Remodeling Edition Fall 2016
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39th Annual
HOME&GARDENSHOW February 17-19th, 2017 Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center
200+ Booths Daily Educational Seminars Plant Sale to benefit Scholarship Funds
Grand Giveaway and more! 2
C on t e n t s
Fall 2016
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Letter from the Editor: Christina Thrun
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Remodel or Relocate? 8 Critical Questions to Consider
10 Remodeling Project: Sun Room Addition 11 Remodeling Project: Outdoor Seating Area 12 Remodeling Project: Inside and Out 16 Remodeling Project: Patio Upgrade 18 Remodeling Project: Front Entry Makeover 20 Remodeling Project: Open Concept Living 22 Remodeling Project: Kitchen Upgrade 24 Remodeling Project: Exterior Renewal 26 Light Up Your Home This Fall 27 Essential Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Editor Christina Thrun Creative Director McKayla Zoromski Graphic Designer McKayla Zoromski Printer Badgerland Printing T h is publication is published three times a year by the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. For information regarding advertising in an upcoming issue, please call 715.835.2526. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cvhba
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715-834-1628 Custom, Quality, Count On It • Remodeling • New Construction • Kitchen & Baths • Windows, Siding & Roofing Complete Showroom at 620 Bartlett Ave, Altoona WI (715) 834-1628 info@rtewsconstruction.com www.rtewsconstruction.com
Badgerland’s Ad Space A beautiful sub-division with picture perfect views of the Chippewa River Valley. Included on the property are recreational center with 2 pools, exercise facility, community room with impressive stone fireplace and catering kitchen. Outdoors you will find tennis and basketball courts, playground and sports field - all adjacent to a picturesque 55 acre park with pond and beach.
Lots priced at $41,900 & $64,400 9139 24th Ave. South Eau Claire, WI hallieridge.com rtewsconstruction.com
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2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS: Jim Bechly, Retired from Bank Mutual* Jim Bergh, JW Custom Homes Frank Biermeier, Menards* Jason Cooper, Lyman Lumber Company Cody Filipczak, C&M Home Builders & Real Estate Jane Gobler, US Bank* Neil Haselwander, Haselwander Bros., Inc.*+ Gregory Haselwander, Haselwander Companies, Inc.+ Tom Kruse, Independent Flooring* Richard Lien, Richard Lien Home Builders Paul Madsen, RainMaster Lawn Systems Mike Marthaler, Mike’s Custom Homes*+ Barb Oas, Royal Credit Union Gabe Otterson, Otter Creek Builders LLC Dennis Pawlak, Pawlak Construction+ Bill Pozarski, Pozarski Concrete & Masonry LLC* Roy Rico, Rico Quality Homes Inc.* Jason Steen, Steen Construction Inc.*+ Randy Tews, R. Tews Construction & Design, Inc.*+ *Also serves as a Director on the Wisconsin Builders Association Board +Also serves as a Director on the National Association of Home Builders
STAFF: Christina Thrun, Executive Officer McKayla Zoromski, Membership & Communications Director Molly Alley, Marketing Assistant Amy Gumz, Administrative Assistant 4319 Jeffers Road, Suite 200 | Eau Claire, WI 54703 (715) 835-2526 (phone) | (715) 835-2905 (fax)
877-677-8340
715-835-4968 www.johnsonrolloffservice.com
Haul Away & Disposal Services • Remodeling • Roofing / Tear Off • Demolition • General Clean Out • New Construction • Cardboard & • Fire / Water Damage Wood Recycling Serving Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Rusk, Jackson & Eau Claire Counties
802012 4-9-16
PRESIDENT Adam Ashley, Ashley Construction* 1st VICE PRESIDENT Jon Schwieters, ShredAway 2nd VICE PRESIDENT Linda Machmeier, Signature Homes SECRETARY Monica Sommerfeld Lewis, Eze Breeze Window Store*+ TREASURER Brian Murray, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP PAST PRESIDENT Lance Brunkow, Brunkow Builders*
jaenkeconcrete.com 715-832-6338
Site Development | Excavation | Demolition Garage/Basement Floors | Pool Decks | Firepits Poured & Retaining Walls | Septic Systems 5
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What a great year 2016 has been for the home building and remodeling industry! The housing market is the strongest it’s been in years… prompting many people who can’t find what they’re looking for in a new house to build their own. Our members have been busy this year and we’re looking forward to finishing out 2016 strong with another great year on the horizon. Remodeling is an important part of our Association and it is projected to see a huge growth in the coming years. According to the Residential Remodeling Index (RRI) the total number of remodeling projects worth at least $1,000 will rise by 9.9% between 2016 and 2019. This growth in remodeling can also be attributed to the
