Budgeting a Bathroom Renovation

So now that we’re approaching the middle of Upstate New York’s wonderful winter season, you’re probably ready for a change in scenery, since you’ve been “stuck” inside for weeks. A lot of homeowners opt for indoor renovation projects in the winter, and we see an increase in the amount of quote requests for bathroom projects. So for this month, let’s talk bathrooms!

Crunch the Numbers

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost vs. Value report, a mid-range bathroom remodel might run you somewhere in the neighborhood of 15.8 thousand dollars. Before you lose your mind over that figure, consider that your investment will vary greatly depending on how you define “mid-range,” the size of your space, and numerous other factors. In the end, the amount you spend may actually be much less. A good place to start is with an honest evaluation of your finances. Come up with a number that you are feasibly able to spend on the project. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has a budgeting worksheet to make this step a breeze.

Let’s next consider how long you plan on staying in your home. This can give you a better idea of how valuable this project should be to you. If you plan on staying for less than five years, consider your project an improvement on investment, and consider how you can best improve the value of your home and improve its ability to sell. If you’re planning on staying more than five years, it’s acceptable to consider the comfort of you and your family over the ability of your home to sell.

Substitutions and Omissions

When you budget for a bathroom project, it’s important to remember to include labor costs. As a general rule, a third of your budget will be put towards labor.

Should you find that your budget needs a trim, start with the extras (a towel warmer, steam shower, etc.). From there, consider some other investment options, such as having an old tub re-glazed versus buying a brand new one. If you’re planning on changing the layout of the room, the plumbing is a big cost than might be able to be omitted by keeping the layout the same.

Leave Yourself Leeway

When you open up the walls and floors of any home, surprises tend to pop up. Plan for these little surprises by leaving some cushion in your budget to accomodate. Last minute changes are also a source for budget-busting costs, so try to finalize your plans before project start, and keep mid-project revisions to a minimum if at all possible.

On top of your labor costs, set aside 10 percent to cover the cushion. If you don’t use it, you’ll have ample funds to buy the little luxuries (towel warmers, fluffy towels, a nice massaging shower head, etc.).

Keeping On Budget

Once you’ve finalized your project, keep a spreadsheet to track actual expenses against what’s been budgeted. When you can visualize the impact on your project’s bottom line, you’re less likely to go over.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Avoiding Holiday Decorating Disasters

Holiday lights and displays are inherent to the holiday season, and bring holiday cheer to all who pass. But a lot of homeowners aren’t fully aware of the risks that holiday lights and decorations pose, resulting in many never performing safety checks on lights and ornaments. In fact, for the fifth consecutive year, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) anticipates an excess of 12,000 emergency room visits for falls, cuts, shocks and burns related to holiday decorating.

Some of the more common injuries (such as electrical shocks or burns) result from an excess of lights strung end-to-end, low-wattage ornaments burning high-wattage bulbs, or overloaded extension cords. This safety list can help you and your friends/family avoid a holiday decorating disaster this year:

Ladders

Heed the warning labels on ladders. Following the manufacturers instructions on use will greatly lower your chance of accidental falls, or entanglement in high-current electrical wires.

Trees and Decorations

Buying a live tree? Be sure it’s fresh! We realize that not everyone has time to go cut down a tree themselves, so we want to make sure that you check that your tree is fresh. If it’s green, it’s needles are hard to pull from the branches, and the needles do not break when bent between your fingers, you likely have a fresh tree. Dry needles are more flammable than well hydrated ones!

Place trees away from heat sources. Fireplaces, vents, and radiators not only cause a fire risk when in close proximity to trees (live and artificial), but they can impede the heat distribution to the room or house. Keep in mind that warmer rooms will cause the tree to absorb water faster, so check the water levels in live tree bases daily!

Using an artificial tree? Look for the “Fire Resistant” label! While this doesn’t guarantee that the tree won’t catch fire, it indicates that it’s more resistant to combustion.

Have small children? Avoid small, sharp, heavy, or breakable decorations. Keep decorations that have small or removable parts out of reach, and avoid decorations that resemble food or candy that may entice children into putting it into their mouths.

Candles

Keep burning candles in sight. Extinguish candles when you leave the room or house. Do a double check before going to bed to ensure that you didn’t accidentally overlook one.

Burn candles only on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Make sure that they’re out of reach of pets and children, and on surfaces that won’t cause the candle to fall if bumped. Make sure that there are no adjacent drapes, decorations, or furniture that could easily catch on fire.

Lights

Use lights that have been tested. Use only lights that have been tested by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL) or the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). On lights for sale in stores, UL’s red holographic label indicates that it meets the strict safety requirements for indoor/outdoor use. UL’s green holographic label indicates that the product is approved for indoor use only.

Check each set of lights. Look at both new and old lights for broken bulbs, cracked sockets, loose connections, or frayed/bare/broken wires. Throw out damaged light strings, and don’t use electric lights on metallic trees.

