Search results for "Experts claim" in Home Design Ideas

This modern green home offers both a vacation destination on Cape Cod near local family members and an opportunity for rental income.
FAMILY ROOTS. A West Coast couple living in the San Francisco Bay Area sought a permanent East Coast vacation home near family members living on Cape Cod. As academic professionals focused on sustainability, they sought a green, energy efficient home that was well-aligned with their values. With no green homes available for sale on Cape Cod, they decided to purchase land near their family and build their own.
SLOPED SITE. Comprised of a 3/4 acre lot nestled in the pines, the steeply sloping terrain called for a plan that embraced and took advantage of the slope. Of equal priority was optimizing solar exposure, preserving privacy from abutters, and creating outdoor living space. The design accomplished these goals with a simple, rectilinear form, offering living space on the both entry and lower/basement levels. The stepped foundation allows for a walk-out basement level with light-filled living space on the down-hill side of the home. The traditional basement on the eastern, up-hill side houses mechanical equipment and a home gym. The house welcomes natural light throughout, captures views of the forest, and delivers entertainment space that connects indoor living space to outdoor deck and dining patio.
MODERN VISION. The clean building form and uncomplicated finishes pay homage to the modern architectural legacy on the outer Cape. Durable and economical fiber cement panels, fixed with aluminum channels, clad the primary form. Cedar clapboards provide a visual accent at the south-facing living room, which extends a single roof plane to cover the entry porch.
SMART USE OF SPACE. On the entry level, the “L”-shaped living, dining, and kitchen space connects to the exterior living, dining, and grilling spaces to effectively double the home’s summertime entertainment area. Placed at the western end of the entry level (where it can retain privacy but still claim expansive downhill views) is the master suite with a built-in study. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, a second full bathroom, and laundry. The flexibility of the space—crucial in a house with a modest footprint—emerges in one of the guest bedrooms, which doubles as home office by opening the barn-style double doors to connect it to the bright, airy open stair leading up to the entry level. Thoughtful design, generous ceiling heights and large windows transform the modest 1,100 sf* footprint into a well-lit, spacious home. *(total finished space is 1800 sf)
RENTAL INCOME. The property works for its owners by netting rental income when the owners are home in San Francisco. The house especially caters to vacationers bound for nearby Mayo Beach and includes an outdoor shower adjacent to the lower level entry door. In contrast to the bare bones cottages that are typically available on the Cape, this home offers prospective tenants a modern aesthetic, paired with luxurious and green features. Durable finishes inside and out will ensure longevity with the heavier use that comes with a rental property.
COMFORT YEAR-ROUND. The home is super-insulated and air-tight, with mechanical ventilation to provide continuous fresh air from the outside. High performance triple-paned windows complement the building enclosure and maximize passive solar gain while ensuring a warm, draft-free winter, even when sitting close to the glass. A properly sized air source heat pump offers efficient heating & cooling, and includes a carefully designed the duct distribution system to provide even comfort throughout the house. The super-insulated envelope allows us to significantly reduce the equipment capacity, duct size, and airflow quantities, while maintaining unparalleled thermal comfort.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. The building’s shell and mechanical systems play instrumental roles in the home’s exceptional performance. The building enclosure reduces the most significant energy glutton: heating. Continuous super-insulation, thorough air sealing, triple-pane windows, and passive solar gain work together to yield a miniscule heating load. All active energy consumers are extremely efficient: an air source heat pump for heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation (ERV), and high efficiency appliances. The result is a home that uses 70% less energy than a similar new home built to code requirements.
OVERALL. The home embodies the owners’ goals and values while comprehensively enabling thermal comfort, energy efficiency, a vacation respite, and supplementary income.
PROJECT TEAM
ZeroEnergy Design - Architect & Mechanical Designer
A.F. Hultin & Co. - Contractor
Pamet Valley Landscape Design - Landscape & Masonry
Lisa Finch - Original Artwork
European Architectural Supply - Windows
Eric Roth Photography - Photography
Find the right local pro for your project

Large traditional beige two-story wood gable roof idea in DC Metro with a shingle roof