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stronger housing market. With home values increasing, more people are choosing to remodel before or after a sale, additionally with the housing inventory not meeting demand people are choosing to remodel their existing homes instead of trying to find something new. We have many Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association members who can provide services to help with your remodel project. From contracting the entire project out to hiring a business to do key pieces, our membership directory at www.cvhomebuilders.com is a great place to start when looking for help with your remodel project. In this issue, we’re excited to showcase eight different indoor & outdoor remodel projects completed by members of our Association. Be sure to check out the great work and unique projects our remodelers worked on with their customers. Are you ready to embark on a large remodel project but don’t know where to start? On Thursday, October 27th we’ll be hosting an ABC’s of Remodeling Seminar at our office 4319 Jeffers Road. Visit www.cvhomebuilders.com or call 715835-2526 for more information or to get signed up to attend. Finally…I’m really excited about our newest community event to raise money for the Chippewa Valley Habitat for Humanity and Hope Gospel Mission…the Hammers & Heels Fashion Show. This brand new event will be held on Thursday, November 3rd at UW- Eau Claire’s Davies Center. It’s a construction couture event with all of the designs being made out of construction and raw materials! It’s sure to be a great time. Visit www.HammersAndHeelsFashionShow. com for more information or to purchase tickets. Wishing everyone a great Fall!
Christina Thrun Executive Officer Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association
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Your Ad Here! If you are a member of the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association and are interested in advertising in the Home Inspirations Magazine, please contact McKayla at mckayla@cvhomebuilders.com or call (715) 835-2526 for more details.
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Remodel or Relocate? 8 Critical Questions to Consider Home buying and home remodeling television programs aren’t just a fad; their enduring popularity indicates that they’re here to stay. If you’re among the growing masses of dedicated viewers, you might begin (if you haven’t already) to look around and notice some of your own home’s shortcomings. Inadequate storage, limited cooking space or simply an outdated design might conjure thoughts of one day remodeling your kitchen, bathrooms or living spaces. Or instead, perhaps you’ll begin to consider moving into a bigger or newer home. Whether you decide to remodel or relocate, your decision will involve a great deal of logistics, emotions and, of course, finances. Thoroughly weighing the pros and cons of each option now will help you feel more prepared to act when the time is right. Start by asking yourself these questions: 1. What’s in the budget? The first step is the most obvious: you’ll need to crunch some numbers to determine what is financially feasible. Remodeling can be a great investment and save you the hassle of moving. But it requires a great deal of patience and flexibility. On the other hand, buying a home can be instantly gratifying, but the true costs of buying (and selling) – such as commissions, closing costs and moving fees – need to be part of the equation, as that is money you won’t get back. 2. Is it a simple fix that you can do yourself? Or a bigger project that will require a professional? Some home owners are especially handy and want to tackle the job themselves. But most others like having the assurance of knowing a professional – who has the necessary equipment, expertise and resources – will get the job done right the first time. 3. What is the current value of your home compared to similar homes in your neighborhood? If your home is already the most expensive one in the neighborhood, you might not see a significant return on your investment if you remodel. But if comparable home values are greater than your home’s value, you’re much more likely to see a strong return by making improvements. 4. How might your decision impact your taxes? Remodeling your current home or moving to a new home will have an effect on your property taxes. The change may or may not be significant, so it’s good to keep it in mind.