Check outdoor lights for labels. Be sure that the lights you plan to use outdoors have labels citing approval for outdoor use. When in doubt, or no label exists, don’t use it outdoors. When creating your outdoor display, plug the lights into a ground-fault circut interrupter (GFCI)-protected outlet only!

Fireplaces

Use “fire salts” with extreme care. Fire salts are used to produce colored flames when using a wood-burning fireplace. These salts contain metals that can induce gastrointestinal irritation and subsequent vomiting if swallowed. Ensure that these substances stay out of reach of children and pets!

Don’t burn wrapping paper in the fireplace. Wrapping paper is highly flammable, and can cause a flash fire, igniting any flammable material around the fireplace or causing severe burns to those in close proximity.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Taking On A Winter Roofing Project

Many homeowners rush to take care of a roof repair or replacement before the snow flies. While not a bad idea, don’t fret if you haven’t gotten your roof taken care of. Most roofing projects can be done regardless of the time of year.

You’re probably wondering why it’s sensible to undertake a roofing project in the middle of one of Rochester’s famous winters. For starters, leaving a compromised roof alone until spring can actually be more of a detriment than to have it repaired/replaced mid-winter. Just like the freezing and thawing action of water in the cracks in pavement creates the all-too-familiar potholes in Upstate New York, the same action acts on your roof. Not addressing roofing problems can lead to more problems throughout the winter.

While feasible, there are some considerations depending on your roofing material.

Sloped Roofs

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used residential roofing material, and can be installed regardless of the season. Because they are affected by temperature, however, they become more brittle in the colder weather. Installers must be cautious when installing them to ensure that they don’t bend and crack the shingle. The sealing strips are also heat-dependent, and installing them on cold days may cause them to not seal properly.

Metal roofs, however, can be installed easily in the winter months without any additional special considerations. The metal is designed to expand and contract with the changing temperatures, and will adjust without issue to the wide temperature swings we’ve come to know and love here in Rochester. Make sure you use a premium breathable underlayment, and upgrade ventilation whenever possible.

Flat Roofs

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing is easily installed during the winter months. These products are mechanically installed and are welded together with a hot air gun.

Rubber and adhesive-based roofing materials, however, are the exception. These two types of materials are very temperature-dependent, and may not be effective when applied. Rubber roofs are usually only installed in temperatures greater than 40°F, as the rubber can freeze and fail to adhere to the roof. Adhesives are also susceptible to freezing, and may not bond, either.

Regardless of your roof style or material, you can prevent common issues and the premature failure of your roof by thoroughly discussing your needs with a trusted roofing contractor.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Home Checklist: Preparing for Fall

With fall upon us, homeowners are busy preparing their homes for the months ahead. Considering these tips will not only save you money in the short term, but cut down on repair costs come spring!

Exterior Maintenance

• Ensure the foundation is sealed
  Take a walk around your home and check your foundation for cracks or other openings that could lead to heat escape. Specifically, check where any masonry meets the siding, pipes or wires enter the structure, and around windows and doors.


• Inspect your windows
  Windows are a big source of heat loss in the colder months. Fix any broken windows, and ensure that they lock tightly. Consider installing storm windows to add an extra air cushion to further insulate your windows from heat loss.


• Make sure your roof is in good shapeA lot of heat loss can occur through the roof of your home as well. Look for missing and loose shingles, and have it repaired as necessary. With the frequent temperature shifts in Upstate New York, further damage can occur as the melting snow and ice re-freezes as it works its way under the edges of the shingles.


• Clean out gutters and downspoutsAvoid the ice buildup in your gutters this winter by removing any debris, flushing them with water, inspecting the joints for a tight seal, and tighten any brackets that are loose. A gutter system that is off pitch due to a loose bracket can cause pooling, and eventually an ice buildup.


• Weather strip your garage doorKeep out the driving snow and rain, characteristic of an Upstate New York winter with weatherstripping. Not only will it keep your garage at a more bearable temperature, but it will help keep out some of those smaller animals, too.


• Inspect your driveway and sidewalk for cracksWhen snow thaws and re-freezes in the cracks of your driveway or sidewalk, it further damages the pavement, eventually creating what we commonly know as “pot-holes.” Sealing the cracks with a commercial sealer helps prolong the life of your pavement, and makes it easier for snow removal.

Interior Maintenance

• Inspect your doors and windows for leaksPrevent unnecessary heat loss and expensive heating costs this winter by inspecting your doors and windows for leaks. Check with your hand for air movement around the edges of the doors and windows. Caulk or install weatherstripping where appropriate, and don’t forget to check the door to the basement.


• Have your heating system checkedSet up an inspection of your heating system by a licensed heating contractor. When properly serviced, heating systems are more efficient, last longer, and experience fewer problems.


