How a General Contractor Can Help You Maximize Energy Efficiency in Your Home Renovation

Improving energy efficiency during a home renovation can lead to significant savings on utility bills and a more comfortable living environment. A general contractor can play a vital role in achieving these goals by leveraging their expertise and resources.

Energy-Efficient

Materials A knowledgeable general contractor can recommend and source energy-efficient materials such as insulation, windows, and doors. These materials help maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling. High-quality insulation, for instance, prevents heat loss in winter and keeps your home cooler in summer.

Upgraded HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are crucial for energy efficiency. A general contractor can assess your current system and suggest upgrades or replacements with high-efficiency units. Modern HVAC systems use less energy and provide better climate control, contributing to lower energy bills.

Efficient Lighting Solutions 

Incorporating energy-efficient lighting is another way to enhance your home’s efficiency. Contractors can install LED lighting, which consumes less power and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. Additionally, they can integrate smart lighting systems that allow you to control usage through timers and sensors.

Solar Panel Installation 

For those looking to make a significant impact on their energy consumption, a general contractor can facilitate the installation of solar panels. Solar energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels and can significantly lower electricity bills. Contractors can ensure that the panels are installed correctly and positioned for maximum sun exposure.

Water Heating Improvements 

Water heating can account for a large portion of a home’s energy use. A contractor can recommend energy-efficient water heaters, such as tankless models, which provide hot water on demand without the need for a constantly heated tank. They can also install heat pump water heaters that use less electricity.

Window and Door Upgrades 

Old windows and doors can be major sources of energy loss. A general contractor can install energy-efficient windows and doors that reduce drafts and improve insulation. Double or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity coatings are particularly effective in reducing heat transfer.

Smart Home Integration 

Integrating smart home technology can optimize energy use. A general contractor can install smart thermostats, which learn your schedule and adjust temperatures automatically for maximum efficiency. Other smart devices, such as automated blinds and energy monitors, can further reduce energy consumption.

Renewable Energy Options 

Beyond solar panels, a general contractor can introduce other renewable energy options, such as wind turbines or geothermal systems, depending on your location and budget. These systems can provide sustainable energy solutions that drastically cut down on traditional energy use.

How to Choose the Right General Contractor for Your Custom Home Build

Selecting the right general contractor is crucial for the success of your custom home build. Here are some key considerations to help you make the best choice.

Research and Recommendations 

Start by researching local general contractors and seeking recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had positive experiences. Online reviews and ratings can also provide valuable insights into a contractor's reliability and quality of work.

Verify Credentials and Experience 

Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured. Licensing requirements vary by state, so confirm that your contractor meets all local regulations. Additionally, check their experience with similar projects. An experienced contractor will be familiar with the challenges specific to custom home builds and know how to navigate them effectively.

Review Past Projects 

Ask for a portfolio of past projects. This will give you an idea of their craftsmanship and attention to detail. Visiting completed projects in person, if possible, can provide a clearer picture of the quality you can expect.

Get Multiple Quotes 

Obtain detailed quotes from at least three general contractors. This will help you understand the market rate for your project and identify any outliers. Ensure each quote includes a breakdown of costs for materials, labor, and any other expenses.

Check References 

Request references from previous clients and take the time to contact them. Ask about their experience working with the contractor, the quality of the finished project, and whether the contractor adhered to the timeline and budget.

Communication Skills 

Effective communication is essential in any construction project. Choose someone who is responsive and willing to answer your questions. Clear communication will help ensure that your vision for the custom home is understood and executed correctly.

Understand the Contract 

Before signing any agreements, thoroughly review the contract. It should outline the scope of work, payment schedule, timeline, and any warranties. Make sure all verbal agreements are included in writing. If you have any concerns, discuss them with the contractor before proceeding.

Assess Problem-Solving

Abilities Construction projects can encounter unexpected issues. Ask them how they handle problems when they arise. Their ability to provide solutions quickly and effectively will be crucial in keeping your project on track.

Trust Your Instincts 

Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off during the initial meetings or if the contractor is hesitant to provide information, it might be best to look elsewhere. The right contractor should make you feel confident in their abilities and excited about your custom home build.

Why is It Important to Get a Detailed Project Estimate From Your General Contractor?

Getting a detailed project estimate from your General Contractor is crucial for several reasons. It sets the foundation for a successful project by ensuring transparency and preventing budget overruns.

Understanding the Scope and Scale

A detailed estimate helps both the homeowner and the General Contractor understand the full scope of the project. It breaks down every aspect, from materials to labor costs, allowing for a comprehensive view of what the project entails. This clarity is essential for managing expectations and aligning the vision of the client with the capabilities of the contractor.

Budget Management

One of the most practical reasons to insist on a detailed estimate from your General Contractor is budget management. By having a clear outline of all expected expenses, homeowners can plan their finances more accurately. This detailed foresight helps in avoiding surprises and potentially costly adjustments mid-project, which are often a result of unclear or incomplete initial estimates.

