Combining decades of experience with a personal approach page 15
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STYLISH SPACES
A FRESH START
7
8
Seasons
A.W.
16 Stylish Spaces
Inspiring kitchen and bath remodeling projects from across the region
20 Exterior Enhancements
13 Building Together
Archadeck of Delaware
Improvements to the outside of the home can both boost curb appeal and increase value
PUBLISHER
Edward P. McCartney
EDITOR
Peter Proko
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Matt Cosentino
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Giana Scafide, Abigail Twiford
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Hank Alspach
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Brian Mikulski
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Eileen Pullia, Lisa Zollinger
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
Darlene Versak
SALES DIRECTOR
Lindsay Gonzalez
SALES MANAGER
Jim Romano
NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPER
Chuck McKane
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
Nicole Corabi, Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Lori Vorgang, Amy B. Weiss
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Max Haggerty
STAFF ACCOUNTANT
Karmal Pritchett
DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Leigh Stuart
PUBLISHER EMERITUS
Bob Doran
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Gerry Haggerty, Edward P. McCartney
HOUSE & HOME
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able to lean into the change as it comes through,” Jurisch says.
Another huge asset E&E offers its clients is its new state-of-the-art showroom located in the company’s 24,000-square-foot headquarters in Gap, Pa. The showroom is an actual house built within the building, along with a massive wall of siding and roofing options. It gives customers the opportunity to see large-scale samples and the craftsmanship and quality behind an E&E project. The showroom is open to the public, but for those who call ahead for an appointment, Jurisch likes to make sure there are homemade chocolate chip cookies waiting for them.
“It really gives a much clearer picture of what you’re getting when you sign with E&E,” Jurisch says of the showroom.
Elevating Customer Care
E&E GENERAL CONTRACTING PRIORITIZES THE CLIENT EXPERIENCE IN ALL OF ITS INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PROJECTS.
By Kristen Dowd
Whether it’s a new roof and siding, the addition of a beautiful backyard deck or the full renovation of an interior space, behind every E&E General Contracting job is a team of passionate professionals who want nothing more than to meet the needs and wants of their customers.
“We enjoy the job that we do,” says Jessica Jurisch, marketing manager. “At the end of the day, we want our customers to come home to a place that they love, that brings them joy and peace.”
Ensuring each project is done to the satisfaction of the client looks different for everyone, Jurisch adds, and it requires collaboration between E&E professionals and the homeowner to ensure the hopes and dreams for the project will come true.
“That’s how we deliver their desired results. It’s a very rewarding process, from hearing what the vision is, to refining the details, to addressing the pain points—to walk that path with them and then opening the door and letting them take it all in, fully in their vision,” Jurisch explains.
Putting customer service first helped build the foundation of E&E, which was founded in 1993 by John Esh. The business is now run by his two oldest sons, Mike and Matt, although all three are still “very much involved leading the company forward,” Jurisch says, adding there are a number of other family members involved in the company, too.
When it first started, E&E was primarily focused on roofing and siding. The company has since grown to encompass a full offering of interior and exterior renovations and additions.
“[Mike and Matt] had a bigger vision, and having a larger team really helped to expand,” Jurisch says. “When there’s an influx of calls you’re receiving about more than siding and roofing, you realize what the community needs. They started adding crews and expertise to the team.”
This expertise includes knowledgeable salespeople, skilled craftsmen and artistic designers, as well as the strong management and leadership to guide them.
“We collaborate within our own team, bouncing ideas off each other. It’s always about growth, especially with the way trends change, it requires flexibility and being
The company does whatever it can to improve those customer relations, and Jurisch points out that the Google reviews for E&E speak for themselves, with a bevy of five-star reviews and lavish praise for the entire project process.
“As far as how that benefits us, it’s really a domino effect. It oftentimes leads to further projects with those homeowners. Maybe they’re just having windows replaced. Then it turns into an addition. Or they tell their friends and neighbors, and it leads to new clientele for us. Our largest lead source is through referrals,” Jurisch says.
