Tag Archives: Lindus Construction

Protect Yourself from a Mechanic’s Lien During Your Home Improvement Project

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 12, 2013 – 2:32 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , ,

lien

If you have never heard about a mechanic’s lien, or you have heard the term but do not really know what a mechanic’s lien is, you are not alone. There are many things to know about when you own your own home and plan on remodeling or have improvements made on your property. Below, we are going to discuss what a Mechanic Lien is and how to properly avoid one during your home improvement process.

lien law

What is a Mechanic’s Lien?

The legal definition of a mechanic’s lien is the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, architect or other person who has worked upon improvements or delivered materials to a particular parcel of real estate (either as an employee of the owner or as a sub-contractor to a general contractor) to place a lien on that real property for the value of the services and/or materials if not paid. In layman’s terms this means that the contractor and any subcontractor or material supplier for a building project can go to court and try to take possession of your property if they are not paid.

lien 2

How to protect yourself from a lien?

In order to protect yourself from having liens filed against your property, you should have the contractor list in the contract the names of all anticipated subcontractors and material suppliers. Be sure to keep track of any notices you may receive and before making a final payment; be sure you have received lien waivers signed by each of the subcontractors. At Lindus Construction we pre-lien every job ensuring the protection of our customers as well as ourselves.

lien paid

You only have to pay once if you ask for the lien waiver!

If you obtain a valid lien waiver from the subcontractor, or if you pay the general contractor in full before receiving the notice from the subcontractor, you cannot be forced to pay for the services or material a second time if the contractor fails to pay the subcontractor.

lien 4

Steps to avoiding a lien on your property

  • Hire a reliable, reputable contractor who has been in business for a number of years.
  • Use a written contract that lists the subcontractors and suppliers for each stage of work you are requesting and outlines progress payments on completion of each stage.
  • Actively supervise the project and ensure any changes to the original contract are noted.

Lindus Construction has been in business for over the last 30 years and have over 50,000 happy customers. It is no secret that we are doing something right with over 30% of our new customers coming from referrals. Call us at 1-800-873-1451 for a free no-obligation estimate or check us out at www.lindusconstruction.com. Tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for our Home Improvement Show with Andy Lindus & Denny Long.

Flashing-A Roof Leak Preventative

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on April 8, 2013 – 12:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Roofing, Roofing Installation, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , ,

When it comes to replacing your roof, homeowners spend a lot of time selecting shingle style and color.  There’s nothing wrong with this, especially when you consider that companies like GAF put out roofing systems that have non-prorated warranties that last 50 years.   But it’s also, if not equally more important, to understand the components being installed in conjunction with your shingles because they act as additional protectors for your home from issues such as water damage.  One of these protective components is called flashing.  Likely, flashing is not something that is top of mind when it comes to re-roofing your home, but failure to pay ample attention to it can dramatically shorten the lifespan of your roof and lead to water damage in your home.

What Is Flashing:  Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where a roof meets a wall.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.

Types of Flashing:

Kickout- Itsprimary purpose is to protect your home’s structure, windows & siding.  Additionally, it prevents water from going behind your siding where your roof meets a wall.  This type of flashing is installed over the edge of your roof.  Without it, the water that drains down your roof will come crashing down your roof and splash onto your windows & siding.  As this process repeats, mold, rot and structural damage can occur.

Valley- On a roof, a valley is an area where two adjoining sloped roof planes intersect on a roof creating a “V” shaped depression.  Valleys can be common sources of roof leaking because they catch water speeding down two roof planes; they disperse more water off a roof than does any individual roof plane.  Inadequate or improper installation of valley flashing can result in circumstances such as your roof caving in or your roof decking rotting.  Valleys come in two varieties.  They are: closed valley & open valley.  A closed valley is where the metal flashing is installed first and then the shingles are placed on top of it.  An open valley is where the flashing is laid first, followed by the shingles.  The tin is left exposed.  Additionally, three rows of ice and water shield are placed in this area.  Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.

Step- Step flashing gets its name because it is comprised of several pieces of flashing that “step up” the roof with each progression of shingles and when the process is completed, the flashing looks like steps going up a wall.  Step flashing is important because it is a protectant against leaking where a roof & wall come together.  Improper step flashing can also lead to leaking where a chimney and wall meet.

