Tuesday, December 17, 2019

FineCraft Contractors Wins MBIA Award of Excellence

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) recently won the MBIA (Maryland Building Industry Association) Remodeling and Custom Building Award of Excellence.

On November 22, 2019, FineCraft won the MBIA Remodeling and Custom Building Award of Excellence for a house they remodeled in Potomac in collaboration with Axis Architects. For this specific project, they converted dark and compartmentalized spaces into spacious and light spaces.

Nicole L., a past client, said, “I contacted FineCraft from California after seeing a picture of a bathroom that I loved on Houzz, they answered the phone when I called and emailed me all the information I needed within 24 hours. They really were wonderful. Much appreciated for helping out!!”

Another past client, Dagmar P., stated, “They are my favorite! They always seem to make things right. Even when things are tough they work through them and the outcome is always amazing. They have worked on several projects in my house and all of which are excellent products which reflect the level of detailed work that epitomizes FineCraft. From smaller projects to larger ones, from my experience, I can guarantee they’ll leave you satisfied with the job you contract them for, hands down!”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191. Their Instagram page can be seen at https://www.instagram.com/finecraft_contractors/.

Our custom-built portico is almost done!

By George Papaheraklis

In case you didn’t know, we do build custom pieces for our clients, and when we get the opportunity to do so, we get so excited! It’s a chance for us to be fully creative and create something for you that no one else has.

This time, we’re custom building a portico, which is a covered walkway (typically the porch) that is supported by regularly spaced columns.
Porticos actually originate from Greek architecture and formed the entrances to ancient Greek temples. Porticos give a really great finishing touch to front doors and elevate the entire exterior of the home.

We now have the covered portion of the portico installed above the front door, and we are finishing up the columns that will be supporting it! We’re really excited to show you the finished product - it’s going to be the talk of the town when it’s finished!

But until then, head over to our Instagram page to see our updates on this custom build, and be sure to follow us so you stay updated on all our latest projects!

At FineCraft Contractors, we are experts when it comes to remodels and making sure the design works with your home. If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Friday, December 6, 2019

Silva Construction Added 5 Tips to the Home Remodeling Series

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction, (https://www.silvaconstruction.com/) a construction company, is adding five tips to their home remodeling tips series for homeowners.

The remodeling process has a lot to consider and take into account. Silva decided to add onto their original list of home remodeling tips to get homeowners as prepared as possible. Their five tips are:

1. Check your calendar, especially if you want your remodel to be done by a particular event or holiday. Look at your end date and work your way backward to make sure you’ll finish on time - and make sure to add in some wiggle room for any unexpected changes or delays.

2. Check the contractor’s references. A good, professional contractor won’t have any problem providing references and copies of insurance before beginning the job. Don’t just rely on the testimonials on their website - find actual customers and find out firsthand what they have to say. And if you feel in your gut that a contractor isn’t the right choice, stick to it.

3. Consider what you do on a daily basis and take that into account during your remodel. The last thing you want to happen is to be in your robe while workers begin their day. So, be sure to clearly state what your daily routine is to come up with a good start and end time for the day.

4. Create a master list to help with budgeting and to make sure you don’t forget anything you need during the remodel. You can add things such as permits, supplies you’ll need, etc. This will help you stay organized and can help you save costs.

5. Create a Reno-free zone so that you and your family have a place to relax a little bit. Your Reno-free zone should have everything you need in one place, such as an electric kettle, microwave, a table to eat at, etc.

Dave Silva and David Clarke are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Big Trees Inc. Transplants Memorial Trees During Winter Street Expansion

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company in the Seattle area, had an opportunity to transplant memorial trees out of the way of street expansion work this winter.

Big Trees received a standard transplanting request from a contractor involved with a section of street work where the street was being expanded. There were three Paper Bark Maple trees that were around five to seven inches in trunk diameter and the contractor wanted to know if the trees could be moved to a different part of the property. These trees were 12 feet tall and once properly dug into root balls would weigh around 1200 pounds each.

After reviewing the trees, their current location and their new location, including the existence of nearby underground utility lines, it was decided that the trees would best be transplanted using Big Trees’ hand digging techniques and loader tractors to manage the weight of the trees and tricky maneuvering near underground utilities.

“We learned that the three trees we were being asked to dig and transplant were memorial trees for the man’s wife who he had lost to cancer a number of years earlier, and it became clear why these particular trees were important enough to warrant this kind of extra attention. There have been many situations over the years where our projects were more involved than they originally appeared to be.
These memorial tree situations can get pretty emotional. Memorial trees situations come with all kinds of circumstances, and each one gets the full attention they deserve.” said Todd Holmes, Operations Manager of Big Trees.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

3 Winter Tree Care Tips

By Nancy Penrose

Ever wonder why trees shed their leaves in the winter? It’s their way of conserving needed water during the cold months and is one way that they protect themselves. There are a few ways we can help protect our trees in the winter so they stay healthy come spring!

Protecting the tree’s roots

Healthy roots are essential for a healthy tree. A few ways you can protect the tree’s roots include:
Insulate your trees with mulch if you don’t have a lot of snow to protect it. The snow adds protection and insulation to trees, but if you don’t have a lot of snow, mulch will do the trick.

Keep road salt away from your trees. They’re pretty harmful to the roots and can dry them out and alter soil structure.

Protecting the trunks

If you live in an area where the day is warm, but then gets freezing at night, we highly recommend wrapping the trunks with a plastic tree guard to prevent sunscald.

Pay attention to any deer that may come around wanting to use the tree’s trunk as a way to smooth out their antlers. This can result in large chunks of wood being taken off of the trunk. If you notice any deer doing this to your tree, you can build a barrier or use a protective wrap.

Protecting the branches

Winter is the best time to prune trees and remove weak branches so the tree is fresh come spring.
Don’t remove ice from branches. Ice can be difficult to remove, which means you may do more harm than good. The best thing to do is wait for the ice to melt.

Do, however, remove piled snow. Snow that gets piled up on the branches can cause them to snap, which hurts the tree and can also hurt you or another person.

