Spring Cleaning

Spring Cleaning 

With spring making its fast approach and the smell of fresh cut grass in the air, for many it’s time to make plans for annual spring cleaning. This is exciting but can be stressful! How can you plan ahead to simplify the process? Here’s some ideas to get a jump start on your spring cleaning!

Start by planning your rooms! Which one is going to take the most time and  elbow grease? Which will you need the most energy for? Start with that one and work your way through the house. 

Take a walk through your house and note how much clutter you have and reorganization will be needed. If you have a significant amount, consider planning a yard sale the weekend before you have scheduled your cleaning to begin making room. It’s also always a good idea to have a box of unwanted items to donate. Take an inventory of how much storage space you will need for the stuff you expect to reorganize and store. Observe your bookshelves, drawers, dressers, shelves, cabinetry, and other pieces of furniture to get a good idea for the space you have to work with. In doing so you will prepare yourself to reduce your house’s overall clutter and expose the difficult to see areas for cleaning.

Time to get started! In the room you’ve picked to start with, begin clearing things. A good rule of thumb is to start high, and work your way down. Pick a tall shelf, or hard to reach cabinets. Remove the objects and clean out the space. Reorganize and replace your things before moving on. Once you’ve cleaned out all your spaces, give your room the deep clean its been waiting for. Dust and mop, clean the windows, make sure there aren’t any cobwebs, and if you want to really make it shine, wax your furniture.

Spring is a beautiful month of new life and change, so it’s no wonder that we love to bring a fresh life to our homes as well. A little preparation and mental planning can really make this experience run smoothly and be a positive one without the added stress.

Grout Cleanup for Tiles

A good tiling job can add wonders to the look of a room. Whether a tiled floor, a bathroom backsplash, or even countertops, tiles are a favorited choice to add design and durability. But what about the grout that sits in between? Grout is a mixture of water, sand, and cement. While a necessary step in tiling, with time it will become discolored and stained. When you’re ready for a cleanup, taking care of grout can provide an instant lift. Here’s some tips for making it sparkle!! 

1. Start with a basic clean


   Before tackling the stains give your surface a good clean. Because grout is an easy place to accumulate layers of scum, you’ll need it to be pre cleaned before digging deep into the crevices. This will remove excess dirt and recent stains, leaving the grout exposed and r!eady for a deep clean.

2. Create a deep cleaning solution
 

   
   
   There are a few options for a good stain
   solution. One solution being a homemade
   mix or vinegar and ammonia. For this,
   mix seven cups of warm water, a half cup
   of baking soda, a third cup of ammonia,
   and a quarter cup of white vinegar. Make
   sure the solution is mixed completely and
   the baking soda is dissolved! Another
   option is a homemade paste of hydrogen
   peroxide and baking soda. Mix these
   together in a bowl to a consistency you
   like. Oxygen bleach is another option and simply mixed with warm water makes an effective s!olution. This not only fights bacteria but will also help whiten your grout.

3. Apply to grout
 

   Once you have your solution, apply it to your grout. For a thinner solution, a spray bottle will work. For something thicker, consider a rag or brush to apply. Make sure the solution reaches and thoroughly covers the grout between the tiles. Allow five to ten minutes for it to set. 

4. Scrub
 

   Once it’s set, take a scrub brush and apply rigorous pressure to the tiles. For hard to reach areas, use a toothbrush to detail it. If there is any leftover staining, apply more of your solution and let it sit longer. Before a second application however, make sure any dirty solution is wiped off the tile.

5. Wipe and Finish
   Once you’ve tackled all those stains, take a dry towel and wipe off the solution. Finish by doing another basic clean over the entire surface, and enjoy your sparkling clean tiles!

Deep cleaning your tiles and grout every 6 months will help keep your room looking and smelling fresh, and prevent layers of scum from having a chance to build up. There are many simple things we can do to maintain an orderly home, keep checking back for tips!

Quick and Inexpensive Bathroom Updates

Looking for a quick bathroom update?

