Getting ready for the cold weather….

While we don’t want to be the bearers of bad news – it is obvious to most New Englanders that the cold weather will be here before we know it.  Here are some tips you can do to help “cold-proof” your home as much as possible:

•  Clear leaves from gutters – it’s a slimy job but the task will protect your siding and basement from expensive water damage.  Accumulated leaves can be a problem in other areas as well.  Check the valleys of your roof and check drainage ditches and culverts.

•  Check your roof for any loose or curling shingles.

• Make sure entryway stairs are stable.

•  Make sure silcocks are turned off.

•  Check to make sure garage doors are closing properly and seals are in good condition.

•  Check exterior doors for drafts and replace weather stripping if necessary.

•  Check windows for drafts.

•  Have your boiler serviced.

•   Get programmable thermostats installed. You'll save about 3% on your heating bill for every degree that you set back your thermostat full time. (Turn it back 10 degrees when you go to work and again when you go to bed, and you can save about 14% on your heating bill.) Put on a few extra blankets at night and turn down the temperature 10°.  You may actually feel a lot better in the morning due to the increased humidity at a lower temperature.

• Take advantage of "cheap solar heat". On the side of your home that is exposed to the sun during the day, keep the windows treatments and drapery open to let as much sun shine in as possible.  This is what's referred to as passive solar heat.  Conversely, all windows coverings should be closed at night, or when the sun is not shining.

•  Wash your clothes in cold water.  New detergents work well using cold water settings, which can save a substantial amount of money for big families that run many loads of laundry.

•   Install a fireplace heater grate.  There are a lot of folks that enjoy the warm cozy crackle of a fireplace during a cold winter night, but the truth of the matter is that most of that heat goes right up the chimney!  A fireplace heater grate captures heat from your fireplace and circulates it into the room.  Typically these units can capture 30-50,000 BTU's of wasted heat from a fireplace and effectively heat that room or part of your home.

• Maintain moisture in your home.  Forced hot air heat and wood stoves can rob your home of moisture.  A touch of moisture makes heated air feel warmer.  A furnace mounted humidifier is likely your best answer if your home has forced hot air.  If you have a wood stove a non-whistling tea kettle or pot filled with water and placed on top should take care of it.

• Check your homeowners policy to make sure it covers damaged caused by cold weather.

•  With the holidays approaching maintain your large appliances by vacuuming your refrigerator condenser coils and front lower grill, cleaning oven and stove drippings and cleaning out your garbage disposal (pack with ice and ¼ cup baking soda, turn on, after ice grinding stops pour in a kettle of boiling water).

 

As always, we are here to help with any of the above processes that you may wish to take care of – no project is too big or too small for us.

Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend.....

Lenny & Lisa

Recent Renovation in Nashua

Here are some pictures of a finished kitchen renovation we completed in Nashua, NH:

Here is what our customer had to say about his renovation:

"I can't speak more highly of Lenny and his team at
Apple Wood Construction.  From our first meeting, he

presented a schedule and followed it from conception
to completion of my project.
I am so pleased with the quality and craftsmanship from
each of the tradesmen that stepped foot in my home. Everyone presented a high level of professionalism.  I have received numerous compliments on every aspect of my kitchen remodel - from the cabinetry to tile work and right down to the under cabinet lighting.

My project was completed in a timely manner with a lot of attention to detail.  Lenny's workmanship far exceeded my expectations.  It was so exciting to see the progress from day to day.  At the end of each day, my home was always clean and orderly.  I often joked that even though I was going through a remodel, I felt as though I could host a party due to the high level of cleanliness.

I would recommend Apple Wood Construction to anyone who is thinking about a remodeling project.  Thanks again Lenny - job well done!"

Bill C, Nashua, NH

Top 10 Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

We were on vacation last week -- but now we are back.  Check out these top10 Bathroom Remodeling Ideas found in Remodeling Magazine:


The home has long been seen as a sanctuary, a place to relax and recover from the pressures of daily life. But, with the recent economic crisis and today’s fast-paced world, people are looking to de-stress in any way possible, and the interior design industry is seeing the effects of this as bathroom remodeling trends move toward styles that are calm, relaxing, and comforting while still incorporating all of today’s modern conveniences. Traditional styles get a modern twist, and environmentally friendly technology is side-by-side with little luxuries.

