Atlanta Home Improvement May 2012

®

WWW.ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM ■ MAY 2012

Smart home improvement starts here.

12

HighImpact Home Projects

Plus: Your annual home maintenance and repair checklist p. 25

Wet n’ Wild Water features that wow p. 51

Ranch Rehab

Atlanta remodelers overcome the challenges p. 42 See our

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PUBLISHER

Jennifer Prins MAGAZINE AND SOCIAL MEDIA EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

A Better Way to Enjoy Outdoor Living

Kali Mallard editor@homeimprovementmag.com ART DIRECTOR

Dona Halliday GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Naomi Garcia EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR

Kathy Kantorski REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR

David Leonard ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES

Rachel Sirlin Rhonda Goodman EVENT SALES EXECUTIVE

Tammie Brooks SALES ASSISTANT/OFFICE MANAGER

Gregg Holloway

HOME DESIGN DIVISION PRESIDENT

Adam Japko SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OPERATIONS

Stuart Christian OPERATIONS PRODUCTION DIRECTOR MAGAZINE GROUP & ELECTRONIC PRESS

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William Reese Atlanta Home Improvement magazine is distributed and monitored monthly by Network Communications, Inc. Advertising Office

80 West Wieuca Road, Suite 115 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 • Fax (404) 303-0030 www.atlantahomeimprovement.com For Home Improvement Opportunities Outside This Market Area, Please Contact Andrew Witter at (540) 577-9738 or email to awitter@nci.com Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. Atlanta Home Improvement does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Atlanta Home Improvement reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content, i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information, (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher. © 2011 Network Communications, Inc.

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Smart home improvement starts here. www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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contents

Special Section: Annual Maintenance & Repair Checklist

25

Photos courtesy of (top to bottom): Axios Architecture and Outside Landscape Group

Plus 12 high-impact home projects

8

42

42

Ranch Rehab

51

Wet n’ wild water features

Atlanta remodelers overcome the challenges

Enhance your landscape with ponds, streams, waterfalls and fountains

51

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

0512_008-011_TOC.indd 8

features

ON THE COVER: A ranch-style home gets a modern makeover from Home Rebuilders (www.homerebuilders.com).

Photo courtesy of Home Rebuilders, Inc.

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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More than heating, cooling and air quality. It’s comfort, health and peace of mind.

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Receive up to $1,075 from Lennox when you purchase a qualifying Home Comfort System, which includes: Air Conditioner or Heat Pump, Gas Furnace, Thermostat, and Indoor Air Quality system.

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4/9/12 12:51:31 PM

contents

Photos courtesy of Gregg Willett Photography

in every issue

Makeover of the Month p. 78

12 Editor’s Letter 15 Home Front Expert tips, news and events from Atlanta’s home improvement community

21 Beyond the Page What’s happening in our online communities

Windows & Doors Retractable-screen technology

23 Editor’s Picks Objects of desire

58 Garden Planner

EXPERT CONNECT

May’s to-do list

61 CAHP Talk

64

67

RENU Atlanta

69

Metropolitan Properties of GA, LLC

Guide to buying a frameless shower door

The importance of building permits

62 Notes from Bob & RodMan When a deal isn’t a deal

What is weatherization, and why should I care?

71 Resource Finder Information at your fingertips

77 Editorial Resources Contacts for more details

CONNECT WITH 100s OF ATLANTA EXPERTS www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

Smart home improvement starts here.

10

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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➚

Visit our Web site at www.atlantahomeimprovement.com www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Come in and see our new exciting cabinet line!!!

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Certified Earthcraft Builders

4/11/12 10:49:43 AM

editor’sletter A Brand New Day

Doing the best with what you have is a major theme of our May

Frameless Shower Enclosures And Custom Glass

issue, one that I think will resonate especially with readers faced with staying in their current homes longer than they expected. But there is good news for today’s homeowners. Now more than ever, there are ways to make your home into the living space you have always wanted. From a full-scale remodel to just a good clean, there are so many ways to make your home feel new.

If you live in a ranch-style home, as many Atlanta residents do, you may be extra puzzled about how to move forward with remodeling your space. There are some special challenges with the construction of these homes, including low ceilings, floor plans that are difficult to modify and more. I grew up in a ranch-style home, so when remodeler Robert Kauffman, owner of Kauffman Design (www.kauffmandesign.com), approached me about doing a story on ranch remodels, I knew I wanted to do it.

While we have covered ranch remodels before (in our very first issue in August 2001), I thought it was high time we revisit the subject for a new decade.

Truthfully, there are many types of homes that have the same problems that ranch homes do. In the following pages, we offer some solutions that can make a big difference in these and other homes too. You will find that some of the most dramatic changes are the result of a professional rethinking the architecture of the home. While paint can work wonders, there is only so much redecorating that you can do when you really need a roof lifted or a wall removed. I bet you will be happier with the results of a professional job too.

Photo courtesy of Home ReBuilders

Ask about SHOWERGUARD Glass with LIFETIME WARRANTY against Staining, Corrosion, And Discoloration

If remodeling isn’t in the budget, you can still work with the home you have. There is something about a clean, organized and well-functioning house that beats just about anything.

Use our checklist to get all your annual maintenance and repair tasks done. It will lift your spirits and add value in the long run.

Kali Mallard editor@homeimprovementmag.com

VISIT US ONLINE

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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Website: www.atlantahomeimprovement.com Blog: www.atlantahomeimprovement.com/blog Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtlantaHomeImprovement Twitter: www.twitter.com/ATLHomeImprove YouTube: www.youtube.com/ATLHomeImprovement www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/11/12 10:57:23 AM

3 Things You’ll Learn This Month

1 2 3

BEFORE

How to achieve a more open floor plan in your home (page 49) A test you can do to find a slow leak in your plumbing system (page 33) The benefits of a pond-less water feature (page 52)

AFTER

Image Doors can offer a significant reason to buy a new replacement insulated garage door -- We offer up to $100 for customer referrals to your friends and neighbors after your beautiful new door is installed. Call today to preview the Carriage House Door collection or get started by visiting our website.

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Coming in June Special Section: Windows & Doors

The top trends for today

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Modern Design Spotlight on Atlanta

Outdoor Kitchens Cook up some fun under the sun

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

0512_012-013_Ed Letter.indd 13

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homefront Expert Tips, News and Happenings from Atlanta’s Home Improvement Community

BY KALI MALLARD

Local Contractors Help Design and Build 2012 HGTV Green Home Outside Atlanta

Expert Q&A

Several local contractors are getting national attention for their work on the 2012 HGTV Green Home located 30 minutes south of the airport, in the eco-friendly community of Serenbe (www.serenbe.com). Architects Steve Kemp and Georgia Muncaster, of Kemp Hall Studio (www.kemphallstudio.com), builder Curtis Peart, of FrontPorch Custom Homes and Renovations (www.yourfrontporch.com), landscape architect Ed Castro, of Ed Castro Landscape (www.edcastro.com) and Serenbe developer Steve Nygren worked with HGTV house planner and Atlanta resident Jack Thomasson along with HGTV interior designer Linda Woodrum to design and build the network’s fifth green home. Described as a modern family farmhouse inspired by Southeastern culture and regional architecture, the home “combines traditional beauty with 21st century responsible living,” according to a press release from HGTV. It will be open for public tours May 4 through June 24, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day except Monday. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the Serenbe Institute for Art, Culture & the Environment and Chattahoochee Hills Charter School. A virtual tour of the custom home also is available online, and fans can enter to win it as part of a giveaway from HGTV. For more information visit www.hgtv.com/greenhome.

Q:

How can I ensure my remodeling project will not be a nightmare?

A:

Here are three things you can do to ensure your project is smooth and enjoyable: 1) Select a general contractor by calling multiple references and checking on their reliability, communication, timeliness, adhering to a budget, cleanliness and attention to detail.

2) Commission a conceptual design that includes 3D drawings. This will help you compare alternatives and visualize the finished space before it is built.

3) Make all material selections prior to starting the project.

Have your contractor wait for all special orders to arrive before breaking ground.

—David Lefkovits, CEO, Lefko Renovations (www.lefko renovations. com) www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

15

4/5/12 6:10:12 PM

homefront Gardens Designed

by Retired Atlanta Landscaper Now Open To Public

Crowds Flock To Spring Atlanta Home Show

Photo courtesy of SEMCO Productions

Photo courtesy of Stan Garnet

If the Spring Atlanta Home Show (www.atlantahomeshow.com) is any indication, home improvement activity is alive and well in our city. The packed Cobb Galleria Centre welcomed approximately 20,000 visitors and some 385 exhibitors during the event March 23-25, 2012. Best in Show awards for outstanding exhibits went to Exovations (300 sq. ft. and under) and Living Water Landscapes (400 sq. ft. and over) with Atlanta Kitchen Inc., Cole and Company, Everlast, Granite Transformations, Kingdom Woodworks, Proland Inc., Rainaway Deck Drain Systems, Scapes and Sugar Hill Outdoors LLC all receiving an Honorable Mention.

Besides meeting with local home experts, from closet organizers to solar panel installers, attendees were treated to educational seminars and other one-of-akind attractions. The stars of HGTV’s “Kitchen Cousins”, Anthony Carrino and John Colaneri, gave a behind-the-scenes tour of their new television series, which transforms kitchens in need of major remodeling. During their stay in Atlanta, the duo also had lunch with Atlanta area homeowner Janet Newton, who landed the opportunity after winning a contest on the Atlanta Home Show Facebook page. Meanwhile, fellow HGTV star Carter Oosterhouse (top left) made an appearance at the State Farm booth, offering home improvement tips and fan photos. NBC was also on hand recruiting local talent for a new reality show called “Home Transformers”, which will “showcase America’s most exciting builders, decorators and craftsmen.”

④

Also at the show was the Savannah, Ga.-themed Wine & Design Experience complete with a brownstone façade, lush landscaping and coastal interiors; A Home for All Ages exhibit with ideas for making homes more accessible and functional; and the Top Dog Fashion Show featuring the latest in pet apparel.

The Fall Atlanta Home Show is scheduled for Sept. 21-23, 2012, at Cobb Galleria Centre. Visit www.atlantahomeshow.com for more information.

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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Decades in the making and the fulfillment of a life-long dream, Gibbs Landscape Company founder Jim Gibbs is now welcoming visitors to his 300-acre garden estate in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. Located in Ball Ground, Ga., about an hour away from Atlanta, Gibbs Gardens features 16 themed gardens, including what is described as the largest Japanese garden in the nation, water lily gardens boasting 140 varieties and Gibbs’ Manor House gardens with seven flowering terraces descending 150 feet. Also on the property are a café, plant nursery and welcome center with gift shop and art gallery. For more information visit www.gibbsgardens.com.