• Get your wood stove and fireplace in working orderExamine your wood stove or fireplace inserts door gasket for a tight seal, and ensure there are no cracks in the door. Additionally, have your chimney cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep. Blockages in the chimney put you at a significant risk for a chimney fire.


• Change the direction of your ceiling fansBy reversing your fans, you create an upward draft that redistributes warm air from the ceiling.

By addressing these easy tips, you set yourself up for long-term savings in both emergency maintenance, and in utilities!

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Super Easy Home Decorating Tips For Every Rochester Homeowner

For a lot of people, decorating the home is almost more difficult that renovating it. Which color to pick? What type of furniture? The options available are overwhelming. Even if you see something on TV or in a magazine, does that mean it's the best option for your unique home?

Decorating doesn't have to be complicated. Start by using some of these simple tips to help improve the look of any room.

Tip #1 - Add Plant Life!

By adding flowers or indoor plants to any space, you can bring color and life (literally) to the room. Who knows, it could even help your mood. The nice part about plants is that they come in all sizes and shapes. Don't have a green thumb? Ask your local greenhouse expert about the easiest indoor plans to maintain.

Tip #2 - Lay Some Rugs

Area rugs are a relatively cost effective way to really transform a room whether you're remodeling or not. The rug will warm up any tile or hardwood floor while protecting your floors from damage, wear and tear.

Tip #3 - Dress Up Your Windows

Blinds, curtains and drapes can do wonders for a space. These small touches will make the room look polished and give you some privacy. When in doubt, stick to lighter colors.

Tip #4 - Paint

Nothing refreshes a room like new paint. Again, when in doubt, choose a natural or neutral color. If you're brave, go darker. But you may wish to consult with an interior design expert first.

Tip #5 - Upgrade Your Lighting

It's amazing what new lighting can do. Whether you're going with a floor lamp, table lamp, or something installed in the ceiling, having the correct lighting pattern will set the tone for the whole room.

Tip #6 - Pillows & Comfy Blankets

While also serving a practical purpose, adding new throw pillows and blankets to your furniture allows you to add color, texture and personality at a very low cost.

Tip #7 - Art Work

We find that choosing the right art work for a room is very difficult. Consider photography or something more subtle. Check out a local art studio in addition to the usual retail stores. There are online sites that have a wider selection as well.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Choosing The Right Time To Start a Home Renovation

There's no question that here in Rochester, late spring, summer and early fall may be the best time to conduct a remodel or home renovation project at your house. But, don't just assume that the colder months are completely out of the picture. Here at Trinity, we've been known to do new roofing projects right through the winter!

Of course, indoor remodeling and renovation projects are generally a bit easier on everyone during the winter months. Here are a few good reasons to consider doing a renovation project during the cold weather months...

1. Winter Incentives
   Depending on the time of the year, the project and availability of crews, some renovation companies may offer an incentive for having them work on your project during the off-season.


2. Be an Early Bird!
   By scheduling projects during the winter months, you are putting yourself ahead of the spring renovation crowd.


3. Enjoy The Warm Weather, When It ArrivesOnce we complete your roofing, kitchen, bathroom or other home remodeling project, the only thing left to do come spring is enjoy the renovation to your home, making this the most important reason to schedule a renovation project during the winter season.

Do you have another idea or reason to consider a winter renovation project? Does your home need a new roof but you don't want to wait until spring? Reach out for a free estimate and let's see if we can help you.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Top 6 Things To Consider When Choosing a Roofing Company

Having a new roof put on your home is a major investment. It will not only increase the value of your house but it will also help protect it from the elements while improving the aesthetic curb appeal!

How should you go about finding a roofing company? There are many to choose from in the Rochester area. Some are new to the scene and others, like Trinity, have been doing it for years.

Before you sign any sort of contract with a roofing contractor, be sure to consider each of these factors carefully:

#1 - References

Generally, the longer a company is in business, the more references they should have. Don't be afraid to ask for references from some of their customers.

#2 - Warranty

With so many different options and products on the market for roofing materials, find out which materials the contractor uses. What is the warranty offered either by the contractor or the manufacturer of the actual roofing shingles? Is it a limited warranty and if so, what are the restrictions? You can often find out more details about the warranties on the manufacturer's website.

#3 - Licenses & Credentials

If a potential contractor says they have a license, ask to see proof. A business license is necessary for tax purposes and has nothing to do with their qualifications as a roofer. State and local licenses will indicate whether the roofer you’re considering is qualified for commercial or residential projects and whether there are any limits on what work they can perform.

#4 - Reviews

In the modern era of the Internet, many customers will write reviews online. Check out the many sites that allow for candid third-party reviews from customers including Google, Angie's List and Yelp. What are the customers saying? Are the reviews and feedback primarily positive?

#5 - Better Business Bureau Ranking

Any legitimate roofing company will have a listing with the Better Business Bureau. Investigate their overall "score" as well as any major complaints or lawsuits against the company.