Vent Pipe- It’s not uncommon to see a vent pipe sticking out from numerous places along your roofline.  Vent pipes can be for bathroom vents, sewer vents, hot water heaters, furnaces, etc.  Over time, due to nature’s elements, the seal between the pipe and roof begins to erode.  Installing vent pipe flashing defends against water damage to your home.

Chimney- Like its name states, chimney flashing is positioned around a chimney for the purpose of sealing it off against water.  One type of chimney flashing is called “chimney cricket”.  This piece of metal is installed on the back side of the chimney with the intention of diverting water away from it, as chimneys are an area that can easily leak.  If you notice stains on the walls that are in close proximity to your chimney, it’s quite likely that your chimney flashing has been comprised.  Prompt attention should be paid to this matter to avoid further damage, including mold growth.

Skylight-When a skylight is installed, a hole is cut in your roof to accommodate it.  Skylights must have flashing installed around them.  Without it, leaking can occur, damaging the interior of your home.  Many skylight companies offer flashing kits that are specifically designed for their product.

Drip Edge-Drip edge flashing can be installed on your roof’s gable edges and eaves. It will preserve the fascia board from windblown rain.  Additionally, it assists in bolstering roof shingles from sagging into your gutters or being broken should a tree branch fall on it.  Drip edge flashing also serves as a preventative for shingles being pulled off the roof during heavy winds.

Sidewall-This type of flashing should be installed where a section of roofing meets a vertical wall.  This will add an additional level of protection to prevent water from leaking behind your walls, 01siding, etc.  This can lead to rot, mold, etc. which can end up causing a homeowner thousands of dollars.

Lindus Construction offers the #1 selling roofing systems in North America, GAF Asphalt Roofing and was recognized in 2011 as the #1GAF roofing contractor in the country. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

 houzz

 

Your Home’s Moisture Levels-When Wetter Isn’t Better

2
Posted by Andy Lindus on April 2, 2013 – 2:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Lindus Construction, Roofing, Sweaty Windows, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Window Condensation
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

It’s no secret that moisture in your home can be a leading cause of health ailments such as asthma & upper respiratory conditions.  With this year’s winter dragging on and on and on, it’s a good idea toexamine your home for moisture related issues that may have presented themselves over the winter months.

Beyond the health issues that excessive moisture in your home can create, it’s also vital to address issues with moisture before they negatively affect your property. There are several places where moisture can present itself, all of which can end up directly affecting your wallet & your health.

Windows & Doors: Leaking often first occurs near the corners.  Telltale signs of impending water damage include paint that is discolored or peeling.  Windows that sweat can also be an indicator that moisture is occurring when it shouldn’t.  (For more on sweating windows: (http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/11/why-are-my-windows-sweating/)

Roof: Any shingles that permit water to saturate your roof’s underlayment should be replaced.  Areas where this is more likely to occur are attic vents and chimneys.  Water that is visible through your ceiling may have already coated your attic floors and trusses which is why it’s so important to address any loose shingles as soon as you see them.  Another preventative measure that can be taken is investing in quality flashing.  Flashing is a slender metal bar found in roofing that acts as a water intrusion preventative in spaces where two different surfaces fit together.

Foundation: A cracked foundation is the perfect vessel to deliver water into your home.  As soon as cracks are identified and the damage has been evaluated, the cracks should be filled.

Clogged Gutters: The purpose of rain gutters is to divert rain water away from your home.  If they are clogged, the water will spill over which can result in a multitude of issues including: damp basements, destroyed landscaping, rotting wood (around windows) and icy sidewalks.  Invest in clog-free gutters such as LeafGuard and never experience this issue again.

Exhaust Fans & Venting: Exhaust fans are designed to redirect moisture from your home’s interior to the outdoors.  Be sure yours is in good working order or risk excessive moisture which cancause mold to grow, which will negatively affect your family’s health.

Sprinkler System: The purpose of your sprinkler system is to water your grass, not your foundation.  Make sure that your system’s misting pattern is directed away from your home so that water does not land near your foundation.