Check Your Deck During Deck Safety Month May is Deck Safety Month, and while enjoying the outdoors is high on everyone’s list, it’s important to ensure your deck is secure. Some things to check for include: split or decaying wood, flashing (a metal or plastic guard often installed where the deck and house come together) that is intact, loose or corroded fasteners, unstable railings and banisters, firmly attached stairs, adequate lighting, surfaces that are free from debris and tripping hazards. Download a comprehensive checklist courtesy of the National Deck and Railing Association at www.nadra.org. www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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4/5/12 6:11:48 PM

homefront NARI Atlanta Donates $5,000 to Muscular Dystrophy Association

Atlanta Design & Build Receives 2011 Best of Marietta Award

The Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) recently presented $5,000 in proceeds from its 2011 Tour of Remodeled Homes to the ALS Division of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Stacey Elgin, local television personality and 2011 honorary chairperson of the tour (left), presented the check on behalf of NARI Atlanta to Amy Alvarez, regional director of business development for the MDA (right). Sponsors for the 2011 tour included Metro Mechanical, The Home Depot, Oldcastle Surfaces, Atlanta Home Show, HomeTalk and Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine. Held each fall, this year’s NARI Tour of Remodeled Homes will take place Sept. 29-30, 2012, in metro Atlanta. For more information on the 2012 tour and to view photos from last year’s tour, visit www.atlantaremodelingtour. com.

Atlanta Design & Build (ADB) has been selected as a recipient of the 2011 Best of Marietta Award by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) in the Bathroom Planning and Remodeling Contractors categories.

The USCA “Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. With a focus on quality, the USCA identifies companies each year that they believe have enhanced the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

“The ADB team is grateful, once again, for this recognition earned from both the national and local business community,” says Dale Contant, president of ADB. “We adhere to old-fashioned business principles in that we strive to do the right thing.”

Atlanta Design & Build was founded in Marietta, Ga., in 1996 and offers remodeling services throughout Northwest Atlanta. For more information, visit www.atlantadesignbuild.com.

Editorial Resources begin on page 77.

WHAT’S HAPPENING This Month Tue., May 1 Designing Your Ideal Kitchen 7 p.m.

Sewell Appliance showroom 7455 Trowbridge Road NE Sandy Springs, GA 30328 (404) 378-6962 www.renewaldesignbuild. com Now-Sun., May 13 42nd Annual Decorators’ Show House & Gardens Hours vary 3351 Woodhaven Road Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 733-4935 www.decoratorsshowhouse. org Now-Sun., May 20 The Roswell Woman’s Club 16th Annual Showcase Home 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Wed.-Sat. 1–6 p.m., Sun. Six Hills Neighborhood Milton, GA (770) 715-2700 www.roswellwomansclub. org

Now-Sun., June 3 “Stories in Form: Chair Design by the Portfolio Center” exhibit Hours vary Museum of Design Atlanta 1315 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 979-6455 www.museumofdesign.org Thurs., May 3-Sun., June 3 24th Annual Decatur Arts Festival Decatur, GA Hours and locations vary (404) 371-9583 www.decaturartsfestival.com Sat., May 5 Fayette County Master Gardener Garden Tour 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

(770) 305-5153 www.ugaextension.com/ fayette Sun., May 6 Harris Jacobs Dream Run 7:30 a.m.

Zaban Park 5342 Tilly Mill Road

Dunwoody, GA 30338 (678) 812-4000 www.atlantajcc.org Tues., May 8 The Cutting Edge: 2012 Remodeling Education Expo 7 a.m.–6 p.m.

Cobb Galleria Centre 2 Galleria Parkway Atlanta, GA 30339 www.nariatlanta.org Thurs., May 10-Sun., May 13 Atlanta Food and Wine Festival Hours and locations vary Atlanta, GA (404) 474-7330 www.atlfoodandwinefestival. com Fri., May 11-Sun., May 13 Sweet Auburn SpringFest 2012 Hours vary 250 Auburn Ave. Atlanta, GA 30303 (678) 683-5647 www.sweetauburn.com Sat., May 12 “Through the Garden Gate” Tour of Gardens

10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Locations vary (770) 528-4070 www.cobbmastergardeners. org Fri., May 11-Sun., May 13 Scott Antique Market 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. Atlanta Expo Center 3650 Jonesboro Road Atlanta, GA 30354 (404) 366-0833 www.scottantiquemarket. com Sat., May 12-Sun., May 13 Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Locations vary (404) 876-5859 www.atlantabotanicalgarden. org Sat., May 19-Sun., May 20 Kirkwood Spring Fling and Tour of Homes Hours and locations vary www.kirkwoodfling.com

For more event listings, visit www.atlantahomeimprovement.com.

Have a home improvement question or news tip? Send to editor@homeimprovementmag.com.

18

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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Events $100 Gift Card Winner Taunja Balkcom, of Snellville, won a $100 gift card to The Home Depot by entering our e-newsletter signup giveaway at the North Atlanta Home Show in February.

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editor’s

BY KALI MALLARD

picks

New and notable home improvement products

6

2

1 1. Sustainable Stone With granite countertops popular as ever, one local manufacturer has found a way to reuse granite remnants and waste for other home applications. Called GREENSTONE, the product line includes pavers and split-face tile (shown) that are suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Both products are available in light and dark colors and offer the look and durability of stone —with a conscience. $5.50-$5.75 per square foot; www.green stoneproducts online. com.

3

5

2. Easy Grows It

3. Alumin-ation

4. Style Profile

5. At Your Service

The EarthBox container gardening kit includes everything needed to grow and care for fresh veggies and herbs on your patio minus seeds.

After initial setup of the advanced subirrigated planter, the portable self-watering system requires less fertilizer and less maintenance than traditional plant beds (no digging or weeding), creating ideal growing conditions. $59; available in Atlanta at Buck Jones Nursery, www.buck jones.com.

Aluminyze is putting a new twist on the photography-aswall-art trend. While canvas prints have their place, they can be rough and grainy looking. In contrast, the Aluminyze process infuses digital photos into frameless aluminum sheets for a crisp, contemporary feel. Sizes start at 8 inches by 10 inches (shown) and can be outfitted with discreet mounts for displaying on tables and walls. $24.95; www. aluminyze.com.

Perhaps “elegant” isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you think of a toilet. But if you’re in the market for a new one, you’ll find some sophisticated new looks out there in addition to high-performance functionality. The new INAX SUPERIOR one-piece toilet, for example, features rounded corners and flat edges with a distinctive long “skirt” plus an elongated, noise-minimizing seat and strong jetstream flush. $623; available in Atlanta at Cowan Supply, www. cowan supply.com.

It’s about time saving on home energy costs got a little easier, and that’s just what the new Nest Learning Thermostat aims to do. Unlike programmable thermostats, the award-winning Nest thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature according to your lifestyle, turning itself down when you’re away and balancing conservation with comfort when you’re at home. Its simple interface is both easy to use and desirable to display. $249; www.nest.com.

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0512_022-023_editors pick.indd 23

4

6. Modern-Day Heirloom Tap into a bit of nostalgia with Pottery Barn’s charming 16-jar Exeter pendant light fixture. Suspended from a galvanized metal base, an array of glass jars, each containing a replaceable light bulb (not included), hangs from gray fabric cords of different lengths to create a dramatic focal point. Perfect for hanging over a rustic farmhouse table. $399; www. pottery barn.com.

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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4/5/12 5:55:15 PM

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 24

4/11/12 11:35:08 AM

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

Get It Done ✓ Atlanta Home Improvement’s annual maintenance and repair checklist

By Kathy Kantorski and Alma Hill

I

t’s time to open your windows again, but don’t stop at refreshing your air. Refresh your home with annual spring cleaning and maintenance too. Check off each of the following tasks to make your living space feel brand new:

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

Exterior inspections

still in place. Re-caulk as needed.

❍

Gutters and downspouts

❍

Clean leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid drainage problems.

❍

Inspect for ice damage: gutters that have pulled away from the home, splits in the seams of downspouts,

❍

etc. Fix or replace as needed.

❍

Check the perimeter of windows and doors to ensure caulking is

❍

To ensure the automatic reversal

Check the sealant or gasket

is working on your garage-door

where the glass meets the frame.

opener, place a roll of paper

If the sealant or gasket is loose,

towels where the door meets

seal the glass using a clear

the ground. When the door hits

silicone caulk to prevent water

the towels, it should reverse. If

damage.

it doesn’t, consult your owner’s

Remove and store storm windows

manual or have it checked by a

and doors. Wash and reinstall

pro.

window screens, ensuring there

Windows and doors

❍

❍

Visually inspect garage-door

are no gaps around the screen,

hardware; tighten or replace loose

allowing insects to enter.

or missing bolts or hinges. Clean

Wash and inspect windowsills for

and lubricate the hardware.

softening or rotting wood.

12 High-Impact Home Projects 1. Replace Old Windows Cost: $189 and up Windows more than 10 years old might need to be replaced, and now is a good time to do it when temperatures are mild. Look for double-paned, double-strength glass or consider a more energy-efficient alternative: a low-e window filled with argon gas that blocks heat in the summer and keeps it inside during the winter. An investment now will save money for years to come.

—David Bosley, Window World Atlanta; www.windowworldatlanta.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Add Curb Appeal Cost: Price varies depending on materials and type of installation The façade of your home is the first thing visitors see, so it should stand out (especially if you’re trying to sell!) Improvements can be as easy as replacing or installing outdoor lighting, new hardware, shutters and window boxes or building a new porch or portico.

—Karen King, DogGoneHandy HandyMan Services; www.doggonehandy.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 27

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

27

4/11/12 11:35:11 AM

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/5/12 4:52:51 PM

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

Roof and facade

❍

❍

Inspect exterior vents for

Patios, porches and decks

Using a pair of binoculars, inspect

openings to prevent rodent

your roof for any visible damage,

intrusion.

❍

such as shingles that may be starting to curl or mortar on the chimney masonry that may be coming apart.

Also, be sure to check flashings for

❍ ❍

needed.

❍

excess dirt and mildew.

(www.waterbroom.com).

Caulk siding joints where old caulk

❍

Prune shrubs and trees away from exterior walls and the roof to avoid

look for loose or cracked siding,

insect infestation.

trim, signs of decay or insect damage.

❍

to save water, use a water broom

Take a walk around your home to cracked brick, peeling paint, loose

deck to remove excess debris. Or,

Power-wash siding to remove

❍

❍

Paint or water-seal all exterior wood, including decks, overhangs

is missing or worn away.

evidence of water leakage. Fix as

Power-wash the patio, porch and

and railings.

❍

Trim back vegetation around patio covers and railings to avoid storm damage.

If you have solar panels, schedule a cleaning. Dirt can impair the

Repair as needed.

solar cells’ ability to receive the

Clean algae or moss from the roof’s

full benefit of the sun, reducing

surface.

generation by up to 40 percent.