#6 - Insurance

Ask to view the potential contractor’s certificates of insurance. They should carry comprehensive liability insurance as well as worker’s compensation insurance and will happily forward verification to you. The legal name of the contractor may offer a clue about the level of insurance they carry.

Uninsured contractors are likely to be less expensive to hire because they are not incurring the high cost of insurance. But beware, if a worker is injured on your property, the property owner may be held liable for all associated costs unless his employer is insured through worker’s compensation. Although an uninsured or underinsured contractor may be less expensive to hire, ask yourself whether that is a risk you want to take.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Picking The Right Roof Color For Your Home

With so many options to choose from these days, picking the right color shingles for your homes' roof can be a challenge. Trinity is a proud certified partner with GAF, one of the largest residential shingle manufacturers.

We believe in GAF's products and the warranty they offer. You may have seen them featured on Extreme Makeover Home Edition recently. Before we get into the various color options (after all, that's why you're reading this!), we want to point out some of the benefits of GAF's most popular shingles — Timberline HD:

• Lifetime limited warranty


• Awesome Value - Priced right for the homeowner


• A Look With Dimension - Features GAF’s "High Definition" color blends and enhanced shadow effect for a genuine wood-shake look


• Very Safe - Class A fire rating from Underwriters Laboratories, the highest rating possible


• The Best Performance - Designed with Advanced Protection® technology, which minimizes the use of natural resources while providing superior protection for your home


• For a full list of features, check out the GAF website

Ok, now the fun part...picking out a color. Here's a chart that shows you the various roof colors available for the Timberline HD shingle in the Rochester area:



When looking at the color options, be sure to consider the color of your home. Whether your home has siding, cement or wood, we recommend coming up with a palette of complimentary colors, with a bit of contrast. You don't want it to match per se but it should complement the existing colors of your house including the windows and doors.

Genevieve Gorder from HGTV put together a cool guide for choosing the right shingle color for your roof.

For more details on roofing in Rochester and the various options, check out our complete website. Have a question? No problem. Get in touch with us and we'll get right back to you.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Top 7 Things To Give The Value Of Your Home A Kick

In no particular order, we’re presenting the top things you should consider to give the value of your home a jump. Looking to sell in the near future? Or just looking ahead and planning for what may come down the road when it’s time to sell? Either way, doing some home improvement or remodeling is never a bad thing.

Our ideas range from simple, low cost upgrades to full remodeling and renovation projects. Feel free to pick and choose a project or two that suits your timeline and budget and go from there.

Take a look at Chase’s Home Value Estimator which will give you some guidance as to the current value of your house. Of course, there are many other factors to consider when using this tool including recent upgrades and home improvements you’ve made. The estimator primarily uses local trends and recent home sale data from homes around you and on your street. The reality of selling your home and the final amount will depend on this data but also the unique features and upgrades done to your home since you purchased it.

#1 - Upgrade Your Flooring

Most people would love for the majority of their home to have hardwoods in it. Unfortunately, that’s not always realistic and hardwood flooring can be cost prohibitive to many. Nonetheless, the floors in your home should be up-to-date, clean and stylish. There are many options on the market for flooring — from tile to carpeting, hardwood and pre-fabricated and laminate. Not sure where to begin? Check out a local flooring dealer, find a reliable local contractor, or ask an expert online (see Mohawk, Shaw or Armstrong).

#2 - Don’t Forget The Garage

Sure, most people don’t spend a ton of time hanging out in the garage but you should’t ignore this very valuable area of your home. Take the time to clean it out, clean it up and spruce it up. Install new shelving units, organize your tools and other essentials. And don’t forget the floor. You may want to consider applying an epoxy coat to the floor which will bring it new life (and a hefty dose of shine to boot!).

#3 - Boost The Bathroom

Next to the kitchen, the bathroom is the most common room new home buyers focus on. Aside from doing a complete re-model or bathroom renovation, start small and make some minor improvements. Upgrade the hardware on cabinets and towel holders (and don’t forget the toilet paper holder)!. Purchase a new vanity or mirror (many companies sell pre-matched vanity/sink/countertop units). Fix broken tiles or consider re-tiling the floor, walls or bathtub area. Even a relatively simple upgrade like a new toilet can make a world of difference.

#4 - Invest In A Cleaning Plan

We all love a perfectly clean, spotless and great-smelling home. And so do home buyers! If you’re putting your home on the market, invest in a professional house cleaning service. They’ll take care of areas you may have forgotten about and are pros and finding hidden (and not-so-hidden) dust and dirt. Most major metropolitan areas have commercial services that can come clean your house. If you’re going to go with a private cleaner or someone you know, be sure to read reviews, ask for testimonials and verify they have any necessary insurance.

#5 - Curb Appeal Is Everything

From simple flowers to a professional, well thought out plan for overhauling your home’s landscaping, everyone agrees that curb appeal is critical. Remember, the outside of your home makes a huge first impression. What better way to get a potential buyer in a good mood than to have them be uber impressed with your outdoor areas?

