[New Post] Choosing An Energy Efficient Homebuilder In Scottsdale AZ

Choosing a Custom Homebuilder in Scottsdale that Focuses on Energy Efficiency

Truth be told, there are many custom homebuilders in the greater Scottsdale area. However, there are very few that focus on ensuring that your custom home is energy efficient. The fact is that energy rates are skyrocketing in Arizona. Whether it’s due to our resources or economic reasons, finding affordable ways to integrate energy efficiency when choosing a custom homebuilder in Scottsdale has become a priority for many new homeowners.

Five Important Factors To Consider When Choosing An Energy Efficient Custom Homebuilder

First – Define Your Individual Needs

Before you begin to interview custom homebuilders, the first thing you need to do is determine exactly what you’re looking to build. Believe it or not, different custom homebuilders often have individual specialties. So before you start searching, know exactly what type of home you’re intending on building.

Second – Depend On Experience With Energy Efficient Homes

As you begin to look online for custom homebuilders, it is important to begin narrowing down the field to a group of less than five. One way to weed out contenders is looking into their experience in building energy efficient homes. If energy efficiency is important to you, only work with a homebuilder that has extensive experience in building homes that are energy friendly.

Third – Look For Previous Customer Input

If you’ve narrowed down your list of potential custom homebuilders in Scottsdale, you’ll want to ask them about references from previous customers. If they are willing to provide you with list of clients, ask these about what steps the homebuilder did to focus on energy efficiency.

Fourth – Does The Builder Integrate Style Into Energy Efficient Designs?

Another question you should ask is whether or not the homebuilder has experience integrating some stylistic features you desire into an overall energy efficient custom home. After all, you need to be happy with the aesthetics of your home, first and foremost. Just make sure that they have the creative ability to infuse some efficiency standards along the way.

Fifth – Ask To Tour A Few Previous Custom Homes They’ve Built

A great way to get a look at some of the homes a custom homebuilder in Scottsdale has previously built is to ask to tour one personally with the builder. During your visit, ask the homebuilder a few important questions in regards to the energy efficiency of the home including:

• What type of HVAC system did you install inside this custom home and how is that system more or less energy efficient than other models that you might want for your own home?


• How did the homebuilder insulate the home? Believe it or not, insulation is also used as a protective barrier to keep heat from entering a home during the hot summer months.


• What feature about the electrical, plumbing and other household systems help conserve energy on a monthly basis?

When you stick to these five important steps to choosing a custom home builder in Scottsdale, it’s highly likely that you’ll find one that will build you a very efficient home that can save you money each month on utility bills.

Still undecided about your choice? Click here to read some of our testimonials.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/choosing-an-energy-efficient-homebuilder-in-scottsdale-az/

[New Post] Flood Restoration In Scottsdale Can Come From a Simple HVAC Leak

How A Bad HVAC Systems Can Lead To Home Flood Restoration 

Although most flood damage in Scottsdale, Arizona occurs during the stormy monsoon season, one highly overlooked cause of indoor flooding can be attributed to HVAC units. It’s no secret that we use our air conditioning a lot during the hot summer months in Arizona, however, one thing not commonly known is that this additional use also tends to create a ton of condensate that needs to be properly disposed of. And when the condensate coils of the air conditioning plumbing system fail, it could lead to possible damage inside your home and the need to have flood restoration in Scottsdale.

HVAC Flood Damage

For the most part, the State of Arizona is relatively dry. However, from July till August, when we get a ton of rain and thundershowers, our homes tend to develop a lot of humidity. It’s the job of an AC unit to remove this humidity from inside our homes. With so much additional humid air, sometimes our systems become overworked and the excess water has nowhere to go but your basement or bottom floors.

Some of the damage that can occur inside your home due to a leaking HVAC unit includes the following:

• Damage to carpet. If your HVAC system is leaking water inside your home, the first thing that often becomes damaged is the flooring. And when you have carpet installed, like several homeowners in Scottsdale do, the results can be devastating. Standing water and carpet simply don’t mix. And if the water soaks below your carpet and into the pad and the floorboards, it could mean that your entire flooring needs to be replaced.


• Damage to walls. If you have a lot of water that ends up inside your home, another potential area that can become damaged is the wall. Water and drywall simply don’t mix very well. Drywall is, well, dry and tends to absorb water very quickly. The result is that the drywall will swell and become brittle. And when this occurs, it means that the drywall needs to be replaced.


• Damage to electrical systems. As we all know, water and electricity is an explosive and potentially dangerous combination. However, when water seeps into an electrical socket, it can and often does, destroy the socket and the supporting wires behind it. It can also cause the main circuit breakers to trip and even cause some damage to the primary board as well.


• Damage to furniture. Obviously, if water is deep enough inside your home, it can cause extensive damage to your furniture.


