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Author: Melissa Fleming

Handy Tips and Ideas

What materials are best for my Florida fence and deck?

Choosing the Right Materials for your Florida Fence and Deck

When you’re in the market for a new fence or deck, there are many different materials to consider. The right material for your Florida fence and deck can make a big difference in terms of durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. Choosing the right type of material can also ensure that your fence or deck is structurally sound and that it will last for years to come.

Some of the best options for wood fences include cypress, cedar, and teak. These choices are a great choice for Florida properties because they provide natural resistance to the elements and insects, as well as long-lasting beauty. Cypress and teak both have natural oils that can prevent fungal decay, which is a common cause of rot in wooden structures.

Oakwood is another excellent option for wooden fences, as it is highly durable and can stand up to many types of weather. This type of wood has a distinctive look that features prominent grain patterns and colors. It can even darken over time to achieve an amber color, adding a touch of elegance to your home’s landscape. Oakwood is relatively easy to work with, making it a good choice for DIY fence projects.

Cedarwood is a softwood, which means it’s easier to work with than some other types of wood. It’s also a great choice for fencing, as it resists rot and insect infestations. It’s also very attractive, with a beautiful reddish hue and a pleasant scent. Cedarwood is more expensive than other types of wood, but it’s worth the investment as a high-quality fence can last for decades.

Pine is a less-expensive alternative to cedar, and it’s also a good choice for building fence posts. It’s durable against rot and termites, and it holds nails and screws well. It’s important to choose the right type of pine for your project, however, as not all varieties are created equal. Some types of pine are prone to rot, and others do not have the necessary durability when it comes to soil contact.

Composite wood is an eco-friendly option that combines recycled wood with plastic polymers. This type of fencing is more affordable than cedar or vinyl and is resistant to fungus, which is a common cause of wood rot. However, it’s important to choose the highest-quality composite wood available to avoid warping or rotting over time.

If you’re looking for the best materials to use for your florida fence and deck, be sure to speak with a professional. A reputable company can help you select the right materials for your needs and provide expert installation. They can also advise you on how to maintain your fence or deck to extend its lifespan. A professional can help you save money and time by avoiding mistakes that can be costly in the long run. For more information, visit https: https://www.itzconstruction.com/fences-and-decks/

Handy Tips and Ideas

Kitchen Remodel Ideas

Top 5 Kitchen Remodel Ideas

Remodeling your kitchen can add significant value to your home. It can also make the space more comfortable to work in and easier to maintain.

Start by identifying your goals for the project. This will help you decide what changes to make and in which order. Then select the best kitchen remodel ideas to suit your needs.

1. Open Floor Plan

A kitchen remodel that opens into a dining area and living room makes a home feel more spacious. This layout also makes the kitchen more accessible for guests and family members, and it adds to the resale value of the home.

Knocking down walls to create an open floor plan is not always feasible, though. Some walls may be load-bearing and can’t be removed without causing structural damage to the home.

When a kitchen is open to the rest of the home, a great way to connect the rooms is with a large kitchen island. Adding a bench around the perimeter of the island allows the space to serve as a dining area and provides extra storage. Keep in mind that less wall space means you will need to find subtle ways to add texture to the room, like a beautiful tile backsplash or mixing materials for cabinets.

2. Stainless Steel Appliances

When it comes to kitchen remodeling ideas, stainless steel appliances are a timeless, classic choice. These shiny metal pieces fit well into nearly any design style, from sleek and modern to rustic and farmhouse. Plus, they’re a great option for those who worry about cleaning.

Stainless steel appliances also look great with a variety of cabinet colors and finishes. They’re also easy to coordinate with sinks, faucets, and light fixtures.

But before you start shopping for stainless-steel appliances, consider resale value and your personal style. If you plan to sell your home within a few years, it might be wise to choose a neutral color like white or black. This will appeal to a larger number of buyers.