At Big Trees, we know exactly how to take care of your trees in the winter months. If you ever have any questions, please contact us. Call us today at (866) 313-2333 to get all your questions answered.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at https://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Should You Fertilize Your Grass in the Fall?

By Nancy Penrose

Did you know that lawns improve air quality and generate oxygen? These are just a couple of reasons why we need to make sure our lawns stay healthy, and one of the best ways to keep grass healthy and vibrant is to fertilize it. We believe Fall is the best time to fertilize grass, and here’s why.

Summer heat is stressful on lawns - During the summer months, lawns go through a lot of stress with the heat and the cooler temperatures in the fall months are a great time for grass to regain its strength.

Morning Dew - The morning dew in the Fall delivers moisture to help the fertilizer be able to absorb better.

Stronger Roots - The grass gets a chance to build some stamina before the winter months and by giving the roots a chance to get stronger in the fall allows the grass to be healthier and greener in the spring.

When should you apply fertilizer in the fall?

The best time to fertilize your lawn in the fall is about three weeks before the ground freezes - usually mid-October or early November.

At Big Trees, we are experts when it comes to taking care of your lawn and trees. If you ever have questions, we’re happy to help! Just contact us today at (866) 313-2333 to get started.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at http://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Big Trees Inc. Helped a Seattle Company Transplant Large Trees

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company in the Seattle area, was asked to help an iconic Seattle company transplant some large trees as part of the company’s relocation of their headquarters.

There was a large Japanese Maple in the courtyard of the company’s corporate campus. This Maple and a large Leyland Cypress tree had been planted as a memorial tree and were the trees that needed to be moved to the new campus headquarters 20 miles away. The Japanese Maple was scheduled to be root pruned a year prior to the final transplant effort. The tree was dug into a reasonable root ball and the trench was backfilled with heavy material that encouraged new fibrous growth of the root system at that time.

Roughly a year after this initial root pruning effort, the Big Trees crews returned to the property to finish root balls on both trees and move them to the new headquarters. The Japanese Maple was in a difficult position to reach, which called for an extendable boom forklift to fish it out to the flatbed truck for transport. Once the trees arrived at the new location, a tower crane was used to lift the trees off the flatbed truck and into their new garden locations.

“Our services and crews can make projects like this come together seamlessly for our clients. There are a lot of intricacies involved in this kind of work, and while it’s not rocket science, having a team that heads off difficulties with this scale of landscaping is always appreciated.” said Todd Holmes, Big Trees’ operations manager.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

How does a homeowner begin to plan a large remodel?

By Niko Papaheraklis,

So, you’ve decided that a room in your home needs a bit of a makeover. This is so exciting and is a lot of fun! But, it’s important to know what steps you should take in order to start planning a large remodel. Below, we lay out a few steps you can follow to begin the remodel process.

Have a vision

It’s important to have a good idea of what you want your space to look like. You may have a general concept, but let’s dig a little deeper.
Start looking through magazines for ideas and inspiration and consider if your ideas will work in the layout of your home and add to its function. We recommend listing out a few of your top must-haves at this part of the process.

Budget

The budget for a large remodel can vary greatly, so it’s important to be realistic with your budget, but also creating and sticking to it as much as possible. A few things that will influence your bottom line include how much of the home you want to remodel, the amount of demolition and rebuild needed, and any customizations.

Hire a contractor

We’re not just saying this because we are contractors - hiring a contractor really can be the best decision you make for your remodel. Experts that understand how to fit things into a budget and have the knowledge to help create a design that will work really well in your home is priceless. They can also offer suggestions you may not have thought of that will really add value and functionality to your home.

Keep the future in mind

One last thing we want to mention is to keep the future in mind while you plan your remodel. It’s important to plan ahead for future phases, especially if any future plans include plumbing or electrical changes. Another thing to consider is how you will be utilizing your home as you and your family grow older.

At FineCraft Contractors, we are experts when it comes to remodels and making sure the design works with your home. If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.
George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

FineCraft Contractors Completes Recent Major Remodeling Project

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) recently completed a new major remodeling project.

FineCraft recently completed a project in the Washington, DC area within a month and a half from scratch. The project involved the installation of 90 cabinets, 35 of which were seven feet tall, another 35 being two feet tall, fifteen being eight feet tall, and the last five measuring approximately three feet tall. On top of that, approximately 200 doors were paneled, 110 drawers with drawer fronts were installed and about 150 adjustable shelves were put in. To top it all off, they installed self-closing doors and drawers with pre-finished maple throughout the entire interior.

George Papaheraklis, the business manager of FineCraft Contractors said, “Everyone worked very well as a team. My many thanks to our wonderful team of carpenters, painters and helpers!”

Sabine O’Hara, a past client, said, “FineCraft Contractors is a top quality operation. I have done multiple renovation projects with George and his team, including bathrooms, kitchens, addition, terrace, and in-law apartment. FineCraft has a great sense of aesthetics, great attention to detail, and the construction site is left impeccably clean every night. That’s why I am a return customer!”

Another past client, Sarah Hayes, stated, “As both architect and client, I was pleased with FineCraft Contractors. I found the crews to be hardworking and pleasant. With our project, George took a hands on approach from beginning to end, and collaborated well to help create what we envisioned for our home.”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Silva Construction Gives Homeowners 5 Tips on Home Remodeling

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction, (http://www.silvaconstruction.com) a residential and commercial remodeling company serving the south bay area of Los Angeles, is giving five home remodeling tips to homeowners.

With several parts to the remodeling process, Dave Silva of Silva Construction decided to share a few tips that would help homeowners have a successful house remodel. Their five tips are:

1. Understand why you want to remodel your home. Depending on whether you’re doing it to raise the value of your home because you’re planning on selling it soon, or because you plan on staying for several years and want to make it more comfortable, knowing why you’re remodeling will help you create a specific and appropriate plan and budget for your remodel

2. Create and stick to a budget. Take into account times you’ll need to live in a hotel or eat out of the kitchen when creating your budget in order to keep it realistic with little to no surprises.

3. Do as much research as possible before beginning your project. This is a great way to gain knowledge from those experienced with home remodels so you can prevent certain challenges and problems, and set realistic expectations.