The bathroom is one of the most used places in a home. Often times it is also the least stately. With all that plumbing and very little space, how does one make it a more inviting, comely part of the home? Believe it or not, updating a bathroom and adding to its design can often be a simple and inexpensive project. Here are some ideas that can be quickly implemented to give your bathroom that extra charm.

1. Lighting
   
   Your bathroom’s lighting will make one of the biggest impacts in the room’s look and atmosphere. If you have windows in the room, keep them as clean and open as possible to let the natural light in. If there are no windows, or the windows are small and the lighting dim, consider choosing bulbs that have a higher voltage yet softer color. Fluorescent lights are often hard on the eyes, and don’t do well in rooms with large mirrors. If your room has a dark color scheme or is too small for brighter lights, consider attaching light fixtures over the bulbs that will dim the lights, and add color to the room.
   
2. Curved Shower Rod
   
   For full bathrooms, a curved shower rod is one of the quickest and cheapest changes you can make. It instantly adds a more updated and polished look. Additionally, the extended curtain will make the room feel larger.
   
   
3. Furniture
   
   If you have an unused corner, place a decorative side table in it. This is both great for design, as well as provides additional storage to reduce clutter. A plant on top of it is always a decorative addition as well, and will add color. If you don’t have room for any added furniture, consider installing tall shelving where you have wall space. You can use the shelf space to store your more decorative bathroom additions, such as towels, or baskets with your bathroom supplies.
   
4. Storage Organization
   Make the most out of the storage you have! Adding compartmentalizers to your drawers is a great way to prevent clutter from building up and space being wasted. For items that sit atop your counters, use decorative bowls, baskets, or vases to place things. If you have a little money to spend, purchasing coordinating storage containers can keep a bathroom free from clutter, and decoratively coordinated!
   
5. Backsplash
   
   A small backsplash is one of the biggest impacts you can make in your bathroom. If you do not already have one around your counter, consider a tile or rock trim. It is quick to install yourself, will add polish and color, and provide a focal point for the bathroom. It is a great way to make a quick update on a budget.

All of these updates can be done in a day, and give your bathroom a complete makeover. They are simple to implement and very cost effective. Once you’re through, your bathroom will go from one of the most mundane rooms in the house, to one of the favorited!

Why Responsible Contractors - www.responsiblecontractors.com

Refinishing a Front Door

So your front door is weathered?

We all know the signs. The wood begins to warp, the paint begins to crack, the hinges rust, the corners may even dent. Over time, weather and usage take a grueling toll on your front door. Often times, the desire is simply to replace the door with something that is mass-produced, contains metal and fiberglass, or is low maintenance. Sometimes, however, a truly timeless door should be salvaged. This can be done by refinishing a wooden door.

Once you make the decision to preserve and refinish your door, how do you begin? Fortunately, this can be an inexpensive project.  

1. Preparation
   
   To get started, isolate your wooden door. Take it out of the doorway and remove all the hardware. Lay it flat across a couple sawhorses to create a workspace for yourself.
   
   
2. Sand
   
   Start with a rough, 80-grit sandpaper to remove old varnish. Go over it again with a 100-grit paper, and then once more with a 120-grit paper to fully clean the wood. Remember to pay close attention to folds and crevices where the old varnish is likely to have collected. For troublesome spots, including spots where the sander will not reach, you can go over it with small, sharp scrapers, and again with a sanding sponge. Once completely sanded, use either a small vacuum or a duster to remove excess and settled sawdust.
   
   
3. First Coat
   
   Before completely covering the door, go over the edges of it with your sealant. Once the edges are dried, rehang the door in its doorway without its hardware. This will keep the finish from being damaged by rehanging later. Using a new, China-bristle brush and spar varnish (preferably one with UV-protection for outdoor use), begin applying the finish to the door. Start first at the panels, then move out towards the moldings, rails, and stiles. Remember to brush with the grain. Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely without closing the door for the first 24 hours.
   
   
4. Second and Third Coat
   
   The next day, take a 220-grit paper to gently smooth the first coat and remove any clumps. After giving the door a quick dust, brush on a second coat, once again letting it dry over night. Finally, on the third day, use an even finer paper for a last smooth down. Then dust, and apply a third and final coat. Once dry, reapply the hardware and enjoy your new door!
   
