Re-siding with Vinyl Siding

This is the time of year when homeowners are preparing for exterior maintenance. Many of you have started taking a look at your budgets, calling around for estimates, and getting a feel for what’s available. When it comes to siding, you have many great options! Let’s take a few minutes to look at one in particular that is statistically the most common choice in the United States: Vinyl.

You may hear vinyl and have your mind instantly travel back to the 1950’s. Don’t let history deceive you, today’s vinyl is far removed from when it first entered the market several decades ago. In fact, the past five years have provided advances in manufacturing that make the vinyl of today a durable, comprehensive choice for homeowners. Let’s look at some of the benefits.

Economic: One of the major advantages of vinyl siding is that it is an economic choice for homeowners working on a budget. A decent vinyl can provide significant savings when compared with more traditional sidings such as cedar. Like most construction elements, you have options when choosing a vinyl. It should be noted that premium vinyl siding can cost as much as high grade cedar and redwood, but vinyl also offers a wider variety to work within your budget. Many homeowners find a siding that works well with their home and still saves them room in their budget.

Maintenance: Because vinyl is a plastic product, maintenance is much simpler than with many more traditional siding choices. One of the biggest advantages is that vinyl siding does not need to be painted. For those who like to change the color of their home every five years, that might not be great news. But for the homeowner who wants a look that will last without the chipping, scraping and repainting involved in wooden and aluminum sidings, this is a huge bonus! Vinyl can be cleaned with soap or water, and will not succumb to the problems wood and metal face, such as rotting and rusting.

Longevity: A good vinyl siding will offer durability and longevity. Manufacturing processes have perfected vinyl to make it heat, wind, and water resistant. In fact, many companies are so confident in this that they offer lifetime warranties with their vinyl siding. If you decide to choose a siding for your home, choose one that will be warrantied for a lifetime.

Design: Vinyl offers a lot of options when it comes to design choice. In fact, many vinyl sidings are designed to look like natural elements such as wood and stone. Although it is a plastic product, your home won’t look like a plastic dollhouse. Architecture today is taking advantage of the diversity vinyl offers. In fact, many historical renovations today make use of vinyl siding. As a homeowner, you won’t have to sacrifice beauty for a durable, economic choice.

While vinyl may not be the one and only, and may not be right for everyone, it is increasing in popularity due to its economic advantages. If your old siding is damaged and you’re ready for a fresh exterior, or you’re looking into building a new home, you can add vinyl to your list of siding opportunities. When you’re ready to re-side your home, whether you go with vinyl or another option, make sure to find a contractor you can trust, and who will guarantee his work. To find a professional you can count on, visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com!

Spotlight on: Garages Etc.

by responsiblecontractors

As your family grows, so does the clutter. Many are familiar with the growing pains that come with an expanding family. Maybe it’s time to trade out your sedan or motorcycle for a mini-van. Maybe your teenager just got his license and needs a car of his own. Each family has a unique situation, and each comes with unique growing pains. As your family undergoes these exciting changes, you may find the need to expand your space. There are several great ways to achieve this, and today we will be looking at outdoor expansions: Garages, workshops, and barns.

For over 25 years, Garages Etc. has dedicated themselves to the highest quality in custom garages throughout the greater Seattle & Tacoma areas. The quality, service, and craftsmanship that goes into each custom design sets them apart in their industry. “If you can dream it, we can build it” has motivated and satisfied countless customers over the better part of the last three decades.

While their specialty is in top quality in garages, their skill and experience extend far beyond it. Barns, storage, studios, workshops, even 2 story detached buildings all make an appearance in their portfolio. In fact, as custom builders, they can tackle a wide range of unique projects that fit your specific needs. Do you need a barn that doubles as a recreation room for those barn parties you’ve always wanted to host? They’ve got you covered! Working from home and need a studio space that couples as an extra parking spot? They’ll make it happen! In fact, they are a one-stop contractor for custom needs. From the design and permitting, to the site preparation and excavation, even demolition, foundation, concrete, electrical and plumbing, they will be with you every step of the way.

