I mean – Instructions – they’re a special thing, aren’t they? As a writer of instructions, you just don’t know what the individuals in your audience, well – know. (Key word “individuals.”) Surprisingly, as was the case with my assignment – instructions are not always written by writers, but rather by engineers. (And in a way, that simple fact seems to help give purpose to all us how-to bloggers out here, hacking away.)
(By Lisa Smith) – “Quiet, clean, lightweight, versatile and easy to use” were the real words uttered by publishers and editors during our recent weekend experience with the Lowe’s/Kobalt team, as we put all seven new tools in the Kobalt 40V Max Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) line through their paces.
An interview with Wilsonart’s Mike Lallo, a Segment Manager in Home Center Segments. Wilsonart and specifically Wilsonart HD was a sponsor of our 106 Yard Fund, which ultimately brought Sean Lintow, Sr. to Baltimore for the Remodeling Show. A recount of the panel discussion Looks for Less and a deep dive into Wilsonart products.
And perhaps on a more important level, Brizo knows how to make and maintain great connections. This is evidenced not only by the collection of bloggerati that popped up for the #Blogger19 Reunion … but I am talking more specifically about their association with, their collaboration and work with the world renowned St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
While production methods have evolved some, there is still very much a hands-on, human interaction with the furniture that is produced. Yes, the level of precision has been improved with some pretty bass ass tools, but little really has changed with the … meaning baked into each object.
So this year, how ’bout this? Goal … raise $2000 by September 9th, 2012. That’s $1400 (+ a Show pass) earmarked for the express purposes of bringing one remodeler here to attend the 3-day conference and show — October 9th thru October 12th. That’s right – we are working to get one deserving remodeling professional here to network and learn, mingle and (maybe) relax. I mean — almost like magic, viola – a new name, the 106 Yard Fund is born.
I was asked: “What’s your favorite show on TV? What’s the show you’re hooked on but are kind of embarrassed by?” And my pick — as I said more geek than guilt and if I have to pick just one, it’s This Old House. Read on to learn why.
OK those are the facts… and with all this talk recently amongst friends about KBIS, and at the center of the universe for what we do, we really want to make it to Chicago this year. But chances are it will not happen without your help. I have placed the PayPal widget in our sidebar and we will be accepting all good will contributions there.
The crown jewel of the event, if you haven’t figured, was an invitation to an exclusive show with fashion designer Jason Wu. Yeah, I didn’t know him either. But it turns out, he’s a pretty big deal. In fact, it really became clear the following day as I read the Fashion section of the New York Times; Wu had the lead position in that story.
By offering pro siding installers marketing assistance, sales support, product education, and lead generation, James Hardie’s Contractor Alliance Program is simply one of the most comprehensive of its kind.
A few years ago LENOX Tools revolutionized hole saws when they introduced their SPEED SLOT. The newest generation of hole saws, however, continues to build on the lessons learned in the study of cutting. Read on to learn how.
Building on roots in industrial tooling, LENOX reciprocating saw blades are infused with 100+ years of learning. The newest generation of recip blades, even more than before, checks the boxes – Faster Cutting, Longer Life and Superior Durability. Read on to see our review.
You might ask – “Why’d you go do that?” Well, our campaign for this year was called (in full) “106 Yards to the Remodeling Show.” Hence – 12 American Feet = 4 American Yards, and we had 26 and a half of them made. (Actually kidding on that last part. ha!)
There are few projects that are more undervalued. When installing a new roof, the benefits in terms of added security, piece of mind, aesthetics and value are almost immediately felt.
While I would love to tell you that the day consisting of sessions on shoveling or that Building Moxie took home the big prize at the afternoon wheelbarrow races, our day rather was filled with tours of these plants, a look at some of their new products and in all ways was underpinned by discussions surrounding a brand revitalization for the company.
This Hangout hosted by HomeAdvisor.com. Maybe you saw me promoting it. It paired me with old friends Mark & Theresa from MyFixitUpLife and a new friend David Silverstein – a roofer and remodeler from just around the way from me. The focus was on Summer and on the Spring Projects that lead up to it. It was even for at time featured on the Google Hangouts homepage.
Okay, I was able to squeeze out a few free hours on not only the KBIS, but also on the IBS floor. And I do have a little love for the final few bits and brochures that were still riding in the bottom of my briefcase … some two and half months after the show.
(By John D. Poole) – The coffee pod concept has met with considerable criticism for its obviously negative environmental impact. Though it might excel at delivering a consistent cup of coffee, the pod itself clearly is an overly manufactured and wasteful piece of packaging for delivering something as simple as a single cup of coffee. Furthermore, the pod has no clear “recycling strategy”; once used, it retains its coffee grounds, and as such, shouldn’t be disposed along with empty plastic recyclables. The only immediately obvious thing to do is toss it in the trash, and that’s probably what most folks do.
