Split-level homes became popular starting the 1940s based on early designs by architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his Arts and Crafts design. They lend themselves well to both smaller lot sizes and lots in uneven or hilly areas. Some of these homes are now in need of renovations or the current owners may need to expand them for more room. This can be problematic if not done correctly since additions may look out of place with the original design. Noah Construction & Builders can help with your needed split-level renovations.
Sometimes all that will be needed are cosmetic changes inside and out to make a split-level home feel more modern and current. However, renovations take certain expertise due to the design of these homes. Splits normally had a lower level for informal living, a middle level for the kitchen and dining areas, and an upper floor for bedrooms and personal spaces. Adding another bedroom on the upper level may not be possible due to floor loading or wall constraints. There may be other options available so discuss them with the experts at Noah Construction & Builders.
One consideration may be to convert either a garage or basement area to additional living space if either is available. This does not result in any structural changes to the exterior of the home. If that is not possible, adding additional rooms at the rear of the home can add space without changing the curb appearance of the home relative to the neighbors. Adding space by a slab foundation build can also be cheaper than adding rooms at a higher elevation because of the structural changes that must be made to allow for the added weight of the additions.
If you don’t need additional room but wish to update the interior of the home, one way is to remove walls carefully to create a more open look. This is a great way to improve the interior of the home for family and entertaining because many older homes had separate rooms walled off into specific spaces that weren’t too inviting. Make sure you discuss your needs with Noah Construction & Builders because we will need to investigate which walls are load-bearing and they will need to be replaced with proper headers to support loads above them.
If you own a split-level home and are ready for renovations or modernizations, please call Noah Construction & Builders at 631-750-2837 and let us show you how we can make your dreams come true.
Looking for ways to update that drab staircase? There are actually a lot of ways to make your old, boring staircase look amazing and showplace worthy. If you are looking for inspiration, here are some great ideas for updating your staircase.
Need to Update Your Staircase? Here Are Our Tips
First, you can update your staircase by adding a runner. Instead of the usual boring carpet, try adding a bold patterned carpet for your staircase, such as leopard or zebra striped. You might also want to add a border to make the runner stand out beautifully. If you are looking for a more natural runner, you may want to try natural sisal rugs.
Another idea for your staircase update is to paint your stairs. Depending on your home’s look, you can paint the stairs a bold, vibrant color for a modern, contemporary look. You can also paint your stairs a darker hue for a modern farmhouse or industrial look. Want to do a primitive look? You can dry brush the paint onto your stairs as well. A coat of paint can do wonders.
If you have a home on the coast, or you have a Spanish-style home, you may want to have part of your stairs tiled, which gives your home a great, artistic Rococo look that is present in many homes. It is beautiful and easy to clean.
One of our favorite ideas is to use several small rugs with matching colors, but different patterns to create a vintage look, especially if your home is vintage as well. This look works beautifully with winding staircases or large staircases.
If you have made the decision to build your next home, you are going to need a home builder. In the past, people built their own homes out of things they had on their land: wood and stone. Those people didn’t really have a choice when they needed to build a home. However, these days you have a choice. When you’re looking for a home builder, here are some things to consider.
What Should I Look For?
The most important thing you need to ask your potential home builder is whether he or she is licensed in your state and whether his or her employees are insured and bonded. All of this is for your protection because shoddy homebuilders are everywhere. Homebuilders can also have national certification as well, such as the National Association of Home Builders. You should ask about any certification the builder might have.
You also want to look at reviews of your potential home builder. Look at recommendations on the builders’ website, as well as customer recommendations on search engines such as Google. You want to look for a builder with good communication skills because if you can’t communicate with your builder, you can’t help the builder see your dream.
Your home builder should also be able to present you with plans and a budget that accurately reflects the costs of construction. It is only when you have a budget that you can plan and get funding for your project. You want to make sure that the budget accounts for quality construction because that will make your house sell quickly down the road. This is not the time to cut corners on a build.
When you were younger, you may have watched shows such as “The Jetson’s”, or even the “Smart House” movie on the Disney Channel, and you dreamed about what your home would look like in the future, when all of your home appliances, security and HVAC services were connected. All you would have to do is voice command, and your home would perform services for you. Although the tech industry is not quite up to George Jetson’s level, it has adapted into Smart Home technology. Here are some trends to look for if you are building or remodeling a home.