Relationships, she adds, are the most important thing they build, especially considering how personal and invasive the home renovation process can be. It’s personal space, and it puts homeowners in a very vulnerable position to open their home day in and day out to work crews.
Even with exterior projects, there is a lot of interaction involved.
“We realize that and we’re sensitive to it. I think customers appreciate how much we care about it and that we take care of their space. We’re communicating, really just focusing on connecting with our customers and developing that trust,” Jurisch explains. “And it’s not uncommon at the end of the job for homeowners and craftsmen to be on a first-name basis.”
W NEWLANDSCAPE NEWSEASON,
Welcome the spring season with a new and improved landscape. By Giana Scafide
ith spring just around the corner, many homeowners should start thinking about refreshing their landscape to make the most of the warmer months ahead. But knowing when to get started, what to prioritize and how to avoid mistakes can make all the difference in a finalized outdoor space. From soil preparation to the overall look, timing and knowledge matters, so utilizing a landscape expert is key in achieving the perfect outdoor space for spring.
To help homeowners with spring landscape designs, House and Home spoke with local experts about the most effective ways to get an outdoor area ready for the upcoming season.
Timing is everything
It is important to get a head start on spring landscaping to ensure everything is ready in time. Earlier preparation gives homeowners and professionals enough time to figure out designing, spacing and features that would work the best. Many experts say the best time to start preparing is in late winter, which allows plenty of time for homeowners to plan without the need to rush.
“As far as anybody who wants to add a patio, plantings, a shade structure, lighting—anything—start planning as soon as possible,” says Richard Cording, owner of CLC Landscape Design. “I would call a landscape architect and start on a landscape design, because between getting the design ideas worked out and getting the permits, it takes months. It’s not like you can call somebody in April and have your patio put in for May.”
Knowing when you want to start a spring landscaping project is important when it comes to the designing aspect as well. Homeowners shouldn’t plan without first having an idea of what they want their landscape to look like.
“The first task should be gathering inspiration for your project,” Greg Chakar, president of Arborvine Landscaping
NEWLANDSCAPE
says. “Whether that is photos of other projects, or just materials, this initial vision allows us to collaborate with our clients and create a cohesive plan that integrates their lifestyle and design preferences seamlessly.”
Homeowners should also know that when redoing an outdoor space, it’s important to remove unwanted materials to make room for new improvements. Brian Gill, owner of Gill’s Landscapings says, “The very first task we recommend is a thorough cleanup—removing leaves, branches and debris that have accumulated through fall and winter. This simple step gives you a clean slate, helps prevent mold or rot, and makes it easier to evaluate which plants need pruning, replacing or extra care heading into spring.”
Avoiding errors
With any outdoor project, it can be easy to make mistakes along the way without the proper knowledge. Starting too late, overmulching and skipping crucial steps are all common missteps made by homeowners.
Chris DeMato, owner of Rock Bottom Landscaping & Fencing, says, “Landscape design is an aspect of your home that can increase the value by as much as 20%. And I do understand homeowners will sometimes do their own gardening and maintenance in their yard, but I strongly recommend meeting with a professional when planning your design.”
Making sure homeowners and professionals have enough time to brainstorm and finalize the end result is essential too.
“Many homeowners will put off a project until the spring, but understand the mess that occurs on the property after a winter thaw,” says George Mihalchick, owner of Ponds by George. “Then when spring rains start, the mess can get even worse. This can
cause delays on the project and possible changes and additional costs. Don’t be afraid to have a project started in the late season. This way, you can enjoy it starting fresh for the new season and watch everything fill in.”
When it comes to budgeting, clarity from the very beginning makes the biggest difference when planning a landscaping project. Oftentimes, projects begin with an estimated idea or even a lack of investment, which can limit creative control of the project.
