Remodeling Nation | Tips For Planning A Home Remodeling Project

This week we discuss the details of scheduling a remodeling project Importance of a schedule is it worth it? let’s deal with that when we get there don’t want to make decisions early gnatt chart/critical path Challenges to staying on schedule   inspections changes trade contractor schedules material ordering/deliveries weather/seasonal conditions How to deal with […]

This week we discuss a list of some common and not-so-common things to think about when planning a kitchen renovation Here’s the top ten list.  For all the details – listen to the show! Leave time to plan and ‘live with’ your new kitchen layout Leave time to pre-order materials Select your appliances first Storage […]

This week we discuss a common theme of the show – communication Topics this week: What does good communication look like Forms of communication Questions that your remodeler may ask at your first meeting What process should be used to review a remodeling contract and scope Why is communication important to the remodeling process Tragic/funny […]

This week we discuss a common question of our clients – What are the pros and cons of cost plus contracts Topics this week: Definition of cost plus remodeling contracts Does a cost plus contract save money Pros of cost plus contracts Cons of cost plus contracts Speed to start a cost plus contract project […]

This week we discuss a common question of our clients – Buy a new home or remodel an existing? Topics this week: Pros and cons of building a new home Location Sentimental home Costs involved in buying a new home Costs involved in remodeling Code issues Schools       Listen or Download the Podcast […]

This week we discuss the causes of ice dams and how to fix them Topics this week: Causes of ice dams Common cures for ice dams Attic insulation Attic ventilation Shingle life What to look for to see if you have an ice dam       Listen or Download the Podcast Below  

This week we discuss what a homeowner must do during a construction project Topics this week: Contact neighbors Accomplish self-performed work Relocate landscaping Make selections Order materials Check coverage with insurance agent Move valuables to a safe place Arrange for funding Communicate Make plans for pets and kids Shovel snow Move cars Plan a vacation […]

This week we discuss the process of selecting finishes for a renovation project Topics this week: Who is responsible for selecting finishes Can your remodeler help you select finishes Can you work with an interior designer What is the role of an interior designer in remodeling How many decisions must be made for a renovation […]

This week we discuss electricity and safety and what you should consider as part of your remodeling project Topics this week: Electrical fires and their causes Arc Fault Interrupters Ground Fault Interrupters Panel Upgrades Sub-Panel Installation Electrical Service Upgrade Smoke Detectors Carbon Monoxide Detectors Planning For Extra Circuits       Listen or Download the […]

This week we discuss what to expect when receiving a fixed price proposal Topics this week: Proposal vs estimate Design elements Time required to complete proposal Written scope of work Detailed selections Material specification list Job schedule Payment schedule       Listen or Download the Podcast Below      

This week we discuss the top new remodeling trends for 2011 Topics this week: Low maintenance/durable building materials Synthetic stone countertops Induction cooktops Intricate tile patterns for showers/backsplashes 2011 color trends Universal Design Energy saving lighting/appliances Death of the 100 watt lightbulb LED lighting       Listen or Download the Podcast Below    

This week we discuss how remodeling works in the harsh winter months Topics this week: Pace of winter projects Interior vs exterior projects in winter Working around vacations to warmer climates Plan for spring projects Exposing the interior of your home to the elements Heat loss Frost and snow Temporary enclosures Masonry work in winter […]

This week we discuss our favorite memories of remodeling in 2010 Topics this week: The Remodeling Nation Podcast Favorite projects of 2010 Upbeat economy Giving back to the community Listen Now Download an mp3 version of this episode #26 – Our Favorite Moments of 2010

This week we discuss what’s realistic about home remodeling reality television shows Topics this week: Neil went to Egypt Construction techniques in Egypt Time frames of reality television shows Behind the scenes planning Costs of reality TV projects We answer a listener’s question about insulation Listen Now Download an mp3 version of this episode #25 […]

This week we discuss how to add a second story to your existing one story home Topics this week: What is involved structurally to add a second story What zoning restrictions might be involved in adding a second floor What is the right time of year to plan a second story addition How much does […]