Could a dreadful dishwasher leak be a blessing in disguise?
The Redding kitchen was very odd. The house was a beautiful brick house from the early 1900’s, but the kitchen had been renovated since then with an impractical layout. It worked, but, for as much time as Mr. and Mrs. spend in the kitchen, it left much to be desired. Because they enjoy cooking so much, they dreamed of having a functional kitchen that added to the character of the home and respected the history of it.
So that’s why Mr. and Mrs. went to a Lancaster Home Show where they meet ALL Renovation & Design. They were impressed with our process which guides clients through the design phase in a unique way that guarantees a customized remodel, tailored to their dreams. We really hit it off, but, since they were still in the idea stage, the years passed quickly.
Then one morning they discovered a puddle under the dishwasher. And, as is often the case, the damage had already spread to the surrounding cabinets and a large area of the floor. And upon further inspection, it was discovered that part of the floor was made with asbestos – which would require expert remediation. This was turning into a major rehab project.
That’s when they were faced with a tough call: do they patch it up now and rip it out in a few years when they remodel the entire kitchen, or, do they remodel now? They called ALL Renovation & Design.
First we worked with the insurance company to raise the damage claim to what it would have actually cost to repair the damage done by the leak… several thousand dollars higher than what they had initially appraised it.
Then we guided Mr. and Mrs. through the design process that carefully articulated the goals and vision for the new kitchen. Functionality and complementing the home’s character were top priority. They were extremely pleased with the help we provided in guiding them through the cabinet choices, layout, and color selections.
Communication was key. Especially when we got into the demolition and construction work. One thing you can be sure of when working with older homes is that there are almost always surprises between the walls. For the Redding kitchen it took the form of a steel support beam that we discovered on the second day of demolition. Because it prevented us from opening up the doorway, we had to pivot and adjust the cabinet spacing. Electrical access was also a serious problem that required added creativity to be sure the new space would include all the functionality of a modern kitchen. But all the challenges were overcome through creativity and almost constant communication.
At last, it was complete. Together we transformed the space into a beautiful transitional kitchen that is a joy to work in.
The maple cabinets with full-overlay doors were painted in matte white with copper hardware. The countertop and backsplash were Hanstone Quartz in the Strato color. It included a 30” single-basin sink in 14-gauge hammered copper. For the floor they chose Lauzan Maple Hardwood in the Sahara finish, installed in the herringbone pattern. And to really set off the kitchen, the old appliances were replaced with new GE Café appliances in their classy matte white with brushed copper accents.

Many hot tub owners claim that they no longer feel the need to travel to exotic locations to unwind. All it takes is a stroll in a backyard, followed by a soothing soak in the spa, to feel rejuvenated, relaxed, and ready for whatever life brings.
Relaxing quietly in one's own backyard, stargazing as jets relieve muscle tension, can feel like being at an exclusive spa getaway -- just without the suitcases. Here, our clients set their hot tub within an attractive case and added a wall for privacy and a fire bowl fountain. www.besthottubs.com

Blooming in late spring, perennial Salvia Sylvestris May Night (May Night Meadow Sage), seen here in the right foreground of a Deck and Patio landscape project, boasts deep purple-blue blooms.
The good news for gardeners in our Long Island, NY, area is how hardy this beauty is for our area of the Northeast because it claims superb cold hardiness, is a vigorous plant, and is tolerant of heavy clay soils.
If the robust color isn’t enough to make you rush and pick up some of these Salvias, consider: these plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and are deer and rabbit resistant. They make glorious cut flowers for inside and they bloom more than 4 weeks. www.deckandpatio.com

Your roof is arguably one of the most important elements of your entire home exterior. It serves the incredibly important function of protecting your home from the elements, but it is also a large portion of your home’s aesthetic design. The right material or design of shingle can really accentuate the color and décor of your home. Beyond that, what your roof is made of will affect its lifespan and ability to keep your property safe from the elements.
Having a quality Twin Cities Roofing Contractor in your corner to help when you need roofing services is a valuable asset. From roofing repairs to replacements and installations, we are the professionals you can count on. At Blackbrook Construction, we have the tools and training to service your roof with expert proficiency in a timely fashion. Our top priority is your satisfaction and our commitment to service excellence can be seen in our workmanship. We also offer free estimates and will gladly send a technician to your home to consult with you on your roofing options. This is why we are the Twin Cities’ top choice for roofing contractor.

Allergy and immunology billing requires expertise to manage the complexities of coding, claim submissions, and compliance. Wise Medical Billing provides professional RCM services that address the unique needs of these specialties. By outsourcing your billing, you can reduce errors, improve cash flow, and avoid reimbursement delays. Our team ensures every detail is managed with precision, from accurate documentation to timely claim processing. We understand the challenges of allergy/immunology practices and offer customized solutions to support your growth. Let Wise Medical Billing handle the complexities while you focus on what matters most—patient care.

