Home Blog Page 5

    How Long to Wait to Shower after Painting Bathroom

    0
    Shower after Painting Bathroom
    How Long to Wait to Shower after Painting

    Having made repairs to any room in the house, there is a very strong desire to enjoy it. However, when you’re painting the walls in your bathroom, don’t rush to get a bath or shower right away. The paint on the walls must have time to dry and the repair does not deteriorate from high humidity.

    So how long to wait to shower after painting bathroom? It depends on the choice of paint but is recommended to wait 2-3 days. Under the right conditions, this is enough time for the paint to dry. All liquids will disappear from the paint and it will be immune to increased humidity.

    Type of PaintDry for TouchFull Dry
    Alkyd Enamels4 – 8 hours 24 – 36 hours
    Oil Based Paint6 – 8 hours48 – 72 hours
    Acrylic Paint1 – 3 hours18 – 24 hours
    Silicone Pigment Dyes1 – 2 hours18 – 24 hours
    This drying time of the paint was obtained at an air temperature in the room of 23 – 27 Celsius degrees and air humidity of 50%.

    Two, three days is the recommended period, but a lot of additional questions immediately appear, such as “how to check if the paint has dried?” or “what conditions should make the paint dry?” We have collected all the popular questions on this topic and will analyze each of them in detail.

    Why Paint Takes so Long to Dry?

    The fact that the paint needs to dry is a natural process. During the drying process, all water and solvent come out of the paint, leaving a beautiful layer of coating on the wall. Therefore, a period of two to three days is considered sufficient for the paint to dry under the right conditions.

    Nevertheless, there are times when this time is not enough. This can happen for several reasons. First of all, this may be due to high humidity. If there is no ventilation in the room, then the paint can dry many times longer.

    The second reason why paint can take longer to dry may be low temperature. In this case, the liquid will evaporate from the paint worse and this will increase the drying time. Therefore, under not ideal conditions, the answer to the question of how long to wait to shower after painting the bathroom can be much more than three days.

    How do You Know that the Paint is Dry?

    If the bathroom in which you are doing the renovation is the only one in your house and you cannot do without it, then you can check if the paint has dried in a very simple way. It is worth noting that the drying of the paint is not it’s complete hardening. During the drying time, all moisture will be removed from the paint and it will be less vulnerable to external moisture.

    The Remodel on Point team strongly recommends that you try to wait 3 days before using the bathroom. If this is not possible, choose an inconspicuous painted spot in the room. Remember that if the paint is not dry, a trace may remain on this spot after checking.

    Touch this area with your fingertip. If the surface is dry, hard, and non-sticky, the paint is dry. Otherwise, your fingerprint may remain on the surface.

    When the paint is dry, you can use the bathroom, but try to do it as carefully as possible. Try to keep water away from painted walls. Also, take care not to accumulate a lot of moisture. Use exhaust fans or ventilate the room by opening a window. If you leave moisture in the room, it can soak into the paint and cause damage.

    What Happens if You Take a Shower Before the Paint Dries?

    It often happens that the renovation in the bathroom takes place at the moment when you directly live in it. In this case, you want to quickly want to take a shower, because very few people enjoy three days without it. What happens if you hurry up and use the bathroom before the paint dries?

    In this case, there is a possibility of spoiling your repair. When you shower, the moisture in the bathroom increases dramatically. This moisture can penetrate under dry paint and harm it. The paint may start to flake and flow. This is hello to the fact that you will see streaks on the walls, which will completely ruin your renovation.

    In order not to spoil the appearance of your bathroom, immediately after its renovation, you should immediately take care of where you will take a shower. The best solution is to have a second bathroom in the house. In this case, you can easily perform all hygiene procedures.

    If you have only a second toilet with a sink, then in case of emergency you can use this room. You can wash your hair in the sink and use a bowl of water for your body. Yes, this method is not very convenient, but you can tolerate it for a couple of days. You can also negotiate with relatives or friends and use their bathroom, if possible.

    Does the Type of Paint Affect the Drying Rate?

    One of the important factors influencing how long to wait to shower after painting bathroom is the choice of paint. Moisture-resistant paints are divided into two types – latex and oil-based. Due to their properties, they have a big difference in drying time.

    Acrylic and silicone paints can dry completely faster than oil-based paints. However, you should understand that the concept of paint drying does not mean that it is completely cured. It may take several weeks to a month for complete hardening. Don’t worry, the paint is dry enough to use the bathroom.

    Oil paints have a much longer drying time than latex paints. For you to be able to take a shower in the bathroom, after painting, you must wait at least a few days. Complete hardening of the paint occurs after a month or more.

    Alkyd Enamels are not recommended for use in the bathroom due to their potential odor. This type of waterproof paint is best used outdoors in the garden.

    We also want to remind you that these time intervals are suitable for ideal conditions. Such conditions are high-quality ventilation of the room and sufficient temperature. Because of this, regardless of what type of paint you used, it is recommended to wait 2-3 days before using the bathroom.

    How can the Drying of the Paint be Accelerated?

    How you can speed up the drying process of paint is a very popular question, although it has a rather trivial answer. For the paint to dry faster, it is necessary to create the most ideal conditions. Let’s take a closer look at how this can be done.

    The first and very important factor is airing the room. The paint will dry much better if moisture constantly leaves the room. To do this, you can leave open the windows and doors in the bathroom. It is also important to take care that dust from the street does not get into the room, as it can settle on the paint and ruin the repair. A more practical option would be to use an exhaust fan. The air ventilation system will remove all moisture without the possibility of dust.

    The second factor affecting the speed of paint drying is temperature. If the walls are painted in summer, the air temperature will be acceptable for drying. If you are doing repairs in the winter, you should take care to raise the temperature to at least 25 degrees Celsius. To do this, you can use the heaters installed in the bathroom.

    Under these conditions, paint can dry much faster, allowing you to use the bathroom as quickly as possible. To understand that the paint has dried, it is worth checking this, as described earlier.

    Conclusion of How Long to Wait to Shower after Painting Bathroom

    Having considered in detail the question, “how long to wait to shower after painting bathroom?”, The best answer would be “until the paint is completely dry.” Since this is only possible if you will not use the room for about a month, you should wait at least 3 days.

    This will be enough time for the paint to dry, especially if you create optimal conditions. Try to use the bathroom carefully in the first month after renovation. Monitor the humidity in the room until the paint has completely hardened. This will keep the painted walls looking their best for years to come.

    How Long do Houses Last Built with Popular Materials?

    0
    Houses with Popular Materials
    How Long Building Popular Materials Last

    On average newly built house lasts between 80 and 110 years. Lifespan depends on materials used for construction, quality of work and continuous maintenance of the house. Commercial buildings survive 20-40% longer than residential homes.

    As it turns out every decade new built homes are built with less lifespan. Construction materials used and workmanship is aimed at speed production instead of increasing of making houses last longer.

    Every year our planet spends enormous amount of resources for construction of new houses and renovation of old buildings. Unfortunately our technology has not reached the level of construction where we can recycle and reuse resources.

    Types of Home Compared for Lifespan:

    • Timber Homes
    • Concrete Homes
    • Steel Frame Homes
    • Log Cabins
    • Brick or Stone Homes

    Not every construction will last exactly as our table predicts. There are timber frame homes that can last over 150 years and we have seen brick houses that fall within first 15 – 20 years. Our statistics are just average numbers to understand material selection.

    Type of Material Used in ConstructionAverage Lifespan of Structure
    Timber Homes70 Years
    Concrete Homes85 Years
    Steel Frame Homes100 Years
    Log Cabins60 Years
    Brick or Stones Homes90 Years
    How long do houses last chart

    How Long do Timber Frame Houses Last?

    Timber frame homes are thought to last less than any other houses built with different top 5 materials. In some sense it is true, but as we say it all depends. On average timber frame homes last 70 years and we took a lot of data to come up with this number.

