Tag: Handyman Services - page 3

Doing It Yourself Verse Hiring A Professional Contractor

Posted on February 20, 2016 by Creative Programs and Systems

Doing a bathroom remodel yourself may save you money but at what additional cost? The cost of course is skill, convenience and every bit of your sanity. Extensive bathroom remodels should be left up to an experienced contractor. Hire a remodeling contractor that has experience doing the job right the first time. A licensed, insured contractor has acquired the skills necessary to ensure the job meets your specifications within an allotted period of time that is contracted between the two of you.

When hiring a contractor it is important that they understand what you are envisioning. Homeowners come up with a gazillion ideas on remodeling their homes; the problem comes when trying to articulate what you expect out of the completed project. When you can show your contractor pictures out of magazines or ideas found online it opens the lines of communication.

Your contractor should be able to take ideas from your design concepts to create a visual representation of exactly what you are looking for. This should be the first step in any home improvement project. Going into remodeling without a definitive concept in mind is never a good idea for you or the contractor.

When ideas are not set in stone before the job begins a project that should take a few weeks’ turns into a few months. The fixtures start to change, the color of paint no longer goes well with the tile and cabinet colors and before you know it aspects of the project that were not in the original contract which starts the demise of any time line that was established to begin with.

As new items start to be requested contractors have to halt where they are at in the project to reevaluate and order the homeowners new requests. When this occurs too often throughout the remodeling process it can really turn into a project that is outside the realm of time the contractor has established for your renovation. This in turn increases the amount of money the contractor deserves to be compensated, increases in material costs and restocking fees and more.

Professional home remodeling contractor that have established a solid reputation and work history within the industry make for an ease that doesn’t come from contractors who are new to the construction industry. The best way to find an individual to contract for the home improvement projects around your home is via referral, word of mouth and online reputation. It is hard for good contractors and their work to go unnoticed in the home remodeling industry.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications. Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

age in place modifications, Basement Transformations, Bathroom Remodeling, handicap ramp installation, Handyman Services, Hardwood Floor Installation, Hardwood Refinishing, kitchen remodeling, Remodeling Contractor, Renovation Services, Wheelchair Ramp Installation

Top Remodeling Projects of 2016

Posted on December 28, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

Why do people choose to remodel? When you are looking into home improvements for your home do you do so based solely on your own desires or do you renovate because of popular trends that hit the market? For those of you that improve your home based on trends that are popular this article is written directly for you. In 2016 these are sure to be the most popular trends in the home improvement industry.

Replacing the entry door of your home: The curb appeal of your home is of utmost importance when it comes to home improvement projects. One of the most lucrative projects that homeowners can undergo is replacing the homes entry door. This is in fact one of the most valuable renovations that homeowners do as it recovers the value of the project over one hundred percent.

The average expense of an entry door replacement is anywhere between four to eight hundred and fifty dollars. The total cost and added value does not necessarily increase the equity of the value a great deal, like full kitchen and bathroom remodels, however the return on investment of an entry door replacement is one that cannot be outdone by any other home improvement project.

Remodeling the homes bathrooms: Unlike an entry door replacement which is relatively inexpensive a bathroom renovation costs a good chunk of money and time to execute. Remodeling a bathroom continues to remain the most popular option in home remodeling throughout the United States. It is the one area in the home that is used by everyone that enters your home and therefore needs to be comfortable and welcoming.

For homeowners it is the room that is entered the most. It is one of the two most popular rooms within the home and really helps to sell your home. If your home is identical within a subdivision it has been proven the home with the updated bathroom or kitchen will sell faster and for more money than an equivalent home for sale in which the living room or bedrooms have been updated. The improvements within a bathroom will increase the asking price you can seek for your home upwards of sixty percent of the overall cost of the bathroom remodel including materials and labor.

Garage Door Additions or Remodels: When looking for projects that offer a high return on investment consider the replacement of your homes garage door. The total overall value s not much but you are almost guaranteed to recoup the expense of the renovation. If you replace your garage door for around one thousand dollars you can expect the sale price of your home to increase by at least the same amount.