options to alter your home in a way that will address your needs (such as load-bearing walls that can’t be removed, or space constraints that will not allow for an addition), you may need to consider moving. 7. Are there any zoning restrictions that would affect the remodeling project(s) you envision? These laws vary widely by area, so go to your local zoning office and ask for a copy of your local ordinance. 8. How do you feel about your current neighborhood? Even if you changed everything about your home, there are many things outside of your home over which you have no control. Give some thought to the school district, proximity to work, parks and shopping centers, and the overall look and feel of the community. The answers to these questions are different for everyone, which is why it is important for you to carefully consider each one while keeping in mind your unique situation. This will help you effectively determine which step is right for you so that next year, you can be confident in your home’s ability to not only survive the holidays, but to also keep up with the demands of your everyday life. For additional resources on remodeling your home or buying a new home, contact us at 715-835-2526 or visit nahb.org/ forconsumers. Your Premier Plumbing & Lighting Showroom
2650 Western Avenue Eau Claire, WI 54703 715.552.3225
5. How might your needs change in the next 3, 5 or 10 years? A growing family, kids going off to college, an aging family member moving in – all are examples of factors that can significantly impact your future requirements for a home. 6. Is the layout of your current home conducive to a remodel? All other considerations aside, if you have limited
www.pahlsshowrooms.com
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Remodeling Project: Sun Room Additiom Andy Stanley Construction was contracted to complete a 12’x16’ addition with a crawl space underneath it. By adding on this space, Andy Stanley Construction was able to give the home owners a warm and inviting sun room. The space for this airy sun room was established by pouring 4’ concrete frost walls with 2” of foam around the perimeter of the addition. Two inches of foam was also installed under the concrete floor in the crawl space to ensure the space remained comfortable. To add comfort, infloor heat was installed under the Walnut Natural colored tile. If you are thinking about putting on an addition or remodeling, give Andy Stanley Construction, LLC a call!
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Since Andy and his crew built our sunroom addition, we have appreciated it in some way every single day. It is surely the best room in our house! We love to watch nature, the rain storms, the leaves and the snow fall through the plentiful windows. Our neighbors rave about it and its quality workmanship, saying it has increased the value of the entire neighborhood.
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It is easy to see that Andy takes a lot of pride in his workmanship. He is knowledgeable, hardworking, trustworthy and a joy to have around during the building process. - Sharon and Steve, Homeowners
Andy Stanley Construction LLC is the name you can trust to deliver top quality workmanship at the right price. As one of the leading general contracting companies in the area, Andy Stanley Construction LLC has served Eau Claire with great pride and passion. If you are looking for a construction company that can deliver what they promise, we are the right one for the job. We also construct custom stairways built from cherry, oak, and maple. 10
(715) 552-1588 | www.stanleycustomstairways.com
Remodeling Project: Outdoor Seating Area This customer hosts a variety of events and was on a mission to spark everlasting memories for all who visit. After connecting with Green Oasis, the customer provided her ideas to establish a compelling design for an outdoor oasis. Green Oasis’ professional, certified designers were then able to provide a 3D design offering a realistic perspective of the project and an outlook on a finished site. After the 3D design was approved, Green Oasis began removing a rip-rap wall with dimensions of 70’ long, 3’ tall and 210 total sq ft. This was replaced with an outcropping wall and water feature professionally displaying an alluring, new 1,000 sq ft caramel cream patio. Naturally established from Wisconsin, all project materials were implemented to provide a beautiful outdoor oasis for community and event gatherings. The new patio provides a distinguished seating area that is set apart from its surroundings with the help of the dark, rich colored mulch and greenery. From the imagination of the customer to the creativity of the designer, Green Oasis worked with the customer and developed a pleasant experience for all visitors to enjoy. Be sure to call Green Oasis today for any of your outdoor needs!
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We are so pleased with the solution Green Oasis planned and executed for a significant erosion problem in our landscaping. Their attention to the customer needs was refreshing from the office to every member of the work crew. They kept their promises and communicated clearly over the entire project. Left the project site clean and looking great. Thanks everyone!” - Testimonial, Satisfied Customer
Est. 1978
Since 1978 Green Oasis has provided the Chippewa Valley with exceptional services enhancing the improvement of local communities regarding: landscaping, lawn care, irrigation, lighting and maintenance. A family owned business, Green Oasis enhances the outdoor experience for local communities with professionals who are certified and trained to spark a special oasis for everyone to enjoy. (715) 832-0800 | www.greenoasis.co | www.facebook.com/GreenOasisServices/ 11
Remodeling Project: Inside and Out A successful design will echo your personal taste, and optimize function. This project featured a kitchen remodel along with an exterior update and new deck.
These homeowners are sure to enjoy their house inside and out for many more years to come with all of these well-deserved updates!
Careful consideration of layout, materials, and colors turned this old dreary kitchen into a comfortable and roomy entertaining and living space.
Is your home ready for renewal and innovation, too? Call R. Tews Construction & Design!