3. Tile Backsplash

A backsplash is a great opportunity to express yourself, whether through color, pattern, or texture. However, some homeowners are hesitant to commit to a backsplash that requires constant cleaning or is prone to staining. That’s where alternative materials like reclaimed brick come in handy. Backsplashes made from reclaimed bricks or other recycled material offer durability and are easy to clean.

Similarly, cement tile adds rustic character to a kitchen and can be an inexpensive way to give your walls a stylish update. However, this material is porous and will absorb grease and water particles more quickly than other options.

Other affordable kitchen remodel ideas include painting cabinet doors, adding open shelving to display pretty dishes and glass-front cabinets to store your prettiest cookware and serve ware. Replacing drawer knobs, sink faucets and light fixtures can also make your kitchen feel fresh without a major investment.

4. Natural Stone Countertops

Choosing the right countertops is one of the most important decisions homeowners will make during a kitchen remodel. Natural stone counters add sophistication to your home and will last longer than synthetic options.

Granite remains the most popular choice of countertop among consumers for its durability and timeless beauty. It’s heat, scratch and stain resistant.

Limestone is another gorgeous option for kitchens with eye-catching streaking. It’s soft, however, and can be easily stained by acidic liquids, so it should be used in a mature kitchen where people know to use trivets and hot pads to protect their counters.

Onyx is a beautiful option for a statement countertop, but it can be damaged by high temperatures and needs to be resealed frequently. It can also be very expensive.

5. Storage

Even the most carefully planned kitchens can quickly become a mess, so smart storage is essential. From expandable drawer dividers to labeled chip clip storage, these clever kitchen ideas will eliminate clutter and make the room a joy to clean and cook in.

Displaying decorative dishware and china is a surefire way to add interest to the kitchen. Choose metal wall-mounted shelves for a modern industrial look or wooden floating shelves for a cottagecore aesthetic. Alternatively, you can open up cabinet doors for a more subtle option.

If your kitchen opens into an exterior entry or mudroom, you’ll need a place to keep hats, scarves, and mittens. A DIY bench crafted from a built-in cabinet is a stylish and effective solution. Use coordinating cabinetry styles to ensure that the bench blends in with the kitchen’s aesthetic.

ITZ General Contractor and Design Services and help with all your kitchen remodel needs. We are the top company that kitchen remodel Jacksonville FL residents count on. Give us a call today!

Handy Tips and Ideas

Florida Fence and Deck Ideas for Your Home

Staining Your Fence and Deck

A Florida fence and deck are essential elements in maximizing your backyard space. They provide a comfortable place to entertain, cook out and bbq with friends or family.

Staining helps protect your deck and fence from weather damage, while managing to maintain their natural appearance. Moreover, staining is much more cost efficient than painting.

Staining

Staining your fence and deck can add a beautiful aesthetic to your home. It can be done in a variety of natural wood tones, as well as a wide range of colors. It protects your deck and fence from weather damage and enhances curb appeal.

When it comes to staining, choose a high quality oil based stain. This type of stain uses penetrating oils that allow the wood to breathe and wick moisture away. This protects your deck and fence from mold, mildew, and fungus.

The best time to stain a deck or fence is in the shade or during cooler hours of the day. Attempting to stain in direct sunlight can cause the stain to dry too quickly, leading to patchy and uneven absorption. You should also follow the stain manufacturer’s instructions for proper application techniques and drying times. This includes refraining from touching or walking on the stained surface during this designated period.

Painting

Using the right stain on a wood deck or fence can help it last longer. Stain protects the wood from moisture and other elements, and it also enhances its appearance. There are several different color options to choose from.

The best stain is a linseed oil-based solid or semi-transparent stain. It gives the wood back its protective skin, which was stripped away during the lumbering process. It also supplements and replaces the natural oils the wood has lost.

Besides staining, it is important to keep your deck clean and clear of debris. Debris can trap moisture and create a staging area for wet rot and termites. To prevent this, move your planters and remove leaves and other items regularly. You should also keep your deck away from the house to avoid water seepage and moisture damage.