Timeline Scheduling
A detailed estimate includes not only cost but also time. Your General Contractor should provide a timeline that maps out when different phases of the project will be completed. This is critical for planning, especially if the construction impacts living conditions or business operations. A well-outlined schedule ensures that all parties are aware of significant milestones and can make arrangements accordingly.

Enhanced Communication and Trust

When a General Contractor provides a detailed estimate, it enhances communication and builds trust. Clients feel more confident when they see that their contractor is transparent about costs and processes. This transparency is key to building a strong, positive relationship between the client and the contractor, which can lead to smoother project execution and future collaborations.

Contractor Accountability 

Another critical reason to obtain a detailed project estimate from your General Contractor is contractor accountability. A comprehensive estimate ensures that all parties have a clear understanding and agreement on what will be delivered, the costs involved, and the timelines. This accountability framework helps to safeguard your investment and keeps the contractor committed to delivering according to the agreed specifications and standards.

Mitigating Risks

Finally, detailed project estimates from your General Contractor help in mitigating risks associated with construction projects. Understanding all elements of the project upfront allows for the identification of potential risks and the development of strategies to address them before they become issues. This proactive approach saves time, money, and stress.

In summary, insisting on a detailed project estimate from your General Contractor is not just about having a breakdown of costs and timelines; it’s about ensuring a successful, transparent, and stress-free project execution.

What Makes VELUX Skylights Stand Out From the Competition?

VELUX skylights have set a high standard in the skylight market, offering exceptional quality and innovative features that enhance both residential and commercial spaces. Here’s why VELUX stands out from the competition, especially when installed by a specialized (VELUX) Skylight Contractor like Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights.

Innovative Design and Technology

Firstly, VELUX skylights are renowned for their cutting-edge technology and design. Each skylight is crafted with functionality and aesthetics in mind, ensuring that they not only bring natural light into a space but also enhance its overall look and feel. Features like remote-controlled solar blinds, energy-efficient glass, and automatic rain sensors make VELUX skylights a top choice for those seeking comfort and convenience.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

As a (VELUX) Skylight Contractor, Mares & Dow emphasizes the energy efficiency of VELUX products. These skylights are designed to offer maximum thermal insulation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling, and thus lowering energy costs. Moreover, VELUX’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of environmentally friendly materials and processes, which appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Professional Installation

The importance of professional installation cannot be overstated. Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, as an experienced (VELUX) Skylight Contractor, ensures that each installation is performed with precision. Proper installation is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure long-term durability. The expertise of a specialized contractor in handling VELUX products guarantees that the skylights perform optimally.

Warranty and Support

Another standout reason why VELUX skylights excel in the market is the comprehensive warranty and customer support offered. VELUX provides robust warranties that cover glass, frame, and operating mechanisms, ensuring long-term reliability and peace of mind for homeowners. This commitment to customer satisfaction solidifies VELUX’s reputation as a leader in the skylight industry.

Enhanced Indoor Environment

VELUX skylights contribute significantly to enhancing the indoor environment by providing abundant natural light and ventilation. This can improve mental and physical well-being, increase productivity, and create a more welcoming space. The ability to control the amount of light and air entering through the skylights, coupled with the option to install blinds, allows for complete control over the indoor climate.

Tailored Solutions

Each space is unique, and as a premier (VELUX) Skylight Contractor, Mares & Dow offers customized solutions that cater to individual needs. Whether it's for a small residential room or a large commercial space, they provide tailored advice and installation services to ensure that the skylights fit perfectly with the architectural demands and aesthetic desires of their clients.

In conclusion, VELUX skylights, when installed by a certified (VELUX) Skylight Contractor like Mares & Dow, provide unparalleled quality and value. Their innovative features, coupled with professional installation and tailored solutions, make them a superior choice in the skylight market.

Professional General Contractors Know How to Get It Done

A home remodeling project can be stressful for a homeowner. There is a need for considerable planning that includes hiring a general contractor to bring every step of the process together. Unless you hire the right general contractor, the substantial financial investment made to pull off your project can turn into a fruitless pursuit that tries to prevent financial losses. At Mares & Dow, we give the homeowners that we work with peace of mind knowing they have hired one of the general contractors that know how to get it done.
The question is how do you find one of the few general contractors that know how to get it done?
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Let’s review the characteristics that define the best general contractors in the Bay Area.

Professional Credentials

One of the keys to finding professional general contractors that know how to get it done is to understand which criteria are non-negotiable. Professional credentials represent one criterion that you cannot afford to let slide when you search for a general contractor. The general contractor that you hire to manage your home remodeling project should have acquired the proper licenses and insurance policies required by California state law. You also should confirm that any general contractor on your shortlist has earned the most prestigious professional certification. These include the certifications awarded by the Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) and the Building Industry Association (BIA).