Lindus Construction offers free no-obligation estimates on home remodeling projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

houzz

 

 

LP SmartSide – Pioneers in Sustainable Siding For Your Home!

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 29, 2013 – 1:58 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, LP, LP SmartSide, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , ,

 

smartside 1

Picking the right siding for your home is a delicate balancing act between good looks, durability, maintenance & affordability. LP SmartSide siding is a resilient mix of wood strands & fibers, zinc borate, and superior exterior-grade resins that are proven to withstand extreme heat, cold, humidity & rainfall.

smartside 3

LP SmartSide works and cuts just like traditional wood, taking nails and screw with ease for easy installation. It does not require special safety training and special gear to protect against airborne silica, like fiber cement. Their warranty is unmatched with their 5/50-year limited warranty providing a 5-year 100% labor and replacement feature and a 5/50-year prorated limited warranty on the product.

smartside 5

How LP SmartSide is manufactured

LP SmartSide is manufactured in Tomahawk, WI. All the wood that is used at their facility is SFI® (sustainable Forestry Initiative) certified, which is the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. SFI® certification helps insure that the wood being used only comes from well-managed forests. By having LP SmartSide installed on your home, you are helping builders reduce waste on the jobsite. This is because without knots, fewer siding needs to be discarded.  Fewer knots also mean that the siding can be produced in longer lengths, which cuts back on the number of pieces used.  Because the siding is so durable, you may even qualify for certification points in current leading green building programs now available. Here is the manufacturing process of LP SmartSide:

smartside 6

  • When the logs arrive on site, they go through a conditioning process so it comes in at the right moisture content for the bark to be removed off the log.
  • They reuse the bark and any other byproducts of the log for heating their facility so nothing is wasted.
  • After the bark is removed, the log itself is turned into precisely shaped strands of wood that are now ready to be dried.
  • The size of the wood strands is very precise; that is what gives their product such strength & durability, allowing it to lay flat and true to your home.
  • After the strands are cut, they still contain 50% moisture content and the product is tumbled in large steel drums that force the moisture out of the product to between 5%-10%.
  • Once the strands of wood are dried they go through the SmartGuard process, which is the blending of the strands with an exterior rated binder, which acts as industrial strength glue.
  • In addition to the SmartGuard process, they add a wood preservative treatment that is environmentally safe and EPA registered. The American Wood Preservatives Association recognizes it because it’s proven effective against termites, wood decay and rot. That is why LP SmartSide has an industry leading 50-year warranty.
  • After the SmartGuard and wood preservative process, the strands of the product have been mixed thoroughly together and are formed into a woven mat that is overlaid with a resin impregnated paper.
  • It then travels into a heated press, and under intense heated pressure, the mat that is 6-8 inches thick is compacted down to as small as 3/8 inch.
  • The realistic wood grain finish is pressed into the product from plates during the heated pressure process allowing for the look of wood without having to deal the natural defects of it.
  • The wood grain finish is very realistic and doesn’t have the natural defects of natural wood. When the product is being pressed under the heat and pressure, there are plates that push the wood grain texture into the product.
  • Once pressed, it comes out in a sheet that is about 16 feet long that is cut down into 4’x16’ sheet products.
  • They further cut these sheets down into the specific sizing that is needed.

smartside 2

Lindus Construction is proud to be a Platinum member of LP’s Build Smart Preferred Remodeler Program. We have gone through extensive training with LP through jobsite audits and LP University to make sure that every job is done to the specifications that the manufacturer entails. We also offer a visual remodeler program that allows you to view LP® SmartSide® on your current home. LP® SmartSide® comes in 100 different profiles so the possibilities are endless!!

smartside 4

Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

 

Replacing Your Windows & Siding Simultaneously

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 25, 2013 – 12:31 pm
Filed under Awning, Bay, Bow, Casement, CenterLock Siding, Construction, Double Hung, Garden, James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding, SeasonGuard Siding, Siding, Sliding, Sweaty Windows, Vinyl Windows, Window Condensation, Windows, Wood Siding, Wood Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

Though the weather may not reflect it, the calendar is saying that spring has sprung!  Earlier this month, we took an entire day to get all of our employees in the same room at same time.  (With 100+of us, this can feel like quite a feat!)  “Aha moments” are always abundant when we get everyone in the same room (though a JibJab video and caffeine can be of great assistance in the morning!)  One of our installers brought up the fact that there are several ways a homeowner benefits from replacing their windows and siding at the same time.  While this concept makes perfect sense in our industry, it’s not something a homeowner may even be aware of as they plan home improvement projects. 

