Tag Archives: MN

Slashing Summer Energy Costs

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 16, 2013 – 12:59 pm
Filed under Construction, Home Maintenance, Insulation, Lindus Construction, Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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With energy costs ever on the rise, it’s not a bad idea to thoughtfully examine your home to see how you can save without having to forego air conditioning. In this blog, we’ll give you some tips on how keep your summer energy costs in check while helping the environment, since the Department of Energy speculates that half of a household’s energy consumption is from heating and cooling.

INSULATION- Insulation in your attic acts as a preventative to keep the sun’s heat that hits your roof, especially in the summer, from filtering into the rest of your home, which in turn, will make your air conditioner work harder.  According to ENERGY STAR, the proper amount of insulation that is installed correctly can lower your energy bills by as much as 20%.  Insulation shouldn’t be limited to your attic.  Your walls and basement also benefit from insulation.  (Learn more at: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/03/insulating-your-home-will-insulate-your-pockets)

WINDOWS- All windows are NOT created equally, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency.  Windows best suited to provide insulation and increase your home’s energy efficiency are those that are triple paned. This means they contain 3 panes of glass that are separated by air spaces. They’re a great way to save on your energy bills because they have more surface area, which is used to absorb both warmth and cold putting less stress on your home’s furnace and air conditioner. Lindus Construction is the exclusive home of the SEASONGUARD window.  The SeasonGuard window’s patented design allows for solar heat gain in the winter which naturally keeps your home warmer.  In the summer, SeasonGuard windows deflect sunlight, lowering your energy costs.Vinyl and wood frames will work much better than those made of metal because metal is a conductor, which means it will increase the sweating issue since it will transfer the cold air indoors.  And while we’re on the topic of windows, drawing the shades during the daytime, will also keep your home cooler.  Federal Tax Credits are available on energy efficiency windows, with a maximum credit of $200.  To learn more, visit: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index

PREVENT AIR LEAKAGE- Did you know that a duct leaking air in your home wastes between 10-30% of cooling energy and it may require as much as one ton of AC just to overcome that leak?  Save your money and do the planet a favor-contact a RESNET EnergySmart Contractor who can give you an analysis on where & how energy is being lost in your home and which systems are operating efficiently.  They’ll also be able to suggest customized, cost saving measures that can be implemented to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.  (Want to know more?  Visit: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2013/04/increase-home-energy-efficiency-with-a-resnet-assessment/)

HOME APPLIANCES- Your oven uses 2/3 more energy than a microwave so bear that in mind when you’re preparing your meals, or even better yet, grill out.  Plus, oven use raises the temperature of your home which will, in turn, make your HVAC unit work harder, raising your energy costs.  Other appliances such as a dishwashers, washers & dryers also raise your home’s temperature and your cooling costs so it’s best to use them either early in the morning or later at night when the warmest part of the day has passed.

THERMOSTAT- Control your home’s temperature while you’re at work with a programmable thermostat by setting it to revert back to your desired temperature about a half an hour before you are scheduled to arrive at home.

Lindus Construction is proud to now be RESNET certified and would like to help you in your quest for energy efficiency in your home. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com  to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Make sure to tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for the Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

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Kitchen Backsplashes Demystified

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 6, 2013 – 4:24 pm
Filed under Backsplashes, Ceramic Tile Backsplash, Construction, Glass Backsplash, Laminate Backsplash, Lindus Construction, Marble Backsplash, Slate Backsplash, Stainless Steel Backsplash, Tin Backsplash, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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Believe it, or not, there’s more than just color to consider when picking a backsplash.  Backsplashes come in array of materials.  Bear in mind, that while a backsplash can add some pizazz to your kitchen, its primary function is to save your kitchen walls from sauces and oils used in cooking so that they don’t destroy your kitchen’s paint or wallpaper.  In this blog, we’ll help you understand the various backsplash materials available to you and the ins and outs of each.

