Who Says a Wood Deck is Out?

Wood Decks? With the myriad options available for decks and porches, it’s seldom that we have a request for a pressure-treated wood deck. A family in Haddonfield, NJ opted for just that after seeing the cost difference for composites. Bad Rep & Maintenance Wood decks have a reputation for warping, splintering and generally degrading in a short amount of time. The fact is, however, that has much more to do with the time, money, and effort spent on maintenance by the homeowner than is does the materials involved. Pressure-treated yellow pine is resistant to insects and moisture damage and is a sturdy and dependable structural material. On the other hand, it is also notorious for twisting, warping, spitting, and splintering as it loses its moisture content. Those effects can be minimized by applying an oil-based stain or sealer to the wood, soon after the wood deck has been erected, and treated annually after that. In addition, bolts holding railing posts and beams together should...
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IPE DECKING

IPE DECKING   IPE: Like teak and redwood, Ipe is popular for exterior projects for its appearance, its resistance to decay, insects, and water damage due to its high tannin and oil content. Also known as Brazilian Walnut or Ironwood, ipe grows in tropical South America. Ipe is so dense that it will not float in water and has similar fire-resistance to concrete or steel. Exposed to the elements, an ipe deck will last at least 25 years, and if maintained properly, it can last much longer. Your ipe deck contractor can advise you on the applicable options. Choose the right IPE deck contractor: Because of its density, ipe is a difficult wood to work. For a typical deck, the Ipe deck builder is likely to go through many blades and bits. Due to the inherent difficulties associated with working the material, it is highly recommended that you hire a contractor that is knowledgeable and experienced with ipe. Beside the fact that it can be a...
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The Home Remodeling Pre-construction Meeting

The Pre-Construction Meeting   As you anticipate your new kitchen, bath, addition, or other major home remodeling project, there is a crucial step implemented by most competent remodeling contractors. While the journey from first contact to final contract can be daunting, exhausting, and somewhat confusing, by the time you signed that contract, hopefully, all of your questions and concerns have been addressed—or so you may think. A thorough home remodeling pre-construction meeting is very much in your interest. Sometime prior to the scheduled start of your project, your contractor will (or should) schedule a pre-construction meeting at your home (or site.) The attendees will be the person with whom you signed the contract, the person that will be in charge of the producing of your remodeling project, and you. It may be appropriate to include a specialist or experts in a particularly challenging aspect of your project for logistical input. The primary purpose of the remodeling pre-construction meeting is the practical hand-off of the...
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Why Next Level Remodeling

    -A home improvement is anything we do to our house that's not part of basic maintenance. New doors, windows, an entry portico, a kitchen or bath remodel, finished basement, or an addition to your living space are all considered home improvements. A new roof, furnace, replacement windows, and even sometimes new siding can be considered maintenance, even though those projects can greatly improve your home. Next Level Remodeling is here to provide whatever you feel you need to make your home better for you and your family. As a design-build / full service remodeler, we can transform the house you live in, to the home of your dreams.  We also strive to do that for you better than anyone else. This is not only because we offer first-rate quality materials and craftsmanship, or because we can do that at a reasonable cost. It's due to the fact that we tailor each project to best suit your needs, wants and resources.  Call...
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Drywall finishing standards

        -Did you know that there are 6 levels of drywall finish recognized by the Drywall finishing council?  What level did your builder leave you with and where would you like it to be?  Although a level 0-3 would be appropriate for unfinished areas of the home like a garage, storage room, or utility area, a level 4-5 finish is desired for living or finished spaces.  Below you can decide which is best for you.   Level 0 No taping or finishing is required.   Level 1 Recommended for concealed spaces.  Joint tape over compound with the excess wiped clean.   Level 2 commonly found in garage, utility or storage areas.  The appearance is still rough, but all joints and angles receive tape embedded in joint compound.  All fasteners are covered with compound.  The key word is embedded in compound which differentiates Level 1 from 2.   Level 3 To be used when you are planning on wallpapering or using hand/spray textures. Level 3 follows the same criteria as Level two, but one...
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