Why it’s a Good Idea

Replacing your siding and windows in tandem allows you to achieve the best possible scenario.  It oftentimes saves you money because caulking and sealing window openings & trim and siding joints will only need to happen once.  This saves you in labor costs by not having this work performed twice.  Because these two projects are so often done concurrently, it’s fairly easy to find a contractor that can perform both tasks which also saves you by not having to hire two separate companies.  Another way you save by replacing siding and windows synchronically is in energy costs.

Protecting Your Home if the Work Must Be Performed Separately

If you’ve already had the siding replaced and are now noticing that your windows aren’t as energy efficient as they once were, there are still ways to protect your siding during the removal of the old windows.  One method is to install window trim around current windows when the new siding is installed.  This prevents the new siding from protruding the nailing fins.  This means that when the old windows are removed only the window trims will need to be removed, leaving the siding undisturbed.  Installing window trims with screws, rather than nails, can also minimize damage during the window removal process.

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your windows:

  • You hear your windows rattling when it is windy outside
  • You notice your windows develop an icy or frosty glaze inside the window pane
  • You feel your home becomes drafty with cold air in the winter months and warm air in the summer months
  • You see excessive condensation on your windows or they become fogged
  • You have to prop your windows open because they will not stay open on their own

 

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your siding:

  • You are adding on to your home
  • Your current siding looks weathered and constantly needs new paint
  • Existing siding has extensive insect damage or dry rot
  • Current siding has stains or has weathered unevenly
  • Existing siding shows signs of buckling or decay.

 

Looking for a professional to assist you with new windows & siding?   Let the professionals at Lindus Construction help you. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

 

houzz

The Best & Worst of Bathroom Flooring

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 22, 2013 – 1:16 pm
Filed under Bathroom, Ceramic Tiles, Concrete, Flooring, Glass Tile, Laminated Flooring, Linoleum Tiles, Sheeted Linoleum, Uncategorized, Wood Flooring
Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

When it comes to your bathroom, there’s lot of factors to consider when it comes to flooring materials.  Being as it’s the wettest room in your house, your selection needs to be a material that can handle moisture, but also something that will prevent slipping while still being easy to clean.  Other helpful factors in determining which material works best include the number of people using the bathroom and your budget.  In this blog, we’ll break down the best and worst bathroom flooring materials and the reasons why.

The Best

Concrete

With concrete, you can choose between tiles or solid concrete.  Concrete makes sense because of its durability and because it can be sealed to keep water out.  It’s an easy material to maintain and can be stained to the color of your choosing.  It is resistant to moisture, staining and reduces allergens.  Bear in mind that it may require resealing on occasion.

Sheeted Linoleum

If your heart is set on linoleum in your bathroom, opt for sheets which come in rolls and are trimmed to the bathroom’s size.  There are no seams which can allow moisture to penetrate, causing warping.  If you go this route, be sure to have a reputable contractor do the installation because if it’s done incorrectly, sheeted linoleum can have the same problems as linoleum tiles.  Sheeted linoleum is desirable in a bathroom because it’s generally able to assist in cutting back on the amount of pathogens found in a bathroom.

Ceramic Tiles

There are many reasons that ceramic tiles are a favored bathroom material; they are long-lasting and non-porous.  Plus, they come in oodles of designs.  Just watch out, because certain ceramic tiles can be slippery.  Grout lines have to be sealed in order minimize staining.

The Worst

Carpet

Carpet is an impractical bathroom flooring selection for multiple reasons.  While it provides a feeling of warmth, carpeting accumulates moisture which can lead to mildew.  Carpeting can also be tricky to clean and easily stains.  Humidity and carpeting also don’t mix well and a musty smell will likely always be present in the bathroom.

