National Fix-A-Leak Week

Fix a Leak Week is celebrated in March of each year as a time to remind Americans to check their household fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks.

If you suspect you have a leak and need a plumber, call Cabinetry & Construction. Rob is a licensed plumber and can help you address all of your plumbing needs.

The Facts on Leaks:

• The amount of water leaked from U.S. homes could exceed more than 1 trillion gallons per year. That's equivalent to the annual water use of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami combined.
• Ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
• Common types of leaks found in the home include leaking toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and other leaking valves. All are easily correctable.
• Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners more than 10 percent on their water bills.
• Keep your home leak-free by repairing dripping faucets, toilet valves, and showerheads. In most cases, fixture replacement parts don't require a major investment and can be installed by do-it-yourselfers.
• The vast majority of leaks can be eliminated after retrofitting a household with new WaterSense labeled fixtures and other high-efficiency appliances.

Leak Detection:

• A good method to check for leaks is to examine your winter water usage. It's likely that a family of four has a serious leak problem if its winter water use exceeds 12,000 gallons per month.
• Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak.
• One way to find out if you have a toilet leak is to place a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color shows up in the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, you have a leak. Make sure to flush immediately after this experiment to avoid staining the tank.

Faucets and Showerheads:

• A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. A home with WaterSense labeled toilets could use that water to flush for six months!
• Leaky faucets can be reduced by checking faucet washers and gaskets for wear and replacing them if necessary. 
• A showerhead leaking at 10 drips per minute wastes more than 500 gallons per year. That's enough water to wash 60 loads of dishes in your dishwasher.

Toilets:

• If your toilet is running constantly, you could be wasting 200 gallons of water or more every day.
• If your toilet is leaking, the cause is most often an old, faulty toilet flapper. Over time, this inexpensive rubber part decays, or minerals build up on it. 
• If you do need to replace the entire toilet, look for a WaterSense labeled model. If a family of four replaces its older, inefficient toilets with new WaterSense labeled ones, it could save more than 16,000 gallons per year. Retrofitting the house could save the family approximately $2,000 in water and wastewater bills over the lifetime of the toilets.

Outdoors:

• An irrigation system should be checked each spring before use to make sure it was not damaged by frost or freezing.
• An irrigation system with pressure set at 60 pounds per square inch that has a leak 1/32nd of an inch in diameter (about the thickness of a dime) can waste about 6,300 gallons of water per month.
• Check your garden hose for leaks at its connection to the spigot. If it leaks while you run your hose, replace the nylon or rubber hose washer and ensure a tight connection to the spigot using pipe tape and a wrench. 

Get more information on how to detect and repair leaks at: www.epa.gov/watersense

Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your HVAC?

   

According to Energy Star, certain telltale signs indicate it's time to consider replacing heating and cooling equipment, or improving the performance of your overall system. It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:

 

Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old.

Consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.

 

Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.

Consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace, which is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace. If you have a boiler, consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified boiler that is 5% more efficient than a new, standard model.

 

Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up.

Your cooling or heating equipment my have become less efficient.

 

Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.

Improper equipment operation, duct problems or inadequate insulation could be the cause.

 

No one is home for long periods of the day and you do not have a programmable thermostat.

Install a programmable thermostat or have a good contractor install one and instruct you on its use - to start saving energy and money while you're away or sleeping.

 

Your home has humidity problems.

Poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, and leaky ductwork can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.

 

Your home has excessive dust.

Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout your house. Sealing your ducts may be a solution.

 

Your heating or cooling system is noisy.

You could have an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

 

Your score on the Home Energy Yardstick is below five.

That means your energy use at home is above average and you're probably paying more than you need to on energy bills.

CCI is a Class A licensed contractor for the complete renovation project, including plumbing, HVAC, and gas fitting. Give us a call or send us an email if you it's time to replace your HVAC system.

Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your HVAC?

According to Energy Star, certain telltale signs indicate it's time to consider replacing heating and cooling equipment, or improving the performance of your overall system. It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:

Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old.

Consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.

Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.

Consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace, which is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace. If you have a boiler, consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified boiler that is 5% more efficient than a new, standard model.

Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up.

Your cooling or heating equipment my have become less efficient.

Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.

Improper equipment operation, duct problems or inadequate insulation could be the cause.

No one is home for long periods of the day and you do not have a programmable thermostat.

Install a programmable thermostat or have a good contractor install one and instruct you on its use - to start saving energy and money while they're away or sleeping.

Your home has humidity problems.

Poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, and leaky ductwork can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.

Your home has excessive dust.

Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout your house. Sealing your ducts may be a solution.

Your heating or cooling system is noisy.

You could have an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

Your score on the Home Energy Yardstick is below five.

That means your energy use at home is above average and you're probably paying more than you need to on energy bills.

Spring Has Arrived in Richmond!

Spring has finally arrived in Richmond!

As the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, it's time to assess any winter damage to your home and make plans for spring home improvement projects - both cosmetic and structural.

Here are 7 home improvement projects that are perfect for a spring home makeover and yield a big return on investment by adding to your house's resale value.

1) Add or upgrade your Outdoor Living Room  

Now that we are finally getting warmer temperatures, do you have an exterior space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family? If not, now is the time to build your dream deck or the outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, restore your front porch, or add a wrap-around or screened-in porch. CCI can help you design the space and build a top quality outdoor living room that you can enjoy this spring, summer and fall.

If you already have a great outdoor living space, check for any damage that needs to be repaired with your patio, deck or porch. Now is also the time to clean and restain your deck.

2) Upgrade or maintain your HVAC System  

Before it gets too hot, it's a good idea to make sure your AC unit is working properly. On a warm April day, switch the AC on for a couple minutes. Check all vents to ensure that each one is working properly. If your AC seems weak or is not working correctly, give CCI a call. We offer simple checks and tune-ups, which can ensure that there are no problems.

If your HVAC system is old, you might want to consider investing in an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. This is a great way to live green and add value to your home. Many modern air conditioners use 30 to 50 percent less energy to produce the same amount of cool air as air conditioners from the 1970s, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. CCI is a licensed HVAC contractor, and we can meet with you to discuss options for upgrading your HVAC system.

Now is also the time to change your filters; consider a whole house high efficiency filter system.

3) Check your windows for drafts or damage  

A drafty window or two in the middle of summer can raise your cooling energy consumption and bill. One option is to get new windows installed, and while this means more initial costs, it will save you money in the long run. CCI can meet with you to discuss your needs when it comes to replacing windows.

If replacing windows isn't in your budget right now, you can try to fix the old ones. You can use sealants, both permanent and temporary, to get rid of any draughts around your windows.

Take a walk around your house and visually inspect all of your windows. While you're at it, take a look at the window sills and trim for any signs of water damage or deterioration. Painting or replacing damaged window trim is another home improvement project that yields big results.

4) Install an attic fan and/or insulate your loft  

Summer heat from your home will rise and may result in your upper floors being substantially warmer than your first floor. Ways to keep your upper floors cooler include installing an attic fan and ensuring that your loft is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while or your home wasn't quite as warm this winter as you would have liked it to be, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it up if you need to. Adding an extra layer of fiberglass insulation is another easy home improvement project and can help make cooling your home this summer much easier.

5) Repair or replace your roof  

Your roof is your home's number one defense against the elements. Even a small issue can lead to major damage indoors if moisture is allowed to enter your attic and walls through cracks and creases. Take a look at your roof from the ground to see if any shingles have been blown out of place or if there is curling, peeling and even disintegration of the shingles.

6) Clear and repair gutters and downspouts  

With spring comes rainy weather, so now is the time to make sure that your gutters don't overflow and your drainpipes are clear of debris. The fall will have seen leaves and tree debris fall into your gutters, and moss often grows in gutters and downpipes during winter. Make sure that any moss is removed as young seedlings will grow in moss in spring. Also, if your gutters have been damaged by storms over the winter, it's important to get them fixed before spring showers and summer storms roll around since heavy rainfall can pose a problem for your home come spring if the water is not being properly routed by your gutter system. Now is also the time to consider installing gutter guards to keep fall leaves from clogging your gutters.