“A mistake we see is the lack of a clear budget and budget transparency. We can not only use this information to suggest phases for the project to fit within budgets, we can also guide you through different
Outdoor spaces have always been a space focused on relaxation and leisure time.
material options and installation practices that will best suit your budget. Without this transparency, our design consultants become limited in ways we can adjust and customize design plans and proposals,” says Chakar.
What’s trending
From eco-friendly features to outdoor spaces designed for hosting, there are always trends that homeowners gravitate toward, reflecting practicality and personality.
“I would say one of the most common requests we get as landscape architects is to design fire pit areas,” says Cording. “We’ve also been designing a ton of pavilions and pergolas. Pavilions have a solid permanent roof, and a pergola usually has what’s called a louvered roof where you can have it open and close.”
“Texture-adding hardscaping, walkaways, stones and boulders can add great interest to your design,” adds DeMato.
Today’s designs also favor environmentally friendly features to help create a space where homeowners can unwind and entertain. “Native plants, pollinator-friendly gardens and blended natural stone are extremely popular.
We’re also seeing more interest in outdoor living spaces—fire features, outdoor kitchens and integrated lighting that extends the usability of the yard. Modern, clean-line plantings with year-round texture are also trending,” Gill says.
Outdoor spaces have always been a space focused on relaxation and leisure time. Homeowners are now looking beyond the traditional layouts to create their own personalized areas.
“Outdoor saunas, plunge tubs and irrigated vegetable gardens are also becoming popular for the wellness minded homeowner. These all-inclusive spaces are coming together with finishing touches such as outdoor sound systems, landscape lighting and built-in heaters to ensure these spaces can be used day and night, year round, even in a northern climate,” Chakar says.
Perennials vs. annuals
As you begin to plan a spring landscape project, one of the key decisions to make is whether to incorporate perennials or annuals. Understanding the two types, especially their appearance, how long they last and the maintenance required, can help homeowners develop a landscape that fits their aesthetic.
“It depends on their goals. Perennials are a great long-term investment because they return each year, grow fuller over time and require less frequent replacement,” Gill says. “Annuals, on the other hand, offer richer, brighter color and the ability to change the look of your landscape seasonally.”
While perennials and annuals both have their own advantages, relying only on one can limit the overall impact of a landscape.
“You want both. Perennials, even though they come back every year, they don’t last forever,” Cording says. “Annuals are in bloom from May 1 to Nov. 1 or later on, whereas most perennials bloom for a month or two months. So you want to
kind of have a combination of both.”
From refreshing gardens to elevating outdoor living areas, the choices made when planning a spring landscaping project sets the scene for the rest of the spring season. By balancing visual appeal with practicality, homeowners can create an outdoor living area that reflects their personal style, while investing in a space that will grow each season to come.
Arborvine Landscaping Wilmington, Del. | (302) 502-5605
ArborvineLandscaping.com
CLC Landscape Design
Ringwood, N.J | (973) 839-6026
CLCDesign.com
Gill’s Landscaping Mullica Hill, N.J. | (856) 223-9770
GillsLandscaping.com
Ponds By George Southampton, Pa. | (215) 396-7500
PondsByGeorge.com
Rock Bottom Landscaping & Fencing Belle Mead, N.J. | (732) 873-6780
RockBottomLandscaping.net
Building Together
Having a father who was a general contractor, Dave Lyons grew up in the home improvement industry and learned at an early age that quality craftsmanship and a client-first approach are keys to running a credible and trusted business.
After spending years early on in his career working as the head project manager for a company that became less interested in these pillars of success and more so in maximizing profits, he knew there was a better way.
In 2017, Lyons started Archadeck of Delaware with the guiding philosophy to always put the customer first and deliver stunning finished results that demonstrate master-level skill and often exceed expectations. This means taking an individualized approach to every project, no matter how big or small.
“I am not a cookie-cutter deck builder. I do much more custom work than a lot of other people and I try to make sure the customer gets what they want,” he affirms.