Siding is a fantastic way to take total control over the look of your home. Twin Cities Siding is made from various materials goes over the exterior of your home and covers it in its entirety. While there are many types of siding materials, one of the most popular is vinyl siding. This is because vinyl is extremely durable, weatherproof, termite proof and affordable. With the many color options you simply decide which style of siding you like best, and then have it installed and almost overnight your home looks like a new house.
Blackbrook Construction is the siding expert in the Twin Cities area. We have the right tools and the proper training to quickly and efficiently install the siding of your choice. With siding from Blackbrook Construction you’ll add curb appeal to your home at an affordable cost, which is why we are the Twin Cities’ number one choice for siding contractor.

A friend noticed a damp, musty smell coming from her living room fireplace the week after a February thaw. When she called a masonry technician from Superior Chimney, to take a look, and found that water had been working its way behind the bricks for years. What started as a small crack now meant her chimney needed structural repairs before she could safely use it again.
Chimney repairs are any work done to restore the structural and weatherproof condition of a chimney. This can include mortar joint repair, brick replacement, crown repair, flue repair, and cap or flashing replacement. Most Chicagoland homeowners discover the need for chimney repairs often times after winter, when the freeze and thaw cycles have already done its damage. Uncovering the symptoms early is the best way to keep chimney repairs down. Let’s discuss how that can be done.
Why Chicagoland Weather Is Especially Hard on Chimneys
Chicagoland has some of the most polarized weather. One day it’s a blizzard and the next week hot, humid and 100 degrees. That swing in weather conditions and temperatures are the real reasons why chimney repairs are needed.
When moisture from humid and rainy days’ soak into brick and mortar and then freezes, it expands. As it begins to thaw, the materials contract. Repeat that cycle dozens of times in a single Illinois winter and even solid masonry in the chimney starts to crack, spall, and separate from the joints holding it together. This is called the freeze thaw cycle. We’ve talked about it many times over the years, and it continues to be the single biggest reason homes need chimney repairs more often than homes in milder climates.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the leading nonprofit certifying body for chimney professionals in the United States, notes that water intrusion is one of the most damaging and most preventable problems. If the problem is left to mature, it affects more than the appearance. It compromises the structure itself.
What Do Chimney Repairs Involve?
Not every chimney problem requires the same fix. Chimney repairs generally fall into a few categories. Understanding the difference, helps homeowners have a more informed conversation with the expert technician.
Mortar joint repair or tuckpointing. This involves removing deteriorated mortar between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar, matched to the original color and texture as closely as possible.
Brick replacement. When individual bricks have spalled, meaning the face has cracked or popped off from trapped moisture, those bricks are removed and replaced.
Crown and cap repair. The crown is the concrete slab at the very top of the chimney. Cracks both big and small let water directly into the chimney flue. Chimney crown repair is often one of the most urgent forms of chimney repairs.
Flashing repair. Flashing is the barrier where the chimney meets the roofline. Loose, damaged or poorly installed flashing is a common source for water leaks. The roof gets the blame as it is the largest piece that covers the house. However, it certainly can be the overlooked chimney.
Flue and liner repair. Cracked flue tiles or damaged liners affect how safely a chimney vents smoke and combustion gases.
When to Know a Chimney Needs Repair
Most chimney damage shows up as small, easy to dismiss way. Let’s take a look at the following list. Be sure to print this out and keep it handy so if/when something happens, you know what to look for.
• Water stains near the fireplace or on the ceiling
• A brownish stain on the wall around your fireplace, or a stain on the ceiling near an exterior chimney. This means water is getting in somewhere it should not.
• Crumbling or missing mortar
• If you can see gaps between bricks, or mortar that flakes off when you touch it
• A leaning or visibly shifting chimney
• A chimney that appears to pull away from the house, even slightly, could indicate a structural issue
• White staining on the brick (efflorescence)
• Chalky white residue left behind as water evaporates out of the masonry. It is a visible sign that moisture is moving through brick
• Rusted damper or firebox components
• Metal parts inside a fireplace that are rusting are a strong indicator that moisture is present
• Debris in the fireplace
• Small chunks of brick, mortar, or tile landing in the firebox
What are the Various Types of Chimney Repair?
This is a compiled list of chimney repairs so you can be aware of what to look for. If you have any questions, contact us directly at 877-244-6349.
Homeowners who schedule chimney repairs at the first sign of trouble typically spend far less than those who wait until water damage reaches the interior of the home. This is a great reason to contact Superior Chimney at 877-244-6349.
Why an Annual Inspection Matters More Than People Think
The CSIA and the National Fire Protection Association both recommend that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected at least once a year, whether or not the fireplace gets used. This recommendation exists because damage does not take a break just because a chimney sits without any use.
According to data stated by the CSIA, chimney related fires still contribute to tens of thousands of residential fires across the United States each year, and a large share of those incidents can be traced back to deferred maintenance. An annual chimney inspection is what catches the small mortar crack or the hairline crown crack before it turns into a repair bill.
Hiring the Right Company for Chimney Repairs
Not every company who offers chimney repair work has the certified training to diagnose a problem correctly. CSIA certification is the most widely recognized credential in the industry, and it requires technicians to study chimney physics, venting systems, and fire codes. After the studies, the new technician needs to pass an exam and agree to a professional code of ethics.
When you call, be sure to ask:
Are your technicians CSIA certified, and can I verify that certification?
Will you show me photos or video of the damage before starting work?
Does the estimate distinguish between cosmetic repair and structural repair?
At Superior Chimney, we welcome these and other of your questions.
How Chimney Repairs Affect Insurance and Resale
A chimney in poor condition can complicate a home sale or an insurance claim. Home inspectors routinely report on visible mortar loss, leaning chimneys, or missing chimney caps. Some insurers will request proof of repair before renewing a policy on an older home. Addressing chimney repairs proactively protects more than curb appeal. It protects the sale timeline and the claims history associated to the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a Chicago area chimney be inspected? At least once a year, per CSIA and NFPA guidance, regardless of how often the fireplace is used.
Can chimney repairs be done in winter? Some interior repairs can happen in cold weather, but most masonry repair requires temperatures consistently above freezing. Spring and fall are the most common repair times in the Chicago area.
Is tuckpointing the same thing as chimney repair? Tuckpointing is one type of chimney repair, focused on replacing deteriorated mortar joints.
Does homeowners insurance cover chimney repairs? It depends. Sudden damage from a storm may be covered, while gradual deterioration from lack of maintenance typically is not.
So Finally…
Taking care of your home includes a chimney. Just because you don’t see it every day, doesn’t mean things aren’t happening. Be sure to get a chimney inspection done once per year by a certified and credible company such as Superior Chimney to take care of the issues. Contact us today by calling 877-244-6349.

