Blog | South Haven | Pleasant Grove, Utah

Five Things Your Back Patio Needs to Extend Your Enjoyment

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 18:55:19 GMT

If you have a back patio, you have an extra room for entertaining! Are you doing what you can to extend the life of that space? You can enjoy it throughout the seasons by adding just a few more things.

1. Add a heater

No one likes being cold outside, and you don’t have to be. Keep the gathering intimate and warm by adding heating elements such as fire pits or heat lamps

2. Keep it cool.

Just like no one wants to be cold in the winter, keep it cooler in the summer months. Add a ceiling fan if you have a covered deck. Or bring out a fan to circulate the air.

3. Add lighting

If it’s dark and dreary, it won’t be inviting for anyone to linger on the back patio. Add some permanent lighting or add some temporary lighting such as solar lanterns or outdoor lamps.

4. Add some greenery.

Outdoor plants will add some life and color to the space. They thrive in the summer time.

5. Upgrade your patio furniture.

Nothing says you enjoy this space more than investing in some quality lounge seating. Make sure you clean them periodically as it will get dusty and dirty outside. Make an effort to sweep regularly as well so you wont’ dread going out there.

Moving the party outdoors is good for everyone of all ages. Adding just a few of these will help add space to your home and might just make you want to entertain more often.

Four Reasons It’s a Good Idea to Buy a Condo

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 19:08:31 GMT

It’s no secret it is very hard to buy a home right now. Utah is one of the toughest markets in which to buy a home due to limited supply and a high demand. Perhaps it is time to look at another option, whether it be a temporary option or long term. Here are some reasons to consider buying a condominium.

Amenities

Most condos come with a variety of amenities: swimming pools, workout facilities, and sport courts. Others have lists even longer. The maintenance for such features are wrapped up in your HOA fee.

Maintenance

Sell that lawnmower. You won’t have to worry about mowing your lawn again. Extend that vacation since the yard work doesn’t exist anymore. The HOA will also include snow removal in the area, so while you list your mower, go ahead and list that snow blower with it.

Security

With neighbors constantly coming and going, there are more eyes to be alert of anything awry in the area. You can feel a little safer knowing they can be watching your place while you’re gone. Some complexes might be even going high tech by using security alarms, cameras or even gates.

Location

One more reason to buy a condo is location. Generally these units are centrally located in the hub of a city where you can readily access any grocery store, movie theater or restaurant. Take advantage of the proximity of these conveniences.

You can consider a condominium a long-term investment. If you are ready to move on, consider keeping it as a rental if there aren’t any restrictions on the space. You might even look into seeing if you can rent it out as an AirBnB or a vacation rental. There are unlimited options in buying one. With the demand right now, you’ll most likely not have a hard time selling it when you’re ready to move on.

Five Things Not to Do When Designing a Pantry

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 19:02:19 GMT

Are you making these pantry mistakes when designing for more space? We are sharing five DON’Ts you want to avoid.

DON’T install a door that only opens inward.

That immediately causes a problem for what it behind it when it’s open creating a tough access point. A swinging door might just alleviate that problem.

DON’T skimp on the lighting.

Install adequate lighting so you can see what is there. Also, consider adding a motion sensor. You usually have full hands when going in and out. This creates less fumbling around to find the switch.

DON’T forget electrical outlets.

Housing toasters, blenders and other appliances not needed daily are best kept in the pantry. You may not think you need an outlet in there now, but sooner or later it will prove to be needed.

DON’T just fill it with shelves.

What do you plan to store in it? Use storage bins and Lazy Susans. Don’t forget to incorporate flat surfaces for appliances, recipe books and maybe even decor items.

DON’T disrupt the flow of the kitchen.

Position the pantry to accommodates the traffic flow. Keep in mind where you want to unload those armful of groceries. If your pantry wall is adjacent to the garage, consider putting in a small door to shove those big bags through to save trips.

Home Theaters are on the Rise

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 19:17:35 GMT

We all know this year is one for the history books. In particular, the movie theaters are all suffering from COVID. However, according to the latest Nielsen study, with families at home looking for entertainment, TV usage is up 60 percent.

It is easier than you think to mimic that theater experience at home. With home technology becoming more affordable and an increased quality, there are many reasons to consider transforming a room in your basement.

This year we completed two basements to include rooms where families can gather to watch a movie in their personal and intimate setting. What is unique about these rooms is they are often located under a garage or patio where no windows are involved adding to the dark and secluded feel of a theater. It also aids in utilizing the overlooked space some might just write off as a storage area.

