[New Post] 3 Great Backyard Pool Remodeling Tips For Homes In Scottsdale Arizona

There is no denying the fact that making the decision to install a pool in your backyard is a serious investment in time, resources and money. Due to this, any homeowner should carefully consider a few important elements when considering backyard pool ideas; design, safety and maintenance. When you look at each one individually it might not seem to be that big of a deal, but trying to infuse all three into your decision making process is the trick that most homeowners have.

To help you with this major decision, here are a few tips to consider when you’re looking for the best backyard pool ideas in Scottsdale.

Tip #1 – Design of the Pool

Here is a quick question for you – why do you want to install a pool in the first place? Believe it or not, many Phoenix metro homeowners simple forget to consider this critical question when they are looking to add a pool. It might seem to be common sense however thinking about ‘why’ you want to install the pool will often help guide you into the design features you want to see included. Here are a few examples:

• Are you looking to add a pool for exercise? If so, you’ll want to ensure that you have a pool that has a longer shape for swimming laps. It’s also important for you to have a design that provides access into and out of the pool on both sides. This is also important for safety as well – but we’ll get into that a bit later.


• Are you looking to add a pool for recreation? If this is the primary reason, then you might want to include a deeper end so people can safely ‘jump’ into the pool.


• Are you looking to add a pool for relaxation? If relaxation is the primary attribute, then consider designing a pool with a walk-in entrance; where you can have custom-designed lounge seats integrated into a shallow section where you can relax in the comfort of the pool.  

Tip #2 – Safety of the Pool

Another area you need to consider is the safety of everybody that will enter your backyard. As a homeowner, you are responsible for the events that happen on your property. This is why integrating pool safety is a critical step during the planning stage. Here are a few things to consider:

• Do you have children? If so, you need to design a pool or swimming area that is child friendly. Some things to consider in this area include specific design features such as rounded corners on the pool ledges, easy access in and out of the pool, designated shallow and deep ends, slip-resistant pool areas and possibly padded areas near pool entrance and exit.


• Do you have pets? Another important element to consider is the safety of pets. Many dogs love to use the pool as their private play zone or drinking fountain. Consider this – including what type of pets you have when thinking about your pool design.

Tip #3 – Maintenance of the Pool

The third step that any home owner needs to consider into any backyard pool ideas is maintenance. In this area, you need to understand how different pools are best maintained. Always speak with a professional pool company about the different types of pools – including chlorinated, salt-water, natural pools and so on; and the specific maintenance they require.

When you factor all three of these remodeling tips, you’ll quickly discover that many backyard pool ideas you might have are simply not practical for your individual situation. Always take the time to research and consider each of these important steps when you’re thinking about adding any swimming feature in your backyard.

When you’re ready to tackle that backyard pool remodeling job, give Peak One Builders a call at (480) 378-0611

Read Related Articles:

• Turn Your Yard Into An Oasis With The Most Popular Backyard Makeovers in Scottsdale


• Top Outdoor Patio Ideas That Are Easy To Complete In Arizona


• Fun Swimming Pool Remodel & Backyard Projects For Arizona Homes

 

Is it time to make an upgrade to your Scottsdale swimming pool? Call Peak One Builders today at (480) 378-0611.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/3-pool-remodeling-tips-for-homes-in-scottsdale-arizona/

[New Post] Try These 3 Exciting Outdoor Living Ideas In Phoenix Arizona

Spending time outdoors is one of the perks of Arizona living. Whether it’s a hike in the local mountains, or taking time to entertain friends and family in your backyard –it’s common that Phoenix-area residents have a desire to enhance their experiences. However, there are some outdoor living ideas in Phoenix that work better than others. Either due to financial reasons or extreme weather we get in the Valley of the Sun; these three outdoor upgrades that are certainly to succeed.

Outdoor Living Idea #1 – Installing a Fire Feature

One of the best backyard upgrade projects that tends to show up across the Phoenix metro area is the inclusion of fire pits. The reality of living in Arizona suggests that most people tend to spend the majority of their time indoors during the daylight hours for half of the year. However, at night, Arizona home owners enjoy heading to the backyards for some relaxation, fresh air and socializing with friends. It’s for this primary reason that most backyard upgrade projects will include some sort of fire feature.

There are several ways you can incorporate a bit of ‘flame’ into your outdoor living spaces including:

• Adding tiki torches along walkways of your backyard


• Installing a natural gas-fueled fire feature


• Including a fire pit and social area filled with soft sand in your backyard

When installed by a professional remodeling contractor, a fire feature can really liven up your outdoor living space; plus it can also provide some added warmth during the colder winter and early spring evenings if you want to spend time outdoors all year long.