Maintenance

The wood in your fence or deck requires protection against the elements. Direct sunlight can bleach it, leaving behind a weathered gray appearance, and rainwater can cause it to rot, mold or mildew. A fresh coat of stain is the best way to protect your exterior wooden features and give them a vibrant, beautiful look.

Then, once it is cleaned, apply a waterproof sealant to prevent water damage and prolong its life. Be sure to use a waterproof product that is also mildew and mold resistant.

Decks and fences that aren’t secure can pose a risk for children and pets. Staying on top of maintenance tasks like sanding, staining, and painting can help keep your kids and pets safe around them. Florida weather is harsh so staining or painting your deck to seal it essential for longevity.

Installation

A beautiful fence and deck enhance your property and create a background for your landscape, garden and landscaping. They are also an affordable way to add value to your home. A well-built and maintained deck or fence can last 20+ years and is a great place to spend time with family and friends.

Before construction begins, check with your city hall building department to see if a permit is required and to ensure that your plans meet municipal building regulations. Also, look for any trees or shrubs that need to be trimmed back or flattened before you begin construction.

A wood or composite deck is a structure that is built on a raised platform off the ground and attached to your house. They can be used for grilling, relaxing, entertaining or catching some rays. For the best installation, choose a durable and low-maintenance material such as Bufftech vinyl. This will provide you with maximum beauty and privacy without the hassle of regular staining or sealing.

ITZ General Contractor and Design Services can help with all your Florida Fence and Deck Needs. We will work with you to make your yard a dream oasis. Call us today!

Interior dining room with beautiful table and chairs, colorful pillows and a large plant by the door.
Handy Tips and Ideas

How to hang interior lighting that will add glamour and glow

Lighting creates a mood in your home and it can give any room that extra touch of glamour and glow. Whether you are looking to add a little drama or something simple, the right lights can make all the difference. Lighting can be diy or done by your local area general contractor.

Before you hang a chandelier or any type of light fixture, determine its purpose and mood. This will help you choose the proper size and placement for your light fixture.

Globe Lighting

If you’re looking to add a touch of glamour and glow to your space, look no further than golden globe lighting. From chandeliers to sconces, this eye-catching style has become a popular design trend in recent years.

The beauty of this style is that it pairs well with a variety of decor styles, making it an easy way to update your home. By selecting the right fixtures, positioning them correctly, and layering your lighting, you can create a gorgeous atmosphere that feels straight off the red carpet.

Adding string lights to any area of your home is a simple and affordable DIY project. To make the process easier, it’s a good idea to install Command hooks prior to screwing in the bulbs. This helps to protect the strand from getting pulled through the hook and breaking the bulbs. You can easily find command hooks in a variety of sizes online. For the best results, measure your twine to ensure you have enough to reach all of the desired areas.

LED Bulbs

Light strips are available in a variety of colors to set different moods. Choose warm bulbs for a cozy glow or cool, blue-white ones for more of a natural or “daylight” look. Some also come with color-changing controls to make your home theater the ultimate movie-watching experience.

Hanging LED lights is relatively easy and can be done by yourself. However, it’s a lot easier with an extra set of hands to help hold the string and guide the staple gun. This will prevent the bulbs from hitting hard surfaces and breaking.

LEDs are especially useful for highlighting artwork or decorative objects. Hanging them at the correct height helps to illuminate the piece and create a focal point in your room. Choose a bulb with high CRI (color rendering index) to highlight the colors in your art prints and photos.

Festoon Lights

Festoon lights, also known as string or fairy lighting are bang on trend for 2022 and provide a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for entertaining. With a wide range of bulb colours, shapes and sizes available there’s an option to suit every style from a simple yet sophisticated look or go for something a little more opulent like the orb lights that are reminiscent of the Art Deco renaissance.

When hanging festoon lighting it’s a good idea to map out where you plan to install the lights by laying them on the ground and marking out the spaces for hookup points with a pencil or painter’s tape. You’ll also need an outdoor extension cord rated for outdoor use, a power drill or drill and a pair of pliers.