#6 - Make Over Your Kitchen Cabinets

The work needed to make over your kitchen cabinets will depend on what you currently have. How old are they? How do they look? Do they match the decor in your kitchen or has everything else changed but the cabinets? A simple paint or sand and re-staining job may do the trick. If you don’t want to do the work yourself, find a professional who can resurface your cabinets for you. You may want to consult with an interior designer to help pick out paint or stain colors that will really pop and give your kitchen a fresh look. Also, don’t forget the hardware. Sometimes new hardware alone can make a big difference.

#7 - A Fresh Coat Of Paint

One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is paint! Most of us can handle this project on our own. The hardest part? Choosing the right colors! You don’t want to choose a color that is too bold. Imagine a red wall in your home and the potential buyer hates red! Pick something modern, perhaps a bit trendy and of course—neutral. Most paint runs $20-$35/gallon. Consult with your local home improvement or paint store regarding which type of paint is best. Many of them have primer built right into the paint which can save you time.

There you have it. 7 areas to think about when considering selling your home. We could go on all day with hundreds more but this is a great start!

Image courtesy of nuttakit / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Frequent Roofing Problem - Old Shingles

Along with the walls and siding on your house, the roof protecting your home is the skin between the cozy indoors and the rough, caustic elements created by Mother Nature. Many homeowners don't think about their roof until a problem arises. It could be a leak or missing shingles that raise a red flag causing the homeowner to call a professional.

Here in Rochester, we are forced to deal with a bipolar weather pattern. It can literally snow one day, be sunny the next and rain the following day. This crazy weather reeks havoc on the skin of your house—your roof.

We'd like to take a few minutes to explain some of the common roofing problems homeowner's around Rochester tend to see.

The biggest issue is a leak in your roof. If you have a leak, contact a professional to come evaluate the situation. It may be time to find a roofing company who can do a tear-off / roof replacement for you.

Deteriorated Shingles

Based on our location, the warranty period for your roof should remain in tact. Many warranties are up to 30 years these days. If your home wasn't new when you moved it, it would help to know when the roof was most recently replaced. If your shingles start to go bad, you will start to see a build up of rock chip material in the gutters. Be sure to clean out your gutters each year to locate any of this matter. If you catch it early enough, you can avoid a costly repair down the line. Nonetheless, you should strongly consider replacing your roof once you begin to see the rock chip particles in your gutters.

We will be covering other common roof problems in future posts so stay tuned!

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Hiring A Bathroom Renovation Contractor

Hiring a contractor to renovate or remodel your home is a big decision (or any part of your home for that matter). The company you choose to work with will be a part of your life for weeks or months to come. Their employees will be in and out of your home with access to private areas. You want to be sure you select the bathroom renovation contractor carefully, after doing research and reading some reviews.

We proudly present the top 5 things to do before hiring a bathroom contractor:

1. Ask Around — Check in with friends, family and co-workers to see if they've used a reputable contractor in the past. Many contractors, like Trinity, work on a number of home projects (not just bathrooms). Although, that is not always the case. If someone refers you to someone who did their roof or did a minor home improvement project, don't just assume they're a good fit for remodeling your residential bathroom. They might be—but not necessarily.


2. Read Reviews — Doing some simple Google searches can reveal a lot of helpful information about a contractor. In addition to the reviews on the company's website, be sure to read the testimonials on other third party sites like Angie's List, The Better Business Bureau, Houzz, Google and Yelp. The contractor has little to no control over the reviews posted on those sites so they're generally very reliable.


3. Narrow Down The List — There are likely many home contractors vying for your business in your area. After doing your homework, choose two or three that you'd like to pursue.


4. Ask For References — After narrowing the list down to two or three contractors, ask each of them for references and make a couple calls.


5. Obtain Estimates & Information — Meet with each company individually. Ask for specifics on everything from insurance to licensing requirements they might posses. Obtain a clear estimate including pricing details. Unclear on something? ASK! Now is the time to make sure you fully understand how the project will work. Any reputable home renovation company will take the time to sit down with your or chat over the phone to iron out any questions you may have.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Deciding When It's Time For A New Roof

When is it time to get a new roof?

When purchasing a new home or re-roofing the one on your current house, the materials used are 'rated' for a specified period of time. Depending on the material that is used (generally asphalt shingles), it will last anywhere from 20-25 years.

Just like everything else, trends have changed and there are many more choices for selecting a nice looking roof. There are a ton of colors, styles and materials available to pick from.

When you're driving around the Rochester area, pay attention to other homes and see what they've done. Look at the color and style of the roof as compared to the color of the home. Sometimes having some contrast between the siding color and the roof color makes a big difference.

It's time to start thinking about a new roof when the lifespan is reaching its peak and/or if you're spending a lot of money on costly repairs. Just like a car, when the time comes that you're spending too much time on repairs, it is time to find a roofing contractor and invest the money in a new roof.

