Doorless shower - mid-sized contemporary 3/4 subway tile mosaic tile floor doorless shower idea in Charlotte with raised-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, beige walls, an undermount sink and granite countertops

The impact of temperature drop on the chimney can impact the structure and functionality of the chimney. As we have been experiencing in Chicago winters, temperatures have gone from 50 degrees down to 21 degrees during the day, with temperatures falling even further at night. What can you do as a homeowner to watch for, and when to bring in a certified technician from Superior Chimney. External: Impact of Temperature Drop on the Chimney Anytime there is a rapid temperature change, it causes the bricks, stones and mortar to expand and contract. These durable materials are still susceptible to thermal shock, especially when it gets wet from ice, rain or melting snow. Because of the drastic change in temperatures, this can cause hairline cracks to begin, and if it goes unnoticed, larger cracks in the masonry will form. External: Freeze-Thaw Damage Mortar, bricks and stones are porous materials, meaning that air and water enter the materials. Sometimes, it leaves or dries out, and other times it stays longer. When the temperatures drop below 32 degrees, any of the trapped water freezes and then expands. This can cause small cracks to start, deterioration of the mortar or spalling which is the flaking of the bricks to occur. External: Ice Build Up on the Chimney Cap or Chimney Crown When temperatures are 50 degrees and it rains, water accumulates everywhere, including the highest point on your house, the chimney. The chimney cap and chimney crown are always exposed to the harshest elements. When it rains and temperatures drop during the day or night, freezing occurs and can create ice buildup. This can cause the chimney crown to crack or the chimney cap to loosen. Internal: Chimney Flue Lining The temperature swing also affects the chimney flue liner. Some chimney flue liners are made from clay. These are especially susceptible to crack forming from the swing in temperatures. But what also happens whether you have a gas or wood burning fireplace is the formation of condensation which can occur when there is fast cooling after the fire in the fireplace is put out or turned off. Bring out the Sun! Well, yes, the sunshine melts the ice and snow, but when temperatures go down at night, what remains wet, will refreeze again. The repeated process places stress on the masonry, bricks and stone. Chimney Inspections Work A chimney inspection can help with both safety and preserving the structure of the chimney. When a chimney technician conducts an inspection, they will search for cracks in the bricks and mortar, any spalling or deterioration from the thermal shock and freeze thaw cycle. These areas will be marked for repairs if it gets any worse and before it becomes too expensive to repair. We can’t forget the biggest intruder in the home: water. The chimney technician will also be checking for water leaks from the chimney flashing, the chimney crown, chimney cap or the efflorescence which is the white material that shows up on the chimney or fireplace. These are just a couple of key areas that a chimney inspection completes. There are numerous other areas, and this can be found on Superior Chimney’s 14-point inspection guide. Contact us today, and we’ll set you up for a chimney inspection with photo evidence so you have peace of mind with the safety and security of your home.

The dining table is the heart of the home, where families come together to share meals, laughter, and memories. As such, it is important to choose a dining table that is both functional and stylish. Enter the sintered stone dining table, the latest trend in dining room furniture that is taking the design world by storm. Sintered stone is a material made by compacting and heating natural minerals at high pressure, creating a solid and durable surface. This unique material is ideal for dining tables because it is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it perfect for daily use. Its sleek and modern look adds a touch of sophistication to any dining room, and its versatile design can complement any decor style. One of the best things about sintered stone dining tables is their durability. Unlike traditional wood or glass dining tables, sintered stone tables are highly resistant to damage. Whether it is spills, scratches, or heat, sintered stone can withstand it all, ensuring your dining table will look beautiful for years to come. This is especially important for families with children or pets who can cause accidental damage to furniture. Another great aspect of sintered stone dining tables is their easy maintenance. Unlike wood tables that require regular oiling or sanding to keep their surface smooth, sintered stone tables simply need to be wiped clean with a damp cloth. This makes it easy to keep your table looking like new, no matter how much you use it. The design options for sintered stone dining tables are endless. From round to rectangular, from light to dark colors, and from modern to traditional styles, there is a sintered stone dining table to suit every taste. The material itself has a matte finish that provides a neutral background for any design style. And, with its neutral color palette, it is easy to mix and match with other pieces of furniture, making it a great option for those who like to change up their decor frequently. Combined with its stylish and versatile design, you are able to make it the perfect choice for any dining room.

