Saturday, April 25, 2015

Summertime Swimming

Kid swims in pool underwater, girl swimming having funWith the summers staying warmer longer, dipping into a cool pool sounds more refreshing than ever! And who doesn’t enjoy a good swim when the sun is high? If you’ve ever thought of having a pool installed in your yard, this is the time to plan! Maybe this is the year for it to happen. Maybe this is just the right time to plan for next summer. How do you decide?
First, ask yourself how much you and your family actually uses your outdoor space. Do your kids play outside a lot already? Do you have pets that need space to run around? Is your yard exposed to the neighborhood, or hidden behind foliage and a fence? How much sunlight does your backyard get? Do you have the time and budget to incorporate regular, year-round maintenance? All of these questions can give you a more realistic idea of what may, or may not, be right for your house, family, and lifestyle.
If you decide a pool is definitely in your future, there are a few options available to you! For some families, you may find that an above-ground pool fits the bill. There are many advantages! The first obvious advantage is cost. You will spend significantly less on purchasing and maintaining a pool above ground than you will an in-ground pool, both up front and over time. Additionally, in the northwest above grounds are generally more popular, because during our colder seasons you can simply tuck it away and put it out of mind. Another advantage is that above ground pools are mobile. You can try it out in a corner of the yard, and move it as needed. Finally, above ground pools are much simpler to clean and maintain, making them great options for families who want to enjoy swimming from time to time, without the investment in and commitment to a significant household addition.
In-ground pools are beautiful, desirable, and can be reasonable for the right family! Before you start taking estimates, you should know what your priorities are! When it’s said and done, what matters most? Low maintenance? Budget? Aesthetics? Warranty? Efficiency? Know what your priorities are, and shop accordingly! Also, you must have a budget set aside for this. Know what it is, and stick to it. Pool financing exists, but all of that needs to be in order before you start shopping. Surprising as it may be, it’s not uncommon for a prospective customer to put down a deposit, make installation plans, then find out the financing is not going to be available to them. Preparing your finances beforehand will prevent you from last minute headaches!
For the in-ground pool shopper, it’s important to know the three basic types of pools. Vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete. Many pool vendors will only offer one, so knowing the advantages of each one ahead of time is important. You don’t want to get locked into a pool that isn’t right for your yard! Finally, be vigilant while shopping. A reputable pool contractor will take time to evaluate your space beforehand, will walk you through the permit process, and educate you on your options. Don’t ever allow someone to pressure you! Once installed, it cannot be simply undone. Finally, remember that there will be continual maintenance and upkeep. Higher quality pools can be made to minimize this, and end up being a better investment. Don’t be fooled! Just because a pool is less expensive up front, does not mean that it is the best deal over time.
Overall, an outdoor pool addition can be an exciting time for your family! Plan ahead of time, know what you want, and what your options are. With a good pool contractor working with you, your project will be a success! If you realize that this isn’t the year, start making plans for next summer. If you would like to add a deck or landscaping around your pool, our contractors at http://www.responsiblecontractors.com would love to help you out! Enjoy swimming!

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Spotlight on: AK Kreutzer Construction

In the Northwest, outdoor time is valuable! We live in a beautiful, green state, and look forward to the warm weather when we can enjoy the outdoors! Whether you are hosting a family BBQ or entertaining friends, your landscape and patio is a space you’ll want looking its best! Are you ready to prepare for summer by having a deck built, refinished, or updated? If the answer is yes, you need to call AK Kreutzer Construction!
Screen Shot 2015-04-21 at 11.20.47 AMAK Kreutzer Construction is at the top of the industry, offering what’s known as waterproof walking membranes, to protect your deck all year round! For all the beauty summer brings, we live in a very wet state. It is important that your deck be prepared to withstand all the rain it will endure! Weatherdek does just that. It is available for many styles, so that your taste won’t be limited to accommodate the weather!
Do you live in a two or three story home? AK Kreutzer Construction also offers the S.T.A.R System, and can provide railing panels of the top quality. Built for resilience, the finish requires virtually no maintenance, and will not rust. For decks with a railing, it’s a great long-term option!
What are the advantages of a deck built by AK Kreutzer Construction? In addition to the longevity you will have, they will appeal to a variety of styles and tastes, giving you creative freedom! Additionally, the weather membrane is so thorough, that it turns the space underneath decking into a dry storage area. And really, who doesn’t need more storage? With their help, you will be ready to entertain, and enjoy the outdoors! Barbecues, picnics and outdoor parties are in your near future. It all starts with a phone call to AK Kreutzer Construction!

