Prioritizing client experience, quality craftsmanship and one-of-a-kind spaces page 27
How to transform
PUBLISHER
Edward P. McCartney
EDITOR
Peter Proko
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Matt Cosentino, Madeleine Maccar, Carly Murray
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kristen Dowd
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Hank Alspach
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Brian Mikulski
DESIGNERS
Eileen Pullia, Lisa Zollinger
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
Darlene Versak
SALES DIRECTOR
Lindsay Gonzalez
SALES MANAGER
Jim Romano
NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPER
Chuck McKane
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
Nicole Corabi, Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Lori Vorgang, Amy B. Weiss
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Max Haggerty
STAFF ACCOUNTANT
Karmal Pritchett
DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Leigh Stuart
PUBLISHER EMERITUS
Bob Doran
EXECUTIVE PARTNERS
Gerry Haggerty, Edward P. McCartney
publication and should they be published, no fee is due the photographer or model unless otherwise agreed upon in advance in writing.
HOUSE & HOME is a news magazine with emphasis on home repair and remodeling. H&H does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does H&H or its staff, editors or writers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publications. Readers are encouraged to notify H&H if they suspect false or misleading advertising.
Before attempting any renovation or repair project mentioned in H&H, readers are advised to consult with professional home repair and renovation specialists for assistance, and to take any and all appropriate safety precautions. HOUSE & HOME has not independently tested any products or services advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. HOUSE & HOME. makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products. No reproduction of printed materials is permitted without the consent of the publisher of HOUSE & HOME. Copyright 2012 by HOUSE & HOME. Magazine, LLC, all rights reserved. Subscription available for home delivery at our website, www.HouseMagazine.com, at a cost of $19.95 per year.
Phone:
Email: info@housemagazine.com
Featuring WE PROUDLY PRESENT THE 2025 SPOTLIGHTS and SHOWCASES
We are excited to present our tenth annual Best
of House & Home.
As voted by our readers, the following companies and professionals are being recognized for their quality products, expertise, top-notch customer service and reliability. We're also featuring a closer look at these companies in informative spotlights and showcases that shed some light on their dedication. For your next home project, there is no one better than these winners.
ADDITIONS
LBK Design Build
215-675-5000
LBKDesignBuild.com
Rolf Schroeder General Contractor
215-672-0829
RolfSchroederGC.com
APPLIANCES
Robert Stevens Scratch & Dent Outlets
215-742-7444
215-638-9494
RobertStevensAppliance.com
ARTIFICIAL
GRASS/TURF
Artificial Grass Turf Warehouse 201-971-2323
ArtificialGrassTurfWarehouse .com
AWNINGS
Marygrove Awnings
1-800-AWNINGS
Marygrove.com
BASEMENT CELLAR DOORS
Steelway Cellar Doors 877-553-2610
CellarDoors.com
BASEMENT REFINISHING
Rolf Schroeder General Contractor 215-672-0829
RolfSchroederGC.com
Water Dog Construction
215-317-4261
WaterDogConstruction.com
BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
’58 Foundations 610-822-9849
58Foundations.com
AquaDry Basement
Waterproofing (215) 432-7122
AquaDryBasements.com
Basement Waterproofing Specialists
800-700-9171
BasementWaterproofing Specialists.com
BATH DESIGN Fascella Construction Corporation 610-847-6862
FascellaCorp.com