Warren Ramsland, President of Top Knobs personally introduced us to Top Knobs. He said, “We partner with professional showrooms.” He continues, “As a “design company” our products are not available at mass merchandising stores.” The company is the #1 manufacturer of decorative hardware for the professional market and is only available from design showrooms.
Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry can trace its roots to the 1940s, a small PA mill, named originally – “Wood Metal Industries.” In the ’50s, they replaced “Metal” with “Mode” and rolled into the ’60s, where they gained recognition for custom designed kitchens. The 1980s saw the release of sister brand – Brookhaven. A proud 60-year history formed right here in the USA.
Penthouse units at the Residences at Mandarin Oriental. Backdrop for good food and fine wine. Poggenpohl and Sub-Zero Wolf, the perfect complement, our hosts for a night of refined design … at the heart of CityCenter Las Vegas, and high above the Las Vegas Strip.
(By Barry Morgan.) At IBS, I met Roger Finch, who is the Distribution Channel Marketing Manager at ODL, and according to his LinkedIn profile, is “responsible for all marketing activities to the distribution channel, new product launches, product line extensions and introductions.” He began by teaching me about Evolve, a newly designed door light frame the company introduced in early 2013. ODL is a Door Light supplier for major door manufacturers like Jeld-Wen. Spotlights is their program for the architectural enthusiast.
It is part of what Amy Gath, Vice President of Marketing, called Formica’s mission to “make materials obtainable.” Gath continues, “Although granite continues to be popular, homeowners are expanding their material preferences to include new stone variations. Our latest laminate patterns are fresh, affordable and maintenance-free alternatives, making design trends accessible for all.”
“By far, the biggest design trend that connects with both consumers and designers is the idea of individualization,” states Tim Maicher, Director of Marketing for BLANCO. “We have so many options in front of us each day – we truly believe that there is one product, made just for us and for our life. That is the inspiration for ONE. It’s a sink that lets you customize the features to create a personal workstation.”
The makers of SILESTONE, natural quartz, and other renowned counter material released this revolutionary new material. With technical properties suited for both interior AND exterior use, DEKTON is being termed “ultra-compact” and is receiving its own category distinction – the ultra-compact surface. Its invention punctuates a continuing trend towards the seamless flow of interiors and exteriors.
While of course I knew Walker Zanger is recognized as an industry-leader in stone and tile, it took Jared Becker, Vice President of Design and Marketing, to inform us that the company is actually (still) celebrating its 60th Anniversary year. The company has a rich history surely. From its founding in New York in 1952, where Leon Zanger and Marvin Walker initially promoted marble tops to the New York furniture industry, the company in 10 years expanded to Los Angeles, where they are now currently headquartered.
As we learned, it is more than just toilets. As the company would have it, it’s “TOTO Everywhere.” This possibly was no better depicted than in the booth, where three separate “Lifestyle Vignettes” highlighted the company’s approach to, what they call, “Total Design.”
Barry and I were in Las Vegas, Nevada covering the first ever Design & Construction Week. For the first time ever, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and the International Builders’ Show (IBS) were running simultaneously. For me, I took part in the prestigious BlogTour Vegas, which itself delved deeply into KBIS 2014. Barry, on the other hand, roamed free on the IBS side of things. Here’s our first report; read on.
The budget for this particular project – $0. Well, to be more accurate, the actual cost and the amount of equivalent gym time we had received totaled about $1000.
For the base coat, and working very closely with the manager at my local Glidden Pro Store, I selected their Concrete Coatings – a stain.
We used the existing lines, masking directly over them prior to applying any base coat.
The newest iteration marks a sorta evolution of the role, however. In this new role, the character acts as the appliances themselves. While the iconic blue suit and hat remain, he drops the “Repair” part of his moniker, and in true superhero form becomes only … Maytag Man!
BlogTour Vegas, “A team of 15 notable designers and design bloggers from both Canada and the U.S will spend four days spotting the latest trends, seeing the newest products, networking with industry peers, reporting back to their blog and social media audiences in the weeks before, during and after. The team has been asked by KBIS management to judge not only the newly revamped Best of KBIS Awards but the first ever Booth Innovation Award as well.”
(By Sean Lintow) – This year unfortunately JB wasn’t able to attend the Remodeling Show being held in Chicago. BUT, I managed to make it, as it just so happens to be in my new back yard, and eeks! I was now on the other side of the presentation podium. With that, here are my rambling thoughts on the two days I spent at the 2013 Remodeling Show. Product Coverage includes: Fantec, Panasonic and some surprises.
