Grand Entrances: Create a Lasting First Impression With an Elegant Threshold
Imagine arriving at a beautifully designed home for the first time. As you turn into a horseshoe driveway, the gentle curve leads you past meticulously arranged gardens, their paths lit softly under the evening sky. You walk under a charming pergola, heavy with the weight of vine-ripened grapes, until you reach a stunning artisan door. […]
Designing a House that Makes You Feel at Home: Why Your Home’s Exterior Matters
“We shape our buildings and afterwards our buildings shape us,” Winston Churchill once remarked, capturing the profound impact our living spaces have on our daily lives. This relationship between architecture and occupant underscores the significance of thoughtful home design. The modern rambler or suburban home, with its origins in the post-World War II housing boom, […]
The Pros and Cons of Letting Vines Grow on Your House
Embracing nature’s design, many homeowners are turning to vines as a sustainable and visually appealing solution for their homes. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a well-placed vine arrangement can slash a home’s energy consumption for cooling by as much as 25%. Beyond the ecological benefits, vibrant and well-maintained landscaping, including the incorporation of […]
Minnesota Marvels: Balcony Design & Construction Guide
Imagine waking up each morning to a gentle breeze and the soft morning light greeting you as you step out onto your own private balcony. This isn’t just any part of your home; it’s a secluded oasis that offers a serene escape from the world inside. Here, amidst the quietude and beauty of your surroundings, […]
Midwestern Guide to Minimizing Property Damage During Summer Storm Season
In Minnesota alone, extreme weather over the past three years has caused between 10 to 20 billion dollars in property damage. As summer approaches, homeowners must brace for the trifecta of challenges that accompany storm season: rain, hail, and wind. Each element brings its own set of risks, from flooding and structural damage to shattered […]
How to Respectfully and Responsibly Project Manage Your Exterior Contractor
Did you know that the average exterior home remodeling project can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks to complete? While this time frame might seem extensive, various factors can extend it even further. Contractors often manage multiple job sites simultaneously, which can cause scheduling challenges. Additionally, unexpected delays in material orders and the necessity […]
What is Flashing and How to Check If it is in Good Shape?
In the realm of home construction, attention to detail is not just about aesthetics—it’s crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and energy efficiency of a building. One such detail, often overlooked but vitally important, is flashing. Flashing is a type of material—typically metal—used to direct water away from critical areas of a house, such as […]
Reviewing the Top 5 No Maintenance Gutter Guard Systems
Introduction: Debunking the Myth of “No Maintenance” Gutter Guards While gutter guards are often marketed as “no maintenance” solutions, it’s essential to set realistic expectations. True, these systems can significantly reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning by preventing leaves and debris from entering. However, no gutter guard system is entirely maintenance-free. Optimal performance and […]
First Impressions: Top Exterior Door Styles for 2024
“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” – Will Rogers nowhere is this truer than with the entrance to your home. A front door does more than provide security—it reflects your style and sets the tone for visitors’ experiences. As we look towards more of 2024, selecting the right door style […]
Clear Choices: The Bright Side of Picking the Perfect Patio Doors
Introduction to Large Glass Doors Large glass doors, encompassing both French doors and sliding glass doors, are more than just entry points; they are design statements that merge indoor and outdoor spaces, bringing in natural light and enhancing the visual appeal of your home. These doors offer a seamless transition between your home’s interior and […]
