More College Construction Leads to More Jobs

As more people head to college, universities are running out of space. The answer? More buildings, of course. Areas like New York are seeing a wave of construction at various institutions of higher learning. That's good news for students and builders alike.

http://nypost.com/2014/10/20/a-boom-in-students-creates-a-boom-in-construction-at-colleges/

It's Time For Home Fall Design Trends

What's happening in the world of home design this fall? According to this group of experts, it's more "mix" and less "match." But do they agree on grey being the color of the season? Take a look at what they had to say about these topics and more.

http://www.lohud.com/story/money/real-estate/homes/sell-this-house/2014/10/10/home-design-trends-fall/17027937/

Remodeling Your Home? Keep It Small

When people dream about renovating their home, they sometimes envision grandiose plans of addition and expansion. But often it's better to keep everything on a smaller scale. Before you go crazy on your next remodeling project, take a step back and ask, "Is bigger really better?"

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865612870/Bigger-isn7t-always-better-in-home-remodeling.html?pg=all

Replacing House Windows Can Yield Resale Benefits

We all know there are certain home improvement projects that are more exciting than others. Redoing your bathroom or kitchen, for example, allows for a certain amount of creativity. When it comes to replacing windows, however, most homeowners respond with a big yawn. If you are interesting in selling your house, though, changing those frames and panes could be a worthy investment.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/a-not-so-sexy-home-improvement-project-with-real-benefits-2014-10-06

Builder Using Recycled Shipping Containers To Make House

It's always interesting to see what kind of materials can be used to build a house these days. In Michigan, a home is being constructed out of red metal shipping containers like those you see on a rail car or in a boatyard. The recycled material is touted as energy efficient. The completed project will be a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath house measuring 2,100 square feet.

http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2014/09/17/container-home-under-construction-draws-eyes-in-royal-oak/

Priceline, TripAdvisor Dipping Into Mobile Restaurant Reservations

We've talked before about the effects of technology on the restaurant industry. Here's more proof that mobile applications are considered to be the future of the dining-out experience. Two giant names in online travel reservations, Priceline and TripAdvisor, are stepping into restaurant scheduling, as well.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2014/06/26/where-are-priceline-and-tripadvisor-headed-with-the-restaurant-reservations-business/

'No Tipping' Policy Aims to Protect Servers, KY Restaurant Says

It may seem like a crazy idea to some, but a restaurant in Newport, Ky., says it is looking out for its waiters and waitresses by instituting an anti-tipping policy. Instead, Packhouse Meats pays servers $10 an hour or 20 percent of their individual food sales per shift. The policy is geared toward rewarding employees for their actual work, not by the whims of the customer. What do you think of the idea?

http://www.courier-journal.com/story/entertainment/dining/2014/06/12/no-tipping-at-kentucky-restaurant/10365711/

When Renovating Home, Choose Contractor Wisely And Don't Forget Insurance

There are many things to consider when renovating your home. Two of the most important aspects involve selecting an experienced, trustworthy contractor and setting up adequate insurance for the project. The following article offers some advice to help your remodeling process go as smoothly as possible.

http://www.idahostatejournal.com/vac/money_and_finance/home-renovation-starts-with-good-planning-and-good-insurance/article_c63c5788-ecb2-547b-8cd1-17a6fe652e3b.html

Eatery Turns Tables on Customer's 'Offensive' Suggestion

Never let it be said that a restaurant owner doesn't take his customer's comments to heart. An eatery in West Virginia is hosting a special event after one customer suggested that the servers should "show more skin." Read on to find out just what the boss did.

http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/eats/restaurant-answers-show-skin-request-clever-article-1.1800580

Spring Is Time To Deck Your Home With New Patio

Now that winter has faded away, it's time to enjoy what Spring has to offer. With a new patio deck, you can bask in the beautiful, blooming and bustling outdoors. Just keep in mind these tips as you are planning this exciting home addition.

http://www.neagle.com/article/20140411/News/140419874

Use Tile to Add Style -- And Easy Maintenance -- to Floors

When you are building or upgrading your home, one of the best investments you can make is tile flooring. Not only is it beautiful, but it is also easy to clean. Plus, there are tons of options, ranging in color, size, texture and price. Read on to learn some tips for choosing the right tile.

http://ravallirepublic.com/special-section/how-to/article_00aae254-c102-5918-95d1-1c317ffbcdfa.html

Report: U.S. Commercial Construction may be on rebound

Spurred by hotel and retail chain growth, non-residential construction is expected to be on the rise, according to a recent report from the American Institute of Architects. This is good news for a sector that has struggled just as mightily as the housing market in recent years.

http://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/construction-is-picking-up-projected-to-grow/article_5902c114-6c77-5578-8f93-130833703818.html

