It is time!

Yep, hate to say it, but it is that time of the year again. Soon, winter will be upon us and we will wonder where did the time go!  Now is an optimal time to winterize your home.  By completing some easy preventative maintenance projects now, you will not only keep your home efficient during the cold weather but also save money from any future and costly repairs.  Smart homeowners know that diligent maintenance adds to the beauty and longevity of their house.

Here are ten tips that will help you prepare your home for winter:

1) Furnace Inspection

•Call an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace, humidifier pads & water heater.

•Stock up on furnace filters. I recommend the pleated paper filters.  They are more efficient and can be replaced every 3 to 6 months depending on style.

•Consider switching out your thermostat for a programmable thermostat.

•If your home is heated by a hot-water radiator, bleed the valves by opening them slightly and when water appears, close them.

•Remove all flammable material from the area surrounding your furnace.

2) Prepare Your Fireplace 

•Cap or screen the top of the chimney to keep out rodents and birds.

•If the chimney hasn't been cleaned for a while, call a chimney sweep to remove soot and creosote. This prevents dangerous and messy chimney fires.

•Buy firewood or chop wood and store in a dry place away from the exterior of your home.

•Inspect the fireplace damper for proper opening and closing.

•Check the mortar between bricks and tuck point, if necessary.

 

3) Check the Exterior, Doors and Windows 

•Inspect your home exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes. If any cracks or openings are found, seal them.

•Use weather-stripping around doors to prevent cold air from entering the home.  Caulk your windows as well.

•Replace cracked glass in windows and, if you end up replacing the entire window, prime and paint exposed wood.

•If your home has a basement, consider protecting its window wells by covering them with plastic shields. Locate and clean drains of debris.

•Switch out summer screens with glass replacements from storage. If you have storm windows, install them.

4) Inspect Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

•If the temperature dips below 32 degrees in the winter, adding extra insulation to the attic will prevent warm air from creeping to your roof and causing ice dams.

•Check for flashing to ensure water cannot enter the home.

•Replace worn roof shingles or tiles.

•Clean out the gutters and use a hose to spray water down the downspouts to clear away debris.

•Consider installing leaf guards on the gutters or extensions on the downspouts to direct water away to at least five feet away from the home.

 

5) Service Seasonal Equipment 

•Drain gas from lawnmowers.

•Service or tune-up snow blowers.

•Perform a test-run on your generator at least 2-3 times per year.

•Replace worn rakes and snow shovels.

•Clean, dry and store summer gardening equipment.

•Sharpen ice choppers and buy bags of ice-melt / sand.

6) Check Foundations

•Remove all debris and edible vegetation from your home’s foundation.

•Seal up entry points to keep small animals from burrowing under your house.

•Tuck-point or seal foundation cracks. Mice can slip through spaces as thin as a pencil.

•Inspect sill plates for dry rot or pest infestation.

•Secure crawlspace entrances.

 

7) Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

•Smoke detectors are recommended in every sleeping room, on every level and near heating equipment.

•Buy extra smoke detector batteries and change them when the time changes in your area.

•Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and / or water heater, in the same room as a fireplace and on your sleeping level.

•Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work. Replace every seven years or   when plastic has yellowed.

•Buy fire extinguishers or replace an extinguisher older than 7 years. 

8) Prevent Plumbing Freezes

•Locate your water main in the event you need to shut it off in an emergency.

•Drain and disconnect all garden hoses.

•Insulate exposed plumbing pipes.

•If you go on vacation, leave the heat on, set to at least 55 degrees. 

9) Prepare Landscaping & Outdoor Surfaces

•Trim trees if branches hang too close to the house or any electrical wires.

•Ask a gardener when your trees should be pruned to prevent winter injury and prosper next spring.

•Plant spring flower bulbs and remove those that cannot sustain the winter.  

•Seal driveways, brick patios and wood decks.

•Don't remove all dead vegetation from gardens as some provide attractive scenery in an otherwise dreary, snow-covered yard.

•Move sensitive potted plants indoors or to a sheltered area. 

10) Prepare an Emergency Kit

•Buy indoor candles and matches or a lighter for use during a power shortage.

· Never use a generator in an enclosed space or near an open window to your home due to carbon monoxide.