If you’ve done frequent roof repair, or have discovered that a different roof may save money on your power bill, you should consider getting a new roof.

Where is the best place to find a roof?

A roofing contractor will be your best source in finding the roof you want. They will have the experience, product knowledge and contacts needed to get prices and make an informed decision. Do you really want to spend another ten years doing roof repair? Or do you want to have a spectacular-looking roof?

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

From Lavender To Luxury — New Bathroom Remodel

These homeowners in Irondequoit used to have a dated bathroom with lavender counters and outdated fixtures.

Trinity was chosen as the bathroom remodeling contractor and we essentially gutted the entire space and installed:

• A new bathtub


• Shower fixtures


• Vanity


• Granite counter


• Electrical & plumbing


• Bath fan


• Window & paint


• Custom ceramic tile

The photo you see here is just one picture, of the sink/vanity area. You can see all the photos in their entirety in our Photo Gallery section.

What do you think of this new bathroom? Leave us a comment!

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Redo Your Roof The Right Way

Money Magazine and CNN posted an article awhile back entitled: "Redo Your Roof The Right Way" By Josh Garskof @Money May 11, 2012: 6:28 AM ET

Think about this. Aside from perhaps a lavish kitchen remodel, what other home project is as critical for protecting your home's value than a new roof?

To read the full article about roofing and how to redo it the right way, click here.

Here's some highlights of what Josh says:

• Getting a new roof put on your home can dramatically increase your home's value.


• The process doesn't have to be a nightmare!


• Know when it's time to get a new roof (versus repair).


•  Get bids from three roofers, to compare not just prices but also their attitude and approach.


• Hire someone who is willing to: (1) get a building permit, (2) remove only as much roofing each day as he can reinstall by the end of that day, (3) lay protective plywood over decks and patios, and tarps over walls, the lawn, shrubs, and unfinished areas, and (4) clean the job site every night.


• Be sure they also install vents at the roof’s peak and under the eaves — and agree to specify all that in the contract.


• Don’t cut corners.


• Get the right shingles.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

How to Hire Roofing Contractor - BBB Advice

As you know, Trinity is proudly rated with the Better Business Bureau with a grade of:

A 

(view profile and ranking scale)

Thanks to our partnership with them, we are able to bring you this great video they did that talks about how to go about hiring a roofing contractor. As a certified roofing company, placing new roofs on local homes is a big part of our business. We highly recommend you take the 2 minutes to watch this informative video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDdqIH2sRxU

Some Tips:

• Get a business card in the physical location of the roofing business


• Deal only with well established businesses


• Beware of scams (verify the company with the BBB)


• Don't succumb to high pressure sales techniques


• Do your homework - research, read testimonials, look for high customer satisfaction ratings


• Check for required licensing


• Understand the contract you're signing - a good contractor will take the time to explain it to you in detail


• Fully understand and accept the payment schedule

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

How To Choose The Right Siding For Your Home

Take a look at this before & after photo. The results are dramatic. Replacing the siding on your home can make a huge difference in curb appeal.

This Rochester, NY home features Mastic Carvedwood siding with a .044 - Hang double 4” vinyl clapboard siding including all cornice, corner, door and window trim. We installed insulation over the entire surface area of the home and seal tape to all seams before siding to prevent air infiltration. The color was chosen by the homeowner. The home also received a new roof!

But how do you know which type of siding to go with? The Rochester weather can wreak havoc on our homes so you want to be sure you choose the right siding for your house. The decision can be based on affordability, style, durability and more. Here at Trinity, our experience in the field has led us to become experts on all types of siding and their pros and cons.

Vinyl Siding

One of the more traditional choices, vinyl siding is a great fit for many homeowners. It is relatively inexpensive, requires minimal maintenance and is overall quite durable. The nice thing is that vinyl siding now also comes in a style that mimics wood siding! Because you won’t be dealing with natural wood, you'll never have to deal with insect or pest damage.

Vinyl siding never needs painting, doesn't show scratches, doesn't dent, peel or rot, and is not affected by snow, salt, cold or rain.

One "con" to vinyl siding is that it can't be painted over. So, be sure to choose your vinyl siding color wisely. Also, it can become susceptible to the sun over time and may fade (over many years).

Aluminum Siding

While more expensive than vinyl siding, aluminum siding is still more economical per square foot when compared to other types of siding. Aluminum siding expands and contracts much less than vinyl. The main disadvantage to aluminum siding is that it can be easily dented or damaged. However, overall it is durable, can be painted and is low maintenance.

Wood Siding

If you're looking for something a bit higher end (but with more maintenance and a higher cost), wood siding might work for you. Your home will look more unique and will have a distinct appearance to it. Wood siding tends to have more of a warm and classic look to it. The value of your house when you go to sell it will undoubtedly be higher with wood siding.