Remodeling? Know Which Contract is Right for You

Most homeowners, at one point or another, have dreamed of remodeling at least one part of their house. If you decide to work with a professional contractor, be sure you are familiar with the three most common types of construction contracts. The best one for you will depend on your goals and circumstances.

http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20140321/COLUMNISTS115/303210110/Building-solutions-Understand-possible-costs-before-signing-remodeling-contract

How to Keep Kid Stuff from Taking Over Your Home

From cars to clothes to crayons, children have a unique – and unkempt – way of making their presence known, but your house doesn't have to turn into "Kiddie Land." For more information, click here:

http://mdjonline.com/bookmark/24722767-Reclaiming-your-space-Tips-create-balance-in-homes-with-children 

Energy-Saving Tips for Commercial Kitchens

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), restaurants use about 2.5 times more energy per square foot than other commercial buildings. Needless to say, all that energy costs money, so investing in energy efficiency when you're planning that new restaurant construction, can mean big savings over the long haul.

Not only will taking simple steps to make your operation more environmentally friendly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve resources, it will also have a positive impact on the bottom line.  

Following are some cost-saving tips for increasing energy efficiency in commercial kitchens. These tips, provided by the EPA, can save thousands of dollars each year on energy bills.

Purchase Energy Star qualified equipment

Consider the bigger picture when purchasing kitchen appliances and equipment. Focusing on life-cycle costs rather than purchase price can help you save big in the long run. Life-cycle cost includes the purchase price, annual energy savings and other long-term costs associated with the equipment. Though energy efficient appliances cost more up-front, they pay for themselves quickly with lowered energy bills. To get the biggest bang for your buck, request ENERGY STAR-qualified equipment. 

Implement Energy Efficient Processes

Leaving equipment ON when it’s not being used costs money. Implement a startup/shut down that ensures the equipment is running only when needed.

Maintain Equipment Regularly, Repair Equipment Immediately

Adhering to regularly scheduled maintenance programs will ensure your equipment is running efficiently. Regular maintenance can help restaurateurs spot potential problems in addition to avoiding repair costs and the high cost of replacing spoiled food.

Choose the Most Energy Efficient Cooking Method

While all cooks have their favorite cooking methods for certain foods, consider experimenting with more energy-efficient methods. Ovens are generally more energy efficient than rotisseries, and griddles more efficient than broilers.

Check the Thermostats

 

Kitchen equipment performance changes over time.  To ensure your kitchen is operating efficiently, check thermostats and control systems on appliances, refrigeration, dish machines and hot water heaters to see if they need to be recalibrated or readjusted.

In addition to saving money on energy bills and conserving much-needed resources, operating your kitchen with energy efficiency in mind can produce dividends in the form of tax rebates. The State of Ohio rewards commercial customers with incentives for upgrading lighting, lighting controls, HVAC systems and commercial cooking equipment among other energy-saving measures. For more information, visit Energy.gov.

A Contractor’s Guide to Kitchen Countertops

Today’s kitchen countertops come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and ever-expanding material options make it easy to find the right look to match your modern, traditional or country cottage-style kitchen.

Since countertops are likely to be around for a while, however, it pays to put a little thought into the purchase before running out to the nearest home improvement store. Here are some things to consider:  

The Right Price

Setting your price point up front and sticking with it will help you when it comes time to shop. There are so many exquisite countertops available that it’s easy to fall in love with something you can’t afford.

You should also know exactly what the quoted price covers. The countertop material may be advertised at $10 a square foot, but find out beforehand if that covers installation, sink cut-outs and edging. Also, don’t forget to consider the taxes that will be added at the checkout counter.

Lastly, consider the property value of your home when choosing countertops. While it’s true that a nice updated kitchen is a big selling factor, over-improving may just be throwing money away. By the same token, you wouldn’t want to put a laminate countertop in a million-dollar home. Even if you’re not thinking of selling today, buying materials that fit the sale value of your home is worth considering.

Ease of Maintenance

After setting a price point, consider how much time you’re willing to spend maintaining your kitchen countertops. If home improvement projects and honey-do lists are your idea of a fun weekend, it’s OK to choose a porous material that will need to be sealed every six months. Granite, marble and concrete are the most common types of countertops that require regular sealing.

If, however, your weekends are filled with fun and adventures, stainless steel, quartz and laminate are good choices for countertops. Their low maintenance will pay off in free time for other activities.   

Durability

Water, heat, sharp knives, acidic foods—kitchen countertops have a lot to contend with, and unless you’re the king and queen of take-out, your countertops will be used. When considering the durability of kitchen countertops you want something that will not stain, crack, scratch or etch.

