The Remodeler's Way

Chimney Water Damage Repairs from Bad Roof Flashing

Posted by Brad Way on Tue, Nov 29, 2011 @ 10:11 AM

Home Remodeling Project Updates (11/29/2011)

Chimney Water Damage Repairs

Rotted Chimney Floor Joist FramingEver wonder what years of water build-up on untreated wood will do? The answer is simple: Lots and lots of rotten wood!

Steve Way Builders, LLC was recently contracted by the homeowners of this Lansing, Michigan home to investigate the source of some water damage showing on some drywall within the home. Upon further investigation, the source of the water problem was unmistakable. For roughly 20 or more years, water was running within the wall of the chimney due to improper roof flashing.

To fix the flashing and water damage problem, Steve Way Builders, LLC needed to re-flash the chimney and fix any wood that has been damaged. After removing the vinyl siding and sheathing on the chimney wall, the water damage was extensive. The sheathing was completely rotted away, as was one of the 16' wall studs in the chimney wall. Also badly rotted was the floor joist and subfloor system of the cantilevered chimney base.

Water Damaged Chimney1          Chimney Wall Water Damage

After the rotted wood was removed, new joists were "sistered" in to the original floor system and a new stud was installed to finish the chimney wall framing. New insulation was installed in the chimney to replace the original water logged insulation. The new chimney wall was sheathed with plywood and covered with Tyvek HomeWrap to help prevent moisture from entering the chimney wall.

Repaired Water Damaged ChimneyWith the chimney framing fixed, Steve Way Builders, LLC removed roof shingles to fix the flashing surrounding the chimney. Aluminum coil stock was custom bent to create multiple flashing pieces for the chimney. After fixing the chimney flashing, the shingles and vinyl siding that were removed earlier were re-installed, completing the chimney repair.

As seen in this home, poor roof flashing can cause major problems within a home. The best way to prevent water damage is to have the job completed correctly the first time around. Unfortunately this is not always the case. When you find yourself with a water leak, fix the problem as soon as possible to prevent mold build-up and to keep the costs to fix the problem as inexpensive as possible.

What other suggestions to do have regarding water damage and roof flashing? Have you found yourself in a similar situation?


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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist 

Topics: Project News/Updates

Damaged Metal Awning - Roof and Fascia Repairs

Posted by Brad Way on Thu, Oct 20, 2011 @ 09:10 AM

Home Remodeling Project Updates (10/20/2011)

Metal Roof Repair / Replacement

Metal Awning Roof DamageThis addition of "Home Remodeling Project Updates" focuses on a metal roof repair in Lansing, Michigan. Steve Way Builders, LLC was contacted by the Habitat for Humanity of Lansing to fix the metal awning on the front of their office building.

The metal awning was hit by a box truck while loading and unloading materials. As a result, the ends of the metal roof panels had been damage, as well as several pieces of fascia and soffit. Luckily, the buildings roof was not damaged to the point of leaking, yet unfortunately, the aesthetic appeal of the Habitat facility had suffered.

The first step taken to replace the metal roof was to get a color sample. One of the most important things when completing a repair, as opposed to a complete replacement, is to make sure there is a seamless transition from original material to new material. Once the color was obtained and matched, the material for the metal roof was ordered.

In total, six panels of 3' wide metal roofing sections were removed and replaced. Six of the ten pieces of metal fascia were also replaced due the damage from the box truck. The soffit under the awing was also able to be repaired and re-nailed. With the metal roof repaired and replaced, the Habitat for Humanity of Lansing is able to do what they do best; Continue helping the community while maintaining a professional and positive image.

Repairing Metal Roofing Systems          Metal Awning Roof Repair and Replacement

Do your have any questions or comments about this metal roof repair? What style of roof do you like better: Metal or Shingles?