Trendy home improvement projects aren’t always the most popular options when it comes to renovations. Many times homeowners are interested in projects to increase the value of their home in terms of their overall use and enjoyment of the space. No matter your reason for updating and improving your home be sure to keep trends and renovations in mind that will be popular to the masses. It is more difficult to sell a home that has been overly customized verse one that has a number of neutral improvements.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Making Home Improvements That Make Aging In Place Possible

Posted on November 30, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

The baby boomer generation is one of the largest segments that create the population today. In fact it is estimated that everyday ten thousand baby boomers turn sixty five. This is a huge shift that is being seen in America. Although the senior population is growing it does not mean that the nursing home population is growing as well. In fact over eighty three percent of baby boomers are preparing to age in place instead of moving into an assisted living facility. The older population is looking to age gracefully while continuing to live independently within their homes.

If you are part of this population or are helping to care for someone who is aging and hoping to live at home as they age it is important to start making small changes to keep their homes safe, comfortable, functional and easy for them to use.

One of the first recommendations that age in place contractors give to the aging population is to avoid a home that requires you to access areas via stairways. Stairs are difficult to maneuver as we age. Our knees don’t bend well and balance is at premium. For some this may mean relocating while for other it may mean adjusting the current space. Some homes have bedrooms only on a second floor. If this is the case it may mean turning a formal dining space into a master sweet and adjusting the current space a bit. For others it may mean that the addition of a handicap ramp. Stairs leading into and out of the home can be tricky for seniors to navigate as well. It is in the best interest of individuals looking to stay in their homes to have an access that is handicap modified. Adding a handicap ramp eases access of wheelchairs, walkers and canes.

It is important that homes where seniors are aging in place are as maintenance free as possible. This doesn’t mean that the home will not have some maintenance but it is possible to lessen the responsibilities of the individuals as they grow older. Vinyl siding, metal roofing and composite decking are three easy exterior modification to homes where seniors wish to age in place. Choose landscape materials that come back each year on their own as well as varieties that do not require yearly trimming. Install automatic sprinklers as well. These are all great options for keeping the curb appeal while allowing independence and aging in place.

It is also important that you look into the rooms within the home. Remove all throw rugs, baskets sitting on the floor, cords in areas that individuals will be walking and easy the simple things like light switches and cabinet door pulls. In the bathroom many choose to do age in place remodeling such as installing entry free showers with a built in seat. Grab bars are also an important feature. Lighting should be bright throughout the home as well. Install rocker switches at all the entry and exits of a room to avoid having to walk into a room in the dark.

Creating a safe, comfortable space for the senior in your life is fairly simple. Always hire contractors that are certified in handicap remodeling and age in place remodeling. They will be the best guide to analyzing the current space and offering suggestions on what areas could use some improvement to create a space that is as safe as possible.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

The Most Important Renovation For Aging In Place

Posted on October 29, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

It is incredibly difficult to grasp that our parents are not as young as they once were although they remain as stubborn. For the most part aging individuals will want to stay in their homes. If they can fix their own meals, bathe on their own and continue to dress themselves and don’t need personal one on one care you can ensure that they will want to age in place. With this in mind it is important that as many hazards as exist within the home are alleviated to avoid accidents that can occur.

The number one concern in age in place renovations is to prevent falls. Do an assessment on the home and begin to look for areas that look like they present further risks of falling. This means that all throw rugs and clutter need to be removed from the home. Areas within the home that should be double and triple checked include stairways, showers and kitchens. As well as making sure there are no throw rugs or clutter present be sure to increase the lighting in these main areas. A well lit area goes a long way in preventing falls throughout the home.

The bathroom is the most dangerous area with the home for all of us not just the elderly. The bathroom is the location in which most slip and falls occur. If you are going to completely gut and renovate any one room in your parents home while they choose to age in place it should be the bathroom. A bathroom overhaul should include the addition of a barrier free shower with a zero entry. Grab bars and seats should be installed within the shower. Grab bars should also be placed near the toilet. Another highly recommended addition is a toilet that is elevated higher than a normal household toilet. A bathroom that is ideal for seniors aging in place should also include slip resistant flooring and levered handles on all cabinet drawers and doors.

