Rot repair before building Front Porch

We started a front porch/ farmer’s porch project in Bedford NH this past week.  Once we removed the cement steps there was much rot in the sheathing and clapboards.   We discussed the issue with the Homeowner and wrote up a change order to repair the rot.   Now that the rot repairs are completed we can start framing for the front porch, it did not make any sense to build a new front porch ontop of rotted plywood.  Stayed tuned for more pictures of the framing, the deck boards being installed and the railings (we like Azek products).

Windows and window replacement, I found this picture and thought it really helps to explain the different facets of the window.  When going on an estimate Homeowners are often confused if the whole window will be replaced or they ask how does the replacement part work?  For replacement windows the case molding stays in place and the window sashes are replaced saving the Homeowner about $100 per window.  New construction windows everything is replaced including the exterior and interior window trim and molding.  For Home Improvement projects visit our website at www.AllenRemodeling.com to see the other projects we perform, additions, garages, decks, front porches, sunrooms, siding replacement and interior/exterior painting.

Allen Remodeling is currently booking Summer and Fall projects.  If you are looking to build an addition, garage, sunroom or build a deck or farmers porch now is the time to start planning and scheduling those projects.  Allen Remodeling is a General Contractor, family owned business, working in Southern NH (Amherst, Bedford, Brookline, Hollis, Manchester, Milford, Merrimack, Mont Vernon, Nashua, Temple, Wilton and all surrounding towns.   We can build you a new home, addition, re-side your home, paint the exterior or interior of your home, remodel your bathroom, kitchen or basement.

Working on some home improvement, honey do list, projects for a family in Merrimack NH.   The homeowner is doing a mini kitchen remodel, they are having Allen Remodeling paint the entire kitchen and install a backsplash while they have hired another General Contractor to install the hardwood floor for them.  We are also painting the family room and all three bathrooms.  One bathroom is getting a mini bathroom remodel as well by replacing the vanity, countertop, mirror and lighting.  A few upgrades to the home and transforms the whole look while not breaking the piggy bank.  Keith is also installing some new kitchen draws, repairing a hope chest and a few other odds and ends honey-do list items.

AAA, distributes a monthly magazine to its members, while reading the publication there was an article regarding Building Trust, beware of unscrupulous contractors.  The following 5 steps will likely lead you to a credible contractor to help rebuild your home after devastation or building onto your home like an addition or deck.

Call your Insurance Company – claims arising from a natural disaster may be covered by your homeowners policy.

Get recommendations, talk to neighbors, friends and relatives who’ve had work performed recently.  Allen Remodeling receives quite a bit of work on recommendation from the BBB as we have an A+ rating with the organization.

Perform your due diligence by getting more than one estimate from General Contractors, Remodelers and Handyman.   Building Contractors always know they are competing against other Builders and this provides healthy competition.

Get a written estimate and a signed contract – ensure you are comparing apples to apples with your quotes.  Contractor quotes in the lower range of the quote spectrum may not include all materials or sub-standard materials, always make sure that a Contractor lists the type of material they will be using.

Be smart about payment – never put down a large amount, more than a third of the total cost, until the contractor arrives on-site with the materials to start.

These guidelines will assist you in making a more informed decision on choosing a Contractor.