Solid surface countertops made of 100 percent acrylics, 100 percent polyester or a combination of both are built to withstand years of use. They are resistant to stains and scratches and are completely renewable or repairable.

The most popular choice in kitchen countertops, granite is also pretty tough, offering a near diamond-hard durability. 

Though marble is good for baking and pastry, it scratches easily and is prone to etching. Because of this, some homeowners choose to have a marble surface on one counter for baking, and the rest of the kitchen countertops in another material.

The key is to consider how you use your kitchen and how much you use your kitchen when shopping for countertops. Most materials will have pros and cons, so choose the countertop that matches your lifestyle.

Kitchen Design

Lastly, you will want to choose something that works with surrounding materials. Stainless steel, concrete and quartz look great in modern kitchens, but probably won’t work with traditional styles.

Granite, soapstone and tile are classic choices. Perfect for bringing nature into the home or old-world style charm to the most used room in the house, these materials lend timeless appeal to mid-range homes as well as million dollar mansions.

Quick Reference

Granite

Pros: Stands up well to wear and tear. Each piece is one of a kind. Natural colors and patterns.

Cons: Must be sealed periodically to avoid stains. Is heavy, so sturdy counter boxes are required.

Cost: $35 to $100 per square foot, installed

Solid Surfacing

Made from acrylic and polyester

Pros: Virtually maintenance free. Can be susceptible to scratches and burns, but they can be sanded out. Seamless installation means no cracks and crevices for dirt to penetrate. Extensive color and pattern options.  

Cons: Can look artificial. Hot pans and sharp knives can cause damage.  

Cost:  $35 to $100 per square foot

Quartz

Pros: Virtually maintenance free. Available in large array of colors and patterns.

Cons: may be evident that it’s an engineered product. 

Cost: $40 to $90 per square foot, installed

Marble

Pros: Elegant, very cool used a lot in pastry and baking stations

Cons: Susceptible to stains even when sealed. Can scratch and chip. Not generally used throughout the whole kitchen.

Cost:  $40 to $100 per square foot, installed

Tile

Pros: Resists stains. Stands up to heat and sharp blades. Tiles can be replaced fairly easily if they break.

Cons: Uneven surface makes it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out a pie. Unsealed grout is prone to staining and standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacterial growth.

Cost: $10 to $80 per square foot, installed

Laminate

Pros: Low maintenance and easy to clean. Lightweight.

Cons: Prone to scratching, burns and staining. Weather and moisture leads to peeling. Cannot be used with under-mount sinks. Difficult to repair if damaged.

Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot, installed

Soapstone

Pros: Natural softness and depth. Starts out light and darkens over time acquiring a rich patina.

Cons: Should be polished with oil to stay in top shape. Can crack over time. May be damaged by sharp knives and nicks. Natural roughness of the stone can scuff glassware and china.

Cost: $70 to $100 per square foot, installed

Stainless Steel

Pros: Nearly indestructible. Resists heat and bacteria. Appropriate for contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.

Cons: Shows fingerprints and must be wiped off frequently. Chemicals can affect color and some cause unwanted etching. Can be very expensive due to custom build.

Cost: $65 to $125 per square foot, installed

Concrete

Pros: Versatile. Can be customized to fit any shape and tinted to match any décor. Can add unique inlays such as glass, rocks and shells. Stands up well to heavy use.

Cons: Because it is porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. Small cracks can develop with time and settling. Very heavy, so a strong base is needed to support it.  

Cost:  $75 to $125 per square foot, installed

Butcher Block

Pros: Warm, natural appearance. Does not hold up well to sharp knives, but scratches can easily be sanded down.

Cons: Swells and contracts with moisture exposure. Harbors bacteria and needs frequent disinfecting. Oiling is a must to fill in scratches and protect the surface.

Cost: $35 to $70 per square foot, installed

Paper Composite

Pros: Looks like surfacing or laminate, but is warmer. Surprisingly hardy and withstands heat and water well. Lighter weight than natural stone or concrete.

Cons: Susceptible to scratches and chemical damage. Requires occasional oil treatment and sanding to refresh it.  

Cost: $85 to $100 per square foot, installed

Sources: Laurie L. Dove, What Type of Countertop Needs the Least Amount of Maintenance?, http://home.howstuffworks.com; Marisa Villarreal, Bob Vila’s Guide to Kitchen Countertops, www.bobvila.com; Erin Eberlin, Before Choosing a Countertop, http://landlords.about.com; Lisa Frederick, Kitchen Countertops 101: Choosing a Surface Material, www.houzz.com

Space-Saving Kitchen Remodel

Architect Jerri Holan opts to keep kitchen size in 1930's bungalow. See how she maximizes the 9-foot-square space here.