The cost of a new bathroom can be upwards of six thousand dollars or more depending on the exact renovations that are done as well as the labor fee that is charged by the age in place renovation specialist you choose to hire. It is advisable to look into hiring a contractor that specializes in age in place renovations or ADA remodeling. General contractors don’t necessarily know or understand the needs of clients with limited mobility or balance concerns.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Accommodations As You Age

Posted on September 22, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

Where are you going to live as you age? This is a question many baby boomers are facing right now. When given a choice between living at home or moving into an assisted living situation most seniors would choose to stay at home. The difficult part is left to their providers. How can we create a space within their home where they are free to live independently while continuing to be safe?

Bodies change throughout the aging process. The needs your parents have at seventy are different than what they will be at eighty. This makes remodeling for the needs of aging parents a bit trickier than most home remodeling projects.

There are two main places where seniors have problems that need to be addressed before any others, the entrance and exits of the home and the bathroom spaces. Most homes have stairs that are used to enter into and exit out of a home. This can be extremely difficult on aging backs and knees. When your parent decides they would like to stay in their home you need to consider having a handicap ramp installed on all the exits and entrances.

Create an entrance and exit without a lip. The ramp should be wide enough to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs. It should offer enough support for those needing stability from a handrail to maneuver. Designing a ramp that functions with the home without sticking out is an art. There are many contractors specializing in age in place remodeling and handicap ramp design and installation. Work with someone who specializes in the needs of seniors. They have the experience and knowledge to know what works and what doesn’t with every type of need.

A bathroom contractor that specializes in ADA accessibility is what you are looking for when designing a bathroom to be safe for the needs of aging bodies. Their needs change often as they grow old and the last thing you want to do is remodel every time their needs change. This is why it is crucial to work with a contractor that specializes in age in place and ADA accommodations. They know and understand the changes that a person will go through and will be able to address those concerns in their design.

Safe bathrooms require more than an additional light, taller toilet and a few grab bars. There are details that need to be addressed in the design. Specialists will look at all areas of the space from seating in the shower to the storage of incontinence pads. An age in place specialist has unique methods to create a space that looks as elegant as any modern bathroom renovation with the needed benefits required to keep seniors safe and able to live independently.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Home Renovations Without Disturbing The Peace

Posted on August 31, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

Making any home improvement is exciting. When you fix, replace or freshen-up the spaces in your home it takes the space from dull and lived in to clean and new. If you take on a home renovation without the right tools or incorrect information, this exhilarating time into a stressful situation for everyone involved. In the article below you will find a variety of tips that can help turn all of your household projects into successful ones.

When you are first considering a home improvement project be sure to think about where to start. Not every renovation needs to be taken on at one time. Instead start with one room at a time. Plan ahead so that you can keep your eyes open for deals. If a kitchen contractor or flooring specialist is running a summer special then it may be time to make adjustments to your time line. Take advantage of low prices on both materials and labor when you can. Don’t however start on one project and jump to another mid renovation just because you are looking to get a deal. The disturbance of two home renovations at one time is a lot for your family to handle.

When you are looking to do any home improvement project that involves electricity, plumbing or your homes structure you will need to secure permits. Many times renovations requiring a permit are better managed using a licensed contractor. Hiring a professional often ends up saving homeowners money and time in the end. The discount contractors receive on materials as well as the ability to do the work right the first time adds up to savings on the homeowners end.

When you are taking on something simple like a fresh coat of paint try to schedule the update over a long weekend. This will give you additional time encase everything does not goes as planned. If you are looking to paint rooms as quickly as possible try and stick to painting during the day when you are able to use the natural light. Artificial light gives off shadows and can cause you to miss areas. When painting a ceiling work from the outside in. Start around the edges and finish in the center. Walls should be painted from top to bottom. If you are going to hire a painter ask to see examples of their work in person especially when looking to hire them to paint more than one room. Technique is crucial when it comes to painting to prevent an uneven paint job.