McHales, Inc 215-488-7306 McHales.net
Rolf Schroeder General Contractor 215-672-0829
RolfSchroederGC.com
CABINETRY Carr Home 215-822-0505 CarrHome.com
PA Building Supply 484-488-7227 PaBuildingSupply.com
Simply Cabinetry 215-659-7500 SimplyCabinetry.com
CABINET PAINTING In Place Cabinetry Finishes 215-258-3808 InPlaceFinishes.com
CABINET REFACING
Capital Kitchen Refacing 267-907 3591
CapitalKitchenRefacing.com
Let’s Face It 215-343-2600 LFIKitchens.com
CABINET SHELVING
Shelf Genie 609-595-4342
ShelfGenie.com
CHIMNEY CLEANING
The Chimney Scientists 610-909-5585
ChimneyDcientists.com
Midtown Chimney Sweeps 215-814-0377
MidtownChimneySweeps.com
CHRISTMAS LIGHTING
Vesta Lights 484-267-5868
VestaLights.com
CLOSET ORGANIZATION
Closet Factory 215-268-7660
ClosetFactory.com
Closets By Design of SE Penn 610-537-8920
ClosetsByDesign.com
Closets For Less of Bucks County 610-660-3080
Closets4LessBucks.com
DECK DESIGN & BUILD
Deck Craft Plus 610-273-3317
DeckCraftPlus.com
Deck Guardian
908-332-8577
DeckGuardian.com
Keystone Outdoor Living 717-929-8404
Keystone.co
DECKING SUPPLY
Sequoia Out Back 215-368-7245 215-918-3325
DeckSupplies.com
DECORATIVE STAMPED CONCRETE
Architectural Concrete Design
866-956-2818
ACDConcrete.com
DOORS, INTERIOR Freedom Millwork 215-642-2213
FreedomMillwork.net
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
McHales, Inc 215-488-7306
McHales.net
ELEVATORS
101 Mobility of Greater Philadelphia 855-For-Lift
101MobilityPhiladelphia.com
FENCING
Great Valley Fence 215-364-7875
GVFence.com
FIREPLACES & INSERTS
Midtown Chimney Sweeps 215-814-0377
MidtownChimneySweeps.com
Newtown Fireplace Shop 215-968-3981
NewtownFireplaceShop.com
FINANCING
Trumark Financial Credit Union 877-TruMark TruMarkOnline.org
FLOORING
Hampstead Floor Company 267-396-6107
HampsteadFloorCompany .com
Tom Adams Windows & Carpets 215-357-7000
TomAdamsWC.com
FOUNDATION REPAIR ’58 Foundations 610-822-9849 58fFoundations.com
FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES
The Buxton Complex 609-771-0274 TheBuxtonComplex.com
Country Lane Furniture 717-867-5701
CountryLaneFurniture.com
Oskar Huber Fine Furniture 215-355-4800 OskarHuber.com
GAME ROOM SUPPLIES
Royal Billiard and Recreation 215-997-7777 RoyalBilliard.com
GARAGE DOORS
Jammer Doors 215-493-7709 JammerDoors.com
The Jaydor Company 215-385-5571 JaydorCo.com
Prolift Doors of Lansdale 267-337-5355 ProliftDoors.com
Blind Builders, Inc. 215-322-5855 BlindBuilders.com
Bloomin Blinds 267-380-2818
BloominBlinds.com
WOOD MOLDING/ TRIMWORK Home Trimwork 215-613-4100
HomeTrimwork.com
Rolf Schroeder
General Contractor 215-672-0829
RolfSchroederGC.com
BEST BEST SPOTLIGHTS
Basement Waterproofing Specialists
Family values and amazing, happy customers triumphed BWS to have the best year in the history of the company in spite of the pandemic.
MANY BUSINESSES HAVE CLOSED THEIR DOORS FOREVER. However, despite the bleak outlook for many, one local business is overwhelmed with new customers. In fact, it’s in the midst of an immense expansion, including the conversion of a historic Collegeville home, built in the 1700s, into a second location.
Using a house as an office isn’t new for Basement Waterproofing Specialists. Its main office, located in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, is also a farmhouse-turned-waterproofing headquarters. It’s no coincidence that the company recently converted a second home into a new workspace. “Our goal has always been to treat you like family. That’s not a marketing gimmick. We are blessed with exceptional employees who really care about our customers. We teach our inspectors and work crews to
treat every single client’s home as if it were the house of one of their family members,” says Ken Klinger, his wife Deb and daughter Anne.