Proven Record of Success

Experience is a word mentioned when describing the best general contractors in East Bay and San Francisco. Although it is true that you do not want a “green” general contractor managing your home remodeling project, it is more important to search for a general contractor that can demonstrate compiling a record of successfully completing home remodeling projects. The experience compiled by a general contractor on your shortlist should be for projects that are similar to the one that you want done for your house. For example, if you plan to install skylights inside your home, you should look for a skylight contractor that has compiled several years of successfully completing skylight installation projects.

Responsive Communicator

Professional general contractors such as Mares & Dow that know how to get it done are responsive communicators. They promptly return messages left by phone, text, and email. If you have an urgent matter to discuss with the general contractor in charge of your home remodeling project, you should not have to wait until the next day to discuss the issue. In addition, the general contractor hired to oversee your home remodeling project should communicate with you about issues that have a strong impact on the completion of your project. For instance, if the general contractor has to deal with a shortage of materials, the contractor should inform you as quickly as possible concerning the possibility of a project delay.

Understands Codes and Regulations

General contractors that know how to get it done share many attributes, one of which is having detailed knowledge of the complex housing codes and regulations established by the State of California, as well as the municipal government where you live. California residential property regulations frequently change to account for many factors, which means the general contractor hired for your home remodeling project should stay informed about the most recently enacted housing regulations. The same principle applies to the housing codes enforced by local governments in the Bay area. One of the most important local housing codes concerns the housing code requiring homeowners to make their houses earthquake-resistant.

How Does a Great General Contractor Eliminate Customer Concerns?

Homeowners who decide to complete a home improvement project, especially a complex project, can experience a considerable amount of stress. Even if a general contractor is running the project, issues such as project delays and shoddy workmanship can keep homeowners up at night. The most effective way a general contractor can eliminate customer concerns involves maintaining open lines of communication. If there is a problem with your construction project, you can expect Mares & Dow to contact you right away with a detailed explanation of what has gone wrong. We also promptly return phone, text, and email messages.

A great general contractor eliminates customer concerns before a project begins as well. Let’s take a look at five topics to discuss with a general contractor such as a skylight contractor before your home improvement project begins.

Proper Credentials

Eliminating customer concerns is all about giving you peace of mind. The first step to eliminate your concerns before a project starts is to verify the professional credentials of a general contractor. At Mares & Dow, we present our customers with the proper license and insurance paperwork to confirm our professional credentials. If a general contractor cannot present the right credentials, you should search for another general contractor to take on your home improvement project.

Testimonials

Most general contractor websites include a section called “Testimonials,” in which former customers provide positive feedback about the work done by a general contractor. Although website testimonials give you insight into the caliber of a general contractor, you should support website testimonials with references given to you in person or over the phone. If a general contractor on your shortlist of candidates cannot present positive references, then you should move on to the next general contractor.

Experience Matters

Although years of experience give you an idea of the reputation of a general contractor, make sure the years of experience have resulted in delivering high-quality workmanship. In addition, you should consider a general contractor who has years of proven success completing the same type of home improvement project that you want done at your house. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) website page for a general contractor lets you know how many years of experience the contractor has compiled.

Access to Materials

Several factors can delay the completion of a home improvement project, with bad weather representing one of the most common reasons. Another common reason for causing a project delay concerns the inability to have access to the right materials. Disruptions in the supply chain, such as the ones that we witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, can result in project delays that last weeks, even months. The general contractor hired for your home improvement project should explain to you how the contractor plans to avoid costly and time-consuming supply chain disruptions.

Fully Staffed

One of the most important responsibilities of a general contractor involves recruiting the most qualified trade professionals to work on your home improvement project. Acute labor shortages have caused project delays for general contractors across the United States. Before your home improvement project starts, ask the general contractor to provide a list of the names of every trade professional recruited to work on your project. If the general contractor has not yet filled all the trade professional positions, you can expect a delay in the start of your home improvement project.

How to Find the Model and Serial Number of VELUX Skylights

A VELUX skylight contractor does much more than install skylights according to a homeowner’s specifications. The role of a VELUX skylight contractor from Mares & Dow also involves sharing all the information you need to optimize the performance of your new skylights. For example, you learn how to maximize exposure to sunlight throughout the day, as well as determine the best angle for the skylight to shine natural light on certain objects inside your home. One question a VELUX skylight contractor typically does not receive while on a job site concerns the location of the model and serial number of VELUX skylights.

Where is the Model and Serial Number Located on VELUX Skylights?

​Every VELUX skylight contains a data plate that is mounted on its frame. The information on the data plate is how you determine the model and serial number of the VELUX skylight installed in your home. You should have no problem locating the data plate, as it stands out from the frame. Other information presented on a data plate includes the type of glass and manufacture date.