Tin: In addition to its eye catching traits, tin can be pressed to create patterns, though this will raise the cost of your backsplash.  Tin backsplashes can misshape or scratch easier than other materials.  An advantage that tin has over stone backsplashes is that it does not need to be sealed to prevent moisture of stains because it is already powder coated.  Tin can easily be cleaned with soap and water; be sure to wipe up any acidic stains as quickly as possible or the tin may discolor. 

Stainless Steel: Stainless steel finds favor with homeowners because it is easy to clean.  However, the material can be easily scratched.  Like tin, stainless steel backsplashes can be pressed to create a plethora of patterns.  Stainless steel does not need to be buffed and polished like other backsplash materials.

Glass: Glass is a popular option because the color choices are endless.  You can choose to go with one color or several to form a pattern.  Glass is stain resistant and is often comprised of recycled materials.  Glass is tricky to cut and should be done so by a professional.  It’s recommended that you work with a professional to install a glass backsplash because grout will show through if applied incorrectly.

Slate: Because slate is a natural stone that exists in nature, your backsplash is guaranteed to be one of a kind.  Slate is available in a multitude of colors.  Slate is naturally waterproof, making it quite easy to maintain.

Marble: Marble provides a luxurious vibe to your kitchen and with a backsplash often being a focal point of a kitchen, having one made out of marble will certainly set the tone for the rest of your kitchen.  A drawback to having a marble backsplash is that marble can be damaged by acidic materials.  Should something come in contact with a marble backsplash that is not properly sealed, damage may occur that cannot be remedied without replacing the tiles that have been affected.

Ceramic Tiles: Ceramic tile gets points because it cleans up easily and is long-lasting.  It requires very little maintenance and cost effective options are plentiful.  However, ceramic tile can vary slightly in its appearance between lots so do your best to make sure that your tile is from the same lot so that everything matches up.

Laminate Perks of laminate backsplashes is that they are easily wiped clean and come in oodles of colors and designs.  They are easy to install.  It’s important to know that laminate provides minimal water resistance and can crack or peel if it is continuously exposed to moisture and humidity.  Its lifespan may be shorter than other types due to this fact.  Heat can also cause blemishes.

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.

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Fast Facts-What You Need to Know Before You Start a Kitchen Remodel

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 3, 2013 – 1:28 pm
Filed under Construction, Kitchen Remodeling, Lighting, Lindus Construction, Remodeling, Skylight, www.lindusconstruction.com
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In the construction industry, it’s often common to find calculations that estimate how much money you will recoup from a home improvement project.  One of the projects that are always towards the top of the list is a kitchen remodel.  Depending on the market and the scale of the project, a kitchen remodel can provide as much as an 87% return on investment.  That’s why it’s crucial that the undertaking is executed properly the first time.  Below is a list of ways to make this project as pain-free and as successful as possible.

Take Your Time-Take some time to page through magazines and websites such as Houzz.com to see what you like in terms of style and layout.  While it can be tempting to jump the gun and get the project going in order to meet a deadline, like a graduation party or wedding shower, you can end up incurring more costs if you decide mid-way through the project that you want to remove a wall, relocate a sink, etc.  Imagine your disappointment if you hurry up and select a countertop only to learn later that it requires annual re-sealing, something that would have made you make another choice if you had known.

Finding the Right People for the Job- Think of a general contractor as the coach of a team. Their job is to gather bids, work with subcontractors and make sure that the work is done correctly, within your budget and on schedule. A general contractor has connections within the industry and has solid relationships with subcontractors (cabinet makers, countertop showrooms, etc.). These subcontractors want to perform exceptional work for general contractors because they know that this is how they will stay in business. Subcontractors are less likely to stay on time and within budget for someone they know they have little chance of ever working with again, such as the homeowner. While on the front end, hiring a general contractor can seem like an added expense, working with a skilled professional will often keep you on schedule and within budget.

Having a Budget with a Buffer- It’s important to establish a budget when renovating a kitchen. The budget should include a slush fund that takes into consideration unforeseen circumstances and overages because even with the best intentioned bid, incidentals will likely still come up.

