional information on how Concrete Acid Stains Works and more sample pictures, click the link above and it will take you to Joe's site "Stained By Design" - his decorative concrete overlay business in Louisiana!

If you'd like to Find a Concrete Staining Expert in your neighborhood, post your request today!

More Acid Stained Concrete posts: here and here!

technorati tags: acid stained concrete, acid stained cement, acid stain, acid staining, stained cement, stainted concrete, decorative concrete, garage floor, concrete floors, concrete flooring,decorative concrete flooring, interior concrete, exterior concrete, stamped concrete, acid stained flooring, acid staining 101

Renovating the Bathroom?

2006-08-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

Where do you go, on average, eight times a day (2920 times a year!) and spend about 4 years of your life? Your bathroom. It's your place to unwind, to get ready for a night on the town, and just to brush your teeth. Make sure your bathroom remodel takes into account your needs and how you use the room.

Do you want modern, chic elegance or the practicality and roominess of two sinks so you can spread out? These days, the bathroom has become as important as the master bedroom or the kitchen. Everyone wants a bigger bathroom, so many are knocking out walls or adding on a whole new addition to the house. Personally, I'd love to have a bigger bathroom in my house, but it would mean knocking out a wall and losing a lot of closet space in the bedroom -- and that's not gonna happen...

Whatever you decide to do to your bathroom, here are some fun new bathroom products available now:

Toto’s new EcoPower Sensor Faucet has a max flow rate of a half gallon per minute (making it environmentally-friendly!) It employs an aeration system for efficient washing with an anti-scalding feature. To ensure that no water is wasted, EcoPower's sensor angles down into the lavatory bowl, and water will not be discharged until hands are placed directly in the sensor's path.

The Windward Bath Whirlpool from Kohler comes in 60" x 42" and 72" x 42" models. The features include: integral tile flange; ability to position the pump in multiple locations; individually controlled whirlpool jets; jets rotate 360 degrees and are 60 degree directionally adjustable; quiet pump/motor; with drop-in and integral apron configurations -- which means you can put it where your old bathtub is now!

Moving Color offers some really cool glass shower tiles that are waterproof and come in a variety of styles. They change color, moving through a color spectrum, when temperature is applied. They come in "Northern Lights," "Tye Dye", and "Watercolors" versions.

If you need to find a Bathroom Remodeler, consider Construction Deal. We're your resource for a nationwide network of service professionals... and it's free to post a job with us. Saves you time and money (no more searching through the phone book and picking at random!)

technorati tags: bathroom, renovation, home improvement, bathroom remodeling, spa tub,bath renovation

Construction & Remodeling Tips

2006-09-27T12:06:00.000-07:00

Everyone gets excited when they know a remodeling company is coming over to renovate a kitchen, a bathroom, or a basement. They've talked with their contractor and all the materials have been picked out and are on the way. They know that it's only a matter of time before their new granite countertop or whirlpool bathtub is in place and ready for use.

The problem is – you've got wait for the whole "construction process" to be over. I wanted to give you a few tips to make sure that process goes as smoothly as possible. These are all the tiny details you've got to take care of before any remodeling workers arrive at your house. It's the stuff that most homeowners forget about, but it can make for a really smooth transition from unfinished basement to being a construction site. It might even save the remodeling company some time and you some money (in costly delays.)

Prepare Your Home

- Pack up all the nick-knacks, small items, tools, decorations, and books that can get in the way of home remodeling. And I don't mean the things in the room being worked on. The remodeling process can create a lot of dust that will spread throughout the house. If you store these items, they can remain dust free – which means less work for you.

- Along those lines, cover larger items like bookcases and furniture, with plastic or cloth sheets to protect from drywall or demolition dust. You'll want to spend time in your new kitchen not vacuuming the layers of dust embedded in your living room sofa.

- If it's a kitchen renovation, try to create another kitchen in a different room. Move your refrigerator to this room. Set up a work table and a space for your microwave. Your bathroom sink may have to double as a kitchen sink; make room for only the most necessary items. Clear dry goods out of your kitchen cabinets well in advance if those cabinets are to be removed.

- You could be without running water for a significant period of time. Or they may need to turn off the water supply at the worst possible time for you. Store up as much water as you have space for in the weeks before work will begin.