In a crowded field, that philosophy helps Lyons and his team stand out from competitors. He’s often encountered clients who have been told by other builders that their wants and desires may not be obtainable, or that things have to be constructed a certain way with no room for adjustments or adaptation. That’s where Lyons relies on his expertise to work alongside clients, treating them less like customers and more as partners, to create customizable solutions
that fit their budget and are aesthetically pleasing.
“I make it more of a collaboration with a customer rather than simply telling them that I build this type of deck and this is the deck you’re going to get,” he says.
“On initial consults, I ask the customer a lot of questions about what they really want, not necessarily what they want to spend. And from that point, I may say what you’re asking for is going to cost $50,000. They may say I don’t want to spend that much, so then it becomes a matter of finding out what you do want to spend so I can get you something close to what you want in that dollar amount,” Lyons says.
While Lyons says his team still builds the occasional treated wood deck, most homeowners these days are opting for composite materials due to the low maintenance
and long-term durability.
“My personal preference is Azek decking because aesthetically I think it looks the best and it performs better than a lot of other deck boards. It’s all PVC with no wood in it, so it will never take on water. I’ve seen some other composite deck boards out there that have standing water on the deck because the boards have swelled up so much, there’s no gap in between them anymore.”
No matter which style of deck you prefer or the overall scope of your project, clients can rest assured that from consultation to completion they will have access to a key member of the Archadeck team. This helps create a singular point of contact instead of dealing with an army of subcontractors which can lead to delays and lots of finger pointing if things get off track.
“With some of my competitors, you will talk to a salesman to book a job and then you’ll never hear from them again. Then you’re left dealing with a bunch of subcontractors that don’t really know what they are supposed to be doing. The reason they are there is because they’re cheap and the company can make more money,” Lyons says.
“With us, there’s me, my lead administrator Amanda and Matt, my head of construction. We all know what is going on with all the projects we have, and one of us can always answer any question.”
It’s just further evidence of Lyons’ philosophy to prioritize people over profit, and making sure that the attention to detail that Archadeck of Delaware provides remains its calling card as it nears its 10th year of satisfying homeowners across the region.
“I would rather do high-quality work [and take on less projects] than worry about chasing every job that’s out there,” says Lyons.
A CONTRACTOR FOR All Seasons
amassed a team of in-house professionals whose dedication to clients and a job welldone mirror his own, and whose talents come together to make the Delaware-based contractor a truly versatile, trustworthy indoor and outdoor service that can do it all.
Anyone who loves what they do will tell you that they don’t do it for the awards and accolades: They do it for the personal satisfaction, like knowing that they made a difference, finding the work rewarding and fostering strong relationships along the way.
“By the time a project’s over, our clients have become part of our family,” says Andrew Viohl of A. W. Viohl Contracting.
Viohl founded the company that bears his name in 2008 and, since then, has diligently
“The guys who work with me are good buddies, we’ve been working together for a long time. We’re like a family and we’re family-oriented,” Viohl explains. “We know what we’re doing, and we know how to work together. We’ve been doing this for 20-some years, so we’ve pretty much seen it all.”
And while Viohl appreciates the talent on his team and knows they’re absolute professionals who can navigate any challenges that may arise along the way, the awards are a nice confirmation that the A. W. Viohl team is on the right track. Having been recently recognized as one of House & Home magazine’s Best of the Best is one of the contractor’s
most recent honors.
“We’re out there working as hard as we can, so it means a lot to all of us,” Viohl says.
But Viohl and his team are never content to rest on their laurels, whether it’s renovating a basement, creating an addition, updating a kitchen or bathroom with premium fixtures and quality materials, or repairing a deck, they aim for nothing less than the best for the homeowners who trust them with their interior and exterior remodeling goals.
“We’re not rushing from one project to the next,” Viohl promises. “Our focus is on you and your home, we will design your project to meet all of your needs and finish the job right.”
