RNP38 – Scheduling Your Home Remodeling Project
This week we discuss the details of scheduling a remodeling project
Importance of a schedule
- is it worth it?
- let’s deal with that when we get there
- don’t want to make decisions early
- gnatt chart/critical path
Challenges to staying on schedule
- inspections
- changes
- trade contractor schedules
- material ordering/deliveries
- weather/seasonal conditions
How to deal with scheduling issues
- communication
- having a plan B
- planning for mishaps
- day of nothing
- pre-drywall walkthrough
- trade overlap
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RNP37 – Ten Important Things To Consider In a Kitchen Remodel
This week we discuss a list of some common and not-so-common things to think about when planning a kitchen renovation
Here’s the top ten list. For all the details – listen to the show!
- Leave time to plan and ‘live with’ your new kitchen layout
- Leave time to pre-order materials
- Select your appliances first
- Storage space – storage space – storage space
- Heating the kitchen
- To vent or not to vent – the stove that is
- How BIG is your island
- Choose the right kitchen counter material
- You can never have enough light in your kitchen
- Choose the right flooring material for your kitchen
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RNP36 – How To Communicate With Your Remodeling Contractor
This week we discuss a common theme of the show – communication
Topics this week:
- What does good communication look like
- Forms of communication
- Questions that your remodeler may ask at your first meeting
- What process should be used to review a remodeling contract and scope
- Why is communication important to the remodeling process
- Tragic/funny examples of poor remodeling communication
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RNP35 – Cost Plus Contracts
This week we discuss a common question of our clients – What are the pros and cons of cost plus contracts
Topics this week:
- Definition of cost plus remodeling contracts
- Does a cost plus contract save money
- Pros of cost plus contracts
- Cons of cost plus contracts
- Speed to start a cost plus contract project
- Estimates
- Open book accounting
- What is in overhead
- What is a fixed cost
- Time frame to complete a cost plus project
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RNP34 – Build New Or Remodel – A Common Question
This week we discuss a common question of our clients – Buy a new home or remodel an existing?
Topics this week:
- Pros and cons of building a new home
- Location
- Sentimental home
- Costs involved in buying a new home
- Costs involved in remodeling
- Code issues
- Schools
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RNP33 – What Causes That Dam Ice?
This week we discuss the causes of ice dams and how to fix them
Topics this week:
- Causes of ice dams
- Common cures for ice dams
- Attic insulation
- Attic ventilation
- Shingle life
- What to look for to see if you have an ice dam
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RNP32 – What Is A Homeowner’s Job During Construction
This week we discuss what a homeowner must do during a construction project
Topics this week:
- Contact neighbors
- Accomplish self-performed work
- Relocate landscaping
- Make selections
- Order materials
- Check coverage with insurance agent
- Move valuables to a safe place
- Arrange for funding
- Communicate
- Make plans for pets and kids
- Shovel snow
- Move cars
- Plan a vacation
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RNP31 – Selecting Finishes For Your Remodeling Project
This week we discuss the process of selecting finishes for a renovation project
Topics this week:
- Who is responsible for selecting finishes
- Can your remodeler help you select finishes
- Can you work with an interior designer
- What is the role of an interior designer in remodeling
- How many decisions must be made for a renovation project
- How do selections effect the budget
- How do selections impact the schedule of the project
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RNP30 – The Shocking Truth of Electrical Hazards In Remodeling
This week we discuss electricity and safety and what you should consider as part of your remodeling project
Topics this week:
- Electrical fires and their causes
- Arc Fault Interrupters
- Ground Fault Interrupters
- Panel Upgrades
- Sub-Panel Installation
- Electrical Service Upgrade
- Smoke Detectors
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Planning For Extra Circuits
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RNP29- The Anatomy of A Fixed Price Proposal
This week we discuss what to expect when receiving a fixed price proposal
Topics this week:
- Proposal vs estimate
- Design elements
- Time required to complete proposal
- Written scope of work
- Detailed selections
- Material specification list
- Job schedule
- Payment schedule
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RNP28 – Top Remodeling Trends for 2011
This week we discuss the top new remodeling trends for 2011
Topics this week:
- Low maintenance/durable building materials
- Synthetic stone countertops
- Induction cooktops
- Intricate tile patterns for showers/backsplashes
- 2011 color trends
- Universal Design
- Energy saving lighting/appliances
- Death of the 100 watt lightbulb
- LED lighting
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RNP27 – Remodeling in Winter Conditions
This week we discuss how remodeling works in the harsh winter months
Topics this week:
- Pace of winter projects
- Interior vs exterior projects in winter
- Working around vacations to warmer climates
- Plan for spring projects
- Exposing the interior of your home to the elements
- Heat loss
- Frost and snow
- Temporary enclosures
- Masonry work in winter