Your roof is arguably one of the most important elements of your entire home exterior. It serves the incredibly important function of protecting your home from the elements, but it is also a large portion of your home’s aesthetic design. The right material or design of shingle can really accentuate the color and décor of your home. Beyond that, what your roof is made of will affect its lifespan and ability to keep your property safe from the elements.
Having a quality Twin Cities Roofing Contractor in your corner to help when you need roofing services is a valuable asset. From roofing repairs to replacements and installations, we are the professionals you can count on. At Blackbrook Construction, we have the tools and training to service your roof with expert proficiency in a timely fashion. Our top priority is your satisfaction and our commitment to service excellence can be seen in our workmanship. We also offer free estimates and will gladly send a technician to your home to consult with you on your roofing options. This is why we are the Twin Cities’ top choice for roofing contractor.

Siding is a fantastic way to take total control over the look of your home. Twin Cities Siding is made from various materials goes over the exterior of your home and covers it in its entirety. While there are many types of siding materials, one of the most popular is vinyl siding. This is because vinyl is extremely durable, weatherproof, termite proof and affordable. With the many color options you simply decide which style of siding you like best, and then have it installed and almost overnight your home looks like a new house.
Blackbrook Construction is the siding expert in the Twin Cities area. We have the right tools and the proper training to quickly and efficiently install the siding of your choice. With siding from Blackbrook Construction you’ll add curb appeal to your home at an affordable cost, which is why we are the Twin Cities’ number one choice for siding contractor.