❍

Inspect all railings for rot or loose bolts. Fix as needed.

❍

The freeze-and-thaw cycle may have changed the slope of

3. Repair or Replace the Deck

Cost: $1,000 and up for repairs; $7,000 and up to replace a 12-by-16-foot deck Decks should be checked every spring to make sure they are stable after winter rains and cold weather, especially if the deck is older than seven to 10 years. Perform a self-check or hire a building inspector to conduct a safety check for signs of rust, wood rot, loose handrails, shaky stairs, bowing posts and separation where the main framing joist connects with the outer band. The ledger board that attaches the deck to the house should also be inspected.

—Frank Pologruto, Decks and More; www.decksandmore.biz ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. If It’s Broke, Fix It

Cost: $75 an hour for a pro Make a honey-do list that can be completed in a day or a weekend. Consider light electrical and plumbing projects such as installing new light fixtures, dimmers, bathroom toilets and faucets. Replace weather-stripping, windows, screens and doors, and repair drywall and wood rot. Hire a handyman to save time and look for a professional who is licensed and insured.

—Karen King, DogGoneHandy HandyMan Services; www.doggonehandy.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 29

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

29

4/5/12 4:53:00 PM

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4/5/12 4:53:35 PM

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

concrete slabs. Ensure that your

Everything else

sidewalks, patio, driveways, etc.,

❍

are sloping away from the house to avoid water damage. If needed, slabs can be repaired or rebuilt by a professional.

❍ ❍

other debris from around the house

damage that could have ocurred

to avoid rodent, insect or spider

during the freeze-thaw cycle.

infestation.

Inspect pipes between the spigot

❍

Inspect and replace any broken or

and shut-off valve for signs of frost

malfunctioning exterior lighting,

damage or splits in the piping. Also

and reset your lighting timers to

sections of concrete.

check for separated joints. If all is

coincide with the longer spring

Check brick-paved areas for

fine, turn on the valve inside your

days.

damaged, settled or heaved

home and connect your exterior

sections and repair/replace as

hoses.

walls for shifting or damage and

Check all exterior outlets and

repair as needed.

❍

❍ ❍

Check all fencing and retaining

Check flashing where the deck

faucets for cracks and leaks. Repair

and the house meet for damage or

as needed.

filtration and water-storage

Install yellow lights in outdoor

systems.

deterioration. Fix as needed.

❍

Remove piles of wood, stone or

Fill or patch any cracks or chipping

needed.

❍

❍

❍

Check irrigation pipes for leaks and

❍

Apply anti-skid coating to any

fixtures. Yellow lights attract fewer

exterior steps.

flying insects and spiders.

❍

Clean filters in ponds, water-

Check your driveway for cracks and repair as needed.

5. Reduce Energy, Save $$$

Cost: $3 and up Cut down on energy use by replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents. Energy-efficient fluorescents emit good-quality light and produce less heat, which means AC units don’t have to work as hard during the summer to cool the house. Look for Energy Star bulbs that have been tested for reliability and performance. Resist the urge to use specialty bulbs such as three-ways for regular applications.

—Oliver Curtis, Southface Energy Institute; www.southface.org ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. Eliminate Clutter Cost: $112 and up Lighten up. Give your home a thorough cleaning by getting rid of junk. Decide what to toss, what to donate and what to recycle, then call the experts to haul it away. 1-800-Got-Junk will send two completely insured workers to lift, load and remove anything you don’t want, from trash to furniture and old tools, inside or outside your home. No need to box or bag. Paint and chemicals not accepted.

—1-800-Got-Junk; www.1800gotjunk.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 31

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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4/11/12 11:35:26 AM

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32

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 32

your house from the outside in…

Check the 2012 Landscape Planner on our website for great ideas to get started

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/11/12 11:35:29 AM

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

Interior maintenance HVAC systems

❍

❍

Replace your furnace air filter

❍

Install a backflow valve in the floor drain of your basement if you live in an area where sewers

When turning your air

sometimes back up into homes.

or more if needed.

conditioner on for the first time,

This device will prevent future

Have your heating and cooling

be sure to set your programmable

backups.

ducts inspected for damage or

thermostat(s) to reduce energy

mold and dust deposits.

use when you’re sleeping or away

Have your cooling system inspected and, if necessary, charged with refrigerant.

❍

Wipe all ducts and grills so blockage.

Change filters every three months

❍

Plumbing and water-heating systems

they’re free from dust and other

with a high-performance filter.

❍

mechanical blower).

❍

❍ ❍

❍

Inspect for slow leaks in your home by taking a reading on

from home.

your water meter before bedtime.

Shut off and clean humidifiers.

The next morning, without

Test your attic and roof fans to

Remove debris from the

make sure that power is getting

condensate tray under the coils

to the thermostat and the fan is

in your air conditioner (near the

functioning properly.

using any water overnight, take another reading. If the reading has changed, you have a leak that should be repaired.

7. Reuse and Recycle Cost: $1 and up When buying items for spring home improvement projects or discarding household merchandise someone else could use, consider Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore resale outlets. The Georgia-based nonprofit carries windows, doors, lighting fixtures, flooring, AC units, cabinets, granite, marble and home furnishings. It also has appliances that are under nine years old. ReStores only sell and accept donations that are new or gently used and in good working order. Check out the website for locations, hours and special offers.

—Habitat for Humanity ReStore; www.atlantahabitat.org/restore ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 33

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

33

4/5/12 4:54:04 PM

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 34

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/12/12 4:52:32 PM

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

❍

Check the temperature setting on

Kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room

the water heater. It should be set no

❍

higher than 125 degrees to prevent scalding and reduce energy use.

❍

Carefully drain several gallons from the water heater tank (until water is clear) to flush out corrosion-

❍

❍

showerheads by unscrewing the

dryer vent to prevent fire.

devices and soaking them in vinegar overnight, then gently scrubbing

Clean accumulated smoke and Check all faucets and toilets for

them with an old toothbrush.

❍

needed repairs. To check toilets for

heating efficiency and shortens the

hidden leaks, add six drops of food

life of the heater.

coloring to the toilet tank. If the

Perform a general inspection of

toilet is leaking, color will appear in

your septic system: check for any

the bowl within 30 minutes.

❍

Exercise water-supply valves (turn

based additive to maintain the

them back and forth) under sinks and

“health” of the system.

toilets to prevent them from sticking.

Check washing machine, dishwasher and icemaker supply

drips or leaks and make any

causing sediment, which reduces

leaks, and consider using a yeast-

Clean mineral deposits from

Clean the lint buildup from the

grease from kitchen cabinets.

❍

❍

hoses for bulges or leaks. Replace hoses showing signs of weakness or those older than 10 years.

❍

Use a plumber’s snake tool to remove hair and other blockage in your tubs and sinks.

❍

Inspect tile walls and replace any missing caulk or grout.

8. Give Kitchen a Facelift

Cost: $4,000 to $7,000 A whole kitchen makeover can be costly and time-consuming. Consider the next best thing: Update your cabinets with exotic wood or glass, or refinish existing ones to bring out the natural beauty. Replacing cabinet doors, molding, drawers and hardware will make the kitchen look new and add to the value of your home.

—Martin Jimenez, Cabinet Transformations; www.cabinettransformations.net ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

9. Refinish Bath Surfaces Cost: $300 and up Resurface bathtubs, sinks, showers, countertops and tile. After years of stains and buildup, regular cleaning products won’t do the job. Restoring what you already have is the eco-friendly way to make home improvements and eliminates plumbing, construction and contractor costs. The Miracle Method cleaning system works on porcelain, steel, fiberglass and tile.

—Steve Tague, The Miracle Method; www.miraclemethod.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 35

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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4/11/12 11:35:38 AM

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0512_024-039_Maintain SS.indd 36

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4875 South Atlanta Rd, Smyrna, GA 30080 www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/5/12 4:54:56 PM

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

❍ ❍

If your faucets have aerators,

Miscellaneous

downspout that isn’t draining

remove and clean them.

❍

Test and, if necessary, replace

away from the house or possibly

your smoke and carbon monoxide

moisture coming in through a

detectors’ batteries.

cracked concrete foundation.

Clean the inside of your toilet tank to ensure you have clean water in the bowl and that it operates

❍

furniture professionally cleaned

properly.

❍

❍

Schedule a chimney sweep to avoid the sour smell of creosote buildup.

to reduce allergens and keep them

Checklist items provided by: Ace Hardware,

looking good.

California Closets, CertainTeed Corporation,

Buy new entry mats or clean your

Clopay, Envirovue Home Inspection, Green

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Irene, HouseMaster Home Inspections,

tracked inside the home.

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Check your basement for moisture

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10. Organize the Garage

Cost: $200 for cleanup; $500 and up for design and storage system installation No room for cars in the garage? Install a storage system to create a place for everything, including toys, bicycles, sporting goods, auto accessories and vehicles. Start with a cleanup and finish with a custom-designed system to fit your needs. Add to the aesthetic with flooring that is easy to maintain and covers up imperfections.

—Scott Saffran, The Garage Dude; www.thegaragedude.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

11. Try a New Paint Color Cost: Price varies A bucket of paint is the quickest way to transform a room. The Pantone Color Institute’s hot colors this year include Tangerine Tango, Solar Power, Sodalite Blue, Cabaret, Margarita, Driftwood, Sweet Lilac and Starfish. Whether the color is bold or classic, a coat or two will do wonders. For an indoor weekend project, try painting a wall, a room or the ceiling, or go outside and spruce up the entry by painting the front door and mailbox.

When selecting a color, buy a sample and apply a patch on the surface to be painted to see what the color looks like in different light. Make sure to prep before you paint.

—Laura Green; interior designer; www.lgreenstudios.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Project

#1

Photo courtesy of Thomas Watkins Photography

RanchRehab Remodeling ideas for the fifties’ favorite home style

By Karina Timmel

T

he ranch-style home originally was designed to be both affordable and fitting of the minimalist needs of Depression-era families. This bland home style with low-pitched roofs and closed-off interior rooms proliferated across the U.S. in the 1950s and continues to perplex homeowners who want to remodel. “I would say that half of the houses I look at have this basic design and its inherent limitations,” says Robert Kauffman,

principal at Kauffman Design (www.kauffmandesign.com). “These homeowners are hungry for ideas.” In hopes of alleviating some of the frustration, here are four Atlanta area remodeling projects that feature imaginative updates for ranch homes.

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Remodel by: Axios Architecture (www.axiosarchitecture.com) Location: Briarcliff Woods/Sagamore neighborhood near Emory Homeowner’s woes and wants: When planning a remodel of his own ranch home, Steve Robinson, principal at Axios Architecture, sought to create a better space, not merely more space. The 2,100 square-foot main level was adequate for his family’s needs but had no flow, a closed layout and a kitchen that was totally separated from all of the living areas.