4. Consult the pros. Yes, DIYing a project can be fun and give you a sense of accomplishment, but it can also turn into a disaster if you’re inexperienced. Find out which tasks you can handle on your own, and which ones would be better suited for a professional.

5. Plan for the unexpected. Things like needing to turn off the water for days, additional expenses, etc., are all situations that may seem unexpected when they happen, but can be prevented if planned for ahead of time.

Dave Silva and David Clarke are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at http://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at http://www.silvaconstruction.com. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Silva Construction Explains to Homeowners Why They Need Earthquake Retrofitting

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction, (http://www.silvaconstruction.com) a residential and commercial remodeling company serving the south bay area of Los Angeles, is explaining why homeowners need earthquake retrofitting.

Earthquake retrofitting is the process of securely anchoring a home to its foundation in order to keep it in place. Homes that are not retrofitted can move off their foundation in a large seismic event. If a home is earthquake retrofitted, lives can be saved and tragedies can be prevented. This is the main reason why Silva Construction urges homeowners to get their home earthquake retrofitted. With the clientele that Silva serve living in California, it’s very important that they protect their homes and families.

Dave Silva, Executive Director of Silva Construction, stated: “It is incredibly important for homeowners in California to get earthquake retrofitting for their home. It’s one of the only ways to ensure your home can be a safe place in the event of an earthquake. And since we know that seismic events can happen without notice, it’s even more important to get earthquake retrofitting done now rather than later. We are experienced when it comes to earthquake retrofitting, so if you ever have any questions or would like to know more about our services, please do not hesitate to call.”

Dave Silva and David Clarke are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at http://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at http://www.silvaconstruction.com. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Sunday, October 6, 2019

Get Some Winter Color by Planting These Trees

By Nancy Penrose

As the days start to get shorter, the skies start to get gray, and the landscape looks bare and brown, you’ll find yourself wishing there was some color other than the holiday lights and decorations. Luckily, there are many types of trees that have colorful blooms, fruit and bark during the winter.

Winter Trees with Colorful Bark

Trees that have colorful bark are a great way to add some color during winter. Some examples are:

Coral Bark Maple trees have bright coral red branches and twigs during the winter, with the younger branches being the most red.

Redtwig Dogwood turns bright red in colder months.

Japanese Red Maple has red bark with vibrant leaves that range from dark reed to bright orange.

Winter Trees with Fruit

Yup! There are some trees that bear fruit in the cold months! They are:

Holly Bush, which has red or gold berries.

Snowdrift Crabapple produces deep orange fruit.

Winterberry Holly gives bright red berries.

Flowers that Thrive in Winter

There are also several flowers that provide color and bloom during the winter, including:

Camellias, a waxy flower that has shades of pink, red and coral.

Snowdrops are white and beautiful! Make sure to plant these in the Fall.

Hellebores bloom from late November through the winter and provide a variety of colors and shades.

At Big Trees, we have a lot of knowledge when it comes to which plants and trees work best for your home. Just contact us today at (866) 313-2333 to get started.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at https://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Big Trees Inc. Successfully Transplants Four Fruit Trees

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company in the Seattle area, was asked to look into a construction project on Vashon Island in the Puget Sound. An older property was being renovated into a new animal sanctuary and there were older fruit trees and shrubs that the new owners wanted to preserve and transplant to other locations on the property.

In early spring of 2019, Big Trees was approached about an opportunity to help salvage two large apple trees, one large pear tree and a big lilac from being demolished in a large-scale remodel. The trees had significant trunk diameters and were dug into root balls weighing thousands of pounds each. The trees and root balls were rigged with proprietary straps and lifting systems, and were moved to a few locations around the property with loaders and large excavators. Plans were made to ensure the trees remained healthy as time goes by.

“This is a very exciting project and these significant fruit trees will continue to be a source for treats to the humans and animals that will call this new establishment home,” said Nancy Penrose, owner of Big Trees.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

How to Choose Colors for Your Home

By Niko Papaheraklis

Choosing the color for the various rooms in your home is more important than you may think. The color you choose tells people how to feel in that space. Do you want to give your home a more modern feel? Maybe you want your home to feel homey and traditional? No matter which way you go, choosing the correct colors will be vital. Below, we’ve laid out a few tips to help guide you in choosing the colors for your home.

Colors evoke certain emotions

Colors can make us feel happy or sad, hungry or relaxed, and even energetic or tired. Ever wonder why many fast food restaurants have the color red in them? It’s because red tends to make us feel hungry. Blue on the other hand lends itself to professionalism, calm, and cool - which is probably why many social media platforms use blue as their main color (Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn to name a few).

This same concept applies to the rooms in your home. How do you want people to feel while they’re in the kitchen or living room? Do you want each room to evoke a different emotion or do you want people to generally feel the same throughout your entire home? These questions can help you come up with a color scheme.

Modern vs Traditional

When you think of modern, what colors come to mind? Probably grays, silvers, white and black. Tech companies do a great job of utilizing these colors - Apple is a great example of this because their entire product line is mostly silver.

On the flip side, when you think of a traditional home, you may think of warmer colors such as browns, dark reds, and beige. This gives a warm and homey feeling, whereas modern colors give a more light and simplistic feeling.

At Finecraft Contractors, we are experts at putting together color schemes and choosing colors for your home with the feeling you’re going for. If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

FineCraft Contractors’ Latest Remodel is Featured in Bethesda Magazine

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) has a remodeling project that is featured in the latest issue of Bethesda Magazine.

The remodeling project consisted of making the client’s living and kitchen space more open, modern and full of natural light to brighten up the rooms. The client needed to use the space they had in a smarter way and desired an open-concept kitchen/family room, and so they reached out to FineCraft to get the job done.

Korva, the client for this project, stated, “We didn’t need more space, we just needed to use it smarter. It was very compartmentalized, and we wanted an open-concept kitchen/family room where large groups could gather. Now we use the dining room, which we hadn’t really done much with before. I feel like we are taking full advantage of all the rooms in the house.”