Roof and Gutter Installation in Charlotte
When Joshua Tetner contacted Triumph Roofing, he needed a comprehensive solution for his home in Charlotte. His roof and gutters had sustained significant wear over the years, and it was time for a complete upgrade. Joshua sought a professional team to handle the project efficiently while keeping the process clear and straightforward. The estimated cost for the project was $16,000.
We recommended a full roof and gutter installation to restore the functionality and appearance of his home. Joshua appreciated the detailed project breakdown provided by Yuriy, one of our skilled professionals, who worked closely with him to ensure every aspect of the installation was understood and approved.
Professionalism at Every Step
From the start, Yuriy guided Joshua through the entire process. He walked him step by step through the installation plan, costs, and payments, ensuring there were no surprises along the way. Yuriy also worked directly with Joshua’s insurance company to facilitate claims, saving time and reducing stress for the client. This level of service set the foundation for a seamless project experience.
The Installation Process
On the scheduled day, our team began by removing the old, worn-out roofing and gutter system. We installed a new, durable roofing system designed to withstand Charlotte’s weather conditions and added high-quality gutters to ensure efficient water drainage. Yuriy remained on-site often, inspecting the work and its progress, ensuring every detail met Triumph Roofing’s high standards.
Our expert crew completed the project efficiently, leaving Joshua with a home that was both protected and visually refreshed. The combination of a new roof and a state-of-the-art gutter system enhanced the home’s durability and curb appeal.
Client Feedback
Joshua shared his experience with glowing words:
"Yuriy and Triumph Roofing were awesome to work with. Yuriy was very professional and walked through everything step by step, breaking down installation and cost/payments from both sides. He worked directly with my insurance company to help facilitate the process, which was extremely helpful. The work was excellent, and Yuriy was on-site often, inspecting the work and its progress, making sure it was being done as I expected. Thanks, Yuriy, for a job more than well done!!"
This project highlights Triumph Roofing’s commitment to providing high-quality roof and gutter installation services in Charlotte. From expert craftsmanship to unmatched professionalism, we strive to exceed expectations on every project.

Recently completed a full roof replacement in North Austin after the homeowner’s insurance claim was approved following severe hail and wind damage. After a thorough inspection, our team documented the storm-related impacts, assisted throughout the claims process, and installed a completely new roofing system built for long-term performance in the Texas climate.
This project included a full tear-off of the existing roof, upgraded synthetic underlayment, new flashing, proper attic ventilation improvements, and premium architectural shingles selected for durability, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Our crew maintained a clean and organized job site throughout the installation and completed a detailed final walkthrough to ensure everything met both manufacturer specifications and local building codes.
Storm damage is one of the leading causes of roof replacement in North Austin, especially after hail events and strong seasonal winds. Warning signs can include missing shingles, bruising, granule loss, water stains, active leaks, lifted flashing, and aging roofing materials.
For homeowners searching for North Austin roof replacement, hail damage roofing contractor, insurance claim roof replacement, roof inspection near me, or storm restoration services in Austin, Driftwood Builders Roofing provides expert inspections, transparent communication, and high-quality workmanship from start to finish.

Completed a full roof replacement in Covington, GA after storm damage. This insurance claim project included removal of the old roof and installation of a new architectural shingle system. Built for long-lasting protection and curb appeal.

Completed a full roof replacement in Covington, GA after storm damage. This insurance claim project included removal of the old roof and installation of a new architectural shingle system. Built for long-lasting protection and curb appeal.

Why DryHero Water & Mold for Lincoln Water Damage Restoration?
If you have water damage in Lincoln Nebraska, there is no better flood restoration company for prompt professional service. Water damage restoration isn’t some add-on service at DryHero, it’s our only business! When water damages your property, you don’t get a second chance to prevent mold growth.
We are experienced, knowledgeable and decisive in how to mitigate your water and mold damage…the first time. Nationally trained, certified and based right here in Lincoln, Nebraska, DryHero delivers expertly skilled service with good old-fashioned Nebraska value.
When you’re standing in water, you don’t want a roofing, carpet cleaning or drain cleaning contractor dabbling in flood restoration and learning on-the-job experience on your house (and literally at your expense). Seriously, the batteries in our moisture meters have been around longer than some water damage restoration companies in Lincoln. Call DryHero, the people that even water damage restoration companies call for advice. DryHero, water and mold simply don’t stand a chance!
A water damage event to your property is disruptive and stressful. Can you handle it yourself or are you concerned about hidden structure damage or mold growth? To be candid, only very small water damage incidents can be handled without professional water damage restoration professionals.
DryHero Water & Mold of Lincoln will provide you with expert water damage and mold remediation information and evaluation. From your attic down to your foundation, we will provide you with a free restoration and repair estimate so you can get your household and family back to normal as quickly as possible.
We’ll provide you with a free, honest assessment of your property damage and share any possible risks or potential hazards that may be associated. Oh, we'll even let you know if you don't require professional service. We will document your damage and help navigate the insurance claims process. After all, that’s what we would want in a hero.

Completed a full roof replacement in Covington, GA after storm damage. This insurance claim project included removal of the old roof and installation of a new architectural shingle system. Built for long-lasting protection and curb appeal.

Completed a full roof replacement in Covington, GA after storm damage. This insurance claim project included removal of the old roof and installation of a new architectural shingle system. Built for long-lasting protection and curb appeal.
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