Search results for "Inspection" in Home Design Ideas

Santosa 07 is the built-in solution that transforms any environment into a private relaxation area, where one is free to let himself go and regenerate his senses. Every detail was studied to make the experience even more fascinating and rewarding: the heater to ensure the appropriate temperature of use, the internal lights and the audio system complete the pleasure of the immersion while creating the right atmosphere. The technical compartment, entirely waterproof to avoid any leaks or flooding, is directly inserted inside the tub's perimeter to make sure no other plumbing or electrical systems are needed.
Fully built-in self-supporting structure in stainless steel AISI 316L, fully TIG welded, reinforced with a tubular frame that can be disassembled into two sections: the technical part and the tub part only, so that it can fit into the smallest spaces.
Microperforated plates, directly on the tub's frame to make the internal shapes look linear and clean; one at the bottom for suction and three to release the filtered water evenly over the entire surface of the tub.
Access to the technical area through a technical inspection hatch on the outer part.
4 microperforated areas for the AIR-MASSAGE system, directly on the tub's frame to make the internal shapes look linear and clean, each with 49 micro-holes and located in the lower back and calf area.

Philip Crocker
Collaborative design work between our clients and ourselves incorporating their own tastes, furniture and artwork as they downsized from a large home to an almost new condo. As with many of our projects we brought in our core group of trade specialists to consult and advise so that we could guide our clients through an easy process of option selections to meet their standards, timeline and budget. A very smooth project from beginning to end that included removal of the existing hardwood and carpet throughout, new painting throughout, some new lighting and detailed art glass work as well as custom metal and millwork. A successful project with excellent results and happy clients!
Do you want to renovate your condo?
Showcase Interiors Ltd. specializes in condo renovations. As well as thorough planning assistance including feasibility reviews and inspections, we can also provide permit acquisition services. We also possess Advanced Clearance through Worksafe BC and all General Liability Insurance for Strata Approval required for your proposed project.
Showcase Interiors Ltd. is a trusted, fully licensed and insured renovations firm offering exceptional service and high quality workmanship. We work with home and business owners to develop, manage and execute small to large renovations and unique installations. We work with accredited interior designers, engineers and authorities to deliver special projects from concept to completion on time & on budget. Our loyal clients love our integrity, reliability, level of service and depth of experience. Contact us today about your project and join our long list of satisfied clients!
We are a proud family business!

Lolly & Me Ellery 3-in-1 Convertible Crib, White
Bold architectural details make this 3-in-1 convertible crib the focal point in any nursery. Raised moldings, dramatic arched end panels, and modern lines invite your baby to bed down in style. An adjustable mattress pad accommodates three heights for your growing toddler, while its three-in-one design allows you to transition the crib to a toddler bed or day bed. Add an Ellery changing table for a stunning set. Rigorously tested to exceed US-safety standards, the Ellery has extra safety bolts and thick slats to keep your baby safe and sound. The paint and protective clear coat are applied by hand in three steps for extra durability. User-friendly instructions eliminate assembly headaches so even the busiest parents can put it together. All our Lolly & Me products are created by two moms, dedicated to dressing up today's nursery with affordable style that's fresh, functional and safe.
- Converts to toddler bed and day bed
- Certifications: JPMA, CPSIA, ASTM; USA-inspected
- Construction: New Zealand pine, yellow poplar, formaldehyde-free adhesives
- 3-step finish: hand-applied, rich paint color and protective clear coat
- Maximum weight capacity: 50.0 lb.
- Assembled dimensions: 42" H x 55" W x 30.9" D
- Care: clean with mild soap and water
- Conversion kit included
- Mattress sold separately
- Warranty: one year for all manufacturing defects
Find the right local pro for your project

Reclaimed - Heart Pine floor * random width * new face.
Reclaimed - Hand Hewn - barn beams.
This premium flooring and beams were custom milled at Excelsior Wood Products, LLC in Kingston, NY.
Excelsior Wood Products, LLC is a full service mill and lumber supplier specializing in antique and reclaimed wood. We have the capacity to produce and ship reclaimed flooring, custom moldings, custom siding, decking, sawn and hand hewn beams, architectural millwork and a wide range of other specialty wood products to customers across the United States. As a custom mill, we also have the flexibility to produce products made from just about any type of wood, to your exact specifications.
We offer flooring at a variety of widths and lengths ... unfinished or prefinished with VOC free materials. We offer original face and textured finishes. We mill to 3/4" with an extra thick wear layer to ensure longevity and durability. We inspect every board to maximize usability and remove unsound defects. Our custom flooring is precision milled tongue and groove including back relieved.
Our mission: "Deliver the highest quality natural material, along with excellent personal customer service.”
Please feel free to visit our website www.excelsiorwood.com, call (845) 339-6630 or email eric@excelsiorwood.com, come tour our facility or let us bring samples to you.