    As you may know there are timber frame homes in northern and central Europe that were able to withstand over two centuries of time. However newer construction methods are not as firm and meant to last just over 50 years.

    The worst timber frame homes have lifespan of just over 30 years. Adding all of it together we get somewhere in between. Of course quality contractors using good materials and engineered specs with precautions can build homes that will last 70-90 years.

    How Long do Concrete Homes Last?

    It is believed that concrete structures are more durable and require less maintenance than wood homes. This statement is false, even though average of concrete home lifespan is 85 years.

    Main reason why concrete home on average lasts more than timber is simply because there are more mistakes done during regular framing and less building codes involved. Typically we see concrete homes built with professional and experienced contractors with instructions of engineers or architects.

    To make structure last loner rebar is put inside concrete. It tightens the structure that wraps around spirals of steel. Temperature and weather can definitely impact stability of concrete and to save it, major repairs are necessary.

    How Long do Steel Frame Houses Last?

    We hardly see residential homes being made of steel, but it is out there. Modern homes with full open floors and floor to ceiling windows can be built with steel frame. It is a long process and costs way more than regular timer or concrete wall construction, but steel frame houses last for over 100 years without a problem.

    Steel frame has to be properly wrapped around without leakage of air and possibility of water getting through. Appropriate construction method helps prevent steel from rusting.

    The benefit of steel frame homes is that they can withstand more of structural load and open up the space completely. Steel construction is easier to maintain and replace parts of structure when absolutely necessary.

    How Long do Log Cabins Last?

    If you live near mountains or forest area than most logical construction material to select would be logs and natural wood. On average log cabins last 50 years due to harsh weather conditions and surrounding area affecting lifespan.

    For some people it may be cottage home as secondary residence where you spend weekends and holidays, while other home owners may happen reside in area where long homes and cabins are considered to be only option.

    Similar to timber frame homes, log cabins has wide range of possibilities to collapse sooner than supposed to or stand for more than 100 years without major issues.

    We had to take into consideration poorly made and prefab homes that don’t last long time. They are the main factor the lifespan of log home drags down. Large homes with logs like you see in Montana or similar can be a residence for over 60-70 years if constructed properly.

    How Long Brick or Stone Homes?

    For many centuries brick and stone were main materials for building homes around the globe. It definitely makes strong walls and helps to protect from weather. Stone and brick homes should last for at least 90 years, but can go way above that number in perfect conditions.

    This natural resource was available in every continent and people have learned how to carve perfect stones for home construction. It is not flammable can could protect from rain, high winds, animals and even enemies during wars.

    Nowadays it is used less and less due to high expenses and complicated building technique. Home owners that are willing to spend extra and create traditional looking homes still prefer bricks and stone over timber or concrete.

    Other Materials Used in Home Construction

    We have listed five materials mainly used in home construction. Less developed countries or experimental projects have variety of other materials that can become new home structure.

    Companies around the world try to recycle material and even print homes with 3d printers. Melted and compressed plastic formed as large bricks used for exterior and interior walls.

    Poor countries with lack of resources and import build homes with cinder blocks, wood sticks, roofing metal sheets and literally anything they can get hands on.

    Location dictates the material and natural resources for building. Northern countries can even make walls for their home out of snow and ice. While places around equator do not require thermal insulation, forestry and soil become main source of materials.

    What Countries Have Most Long Lasting Homes?

    There are two factors that dictate how long homes are going to last from the day they were built. First and far most important factor is what is the intention of construction and how is it approached.

    Travelling through Europe we can spot homes made out of stone that have lasted for centuries and only minor structural upgrades were performed. Their initial though process was directed towards long lasting structures no matter how much resources it took.

    Another way to increase how long houses last is to continually upgrade building codes and prioritize structural integrity. Developed countries with laws and inspections in place on home construction on average have longer lasting structures.

    7 Essential Steps on How to Make Bathroom Waterproof

    0
    Bathroom Waterproof
    How to Make Bathroom Waterproof

    According to statistics, most often repairs are carried out in the bathroom. This is because this room is most susceptible to the formation of moisture. Water is destructive to any coating in a room. Penetrating inside the finishing materials, water rapidly destroys them.

    Also, with increased moisture, harmful microorganisms such as mold and fungi develop. For this reason, how to make the bathroom waterproof becomes a very important question. Isolating a room is the only way to resist water. By keeping water out of the finish, the insulation keeps your renovation intact.

    How long the renovation in the bathroom will last you, directly depends on the quality of the waterproof. There is a whole list of ways how to make a bathroom waterproof and it is worth taking care of each of them to create maximum protection for the renovation in the room.

    • Inorganic finishing materials
    • Tiles for walls and floor
    • Professional plumbing
    • Exhaust fans
    • Silicone sealant for connections
    • Waterproofing in the shower area
    • Additional drain

    Even the most beautiful and high-quality repairs can quickly fall into disrepair if you don’t take care of bathroom waterproofing. The quality of the insulation will keep your bathroom attractive and spectacular for years to come, without the need for new renovations.

    Current Methods how to Make Bathroom Waterproof

    If you are planning to make a high-quality waterproof in your bathroom, then this should be planned even before the renovation stage. Choose the right finishing materials and take care of a high-quality plumbing installation. A detailed analysis of each stage will allow you to come to an understanding of how to make a bathroom waterproof with high quality so that the room will be beautiful for many years.

    1. Use Inorganic Finishing Materials

    The first step in every renovation is the choice of materials. For a bathroom that is highly exposed to moisture, it is not recommended to use organic materials. Wallpaper for walls, wood floors, MDF countertops are very attractive, but they are not a good choice for a bathroom.

    Such materials are highly susceptible to moisture and can swell and deteriorate over time. In addition, organic materials are poorly resistant to mold and mildew, which thrive in a humid room.

    Give your preference to inorganic materials in the bathroom. Stone, granite, quartz, metal, ceramics are excellent materials for bathroom cladding. These materials are impervious to moisture and are very resistant to the appearance of microorganisms.

    When installing walls, it is also worth taking care of using waterproof drywall. Remember that choosing the right materials for use in the bathroom plays a decisive role in ensuring waterproofing.

    2. Choosing Floor and Wall Tiles

    As we mentioned earlier, the use of inorganic materials in bathroom finishes has a very positive effect on its waterproofing. Therefore, one of the best options for wall covering is to use ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are waterproof and your walls will be completely protected.

    Tiles made from various inorganic materials can also be used for flooring. You can choose tiles made of marble, ceramics, porcelain stoneware, and other materials. These materials have excellent leakage protection performance. Correctly installed tiles will allow all moisture to drain gently into special drains.

    If you are not attracted to ceramic tiles on the walls of the bathroom, then there is an alternative. She is using special, waterproof paint. It should be understood that this is a special type of paint and usually they are glossy. If you decide to paint the walls in the bathroom, be sure to discuss this with the repair company before choosing paint. They will tell you which paint to choose so that it is suitable for such a wet room.

    3. Well-Installed Plumbing

    Well-installed plumbing is of great importance in a bathroom renovation. A small leak can lead to colossal problems that can amount to not one thousand dollars.

    To avoid this, you should hire a professional to install your plumbing. A qualified plumber with vast experience in this area will confidently complete the tasks and his work will guarantee you safety from leaks.

    Plumbing installation is not a part of the repair that is worth saving. If you don’t have professional skills, you can make lots of bathroom mistakes. You may not notice this at first glance, but over time, a leak can make itself felt. And since the pipes are inside the wall, then usually people find out about the leak too late, when all the repairs carried out in the room may be at risk.

    Since monitoring the condition of the plumbing is very important, it is recommended to leave access to the main plumbing unit. Usually, for this, they leave a small niche in the wall, covered with offices. If you have all the walls in the bathroom tiled, then you can consider installing access to plumbing from another room. For example, you have a bathtub adjacent to a laundry room in which it is convenient to make access to plumbing fixtures. If you do not know how best to do this, discuss this with the company that will renovate your bathroom.