Your Kitchen’s Footprint-Clearly, there are times when your kitchen’s footprint needs to be changed to maximize space.  However, if it’s possible, stick with same footprint which will allow you to forego costs incurred from demolition & reconstruction. Another perk?  Less dust and debris in your home.

Appliances-If your greatest culinary accomplishment in the last 5 years was not burning a grilled cheese sandwich, you may want to forego a vaulted oven in favor of something more practical and splurge elsewhere.

Quality Materials-Educate yourself on the materials you’re looking into using.  It may be tempting to go with a cheaper floor or countertop but if the product’s life expectancy is lower than something of better quality, you may end up costing yourself more in the long-run when you’re purchasing a replacement sooner than later and paying for it to be installed.

Needs vs. Wants- Obviously, every kitchen needs things like a sink or flooring.  However, a cutting edge, built in coffee system should fall into the “want” category.  Make sure you’ve got the necessities covered before you start committing to luxury accessories.

Ample Space-When planning your kitchen, be sure to include enough space so the doors on your appliances, such as refrigerator and oven, can be open and still have enough space to walk around them. so that doors can be space in front of your refrigerator and oven so that you can still walk in front of them even when they are opened.  Don’t allow corners to become a wasted space; consider adding a Lazy Susan.  Kitchen islands can be a great place to set up food buffets and store countertop appliances.  However, if space is already tight, you may want to go without since having one will only make your kitchen feel and look smaller.

Lighting-This is one area that often gets overlooked.  Oftentimes, homeowners wrongfully assume that a single fixture mounted in the center of the room is going to provide adequate lighting for the entire space.  This can cause a glare that overpowers the room.  Other options include track lighting, skylights and recessed lighting.

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.

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5 Signs it’s Time for a Kitchen Overhaul

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 22, 2013 – 1:13 pm
Filed under Construction, Home Construction, Kitchen Remodeling, Lindus Construction, Midwest LeafGuard, Remodeling, www.lindusconstruction.com
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When you want something bad enough, it’s hard for you to be an unbiased judge as to whether or not your want is, in fact, a need.  Here are a few indicators that your kitchen is due for a complete overhaul, not just a fresh coat of paint or granite countertop.

Your Layout is Unnatural- In every kitchen you’ll find a stove, sink and refrigerator.  While designers often have their own opinions on what makes a room aesthetically appealing, most all agree on the kitchen triangle concept.  This approach became widely embraced in the 1940s when kitchens were often tight spaces, overrun by large appliances.  To make the most of a small space, stoves, refrigerators, and sinks were set up in a triangular fashion.  While this is not the only way to set up a kitchen, bear in mind that breathing room between the primary work spaces makes food preparation less of a hassle by keeping traffic in your work spaces to a minimum.  If you’re only stocking the necessities in terms of food, tableware and small kitchen appliances, and you still find yourself using your countertops as a pantry after buying a week’s worth of groceries, chances are you don’t have enough storage and the space you do have is not being put to good use.

Your Home is Going to Market-It’s no secret that a kitchen remodel is one of the home investments that reaps the highest return.  It’s also common knowledge to those buying a home that a kitchen is one of the most expensive areas to renovate.  If your current kitchen looks like something seen on The Brady Bunch, utilize a kitchen remodel to get top dollar for your property.  FYI-a remodel doesn’t have to include over the top features.  Focus on matching appliances, adequate storage space and neutral patterns on countertops and backsplashes.

Appliances made before the World Wide Web was Created-We’ll give you props if you’ve got appliances from the early 1990s that still run.  However, we’re still going to argue that it’s time for them to be upgraded.  The National Association of Home Builders gives a life expectancy guideline for major appliances as follows: dishwasher and microwave, 9 years; garbage disposal, 12 years; refrigerator, 13 years; range, 13-15 years.  In addition to technology and aesthetic advancements, today’s appliances are the most energy efficient they’ve ever been.