ver look at your iron fence and wonder how rust crept up so fast? For homeowners across Chicago's North Side and Near West Side, that moment of recognition often comes too late. Windy City Painters built this project guide to help you understand exactly what a professional iron fence restoration involves, what products matter, and what Chicago's climate demands from every coat of paint applied to exposed metal.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This iron fence restoration involved a multi-unit property featuring an ornamental iron perimeter fence typical of Chicago's greystone and courtyard building streetscape. The fence presented moderate-to-severe surface rust, multiple areas of paint delamination, and two sections with deep pitting requiring needle gun descaling before any coating could be applied. The goal was full rust remediation and a durable topcoat finish built for Chicago's demanding climate. Windy City Painters completed the project in two days with zero damage to surrounding hardscape.
MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS
Ospho Rust Converter - A phosphoric acid-based treatment that chemically transforms iron oxide into iron phosphate, halting active corrosion before primer is applied. Essential on Chicago iron exposed to decades of salt air and freeze-thaw cycling.
Corroseal Rust-Inhibitive Primer - A water-based latex primer with built-in rust inhibitors, applied over converted surfaces to seal and prepare metal for topcoating.
Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic Coating - Direct-to-Metal formulation delivering exceptional adhesion, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. Available in satin and semi-gloss, ideal for ornamental iron fence painting across Chicago properties.
THE PROCESS
Step 1 - Mechanical Surface Preparation: Wire wheel grinding with angle grinder attachments removed all loose rust scale, failing paint, and surface contamination. Heavily pitted sections received needle gun descaling to expose clean stable metal beneath. This step determines everything. No primer or topcoat performs correctly over compromised metal, regardless of product quality. Windy City Painters treats prep as the primary investment on every iron fence project.
Step 2 - Rust Conversion: Ospho was applied liberally to all areas showing active rust. The phosphoric acid reaction was allowed to complete fully before any priming began. On severely oxidized sections, a second Ospho application ensured complete conversion. This step is non-negotiable in Chicago where freeze-thaw cycles push moisture into every surface irregularity.
Step 3 - Priming with Corroseal: Full coverage Corroseal primer coat sealed the converted surface and established adhesion for the finish coats. Corroseal's rust-inhibitive chemistry adds a secondary barrier against moisture penetration, extending the effective life of the topcoat by years in Chicago's humid lakefront environment.
Step 4 - DTM Topcoat Application: Two coats of Sherwin-Williams DTM acrylic in satin black were applied by brush to ensure full penetration into ornamental detail. DTM's flexibility accommodates the metal expansion and contraction Chicago temperatures demand, from minus-15 winters to 95-degree July afternoons. Final coverage was uniform and true to color.
CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES
Chicago iron faces challenges most other markets do not. Lake Michigan humidity accelerates surface oxidation year-round. Road salt from winter de-icing migrates to fence bases and lower rails. Freeze-thaw cycling cracks poorly adhered coatings within a single winter. Greystones, two-flats, and Victorian brownstones often feature original ornamental ironwork with decades of layered paint that must be assessed before any new coating is added. Windy City Painters factors all of these conditions into every iron fence estimate and material selection.
WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM
A properly prepared and coated iron fence using the Ospho, Corroseal, and Sherwin-Williams DTM system should deliver 5-8 years of performance in Chicago conditions. Annual visual inspection for chips or scratches, followed by prompt spot priming, extends that timeline significantly. Full refinishing cycles become less frequent when the initial prep work is done correctly.
PRO TIPS
Tip 1 - Never skip the rust converter. Painting over active rust with even the best topcoat guarantees early failure. Ospho or a comparable phosphoric acid treatment must precede any primer on iron showing orange or brown oxidation.
Tip 2 - Assess for weld repairs before scheduling painting. If rust has eaten through the metal creating structural voids or broken sections, a welder must address those areas before painting begins. Windy City Painters identifies weld repair needs during the free estimate.
Tip 3 - Choose satin or semi-gloss finish on iron. Flat finishes on metal hold moisture and show wear faster. Satin DTM provides enough sheen to shed water while maintaining the traditional look Chicago ornamental iron demands.
Ready to restore your iron fence the right way? Visit windypainters.com to schedule your free estimate with Windy City Painters.
FAQ
Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago?
A: Most residential iron fence projects range from $500 to $1,800 depending on linear footage, rust severity, and prep requirements. Windy City Painters provides free detailed on-site estimates for accurate iron fence painting cost in Chicago.
Q: How do I know if my fence needs rust conversion or just repainting?
A: Any visible orange or brown rust requires chemical conversion before priming. Windy City Painters evaluates every fence during the estimate to determine whether Ospho, mechanical prep, or weld repair is needed before coating begins.
Q: Can you paint iron in cold Chicago weather?
A: DTM coatings have lower application temperature thresholds than standard exterior paint, but we avoid application below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Windy City Painters schedules iron fence projects for appropriate weather windows throughout the season.
Q: How long does iron fence paint last in Chicago?
A: With complete rust conversion, Corroseal priming, and Sherwin-Williams DTM topcoat, iron fence painting in Chicago lasts 5-8 years. Annual inspections and prompt touch-ups of chips extend that timeline further.
Q: Do I need a welder before an iron fence can be painted?
A: Only if rust has created structural voids or breaks in the metal. Windy City Painters assesses this during the free estimate and can coordinate with welders when needed before our painting crew begins.
Q: What is the difference between Ospho and Corroseal?
A: Ospho is a rust converter applied directly to active rust to chemically neutralize it. Corroseal is a rust-inhibitive primer applied over converted or clean metal. Windy City Painters often uses both in sequence for maximum protection on Chicago iron.
Q: How often should Chicago iron fences be inspected?
A: Annual inspection is recommended, ideally in early spring after winter salt and freeze-thaw exposure. Catching small chips and bare spots early allows simple touch-up rather than full iron fence repainting, saving significant cost.