7) Update your siding  

Your house's siding can get damaged from winter weather, so be sure to inspect it for damage this spring. Replacing a warped or loose piece of siding is a home improvement project that can be completed by a do-it-yourselfer. However, if your siding is older, you might also consider updating your siding with a more energy-efficient and easy to maintain product.  CCI offers free consultation on all home siding projects.

Here at CCI we can help you ensure that your home is ready for spring and summer. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free consultation on the project that interests you.

Treat Yourself to Your Dream Home

Have you thought about what it would be like to treat yourself to your dream home?

Whether you are thinking of a bringing your kitchen into the 21^st century, finishing your basement or attic, or giving a face-lift to a powder room, Cabinetry & Construction can help you make your dream a reality.

Our complete, design and build contracting services focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling; additions and whole house renovations; and historic restoration projects. We use luxury materials and choose fixtures well suited to preserve the integrity of the older homes that dominate our area. We can find period-appropriate resources and the special touches that make every job unique. You'll also want to note that not only can we restore older homes to their historic prime, we can also incorporate the latest innovations in green technology. Your home can be rich in history, with 21st century efficiency and performance.

With Cabinetry & Construction, you will also receive superior and seamless personal attention. As a design build contractor, I will meet with you personally to provide a proposal and help you bring your vision to life. Because we design and build, you can rest easy, knowing the project plans and budget will be consistent with the result.

This is your home. We know you are making a big investment, personally and financially, when you decide to renovate. We strive not only to produce high quality work, but also to build satisfying long-term relationships with our clients. 

Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.

Home improvement projects for spring and summer

As the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, it's time to assess any winter damage to your home and make plans for spring home improvement projects - both cosmetic and structural.

Here are 7 home improvement projects that are perfect for a spring home makeover and yield a big return on investment by adding to your house's resale value:

1) Add or upgrade your Outdoor Living Room  Now that we are finally getting warmer temperatures, do you have an exterior space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family? If not, now is the time to build your dream deck or the outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, restore your front porch, or add a wrap-around or screened-in porch. CCI can help you design the space and build a top quality outdoor living room that you can enjoy this spring, summer and fall.

If you already have a great outdoor living space, check for any damage that needs to be repaired with your patio, deck or porch. Now is also the time to clean and restain your deck.

2) Upgrade or maintain your HVAC System  Before it gets too hot, it's a good idea to make sure your AC unit is working properly. On a warm April or May day, switch the AC on for a couple minutes. Check all vents to ensure that each one is working properly. If your AC seems weak or is not working correctly, give CCI a call. We offer simple checks and tune-ups, which can ensure that there are no problems.

If your HVAC system is old, you might want to consider investing in an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. This is a great way to live green and add value to your home. Many modern air conditioners use 30 to 50 percent less energy to produce the same amount of cool air as air conditioners from the 1970s, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. CCI is a licensed HVAC contractor, and we can meet with you to discuss options for upgrading your HVAC system.

Now is also the time to change your filters; consider a whole house high efficiency filter system.

3) Check you windows for drafts or damage  A drafty window or two in the middle of summer can raise your cooling energy consumption and bill. One option is to get new windows installed, and while this means more initial costs, it will save you money in the long run. According to the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com), window replacement has one of the top returns on investment when it comes to adding to your house's resale value. CCI can meet with you to discuss your needs when it comes to replacing windows.

If replacing windows isn't in your budget right now, you can try to fix the old ones. You can use sealants, both permanent and temporary, to get rid of any draughts around your windows.

Take a walk around your house and visually inspect all of your windows. While you're at it, take a look at the window sills and trim for any signs of water damage or deterioration. Painting or replacing damaged window trim is another home improvement project that yields big results.

4) Install an attic fan and/or insulate your loft  Summer heat from your home will rise and may result in your upper floors being substantially warmer than your first floor. Ways to keep your upper floors cooler include installing an attic fan and ensuring that your loft is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while or your home wasn't quite as warm this winter as you would have liked it to be, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it up if you need to. Adding an extra layer of fiberglass insulation is another easy home improvement project and can help make cooling your home this summer much easier.

5) Repair or replace your roof  Your roof is your home's number one defense against the elements. Even a small issue can lead to major damage indoors if moisture is allowed to enter your attic and walls through cracks and creases. Take a look at your roof from the ground to see if any shingles have been blown out of place or if there is curling, peeling and even disintegration of the shingles.