Prepare for the Construction Site

- Many companies and subcontractors will be trying to find your house for the first time. Make sure there is large, visible signage with your street name and number on it for all those deliveries.

- Some contractors do not arrange for portable toilets. If it's up to you, call in advance to make sure they will be delivered, on time, and call several days leading up to construction to ensure their prompt arrive (two days before work begins will give you the best cushion.) Talk with your contractor about this.

- Clearly mark spots around your house – with signs – where you won’t mind workers to travel and deliveries to be dropped off. Keep in mind that construction materials have become quite expensive and you want to make sure things are not stolen during the night.

- If you obtained your own permits, make sure they are handy or are even displayed on the wall in an area that is (and will be) accessible.

- If the contractor is not arranging this, make sure your construction dumpsters are there and ready to be filled during the demolition process (which is usually the first thing to happen on any remodeling job.) If they're not there, it can cause a delay or you'll have to pay workers to remove the debris to one spot and then to pick it up from that spot and put it in the dumpster when it arrives.

Talk with the contractor, in depth, before the project begins, so that you know what is expected of you (click here to find a local pro.) Once you're both on the same page, you can sit back and relax knowing that your new bathroom or kitchen is on its way!

technorati tags: construction site, construction prep,remodeling, kitchen remodeling, basement remodeling,bathroom remodeling, home improvement, renovation,remodeling

DIY: Home Safety & Maintenance

2006-10-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

As a homeowner, it's very important that you keep your investment protected. And your home is your biggest investment. There is more than likely a very useful but also a very dangerous device in your house and you need to... stay on top of it. I'm talking about your clothes dryer.

Guess what, it can be a real fire hazard. "But," you say, "I clean the lint screen!" Doesn't matter. Your lint screen catches maybe 75% of all the lint your dryer produces. If you don't do any regular cleaning and maintenance on it yourself, the lint could build up -- which overheats the dryer motor and creates a fire hazard.

First -- you do know there's a lint screen, right? Just checking. You'd be surprised how many people don't know that. There should be a small door or gate somewhere on the top or front of your dryer. Open it, pull it out, inspect it. If you've never done this before -- and your house has not caught fire -- I'd be amazed. But, if this is new to you, go ahead and remove what is probably enough lint to knit a large cat... Do this after every load or every use.

Second -- really check your lint trap. Don't just look at it, run water over it. If some or all of the water stays suspended into the filter, it's not all getting cleaned out when you pull it away. Some of the fibers from clothing and dryer sheets can be clear and nearly invisible. Try to wash and scrub the lint filter every three to six months, depending on usage.

Third-- does your dryer have a vent? It's the metal piping running from the bottom, back of your dryer. If not, get one installed. They have replacements at most hardware stores. If you do have one, make sure that you go outside and check for any debris that might be covering the vent. If your vent goes into the attic -- be careful! Sometimes vents are not set up to even vent outdoors. They only vent into the attic. This can cause problems. Check to make sure nothing is crushing the vent behind your dryer. If it's too long, with lots of twists and turns, you can shorten it up. Also, if you have a flexible plastic or fabric vent, replace it with an aluminum one.

Fourth -- keep your distance. Make sure the dryer is 18" to 24" away from the wall. Even if you've got limited space, keeping the dryer away from the wall can prevent overheating, crushing your vent, and lint buildup.

Fifth -- clean the duct under your lint filter. Depending on the model, you may be able to use your vacuum cleaner attachment to clean out the area where the lint filter goes. It's possible you may need a professional to get in there and clean it thoroughly but try to do what you can. I also know there are some after-market attachments you can buy for your vacuum cleaner for this very purpose. Here's a dryer brush product you might try for cleaning, as well.

Keeping your dryer maintained is not sexy. But it can keep your home safe and... can save you money on your energy bills. A dryer that doesn't have to work as hard works more efficiently. To save even more money, you can replace your dryer with a new Energy Star model. Or, dry less clothing -- hanging clothing out to air-dry can save a boatload of money!

technorati tags: dryer maintenance, dryer repair, clothes dryers, home safety, diy maintenance,diy repair, fire hazards

Remodeling Trends: Is Now the Time to Remodel?