And picture it – changing my own oil, a blue ’77 VW Rabbit (yes, my first car) – it was likely the first thing I ever truly DIYed. I feel pretty certain that I am not alone on that one. Taking the time now to change my oil is not only an opportunity to revisit that point from my past, but it also yields occasion to reflect on why exactly I DIY. I mean – Why DIY?
It, the Charm City Guide, is a list of resources, suppliers actually, that can be found in and AROUND Baltimore – my hometown. Basically, it was what I came up with after a little light reflection across two afternoons. And I’m writing today to point you both to it, and maybe in some ways to qualify it – you know, expound on it a bit.
They tell us how their “baby” was born, as they say, through “home improving home improving” to writing to video, then (sometimes national) TV appearances. My Fix It Up Life as they tell us is “A Home Improvement Lifestyle Show.” It is about all things in the home and for all people interested in the home.
Central, now, to their latest pro offerings is a new, just-for-pro The Home Depot Pro App. It is available both for the iPhone and for the Android. According to The Home Depot – 93% of general contractors and 87% of subcontractors use some sort of mobile device at their job sites. This new tech will help you be more productive while on the job.
… In it, Nate captures a recent oil change. For it, he selects an L10111 – Purolator Classic Oil Filter. He installs it on his 1999 Chevy S10 work truck. (You’ll even catch a few glimpses of his ladders, still mounted to his ladder rack, as he pulls up onto the ride-up ramps.) [Click to Read More]
This year’s IKEA’s catalog hones in on the things that make life easier in a home with children. And really, if it makes it easier for children, it makes it easier for all of us, right? [Click to Read More]
This luxury faucet brand brought 80 of us, from all corners of this continent and beyond, to Memphis, where we went a deep, behind the scenes look at the Brizo brand. A Tour of Delta’s Jackson Facility: State of the Art Assembly Practices, Capacitive Sensing Faucets and the Science of Showering.
Brizo – that’s right the high-end faucet manufacturer, bundles 19 ultra-talented bloggers (many designers) and summons them to New York’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. And since the Winter of 2010, seven groups total (or good with math – 133 individuals) have attended this event. I was a fortunate member that did New York in February 2011. (Yeah! I know. Go figure!) … the Blogger 19 Reunion. Plus, a look at the Brizo Talo Kitchen Faucet installed during my mom’s Kitchen Remodel.
So … in lieu of adding to a new DIY Essential Skills series, I’ll tell you quickly about three fun Spring outings. Lucketts Market with an interview with Funky Junk Donna, West Virginia & Ikea. Wait! So I guess I did actually fit some stuff in, and boy, I best not forget I visited the fine folks at John Deere too. [Click to Read More]
We headed out to the 400+ acre Swan Road Test site (a short bus ride from Horicon Works and a location the team from Deere also referred to as “the Farm”. Here, tractors, utility vehicles and implements are field- and performance- tested. Products are run through and graded on Blading, Mowing, Moving, Tilling, Plowing, Snow Blowing, and Brooming … among other things. We had a chance to try some of the best Deere had to offer.
I had the opportunity for a brief visit and tour of Horicon Works last week. Located about a 45-minute ride north east of Madison, WI in the Horicon Marsh, Horicon Works has been one of John Deere’s flagship factories for more than 100 years. Here’s the look inside.
As I mention in my first post from it, my primary mission was simply to go and learn. I wanted to take in at least part of an abundant clinic program, but as things are and sporting a press pass, I couldn’t keep from doing a few product meetings. Plus, I guess, our readers, you maybe, have come expect the product roundups we do when we head out to these Shows. […]
I was able to acquire the press pass for the 49th edition of JLC Live, but experienced the show as a regular attendee. As Hanley Wood (the producers of the event) put it – this one is “Boots Not Suits.” A look at Best Practices in Framing, Siding, Exterior Trim, Acoustics and More.
Today, a quick chat with Jeff Patterson, the Home Repair Tutor. Jeff first grabbed my attention on HomeTalk but on a closer look I noticed he was churning out some really good, simple to follow tips, many in a very visual way. Our interview below, thanks.
As Gary puts it, the Katz Roadshow is one of the only hands-on, pier-to-pier construction education platforms in existence to today. I had passed on the opportunity to see the Roadshow in the past, but as I am preparing to run up to Providence for JLC Live (where Gary also will be speaking) – I thought this time it would make for the perfect primer. […]
A 3yd dumpster with the total cost of about $190 and yes, a few of our DIYin’ type friends did ask. I figure it saved me about 2 + trips to the dump and that for me, in Baltimore City, MD, is not a super easy proposition. And that too is not to mention costs sometimes associated with eliminating construction debris. Read on for our full review.
