Universal Design & Whole House Remodel

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“Universal Design offers a choice to stay at home. If you are already planning a remodel, I always encourage homeowners to incorporate features that make their home more accessible, be that now or in the future. And it doesn’t have to look like a hospital. We can meld these elements into your home’s aesthetic so that it offers beauty and accessibility in equal measure,” explains Harrell Design + Build Designer, Debra Winston.

Here are key takeaways on how to include Universal Design features in your home on a scale both large and small.

Start at the Street

As you enter and depart, consider the various obstacles for those who may have mobility challenges. Many homes have a step up to the front door and creating a zero-step threshold via an inclined surface is an ideal way to remove this situation. The inclined access can be at a back or side door, can be made from decking, concrete or any other smooth surface. Integrating it into the surrounding landscape as well as the aesthetic of the house itself makes it appear as a purposeful design element.

Consider adding handrails to any exterior stairs, having well illuminated pathways, porches and entryways. A lighted house number is a code requirement but also enables emergency responders to more easily locate your home.

Backyards & Garden Spaces

Garden and yard spaces can be created or modified with Universal Design principles. Remove any tripping hazards such as stepping-stones or uneven surfaces where possible. Porches and decks should be enclosed with railings or large potted plants, both serving as a barrier against falling. If there is more than one step leading to a deck or other outdoor space, add a handrail for safety and accessibility. All hand and guardrails should be 42 inches high. (If the guardrail also serves as a handrail on stairs, it can be at 36 inches high.) The space between vertical railings must be no more than 4 inches wide.

Entryways

Entry doors should be a minimum of 36 inches wide and should have a peephole at an accessible level for all residing within the home. At the point of entry, there should be a beveled transition or low-profile threshold to allow easy passage of wheelchairs and other mobility devices. A bench or landing for placing bags while opening the door also is desirable.

Garages

If the garage is the primary entry point, eliminate clutter to create a clear path to get into and out of a vehicle as well as enter the residence. If the entry into the house from the garage has more than one step, a ramp may be necessary.

The Interior

Multi-Level Homes

Many people have two story houses, which can be made accessible if there is at least one bedroom and a full bath on the main level.

Residences with multiple levels can be made fully accessible by installing a chair lift or an elevator. The opportunity for each is dependent upon the space available and the overall layout of the home. Budget plays a significant part as well.

Chair lifts are the less expensive option and require a landing area at the top and bottom of the stairs for the user to easily enter and exit. Elevators can be installed internally or externally and should be spacious enough to accommodate a person in a wheelchair plus one additional person. During a major remodel, a home can be redesigned with an elevator shaft (hallways and closets are great areas to use) but professional installation of an exterior lift can solve access challenges without “tearing up the house,” Debra explains. Installation should always be performed by a licensed elevator contractor.

Lighting & Electrical

Proper illumination in every room of your home is a key to Universal Design. Task lighting, ambient lighting and dimmable lights that offer visibility at night make a home safer and more navigable. When possible, install light switches, electrical outlets and thermostats at levels accessible to those who are seated.

Flooring

If you plan on replacing flooring in your home, strive for a seamless transition from one space to another. Using the same flooring throughout when possible avoids the need for transition strips, making even inexpensive flooring appear high-end. If this isn’t achievable, thresholds of ½ inch or less create a smoother flow and a reduced tripping hazard. Taping or securing area rugs – or removing them altogether – eliminates tripping hazards.

Hallways & Doors

If you have the opportunity during a remodel, increase the width of hallways and doors. Most interior passageways should be 36 inches wide, but an additional six to 12 inches makes them more maneuverable, comfortable and flexible.

The typical interior door is 32 inches wide with some as narrow as 26 inches. Increasing doorways to 36 inches allows for easy passage, especially for those using mobility devices. If doorways cannot be made wider, there are some opportunities to widen doorways by using specialized offset hinges. These move the door out of the pathway when opened, increasing the passageway by 1-3/4 inch. Installing levered handles allow all doors to be opened and closed by those with limited grip or hand strength.

Bathrooms & Kitchens

Bathrooms with Universal Design elements can ensure homeowners can live comfortably and safely in their own home. For more specifics on integrating elements of Universal Design in bathrooms, refer to our blog on this topic.

As the heart of the home, implementing Universal Design principles in your kitchen also greatly enhances its long-term livability. Learn more about how to merge these elements into your kitchen by reading our Kitchens & Universal Design blog.

