How to Determine if You Can Afford to Remodel

Posted on February 20, 2020 by admin

When it comes time to seriously consider a home remodeling project, the key and communal question is, “can I afford a remodel right now?” If you are asking yourself whether or not you can fit a remodel into your current budget, you are not alone. For this reason, it is helpful for you to become more familiar on all that is required of you financially for your particular remodeling goals. This will help you develop a rudimentary cost estimation, which will tell you if you can afford to remodel or not.

Continue reading to learn which factors you will need to consider in order to achieve an accurate cost analysis for home remodeling.

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Financing Aid and Loans

When you are sweating the upfront investment of a home remodel, don’t. Because many companies offer flexible financing programs and incentives that help homeowners afford to upgrade and add value to their properties. Whether interior or exterior, financing can be the answer to your home renovation woes. But keep in mind that not all general contractors offer financing. In this case, you still have other financing options.

Re-Financing Your Home

Today, it is easier than ever to re-finance your home. And don’t forget about home equity lines of credit, home equity loan, second mortgages, and even contractor loans. to your mortgage company or bank about your options for refinancing or applying for a loan. They will be able to examine your financial portfolio and make full-informed and educated recommendations with your best interests in mind. You may even want to consider a separate company for a home equity loan or lines of credit.

Professional Advice

Talk to a licensed general contractor to determine how they can best meet your needs within your budget. An experienced and knowledgeable contractor will be able to help you find affordable alternative and budget-cutting ideas so that you can get the upgrade and improvement you seek, and at a price you can afford.

Contact Our Trusted Indianapolis General Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable home remodeling services in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, from general handyman services and home remodels, to full-on renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Is Your Home Properly Insulated for Winter?

Posted on January 16, 2020 by admin

All structures need proper insulation to prevent outside air from penetrating within, and inside air from escaping. This is necessary for both cold and warm seasons. One of the first questions to ask yourself as a homeowner is whether or not your property has enough insulation. Continue reading to learn how insulation is used, the different types available, and who to call for help with improving yours.

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Benefiting From Good Home Insulation

As far as checking to see if you have enough insulation, simply look across your attic and check if you can see the floor beams. If you can, then your home could probably use a little more insulation. There are several benefits for having a properly insulated home; like reduced energy costs and consumption, lower monthly utility bills, enhanced moisture control, even temperature distribution, and more. Insulation is like protective lining for a home. It blocks cold air or heat from entering the home, and prevents temperature-controlled air from escaping.

Attics can reach extremely high temperatures in the warmer seasons, up to 150 degrees or more! Without sufficient insulation, that heat will leave the attic area and seep into the living quarters of a home. And the opposite situation applies in winter months as well. Insulation will keep frigid air or hot air from leaving the top of the home. Keep in mind that a home’s insulation does more than just offer indoor air comfort; it also provides a sound barrier from outdoor noises and allows for the perfect moisture-level in the air so that it does not feel so dried out.

Inspecting Your Home’s Insulation

Many homeowners have mistaken the results of poor attic insulation for a broken HVAC system. The home doesn’t cool or warm properly, so they assume it’s the heating and cooling unit, when in fact, it’s the lack of insulation in their home. This is why it is imperative to have your home’s insulation inspected annually by a licensed general contractor. They retain the proper training, certifications, and knowledge to accurately diagnose your insulation problems. A trusted general contractor can save you time and money with a proper analysis. They will check the insulation as part of their inspection, and then make professional recommendations for necessary attic and wall renovations. Types of Insulation

Choosing a Type of Insulation

There are many types of insulation for a home. They are mostly made from flexible mineral fibers like fiberglass or rock wool, and come in rolls and batts, or blankets. One popular choice is cellulose insulation. It’s non-flammable so it can contribute to fire-prevention in a home. It is also resistant to mold, mildew, insects, termites, and reduces condensation. Insulation is mostly made from mineral fibers like fiberglass or rock wool.

There is also rigid-foam insulation, perfect for exterior wall sheathing, as well as, foam-in-place insulation made from polyurethane. Another form of insulation is a loose-fit version, such as the cellulose insulation, that fits well in awkward places like duct work, pipes, or attics with lots of wires. Consult your Indianapolis home renovation contractor for information and advice on which materials you should choose.