Security and Home Monitoring Services
When people begin to put in Smart Home technology, this is where they usually start. Having cameras installed outside your house to monitor activity or call emergency services when necessary is vital. With this technology, you can watch activities both inside and outside your home even when you aren’t there. You can also turn on lights, adjust the heating and air systems, and even open or lock doors. What a great way to make sure your home stays as safe as you can make it.
You can also use home monitors and sensors to save money on your homeowner’s insurance. Monitors can be installed that allows you to sense when you have a water leak, or when there is moisture in your basement. Because these monitors will let you know ahead of time when a problem is going to occur, you can get it repaired before any damage happens.
By making your home smarter, you are increasing the value of your home, as well as decreasing the chances you will have to use that homeowner’s insurance policy to cover damage from a busted water heater or a home break-in.
Whether you need a larger home, smaller home, or a home in a different location, you have two choices. You can either build or buy a house. Both options have their perks, but one may be better suited for you than another. For more information about building vs. buying, keep reading.
Building a house allows you to have the most customized living space possible. When you build, everything is new. Not only are new things clean, reliable, and modern, but they are also more efficient. The insulation, HVAC equipment, and appliances in a home you build are more energy-efficient, which is better for the environment and can save you money.
When you build a home, you also have the freedom to design the house in your personal style. You get to pick everything from the flooring to the paint colors, to the layout. However, building a home can be expensive. Make sure to budget before deciding to build a home to make sure you don’t get in over your head. Building a home also takes a long time. If you have to move right away, the building may not be for you.
On the other hand, you can choose to buy a home. When you buy a home, you are buying a pre-existing house. This is a more affordable option. It is also a more convenient option. If you are in a hurry to move, buying is the best choice. Buying a home also allows you to live in an established neighborhood. If you choose to build a home, you are likely building on vacant land that has yet to be developed. You may have to commute further to grocery stores, school, or work. A house that is already built is likely to be located in an active neighborhood that is close to everything.
Now that you know the differences between building and buying, you’re ready to pick which option is best for you. Whether you need to remodel a home or build a home, Noah Construction & Builders is here for you. To get in touch with our team, call us at 631-750-2837 today!
Thinking about remodeling your home? You’re not alone. At least 1 in 5 homeowners are either thinking about remodeling their homes or are in the remodeling process. If you’re one of those folks, we have some tips for remodeling with the purpose to add value to your home.
What Should I Remodel?
There are remodeling projects that add value to your home. You may want to think about a kitchen remodel. A simple kitchen remodel allows you to recoup between 60-120% of your cost. Be careful not to remodel your simple kitchen into a deluxe chef’s kitchen, or your deluxe kitchen might outpace the market.
Another area you could recoup the cost of the remodel is adding a bathroom. Many older houses only have one bathroom, which won’t do for a large family. Bathroom additions are relatively inexpensive, especially if you source the materials from thrift stores and big box stores. Expect to recoup much of the cost for an additional bathroom.
If you have a room in your house that you are not using, you may want to repurpose it. Many people find that finishing a basement or redoing an office space adds a lot of value to their homes. If you are repurposing a room before you sell the house, you won’t have to put in appliances or furniture, because the new homeowners will want to add their touches to the room. This idea may be one of the least expensive remodeling jobs, and you can recoup all of your costs on the redo.
Before you begin a remodel, consider what you want out of it and whether it’s worth your time and effort. You need to think about how much money you might profit fro a remodel. Good luck and happy remodeling!
When you are ready to remodel your home, give Noah Construction & Builders a call at 631.750.2837.
Caring for your roof is incredibly important. Your roof plays a critical part in protecting your home from the elements. If you do not properly care for your roof, you could experience expensive and dangerous damages. Here is how you can save money on roof repairs:
The key to saving money on roof repairs is maintaining your roof. When maintaining your roof on a routine basis, your roof can better hold up against harsh weather conditions. You may think spending money on routine roof maintenance is too expensive, but routine maintenance is more affordable than roof repairs and other damages your home may encounter when your roof fails to protect your home.