• Potential mold issues. Although Arizona is not a common location for mold issues, if you leave your home for an extended period and have this type of HVAC system flooding, it could possibly lead to mold collecting inside your home.

As you can clearly see, HVAC system flooding can lead to significant damage inside your home requiring flood restoration in Scottsdale. If you are the victim of HVAC flooding or if your home was damaged due to flash flooding caused by extensive rain, a good solution is to contact a professional flood restoration company in Scottsdale that has experience in providing affordable and comprehensive repairs in the Phoenix metro area and surrounding cities.

If you don’t catch the leaky HVAC unit and flood damage occurs, call us at (480) 378-0611, and we will be there to help with the water damage restoration.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/flood-restoration-in-scottsdale-can-come-from-a-simple-hvac-leak/

[New Post] Where to Start on a Home Renovation Project in Phoenix

It’s common for homeowners in Phoenix to find affordable ways to spice up their homes – and increase property value. And one of the quickest growing trends in Arizona is the addition of several home renovation projects both in the city limits and suburbs. One question that many homeowners often ask is where to start on a home renovation project?

A Priority List Of Items Needed For Any Home Renovation Project

First – Always Begin With Setting A Budget

Whether you’re going to simply paint the house or take on a complete restoration project, the first and probably biggest step is to create a very strong budget. It’s often said that money doesn’t grow on trees. Well, in the construction industry, money is often the primary hurdle to overcome. This is why the best thing any homeowner can do is to create a solid budget of what they can afford to spend on any home renovation project.

Second – Create A Needs List And Wish List

It’s also important for homeowners to look at the big picture of their potential home renovation project. The best way to accomplish this step is to create two, independent lists.

• The first list will be items that you need to include in your renovation project. For example, if you’re planning on increasing the overall square footage of your home by adding a casita, another bedroom or finishing a basement, the actual project of adding those spaces is a needed feature in order to accomplish your goal.


• Once you have a good idea as to what you’re trying to accomplish with your renovation project, the next thing to consider is what material items you need to make the addition ‘livable’. Let’s look at the basement project for an example. If you’re going to finish a basement, you’ll most likely need a few critical items including air conditioning/heating duct work installed (if not already complete), electrical and plumbing installed (again, if it’s not already finished), drywall hung, walls built, filled with insulation and textured and several other common elements. If you’re going to have living spaces in the basement, you’ll most likely need at least one full bath finished as well.

After you’ve created the needed items for your home renovation project in Phoenix, the next step is to think of wants and compare them to your budget. For example:

• Perhaps you’d want a bar installed in a loft, or outside on your backyard patio?


• Maybe you want to install decorative lighting, install surround sound speakers inside the walls or other upgraded items?


• It might be a desire of yours to add custom molding, textured walls or vaulted ceilings.

The point here is that it’s very important for you to separate items you need to have completed, vs those that are more of a want – where if you have extra room in your budget, you can afford to install.

As you can see, there are several actions that can keep you busy when you’re asking where to start on a home renovation project in Phoenix. The best advice we can give is to contact a professional general contractor for a free consultation so they can answer any questions and help you plan that perfect home renovation project.

Renovations, remodeling, new construction, etc; we have the Professional answers – call us today at (480) 378-0611!

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/where-to-start-on-a-home-renovation-project-in-phoenix/

[New Post] Top Outdoor Patio Ideas That Are Easy To Complete In Arizona

Top Four Most Popular Outdoor Patio Ideas

We all enjoy spending time outside – especially during the relaxing fall months in Arizona. And as most home owners know, creating an outdoor patio that is both stylish and functional can be either expensive or time consuming. If you are in the position of needing to get new outdoor patio ideas or looking to update your older patio with fresher and more functional items, we have some tips for you.

Outdoor Patio Ideas That Are Making Waves Across The US This Summer

#1 – Upgrading To Outdoor Kitchen

Virtually every homeowner has grilled something at some time in his or her lives. And one of the quickest growing trends in Arizona is installing outdoor kitchen areas. An outdoor kitchen often adds a few important elements to your outdoor patio including:

• A source to cook with pots and pans


• A traditional BBQ or outdoor grill


• Sink and preparation areas for cooking


• Refrigeration of some sort


• A dining area

This can cost as little as a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on how extreme you want to take your outdoor décor.

#2 – Installation Of The Pergola

If you watch DIY Network or other home improvement shows on TV, you’ll quickly notice how popular pergola installation is becoming across the country. However, installation of a new pergola in Arizona has many factors that you may have never considered:

• A pergola should withstand the extreme elements.


• A pergola should offers some open sunlight – which is a nice feature to have during winter, fall and spring months


• The pergola, being open, should also allow home owners to enjoy the stars in evening hours above


• Pergolas are very affordable and highly decorative

Pergolas should enhance the overall look and feel of your outdoor patio space as a wonderful centerpiece.