• White Oak floors • Custom alder cabinetry • Formica brand premium laminate • Mannington tile backsplash • Kichler and Uttermost lighting fixtures • Recessed ceiling lighting and under cabinet lighting, & hidden stereo • New stainless steel appliance by LG, Sharp, and Vent-A Hood • Kohler under-mount sink and a Delta faucet • LP Smartside and shakes Special touches in this kitchen showcase memorabilia through glass front cabinets to show memorabilia, and doubles as an organized home office. Other details, like the barn-style doors for the walk-in pantry, blends the owner’s eclectic style with modern comfort. The exterior was completely sided with LP SmartSide and shakes, natural stone accents, and new stylish light fixtures. The back deck was completely re-built and doubled in size, using timeless cedar and black balusters.
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R. Tews Construction and Design has been highly recommended in the community for the past twety-three years. We utilitze the latest technology with a highly skilled and friendly crew. Our on-staff interior designer and one-of-a-kind showroom in Altoona are vital in making your project come together and run effieciently. With a user-friendly web site and a fun Facebook page, you can get to know R. Tews through photos, videos, testimonials and blogs. Call or email us today at R. Tews Construction and Design to start talking about your project with knowledgeable and caring people. 12
(715) 834-1628 | www.rtewsconstruction.com | info@rtewsconstruction.com
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We can’t say enough about R. Tews Construction & Design and their incredible staff. We recently went through and extensive two-part remodel which included new siding and stonework, demolition of an old deck and building of a new, and and entire kitchen remodel (which included removing walls.) The process went great and we have a new beautiful house from the inside out! The outcome is absolutely amazing! Attention to detail was the key for them, and it was much appreciated. If you are looking to do any type of work on your house, we recommend this great team very highly, you won’t be sorry! Thank you again for your amazing work, patience and expertise! - Geri and Grant, Homeowners
This project used the following CVHBA Subcontractors and Suppliers:
• Advanced Disposal • Certified Inc. • Chippewa Valley Electrical Contractors Inc. • Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery • Karl’s Appliance • Larson’s Custom Cabinets
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Lydia’s Lyman Lumber Company Not Just Closets LLC Olson Hardwood Floors R. Tews Construction & Design Inc • Selective Countertops LLC 13
ABC’s of Remodeling Seminar Thursday, October 27th from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association 4319 Jeffers Road, Eau Claire
Cost: $10 per person Each attendee will receive a free ticket to the 2017 Home & Garden show! Are you thinking about putting an addition on your home or doing an extensive remodeling project but don’t know where to start? If you said yes, this seminar is for you! Join us and our some of our expert remodelers to learn more about financing, time frames, the building process and much more! You will leave this seminar knowing exactly where to start and the steps that follow to ensure your remodeling project goes smoothly. Register online at www.cvhomebuilders.com or call (715) 835-2526. NAHB_AmericanDream_HalfPage.pdf
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3/2/15
9:47 AM
National Association of Home Builders
Homeownership is the Foundation of the American Dream. For generations of Americans, owning your home means owning your future—where dreams thrive and the future takes place.
Learn more about buying and owning a home at nahb.org/timetobuy.
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Are You or Someone You Know in the Home Building Industry? We want you to become a member of the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association (CVHBA)! Being a member of the CVHBA has many benefits including: • • • • • • • •
Networking Opportunities Marketing Opportunities Education Money Saving Opportunities Advertising Opportunities Political Advocacy Social & Community Outreach Referrals
Being a member of our association also means that you have the opportunity to gain referrals from other members and participate in the annual Parade of Homes and Home & Garden Show! CVHBA membership is for anyone involved in the home building industry and is made up of both Builder and Associate members. Builder Members have a current dwelling contractors license. Our Associate membership is made up of bankers, interior designers, flooring companies, and much more! If your business is related to the home building industry we invite you to become a member! To learn more about membership or view our current members, visit cvhomebuilders.com or call our office at (715)-835-2526.
“As a homebuilder and a longtime member of the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association, I’ve seen the value of membership first hand. While there are many benefits with membership, including the Home & Garden Show and Parade of Homes, I especially like the networking opportunities such as “Builder After Hours.” - Mike Marthaler of Mike’s Custom Homes
“There are many benefits of being a member of the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association but we really value the networking opportunities. Membership also provides an opportunity to work with other members to make sure the quality stays high for customers. To go along with that, we also receive a lot of leads from our membership and involvement with the CVHBA.” – Kane Rockow of Rock & Tait Exteriors
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Remodeling Project: Patio Upgrade This project began when the homeowners visited the Rock & Tait Exteriors booth at the Home and Garden Show. The homeowners spoke with Co-Owner Kane Rockow about their old, worn out patio space in their backyard and wanted to fix it up. They complained about their existing patio pavers buckling and being uneven. The owners despised the weeds, grass, and the moss that kept growing between the pavers no matter what they did. They also said they were done with the maintenance of their existing deck and wanted a different option.