During a showroom meeting with Lana Galloway, CKBR, UDCP, while preparing selections for their Downers Grove Kitchen remodel, their third project in six years, our clients received a startling phone message; there was water coming out from under the door into the hallway of their 15th floor Sandburg Village apartment. This was to be their refuge while their suburban Kitchen was removed! The kitchen waste stack, located at the Kitchen sink, had backed up into the unit. The issue had gone unnoticed for several days while the water encompassed a large amount of the unit, causing wood floor, cabinets and drywall damage. Before Before Before Before Before Before Before Before Insurance claims were swiftly filed and soon Galloway began designing a second kitchen remodel. Our clients were so disgruntled, their first thought was to repair only enough to sell, but once the drawings and material selections began, there was a change of heart. By removing the entry closet/book shelf, Galloway was able to enlarge the existing kitchen footprint. In the new design, the refrigerator was moved to the right of the buildings existing chase, the chase was then disguised with a false pantry door, the Peninsula seated area was repositioned, and the work aisle expanded with the additional cabinetry on the sink wall. The dark stained engineered flooring, installed to the strict codes of the building, creates a sleek back-drop for the contemporary cabinetry. The beauty inside this unit now matches the glorious views of the city and our clients are now enjoying their two new LaMantia Kitchens.

This exciting renovation improved both the look and functionality of our client’s Master Ensuite and Shared Bathroom. Both rooms had both dated aesthetics and dysfunctional layouts, but more importantly, they required updated plumbing due to an old renovation where the plumbing had been done incorrectly and had caused leaking and ceiling damage below. To solve the leaks, and provide better function in both Bathrooms, fixtures in the Shared Bathroom were relocated, and the previously installed plumbing connections were corrected. This solved the leak issues and provided improved function in both Bathrooms. A rarely used large corner tub in the Master Ensuite was eliminated to accommodate a spacious walk-in shower with a bench, and a custom wall-to-wall double vanity provided a nice aesthetic and lots of useful storage. The tub and toilet in the Shared Bathroom were switched and new custom vanity and linen cabinets were installed. Each Bathroom was given its own distinct look. Porcelain tiles made to look like marble, and mosaics accentuated with patterned floor tiles, luxurious marble knobs and handles, and beautiful jewel faucets gave the Master Ensuite a Transitional charm. The Shared Bathroom was completed with large format black porcelain tiles with a marble look, glass accent mosaics, and modern plumbing fixtures gave the room an eclectic flair. The project was finished on time, and our clients couldn’t be happier! They can now enjoy their personalized Shared Bathroom and Master Ensuite, with the comfort of knowing the plumbing is installed correctly.