    4. Installation of Exhaust Fans

    Another way to make a bathroom waterproof is to install exhaust fans. An intensive ventilation system allows you to quickly get rid of excess moisture in the bathroom.

    Exhaust fans have a certain capacity and in most cases one fan per bathroom is sufficient. Nevertheless, if your bathroom is large, then it is worth considering the possibility of installing several fans.

    Modern exhaust fans also have many useful features. They can turn on together with the light or using a motion sensor. There are also fans with a built-in moisture sensor and at a high level it will turn on to remove it from the room. They can even act as a lamp if you have a model with built-in LEDs.

    When choosing an exhaust fan, first of all, start from its main characteristics, such as the power of the transmitted flow. After that, you can pick up additional features that you think are perfect for your bathroom.

    5. Using Silicone Sealant

    Surface joints are a very important place when it comes to waterproofing a bathroom. Water can accumulate in these areas and penetrate the materials. To prevent this from happening, use a silicone sealant.

    Use sealant on all possible joints, especially where walls and floor are in contact. It is also worth taking care of the joints of the countertop with the wall, this is also a very vulnerable spot. And lastly, pay special attention to the shower area. Since water is most common there, this is the most dangerous place in terms of leaks.

    The sealant will keep water from penetrating under the surface, thus keeping your bathroom waterproof. It is also worth noting that due to the lack of sealant, very often water accumulates in the corners, which leads to the appearance of mold and mildew.

    6. Professional Installation of the Shower Area

    The shower area is the wettest part of the bathroom. Since water is constantly flowing in this area, it must be performed as efficiently as possible. You should never neglect this because it can ruin the whole renovation in the bathroom.

    As with plumbing, get professionals to create your shower area. An experienced tile installer will do everything according to the stipulated norms and you will not have water accumulating in the corners of this zone. Everything should be perfect for you to be comfortable taking a shower and so that the water flows smoothly to the drain.

    7. Additional Drain in the Main Part of the Bathroom

    Each of us has seen how the water flow is carried out in the shower area. A slight tilt of the tile towards the drain allows water to enter the sewer without hindrance. When it comes to the entire bathroom, usually the water that gets on the floor stays there until it dries.

    This is not the best option, because you never know how much water will spill, especially if you have children. It’s easy to fix, just add another gutter directly on the bathroom floor. As in the case of the shower area, the flooring should be sloped so that water can flow easily into the drain. This enhancement will allow your room to stay dry even if you spill huge amounts of water on the floor.

    Is it Worth doing the Waterproofing by Yourself?

    Many people believe that since the bathroom is small, it can easily be repaired on its own without the involvement of professional contractors. Unfortunately, the size of the room does not affect the complexity of the work performed.

    It is quite difficult to carry out a high-quality renovation in the bathroom, especially if you care about waterproofing. Nevertheless, nothing is impossible, but it is worthwhile to understand that this can take much longer.

    We would recommend that you divide the types of work and do some of it yourself, and entrust more complex stages to professionals. First of all, professionals should be entrusted with work with plumbing and tiles. In these works, skill and experience are very important, and you can apply sealant, glue baseboards, and other details.

    This way you can save some of the budgets and be sure that the main elements of the repair are done professionally. In this case, the renovation in the bathroom will last you much longer and will be in excellent condition.

    9 Benefits of Asphalt Roof Coating over other Roof Types

    0
    Benefits of Asphalt Roof
    Benefits of Asphalt Roof Coating vs other Roof Types

    If you are thinking of replacing the roof covering, then you should opt for the best material. One of the most popular materials in America is the asphalt roof. The asphalt roof is the best in terms of price-quality ratio, it will keep the temperature of your home, it looks very stylish, and has many colors. This roof is easy to install, very easy to maintain, and is only part of the benefits of asphalt roof coating.

    To understand in detail the advantages of this coating, the Remodel on Point team has selected for you a detailed analysis of its nine qualities.

    • Versatility
    • Lots of styles
    • Low price
    • Fire resistance
    • Energy efficiency
    • Moss and mildew resistant
    • Easy installation process
    • Lightweight coating
    • Roof repair processes are very simple

    When choosing which material to use for your roof, be sure to pay attention to these properties. Understanding what features the coverage has, it will be easier for you to make a decision and understand what difficulties you will not have to face in the future.

    Universal for all Types of Roofs

    Asphalt roofs are a very flexible material and this is their undoubted advantage over other types of coverings. An asphalt roof can be easily used on houses with roofs of any complexity. It doesn’t matter if there are a lot of corners and curves in the shape of a roof, the asphalt pavement will do the job.

    Due to its versatility, asphalt pavement is not demanding on the slope of the roof. This implies that you can use this material on virtually all types of homes in America. This is quite convenient because most materials have their limitations.

    Variety of Styles and Colors

    Another benefit of asphalt roof coating is its appearance. There are many styles of this coating and an even wider range of colors. This allows each homeowner to choose what they like.

    In addition to their exceptional style, asphalt roofing material can mimic the appearance of other roofing materials made of wood, slate, and others. In addition to the beautiful appearance, this coating will not have the disadvantages of these beautiful materials.

    Choosing the right roof shades can give your home a more sophisticated color. This can affect his perception, and he will look much more luxurious and more expensive. This feature can greatly add value to a home when it is sold.

    Low Price of Asphalt Roof

    Asphalt roofs have many advantages, but it is because of their affordability that they have gained such rapid popularity. Of all the materials for the roof, asphalt has the lowest cost, on average it fluctuates around $ 6 – $ 8 per sq. ft.

    If we compare this cost with other types of coatings, then, for example, for an average house with a roof of 1500 sq. ft. The cost of an asphalt roof will be $ 3000 – $ 5000 cheaper than competitors. Undoubtedly, this value for money is one of the most important benefits of asphalt roof coating.

    Nowadays, many manufacturers are producing their types of asphalt roofing. Because of this competition, new varieties of material are constantly emerging that are better than the previous ones. This has a positive effect on the development of asphalt roofs, keeping their costs low.

    Fire Resistance

    Asphalt roofs have very high fire resistance. This is confirmed by numerous tests for which this coating was awarded the highest class “A”. If a fire suddenly breaks out and there is a fire on the asphalt roof, she will be able to hold it back for up to two hours, preventing the fire from getting inside the house.

    For such a long time, most fires have already been extinguished, therefore this roof covering is considered very reliable. Safety is never superfluous and it is very pleasant that such an inexpensive material has so many positive properties.

    Energy Efficiency

    The material used for the roof of the house has one of the most important influences on maintaining the right temperature in the house. If the coating is of poor quality or improperly installed, then you will face such problems as insane heat in summer and constant temperature drops in winter.

    Since a comfortable temperature must be maintained in the house, asphalt roofs have special insulating layers under them. Insulation allows you to keep the temperature in your home at the level you want. It is also additional protection against roof leaks.

    In addition, asphalt roofs can be made in light shades, which will allow such a roof to repel ultraviolet rays in summer. This will prevent the roof from heating up on its own and not transfer excess heat into the house.

    It should also be understood that keeping your home at a comfortable temperature saves you money. Due to the temperature retention, your air conditioner in summer and heating system in winter will run less power, using less electricity.

    Moss and Mildew Resistant

    Another problem that roofs can face is mold and moss. Often this problem is inherent in organic coatings made of wood and other materials. When the material starts to deteriorate, it becomes vulnerable to the appearance of bacteria, which destroy it even more.

    Since asphalt roofs are an inorganic material, they are not afraid of such problems and are resistant to the appearance of organic matter. Such protection of the roof allows it to be in good condition for much longer and you will not worry about the fact that the beams of your house will deteriorate.