Does your iron fence look like Chicago winters have been winning the battle for years? That slow orange spread across pickets and rails is not just an eyesore - it is active corrosion undermining the structural integrity of metalwork that frames some of Chicago's most architecturally significant residential properties. Windy City Painters addresses iron fence rust at the source, using professional-grade rust conversion chemistry and direct-to-metal coatings engineered for the specific abuse Chicago's climate delivers.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This project involved a heavily rusted ornamental iron fence on a Chicago North Side residential property. Rust had progressed beyond surface oxidation into moderate pitting on lower rails, a pattern Windy City Painters sees frequently on properties within blocks of treated roadways where salt drift accelerates corrosion. The scope included mechanical descaling, chemical rust conversion, DTM priming, and a durable gloss topcoat matched to the original fence color.
MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS
Ospho Rust Converter: A phosphoric acid-based treatment that chemically reacts with iron oxide, converting it to iron phosphate - a stable, paintable compound. Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter is an alternative for situations requiring lower VOC handling. Rust-Oleum Professional DTM Primer and Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic Coating serve as the primary coating system, formulated for direct metal adhesion with built-in rust inhibitors. For structurally compromised sections, welding is coordinated before any chemical or coating work begins.
THE PROCESS
Step 1 - Mechanical Preparation: Wire wheel grinding on an angle grinder removes loose rust scale, mill scale, and flaking paint. For advanced pitting, Windy City Painters deploys a needle gun descaler, which impacts the metal surface thousands of times per minute to drive scale from deep cavities. This step determines whether the fence can be coated or needs welding first.
Step 2 - Chemical Rust Conversion: Ospho or Corroseal is brushed onto all remaining rust surface. These products do not simply seal rust - they react with it. The conversion process takes 24 hours to fully cure before topcoating. Skipping this step is the single most common reason iron fence paint jobs fail prematurely.
Step 3 - DTM Priming: Sherwin-Williams DTM or Rust-Oleum DTM primer is applied by brush to ensure full penetration around decorative elements, picket tips, and weld joints. Spray application is used on open sections for even film build. DTM formulations bond directly to prepared metal without a separate shop primer.
Step 4 - Finish Coating: A DTM topcoat in gloss or semi-gloss provides the final weather barrier. Gloss is preferred for iron fencing because the harder surface sheds water more effectively and resists dirt adhesion between maintenance cycles. Windy City Painters applies two finish coats for maximum film thickness.
CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES
Chicago's freeze-thaw cycle is the primary enemy of iron fence coatings. Water infiltrates micro-cracks in paint film, freezes, expands, and delaminate coating from beneath. Properties on the North Side and Near West Side also contend with lake-effect humidity that keeps metal surfaces damp for extended periods, slowing cure times and promoting under-film corrosion if preparation is inadequate. Greystones and Victorian brownstones typically feature ornate cast iron or wrought iron fencing with complex geometries that trap moisture and demand hand-brush application to fully coat recesses.
WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM
A properly prepared and coated iron fence in Chicago should hold 5-8 years before requiring recoating. Annual inspection of weld joints, picket tips, and base rails closest to grade will identify early rust return. Addressing small spots with touch-up converter and primer extends service life significantly between full recoats.
PRO TIPS
Tip 1: Never pressure wash a rusted iron fence immediately before painting. Water drives moisture into pits and delays the surface drying needed for chemical converter adhesion. Allow 48 hours of dry weather before prep begins.
Tip 2: Picket tips and rail ends are the first failure points. These end-grain equivalent areas on metal concentrate corrosion. Ask your painter to apply an extra brush coat to every tip and terminus.
Tip 3: Black is the traditional and most durable color choice for iron fencing. Dark pigments absorb UV rather than reflecting it, reducing thermal cycling stress on the paint film at color change boundaries.
FAQ
Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago?
A: Most residential iron fence painting in Chicago ranges from $400 to $1,200 depending on linear footage, rust severity, prep method required, and whether structural welding is needed before Windy City Painters can coat the surface.
Q: How do I know if my fence needs a welder before painting?
A: If you can press a screwdriver through a rail or picket, the metal wall has failed. Windy City Painters inspects all fencing before quoting and identifies weld-required sections so repairs happen before any coating investment.
Q: Is Ospho or Corroseal better for my fence?
A: Both convert rust effectively. Ospho is solvent-based and fast-acting, preferred for heavy rust. Corroseal is water-based with lower odor, preferred in enclosed or residential settings where off-gassing is a concern. Windy City Painters selects based on site conditions.
Q: Can iron fence painting be done in winter in Chicago?
A: Application requires temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit for DTM coatings to cure properly. Most iron fence painting in Chicago runs April through October, with scheduling flexibility based on extended warm stretches.
Q: How do I maintain my fence between professional recoats?
A: Inspect annually in spring. Sand any rust spots to bare metal with 80-grit paper, apply Ospho, let cure 24 hours, then spot-prime with DTM primer and touch up with finish coat. Windy City Painters offers maintenance inspections.
Q: Do you paint courtyard building fences and coach house gates?
A: Yes. Multi-unit courtyard buildings and coach houses are common in the North Side neighborhoods Windy City Painters serves. We coordinate with property managers and HOAs for larger perimeter fence projects.
Q: How long after painting can I touch the fence?
A: DTM coatings are typically dry to touch in 2-4 hours and hard dry in 24 hours. Full cure for maximum hardness takes 7 days. Windy City Painters advises against pressure washing or heavy contact during that cure window.
Visit windypainters.com to request your free iron fence assessment and project quote.