Laundry Rooms

Front loading machines set on pedestals provide ideal access while offering additional storage at a low level. Having a rolling laundry basket is also a plus.

Universal Design is a way to make your entire home livable for all stages of life, for people of all abilities and ages. It is a worthwhile investment to incorporate elements of Universal Design. These principles can be implemented all at once during a major remodel, in specific rooms, such as during a kitchen or bath remodel, or anytime you are considering any type of upgrade, including flooring, door hardware or lighting. Explore more about Universal Design on our website.

Founded by Iris Harrell and 100% employee-owned, Harrell Design + Build Design+Build has been creating distinctive homes since 1985. To learn more about Universal Design and how it can make your home more livable for years to come, we invite you to talk with one of our Designers. Feel free to email us or call our Palo Alto office at 650-230-2900 to schedule a meeting to talk more about Universal Design.

Designing A Roof With Curb Appeal

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We’ve all driven by houses that have that certain something. These welcoming, attractive homes have that much sought-after moniker referred to as curb appeal. All of the exterior elements come into play – landscaping, color of the house, entry door, windows – to create a cohesive and inviting appearance. Yet there is one important element we don’t often consider when it comes to curb appeal: the roof.

Harrell Design + Build Designer, Rafael Gomez, studied architecture and worked in both commercial and residential firms before joining Harrell.

“I remember early on in my career, designing rooflines was my biggest fear. I couldn’t grasp how what was going on inside a home could be matched up in a proportionate, balanced way with the roof,” reflects Rafael. “The experience in figuring this out was valuable in teaching me how interior and exterior architectural elements worked together. Now, I really enjoy creating rooflines that add to the beauty of a client’s home.”

There are multiple components that make up a roofline:

  • Shape
  • Pitch
  • Mass/scale/proportions
  • Continuity
  • Flow

The goal is to find the right balance of each of these elements while also designing a roofline that is in line with the overall architecture style of a home. It is also important to consider the neighborhood in which you live so your home fits within the overall residential look and feel of the surrounding area.

“To maintain the architectural integrity and continuity of their neighborhoods, many cities have architectural guidelines that impact what homeowners can do to the exterior of homes,” explains Rafael. “It is always advised to gather all of this information in advance of starting a project.”

The proper use of materials and design elements also helps to create curb appeal. Dormers with windows, enclosed soffits, gutters and downspouts, vents, and rafter tails that have a distinct design are all ways to add visual appeal to a roofline.

There are also a myriad of roofing materials that can enhance the beauty and resale value of your residence. Certain materials look best with specific architectural styles so it is wise to take this into consideration as well as the pros and cons of each type of roofing.

Thanks to their affordability, approximately 70% of homes in the United States have composition/asphalt shingles. This roofing material comes in an incredible array of colors and profiles, and is a great option for many types of houses. Available in clay, concrete, slate, and fiber cement, tiles are another roofing material that can offer a dramatic profile for the right style of home. Wood shakes, once very popular, offer an attractive, upscale appearance but tend to be considerably more expensive than their composite counterparts. Metal is a great option to achieve a farmhouse look, or for use on a feature area, such as an accent on an entry, dormers, or bay window. Solar tiles are an up and coming roofing product, eventually replacing the large and unsightly solar panels that can often detract from an otherwise attractive roofline.

Designing a roofline that accentuates your home, especially if you are undergoing a significant addition or remodel, can positively impact your curb appeal. It’s critical to ensure your roofline has a balanced appearance, it structurally sound, and properly ventilated. Working with a designer to assist in selecting the finishes, materials, and other elements guarantees a consistent architectural aesthetic and a home that has one heck of a WOW factor!

Let Harrell Design + Build help you achieve a roof with incredible curb appeal! Schedule a complimentary session with one of our talented designers at either our Los Gatos or Palo Alto showrooms.

One of Harrell Design + Build’s premier designers, Rafael Gomez has a background in Architecture and his extensive design experience brings a bold and forward-thinking edge to the Harrell Design + Build Design + Build team. After graduating from Universidad Autonoma De Guadalajara in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Rafael became a licensed Architect in Mexico. In 1995 Rafael began his professional career in San Francisco working in both commercial and residential architecture firms. Having worked in the field of design and construction, Rafael possesses a comprehensive design philosophy, which begins with the assumption that design is an intelligent process through which people arrange their environment. Establishing a relationship with his clients based on mutual trust and respect, Rafael carefully listens to client needs to create a custom design that fits their unique lifestyle. Designs that allow for function, durability and longevity are Rafael’s trademark. Thanks to his extensive project feasibility research and collaboration with our production department and engineers guarantee, these designs come to life. Rafael joined the Harrell Design + Build team after 12 years of Design + Build experience. His vision and attention to detail have won him many awards from NKBA kitchen renovations to whole house remodels as well as new homes.