1.Color schemes – out with the bright, in with the light

To maintain a soothing environment, many designers are sticking to palettes of beige, white, olive, and other neutral and light colors. Not only do these colors promote a calmer environment, but they are easy to match with many styles of décor, and this is especially appealing if the homeowner is looking to sell in the future.

2.Mirror, mirror, not just on the wall

Bathroom remodeling trends show a move toward a light and airy feel with an emphasis on mirrors. These can include old-world accents like an ornate brass frame, or they can cover an entire wall for a more modern look; however, the effect is the same: a brighter, bigger-feeling room. The walls are not the only place that mirrors are appearing, though. Reviving the art-deco style of the 1930’s and 80’s, mirrored vanities and other furniture have been getting more popular.

3. Bigger-is-better soaking bathtubs

While Jacuzzis and sunken garden bathtubs may have been ubiquitous in design a few years ago, today is all about the old-style soaking tub. Eliminating the noise and bubbling of the jets in favor of peace and quiet, these tubs often feature finishes like copper and enamel as well as accents like claw feet, evoking a traditional feel while maintaining modern convenience. For those that also include a shower, a freestanding shower rod and fabric curtain make a perfect addition.

4. Raised sinks

Mirroring the elevation of soaking tubs, another hot trend is artisanal raised sinks. These can be done in granite or in a similar material as the tubs, including copper and brass, and when coupled with wall-mounted faucets, they give an old look a fresh new twist.

5.Bringing the outdoors in with lighting

As far as lighting goes, natural is king. For those whose remodel allows for significant structural changes, large windows are a popular addition, especially skylights and sleek pane-free designs.
Not only do these allow you to keep and grow plants in the room, but the natural light they let in is perfect for makeup application. For nighttime or supplemental lighting, many designers are choosing to integrate fixtures with soft light and even dimming switches – perfect for a long soak in the tub without the hazards of candles.

6.Going Frame Free with Showers

For those who don’t like or simply don’t have the space for a large soaking tub, frameless glass showers reign supreme. In keeping with the airy feel of many bathrooms, frameless designs make the most of every square foot and can even make room seem larger. These styles are a great way to inject modernism into an otherwise classic room. Plus, what better way to enjoy the rest of your remodel than with a glass shower?

7.Textured tile

With a neutral color palette, there’s room to incorporate unique tile textures that add depth to the room without taking away from the sometimes ornate fixtures and decorations. While imported marble is an elegant option, not everyone can afford that luxury; mosaic, granite, glass, and mother-of-pearl tiles all add style without breaking the budget and are versatile enough to suit nearly any taste.
Setting tiles in a staggered fashion is another way to add a touch of the traditional to a modern room.

8.What’s old is new again in faucets and other fixtures

While the color schemes and technology of today’s bathrooms may be sleek and modern, the fixtures are going back in time; many designers and plumbers are incorporating vintage-style faucets, tiles, lighting, and tubs to create a fresh yet classic feel. They may look old school, but they’re anything but. In fact, many incorporate the latest technology and are simply styled in an antique way, giving you the best of both worlds.

9.Reduce, Recycle, Reuse – Going Green with Bathroom Remodels

Whether it’s to lower utilities, reduce environmental impact, or both, environmentally friendly fixtures are firmly entrenched in today’s bathroom remodeling trends. From on-demand hot water to low-flow toilets, specialized shower heads and more, the possibilities for a green bathroom are endless.
What’s more, these come in all styles so you don’t have to break your traditional look just to get a more environmentally friendly room.

10. Heated Floors are a Hot Trend

For many people, in-your-face opulence is out, and a more subdued form of luxury is the way to go. Heated floors are surely one of these comforts, and if you’ve ever stepped out of a hot shower onto freezing cold tile in the middle of winter, you’ll doubtless agree. Another popular option, on-demand hot water, doubles as an environmentally friendly addition and a convenience. The key to today’s bathroom remodeling is balancing indulgences with essentials.

When you’re looking to have a contractor create your vision or plan, looking to today’s top bathroom remodeling trends can give you inspiration and spur you to create your perfect bathroom retreat. However, it’s important to remember that while these design features are popular today, there’s one trend that never goes out of style – creating a bathroom that suits your personal style.