Laminated Flooring

Verify that the warranty that comes with your flooring is not voided by placement in a bathroom.  However, if you are set on having laminate flooring in your bathroom, you’ll appreciate the fact that it’s easy to clean.  This type of flooring has glued-in seams that prohibit water from seeping through the cracks in the gaps between the floorboards.  However, those that lock into place can allow water to infiltrate the seams which can cause the floor to warp and blister.

Hardwood Flooring

Like carpeting, hardwood flooring provides a feeling of warmth.  Its cosmetic appeal is hard to beat.  Hardwood flooring is tough to make work in a moist bathroom because sitting water and humidity can cause the wood to crack and bend.  Once this happens, the flooring cannot be repaired.

Linoleum Tiles

Linoleum tiles resist water more effectively than hardwood or laminated floors because they are oil based.  However, unlike sheeted linoleum, linoleum tiles can still be penetrated by moisture because the tiles have seams.  When this occurs, distortion and gapping can result.

Glass Tile

Glass tile is a popular choice because of the endless choices of colors and patterns.  Oftentimes, it’s comprised of recyclable materials making it an eco-friendly choice.  Glass is appealing because it is resistant to temperature changes and humidity.  It also cleans easily.  Be mindful of the type of glass you select because it can be slippery, but choosing a sandblasted glass surface gets you around this risk.  Do know that glass floors can scratch.

Lindus Construction offers free no-obligation estimates on home remodeling projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

houzz

“Fresh Air” Skylights & Why You Can’t Go Another Day Without One in Your Home

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 20, 2013 – 8:09 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, VELUX, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

velux 1

I don’t think there is a single person in the Twin Cities area that is not ready for spring to arrive in a big way. We are ready to put gloomy cloudy, days behind us and open the windows to let the fresh air and sunshine in.  If you are in the mood to maximize the combination of fresh air and sunshine into your living area, we have just the home improvement product for you. It is called the Solar Powered “Fresh Air” skylight by VELUX. You will see the features and benefits below by adding skylights to you home and how it will not only increase your mood, but put money back in your pocketbook as well.

 

velux 2

Artificial lighting is one of the largest sources of energy consumption in the United States, accounting for up to 40% of a structure’s total energy use. By installing a skylight properly in your home, you will recoup your money in less than two years. By adding natural light to your living area with skylights, you will be reducing your use of artificial light in those areas on average up to 70%-80%.  The best thing about exposing yourself to natural light more often is that you can expect a 24% increase in energy according to scientific experts!

fresh air

How it works

The Solar Powered “Fresh Air” skylight features a solar panel that captures any available daylight and uses it to recharge a highly efficient, fully concealed, battery powered operator and control system. The battery-powered operator is the power source that opens and closes the skylight, and the solar panel serves as the charging source for the system

velux 3

Benefits of adding a Solar Powered “Fresh Air” skylight in your home

  • 30% federal tax credit is eligible the Solar Powered “Fresh Air” Skylight.
  • The no leak warranty carries a 10-year installation warranty, plus 20-years on glass. 10-years on the product & 5-years on blinds & controls.
  • Adding fresh air and ventilation to your home is essential to your health & well-being.
  • The solar panel works even on cloudy days with indirect sunlight. It does not have to be exposed to direct sunlight to function.
  • In case of inclement weather, it has an integrated rain sensor that will close the automatically.
  • The skylight requires no wiring, which makes for easy and cost effective installation.
  • It is remote controlled for extreme ease of use.
  • The inner pane is laminated for additional safety so if the glass accidentally broke it will not shatter. Laminated glass meets codes for products installed out of reach.
  • There are eight different choices of blinds to choose from. If you order the skylight & the blind at the same time VELUX will pre-program your remote to control both the window and the blind.

Lindus Construction is a proud 5-star dealer of VELUX Skylights. Give us a call now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free no-obligation estimate on a Solar “Fresh Air” skylight so you can enjoy it all summer. Tune into WCCO 830AM on Saturday’s from 9-10am for our Home Improvement show with Andy Lindus & Denny Long.