   Refinishing a door is a simple, inexpensive update that will keep the front of your house looking clean and fresh. Spending three days every 3-5 years is a great way to maintain an attractive entry way.

Responsible Contractors Newsletter September 2013

Responsible Contractors

Connecting Consumers with Qualified Contractors

PO Box 287 * Milton, WA 98354 * 253.891.1397

Newsletter, September 2013

Welcome to the Responsible Contractors newsletter, a forum for us to highlight company news, feature some of our most highly regarded contractors, and include customer testimonials.

Company News

     Responsible Contractors is now listed on the Women’s Resource Directory, a professional network promoting local businesses and services.

·       On Wednesday, September 25, we will host a booth at the 2013 impressLOCAL Business Expo at the Pacific Sports and Events Center, connecting local vendors and businesses with our contractors’ services.

·   Responsible Contractors is looking for news about upcoming Home Shows in the Snohomish, King, Pierce, Thurston, and Lewis counties. We want to keep consumers informed of opportunities to meet local contractors. If you know of a local show, please email Nikeyla at Nikeyla@responsiblecontractors.com.

Home Improvement Tips

Now is the time to prepare your home for fall weather with these four tips:

1.    Check your heating system – replace filters and clean ducts

2.    Clean debris out of gutters and downspouts

3.    Seal off potential drafts by checking doors and windows; caulk and weather-strip

4.    Clear out the garage so you have a place for your cars, tools, and summer toys when the weather changes!

Featured Contractors               

RCW Construction is based in Gig Harbor and serves homes throughout the surrounding counties with building, remodeling, repairing, and restoring their homes. 

They specialize in custom homes and expert renovations, providing quality service at a great value.

The Fullertons were impressed with RCW’s attention to service, “Thank you for checking on us. That is very much appreciated. Most contractors you don’t hear from again after they are done with the work. Your forman is very talented and knows what he is doing. He knows how to make and do things right. They used materials wisely and were not wasteful. We were very impressed.”

Kanon Electric Inc. understands how sound electrical systems keep homes and businesses running safely and efficiently. 

Kanon’s electricians are trained in installations, upgrades, and repairs, and pledge quality service in a timely manner.

Roxanne P. recommends Kanon because, “I had four different light fixtures to be installed in my project to update the canned lights in my house. Jim was very professional and knowledgeable. He showed respect for my home by protecting the floors and cleaning up. He did an excellent job of installing them. I would definitely recommend Kanon Electric for any electrical needs.”

Olympic Blinds are the window-covering specialists, who offer quality products that complement your home’s overall design. 

They offer a variety of blinds and shades that are generally priced lower than those found in home improvement stores.

Christine O. Gregoire, Governor of Washington, thanks Olympic: “Thank you for the work you did on my shutters and blinds at the Executive Mansion. The work is outstanding. The Sun Room is exactly what we hoped for: the Roman shades provided warmth to the room and the added color makes it a much more comfortable space for breakfast meetings, lunches and small dinners.”

Interested in Listing With Us?

Whether you are a new contractor or an ongoing client looking to renew your membership, Responsible Contractors is always looking for Qualified Contractors to add to our online directory.

If you have three verifiable references, and are licensed, bonded, and insured, you are invited to apply here.

If you’re already a member, please share Responsible Contractors as a resource with your colleagues and customers!

Announcements?

We are happy to post announcements in the upcoming Responsible Contractors newsletter. Email Nikeyla at Nikeyla@responsiblecontractors.com to submit an announcement.

Newsletter June 2013

Responsible Contractors

Connecting Consumers with Qualified Contractors

PO Box 287

Milton, WA 98354

253.891.1397

Client Newsletter, June 2013

Welcome to the Responsible Contractors newsletter, a forum for us to highlight company news, feature some of our most highly regarded contractors, and include customer testimonials.