If you’re installing outdoor festoon lights with a span of over 5 meters it’s worth investing in a wire hanging kit to help prevent your beautiful light installation from coming crashing down!

Candles

Candles do more than envelop rooms in pleasant aromas and illuminate surfaces—they also serve as stunning decor items. They can be scattered throughout a room or grouped together on an accent table, like this one from Wayfair. To elevate a display of candles, try selecting a variety of colors or shapes. Aim for a symmetrical arrangement, but don’t be afraid to mix and match. This gives the display an organic look that adds interest to your interior lighting scheme.

For a romantic and swanky touch, hang a pair of candle wall sconces. These decorative pieces are available in a wide range of finishes, but the best ones are metal with a high shine. Place them near reflective materials, such as mirrors or glass furniture, to amplify the glow and create a more dramatic effect.

If you have a more traditional style, consider a chandelier. These fixtures are perfect for over the dining room table, as long as they’re properly sized for your space. For example, if you want your chandelier to be the focal point of the room, aim for 30-36 inches above the table surface.

Your local general contractors Jacksonville can hang your interior lighting and give your home the glow it’s been looking for. Give ITZ a call!

A woman holding paint colors deciding on wall color.
Handy Tips and Ideas

What sheen for exterior paint?

The paint sheen you choose plays a big part in both the appearance of your exterior and its durability. Learn about sheens to make sure you’re getting the most out of your paint and your money!

The exterior of your home faces major stresses like rain, snow, UV rays and physical wear. Finding the best sheen for your needs will save you from having to repaint in the long run.

Flat

Flat paint is great if you are going for a modern look on fiber cement or masonry siding and it works really well with brick. It is hard to clean though and it fades and wears faster than a shinier finish.

Satin or eggshell is our most popular choice for exterior paint. It has a little bit of sheen and is easy to clean but holds up better against fading or mildew problems than a flat paint. It’s also very durable for the Treasure Valley climate and can stand up to a lot of weathering.

The sheen in satin or eggshell paint helps hide imperfections in the surface of the wall or trim that you are painting. It also highlights architectural details and is a good choice for the doors and trim on your home.

Glossy paint is excellent for highlighting accent trim and door or window frames but it doesn’t hold up as well against fading or mildew as a satin or eggshell sheen. It is not recommended for walls or large areas of your home.

Satin

Choosing the right sheen is just as important as picking the right paint color. The right sheen will protect the paint from UV rays and make it easier to clean and resist dirt and moisture. The sheen also helps hide surface imperfections. There are a few different sheen levels: flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss.

Flat paint has the lowest sheen of all the options. It looks luxurious and is perfect for walls that will get smudgeed frequently. It is easy to touch up and can help conceal minor surface imperfections. However, it is not durable and will require frequent repainting compared to other sheens.

Eggshell is a bit more durable than flat but not as glossy as satin. It is a popular choice for doors, trim, and shutters. It is more durable than satin and holds up well to smudges and moisture. It will need to be repainted more often than other sheens but is still the best choice for areas that will need to be washed.

Satin has a small amount of sheen and is the most common exterior sheen. Most factory finished siding products ranging from fiber cement and cedar shake to vinyl and Azek come in a satin finish. It is a great option for walls and doorways as it has just enough sheen to be easily cleaned and protected from the sun’s UV rays.

Semi-Gloss

In the Boise area we have a lot of sunshine that can damage exterior paint with UV rays. Finding the right sheen will help protect your home and make it last longer so you don’t have to repaint as often. Choosing the proper sheen for trim, doors and shutters is just as important as selecting the correct color.

Paint sheen has a big impact on how well it holds up to moisture, dirt, cleaning and the overall appearance. There are four different sheens that professional painters use on exterior surfaces and each works best on specific types of materials and styles of homes.

Satin/Eggshell is a versatile sheen that’s good for walls that get washed and also for the more durable surfaces like trim, shutters and window frames. The slight sheen makes it easier to clean and stand up to the elements.