Why High Quality Siding Underlayment Is Important For Your Home

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 15, 2013 – 8:27 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

greenguard

When you think of protecting your home from the elements and increasing energy efficiency, the first thought that comes to your mind is probably not your siding underlayment. This protective barrier around your home, called underlayment, has a very important purpose. It provides protection from air or water that can be forced through your exterior siding by wind, or something as simple as a small crack. If air & water are allowed inside the walls of your home significant damage can occur in the form of mold or rot. Underlayment prevents the penetration of air & water from entering any unsealed openings. This is why using the highest quality siding underlayment on your home is important.

greenguard 2

The walls in your home are 40% wood framing, which offer little insulation, and the other 60% could possibly not be filled with insulation or lack in significant quantity Think of underlayment around your home as wrapping a protective blanket around it protecting it from cold winters and hot humid summers. Underlayment helps reduce air infiltration that can account for 30% of the heating and cooling loss from your home. It is waterproofing that prevents rain damage from getting trapped in your wall cavities. The three main factors in having inadequate underlayment on your home are condensation, water damage and rotting. You should only consider underlayments that have a permeance of 5.0 or higher.

raindrop wrap

We only use the highest quality rated underlayment. GreenGuard RainDrop 3D building wrap is what we use on every home that we install siding, because it manages moisture better than any other product on the market. RainDrop 3D drains 50% more water than its underlayment competitors, helping keep your walls safe and dry. The way RainDrop 3D underlayment outperforms its typical counterparts is because it is truly three products in one. It exceeds all building code requirements of an air barrier, water-resistant barrier and a drainage wrap. By combining all three of these features eliminates the need for installing multiple products.

raindrop 2

RainDrop 3D provides your home superior protection by;

  • Providing advanced moisture management
  • Enhanced drainage channels facilitate water movement out of wall
  • Channels won’t crimp, collapse, or flatten, ensuring water will drain no matter how tightly cladding is nailed to the wall
  • Qualified Air Barrier Material – recognized by the Air Barrier Assoc of America
  • Code compliant Air Barrier Material and Water-resistive Barrier (ICC-ES ESR-2906)
  • Qualified for Drainage Efficiency (IAPMO-ES Report No. 0187)
  • Superior strength properties
  • Not perforated
  • Translucent design with high tear resistance
  • UV stable for up to 6 months

When it comes to protecting your home’s exterior barrier you need to think of the 3 D’s deflection, drainage and drying. If you master these basic elements your home will have the best defense it could have.

Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 Lindus Construction offers free no obligation estimates or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com.Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

Countertops Worth Considering

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 13, 2013 – 2:57 pm
Filed under Copper, Countertops, Glass, Lava Stone, Limestone, Marble, Solid Surface Synthetics, Travertine
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Shopping for kitchen countertops can seem like a daunting task.  There are lots of things to consider including materials, colors, textures, durability, lifespan and maintenance.  Last April, we reviewed some common countertop materials (check out the blog by clicking: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/04/do-your-countertops-need-a-facelift/).  Because there are so many materials you can use, we’ve decided to present some more countertop options for you to review so that you can determine what’s best for your kitchen.

MARBLE

What It Is:  Marble is a rare stone that can be polished to make countertops.  Because it naturally occurs in nature, no two countertops are the same.  

Consider This: Marble is prone to scratches and staining.  It can be repaired by a professional.  Marble’s look is timeless.  Marble is heat resistant, but it can soak up oils and odors.

Price Range: $$-$$$

GLASS

Consider This: A benefit of glass countertops is that they are easy to clean.  Care should be taken to ensure that they are not scratched.  Glass can also crack and if it does, it cannot be repaired.  A perk of glass countertops is that they are stain proof.  Glass is available in multiple colors and patterns and can be shaped to fit the home.

Price Range: $$$

LIMESTONE

What It Is: Limestone occurs in nature when the remains of tiny shells and organisms are laid to rest in a sea bed where they eventually compress and are formed into a rock.

Consider This: Acidic foods spilled on a limestone counter can cause the color to dull and fade.  Limestone counters require annual sealing.  Limestone countertops can come in vibrant shades that may not be found in other natural materials.  They are resistant to humidity.

Price Range: $$

 

COPPER

Consider This: Copper countertops are long-lasting but are unable to be sealed to prevent tarnishing.  They will show fingerprints.  As it ages, copper countertops will grow a reddish brown patina.  They are prone to denting and scratching.  Different textures are available.