Here is an example of a data plate:
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If you have a Deck-Mounted Fixed Skylight, the data plate sits on the bottom left of the frame. For a Deck-Mounted Solar Powered or Electric "Fresh Air" Skylight, VELUX mounts the data plate of the bottom left near the sash. VELUX does not use a data plate to convey product information for homeowners that have a curb-mounted VELUX Skylight installed. Instead, you can find the product information stamped on the side of the exterior covers.

If you purchase VELUX skylights manufactured before the year 2010, the product information is located in a different location than the VELUX skylights that come with data frames. Access this page on the VELUX website to discover where the product information is positioned for your VELUX skylights. Of course, the VELUX skylight contractor working on your installation project can help you find the product information as well.

If you have difficulty finding the Product ID on your set of VELUX skylights, do not hesitate to call our customer service line at 1-800-888-3589 from Monday to Friday between 7:30 am to 8 pm EST or Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm EST.

Why is It Important to Know the Location of the Product Information?

Knowing the location of the production information of your set of VELUX daylights is important for several reasons. First, if you experience a performance issue, you should contact our customer service number to receive immediate assistance. The customer service representative taking your phone call should be able to suggest ways to enhance the performance of your VELUX skylights if the issue is not considered to be a serious problem. Second, if you want to order accessories for your VELUX skylights, you need to provide the customer service representative with the product information. Third, if your VELUX skylights require repair work, you can expect to describe the model and serial number to ensure you receive the highest quality repair work.

A Professional General Contractor Will Handle All of Your Construction Projects

Homeowners have many factors to consider before hiring a general contractor to manage their home improvement projects. You want a general contractor who has acquired the proper professional credentials, as well as presents an estimate that fits within your home improvement project. The general contractor overseeing your project should be a responsive communicator which means quickly returning emails, phone calls and text messages. A highly-rated general contractor such as Mares & Dow also meets every project deadline.

One factor that does not receive as much attention, but it should, refers to a general contractor’s versatility. In other words, you should search for a general contractor who has the skills and experience to complete different home improvement projects. Versatility saves you both money and time.

Mares & Dow specializes in completing four different types of home improvement projects.

Skylights

Installing skylights can immediately increase the value of your home for both aesthetic and functional reasons. A skylight contractor such as Marex & Dow installs skylights to lower your energy bills, which also reduces your home’s carbon footprint. More sunlight in a room highlights certain features such as plants and artwork. Natural light is known for improving the mood of anyone who steps into a room, as well as encouraging the circulation of fresh air when opened.

Retaining Wall

After enhancing the appearance of the interior of your house with skylights, the time has come to go outdoors for the completion of three home improvement projects. The first project is to build one or more retaining walls. The functional benefit of a retaining wall is to prevent soil erosion and stop heavy rain from entering the lower floor of your home. Aesthetically, one or more retaining walls create visual appeal by dividing sections of your property.

Siding

Mares & Dow also specializes in completing siding installation projects. Siding helps cover up defects on the exterior of your home, but the material is more of a preventive addition to your home. The highest quality of siding prevents moisture from degrading the exterior of your home. It also prevents pests from gaining access to small gaps in the areas where the side of your house meets the roof. Rugged siding absorbs the punishment delivered by hail and tree limbs to maintain the curb appeal of your home.

Outdoor Living Space

Homeowners who have run out of space inside their houses turn to outdoor living spaces to create more room for guests. Pergolas, gazebos, and pavilions represent three types of outdoor living spaces that increase the square footage of usable space for your home. An outdoor kitchen gives you more room to cook meals for a large number of guests. An investment in an outdoor living space can generate a return in home value that doubles, triples, or even quadruples the initial investment.

Benefit From the Versatility of Mares & Dow

Hiring a versatile general contractor like Mares & Dow can save you both time and money. You can save money by bundling home improvement services and you save time by contacting just one contractor. If you want a home improvement service that is outside of our list of services, we recruit a proven subcontractor to get the job done right.

What are Typical Construction Codes & Permits Pulled By a General Contractor?

Homeowners who plan for a home improvement project have to address several issues, such as how much to spend and what type of color to paint a bedroom wall. They hire general contractors to address other important issues such as ordering the correct amount of supplies and hiring subcontractors to work on specific trades such as plumbing and roofing. One area that both a homeowner and a general contractor like Mares & Dow must address concerns codes and permits.

In other words, what are typical construction codes and permits pulled by a general contractor?

Homeowners do not have to worry about pulling the codes and permits, which is one of the most important reasons why you should hire a general contractor who specializes in completing complex home improvement projects. Bureaucratic red tape can be highly frustrating to navigate, which means an experienced general contractor represents an essential hire to plow through the red tape that can cause construction delays. For example, a skylight contractor has to meet certain codes that allow for the installation of skylights.

Homeowners just need to know that the general contractor has pulled the correct codes and permits. You should ask for a list for reference during the home improvement project. However, one type of permit is important for homeowners to understand.