Photos courtesy of Axios Architecture LLC

Rehab: The addition of just 60 square feet to the kitchen proves a little can go a long way. The glass-and-stucco structure seamlessly attaches to the back of the house, significantly changing the exterior architecture. The large amounts of glass and bright chartreuse color add contemporary contrast and dimension to the ranch home.

Inside, the new design opened up all of the main rooms into a suite of distinct yet interconnected spaces. Robinson believes that many ranch remodels create too much openness, resulting in the loss of character, so he focused on creating a charming, layered space. He raised the ceiling in the family room and kitchen area, while keeping the living room ceiling at eight feet. Part of the kitchen ceiling was lowered by only four inches, but the effect is dramatic: The lowered ceiling forms a floating horizontal plane above a custom-built banquette and terminates as a projecting “trellis” overhang outside the rear addition.

The remodel also addressed another exterior problem. Originally, an elevated terrace blocked the view from the family room to the lower backyard. Robinson’s solution was to turn part of the terrace into a brick planter and install steps from the back door to a lower patio that provides an outdoor living space and increases the indoor/outdoor connection.

B E F O R E

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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P H O T O S

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Project

#2

Photos courtesy of Home Rebuilders, Inc.

Photo courtesy of John Umberger/Real Images

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Remodel by:

Home ReBuilders (www.homerebuilders.com) Location: Near Moores Mill Road in Northwest Atlanta Homeowner’s woes and wants: The Page family was looking for a completely new design that would transform their horizontal ranch into a modern, airy, interesting home that expresses their personalities, presents their art and provides a venue to entertain.

Rehab: To make the whole house more dynamic, Home ReBuilders raised its roof pitch, introduced front dormers, created a family room addition with oversized windows and pulled a covered porch across the front. These changes raised the vertical profile of the home, allowing Home ReBuilders to anchor it with vaulted 20-foot ceilings in the family room and billiard room and include 10foot tray ceilings in the foyer and dining room for a more open feel. To help bring light deeper into the home, Home ReBuilders replaced the front windows with five segmented bay windows, matching oversized vertical windows and a pair of French doors with transoms. Contemporary interior finishes highlight the family’s artwork and design style, while a mix of cedar shingles, stone and brick adds visual interest to the traditional exterior.

B E F O R E

P H O T O

Photo courtesy of David Shilling www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Project

#3

Photos courtesy of C. Travis Johnson

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Remodel by: Kauffman Design (www.kauffmandesign.com) Location: Indian Hills in Marietta Homeowner’s woes and wants: The owners of this ranch-style home had lived there 35 years and were eager to break out of its straight lines and dark layout. Having already added a sizable addition and finished part of the basement some years before, they needed some new ideas to achieve their goals for the space.

Rehab: Kauffman Design’s job was to bring in more natural light and integrate the new kitchen with the surrounding living spaces. To give the home individuality—something often lacking in traditional ranches— Kauffman added triangular clearstory windows at the front and a wall of windows at the rear, bringing in natural light and a connection to the outdoors (also often lacking in original ranches). The addition of an expansive cathedral ceiling in the family room enhances the open feel.

Another aspect of the project was remodeling the entire kitchen to modernize its old, sixties-style tile floors, wood cabinets and countertops. The new kitchen, which opens to the adjacent dining area and family room, features granite countertops, dark-finished cabinetry, pendant and recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors and a breakfast bar.

B E F O R E

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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P H O T O S

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Project

#4

Photos courtesy of Dawn M. Bennett

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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5

TOP

Ranch Home Improvements

Remodel by: Splice Design (www.splice-design.com), architect, and Sensible Home Solutions of GA, LLC (www.shsga.com), builder

1

A more open floor plan.

How it’s done: By opening up the central bearing wall between opposing rooms.

2

More light.

How it’s done: By lifting the ceiling in some rooms (either cathedral into the existing attic or lifting the roof), adding skylights, patio doors, larger windows, etc.

3

More space.

How it’s done: Often by finishing the basement, building an addition or expanding into a second floor.

4

Kitchen joined with the family room.

How it’s done: By building an addition or repositioning interior walls.

5

A more efficient laundry.

How it’s done: By building out the laundry space and connecting it better with the interior of the home.

Location: Sandy Springs Homeowner’s woes and wants: The Hosch family bought a ranch home that had already been partially modified in the late nineties, adding a vaulted family room and large master suite to the rear of the home. As a young couple with a growing family, the homeowners needed more bedrooms, play areas for the kids separate from the main living spaces, a new home office, exercise room, laundry room and lots of storage space.

Rehab: To help fulfill the Hosches’ vision, Splice Design and Sensible Home Solutions of GA added 1,900 square feet to the home, including a second story over the original ranch footprint, leaving the vaulted addition untouched. At the homeowner’s request to “blend in” with their neighborhood, which is filled with ranch-style homes, the architect and builder added a steeply pitched roof that conceals the second story, giving the home more of a story-and-a-half look than a full two-story massing.

The Colonial exterior was transformed with Cape Cod shingle and bungalow elements more consistent with the new massing and the homeowner’s style. Garage doors—uncommon in a traditional ranch—were added to the carport. The original laundry room, which had been only accessible through the exterior carport, was enlarged by incorporating an adjacent storage area, and a new entry sequence was created that goes through the laundry/mud room, past a new powder room and into the new stair hallway before entering the kitchen. The original side door at the kitchen was removed, which allowed space for a new walk-in pantry.

Upstairs, the steeply pitched roof yields large, open spaces with an expansive feel and allows for storage under the framing. The additions include two bedrooms (one serves as a home office), one full bath, a large family/entertainment area and an exercise room over the original carport.

B E F O R E

P H O T O S

—Robert Kauffman, principal, Kauffman Design Editorial Resources begin on page 77

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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• Outside Lighting • Plant and Sod Installation • Walkways and Patios

Master Plans • Fireplaces and Firepits • Drainage Problems • Irrigation

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4/5/12 5:14:40 PM

Photo courtesy of Sketch-a-Scape

the wonder of Creating an artfully designed and audibly soothing water feature is an enhancement to any landscape project

By Tara N. Wilfong

T

here’s just something about water that has an inexplicable draw. Perhaps it’s the soothing sound of a trickling stream that conjures images of a mountain brook or the roaring rush of a cascading waterfall that recalls the unleashed power of the ocean. Whatever the attraction, homeowners are captivated by water, often seeking new and inventive ways to incorporate these aquatic oases in their landscape plans. www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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of our tesy Photo c

Add a waterfall, aquatic plants and colorful fish to an open body of water, and you have all the elements of a naturallooking pond.

52

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Swimming pools aside, most homeowners gravitate toward fountains, waterfalls and ponds or a mix of all three, depending on their particular plan. “Water elements can be in practically any conceivable form,” says John Kenna, owner of Water, Color & Stone Inc. (www.watercolorstone.com). “The designer must learn how to ask the right questions so the clients’ intentions are not only understood, but their expectations are met as well.”

When choosing a water feature, homeowners should consider not only the style of their home, but also its setting. For example, a formal or traditional home may warrant a fountain feature, whereas a rustic home may be best suited for a naturalistic pond or waterfall, according to Rick Kaldrovics, president of Outside Landscape Group (www. outsidelandscapegroup.com). “I always recommend that a homeowner take their home and setting into consideration when selecting a water feature,” he says. “That being said, with a creative plan, there are ways to successfully break the rules and create your own desired look. In the end, the sound and sight of water in the landscape offers an inviting focal point that delivers a therapeutic haven no matter what style you choose.”

Pond vs. Pond-Less Today’s water features can be designed with or without a pond, depending on the desired style and level of maintenance. Add a waterfall, aquatic plants and colorful fish to an open body of water, and you have all the elements of a natural-looking pond. However, this habitat must be carefully maintained. Eliminate the pond, and you can still enjoy the sight and sound of moving water. In a pond-less water feature, a fountain or waterfall does not simply form a pool of water. Instead, the flowing water seems to disappear into the ground.

“The pond-less water feature really attracts homeowners desiring a low-maintenance option,” Kaldrovics says. “The body of water is actually covered by gravel so the homeowner doesn’t have to see or manage the water clarity, algae, insects, plants, etc.; instead, this option delivers all the excitement of a water feature without the work.”

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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Miller L

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/11/12 11:56:18 AM

PROJECT Photos courtesy of Outside Landscape Group

Rugged Retreat

#

BY OUTSIDE LANDSCAPE GROUP Hailing from Tennessee where the mountains are majestic and the rivers artfully snake across the landscape, these Gainesville homeowners wanted to recreate the natural beauty of their native state in their Georgia backyard. Although they reside near a lake, they felt a certain disconnect from their backyard and decided it needed some visual interest to draw them—and guests—outdoors.

Deciding against a traditional pool, the homeowners, with the help and expertise of Kaldrovics opted instead for a natural water feature that would remind them of the rock outcroppings and natural rivers and lakes found in the mountains. After learning the couple’s granddaughter often visits, Kaldrovics introduced an idea that married the concepts of a pool and a pond. “The end result turned out fantastic with a 25-feet-by10-feet plunge pond,” he says.

The plunge pond captures the rugged beauty of the Tennessee landscape, incorporating large natural boulders and rocks for that river feel. A pool-quality filtration system, including a chemically controlled water treatment device, provides safe, crystal-clear water for swimming. “We also installed a bright pool plaster combined with natural stone interior to blend swim-ability with natural materials,” Kaldrovics says. “To top off the sights and sounds of the active waterfalls, we removed the deck and created a two-tier patio space edged with a stone border, stone steps and a centrally located firepit to gather around in the cooler months.” www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Photos courtesy of (left to right) Water, Color & Stone Inc., Water, Color & Stone Inc. and Decks and More

Water feature checklist Before breaking ground on any landscape project, there are several items to consider, and when you’re including a water feature, that list may be a bit more extensive.

After deciding on a pond or pond-less water feature, choose the extras you want to include.

Style: After deciding on a pond or pond-less water feature, choose the extras you want to include.

Will your pond contain fish? Is your fountain a small point of interest or is it the centerpiece of the landscape? What type of stones or hardscaping do you want to accent the project? Making these selections upfront will help define your space and give your designer needed direction.

Budget: Like many home projects, the price to install and maintain an outdoor water feature can vary greatly. “While waterfalls are the most commonly requested water feature we encounter, once homeowners see the price tag, they often change their mind and opt for a small fountain instead,” says Britany Heater, director of marketing and sales at Miller Landscape, Inc. (www.millerlandscape.net).

With prices ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the size, scope and materials, creating a wish list as well as a desired budget allows for realistic options and a speedier process. One area not to scrimp is the quality of the construction. “A well-built feature with good filtration can provide a leak-free, low-maintenance and long-lasting feature that is enjoyed for many years,” Kaldrovics says. “However, if corners are cut or it is improperly installed, a water feature can become a money pit and a nuisance.”