Garage Doors: The Gateway to Curb Appeal

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One of the most frequently used home additions is the garage. It rolls convenience, safety, security, and storage all into one. As a key component to your next custom remodeling project, a new garage or simply a new garage door can dramatically alter your Bay Area home’s appearance. And newer garage doors may provide improved function. If thinking about enhancing the curb appeal of your home, you may consider these options available for today’s garage doors.

Wood

Wood is a traditional garage door material that provides a more natural appearance. It blends in particularly well with brick, stone, and wood homes. Depending on the design, it can be elegant or rustic. Wood is a popular choice for carriage house designs and often comes with windows in the upper portion of the doors.

Metal

Metal garage doors for Bay Area homes are traditionally made of steel and aluminum. Traditional steel doors offer higher durability and an added sense of security. A more modern steel door, often called a sandwich construction, is now available with varying degrees of insulation to help ward off energy loss. Aluminum provides a sleeker look and is a much lighter weight material, although still durable. Both materials can be painted as needed to coordinate with the rest of your home’s exterior.

Fiberglass

If you like the look of wood but prefer a less weather sensitive material that is easier to maintain, fiberglass may be the answer for you. Fiberglass doors are made in a broad variety of styles, including faux wood finishes available in different colors and grains.

Glass Panels

Many attached garages are incorporated into the front of the house, while other homes have detached garages that sometimes function as temporary workshops for hobbyists. The need for glass panels on a garage door can be dictated by the desire to have the door coordinate with the appearance of the home or to increase the natural light within the space.
Garage doors with large glass panels are also available and marry well with homes that have a high incidence of glazing. Adding glass panels to a garage door can balances the exterior appearance and provide a source of natural light to the interior.

Classic Versus Carriage

Classic garage doors are typically laid out in blocks and rows of rectangles. As the door rises, they roll up and disappear into the garage ceiling. Carriage house doors hearken back to the horse-drawn carriage era, and typically open outward from the center. Choose your carriage house hardware and windows carefully to create a plain or more ornate look. Add lift handles and knockers for an even greater authentic appearance.

If you’re not sure which look will best enhance your curb appeal, talk it over with our Design + Build team from Harrell Design + Build.

13 Home Maintenance Tips for Spring

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Winter is finally coming to a close. With warmer days ahead, spring is an ideal time to give your home some much-needed TLC after months of cold, wet weather.

One of the best things a homeowner can do is to do a visual inspection both inside and outside their home. Look for mold or mildew build-up on the exterior as well as inside your home, especially after a long rainy winter. Keep an eye open for condensation inside windows. Look for peeling paint, bent or damaged gutters, or any other signs that indicate needed repair.

1. HVAC

Spring is a great time to do some basic maintenance on your HVAC system. Swapping out your furnace filters is quick, easy, and inexpensive. It keeps your system operating efficiently and is one less thing you’ll have to worry about come next winter.
If you haven’t had your furnace serviced recently, schedule a maintenance visit now rather than waiting until you need the heat and discover your system is not functioning properly.

Just like with your furnace, your air conditioning unit needs a tune-up every few years and it is best to get this done in the off-season. That way, when the heat hits, you’re AC will be ready to cool.

Explains Harrell Design + Build Senior Project Manager Kai Jensen, “Most people only think about servicing their furnaces, AC units or roof when they encounter an issue. But the best (and cheapest) time to do this is during the off-season.”

2. Roof, Gutters & Chimney

Your roof, gutters, and chimney also need some TLC. Blow leaves off your roof, especially in the valleys where they tend to pile up. If not removed, they build up and eventually cause damage to your roof. Now is also a great time to have your roof inspected as well as have repairs completed. Remove leaves and other debris from gutters and have any damaged sections or downspouts replaced or repaired.

If you haven’t had one in awhile, an inspection will ensure your chimney is structurally sound while a professional cleaning keeps dangerous debris from accumulating and possibly causing a fire.

3. Look for Cracks in Stucco

If you discover large cracks in the stucco on your home, fill with a flexible caulking or apply a stucco patch. This reduces the chance of moisture seeping behind and into the walls and causing dry rot.