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Project News/Updates

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel near Completion

Posted by Brad Way on Wed, Sep 28, 2011 @ 14:09 PM

Home Remodeling Project Updates (9/28/2011)

Kitchen / Bathroom Remodel

Steve Way Builders, LLC is nearing completion on a kitchen and bathroom remodeling project in East Lansing, Michigan. The kitchen, bathroom, and mudroom are awaiting final paint to complete their newly-designed home transformation. The last "Home Remodeling Project Update" left us with kitchen and bathroom cabinets waiting to receive counter tops and final trim.

Currently, the remodeled kitchen is 95% complete. The cabinets have all of the trim work completed, including crown moulding, furniture base, and shoe mould. The nail holes have been filled to complete the final detailing of the kitcen. Last week, the quartz kitchen counter tops were delivered and installed, which allowed for the sink and faucet to be connected. Also completed last week was the ceramic tile backsplash with accent tiles. These main additions to the kitchen are really starting to show its finished appeal.

Remodeled Kitchen Cabinets          Kitchen Remodeling Project

The upstairs full bathroom is nealy complete as well. The bathroom vanity sink and counter tops are now installed. The paint on the walls, trim, and wains coat is also completed within the bathroom. The only thing this remodeled bathroom is missing is the mirror, which is scheduled for delivery next week.

Remodeled Bathroom          Bathroom Remodeling

Back Deck and Mudroom AdditionWork in the rear entry mudroom is being completed as custom lockers and shelving have been built and installed. The maple locker units have been stained and custom doors are being made to match the kitchen cabinets. Outside the mudroom, the temporary deck and stairs have been removed and replaced with composite decking by AZEK Building Products. The mudroom will be completely finished this week as it will receive its final coat of paint.

Once these portions of the home are completed, the major remodeled areas will be finished. The final step for the project will be the installation of wall cabinets in the laundry room and an encased shelving unit with glass shelves in the living room. By the end of next week, this project will be completed and Steve Way Builders, LLC will be moving onto another project.

With this home nearing completion, what is your favorite part of the remodeling project?

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Kitchen Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling, Project News/Updates

Kitchen Cabinetry Trim and Bathroom Shower / Vanity Installation

Posted by Brad Way on Fri, Sep 02, 2011 @ 10:09 AM

Home Remodeling Project Updates (9/2/2011)

Kitchen / Bathroom Remodel

Steve Way Builders, LLC is starting to complete finishing work on a Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling project located in East Lansing, Michigan. This remodeling project has consisted of completely demolishing the original kitchen and bathroom in order to create newly designed areas within the home, as well as the addition of a mudroom and rear entry area.

Kitchen remodeling Stainless AppliancesThe last "Home Remodeling Project Update" showed the initial installation of the kitchen cabinets as well as the newly installed oak hardwood flooring in the kitchen area. The painting had also been completed in the kitchen. The upstairs full bathroom had received new ceramic tile and was awaiting to be painted. The ceramic tile in the mudroom had also been installed and paint is to be completed at the same time as the bathroom.

Now for the most current updates for this kitchen and bathroom remodel, starting in the kitchen. The rough installation of the Mid Continental Cabinets have been completed and finish work has been started. The finish work includes crown moulding, toe kick, and hardware for the cabinet doors and drawers. The kitchen appliances have also been delivered and installed. The dishwasher is set in place but will not be installed until the new sink and counter tops are delivered. All the finish electrical work is completed within the kitchen area. The only thing left for this kitchen remodel is the remaining crown moulding, base and window trim, and lastly, the sink and counter tops which are currently being scribed.

Remodeling Kitchen Cabinets          Remodeled Kitchen and Appliances

The upstairs bathroom has also had some drastic changes since the previous remodeling update. The fiberglass shower is now complete with fixtures and a sliding glass door. The toilet stool has also been installed, as well as the double sink vanity. The painting has been completed, and a decorative wood wains coat is currently being installed. The finish electrical work is close to being finished, but is on hold until the bathroom fan light is vented to the outside. The next steps for this bathroom remodel includes the completion of the wains coat, base and window trim, and the sink and counter top.