The City of Farmington is comprised of numerous historic structures that make up the Farmington Historic District. This Historic District surrounds the project site and played a huge role in the design and construction of the streetscape. While the plans look fascinating on paper, bringing the project to life became a challenge on its own – upon the initial layout of the site, we found that none of the existing buildings were square, so additional cutting would be required for the bricks abutting these structures and the curbs along the road. Another challenge faced during this project was after the demolition and removal of the existing concrete sidewalk. The demolition had caused damage to the face of the historic buildings, and required careful repairs. These unexpected repairs consisted of turning brick on end to cover blemishes, mortaring bricks on the buildings back into position, and re-cutting concrete sills. Throughout the project, the stacked diamond pattern involving two different color bricks proved to be a challenge as well. One brick laid out of position could alter the aesthetics of the project and would not be accepted. When working with clay bricks, the dimension tolerances are somewhat loose, which make it difficult to keep clean site-lines due to the carrying sized bricks. Furthermore, the different colored bricks used for this project were created by different manufactures, which amplified the dimension tolerance issue. Coordination with the project took careful planning and communication. The bricks specified were coming from two different states, one being California. With materials being shipped from across the continent, and tight deadline, managing logistics was key to insuring the success of this project. Further, all of the storefronts remained open during the course of the project, as did the road. This created tight working quarters, and required coordination with shop owners, and careful attention to pedestrians as they walked through the worksite to shop in the stores. For each storefront, the team had to strike the leveling layer up to the entrance, lay the brick pavers, and get past the door in a timely manner as not to interrupt the normal business operations. The tight deadline and unfavorable weather conditions caused the team to work 21 consecutive days to finish on schedule. Upon completion of the project, the new streetscape complimented the historic feel of the city and looked as if it was meant-to-be. The architect was happy with our workmanship, and pleased with the results.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner in possession of a leaking roof must be in want of repairs. And though it makes for a fun Jane Austen allusion, an unreliable roof is a serious problem. Water can cause a great deal of damage in a short time, so this homeowner wisely called us in to help. The roof of this custom-designed home was leaking in myriad locations, so our team removed the existing roof decks to access and repair the exterior trouble spots. The new deck was constructed atop a Bison pedestal system; in fact, we custom-designed the deck in panels that can be lifted for seasonal roof sweeping and simpler maintenance. The various roof decks were rebuilt with both reclaimed decking and new ipe decking. Our team also removed several faulty parapet walls and replaced them with a mixture of stainless steel cables and ipe railings. Finally, we took steps to prevent future drainage problems by applying a sealcoat to the exterior stucco and creating a copper drip-edge too. Leaking roofs are no laughing matter, but thanks to Houseplay, this story — like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — had a happy ending. Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner in possession of a leaking roof must be in want of repairs. And though it makes for a fun Jane Austen allusion, an unreliable roof is a serious problem. Water can cause a great deal of damage in a short time, so this homeowner wisely called us in to help. The roof of this custom-designed home was leaking in myriad locations, so our team removed the existing roof decks to access and repair the exterior trouble spots. The new deck was constructed atop a Bison pedestal system; in fact, we custom-designed the deck in panels that can be lifted for seasonal roof sweeping and simpler maintenance. The various roof decks were rebuilt with both reclaimed decking and new ipe decking. Our team also removed several faulty parapet walls and replaced them with a mixture of stainless steel cables and ipe railings. Finally, we took steps to prevent future drainage problems by applying a sealcoat to the exterior stucco and creating a copper drip-edge too. Leaking roofs are no laughing matter, but thanks to Houseplay, this story — like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — had a happy ending. Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner in possession of a leaking roof must be in want of repairs. And though it makes for a fun Jane Austen allusion, an unreliable roof is a serious problem. Water can cause a great deal of damage in a short time, so this homeowner wisely called us in to help. The roof of this custom-designed home was leaking in myriad locations, so our team removed the existing roof decks to access and repair the exterior trouble spots. The new deck was constructed atop a Bison pedestal system; in fact, we custom-designed the deck in panels that can be lifted for seasonal roof sweeping and simpler maintenance. The various roof decks were rebuilt with both reclaimed decking and new ipe decking. Our team also removed several faulty parapet walls and replaced them with a mixture of stainless steel cables and ipe railings. Finally, we took steps to prevent future drainage problems by applying a sealcoat to the exterior stucco and creating a copper drip-edge too. Leaking roofs are no laughing matter, but thanks to Houseplay, this story — like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — had a happy ending. Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