4. Sprinklers

Turn on your sprinklers and redirect them if any are hitting the exterior of your home. Over time, having water hitting the outside of your house can can cause dry rot. Replace missing or damaged sprinkler heads and check for water leaks.

5. Septic Tanks

If your home is on septic, it typically needs to be cleaned out every four or five years. And if you don’t already, purchase some septic treatment products and begin using this monthly to break down grease, fats, and oils.

6. Windows & Exterior Doors/Locks

Open and close each of your windows to make sure they operate properly. If you have double paned windows, look for cloudiness between the panes, which indicates window failure. Look closely at caulking on both windows and doors and reapply if it is cracked or peeling. If the paint is fading on the exterior of your windows, take time to repaint.

Check all exterior door locks and make sure they operate smoothly. If you have trouble getting the key in the lock or if you have to coax the lock itself to open, call a locksmith and get them to tune up your affected locks and possibly cut new keys.

7. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Check all of the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Make sure you have at least one CO detector on each level of your home. If you live in an all-electric home, carbon monoxide detectors are NOT required. If you have smoke detectors that are only battery operated, California law requires they include a 10-year battery that cannot be replaced or removed. Be sure to upgrade to these units if necessary.

8. Water Main

Locate your water main, remove the cover and look inside for leaks or water build up. Contact your local water company if you discover any issues.

9. Showers, Sinks, Toilet & Tubs

Check caulking around sinks as well as in showers where the tile meets the shower pan and around bathtubs where the wall tile connects with the tub. If the caulk is cracked, peeling, or pulling away, its time to reapply.

Check all drains for hair build up and remove using a tool made just for this fun job. This will reduce odor as well as allow water to drain properly.

Remove all of the aerators on your faucets, remove any debris and sediment, and reattach.

Turn on and off water valves for each sink and toilet to make sure they haven’t seized up and are operating as intended. Look under all sinks for leaks, check inside toilet tanks to ensure all parts appear in working order.

“To easily check toilets for leaks, place a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your toilet has a leak,” shares Kai. “I also recommend homeowners locate and check their main outside water valve, making sure it turns on and off. The same with hose bibs. Being outside, they can tighten up over time so it is important to check them every so often.”

10. Replace Light Bulbs

During winter, lighting is used much more than in spring and summer so bulbs often burn out. In the evening, go outside and inspect your outdoor lighting for bulbs that are broken or burned out. Do the same inside your home and replace all nonfunctioning bulbs.

11. Garage Door

Open and close your garage door a few times to confirm it operates smoothly. Check all of the bolts, especially those responsible for attaching the door to the hinge and spring hardware, and tighten if loose. If it’s been awhile since you had your door serviced, it’s probably time to do so.

12. Washers, Dryers, Dishwashers & Refrigerators

Inspect all hoses for your dishwasher (located under the sink) and clothes washer for cracks or damage that could result in leaks. Clean the vents in your dryer, both those inside as well as behind the appliance.

Explains Kai, “Dryer vents need to be cleaned two or three times a year to prevent lint build up, which can result in a fire.”

Check the seals on your fridge for cracks and vacuum behind your refrigerator to remove dust build-up from the back of the unit, which can reduce the efficiency as well as the life of your appliance.

13. Electrical Panel & GFCI Outlets

Flip each switch on your electrical panel. If any circuits don’t stay in their “on” position, this indicates a potential issue and it would be worth having your panel inspected.

GFCI outlets are typically placed in the kitchen and bath. Test each by pressing the button to reset the outlet. If any fail to work or reset properly, it’s time to replace them.

“Many older homes don’t have GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens. These are important safety features and should be installed,” says Kai.

Maintaining your home can seem like an overwhelming task but the team at Harrell Design + Build is here to help. Our experts identify potential issues and point out areas that require maintenance. This proactive approach allows homeowners to actively participate in the maintenance and repair plan as well as address concerns before they become costly repairs.

Interested scheduling a spring maintenance inspection? Contact Harrell Design + Build to speak with one of our team members.

Kai Jensen is a native of San Jose. His father was employed in the design field, so Kai grew up immersed in the design and construction industry. He has worked in construction for over 40 years and has vast experience in both commercial and residential projects. A skilled craftsman, Kai spent part of his career building custom kitchen and bath cabinets. Kai obtained his licensed general contractor in 1993 and at one time ran his own construction business doing all phases of work from foundation to finish before joining Harrell Design + Build in August 2001 as a Lead Carpenter. Kai is now one of Harrell’s Senior Project Managers and is a Certified Remodeling Project Manager.