Garages Etc. is committed to providing a custom solution for your family, without sacrificing quality or leaving you to figure out the specifics. One customer attested to this in his remark: “From the very first phone call to the final inspection . . . all was handled in a very timely and professional manner. I especially appreciate being kept informed of what was going on through the whole process.”

When you find yourself expanding and your family growing, there are many routes you can take. For some families, a home expansion or a move is a good option. For others, and outdoor expansion is a creative and cost-effective solution. If you’re looking at your options, don’t discount it! At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. To read more about Garages Etc., and see more contractors we recommend, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com. 

Got a Pollen Problem?

by responsiblecontractors

Let’s face it. The spring blossoms are beautiful, but the pollen they produce? Not so much. If you’re one of the approximately 36 million seasonal allergy sufferers in the United States, the pollen floating around can spoil a beautiful Spring day. There is good news, though! There are steps you can take to guard your home and yard against pollen, and create a more breathable atmosphere.

Outside, a little yard work can go a long way. True, you may never be able to completely eradicate it, but you can reduce it! Start by mowing low. If your allergies are particularly stubborn, you may ask a friend or relative to mow for the first time. Keeping a short yard and mowing frequently can help prevent flowers and weeds from popping up. In addition to this, you may consider fertilizing the lawn. Thicker grass will leave little space for allergenic weeds. If you’re an allergy sufferer, choose a day that’s not as windy; ideally after a good rain which will help pollen settle.

When you’re spending time outside, whether doing yard work or braving the family barbecue, a little personal protection equipment goes a long way. Don’t worry, you don’t need to waltz around in a hazmat suit. Long sleeves and pants can help prevent pollen from settling on your skin. Sunglasses will be your best friend! Foreign entities often enter through the eyes, and pollen is no exception. Protecting your eyes will provide an extra line of defense. And of course, make sure you quickly discard clothes that have been worn outside. Pollen that settles on your clothes will end up floating through the house if you wear them indoors.

Inside, you can take steps to keep the pollen from coming into the home. Start with the basics: Keep the windows and doors closed, dry your clothes in the dryer rather than letting them hang dry, and be especially mindful of pets. Fur can attract plenty of pollen, and when your little friend is running through the house, he will be bringing the pollen along with him. On warm, sunny days, avoid ceiling fans, and instead opt for air conditioning. Ceiling fans will spread pollen, but air conditioning will help filter it out while keeping your home cool.

If you’re one who suffers from more severe allergies, these steps, while helpful, will not be enough. You can track the daily pollen count in your local forecast, and will need to be picky about which days you spend outdoors. In addition, over the counter medications may help, but that’s a conversation to have with your doctor.

We will never eradicate pollen, and why would we want to? After all, in spite of the allergies, it keeps the grass green and the blossoms beautiful. When Spring hits, though, take a few steps to keep your air a little more clean. You might yet be able to enjoy a little sun! For yards that are particularly allergenic, or a landscape you can’t get under control, a professional can help. At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. If you need help with your yard, air conditioning, windows or more, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com to find someone you can count on.

Spotlight on: Fuller Electric, Inc

There’s that one resource that we have all come to rely upon for our everyday needs. It’s the resource that powers those small things we depend on and take for granted day to day: Electricity. Our homes, cars, streets, and devices are all wired with power. Electricity gives us light, heat, and connection. So when your home or business develops an electrical problem, it needs to be fixed! The problem? Electrical work can be hazardous. The reality is that most of us aren’t electricians, and should exercise extreme caution when handling anything electric. In many cases, we shouldn’t be handling it at all. Thankfully, we don’t all have to be electricians. That’s why Fuller Electric is here!