    Easy Installation Process

    Another important benefit of asphalt roof coating is its ease of installation. Such a covering is very light and is consistently attached to the roof step by step. Because of this, the installation process is quite simple, which positively affects the quality.

    In addition, since such a roof is easy to install, the operating time is minimal. In good weather, professional roofing companies can install an asphalt roof in 3-4 days on a standard size house.

    Since it takes much less time to install the roof, the cost of installing it is lower. This is one of the factors why an asphalt roof is much cheaper than other coatings.

    Lightweight Coating

    The weight of the material used for the roof is of great importance. Firstly, it is important for installation, because the heavier the coating is, the stronger the support structure should be. Secondly, it is the complexity of the installation. As we said earlier, the installation of asphalt roofs is quite simple and one of the reasons for this is its ease. The weight of one package of asphalt sheets is only 50-60 lbs, which is very convenient when installing each shingle separately.

    The weight of the coating also affects the difficulty of transportation. Since asphalt pavement is quite light and compact, it can be easily delivered to your home and this also contributes to the reduction of the cost of the roof.

    Roof Repair Processes are very Simple

    Unfortunately, no material will last you forever and over time, any roof needs repair. Since the asphalt roof is installed in parts, you do not need a lot of material to repair it.

    If over time it happens that some of the roof shingles are damaged, they can be simply replaced. For this repair, you do not need to make a complete replacement of the roof, but only the damaged parts.

    This procedure does not take much time and money, compared to replacing large parts of other types of roof coatings. It is also worthwhile to understand that asphalt roofs serve for a very long time and you should not worry about the fact that even a small repair will be needed every year.

    How to Choose an Asphalt Roof Coating Company

    As in any job, and roofing, people with experience must do it. Because of this, the benefits of asphalt roof coating will only serve you well if done by a professional roofing company.

    You should be serious about choosing a company to carry out your roof installation. You can find out from friends or just read reviews about companies providing services for the installation of asphalt roofs in your area.

    Careful selection of the company will allow you to be sure that the roof will be properly installed the first time and you will not have to redo it. Pay attention to what guarantees the roofing company gives for its work. If this figure is 5 years or more, then you can be sure that the workers will monitor the quality of the installation.

    How to Calculate Drywall for Any House or Office Project

    0
    Calculate Drywall
    How to Calculate Drywall

    To calculate how much drywall is required for renovation or construction project you need to divide entire surface area of walls and ceiling by size of drywall sheet.

    Easier said than done and in this topic Remodel On Point can teach you simple ways how to calculate drywall and what types of material used in different rooms or areas.

    (Length of Walls  X  Height  +  Ceiling Area)  /  Drywall Sheet Size

    Let’s not rush into this and make tons mistakes. The idea is to break it down so everyone can understand formula and follow it along.

    • Drywall size
    • Calculate Walls
    • Calculate ceilings
    • Do the math and add extras

    In Example described below, 3000 square foot home requires 315 pieces of 4×8 drywall. 298 of them are regular drywall sheets, 13 green boards for bathrooms and 4 dense boards for gas fireplace.

    Drywall size

    We are going to make it simple and start with most popular drywall sheet size – 8ft x 4 ft. Professionals like to mix all drywall sizes and use where appropriate.

    For examples on ceilings of large rooms and open areas installers like 4 x 12 size. Rooms where drywall can be secured in stand up position it’s better to match the size of room height.

    All other rooms are just a preference of drywall installers. It can be 8, 9, 10 or 12 foot long drywall boards. For our example we will just use 8 x 4 sheets which gives us 32 square feet of drywall coverage.

    Size of DrywallTotal Square FeetWhere and When Used
    4 x 832 sq ftUsed everywhere in construction industry. Most popular product and most sold.
    4 x 936 sq ftWidely used in condo buildings as stand up installation and in regular bathrooms.
    4 x 1040 sq ftInstalled horizontally in rooms that are smaller or equal to 10 feet in length.
    4 x 1248 sq ftPreferred by installers in large open areas of the house for walls and ceilings.
    4 x 1664 sq ftNot popular in home construction/renovation. Preferred for large commercial spaces.

    Calculate Walls

    The longest process is measuring every wall of the house. Deferent height of walls on each floor makes it ever harder.

    We are talking about literally every wall. Every room has to be measured throughout. Very often people forget to measure inside of closets, near stairs, behind cabinets and installed fixtures.

    In our example house we have 1500 square feet on main floor that is 10 feet high, and same size second floor with 9 foot ceiling. Don’t mix square footage with size of walls.

    It takes up 30-45 minutes to measure walls. Main floor is mostly open and we have 240 linear feet times 10 foot height = 2400 sq ft.

    Second floor has all the bedrooms, bathrooms and closets. Our average home has 520 linear feet of walls multiplied by 9 feet equals to 4680 sq ft.

    Calculate ceilings

    Technically there is no need to calculate ceiling surface if you know the size of house. Ceiling equals to square footage of floor area.

    Because we assumed our example house is 3000 sq ft, than our ceiling surface area is 3000 sq ft.

    Do the math and add extras

    Not that we have all the numbers it’s as easy as adding them together and finalizing count. We got 3000 sq ft on ceiling, 2400 sq ft on all walls of main floor and 4680 sq ft on second.

    3000 + 2400 + 4680 = 10080 sq ft – Full House interior surface area.

    As we mentioned before, it is to be divided by size of drywall we want to use.

    10080 / 32 = 315 –  Drywall Sheets

    This is not over! Keep reading further details that we recommend including before making a final order.

    Types of Drywall Needed for Each Area

    Drywall is construction material made of gypsum and it works well for interior surface area. Its’ main purpose to cover open walls with rough ins as well as make perfectly smooth wall.

    Drywall is not flammable and is considered to be one of the best materials for renovation projects. Besides variety of sizes it has several types.

    Green Boards

    Best installed in wet and humid areas of the house. This drywall has some resistance to moisture but is does not serve as waterproofing wall.

    Recommended area for installation: bathrooms, laundry, utility room, indoor pool area, humid basements.

    Fire Rated (type X)

    With bylaws and building code improving every year, now we can create better fire protection for occupants. Drywall material was adjusted to have fire rating purpose.

    Recommended area for installation: walls of house close to neighbor, commercial properties with multiple units, households split or design for multifamily occupancy.

    Dense Boards

    Regular fire rated drywall is not enough when there is wanted source of heat in the house and we want to keep it. Dense boards have much better purpose on fireplaces and similar heat projecting appliances.

    Recommended area for installation: gas or wood burning fireplace.

    Soundproof Quite Rock

    Now we can insulate rooms or specific parts of building. Before it could only be done with sound rated insulation but not long ago soundproof drywall made it easy. The cost of it can be 5 – 8 times higher than regular drywall.

    Recommended area for installation: between floors, home studio, dental or medical office.

    Do You Need to Subtract for Windows and Doors?

    After calculating length of each interior and exterior wall of the house and finalizing math we need to make sure everything is don’t by the book. The question we often hear is do you need to subtract material for windows and door openings?

    It gets slightly complicated and there is not straight answer. If the house has 10-20 doors and regular or small size windows than don’t even bother.

    Modern homes with floor to ceiling windows is a different story. Imagine full real wall of windows and patio door. Just measure largest windows or doors and subtract them from final formula.

    Don’t forget to order a little extra material. Drywall does not need high percentage of waste to be included in purchase. We estimate that 5% of extra sheets would be enough for professional drywall installed, because don’t know how to cut and place boards without much waste.

    Average Amount of Drywall Needed for House

    This is not how drywall is calculated and we provide average material only for comparison or educational purpose.

    Our team calculated drywall for 10 different houses and came up with average number of sheets required for installation. The magic number we got is 3.6. Meaning on average we would multiply square footage or size of home by 3.6 to get surface area of drywall.  For example for every 1000 sq ft of home we got 3600 square feet of drywall or just over 112 regular size sheets.