How Harrell Protects Your Home

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At Harrell Design + Build, our slogan is one we take to heart: We never forget it’s your home®.

Harrell Site Manager, Mario Rivera, takes these six words very seriously each time he begins a new project.

“The very first thing we do is to make sure that our client’s home is properly protected. I try to talk in detail with every homeowner, letting them know exactly how we will protect their property. In the back of my mind, I always consider “What if” scenarios. By installing protective materials, my team works to minimize these possibilities.”

Installing and instituting protective measures is mutually beneficial. It safeguards the health and safety of both the homeowners and Harrell workers as well as defends against potential damage during a remodel. The on-site Harrell Team focuses on a number of areas within a home, each of which are dependent upon the project’s duration, scope, and exact location on the job site.

CARPETS & RUGS
For short duration projects, typically those under a month, carpet tape is used to shield most carpeting and large area rugs. This plastic material has an adhesive-type backing, which allows it to adhere to the flooring, providing a barrier against dirt and damage and a non-slip upper surface. (This tape shouldn’t be used on wool carpets, as it will pull out the strands.)

When a home remodeling project exceeds a month, more substantial measures are employed. This includes placing a paper (not plastic) under-layer barrier on top of the carpet to protect from moisture and possible mold build-up. This is followed by thick cardboard and thin wood or Masonite on top. This method offers multiple levels of protection that will withstand the daily rigors of a home remodel, including ladders scaffolding, and rough materials.

For carpeted stairs, a sturdy plastic non-slip membrane is applied. If the use of carpet tape is not possible, we will apply a product called Eco-Runner. This material is taped securely to the railing and baseboard. The angular nature of stairs requires the Eco-Runner material to be inspected frequently to ensure it remains intact, secured, and at peak protective performance. Railings and balusters also are swathed in a protective plastic under layer and adhered with a foam-padded tape. If necessary, thick rolls of cardboard can be shaped to protect the balusters to guard against heavier traffic.

HARDWOOD, TILE, LINOLEUM
Eco-Runner is a fantastic material for each of these types of flooring for short-term projects. For remodels over 30 days, durable plywood and cardboard are layered on top of the plastic runner to ward off scratches, dings, or other damage to the flooring beneath.

“Most flooring is very unique and if harmed, is often challenging to repair. Applying a variety of materials to guard against damage is well worth it,” explains Mario.

WALLS
Though drywall is easier to repair than hardwood or tile should it get damaged, that doesn’t deter Harrell Design + Build from employing cautionary measures. Often used as a primary interior artery for workers and materials, hallways are wrapped floor to ceiling in heavy-duty plastic using a zip wall dust barrier system, which minimizes denting as well as keeps dust from spreading. Zippered doorways allow access into closets, bed and bathrooms. To further inhibit damage to walls, 4 foot by 8 foot spans of thick cardboard called thermo-ply are leaned against high traffic areas, especially at corners.

DOOR JAMS
Protecting door jams, especially in high traffic areas, is a necessity and there are materials made exclusively for this purpose. The Harrell Team uses a plastic and cardboard C-shaped material that fits perfectly over the trim, offering instant defense against dings.

DUCTING & LIGHTING
Cold air exchanges can’t be covered, as they are necessary for your furnace to run properly so at the end of each project, air filters are replaced. Floor and wall heating grills in active work areas are covered to keep dust at bay.

For lighting that isn’t a heat source, such as LEDs, plastic can be applied. Since dust can impede the functionality of smoke detectors, they are either covered or replaced once the project is completed.

FURNISHINGS
Says Mario, “Though we always recommend moving as much furniture as possible out of the active work area, sometimes that isn’t realistic. When this happens, we cover each piece with a thin painter’s plastic and, if necessary, also use the zipper poles and heavy duty plastic walls to allow accessibility and added perimeter protection.”

Mario also lets homeowners know they should remove artwork, bookshelves, or other items on any walls that may be impacted by vibrations caused by work in progress on either side.

LANDSCAPING & EXTERIOR
When working on the exterior of a home, Harrell Design + Build subscribes to the same mantra of treating each of our client’s home with courtesy and respect. Though landscaping is more challenging to protect completely, the goal is to minimize the impact to lawns, bushes, and trees. Trees are surrounded with a barrier of 2X4s, temporary fencing, and caution tape while bushes will be pulled away from exterior walls during work. Lawns can be protected with plywood, which is often raised up on bricks or concrete pavers to allow airflow.