2006-10-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal. "'The current housing slump is making remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or adding an addition easier and cheaper. Sluggish home-building demand is pushing down the cost of construction materials (prices for lumber are near their lowest level in a decade) and spurring contractors to take on smaller projects, and sometimes cut fees."

"Custom and speculative builders are also starting to take on renovation jobs, picking up work they may have passed over just a year ago."

"In Tucson, Ariz., Richard Fink, a custom home builder, used to do a few remodeling jobs as favors to former clients; now remodeling has grown to half his business. Samm Jernigan, a high-end custom home builder in Wilmington, N.C., said earlier this year he started 'aggressively pursuing' remodeling projects for the first time, and John Diament, a home builder outside of Philadelphia, says two months ago he started asking architects to send big remodeling jobs his way."

"'It’s good news for the consumer if you’ve got a lot more people seeking projects,' says Gopal Ahluwalia, for the National Association of Home Builders."

"Meanwhile, prices of framing lumber have fallen dramatically, says Shawn Church, the editor of an industry newsletter. The composite price per thousand board feet of framing lumber was $274 this week, compared with $375 a year earlier. Ken Simonson, the chief economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, says he expects to see a roughly 10 percent drop in prices of gypsum and construction plastics when government price data are released later this month."

"The falloff is largely because of slowing new-home construction, which for several years had driven up the cost of materials. Growth in spending on remodeling has also slowed recently, a result of rising interest rates and homeowners who have postponed selling, along with presale renovations."

"The new environment means that homeowners are more likely to find contractors willing to take on projects quickly. 'Rather than saying ‘call me next spring,' they’ll be more likely to say ‘I’ll be over this week to the talk about the project,’ says Kermit Baker, at the Harvard Joint Center."

"Contractor Don Sever in Oakton, Va., says he sees interest in remodeling starting to ease. He has trimmed prices by about 5 percent to attract more business. 'People are much more cautious about spending that home-equity money,' he says."

"When Bruce Ash wanted to do a large-scale renovation at his Tucson home, he found Mr. Fink of Becklin Construction to take on the $700,000 project. 'Normally, the market has been such that we could never get custom builders to remodel homes, but now, they are interested,' says Mr. Ash, a real-estate manager."

Keep ConstructionDeal.com in mind for your next remodeling project! Bookmark or subscribe to this blog to keep up to date on the latest remodeling information!

technorati tags: remodeling trends, housing market, home renovation, home improvement,remodeling, renovation, construction industry, home renovation, general contractor, remodeling companies

Solar Water Heaters = Energy Savings!

2006-10-31T13:49:00.000-08:00

If you're looking to reduce your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact on the planet, you might want to consider a solar water heater. Not only can it save you from high utility bills, it can cut down on your personal greenhouse gas emissions and can improve the value of your home.

A solar water heater works just like you'd think it would. It harnesses energy from the sun to heat the water. Throughout the day, the sun warms water stored in a tank with a heating element that is solar powered.

There are two different kinds of solar water heaters: passive and active. The passive system does not require pumps to move water - the only forces needed are provided by the water supply from the city or the simple engineering of water temperature changes! The active system uses a pump to move water to the storage tanks or the collector to be heated. Both systems usually keep the energy source off during the day for better efficiency.

Another advantage to solar water heaters -- there may be a tax rebate available to reduce your costs further. These solar systems usually cost more upfront to purchase and install but, because of reduced energy costs, they usually pay for themselves after only a few years.

Here's a graph from Solar Direct that further illustrates the advantages of investing in a solar water heating system. If you need to find a Water Heater Installer, use our service for free to receive several bids from local companies.