Small Construction Start Up Competes with Slightly Smaller Homes

Slightly smaller homes with high-impact upgrades help local builder compete with the big boys. Read more here.

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Swimming Pool?

     Few home upgrades can bring more enjoyment than a built-in swimming pool. Summer soirees and family gatherings take on an extra element of fun when you can beat the heat by splashing around in clear, refreshing water. 

     Before calling a pool contractor, though, be sure you have a good idea of what a built-in swimming pool will cost in the short term and for the long haul.

Initial Cost

     Although the cost of installing a pool varies depending on what part of the country you live in, you should budget between $23,000 and $50,000 for installation.

     Some factors that determine the cost of an in-ground pool include:

Size

Since pools are priced by the square footage, generally, the larger the pool the higher the price tag. You should expect to pay around $50 per square foot.

Depth

Though technically included in the size of the pool, the depth can make a big difference in cost. A deeper pool will require more materials and labor for digging, so deeper the pool the greater the expense.

Materials

Just like materials for your kitchen flooring can range from $8 square foot laminate to $100 square foot marble, pool materials come in levels of quality, prestige and affordability.   Fiberglass and vinyl are on the economical end of pool materials while concrete and gunite (a type of reinforced concrete) are more expensive.

Geographic Location

For the most part, a higher general cost of living means a higher price tag for your built-in swimming pool. In addition, costs of building permits vary from state to state. And of course, the market is a factor. Building a pool in Ohio might run more than building a pool in Florida or Arizona where the pool market is highly competitive.

Custom Shape

Simple geometric shapes, squares, rectangles, circles and ovals are pretty standard in swimming pools and will run about the same price, but custom shapes with complex curves and bends will be more costly.

     In addition to these five major factors that determine the cost of building your in-ground pool, many homeowners opt for extravagant extras that increase the pool’s initial cost. Some “extras” to consider include pool and walkway lighting, paved walkways and pool equipment storage. Some people even choose to put a TV and stereo system in their pool. As classy and chic as these amenities may be, they can add up fairly quickly.

Required Extra

     One added expense that will be a necessity rather than a luxury is a lockable fence around the pool. In fact, some states require pool owners to build one, and each state may even specify what types of materials can be used for building fences around swimming pools.

     The addition of a lockable fence may seem like an unnecessary added expense, but according to SafeKids Worldwide, between 50 and 90 percent of all drownings and near-drownings in backyard pools could be prevented if a four-sided fence were installed.

     The most important thing to remember when building a swimming pool is that prices can vary greatly, so be sure to get three estimates before choosing a pool contractor.

Long-Term Cost

     In addition to the initial cost of installing a pool, maintenance and upkeep has its own price whether in actual cost or the cost of your valuable time.

     A homeowner can spend between $500 and $800 annually on the chlorine and other chemicals required to keep the pool free of bacteria, algae and other microorganisms. Even if you purchase the chemicals at a discount store, the price can add up. 

     Of course you could always hire a pool company to maintain your cement pond. If you choose the professional pool cleaning route, expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 a year.

     Pool accessories such as liners, electric pumps and pool covers can wear out and need to be replaced, and, sometimes, the pool itself will develop cracks and leaks that require repairs.

     Though having a pool in the backyard can make family gatherings and neighborhood parties fun in the summer months, the sad reality is sometimes people sustain injuries in and around the pool. For that reason, special liability insurance is required for homeowner’s with swimming pools.

     Certainly, owning a swimming pool will make your homeowner’s insurance higher, but there are certain things you can do to help decrease those costs. For instance, building the pool in the backyard instead of the front yard decreases liability, and, therefore, the cost of insurance.

ROI

     Most real estate agents agree the return on investment for a built-in swimming pool is ambiguous, at best. If you live in a neighborhood where pools are expected, your pool needs to be as nice as or nicer than others in the area. If you live a less-prestigious neighborhood, pools can detract from the value of your home because they can be expensive and time consuming to maintain.

     Though there is much to consider when weighing the costs vs. the benefits of a built-in swimming pool, the only real consideration is the enjoyment it will bring to you and your family.

Sources: Arends, Brett, “Taking a Bath on Your Swimming Pool,” The Wall Street Journal, Aug. 2010, poolpricer.com, How Much Does an Inground pool cost? Let’s Break it Down, mydreampool.com, Materials and Construction, Askville by Amazon, How Much Does it Cost to Maintain a Swimming Pool?,  thehousingforum.com, How Much Does it Cost to Maintain a Swimming Pool?, insuranceagents.com, Homeowners Insurance And Swimming Pools: Will They Hurt You In The End?, eHow.com/Money, How Much Does It Cost to Have an In-Ground Pool Installed?

Let Your Light Shine!

Lower energy bills with efficient home lighting. Read more here.