This philosophy has paid off well for both the company and its clients. It’s been a happy home to many pets. Employees are encouraged to bring their pets to work. Besides Ken and Deb’s two giant, lovable Boz shepherds, Carl and Clarabelle, the main office is also often host to a happy flock of dogs, cats, rabbits and birds.
Over the last eight years, the company has won awards for “Best Basement Waterproofing company” from Angie’s List, House & Home, Home Advisor Magazine, the Mercury Newspaper and more. It currently holds an overall 4.7-star rating, based on over 1,000 reviews on Facebook, Google, Thumbtack and Angie’s List. It also has an astonishing 9,700 likes and 10,000 followers on Facebook while competitors average under 500.
This award-winning service combined with extreme customer loyalty is the major driving force behind the company expanding while many are retreating. “Humble thanks to our amazing customers. We have been overwhelmed by so many referrals during the COVID crisis. Those referrals, plus Gov. Tom Wolf deeming us an essential business, have helped us expand into a second office to house our ever-growing staff,” says Ken. “We are not only thrilled to help our customers solve their problems, but also happy to create new jobs for people in the area.”
In March of 2020, Gov. Wolf determined that Basement Waterproofing Specialists is an essential business whose work is “necessary to help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.” In addition to waterproofing, the company also removes mold and improves air quality. Its Ozone Generation technology is EPA-approved and can help eliminate not only mold and mildew, but also airborne pathogens in your home.
Basement Waterproofing Specialists’ expansion is a bit historic, as well. Its new building, located at 109 River Road in Collegeville, was built in 1700, and was used as a hotel to help with the growing tourism to the area. This fourth-generation family business is eager to help your family enjoy a clean, dry, mold-free, safe basement.
Staying Put Staying Put
Fewer people in the United States are moving from house to house these days. In fact, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the percentage of the country’s movers has been on a steady decline, from 16.8% in 2016 to 11.8% last year.
Additionally, more families aren’t just choosing to live in their homes longer: They’re spending more time there. This homebody trend began with the COVID-19 pandemic and its related lockdown, and has not only persisted but also grown over the past five years. Consumer analytics platform CivicScience found that the proportion of adults with a decreased desire to leave their home hit 35% earlier this year, which is higher than the 29% reported in 2020.
Home improvement companies are ready to make what’s old new again for clients who want a refresh of their home.
The problem is, deciding a house is a forever home—or at least a forever-for-awhile home—does not automatically turn it into a dream home. In fact, spending more time in your space may highlight the things you want to change. Does the kitchen look tired? Is the bathroom too bland? Do these floors need restoring? Is it time to update the woodwork?
For those looking to stay in their current home long-term but are still eager for a refresh, House & Home spoke with local professionals to discuss the many ways you can spruce up your home’s interior and make it the perfect place to spend your time.
A SMART INVESTMENT
When staying long-term in a home, it makes sense to invest in quality craftsmanship.
“It adds value and personal character to the house,” explains Pavlo Danylchenko of Signature Woodcraft. The custom interior woodworking business brings beauty to a home, from adding wainscoting to a hallway, to building a mantle around a fireplace, to constructing a custom staircase in a foyer. The company fields a lot of requests for mudroom cabinetry, too, as well as custom shelving and bookcases throughout a home.
“We’ve been doing this for a very long time,” Danylchenko continues. “We know how to do it and it’s very easy for us.”
Adding charm with details is a great way to refresh a tired space, according to Rich Lauletta of Haddon Flooring. The company specializes in luxury hardwood, engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank flooring—the latter a popular choice because of its durability, Lauletta says—and also offers custom wainscoting and eye-catching accent walls, which have been growing in popularity.
Staying Put
“They really brighten up a room,” Lauletta says. “It’s a ‘wow’ factor. One couple told us they couldn’t help but smile when they walk past it. Someone else told us the accent wall made the room their happy place. We love doing them and hope we can spread joy through them.”