Maintenance: Determining the amount of maintenance you’re willing to perform or pay for is a great way to define the scope of your project. For those who love to get their hands dirty working in the yard, a more maintenance-intensive water feature could be perfect; otherwise, a relatively maintenance-free feature, such as a pond-less waterfall, is a better option.

With the installation of a pond, creating a natural ecosystem will certainly lighten the workload. To create this functional system, Kaldrovics suggests installing a pump to enhance water circulation and boost necessary oxygen levels. Next, install filter pads and plants to strain and filter the water.

Introducing algae-fighting bacteria as well as fish and plants creates a natural and healthy ecosystem that is relatively self-sustaining.

Pond-less water features only require pump maintenance and the occasional cleanup of natural debris.

“Everyone wants simplicity,” Kenna says. “A waterfall allows for the sight and sound of moving water without the concern of maintaining water quality for fish. Improvements to pumps and the advances in LED lighting have created better satisfaction and improved results for everyone.”

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/5/12 5:16:43 PM

Photos courtesy of Water, Color & Stone Inc.

Bird Watcher’s Paradise

PROJECT

#

BY WATER, COLOR & STONE INC. The most successful home improvement projects are those that complement or enhance your interests and lifestyle. When a Marietta homeowner decided to add a water feature to her backyard, mentioning that she enjoyed bird-watching and cooking outdoors, John Kenna, owner of Water, Color & Stone Inc., envisioned the perfect feature.

Instead of constructing an elaborate pond or ornate fountain, he based the design on the natural topography, creating a shallow stream that flows down the sloped backyard. Using rocks and driftwood to add definition, Kenna created a haven for Georgia songbirds. “Songbirds are not swimmers, so they need shallow pools they can bathe in, yet still stand up in,” he says. “Combining the stream with driftwood mimics the birds’ natural habitat.”

The relatively maintenance-free water feature strategically hides a rainwater-filled basin beneath the rocks at the edge of a paver patio. Complementing the pond-less water feature and adding to its easy, maintenance-friendly appeal, the stream’s natural current quickly flushes leaves and other debris to the bottom, making cleanup a snap.

“One of the best parts of incorporating a water feature is that it can transform a backyard into an affordable mountain hideaway for a fraction of the cost,” Kenna says. “And, there’s no additional travel needed!”

Editorial Resources begin on page 77. www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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gardenplanner Notes

T W T 1 2 3

F 4

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T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

may Tips for creating and maintaining a beautiful garden

BY MARY KAY WOODWORTH

Time for celebrations—Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, graduation and summer are just a few reasons to rejoice! Plant a perennial shrub or tree to honor or remember your loved ones this month. ‘Knockout’ rose is a beautiful, continuous-blooming, trouble-free shrub-type rose that will be enjoyed year after year. Potted miniature roses, lilies, hydrangeas and azaleas also make extra-longlasting gifts if you plant them in the garden after they have finished blooming indoors.

Garden Maintenance

➤ Petunias, salvia and many other annual flowers will bloom beautifully with a few timely pinches: Pinch at planting time and again the first or second week of July—to 3-4 inches above ground. Feed annuals monthly with a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Be sure to deadhead for maximum flowers.

➤ Do you see shiny trails on the petals and leaves of your ornamentals in the morning? If so, slugs are on the prowl at night—capture them by placing grapefruit rind halves among your plants. Position rinds with the peel side up, and slugs will collect underneath.

PETUNIAS WILL BLOOM beautifully with a few timely pinches.

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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➤ Pinch chrysanthemums now for bushier plants in the fall. ➤ Roses need weekly spraying for black-spot and mildew problems and biweekly feeding for great blooms and healthy foliage. Or, at the end of each bloom cycle, www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/5/12 7:58:20 PM

feed your roses with a granular fertilizer or liquid plant food. Soak twice a month rather than watering weekly and avoid wetting the foliage.

➤ Apply a second application of fertilizer to warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia and centipede).

➤ Be on the lookout for poison ivy. As new leaves appear, spray with herbicide as soon as possible to keep the plant from spreading. If the plant is small enough to uproot, put on gloves and grasp the plant with a plastic bag (newspaper bags are ideal); then turn the bag inside out so that the poisonous plant is captured inside the bag for easy disposal.

➤ Now is the time to combat summer annual weeds. By

Master Plans

applying a post-emergent weed killer when they are small, it will be much easier to control them in your lawn.

➤ Mulch around newly planted trees, shrubs and flowers.

Mulching reduces weeds, controls fluctuations in soil temperature, retains moisture, prevents damage from lawn mowers and looks attractive.

What To Plant

➤ The ground will be warm enough by mid-May for

Outdoor Living

caladiums, dahlias, gladiolus and cannas. If you stagger the planting of gladiolus, you’ll enjoy a longer show of flowers.

➤ It’s safe to plant hot-weather vegetables such as beans,

% ( mmfRookRlmok !!!

sweet corn, melons, squash and sweet potatoes now.

Mulch and water after planting.

➤ You can achieve vertical impact in your garden with annual vines such as moonflower, hyacinth bean and scarlet runner bean. Plant seeds near a fence or trellis— moonflower is striking when flowers open after dark!

➤ This is a good month to plant heat-loving herbs like basil and dill. Harvest most herbs before flower buds open for best flavor.

➤ For best results, wait until late May or June to sod warm-

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season lawns.

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cahptalk The Proof Is in the Permit Why quality remodeling matters Would you want to list a home touting many upgrades only to find after the buyer’s inspection some or all don’t meet code? How about your buyer’s dream house transaction falling apart at the eleventh hour because renovations don’t meet the codes of the jurisdiction?

As more homeowners renovate or upgrade their homes to make them more sellable, the job of real estate agents and home inspectors becomes more important to the safety and wellbeing of buyers. There’s a reason. Increasingly, homeowners are taking on do-it-yourself (DIY) projects to save money and more often than not, DIYers don’t obtain permits. So, codes are ignored.

The actual cost of a permit is often a relatively small percentage of the total cost of a home improvement project. It is often the

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requirement that a jurisdiction’s inspector approves the work upon completion that turns otherwise law-abiding citizens into lawbreakers. Sometimes, failure to pull a permit is just an innocent mistake.

As a home inspector, one of the first things I do is try to identify

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any changes, other than cosmetic, that have been made by a

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home’s current owners. Then I try to find out if the work was done by a trade professional or a DIYer. Although a contractor may not have pulled permits, learning the work was completed by a DIYer always sends up a red flag.

This is a simple fact you can determine upfront to determine if there are any code violations lurking. Keep in mind that the only time codes are cited on the inspection report of a resale home is if work was done to renovate or remodel a home or there was an upgrade or replacement of a home system.

One solution is for DIY homeowners to hire an ASHI-certified home inspector who can advise about what permits are needed and what the codes in a jurisdiction indicate for various home improvements before they begin.

While there are some exemptions to permit requirements according to the International Residential Code, there is one caveat: Some jurisdictions—counties and cities—or specific areas such as landmark districts have more stringent code requirements. It is judicious to check first.

Stan A. Garnet, ACI, ASHI, ICC, is an ASHI-certified home inspector and an IRC Residential Combination Inspector with his company, Inspectors Associates, Inc., in Atlanta. Stan is the director of www.

ConsultAHomePro.com, director of education at the We Teach House™ Institute and the developer of the See Thru-House at the Atlanta Home Show. For more information visit www.INeedAnInspector.com or e-mail Stan@ WeTeachHouse.com. www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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Homeowners are likely to experience a similar result. You can wind up with an inadequate product improperly installed.

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“competitor’s” $12,000 price. Fear not, however, our company can do the job for only $7,000. You are still trying to breathe when it is made clear that—for you—special discounts are in place.

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same caution you would a snake of undetermined venomosity. The “we were working in the neighborhood” line is such a dead giveaway I cannot believe it still works, but it does. The second example should make you just as skeptical. Soon as you get to the discounting schedule you know you are

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Tune in to The Bob and RodMan Home Show every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. on 920 AM-WGKA to learn how to improve your house or apartment. RodMan is a certified home inspector, knows residential property appraisal and is a hands-on home renovator. Bob owned a roofing company, has reclaimed distressed properties for years and has master licenses as a plumber, electrician and HVAC mechanic. www.bobandrodman.com

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WINDOWS & DOORS

Advance Screening

Screen Care and Maintenance

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come with some type of warranty, it is important to schedule annual service from an authorized representative to ensure that screens are kept in optimal condition. Homeowners also should note that while newer screens are highly durable, they are not impenetrable, and animals can still damage the mesh.

How To Choose the Right Screen ➤ Determine which features are most important by comparing products.

➤ Find out the height and width of the opening and, for door screens, whether doors are right- or lefthinged.

Photo courtesy of Phantom Screens of Georgia

Screen doors are getting a facelift. New retractable screens offer a more functional design plus custom paint options and models that do away with squeaky hinges forever.

Energy Efficiency No longer just for keeping bugs at bay, these high-performance screens also block other harmful and uninvited guests such as the sun’s powerful UV rays as well as dirt and debris. Phantom Screens’ privacy mesh and Clear View’s solar mesh both deflect up to 90% of UV rays, cooling down enclosures as much as 15 degrees during warmer months. This feature helps increase home energy efficiency, resulting in cost savings.

Custom Fit Color and design features give screen doors a new look. Green- and brown-colored screens blend in with natural surroundings, and manufacturers even can create custom colors to match exterior and/or interior paint colors.

Large Infinity retractable screens from Phantom Screens are capable of spanning the width of any doorway or opening, creating seamless indoor/outdoor living spaces throughout the home. To cover the largest of openings without obstructing views or traffic flow, installers simply link multiple screen panels together to the desired width. This versatility has made retractable screens a popular choice for outdoor patio renovations and sunroom construction projects.

Additionally, motorized screens that retract out of sight (shown above) allow homeowners to create indoor-outdoor living spaces in garages, porches, verandas and more, providing shade as well as keeping the sun from damaging furniture.

Whether enclosing an outdoor living space or enhancing an indoor space, retractable screens are changing the way people interact with their homes. More than just repelling insects and providing natural ventilation, they can block UV rays, fit the size or style of any space—and continue to improve.

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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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➤ Choose either surface-mount (screen installed on the surrounding frame or wall of the opening) or injamb-mount (screen installed within door frame).

—Phantom Screens (www.phantomscreens. com)

Window Safety Tips ➤ Avoid placing furniture near windows to prevent children from climbing.

➤ Do not rely on insect screens to prevent a window fall.

➤ Keep children’s play away from open windows and doors.

➤ Install building-code-compliant devices designed to limit how far a window will open or window guards with release mechanisms to help prevent a fall.