The Customer in Residence simply put is an opportunity to work one on one with a world class cabinetmaker (the use of that word detailed in my First Part). But the experience in a way taps into grander traditions. The program is an opportunity to participate in a community of craftspeople and harkens back perhaps to an earlier lifestyle.
So, in December w put out our first ever readers survey. I took a little time to review and here is what I learned. DIY How Tos are a draw. And this is what else we learned.
In this post, I work with Beth of Beth’s DIY Workshop to build a birdhouse from scrap cedar. This birdhouse was my gift in a White Elephant Gift Exchange for this year’s Baltimore Bloggers Holiday Party hosted by One Project Closer. The Step-by-Step pictorial included; read on.
I can thank friends Ethan and Jocie, Fred and Kim @ One Project Closer for getting this whole thing a-rolling. They hosted a party this past Friday … officially – the Baltimore Bloggers Holiday Party. There, though – an opportunity. It was an opportunity to make a long-promised visit to Beth’s DIY Workshop. I decided I was gonna build that long-ago-joked-about … birdhouse.
I have been fortunate, through this blogging thing, to have met a wide and varying group of good people. And that, I guess, ‘ll be my lead in … to my recent sit down visit with friends Greg and Sue Burnet. The Burnets were in nearby (to me) Columbia, MD working to coordinate a Gold Level training event for the siding manufacturer LP SmartSide. …
For now, my second grouping of ten products, some young, some old, some something like a pre-teen … that grabbed my eye at this year’s Show. For my first group of ten here >> 10 Product You Should Know. […]
Here for the final installment of “Month in the Life of an Interior Designer”, we close with a discussion of Elizabeth’s style, what it’s like working for a big firm, and Elizabeth’s tips for homeowner thinking about working with an interior designer.
Day 3 of the Remodeling Show, we were fortunate enough to spend part of the afternoon with Miriam Illions (pronounced “Millions” just minus the M) . . . of HomeTalk.com. Never mind that Miriam is likely one of the sweetest, bestest, goodest people I know from the interwebs, she happens also to be a passionate, well-spoken representative of the HomeTalk brand. That day, she was gracious enough to sit down with us for an (audio) interview. […]
Houzz, as the panel suggested, helps to create an ad hoc visual language, a language of design – if you will … shared by users of the site. Houzz formally added a Collaborate feature this year. To nutshell this, pros and homeowners can now develop ideabooks jointly. A pro or a homeowner simply creates this “collaborative ideabook”, and they may make it public.
Here Sean and I, Barry too, discuss Sean’s business and blog (one of my personal favorites). With that, while Sean is known by many as @SLSConstruction, it is actually the steady expansion of his services offerings that intrigued us. While you could certainly look at his blog the Homeowner’s and Trades Resource Center (the HTRC for short) as one of these, it is his move more specifically to offer a formal green solutions suite that really piqued our interest.
OK it was more like 1779 miles, approximately 90 gallons of gas, 11 hours of driving in the rain on Monday just in time for everyone to show up at Camden Yards… but oh what a great trip & time. As the first ever winner, aka “The Chosen One” (and may I truthfully add – very surprised winner) I have to thank JB for coming up with this ideas along with the fine folks at DAP Products, American Standard, Houzz and Wilsonart HD. I would also like to thank the three judges; Mark & Theresa Clement of My Fix it Up Life, Leah Thayer of Daily 5 Remodel & Timothy Dahl of Charles & Hudson. […]
My first ever press pass, and yes, exhibitors do treat you just a little differently. While my experience was likely a little different (from last year’s Show), I wanted to drop-in just the same. Rest assured I have at least a few more posts of coverage coming, but I wanted to start with a set of “un-sponsored” product posts. And here you go 10 Products (or Developments) you should know.
I have generally kept our appointments and obligations light this year, as to get maximum value from our time with product exhibitors and on-the-floor presentations. I do however have one big obligation. You may have heard, Oh! Oh! You haven’t? Well I am participating in my first ever panel discussion. Wilsonart’s “Ten Remodeling Tips to Help Give Customers the Look for Less.“ […]
Something like 700K+ images, most hi-res and professional quality, have been uploaded to Houzz. These images then become “available” on the site. Most are uploaded by home professionals looking to build an aforementioned online portfolio. For me, though, as a webgoer and further as a blogger, Houzz creates a single central source for inspiration.