Outdoor Living Idea #2 – Adding a Covered Patio or a Pergola

Since Phoenix gets a lot of sun, finding a way to provide some shade is a vital addition of enjoyable outdoor living. However, when many areas of the United States can add pop-up shade tents or umbrellas, this option isn’t very practical for the extreme weather we get in Arizona. Most ‘portable’ or lightweight shades tend to wear out quickly when forced to withstand the extreme heat. However, we also get tons of wind in the desert as well – which also can rip and destroy these pop-up umbrellas.

The solution to this problem is to install a solid structure; like a covered patio or a pergola – designed to provide some shade if you want to spend time outdoors during the daylight hours. Many backyards in Arizona have some sort cover over the patio – so if you’re looking to spice up your backyard, make sure you have a professional install a covered patio or stylistic pergola.

Outdoor Living Idea #3 – A Water Feature

This idea simply makes sense when living in Phoenix. Having a mister, splash pad, swimming pool or hot tub included in any outdoor living space is a great way to cool off in the Arizona heat. However, some water features are better than others. For swimming pools, consider installing a salt-water pool – as you’ll spend much less on maintenance and upkeep compared to traditional chlorinated pools. It’s also a great idea to install a misting system on your covered patio – to provide your guests with a light spritz of water to cool their jets. Also increasing in popularity are small water features like waterfalls in rock formations. Not only is this visually pleasing, but it’s also a great way to add some relaxing ambiance to your outdoor living space.

Regardless of what type of outdoor living ideas you might have, the key is to find a home remodeling company in Phoenix that will provide affordable and practical ways of making your ideas a reality. Always spend some time researching any idea before spending money on installation. Consider the cost of installing, upkeep and whether or not it can handle and hold up to the extreme weather elements we get in the Valley of the Sun.

Read more about exciting outdoor living in the Phoenix metro:

• Top Outdoor Patio Ideas That Are Easy To Complete In Arizona


• Fun Swimming Pool Remodel & Backyard Projects For Arizona Homes


• 5 Reasons To Improve Your Outdoor Living Space In Scottsdale

Ready to create an beautiful outdoor living space at your Phoenix home? Call Peak One Builders today at (480) 378-0611.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/3-exciting-outdoor-living-ideas-in-phoenix/

[New Post] Top 5 Scottsdale Residential Construction "FAILS" to Avoid

Getting in over one’s head often yields negative results – regardless of the project you’re undertaking. However, it canget downright ugly when it comes to residential construction projects in Phoenix. Whether it’s mistakes made by the contractors or the home owners, in the end; the person doing the hiring is and should be responsible for making sure that every ‘I’ is dotted and all “T’s” are crossed to ensure that their home improvement or custom home construction project goes off without a hitch.

Since this is a statement of fact, here are five of the most common residential home construction ‘fails’ that any home owner should avoid at all costs.

#1 – DIY at the Wrong Time

Although many of the popular home improvement shows on TV tend to ‘look easy enough’ to complete, the reality begins to sink in when you get in over your head with a do it yourself project. This is why the first residential construction mistake that any home owner should always avoid is getting in over your head with any project. Regardless of how easy it might seem to be – always do the research about any project including:

• Ensure to compile a complete budget


• Know what tools are required to do the job – and that you have the skills to safely use these tools correctly


• Understand how much time it will take to complete the project – safely and correct the first time


• Make sure to choose an energy efficient homebuilder in Scottsdale

When you follow these three rules, you’ll quickly discover that many DIY projects should be classified as ‘Call in the Professionals’.

#2 – Forgetting to Get Permits

Believe it or not, the most common mistake that home owners tend to make during any construction project is ‘assumption of risk’. The truth is that although there are many private contractors that will take care of all building permits, ultimately, the responsibility falls on the property owner. Never ‘assume’ that your contractor will pull all permits. Before you sign any contract or agreement, make sure it’s clearly articulated and documented WHO is responsible for obtaining all permits from local code enforcement.

#3 – Obtain a Completion Date Estimate

Many home improvement projects or custom home building projects are completed by private contractors. And the number one leading cause of over-budgeting is extended time to complete the project. This is why the third thing you should always avoid is an open ended completion date. Regardless of where you are building, an experienced contractor in Scottsdale will always be able to provide you with an estimated completion date and incorporate that into their price quote. Although there are legitimate reasons for a delay, such as ‘Acts of God’ – make sure those are clearly spelled out in your contract so that at closing you don’t have an unexpected extra few thousand dollars on the bill.

