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Adding A Deck Can Increase Your Homes Value
Adding or upgrading an outdoor deck is one of the most popular home improvements. The deck is a valued spot for relaxing, dining, holding parties, or entertaining a friend or two . The deck should be no larger than one-third of the size of the main floor. Smaller decks, however, can be very attractive and enjoyable. The climate in your area and the views you’ll see are the major factors to consider when deciding where to place your deck. A north-side deck may be the coolest location. Southern or western orientations may be too warm in the middle of the summer unless the deck is in a shaded area. You might be able to avoid prevailing winds by locating your deck where the house will provide some protection. Also consider a setting that minimizes traffic noise and unwanted views and one that allows some privacy. A deck can be any shape you want. Simple changes like an angled corner or a 45-degree decking pattern can dress up a house but may require substructure. Add visual interest with built-in benches, wrapping the deck around a corner, or integrating a fence or screen on one side. Railings are the most prominent visual element in a deck and offer an opportunity for creativity. Though wood is most often used for decking, new engineered decking may be easier to maintain and last longer. It’s particularly true in areas of high humidity and frequent rain or snow. Engineered decking is made of everything from sawdust to plastic to peanut shells. It tends to be more stable and wears better than wood.
Removing hardened mortar from brick
Mortar achieves about 90% of its hardness after 3 days After 30 days its hardness reaches closer to 99%. So needless to say that its easier to clean it from the brick or stone in the first crucial hours of it setting up. We try to clean the mortar feom stone or brick as soon as I am able to brush it without smearing it in the joints .At that point a dry brush and a damp sponge with water are all that’s needed .However, you can still clean mortar from brick that has been on for years and muriatic acid is still the choice to use .Muriatic acid is a form of hydrochloric acid that dissolves mortar. You have to mix it 9:1 (10%) solution of water to acid. You must always add the acid to the water ..Nest wet the brick with water and the acid solution with an acid resistant brush . The solution should fizz as its dissolving the mortar.. Leave it on for a few minutes .then rinse with clean water . rinse in between applications because it will dissolve the mortar in the joints. If it doesn’t come off rinse and repeat again until it does come off . As the mortars bond weakens use a stiff brush,scraper or chisel to speed up the process. Gradually increase the amount of acid in the mix.When all the clumps of mortar are removed ,you usually will be left with a stain that looks like a faint shadow after the brick dries . At this point ,apply a coat of masonry sealer ,and that shadow should disappear,. be sure to wear eye protection,acid resistant gloves and old clothes Fabric and flesh dont offer nearly the resistance to the acid that the mortar does
Loudonville Inlaw Apartment By Albany Remodeling
Adding an addition to be used as an In law apartment or living quarters to you home is a great way and cost effective way to help mom and dad age in place . Albany remodeling has done several of these additions and all of them have worked to increase the quality of aging parents lives . Most cases a typical inlaw apartment has its own entrance bathroom ,living room . Its for the most part a complete small apartment . The concept is great it allows the aging parent to remain independent while being close by in case they need help with something . Some cities and towns have strict regulations regarding kitchens in the in-law apartments . This is because of the local zoning requirements . The zoning requirements are set up to enhance peoples property and protect their safety and privacy . They alos help protect their property values as well. Most of the time the local building department requires that they have the persons name on file who will be living there and they will want to come and do an inspection every year to make sure that the person listed is actually still there . They also require that there is a plan in place to remove the kitchen if that person isn’t living there any longer . This is to prevent people from turning their single family zoned homes into multi family or duplex residences where that type of zoning isn’t allowed .
Albany Remodeling & F.R. Kennedy & Son Certified Lead Renovators
Frank R Kennedy & Son Construction announces it has passed the lead-based paint renovation class to renovate homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978.
Frank R Kennedy & Son Construction are certified lead renovators will meet the new lead paint regulations required for contractors by April 2010. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently passed a lead-based paint regulation called the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule.
Effective as of April 2010. In 2008, the EPA announced new rules for contractors who renovate or repair housing, child-care facilities or schools built before 1978. Under the new rules, contractors must have documented training and lead-safe work practices to reduce potential lead exposure during renovation and repair activities including sanding, cutting, and demolition. The effective date for companies to work in pre-1978 homes and child occupied facilities is April 2010.
The requirements apply to painters, plumbers, electricians, and contractors who could potentially expose children to hazardous lead dust and chips during a renovation. The regulation also requires a contractor to follow specific work practices and meet record keeping requirements.
Basement Remodeling in Albany and the Capital District or New York
Basement Remodeling & Finishing
Those that have had their basements finished by our Albany Remodeling agree that finishing your basement is a valuable investment.
The space you create can be used for many things. Some of the most popular would be: a space for your children to play, entertaining business associates, family and friends, or just a place for you to unwind from your long day. We believe that a well-designed basement should accommodate all of the above!
Planning is critical before starting a Finished Basement project. From a financial standpoint, first determine how big your budget is and how you will finance the project. Will a mortgage be required or can you refinance or obtain a home equity loan?
Three Year Labor Warranty on All Remodeling Projects
Three year warranty on all workmanship performed by Frank R Kennedy & Son on your Albany area home. If any workmanship performed on your home proves to be substandard our company will repair it free of charge.
Our extended warranties offer you peace of mind. We provide full three year warranties on all labor. If it’s not done correctly we will come back and fix it free of charge.
If you are looking for an Albany basement finishing and remodeling contractor, please call us today at 518-432-9298
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Renovations