There are a few negatives to be aware of, however. Wood siding needs to be painted or stained and you'll need to keep up with maintenance of that over time. Not only can this maintenance be a bit costly, but it is time consuming as well. Furthermore, if you fail to maintain the siding properly, it may rot or otherwise fall into disrepair.

Cement Fiber Siding

Cement fiber siding is a new development in residential siding. It's quite durable, very low maintenance, made from recyclable materials (so it's "green") and it's beautiful as well. It is more fire resistant than wood or vinyl, it can be painted, and it may be more cost effective than wood siding.

Cons: More expensive than vinyl; Takes longer to install.

Getting Help With The Choice

Still confused? Aren't sure which option is right for you? There are even more options for siding your house than are listed here. Contact us and we can help guide you in the right direction. Remember, we proudly offer complimentary consultations on all projects!

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Kitchen Remodeling — When is the right time?

Trying to decide when the best time to remodel your kitchen is? Nervous about pulling the trigger because you think it will cause chaos in your home?

We understand. Remodeling any room in your house will definitely disrupt the flow of things for a bit until the project is complete. The two rooms that tend to have the biggest disruption are the kitchen and bathroom.

At Trinity, we focus on making sure your daily activities aren't side tracked. Each of our team members are courteous of your space and time. Our project managers will work with you to map out a timeline for when the remodeling work will be happening throughout the day and when any noise disruption may occur.

As we mentioned in our most recent blog post, spring time is the perfect time to get started on a remodel of your home's kitchen. If you're worried about how much it will cost to renovate your kitchen, give us a call or contact us and we'll provide a 100% free estimate for you.

In closing, there is no "wrong" time to remodel your kitchen. With the crazy Rochester weather, the natural choice is spring, summer or fall but don't completely discount winter, either. It's possible to renovate your home anytime throughout the year.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Do You Have Any Home Remodeling Ideas?

Home Remodeling Ideas

Many folks choose to remodel their home in the warmer months. Coming up with home remodeling ideas is much easier to do when you find the right professional beforehand.

Springtime is also a great time for you to determine if you would like to add a pool or an outdoor kitchen to your backyard to enjoy all summer long. Who wouldn't love an outdoor kitchen!?

It’s Time for Home Repairs and Remodeling Projects to Begin

Preventing hot or cold weather issues in your home is something that should be checked each spring. This means that by the time summer comes around again, you can have the means to protect your outdoor furnishings when cold weather begins. Home remodeling ideas should always take this into account.

Kicking off a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project in the spring is a great time because it’s not terribly hot outside nor is it cold (it might be rainy, though!).

The spring season provides the best weather for contractors to make home remodeling ideas come to life. Because of the warmer weather, it could take less time to have these projects done during the spring than at any other time of the year. Every contractor handles this issue differently.

Having a home remodeled during the spring is very easy to do, but make sure that you find an experienced contractor to look at whether your project may need some structural revisions to make that dream come true.

Expert Home Remodelers

Trinity's professional team has the experience to deal with simple jobs or very complex projects.

Have a great idea that you think we should share on Facebook or Twitter? Let us know!

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Kitchen Remodeling On A Budget

This home in Rochester features a newly remodeled kitchen by Trinity.

It seems like everyone gathers in the kitchen. Think of the last party or gathering you had at your home. Where does everyone linger? In the kitchen, of course! Maybe it’s the smell of your cooking or perhaps they just like your décor. In any case, having a kitchen that you and your guests love is a major source of satisfaction as a homeowner.

Remodeling a kitchen can be expensive. Forbes magazine reported the national average cost for a high-end kitchen makeover is now more than $53,000! While this is certainly money well spent and the costs of doing a kitchen remodel in Rochester may be lower than the national average, most of us are looking for ways to reduce the expense while still having a great end result.

The first step is to research what you’d like in your kitchen and assessing your budget. Next, spend time researching kitchen remodeling contractors in Rochester. It’s so very important to find a company you’re comfortable with and one that offers you a fair price.

When shopping for kitchen appliances think outside the box and be on the lookout for sales. Your renovation company may also be able to recommend some places to shop that perhaps you didn’t consider.

You’re likely going to have to compromise when renovating your kitchen. If you can’t afford all the bells and whistles (who wouldn’t love quartz countertops!?), investigate other options that give you a similar look or functionality at a reduced cost. For example, Corian® countertops look as nice as granite in some cases.

Another idea is to renovate your kitchen in phases. It doesn’t make sense to chop your remodel up into multiple phases but doing two might make sense. First, focus on the major structural changes (cabinets, layout, floors and counters). Then wait a bit and save money for the new appliances or sink. Ask your contractor to help you brainstorm ways to reduce your budget without cutting critical corners.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

Meet John Hoagland, Trinity's Owner

Hello, everyone! My name is Chris Murtaugh and I work on a lot of the website and marketing efforts for Trinity Home Renovations. As you know, we’ve started a new blog series and in this week’s post, I want to introduce you to Trinity’s owner John Hoagland.