With a larger screen and a designated space, often closed off, families can enjoy more time together watching movies, streaming shows or even playing video games.

“Our family is down here all the time now,” one homeowner told us. We think it might just surprise you how often this room would be used. Since we are talking movies, to borrow a phrase from a popular one, “If you build it, they will come.”

Let us know if you think you’re ready to transform a space into a fun theater area.

A Bathroom Refresh

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 19:23:52 GMT

Did you know people spend an average of 30 minutes a day in the bathroom? That is more than 182 hours per year. Now, who wants to spend it in one that is clean and updated? We do! We get many requests to update bathrooms, in fact, bathroom remodels account for 81 percent of all remodels.

What is often changed in a bathroom remodel?

Simple remodels include changing out old tubs, putting in new tile, new countertops and cabinetry. More extensive remodels can include changing the layout, eliminating walls and expanding the room.

One of our favorite bathroom remodels included a little of both. This family was tired of the dark and dated space. So, we changed out the cabinetry to a bright color and added a granite countertop. We painted the walls to cheer up the space as well.

Given they weren’t planning on bathing as much as showering, we expanded the shower space to make it so big we could include the tub inside it. That is a growing trend now seen more common and we are loving it.

Large, white shiny tile now adorns the shower with a line blue herringbone tile giving it a splash of color. We didn’t knock any walls down in this bathroom which saved on cost, and keeping the same plumbing configuration helped as well. The dramatic change in the end has kept everyone smiling.

Now this family can enjoy their 182 hours this year in a more vibrant, happier place.

Five Ways to Tackle the Kitchen Clutter

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 19:37:17 GMT

Are you taking control of your kitchen, or is your kitchen controlling you? The kitchen is arguably the most utilized room in the home, so clutter can be inevitable. We have a few ways we have helped homeowners free up space and become more organized in their kitchens.

1. Lose the cups.

During the summer everyone needs a drink of water; hydration is important. However, by installing an indoor drinking fountain, no cups are needed. Grab that sip and go leaving no trace.

2. Hide the brooms and mops.

Keep your pantry storing food instead of your cleaning items and other bulky items. Simply add a slim broom closet to the end of your cabinetry to snugly corral such large items.

3. Establish a drinking station.

Too bad our sodas, protein drinks and other beverages can’t be dispensed out of the drinking fountain we mentioned above. However, keeping all of the ingredients to those drinks near a sink with accessible cups and straws, it will contain any extra clutter and make for an easy grab-and-go station.

4. Shelves, shelves, shelves.

We were able to bump out a wall in this home to create an oversized pantry full of shelves. Add some bins for the lightweight items. With the clean slate, the fun begins. Make sure to include electrical outlets in your pantry for appliances such as toasters and blenders to free up space on your kitchen countertops.

We love the metal board hanging in this recent build of ours. The family can write notes, phone numbers, shopping lists, etc. as they head out the door to the garage. It’s a practical and attractive option to stay organized. With the metal it doubles as a magnet board holding up important documents.

5. A command center.

We hope a few of these ideas can help free up some counter space and free up your time cleaning up in the kitchen. We have seen a lot of kitchens and transformed them to better spaces. Give us a call to see how we can make your space work easier for you.

Are you Cleaning these Five Areas in Your Kitchen to Banish Germs?

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 19:45:46 GMT

Now that we have all been sequestered in our homes, per se, we may think we are hiding from the virus there. Just as a precaution, maybe it’s time to reevaluate just where germs could be lurking that we may not think about. We have a few places you may want to clean to keep a more sanitary home.

Drawer Handles

Think of how many hands are opening and closing your refrigerator door. Faucet handles, drawer handles and other doorknobs could be an unsuspecting place germs can be spreading.

Oven Panel

Many fingers are pressing numbers on your microwave and oven controls. You will want to wipe those down with a disinfectant wipe as well.

Garbage Can

So many times we open our garbage cans with dirty hands. It’s time to take some Clorox wipes or a heavy disinfectant to the lid, and if time permits, clean out the inside. Let it soak outside with soapy water to loosen any accumulated grime.

Kitchen Sink

The saying, “Everything but the kitchen sink,” doesn’t apply here. It is one of the biggest culprits of germs. A daily habit of wiping down the kitchen will keep a lot of bacteria at bay. We recommend Bar Keepers Friend for a quick cleanser.