Remodeling Bathrooms          Remodel Mudroom Addition

The mudroom and rear entry addition has received its final coat of paint for the interior walls, and is awaiting the completion of the custom shelving units. The electrical work has been completed. The exterior walls have one coat of paint finished and will receive a second coat at a later date. The composite deck material will be delivered early next week and will be installed by the end of the week.

The homeowners, as well as ourselves, are really excited as this home remodeling project is getting closer and closer to being a finished product. Check back in a couple of weeks for the next addition of our "Home Remodeling Project Updates."

Until then, what questions do you have regarding this project? Leave a comment below, or ask us a question to get your dream home makeover started today.

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Kitchen Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling, Project News/Updates

Installing Kitchen Cabinets and Finishing a Mudroom Addition

Posted by Brad Way on Fri, Aug 19, 2011 @ 08:08 AM

Home Remodeling Project Updates (8/19/2011) Part 2

Kitchen / Bathroom Remodel

If you have been following along with the previous addition of "Home Remodeling Project Updates," you will be glad to see that Steve Way Builders, LLC is moving right along with this Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel in East Lansing, Michigan. If you need to catch up, here's a brief description of the remodeling project.

Ceramic Tile Mudroom AdditionThe original kitchen and adjacent half bath have been demolished and joined together to make into one large, redesigned kitchen that includes new oak flooring, cabinets and counter tops, windows, and appliances. The upstairs full bath is also being completely remodeled and features a double vanity sink, 4 foot fiberglass shower stall, and ceramic tile flooring. The original rear entry will transform from a covered porch into an enclosed mudroom with cermamic tile floors and custom shelving.

Now for the newest updates. The ceramic tile floors in both the bathroom and the mudroom addition have now been installed. Resilient floor heating mats have been installed underneath the ceramic tile in both the bathroom and mudroom. The drywall in is now completely finished and sanded througout the entire project, allowing for painting to make it's stamp on this home remodeling project. The kitchen, as well as the the exterior vertical siding of the mudroom addition, have received their base coats of paint. The paint on the masonry block walls outside the mudroom is completely finished with paint after receiving two coats.

Exterior Paint for Mudroom Addition          Vertical Siding Painting on Mudroom Addition

The main focus now is within the kitchen remodeling portion of the project. As stated earlier, the base coat of paint has been applied to the walls and ceiling. The hardwood oak flooring has also been installed. This makes room for the kitchen cabinets to be installed. Currently, all of the base cabinets are set in place, and the upper wall cabinets are next in line. The maple kitchen cabinets have a cherry color and a harvest finish.

Kitchen Base Cabinets          Kitchen Base and Full Wall Cabinets

Next in line for this home remodeling project is the completion of the kitchen cabinets, as well as getting the counter top scribed and cut, so that it can be installed. The painting also needs to be completed for the bathroom, mudroom, and wood siding, and the second coat needs to be applied in the kitchen.

Every day is exciting as this project gets a little closer to a final product. What questions do you have about the completion of this project? Let us know in the comments section below. Or give us a call to schedule your home remodeling project today!

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Kitchen Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling, Project News/Updates

Garage Door Replacement and Installation

Posted by Brad Way on Wed, Aug 17, 2011 @ 19:08 PM

Home Remodeling Project Updates (8/19/2011) Part 1

Garage Remodel / Door Replacement

This week, Steve Way Builders, LLC took on the task of replacing a garage door in Mason, Michigan. The original garage had an 8' wide X 7' tall door that was simply too small. The homeowners contacted Steve Way Builders to replace the door with a 10' wide X 7' tall door with cascade style windows in the top panel.

The garage had to be slightly remodeled in order to install the new door. First, the aluminum siding had to be removed from the ground level to above the top of the header so the opening could be increased to make room for door. A 2" X 12" header was installed to support the span opening, and  2" X 6" 's were installed for the completion of the door jambs. Once the door was installed on its tracks and the automatic opener re-installed, coil stock was used to trim the exterior face of the door jambs to achieve a nice finished appearance without painting the trim. Concrete patching was needed to fill the side sections of the larger garage opening, completing the door replacement for this remodeled garage.