Another past client, Lynne Oakes, said, “FineCraft Contractors completely revamped our family room. Tore out old dated paneling, and ‘popcorn’ ceiling. Now it is not all chopped up looking and it is calming to look into it. Also they made custom bookcases on the sides of the fireplace that have ample storage below and great display space above. I’m very pleased with the results and the respectful people who came into our home to do this work.”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Sun Pacific Mortgage Offers New & Unique Alt-A Hard Money Program

SONOMA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA: Sun Pacific Mortgage & Real Estate (https://www.sunpacificmortgage.com/), a Hard Money Lender for over 3 decades, has begun offering a new type of loan Program for the many home buyers and borrowers who are turned down elsewhere for a real estate loan: an Alt-A Hard Money Program!

They are located in Northern California and are licensed for lending throughout the state. This one of a kind Alt-A Hard Money loan is the perfect solution for a home buyer or borrower who just cannot get approved for a home loan, by another conventional or traditional lending institution. They miss qualifying by a slim margin; In other words, they are almost qualified for a standard bank loan but not quite.

Sun Pacific’s Alt-A Hard Money loans provide the solution to those who want to buy a home or refinance but get told “no”. These typically have rates from *6-8% - which is considerably lower than the average Hard Money rates. This program is for borrowers and home buyers with a credit score of 640 or higher, a 35% or more down payment, and on a property in good shape and in a good neighborhood. Many borrowers with this type of loan will end up refinancing in a year or two when their credit improves or the other disqualifying circumstance(s) resolves.

Sun Pacific Founder, Forest Tardibuono, states “Because of the demand from both borrowers and Investors, we have begun offering this new loan, in addition to our traditional Hard Money Loan Programs. We have many Investors who are interested in these types of loans. For borrowers who are just shy of qualifying for “A” paper, you can quickly get approved for this lower-rate Alt-A Hard Money Program. And we can turn these loans around quickly, in 2 weeks or less.”

He continued, “Just recently we funded a loan. A real estate agent called with a rush request from her home buyer:  He needed a $599,000 short term loan to buy an investment property in Mill Valley.  His current lending institution was confused by his company being the buyer so was not approving the loan. His credit was over 750, he had a good down payment allowing for 59% loan-to-value, he made great monthly income and had a lot of other real estate assets as well as excess funds in the bank. He was a perfect borrower. Except he had to wait too long due to unnecessary confusions from his lender, so now he needed fast loan performance.  This is where we stepped in with our Alt-A Hard Money Loan program with a 6%* rate and had his loan funded in just under 1 week!”.

Forest and Lynn Tardibuono are Founders and Owners of Sun Pacific Mortgage & Real Estate, located in Santa Rosa, CA, north of San Francisco. The company was founded in Sonoma County in January 1988, to provide honest real estate transactions and alternative financing to the community. To this day it is still family owned and operated.

They offer their traditional Hard Money Loan Programs and Alt-A Hard Money for real estate needs throughout all of California. From the moment the company started, they have specialized in borrowers and home buyers who were “turned down elsewhere”.  This financing is known as Hard Money or Private Money and is Sun Pacific’s specialty. Such loans are funded by individuals who live locally, therefore there are less qualifications and it is faster to get the funds – unlike other lending institutions which require much more qualifications and require 30-90 days to funding.

Their website can be seen at https://www.sunpacificmortgage.com/ or they can be reached at (702) 523-2099. They stand ready to get help you with a Hard Money loan where others turn you down!


Company DRE license # 0146899 and NMLS #360993
*APR for this rate based on a $200,000 first mortgage is 6.31%

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

3 Reasons You Should Hire a Professional for Tree Care

By Nancy Penrose

The trees on your property require routine maintenance. As time goes on, you may notice limbs look dangerously low, or maybe signs of health issues look like they’re popping up. Fixing these types of things yourself may be your first thought, but hiring a professional is a better choice, whether it’s a small job or a large project. Here are a few reasons why hiring a professional for your tree care is the right way to go.

1. Professionals know everything there is to know about trees and their health

Trees are susceptible to health issues just like humans or animals. If left untreated, the tree can have major consequences to its appearance and livelihood. The cause of any health condition can vary, but a professional will know exactly how to solve the issue and the best way to do it so you can save time and money.

2. Safety

It’s no secret that tree care professionals have safety at the top of their mind. Especially when it comes to heavy branches, limbs that are too low to walk under, or branches growing too close to the house. A professional will be able to keep your family safe while carefully removing these parts of the tree.

3. Have a beautiful yard

It may seem easy enough to trim your own hedges, but an untrained eye can create quite an eyesore. Professional arborists know how to manicure all types of trees in ways that will add value to your home and make your outdoor space beautiful.

At Big Trees, we are happy to come by and check out your trees for safety and health. Just contact us today at (866) 313-2333 to get started.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at https://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Big Trees Inc. Assists with Landscaping Between Two Estates

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company in the Seattle area, was asked to assist with a landscaping situation between two estates in Medina, WA.

There was a row of very tall, older Western Red Cedar trees between two large estates, and the trees had become unstable. It was unclear if the trees would remain standing if a heavy wind event were to occur, and if they were to fall, they would hit one of the residences.

Once the decision was made to remove the trees for safety reasons, there was uncertainty on how to re-establish the privacy that the trees had created. Big Trees was contacted for a solution to the shared landscape. After an on-site consultation, Big Trees suggested a solution.

The measurements were taken of the length of the necessary screening effort, as well as how tall the trees would need to be to accomplish the desired privacy. Excelsa Cedars were chosen to be the best choice for the location because of their 25 to 35-foot height.

“It’s very exciting to see such a large landscape installation occur for our clients, and to feel the appreciation for what we are able to offer them. Our large trees are able to make such an immediate difference for the privacy of both estates.” said Nancy Penrose, owner of Big Trees.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://www.bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Silva Construction Restores Fire Damaged Master Bedroom

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction, (https://www.silvaconstruction.com/) a residential and commercial remodeling company serving the south bay area of Los Angeles, recently restored a home that had been damaged by a fire.

