How do I know if...
My House Building Envelope is adequate and in need of attention
Windows: If your windows frames or sills are rotting, your windows need to be replaced. I have used something as simple as a screwdriver to tap the frame to test the softness of the wood. If the tip of the screwdriver pushed into the wood easily it’s a sign of decay and rot in the window. When you replace rotted windows, ask if new windows are eligible for the energy tax credit. NOT all windows are eligible.
Roof System and Shingles: If your shingles are blistered, curled or split, it’s time to replace your roof. Other indicators are: loose or missing shingles throughout the roof; exposed/rusted nails; and excess granules from shingles in your gutters. The excessive amount shingle granules in the gutters, means the shingle coating is wearing away.
Attic Insulation: The attic is the most neglected area of the home. It’s for storage and that’s it. Right? Wrong! The attic needs proper insulation and ventilation. This ensures proper HVAC control and minimal ice damming. So head up and measure the depth of the blown-in insulation and see if there are baffles in the overhangs. All homes need to have a minimum of 16” to 18" of blown insulation, which would equal an insulation rating of a R - 38. Most attics we see only have about half of that. Just think of all of the heating and cooling escaping the home.
News Letter – February 2011
February 1st, 2011
Kitchen Remodeling
While kitchen remodeling gives a house that new feeling, it’s an expense—not just in terms of money but your time. There’s a lot to consider to ensure the result gives you that WOW factor you want. The following are some tips if you’re considering a kitchen remodel.
Ask yourself a bunch of questions. What do you desire and need in your kitchen? How do you live in your kitchen? What are your cooking habits (or quick heating habits, as is the case for some)? Are you a Gourmet Chef or “Take Out” specialist. Are you a Wholesale Store shopper, Weekly/Daily Grocery Store Shopper or Farmer’s Market Shopper? All these options require different storage needs. Write it all down to share with a remodeler. The more we know the better we can design for your needs. The more we know, the better…
Ask professionals a bunch of questions. How long will I be without my kitchen? How disruptive will this process be within our current lifestyle? How does a family function, when losing hub-central (the kitchen) for a period of time? Based on the dream wish list, is my budget realistic? What’s the process to ensure we’re happy at the end? Antonelli Construction prides themselves on having great relationships with each and every customer.
Ask what’s new. Consider what is hot in kitchen design. We’ are seeing cabinets that look more like furniture. Granite Counter tops and Quartz Counter tops are becoming commonplace. We’re adding more lighting and more windows to bring the outside in. Instead of desks in kitchens, consider computer work stations off the kitchen area (call this Mom’s work area). Also consider kitchen spaces for kids to do homework. There are some great new refrigerator and freezer cabinet drawers. While new, trendy appliances are great, consider use and cost if you need a fix. Sometimes top of the line isn’t best based on how families use the kitchen. And consider appliances in the planning process. It helps the design from day one.
NEW ANTONELLI BLOG
In addition to the newsletter, we have started a Blog. Please Check it it from time to time for additional residential tips and information.
Home and Garden Show
Don’t Forget the Home and Garden Show in March!
We hope you found our newsletter helpful. If you have any questions, please email us, we will be happy to assist and respond.
Thanks!
Craig Antonelli