Founded in 1990, Fuller Electric has been serving both homeowners and businesses in the Puget Sound area for nearly three decades. With all their experience, they can help with a large number of electrical projects. From pre-construction conceptual estimates, to residential and commercial repair, to site development, utility coordination and structured cabling, there’s very little they can’t do. Their secret to staying in business for so long? They strive to exceed their customers’ expectations on every project. They work hard to deliver the highest-quality products and services on time and on budget.

Fuller Electric has adopted values that truly set them apart from the competition. In addition to the quality electrical work, their passion is to challenge the process, always searching for new opportunities. They inspire a shared vision, and enlist the support of others to share and achieve that vision. They foster collaboration which enables others to act, bringing the best out in each employee. They believe in modeling the way: setting a good example and helping each employee achieve his potential. In addition to all this, they have a heart for positive encouragement, always recognizing contributions and celebrating accomplishments. Fuller Electric Inc. has created a positive environment that sets the bar high! Each employee is not only highly skilled and experienced, but nurtured in an environment that celebrates him and enables him to always do his best.

Sometimes, you have an electrical problem that needs immediate attention. They are there for that. Sometimes, you have an upcoming project and need the best. Whether powering a new sound system, security system, hot tub, or exciting new addition to your home, Fuller Electric offers free estimates for both residential and commercial customers.

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We are proud to say that with Fuller Electric Inc., you can be confident you are getting a great product from great people. To read more about them, or visit other companies we recommend, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com.

Here Comes the Rain

by responsiblecontractors

Winter is departing, and spring is making its appearance! Along with the beautiful new growth, one thing we Pacific North westerners can count on are the spring rains. Lovely though they may be, they pose a potential threat to your home’s integrity. Now is the time to do a quick outdoor inspection, and look for any signs of existing or future water damage.

Gutter Failure

Your gutters have been working hard all winter, and are about to enter another season of testing. This is a great time to check them if you haven’t recently. Check for dents or cracks that can let water gather on your roof. Check your downspouts to make sure they’re directing water away from the foundation. Problems with the gutter, including buildup of leaves and other debris, can lead to improper drainage, which often makes its way into basements, attics and crawl spaces. Your gutter is one of your home’s first defenses against water damage, so make sure it’s ready for the rain.

Roof Damage

As a homeowner, your roof is vital to the home’s integrity, and yet it may be difficult for you to get a good, understanding look on your own. If it’s been a long time since you’ve had it checked, consider having a roofing professional give it an evaluation. If there’s significant damage, he can work with you on a solution before you start placing pots and pans around the house. On your own, you can check for obvious signs of damage, including shingles that have fallen to the ground, plant growth on the roof, or cracks and buckles.

Skylights and Windows

Windows are meant to keep the temperature and dry air in, and the wet rain, cold, or heat out. If they’ve taken a beating over the winter, you’ll want to have them checked. You can do a self-inspection by examining the caulking, screens, and openings, although we recommend having a professional look at them at least every few years. During the rainy seasons, skylights are particularly important, as damage along the seams can let moisture settle in and lead to roof or ceiling damage.

Exposed Wood

 Porches, fences, and door and window trims are a few of the most common places you’ll find exposed wood. Wood is highly susceptible to water damage, and needs to be kept properly sealed. Even with a good sealant, it will need to be refinished from time to time. When you find a dry day, check all the exposed wood on your home. Look for cracks, large scratches, or sign of water damage. You’ll want to repair it while you can find some dry weather, before the next spring rain hits.

While we love the beautiful landscapes the spring rains provide, our homes need to be prepared for it as well. These four tips will give you a head start in your home’s yearly waterproofing inspection. If you find damage in any of these areas, don’t hesitate to have a professional help you repair or replace it! Allowing water damage to settle in can cost a lot more in the long run than having it fixed before it becomes a problem. At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We can recommend a professional we trust to take care of your home, and prevent the rain from making an entrance. To see a list of contractors we recommend, visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com, or call us for a specific referral. It’s why we’re here!