This Flared Staircase has medallion spindles and box newels. These photos were taken mid-construction, is a testament to the careful consideration Great Lakes Stair & Millwork takes during the planning phases and on site. We work across the nation with clients and our collaborations include every customer’s design dreams.

Project Overview:
The owner of this project is a financial analyst turned realtor turned landlord, and the goal was to increase rental income on one of his properties as effectively as possible. The design was developed to minimize construction costs, minimize City of Portland building compliance costs and restrictions, and to avoid a county tax assessment increase based on site improvements.
The owner started with a large backyard at one of his properties, had a custom tiny home built as “personal property”, then added two ancillary sheds each under a 200SF compliance threshold to increase the habitable floor plan. Compliant navigation of laws and code ended up with an out-of-the-box design that only needed mechanical permitting and inspections by the city, but no building permits that would trigger a county value re-assessment. The owner’s final construction costs were $50k less than a standard ADU, rental income almost doubled for the property, and there was no resultant tax increase.
Product: Gendai 1×6 select grade shiplap
Prefinish: Unoiled
Application: Residential – Exterior
SF: 900SF
Designer:
Builder:
Date: March 2019
Location: Portland, OR

Philip Crocker
Collaborative design work between our clients and ourselves incorporating their own tastes, furniture and artwork as they downsized from a large home to an almost new condo. As with many of our projects we brought in our core group of trade specialists to consult and advise so that we could guide our clients through an easy process of option selections to meet their standards, timeline and budget. A very smooth project from beginning to end that included removal of the existing hardwood and carpet throughout, new painting throughout, some new lighting and detailed art glass work as well as custom metal and millwork. A successful project with excellent results and happy clients!
Do you want to renovate your condo?
Showcase Interiors Ltd. specializes in condo renovations. As well as thorough planning assistance including feasibility reviews and inspections, we can also provide permit acquisition services. We also possess Advanced Clearance through Worksafe BC and all General Liability Insurance for Strata Approval required for your proposed project.
Showcase Interiors Ltd. is a trusted, fully licensed and insured renovations firm offering exceptional service and high quality workmanship. We work with home and business owners to develop, manage and execute small to large renovations and unique installations. We work with accredited interior designers, engineers and authorities to deliver special projects from concept to completion on time & on budget. Our loyal clients love our integrity, reliability, level of service and depth of experience. Contact us today about your project and join our long list of satisfied clients!
We are a proud family business!

This aesthetically pleasing master bathroom is the perfect place for our clients to start and end each day. Fully customized shower fixtures and a deep soaking tub will provide the perfect solutions to destress and unwind. Our client's love for plants translates beautifully into this space with a sage green double vanity that brings life and serenity into their master bath retreat. Opting to utilize softer patterned tile throughout the space, makes it more visually expansive while gold accessories, natural wood elements, and strategically placed rugs throughout the room, make it warm and inviting.
Committing to a color scheme in a space can be overwhelming at times when considering the number of options that are available. This master bath is a perfect example of how to incorporate color into a room tastefully, while still having a cohesive design.
Items used in this space include:
Waypoint Living Spaces Cabinetry in Sage Green
Calacatta Italia Manufactured Quartz Vanity Tops
Elegant Stone Onice Bianco Tile
Natural Marble Herringbone Tile
Delta Cassidy Collection Fixtures
Want to see more samples of our work or before and after photographs of this project?
Visit the Stoneunlimited Kitchen and Bath website:
www.stoneunlimited.net
Stoneunlimited Kitchen and Bath is a full scope, full service, turnkey business. We do it all so that you don’t have to. You get to do the fun part of approving the design, picking your materials and making selections with our guidance and we take care of everything else. We provide you with 3D and 4D conceptual designs so that you can see your project come to life. Materials such as tile, fixtures, sinks, shower enclosures, flooring, cabinetry and countertops are ordered through us, inspected by us and installed by us. We are also a fabricator, so we fabricate all the countertops. We assign and manage the schedule and the workers that will be in your home taking care of the installation. We provide painting, electrical, plumbing as well as cabinetry services for your project from start to finish. So, when I say we do it, we truly do it all!

Victorian black and white tiles in the hallway of a house in Wanstead (E11), laid in what is often referred to as the York Pattern with a Kingsley Border, however sadly neglected for many years after being covered with a heavy underlay and carpet.
First we cleaned the tiles with a dilution of Tile Doctor Pro-clean which releases the dirt stuck in the pores of the tiles; the solution was scrubbed into the floor with a buffer machine fitted with a black scrubbing pad and then the released soil extracted with a wet vacuum. The floor was then rinsed with water and extracted again with the wet vacuum. It was left to dry for thirty minutes and the floor inspected which revealed a few stubborn areas that were then treated using Nano-Tech Heavy Build-up remover (HBU) which was left to dwell for forty minutes and then scrubbed and then extracted again with water.
To Slow down or stop the possibility of an issue we sometimes have with older floors such as Victorian Tiles we often use a product developed by Tile Doctor called Acid Gel, this is left on the surface for 5 minutes and then removed with light agitation and water and a wet vac machine, the floor is then rinsed with water again just to make sure there is no Acid Gel left in the Tile or on the surface. The Acid Gel not only Keeps mineral salts (efflorescence) at bay but also helps as a bonding agent for the sealer to make sealing theses type of tiles a lot easier.
After leaving the floor to dry overnight I came back the next day to seal the floor using four coats of Tile Doctor Seal and Go which is ideal for Victorian tiled floors as it leaves a low sheen finish whilst providing excellent stain protection.
Didi Mohammed
Central London Tile Doctor

