BUILDERS BUILDERS CORNER

Tips from the experts!

If you had someone getting ready to take advantage of your products / services - what would you say to them for advice, tips?

Design:

Symmetrical elements in a design are not always the answer. Mix it up with asymmetrical elements, which can help draw attention and give your design the personality you are looking for.

Design: Feeling overwhelmed from your inspiration photos? Start by finding a common theme. Does the same countertop or wood color keep showing up? Design style or tile layout? Create your design around those similar elements that you have previously been drawn to.

Architectural: Corners on your project have hidden costs. They add labor to every part of the project including excavation, footings, foundation, waterproofing, concrete, framing, roof trusses, siding, and not to mention all the interior finishing.

-Bruckelmyer Brothers

Construction

Use an established designer on your project. Let our many years of experience and expertise guide you. As designers we can help you navigate the many decisions you need to make. We design the lay-out of cabinetry with both function and aesthetics in mind to achieve a finished project that incorporates the best materials and products for your investment.

-Patty and Nicole, Gemini Designs

Cabinetry

I think the most important advice I would give a homeowner is that ALL electrical work in the state of Minnesota is required to be done by a licensed electrical contractor. Hiring a "handyman" or a person willing to do the job "on the side" is not only illegal, it can also be extremely dangerous. When hiring a contractor, talk to friends, general contractors, inspectors or people involved in other trades. Duluth is a very small town with a high quality workforce. With a little bit of due diligence, you will be able to find a reputable contractor.

-Jim Lenard, Lenard Electric

Simplify your window replacement job by installing a slightly wider casing to cover the existing paint lines.

-Ann Anderson, The Tongue and Groove Store

Windows

Use coasters for your glasses, especially those containing alcohol or citric juices. If you do have a spill, make sure you blot — not wipe — the stain with a microfiber cloth or other soft material. Clean stone surfaces without products containing lemon, vinegar or other acids, which can cause the stone to dull or etch. Hot soapy dishwater works great. Make sure you seal your countertops at least once a year to help keep your counters more stain resistant.

-Alexa Eggen, Northwoods Granite

Having a professional landscape design plan by an experienced company will help you with budget creation, construction planning and selections and, ultimately, give you a peace of mind.

-Miller Creek Lawn & Landscaping

If new siding is on your “to do” list then LP SmartSide pre-finished engineered wood siding and trim is an excellent choice. Lighter weight means one person can install with no special tools required! It is treated with zinc borate to resist fungal decay and termites. SmartSide is locally produced in Hayward and Two Harbors. It is backed by a 50year product warranty and available in many colors with 15- or 30-year paint warranties. The 16-foot siding lengths mean less seams versus the competition. It’ll stand up against hail, baseballs, hockey pucks, and lawnmower rocks. A smart choice is LP SmartSide!

-Frank Gerard, Campbell Lumber

Think about the purpose that you want this fireplace to have. Is it for ambiance, is it the centerpiece of the home and more like artwork, or is it mostly to heat a space? Knowing this will help us find the perfect solution for your home and your fireplace. It doesn't have to be all, one or the other, but a combination of all those. We will find the unique one that fits your unique project.

-Bryan LaCore, The Fireplace Corner