Spotlight on: Classic Insulation and Pest Control

Let’s be real for a minute. If there’s one thing attics are good at accumulating, it’s dust. Attics and crawl spaces are some of the most neglected corners of the house. Dust collects, and the lack of movement and constant darkness makes it an attractive home for insects, bugs and rodents. Most of us don’t want to deal with those creepy-crawlies. Good news! Classic Insulation & Pest Control can take care of this for you.

When it comes to the attic, where do you start? Maybe you haven’t touched it in months and it needs to be checked and cleaned. Pests are only one of the problems that can develop. If your attic has gone unchecked, it might be time to look at the insulation and structure. The attic is one of the most overlooked rooms of the home, and yet it also has a huge potential for heat loss. You know what that means: Larger energy bills. In addition to insulation, a neglected attic also carries a risk of damage to the vapor barrier. Your vapor barrier is crucial for your home’s long-term structure, as it protects against moisture damage, wood rot, and mold.

So why do you need Classic Insulation & Pest Control? You need them to inspect your attic and crawl spaces, clean out any pests, living or dead, all damaged insulation and vapor barriers, and to reinstall insulation or vapor barriers as needed. Cleaning your attic will give you access to the storage you’re afraid to dig for, help protect your home’s structure from water damage, and save energy.

Serving Seattle, Eastside, Skagit/Whatcom counties, and Everett, Classic Insulation & Pest Control is a reliable, local choice to help with your attic or crawl space. One customer recently remarked: “I would strongly recommend using Classis Insualtion And Pest Control. I received three different bids for putting insulation in my 1930’s home. The Classic Insulation team shined above their competiton, from their front desk to the estimator, to the installation crew, their professionalism was impressive. Plus, we have saved approximately 30% on our heating cost.”

For 20 years Classic Insulation & Pest Control has been helping families with their homes. Family owned and operated, they value making your home as efficient as possible, paying close attention to detail. At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We would confidently entrust Classic Insulation & Pest Control with your attic or crawl space. To read more about them or find more contractors we recommend, visit us online at http://www.responsiblecontractors.com.

Before You Move

Preparing to move this year? How about in the next five years? For most of us, our home is the most equity we will have in our lifetime. It’s the biggest investment we make, and has the largest impact on our lifestyle. In the United States, the average person will move 11.4 times in his lifetime. While no one fits snuggly into a statistic, chances are still high that most of us have a move in our future. Some of those moves will involve selling our current homes. If you find yourself in this camp, it’s important to choose home upgrades that will add value when the time comes to sell. After all, you want the most for your money, and the next resident will want the best in your home.

Choosing a project that adds value to your home is crucial, and should be relatively straight forward. But sometimes the answer isn’t exactly what you’d expect. Here’s some top projects that will add value to your home:

1. Kitchen Remodel

The kitchen is arguably the most important room when considering home value. A kitchen remodel, when done right, can sometimes recoup as much as 120% on your investment. When remodeling the kitchen, focus on the cabinetry, lighting, countertops, and appliances. Energy-efficient appliances in particular are often appealing to new buyers. Be careful when remodeling, however! Your kitchen should be current, and fit with the dichotomy of the neighborhood and the rest of the house. Make it too fancy, and it’ll stick out like a sore thumb. Your contractor can help you make relevant decisions during the remodel.

1. Repurposing a Den

Bedrooms are desirable. Dens, however, are often seen as wasted space. What separates a den from a bedroom? For a room to qualify as a bedroom, it must have a closet and a window. Otherwise, you have a den on your hands. If you’re looking to sell your home, consider how you might make use of this space. Adding a closet to turn a den into a bedroom isn’t always a simple process, and even when the architecture will allow it, it may reduce the room size significantly. Consider removing a wall and adding it to a living space, or expanding a neighboring bedroom. Depending on its location, you may also consider turning it into a home office. Use wisdom when spending, however, and evaluate the return on investment changing the space may provide.