DRIVEWAYS
Since every driveway is unique, the onsite Harrell Team takes into account every aspect of the project that could result in damage over the duration of the job. Driveways can be fashioned from numerous materials including pavers, asphalt, stamped or brushed concrete. If the drive will be a high-traffic thoroughfare, including moving heavy or sharp materials to the actual project location, or if there is a possibility of spills, the location will be protected with a heavy-duty plastic topped by a layer of plywood or OSB sheets, secured together with metal clips.

If the drive will only be used as a walkway, a patterned orange liner is applied is the path of travel. The pattern designates the area of defined usage, ensuring cleanliness while avoiding damage.

Since most residential driveways are not able to withstand the weight of large vehicles or material loads, the on-site team will have any heavy materials delivered to the jobsite dropped off curbside. This avoids potentially cracking the driveway concrete slab, which can result in an expensive repair.

THE AIR
Undergoing a home remodel is dirty and dusty, adding extra particulate matter into the air. Though we do our best to cut wood, tile, and other materials outside, this isn’t always possible. To mitigate this, all tools are connected to a vacuum, which automatically switches on and off with the tool to collect dust. Hoods are used on saws to keep sawdust contained, and we always use HEPA filters to clean the air. Air scrubbers absorb and minimizing the spread of fine dust and particles, protecting both the homeowners and workers.

DAILY CLEAN UP
At the end of each workday, Mario shares that each onsite team sweeps, vacuums, and removes debris. Openings in walls and floors are covered, tools and materials are set aside and covered with plastic, leaving the work area as tidy and safe as possible.

“Protection is very important to me. I do it out of appreciation, safety, and respect of the homeowners as well as for the safety and health of my team and myself,” Mario says.

Mario Rivera began working in the construction trade in 2002, beginning with basic framing. Fascinated by tools and building from a very young age, Mario was hired in 2014 as a carpenter for Harrell Design + Build, working his way to site manager thanks to his diligence, passion, and attention to detail. He firmly believes that the manner in which Harrell Design + Build treats their clients’ homes is just one way in which the company rises above the rest.

“When you’re choosing a contractor, it is really important to find out how they will safeguard your home and your safety,” Mario states.

Are you dreaming of a remodel? Schedule a consultation with one of our amazing Designers to discover how Harrell Design + Build can transform your home.

Waterproofing Your Residence: Think Like A Raindrop

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Water is one of the most insidious sources of damage to a home. It has a way of sneaking and seeping into the smallest of places, often without the homeowner being aware until the damage it has caused is readily apparent.

According to Harrell Design + Build’s CEO, Ciro Giammona, there are three primary causes of water damage to a residence:

  • Failure by design
  • Improper installation
  • Deferred maintenance

Failure by Design

When building materials are used for the wrong purpose, or when the choice of materials isn’t suitable for the job at hand, the result can be considered failure by design. When choosing materials, it is critical to make sure to use the right ones for the job. For example, there are tiles for use on walls and tiles specifically made for flooring. Wall tile doesn’t have the same hardness and durability as floor tile and, if used in that capacity, it could fracture and create an inlet for water. Another misuse of materials is choosing wood that is not naturally resistant or treated to resist moisture and decay, and using it on decks and outdoor structures that are exposed to the elements.

Avoiding vital waterproofing steps like installing flashing around chimneys and skylights, or ensuring exterior surfaces slope away from your foundation are guaranteed ways to welcome unwanted water into your home. These and other “design flaws” are veritable invitations for water to come and stay awhile.

Improper Installation

There is a right and a wrong way to install most everything. A window is designed with an “inside” and an “outside” but, believe it or not, the Harrell Team has encountered a few that were literally inside-out! This extreme example of improper installation allows water to trickle into the walls, affecting the insulation, framing, and drywall. Exterior sprinklers directed toward your house, roofing materials and flashing improperly installed from the top down instead of bottom up, plumbing that isn’t suitably connected—all of these contribute to water intrusion in a home.

Deferred Maintenance

Every home, no matter how new or how old, needs to be maintained. Normal “wear and tear” along with varied exposure to the elements invites opportunities for moisture issues. By putting off necessary upkeep, especially those that are water-related, homeowners are setting themselves up for even more costly repairs down the road.