The fire in the home was started by an incandescent light bulb that was in one of the closets in the downstairs master bedroom. The contents of the house, down to the studs, were totally destroyed or damaged. Although many of the framing members had to be replaced, the overall structure stayed intact. Three small ceramic cows survived the fire which are now displayed in their new kitchen.

The family decided to renovate and add onto their current space, adding a new balcony with a larger master bedroom. The steps Silva Construction had to take to renovate their room included:
  • Tearing out all of the fire damage from the fire.
  • Drawing up plans for the new addition for the balcony and getting it approved by the city.
  • Replacing or repairing all damaged wood, framing and plumbing so the structure could be sound again.
  • Building the foundation, framing, plumbing and electrical to complete the add-on and the rest of the room to a full restoration.
Dave Silva, Executive Director of Silva Construction, stated “It is very rewarding to work with a family that was hit by a tragedy like this, and help make them whole by putting their home back into shape for them to live in it again. ”

Dave Silva and David Clarke are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Monday, August 26, 2019

5 Popular Types of Flooring for Your Home

By Niko Papaheraklis

So, you’re thinking of changing your flooring, but you’re not sure what all your options are. Well, we’ve got you covered! Below, we’ve listed out the most popular types of flooring, the cost of each, their pros and cons, and where each type is best suited in your home.

1. Wood Floor

Hardwood floor is popular for a good reason! It looks great and has great resale value. They’re easy to clean and maintain, and usually only require vacuuming or sweeping. It’s easy to add any type of furniture to the space, so your design options are vast.

Wood floor is perfect for living rooms because it’s stylish and can remain protected since it’s not a high traffic area.

The largest drawback when it comes to wood floor is the cost. Depending on the type of hardwood you go with, it could cost you between $3 and $12 per square foot. And on top of that, you will need to pay to get it installed. A couple of other cons is that they can be loud to walk on and are cold in the winter months.

2. Laminate

Probably the best thing about laminate flooring is that it doesn’t easily scratch. The next best thing is that it can look like real wood or tile. Just like hard wood floor, laminate is easy to clean and is great for pets since they can’t scratch it.

Costwise, you’re looking at anywhere between $0.50 to $3 per square foot, plus the cost of installation. The best rooms for laminate flooring is in high traffic areas because of its durability. The downside to laminate is that if it gets ruined, you can’t refinish it.

3. Vinyl

If you like floor that is quiet and easy on your feet, you’ll love vinyl. However, vinyl doesn’t look as good as the real thing, and it tends to dent and tear easily. The cost of vinyl can be as low as $1 and as high as $5 per square foot. Vinyl is a great option for laundry rooms as it can reduce the noise from laundry machines.

4. Tile

Durability and scratch resistant is what tile is best known for. It’s water resistant and comes in a variety of sizes and materials. Plus, it’s not difficult to clean and doesn’t stain all that easily. Due to the variety of tiles, the price can range from $1 to $20 per square foot.

The downside to tile is that it can be very loud to walk on and it’s cold in the winter. And if your tile cracks, it can be difficult to repair. The best rooms for tile would be bathrooms or kitchens, or any space where food and drinks spill frequently.

5. Carpeting

With a wide range of styles, textures and designs, carpet offers homeowners a lot of versatility. Living rooms, Stairs, bedrooms, family rooms – carpet can be laid down in nearly any place of the home.

Here are some pluses and minuses of carpeting.
  • It provides warmth and comfort to your home
  • It is available in limitless colors and styles
  • It tends to dampen noise
  • It requires significant maintenance
  • It easily attracts dirt and stains
  • It generally does not last as long as other flooring materials
At Finecraft Contractors, if you can imagine it, we can build it. If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

FineCraft Contractors Becomes an Affiliate Member of AIADC

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) has become an affiliate member of the Washington DC Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

The American Institute of Architects in DC (AIADC) was founded in 1887 and serves the Nation’s Capital. This chapter was intimately involved in the design and planning of the Washington area, and continues to be actively involved in city development today.

Being a member of AIADC means that FineCraft is a part of a global community of 94,000 professionals, and they have the privilege to be connected with opportunities to continually improve their profession and make a larger impact with their services.

Jimena Layton, a past client of FineCraft Contractors stated, “Finecraft contractors is a well-rounded professional company in the DC area. Their crew is highly skilled and the staff has superb customer service. Every project we have seen has exceeded our expectations. It is hard to find a building company with such high attention to detail. Working with the FineCraft family makes your experience enjoyable and gratifying.”

Another past client, Joseph Richardson, said, “This was my first experience working with George of FineCraft. He is a professional who listens, asks intelligent questions, and proposes great solutions based on his years of experience in the industry. The quality of FineCraft’s work is high, and the staff is friendly and responsive. I strongly recommend George and the FineCraft team.”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Thursday, August 8, 2019

3 Common Tree Problems

By Nancy Penrose

How many times have you looked at your trees, saw something off and thought, “hmm… is that normal?” And then forgot about it or decided to put it off? Even if this happened to you just once, it’s time to learn the three most common tree problems, so when you see it, you can get it fixed as soon as possible.

1. Scorched Leaves

Overexposure to harsh sunlight can cause leaves to get scorched. This is evidenced by leaves that are dehydrated and look brown, shriveled and burned. To help prevent this from happening, increase watering and add mulch for protection.

2. Improper Pruning

Most commonly, improper pruning is when trees are overly trimmed or are severely under-trimmed. No matter the case, the tree can have a hard time absorbing water and breathing properly.

3. Wilted Leaves

Leaves that are wilted lose their shape and look lifeless. This is caused by water loss and drought is often the reason behind wilted leaves. You can remedy this by relocating the plant to an area with less sunlight or increasing the watering.

These are just three of the most common tree problems. At Big Trees, we are fully trained on all types of diseases and issues trees can have, and we know exactly how to remedy them. Just contact us today at (866) 313-2333 and we’ll take a look at your tree to give you the best recommendation.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com/), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at https://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Big Trees Inc. Installs Large Japanese Maple for Client

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company, helped install a large Japanese Maple into a landscape for their clients under short notice, and the project went off without a hitch.

Big Trees was approached by their clients asking for help with a special, new specimen tree for a focal point in their garden. They were having a significant event in the near future and were hoping to have the tree delivered and installed as soon as possible to maintain their current schedule of events.