John is one of the nicest guys around and a great business man to boot. He’s taken his company from a small contractor business to a flourishing organization that is helping homeowners all over Rochester.

I spent time interviewing him recently and was able to glean some information that you may want to know. Oh, did I mention that he’s a Yankees fan? More on that later...

How did you get into the home renovation business in the first place?



My journey into the full-time working world started right after high school with a small local roofing company. I worked as a laborer for the first 2 years. I transitioned to a full-time mechanic once I learned the trade well enough. After 5 years with this company, I switched trades and took a job with an HVAC company for the next 5 years working in the sheet metal shop and later, a team doing heating and cooling installations.

After 11 years in the construction trade, I left to take an entry-level sales position with a telemarketing company. Finding something I was very good at, I excelled over the next 8-10 years spring boarding from a minimum wage job to VP of Sales. I was responsible for a multi-million dollar sales quota.

Working within a corporate structure was stressful and at times, thankless. I started to think about ways I could provide for my family while having the flexibility and autonomy of owning my own business. I had never considered myself an entrepreneur; however I wanted to pursue the American dream of owning my own business. I wanted to be able to be solely responsible for my success or failure.

In 2007, I partnered with a friend who was gracious enough to offer half of his existing business if I would come in and run the sales and marketing. After a year I still had aspirations to be in business on my own. I spoke with my wife and we started Trinity Home Renovations, Inc. in the spring of 2008 and our small business has continuously grown year after year. We are now known in Rochester and the surrounding area as a business that is truly faithful to providing our valued customers with high quality home improvements at reasonable prices. We are driven by customer satisfaction and long to leave a legacy of happy customers.

What's the best part of owning your own company and working on roofing and home renovation projects?

Owning my own business has been the most rewarding accomplishment I've ever achieved. We are a business that puts family first, so we have the freedom to take the time off when needed. So, never having to miss another birthday, holiday, etc. with our children. For us, the absolute most rewarding part of owning my own business is the sense of accomplishment.

We love our customers, and being able to help them create their dream living space is very rewarding to us. As a home improvement contractor in Rochester, it grants me the flexibility and autonomy of owning my own business, while allowing me to work with my hands and take pride in the work we do.

What are some of your hobbies?My wife and I have two small children; so much of our time is devoted to them. During my free time I enjoy softball, fishing, hunting, bowling and of course, like any good New Yorker—the New York Yankees!

As a Christian-focused business, how do you apply the principles in your day-to-day business affairs?

At Trinity Home Renovations, Inc. we focus on three key principles that demonstrate our Christian values. These three biblical principles define a Christian business worthy of the Trinity name.

(1) The first principal is integrity. It is about doing what is right rather than what is fastest or easiest. Our company strives to make all its business decisions based on the standards and principles of God—righteousness, truth and honesty.

(2) Next is a commitment of excellence to our customers. For our company to be recognized as a praiseworthy one, our goal is to glorify God through our commitment to excellence in the service and products we provide our customers on a daily basis.

(3) And finally, as a Christian business we have a commitment to our people. This includes providing fair compensation, performance recognition, and providing growth opportunities, both professionally and personally. We believe that recognition of the needs of our employees and by creating opportunities for them to fulfill those needs will bring out the very best in them.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com

The Warranty On Your New Roof

For the most part, there is not much difference between one shingle and the next. Regardless of the manufacturer your roofing contractor chooses, they all get their materials from the same factories and suppliers.

So, how do you chooose? Read on to understand more about the type of roofing warranties offered around Rochester as well as how to choose a reliable, trustworthy contractor.

“Lifetime” WarrantiesEvery shingle manufacturer says their product is the best. The prices are very close for similar products and the warranties are all the same. The most common manufacturer’s warranty is “lifetime.”  But what exactly does that mean?

The warranty usually specifies that if the shingles fail during the warranty period, the limited warranty covers only the shingles and only if it was caused by a manufacturing problem.

You need to read the warranty carefully to determine how it defines “lifetime.”

They want something to give you a sense of security.

What if You Need To Make a Claim?Even if you are successful in making a claim under this type of warranty, you will still have the burden of hiring a roofer, getting a permit, disposing of the defective shingles, purchasing any other miscellaneous materials needed for the repair or replacement, and fixing any “consequential” damages.

The Bottom Line…you need to take the time to research a reliable roofer who will take the shingles and apply them correctly.

Proper installation is your best guarantee that your roof will perform as expected.

Trinity’s experienced installers bring exceptional experience and professionalism to every job. If there is an obvious problem with the shingles, our team will know it before they go on your roof. Your satisfaction is our priority. Our goal is outstanding service and a perfect job the first time.

As noted on our website, Trinity uses GAF roofing products. Click here for more information on the GAF warranty offered through Trinity.

Source: http://www.trinityhomerenovations.com