They’re also practical and long-lasting, Lauletta adds, with the wood and high gloss paint used being much more durable than a regular painted wall.
Durability is a key reason to use professionals when refreshing your space: They know how to make things not only look great, but also last for years to come.
AN UPGRADED LIFESTYLE
“Many homeowners love their homes but feel their kitchen or bath no longer reflects their lifestyle or taste,” says Steven Livingston of Kitchen Tune-Up Bloomfield. “Kitchen Tune-Up specializes in breathing new life into existing spaces—without the disruption or cost of a full-gut remodel.”
There are a range of tailored solutions from Kitchen Tune-Up, including the cabinet refacing that gives a brand-new look to existing solid cabinet boxes, new custom cabinetry, and upgrades such as countertops,
tile, hardware and smart storage solutions.
“These options allow homeowners to modernize their space and increase value while staying comfortably in the home they love,” Livingston says.
Kitchen Tune-Up Greater Bergen’s Todd Finkenstadt adds that the company offers options at every investment level.
“If you plan to stay in your home longterm and want a meaningful refresh, Kitchen Tune-Up offers a range of services, from quick updates to complete kitchen transformations to help you love your kitchen again,” he notes.
Another way to upgrade a space without overhauling the entire room is by replacing shower doors and mirrors—accents that should, quite literally, shine.
“Primarily, we’re going to be working in the bathroom,” says Scott Kingsland of Glass Castle. “Shower doors are more modern, heavier glass, less metal. We also offer different mirror options—beveled, custom cut.”
The safety of full-glass shower doors shouldn’t be a concern, according to Kingsland, as it’s tempered safety glass ranging in thickness between three-eighths of an inch to a half-inch.
“You could literally hit them with a hammer and they wouldn’t break. They’re that strong, and definitely very durable,”
he affirms.
From a longevity standpoint, coatings applied to the glass during the manufacturing process, such as Showerguard, not only come with a lifetime warranty but also seal the inside portion of the shower “so every time you clean it, everything comes off and it looks brand new. You can have a shower door that’s 15 years old and it’s still going to be as clear as the day installed,” Kingsland says.
Although most of Glass Castle’s offerings are focused on the bathroom, they have also been adding mirrored walls to basement gyms and, for higher-end customers, glass fronts for wine rooms to showcase the space.
ON TOP OF TRENDS
When it comes to trends in the homespace, a lot of the shift is on finishes, whether it’s the front of a cabinet or the hardware of a shower door.
According to Finkelstadt, homeowners are asking for warm, natural finishes and slim shaker cabinets, which “blend natural warmth, modern simplicity and low-maintenance practicality.”
“We’re seeing homeowners lean into warmth and texture—natural woods, matte finishes, and soft whites balanced with statement hardware or bold islands,” agrees Livingston, adding that storage efficiency is an-
other major focus. “Hidden charging drawers, pull-out pantries and built-in organizers are topping most wish lists.”
The biggest industry trend that Kingsland has seen in recent years has been thicker glass and less metal on shower doors, with a wider option of finishes.
“Twenty years ago it was chrome and brass. Then brushed nickel was introduced,” he says. “Today, matte black is popular. Satin brass, satin gold finishes are all pretty popular, too.”
Finishes have changed in woodworking, too, as Danylchenko says, “Paint is trendier right now. It’s rare we do stained jobs.”
STARTING THE PROCESS
When it comes to booking a job for a home facelift, a simple phone call typically begins the process. Most companies offer free in-home consultations to get the ball rolling, too.
“We can show them a bunch of options, different samples where they can put it right in the space to really get the feel of what it would look like when it’s done. We also do visualization tools where we can take a picture of their space and show them a rendering of what it would look like with a custom accent wall or new floors,” Lauletta says.
Even when the customer knows what they want, Dan-
ylchenko says it’s important for the professionals to bring in their own knowledge to make the space as functional and aesthetically pleasing as possible.