After walking through the lanes and aisles of the nursery, the clients found one of the larger red Japanese Maples to be the tree to install. The tree is 17-feet tall and 10-feet wide, and has a trunk the diameter of around 8 inches at the base. The tree and root ball together weighed around 2,500 pounds.

A date was made with the clients that fit into their timeline, and the Big Trees crews delivered and installed the tree in short order. The tree was the perfect size for the landscape, and everyone was satisfied with the experience.

“Getting to meet unexpected deadlines and anticipation can be a very exciting aspect of what goes on here at Big Trees! The clients, and we at Big Trees are very pleased with the outcome of this project,” said Nancy, owner of Big Trees.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreessupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Silva Construction Urges Homeowners to Get Earthquake Retrofitting in Light of Recent Earthquakes

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction (https://www.silvaconstruction.com/), a residential and commercial remodeling company serving the south bay area of Los Angeles, is urging homeowners to consider getting earthquake retrofitting in light of two recent earthquakes.

In less than two days, California experienced two of the largest earthquakes in the state since 1999. On July 4th, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Ridgecrest, CA, 100 miles east of Bakersfield, with effects felt all the way to the Los Angeles area. Then the very next day, a 7.1 earthquake struck the same region, causing serious damage to buildings and roads in the area. Because of the large magnitudes of these quakes, seismologists are warning Californians to prepare for even more seismic activity.

Earthquake retrofitting is the process of securely anchoring a home to its foundation, and can save tens of thousands in the event of an earthquake. Homes that are not retrofitted can actually move off their foundation in a large seismic event.

Dave Silva, Executive Director of Silva Construction, stated “We urge homeowners to get earthquake retrofitting done to their homes, to ensure they are really protected during an earthquake. These recent earthquakes remind us that a large seismic event can strike at any time, so it’s vital to think ahead and prepare.”

Dave Silva and David Clarke are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Monday, July 22, 2019

How to Choose Hardware for your Kitchen

By Niko Papaheraklis

Even the small things matter when remodeling or designing your home. Choosing kitchen hardware may seem like a small detail, but it can throw the entire room off if you choose the wrong pieces! Below are some of our tips to help you choose kitchen hardware that will elevate your space.

Choose a theme and stick with it

There are so many different styles of kitchens out there, and they all look amazing! But it’s important to choose a style that fits you and you won’t outgrow in the years to come. Once you choose a theme, make sure you stick with it when it comes to picking out your hardware (or any design element, really.)

2. Keep the finishes cohesive

There are a wide variety of finishes, from brushed nickel to brass; from glossy to matte. While mixing and matching certain hardware can come together really well, it’s important to keep the finish the same to tie everything together.

3. Keep the color of your cabinets in mind

The color of your cabinets can help determine what type of hardware to get, and in what finish. For example, certain shades of brown aren’t very flexible and will only look good with a specific finish. Whereas white or painted cabinets can look good with just about anything.

4. Don’t forget about other appliances and fixtures

Make sure you keep in mind the finish on your appliances, light fixtures and your sink and faucet. Mixing metal finishes can look good when it’s not overdone, but having too many different finishes can throw the entire space off.

At Finecraft Contractors, if you can imagine it, we can build it. Making a space flow well is our specialty, and we love helping you choose these types of elements for your design or remodel! If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

FineCraft Contractors Had a Successful Construction Tour at Capitol Hill

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) had a successful construction tour at a custom build in Capitol Hill in collaboration with Jonathan Kuhn Architects and AIAPV CRAN.

FineCraft is in the middle of constructing a new two-story family home that sits between two existing rowhouses. This type of construction is complex and requires highly experienced and knowledgeable contractors. A construction tour allows them to keep others within the industry informed on the happenings with the project.

On June 13, 2019, FineCraft Contractors had a successful construction tour and spoke about the processes they had encountered so far, and the trials and tribulations that went along with it. They also spoke about structural and environmental challenges encountered, how design and other issues were resolved, and lessons learned.

Jimena L. stated, “FineCraft Contractors is a well rounded professional company in the DC area. Their crew is highly skilled and the staff has superb customer service. Every project we have seen has exceeded our expectations. It is hard to find a building company with such high attention to detail. Working with the FineCraft family makes your experience enjoyable and gratifying.”

Steven Richards and Associates, Inc., a company who collaborated with FineCraft in the past said, “FineCraft does excellent work! Extreme attention to detail. George has a very good eye and is very accommodating. His crew have been with him for a long time. That is very important to me as an Interior Designer. A company is only as good as the people who work for him. I highly recommend FineCraft Contractors.”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Friday, July 5, 2019

Big Trees Inc. Helps Transplant Large Palm Trees

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company in the Seattle area, was approached by a new client and was asked to help with a transplanting project involving a number of large palm trees.

The client wanted five of the palm trees moved from a commercial property over to a residence, and to replace a dead palm tree with a new one on the same commercial property.

These 16-foot tall palm trees were treated the day before with anti-shock treatment to minimize the loss of hydration to the trees during the process. They were dug and structured into root balls weighing around 400 - 600 pounds each. Once the five trees were loaded up onto Big Trees’ truck and the single palm tree was transplanted onsite, Big Trees’ heavy flatbed truck and trailer with the loader made its way to Mercer Island to have the palm trees planted throughout a lakeside property.

“The transformation that tree transplanting can make to a property can be astounding. One of the most enjoyable and reoccurring stories we hear about is when loved ones or family friends make it to a property where our large tree installations have occurred, and while the person seeing this environment can’t put their finger on it, they know something significant has happened there! Sometimes they are in the shade of the newly planted tree, and just cannot figure out what is new and different,” said Nancy, owner of Big Trees.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

When Should You Have a Tree Removed from Your Property?

By Nancy Penrose

As you probably already know, trees can provide several benefits to your home and property. They can add value to your home and they can also provide shade in the warmer months.

However, trees can also have their own risks. Eventually, all trees become too old or unsafe to be kept on your property. So, how can you know when it’s time to get a tree removed?