    5 Important Pros and Cons of Ebony Kitchen Cabinets

    0
    Ebony Kitchen Cabinets
    Pros and Cons of Ebony Kitchen Cabinets

    Modern trends in the choice of the interior are tuned to individuality. Each of us strives to make his house look unusual, comfortable, and memorable. Because of this, more and more unusual colors and materials are becoming fashionable, which were previously used only on rare occasions.

    This trend has not bypassed the design of the kitchen. Unlike the usual classic light shades, dark kitchen elements began to come into fashion. Designers are increasingly proposing designs using ebony kitchen cabinets.

    As with other types of material, it is worth learning more about the pros and cons of ebony kitchen cabinets before using them. Kitchen cabinets take up a significant amount of space in the kitchen, so when done in dark colors, they can completely transform the interior.

    Pros

    1. Unique design
    2. The invisibility of stains and scratches
    3. Luxurious look
    4. Coziness and comfort
    5. Combination with metallic shades

    Cons

    1. Popular right now
    2. The small room seems smaller
    3. The need for more lighting
    4. Demand for cleaning
    5. Difficulty in contrasting

    In the modern interior of the kitchen, cabinets play a significant role. Due to the variety of kitchen designs, it is worth considering not only the size and spaciousness of kitchen cabinets but also their appearance. You can add luxury and uniqueness to the kitchen or create an incompatible design by choosing the finishing material for the cabinets. To avoid obvious mistakes, let’s take a closer look at when to use, and what pros and cons of ebony kitchen cabinets exist.

    Pros of Ebony Kitchen Cabinets

    Unique Design

    As we mentioned earlier, the main reason why ebony kitchen cabinets are growing in popularity is their appearance. Dark shades fit perfectly with any design. You can use these cabinets both completely dark and in a light kitchen with pastel tones of walls and floors.

    Such offices can focus a person’s gaze on themselves, becoming the main element in the interior of the kitchen. They can also perform an auxiliary function, highlighting other details of the interior, using a combination of colors and design.

    Using opposite color shades, as in a black and white kitchen, will allow you to create an attractive and relaxing room design, which will be equally comfortable both on weekdays and when receiving guests.

    The Invisibility of Stains and Scratches

    Another plus of ebony kitchen cabinets is their ability to mask dirt and light damage. Due to their color and texture, these kitchen cabinets will easily hide stains, grease, and other dirt that so often appear during cooking.

    The same can be said for minor damage such as scratches and light chips. On dark-colored wood, such damage will be almost invisible. This feature can be very practical over time. For example, after five years of use, you decide to sell the house, and in any case, there will be minor scratches in the kitchen. Unlike a light kitchen, a dark kitchen will hide these imperfections and this can affect the value of the house positively for you.

    Luxurious Look

    When you design a room, appearance is of particular importance. If you want to create a luxurious kitchen, then you should look at the choice of ebony kitchen cabinets. The dark color and texture of the material give the kitchen luxury and uniqueness.

    It is worth noting that even with the growing popularity, black kitchens are quite rare. You can almost always see the use of classic white materials and kitchens in general. Classic is a good choice, but it will make it much more difficult for you to create a unique design.

    Coziness and Сomfort

    We all know that bright rooms are often neutral. Because of this, it is difficult to feel comfortable in them. The dark color scheme used to add the ebony kitchen cabinets is very harmonious. These woody shades will fill your room with warmth and comfort. You will not get the feeling of sterility in light kitchens. You can enjoy the intimacy of this space while feeling its warmth.

    Combination with Metallic Shades

    Another nice feature of ebony kitchen cabinets is their compatibility with kitchen elements made of metal. With the use of modern technology, there are more and more such devices in the kitchen. Modern technology with steel shades will look harmonious on a black countertop, in contrast to the classic white options.

    Doorknobs and other elements made in golden color can also add luxury to black cabinets. Against dark surfaces, the gold metallic color can be fully revealed and look very expensive.

    Ebony Kitchen Cabinets Cons

    Popular Right Now

    When discussing the pros and cons of ebony kitchen cabinets, you should understand that in the popularity of styles, everything is very changeable. Undoubtedly, dark kitchen cabinets are of great interest right now. Most designers speak about their popularity and style when planning the interior of the kitchen, but no one knows what will happen in 5-10 years.

    It is highly likely that, as it usually happens, what is popular now will be poorly perceived after a while. For example, there will be new trends in fashion or beautiful materials that are not currently used for kitchen cabinets at all.

    All of these can affect the popularity of ebony kitchen cabinets. If it suddenly happens that they completely go out of fashion, then when you decide to sell the house, such a kitchen can, on the contrary, reduce the value of the house.

    Of course, all this is not unambiguous and no one can say with confidence what will be popular in the next decade. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to be aware of this possibility. If you plan to live in your home for many years and do not plan to sell it, then plan the kitchen design exclusively for yourself. If you like the use of dark colors in the interior, then you will be fine with it after ten years.

    The Small Room Seems Smaller

    Think twice about using predominantly dark shades in small rooms. Every designer will tell you that dark tones make a room look smaller. Therefore, if the kitchen in your house is very small, then the use of dark cabinets can significantly harm it.

    In such a room, you may feel uncomfortable and withdrawn. Remember that a dark kitchen is better for open-plan areas. If you do decide to use ebony kitchen cabinets in a small kitchen, then you should plan everything in detail and for this, it is better to involve a professional designer.

    The Need for more Lighting

    We have already mentioned that a dark kitchen visually narrows the space. A low-light room can be a similar problem. When planning your kitchen in dark colors, you will undoubtedly have to deal with providing it with additional light sources.

    Not every house has huge stained-glass windows in the kitchen, so you will need to provide more artificial light sources. Be sure to take care of the lighting of the work area and the eating area. It is also worth remembering that increasing the light sources may slightly increase the electricity consumption of your kitchen.

    Demand for Cleaning

    The invisibility of stains and scratches on the surface of the ebony kitchen cabinets is an indisputable advantage, but you should also understand that if the dirt is not visible, this does not mean that it is not there. Dark surfaces are just as dirty as light ones, and when it comes to cleaning, the process is much more difficult.

    It is much easier to clean light surfaces because you can see perfectly what you have to cope with. In the case of dark surfaces, cleaning is more difficult because you have to wipe everything thoroughly, sometimes looking closely for stains.

    When planning your ebony kitchen cabinets installation, just keep in mind that cleaning will take longer and need to be done all the time, not when you see the contamination.

    Difficulty in Contrast Creating

    Another disadvantage of using ebony kitchen cabinets is the difficulty in combining with bright colors. For example, a classic light kitchen can look like a white canvas, into which you can easily add various colors.

    In the case of dark surfaces, they contrast well only with the theme of the same light or metallic shades. Therefore, when planning the style of your dark kitchen, you should give preference to either a completely dark style, or with the addition of light elements for contrast.

    The Importance of Contacting a Designer

    Having examined in detail the main pros and cons of ebony kitchen cabinets, we can conclude that it will be very difficult to properly plan a kitchen in this style. This is true, it will take a lot of time and experience to complete this task.

    Therefore Remodel on Point recommends that you consider hiring a professional designer to do this job. Due to their experience, the designer will be able to choose the right layout and color scheme for you that will look great in your new kitchen.

    In addition, it will tell you the optimal amount and location of the light. This will allow your kitchen to be the most attractive and stylish at any time of the day. At the same time, the kitchen will be very functional and cozy for its comfortable use.

    Do You Need an Architect to Build a House or Renovation?

    0
    Architect to Build a House
    Do You Need an Architect to Build a House

    There is no requirement to have an architect to build a new custom home or renovate existing house. Local bylaws do not mandate architects to be involved in single family home construction.

    It is broadly thought that architects provide documents and submit them for permits. It is a mistake but widely accepted as a norm.