1. Curb Appeal

You don’t need a shining water fountain, koi pond, bushes shaped like artwork, or a golf course for a lawn. However, you do need some curb appeal. This is one of the most recommended upgrades, as it can be inexpensive and create a great first impression for potential buyers. Your lawn should be clean, your driveway, walkway and porch should be put together, and your plants should be alive. Compare your home’s exterior to neighboring houses. If it is evidently lacking, you will need to bring it up to the neighborhood standard.

1. Bathroom Addition

Adding a bathroom can be a significant investment, however under the right circumstances can provide up to a 130% return on investment. You should consider adding a bathroom if you only have one, or if you have too few bathrooms for the number of bedrooms. A family of four or more will not want to all share the same bathroom. Work with a reliable contractor on this, as it’s easy to overspend on this kind of remodel. Remember, luxury is nice, but functionality is crucial. Make it worthwhile for your future buyer.

1. Energy-Efficient Insulation

Insulation is a bare necessity in every home. Bad insulation is, you guessed it, bad for business. If your insulation isn’t good in quality, your home will lose heat, or cold air, and cause the energy bill to skyrocket. In addition to this, bad insulation will let sound travel throughout the home uninhibited. Home inspectors will always check the insulation. Bad insulation will reflect negatively on the report. While checking your insulation, you should also inspect for any potential energy waste. Doors and windows, electrical outlets, lights, ducts, and wiring should all be in order. A home inspector can give you these answers.

Whether you’re selling or not, investing in your home will make for a more livable, functional space. When you come to a season of life where you need to move, you will be ready to sell with confidence! Remodeling your home is no DIY project for those of us who aren’t construction professionals, so be sure to hire a reliable company to help. Hint: We know a few! At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. To see a list of contractors we recommend, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com.

Spotlight on: Cedar County Landscaping, Inc

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are surrounded by beautiful landscapes and scenery. In Fact, Western Washington is known for its endless forests and fields of green. With the beauty that surrounds us, it’s no wonder we have a high regard for an appealing landscape. For those who desire a well-kept lawn all year round, we recommend Cedar County Landscaping, Inc.

Founded in 1995 initially as a one-man operation, Cedar County Landscaping has grown from a gifted passion into a flourishing business. Founder and President Jason Anderson has been the life of the company from the beginning. His experience as a lawn service specialist and a landscaper has allowed him to bring only the best employees on board to work with him. Always well-trained, professional, courteous, and safety-conscious, the staff of Cedar County Landscaping is among the best.

But what’s the big deal? Can’t any landscaper keep a lawn green? Maybe, but Cedar County Landscaping brings an innovative and imaginative edge to the table that few can match. As a homeowner or commercial property owner, your role is to dream. Every property owner has a unique dream, and a unique property. Cedar County Landscaping has the expertise needed to transform your property into your dream, in a beautiful and functional way. This applies to new construction, remodels, and upkeep on current landscapes.

Homeowners aren’t the only ones that work with Cedar County Landscaping, though! In a professional environment, making a good first impression is crucial. Cedar County Landscaping handles the year-round maintenance for commercial landscaping also. No matter what time of year, or what mood the weather is in, your property should look clean, and professionally maintained.

From new construction, to yard maintenance, and surrounding jobs such as walkways, rockeries, walls, and water systems, Cedar County Landscaping is a confident choice for both the homeowner and commercial property owner. Your yard is your first impression, so won’t you put it in the hands of the best?

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We are proud to recommend Cedar County Landscaping for all your landscaping needs. To read more about them, as well as visit other contractors we recommend, visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com.

Home Improvement in the Winter

While the freezing nights seem to be behind us, the days are still cold and wet. Washingtonians are accustomed to the rain, especially during the colder months, but it still has a way of keeping us indoors. It’s normal to develop a degree of cabin fever, daydreaming of warmer weather, even looking forward to spring cleaning. You may be excited to hear that there are home improvement projects that are friendly to this season!