Indianapolis Residential General Contractors You Can Trust

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 when you are looking for qualified general contracting services for residential properties in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

How to Tell if Your House Has Good Resale Value

Posted on January 9, 2020 by admin

Are you taking good care of your home? Has the local community changed at all? These factors and more can influence your property’s resale value overtime. There are several ways to determine the scope of your home’s resale value, and several more ways to improve it if necessary. Making certain home improvements can certainly increase your home’s resale value, which becomes a vital aspect once it hits the market.

Continue reading to learn how to tell if your house has good resale value, and your options for improving it before you list.

Indianapolis General Contractors 317-454-3612

There are several methods to assess the current resale value of your home. Although it requires some market research and statistical data knowledge to put an actual dollar amount on your house, you can simply look for some common signs that can suggest it’s current sale potential. Among the infinite signs and conditions, the most portending and foretelling ones can be narrowed down to just 13.

The Signs of Good Resale Value

Your home might have good resale value if you can check “TRUE” to at least half of the following:

➀ Curb Appeal – Your house has good curb appeal, and is well-maintained lot.

➁ School District – Your home is located within a school district with a high rating.

➂ Local Amenities – Your home is near amenities like shopping and restaurants.

➃ Safe Community – Your home is in a secure community with a low crime rate.

➄ Quiet Area – Your home is in a quiet neighborhood with minimal nuisance noise.

➅ Beds and Baths – Your home has at least 3 bedrooms and more than 1 full bathroom.

➆ Space – Your home is on a large lot and has a high amount of interior square footage.

➇ Structural Integrity – Your home is in good condition and has been well-maintained.

➈ Upgrades – Your home has been upgraded, structurally, technologically, or both.

➉ Storage – Your home has plenty of storage space, like cabinetry, closets, and sheds.

⑪ Right Price – Your home is not the most expensive in your division or on your block.

⑫ Small Market – There are few homes for sale locally, which means less competition.

⑬ Private – Your home is located in a gated community or restricted neighborhood.

How to Improve Your Resale Value

One of the most impactful and proven ways to increase your home’s resale value is through home improvement projects and upgrades. This includes bathroom, kitchen, and basement remodels, as well as, appliance upgrades, new roofing, copper plumbing, space conversions, exterior hardscape, pergolas, underground swimming pools, and much more. Talk to a local and trusted Indianapolis general contractor for advice on how to improve your property’s value with affordable home remodeling services.

Your Trusted Indianapolis General Contractors

Top 5 Tools to Get Him For Christmas

Posted on December 11, 2019 by admin

Shopping around this holiday season doesn’t have to feel hopeless when you have a man who has everything. This year, there are some great deals on some even greater tools that make the best Christmas gifts for the person who’s impossible to shop for. Continue below to review the top 5 recommended tools to get him for Christmas, and make this holiday a complete success.

Holiday Tool Gifts for 2019

Whether you are shopping for your dad, brother, husband, boyfriend, or cousin, these 5 tools are a gift that keeps on giving. You will be overjoyed at the reactions and responses you get when your loved ones open up one of these fantastic tools!

1. Ryobi® 40-Volt, 8-inch Pole Saw

For those who like to trim and shape their own trees, this gas-fueled pole saw will provide the power and convenience needed to get the job done! You can get this tool for as low as $119 at Home Depot.

2. Toro® PowerJet F700 Electric Leaf Blower

When trees surround your property, there is truly no better gift to give than the gift of easy leaf management and removal! You can get this tool for as low as $57 at Home Depot.

3. Gorilla® 5.5 Foot Aluminum Hybrid Ladder

For those who love DIY work, this user-friendly, easy-to-store ladder will get them the access they need to clean gutters, dust moulding, hang Christmas lights, and more! You can get this tool for as low as $80 at Home Depot.

4. Husky® 12-Volt Lithium Cordless Ratchet

Anything that used to come with a cord and now doesn’t is a gift in itself. When it comes to this ratchet, turning bolts and nut couldn’t be simpler! You can get this tool for as low as $71 at Sears.

5. Milwaukee® M18 Fuel 18ga Brad Nailer

Whether carpentry, drywall work, or standard repairs and construction, this pneumatic nail gun will cover any nail-necessary project, large or small. You can get this tool as part of a complete kit for $299 at Home Depot.

Professional Home Remodeling in Indianapolis

What You Need to Know About Cubic Yard Calculations

Posted on December 4, 2019 by admin

Imagine a box that is 1 yard high, 1 yard wide, and 1 yard deep. Now imagine that the space inside is filled with liquid. Right now, you are imagining the exact measurement of one cubic yard, it is the volume. Essentially, you can remember a cubic yard as a cube that measures 1 yard in all directions. If you are doing any sort of construction work, such as carpentry, masonry, or remodeling, it is important to understand how to measure cubic yards accurately.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about cubic yard calculations, starting with common materials that are typically measured with this system.