Philip Crocker
Collaborative design work between our clients and ourselves incorporating their own tastes, furniture and artwork as they downsized from a large home to an almost new condo. As with many of our projects we brought in our core group of trade specialists to consult and advise so that we could guide our clients through an easy process of option selections to meet their standards, timeline and budget. A very smooth project from beginning to end that included removal of the existing hardwood and carpet throughout, new painting throughout, some new lighting and detailed art glass work as well as custom metal and millwork. A successful project with excellent results and happy clients!
Do you want to renovate your condo?
Showcase Interiors Ltd. specializes in condo renovations. As well as thorough planning assistance including feasibility reviews and inspections, we can also provide permit acquisition services. We also possess Advanced Clearance through Worksafe BC and all General Liability Insurance for Strata Approval required for your proposed project.
Showcase Interiors Ltd. is a trusted, fully licensed and insured renovations firm offering exceptional service and high quality workmanship. We work with home and business owners to develop, manage and execute small to large renovations and unique installations. We work with accredited interior designers, engineers and authorities to deliver special projects from concept to completion on time & on budget. Our loyal clients love our integrity, reliability, level of service and depth of experience. Contact us today about your project and join our long list of satisfied clients!
We are a proud family business!

Do you know what ends our time of enjoying the wonderful Fall colors? Rain. The other day when it rained, it took most of those bright yellow leaves and brought them to the ground. It saddened me not only because the colors were gone, but now the leaves have to be cleaned up. And with the trees being larger, those leaves went everywhere. All over the ground, in the tall bushes, stuck on the window sills, lodged in the gutters and up at the chimney. Nature’s going to happen so, what are the effects of Fall rain and the Chimney? Let’s take a further look.
Fall Rain and the Chimney
The Fall leaves are gorgeous and fall is many homeowners favorite time of year. But as with all seasons, it comes to an end. The Fall rain combined with wind takes those colorful leaves and distributes them…everywhere. Especially on the roof where your chimney is located. By having an annual chimney inspection, we’ll take a look to ensure the safety of your chimney stays intact for the upcoming harsher season: Winter.
The Exterior Chimney
With Fall, we have two of the elements to be concerned about and that’s the leaves and rain. Here are a few areas we check and the effects of fall rain and the chimney. Let’s start at the top:
Chimney Cap: The chimney cap is vital for protecting the opening of your chimney which leads to the interior of your home. We inspect the chimney cap ensuring it is tightly secured to the exterior chimney termination. The chimney is typically the tallest part of your home and gets exposed to the harshest winds, rain, snow, animals and blowing debris. All of that hits the chimney cap trying to find that weak spot so it can get inside the chimney. If it does, that debris is easily ignited and can cause harm to your home.
Chimney Crown: This is the slab of concrete that covers the chimney and extends beyond the bricks or materials that make up the chimney. This is to provide protection from the elements. But remember the chimney crown can also develop cracks over time. This is where crown coat can extend the life of the chimney crown ensuring the elements stay where they should… outside.
Brick, Stone and Mortar: The structure of the chimney can be made of brick, stone or other materials. If it is made of brick or stone, then mortar is involved. All of these materials are porous, meaning that it can absorb water and snow melt, which breaks down over time. As a result, this needs to be checked looking for loose bricks, missing mortar, cracks in either one of these materials and more. Tuckpointing is a good solution to ensure the elements stay out. The use of Chimney Saver is a great way to preserve the bricks, stones and mortar as it waterproofs and protects the materials for about 8 – 10 years and slows down the aging process.
Flashing: This is the material that protects the connection of the roof to the chimney. A critical and common area for leaks. The flashing moves the water away from the chimney and down the roof. The flashing adheres to the chimney with a seal, which dries out over time. This area needs to be checked to ensure the seal is strong and doesn’t allow water to get in.
Before the cold sets in and you want to turn on or fire up the fireplace, be sure to take into consideration the effects of fall rain and the chimney. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to set up an appointment.