Solar Water Heater Free Energy from the Sun!	Standard Water Heater COSTLY gas or electric
Annual operating cost: $50	Annual operating cost: $500+
Storage Capacity: 80-120 gal	Storage Capacity: 40-50 gal
Life expectancy: 15-30 years	Life expectancy: 8-12 years
Lifetime operating cost: $1,000	Lifetime operating cost: $10,000
Does NOT pollute environment	Depletes fossil fuels
Increases equity in your home	No added value to your home
25% return on your investment	No return on utility payments
Protection from future increases	At mercy of utilities/government

technorati tags: energy savings, solar heating, solar water heater, water heater, water heater installer, water heater companies, reduce energy costs, saving money

Find a Snow Removal Company

2006-10-30T10:44:00.000-08:00

Whenever people think of contractors, they think of remodeling their kitchen or adding a second floor to their home. With ugly winter weather just around the corner, keep in mind that you can use Construction Deal to find a snow removal contractor. The great thing about living out here in Los Angeles means that I don't have to get stuck shoveling snow anymore. Of course rent and mortgages in California are 3 to 4 times higher than my home state of Ohio. But the thought of breaking my back shoveling snow in freezing cold weather makes it all worth it. So, if you live in any of the Northern States and you hate to shovel snow, you can use our service to locate a snow plowing company to do it for you.

It's also a good idea to sign up for snow removal services now. If you can find a company with an available slot, you can sign up for the whole winter season. Most people make the mistake of waiting until it has already snowed to find a snow plow service -- by that time, they already have so many clients they cannot fit you into their routes. Also, some companies offer discounts for homeowners who sign a seasonal agreement before a certain date; sort of an 'early bird special.' Ask about it.

Many states and counties do not require that a snow plow company have any type of license, so make sure to see if they have a license for other parts of their business -- most snow removal pros are also lanscaping companies. Also, make sure they have insurance. There is normal wear-and-tear involved in the snow removal process, but they should have policies to protect your home and landscaping from any serious negligence on their part.

Also, most snow removal companies cannot guarantee your driveway, walks, or roof will be free of snow at all times. Don't expect miracles. But most companies will make sure they do with work within 24 to 36 hours.

technorati tags: snow removal, snow plow, snow plowing, snow removal service, snow removal company, snow plow service, ice removal, shoveling snow

Home Improvement Financing!

2006-10-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

We wanted to let our blog readers know that ConstructionDeal.com has added to our growing list of services for homeowners! We have partnered with a major home loan company to help make sure those who use our site have access to financing for their projects.

When you post your home improvement job -- for free -- with Construction Deal, you'll also be able to apply online for a home equity or homeowner line of credit to help pay for your construction, remodeling, or major repair project. Or, if you're interested in purchasing a new or existing home, you'll also be able to apply for a mortgage through our site!

Our goal at Construction Deal is make sure you get your home improvement project done. We are the Smart Way to Find a Contractor!

Please visit the Construction Deal Lending Center for further details!

technorati tags: home financing, eloan, home equity loan, line of credit, mortgage, financing,home loan, e-loan, construction deal, home remodeling, home improvement, residential loan,remodeling loan, renovation, home renovation, house loan, line of credit loan, eloan financing,house equity loan

Curb Appeal: Fiberglass Exterior Doors

2006-10-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

No matter what you do to the front of your house, nothing will make a more dramatic change than to update your front door. It's the focal point to any home and the first place anyone looks when they begin their subtle evaluation of your home's curb appeal.

Sun, wind, and moisture have probably done a number on your front door. If you're in the market to replace it, consider a fiberglass door over a natural wood one. They're more efficient than a wood or steel door but they have the same natural wood grain look. They come in a variety of styles, they're paintable or stainable, and can really control the heat and cold exchange in and out of your home. They're not "maintenance free" but they're not subject to warping or shrinkage like wood doors. Paints will stay on the surface for a much longer period. They're better in high moisture climates than steel doors because they won't rust or oxidize.

Fiberglass doors are made up of a molded surface, with wood stiles inside, and a polyurethane-foam insulation filling in the gaps. They can come pre-painted or pre-stained from the manufacturer, but there are also unfinished versions that can be done by you - you can stain them to match cherry, walnut, oak, or other colors of wood grain. Even up close, it can be hard to tell it's not made of wood.

You can buy the door only, or you can purchase the entire kit, that includes the frame, hardware and door handles. To get the maximum energy savings, I would suggest the entire kit. Your old door "moved and grew" with your home, but a new door might not be as level or plumb and you'll be fighting gaps between the door and frame.