#4 – Poor Communications during All Phases of the Construction

It’s literally impossible for new Scottsdale homeowners to always be onsite during a complete home rebuilding project. And even if they are – it’s quite common for communication gaps to occur between many contractors and the clients. Before you hire any contractor, make sure they have several contingency plans for effectively communicating with you including:

• Asking and clarifying the best methods to communicate with you


• Providing guidelines about when you need to be contacted for any changes or approval


• Always communicate any changes via email. This is critical as it’s documented in writing – so it will cover you in case there is any confusion.

#5 – Always Consider Resale Value

Finally, when you’re planning your residential construction project in Scottsdale, it’s vital that you consider the resale value of any projects you undertake. The goal of any construction project; whether it’s a simple upgrade, addition or complete construction is to provide extended value to the home owners. Unless you have endless supplies of cash to burn – it’s very important to consider cost vs. resale when you’re planning any construction project.

Peak One Builders will help avoid the home project “fails”

while providing an end result you can be proud of.

Give us a call today at (480) 378-0611

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/top-5-scottsdale-residential-construction-fails-to-avoid/

[New Post] Turn Your Yard Into An Oasis With The Most Popular Backyard Makeovers in Scottsdale

Anybody living in Scottsdale understands the value of a nice backyard. However, trying to come up with an affordable and stylistic backyard makeover in Scottsdale AZ can be very complex and difficult. However, thanks to those awesome home improvement shows, like Yard Crashers for example; many home owners are starting to integrate some of these ideas into their backyard improvement projects.

As such, here are three of the most popular backyard makeover ideas that will enhance the overall look and function of your backyard in Scottsdale – without breaking the bank.

First – Consider Spicing-Up the Flooring with Concrete Cover-Up

Anybody that has the plain – Jane basic concrete slab poured in their backyard can easily enhance the look – and function of their backyards by integrating some clever and cost effective concrete cover-ups. There are two really easy ways that any home owner can bring some life into your traditional concrete patio:

• First, use some masonry stain to ‘color’ your concrete with some earth tone colors (like deep brown or honey). You can get creative by adding some patterns, (like checkerboard patterns or diagonal patterns).


• Second, apply some slate tiles over the plain concrete. These types of tiles are very easy to apply with thin mortar products (like Versabond for example).

The primary mission here is to add some color or depth to your flooring that will enhance the overall look and feel of your backyard without compromising comfort or having to do too many detailed improvements that take tons of time, resources, talent and money to accomplish.

Second – Add a Trellis or Pergola

Another popular trend popping up in backyards across Scottsdale is the addition of pergola’s and trellis. You often see a trellis as the entry way to luxurious gardens or parks – so why not incorporate these easy to install items in your backyard? There are several home improvement stores that sell ‘easy to assemble trellis’ or prefabricated trellis. It’s best to place these centrally in your back yard – so people will see it as a focal point when they enter the back yard. Adding some vine or plants to either side of the trellis is also a great idea to enhance the look of this very easy and affordable backyard enhancement.

The addition of Pergola’s to Scottsdale AZ backyards is also growing. For those that don’t know, a pergola is a cubed shaped structure that traditionally is placed over a patio or deck to provide some shade – without completely blocking the sun. Just like a trellis, a pergola is rather easy to install – but you might want to seek the advice of a Scottsdale remodeling contractor to be on the safe side.

Third – Add Vertical Enhancements to your Backyard Makeover in Scottsdale

Finally, regardless of what other enhancements you choose to incorporate into your backyard makeover project, it’s always best to find affordable ways of increasing depth. This is where integrating vertical designs, plants, rocks or other items provide this added dimension to a backyard. Believe it or not, simply adding a few large boulders to your backyard can significantly improve the overall look. Plus, they take up space and add some character to your backyard. Colorful plants and shrubs are also very simple and affordable ways of adding some ‘height’ to your level backyards in Scottsdale.

Regardless of what you choose to do – get creative with your backyard makeover in Scottsdale. But as with any other project, always set a budget first – before you start to buy. And as always, if you require some professional help; don’t hesitate to contact experienced home improvement specialists to receive their ideas or a free quote for a truly customized backyard enhancement

Read more about backyard remodeling projects:

• Top Outdoor Patio Ideas That Are Easy To Complete In Arizona


• Fun Swimming Pool Remodel & Backyard Projects For Arizona Homes


• 5 Reasons To Improve Your Outdoor Living Space In Scottsdale

Ready to create your backyard oasis, call Peak One Builders today at (480) 378-0611

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/the-most-popular-backyard-makeover-in-scottsdale/

[New Post] 3 Profitable Home Improvement Ideas for Scottsdale Homes

When a homeowner is looking to remodel their house, how often is profitability considered? The truth is that most home improvement ideas are based on stylistic or practical enhancement additions that increase comfort. But what would you say if we told you that it was possible to integrate all of these attributes into some of the most profitable home improvement ideas for Scottsdale homes?