Routine roof maintenance includes roof cleanings. The roof of your home can collect dirt, debris, mold, and algae over time. If left uncleaned, these contaminants can actually damage and weaken your roof. Having your roof cleaned on a routine basis can actually help your roof maintain its strength and increase its longevity.
Roof maintenance can also improve the value of your home. If you plan on selling your home in the future, a well-maintained roof can increase your property’s value, allowing you to sell your home for more money.
A maintained roof is an efficient roof. Windows are usually the culprit for air leakage, but a faulty roof can also cause these problems. When a professional evaluates your roof, they can search for any leaks. When they spot the leak and repair it, this can prevent the leak from getting any bigger and causing more damage. Repairing the leak can also save you money in heating and cooling bills.
As you can see, caring for your roof is incredibly important. For help maintaining your roof, call Noah Construction & Builders at 631-750-2837 today!
Summer is here, which means it’s time to reinvent your outdoor space. If you are considering building a deck in your yard, there are a few things to think about before you begin building. Here is what to know before building your new deck:
The first thing you should know before building a deck is what size deck you want. Consider what you want to use your deck for. Do you plan on grilling on your deck, or are you just looking for a space to set up a few patio chairs? You also want to consider the size of your yard. You don’t want the deck to take up too much yard space. A professional can help you determine the ideal deck size for your outdoor space.
The next thing you should know before building your deck is what materials you are going to use. The materials you choose depend on your price range and your personal taste. Most decks are made from wood, which can be stained in countless colors to match your home. Other deck material options include aluminum, vinyl, and composite. These materials can be more costly, but they may also match the look you are going for.
Third, consider the features of your deck. Decks are customized to your liking, so think about what enhancements you want your deck to have. Deck railings are a good idea if you want a safe space for children to play. Integrating lighting into your deck design is also a great idea if you want to use your deck day and night. If you live in a colder climate, investing in some heating units for your deck can help you get year-round use out of the space.
Finally, think about deck levels. If you live in a two-story home, you can have a two-story deck. Consider the size of your yard and the layout of your home. A two-story deck is a great way to maximize space.
Keep all of these things in mind when reaching out to Noah Construction & Builders Inc. We can help you build the deck of your dreams. Just contact us at 631-750-2837 for a consultation!
If you’re getting ready to remodel your home, you probably already have a remodeling checklist. However, you may not have a pre-remodel checklist. This checklist is just as important, as it will help you stay organized and relaxed during the remodeling process. For some pre-remodel checklist ideas, keep reading.
Your pre-remodel checklist should contain a list of the supplies you need to purchase. Depending on what remodeling projects you are tackling, these supplies can vary. However, almost all remodeling projects require you to move things out of a room and put them into temporary storage. To keep these items organized, consider purchasing some storage supplies. You can use boxes, tape, packing paper, markers, and labels to temporarily move your items.
When packing up your items, keep related items together. For example, if you are remodeling your kitchen, pack all of your pots and pans together. If you have food that needs to be moved, keep all of these items in an easy to access box so you can still snack on your groceries when your kitchen is being remodeled.
It doesn’t hurt to do some cleaning before a remodel. Cleaning up can make it easier for workers to get around your home. Think about adding cleaning to your pre-remodel checklist. Sorting, organizing, and decluttering can help you feel less stressed when it comes time to remodel your home.
If you have decor in your space, don’t forget to remove this decor before a remodel. It may seem obvious to remove items like centerpieces, knick knacks, and vases, but don’t forget about wall art and frames. Keeping your walls empty and clear during a remodel reduces the risk of damage.
The final thing to put on your pre-remodel checklist is finding the perfect construction company! At Noah Construction & Builders, Inc., we can help you remodel any room in your home with professionalism. For further information, give us a call at 631-750-2837 today!
Noah Construction & Builders wants our customers to be well informed when it comes to the subject of residential home building. Therefore, we offer some questions and answers that might help improve your understanding of building your first home. As always, we are here to help so please don’t hesitate to contact us with any other questions you might have.
Buy existing or build new?
This simple question can often be the most difficult to answer because a buy versus build decision depends on each person. Some people want the convenience of buying an existing home so they can move in immediately, even if that house doesn’t fully meet their needs. Others want to choose their home style and details from the ground up and are willing to wait for their perfect home to be built. Noah Construction & Builders can help either way because we can build your new home or help renovate an existing home to suit you.