They're affordable options that have really long warranties, so check out fiberglass doors the next time you want to really bump up your curb appeal quotient (and save a few bones on that energy bill.) Click here to find a local door installation pro.

technorati tags: new doors, fiberglass doors, exterior doors, curb appeal,energy savings, home improvement, remodeling, renovation

Hot Modular Homes with Green Construction in Mind

2006-10-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

How would you like to have your next home delivered to your new address? No, I'm not talking about having a double-wide mobile home shipped to the site. I'm talking about the latest in affordable, well designed, and factory built prefab modular homes. And there is a difference.

The great thing about these prefab modulars? They are not bare-bones shacks that have been nailed together - they are luxurious, modern, and "green" houses that are manufactured in the factories and shipped to a lot for assembly. And they're gaining popularity away from the colder climates where building seasons are short - they're big across the country.

Much lip-service in the media has been given to "green building" and "sustainability," with our rising energy costs providing the impetus. But most new home builders do not consider themselves up to speed with the whole green building movement. But all the doom-and-gloom reports, documentaries, TV shows, and more have all made us painfully aware that there is a problem -- and that we're the cause of it.

The great thing about these modular homes is that designers are making these modular homes with materials and systems that are energy-efficient, non-toxic, and made with recycled products. The bonus is that these homes can be sleek, modern, and filled with all the same luxury appliances and surfaces as a site-built home. But you can save time and money: modular homes can be completed in less than half the time of a site-built home, for about 25% less. Many modular builders are LEED certified, meaning the homes are high quality, energy-efficient, and very sustainable.

And the prefab modular home wave is not just for a single-family urban residences. People are installing these homes in the suburbs and in rural areas. Multi-family apartment and condo modular communities are being set up everywhere. And there are commercial applications that are being utilized to same time, money, and resources. While they have standard floorplans, most manufactures also do custom design work, as well.

How are they "green"? The homes usually use insulated panels and glass, recyled wood and steel, and are designed to maximize natural light to cut down on energy costs. Air flow is also part of the design to make sure the air conditioner is not always used. Solar panels options are almost always available. Many include state-of-the-art energy efficient appliances. And think about this - you'll even be cutting down on fossil fuel emmisions! You won't have teams of subcontractors coming to your house everyday for all the installation work - the house is practically delivered complete!

So, if you're building a new house on your lot... consider a prefab modular. Consider how much you'll save in both time and money. And... consider the Earth.

For more information, check out: Michelle Kaufmann Designs, a group of architects and designers focused on well-designed buildings that are also sustainable, energy-efficient, and luxurious. To find a Modular Home Builder, in your area, you can post your request on our network.

technorati tags: prefab, modular homes, manufactured homes, new construction, green design,sustainability, green homes, green building, prefab houses, energy efficient

Let the Sunshine In: Installing a Skylight

2006-10-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

Have you a got a room in your home that is too dark, not matter how you paint it or which window treatment you use? You might consider a skylight. Want to cut down on a portion of your energy bill? Bring in more natural (i.e. FREE) light and increase natural airflow with a skylight. Looking for that extra something in your already-perfect bathroom? You guessed it... a skylight.

Skylights have come a long way. They used to be known as annoying contraptions that let too much rainwater in and too much heat or air conditioning out. They come in multiple design options and some have Energy Star ratings. Skylights can be the traditional flat model or they can be raised in tubular shapes (circles, pyramids, triangles, and more.) They can be fixed (meaning they stay permanently closed) or they can be opened electrically or manually.

If you're interested in skylights, I like the Velux brand of skylights. Their skylight options have been recommended to me by many designers and contractors. Their windows have a variety of glazings that prevent heat loss, condensation, and fading. The skylights come with double-pane glass with an interior filled with Argon gas, with a double Low-E coating. One model can even electronically dim the window surface. They do not rely solely on caulk to prevent leaking, with gaskets that can drain excess water away.

It's important to make sure you don't get too large of a skylight for a room. Many feel that bigger can be better, but you might end up letting in too much light or losing some energy efficiency with a giant skylight. Work out a plan with your contractor for the best options for each room you plan on installing skylights.

technorati tags: velux skylights, skylights, skylight installation, energy star, energy efficiency,velux

(ConstructionDeal.com has in no way been paid for any endorsements on this blog - the author is providing an opinion of available products. If you have any products that you recommend, you can email information to blog@constructiondeal.com)