Semi-Gloss is a shinier finish that’s great for high traffic areas like door and trim details. It’s also easy to clean and is more water resistant than satin or eggshell. We don’t recommend gloss for siding as it magnifies surface imperfections and can be difficult to touch up.

Give us a call to help with all your painting needs. ITZ

Beautiful brick house with dark double doors with glass inserts.
Handy Tips and Ideas

How to measure for an exterior door

Many homeowners want to install a new exterior door for aesthetics or for security reasons. Before purchasing a new door, it is important to know how to measure for it accurately.

Start by measuring the opening width in 3 locations and use the largest measurement as your door size. Then, measure from the sill to the top trim and compare this measurement to a standard pre-hung door with brick molding trim.

Measure the Width

Before you buy a door, make sure you know the width of your existing opening. Using a pry bar or a stiff blade putty knife, remove the trim from around the one side of your frame so you can measure the width. Take the measurement at three points: top, middle and bottom, excluding brickmould. If the measurements vary, use the largest number as the width of your opening.

Next, you’ll need to understand the height of your existing doorway opening. Run your tape measure from the bottom left to the bottom right, recording each measurement. If there are variations, choose the longest dimension. This will give you a good idea of the standard door size that will fit in your space. If you’re replacing your door, add two inches to the widest and tallest dimensions so you have enough room for installation and trim. Often, older homes do not conform to standard door sizes. This is when made-to-measure doors are required.

Measure the Height

You will want to take two different measurements for the height of the door, one towards the bottom and one from the top. Again, you should not include the frame in these measurements, only the space that is built into your brick opening that will fit your new door. If you have sidelights, it is important to remember that these sit within this space and are not part of the door itself.

Measure the height in several places around the door and record the largest number as your final measurement. If you are replacing an existing door, be sure to note whether the hinges are on the left or right side of the frame and what type of floor covering is in the area.

Once you have these basic measurements, you can cross-reference them with the rough opening requirements for your new front door to ensure a proper fit. Be sure to gently remove any interior trim in order to get accurate measurements.

Measure the Thickness

There are a number of things to consider when choosing a new door for your home. In particular, you need to ensure that the new door will fit your existing frame. To do this, you will need to take a few measurements.

First, you will need to measure the width of the opening. To do this, you will need to extend your tape measure from the edge of the door jamb on one side to the adjacent wall stud. Then, you will need to repeat this measurement on the other side of the frame.

Finally, you will need to measure the height of the opening. To do this, you’ll need to extend your tape measure from the bottom of the sill up to the top of the trim on the frame. Repeat this process on the left and right sides of the frame, and take the largest measurement as your door height. This will ensure that the new exterior door fits in your brick opening.

Measure the Rough Opening

If you’re replacing an existing door, start by measuring the rough opening size. Use a tape measure that has clearly marked measurement markings. It’s best to measure with a new tape measure because the markings on old ones may have been scratched off by previous use.

This measurement should be taken between the door studs found on either side of the opening. Make sure to add in the width of any exterior casing or trim. You will need these dimensions to order a prehung door with brick mold that matches the siding of your home.

Also, you will need to know whether the door swings left or right. This is important because the doorjambs will need to be adjusted accordingly. This is because a right-hand door requires a greater gap in the frame than a left-hand door. A professional installer can take care of this for you, but if you’re going to do it yourself, you will need to measure the gap.

ITZ Construction can help with all your exterior door needs.

Blue cabinet and white subway tile in a kitchen.
Handy Tips and Ideas

What is the Difference Between Cabinet Painting and Cabinet Refinishing

Cabinet Painting Vs Cabinet Refinishing

Kitchen remodels can be a tedious task but is worth every penny in the end. When it comes to  your kitchen, painting your cabinets is an affordable way to achieve a new look. However, there are a few things that you should know before beginning the project.

For example, if you’re not careful, your cabinet painting can end up looking blotchy and uneven. Paint will also attract dirt and debris, which can make it difficult to keep clean.

Preparation

Before you can start painting or staining cabinets, you need to make sure they’re prepared properly. This can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to ensure your cabinets will look great when they’re finished.