And there’s never an off-season for the year-round operation, which means they’re not only scheduling projects for the spring but also breaking ground on a few now. It often comes as a pleasant surprise for clients who are planning ahead for the warmer months—or aren’t about to let winter stand in the way of their renovation projects.
“I don’t think you should react to a customer by saying ‘Why do you want to do a deck now?’ and I don’t like turning down work: Whatever job people need done, we’ll do it regardless of season,” Viohl says. “We’re always doing projects, even in January and February. On the other hand, we also have calls now to get on the books to start work three months out. That gives us time to get the production going, to get all the permits we need so come March, April or May, we’re ready to go for them.”
Viohl adds that features like composite decking boards and vinyl railings will ultimately save homeowners some money. “You won’t have that extra yearly fee or every two years because you’re paying someone to stain it or pressure-wash it.”
Viohl diligently encourages open lines of communication, both with the homeowner and among his team. It ensures everyone is on the same page at every stage of the project while managing clients’ expectations—because it is, no matter the project, always about making sure a customer is completely satisfied.
“A lot of the jobs we do are for repeat customers, so they’ve been there and know what to expect,” he says. “They know that they’re getting the quality work their paying for. It’s an honor when they hire us for repeat work, and we want to make sure they’ll call us for their next job.”
STYLISH SPACES
Amiano & Son Design-Build
This beautifully functional kitchen features a custom two-tier, double waterfall countertop that adds chic dimension and character while creating an inviting extra dining area. The pairing of one matte surface with one glossy finish introduces a striking contrast in texture, elevating the overall design. A luxurious builtin bar beside the dining table enhances both style and functionality, making it ideal for hosting and entertaining. With its absolutely stunning finishes and thoughtful layout, this kitchen seamlessly blends elegance and practicality into a space made for gathering.
Southampton and Ship Bottom, N.J. (609) 268-5923
AmianoAndSon.com
Gehman Design Remodeling
The team at Gehman gave this kitchen ample space by knocking down a wall, giving the clients an open concept layout with more cabinet storage. They also added solid panel door fronts, a quartz countertop and a matching quartz backsplash for easy cleaning.
Harleysville, Pa. (215) 513-0300
GehmanRemodeling.com
Inspiring kitchen and bath designs
Stonebridge Renovations
In this kitchen remodel, Stonebridge Renovations removed a structural wall adding the sunroom to the kitchen space. All demo, framing, plumbing, electric, drywall, flooring, tiling, millwork and painting work was completed by Stonebridge Renovations crew, while all materials were supplied by Stonebridge Kitchen & Bath, creating a one-stop-shop for design, materials and high quality craftsmanship. Malvern, Pa. | (484) 459-4920 | SB-Renovations.com
HomeTech Renovations
Since 1984, HomeTech Renovations have been kitchen and bath specialists, offering full-service design, engineering and installations services. The company worked with these clients to create this modern new kitchen design featuring white oak with black onyx stain with restaurant-like cooking and ventilation components.
Lower Gwynedd, Pa. (215) 646-7477
HTRenovations.com
Kitchen Tune-Up Bloomfield
This redesign replaced the original single-wall layout and small eat-in nook with a center island featuring a marble waterfall edge and sage green shiplap base, creating a natural gathering spot for family and guests. New light, white oak slab-front perimeter cabinets paired with brushed brass hardware, statement pendants and swing-arm sconces bring warmth and sophistication throughout. A full-height Calacatta marble backsplash behind the range, under-cabinet lighting and a gold bridge-style faucet complete the elevated look. Bloomfield, N.J. | (973) 521-1182 | KTUBloomfield.com
STYLISH SPACES Inspiring kitchen
Let’s Face It
Offering unique hardwoods and designer finishes, Let’s Face It’s awardwinning full-service specialists helped transform this kitchen. Notable improvements included a full refacing upgrade of the existing kitchen including the use of modern flush maple doors. To help complement the redesign, a new island was also built and added to the space.