➤ Teach your child how to safely use a window to escape during an emergency.

—Window Safety Task Force (www.nsc.org\windowsafetytaskforce)

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EXPERT CONNECT

Guide to buying a frameless shower door

Q: I’m considering upgrading my exiting shower door to a frameless shower door. What is involved in the process?

A: The first thing to consider is whether or not your existing shower door is a good candidate for an upgrade to a frameless. When the existing door has been removed, you’ll notice discoloration on the tiles and multiple holes where the original door was fastened to the wall. This is by no means a deal breaker, but something to consider that many home owners do not realize. After a customer has decided to upgrade, we will remove their old shower door and dispose of it. The customer will then have a few days before we install their new frameless shower door to clean their tile and apply grout or sealant to the existing holes.

Q: What are the advantages of buying frameless rather than framed?

A: Outside of the visual appeal of a frameless shower door, there are several benefits to consider when making a purchase. Frameless shower doors can be easier to maintain since the glass makes direct contact with your tile and eliminates corrosion that builds up on the metal track of it’s framed counterpart. Additionally, all of that vertical metal can really detract from your beautiful tile work you want to show off. Properly installed frameless applications are more rigid with the addition of heavier, thicker glass and heavy-duty hardware. That same hardware allows the door to open to the inside as well as the outside swing you’ll find on a framed shower door. Most homeowners see a better return on their investment since the frameless system is much more desirable to new homebuyers. Lastly, a frameless shower door allows for much more creative flexibility when matching your plumbing fixtures, choosing a specific height or coordinating a particular style to your bathroom project.

Q: I want to install my new frameless shower door myself; can you supply the glass needed?

A: Installing a frameless shower is not recommended as a DIY project because frameless glass shower installation is a fine art with extremely small tolerances to provide a leak proof glass shower enclosure. The slightest error could result in gummy caulking, ugly gaskets, or worse – a glass enclosure that leaks all over your bathroom floor. To get it perfect, installation needs to be exact. Also, the slightest chip in the safety glass can cause it to shatter, leaving you with a very expensive mess to clean. This is one project you will want to call in a professional glass installer.

0512_064-069_Windows&Drs.indd 67

Q: Are there special products I need to clean my glass? How often will I need to clean it?

A: To keep your glass free of potentially damaging water spots, we recommend using a squeegee after each shower. Using a squeegee on a daily bases is the most simple and fastest way to avoid water spots and mineral deposit build-up on your new shower enclosure. Using a surface protector, such as Rain-X, to protect your glass is highly recommended. A surface protector can help to repel water off the glass, but is not intended to replace the use of a squeegee. For permanent protection, consider Showerguard (see below for more information). For the hardware on the glass, use a non-ammonia glass cleaner – it is the only glass cleaner that is safe to use on hardware because, over time, ammonia can damage your hardware.

Q: What is ShowerGuard?

A: ShowerGuard involves a patented technology that seals the glass surface during the manufacturing process to stop corrosion before it starts and protect the beauty of the surface. Eventually, sprayon products wear off (i.e. Rain-X for your car window). Because ShowerGuard is used in manufacturing the glass, this protection becomes part of the glass itself, so there is never a need to reapply protection. Shower after shower and year after year, your glass will stay clear and beautiful. Guardian ShowerGuard has a lifetime warranty.

Q: Why do some frameless shower doors have a green tint?

A: Clear glass contains a significant amount of iron, which gives it the appearance of a light green tint. Starphire or UltraClear glass is super heated to eliminate the iron from the glass, which gives the glass a crystal clear quality. This type of glass is recommended for anyone who wishes to highlight the natural tile colors of their shower enclosure.

RENU Atlanta Rob DuPree, owner (404) 997-3682 www.renuatlanta.com

4/11/12 12:08:24 PM

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4/5/12 8:20:59 PM

EXPERT CONNECT

What is Weatherization, and Why Should You Care?

Weatherization is the process of protecting your home from outside elements and making modifications to reduce energy costs while improving the comfort, health and safety of your home.

The first step in the weatherization process is to hire a certified building analyst to conduct a whole house energy audit. The energy audit can identify and recommend specific energy saving improvements that can help reduce energy costs in your home by as much as 30%. During the audit, the certified building analyst will use advanced equipment to pinpoint exactly where your house is losing air and heat to the outdoors.

The energy audit can also determine the efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling systems.

You want to make sure the certified building analyst you hire uses a variety of assessment techniques during the audit. The audit should include a blower door test to check the homes air leakage, infrared camera use to reveal hard to detect areas of missing insulation and air infiltration, and pressure pan testing of your ductwork to determine the efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling systems.

0512-064-069_Windows&Drs.indd 69

•

Typical weatherization procedures include: • Sealing air penetrations throughout the building envelope (especially in the attic which accounts for the majority of all energy loss), around all doors, windows, pipes, air vents and ductwork that penetrate the floor, ceiling or roof.

• Installing new or adding to existing insulation in the attic. The majority of homes in the U.S. are not sufficiently insulated.

• Installing insulation in exterior walls of homes that do not currently have insulation. Most homes built prior to 1975 do not have insulation in the walls.

• Properly sealing air ducts with mastic and insulation. Air duct leakage can account for more than 20% of your energy loss.

• Inspecting for the proper number and placement of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home.

Insuring proper ventilation in the home. Excess moisture and improper ventilation throughout the home can significantly affect energy costs.

The payoff? This is why you should care about weatherization!

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4/6/12 6:20:42 PM

resourcefinder To find out more about these advertisers Harris Jacobs Dream Run ........... 72 Roswell Woman’s Club Showcase Tour............................. 70 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure ........................................ 72

Fabric/Upholstery

Chattahoochee Shower Doors .............................................. 20 We Can Custom Build a Shower to Fit Any Type Opening.

Drexler Shower Door. ................. 12 Custom glass shower and tub enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass, and much more

Window World............................... 7 “Simply the Best for Less”

Adapted Living Spaces ............... 60

Handyman DogGone Handy .......................... 32

Hardscape

Echols Glass & Closets.................. 4

Bloom’n Gardens......................... 61

North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!

Jennifer’s Glassworks ................. 36

Crawford Landscapes ................. 56

➚ Renu Atlanta ................................ 67

In Bloom Landscaping ................... 19

➚ Longview Products...................... 62

Flooring CTI of Georgia .............................. 30 Daniel Floors................................ 74 Floor & Decor Outlets ................. 60 Largest In-Stock Selection. Lowest Prices On Hard Surface Flooring.

➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 32 ➚ Myers Carpet ............................... 22

Foundation Repair

Miller Landscape ......................... 50

➚ Cowan Supply ...................................36

Sunbelt Pools ............................... 62

Daniel Floors .....................................74

Sweet Water Creek Nursery ......................................... 70

➚ Decks and More ................................57 We Listen Then Deliver.

Metropolitan Properties ....... 69, 76

➚ B-Level Concrete ......................... 30 We Lift Concrete. Call For a Free Estimate.

Innovative Outdoors ................... 59 Kain Landscape Inc. ................... 68

Cosentino ..................................... 14

➚ Metro Mechanical Heating & Air ......9

Aycock Properties........................ 38

Home Decor

➚ Myers Carpet ............................... 22 ➚ PDI Plumbing & Lighting ............ 76

Adore Furniture........................... 66 Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17 North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!

Grand Furniture .......................... 71

Garage doors Image Doors................................. 13 Window World ................................ 7 “Simply the Best for Less”

Grills

Adore Furniture........................... 66 Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17

Gutters

Jackson EMC ................................ 24 Metropolitan Properties ....... 69, 76

Insurance restoration Noble Restoration Specialists.... 34 We’re There for You.

Interior Design

➚

➚ Floor & Decor Outlets ................. 60

Largest In-Stock Selection. Lowest Prices.

In Bloom Landscaping................ 19 Classic Landscapes.

Kitchens

Grand Furniture .............................. 71

Home Energy Audit Jackson EMC ................................ 24

Home Right Solutions ................ 39

Metropolitan Properties ....... 69, 76

➚ Rainaway Deck Drain Systems ...... 36

Window World............................... 7

Underdecking creates dry and livable space under the deck.

“Simply the Best for Less”

Adore Furniture........................... 66 Decorating Den ........................... 74 Goulding Design Group .............. 32 Myers Carpet ............................... 22 Urban Motif.................................. 66

Irrigation

North Carolina prices without the drive!

American Casual Living ............. 56

➚ BBQ Grill Dr. ............................... 74

insulation/home sealing

Home Builders

The Blind Ladies.......................... 61

Furniture/Accessories

Adore Furniture........................... 66 Jackson EMC ................................ 24

Classic Landscapes.

Green Remodelers Products & Services

Jackson EMC ......................................24

Home theaters/ recreation

Arbor & Sage ................................ 65

Adore Furniture........................... 66 Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17

Fans

➚

Glass/Mirrors

➚ go to www.atlantahomeimprovement.com Home modification

Adapted Living Spaces ............... 60

➚ Atlanta Design & Build............... 28 Transforming Homes - Enriching Lives!

➚ Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense.

➚

Cosentino ..................................... 14 Cowan Supply.............................. 36

Our Services Include: • Concrete • Vinyl

%XPLORE 4HE 0OSSIBILITIES

• Fiberglass 3D Plan Presentation For Review Before Construction Begins New Construction and Remodeling • Pools/Spas • Water Falls

By Creating A Beautiful Backyard Living Space!

• Out Door Kitchens • Fire Places

Caribbean Pools, Inc. 2265 Roswell Rd. Marietta, GA 30062

• Landscaping

770-509-2297 • 770-579-0718 • doss@bellsouth.net Visit us at: www.swimming-pools.com

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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• Fencing

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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BBQ GRILL DR

1-(800)95-BBQDR

BBQ Grill Repair, Service & Cleaning Renew Your BBQ For Healthier, Safer Grilling

• Professional BBQ Grill Cleaning and Repair

We Specialize in Warranty Repairs Our complete inspection & cleaning process: • Removes harmful carcinogens that can be transferred to food • Prevents future corrosion • Helps extend the life of your grill • Protects your valuable investment Call us today. (770) 733-3426 www.BBQGrillDR.com

• Re-New Your BBQ Grill!

$50 Off

• Let us do the dirty work!

Grill Cleaning Special Mention This Ad!* Expires

*Discount off regular grill cleaning prices, see website for details, some restrictions apply, cannot be combined with other offers

May 31st, 2012

DANIELS FLOORS

(678) 768-4888 BONA GREEN TECHNOLOGY: NO DUST - NO FUMES - NO WAIT Hardwood flooring Installation, repairs, restoration and refinishing using Bona Dustless Technology and non-toxic waterbase finishes. Most refinishing is now done in 1 - 2 days. You do not have to leave your home. Free in home estimates. www.danielsfloors.com

DCD KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN STUDIO

(678) 325-3600

Our offering of world-class, nationally • In House Designers recognized cabinetry, countertops and bathroom fixtures suit each individual’s style • Industry Leading Lead Times and budget.