Is it necessary to clean gas fireplace? It’s intuitive that the dark black buildup of combustion needs to be cleaned from a typical wood burning fireplace, but is it needed to clean a gas fireplace? It’s gas…right? Gas fireplaces do not have a visible buildup of combustion, but should be cleaned at least once a year to prevent serious problems with the fireplace. Gas vs. Wood Burning Fireplaces When thinking of the inside of a family home, we think about the most comfortable room: the living room or family room. This is where the family meets, watches movies, and plays board games during rainy days, evenings and family time. It usually has a lofty, cozy couch and a wood burning fireplace. Nothing’s more comforting than falling asleep to the dim light of the fireplace and faint smell of burning wood. Nowadays, we have a close alternative to this old fashioned comfort: the gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces don’t leave much creosote behind, however gas fireplaces should be cleaned once a year, per the CSIA, due to dust, pet hair, insects, and other debris that can build up and cause performance problems. Chimney sweep are primarily for firewall worthiness assurance, cleaning and obstruction free assurance. Gas fireplaces look similar to wood burning fireplaces, with a live flame. The logs inside the gas fireplace look real, but are not actually burning. Oftentimes, they are made of ceramic. A gas fireplace produces much less heat than a wood burning fireplace, but can retain more heat inside your home based on its type and configuration. Gas fireplaces can be low maintenance and energy friendly alternatives to a wood burning fireplace. Some Signs to Clean Gas Fireplace 1. Buildup: Although gas fireplaces do not produce as much visible flammable and hazardous buildup, it does produce some corrosive substances and flue gasses that may settle inside your home without you knowing. Burning natural gas leaves a residue that must be cleaned annually. Failing to clean the residue may cause health risks if left untouched. 2. Technical Issues: There may be technical problems that are not visible, such as issues with the burner. Gas fireplaces are usually built to last long term but it’s imperative to check if there are any unnoticed technical issues at least once a year. 3. Gas Leaks: Over time, valves and pipes turn weaker and become corroded. It’s important to inspect these valves, as a gas leak is extremely hazardous. A certified chimney specialist must inspect and determine any damage or future damage to prevent this serious problem. 4. Condensation: Due to the high temperatures in the flue, there’s a buildup of condensation when the fireplace vapors are cooled. Natural gas exhaust also contains a high content of water vapor in emissions. The condensation reacts with byproducts and is acidic and corrosive, and must be cleaned at least once a year to not pose a potential health hazard. It’s just as important to clean a gas fireplace at least once a year to prevent long term issues that could pose health risks if not cared for. A certified chimney professional from Superior Chimney will inspect and sweep the fireplace and ventilation system. Contact us today to clean gas fireplace at 877-244-6349.

Small beach style white two-story vinyl gable roof photo in Bridgeport

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner in possession of a leaking roof must be in want of repairs. And though it makes for a fun Jane Austen allusion, an unreliable roof is a serious problem. Water can cause a great deal of damage in a short time, so this homeowner wisely called us in to help. The roof of this custom-designed home was leaking in myriad locations, so our team removed the existing roof decks to access and repair the exterior trouble spots. The new deck was constructed atop a Bison pedestal system; in fact, we custom-designed the deck in panels that can be lifted for seasonal roof sweeping and simpler maintenance. The various roof decks were rebuilt with both reclaimed decking and new ipe decking. Our team also removed several faulty parapet walls and replaced them with a mixture of stainless steel cables and ipe railings. Finally, we took steps to prevent future drainage problems by applying a sealcoat to the exterior stucco and creating a copper drip-edge too. Leaking roofs are no laughing matter, but thanks to Houseplay, this story — like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — had a happy ending. Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner in possession of a leaking roof must be in want of repairs. And though it makes for a fun Jane Austen allusion, an unreliable roof is a serious problem. Water can cause a great deal of damage in a short time, so this homeowner wisely called us in to help. The roof of this custom-designed home was leaking in myriad locations, so our team removed the existing roof decks to access and repair the exterior trouble spots. The new deck was constructed atop a Bison pedestal system; in fact, we custom-designed the deck in panels that can be lifted for seasonal roof sweeping and simpler maintenance. The various roof decks were rebuilt with both reclaimed decking and new ipe decking. Our team also removed several faulty parapet walls and replaced them with a mixture of stainless steel cables and ipe railings. Finally, we took steps to prevent future drainage problems by applying a sealcoat to the exterior stucco and creating a copper drip-edge too. Leaking roofs are no laughing matter, but thanks to Houseplay, this story — like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — had a happy ending. Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner in possession of a leaking roof must be in want of repairs. And though it makes for a fun Jane Austen allusion, an unreliable roof is a serious problem. Water can cause a great deal of damage in a short time, so this homeowner wisely called us in to help. The roof of this custom-designed home was leaking in myriad locations, so our team removed the existing roof decks to access and repair the exterior trouble spots. The new deck was constructed atop a Bison pedestal system; in fact, we custom-designed the deck in panels that can be lifted for seasonal roof sweeping and simpler maintenance. The various roof decks were rebuilt with both reclaimed decking and new ipe decking. Our team also removed several faulty parapet walls and replaced them with a mixture of stainless steel cables and ipe railings. Finally, we took steps to prevent future drainage problems by applying a sealcoat to the exterior stucco and creating a copper drip-edge too. Leaking roofs are no laughing matter, but thanks to Houseplay, this story — like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — had a happy ending. Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