#3 – Fire Features Are Fantastic

Although it can get rather hot in the desert, the addition of a fire feature can really sizzle your outdoor décor. Many home owners in Arizona have fire pits installed in their backyards, however, a growing trend is the addition of natural gas fueled fire features, that not only will provide a bit of warmth so you can enjoy your patio year-round, but also a stylistic improvement.

Another growing trend that is related to fire features is installing decorative outdoor heaters. From tiki-torches to custom made propane/natural gas heating units, there are literally dozens of potential heat sources you can purchase when creating an impressive outdoor patio.

#4 – Outdoor Canopy Beds

When the sun dips behind the mountains, and the weather starts to cool down, taking time to relax outside on a comfortable outdoor canopy bed is really a great way to enjoy the outdoors. This is why many metro area homes in the Phoenix area are starting to add outdoor canopy beds to their outdoor décor arsenal. Plus, when the weather cools down a bit, and you want to soak up some sunlight to work on a tan, lying down on a comfortable, weather proof bed really is relaxing.

Regardless of what time of year it might be, it’s never too early to look into outdoor patio ideas that will provide more function and style to your outdoor living in Arizona.

Ready to turn your outside space into a glamorous living and comfortable environment? Call us today at (480) 378-0611, and we will add our Professional help!

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/top-outdoor-patio-ideas-that-are-easy-to-complete-in-arizona/

[New Post] Bathroom Remodeling in Scottsdale AZ | Maximizing Your Space

One of the more popular projects taking off in recent months is many homeowners completing bathroom remodeling in Scottsdale AZ. Before you grab the sledgehammer and begin to remove all of your fixtures, slow down for a few minutes and think. Bathroom remodeling projects can be tricky. And one of the most difficult obstacles to overcome is finding ways to maximize space into the remodeling project.

Steps To Take When Beginning Any Bathroom Remodeling

Step #1 – Complete a Strong Inventory of Essentials vs. Desires

The truth about bathrooms is they serve a purpose. But this doesn’t mean they can’t be filled with a few nice items that enhance the look and feel of this commonly used room. The first step that you should take when beginning a bathroom remodel is to take stock of the available space, along with a list of items you need to have inside the bathroom as well as a list of items you’d like to add.

For example: most women require some essential items such as:

• Towels, washcloths, makeup, blow dryers, etc.


• You might also need medications, soaps, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products and other small items.

Once you’ve taken an inventory of items you need to have, begin to add a few ‘wants’ to the list such as:

• Adding shelving to hold these items (an effort to maximize space)


• Adding a makeup table or vanity


• Installing new bathtubs, showers, fixtures

Step #2 – Create A Budget And Time Constraints

Once you’ve made your list of items you want and need, the next step is to look at your financials to determine a budget and time requirements to get this job completed. It’s always expected that any budget be realistic and will not impact your ability to live a comfortable lifestyle inside your current home. You also need to consider the time it will take to complete this project along with several other factors that might impact your ability to host friends, family and others at your home.

Step #3 – Consider Lighting Upgrades

Did you know that adding more light will add more visual space to any room including a bathroom remodeling project in Scottsdale AZ? One of the most popular ways to add lighting is through the lighting that a vanity can provide. Not only will it illuminate faces when applying makeup or shaving, but it can also help the room seem ‘larger’. It’s recommended that you consider all lighting options when planning to start a bathroom-remodeling project.

Finally, if you’re really looking to maximize the space inside your bathroom, it might be a good idea to speak directly with a bathroom remodeling contractor in Scottsdale AZ about installing additional storage. Believe it or not, there are several new custom-built storage solutions that many homeowners are using in their bathroom remodeling projects in Scottsdale. Meeting with a general contractor that has experience in this segment is a smart idea – especially when they can provide you with additional options to maximize your bathroom space.

Remodeling your bathroom does not need to be an overwhelming task. Call us at (480) 378-0611, and we can help you get started.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/bathroom-remodeling-in-scottsdale-az-maximizing-your-space/

[New Post] Haboobs in Arizona: Tips to Stay Safe during Massive Dust Storms

If you’ve lived in Arizona for any period of time, you know how powerful and dangerous those haboobs in Arizona can become. From the serious damage they can cause a home, to the significant danger they cause to drivers trapped in a haboob while on the road, the truth is that nobody wants to deal with these freakish summertime storms. However, they are a reality of southwestern living. We have provided a few simple tips that anybody should follow every time a haboob is approaching that when followed, could save you time and even potentially save your life.