How do I start the process to build a home?
First, research the builders in your area as well as new construction already occurring in the area. Look at reviews, talk to owners who have built recently, and create an outline of what you want your house to be in terms of size and options. Then start interviewing builders you think will meet your needs.
Once I start this process, how long until my home is ready?
The home design and build process can take from six months to a year and can be delayed by weather, materials shortages, or other things not in the builders’ control. Other factors include where the site is located, how much site preparation is needed to build, and so forth.
What other costs occur during my build?
Each builder is different in terms of what costs are included or separated from your contract, but typical extra costs are building permits, water and sewer connections, electrical connections to the utility, wetlands mitigation or seawall construction depending on the area, and so forth. You should discuss this with the builder as your contract is being prepared.
Can I build on a lot I own?
The answer is probably, but you need to understand if there are building restrictions, where utilities are located, the site elevation and whether it tends to flood, any difficulties for delivery trucks to reach the site, and more. All of these issues can increase the cost of your construction.
Should I build for the present or the future?
Homeowners often fail to think about the future when building a new home. As they age, their needs will change such as being able to negotiate stairs, room for wheelchairs, or adding a “bonus” room that could be used differently in the future. Thinking about your future needs can also add resale value later because future buyers may have needs your home design allows for.
Should I compare builders on a cost per square foot basis?
Noah Construction & Builders does not recommend this. This is a number generated for buyers, and there is no consistency among builders about what their cost per square foot may include. Choose your builder by their reputation and quality, not because of a generated number that can’t be compared to other builders.
Should I build up, down, or out to get the space I need?
Building a second floor can result in lower costs since fewer materials are needed, but depending on where you are building it may not be feasible. In coastal areas, a two-story house can experience higher winds on the second-floor level because winds increase with altitude. Local building codes or association rules must also be taken into account. Basements can add a lot of useable space but can slow construction if local weather prevents getting the basement poured on schedule. Also, keep in mind that adding a stairway reduces the space on each floor and could make future use of the second floor or basement more difficult for someone who is disabled. A single-floor home may not fit the lot you have chosen or may have to be configured differently than you expected. These are all issues you should discuss with your builder before signing a contract.
What are the different types of foundations?
The three major types of foundations are slabs, basements, and crawl spaces. A slab foundation sits directly on the ground and is the easiest to prepare but won’t provide any protection from flooding. A basement foundation is the most expensive to prepare but offers a lot of space, storm protection, and easy access to plumbing and utilities. A crawl space creates an elevation above ground that can be useful if an area is subject to flooding but it takes about the same time to build as a basement and the crawl space isn’t useable living space.
How do I make sure not to be hit with extra costs?
When you prepare your building contract, be very specific about what you want. Every feature, option, accessory, and exterior items like porches or decks must be discussed because the builder will use a standard item or feature unless you clearly state what you want. If you find out during construction that you aren’t getting the deck you want but didn’t ask for, you could add a lot of cost to your build. Figure out in detail what you want your house to look like and what features you want before you talk to any builder.
Should I build custom or semi-custom?
A custom home is designed to your specific needs and desires, and you as the homeowner choose virtually every detail to suit you. A semi-custom home is designed by the builder to meet a specific floor plan or lot size, and you can choose options or extras to suit your tastes. Semi-custom homes can cost less because the builder has already incorporated the design into their base cost. It is a matter of personal taste and budget which way you choose.
What is a punch list?
Near the end of construction, you and your builder will walk through the home and look at everything in detail. A punch list is created to give the builder a list of items not yet completed per your contract or something that isn’t working correctly. Unfinished woodwork, painting that needs touchup, light switches that don’t work, or missing hardware on doors are all items that need to be detailed on the punch list. Go through the home very carefully and test everything to be sure it is working as it should or has been built as the contract stated.
What can you do now?
Choosing to build a home is a big decision, and it takes effort on your part before you meet with a builder. Determine where you want your home to be, what you want it to look like, what features you need today and may need in the future, and how much you can afford. You can get pre-approved for a mortgage which will tell you how much you have available to spend on your home. Then contact Noah Construction & Builders and discuss your dreams with us. We will work hard to create a home you can be proud of for years to come.
