Search results for "Preventing damage" in Home Design Ideas

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Our clients were in the market for an upgrade from builder grade in their Glen Ellyn bathroom! They came to us requesting a more spa like experience and a designer’s eye to create a more refined space.
A large steam shower, bench and rain head replaced a dated corner bathtub. In addition, we added heated floors for those cool Chicago months and several storage niches and built-in cabinets to keep extra towels and toiletries out of sight. The use of circles in the tile, cabinetry and new window in the shower give this primary bath the character it was lacking, while lowering and modifying the unevenly vaulted ceiling created symmetry in the space. The end result is a large luxurious spa shower, more storage space and improvements to the overall comfort of the room. A nice upgrade from the existing builder grade space!
Photography by @margaretrajic
Photo stylist @brandidevers
Do you have an older home that has great bones but needs an upgrade? Contact us here to see how we can help!

CUSTOM DESIGNED AND BUILT BY BRIMCO BUILDERS 5500 SQ FT
Example of a large beach style blue three-story concrete fiberboard gable roof design
Example of a large beach style blue three-story concrete fiberboard gable roof design

Lower left cabinet, after.
Bathroom - small contemporary bathroom idea in Los Angeles with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets and solid surface countertops
Bathroom - small contemporary bathroom idea in Los Angeles with raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets and solid surface countertops
Find the right local pro for your project

I always recommend installing tile on a shower ceiling to prevent damage and to give the space a finished look. The red glass tile trim echoes the framed mirrors above the vanities in the previous photo.
Photo by Brian Gassel

"Lighted countertops and specialized storage transform this room into a keepsake-maker's dream space. Innovative, specialized gift wrap holders prevent damage and provide easy access to wrapping paper when needed, along with a specialized Ribbon Drawer that's designed to keep spooled items neat. A universal storage solution, wire baskets can hold a variety of items. Built with a sliding mechanism, they make accessing stored items simple.
Our Fusion Track Wall add both a functional and decorative touch, providing a creative storage solution for empty walls and narrow spaces. You also have a variety of styles and patterns available with Fabric Board Back Panels that can add a sophisticated, personalized touch to a design.
The Chroma Countertop is produced from optical grade engineered resin, featuring a durable matte texture that can be easily refinished throughout its lifetime. This materiel incorporates 40% recycled content and is available in a variety of colors and styles."

This matte black standing seam roof is the crown on this newly built traditional farm house style home. The double pipe snow retention system is a must to prevent damage or injury due to snow sliding off the roof.

2022 New Home Trends: Minimalist Trim
The owners of some modern homes are choosing to forgo trims altogether or have the siding come right up to the windows. This makes for a minimalist look that works well with more contemporary buildings but is dependent on high-performance siding, such as Vesta Steel Siding, to prevent damage over time.

Grey Faux wood everlast blinds in bathroom to prevent moisture from damaging blinds
Inspiration for a transitional bathroom remodel in New York
Inspiration for a transitional bathroom remodel in New York

Out of sight, out of mind. That’s what happens with the poor chimney. It stands up there, straight and tall, each day taking a beating from the sun, wind, rain, snow and freeze/thaw cycles of winter. Yet, we rely on the chimney each day to take away the smoke and gasses from the fireplace, furnace and water heater appliances.
What can we do as homeowners to ensure it continues to do its job without fail?
Sweep & Check the Chimney and Fireplace
A Certified Technician performs sweep and/or inspection of nearly/over a thousand chimneys annually. You may be familiar with the 14-point certified chimney inspection accompanied by photo documentation - I’ve shown you this graphic before, but it sure is a good one. It gives you the “what and where” of the overall condition of your chimney(s). If you have any questions, you can point to the picture and the certified technician can elaborate on the relative chimney inspection-point results.
Exterior Chimney
Part of the inspection, as you will see in the picture, is to inspect the exterior of the chimney. The Certified Chimney Technician will inspect the full chimney including the chimney flashing, bricks and mortar joints, chimney crown and cap. Let’s take a look at each one.
Chimney Flashing
Chimney flashing plays a vital role to the protection of your home. It’s the piece of material that protects where chimney protrude out of the roof. To prevent water leaks and damage, the technician will inspect for any loose, missing, cracked or damaged flashing.
Brick & Mortar Joints
This is key. To prevent any type of major repairs, take care of minor repairs now. The technician will check for loose, cracked or spalling (chipped) bricks. If there are loose bricks and numerous cracks and chips, we’ll inspect further for any type of water leaks or water damage problems.
Chimney Crown
The concrete slab on top of the chimney is the chimney crown. It serves a very important purpose. The concrete slab acts like your chimney’s own personal roof. The technician will check if there are cracks, loose or missing pieces from the crown.
Chimney Cap
Chimney caps are also a critical component of the chimney - Every chimney needs a chimney cap for the same reasons every home needs a roof! It covers the opening of the flue. It prevents animals, debris and water from entering the chimney. The material of a chimney cap is usually made of stainless steel, as it will not rust.
Overall
If you’ve put-off getting the chimney inspected for some time, it’s best to get it checked. We’ve had some challenging weather this summer, and winter is not too far off. Take the time to give us a call and we’ll come out to give you a complete 14-point inspection with supporting photo documentation. If you don’t have a problem, fantastic, you’re ready for winter! If not, get the repairs done now so you don’t experience further damage to the interior or exterior of your home during the high-use months of winter.
Give us a call today at 877-CHIM-FIX (877-244-6349)