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A cubic yard is the volume of space or mass that fits inside a space that measures one yard wide, by one yard deep, by one yard high. Cubic yards are used frequently to measure all sorts of materials. Some of the most common materials and projects measured in cubic yards include concrete, mulch, soil, compost, gardens, patios, pools, parking lots, and more.

Measuring in Cubic Yards

In order to properly measure your needed materials in cubic yards, all dimensions must be converted into the same measurements first. Here are the basic increments you need to know to do this correctly:

1 Cubic Yard = 27 Cubic Feet (3’ x 3’ x 3’)

1 Cubic Yard = 46,656 Cubic Inches (36” x 36” x 36”)

As an example of how to apply this math, imagine that you are on the market for enough concrete to fill a slab that is 6 inches thick, 12 feet long, and 12 feet wide.

In order to calculate how much concrete material you will need, you must first convert everything to a common dimension. In this case, feet would work best. This means that 6 inches would convert to ½ a foot, or 0.5 feet, and the rest would stay the same.

Then you would simply multiply all three values together to find the number of cubic feet, like this:

0.5 x 12 x 12 = 72 Cubic Feet

Continue by dividing the answer to the above equation (72 cu. ft.) by the number of cubic feet in a cubic yard (27 feet) to get the right amount of material you need in cubic yards, like this:

72 ÷ 27 = 2.67 Cubic Yards

SOLUTION: You’ll need 2.67 Cubic Yards of concrete to fill your slab!

Where to Get Professional Remodeling Service

How Much Will it Cost to Remodel My Basement?

Posted on November 14, 2019 by admin

Remodeling a basement is a great way to add square footage to your home without having to move to a larger house. It is also a fantastic way to increase the value of your property, and make back on your investment when it’s time to sell. Homeowners have several questions pertaining to basement remodels because it is difficult to look at an unfinished basement and assess just how much needs to be done, how much it will all cost, and where to even begin. In this article, we will address these questions and more.

Continue reading and learn the approximate values for home basement remodeling, what to expect, and tips for getting started.

Indianapolis Basement Remodeling 317-454-3612

Basement Remodeling Basics

Homeowners look forward to refinishing their basements so they can convert an unused space in their home into something extraordinary. Popular choices include a “man cave”, sports room, theater room, children’s play room, extra bedrooms, a bar, entertainment area, a second living area, and much more. Really, there are endless options for basement remodels, so it is solely up to the homeowner to decide what their family’s needs are, or the needs of their home.

Even though the options are endless, no one wants to move forward with a basement remodel until they have an idea of how much it’s going to cost. In fact, the total cost of a basement refinishing job largely influences what type of space conversion a person chooses. If a family has their hearts set on a new home theater, but also wish they had a fun play room for the kids, the cheaper option may end up being the winner. When something is out of budget, there are always other options.

Common Factors that Influence the Cost of Basement Remodeling:

☑ Size and Square-Footage
☑ Window Requirements (i.e. egress windows, replacement, number of windows, etc.)
☑ Door Requirements (i.e. patio doors, glass doors, number of doors, etc.)
☑ Appliances (i.e. sinks, refrigerators, cook-tops, full kitchens, etc.)
☑ Extent of Electrical Work
☑ Flooring (i.e. custom carpets, hardwood floors, laminate, dance floor, stage, etc.)
☑ Baseboards and Trim
☑ Painting
☑ Water Damage/Water Leak Repair
☑ Support Pillars

A few of these factors are decision-based by personal preference, while others are critical parts of every basement remodeling project. It is vital to have water damages and leaks repaired and under-control before any work on a basement can move forward. The rest is simply interior design and customization. This is where you might control the budget. Once the major renovations and repairs are calculated, a homeowner can determine which amenities are most important and desirable, and weed out what they can afford and what they might think about doing later on when they have more disposable income.

Indianapolis Basement Remodeling Contractors

Contact Restoration By L&B at 317-454-3612 and speak with a qualified and knowledgeable general contractor about basement remodeling and renovation, today. We offer quality basement remodeling and renovation services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. If you have a basement that needs repairs, renovations, or a full remodel, our qualified and insured general contractors have affordable solutions for you!