    Dissecting bylaws and building codes we can see that in order to build new houses it is necessary to submit documents and obtain building permit. Right now there are 8 states that are exempt from this rule. Building codes still do not exist in Hawaii, Arizona, Texas, Colorado, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota and Arkansas.

    Even without building code regulations, there are some rules that contractors and builders. It involves septic tanks and connections of main services like gas, sewer, water and electricity.

    Options to Complete Drawings without Architect

    We just mentioned that architect doesn’t have to be involved in overall process to create and submit drawings for residential home construction. In fact many designers and engineers sometimes call themselves architects and it confuses entire industry.

    Four options of completing drawings without architect:

    • Purchased Drawings
    • Designer and Engineer
    • Preapproved Builder
    • No Legal Obligation

    To answer do you need an architect to build a house or someone else can be hired for drawings we explored few possibilities. Besides architect there are other options for obeying local laws and provide necessary documents. Here is a list of options for new obtaining necessary documents:

    Purchased Drawings – There are literally thousands of premade plans that are available online. Companies make them every day and sell on different platforms. Something very simple can cost as low as $100 per plan or as high as $5000. It all depends what is included in package and how big is the house.

    Once again we recommend getting familiar with local building code before ordering anything. Online premade drawing may have floor plan, exterior (elevation) drawing, 3d rendering, detailed architectural details, engineering details and even breakdown of all materials or this specific project.

    Popular concept of selling these type of drawings is to offer initial floor plan and rendering for low price to attract clients and upsell engineering details additional documents required for permit. Reputable companies can even adjust selected drawing and slightly change floor plan as per request.

    Designer and Engineer – Majority of drawings made for new home construction where building codes exists are made by designers. Courses and simple education allows you to get certificate of designer that can create simple drawings for small residential homes.

    However the job does not stop here. Someone has to confirm structural integrity for major renovation and be liable for loadbearing walls. In this case often it will be structural engineer. He or she carefully examines all notes and details wrote by designer and confirm drawing with engineering stamp.

    Custom design for not complex 2000 sq ft home can cost around $3000 – $5000. Engineering work can add another $1000 or so for approving everything.

    Preapproved Builder – Subdivision or massive home construction process is different from unique custom home projects. Area is preapproved for development with samples of houses that are to be built. It can be exactly the same layout for each home or can vary significantly.

    Custom changes may also be available if contract is signed before renovation of your home is started. This would require engineer to change few details submit for revision. Procedure of floor plan change with several notes from engineer is quick and cost effective.

    Expect to spend $500 – $1000 for such changes and the process to last up to a month. In other words, it’s very insignificant comparing to other drawing options.

    No Drawings Needed – As mentioned above there are 8 states in America that do not require building permits at all for building new home. Therefore architect, designer or engineer doesn’t need to participate in drafting plans.

    You may think that living and building homes in states without building code is awesome, but expectation is far from reality. Most incidents happen in these 8 states and you have to be careful who you hire.

    In every stated option for home construction we insist on at least consulting and getting structural engineer to confirm beams, joists with load bearing walls. You do not want your house to lean or even fall after 10 years.

    Before spending thousands of dollars and signing a contract for design of your new house project get familiar with local requirement. Home owners may be able to get everything approved without professional help of engineers, designers and architects. This would save tons of money and time.

    Benefits of Working with Architect When Building Home

    Although it is absolutely not necessary to work specially with architect on design and architectural drawings for new home there are known benefits associated our team wanted to share.

    Main 5 Benefits of Working with Architect:

    • More Technical Education and Knowledge
    • One Man Show
    • Easy to Make Revisions
    • Discount Prices
    • Save Time

    More Technical Education and Knowledge – To become licensed architect it may take 5 plus years. Collage degree or similar credentials program has to be completed before examination is provided for licensing. Additional professional experience can also be one of credentials for certification. Throughout this long process, future architects learn all aspects of building codes, designs and how entire construction industry operates.

    One Man Show – With Architect working on home design no one else is needed. Licensed professional can draft the plan, approve it on his own and submit for city review.

    Easy to Make Revisions – The worst nightmare of builder is to have revised drawings after the project started. It could be due to mistake in original drawings or because client is stubborn and really wants that change. Architects can easily review request and send letter that approves revision and provides details for structural change.

    Discount Prices – Simply because you are dealing with one person, the cost may be lower. Why should you pay designer, find structural engineer, pay him for stamp and submit it. Cutting middleman and unnecessary steps in process can definitely save money.

    Save Time – Identical to our point with prices, the time is shortened because documents stay at one persons’ desk all the time until finalized. By using only architect instead of long chain of professionals the time can be shortened in half.

    Remodel On Point has list of best rated architects in every state and every major city throughout America. Home owners should themselves – do you need an architect to build a house or take a risk without professional? Reach out by email if you are looking for an architect for specific project and we can surely help out with contact information.

    What is the Job of Architect in Construction or Renovation?

    Saying that architect cannot submit documents for permits is incorrect as well. Professional and licensed architect has the power to draft and stamp drawings for renovation of small homes. What we are forgetting is that architects are largely involved in commercial construction and even high-rises.

    Single family residential home construction is just one branch of architects to direct their career. They can be working in a team on sky scrapers with creative designs for years, building roads and bridges according to standards and local requirements, drafting plans for factories, plants and other commercial buildings.

    Architect’s primary responsibility is to design or draft a plan for new construction or major change of building according to building codes and standards. They are responsible for confirming that overall design, size, and structural details work together.

    How to Flatten out a Sloped Backyard by Yourself

    0
    Flatten out a Sloped Backyard
    How to Flatten out a Sloped Backyard

    Most of the houses are built on not perfectly flat terrain. Sometimes it happens that the backyard is very difficult to use due to the unevenness. It so happens that literally 10 feet from the house there will be a very sharp slope.

    If you are dreaming of a beautiful backyard, then it’s time to ask yourself how to flatten out a sloped backyard. We warn you right away that this is a rather complicated procedure that requires a lot of effort from you. However, the result is a beautiful backyard for your lawn, garden, patio, or whatever you like.

    • Planning and information gathering
    • Cleaning and preparation
    • Adding more ground
    • Tamping and leveling the ground
    • Laying black soil
    • Sod installing

    In addition to making the backyard look nicer, it is also worth noting the problems that you may encounter without doing so. First, sheer and uneven areas of soil can form large runoffs, which over time will lead to soil erosion.

    In addition, water can stagnate at the bottom of the slope, which will be detrimental to the healthy growth of plants and lawns. The same difficulties will be with the care of the backyard. It is very difficult to cultivate flower beds and mow the lawn on uneven surfaces. If all these possible inconveniences are not new to you, then let’s take a closer look at the steps that are needed when aligning a sloped backyard.

    Planning and Information Gathering Phase

    The first thing to take care of is figuring out which part of the backyard you need to align. Consider in detail how your backyard will look after all the changes. For a more detailed understanding, you can work out a detailed landscape plan, which will display all the numbers and sizes.

    After that, you should check with your local utilities to see if there are water pipes or electrical cables under your backyard. Employees of these services can come to your site and mark where exactly the connection lines are located.

    Having learned this information, you will be able to clearly define the boundaries of change and how to flatten out a sloped backyard correctly, without harming all the connections in your home.

    Cleaning and Preparation of the Territory

    At this stage, you already have a clear plan for changes and it’s time to start. Before changing the landscape, it is worth removing everything from the territory. If in this area there are plants that are valuable to you that you would like to preserve, then you should carefully uproot them and transplant them into pots for a while. It is also necessary to remove all garbage and other items that may interfere with changes from the territory.

    After that, shave off all vegetation from the ground. If possible, use a lawnmower to get started to cut the grass as much as possible. After that, cut the lawn with a special knife. If you encounter very uncomfortable surface areas, try using a shovel. You need to completely remove all vegetation from the area before leveling.