Listen Now[audio:RNP27_winter_conditions.mp3]
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RNP26 – Our Favorite Remodeling Moments of 2010
This week we discuss our favorite memories of remodeling in 2010
Topics this week:
- The Remodeling Nation Podcast
- Favorite projects of 2010
- Upbeat economy
- Giving back to the community
Listen Now[audio:RNP26_favorite_2010.mp3]
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#26 – Our Favorite Moments of 2010
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RNP25 – The Realities of Home Reality Television
This week we discuss what’s realistic about home remodeling reality television shows
Topics this week:
- Neil went to Egypt
- Construction techniques in Egypt
- Time frames of reality television shows
- Behind the scenes planning
- Costs of reality TV projects
- We answer a listener’s question about insulation
Listen Now[audio:RNP25_reality_television.mp3]
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#25 – The Realities of Reality Television
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RNP24 – Adding A Second Story To Your Ranch Home
This week we discuss how to add a second story to your existing one story home
Topics this week:
- What is involved structurally to add a second story
- What zoning restrictions might be involved in adding a second floor
- What is the right time of year to plan a second story addition
- How much does a second story addition cost
- Allowing for stairs to the new addition
- Can you live through a second story addition
- How do you tie in the electrical, plumbing and heating systems
- Examples of projects
Listen Now[audio:RNP24_second_story.mp3]
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#24 – Adding A Second Story To Your Ranch Home
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RNP23 – Breaking Down The Design Agreement
This week we discuss the ins and outs of the design agreement and the design process
Topics this week:
- What’s included in a design agreement
- Consider zoning issues
- Why would you pay for a design
- Who handles selections
- Copyright of architectural plans
- How many revisions of a plan are typical
- What about allowances
Listen Now[audio:RNP23_design_agreement.mp3]
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#23 – Breaking Down The Design Agreement
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RNP22 – Insulation Basics
This week we discuss some of the more popular choices for insulation and the new energy codes
Topics this week:
- Energy codes for insulation
- Cellulose insulation
- Fiberglass insulation
- Mineral wool insulation
- Polyisocyanurate insulation
- Polystyrene insualtion
- Polyurethane insulation
Listen Now[audio:RNP22_insulation_basics.mp3]
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RNP21 – 2010 Cost vs Value Report
This week we discuss the new 2010-2011 Cost vs Value Report from Remodeling Magazine
Topics this week:
- Specific costs of certain remodeling projects
- How the survey is compiled
- What the trends of the remodeling survey tell us going forward
- Find the cost vs value report
- What does the report have to tell us about housing trends
Listen Now[audio:RNP21_cost_value.mp3]
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RNP20- Surveying Quality with Geoffrey Graham
This week we talk with Geoffrey Graham of Guild Quality about satisfaction surveys and selecting remodelers
Topics this week:
- How to select a remodeler
- Using references to narrow your remodeler search
- The importance of customer satisfaction surveys
- What can a dog tell you about selecting a remodeler
Listen Now[audio:RNP20_geoff_graham.mp3]
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RNP19 – Windows 102
This week we finish our talk about the basics of window construction
Topics this week:
- Casement Windows
- Double-Hung Windows
- Awning Windows
- Slider Windows
- Location of Window Screens
- Half-round Windows
- Transom Windows
- Specialty Shaped Windows
- Knock-down Grilles
- Full Surround Grilles
- Simulated Divided Lite
- True Divided Lite
- Window Grille Patterns
- Window Flashing Tip
- Window Insulation Tip
Resources:
Marvin Pella Andersen Hurd Windsor Kolbe & KolbeListen Now[audio:RNP19_windows_102.mp3]
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RNP18 – Windows 101
This week we start the first of a two part series about the basics of window construction
Topics this week:
- Vinyl windows
- Fiberglass windows
- Wood windows
- Vinyl-clad wood window
- Aluminum-clad wood window
- Single-strength glass
- Insulated glass
- Argon glass
- Xenon glass
- Low-E glass
- Reflective films in glass
- Energy tax credit as it relates to windows
Resources:
Marvin Pella Andersen Hurd ROW Windsor Kolbe & KolbeListen Now[audio:RNP18_windows_101.mp3]
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RNP17- Delay In The Action
This week we discuss some of the common causes of job delays and how to deal with them.
Topics this week:
- Design Delays
- Permit Delays
- What is a variance
- Material Delays
- Weather Delays
Listen Now[audio:RNP17_Job_Delays.mp3]
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RNP16 – Sweat Equity: Gettin’ Dirty For Dollars
One question we get asked a lot as remodelers is “Can I do some work myself to save money?” This week we give you the inside scoop on doing it yourself.
Topics this week:
- Understanding the scope
- What are the costs involved with sweat equity
- What happens to the schedule when you lend a hand
- Hiring a project manager
Listen Now[audio:RNP16_sweat_equity.mp3]
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RNP15 – Changing The Order Of Things (the truth about change orders)
Change orders may sound boring, but they are a critical part of the remodeling process. So this week we tackle them with passion!