A few weeks back I popped in to the grand opening of Baltimore’s newest Ace Hardware. A guest of the beaming Gina Schaefer, her company “A Few Cool Hardware Stores” is responsible already for five (soon to be six) Ace locations in DC. This location, in Canton, makes their 3rd in Baltimore. […]
OK . . . I know there have been a handful of folks waiting patiently to learn the one Winner of our 106 Yard Contest. At stake – a trip to this year’s Remodeling Show in Baltimore. The Show (& Conference) runs October 9th to October 12th this year. […]
I had the unique opportunity to tag along on a visit with a group from St. Timothy’s School. I was popping in on the tail end of a week in which ten high school girls were participating in a special session of Moser’s Customer in Residence (CIR) program (and yes, more too on that in a bit). What I bore witness to, in my few days, was a company . . . built on legacy and tradition, with deep rootings in both family and education . . . connecting intimately with their client (St. Tim’s). […]
As mentioned above, the HD line was launched in 2005 and was built toward the principle of affording dream kitchens on real budgets. Offering consumers what the company calls, “a look for less,” this collection yields the luxurious look and feel of natural stone, but with the performance, durability and affordability that today’s modern family desires.
This post is the first of four, in which I/we discuss working with clients, working in Baltimore, and finding and defining style. I/we discuss the practical challenges and the management of projects, business and billing, as well as and as promised – what it is like working in a large, well-known interior design firm. (Oh, and yes, we might even talk a little bit about design(s) too.)
Thanks to the generous support of our 106 Yard Sponsors: DAP Products, American Standard, Houzz and Wilsonart HD, we are able to bring one remodeler to Baltimore for the Show. Could it be you? Comment below to be entered to Win Building Moxie’s 106 Yard Scholarship Contest!
Okay, and as promised, it is that time. Time to award one remodeler with a trip to Baltimore for the Remodeling Show and Deck Expo. While our Contest will be held in a separate post, we first wanted to lay out some ground rules and consequently…
We are stoked to have secured our 4th (and last) sponsor for the 106 Yard Fund. This brings our fund total to 90% of goal. I am trying to work through the details for a fun promotional product that will hopefully bring us to the Full 106, the full $2000 goal. But yes, we are still looking for $200 from our readers. While I can officially say the “Scholarship Contest” will absolutely happen (and will officially launch sometime around August 9th), I hope to have your support so we can whip together a small gathering here in Baltimore during this year’s Remodeling Show.
(By Barry Morgan) I wanted to begin this final installment on the Home Depot FIRST for Pro program by stating that this visit to my local store, in which I did invest some time, had opened my eyes to something: In business one can never afford to ignore potential allies and for the good of the organization, it is important to constantly re-evaluate our own personal prejudices.
(By Barry Morgan) The Home Depot, First for Pro program was first rolled out about a year ago and as Bill Krum put it: “We keep building on it as we go.” FIRST For Pro a “dramatic step” in the evolution of how the Home Depot handles business with the various professional building trades.
Well, let’s say this phenomenon is beginning to happen with Building Moxie. While certainly not on a daily basis, frequently enough that I figure I can mention it. And this week, two products arrived and I figure I can give some words to them. A Look at Two New Tools.
(By Barry Morgan) – So what do Genie and the Amish have in common? Well, a lot it seems, starting with where they call home. Amidst the rolling green hills of Mt. Hope, Ohio lies a splendid surprise of a community that straddles the timeline of technology. Genie flew me out to this place for what they called a Digital Summit and we, the participants, arrived with our devices in tow, connected to the Internet (albeit spotily at times) and prepared to record much of what we saw in ones and zeros.
I visited our local Home Depot in Lewes, Delaware and met with Pro Account Representative, Bill Krum to learn about the Home Depot FIRST for Pro Program. Bill is friendly and easy going guy, with a great working knowledge of what Home Depot has to offer the professional contractor. I had noticed a steady increase in activity around our local store’s Pro Desk over time, so I asked Bill if the Pro Program was changing?
(By Barry Morgan) A good part of this has been fostered by getting to know some of the people who work in the stores, associates as they are known by title. My local store has one such associate who has done more to change the way I view the HD brand than any other. His name is Skip and Skip is nothing short of amazing.
(By Barry Morgan) I remember lumberyard employees being short tempered and having little capacity to suffer, those they saw as fools lightly and I believe this hostile environment set the stage for the rise of the DIY friendly home center.
And as the story goes, I simply asked (paraphrased here): “Hey guys. Would you ever consider providing a vanity which I would install and then later document?” Well, they (St. Paul) agreed. That’s how I found myself installing a St. Paul Home Products 30″ Classic Vanity Combo (in Antique White) at Dave W.’s house.