“Our team is frequently called to a home to repair something that, had it been addressed at the first sign of the issue, or even better, been properly maintained, would have cost much less money,” explains Ciro. “One rule of thumb is to budget about 1% of your home’s value every year on maintenance. It sounds like a lot but in the long run, maintaining is much less expensive than repairing a major problem.”

For example, when paint begins to crack, flake, or peel, water can creep behind the protective barrier it provides and be absorbed into your home’s siding or other porous materials. When the underlying materials are damp, the damage to surrounding areas will accelerate, resulting in more extensive repairs.

Properly maintaining you grout is another vital step to keeping moisture at bay. Unsealed grout, or grout that cracks and is not repaired can further deteriorate, causing water to seep through and behind the tile, causing damage to drywall, cabinetry, flooring, and more.

The good news is there are steps homeowners can take to waterproof their residences. The number one guideline is to stay on top of maintaining your home, addressing issues before they become problems.

“If you see areas of your home where the paint is peeling, you can often touch it up and extend the life of your exterior paint,” Ciro advises. “I also highly recommend that homeowners check under their sinks. It’s not a place you look often but a slow drip can easily go unnoticed until flooring and cabinets are damaged.”

Ciro also suggests having a licensed roofing company inspect your roof during the warmer months and preemptively fix any issues they discover, such as tree branches in contact with the roof, rusting flashing, or loose shingles. If you have a basement or crawl space, grab a flashlight and go hunting for standing water or areas that appear damp. Caulking is another material that, although designed to be flexible, needs to be reapplied on a continual basis to ensure it continues to repel water.

“We have a client who, in the midst of a rainstorm, conducts what she calls a ‘rain walk.’ She heads outside and looks for things like overflowing gutters, water pooling near the foundation of the home, condensation on the insides of windows, or water that is getting into crawl spaces,” Ciro explains. “These rain walks really help her keep on top of potential issues early on.”

The team at Harrell Design + Build is here to help waterproof and maintain your home. By conducting annual walk-throughs, our experts identify potential issues and point out areas that require maintenance. This proactive approach appeals to many homeowners as it allows them to actively participate in the maintenance and repair plan as well as address concerns before they become costly repairs.

Interested in learning more about how to waterproof your home? Contact Harrell Design + Build to speak with one of our team members or to schedule your HOME WATERPROOFING MAINTENANCE WALK-THROUGH.

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Open Up Your World to Skylights and Sun Tunnels

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Skylights and sun tunnels are two innovative ways to bring natural light into the interior rooms of your home. Skylights are windows or see-through panels located on the roof. In rooms with angled ceilings that match the angle of the roof, the skylight is mounted on the roof and light travels directly into the room. In rooms with flat ceilings that do not match the angle of the roof above, it is fairly typical to have a light well made of drywall built around the roof mounted skylight that connects the skylight to the room’s flat ceiling. This light well brings the light into the room. These applications work when a skylight can be placed directly above a room. Sun tunnels are often used when there are obstructions in the attic that prevent the installation of a skylight. Sun tunnels are similar to skylights, but rather than a light well, sun tunnels have a tube with a reflective interior lining that captures natural light from a roof mounted dome and channels the light indirectly into the room. This tunnel often travels at a slight angle through attic space. Sun tunnels can be installed in kitchens, living rooms, hallways and other areas of the home that may not have ample natural lighting.

Skylights

These ‘windows in the ceiling’ can increase natural lighting and make a room feel brighter and larger. When properly installed as part of a Bay Area home remodeling project, skylights can help homeowners cut costs on an electricity bill while enhancing the home’s level of sophistication. Skylights are available in a wide array of shapes and sizes with UV protected glass in a variety of tints. Skylights can be fixed, or operable. Operable skylights increase the fresh air flow and are often available with easy to use remote controls.

Sun Tunnels

Starting in sizes roughly a foot across and available in both round and square shapes, a sun tunnel diffuser panel sits on the ceiling level of a room. From there the connected sun tunnel extends through and across attic space to a roof mounted clear dome. The interior effect in the room’s ceiling appears similar to recessed lighting. Sun tunnels can be integrated into roof systems with slopes between 15 and 60 degrees. Choose a diffuser for the sun tunnel that limits both glare and bright spots.

Homeowners interested in improving their energy efficiency will like the eco-friendly impact of skylights and sun tunnels. They bring the illuminating properties of daylight into dark rooms. If you would like to learn more about skylights or sun tunnels and how they might be included in your remodel, please call or email us today for a complimentary discussion with one of our designers.