They chose to remove the entire deck and patio pavers and replaced them with beautiful colored stamped conrete. Rock & Tait created concrete walls that left an area for landscaping next to the patio. The patio space, complete with poured steps and a border, now has a seamless flow from the first step out of the house. This couple can now enjoy the outdoors from their beautiful colored stamped concrete patio for years to come! If your exterior is in need of a face-lift, give Rock & Tait Exteriors a call at (715) 723-7200!
Kane suggested they consider colored stamped concrete for their entire project. With the assistance of Rock & Tait’s expert staff the design, colors, and concrete stamps were selected by the homeonwers.
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Rock & Tait understands that your home is an intricate building system. Our entire team has been educated in building science, making it easy for us to get your home working properly for you! Whether your home needs a new roof, patio, or an exterior update, we can help. With two full-time secretaires, a 24 hour emergency line, and cell phones always on... we want you to know that YOU are our priority!
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(715) 723-7200 | www.rockandtait.com | www.facebook.com/rockandtait
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The concrete and carpentry crews that did the deck and pool area, were three of the hardest working guys I have ever seen. They communicated so well and did such good work. - Testimonial, Satisfied Client in Eau Claire
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Remodeling Project: Front Entry Makeover Pawlak Construction was contracted to remodel this outdated front entry way and converted it into something any homeowner would be proud of! The project began with a collage of ideas the homeowner liked and had put together. From there, the homeowner and Pawlak Construction worked together to finalize every detail and make this project come to life. New, low-maintenance resin decking was framed over the existing concrete steps and the shed roof was
completely rebuilt to update this entry way and make it more welcoming. White pillars and stone accents give this front entry a traditional yet modern feel that allowed the existing light fixtures stand out. The added space allows the porch to accomodate an added sitting area perfect for enjoying crisp fall mornings and chatting with visitors. If your home is in need of remodeling, please give Pawlak Construction a call!
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Pawlak Construction is a full-service construction company building new housing, providing comprehensive remodeling services and specializing in barrier free housing to customers with ADA or other physical limitations. Dennis is active in pursuing continuing education to keep current on state building laws, local construction ordinances and building trends. “Every project we take on is a personal experience with the customers’ needs and wants in mind. We believe that every building or remodeling project should be pleasant not stressful; that’s why we have repeat customers.” We have over 15 years serving the Chippewa Valley community. What can Pawlak Construction do for you? 18
(715) 829-0875 | www.pawlakconstruction.com
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Thank you, Dennis Pawlak for your great work! I love how you took my collage of ideas and transformed them into this! - Testimonial, Satisfied Homeowner
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Remodeling Project: Open Concept Living The owners of this beautiful rural home came to Brunkow Builders Inc. with a desire to transform their home which included separate rooms for the kichen, dining room, living room and foyer into a new open concept. This work included removing all the dividing walls that separated the four areas as well as opening up the roof to install new vaulted trusses. This transformed the existing low 8’ ceilings into a higher 11’ vaulted ceiling giving the new area a more open feel. In addition, two sun tubes were added near the ceiling vault to give the new open area a bright and well-lit feel. New finishes included beautiful custom cabinets, granite countertops, painted woodwork, and new wood flooring and stair treads. The project was completed in just a few months. The owners will enjoy this beautiful new space for many years to come!