This client of ours loves to entertain. We were commissioned to completely redesign his backyard space to include a Pavilion, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit area. Preparation for this work included demolishing existing deteriorated concrete and a non-functioning Koi pond.
We decided on a 12′ x 14′ layout for the Cedar Pavilion. Sconce lighting, infrared heating, and a ceiling fan were added to the scope of the Pavilion project to maximize the space’s usability. For the outdoor kitchen, we chose a 38″ Delta Heat unit for the grill with matching access doors, a 20K BTU Hestan Side Burner, and a Hestan Refrigerator. We chose soapstone for the countertop and backsplash, and we veneered the kitchen structure with natural San Miguel cobblestone.
The construction of the fire pit area required engineering measures to prevent damage to the nearby pine trees’ root systems from the planned improvements. This was accomplished by designing a sophisticated ventilation system installed under the patio and seat wall to allow the tree roots to continue breathing.
The firepit and surrounding seat wall were constructed of CMU block and veneered with natural San Miguel stone from Telluride. Light fixtures from Unique Lighting were discreetly tucked under the seat wall cap to enhance the area’s nighttime ambiance. Large decorative mossback landscape boulders were imported to create visual interest in the setting. The plant selection for the project included ‘Panchito’ Manzanita, Dwarf Burning Bush, ‘Isanti’ Dogwood, ‘White Bud’ Mugo Pine, Japanese Astilbe, ‘Blue Giant’ Hosta, and Variegated Iris.

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.

At Home Restoration Experts, we know that gutters, fascia, and soffit are essential components of your home's exterior, providing both functionality and a polished look. Our expert services ensure that these elements not only protect your home but also enhance its overall appearance.
Durable Gutter Solutions: Properly functioning gutters are crucial for directing water away from your home, preventing damage to your foundation and landscaping. We offer top-quality gutters that are designed to last, ensuring your home stays safe and dry.
Custom Fascia Installation: Fascia boards are not just structural; they also contribute to your home's curb appeal. Our team installs fascia that complements your home’s design while providing strong support for your gutters.
Soffit Expertise: Soffit plays a vital role in ventilating your attic and protecting your roofline. We install soffit that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing, adding the finishing touch to your home’s exterior.
Take a look at the photos below to see how we’ve enhanced homes with our gutter, fascia, and soffit services. If you're ready to improve your home’s exterior or need repairs, contact us today.
Contact Us: (877) 813-9737
Visit Our Website: www.homerestorationexpertsinc.com

This beautiful colonial in Marion, Massachusetts is even more gorgeous with its new GAF Timberline HD roof!
There is more to a roof than shingles – in fact there are several components to a professionally installed GAF Lifetime Roofing System. Here is the anatomy of our Marion homeowner’s roof:
GAF Timberline HD Shingles Marion, MAGAF Timberline HD Roof Shingles: A beautiful architectural shingle at an affordable price! This is our most popular roof shingle here at Care Free Homes! Our Marion customer selected the classic color, Charcoal. This high performance shingle features a 130 mph wind rating and highest possible fire rating.
Underlayment: A felt/paper product that is installed over the entire roof deck, underlayment provides an additional layer of protection between the roof deck and the roof shingles.
Ice Dam and Water Shield: After a brutal winter and unprecedented snow fall, many New England homes suffered damage from ice dams. Ice Dam and Water Shield provides added protection for eves, rakes, valleys as well as flashed areas around vent pipes, chimneys, dormers, and skylights. Whether it’s a winter wonderland or a hurricane, this homeowner will not have to worry about ice dams or driving rain.
GAF Timberline HD, Marion, MA Dormers
Premium Aluminum Drip Edge: Installed along the rakes, drip edge serves several purposes. It improves the efficiency of water shedding, prevents leaking from a wind-driven rain as well as movement between the deck and fascia boards. Drip edge also keeps pesky insects from infiltrating the space between the roof deck and the fascia boards. With a choice of three colors, white, brown and gray, it provides a finished look for a roof.
GAF Pro-Start Eave/Rake Starter Strip: Every story has a beginning and every roof should have a starter strip. Here in New England we’ve got to have our roof be tougher than mother nature. To prevent shingle blow off, an ultra-adhered starter strip properly secures shingles in place during a storm. In contrast, the amateur roofer will often use cut-up shingles as a starter course. This weakened “starter course” lowers the wind resistance of a roof and makes it more susceptible to both wind and water damage. With straighter edges, Dura-Grip adhesive, and outstanding warranties – starter strip will provide beauty, performance and peace of mind.
GAF Cobra Ridge Vent: Ridge vents provide necessary airflow to remove excess heat and moisture in an attic. It inhibits the growth of mold and protects the health of the homeowners as well as their stored possessions. A properly vented attic will also protect homes in harsh winter climates from ice damming.
Why wait? Contact us today and make your house a Care Free home!