1. Get Organized

We know, that’s what spring cleaning is suppose to be for. But you can actually get a jump on spring cleaning by doing internal organizing during the winter. That way when spring rolls around you’ll be able to clean more deeply, rather than spend extra time organizing your clutter. For those of us with New Year’s Resolutions that involve being more organized or productive, this is also a great chance to act on those resolutions. Consider investing in a new closet-organization system, and get rid of old clutter in the process. You might breath easier when your house feels more put together!

2) Plan for Summer

It’s true that most remodels are best done when dry. However, this is the ideal time to start planning. From choosing a contractor, to budgeting for the year and re-designing, there’s a lot of planning that goes into a renovation. If you start now, you will afford yourself time to look at more options, weigh more choices, and make more informed decisions. You’ll want to start construction when summer comes, so start preparing now!

3) Make Minor Design Upgrades

Not all of us are able to do large scale remodels on a consistent basis. But there are design changes that will keep your home feeling fresh and delightful! This time of year, if you’re fighting cabin fever, think about small upgrades you can make. Change out your light fixtures and bulbs, purchase a new appliance, paint an accent wall, or replace your window coverings! These are just a few ideas that can be a small step towards a big change. Don’t let the cold, dark nights make your home feel dark!

4) Get an Energy Audit

If you were shocked energy bills the last couple months, you aren’t alone. The days are shorter and colder, and the lights are on longer, and the heat turned up higher. This is the perfect time to have an energy audit done, as you’re using the bulk of your power. You can actually hire a certified energy rater to evaluate and test your home. He will look for energy losses, safety issues, and provide you with a detailed report. With this information, you can make targeted changes in your energy habits.

The seasons may be an inevitable force of change, but you can still maintain a great house and home all year round. Make the most of this season and prepare for the next! Your home and family will thank you. If there’s any part of your home which needs a more experienced hand, please find a professional. You can find a list of contractors we trust to care for your home at responsiblecontractors.com.

Spotlight on: AdvantaClean of the South Sound

Your home is your sanctuary. It’s where your children will make their childhood memories. It’s where you rest your head at night, and unwind and relax. But, what happens when your safe, clean sanctuary becomes environmentally compromised? There are a number of contaminates and problems that can disturb your dwelling. Knowing whom to call when your home needs help is important. AdvantaClean is here to help with a specific range of problems.

If you’re noticing a foul odor, or are concerned about moisture, beware of mold. Here in the Pacific Northwest, where the weather is unpredictable, mold can appear unexpectedly. While some people are more sensitive than others, mold can cause health issues ranging from allergies to serious illness, and needs to be dealt with immediately.

Mold is often easy to miss, but some problems are more obvious. Water damage and sewer accidents can leave a trail of devastation in the home. The good news? AdvantaClean is prepared to clean up the mess. If your floors are the victims of flooding, or your roof let some of the rain is, giving them a call is the first step in water damage restoration. Even worse than water damage? Sewage damage. For those of us unfortunate enough to face this mess, cleanup is not a fun process. More good news: You don’t have to clean it! Take the family out for an impromptu vacation and let the professionals handle it.

While it’s a relief to have someone to call for the large problems, sometimes the smaller problems can be a pest. Dryer vents and air ducts are also a part of a healthy home environment. When your ducts dirty, and your vents clog, your air quality suffers and you increase the risk of a fire. This, too, can be added to the list of specialties AdvantaClean is qualified to handle.

AdvantaClean has the skills, and the reputation. As one happy customer commented: “Today it is rare that you come across a company that creates an instant and lasting impression, keeps their commitments, and repeatedly goes out of their way to make the customer their number one priority. AdvantaClean is that company.” For over 20 years, AdvantaClean has been coming to the rescue when homeowners, businesses, and property owners need a hand.

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best of each industry. We are glad to recommend AdvantaClean as a trustworthy company to help your home stay in order. To read more about them, and find other contractors we recommend, visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com.