“We always provide our own drawings of the projects of how exactly it’s going to look,” he says.
Kitchen Tune-Up uses its own proprietary design quiz to help uncover each client’s style and preferences, according to Livingston.
“It all begins with an inhome consultation, where we collaborate with homeowners to craft a design they’ll love for years to come,” he says. “During the visit, we review the space, discuss functionality and layout, and then translate that into a detailed design plan. From there, we guide clients step-by-step through every component of the remodel—incorporating 3D renderings where applicable for custom kitchens to help them visualize the finished space with complete confidence.”
When a client starts the home upgrade process, they may know exactly what they want, or they might know that they need a refresh but aren’t quite sure how to go about it. In either case, local businesses are ready to work with customers to find their perfect solution.
“We help make it a happy place to spend their time,” Lauletta says.
RESOURCES
Glass Castle
Lawrenceville, NJ: (609) 312-5619
Neshanic Station, NJ: (908) 402-1057
GlassCastle.com
Haddon Flooring
Serving South Jersey (856) 654-0005
HaddonFlooring.com
Kitchen Tune Up North Jersey
Steven & Takia Livingston (Bloomfield, NJ)
Todd & Ruth Finkenstadt (Glen Rock, NJ) (201) 474-3112
KitchenTuneUp.com
Signature Woodcraft
Serving New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware (267) 736-9740
SignatureWCraft.com
Building a Legacy
Rolf Schroeder General Contractors is a full-service design/build remodeling firm that prioritizes client experience, quality craftsmanship and one-of-a-kind spaces which elevate how families live, gather and feel at home. By
Kristen Dowd
every family is unique, so why shouldn’t their home be personalized to them—not cookiecutter or repetitive?”
Part of the community
For homeowners considering a remodel, they don’t need to look any farther than Rolf Schroeder General Contractors. “Whether it’s a kitchen, bath, addition or a full transformation, we’re here to guide them through a thoughtful, well-planned process from first conversation to final detail,” Derek Schroeder says.
The full-service design/build remodeling firm specializes in high-end kitchens and bathrooms; additions and whole-home remodels; custom millwork and built-ins; exterior transformations and outdoor living spaces. Quite simply, if a client can envision it, Rolf Schroeder General Contractors can design it, refine it and bring it to life with exceptional craftsmanship.
A strong foundation
Founded in 1982 by Schroeder’s father, Rolf, the company evolved into what it’s known for today: high-quality remodeling and additions.
Derek grew up in the business, learning the trade from the ground up. After earning a degree in kinesiology from Penn State University and completing an internship with the Chicago Bears, he realized remodeling was where he belonged.
“I joined the company full-time in 2008, learned every aspect of operations, and now lead the firm as owner/president, while Rolf remains involved as senior consultant,” he says. “This continuity ensures that the principles that shaped our early years—quality, integrity and deep respect for client relationships—remain central to everything we do.”
An industry leader
As a design/build firm, clients benefit from a streamlined, collaborative approach which aligns design, budget and construction from the start.
“We combine design, budgeting and construction from day one, which means fewer surprises, better alignment with a client’s investment and a smoother experience overall,” Schroeder explains. “This inte-
grated approach minimizes redesigns, reduces delays and keeps projects aligned with both vision and investment.”
A high-touch, owner-led process also sets the firm apart. Schroeder is involved from the first consultation through the final walkthrough, supported by a talented team of designers, architects/engineers, project managers and highly skilled carpenters.
The company also works with a carefully curated group of trade partners. “Instead of a long list of rotating subcontractors, we work with trusted partners who share our standards for craftsmanship and professionalism,” Schroeder says. “Many have worked alongside us for decades.”
Client experience matters as much as the finished space, and “client service excellence” is a priority for every job. Clients can expect clear communication, respect for their home, guided decision-making and investment transparency. “We also maintain a zeropunch-list standard—meaning we consider a project complete only when every detail meets our expectations and yours,” Schroeder adds.