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Brunkow Builders was started in 1972 and has a long standing tradition of excellence in construction and service. They are a full service custom home builder and general contractor from start to finish. They specialize in residential new homes, additions and remodeling. With their in-house drafting capabilities they can custom design your project to fit your needs. Call them on your next project and experience the difference. 20
(715) 835-6744 | www.brunkowbuilders.com
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This project used the following CVHBA Subcontractors and Suppliers:
• Eau Claire Insulation LLC • Gerhards - The Kitchen and Bath Store • Karl’s Appliance • Lyman Lumber Company
• Stone Countertop Outlet - Eau Claire • Water Source Heating & Cooling 21
Remodeling Project: Kitchen Upgrade Legacy Custom Homes and Renovations was contracted to remodel an outdated kitchen which included new countertops, flooring, electrical updates, new windows and doors, and custom cabinetry to match the existing. By redesigning the existing space, Legacy Custom Homes & Renovations implemented the homeowner’s vision and brought to life an amazing kitchen and dining space. The project included moving the dining room wall to make the dining room larger and new maple wood flooring was installed in the dining and living room. A closet in the foyer was removed to allow for more space in the entry way. The kitchen soffits were removed
to allow for an open feeling in the overall space. The kitchen was in need of better lighting so recessed cans were installed and beautiful pendant lights over the peninsula were also added. The existing kitchen cabinets were reconfigured and touched up with crown molding for an amazing transformation. The homeowner’s selections married the existing with the new selections perfectly. The kitchen granite selection, Hawaii, is absolutely stunning and the artisitic backsplash tiles make this kitchen a lovely kitchen to cook in, entertain in, and live in! Renovation features: • Repurpose/redesign of existing space • Smart repurposing of existing kitchen cabinets • Luxury kitchen featuring • Granite counterops in the color Hawaii • Tiled backsplash • Karndean Luxury vinyl floor • Custom cabinetry to match existing cabinetry If you are looking for an experienced contractor for your next building or remodeling project, please give Legacy Custom Homes & Renovations a call!
Legacy Custom Homes and Renovations LLC has a well-respected reputation in both the new home construction and renovation field in the Chippewa Valley. We have many satisfied customers. You will not be disappointed with Legacy Custom Homes and Renovation’s quality construction, innovative designs, affordability, and our outstanding customer care. We look forward to working with you to make your home perfect for you. “Building your Legacy from the ground up!” 22
(715) 877-1880 | www.legacyhomes-llc.com | www.facebook.com/legacyhomeswi
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Find us on www.Houzz.com, The homeowner’s source for design inspiration. You will find Legacy Custom Homes and Renovations, LLC site under Pros In Your Area.
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Remodeling Project: Exterior Renewal This project began when the homeowners came to Asher Lasting Exteriors looking to give new life to their home and poolroom with an extensive exterior remodel. Asher Lasting Exteriors was able to take this client’s dreams and ideas and turn them into a reality and the homeowners now a have a usuable backyard space they are proud to entertain in. If you are in need of exterior home services, please give Asher Lasting Exteriors a call!
Asher Lasting Exteriors was able to breathe new life into their home and poolroom’s exterior with: • New Andersen windows and doors • ABC Seamless siding on the poolroom • ABC Seamless gutters with Gutter Helmet Protection on both the house and poolroom • Steel Stone Coated roofing • A new concrete patio • Two bamboo decks
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Asher Lasting Exteriors has been doing exterior remodeling since 1974. In the over 42 years of business we have strived to exceed standards and constantly be educating ourselves to be the leader in quality home improvement products. Asher does not take short cuts and does not have a ‘drop down’ product. We believe in quality and the best that is out there to protect our customers’ homes for now and years to come. 24
(715) 832-7282 | www.goasher.com | www.facebook.com/AsherInc/
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Asher’s was more than helpful in redesigning our indoor and outdoor living space. I could not have asked for a more meticulous crew and company to work with. Everything turned out so beautiful inside and outside and we are absolutely loving it! Shantel, Eau Claire Customer 25
Light Up Your Home This Fall The days are slowly getting shorter and the lights in your home are gradually getting more use. Lighting is an afterthought for many home owners, but it can completely changes the look and feel of any room. The style of fixtures you choose, where you place them and the type of bulbs you use can all affect the mood and functionality of your home. By applying a few simple concepts, you can light up your home in a way that is useful, stylish and efficient, all at once! Think of lighting in layers: 1. Ambient lighting creates a base layer to establish the tone of the whole room. 2. Task lighting illuminates a certain area to address the room’s specific function. 3. Accent lighting draws attention to the decorative features that you love most.