Measuring Tips for an Interior Sliding Barn Door

Posted on October 23, 2019 by admin

If you are interested in adding some rustic influences to your home’s architecture, but wish to stay within a conservative budget, you might want to consider the new, emerging trend of incorporating sliding barn doors into your interior design. Crafty homeowners are perfectly capable of installing sliding barn doors all on their own, so long as they equip themselves with the proper tools and knowledge ahead of time.

If this describes you, continue reading to learn the first step to sliding barn door installation, which is proper measurement!

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Tips for Measuring a Barn Door

Whether for a closet, pantry, or laundry room, the most important focus when it comes to measuring a sliding barn door, aside from gathering precision measurements, is the amount of space above and below it, as well as, both left and right sides. Furthermore, you will a standard tape measure and a ladder or step stool to obtain your measurements.

Here are some tips that will help you correctly measure for a sliding barn door:

Be sure the space above the barn door is strong enough to support the door’s weight. We recommend a 6 inch clearance above the barn door, with a structural beam or support studs in place for sufficient support.

Be sure there is plenty of space on the side of the wall where the door will cover when opened. You do not want anything to disrupt the flow of the door, such as outlets, light switches, and thermostats.

Be sure to measure the width of the opening and match this value with the door tracks.

Be sure to consider the bottom clearance so you can avoid a door that is too short or touches the ground after installation.

How to Measure a Sliding Barn Door

Begin the process by measuring the full width of the door opening, starting at the left edge and measuring directly across to the right edge. Measure on the outside of any moldings.

After obtaining the width of the door entrance, add 4 to 6 inches, and this will be your total door sliding distance. Take this value, and double it, to get your track measurement.

To determine the door length, measure from top to bottom. There should be a 6 inch clearance on top, from ceiling to door, and at least 1 inch clearance on bottom. Be sure to factor in the added length of the track.

✨ For those who are not so handy nor experienced in construction, it is recommended to hire a local Indianapolis general contractor to install your new home renovation, safely and securely.

Need Professional Door Installation in Indianapolis?

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis home remodeling and handyman services for door repair and replacement at competitive prices. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about barn door installation services. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

The Benefits You Get From Rubber Roofs

Posted on October 9, 2019 by admin

Flat and low-pitched roofing systems are not always the best candidates for conventional asphalt shingles. Fortunately, the roofing industry caught on to this disadvantage some time ago, and now offers a terrific alternative for homeowners in need of a long-lasting, dependable roof system! Of course we are talking about rubber roofing!

Continue reading to learn more about the various benefits of rubber roofing, and how you can find a rubber roofing contractor near you.

Indianapolis Rubber Roof Contractors 317-454-3612

What is Rubber Roofing?

Rubber roofing is a modern, innovative solution for a long-lasting and durable roofing system for homes and structures that have flat or low-pitched roofs. Flat roofs have a slope below 10 degrees, while low-pitched roofs have a slope that is nearly level, but still slightly pitched. Roof pitch refers to the slant, angle, and slope of a roof.

Since flat roofs have special requirements, namely in terms of drainage and waterproofing, it is important to use a quality material that is effective against these elements of roofing engineering and more. Rubber roofing is the perfect solution for homes with flat and low-pitched roofs because it provides a water-tight seal and is visually appealing, all at the same time.

Rubber roofing is referred to as EDPM roofing, which stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. This material is a highly effective roofing option because it is waterproof, lightweight, quick and easy to install, highly durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive. Furthermore, rubber roofs are low maintenance and easy and inexpensive to repair.

Additional Benefits

A more tightly sealed and secure roof means less wasted heat and air, which cuts monthly energy costs little by little, each year. Rubber roofs are also energy efficient because the materials used in the process reflect sun and heat. This keeps a home cooler in warmer climates, and saves on energy costs. Aside from all of these delightful benefits, rubber roofs are great alternatives because they are fire-resistant and less likely to crack. Their durability allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and changing climates, year after year.

Indianapolis Rubber Roofing Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for rubber roofing repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our company uses a comprehensive inspection and measurement process that ensures we are well-prepared for the project at hand. From start to finish, we stay in constant communication with our clients to confirm they are well-informed of our time-lines and agendas. Licensed general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to take your call and answer your questions about roof repair, rubber roofing, and more.

The Secret to Maintaining Beautiful Carpet

Posted on October 3, 2019 by admin

When a person thinks about carpet, they think about something soft, clean, comforting, and soothing. This degree of cleanliness and comfort can be achieved in real life if proper care and attention are given to carpets in your homes and office buildings. In order to achieve clean, fresh, and new-looking carpets, certain commitments need to be made to care and upkeep.