You Discourage Guests from Gathering in the Kitchen- Having this happen should be a red flag that you no longer, or may have never considered, the kitchen to be the heart of your home.  Your kitchen should be a point of pride and if that’s not the case, it’s time to start evaluating what features can be added or modified to change your feelings.  Another similar sign it’s time for a change is when you, yourself, no longer wish to spend time preparing or eating in your kitchen.

To Repair Damage- If your kitchen has been damaged by water, fire, etc., it’s well worth looking into redoing the whole room, rather than just minor repairs to get by.  Ignoring or failing to evaluate the full extent of water damage, can lead to the growth of mold which leads to even bigger issues.  If water damage has occurred, at the very least, speak with a professional who can tell you for certain whether or not there are signs of mold growth; home tests are not 100% accurate.

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

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More than Just Shingles-The Components of an Asphalt Roof

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 15, 2013 – 12:16 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When researching what you need to know before hiring a professional to assist in a home improvement project, you’ll oftentimes find that it’s recommended that you contact at least 3 companies to give you an estimate.  Price is one of the driving factors many homeowners consider when choosing whom to hire.  It can often be a cause for bewilderment when an estimate for a project such as a roof, varies widely between companies.  Unless you encounter storm damage, it’s unlikely that during your tenure as owner of a home, you’ll replace your roof more than twice.  So it’s no wonder that confusion is likely to arise when bids come in vastly different.  It’s important to take to heart that your roof is more than just shingles.  When installed correctly, your roof is an entire system that has several layers in order to maximize the system’s lifespan and protect your home from Mother Nature.

Here, at Lindus Construction, we have chosen to align ourselves with GAF which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial asphalt roofing.  We appreciate the thoughtfulness behind their approach to roofing and the fact that they lead the industry with a 50 year non-prorated warranty on labor & materials. Here are the elements contained in a GAF asphalt roofing system:

Weather Watch Leak Barrier Ice & Water Shield: This is the first thing to be installed.  All leak barriers have a backside that is tacky which helps it adhere to the roof decking.  An advantage of the Weather Watch system is that it contains a special adhesive that allows for one-time repositioning, something not commonly found in other brands.  It aggressively adheres over time.  The advantage of having the adhesive take time to adhere is that if the underside is too sticky from the get-go, air pockets can occur during the application process.  Eventually these air pockets will be punctured which creates an opportunity for a leak.

Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection: The purpose of this product is to provide a crucial additional layer of protection between your shingles and your roof deck.  It assists in deterring water, ice and snow from penetrating the underside of your shingles which can compromise your roof’s structure and your home’s interior.  Typical “felts” are less thick and are susceptible to tearing while workers are hammering on your roof.  This can cause tears which are prone to leaking.  Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection will also assist in shingles being laid flat and uniform which will give your roof more aesthetic appeal.

Flashing: Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where your roof meets a wall in your home.  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.  There are several different types of flashing including: kickout, valley step, etc.  Failure to utilize the correct amount, placed in the right areas can lead to leaking in your home, mold and a shortened lifespan of your roof.

Venting System: Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture can build up in your attic which can cause your heating and cooling bills to increase.  Another side effect of inadequate ventilation is ice dams.  Ice dams usually occur after a heavy snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures. Warm air inside your home leaks into the attic and will warm the underside of the roof causing snow and ice on the roof to melt. The melted water will drain along the roof, under the snow, until it reaches the cold overhang. The overhang tends to be at the same temperature as the outdoors and the melted water will refreeze and form an ice dam and icicles. The ice dam can cause damage to the roof, which will result in water leaks to the inside. Frequently the result will be a water spot on the ceiling under the roof damage.  It’s also important to note that many roofing manufacturers will not warranty a roof that is not ventilated correctly.

Lindus Construction offers both asphalt and metal roofing options. In 2011, they were named the #1 Roofer in the United States by GAF, which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. 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.

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

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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
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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.

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Replacing Your Windows & Siding Simultaneously

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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
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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.

 

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The Best & Worst of Bathroom Flooring

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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
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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.

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Countertops Worth Considering

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

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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.

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