Garage Door Remodeling          Replacing Garage Doors

A difference can easily be seen by comparing the before and after pictures above.

A testimonial written by the homeowner can be viewed by clicking here.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for Part 2 of this weeks "Home Remodeling Project Updates." Until then, do you have any questions or comments regarding this remodeling project? Please ask in the comments section below.

 

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Project News/Updates, Garage Remodeling

Home Remodeling Project Updates (8/4/2011)

Posted by Brad Way on Thu, Aug 04, 2011 @ 06:08 AM

(8/4/2011) Home Remodeling Project Updates  

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel

Home Remodeling ProjectIf you missed the previous Home Remodeling Project Update, Steve Way Builders, LLC is currently working on a large kitchen and bathroom remodel located in East Lansing, MI. The major portions of this remodeling project consist of a complete demolition of the original kitchen to make room for a brand new enlarged kitchen with new cabinets, counter tops, appliances, windows, and oak flooring. The second main portion of the remodeling project include demolishing the upstairs full bath and starting from scrath to create a newly designed bathroom. This bathroom remodel includes new ceramic tile flooring, a 4 foot fiberglass shower stall, double sink vanity, as well as installation of a true divided double hung window. The exterior of the home is also being remodeled, turning the covered back porch area into an enclosed mudroom with custom built shelving units and a closet. The mudroom will also include ceramic tile flooring. For more information, past updates, and before pictures for this project, check out the 7/23/2011 "Home Remodeling Project Updates" article in the Project News section of our blog.

Now that you have taken the time to catch up on the remodeling project, here's for the newest changes and updates. We left off the last update with all the demo completed and waiting for inspections. With the rough-in inspections complete, work is able to continue to get this home remodeling project completed!

The first area to address is the kitchen remodeling. The exterior walls have now been fully insulated with R-13 faced insulation. This will make a huge difference in a home that previously had no insulation in any of the exterior walls. The drywall in the kitchen has also been hung, and is in the process of being finished. In order to still have the kitchen fully operational, several steps were taken. The sink was removed to allow for drywall and insulation to be installed behind it. Once finished, it was placed onto saw horses and reconnected so that it can remain operational for the homeowners use. The stove, fridge, and dishwasher also remain connected, leaving for a fully operational kitchen during the entire remodeling project thus far.

Kitchen Remodeling Pictures

Drywall for remodeled kitchen          Kitchen Remodeling Drywall

Now let's move into the upstairs bathroom. R-13 batt insulation has been installed in all walls of the bathroom. This is not standard practice with building and remodeling homes. Steve Way Builders, LLC makes it a common practice to do so because it will cut down on the noice of the shower and toilet in the rest of the home, which allows for a easier, less distracting living experience for the homeowners. Like the kitchen, the bathroom has been completely hung with drywall, and is in the process of being taped and finished.

Bathroom Remodeling Pictures

Bathroom Remodeling Drywall          Drywall for Remodeled Bathroom

Remodeling Bathroom Ceiling Drywall          Drywall above Shower Remodeling

Let's take this caravan outside and check up on the progress of the mudroom addition. The exterior walls have been sealed with Tyvek vapor barrier. The walls have been sided with 5 inch v-groove vertical wood siding. Can anyone say paint?!? The exterior remodeling portion of this project is really coming together as the masonry block walls and concrete cap have been painted. The vertical wood siding has been coated with primer and will be painted tomorrow. Inside the mudroom, the walls have been insulated with R-19 insulation, and the ceiling has been insulated with R-30 insulation. Drywall has been hung and is waiting to be taped and finished by the end week.