The Most Important Permit: Building Permit

City and county governments grant written authorizations that allow a general contractor like Mares & Dow to start a construction project. The purpose of issuing a building permit is to ensure the safety of the homeowner, contractors, and neighbors, as well as that the general contractor complies with every zoning and construction code.

Not every construction project requires the acquisition of a building permit. Every municipality and county government establishes codes according to regional issues. For example, building codes in Florida typically require homeowners to achieve structural stability that withstands certain hurricane conditions. A home in a more rural region might have to comply with codes that are centered around using fire prevention materials.

Home improvement projects that require a building permit include removing walls, changing pipes, and installing a new roof. On the other hand, home improvement projects that usually do not require a building permit include painting your house, replacing certain appliances, and putting up a small fence. In addition to obtaining a building permit, you also might have to acquire special system permits, such as plumbing, electrical, and/or mechanical.

What Are the Steps for Obtaining a Building Permit?

Although homeowners are not required to obtain building permits, understanding how the process works can ease any anxiety generated by a home improvement project.

The first step in the building permit process is to submit a fully completed application. Next, the general contractor managing your project prepares a site plan. If your project is complex, the general contractor might have to hire an architect to create the blueprint for the project. The general contractor then schedules an appointment to discuss the project with the appropriate government official or officials. The governing body might approve the project plan at the time of the meeting or you might have to wait several days or even weeks to hear back from the governing body. After approval of the project, the general contractor receives the permit and then begins scheduling inspections before gaining formal approval to start work on your project.
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The permit approval process also varies by region, with large cities typically applying tougher construction codes to account for the development of commercial structures.

Authorized Velux Skylight Contractors Deliver Quality and Workmanship

VELUX skylights developed a following first in Denmark where the skylights originated. They have become a wildly popular type of home improvement project in the United States for several reasons.

A VELUX skylight contractor brightens up a living space because VELUX skylights allow much more sunlight to enter homes than other types of skylights. The additional sunlight also is beneficial for plants, especially plants that sit on windowsills or under ceilings that include embedded VELUX skylights.

At Mares & Dow, we inform homeowners that VELUX skylights represent an affordable home improvement project that generates a significant increase in the value of a home. Homeowners living in the United States also enjoy up to a 22 percent tax credit since VELUX skylights leave a much lower carbon footprint than other types of skylights.

A lower carbon footprint also means lower energy bills. More sunlight in a room increases the heat, which means you do not have to run the central heating system as often in winter. Many VELUX skylights come with a remote control feature that allows you to open the skylights during the warmer months of the year to increase the flow of fresh air.

Here are five factors to consider before hiring a VELUX skylight contractor.

Customer Service

VELUX skylights are the superior product in the skylight niche. However, the skylights lose their value if you hire a contractor that delivers inferior customer service. The VELUX skylight contractor that you hire should educate you on how to optimize the performance of the skylights, as well as walk you through a demonstration on how to maximize the sunlight glowing in a room. You also should hire a contractor who responds promptly to communications, whether the communications come in the form of emails, phone calls, or text messages.

Professional Credentials

For any home improvement project, the general contractor and the subcontractors chosen for certain trades must have acquired the proper professional credentials. Contractors that have acquired the right credentials demonstrate their commitment to providing professional-grade services. When you start searching for the best VELUX skylight contractor, confirm the contractor has completed the VELUX Certified Installer Program. The program puts contractors through a comprehensive course that includes hands-on installation sessions.

Has a Plan

The best home improvement contractors meet every project deadline, which they establish before the project starts. During the vetting process, meet with every contractor on your shortlist to learn how the contractor plans to tackle your project. Setting specific deadlines is not as important as learning whether the contractor has a plan to install VELUX skylights in your home. You should discover how long the VELUX skylight installation project should take.

Affordable

You should hire a contractor who helps you stay within the home improvement budget, but you do not want to cut corners to compromise the quality of your VELUX skylight installation project. Affordable contractors know how to avoid costly project delays, such as the delays that unfold because of supply chain disruptions. Poorly installed skylights of any brand can lead to costly issues such as a leaky roof. Business-savvy contractors present affordable quotes because they know how to purchase materials in bulk.

Positive Online Reviews

Online reviews should be the last factor to consider before hiring a certified VELUX skylight contractor. Read the reviews left on sites like Yelp and Google to discover whether a contractor delivers quality and workmanship. You also should access every contractor’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page to see where they stand with customers.

Is It Better to Hire a Contractor or a General Contractor?

Is it better to hire a contractor or a general contractor?

The answer to the question depends on the nature of a home remodeling contract. The more extensive the home remodeling project, the more likely that you should hire a general contractor. For small home renovation projects such as installing skylights, you are probably better off hiring what is called a specialty skylight contractor. In the United States, contractors receive licenses based on meeting specific professional qualifications.

Let’s review what it takes to become a special contractor and a general contractor.