Come see our newly renovated showroom and get inspired today.

7000+

• Over 1,000 door styles & color combinations

5250 Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross, GA 30071 www.dcdcabinets.com

DECORATING DEN INTERIORS

(770) 995-0877

At Decorating Den Interiors when it comes to Featuring decorating your home, it’s all about YOU! • Custom Window Treatments • Furniture • Rugs/Carpet We work with YOU to create the look you have in mind. • Accessories

YOUR STYLE • YOUR TASTE • YOUR BUDGET

From custom window treatments to an entire room makeover, give us a call. You’ll love us!

Award Winning Design Team

We listen and beautiful happens!

Serving the Atlanta area since 1986

J. LINDER DESIGN AND CONSULTANTS J. Linder Design and Consultants specializes in creating sustainable outdoor living spaces through creative problem solving techniques.

After installation our expert horticulturists are able to maintain the aesthetics with a detailed landscape management program.

Creating Beautiful Rooms Since 1969

(404) 207-8142 Services: • Landscape Design • Landscape Installation • Landscape Management • Garden Maintenance

www.jlinderdesignandconsultant.com Tip: Depending on the type of plant dead-heading to remove spent flowers can encourage the growth of more flowers.

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resourcefinder To find out more about these advertisers ➚ CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 79 Quality & Service Are Our Prioritie

➚ Direct Build .................................. 26 ➚

Super Sod ..................................... 19

Organization Artisan Custom Closets ............. 38

DogGone Handy .......................... 32 Howard Payne.............................. 34 Masterworks ................................ 11 From Conception to Completion, Your Full Service, Design/Build.

Noble Renovation Specialists .................................... 34

Echols Glass & Closets.................. 4 Spacemakers of America ........... 41

Outdoor Furniture/ Accessories American Casual Living ............. 56 Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17

We’re There for You.

➚ PDI Plumbing & Lighting ............ 76

Landscape/Maintenance

➚

Arbor & Sage ................................ 65 Bloom’n Gardens......................... 61 Caribbean Pools ........................... 73 Crawford Landscapes ................. 56 Direct Build .................................. 26 Goulding Design ......................... 32 In Bloom Landscaping ................... 19 Classic Landscapes.

Innovative Outdoors ...................... 59 J. Linder Design & Consultants ..... 74 Kain Landscape Inc. ................... 68 Miller Landscape ..............................50 Outside Landscape Group ...............40 Sunbelt Pools ............................... 62 Super Sod ..................................... 19

Landscape Supplies Super Sod ..................................... 19 Sweet Water Creek Nursery....... 70

lighting

➚ go to www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

North Carolina Prices Without The Drive!

Outdoor Kitchens ➚ BBQ Grill Dr. ................................. 74 Caribbean Pools ........................... 73

➚

Innovative Outdoors ................... 59 Masterworks ................................ 11 From Conception To Completion, Your Full Service, Design/Build.

Sunbelt Pools ............................... 62

Outdoor Lighting Outdoor Advantage..................... 76 In Bloom Landscaping................ 19 Classic Landscapes.

Outdoor Living American Casual Living ............. 56 Arbor & Sage ................................ 65 Crawford Landscapes ................. 56 CTI of Georgia .............................. 30

➚ Decks & More............................... 57 Innovative Outdoors ................... 59

➚ PDI Plumbing & Lighting ............ 76

Mattresses Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17 North Carolina Prices Without The Drive!

Magnolia Outdoor Living ............. 5 Longview Products...................... 62

Painting/faux painting

➚ Atlanta Design & Build............... 28

Photography

➚ B-Level Concrete ......................... 30

Plumbing Distributors

Transforming Homes - Enriching Lives! Call Today!

We Lift Concrete. Call For a Free Estimate.

➚ CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 79 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.

➚ Rainaway Deck Drain

Systems ..................................... 36 Underdecking creates dry and livable space under the deck.

NKBA Members ➚

Howard Payne.............................. 34 PDI Plumbing & Lighting ............ 76

Nurseries Sweet Water Creek Nursery....... 70

Gregg Willett Photography ......... 77

➚ Cowan Supply.............................. 36 ➚ PDI Plumbing & Lighting. ........... 76

Pools/Spas Caribbean Pools ........................... 73 Innovative Outdoors ................... 59 Sunbelt Pools ............................... 62

Professional Assoc.

➚ Masterworks ............................... 11

Adapted Living Spaces ............... 60

From Conception to Completion, Your Full Service, Design/Build.

Artisan Custom Closets ............. 38

Rainaway Deck Drain Systems .. 36

➚ Atlanta Design & Build............... 28

Underdecking creates dry and livable space under the deck.

Transforming Homes - Enriching Lives!

Aycock Properties........................ 38

➚ Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense.

➚ CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 79 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.

➚ Decks & More............................... 57 ➚ Direct Build ................................. 26 Grade A Contractors ................... 70

DogGone Handy .......................... 32

➚ Masterworks ................................ 11 From Conception to Completion, Your Full Service, Design/Build.

Noble Renovation Specialists .... 34

Staircases Vision Stairways & Millwork .........38

Tile/Ceramic

➚ Floor & Decor Outlets ................ 60 Largest In-Stock Selection. Lowest Prices On Hard Surface Flooring.

➚ Myers Carpet .............................. 22

Underdeck Systems Magnolia Outdoor Living ............ 5

➚ Rainaway Deck Drain

Systems............................................36 Underdecking creates dry and livable space under the deck.

We’re There for You.

➚ PDI Plumbing & Lighting ............ 76 SpaceMakers of America ........... 41

Retaining walls In Bloom Landscaping................ 19 Classic Landscapes.

Roofing Home Right Solutions ................ 39

Utilities Georgia Power ..............Back Cover Jackson EMC ............................... 24

Water Gardens/Ponds Bloom’n Gardens........................ 61 In Bloom Landscaping............... 19 Classic Landscapes.

Kain Landscape Inc. .................. 68 Miller Landscape ........................ 50

Security & Automation AC Armor .................................... 28

Shower Enclosures Chattahoochee Shower Doors ....20 We Can Custom Build a Shower to Fit Any Type Opening.

Drexler Shower Door. ................. 12 Custom glass shower and tub enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass, and much more

Deck Reform ................................ 34

nari Contractors

Magnolia Outdoor Living ............ 5

Renovation/ Remodeling

Echols Glass & Closets.................. 4

➚ Renu Atlanta ................................ 67

Showrooms

Weatherazation Metropolitan Properties ........... 69, 76

Wine cellars Grade A Contractors .................. 70

Windows/Doors DogGone Handy ......................... 32 Jennifer’s Glassworks ................ 36 Magnolia Outdoor Living ............ 5 Noble Renovation Specialists ................................... 34 We’re There for You.

➚ CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 79 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.

Quinn Windows ......................... 76 Vision Stairways......................... 38 Window World.............................. 7 “Simply the Best for Less”

Siding Window World.............................. 7 “Simply the Best for Less”

Sod distributor

Window Tinting/ Treatments Adore Furniture .............................. 66

Super Sod ..................................... 19

Sunrooms

Consult-a-Home-Pro (CAHP)........................................... 65

➚ Atlanta Design & Build.............. 28

National Association of the Remodeling Industry(NARI)....... 66

➚ Decks & More .............................. 57

Home Right Solutions ............... 39 MODA Floors & Interiors ............... 32 The Blind Ladies......................... 61

Transforming Homes - Enriching Lives! Call Today!

Smart home improvement starts here Learn from Atlanta experts about your home improvement projects through our content rich website.

Ask specific questions on our blog, research local businesses and look for special offers.

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com is more interactive than ever! www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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KAUFFMAN DESIGN

(678) 772-9290 • Award winning residential design firm with over 35 years experience • My passion is to fully integrate your ideas and vision into your new addition or renovation • Complimentary initial consultation www.kauffmandesign.com

METROPOLITAN PROPERTIES OF GA, LLC Weatherization is the process of protecting your home from outside elements and making modifications to reduce energy costs while improving the comfort, health and safety of your home. What is the Payoff? By hiring a certified building analyst to conduct whole house energy audit you can identify specific energy saving improvements that can help reduce energy costs in your home by as much as 30%. SAVINGS - this is why you should schedule an audit today!

(678) 240-2064 Visit us online or call today and start saving!

www.metropolitanpropertiesga.com Free Home Energy Audit (value up to $500)

OUTDOOR ADVANTAGE

Atlanta’s Premier Lighting Firm Perfection Matters Let us transform your home with industry leading innovation and lighting design.

Call Today and Schedule your FREE NIGHTTIME LIGHTING DEMONSTRATION View our portfolio online at:

www.outdooradvantagellc.com

PDI PLUMBING & LIGHTING Remodeling? Building your dream home? Let PDI’s knowledgeable Showroom Consultants help you select products to fit your taste and budget. When its time to update your home with the latest in plumbing and lighting fixtures, you want two things: an intimate, personal shopping experience and your pick of all the best brands. That’s why homeowners choose PDI!

QUINN WINDOWS & SIDING

10% off with this ad 76

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Energy-saving Exterior Remodeling

Quinn Windows & Siding is a family-owned, family-run remodeling company with over 30 years of experience in the Atlanta area. We specialize in energy-saving exterior remodeling: windows, siding, doors, sunrooms and more.

Why should you hire Quinn Windows? We offer the widest selection of home improvement products that will lower maintenance costs and slash energy bills. Our prices are fair and upfront. Mention this ad for 10% off.

(678) 525-7967 • LED Installations • System Renovations • Custom Installations • New Systems • System Expansion • System Service • Award Winning Customer Service

(770) 963-9231 Visit us at any of our 6 Metro-Atlanta showrooms.

Browse products online at www.relyonpdi.com

(770) 939-5634 • Better Business Bureau A+ Rating!

• Fully Insured • Over 30 Years Of Experience In Energy-Saving Remodeling • Accept All Major Credit Cards

www.QuinnWindows.com www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/5/12 8:41:04 PM

editorialresources HOME FRONT P. 15-18 Atlanta Design & Build, 320 Wallace Road, Marietta, GA 30062, (770) 565-8999, www. atlantadesignbuild.com. Atlanta Home Show, (770) 813-7610, www.atlantahomeshow.com. Gibbs Gardens, 1998 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107, (770) 893-1880, www.gibbsgardens.com.