    How to Flatten out a Sloped Backyard by Properly Ground Adding

    After you have removed all the vegetation, you need to take care of the soil. Just below the lawn is black nutritious soil. Usually, under a lawn, this soil is about 8 inches deep.

    Collect this layer of soil, but do not rush to throw it away. This is a very useful part of the soil that you will still use in the future. Gently collect this layer and leave stored aside where it will not interfere with work.

    The next step is to add the purchased soil to smooth the slope. It is necessary to evenly distribute the soil to get a smooth slope. The optimum lawn slope is considered to be 12 inches by 50 square feet. The slope should be directed from the building towards the drainage systems so that after the rain, excess water flows smoothly and does not stagnate on the lawn.

    Try to fill up the soil in parts and level it. Small amounts of soil can be conveniently leveled with a rake. Carry out this procedure until you completely level the soil, this will allow it to be better tamped in the future.

    This slope will be comfortable both for walking and for lawn maintenance. You can easily use the mower without discomfort. Also, if you wish, you can build a deck or patio on such a slope, for a comfortable time outdoors.

    Tamping and Leveling the Ground

    By leveling the soil, you will create the slope you need, however, at this stage, the soil will be loose. You will need a lawn roller to prevent soil from settling. Slowly push the roller back and forth until you have covered the entire area of ​​the soil, this will significantly compact it.

    In the process of compaction, depressions may come to light in places where there was an insufficient amount of soil. Use a shovel to fill these depressions with soil and level them with a rake. After this step, you should use the lawn roller one more time. At this stage, we have completely changed the slope of the surface and now you know how to flatten out a sloped backyard.

    The Stage of Laying Black Soil

    After you have created the necessary slope for your backyard, it is worth taking care of the plants and lawn, here we will need the black soil that we removed before. Spread chernozem over the entire area of the soil, at least 4 inches thick.

    After that, it is worth tamping black soil a little and pours it with water. If depressions appear, it is necessary to fill them with black soil and tamp them again. Repeat this process several times until you achieve a level ground.

    Preparing and Sod Installing

    Once you have prepared the ground, it’s time to tackle the plants. First of all, you need to take care of the lawn and lay it correctly. Sod is almost always used because of its ease of installation and use.

    There are several tasks to take care of before packing your sod. If you choose to install a sprinkler system for watering your lawn, then you need to lay pipes in the ground, before laying the sod. It is also recommended to add fertilizer to the ground so that the lawn can better take root in your area. It is best to use slow-release fertilizers to saturate the soil gradually.

    The next step is to install sod. This is a fairly straightforward process, you just roll out the sod rolls and join the pieces tightly. For this process, you do not need to have special skills, just be attentive to the process and take your time. Also, remember that sod must be installed on the day it was delivered to you. If you leave it in rolls overnight, chances are good that it will die.

    It is up to you to decide whether or not to use the turf roller after laying your lawn. In essence, it is designed to press the sod firmly against the soil. If you have been laying the lawn tightly, you will most likely not need to use a roller.

    For the lawn to take root well and quickly, it is worth observing the correct watering cycle. During the first two weeks after installing the lawn, it should be watered 3 times a day for 20 minutes. Such watering at first will allow saturating the lawn with moisture and then it will be possible to reduce the degree of watering.

    House Construction Payment Schedule with Examples

    0
    House Construction Payment Schedule
    Examples of House Construction Payment Schedule

    Before signing contract for new home construction ask builder what type of payment schedule they work with and ask for samples.

    It is important to know how the payment works, when you need to pay and how much will it be. Never settle for large deposits and down payments for construction as it puts you in high risk. Whatever the payment system is, checks should come progressively with completion of certain steps of the job.

    You will find very strict home builders that have system in place with exact number of payments, similar deposit for all jobs and specific instructions. These would be lot home builders and subdivisions that make similar homes with slight changes in design.

    Custom home builders are much more flexible. First of all they have several payment systems to use (cost plus, builder fee contract and fixed construction price) and discussable number to use in contract. It can be as little as 3 large payments or as many as 20 smaller checks throughout the job.

    Ask financial advisor if their schedule of releasing funds matches the mandatory payment of builder company or if they could work with such structure.

    Example of Progressive Payment Schedule

    Our team is providing an example of progressive payment that is very popular in home construction industry. Assuming the house construction is $500,000 and additional $30,000 is the cost of architectural drawings, city permits and preparation.

    The first check of $30,000 is paid way before construction starts.  On average the time way from initial payment to breaking the ground in custom home construction project; clients patiently wait 3-4 month.

    In our example the agreement between builder and client was to split cost of project into 10 payments. This breakdown works only for fixed price contract. Follow the post and read below how other payment systems are different.

    Example of House Construction Payment Schedule

    1) Initiating design and creating drawings        (10%) $30,000              Balance: $500,000

    2) 10 days prior to start of the project:             (10%) $$50,000            Balance: $450,000

    3) On Completion of:                                       (10%) $50,000              Balance: $400,000

    – Construction Set up          – Demolition of roof            – Full gut of existing house                  – Disposal of debris

    4) On Completion of:                                       (10%) $50,000              Balance: $350,000

    – Underground drain            – Waterproofing/weeping tile      – Concrete Slab         – New footings where required

    5) On Completion of:                                      (10%) $50,000              Balance: $300,000

    – Framing        – Temp Stairs        – Roofing Trusses      – Exterior vapor          – Roof Installation

    6) On Completion of:                                      (10%) $50,000              Balance: $250,000

    – Exterior finish/Stucco         – New Windows           – Exterior doors ordered              – Eaves and gutters

    7) On Completion of:                                      (15%) $75,000              Balance: $175,000

    – Plumbing Pipes                – Insulation of Walls and Attic      – Electrical Work         – HVAC System and Ducts

    8) On Completion of:                                      (15%) $75,000              Balance: $100,000

    – Flooring                   – Tiling                         – New Stairs            – Priming walls             – Drywall/mud/tape

    9) On Completion of:                                      (15%) $75,000               Balance: $25,000

    – Kitchen                  – Vanities                – Countertop               – Backsplash                    – Interior doors

    10) On Completion of:                                                (5%) $25,000              Balance: $0

    – Lights          – Installing shower doors             – Installing Faucets              – Painting               – Cleaning

    Types of Payment Systems with Suggested Schedules

    Home construction is different from smaller renovation jobs. For the most, custom home builder is a management company that hires trades and supervises the job on behalf of client. Estimating all the costs and making sure prices don’t go up for a year ahead (time of construction) is hard or even impossible.

    Therefore home builders tend to lean towards safety in contract, asking for builder fee or cost plus agreement. There are three known systems of payment to home construction company:

    • Cost Plus Agreement
    • Builder Fee Contract
    • Fixed Price

    The amount and contract agreement details are completely different in each structure. Make sure to understand how all of them work before signing away hundreds of thousands of dollars. The last thing home owners or as builder call them clients want to do is constantly worry about contract details and reading them over and over again as the job progresses.

    Home Construction Payment Schedule by System

    Let’s break down each system and see which one you prefer for such a large project. Talk to builder and ask if they are willing to work with house construction payment schedule and system that you like. If they stick to only one structure, make sure to completely understand it and know all ins and outs.

    Cost Plus Agreement – Most preferred payment structure by home builders. It is safest strategy that involves no risk from construction company.

    The fees for management is a percentage they agree with client. It is based on size of a house and complexity of work. On average home project, builders want to make 15% but can go as low as 5% – 7% if overall cost of construction is higher than 5 million dollars.

    The system is very easy to understand and implement. Company manages all trades, schedule and supervision of the job for compensation on top of all costs. For example in first stages the house is excavated, foundation poured, framed entire house, windows and roof installed. Assume all of these expenses were combined to $200.000, so builder gets check to cover all costs and additional $30.000 (15%) for their services.