Company News

·         Responsible Contractors is advertising on Klay AM 1180 once more, a station serving over a million people in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Listeners include high-earning homeowners and business owners.

·         Contractors now have the opportunity to submit photos of your work for Responsible Contractors' new Photo Gallery page. Photos will be tagged, linked, and labeled with your company’s name. Photos will then be pinned to Responsible Contractors’ Pinterest page again crediting your company and expanding your exposure.

·         Our contractors now have access to the local military community through Responsible Contractors’ advertisement in the upcoming publication of the Washington Military Resource Directory. Your listing will reach 145,000 military personnel, active and retired.

Best Home Improvement Tip

             

             Responsible Contractors will award a

         $10 Starbucks, Best Buy, or WalMart Gift Card

                 for your home improvement tips

         and you will get credit on our Best Tips Page!

                Continue to submit your tips here.

Updates

·         

      Rainier View Construction and Roofing has relocated to:

 3702 West Valley Hwy North; Auburn, WA 98001

Featured Contractors

Assisted Custom Construction (A.C.C.) Custom Homes provides people with custom homes, tailoring the design and construction to individual needs and preferences. With over 30 years of experience, A.C.C. builders offer the opportunity for homeowner’s to participate in crafting their own dream homes.

Craig Romney recommends A.C.C. Custom Homes, saying: “A.C.C. Custom Homes maintains the standard of the true craftsman. I have built two homes and one remodel with this company. They are real professionals. A.C.C. Custom Homes would be my only choice.”

Ranger Tree Experts, Inc. use the best equipment to remove trees and clear land safely and efficiently. Ranger Tree Experts have the experience and skill to take down trees to prevent damage to yourself or your home. Call in the professionals for your land clearing needs!

Canterwood Golf Course Superintendant says: “Managing a golf course with over 4000 trees in a housing community with another 5000 trees can be a daunting task for anyone. Ranger Tree Expert has been my only choice since 1998 and will continue to be my selection. The quality and quantity of work at the price they deliver is unsurpassable. Just as important is the expertise that comes with the service. Micah Glastetter is extremely knowledgeable and genuinely concerned about the health of the trees. In my 20 years in this industry I have found no one better. Don't hesitate when it comes to Ranger Tree Expert.”

Millworks Custom Sheds crafts hand-built sheds for a variety of needs, including playhouses, garden sheds, and storage sheds, that are both beautiful and functional. Millworks builds all of its sheds from recycled materials and uses trees from local sustainable forest operations.

S. Marshall was impressed with the playhouse Millworks produced for his grandchildren: “We love the playhouse/lookout you built for our grandchildren. I cannot get over the construction and the quality of the materials you used (I guess it makes a difference when you produce it yourself).  It is unlike any other product I have seen on the market.  It is certainly the ‘leader of the market.’” 

Contractor Testimonials for Responsible Contractors

Contractors who list with us get results, including increased profitability and expanding their exposure to target markets both online and in-person.

“Responsible Contractors has been a great way for our company to gain public exposure both by word of mouth and by search engine optimization.  We have had a number of great business leads and we are extremely impressed with the enthusiasm Nikeyla exhibits with regards to helping our business grow.”

~ Michelle Luna - MyPhd Services

“Thank you so much for helping my company to grow. Your contractors’ website – Responsible Contractors - was my first web presence and I’ve gotten 2 nice remodeling jobs from it. I’m looking forward to many years of working with you to help your web business and my construction business achieve our goals. I will be letting my all of my subcontractors know how happy I am that I signed up to be a part of Responsible Contractors.”

~ Chris Wise - RCW Construction

Interested in Listing With Us?

Whether you are a new contractor or an ongoing client looking to renew your membership, Responsible Contractors is always looking for Qualified Contractors to add to our online directory.

If you have three verifiable references, and are licensed, bonded, and insured, you are invited to apply here.

If you’re already a member, please share Responsible Contractors as a resource with your colleagues and customers!

Announcements?

We are happy to post announcements in the upcoming Responsible Contractors newsletter. Email Nikeyla at Nikeyla@responsiblecontractors.com to submit an announcement.