Ambient Lighting For an inconspicuous, minimalist approach to ambient light, consider recessed ceiling lights. The number of lights, their direction and a dimmer switch make it easy to customize the amount and intensity of light. Pendant lighting comes in many different shapes and sizes and is a great way to create ambient light with fixtures that make a statement. You can suspend multiple light fixtures from the ceiling at varying heights, which adds dimension and visual interest to the room. Task Lighting In a living area, this lighting layer might include a table lamp as a focal point to establish an inviting conversation area. A floor lamp next to a comfy chair is just the thing for curling up with a magazine or book. One of the hottest lighting trends uses long-lasting, energyefficient LED light strips to softly illuminate rooms from hidden sources. By placing an LED light strip under each overhead cabinet in your kitchen, you can brighten up the countertops where you chop vegetables or make a sandwich. Accent Lighting Use accent lighting to draw focus to details in a room. Try placing simple, uncomplicated wall sconces around your favorite piece of wall art and watch as it suddenly becomes a brilliant focal point. To highlight wall textures or architectural details you love, consider more atypical sconces in interesting shapes that can both show off the elements of your home and stand alone as eye-catching pieces. By taking these lighting tips, layering them together and infusing them with your own special style, you can completely transform your space and fully accomplish your unique vision for your home. For more information and tips, go to www.cvhomebuilders.com or call 715-835-2526.
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Essential Fall Home Maintenace Checklist Plants are still blooming and temps are still well above freezing, but don’t be fooled — the seasons will soon be changing. Before fall and winter are officially upon us, now is the time to focus on some simple home maintenance projects to prepare for the chilly weather ahead. The best part is that many of these projects can be done at little or no cost, and they can help you save money on your energy bills. More importantly, they help enhance and protect one of your biggest investments: your home. Here are a few projects to cross off your to-do list: Mind the Gaps Heated air can escape from gaps that develop where building materials meet. Some of the most common areas include where exterior siding meets windows and doors, around roof and foundation lines, around chimneys and where pipes protrude through walls or roofs. Check those locations to see if any gaps have formed and if so, apply the appropriate caulk or sealant.
cracks. You can also touch up any sections showing signs of rust with rustproof paint. Augment Your Heating Unit Consider replacing an older or inefficient heating unit with a gas or oil furnace, or a heat pump with a high efficiency rating. If your system already is efficient, be sure to inspect it regularly and change filters monthly. Consider investing in a smart thermostat that can help save you money by automatically adjust temperatures at times while you are sleeping or when no one is home. Performing routine home maintenance projects like these can have an immediate impact on lowering your energy bills and maintaining the safety of your family. They also offer the long-term benefits of prolonging the life of your home and enhancing its value. For more tips on home maintenance, visit our Home Owner Resources Blog or our website at www.cvhomebuilders.com.
Close Off the Escape Routes Heat rises, which mean heat from your home also can escape through any vulnerable areas of the roof. The most efficient way to stop that heat loss is by installing ceiling and roof insulation with an R-value of approximately 50. The R-value refers to the ability of any material to resist the passage of heat. Gird Up Your Windows Ensure that your storm windows and doors are effectively keeping warm air in and cold air out. Look for any cracks around glass, sashes and window frames. Apply adhesive foam weather strips to the top and bottom window rails, or nail felt weatherstripping where window sashes and frames make contact. Newer homes are much more likely to have double or triple-paned windows, which can dramatically improve energy efficiency. Give the Gutters a Glance Gutters and downspouts can easy become clogged over time, even if they have guards intended to keep out debris. Regularly inspect and clean gutters thoroughly, paying special attention to elbows and bends in the downspouts. Keep hangers fastened securely and plug any holes or
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Thursday, November 3rd 7:00pm Show Starts University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Davies Center, Ojibwe Ballroom
www.HammersAndHeelsFashionShow.com VIP Tickets - $100
W O N E L A NS O S T E ley’s l K a V a TIC w Chippe
the s s i m t ’ ent! v e Don w e n hottest
Morrie’s Mazda Reception Includes: Meet models & view designs up close after the show, hors d’oeurves, beer & wine, and desserts.
Not available after Oct. 30th -Premier seating close to the stage -Keepsake wine glass with glass of wine & raffle ticket -Access to the Pre & Post Morrie’s Mazda Reception beginning at 5pm
General Admission + Reception Tickets- $70 Not available after Oct. 30th -General Admission Seating -Access to the Pre & Post Morrie’s Mazda Reception beginning at 5pm
General Admission Tickets- $35 $40 after Oct. 30th
Presented By:
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Proceeds from the event will benefit Hope Gospel Mission & Chippewa Valley Habitat for Humanity.