Your home’s exterior needs protection from rain and its damaging moisture. Even the best gutter system will fail if the gutters are filled with leaves, twigs, dirt and debris. But what a chore it is to clean gutters! (and dangerous, too). The Gutter Men will clean and flush your gutters and take away the debris. At least two cleanings per year are recommended to keep your gutters working properly (depending on how many trees are on your property). Make sure your gutters are flowing properly to prevent foundation damage, moisture and mold!

Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions for Your Peace of Mind
Pests can quickly turn your living or working space into an uncomfortable and unhygienic environment. At Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no, we offer reliable and effective pest control services to protect your property and ensure your well-being.
Silverfish consuming poisonous bait/Photo skadedyrkontroll1
The skadedyr-kontroll.no Advantage
Choosing the right pest control service can make all the difference. With our years of expertise and commitment to excellence, we provide:
- Tailored Solutions: Each pest problem is unique, and so are our solutions.
- Eco-Friendly Methods: We prioritize methods that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment.
- Expert Team: Our professionals are trained to handle all types of pest issues with precision and care.
- Thorough Inspection: We identify the type and extent of the pest problem on your property.
- Customized Plan: A detailed plan is crafted to address your specific pest issue.
- Effective Execution: Using advanced tools and methods, we eliminate pests swiftly and safely.
- Preventive Guidance: Our team provides tips and solutions to prevent pests from returning.

Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions for Your Peace of Mind
Pests can quickly turn your living or working space into an uncomfortable and unhygienic environment. At Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no, we offer reliable and effective pest control services to protect your property and ensure your well-being.
Silverfish consuming poisonous bait/Photo skadedyrkontroll1
The skadedyr-kontroll.no Advantage
Choosing the right pest control service can make all the difference. With our years of expertise and commitment to excellence, we provide:
Tailored Solutions: Each pest problem is unique, and so are our solutions.
Eco-Friendly Methods: We prioritize methods that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment.
Expert Team: Our professionals are trained to handle all types of pest issues with precision and care.
Our Key Services
Rodent Control
Rodents can wreak havoc by damaging property and spreading diseases. Our comprehensive rodent control services ensure thorough removal and long-term prevention strategies to keep your property safe.
Silverfish Treatment
Silverfish are not just unsightly but can also damage valuable items. Learn more about our specialized silverfish control methods at Silverfish - skadedyr-kontroll.no/skjeggkre-alt-du-trenger-a-vite/.
Droplet size/Photo Skadedyrkontroll1
Insect Management
Insects such as ants, cockroaches, and wasps can disrupt your peace. Our targeted treatments eradicate these pests efficiently and prevent future infestations.
Our Approach to Pest Management
Thorough Inspection: We identify the type and extent of the pest problem on your property.
Customized Plan: A detailed plan is crafted to address your specific pest issue.
Effective Execution: Using advanced tools and methods, we eliminate pests swiftly and safely.
Preventive Guidance: Our team provides tips and solutions to prevent pests from returning.
Why Regular Pest Control Matters
Pest control is not just about elimination; it’s about prevention and maintaining a healthy environment. At skadedyr-kontroll.no, we empower our clients with knowledge and solutions to ensure long-term protection against pests.
Placement of bait/Photo Skadedyrkontroll1 AS
Get Started Today
Don’t let pests compromise your comfort and safety. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, silverfish, or other pests, Pest Control - skadedyr-kontroll.no is your trusted partner for comprehensive pest management. Contact us now and take the first step toward a pest-free environment.

Takbir Fatima
Inspiration for a large eclectic slate floor great room remodel in Hyderabad with white walls and no fireplace
Inspiration for a large eclectic slate floor great room remodel in Hyderabad with white walls and no fireplace

This post was integrated in the design of the kitchen since it was unable to be moved structurally. Cladding it with the same countertop material to prevent damage to the post.
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