When tackling complete room renovations such as bathroom or kitchen remodels plan your renovation out from start to finish. This is important whether you are working with a contractor or attempting it on your own. Having a plan in place of when specific progress points are helps to prevent delays common in home improvement projects.

Another tip when remodeling is to take the clutter out of the process. Simplify the space and don’t go overboard with too many patterns, colors or materials. Stick with a theme and work on complimenting it in a manner that improves the space.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to sprucing up your home. Working on one room at a time will allow you to wrap your head completely around one project. This focus will help prevent time delays as well as improve each renovation. When you can devote time, energy and finances on one space it allows you to take into consideration each and every detail so that the space is truly something unique and useful to your home and family.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

No Time For Home Maintenance – Hire A Handyman

Posted on January 29, 2015 by Creative Programs and Systems

Winter takes a beating on homeowners in the north and northeast. From rain, to snow to ice we have experienced it all with temperatures that have broke records. Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home. It is crucial that homeowners take the time to prepare their homes for the beating winter can have on them.

Whether your home is in need of general maintenance of major repairs here are some particulars to look into. You want to avoid the expensive repairs, like a new roof, so maintenance is key. If you aren’t up to the challenge as a homeowner, regular maintenance can be taken care of by a local professional handyman.Handyman services can be found locally and for reasonably.

One of the first major challenges in homeownership is to keep your gutters and downspouts clean and clear of debris. This is especially challenging in the north where trees and pines are losing leaves and needles. When your gutters and downspouts are clogged they will not work properly. This is a disaster for homeowners no matter the season. The reason it is so crucial to enter the winter season with clean gutters and downspouts is due to ice damage. If water is allowed to build up and freeze in your gutters damage is going to occur. Damage will not only occur to your gutters and downspouts but most likely your homes shingle roofing as well. A handyman will come out and clear your gutters and downspouts at an affordable rate. If you are looking to install gutter guard to prevent leaf build up, a handyman will surely install this as well for a small fee.

Concrete is another major piece of your home that is usually forgotten when it comes to maintenance. This is a large area of concern and leaving it until a crack is too large to ignore is too late. Concrete patios, driveways and walkways will move and settle. When this occurs any damage needs to be filled in with concrete filler to prevent further growth and damage to the structural integrity. All cracks in the concrete should be filled and sealed appropriately before winter sets in. If this does not occur you may find yourself with cracks that have widened a great deal in the spring.

The roof is a major component of your home. To ensure that the structure of your home maintains its integrity it is important that the roof is inspected and maintained. Twice yearly maintenance and repairs should be done on a roof that shows signs of wear. A leaky or damaged roof can be a disaster to any homeowner. Hire a professional handyman to inspect your homes roof. They are schooled in the signs that your roof needs repairs or that it is headed towards the end of its life expectancy. They also can save you from having to climb up on the roof and meander around.

When it comes to your home maintenance is the key element that will keep you away from repairs that spell disaster to most homeowner’s budgets. Hiring a local handyman once a year is beneficial and can save you thousands of dollars in expensive repairs. Maintenance is always preferred over complete renovations.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Handyman, Handyman Repair Services, Handyman Services, Handyman Services Michigan, Home Handyman Services, Home Maintenance Plans, Home Repair Services, Local Handyman Services, Michigan Handyman

Reason To Hire A Handicap Accessible Ramp Installation Professional

Posted on August 20, 2012 by Creative Programs and Systems

Adding a handicap accessible ramp to your home is a project best left to the pros. This is true whether you are looking to put in place a custom wood ramp designed with a current porch space in mind or a more temporary aluminum ramp solution. Handicap ramp installation is a job for the professionals. It is difficult to properly install and build a handicap accessible ramp without complete knowledge of what needs to done. This helps to maximize the ramps usability and safety for the user.

When a handicap ramp contractor first meets with you to talk about what your need is in regards to adding a ramp onto the entrance they will already be well aware of the ADA requirements. This can be tricky for an amateur ramp designer. The other thing that professionals bring to the table is that they are well versed in the laws surrounding the addition of a ramp to the home. They have experience working with the city and will be able to determine right away if the site is compatible with certain designs and if not will be able to suggest what will work.