    Builder sources out best know subcontractors and shows all expenses for material to client. There are two options of house construction payment schedule in this scenario. Either pays all bill right away as they come from suppliers and contractors or builder is granted specific amounts of money with confirmation of client until there is not money left and another balance is added.

    Builder Fee Contract – This system is almost identical to cost plus agreement, but instead of percentage based fee it is agreed to be flat and never change. Before contract is made all budgets are discussed as well as size of the house with necessary details. Builder and client agree for set $100.000 fee plus all the costs of labor and material to hire for construction.

    Once again builder acts as a management of third party contractors that are hired to perform specific tasks. Company does not invest their own money and has limited risk.

    Clients may prefer this house construction payment over cost plus agreement because of simplicity and transparency. In cost plus, estimates may be inflated for builder to have larger pay with agreed percentage and in flat fee it cannot happen.

    Downside for both parties in this contract payment is when project changes. We recommend adding a clause of increase or decrease builder fee if size of the house or level of complexity changes after agreement is signed.

    Fixed Price – Probably the best option for client in terms of assurance. Both parties agree on exact construction or presented drawing for the house and exact fixed price is set. Just like in our example above with $500.000 hard cost construction and $30.000 design package is agreed to be paid in 10 payments.

    Any amount of payments can be agreed in fixed price terms as long as this amount covers progress of work with related expenses. If client wants to make only 5 total payment, deposit has to be larger and completion steps include more of finished work.

    Custom home builders absolutely hate fixed price contracts, but eventually have no other choice if there are no other options. It involves complete calculation of entire house construction before it even starts and high risks with cost increase.

    Imagine if builder calculated everything properly and even added 15% of profit in fixed price, but during COVID all material and labor cost increased by 20% within the year. For this specific project builder would lose their own money instead of making for home construction job.

    How to Take Care of a Pool in the Winter Right?

    0
    Pool in the Winter
    How to Take Care of a Pool in the Winter

    We all love to swim in the pool on hot summer days. Nevertheless, when autumn comes, the question arises of how to take care of a pool in the winter. This is undoubtedly a very important question because if you mishandle your pools during the cold season, you can face many problems.

    1. Garbage collection
    2. Correct pool water level
    3. Chemical composition of water
    4. Cleaning pool equipment
    5. Cover swimming pool
    6. Install alarm system

    By the onset of spring, you may find that part of the pool system is not working, the water supply pipes have burst, or some of the pool finishes have fallen off and the pool needs significant repairs. Since each of us would not like to face such problems, let’s figure out how to avoid this and how to properly prepare your pool for the winter cold.

    Garbage Collection and Pool Cleaning

    The first question homeowners often face is when to start preparing their pool for winter. There is no exact answer to this question, because in each climatic zone there are different temperatures and, for example, in the north at the end of August it is already cool, but in the south, the heat can last all year round.

    Therefore, it is worth concentrating on a simple answer, start preparing your pool for the winter period as soon as you realize that you will no longer use it this year.

    First of all, you need to clean the pool. Remove any debris that might have gotten into it. Typically, these are leaves, small twigs, and other little things that fall into the pool from the surrounding backyard.

    Then it is worth looking at the waterline of the pool. Most likely, stains and small deposits have accumulated on the tiles over the season. In most cases, handy tools such as vinegar and baking soda will be sufficient to clean them. Wipe the tiles gently, taking care to keep the substances as little as possible in the pool water. They are not harmful to humans, but they can disrupt the acidity of your pool water.

    If more stubborn stains have formed on the pool tiles, you should use special cleaning agents. Before choosing a cleaning agent, you need to understand what type of tiles you are using. For a more detailed selection, we recommend that you consult with the supplier so that cleaning does not spoil the appearance of your pool.

    Correct Pool Water Level

    A common question that arises from homeowners is what level of water to leave for the winter. In most cases, everything will depend on what temperature zone you live in.

    The first case is if you live in a rather cold climate and in winter you have a temperature below zero. In this case, it is recommended to drain some of the water so that it is 4 to 6 inches below the skimmer. This will allow you to protect the equipment from water ingress and subsequent freezing. Otherwise, the pump in your pool may be damaged.

    If you live in a warm enough climate and there is no subzero temperature in winter, then you can leave the pool almost full. All you have to do is remove a few inches of water so that there is air space between the level and the blanket.

    Remember, it is not recommended to completely drain your pool. In winter, water can also have some protective functions. Firstly, if you take care of the pool properly, the water will be in excellent condition and you will not have to refill it.

    Secondly, the proper level of the pool allows you to reduce the load on the blanket, which will keep it intact. And thirdly, it is very important to understand that water protects the finish of your pool from drying out, keeping tiles and other elements from cracking and weathering.

    Maintaining the Water Chemistry

    After cleaning the pool itself, it is worth taking care of the water that remains in it throughout the winter season. It is important to keep the PH level in the water at a safe level. Determining the PH level in water is very easy with the PH test strip.

    This simple device will be enough to understand the level in the water and balance it. It is recommended to check the PH level in the water every two weeks.

    It is also worth taking care of water chlorination. For the winter period, 1 to 2 parts of salt chlorate per million particles will be sufficient. Do not exceed this amount if the pool is covered. This is because the cover material will not allow chemicals to pass through and excessive chlorine levels can damage your pool equipment.

    By maintaining the correct chlorine levels in your water, you will keep your water clean throughout the winter. This will keep your pool safe from algae. Remember that maintaining the condition of the pool water plays an important role in how to take care of a pool in the winter.

    Cleaning Pool Equipment before Winter

    Before preparing for the winter season, it is also important to take care of all the equipment used in the pool. The first thing to do is to clean all used filters and pumps so that no accumulated dirt and debris remains in them.

    It is also worth understanding that even when you are not using your equipment, from time to time it needs to be checked for serviceability. Check heating equipment, filters, and pumps at least once a month to keep equipment in good condition.

    Also, make sure that no water remains in the pipes. This is especially important if you live in cold climates and there are severe frosts. Frozen water can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs.

    If you are not sure how to properly shut down the equipment before winter, you should contact a professional company. The staff of the company will carry out all the necessary procedures and give you useful advice on how to take care of a pool in the winter.

    Swimming Pool Covering

    After carrying out all the checks and cleaning, it is worth taking care of covering the pool. The cover is a natural barrier from various debris and precipitation entering the pool water. The special material must be fixed over the entire pool area. Since each pool has its shape and size, the order of such a cover is usually made individually, according to the size of your pool.

    There are also automatic systems. If you install such a system in a pool, then the process of covering the pool will be much easier and you only need to press a couple of buttons. Automatic pool cover systems are very convenient, but you will have to pay a lot for such a device. Depending on the equipment and the size of the pool, prices can vary in the region of $ 5000 – $ 15000.

    Pool Alarm Systems

    After carrying out all the preparatory work, you should also remember to install an alarm on your pool. This is a very useful device that beeps when something or someone enters the pool.

    It is especially important to use a pool alarm when you have small children in your home. Walking in the backyard, they may not notice the covered pool and fall into it, especially when it is snowing outside. Such a device will allow you to react immediately and will not allow tragedy to happen.

    How to Take Care of a Pool in the Winter with Professionals Help

    Compliance with all of these steps will serve you well. I would also like to remind you that there can be very strong differences in how to take care of a pool in the winter. The care of the pool can be influenced by climatic features, the size, and location of the pool, as well as many other nuances.

    Based on this, we would recommend that you, at least in the first year of operation, contact a company that maintains swimming pools. You can find out a lot of useful information exclusively about your equipment and what subtleties in handling it should be observed. Well, if you do not want to deal with this whole process, you can completely shift these concerns onto professional employees.

    1...456...18Page 5 of 18
    We provide latest information and suggestions on construction and remodeling project for all parts of home. Share your story with our readers! -Follow Us-
    Facebook Instagram Pinterest Youtube
    © All Rights Reserved © Remodel On Point - 2022