When you see something strange

If you start to notice something strange is happening to your tree, do not wait. Call an arborist immediately for them to take a look and identify the issue. They’ll be able to let you know what the best next step should be. Dying branches should be removed immediately because they can fall at any moment.

Examine the tree from afar

In order to see if there’s anything wrong with your tree in the first place, you’ll need to take a step back and look at the tree as a whole. Look out for any leaning that’s new (a leaning tree can be a sign that it’s dying), inspect the ground around the base of the tree as the roots can tell you a lot about the health of the tree. If the roots look damaged or look like they’re decaying, the tree has lost some structural support and has the potential of falling at any point. Finally, inspect the tree’s trunk. A crack in the trunk can indicate that a tree is no longer structurally sound.

At Big Trees, we will come out and inspect your tree to see if there are any signs of damage or decay. Just contact us today at (866) 313-2333 to get started.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at https://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Silva Construction Gives Tips to Homeowners on a 2nd Story Home Addition

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction, (https://www.silvaconstruction.com) a construction company, is offering to tips to homeowners who are interested in the possibility of a second story addition onto a one-story home.

Dave Silva, co-owner of Silva Construction, stated “Adding a second story or even a third story addition onto a one-story home can capture new views, which will increase the value along with maximizing square footage on a small lot. This type of project could require moving out of the house for the duration of the renovation but you’ll move back into a home that is twice the size. Here are some things to consider.”
  • Making it all work together. A good design will make your new second story look like it fits with the rest of the house.
  • Structural requirements. A second story will weigh much more than your old roof, so engineers will have to calculate how much weight the first-floor walls and the home’s foundation can carry and how to reinforce it to carry the new weight.
  • Stairs. A new staircase usually takes a bite out of your first-floor rooms. It takes good planning and design choice to minimize the bite.
  • Mechanical. When you increase the size of your home, you will have to re-evaluate the likely upgrade your furnace, water heater and electrical panel.
  • Chimneys. When you have a masonry chimney and add a story to your home, you will have to eliminate the chimney or build it up to above the new roof level.
  • Finishes. Often the style of your doors, trim, wall finish, and flooring, will dictate the finishes in the new story. But adding a new story allows you to change those things if you want.
  • Insulation. When engineering plans requires old siding to be removed from the exterior, it also gives you the chance to install new insulation, which is important because many older homes have poor insulation. And upgrading will give you better energy efficiency.”
The team at Silva Construction has done a number of second story addition projects, and can guide homeowners through the process.

David Clarke and Dave Silva are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

The FineCraft Experience

By Niko Papaheraklis

Nowadays, it really isn’t enough to just do a service and call it a day. Obviously, you want to make sure the service you provide is high quality, but in today’s world we owe it to our clients to be much more than just a service. That’s why at FineCraft, we work very hard to give our clients an experience that makes their entire process with us as enjoyable as possible. A few ways we do that include:

Time management

We respect our clients’ time. We know time is valuable and we work hard to make sure our time management is spot on. If we say a project will be done in ‘x’ weeks then it will be. We know that remodeling and construction may have a bit of a reputation for taking too long, so we really make it a point to always stick to our word and get projects done on time.

Keeping clients informed

We always aim to have a lot of communication with our clients. We want to keep the homeowners apprised of what’s going on at all times. This way, if for any reason we get a little behind on schedule or if a decision needs to be made, we let them know right away. This takes away surprises and gives the homeowner peace of mind about what is going on with their home.

At FineCraft Contractors, our clients are very important to us. We want to make sure they enjoy their experience and that they’re always in the know of what’s going on with their home. If you take a glance at our testimonials, you’ll see that our clients love working with us because of the experience we give them. If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Friday, June 14, 2019

FineCraft Contractors was Featured on Houzz.com

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) was recently featured in an article on Houzz.com.

Matt Clawson, a Houzz contributor, recently wrote an article about the 5 Remodels That Make Good Resale Value Sense — and 5 That Don’t.
This article featured one of FineCraft’s living room remodels as an example to show how adding or upgrading your living room space is a good investment.

The article stated: “Newly added square footage generally increases your home’s value.” FineCraft remodels living rooms, kitchens and bathrooms to add value to your home and to make it a comfortable space to be in by homeowners and guests.

The article can be seen here: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/5-remodels-that-make-good-resale-value-sense-and-5-that-dont-stsetivw-vs~48158905

The FIneCraft team says this regarding home remodels: “You can change up the way you live by remodeling the layout and flow of your house which helps you achieve a better flow. Get rid of some walls and open up your kitchen, invite people in by converting your dated split-level to a contemporary lifestyle. Sky’s the limit when it comes to remodeling!”

CJ’s Design Studio, a past client of FineCraft Contractors stated, “We recently completed a large remodeling project in partnership with FineCraft Contractors, Inc. The project encompassed a large, high end kitchen and two baths, including the Master Bath. George Papaheraklis and his fine crew are a pleasure to work with and have a keen action to detail. No request was too small and every team member was respectful and professional. The end product turned out exactly as we had designed it, plus George made some wonderful suggestions along the way which were executed in the overall project… George is highly professional, easy to work with and his team is dedicated to their craft.”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Friday, June 7, 2019

Big Trees Inc. Transplanted Large Fruit Trees in Central Washington

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc., (https://bigtreesupply.com/), a tree sales and transplant company, was asked to come to Central Washington and transplant a number of large fruit trees from an apple growing property, to the owner’s property a few miles down the road.

The client had called initially in February and began asking questions about what would be involved with moving ten large trees in the Yakima area. After discussing tree varieties and sizes, the limitations and logistics involved, and the long-term care for the trees after transplanting, the client decided to move forward.

The 90-foot tree spade truck can take a root ball of around seven feet in diameter and four feet deep, weighing around 8,000 pounds, with the tree’s trunk and branches adding an additional 1,000 pounds of wood weight. It tends to be best suited for moving trees in the 20 to 25-foot height range.