On top of trends
While timeless design is always a focus, trends inevitably influence home remodeling. To stay current, the team is active in professional associations, manufacturer training and industry events, continually reviewing new products, techniques and building science.
“Our philosophy is to design spaces which feel timeless with modern comforts—not simply chase what’s trendy today,” Schroeder remarks.
Current interests include kitchens that function as true gathering spaces, bathrooms designed as personal retreats, integrated technology and energy-efficient upgrades. The team also brings architectural-level craftsmanship to every project.
“We incorporate custom millwork, tailored ceiling treatments and bespoke builtins,” Schroeder explains. “Everyone and
Two values that remain especially important to the firm, Schroeder says, are legacy and community. “We’re passionate about the design/build partnership,” he explains. “We want clients to be in the driver’s seat—supported by a team that listens, educates and advocates for their best interests.”
While creating a beautiful final project is a goal, building long-term relationships is equally important. Some clients have entrusted the company with five, six or even seven projects over time.
“We’re deeply committed to leaving a legacy that’s bigger than ourselves,” Schroeder says. “That goes beyond the homes we remodel and into the communities we serve.”
The team is actively involved in community service initiatives, philanthropic partnerships and industry education and mentorship. This includes ongoing s upport for Links4Lungs and Wilson’s Village, hands-on involvement at Middle Bucks Institute of Technology, and community efforts that help local families.
“What sets us apart is this combination of multi-generational craftsmanship, a refined design/build process, award-winning work, independently verified client satisfaction and a genuine commitment to giving back,” Schroeder affirms. “Our commitment to service excellence has also earned us repeated recognition through GuildQuality’s Guildmaster Award with Highest Distinction.”
“We’re proud to serve Bucks and Montgomery counties, the Main Line and select areas of New Jersey. This is where we live and work, and we take deep pride in the homes— and the relationships—we build here,” he continues. “We’re not just remodeling homes—we’re investing in our community, our clients and the future of the remodeling profession.”
WHow to make sure your home is properly prepared for the season.
Ready for Winter
ith winter fast approaching and frigid temperatures not far behind, many folks have undoubtedly already begun the countdown until the warmer weather arrives next spring. But just because we have traded in our swimsuits and towels for sweaters and blankets, it’s important that homeowners don’t simply slip into hibernation, but rather make sure their property is well-positioned to survive the season’s harsh conditions.
By Peter Proko
issue and a massive headache.
Whether having your roof, gutters or siding inspected, ensuring your windows and entry doors are properly sealed, having your chimney serviced or tending to your landscaping, there is no shortage of areas to address before Old Man Winter rears his head.
House & Home spoke with some area experts to gain advice on what boxes you should be marking off from your winterizing checklist. No matter what your home’s needs may be, taking a proactive approach can be the difference between a small
Why is now an ideal time to take stock of the exterior of your home and identify potential issues?
Late fall is hands down the smartest time to walk the perimeter of your house with a critical eye. A lot of the leaves are down, so you can spot siding that’s cupped, cracked or pulling away from the wall. You can also spot curled or missing roof shingles. You’ll want to look for daylight peeking through window or door gaps that will become expensive heat
leaks once temperatures drop. A quick visual check now can prevent small issues from becoming larger issues in a couple months.
—Mike Chapman, owner and president, Chapman Windows Doors & Siding
What are some of the key areas that you try and make homeowners aware of with regard to winterizing their home?
When it comes to winterizing your home, the key is to stop heat loss. The U.S. Department of Energy says that drafts can waste 5-to-30% of
energy use. Take time to inspect your house.
Repairing or replacing windows, doors, siding or your roof can help you reduce heat loss and stop larger problems from developing. In the long run, these proactive fixes stop rot, mold and structural decay that can lead to larger repairs or replacements down the line.