Specialty Contractor

A specialty contractor (SC) typically is referred to as a Class C license holder. Earning this license qualifies a specialty contractor to work in a specific trade, such as heating, plumbing, roofing, and welding. Specialty contractors undergo comprehensive training to master their specific trades. They learn the technical applications of their specific trades, as well as master the organization of projects. The owner of a property or a general contractor can hire an SC, depending on the scope of a home remodeling project. Specialty contractors are responsible for following the safety codes and regulations established by local governments.

General Contractor

A general contractor manages a home remodeling project that requires the professional services of two or more specialty contractors. General contractors schedule deadlines for the different steps involved in completing a home remodeling project, as well as ensure all the materials needed to complete the project arrive on time and in the correct quantities. For example, a general contractor like Mares & Dow contracts with a specialty contractor to install a new roof and a different special contractor to revamp a home’s plumbing system. When a GC hires an SC to perform work on a home remodeling project, the GC usually compensates the SC with a down payment. The balance is paid after the completion of the home remodeling project.

What Factors Should I Consider Before Hiring a GC and SC?

Although general contractors and special contractors have different professional obligations during a home remodeling project, the criteria they should meet are similar in many ways.

You want to ensure both types of contractors have acquired the proper licenses and insurance. Second, both types of contractors should provide several references, preferably from recent clients. If a contractor does not provide any professional references, you should consider that as a serious impediment to hiring the contractor. Third, any contractor under consideration should have access to enough materials, as well as have a backup plan to address supply disruption issues. Fourth, contractors must have enough labor to complete your home remodeling project, which can be a difficult goal to reach during acute labor shortages.

Communication is Critically Important

One of the most compelling reasons to hire a general contractor for a large home remodeling project concerns the ease of communication. If you hire several special contractors to handle jobs that require several different trades, you have to communicate with each special contractor to determine issues such as the status of a certain step within the scope of the project. On the other hand, hiring a general contractor to manage different special contractors streamlines the communication process. Instead of communicating with several special contractors, the communication channel goes through one source, the general contractor.

Just make sure to agree on the types of communication channels to use during your home remodeling project.

5 Things to Know About Choosing a Great Velux Skylight Contractor

You have decided to install skylights in your home or business, but not just any type of skylight. VELUX skylights, which originated in Denmark, represent the most popular type of skylight for reasons such as durability, affordability, and illumination coverage. Now that you have discovered the right type of skylight to install in your home, how do you find the best VELUX skylight contractor to get the job done right?
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Let’s review the five things to know about choosing a great VELUX skylight contractor such as Mares and Dow.

VELUX Skylight Credentials

Regardless of the type of home improvement project, you should make sure any contractor on your list of candidates possesses the proper professional credentials. If you are planning a roof replacement project, you want to ensure that the contractor you hire possesses every professional credential to install a new roof. Contractors who check off every box on a credentials list demonstrate they value professionalism. When the time comes to vet a contractor to install VELUX skylights, you want to confirm the contractor has completed the VELUX Certified Installer Program.

Superior Customer Service

Superior customer service encompasses many attributes, which you can determine before a VELUX skylight contractor agrees to oversee your home improvement project. One of the most important attributes of superior customer service concerns the responsiveness of a contractor. You can determine this when you contact a contractor. Does the contractor promptly answer all your questions? Do you have to wait on hold for several minutes before a representative of the company picks up the phone? You should receive quick responses to every form of communication that includes emails and text messages.

Affordable, But Not Cheap

Staying within your home improvement budget is an important element that determines the success of a VELUX skylight installation project. However, you do not want the contractor to cut corners, which can lead to project malfunctions such as a leaky roof and/or the incorrect placement of VELUX skylights. The best VELUX skylight contractors offer affordable quotes because they implement cost-saving measures such as purchasing materials in bulk.

Meets Deadlines

One of the keys to remaining under budget for every type of home improvement is for the contractor to meet every deadline. Factors such as supply chain disruptions and home inspection delays can set a contractor back several days. The VELUX skylight contractor that you hire should have the capability to avoid project delays by devising alternate project strategies. For example, managing supply chain disruptions involves anticipating them in advance to have other suppliers ready to help fill product voids.

Positive Reviews

Yelp and Google represent helpful resources for gaining insight into the professional reputation of a VELUX skylight contractor. In addition to online reviews, you should ask the contractor to provide professional references to bolster the feedback given about any contractor on your shortlist. Spend time reading a contractor’s profile and customer feedback pages on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Customer reviews should be support information that verifies the other criteria on this list.

VELUX Authorized Skylight Contractors Equal Excellent Installations

You have decided to install skylights in your home. However, you want to install the best skylights offered by a VELUX skylight contractor.