Through the Life Improvement Project, Ikea works with media outlets (like This Old House) to bring us in-store seminars covering various aspects of … living. And this past weekend I had the opportunity to swing into Ikea Baltimore for — Creating a Cook Space that Works for You. Alex Bandon (Online Editor) and Amy Hughes (Features Editor) hosted.
As it was told to us, there are two locations in the world as ideal for grass growth as this particular part of Oregon. It sits almost exactly at the forty-five degree latitudinal mark (half way between the equator and the north pole). Within 100 miles of where we sat that day, more than 60% of all world’s grass seed is grown, cleaned and otherwise harvested. […]
Thursday this week, I leave for Portland, Oregon, a place I have never been. Pennington Grass Seed is hosting Building Moxie and a handful of other renowned DIY bloggers as part of a Pennington “Seed for Yourself” Summit. The exclusive one-day summit at Pennington’s NexGen research facility in Portland promises to include location tours, hands-on workshops and one-on-one discussions with Pennington experts.
Houzz is a collaborative online resource featuring some 300K+ images, most hi-res and professional quality. Most images are uploaded by home professionals looking to build an online portfolio or presence. As a visitor, you can then browse by Style or by Space and organize what you find into your own “Idea Books.”
So, I wanted to revisit my Christmas Season / Winter to do list, posted on December 15th — nearly two months ago. Just last weekend (Super Bowl weekend) my wife had me helping with the prep for a birthday party she hosted this past weekend.
That link was posted yesterday to one of (the several) Facebook Groups I have now found myself a part of. With it, the poster wrote the phrase: “Flying machines: the contractors of the future??” Of course this intrigued me. […]
But really, from the get go, this one was simply a no brainer for me. Owens Corning ihmo kills it (in a good way) with their marketing on this one. While they likely had my moxiful self at . . . “Many people are quick to admit they lack the confidence to tackle home improvement projects. . . . “ The DIY Guy campaign sealed the deal. Haven’t seen it . . . ? Well . . . my post on it >> Building Moxie: This Here DIY Guy. Or . . .
There must be something about this time of year. I almost invariably feel a sense of re-commitment to my DIY projects. And yeah, maybe it does have something to do with the impending “threat” of having to host. My wife and I are, in fact, entertaining the rest of the family this New Years Day.
When we had our night on the town at the Remodeling Show in Chicago, we were fortunate enough to have Tim Carter from AsktheBuilder.com join us. And as one thing seems to lead to another, and when he says — “Ask the Builder,” well, we did. Here is an interview with Tim. How Ask the Builder was born and where it is now. Great information about being an early online publisher. Perhaps one of the first. Read on for more.
Coming full circle and finally putting my posts from the Remodeling Show, I wanted to highlight a final few products and people. Something about each grabbed my attention, and here’s why. Includes developments both Big (NanaWall) and Small – Work of digital publishers: HomeTech, Cygnus Business Media, etc. & More.
While in Chicago last month for the Remodeling Show, We were fortunate enough to visit Delta/Brizo’s state-of-the-art Dream2O Showroom at Luxe Home in the Merchandise Mart … or just “the Mart”. Read on to learn about our visit.
Now, while I am a super big fan of wood, in fact — I love it, I can’t claim really to know all that much about it. Or at least this is how I felt after walking the yard with Shannon Rogers. Shannon, you see, is not only McIlvain’s Director of Marketing, he is also a furniture maker, an instructor and, well, a blogger. And quite a prolific one at that. (I reprinted one of his articles here in early October.)
I owe thanks to a number of folks associated with DAP Products; (yes, as seen on this blog here and here and here and here) thank you all. And included in “our relationship”, a $100 Visa gift card which I will be giving away right here. It is actually an extension of the Blogger Challenge I am involved in.
Kevin, owner of National Lumber, talks of the delicate balance between always doing the right thing for customers, but also being loyal to vendors (whom he refers to as partners). As I point out my own recent visit to the Remodeling Show/Deck Expo and commenting on the number of deck fastener systems that were represented, he agreed that there are — quote “so many products.” Read on to see what makes this Local Lumberyard different.
“Fine Quality Custom Cabinetry Handcrafted for Your Entire Home.” That’s exactly how it reads in Crown Point Cabinetry’s own tagline. “Kitchens, Baths, Laundries, Offices, Home Bars” . . . *breath* . . . “Islands, Pantries, Breakfast Nooks, Closets, Built-Ins.” They build every cabinet to the exact specifications for your project, and really anything you could imagine . . . in terms of cabinetry. True Custom.