•Find the phone numbers for your utility companies and put them in a prominent place where you can find them or put them in your cell phone contacts or inside the phone book.

•Buy a battery back-up to protect your computer and other sensitive electronic equipment.

•Store extra bottled water and non-perishable food supplies (including pet food, if you have a pet), blankets and a first-aid kit in a dry and easy-access location.

•Prepare an evacuation plan in the event of an emergency. 

Now sit back and enjoy a hot chocolate beside the fire place. Enjoy winter!

 

Learn how we can help you with your next project by calling Jim Butz at 847.205.9844 for a free consultation or email ASIInspect@gmail.com

IS IT SUMMER YET?

Can we finally say summer is here?  The weather in the Midwest has been all over the board but if you are like me I am really enjoying the outdoors.  With summer here and school fast approaching, now is the time to start thinking about expanding your living space outdoors.  According to the American Institute of Architects, 63% of its members reported increasing customer interest in outdoor living spaces in 2013. Expanding family space to enjoy the open air is of great interest to many, especially when cooped up all winter.

There is no reason at all to sacrifice your indoor comforts when expanding your outdoor space. Here are some things to consider to creating your outdoor space:

·         Decide if you want to add a three season room or just create an outdoor space by establishing boundaries for example with potted plants or a laying down flooring such as decking or stone to identify the space.  Having a screened in porch allows you to enjoy the outdoors longer without mosquitos and bugs. This decision actually adds value to your home and can add much enjoyment for you and your family for many years.

·         Achieving harmony flowing from indoors to out. It is important to retain the look, feel and architectural style of your home with your outdoor space. You want it to flow naturally to the eye.

·         Accessibility to your space is key. Depending on how your home is situated you can extend your living space off of your kitchen or living area. I expanded my outdoor space with a three season room off of my dining room.  I added porch flooring to make the feel of the room more like an extension of the house vs decking underneath.  If you have too far to go get food and drink chances are it will be a burden to enjoy.

·         Consider the elements and how your space will work with the sun and rain. All of your planning and hard work can be ruined if you do not consider what the weather may bring.

·         The big rage is having an “outdoor kitchen”. It depends on you and how you want the space to function. Having all the necessities outdoors can be ideal but it also comes with maintenance and a cost. For me, having the grill nearby is all I need.

·         Remember to make it your own! This is a space for you to enjoy family and friends. Take your time planning this space so when you walk into it you are happy.  Adding special features and interesting architectural features can really enhance the way you feel. 

 

Learn how Architecturally Speaking can help you with your next project by calling 847.205.984 for a free consultation or email Jim at asiinspect@gmail.com.

Best Of Houzz 2014 Award

 

Architecturally Speaking of Northbrook, Illinois Receives

Best Of Houzz 2014 Award

 

Annual Survey and Analysis of 16 Million Monthly Users

Reveals Top-Rated Building, Remodeling and Design Professionals

 

Northbrook, IL February 5, 2014 – Architecturally Speaking of Northbrook, IL has been awarded “Best Of Houzz” by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. The multi-disciplinary design and consulting firm was chosen by the more than 16 million monthly users that comprise the Houzz community. Follow Architecturally Speaking on Houzz http://www.houzz.com/pro/archispeak/architecturally-speaking.

 

“We are so excited and honored to have been awarded “Best of Houzz”. We love helping people create that perfect space and appreciate all of the Houzzers who enjoy what we do!” said Jim Butz, owner of Architecturally Speaking.

“Houzz provides homeowners with the most comprehensive view of a home improvement professional on the Web, empowering them to find and hire the right professional to execute their vision,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of community for Houzz. “We’re delighted to recognize Architecturally Speaking among our “Best Of” professionals for design as judged by our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating their homes.” With Houzz, homeowners can identify not only the top-rated professionals like Architecturally Speaking, but also those whose work matches their own aspirations for their home.

 

About Architecturally Speaking

Architecturally Speaking, also known as (Archispeak) is a multi-disciplinary design and consulting firm specializing in Fine Cabinetry and Design; Home Modifications and Remodeling, concentrating on Aging in Place; and Property Inspections and Construction Consulting. For over two decades, Archispeak has designed, built, transformed and simplified spaces into unique and beautiful dwellings through a keen eye to detail and distinctive woodworking expertise.