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Unwelcome House Guests

Throughout the winter, many little friends seek refuge. Some hibernate, some burrow, some nest. Part of transitioning into warmer weather is seeking out any house guests you never gave a warm welcome to, and delivering their eviction notice!
bruco di farfalla cavolaiaAnimals commonly known to shelter here in the northwest are raccoons, skunks, and tree squirrels. We know they look cute and fuzzy, but allowing them to share your home can result in damage. In general, these animals stop in for a few days before continuing on. During the winter, however, some of them decide to weather out the cold for prolonged periods of time.
If you have an outdoor shed or studio, especially one that doesn’t get much use, this is the first place you should check. The warm, dry environment will be attractive for animals seeking shelter. Look in corners and nooks where they could easily hide, undisturbed. Other places to check are in basements with outdoor access, including windows, under porches and stairs, in or around old vehicles that don’t get driven, and any other small structures that could potentially provide a dry home. If you do find any animals, or evidence of them, the removal process needs to be a careful one. These animals are sometimes harmless, but can also be a danger when threatened. First, determine if any young are involved. If there are children, the mother can become aggressive, and a professional should be called. Next, determine the entry point. If you find the animal has entered through a point of damage, you will need to have it repaired. Visit our website for a list of contractors that can help you with that!
The other unwelcome guests you may have lingering are the ever-dreaded bugs and insects. Some have left for the winter and are on their way back. Because we had a warmer winter, there are likely to be more culprits lingering. Here’s how to prepare for spring, and make sure you don’t become a host to the insect kingdom! Outdoors, look for cracks in structures. From the pavement on the ground, to the walls of your house and outbuildings, cracks are a great environment for bugs to take refuge in. Clean and seal any cracks to remedy this. Downspouts, gutters and outdoor faucets should be cleaned and protected. Moisture, especially during warmer weather, is attractive to bugs. Garbage lying outside such as old boxes, newspapers and the like will also attract bugs. A clean landscape is a healthier one! Check for existing signs of damage also, such as rotting wood and peeling paint. Finally, check every entry point to your house. Doors and windows should be clean, the caulk should be intact, and the screens should be solid. If you find damage around your doors and windows, hire a professional to repair or replace them. This will give your house a defense against the critters your family does not want to see!
Overall, spring is a lovely time. It is exciting to watch the flowers bloom as the sun comes out. Preparing your house and landscape will allow you to relax and enjoy the season! If you find damage or are ready to strengthen your house’s defense against unwelcome guests, visit responsiblecontractors.com to find the right professional to help! Need a specific recommendation? Ask us for one, and we will gladly connect you with the right company for the job.

Friday, April 10, 2015

Spotlight on: Access Windows & Glass

With the warm, sunny weather, we love opening the windows and letting the breeze in! But how well do you enjoy the breeze when it comes unexpectedly? Unfortunately, accidents are a part of reality. Those of you who have have experienced the shock of a window shattering know too well that a broken window can create a hazardous and dangerous mess. When you find yourself with a broken window, who do you call? Thankfully, Access Windows & Glass is here to help with exactly that!
Screen Shot 2015-04-10 at 1.44.13 PMOffering 24 hour emergency glass repair service, Access Windows & Glass is literally a phone call away in your time of need. They have over 100 years of combined experience, and use it to get the job done right! More than just a repair service, though,  they can create and install windows and doors! In fact, they work with many fixtures, including
glass enclosures, glass table tops, custom dog doors, skylights and more. Glass is their specialty, and they make it special in your home as well!
Access Windows & Glass values their community as well, and works regularly with low income families. They also offer senior citizen discounts, to give the best service to those who need it.
Access Windows & Glass also does commercial work! They have experience with store displays and commercial buildings. So when you need the best in glass for your business, a custom glass piece for your home, or someone to call in an emergency, Access Windows & Glass is a great company to have in your phone!
At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We are proud to recommend Access Windows & Glass for all your glass needs! To read more about them, and see more contractors we recommend, visit us online athttp://www.responsiblecontractors.com.