6) Clear and repair gutters and downspouts  With spring comes rainy weather, so now is the time to make sure that your gutters don't overflow and your drainpipes are clear of debris. The fall will have seen leaves and tree debris fall into your gutters, and moss often grows in gutters and downpipes during winter. Make sure that any moss is removed as young seedlings will grow in moss in spring. Also, if your gutters have been damaged by storms over the winter, it's important to get them fixed before spring showers and summer storms roll around since heavy rainfall can pose a problem for your home come spring if the water is not being properly routed by your gutter system. Now is also the time to consider installing gutter guards to keep fall leaves from clogging your gutters.

7) Update your siding  Your house's siding can get damaged from winter weather, so be sure to inspect it for damage this spring. Replacing a warped or loose piece of siding is a home improvement project that can be completed by a do-it-yourselfer. However, if your siding is older, you might also consider updating your siding with a more energy-efficient and easy to maintain product.  CCI offers free consultation on all home siding projects.

Here at CCI we can help you ensure that your home is ready for spring and summer. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.

May is National Remodeling Month

Spring is the time of year when many Americans make plans to remodel their homes. Increasing home value, completing needed maintenance, and improving energy-efficiency are just some of the reasons to remodel now.

May is National Home Remodeling Month, and the NAHB Remodelers reminds you to only trust your dreams for your home to a qualified professional remodeler.

A home is a big investment, so take the time to do the research. Working with the right remodeler can take a lot of the stress out of improving your home.

CCI is the premier remodeling company for the distinct needs of home renovation projects in Richmond. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you. 

Partner Profile: Slant/Fin

Founded in 1949 in the back of a bakery in Coney Island, NY, Slant/Fin is the largest U.S. manufacturer of baseboard heating equipment. They also manufacturer gas and oil boilers. 

CCI is proud to offer and install Slant/Fin high efficiency boilers. Slant/Fin boilers, providing heating for water-based (as opposed to forced-air) home heating systems, are made in the USA. CCI is the only Slant/Fin Certified Hydro-Master in Central Virginia.

If you have been considering upgrading or converting your heating system, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the tax credits made available for energy-efficient heat to your home. These tax credits are only valid for systems installed through December 2013. (You can read more on these tax credits here.)

The benefits of an upgrade include:

• lowering your energy bill,
• increasing your home's energy efficiency, and
• improving your comfort.

As a licensed HVAC contractor, CCI is able to offer you several options to take advantage of this optimal time to invest in a quality heating and cooling system.

Make Sure You're Ready for Winter

Winter has arrived in Richmond, and the time has come to make your home is ready. Here are some items to check on to make sure your house is prepared for the change in weather.

Inspect Your Home's Exterior
Walk around your home and visually inspect the exterior. You'll want to replace any missing roof tiles or fix any other damage. When checking your gutters and drains, you'll want to be sure these are free of leaves and other materials that might cause a clog as leaves and tree debris may have fallen into your gutters during autumn.

Examine Your Foundation
Inspect your property's foundation. Check for any holes where pests may be hiding as even very small holes can allow a tiny mouse to get inside. While performing this inspection, clear away any dead or dying vegetation from your foundation.

Check for Drafts
Check each of your home's windows and doors looking for any gaps that create drafts, as these will reduce your home's energy efficiency causing you to pay more each month for heating. You can use sealants, such as caulk and weather-stripping, to stop the drafts.
 
Service or Replace Your Heating System
By now you've probably turned on your heat to combat the wintry temperatures outside. You'll want to change your filters and have your heating system serviced to ensure it is operating efficiently. You'll also want to have your boiler serviced, which should be done once a year, to minimize the chance of a breakdown when you most need it.

If your system is over 10 years old, you should consider an upgrade. Now is the perfect time to take advantage of the tax credits made available for energy-efficient heat and cooling upgrades to your home. These tax credits are only valid for systems installed through December 2013. (You can read a description of these tax credits on the Energy Star website.)

If you have an outside air conditioner, you'll also want to winterize it by removing debris and dirt and covering it to protect it from collecting dead leaves. If you have a window unit, remove it and clean it before storing it for the winter months.
 