One of the bigger announcements that came out of the Remodeling Show in Chicago last week was a new product line from DAP targeting professional contractors and remodelers. The DAP Spec Line by DAP is the first full line of sealants and adhesives designed specifically to help professionals meet industry specifications for each job by including the required spec as part of the product name. With numeric labels that match proven industry specification standards, professionals can now easily select the best product for each job application.
Our visit last week to Chicago, and only the 2nd time for me in my lifetime, the 2011 Hanley Wood and NAHB-sponsored Remodeling Show. It is part conference, packed with educational seminars, and part product showcase — a show. Targeted to those working in the residential remodeling industry, it is a great place to connect and network, and to learn. Over next few weeks will work to get our thoughts down. Today — start easy, with a short product roundup.
Maybe you know Cyra DuQuella makes handcrafted decorative tiles (yes, each and every one by hand.) Tiledecorative.com. You may know that that she specializes in Art Nouveau, Arts & Crafts and Deco tile. You may know that she can customize borders and accents to fit almost any installation. You may know that she offers 300+ colors of glazing, but can match and perfect almost any color through her custom design services. [ . . . ]
As Barry and I are heading over to Chicago for this year’s 2011 Remodeling Show, I realize we have a lot of folks to thank for making it possible. (In due time.) And I know we did do (did do) a wacky thing here…. That is – beg for money. [ . . . ]
DAP, if you did not know, is a world-leading manufacturer of caulks, sealants and adhesives. It is likely the most recognizable name in caulk, but is also often known for its window glazing, wood filling and wall repair products. The company’s roots can be traced back to 1865, and Building Moxie had the opportunity to tour their Baltimore-based operation.
Yep, fortunately for the good people, sponsors: Duquella Tile, Crestview Doors and DAP Products (also at the show), plus a handful of generous donations — we have raised at least enough for one of us to attend. As it stands today, we are at about $1800. Our goal $2500 and the initial deadline of September 15th. That date, this week, is coincidentally the final day of early registration for the Show.
I met Todd Fratzel briefly at the 2010 Remodeling Show and it’s funny, the topic of Building Moxie’s site traffic came up. For all intents and purposes, he is a certified construction expert. He was kind enough to answer some interview questions for us recently. How he grew the blog – Home Construction & Improvement into a network of media sites.
I wanted to give a nod to some of what these other super-talented folk had to say. And yeah, I know it is now August, but my take on the 21C Museum Hotel (Red Penguins!) will have to wait, the “Tornado of Awesome” turned “Tornado Warning in the Shower” will have to wait, and so will the . . . GE Appliances’ (its own zip code) Monogram Line; it will have to wait, probably yet another month, or maybe soon, or maybe never and uggg! I missed my window.
Now, some have asked, “Where does ‘106 Miles’ come from?” The answer — from the Blues Brothers, the clip embedded in that first posting. Elwood Blues (Dan Aykroyd) turning to Jake Blues (John Belushi) and saying, “It’s a hundred and six miles to Chicago. We’ve got a full tank of gas, a half pack of cigarettes, it’s dark and we’re wearing sunglasses.” I won’t go into the significance of this statement or the context of it as it fits into the movie . . . I will say however the movie the Blues Brothers is simply a classic and that they were on a “Mission from God.”
Take their Champion line — you have likely heard the name. Did you know, it’s got 17 different models in it alone (check the link back there)? Elongated or round, RH/LH (that’s right-handed handle and/or left, and it can make a big difference). And of course that’s not to mention variations in dimension — total height, tank height, tank width, etc. All these options come in handy when you have a “location” you MUST fit. (I know a Champion has saved *me* more than once.)
An RPM International company, Dap Products, Inc. is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. They are a leading manufacturer of caulks, sealants and adhesives. Just a half an hour drive from their offices in the trendy Canton area of Baltimore, you’ll find one of the company’s two manufacturing plants. Rather striking from the highway, the complex’s six large branded silos. They rise from among the plant’s main buildings and look like, well . . . giant tubes of caulk.
Generically known as “formstone” a sort of “stamped stucco” remains on the street-facing exterior of many (row)homes in Baltimore, Maryland. It was applied widely from the 1930s to the 1960s. But as many of Baltimore’s urban areas experienced renewal in the late ’90s-early ’00s it became the norm to remove the now/then archaic finish. I have heard it said that formstone spread as wildly as a band-aid fix for the “cheap brick” used in the construction of many rowhomes. Rumor has it that some of these homes, built in the early part of the 20th century, employed brick salvaged from Baltimore’s Fire of 1904.