The August 2017 Modular Home of the Month is a custom coastal home bringing style and charm to a relaxing seaside town in New Jersey. Monmouth Beach, NJ was one of the communities hard hit by Superstorm Sandy in the fall of 2012. Homeowners Tom & Laura had to make the unexpected decision to remediate the damages caused by the overwhelming storm. The couple came to RBA Homes to discuss building a new modular home on their property. RBA Homes constructed this expanded ranch in collaboration with Apex Homes, adapting their “Chestnut” ranch model to meet the couple’s design criteria, as well as “raising” the roof to allow for the construction of 2 additional bedrooms, 1 full bath, a balcony overlooking the ocean, and a spacious loft. Elegance and sophistication combine in this beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-full-bath home nestled on a large three-quarter acre lot in the desirable New Jersey coastal community. The home features an open floor plan design perfect for entertaining with white painted maple cabinets adorn the well-appointed kitchen with stylish granite countertops. A matching elegant built-in bar lives off the dining area leading into a relaxing family room with a gas fireplace. Throughout the home gleaming hardwood floors are paired with 9-foot-high ceilings. The second floor is home to a rec/game room, along with a spacious laundry room with slop sink. The exterior of the home is as elegant as the inside with a two-car garage with storage area, convenient outdoor shower, welcoming front porch, two rear decks off the first floor living area and sliding glass doors leading to a second-floor rear balcony with picturesque views of the backyard.

The sun can be overwhelming at times with the brightness and high temperatures. Shades are also a great way to block harmful ultra-violet rays to protect your hardwood flooring, furniture and artwork from fading. There are different types of shades that were engineered to solve a specific dilemma. We work with clients in the Central Indiana Area. Contact us today to get started on your project. 317-273-8343

Having evergreens on your property is an extraordinary way to include color that will stay fresh all year long. Knowing how to take care of your evergreens is also important if you want them to thrive long-term. How you plant your evergreens and where you plant them is important, but their maintenance equally critical. You should always fortify your evergreens by watering them liberally and mulching their soil beds. This will help reduce any damage caused by winds, cold weather, and intense sun exposure. Pruning on a consistent schedule will also ensure that your evergreen always looks neat, healthy, and green. How to Properly Care for Evergreens Evergreens are very low-maintenance trees but they still require care. Neglected plants will dry out and wither which has the contrary effect of what you intended for when you planted them. Mulching & Watering The level of moisture in the soil will determine how well an evergreen can handle winter conditions and dry conditions. Adding wood chips or shredded bark mulch around the bottom of your plant will help lock in soil moisture. Make sure this is close to the tree’s drip line. Adding organic materials to your mulch, such as compost, will further boost the nutrient levels in the soil. This, in turn, will help your evergreen grow strong, healthy and green. Make sure you water your plant regularly to maintain soil moisture levels. Read More: https://www.fivestartreecare.ca/blog/best-way-to-care-for-evergreens/