First, you need to clean the surfaces thoroughly using a degreasing cleaner and a damp sponge. This will remove any traces of oil and grease from the surface, which will help your paint job stay pristine.

Once the cabinet faces are clean, you can sand them down to roughen them up and make them more porous for primer. Use a medium sandpaper (we like 100- to 150-grit), and make sure your sanding doesn’t go too far, because you want to give the primer enough grit to stick to.

Once you’ve sanded down the cabinet face frames, it’s time to prime them with an oil-based primer. The primer is what will hold the paint in place, preventing it from peeling or chipping.

Materials

Cabinet refinishing involves removing the doors and drawer fronts of kitchen cabinets and replacing them with new cabinet skins (veneers or RTF, or “Rigid Thermofoil”). It is an affordable option for updating your kitchen.

It can be a big project, but the results are well worth it in the end. Refinishing requires a bit of patience, but the right preparation and paint will make the job last longer and look better than ever.

If you are painting your cabinets, choose a high-quality paint with a hard finish to protect them from wear and tear. Oil paint is the best choice, but top quality acrylic and water-based paints also do the trick if you use them properly.

Using a primer and tinting it to match the color of the paint you’re applying will ensure that the surface is covered evenly. This will help the paint bond more effectively with the wood or other surfaces you’re painting.

Techniques

Painting and refinishing cabinets involve a series of steps that require specialized knowledge, tools, and materials. The simplest method is to use paint, but stains and other decorative finishes can also be used.

To start, remove the cabinet doors and drawers and prep the surfaces with a degreasing cleaner. This will ensure pristine paint adhesion later on.

Then, sand down the surface and fill any cracks or uneven areas with wood filler. Allow the cabinets to fully dry before moving on to the next step.

For a smoother finish, you can also apply a glaze. This adds a layer of color and highlights your cabinet’s unique features.

Another option is to refinish the wood grain on your cabinet doors. It is a little more difficult to do this, but it can make your cabinets look much more modern and contemporary.

Final Results

Cabinet painting is a great way to get the look you want without having to replace your cabinets. The key is to choose the right paint, prep properly and follow proper techniques.

Then, paint your cabinets, allowing them to fully dry in between coats. It’s important to sand your doors before painting so they don’t have any thin areas that will show through the new finish.

It’s also important to remove all the hardware before painting to avoid any drippings or drips. Place the hardware in clear bags labeled according to which door/drawer it belongs to.

Unless your cabinet doors are made of thermofoil or laminate, they won’t hold up to refinishing. Refinishing will usually require sanding the doors to the proper finish, filling in any cracks or uneven areas with wood filler and letting the cabinets completely dry.

ITZ Construction can help with all your cabinet refinishing, painting and kitchen remodel needs. Give us a call today.

Lady sitting on a front porch surrounded by plants in Deltona Fl.
Handy Tips and Ideas

How To Clean A Concrete Patio

If you want to clean your concrete patio, there are many different methods you can use. Whether you’re dealing with grease stains, mildew or algae, there are a few ways to get your patio clean and looking its best.

The first thing you need to do is remove any furniture, grills or plants that are sitting on your patio. This will make it easier to clean and give you more room for the cleaning solution.

Bleach

Bleach is a safe and effective way to clean concrete patios. It disinfects the surface and removes unwanted stains, such as mildew and moss.

Bleaches can be used on their own, with detergent or mixed with water to form a cleaning solution. They are also effective in removing black mold and mildew from concrete surfaces.

When diluted, bleach can also be used to remove rust stains. Just mix a few drops of bleach with water and spray on the area to clean it.

Then, scrub the spot using a push broom. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off with a garden hose.

When working with bleach, it is important to wear rubber gloves and protective eyewear. This is because it can cause irritation if you inhale the fumes.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Concrete is an ideal choice for patios, but it can get dirty over time. Debris, spills and weeds can stain the surface.

When this happens, its time to clean it. One good option is to use a bleach-based solution to remove these stains.

Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that is safe for plants and works well to whiten stained concrete. When mixed with dish soap and baking soda, it can remove a wide range of stains from patios.

To clean a concrete patio with hydrogen peroxide, you’ll need a bucket or spray bottle and some protective eye gear. After mixing the cleaning solution, spread it out on your concrete patio and leave for 15 minutes.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent natural cleaner for concrete patios. The slightly abrasive nature of the baking soda combined with water helps break up dirt and grease.

Mixing one part baking soda with one part water is a gentle cleaning solution, while mixing it with distilled vinegar can dissolve tough stains and grease. For a more powerful cleaning solution, add a little bleach to the mixture.

To remove rust stains from your concrete patio, apply a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to the stain. Allow the solution to sit for about 20 minutes. Scrub the area with a wire brush until the stain is gone.

You can also use baking soda as a mild fertilizer for garden plants. A solution of 1 tablespoon of baking soda to two quarts of water feeds hydrangeas, geraniums and begonias. It lowers the soil’s acidity to encourage blooms. It can also help tomato plants fight black spot fungus.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural, all-purpose cleaner and one of the best spots and stain removers for concrete. It also helps prevent stains and discoloration from occurring.

The vinegar-water solution can be applied with a brush or mop to clean a patio’s surface. Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off.

Bleach is another good way to remove mildew and moss from concrete. However, it can be harmful to nearby plants and weeds so use sparingly.

Baking soda is a good alternative to bleach and it can also be used to clean concrete. The abrasive texture of baking soda gives it the scrubbing power to break up dirt and grime.

White distilled vinegar is the most recommended type for cleaning concrete. It doesn’t contain any coloring agents so it won’t stain the surface.

Cleaning your concrete can be done yourself or call your general contractor Jacksonville Fl to help!

Privacy fence with green grass in a beautiful backyard.
Handy Tips and Ideas

How Much Does Fencing Cost

If you’re thinking about installing a fence on your property, it’s important to know how much fencing costs. The cost depends on the material, style, and height of the fence you want to install.

Wood fencing is a popular choice for many homeowners. It’s durable and comes in a variety of styles and colors. However, wood can be costly to maintain and requires frequent repairs or replacement.

Cost of Materials

Fencing costs depend on the type of fence, its length and height, and the materials used to build it. The materials you use can range from wood to aluminum and vinyl, and the cost of the project will depend on your budget and the contractor you hire.

The cost of fencing also depends on the size and shape of your property, which will determine how much lumber is needed and how much labor is required to construct it. The amount of time it takes to install a fence will also impact the total price of the project.

The most popular fence material is wood, which can range in price from $15 to $33 per linear foot depending on the type of wood you choose. Cedar is a common option, and it can last for years when properly treated with oil or preservatives. It is resistant to moisture, rots, and insects.

Cost of Installation

Adding fencing to your home is a great way to increase the value of your property, protect your belongings and keep your pets safe. Installing a fence is also an easy and cost-effective way to add curb appeal and make your house more inviting.

The installation cost of a fence depends on the materials used and the size of the project. The average price for a basic, standard-size fence ranges from $1,667 to $4,075, with labor and materials costs accounting for about half the total cost.

Wood is a popular material for fencing, as it is affordable and long-lasting. It can be stained or painted to suit your personal style.

Aluminum is another common metal choice, as it is lightweight and low in maintenance. However, it can dent more easily than iron.

Fencing installation is also affected by the terrain of your property. If the ground is rocky or sloped, you’ll need to build extra protection around your fence posts. Additionally, if there are existing features in your landscape that could block the path of your fence, you’ll need to remove them.

Cost of Permits

Before you start work on your new fence, you should know how much it will cost to obtain a permit. A building permit will ensure that your new fence is built according to local codes and zoning.

Permits vary by area, so check with your local city or county for information about the requirements. They can also provide an online fee schedule that outlines costs by project type and size.

In addition to permitting, some municipalities require inspections after construction is complete. These inspections are often done by a local building inspector.