Insulate your attic and pipes
As you know, heat rises. This winter you'll want to make sure it doesn't escape from the top of your house by ensuring that your attic is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it off if needed.

It's also important to insulate your water pipes to protect them from freezing in winter, ensuring you don't cut off your water supply and preventing pipes from bursting and damaging your home. Pipe insulation is easy to install and repair, especially for any pipes that are exposed. But even a water pipe that is close to an external wall can freeze in cold weather, so it may be sensible to check all of your pipes and insulate them.

Prepare Your Fireplace
These rainy, wintry days are great for a fire. Be sure the fireplace damper mechanism is working properly. If your fireplace has not been cleaned recently, hire cleaners to remove old soot in the chimney. Make sure the fireplace damper mechanism is working properly.

Clear Your Yard and Outdoor Living Spaces
Even though you won't spend much time outdoors this winter, you want to make sure your yard is prepared for the cold months too. Put away hoses, gardening tools, outdoor furniture and barbecues. If you notice that any trees are touching your house, trim them back to protect your property from breaking branches during windy storms. Also be sure to clear leaves from your patio and deck as they will become slimy and slippery as they disintegrate during the winter.  

CCI is the premier remodeling company for the distinct needs of home renovation projects in Richmond. We are a Class A licensed contractor for the complete renovation project, including plumbing, HVAC, and gas fitting, as well as building. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.

National Association of the Remodeling Industry: Central Virginia Chapter

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Central Virginia Chapter is committed to the remodeling industry's professionalism in the Richmond region. Rob Wright, President of Cabinetry & Construction, Inc., is a founding member and past president of NARI's Central Virginia Chapter.

As a consumer, you can trust that Central Virginia NARI members are professional contractors or companies dedicated to you and your family and dedicated to carrying out the remodeling process with the highest regard for integrity and quality.

NARI members have been screened by NARI's Membership Committee and approved by the NARI Board before joining the Central Virginia NARI chapter to ensure that they have an outstanding reputation. All NARI members continue to observe the highest standard of integrity, quality and responsibility to the industry as outlined in NARI's Code of Ethics. Selecting a NARI member is an important first step to ensuring a superior result on your remodeling project.

Choosing a qualified contractor can be an overwhelming task. There are so many home improvement and remodeling companies, products, and suppliers it may be difficult to know who to trust or where to start. The NARI web site has tools for homeowners that will make it easier for you to select a qualified professional company to work with you on your project, including guidelines on how to choose a professional contractor and questions to ask a contractor.

You can learn more about the Central Virginia Chapter of NARI on their website:
http://naricentralva.org

Not Just Remodeling -- Think of us for Home Care & Repair

Over the years, many of you have called on us for minor home repairs, but we've never formally announced this aspect of our business. We have now officially launched our Home Care & Repair Division. We want to be your one-stop shop for repairs, maintenance, or improvements to your home.

You know Rob and Cabinetry & Construction as people you've entrusted with working on your home. Chances are you chose us to create a luxurious master suite, a gourmet kitchen, or a seamless addition, but we offer services beyond large-scope remodeling.

In fact, in these uncertain economic times, a major remodeling job may be the furthest thing from your mind. But, one thing is certain: you need to maintain the investment you've made in your home, and you need a company you can rely upon to help you to do so. Cabinetry & Construction, Inc., is licensed and insured, unlike many who advertise themselves as handymen. Besides being a Class A remodeling contractor, CCI holds licenses in the plumbing, gas fitting, and HVAC trades. So, if you need a repair, whether it be carpentry or installing a new water heater or A/C, CCI's Home Care and Repair Division has the skills and credentials to do the job right.

Autumn Home Maintenance

It's hard to believe it's already September. While it is hot and humid now, soon it will be Fall, which is the prime time to assess your home to determine if there are any maintenance needs before the onset of winter. Proper maintenance is the key to protect the investment you've made in your home.

In August or September, for example, we recommend you use a vacuum with a narrow nozzle to clean condenser coils on the back of or underneath your refrigerator. This is also a good time to check faucets for leaks and replace washers or make repairs. Finally, clean under your range hood and clean or replace the filter. We can help you with all of these chores.