An estimated cost for the travel and onsite operations was agreed on, and the date was set for the crew and tree spade truck to arrive. The crew left early in the morning on the start day and arrived with plenty of daylight to make progress on the project. The crew stayed overnight and made quick work of the remaining trees the next day, allowing them to drive back to Snohomish well before closing of the shop that day. The newly transplanted trees were in the 20-foot height rand and 10 to 12-feet wide. The trees were spaced out in a field behind a property that the owner is going to be developing into their new residence.

“The 90-foot Big John tree spade truck is an impressive piece of equipment! When all of the access and tree situations line up for the truck’s needs, this machine is a very capable option for moving large trees in a successful and rapid manner,” said Nancy, owner of Big Trees.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

What is a Certified Arborist and Why Should You Use One?

By Nancy Penrose

Alright, so first things first. What is an arborist? Well, to put it simply, an arborist is a professional who is highly trained in the science of planting, caring for and maintaining trees.

Ok, so what about a certified arborist? A certified arborist is someone who is highly seasoned and has been certified by the International Society of Arboriculture. The only way to become ISA-certified is to pass rigorous certification exams that test one’s knowledge about the various parts of arboriculture, the study of how trees grow and respond to their environment.

Why should I use a certified arborist?

Arborists are tree-care experts. In fact, they are required to have at least 3-years of experience within the field. They also are required to stay up-to-date on the most recent arboriculture techniques.
When you use a certified arborist, you’re utilizing the experience, skills and know-how of these professionals so your trees can be properly taken care of on your property.

The trees on your property are an investment that effect the value of your property. Trees that are not taken care of properly can devalue your home and even make create safety hazards. On the flip side, if your trees are well-maintained and properly taken care of, the value of your home can increase and those around it will remain safe.

When you hire a certified arborist, you’ll feel assured that your tree professional knows how to perform any type of tree-care activity, such as pruning, removal, trimming, etc.

At Big Trees, we offer a one-year warranty and a free aftercare visit from our Board Certified Master Arborist when we install trees. Just contact us today at (866) 313-2333 to get started.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (https://bigtreesupply.com), (tree nursery Snohomish, WA), one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries, specializing in large trees for sale and transplant tree service. Learn more about tree preservation at https://bigtreesupply.com/tree-care-maintenance/ and for more tips on tree care or installation go to privacytree.net. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6vVhNW1XJI and connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Trees-Inc/193731105108.

Saturday, May 25, 2019

Silva Construction Offers Soft Story Retrofit Services

SAN PEDRO, CA: Silva Construction, (https://www.silvaconstruction.com) a construction company, is now offering soft story retrofit services.

A typical Soft-Story building is a building with two or more stories located over a ground level floor with large openings, such as parking garages, or a commercial store with a large glass front. Without proper retrofitting, these building may be subjected to structural failure during or after an earthquake.

The City of Los Angeles recently passed a law mandating the retrofitting of all wood-frame soft-story structures.

The first step in any soft-story retrofitting project is analyzing the building and determining the best way to strengthen the structure, out of several available options. One of Silva Construction’s experts will determine the best approach.

Dave Silva stated “Getting a soft story structure retrofitted is mandatory in the city of Los Angeles. But even in other cities, this is an important step for an owner of a soft story apartment or retail building. During an earthquake these soft story structures can be very dangerous. Getting them retrofitted is the proactive approach to avoiding serious damage.”

David Clarke and Dave Silva are owners of Silva Construction, Inc., located in San Pedro, CA. The company has over 40 years of experience in remodeling construction, and serves Southern California’s South Bay area, including Westchester, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Harbor City, Lomita, Torrance, and other select areas. Their blog can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com/blog3/ and their website can be seen at https://www.silvaconstruction.com. They can be reached at 310-831-6310.

Friday, May 17, 2019

A Mid Century Modern Project Open House

By Niko Papaheraklis

We are very excited to share that we are having an open house of a mid century modern project we did with Manion Architects! The open house will be on Saturday, May 18th at 2:00pm to 5:00pm in Potomac, MD.

For this project, we added a rear addition and remodeled the interior to give this growing family more space to enjoy with a lot of natural light. It is a stunning project you’ll want to see in person!

An open house is often used for prospective buyers to look at a home staged with furniture to get an idea of what it would be like to live there. This project open house is for clients who are looking for a company to help remodel their home, and is a great way to view a completed project and get an in-person feel for the type of work they do.

With that said, we’re inviting you to this project open house. There will be some food and refreshments for your enjoyment and we cannot wait to see you there! To RSVP to the open house, simply click here: http://evite.me/ga7uZU58Ec

At Finecraft Contractors, if you can imagine it, we can build it. We always keep your health and comfort in mind when designing and building. If you have a renovation idea or want to remodel sections of your home, call us at 301-330-9191 and we’ll give you a thoroughly thought out estimate.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., Since 1985, FineCraft home remodeling contractors have been building houses, home additions, kitchen & bath remodeling and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.

Tuesday, May 14, 2019

FineCraft Contractors Building a Row House in Washington, DC

GAITHERSBURG, MD: FineCraft Contractors, Inc., (https://finecraftcontractors.com/) is currently building a row house from the ground up in Washington DC.

Since most row houses are added onto or remodeled, FineCraft Contractors Inc. is doing something different by building it from the ground up. Jonathon Kuhn is the architect and the project will be two units with two living quarters complete with two kitchens, two master baths, two family rooms, and more.

FineCraft Contractors just finished the foundation, which consisted of installing 60 helical piers and pouring the footers and foundation slab, and the framing is currently in progress. With this project being located in the Capitol Hill area of Washington, DC, it is just minutes from the Capitol, off of New Jersey Ave in SE.

Lobkovich Kitchen Designs Inc., a company who collaborated with FineCraft in the past said, “We have collaborated with FineCraft on several projects and have been impressed with their integrity, client commitment, as well as the overall quality of their work. Each of these projects were medium sized renovations with very complex design details. George and his team always try hard to please the client. We look forward to working with them again on future projects!”

Savannah C., a past client of FineCraft Contractors stated, “FineCraft Contractors, Inc. is an excellent company! The staff are very professional and efficient. I was so impressed by their work. The quality and design of their projects are some of the best I’ve seen in this industry. I would gladly work with them again!”

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.