 

Always fascinated by how things are built and a passion for architecture, founder, Jim Butz has successfully blended his woodworking and renovation talents by forming Archispeak. As an architect, Jim has a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of customized design and the highest level of craftsmanship.

 

Learn how Architecturally Speaking can help you with your next project by calling 847.205.9844 for a free consultation or email Jim at asiinspect@gmail.com.

 

 

Fun at the Pool!

Cabana storage cabinets 

Several years ago our clients had built a cabana beside their pool including a family size couch, exterior grade TV and two niches for future storage cabinets for their pool toys and life preservers, etc.

 

Problem: 

 

They wanted the two cabinets to weather well in our summer’s hot & humid environment, and also would be protected from the harsh winter’s cold & dry elements. They must be very airy so stored items would dry and they had to match their existing poolside furniture.

 

Solution: 

 

Our solution was to create two cabinets that could be broken down with out tools or skills, the Teak surfaces could be stored for winter with the other furniture while the stainless steel structural frame could remain outside all year with out rusting and staining their natural stone pavers. Each cabinet is basically a solid countertop and a front frame with doors in a lower slatted shelf for the stored items.

 

Since the existing furniture were gray and washed out it would be impossible to match so we washed and sanded them down to bare wood and re-oiled them by hand with three or more coats of Teak oil to replenish the woods natural oils and color.  The new Teak, which is naturally oily to the touch, only required one to two coats.

Master Bath Problem and Solution

I recently finished a beautiful master bath remodel. It's always fun to be able to help my customers turn a problem into a solution! Read on.. 

 

Problem 

Our client wanted to remodel their 1960’s master bath. Although the bathroom was a decent size and included two separate closets, the space was poorly utilized; the 36” square shower basin was actually a bathtub as well.  Well, maybe a bathtub for a very small child or the family dog! The main room with the closets had a small vanity with a single bowl sink with no exhaust fan to keep the shower steam from the clothes.

 

Our client  wanted a large walk-in custom tiled shower, which would be also a steam bath. Two separate vanities and a single large walk-in closet. Large enough for two users and heated floors to keep those toes warm on a chilly night.

 

Solution 

Our solution was to steal a few feet from their spacious master bedroom for the walk-in closet and take over one of two 6-foot wide closets in the guest bedroom to make the shower more spacious. We were able to furnish them with all their needs and have a spacious bath where two can pass and comfortably use the bathroom at the same time.

One way to keep within budget, the client prudently chose to build out the shower for use as a steam room, bring in the plunbing supply and drains and electrical service even though the steam system would be added the following year.

 

For more information on this project or how we can assist you, call Jim Butz at 847-205-9844 or visit our website at www.archispeak.com.

Top 5 home improvement projects for summer!

Summer is a great time for tackling those home improvement projects you’ve been thinking about.  Certain home improvement projects will increase the value of your home and those upgrades will make your home more enjoyable for you not to mention marketable if you are selling your home. I’ve put together a list of the top five improvement projects for summer. Consider one or all but remember most of all to enjoy your summer!

1. Add a Deck or Sun Room

Love the outdoors?  Enjoy your outdoor spaces and consider adding a deck or a screened in porch addition.  We did this a few years ago and I can say that everyone in my family would agree that the screened in porch has become the most favorite room in our house.  We hang out all summer and even into the fall here for quiet time, dinners and entertaining! Bonus- No bugs!

Build a deck: This is a project best left to professionals because of structural and safety components but you can participate by discussing your family needs to create the best design and material with the contractor.

Put in a patio: Although you can hire landscapers to put in a brick or paver patio, this is a doable DIY project if you want to take on the challenge. Consult with your local home improvement store on where to begin.

2. Kitchen Makeover

You cannot go wrong with upgrading your kitchen. The most important thing is to create a space that works for you and your family. See my Kitchen Remodeling Tips.  If you do not have the money to do a complete kitchen remodel, there are smaller kitchen improvements that increase your home’s value as well. Work with your contractor to determine the best solutions for you. You can consider these smaller improvements.