Life Saving Tips During An Approaching Dust Storm

Tip #1 – Safe Driving Tips When Approaching A Haboob In Arizona

A haboob can pop up out of thin air. So it stands to reason that the majority of the time, you’ll experience a haboob in Arizona while you are traveling on the road. If you ever find yourself in this unfortunate circumstance, here are a few things you should do to prevent injuries or accidents during an Arizona haboob.

• First – Pull off the road and turn off all lights, including your emergency flashers.


• Second – Roll Up Your Windows.


• Third – Wait it out.

Before you head back onto the road, take a few minutes to clear off your windshield of any dirt that is impairing your vision. You’ll also want to make sure you clear out the ventilation ducts that draw air into your AC system before turning that back on.

Tip #2 – Tips For Protecting Your Home From Haboob Damage

One of the leading causes of damage to outdoor items, like patio furniture, swimming pool equipment and other items are the haboobs that hit the Phoenix area. There are a few things that Phoenix homeowners should do to prepare themselves for the Haboob season.

First, make sure you have a plan of action when a haboob is approaching. Typically the Phoenix media is pretty good about warning people where and when haboob storms hit. In this emergency plan you’d include a few important items:

a) Make sure you have covers for your outdoor equipment. Sometimes a simple tarp with some bungee cords attached is good enough to protect these items from being damaged.

b) Make sure you close all windows and doors before the haboob hits. Just like being in a car, you don’t want that dirty air coming into your home.

c) Also, make sure to turn off the AC system.

Second, after the haboob in Arizona has hit your house, there are a few items you should immediately check:

a) Check the gas line to make sure it’s not leaking. If it is, or you notice the smell of gas, turn it off immediately.

b) Check the AC Unit to make sure that it’s not coated in dirt or debris. If it is, carefully wash it off before turning the unit back on.

c) Check for any damage to your home.

If you notice that there has been damage to your house, contact your insurance company immediately. They’ll most likely permit you to contact a home repair company in Phoenix to help repair any damage done by those haboobs in Arizona.

After the dust clears, call us at (480) 378-0611 and we will help with the recovery.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/haboobs-in-arizona-tips-to-stay-safe-during-massive-dust-storms/

[New Post] What To Do After The Storm Damage Occurs In Phoenix

How To Deal With Storm Damage In Phoenix

When the summer storms arrive during the monsoon season, many homes and commercial buildings suffer significant storm damage in Phoenix. And for anybody that has dealt with storm damage in the past, they realize how stressful and time consuming it can be to get repairs made. However, there are a few things that anybody can do to expedite this process and ensure that a dependable repair company fixes the storm damage that has occurred quickly – and affordably.

Our 3 Steps To Repairing Phoenix Storm Damage

Step #1 – Take An Inventory Of Damage

The first thing you want to do before anything else is to take a quick walk around the entire property to inspect any damage that has occurred due to a storm in Phoenix. One thing that many Phoenix area homeowners tend to forget is that most insurance policies will cover damage done to your property not just the house on your property. We’re not saying that all insurance companies will cover the damage repairs, but just take an inventory and document your inspection in case they do.

This is the assessment we suggest to complete:

• Examine the outside of the entire house. Look for any damage done to the walls, windows, roof, gutters, doors or any large and very important structural elements of the house.


• Examine the property such as the front yard, back yard, side yard, any garages, storage areas and outdoor equipment. Inspect them and take pictures of any damage that has happened to those areas due to the storm.


• Look for any damage to outside utilities such as power lines, gas lines, water supply or anything else that supplies power or fuel to the house.

Step #2 – Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve taken an initial inventory of the damage completed to your home, it’s a good idea to then place your first call to the home insurance company. Most of the time, an insurance company will take the time to open up a claim. However, it’s important to understand that all insurance companies are different with each of them having different policies and procedures that need to be followed in order for claims to be approved and paid. Here are a few things to ask the insurance company:

• What are the complete terms of your home insurance policy in regards to storm damage in Phoenix?


• What are the deductible and the caps on storm damage repair?


• Do they have authorized vendors that you must contact to complete storm damage repair in Phoenix, or are you at liberty to contact your own repair company?

Step #3 – Contact a Dependable Home Repair Specialist

If the insurance company has given you the green light to contact your own contractor to complete the home repairs, it’s always a good idea to directly work with specialists in this industry. As a rule of thumb, you should always try to hire a storm damage contractor that has the following experience:

• Experience in repairing internal and external storm damage to residential and commercial buildings.


• Licensed, certified, insured and bonded to complete storm damage done to properties.


• Works in the Phoenix metro area and has credible referrals that can be provided if needed.

If you follow these three easy steps, you’ll find that getting your home repaired due to storm damage in Phoenix isn’t that difficult. In fact, the process becomes much smoother when you work with a dependable home repair specialist.

After everything begins to stabilize call us at (480) 378-0611 and we will help with the recovery efforts.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/what-to-do-after-the-storm-damage-occurs-in-phoenix/