This master suite overlooks the bay in Long Beach Island with Andersen French doors providing access to the second floor deck. A radiant floor heating system provides warmth to the large format tile that runs continuously throughout the space. The curbless his and hers shower features top track sliding glass doors, two rain heads and a handheld shower head. Voorhees, N.J. | (856) 240-4448 | UCBuildersNJ.com
Rolf Schroeder General Contractors
A dramatic custom black hood with carved corbels anchors this kitchen, creating architectural presence against crisp white cabinetry and quartzite surfaces. The richly finished island serves as both a sculptural focal point and a gathering place, while warm golden walls envelop the room, amplifying natural light and introducing depth. Subtle checkerboard accents offer a refined nod to whimsy, thoughtfully layered rather than overt. Professional-grade appliances are seamlessly integrated, balancing performance with polish.
Glass Castle helped this client with a shower enclosure in their bathroom. With the white deco tile, the client decided to go with the low-iron (ultraclear) glass as well as the ShowerGuard coating. These choices ensure the enclosure will look just as nice in 10 years as the day it was installed.
they trust us to bring their next vision to life,” says Oakes. “It’s this repeat business and longterm relationships that have built what we call the FSBD family.”
by Peter Proko
With more than two decades in the exterior and interior renovation industry, First State Building & Design (FSBD) has established itself as a leader in high-quality home transformations, staying ahead of trends and providing clients with results that consistently exceed expectations.
Over the years, the company has refined its process as it evolves with the times, not only anticipating challenges before they arise but also devising innovative solutions to create a seamless remodeling experience for homeowners. Using a consultative approach that involves clients from the very beginning stages, FSBD is able to present thoughtful options that balance function, beauty and budget.
“As a family-owned and -operated company, we understand that home remodeling is more than just construction, it’s about transforming a space that holds memories, routines and future aspirations,” says Joe Oakes, president. “That’s why we take a personalized, hands-on approach with every project. We want our clients to feel heard, valued and confident in the process.”
Because FSBD has worked on a wide range of projects over the years, from standard renovations to large-scale remodels, the company is well equipped to execute every job it takes on with precision and care. It starts with the step-by-step Dream, Design, Build approach, created to help alleviate the stress and confusion that many homeowners face when navigating the remodeling process.
“From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, our team is there every step of
Of course, with so many satisfied clients, it only makes sense that FSBD is often top of mind when it comes to referrals. Recently, after completing a massive deck project, the client was so pleased with the outcome that he referred FSBD to his neighbor, who then hired the company for a similar project. To show appreciation for this customer loyalty, FSBD has established a Refer a Friend program, where clients receive a thank-you gift for referring someone who moves forward with a project.
the way, ensuring the experience is as enjoyable as the finished result,” says Oakes.
And that high level of service extends beyond just one area of the home as FSBD’s skilled and experienced team are able to create stunning outdoor living areas in addition to inspiring interior spaces that work together to enhance both function and aesthetic appeal.
For many homeowners, that journey may start with a new custom deck or patio and then perhaps lead to a kitchen or bathroom remodel. No matter the need, FSBD takes pride in being a full-service, design and build company that can get the job done. Working with a highly coordinated team that handles everything from design, materials ordering, through to construction and finishing touches gives homeowners peace of mind their project is in good hands.
“What excites us most is the ability to completely transform the way people experience their homes. Imagine a beautiful openconcept kitchen that leads to an outdoor patio with a fireplace and seating area—that’s the kind of transformation we love creating,” Oakes says.
With many of FSBD’s clients being repeat customers, it shines a spotlight on the quality and attention to detail the company provides. “Once homeowners see our craftsmanship and experience the ease of working with our team,
“Referrals are one of the most meaningful and gratifying aspects of what we do,” says Oakes. “It’s a true testament to the quality of our work when a client loves their renovation so much that they recommend us to friends, family or neighbors.”
Quality in their workmanship and providing a quality experience from start to finish leads to clients booking their projects—which is why Oakes recommends homeowners to start planning well in advance, especially when it comes to seasonal projects like decks and patios. As he states, “planning a good renovation takes time, so it’s never too early to begin.”