Cabinet facelift: You should replace cabinets if the new cabinets will yield better use of space or give you a completely new look. If replacement doesn't improve functionality and the cabinet box is in good shape, cabinet refacing would be a cost effective approach to a completely new look. Pick out some new hardware too.

New countertop: Check out some of the newer, affordable composite counter materials. There is a lot out there now to choose from. Just updating the counter can add a whole new focal point.

Paint: A new coat of paint in your kitchen can do wonders!

3. Lighting/ Fixtures

Replace fixtures: Brass or gold-tone fixtures like doorknobs, faucets and other hardware seem to be outdated and not popular anymore. This ages a home. Finishes like brushed nickel, copper or bronze are the norm and will give your house an updated feel.  Older light fixtures also date a home. Save money on your energy bills with newer styles.

Increase lighting: Again, think about how your family uses or might use a room with better lighting. The correct lighting really brightens a room and is better for reading and other activities. Recessed/can lights and pendant lighting can add a lot to a room.  There have been major advances in CFL and LED lighting with rapid start bulbs, dimmable CFLs and color corrected lighting choices. Our family room originally had one center ceiling fixture and a corner hanging lamp. It just never was bright enough when you needed it to be and made the room uninviting. I installed recessed lighting with a dimmer and it changed the look and feel of the whole room.We enjoy it much more now.

4. Change Out a Room

Go through your house and consider changing the function of rooms in your house. If your kids have left for college or you’re downsizing within your current home, you may want to determine a better use for the space. With the new concept of Aging In Place and homeowners staying in their homes longer It’s a fix that will increase enjoyment of your living environment.

Home office: Although people make do with a corner in the kitchen as a makeshift office, why not designate an entire room? If you have a guestroom that is not used often, turn it into a home office or add a built-in desk space in the guest room. You can use it and your guests will love it too.

Study or den: With all the electronic connections and media in our lives, a quiet space to read or just sit and reflect is very appealing. You can do built-in shelves for books or create an office space here too. I recently created such a space in a family room closet!  

Stick with the room’s original purpose but make it multi-functional:  The key to dual use rooms is to be organized and avoid clutter which will deter you from using your new space. Simple design concepts can make your space more useful and meaningful to you. Browse through Houzz for ideas.

5.  Landscaping

There’s something soothing about digging around in the dirt (I know our dog loves it!) but not everyone has a green thumb! When planning our yard we asked our Landscape designer, Lynette Rodriguez owner of A Finer Touch, to only plant local to our area with easy care, low maintenance plants.  If you plan and use the right materials, a beautifully landscaped yard is worth it. By the way, if you need help with your green thumb, Lynette can be reached at 847.309.1657.

 

Learn how Archispeak can help you with your next project by calling 847.205.9844 for a free consultation or email jimbutz@archispeak.com.

Architecturally Speaking Published in Fine Homebuilding

  

Creative design by Jim Butz, Architecturally Speaking, to construct a built-in space for a flat TV in a restored farmhouse, is featured in an article in the March issue of Fine Homebuilding magazine, the premiere publication for carpenters and homebuilders. The design successfully blended modern technology with the existing 1940’s cabin character of the room, and integrated a variety of woods and stains to match the existing look.

 

 

Here is the articles comment on our project:

 

 

Is It Old or New?

When the owners of this 75-year-old farmhouse purchased a flat-screen television for their family room, they challenged architect Jim Butz to create a built-in entertainment center to match the room’s 50-year-old knotty cedar paneling. The unit was to be located perpendicular to the fireplace, along a wall that created a 6-ft.-long, 33-in.-wide closet. Butz was concerned that the wall did not contain enough space to house the 58-in. television, components, and storage areas, so he lengthened the wall by 31⁄2 ft. To match the paneling, Butz used the stock that lined the inside of the closet. His next challenge was to finish the wood taken from the closet to match the color and warmth of the room’s paneling. With many samples and a lot of trial and error, he was able to get a close match. The homeowners were thrilled with the results, especially because many of their friends can’t believe the built-in is not original to the room.

 

For more information on this project or how we can assist you, call Jim Butz at 847-205-9844 or visit our website at www.archispeak.com.

 

 

“Flat-screen built-ins” article appeared in Fine Homebuilding magazine’s issue #233, March 2013. “Reprinted with permission © 2013, The Taunton Press, Inc.