Lenny & Lisa

Recent House Remodel in Londonderry, NH

 Here are some pictures of a recent house remodel we did in Londonderry, NH 

Stair Ideas

We are looking at potentially doing a stair project in our own home and already having one set of oak stairs, I wanted to look at alternatives to standard white risers -- I came across some pretty great ideas that I would like to do at some point and wanted to share .....

Painted Risers

   Wallpapered Risers

 Pebbled Tiles

Mosaic Tiles

I can't wait to do our stairs after seeing these great options -- and not having to paint risers every year to keep them fresh looking.


Lisa

Recent Kitchen Remodel, Windham, NH - Before and After

DECKING OPTIONS – PART 2 – PVC OPTIONS:

 

AZEK – Is made with Procell® Technology which means AZEK Deck is unlike any other

deck board.  AZEK Deck is built to withstand a houseful of spills and objects, so homeowners can actually live on their AZEK Deck. Spilled wine, fruit punch, even hamburger grease are no match for AZEK Deck's stain resistance. Since AZEK Deck is scratch resistant, you won't have to worry about scuffs during installation and your AZEK Deck will continue to look great for years to come.

- Stain resistant
- Scratch resistant
- Split resistant
- Mold and mildew resistant
- Durable and long lasting
- Impervious to moisture and insects

- Limited lifetime warranty

AZEK products are designed to provide consumers with lasting durability thanks to expected life spans in excess of 25 years as compared to the traditional materials they are replacing.  AZEK products require little maintenance or cleaning with harsh chemicals which ultimately limits VOC emissions.  AZEK products are versatile and adaptable to meet modern and future design needs, and are recyclable at the end of their useful lives. 

Check it out at www.azek.com

TIMBERTECH – Is capped with a fully protected poly shell that features TimberTech's exclusive HyrdoLock™ technology, the plank is practically impervious to the elements and everyday accidents endured by most decks.  Timbertech is guaranteed against termites, checking, splitting, decay, rot and splintering.  TimberTech’s warranty offers 25-years of coverage.  And our warranty can be transferred to a second homeowner – a great selling feature when you’re ready to relocate.

TimberTech products add beauty to homes, businesses and resorts. What's more, TimberTech is low maintenance, safe, durable, and can even increase the value of your home.

TimberTech decking is manufactured with an average of 51% recycled content.  All TimberTech products are urea formaldehyde-free and our product cartons are made with 43% recycled material fibers which meet SFI sourcing requirements and are 100% recyclable.

Check it out at www.timbertech.com

TREX – The exclusive Trex^® composite formula brings together the best qualities
of wood and plastic to create a superior alternative to wood:

·         Plastic shields the wood from moisture and insect damage,
preventing rotting and splintering.

·         Wood protects the plastic from UV damage while providng a
natural, attractive look and feel.

The result is decking that requires only periodic cleaning to stay beautiful for years to come - no need for sanding, staining or painting, ever.

·         Trex is smoother than wood and every other composite.

·         Trex is soft-to-the-touch for unmatched barefoot comfort.

·         Trex will not splinter, so bare feet and hands are always safe.

·         Trex has excellent traction, so those bare feet stay put.

No trees are cut down for the purpose of making Trex.    The wood comes from reclaimed wood
from wood working operations, sawdust (200 million lbs.per year) and used pallets. Our manufacturing process is as green as our final product. Trex trailers used to transport wood dust utilize vegetable-based oil hydraulics. Our proprietary processing method eliminates smokestacks. Factory run-off/refuse is recycled back into the manufacturing line.

Trex is one of the largest plastic bag recyclers in the U.S. with 3.1 billion recycled grocery bags were collected for use to manufacture Trex products in 2010.

Because of its wood content, natural color shifts do occur in Trex products. Twelve to sixteen weeks of exposure to sunlight and rain are typically required for Trex to achieve its faded color. This process is completely harmless to Trex products and does not affect the durability.

The "after weathering" color of Trex may be different from the colors shown in the Trex Color Palette guide. There may also be color variation between boards. This is normal and gives Trex its distinctive look and character. The weathering process may be accelerated in dry areas by periodically wetting down the deck using a garden hose. Areas in heavy shade, or vertical components such as posts and balusters, may take considerably longer to fade.

Check it out at www.trex.com