Countertops

Don’t forget the countertops! Used for nearly everything in your kitchen, we can’t imagine what gets placed on them. Take some time to wipe them down with a countertop spray — one of our favorites is Mrs. Meyers . It not only cleanses but has a beautiful scent.

Hopefully these quick tips can help create a cleaner place for you and your family as you hang out in the most used room in your home. Please stay safe and enjoy your time in your house.

Four Easy Ways to Make Your Home a Little Smarter

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 20:46:26 GMT

They say you learn something new every day. Well, as we gradually become smarter, that doesn’t mean we can’t help our home be smarter. It, too, can be learning something new. We have a few ways to gradually make your home closer to ranking as a smart home.

Doorbells

Let’s begin at your doorstep. Remember when Caller ID came available on the phone? Now you can know who is at your door without getting out of your recliner. Get video footage of the guest on your phone, your computer or your television screen depending on the platform you choose.

Popular doorbells include:

Ring Video Doorbell

Eufy Security Doorbell

Thermostats

Utilize this technology to save you money on utilities. If everyone is gone from home during the weekdays, there is no need to keep the home fires burning. Take control on how cool to keep it or warm you want it. Adjust the settings from your smartphone. Some devices can even learn your behaviors and keep those temperatures controlled.

Some popular thermostats include:

Nest

GoControl

Smart Plugs

What is more thrilling than saying, “Alexa, turn off my lights.”

If you have a Google Chrome or an Echo device you can turn on lights, fans, or any electrical devices plugged into electrical outlets. You can also schedule timers to turn on lamps while you’re away to give the impression someone is home to deter thieves.

Some smart device options include:

Echo

Google Home

Smart Plug

Smart Garage Doors

Do you wake up in a panic wondering if you shut your garage door? Are you worried it has been left open by your children when you are at work? Simply installing a smart garage door allows you to control the opening and closing of your door from you smartphone. You can also set up alerts to tell you if your door has been open for a certain amount of time. And now, Amazon has set up a service where you can let the delivery guy open your garage and set the packages inside for you – away from porch pirates. No need to retrofit your existing garage door unit. There are devices to help your existing one adapt.

A common one is the one by Chamberlain .

We hope you feel a little smarter today and can count this article as the one thing new you learned today.

Hopefully you can use this technology to make your home smarter and ease you mind some when it comes to the safety and convenience of things your home.

Important Things to Know Before Deciding on a Material Surrounding Your Fireplace

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 20:51:46 GMT

There are six different materials most often used as a fireplace surround:

Steel
Concrete
Stone
Brick
Tile
Wood

All of these materials can be gorgeous and should aid in accenting the beauty of fireplaces. However, be careful with the last material listed: wood. Since wood is the same material you would burn in a traditional fireplace you will need to take protective measures and ensure your fireplace stays within the safety parameters. The design of the body needs to configured to meet local building codes. Certain distances from the opening of the fireplace are set as safe — usually at least six inches.

The first picture is of a recent fireplace we designed. Searching high and low for a non-combustible shiplap, we didn’t want it to be harmful given it was going to be so close to the edge of the opening. We couldn’t use the same shiplap we were using on the wall. It’s important to know what is safe and what is not when going next to something radiating large amounts of heat.

Take a look at a few of the fireplaces we have built.

In this second picture, the owner wanted to wait to decide what they want to do with the surround once they moved in. The outlet above the fireplace leaves the option for a television if desired. However, please be do your research about how far to distance your television from your fireplace depending on the heat generated from it. There’s a chance of damaging the television if it’s too close.

Who can go wrong with stone? Any rock or stone immediately warms up any room giving it a lodge our mountain feel. It is a safe option as it does well with heat.

And who doesn’t love a great hearth? Doubling as seating, the hearth and surround clad in a classic subway tile pattern will survive the changing trends.

Fireplaces immediately warm up any home both visually and in temperature. Whether you want to add one to your home, remodel one or build a new home from scratch, we know how to accommodate you and have the resources. Please call us at 801-701-5000 with any questions.

Six Fall Clean-up Items to add to your Checklist

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 20:57:57 GMT

The temperatures are dropping so you’ll be spending more time indoors. It’s time to refreshen the inside with a few tasks to add to your checklist. Take a weekend to tackle these or add one a day.

Clean Window Treatments

Blinds, shades or curtains – they all collect dust in some way. Vacuum them or wipe them with water with a mild dishwashing soap. Read the recommended manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean the curtains.

Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Make sure they all work and replace their batteries. Did you know it is recommended you replace the units after 10 years of use?

Clean Your Oven

Make way for that turkey and ham for the upcoming holidays. You may want to think twice about using the self-cleaning option on the ovens. Some repairmen claim it is more harmful to your oven and lessens the lifetime of the oven. You might opt for some other cleaners or even a homemade version.

Clean your Carpets

Now is a great time to get rid of that summer dirt tracked into your home — particularly on your stairs. Call a professional to see what specials they have and get your carpets clean and refreshed.

Wash Wall-Mounted and Ceiling Fixtures

Stop staring at the spots on the light fixtures and make them sparkle so your long, winter nights aren’t any darker than they need to be.

Change your Furnace Filter

These filters should be changed out at least every three months. Write a date on them so you can track how often you are changing them. Also, check with the recommended size to ensure you are using the most efficient size.

Eight Ways to Update your Kitchen

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 21:04:05 GMT

The kitchen is arguably the area most people want to renovate and is deemed the room to give you the best return on your investment when performing a remodel. Whether you are wanting to dive right in to a large overhaul or you are looking for quick updates (some done in a weekend), we have listed some of the most common ways you can update your kitchen.

Change out Hardware

Does that dull and dirty faucet have too many crevices to clean? Maybe it is time for a more sleek look? Many manufacturers offer hardware boasting a myriad of functions such as touch-less features or different spray modes that might entice you to switch it up. They also offer a variety of finishes now that might better complement your kitchen décor.

Upgrade Major Appliances

Maybe it’s time to replace that oven or refrigerator. Again, many appliances these days have more options that might even lessen your load including timers and convection options. Simply changing out appliances instantly add appeal to your kitchen’s look

Add an Island

Depending on space, you may want to add more countertop areas by including an island in your kitchen. Don’t worry about having to match your existing cabinetry. Nowadays, custom cabinetry is designed to look eclectic. Don’t be afraid to mix up your woods. Painted cabinets blend beautifully with stained ones.

Reconfigure the Layout

A more intensive renovation, you may have always wanted to move that kitchen sink over to a window. Or maybe your working triangle isn’t as small as you want it to be. Study the layout and traffic pattern and see what works for you.

Update Lighting

Another simple project could just be getting rid of the dated lighting. Change out the 1980’s chandelier hanging over the dining table for a more current one. Add some pendants over your island for not only function but for aesthetics.

Build a Pantry

Are you tired of spending time looking for boxes of food behind other boxes and dishes? Having an organized place will save you trips to the store to buy that box of baking soda you already had but couldn’t find. A pantry doesn’t have to be large; it can be as simple as adding storage shelves to an existing cupboard or renovating a nearby coat closet to house your staples.

Add or Change Backsplash

Whether it is old, cracked or just dated, changing out your backsplash will add a noticeable, new look. Maybe you never even had one. Adding a new backsplash is an easy way to add some personality to your kitchen.

Change your Countertops

You will not believe the variety of countertops you have to choose from. First of all, laminate has come a long way. Granite and Quartz seem to be the favorite current choice. This simple swap will add an instant appeal to any kitchen.

We have converted some of the dingiest kitchens into glorious masterpieces. The kitchen is the heart of the home; it should be a place everyone wants to be and to admire. Give us a call or email us for an idea on what it would take to make the heart of your home look new again.

Ten Questions to Ask A Prospective Contractor

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 21:31:06 GMT

You’ve made the decision to remodel. Now, how to you decide which contractor is the right fit for you? Here are some questions to ask the contractors you are considering.

1. How will you communicate with me?

With the advances in technology, there are a variety of ways you can communicate with a contractor. He may have some builder software, he may text or maybe the traditional phone call. Ask up front how he expects to relay information to you and how you can get ahold of him.

2. How big is your company?

Sometimes big isn’t always better. Who will be working on my project? Will they know my concerns? Or will my job just be handed off without addressing issues? Ask ahead of time his process.

3. Is your company licensed?

You might be surprised to find a lot of contractors aren’t even appropriately licensed. This adds legitimacy to their company if their license is current.

4. Are you insured?

Similar to number three, this is another valid concern. If someone gets hurt at my house I want to make sure it is my contractor’s responsibility – not mine.

5. Can we have scheduled meetings to discuss the progress?

These meetings will add some accountability to the contractor. You can fully address issues that may come up in these meetings.