“Every project is unique, and timelines depend on factors such as scope, permitting and material availability. Some projects can be completed in a few weeks, while more complex renovations may take several weeks,” he says.
To make sure clients have a full understanding of how a project will progress from conception to completion, FSBD has a dedicated team of project managers who provide clear schedules and proactive communication.
It’s just further evidence on how First State Building & Design is able to stand out from others in a crowded field like the home remodeling industry.
“Our commitment to quality, seamless process and personalized approach is what sets us apart,” says Oakes. “We combine 20 years of expertise, family-driven values and full-service capabilities to deliver an experience that homeowners trust. From concept to completion, we prioritize craftsmanship, communication and customer satisfaction—and that’s why our clients keep coming back.”
EXTERIORS
Improvements to the outside of the home can both boos
BY ABIGAIL TWIFORD
W Exterio Enhancem
also considering appeal and increase
We spoke get a sense of some of the more popular ways homeowners can give their exterior a much-needed boost. One key place to start is with your garage doors.
Fadi Baaklini, owner of ProLift Garage Doors, points out that upgrading your garage doors can have an almost 100% return on investment, and is considered one of the top ways to increase a home’s value for under $10,000.
Following this harsh winter we have experienced in our area, some homeowners may want to consider adding insulated garage doors, but Baaklini advises against that expense unless you already have a heated garage or find yourself spending large amounts of time in the space year-round.
Though the garage has become the predominant entry way into the home, that does not mean homeowners are not looking for a
ost curb appeal and increase value
ORNATE GARAGE DOORS A RE A SURE-FIRE WAY TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME AND CAN REALLY DELIVER A RETURN 0N INVESTMENT.
or ments
more informed decisions regarding choosing the best designs to complement the architecture.
One of the more popular entry door systems today comes from ProVia, a company known for its quality craftmanship in value, or just curb appeal in general, but also offers highly rated security and privacy with different privacy glasses,” says Jammer.
Levi Esh, owner of Pencroft Ridge Construction, says other
Exterior Enhancements
EXTERIOR
LIGHTING IS AN ELEGANT WAY TO HIGHLIGHT YOUR HOME FROM THE STREET.
popular ways to boost curb appeal include a sensibly redesigned porch and the addition of a portico, but adds that upgraded siding can truly transform the look of your home’s exterior and create intrigue about the rest of the house.
“I am going to say that it can just completely change [the look of] your house. Your house kind of speaks for who is living in it and it really can make a huge difference,” he says.
Adam Parnes, vice president of marketing at Global Home Improvement, also notes that difference new siding can have on a home’s exte-
rior. But while the familiarity of vinyl siding makes it the preferred choice for many, Parnes instead suggests fiber cement siding from James Hardie, due to its durability, the rich colors available and the realistic wood-grain texture it offers.
What’s more, Parnes notes how new gutters, specifically the black gutters that are trending, can also refresh the look of your exterior.
“From an appearance standpoint, black gutters have become extremely popular because they give the home a clean, modern look and really frame the roofline, especially on lighter-colored exteriors. They also blend beautifully with darker roofs and trim, so they don’t stand out in a bad way,” he says.
For the performance aspect, Parnes says that halfround gutters allow water to flow more efficiently, reducing buildup and clogging
less over time.
When it comes to outdoor lighting and its impact on the exterior appearance of a home, Tim Teed of Vesta Lights expresses the importance of creating a safe environment while choosing lighting methods that heighten the home’s features without going overboard.
“You are not trying to light up the house like a hotel, you are trying to use accent lighting to complement the architectural house. It’s more for the appearance aspect of it, as well as considering the safety and the security, especially, if it’s a real dark neighborhood,” says Teed.
No matter which exterior project you choose to tackle first, these improvements help to beautify your home while also adding value, creating an inviting environment that will be enjoyed by family and friends for many more years to come.