DRC Pools, the Best in Orange County for Pools, Masonry & Landscaping
Based in Yorba Linda, California, DRC Pools has offered superior landscaping to Orange County residents for more than 13 years. Finding our beginnings in masonry as DR Construction more than 40 years ago, we have grown from a masonry company into a custom pool, spa, masonry, and landscape design company.
DRC Pools has grown into a premiere custom pool, masonry, and landscape design contractor in Orange County. 90% of our work is completed in-house, allowing us to price ourselves competitively and helps us complete our work in a time-efficient manner.
Our mission is to provide quality service and complete customer satisfaction in everything we do, whether it’s high-quality landscaping, masonry, pools, or anything else.
DRC Pools promises to provide a unique design that will correspond to your lifestyle. Our designers work closely with you to ensure the desired result. We guarantee outstanding craftsmanship, personally inspecting every aspect of the job, and paying careful attention to even the smallest detail.
Please view our photo gallery to see how our work illustrates out incomparable standards. See the quality of work DRC Pools provides and what distinguishes us from our competitors.

Lolly & Me Ellery 3-in-1 Convertible Crib, White
Bold architectural details make this 3-in-1 convertible crib the focal point in any nursery. Raised moldings, dramatic arched end panels, and modern lines invite your baby to bed down in style. An adjustable mattress pad accommodates three heights for your growing toddler, while its three-in-one design allows you to transition the crib to a toddler bed or day bed. Add an Ellery changing table for a stunning set. Rigorously tested to exceed US-safety standards, the Ellery has extra safety bolts and thick slats to keep your baby safe and sound. The paint and protective clear coat are applied by hand in three steps for extra durability. User-friendly instructions eliminate assembly headaches so even the busiest parents can put it together. All our Lolly & Me products are created by two moms, dedicated to dressing up today's nursery with affordable style that's fresh, functional and safe.
- Converts to toddler bed and day bed
- Certifications: JPMA, CPSIA, ASTM; USA-inspected
- Construction: New Zealand pine, yellow poplar, formaldehyde-free adhesives
- 3-step finish: hand-applied, rich paint color and protective clear coat
- Maximum weight capacity: 50.0 lb.
- Assembled dimensions: 42" H x 55" W x 30.9" D
- Care: clean with mild soap and water
- Conversion kit included
- Mattress sold separately
- Warranty: one year for all manufacturing defects

Philip Crocker
Collaborative design work between our clients and ourselves incorporating their own tastes, furniture and artwork as they downsized from a large home to an almost new condo. As with many of our projects we brought in our core group of trade specialists to consult and advise so that we could guide our clients through an easy process of option selections to meet their standards, timeline and budget. A very smooth project from beginning to end that included removal of the existing hardwood and carpet throughout, new painting throughout, some new lighting and detailed art glass work as well as custom metal and millwork. A successful project with excellent results and happy clients!
Do you want to renovate your condo?
Showcase Interiors Ltd. specializes in condo renovations. As well as thorough planning assistance including feasibility reviews and inspections, we can also provide permit acquisition services. We also possess Advanced Clearance through Worksafe BC and all General Liability Insurance for Strata Approval required for your proposed project.
Showcase Interiors Ltd. is a trusted, fully licensed and insured renovations firm offering exceptional service and high quality workmanship. We work with home and business owners to develop, manage and execute small to large renovations and unique installations. We work with accredited interior designers, engineers and authorities to deliver special projects from concept to completion on time & on budget. Our loyal clients love our integrity, reliability, level of service and depth of experience. Contact us today about your project and join our long list of satisfied clients!
We are a proud family business!