—Mike Chapman
How important is it to have your roof assessed before winter weather arrives, especially if it’s on the older side? Having your roof inspected
before winter is especially important if it’s older or showing signs of wear. Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can worsen small problems like cracks, curling or missing shingles, leading to leaks and costly damage. An inspection can catch these issues early, ensure proper ventilation and insulation, and reduce the risk of ice dams and leaks. It also helps extend your roof’s lifespan, keeps your home safe from structural problems and provides documentation for insurance purposes. In short, a pre-winter roof check is a simple step that can save money
and prevent headaches during the harshest months.
—Jake Domanski, sales manager, G. Fedale Roofing & Siding
What are some basic tips to help prepare your landscaping for the season?
Some tips would be to cut back growth on any perennials and prune or cut off any dead branches on any shrubs or plants. Also, make sure to clean the leaves off your property. Oftentimes, people will allow leaves to sit on their property throughout the winter, and this results in signifi-
cantly more damage to the lawn in the spring. I would also recommend a winterized fertilizer for your plants and your lawn as well.
With regard to plant material, any plants that may
have died, it’s best to remove them. You don’t have to plant any replacements now, you can certainly do that in the spring. But dead plants— whether there are some issues with fungus or insect problems—if left alone, the issues can spread and result in more problems throughout the property.
Also, be mindful of pests in the area, deer in particular. You can cover plants around the property that aren’t deer resistant with burlap and use some of the repellents that you can buy at local stores.
—Chris DeMato,
owner, Rock Bottom Landscaping & Fencing
What should you look for with regard to hardscaping maintenance?
People will sometimes wait on repair work for hardscaping, like maybe a masonry step or a brick paver, and that’s not a good idea. Water will settle
under a sunken area of brick pavers or a cracked piece of concrete, and that water will freeze and expand, resulting in much more damage to your porch, steps or patio. And with brick pavers, you want to make sure your grout or polymeric sand is filled in as this can result in the same type of problem for your patio or walkway.
People see these areas in need of repair at the end of the season and think they’ll just address it in the spring, but we recommend the customers [address them immediately].
Chris DeMato
How important is it to have your chimney inspected and/or serviced?
Having your chimney cleaned and inspected annually is very important, even if you don’t use it, because the freeze and thaw cycles in the wintertime can cause cracking in the ma-
sonry and lead to water intrusions inside the home.
A chimney inspection is not something a homeowner can typically do. Because our equipment is specialized, it would be difficult for a homeowner unless they could get on their roof to really look for and see things.
—Leon Ochal, founder, Chimney Scientists
What are some of the most common concerns you encounter with chimneys?
A lot of people don’t even realize they have a chimney for their heating system. A huge portion of our business is preparing chimneys for your heater. So I would say for your average homeowner, just being aware that they have a chimney for their heater is good to know. And then, if they have never had that looked at, it’s maybe time to hire a certified chimney professional to do a camera in-
If you live in a house that was built before 1980 there’s like a 98% chance that you have a chimney for your heating system. And most people are not aware of that. So it’s best to have someone look at it before it collapses on itself and carbon monoxide backs into the basement.
—Leon Ochal
Is there anything specific you have to do with regard to gutters to make sure they are in good shape to handle the winter weather?
Before winter, it’s important to make sure your gutters are ready to handle snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Properly maintained gutters help prevent ice dams, water damage and extra stress on your roof during the winter months.
Start by thoroughly cleaning them of leaves, pine needles and debris so water can flow freely. You’ll also want to
check that your gutters are properly sloped toward downspouts and that all sections are securely fastened, as heavy snow and ice can pull loose gutters away from the house. Make sure downspouts direct water several feet away from the foundation to prevent freezing near your home, and inspect for any cracks, holes or damage that could worsen in cold weather. Adding gutter guards can also help reduce debris buildup and make maintenance easier.
—Jake Domanski
RESOURCES
Chapman Windows Door & Siding West Chester, Pa. (610) 431-8898
ChapmanWindowsDoors.com
Chimney Scientists West Conshohocken, Pa. (610) 947-0475