Continue reading to learn some basic methods to keeping carpets clean and appealing, overtime.

Indianapolis Flooring Contractors 317-454-3612

Stain Solutions

One important strategy to proper carpet care is to remove stains, spills, and smudges as soon as they happen. If you allow a stain or spill to set in, it will be harder to remove entirely. Leftover stains make carpets look dull, dingy, and dirty. Just soak up the stain entirely by starting on the outside and working your way to the inside so you do not spread the stain and make it larger. Removing stains right away gives you better chances of removing the stain entirely.

Routine Maintenance

Another key method to increasing the life of your carpets is routine maintenance. This includes duties such as regular vacuuming and shampooing, and scotch-guarding. Always make sure your carpets are being cleaned regularly and protected from outside dirt and germs.

Consistency

The main secret to having great-looking carpet is consistency. Stay committed to keeping your carpet clean by adopting healthier habits, such as a no shoes rule and bathing pets more often. People and pets both carry in dirt, debris, hair, and other unsanitary particles that get stuck in carpet. Routine maintenance on a daily basis can help abate these unhygienic situations. By simply protecting your carpets consistently, you can increase its longevity by years.

Carpet Removal and Replacement

If your carpets are too damaged, it is more lucrative to invest in new flooring. You can choose to have your carpets removed and replaced with fresh carpet, or you can opt for a longer-lasting flooring material, such as wood, vinyl, or laminate. Talk to a local and trusted Indianapolis flooring contractor about your carpet and floor restoration needs. They will give you advice that will help you make the wisest choice for your home or office.

The Indianapolis Flooring Contractors to Call

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 if you are looking for flooring services at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. When you call our licensed flooring contractors, you can expect to receive the lowest and most competitive quotes for home and office flooring services and repairs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Just when you think you cannot afford flooring installation and repairs, our general contractors will disclose the exciting level of savings you are entitled to for your flooring service needs.

Do-It-Yourself Home Security Renovations

Posted on September 18, 2019 by admin

Your home is one of your greatest assets, so it is vital that you make certain considerations in regards to home security. It is common practice for burglars and petty thieves to target upscale residential neighborhoods and communities in hopes of coming by some better loot. Even the most family-forward, child-friendly developments are not safe from petty crimes.

For this reason, home security should be a priority for all homeowners. Continue reading for some helpful tips to improve your home’s resistance to crimes like break-ins, vandalism, and petty theft.

DIY Home Protection

A homeowner should never stop improving on their home security. It is an area of home-ownership that should be re-addressed every year. There are several things a homeowner can do all on their own to improve a home’s security and maximize protection. A few changes in habit, some old tricks, and a little knowledge is all it takes to up the ante when it comes to the security of your home. For instance, do not leave a hidden key. This is one of the first places a thief will look when breaking and entering a home. More importantly, do not open doors to strangers, especially in evening or early morning hours when door-to-door salesmen are not working.

What You Can Do:

✒ Dead bolt and lock up everything, such as sheds, barns, boats, bikes, and more.

✒ Install a front door camera or video doorbell device, like Ring

✒ Purchase a safe that bolts to the floor or wall for high-priced or priceless valuables

✒ Install motion-sensor lighting outside.

✒ Install electronic doorknob pads that only work with a code

✒ Leave a radio playing in the garage on weekend nights.

✒ Place a thick board or rod in the tracks of sliding glass entry doors.

Professional Home Security Renovations

Not all home security renovations should be carried out on your own. For some areas of home security, it is necessary to hire a handyman or general contractor for accurate and professional installation and service. Here are some professional home security tips that are the best solution for adequate home protection:

✔ Install deadbolt locks on interior/exterior doors.

✔ Choose a programmable combination keypad for entry locks.

✔ Install deadbolt strike plates and door jams.

✔ Install an eye viewer (peep-hole) in front door and back doors.

✔ Add a track lock to sliding glass entry doors.

✔ Re-seal/re-caulk first floor windows.

✔ Trim tall trees near windows and second stories.

✔ Install a home alarm system.

✔ Install exterior motion sensor flood lighting.

✔ Install more exterior lighting.

✔ Install a video monitoring system.

Contact Our Trusted Indianapolis General Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable property remodeling services in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, from general handyman services and home remodels, to full-on renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!