Professional ramp contractors come to the home with the necessary skills to start planning for the ramp. Many do it yourself type people rely on the “wing it” method. This will not work in regards to a handicap ramps and the safety of your loved one. Ramps installers come prepared to put a drawing together of what is needed. They also take into account when digging is required and are able to notify the proper authorities to get the property surveyed for gas lines, power lines and other electrical wires.

Handicap ramps are a bit tricky to design and implement. When they are being designed around an existing dwelling it is especially difficult. Professionals are able to look at the details in regards to the wheelchair accessible ramp and design it with the ADA guidelines for the maximum run length, landing space, leveling, hand rail requirements and minimum and maximum widths of openings and landings. This is a lot of information for a novice to perfect for inspectors who will be ensuring the viability of the ramp.

Budgeting is also something to consider when looking at having a ramp installed. Professional ramp installation companies will give you multiple quotes to consider before settling in on a particular type. Remember, certain materials will need more care to maintain. If you are considering a wooden handicap ramp to be installed it will need to be treated and cared for after the initial installation. Also consider if your area is wet or snowy you will have to accommodate with traction at key points throughout the ramp.

Having a ramp installed on your home is a new adventure for most homeowners. If you are unsure of exactly what you are looking for as the installers for pictures of work that has previously been done by him for inspiration. Homeowners can also seek ideas from neighbors who have had ramps built. Ramps are a project often too complicate for the average homeowner. Seriously consider hiring a professional in for this age in place renovation.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

barrier free living, Bathroom renovation, Handicap Construction, Handyman Services, Hardwood Floor Remodeling, Home Remodeling, Home Safety Modifications For Seniors, kitchen remodeling, Wheelchair Ramp Installation

Preparations For The Home When Caring For Aging Parents

Posted on August 20, 2012 by Creative Programs and Systems

With the costs associated with various assisted living communities and retirement facilities it is becoming infeasible to consider this option for many seniors. There is a rise of seniors aging in place, continuing to live within their homes with modifications, and moving in with their adult children to care for them. With this rise in at home care there are certain adjustments to the home that need to be made to ensure the safety of elderly parents.

Whether you are moving your parents in to your home or they are staying in theirs things to consider change as they grow even older. At first it might not be apparent that an adjustment in how they enter and exit the home is needed. However as they age and their needs change it is possible that the entrance will need to be equipped with a handicap accessible ramp. These ramps can be temporary or permanent and come in a variety of materials. You can purchase custom aluminum wheelchair ramps or have a custom built wooden handicap ramp installed. Handicap ramps allow seniors ease of access whether on foot, using a walker, cane or in a wheelchair.

Another area of great concern for aging parents is the bathroom area. Privacy is still a large concern for them and this space should allow for independent ease of access. There are several ways to update accessibility in a bathroom wither permanent or temporary. If you are looking to make permanent changes a barrier free shower with a seating area is a wonderful upgrade. Another upgrade that needs to be made is the use of grab bars and safety rails. It is also important to install a raised toilet or raised seat over the toilet. Getting up from a seated position is difficult as we age. Remember space around the sink needs to be easily accessed as well.

If an aging parent is moving into your home consider it is imperative to set up a space for them to escape to. Remember aging does not come easily for them either. They have become set in their ways and adjusted to quiet and personal space; moving in with an adult child was not what they had planned either. Turn a larger room in the home into a bedroom area with seating, a television, phone and possibly a small refrigerator. This way when they are ready to retreat they are able to.

It is important to make sure the home is as free of hazards as possible. Mobility issues become ever more visible as we age. Throw rugs and rough transitions can all turn into tripping dangers. This is even truer if a walker is in use within the home.

Aging in place is an incredibly common option in elder care nowadays. If you know this is what you are hoping for when it comes to your loved ones consider guiding their home renovations in this direction as they begin to age within their own homes. The same will be true within your own space. If you know a parent living with you is in the cards eventually it is best to make the small changes and upgrade gradually as you are renovation currently.