HGTV, www.hgtv.com. Lefko Renovations, 9 West Park Court NW, Atlanta, GA 30342, (404) 846-6372, www.lefkorenovations. com. NARI Atlanta, 3227 S. Cherokee Lane #1320, Woodstock, GA 30188, (770) 516-2091, www.nariatlanta.org. North American Deck and Railing Association, www.nadra.org. homefront

Expert Tips, News and Happenings from Atlanta’s Home Improvement Community

BY KALI MALLARD

Local Contractors Help Design and Build 2012 HGTV Green Home Outside Atlanta

Expert Q&A

Several local contractors are getting national attention for their work on the 2012 HGTV Green Home located 30 minutes south of the airport, in the eco-friendly community of Serenbe (www.serenbe.com). Architects Steve Kemp and Georgia Muncaster, of Kemp Hall Studio (www.kemphallstudio.com), builder Curtis Peart, of FrontPorch Custom Homes and Renovations (www.yourfrontporch.com), landscape architect Ed Castro, of Ed Castro Landscape (www.edcastro.com) and Serenbe developer Steve Nygren worked with HGTV house planner and Atlanta resident Jack Thomasson along with HGTV interior designer Linda Woodrum to design and build the network’s fifth green home. Described as a modern family farmhouse inspired by Southeastern culture and regional architecture, the home “combines traditional beauty with 21st century responsible living,” according to a press release from HGTV. It will be open for public tours May 4 through June 24, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day except Monday. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the Serenbe Institute for Art, Culture & the Environment and Chattahoochee Hills Charter School. A virtual tour of the custom home also is available online, and fans can enter to win it as part of a giveaway from HGTV. For more information visit www.hgtv.com/greenhome.

Q:

How can I ensure my remodeling project will not be a nightmare?

A:

Here are three things you can do to ensure your project is smooth and enjoyable:

1) Select a general contractor by calling multiple references and checking on their reliability, communication, timeliness, adhering to a budget, cleanliness and attention to detail.

2) Commission a conceptual design that includes 3D drawings. This will help you compare alternatives and visualize the finished space before it is built.

3) Make all material selections prior to starting the project.

Have your contractor wait for all special orders to arrive before breaking ground.

—David Lefkovits, CEO, Lefko Renovations (www.lefko renovations. com)

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST P. 25-39 1-800-GotJunk?, (800) 468-5865, www.1800gotjunk.com. Ace Hardware, Get It Done www.acehardware.com. AVI, a Marvin Window Gallery, (877) 833-2233, www.avimarvin.com. Cabinet Transformations, (770) 366-9883, www.cabinettransformations.net. California Closets, 5155 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite A, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, (770) 449-6141, www.californiaclosets.com. CertainTeed Corporation, www.certainteed.com. Clopay, www.clopaydoor.

I com. Decks and More, (770) 235-6929, www.decksandmore. biz. DogGoneHandy HandyMan Services, 1123 Zonolite Road, Suite 18, Atlanta, GA 30306, (404) 876-7000, www.doggonehandy.com. Envirovue Home Inspection, www.envirovue.com. Green Irene, www.greenirene.com. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, www.atlantahabitat.org/restore. HouseMaster Home Inspections, www. housemaster.com. Kudzu, www.kudzu.com. L. Green Studios, 2300 Peachtree Road, Suite C-203, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 729-7780, www.LGreenStudios.com.

Lennox Industries, www.lennox.com. Mr. Handyman, 303 Perimeter Center N., Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30346, (678) 373-4410, www.mrhandyman.com. Owens Corning, www.owenscorning.com. Philip Schmidt, www.philipschmidt.net. RotoRooter Corp., (404) 209-0001, www.rotorooter.com. Southface Energy Institute, 241 Pine Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, (404) 872-3549, www.southface.org.

Terminix, 4016 Flowers Road, Suite 420, Doraville, GA 30360, (770) 455-9660, www. terminix.com. The Garage Dude, (678) 637-9680, www.thegaragedude.com. The Miracle Method, www.miraclemethod.com. Williams Security and Wrought Iron Manufacturers, 4725 Baker Ferry Road, Suite C, Atlanta, GA 30336, (404) 699-9800, www.williamssecurity.net. Window World Atlanta, 2125 Corporate Drive, Suite 101, Marietta, GA 30067, (770) 303-0757, www.windowworldAtlanta.com.

SPECIAL SECTION: MAINTENANCE & REPAIR CHECKLIST

Atlanta Home Improvement’s annual maintenance and repair checklist

By Kathy Kantorski and Alma Hill

t’s time to open your windows again, but don’t stop at refreshing your air. Refresh your home with annual spring cleaning and maintenance too. Check off each of the following tasks to make your living space feel brand new:

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

Artists Market

May 26-27 ArtWalk May 25 All around Decatur

27

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

Fine Arts Exhibition

Opening May 22 Poster Unveiling May 5 L E A R N M O R E AT

DecaturArtsFestival.com

RANCH REHAB P. 42-49 Axios Architecture LLC, 2218 Lebaron Drive, Atlanta, GA 30345, (404) 636-0611, www.axiosarchitecture.com.

Duo Dickinson, www.duodickinson.com.

Home ReBuilders, 1123 Zonolite Road, Suite 18, Atlanta, GA 30306, (404) 876-3000, www.

Ranch ehab homerebuilders.com. Kauffman Design, 1844 T South Garden Court, Atlanta, GA 30319, (678) 772-9290, www.kauffmandesign.com. Sensible Home Solutions of GA, LLC, 3185 River Summit Trail, Duluth, GA 30097, www. shsga.com. Splice Design, www.splice-design.com.

Project

Remodel by: Axios Architecture (www.axiosarchitecture.com)

#1

Location: Briarcliff Woods/Sagamore neighborhood near Emory

Homeowner’s woes and wants: When planning a remodel of his own ranch home, Steve Robinson, principal at Axios Architecture, sought to create a better space, not merely more space. The 2,100 square-foot main level was adequate for his family’s needs but had no flow, a closed layout and a kitchen that was totally separated from all of the living areas.

Photos courtesy of Axios Architecture LLC

Rehab: The addition of just 60 square feet to the kitchen proves a little can go a long way. The glass-and-stucco structure seamlessly attaches to the back of the house, significantly changing the exterior architecture. The large amounts of glass and bright chartreuse color add contemporary contrast and dimension to the ranch home.

Inside, the new design opened up all of the main rooms into a suite of distinct yet interconnected spaces. Robinson believes that many ranch remodels create too much openness, resulting in the loss of character, so he focused on creating a charming, layered space. He raised the ceiling in the family room and kitchen area, while keeping the living and dining room ceilings at eight feet. The ceiling over the dining area was lowered by only four inches, but the effect is dramatic: The lowered ceiling forms a floating horizontal plane above a custombuilt banquette and terminates as a projecting “trellis” overhang outside the rear addition.

Photo courtesy of Thomas Watkins Photography

R

The remodel also addressed another exterior problem. Originally, an elevated terrace blocked the view from the family room to the lower backyard. Robinson’s solution was to turn part of the terrace into a brick planter and install steps from the back door to a lower patio that provides an outdoor living space and increases the indoor/outdoor connection.

B E F O R E

Remodeling ideas for the fifties’ favorite home style

P H O T O S

By Karina Timmel

he ranch-style home originally was designed to be both affordable and fitting of the minimalist needs

of Depression-era families. This bland home style with low-pitched roofs and closed-off interior rooms

proliferated across the U.S. in the 1950s and continues to perplex homeowners who want to remodel. “I would

say that half of the houses I look at have this basic design and its inherent limitations,” says Robert Kauffman,

principal at Kauffman Design (www.kauffmandesign.com). “These homeowners are hungry for ideas.” In hopes of alleviating some of the frustration, here are four Atlanta area remodeling projects that feature imaginative updates for ranch homes.

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

Photo courtesy of Sketch-a-Scape

46

the wonder of Creating an artfully designed and audibly soothing water feature is an enhancement to any landscape project

By Tara N. Wilfong

T

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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WATER FEATURES P. 51-55 Decks and More, (770) 235-6929, www.decksandmore.biz. Miller Landscape, Inc., (770) 591-5234, www.millerlandscape.net. Outside Landscape Group, 11435 N. Fulton Industrial Blvd., Alpharetta, GA 30009, (770) 754-1188, www.outsidelandscapegroup.com. Sketch-a-Scape, (404) 3883827, www.sketch-a-scape.com. Water, Color & Stone Inc., (404) 277-6372, www.watercolorstone.com.

here’s just something about water that has an inexplicable draw. Perhaps it’s the soothing sound of a trickling stream that conjures images of a mountain brook or the roaring rush of a cascading waterfall that recalls the unleashed power of the ocean. Whatever the attraction, homeowners are captivated by water, often seeking new and inventive ways to incorporate these aquatic oases in

their landscape plans.

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2012

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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makeoverofthemonth Outdoor Connection Makeover by MOSAIC Group [Architects and Remodelers], (770) 670-6022, www.mosaicgroupatlanta.com COMPILED BY KALI MALLARD

Photos courtesy of Gregg Willett Photography

• LANDSCAPE SERVICES King Landscaping, www.ericking landscaping.com

• OUTDOOR FIREPLACE Stone Center of Georgia, www. thestonecenter. com/georgia

• PAVERS Belgard, www. belgard.biz

What was once a virtually unusable backyard is now a dynamic outdoor living space complete with new landscaping, hardscaping and more. While the plan transformed the look of the backyard and provided a needed connection between the interior and exterior of the house, it also solved drainage issues created by water flowing into the yard from neighboring lots. After redirecting the water flow, the yard was resodded, an existing water feature modified and new landscape lighting installed. Filling out the additional 1,000 square-feet of outdoor living space created by the project are a covered porch, grill and bar area and dining space punctuated by a grand outdoor fireplace.

By strategically combining new materials with existing materials, the new outdoor living space looks like it has always been there.

➚ For more before-and-after projects, go to www.atlantahomeimprovement.com 78

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www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

4/11/12 12:23:05 PM

CSI is Your Whole House Remodeling Studio!

After KITCHENS x BATHS x CLOSETS x BASEMENTS x DECKS x

Before

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio does more than gorgeous kitchens and baths!

We can handle any home remodeling project you desire.

Call today for a free consultation!

x x x

WINE CELLARS x SUNROOMS HOME OFFICES LICENSED AND INSURED

6527 Jimmy Carter Blvd., C-2 Norcross, GA 30071

www.csikitchenandbath.com www.leichtstudiobycsi.com www.csiclosetsandstorage.com

Others promise, CSI delivers邃｢

Monday窶認riday: 8:30-5:30 Saturday: 10:00-4:00

770-729-1999

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After

Before

4/5/12 7:55:58 PM

THERE ARE SAVINGS WAITING INSIDE YOUR HOME.

EARTHCENTS CAN HELP YOU FIND THEM. Georgia Power’s EarthCents program provides rebates and incentives to help customers make home efficiency improvements. To learn about all the ways we can help you save, go to georgiapower.com/earthcents.

OFFICIAL ENERGY PARTNER OF YOU

SM

©2012 Georgia Power

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