6. Are you accommodating?

Will you listen to my concerns and take time to understand my vision? No two remodels are the same.

7. What are your payment terms?

Can I ensure the work will be complete before I write that last check?

8. Can I get it in writing?

I want a firm number on what to expect this project to cost me.

9. What is the time frame I have to notice flaws or issues that need repair once the job is complete?

Will you come back to fix them in a timely manner?

10. What references do you have to validate your work?

Don’t be shy to ask for phone numbers of previous clients to get an idea on this contractor’s skill level and their experience with his company.

Not an exhaustive list, but it’s somewhere to start. After all, they are going to be a frequent visitor to your home; you ought to like them.

Spring Cleaning Areas You Might Have Missed

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 21:34:50 GMT

Warm weather is finally here, so it’s time to spring clean. We have some areas we want to remind you to include in your spring-cleaning checklist.

Clean Gutters

It was difficult to get all of the leaves last fall even if you raked before the snow fell. Junk and debris undoubtedly collected in your rain gutters. Grab a ladder and some gloves and remove the collected gunk. You can even use a garden hose to wash water down the downspout. Make sure your downspouts channel water at least five feet from your foundation walls.

Clean outlet covers and return air vents

These are often not areas included in weekly or monthly house cleaning. Some of your outlet covers can be easily taken off of the wall and washed with some soapy water. The return air vents often accumulate a layer of dust. If easily removed, those can be taken off and washed the same way. If not, take a damp rag and wash the grooves to eliminate the dusty buildup. Be careful not to get cut; some of those vents, if metal, can slice your hand.

Faucets and shower heads

We sometimes only notice the water buildup on our showerheads when we are in the middle of a shower and don’t have time to clean it. Take an effortless approach and fill up a plastic bag with vinegar. Tie it around the showerhead and let it soak overnight. The vinegar will break down the hard water deposits and give you back those clean shower heads. This also works for any faucet in your home.

Dryer vents

Many fires are caused by excessive lint built up in the dryer hoses. The lint catcher does not get it all. Make sure you look behind your dryer and disconnect the hose and remove any lint with a brush. You will also want to check the air duct on the outside of your home. You will often find it gathers there as well. With the dryer running, stick a brush in the opening to free up some lint that might need a little nudge. It’s always good to check these vents as they are a popular place for birds to open and crawl in and create nests.

Change Filters

Water filters, furnace filters and your oven hood filters — you have a few varieties in your home. Make sure you change those this time of year. You might even write the date you changed it on your furnace filter so you can remember to change it more often than once a year.

Clean Grill

It’s BBQ season. You will want to take your spring cleaning to the grill. For the inside, you can use an onion to scrub away some of that sticky mess. It also acts as a barrier to keep foods from sticking in the future – it also gives your food a touch of flavor. For the outside of your grill, use some window cleaner and elbow grease. Sometimes you may have to use some grease remover often found at the hardware store. With just a few of these as suggestions, I am sure you’ll find more tasks once you get going. Feel free to let us know other items you think others might overlook. Here’s to sunny weather and a clean home!

Reasons Moving your Tub into the Shower Might Work for You

Thu, 17 May 2018 12:37:30 GMT

A new trend popping up in bathrooms across the nation is moving the bathtub into the shower area. Yes. Hear us out on why this might just not be such a bad idea.

Smaller Footprint

Moving the bathtub in with the shower allows the two to be closer with fewer obstacles to worry about. It allows a larger footprint for the shower. This option works great particularly in remodeling a bathroom that already has crowding issues. A bonus might even be it is easier to configure the plumbing.

Splashing is a Non-Issue

Inevitably, bathtubs draw the interest of most children. Some of them view bathtubs as the next best thing to swimming pools. Given they love to splash with toys and enjoy tub time, splashing will not be a major concern anymore. With the area already waterproofed, the kids can surf and swim away.

Bathtub can play multiple roles

Depending on the style and shape of the bathtub, it can double as a bench. Another constraint issue solved — use it to prop up your leg when you shave or temporarily store your showering supplies.

Trap in the draft

Shut those shower doors and you not only create a spa-like atmosphere, but you trap in the warm air and eliminate drafts so you can soak a little longer.

This type of combination can be designed to fit any style from ultra modern to the classic, traditional style. As with most design, it’s a matter of preference. Does this style sound like something you like? Tell us your thoughts.