The installation of skylights delivers several benefits for homeowners. Skylights improve the ambiance of any room where they are installed, which in turn improves the moods of everyone in those rooms. This is an especially important benefit for installing skylights in office spaces where enhanced mood translates into higher work productivity. Installing VELUX skylights provided by Mares and Dow helps decrease energy bills by welcoming much more sunlight into a living space or work environment. The sun’s bright rays highlight certain objects in a room or workspace, such as paintings that hang on a wall.

VELUX skylights got their start in 1941 when Villum Kahn designed the first type of window that perfectly fit on a roof without the need to add a dormer. The newly designed roof windows became a hit in Denmark where the sun’s angle often makes it difficult to capture natural illumination during certain times of the year. It took nearly 50 more years before the roof windows evolved into skylights, which today are installed by a VELUX skylight contractor. Over the past 10 years, VELUX skylights have become one of the most popular types of home and business additions for property owners located around the world.

Why Do Homeowners Prefer VELUX Skylights?

VELUX skylights deliver many of the same benefits as other types of skylights. The addition of light brightens up a living space, as well as makes a living space larger than it appears. Skylights usher in more natural light, which helps grow indoor plants. VELUX skylights produce several more benefits that make them the right choice for both businesses and homeowners.

Installing VELUX skylights is an affordable home improvement project that increases the value of a house. It is a fast and relatively easy home upgrade that requires little maintenance after they are installed. You can transform a dark, dingy attic into a vibrant living space for entertaining guests or offering your family a place to enjoy different recreational activities.

Homeowners who install VELUX skylights can reap the savings of up to 22 percent of tax credits, depending on where they live in the United States. VELUX skylights also are the most effective brand of skylight for reducing a home’s carbon footprint. VELUX designs and manufactures a diverse line of skylights that meet the specifications of almost every homeowner. Versatility includes VELUX skylights that feature a solar panel, as well as open and close by simply touching a remote control button.

Choose the Right VELUX Skylight Contractor for Your Next Home Improvement Project

Deciding to install VELUX skylights is just the first step in this home improvement project. Now, you have to select the best VELUX skylight contractor.

You want to hire a Velux skylight contractor who is willing to share knowledge, which helps you maximize the features that make VELUX skylights special. One important tip concerns learning how to maximize the cost savings associated with VELUX skylights. Your contractor should be a responsive communicator who responds to every form of communication in a timely manner. You want to hire a VELUX skylight contractor who stays within the home improvement budget as well as lets you know when the team of contractors notices a roof issue that requires immediate attention.

4 Popular Home Remodeling Ideas to Rejuvenate Your House

A home remodeling project involves improving the function and/or the appearance of a house. From installing a new roof to refinishing the basement to create an additional bedroom, you have numerous ideas on how to increase the value of your home. The question is which home remodeling project or projects should you tackle?

At Mares & Dow, we present four popular home remodeling ideas to rejuvenate your house.

Add More Light Sources

By adding lighting fixtures such as spotlights, and low-hanging pendants, you can brighten one or more rooms in your home. Artificial light sources also help you illuminate focal points of your home, such as an art collection or a grand piano. Illumination on a granite or marble countertop immediately brightens the ambiance of a room.

However, you have another way to add more light sources, and it involves welcoming sunlight into your home. One of our most popular home remodeling projects involves installing skylights in locations of a home that receive plenty of sunlight. Skylights deliver several benefits, which include elevating mood and helping you save money on energy bills.

Install Siding

When you think about enhancing the exterior of your house, you probably think first about installing a new roof or undergoing an extensive painting project. Although both are considered effective ways to improve the curb appeal of your home, a less costly and just as effective outdoor home remodeling project involves the installation of siding.

First, you and our team of contractors determine the right material for the siding to be installed. Second, you have to decide where you want the siding installed. As the name implies, siding attaches to the sides of houses. However, you might not want to install siding up and down the side of your home. Mares & Dow installs the highest quality siding that accentuates other exterior features of your house.

Add One or More Retaining Walls

Typically considered more of a functional home remodeling project, the addition of one or more retaining walls accomplishes much more than diverting rainwater and preventing certain areas of your property from turning into flood zones. Adding one or more retaining walls also enhances the visual appeal of your property, as well as separates your property into different areas of landscape.

Mares & Dow offers the highest-grade materials for retaining walls that improve the appearance of your property, as well as cover all the functional requirements.

Create an Outdoor Living Space

If you frequently entertain large groups of guests, creating an outdoor living space increases the amount of room where you play host. Installing a pergola or gazebo gives more room for guests to sit. Even if you do not entertain often, building an outdoor living space gives you and your family a place to get away from it all. Clients who love to cook can do their thing with much more room when we add an outdoor kitchen.

When the time comes to complete one of the four popular home remodeling ideas to rejuvenate your house, you want to hire a general contractor that has a proven record of success. At Mares & Dow, we offer a team of experienced and knowledgeable general contractors to help you achieve the vision that you have for your home.