As you may know, Superior Chimney writes a lot of articles to educate the Chicagoland area on chimneys and how to identify problems. Every once in a while, it is good to go back and review the basics. That’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to discuss what are the components of a chimney. Let’s get started.
What are the Components of a Fireplace?
We’re going to get started on the actual chimney itself. Most chimneys are built of brick and some are constructed of a wood framed chase with siding on it to match the rest of the home. The traditional masonry fireplace chimneys include (from the inside out) a firebox, where the firewood burns and gas starter are located. Going up is the throat, smoke chamber and then chimney flue. These are the components of a masonry chimney where the exhaust/air travels through - From the firebox and out through the top of the chimney. You can most often ‘see’ your chimney from the ground, you will notice the bricks and on top of that will be the chimney crown (cement slab) which keeps the elements away from the brick chimney. On top of the chimney crown is the chimney cap. This is what keeps animals & debris from entering the chimney flue… raccoons, squirrels, birds, bats, etc… down the flue, and into the firebox.
Now that we know what components that a chimney has, let’s focus on a couple of key areas.
Fireplace Dampers
All chimneys are fitted with a fireplace damper. A fireplace damper is a metal plate that opens and closes, allowing smoke from the fireplace to move up and out of the home. If you have a fire and the fireplace damper is closed, or restrictive, the smoke will back up into your home. The smoke needs a place to go. When the fireplace is not in use, the damper should remain closed in order to keep the cold air out of your home and warm air from escaping your home. Just because you have a fireplace does not mean that you have to deal with cold drafts in the room the fireplace is in.
Chimney Flues
As we all know, heat rises. The heat from the fireplace is going to rise taking with it the smoke, and other gases. This process is known as drafting. It is important to have good drafting as it prevents the smoke or gases from staying in your home and harming your family.
Chimney Flue Liners
Flue liners are important to the chimney; they are your firewall. It works to prevent overheating of any combustibles next to the chimney. And, it helps so the chimney construction doesn’t corrode from the byproducts of burning wood, or creosote. There are a few types of flue liners, such as fire clay tiles, heat resistant concrete, and stainless steel. Superior Chimney recommends the use of stainless steel in our geographic freeze and thaw climate. Our technicians can give you the details when we are at your home.
What is the Purpose of Taking Care of the Chimney?
Chimney Fires. This is where regular sweep & inspection is crucial to the health of your home. Without a chimney sweep or chimney cleaning each year, (whether you use the chimney or not, gas or wood burning) the chimney can cause a fire to transfer to your home. Only Nationally credentialed service technician professionals know and can inspect the key components of a fireplace for known condition and continued use. Be sure to contact us today!

Philip Crocker
Collaborative design work between our clients and ourselves incorporating their own tastes, furniture and artwork as they downsized from a large home to an almost new condo. As with many of our projects we brought in our core group of trade specialists to consult and advise so that we could guide our clients through an easy process of option selections to meet their standards, timeline and budget. A very smooth project from beginning to end that included removal of the existing hardwood and carpet throughout, new painting throughout, some new lighting and detailed art glass work as well as custom metal and millwork. A successful project with excellent results and happy clients!
Do you want to renovate your condo?
Showcase Interiors Ltd. specializes in condo renovations. As well as thorough planning assistance including feasibility reviews and inspections, we can also provide permit acquisition services. We also possess Advanced Clearance through Worksafe BC and all General Liability Insurance for Strata Approval required for your proposed project.
Showcase Interiors Ltd. is a trusted, fully licensed and insured renovations firm offering exceptional service and high quality workmanship. We work with home and business owners to develop, manage and execute small to large renovations and unique installations. We work with accredited interior designers, engineers and authorities to deliver special projects from concept to completion on time & on budget. Our loyal clients love our integrity, reliability, level of service and depth of experience. Contact us today about your project and join our long list of satisfied clients!
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ames Hardie Aged Pewter siding made this Edina MN home into an instant classic. As you can see from the before picture, this 1950’s era Edina home was in need of an exterior update.
Once the old cedar shakes were removed, we inspected the sheathing underneath to make sure that we were going over a sound substrate. We then wrapped the home in James Hardie’s HardieWrap to guard against moisture intrusion and stop any air infiltration.
After the wrap was installed we used the James Hardie Arctic White trim for the fascia and window trim. One of the key features on this home was the use of the maintenance free crown moulding to duplicate the original look. We then installed the Aged Pewter straight edge shakes. Instead of using trim on the corners, we used metal corners to give the shakes a mitered look.
We were able to highlight the gable of this Edina MN home by using James Hardie Aged Pewter lap siding to create a unique detail that breaks up the big surface of the gable.
The final touch was the new custom made shutters in black. These shutters are the recessed panel type.
By replacing the garage door along with the project, these homeowners were able to get a contrast to their James Hardie Aged Pewter straight edge shakes that kept with the overall look of the house.
Another key piece of this transformation was the painting of the brick. Brick holds paint fairly well if it is in good shape. This can be one area where you can save some money by painting your existing brick instead of taking it off to replace it with stone or siding.
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