Price Range: $$$

SOLID SURFACE SYNTHETICS

What It Is: Solid surface synthetics are comprised of manufactured materials, most commonly acrylic.

Consider This: These countertops are manmade and are not recyclable.  They are prone to scratching and denting, but these damages can often be fixed by a professional.  They only need minimal maintenance.  They are malleable and can be molded to almost any requirement.

Price Range: $-$$

LAVA STONE

What It Is: Lava stone is one of the newer materials available for countertops.  It is hand extracted from open air mines.

Consider This: The lifespan of this material is uncertain because it’s a newer product.  It’s currently manufactured in France and shipping costs contribute significantly to its price.  It holds up well against staining and scratching.  Because this material is mined, each countertop is unique.  It comes in a multitude of colors.

Price Range: $$$

TRAVERTINE

What It Is: Travertine is a stone that takes years to form from minerals under intense pressure and heat.  It’s made when the minerals dissolved under water leave behind sediments on the outer parts of beaches.

Consider This: Because travertine occurs naturally, it comes in lots of different colors.  Travertine reflects light which can make your kitchen appear larger.  Spilling acidic liquids on them, that are not immediately cleaned up, can result in etching. Because they absorb liquids, it’s important to disinfect these counters regularly to slow bacteria growth.  It needs to be resealed every couple of years.

Price Range: $-$$

Considering remodeling your kitchen? We would like to help you with your vision and design! Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

Cabinets-To Restore, Reface or Replace?

0
Posted by Andy Lindus on March 7, 2013 – 1:25 pm
Filed under Cabinets, Construction, Home Construction, Lindus Construction, Refacing, Replacing, Restoring, www.lindusconstruction.com
Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

When it comes to updating your kitchen, one of the biggest changes you can make is modernizing your cabinets.  Before commencing with demolition, it’s worth taking a step back and consideringwhat you’d like to do with your cabinets because replacing if they’re outdated, isn’t your sole option.  In this blog, we’ll take a look at the possibility of resurfacing, replacing and restoring kitchen cabinets so that you have the information necessary to make the correct choice for your home.

Restore

The best candidates for cabinet restoration are those who are pleased with their cabinet’s current hue, characteristics and placement, but know that their cabinets definitely looked better when they were new.  Things that can detract from your cabinets’ original appearance include cooking grease, weathered stain, broken hardware, scratches, etc.  Restoration is a multi-step solution that can be done multiple ways.  If a deep cleaning is all that is required, special oils and cleaners can be used to bring back the cabinet’s original brilliance.  In a more severe situation, doors and drawers may be removed, sanded and a new top coat may be applied.  The pricing will be dependent on far you choose to take the restoration.

Reface

Refacing is a great option for property owners that want to give their cabinets a new look, but don’t want to lose the use of their kitchen during the process.  It’s also a popular choice for those who are putting their home on the market.  During the refacing process, your cabinet & drawer doors are replaced with high end doors.  The sides are upgraded with veneers.  Veneering is a specialized process best done by a professional and if installed correctly, there is very little risk that the veneer will peel off.  The process from start to finish usually takes no more than 4 days.  Cabinet refacing is less costly than new cabinets and can be used in tandem with upgraded hardware to give your kitchen a whole new look.  Because the “guts” of your cabinet remain the same, the amount of storage space you have in your kitchen is not affected by the refacing of your cabinets.  Your kitchen is not a good candidate for refacing if your current cabinets are under extreme duress.

Replacing

If you want to completely change the look and feel of your kitchen, new cabinets might be just the way to go.  Utilizing this option allows you to customize the style, design and amount of storage space in your kitchen.  New cabinets are a long-term investment that will be enjoyed for years to come; be sure to carefully consider the type of wood, warranty, manufacturer, finish, etc.  It’s recommended that you work with a professional on your new kitchen cabinets because the kitchen is often one of the biggest selling points of a home and the cabinets are something that you want to get right on the first attempt.  Cabinetry professionals are oftentimes able to utilize computer software that shows you what the final product will look like in your kitchen and makes recommendations on the type of material to use based on your habits, tastes and requirements.

Considering remodeling your kitchen? We would like to help you with your vision and design! Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

houzz