Home Contractors Transform Basements Into Apartments

Home remodeling projects take many shapes and sizes, from installing new siding to building a retaining wall in the backyard. One of the most profitable home remodeling projects completed by the licensed contractors at Mares & Dow involves transforming a basement into an apartment. Not only does this project increase the value of your home, but it also generates a steady stream of revenue if you decide to rent out the space. Even if you do not rent out the space, the new apartment can become an extra room for a family member or a place for guests to stay.

If you have decided to transform the basement into an apartment, let’s review what you should consider before taking on the home remodeling project.

Confirm the Legality of the Home Remodeling Project

Some local governments place remodeling restrictions on homeowners by establishing zoning laws and regulations. Common types of zoning laws and regulations include limiting the number of occupants in a home, as well as mandating certain types of parking requirements and fire escape plans. You might live in a city that prohibits the transformation of a basement into a residence for someone to rent.

If your city does not allow for a basement transformation into an apartment, you might be able to convert the basement into a space for personal use, such as an additional bathroom.

Cost

After confirming the legality of a basement conversion into an apartment, the next step involves creating an affordable budget. This is the step when the home remodeling contractors at Mares & Dow start providing help for our clients. We closely monitor the supply chain to determine the cost of materials. In addition, we calculate an accurate value for the cost of labor, which includes estimating the number of hours required to complete the transformation of your basement into an apartment.

According to Home Advisor, the national average cost to remodel a basement is nearly $20,000, but a conversion of a basement into an apartment runs much higher than that amount.

Design the Apartment

What style of apartment do you want? Do you want to design a studio or make it a one-bedroom apartment that requires partitions to divide up the space? Although an open floor plan for a studio saves you time and money because you do not have to build walls, a one-bedroom apartment with partitions allows you to charge more money to rent the space. You also have to consider the design of the floor, as well as whether you want to install one or more windows.

The highly rated home remodeling contractors at Mares & Dow help you design the new apartment by creating a floor plan and calculating the square footage.

How to Choose the Right Home Remodeling Contractors to Convert a Basement Into an Apartment

You have decided to convert the basement into an apartment. Now, you must choose the best home remodeling contractors to complete the project. The first factor to consider concerns proven experience. Second, verify every general contractor on your shortlist has earned the proper professional credentials. Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) and Building Industry Association (BIA) represent two common types of professional designations for home remodeling contractors. The third factor to consider is the reviews left by clients on sites such as Yelp and Google.

Spring is a Busy Season So Schedule Your Home Remodeling Now

Spring is the time of year for rebirth. Birds return from their long migration. Animals that stayed warm beneath cover appear for the first time in months. Flowers bloom to color the nearby landscape. Spring also is the busiest time of year for home remodeling projects.

At Mares & Dow, we encourage our clients to give us plenty of advance notice for their spring home remodeling projects.

Why is Spring the Best Time of Year to Schedule a Home Remodeling Project?

You can see home remodeling crews working on projects throughout the year. However, spring represents the busiest season for the home remodeling professionals at Mares & Dow for several reasons.

Ideal Weather Conditions

Spring offers the perfect balance between winter’s freezing temperatures and summer’s blistering heat waves. Yes, it rains during spring, but that allows us to take our work indoors for a couple of days, from installing skylights to making changes to your project’s construction blueprint. Contractors typically work at a faster pace during periods of pleasant weather, which spring frequently delivers in the form of warm, sunny days.

More Time to Work on Your Project

Just because we start a home remodeling project during spring does not mean the project ends before the first day of summer. For long-term home remodeling projects, starting in spring gives us several extra months of decent weather. This means we can work on your project through summer and deep into autumn. It also gives us a time buffer in case constant poor weather conditions and/or prolonged disruptions in the supply chain negatively impact your project.

Get to the Front of the Line

The earlier you schedule a home remodeling project with Mares & Dow, the more likely your project will move near the top of the line for scheduling projects. Like most home remodeling contractors, Mares & Dow operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The only exception to the rule is a winter project that extends into early spring. If you wait until late winter or early spring to schedule a home remodeling project, it might be several months before we can start on the project.

Great Deals on Supplies

Many suppliers run sales promotions towards the end of winter to reduce the inventory of products. When the time comes to create a budget for your home remodeling project, Mares & Dow factors in the lower prices of supplies in our bid. The result is a more affordable price tag on your project, which might lead you to consider additional project options. Spring also is a good time to shop for additions to your home, such as the installation of a retaining wall and/or siding that matches the exterior decor of your house.

How Much Advance Notice Should I Provide Mares & Dow?

The complexity of your home remodeling project determines when you should schedule the project. For a minor home remodeling project, we might be able to work the project into our current schedule. However, for more complex remodeling projects, scheduling such a project months or even a year in advance gets you to the front of the line.

Mares & Dow has earned considerable praise for our work on sites such as Yelp and Google. Get your home remodeling project booked today by contacting one of our client service professionals.