Topics Include:
- What is a change order
- Why are change orders important
- What percentage of your budget should you hold back for changes
- How do change orders effect the schedule
- The secrets some companies don’t want you to know about change orders
Listen Now[audio:RNP15_change_orders.mp3]
Download an mp3 version of this episode
#15 – Changing The Order Of Things
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Episode #14 – Exsiding Things About Siding – From Vinyl To Redwood
This week we’re exsided about siding! From aluminum to redwood and all points in between we cover the materials and some common patterns of siding.
Topics Include:
- Aluminum Siding
- Vinyl Siding
- Cement-based Siding
- Cedar Siding
- Redwood Siding
- Pine Siding
- Clapboard Pattern
- T1-11 Pattern
- Split Shake Siding
- Decorative Shingle Siding
- Board & Batten Pattern
Listen Now[audio:Remodeling_Nation_Podcast_072510.mp3]
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#14 – Exsiding Things About Siding
Episode #13 – Cool Tricks For Your Kitchen Remodel
This week we’re hyped on kitchen tricks! Cool ideas that can make your kitchen remodel stand out from the crowd.
Topics Include:
- Cabinet accessories
- Appliance types and placement
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Lighting types
- Sink and faucet advances
- Kitchen design ideas
Neil made a short video to go along with this episode
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Episode 12 – Four Types of Hardwood Flooring And Numerous Species of Wood
This week we talk about four types of hardwood floors as well as numerous species of wood suitable for flooring
Topics Include:
- Laminate Flooring
- Engineered Hardwood
- Pre-finished Hardwood
- Field-finished Hardwood
- Oil vs. Water-based finish
- Hardwood hardness scale
- Golf clubs and baseball bats?
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Episode 11 – Final Steps To Build A Home Addition
This week we finish the second of two episodes completing the steps required to build a home addition
Topics Include:
- Interior Trim
- Flooring
- Cabinets
- Tile
- Painting
- Finish Electrical
- Finish Plumbing
- Finish HVAC
- Hardware Installation
- Cleaning
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Episode #10 – The Steps Required To Build A Home Addition (Part One)
This week we list the steps required to build a home addition
Topics Include:
- Planning
- Permits
- Excavation
- Concrete
- Inspections
- Framing
- Siding
- Roofing
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Insulation
- Drywall
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Episode #9 – Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
This week we discuss when to move out for a remodeling project
Topics Include:
- What job size dictates moving from your home
- What factors should you consider for moving or staying
- How can your remodeler make it easier for you to stay
- What are some pros and cons of moving from your home
- How will children or pets effect your decision
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Episode #8 – Seven Great Choices For Your Kitchen Countertop
This week we discuss seven options for a kitchen counter top
Topics Include:
- Granite
- Marble
- Quartz (Silestone, Cambria, Zodiaq)
- Solid Surface (Corian, Swanstone)
- Laminate (Wilsonart, Nevamar, Formica)
- Concrete
- Glass
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Episode #7 – The Three Bid Myth
This week we discuss the realities of the three bid system
Topics Include:
- Why do you need to get three bids?
- Are three bids really apples-to-apples?
- How to assess your three bids
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Episode #6 – To Permit Or Not To Permit?
This week we discuss when and why building permits are necessary
Topics Include:
- What are some of the myths surrounding building permits?
- When do you need a permit?
- Cost of building permits
- The pros of getting a building permit
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Episode #5 – Planning For Your Kitchen Remodel
This week we discuss planning for your kitchen remodel
Topics Include:
- Selecting a space for a temporary kitchen
- Dust control
- Length of time for a kitchen remodeling project
If you don’t want to listen to the show here is a transcription
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Episode #4 – Is Universal Design Only For The Physically Challenged?
This week we discuss the concept of universal design
Topics Include:
- What is universal design?
- Examples of universal design
- Cost of universal design
- Where to find designers skilled in universal design
Show Resources
National Association Of Home Builders
National Association Of The Remodeling Industry
American Institute Of Architects
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Episode #3 – How To Find Financing For Your Project
This week we discuss options for financing your renovation project
Topics Include:
- Unsecured Loans
- Home Equity Lines
- Construction Loans
- How Construction Draws Work
- Mechanics Lien Waivers
Show Resources
Remodeler’s Advantage Roundtables
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Episode #2- Unique Tips For Choosing A Remodeling Contractor
This week we discuss some tips you may not have heard before for selecting a remodeler.
Topics Include:
- Contractor licensing
- Contractor insurance
- References
- Industry involvement
- Project type
- Personality mix
Show Resources
NARI – National Association Of The Remodeling Industry
NAHBR – National Association Of Home Builders Remodelers
American Institute of Architects
National Kitchen And Bath Association
Listen or Download the Podcast Below
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Episode #1 – What is Design/Build Remodeling?
This week’s episode features design/build remodeling, kidney stones and crying homeowners!
After you listen to the show be sure to give us some feedback below.
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