If you’re working on a large project, such as a room addition or remodeling your kitchen, the cost of permits will depend on the total size and value of the project. Contractors typically include permit fees in their final estimates, so you can budget accordingly.

Cost of Removal

Removing a fence can be a labor-intensive and expensive task. This process requires specialized tools and a means to dispose of the materials.

The cost of removal can vary by the type of material used. For example, chain link fences are often easier to remove than wooden ones.

Also, the location of the home affects the overall cost. Generally, costs in rural areas are lower than those in more urban areas.

Another factor that can increase the cost of fence removal is the presence of concrete footings. This cement is typically used to anchor the posts into the ground and can be difficult to remove.

Usually, contractors will include removal fees in their linear foot rates. It is important to ask if these fees are included or not.

ITZ General Contractor and Design service is a great choice for all your Florida fence and deck needs.

Checkered and marble glass shower with blue cabinets in a bathroom.
Handy Tips and Ideas

How Long Does A Bathroom Remodel Take

The answer to the question “how long does a bathroom remodel take” depends on the scope of the job. A partial remodel – changing out the plumbing, flooring and lighting but keeping the existing footprint – can sometimes be completed in a matter of days.

A full-fledged bathroom remodel that guts the space, changes the footprint and moves electrical wiring and plumbing lines can take three weeks or longer.

Cost

Bathrooms are one of the most popular home improvement projects. They’re also an excellent way to add resale value to your home.

Depending on the size and scope of your bathroom remodel, costs can vary significantly. However, there are a few things you can do to reduce the costs of your remodel.

Costs can be affected by the materials and features you choose, as well as the level of craftsmanship. For instance, a high-end remodel with custom-crafted materials will cost more than a low-end remodel with standard fixtures.

You can lower your overall cost of a bathroom remodel by choosing to upgrade certain aspects of the room rather than replace them all. For example, upgrading the lighting can make a huge difference to your budget.

Time

Whether you’re looking for more space or an easier-to-navigate bathroom, a bathroom remodel can be a big improvement. You can add new storage, a dual-sink vanity, or a new layout to create a space you’ll love to use.

Once the basic construction is done, you’ll need to get all of the plumbing and electrical in place. This can be a slow, labor-intensive process, but it’s essential to ensure that your bathroom will function properly once the work is finished.

The time it takes to complete a bathroom remodel can vary depending on the project. However, it’s always a good idea to allow enough time for everything from design planning to getting materials to your home. This will help avoid issues that can cause delays and cost overruns.

Planning

Whether you are in the market for a home remodel or just looking to freshen up your space, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. Getting your budget and timeline set up early will help you stay on track for a successful bathroom renovation.

Changing the layout of your bathroom can be a major undertaking. It will involve moving plumbing and wiring, as well as changing the location of fixtures like the tub/shower or toilet.

You should also consider adding storage space in the room, which can help reduce clutter and make your bathroom more functional.

Another important consideration for a bathroom remodel is energy efficiency. Upgrading your current fixtures to newer, more efficient ones can save you money in the long run on your water bill.

It’s also a great idea to consider putting in eco-friendly options for your bathroom, such as low-tox, biodegradable and recyclable materials. These can increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell it in the future.

Materials

The materials you use in a bathroom are an important part of the design. Choose materials that will work well together and reflect your tastes.

Walls and countertops are two major areas where you can make a big impact with your choice of materials. For walls, consider tile or a fresh coat of paint, depending on your budget.

Countertops are also a good choice for bathroom remodels, especially when you are able to use inexpensive materials. Granite, marble and solid surface materials such as quartz are great choices because they are durable, attractive and easy to clean.

Laminate and engineered woods are less-than-desirable bathroom countertop options due to their tendency to swell and warp after moisture seeps in.

Once you have a clear picture of what you want for the new bathroom, it is time to start ordering materials. This can take a while, as some materials have long lead times.

Your bathroom remodel jacksonville fl is a general contractor that can take your bathroom remodel needs to the next level.

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