Mudroom/Rear Entry Addition Pictures

Home Porch Addition          Rear Entryway Addition

 Mudroom Drywalled Closet Remodel          Drywall in Mudroom Addition          Remodeling Home Entry with Drywall

With the rough-in inspections complete, this home remodeling project is moving right along. Next week, the drywall throughout the home will be finished and the flooring will be started. The oak floor in the kithcen will be completed and the ceramic tile in the upstairs bathroom will also be installed. The mudroom's ceramic tile is going to be on hold until a later date to help protect it from damage due to it being the main means of entry into the home. Now for the exciting part! With the completion of the oak flooring, the kitchen cabinets are being delivered the middle of the week and installation will begin. Once completed, the new appliances will then be delivered.

This kitchen and bathroom remodel has gotten really exciting as these large changes are taking place. Check back in 2 weeks for the next compilation of "Home Remodeling Project Updates."

Until then, what questions do you have about this kitchen and bathroom remodel? Please leave your questions and comments below and let's get the conversation going. If you would like to get your dream home renovation started, please contact us to get the show on the road.

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Kitchen Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling, Project News/Updates

Home Remodeling Project Updates

Posted by Brad Way on Thu, Jul 21, 2011 @ 08:07 AM

(7/21/2011) Home Remodeling Project Updates

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel

Steve Way Builders, LLC is currently in construction of a kitchen and bathroom remodeling project located in East Lansing. The home addition consists of demolishing an adjoining kitchen and bathroom to make into one large kitchen. The kitchen will include all new appliances, windows, wood flooring and cabinetry. This addition also consists of demolishing and remodeling the 2nd story full bathroom. The remodeled bathroom will include a 4 foot fiberglass shower stall, window, toilet, a double sink vanity, as well as ceramic tile flooring. The homes back yard porch and entry way will also be remodeled. The porch will be enclosed, making it a ceramic tile mudroom with custom built shelving and coat racks. The room will also include a closet. The entry way will include a new staircase with masonry block wing walls. The laundry room will also be remodeled slightly by installing new cabinetry and storage units.

Before Pictures

Back Porch Entry Way     Deck Landing

Needed Bathroom Remodel     Bathroom Toilet     Bathroom Vanity

Cabinets needing remodel     Remodeling kitchen cabinets

Currently, the demolition has been completed for the entire kitchen area, the upstairs bathroom, as well as the rear entry way. Electrical has been installed in all portions of the home, as well as the rough plumbing.  The upstairs bathroom has been framed in for the shower stall, which was installed last week. The 3 new windows in the kitchen have been installed, and the window in the upstairs bathroom has also been replaced. In order for the homeowners to continue use of their home, the kitchen has remained fully operational during the entire process of the remodeling project, and the residents have been able to use the homes second full bathroom.

Interior Pictures

Kitchen Remodeling Demo     Kitchen Remodel Demo

Bathroom Fiberglass Shower     Remodeling Bathrooms Demo

Outside, the masonry block and foundation has been completed, as well as the framing for the stairway and landing. Temporary steps have been installed to protect the composite decking which will be installed at a later date. The porch walls have been framed to enclose the new mudroom.

Exterior Pictures

Home Porch Entry Remodel    Home Rear entry Remodeling

Porch Landing Remodeling     Porch Addition Remodeling

The next steps for this home remodeling project include inspection for framing, electrical, and plumbing, which are scheduled for the end of the week. Once inspection is completed, the walls can be fully insulated and drywalled. The kitchen cabinets will then be able to be installed along with the new wood flooring and appliances to complete the this newly remodeled kitchen. Work to finish remodeling the bathroom will also be able to continue after the inspections occur.

The homeowners, as well as ourselves, are really excited for the completion of this kitchen and bathroom remodel. Stay tuned for more updates on this remodeling project, as well as a garage addition that will be starting soon! If you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your home improvement ideas, or obtain an estimate to remodel your kitchen, bathroom, or any other home renovation please contact us right away. 

Meanwhile, do have any questions or thoughts regarding this remodeling project? Please ask us by leaving a comment below and we will be glad to answer!

 

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Brad Way
Marketing and Sales Representative
Steve Way Builders, LLC - The Remodeling Specialist

Topics: Kitchen Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling, Project News/Updates