Here are three of our favorite tips that not only will improve the aesthetics and function – but also help improve the equity in your home in Scottsdale.

Tip #1 – Replace your Garage Door

According to Realtor.com, many homebuyers often consider the outside curb appeal as the determining factor when choosing between two, identically built homes. And one of the most overlooked elements to change during a home remodeling project in Scottsdale is the garage door. It’s estimated that a new garage door can cost a few thousand dollars to replace; however, there are several benefits to this home improvement step:

• First, it vastly improves the overall look of your Scottsdale home from the outside


• Second, newer garage doors are better insulated, which helps to keep your garages at a more consistent temperature; which can help reduce heating and air conditioning costs


• Third, it can help improve the resale value of your home by as much as 100% of the cost of the actual replacement

Tip #2 – Add Steel Doors for your Entry Way

Along with changing out your older garage door, adding a luxurious and energy efficient steel door to your front entryway can also be a very profitable home improvement for Scottsdale home owners. Although you’d think that steel doors would attract a lot of heat in summer, the truth is that they are very good for insulating and keeping extreme temperatures from entering a house. Plus, steel doors also improve the security of your home. When you add up the energy savings, plus the added security and increased curb appeal, it’s suggested that you can receive up to 97% Return on Investment. Anytime you can double your money on an improvement – that’s always a good thing to consider.

Tip #3 – Energy Efficient Kitchen Remodeling

According to the US Census Bureau, the average cost to remodel a kitchen is around $5,000.00. However, when you start adding customized appliances, cabinets, tile, flooring and other ‘tricks’ – that cost can (and often does) skyrocket. The question that many homeowners often ask is ‘how can you maximize your ROI with a kitchen remodeling project?’ The answer is simple – go green.

Traditionally a kitchen remodel provides a homeowner about a 70-80% ROI. However, when you apply energy efficient changes to your kitchen, you’re overall return tends to increase to over 100%. Plus, you’ll be saving money every month by reducing the amount of energy used inside your kitchen due to the remodeling project. Most homeowners often overlook this however it does positively impact your return on investment.

Read more about kitchen remodeling approaches:

• 3 Kitchen And Bath Industry Show Innovative Concepts For 2014


• Top 4 Functional Kitchen Layouts Scottsdale Residents Love


• Most Popular Scottsdale Kitchen Remodeling Trends For 2014

There are several ways to maximize the financial returns on your home improvement ideas in Scottsdale. The best way to increase profitability is to contact your home improvement contractor and speak with them about the best ways to financially save money – but also get a solid ROI when you list your home for sale in Scottsdale.

Ready to move forward with a home improvement project?

Give Peak One Builders a call today at (480) 378-0611

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/3-profitable-home-improvement-ideas-for-scottsdale-homes/

[New Post] Why Using Green Building Materials Can Save You Green

It’s often assumed that buying green building materials can cost an arm and a leg. However, this simply isn’t true. In fact, many construction companies and custom home builders are beginning to discover the benefits of using recycled or natural materials in all of their custom home building projects in Arizona. And the benefits can also help homeowners save money each month as they live in their new homes.

Eco-Friendly Materials And Its Benefits

Whether it’s natural flooring materials, recycled or natural paints and even insulation made out of recycled newspaper, using green building materials is becoming extremely popular.

Benefits of Green Flooring Materials

We’re not suggesting that you paint your floors inside your new custom home green per-say, but, using eco-friendly materials like bamboo, cork, salvaged wood planks and even carpeting manufactured from recycled products can spice up your home – and save money down the road.

• First, it’s amazing what you can do with salvaged wood. However, did you know that some custom homebuilders specialize in installing hardwood flooring out of recycled materials? And by using up recycled flooring, a custom homebuilder can pass the savings along to the customer.


• Recycled carpeting can also be advantageous for homeowners that move into a newly built custom home. But, many of today’s leading manufacturers of recycled carpeting also claim that their products are softer, hold up longer and even are more aesthetically pleasing than new materials. Plus, just like the above example, they tend to be less costly.

Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Paint

Although using recycled materials like newspaper for insulation is a great way to protect your home, the use of eco-friendly paints is becoming rampant, especially in Arizona where we have to worry about heat and its impact on how paint dries and wears within our homes. Here are just a few of the benefits of using ‘green’ paint inside your new custom home.

Much Fewer VOC’s

VOC’s or Volatile Organic Compounds are emitted when chemicals are introduced into paint in factories. They also tend to spread when you apply them on walls. However, eco-friendly paints contain zero to very little traces of VOC’s, which is a positive attribute for any home owner.

Health Benefits Of Eco-Friendly Paints

There are several people who have allergic reactions to VOC’s. Most traditional paints also give off fumes that can cause COPD flair ups and other breathing problems. However, eco-friendly paints produce very little odors, which are caused by formaldehyde and ammonia in most common paints. Since natural paints don’t include these harmful substances, you’ll breathe much better inside a home with eco-friendly paint.

Most Green Building Materials Can Be Cost Efficient

A common rule of thumb for manufacturers is that customer demand often dictates pricing. However, green building materials are an exception to this rule. The US Federal Government has begun to impose better standards to the materials used daily to construct new homes. When the materials used are recycled, the Federal Government also provides tax incentives to many manufacturers for offering this vital option. As such, their cost of goods is lower and often passed along to the consumer.

When constructing your new custom home, using green building is not only better for the environment, but it can also help reduce costs. When you are getting ready to build a new home, contact a professional custom contractor and ask them about using green building materials.

Ready to invest in a new construction or a custom home? We can assist with our green building experts, call us at (480) 378-0611 for a free consult.

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/why-using-green-building-materials-can-save-you-green/

[New Post] 3 Steps To A Home Makeover In Phoenix After A Disaster

Everybody has heard the expression – ‘turn lemons into lemonade’; but how do you explain this to a family that just lost their home due to a disaster? Experiencing the loss or significant damage to a home is quite arguably one of the hardest realities a family or individual can face. Sometimes however, bad situations can be a prime opportunity to complete a home makeover in Phoenix.

Here are a few suggestions on how to transform a home disaster due to fire, flood or another tragic event into an upgrade and positive home makeover project.

Step #1 – Get your ducks in a row – FIRST

When you experience any damage to your home due to fire, flooding, earthquake or any other tragic event, it’s important to have a plan on how you’re going to deal with this issue and move forward. Most insurance experts believe that all homeowners should follow a certain method or process when significant damage to a home occurs:

• First, make sure the fire department has given you 100% approval to reenter the home. Safety is always the most important thing; so always wait until the fire department has completely inspected the home before you head back in to take inventory of damage.


• Second, contact your homeowners insurance ASAP and file a claim.


• Third, speak with the insurance adjuster about options you have to rebuild. During this process it is very important to clarify every aspect of your individual policy and what the insurance company wants you to do during the rebuilding process. Sometimes homeowners tend to believe that they can make any changes they’d like, only to discover that the insurance company would not cover those expenses. Before you move forward, you must get clarification.

Step #2 – Meet with an Experienced Home Remodeling Company

Once you’ve got everything outlined, understand what you can and can’t afford to complete during your home remodeling project in Phoenix, the next step is to schedule a meeting with a phoenix home remodeling contractor that has extensive experience in repairing and remodeling homes after damage has occurred. Contrary to popular belief, not every contractor has the same experience. And working on a home that has been damaged due to fire, flooding or other catastrophic events is a specialty that requires extensive training, understanding of code enforcement and other specific skills.

An experienced home restoration company in Phoenix will work with you to customize a home makeover that will fit your budget, your insurance requirements and also consider possible ways to improve the condition of your home – and potentially avoid the potential of future damage.

Step #3 – Consider this as an Opportunity instead of Crisis

Arguably the most important step for an individual or family looking to rebuild is an emotional one. It’s critical for you to realize that you can’t change the past or change the outcome of the events that occurred. The only thing you can control is your outlook on the future. Working with an experienced home remodeling contractor will also be advantageous, as they’ve worked with hundreds of people that have been in the same situation you currently are facing. Many of these contractors will guide you through the entire process – always placing an emphasis on overall safety of everybody involved. But, they also are known to make this process an enjoyable one for everybody.

Remember, just because your home was damaged – doesn’t mean you can’t rebuild stronger. Take this opportunity to complete a home makeover in Phoenix and make changes to your house that will help you enjoy and appreciate living at home.

If your home was damaged and you’re searching for a reliable contractor, give Peak One a call today at (480) 378-0611

Read the full story at: http://peakonebuilders.com/3-steps-to-a-home-makeover-in-phoenix-after-a-disaster/