Barrier free home renovations are a valuable when it comes to the resale value of a home as well. The accommodations that can be made within the space are incredible and can be done without bring attention to the fact they are being done for elder care. Age in place modifications can be done in a sleek, custom manner that prevents the home from looking as if it is a care facility. It is amazing what a licensed professional in barrier free remodeling can do to transform your accommodations for elder care.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Simple Easy Methods To Slow Aging

Posted on June 8, 2012 by Creative Programs and Systems

Aging is a thing that is certainly unavoidable and many people don’t look forward to it. There are lots of stereotypes about aging that are incorrect. Aging can be an enjoyable process if you locate the way to embrace it. By looking into making simple changes towards the life you might be already living you can also stay in your home and age in position. This document will give you some tips to help you enjoy the aging process, rather than dreading it.

A means to slow getting older is to find meaning in your life. Getting the feeling that somebody expects that you be somewhere on a weekly basis, that you’ve friends that trust your or that you’ve a teen that looks for your requirements for guidance could be the inspiration you should desire to live longer. Have a go at groups that travel or senior center activities. Invite friends over for supper and cards. It’s always best to have a balance between bringing life in your environment and getting out.

If you wish to live longer and lead a proper life, move out and walk. The self-help guide to walking is usually to walk 6000 to ten thousand steps every day. Have an inexpensive pedometer to record your steps and acquire out and walk. You don’t need to be an experienced marathon runner to take pleasure from some great benefits of a sound body. Add a friend to the mix and walking gets a great social outlet. The key objective is to maintain your mobility. With the ability to get around helps seniors to live independently longer. If aging available is essential to you personally because an assisted living facility isn’t your notion of fun then make sure you are leading a dynamic lifestyle.

An advice and also hardwearing . skin on top of its game is usually to lather sunscreen to assist steer clear of the aging of the epidermis. The sun is spreading hazardous UV radiation, which can dramatically damage the skin and cause lines, wrinkles, and also melanoma. To avoid this radiation from getting to your skin, wear sunscreen protection or wear enough clothing to guard yourself. Even on cloudy days, the rays can penetrate the clouds.

Every night, sleep a minimum of 7 to 9 hours. Insufficient sleep can lead to diseases from depression to coronary disease, and has been associated with cancer. Exercise helps. Some doctors recommend melatonin (a hormone manufactured in humans through the pineal gland) or L-theanine, an amino found in tea. See an age management physician for advice on leading and maintaining cook since your needs change. It can be difficult to admit it your needs medicinally should be revamped and geared toward aging to prevent small issue leading into some thing.

Keeping mentally active can help anyone to age gracefully. Mental activities be more difficult as we age, but like a muscle, mental performance could be kept match activity. Some popular pastimes which encourage mental activity are suduko and crossword puzzles. Conducting a puzzle each day can keep forgetfulness away. Another activity that is fun and keeps your brain working is games about the computer or even games using the grand kids on the wii systems or x-boxes. Not only is this a terrific way to keep your mind sharp but to get fun at the same time.

Be sure to spend your days with issues that you love knowning that give you happiness. Should it be a pet that keeps you going, or colors and music. Anything, make your home your refuge, a location to escape the stressors around the globe you live in. If surrounding yourself with others is what keeps you going than you will need to be certain that you’re associated with social events. If you are an individual that adores your dog have a go at volunteer activities that surround working with animals. Shelters will always be needing website visitors to help. You might answer phones or play with the kittens. Hospitals also have programs for seniors to volunteer time. Whatever you interests revolve around is where you could consider looking.

Simple handicap construction modifications can be added around your home to really make it a safe and secure environment to remain to age in. Help your house be easier to get around in by removing rugs and also other things it is simple to slip on. Place things that you apply on a regular basis within reach. By making your house easier to live in, you can relax rather than can not do things you once did. Adapt, and ageing will likely be easier. This is often easily accomplished with a barrier free specialist into the future in and access how old you are available needs. Bear in mind the needs you have will change while you age further so it is important to make renovations in the home with this in mind.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor completes a variety of construction projects from the home. If you interested in home safety modifications, handicap construction and general home remodeling and renovations check Glen’s work out online today where you will find useful information and solutions on a variety of

Glen Miller The Home Doctor