Interior Remodeling Basics: Choosing Wall Treatments

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Wouldn’t you like to liven up your room and show off your personal style? Wall treatments can give you the opportunity to add color, texture, depth and creativity to your spaces. A common option is to create custom walls or an accent wall by using bold patterns or three-dimensional patterns on one wall with paint or paneling on the others. There are several home remodeling options to choose from that can bring some excitement into your living spaces. Merge colors and patterns with textures to create depth in each room.

Wallpaper
Today’s wallpaper isn’t like the old-school wallpaper that covered all four walls and was hard to remove if you ever wanted a change. Today’s wallpaper designs are often larger prints and can be used in concert with paint and other wall treatments to create a “wow” factor. Many wallpapers are paintable, so we can customize them to your color choices for the rest of the room.

Fabric Panels
Visually, fabric panels can create a dramatic presence. They can be a series of panels with a design for a mural-type effect, or they can have a more upholstered look. Use them to create or reinforce a theme and to add texture to an otherwise blank wall covering a select a portion or the entire wall.  Mount fabric panels on the wall to cover audio speakers or camouflage wall safes or other hidden features on a wall to create visual and acoustic functionality in any room. Use panels of nearly any type of fabric, from cotton to canvas to suede, to serve as a sound barrier in entertainment rooms, the baby’s nursery or a workout room.

Wood Paneling
Use wood paneling or wainscoting to blend or contrast with other room furnishings. Wood paneling or beadboard, with materials ranging from pine to cedar to oak, can be stained or painted to provide a more traditional look and can easily be refinished when you’re ready for a change. Depending on the finish and wood species, wood paneling can also create a rustic look or a more luxurious environment. For environmentally-conscious homeowners, reclaimed wood paneling is a green option for a custom remodeling project.

Drywall
Gypsum board and drywall have evolved into more sophisticated wall treatments than a simple flat surface that is covered in paint. Drywall can be textured, reinforced with fiberglass, or mudded and sanded. It can also be painted and stand alone or serve as a base underneath other forms of wall treatments.

Wireless Lighting Controls and Home Automation

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Wireless controls for lighting and home automation are gaining popularity in home remodeling features. Once you’ve used a remote to turn down the lights or turn up the volume on your sound system, you’ll probably be hooked. Wireless functions go far beyond the convenience of making adjustments without getting up out of your chair, however.

Consider the different lighting and electrically powered items you use each day. Most of them can probably be added to an automated system to reduce inconvenience and the repetition of turning them on and off. Some of these features can be incorporated into a home security system, while others are operated by separate controls. The number of wireless automated devices available on the market is constantly evolving. Your system can be set up to accommodate newer products and models as they become available.

Activity Choices
When choosing which items you want to have control with a wireless timer, think in terms of indoor and outdoor lighting, thermostats, pools, hot tubs, warm floors, security cameras and home surveillance. Use remote control devices from inside or outside the house to turn on specific lights and small appliances. You can also add motion detector alarms to items like cabinets with cleaning supplies or medicine cabinets to help keep kids and toddlers safe. Room-to-room intercom systems are another convenience feature that adds peace of mind for parents or convenience for those with spacious homes. Trigger automation is another option; turn on certain lights when the garage door activates or turn on the deck lights when the sliding door opens.

Types
Wireless devices typically work on a radio frequency (RF). There are three main types of wireless control, Z-Wave, Insteon and X-10. They can be combined with wired automation or stand alone with wireless capabilities, depending on which system you choose to use. Controllers for automated systems come in the form of remote controls, wall switches and tabletop panels. Some wireless speakers and home entertainment systems require hard wiring to create a signal that can be used by wireless remote control devices.

Remotes for Convenience
Dimmer switches powered by remote can raise and lower lighting and sound for everything from kitchen lights to home entertainment. When planning your home remodeling project, do a room-by-room survey with your design-build contractor to cover all of your potential needs.

Energy Conservation
If you’re aiming for greener energy usage, use automatic timers for scheduling the thermostat, towel and floor warmers, and outdoor lighting. Motion sensors can also trigger lights and fans to turn on and off when someone enters or exits the room.

The choices in home automation and wireless controls are practically endless. If you’re not sure which systems you want to control or what the most effective RF or wired signals are for your lifestyle, discuss it with a Bay Area design-build contractor.