This is a 9×12 (approx) Karastan rug; Design = Sarouk; Pattern = 724. I only know this because I flipped over the edge and found the label . . . . To the left of that label, you’ll find Use and Care Instructions. (Note: While it is hard to see — nowhere on it does it mention the benefits of adding one or more cats.)
And the question did come up early, “Is American Standard the oldest plumbing product manufacturer?” As American Standard grew initially from a partnering of manufacturers . . . so too do they continue to grow, perhaps mirroring that early strategy, by adding elements like Safety Tubs, as well as the luxury lines Jado and Porcher, they continue. And these additions work not only to expand the heritage, but also very apparently add width to their product array. Read on to learn more.
Not only is it the first to offer this kind of flexibility, it is also the first EVER frig being manufactured with zero HFCs. That’s right — no Hydrofluorocarbons and none of that bad, bad ozone-depleting stuff. As I understand it, this is being accomplished in part by using a refrigerant called R600a to replace the traditional R134a coolant. A change too in the CP Foam process allows the company’s Decateur, AL plant to eliminate HFCs all together. Win. Win! [ . . . ]
I know I owe you a post on my most recent trip to New York City and to see American Standard’s New Product Design Center. (Here’s Part 1.) But today both Barry and I are off to Kentucky — Louisville to be exact. (Building Moxie’s 4th official global summit of sorts.) And while I don’t have an exact head count, I know there will be a number of folks there that I recognize at least by name (or by twitter handle). There will be a number of the group too that I spent q-time with at Brizo’s Fashion Week. So stoked!
. . . and beginning with the presentation “the Luxury Landscape and Design Trends” from Carter Thomas – Am Stand’s Senior Director of Design and Brand Management, some themes quickly emerged . . . and as always, these themes seem to help me decipher it all. Partially due to subject matter alone, but more from the general vibe on EVERYONE involved — we met and we talked intimacy (not like that), personality, and transition (among other social habits and trends). [ . . . ]
I have known that licensing varies state to state, but I decided to ask around, and few friends of our Facebook page (go ahead like it) responded with what was required in their states. What I found basically — the regulations under which home improvements can be performed legally vary widely (like the grand canyon) from state to state, with some variations rolling down even to the municipality level. Read on to see what I got.
My interview with old friend Dino Paxenos at Modern 50. He tells us how his vintage goods business came to be, the philosophies behind his processes, and much more. Read on to get inside of the mind of an incredibly creative individual.
A member of group of 19 bloggers attending Brizo Faucets’ Fashion Week, I learn about the bisection of fashion and innovation in faucet design, including SmartTouch & the influence of Biomimcry on Design.
I guess I could tell you about the time LT and I met up for lunch . . . and how I felt like a major klutz, but I won’t. Instead . . . I’ll tell you , and picture this >> dueling little black notebooks. What I mean — we were not actually sitting in the same room for this interview. << Yah!
[By Barry Morgan] Ford’s background as a tradesmen gave something of an everyman quality to his acting. There was a rugged depth to his early character work that made his action heroes believable.
[By Barry Morgan] Haunted Houses are amazing. Not real Haunted Houses (though they may be) but the kind which spring up all over America in late October every year. I thought I might do my first technical post about the moxie behind these spontaneous fright show attractions. Read on to learn how to stage your own haunted house.
The only product booths I spent more than a minute at were those of Tile*Redi, DuraDeck and Festool (more on that one down below). I was there, at the Show, for one reason and one reason only . . . no, actually two — to check it all out and well . . . to put some faces to some of the names, ok – in most cases . . . to the twitter handles that I know. [ . . . ]
[By Ana Manzo] It takes a lot of courage to open our hearts and express to the world how we feel at any given time, especially if the emotions that invade us, at that particular time, are negative. Some, those who dare, express themselves by crying, screaming, laughing, talking. But there are those too, who display emotion through creative expression (sometimes even unconsciously).
Fred’s first big challenge it seems was recruiting Ethan, who at first was apprehensive. The fear: (my words) Would it be sustainable? Ethan’s words — The question, Would we have enough to write about? He learned quickly though, and now Fred’s words — As you work your way through a house over say five or six years – the projects just seem to come.
Ethan around this point provides insight into some of their underlying attitudes. He tells of the recent task of sweating on a copper plumbing value. On first attempt it leaked, he says. Jocie then chimes in to say, on the second attempt, it popped fully off – and Ethan laughs. He says, I feel that most people are probably the most intimidated with plumbing. But with everything, it’s really just getting over that initial hump – you know, the fear of failure. If you don’t get it right the first time, just rip it out and redo it. (life lesson!) Plus, as Jocie says, “We enjoy the work and, well, we enjoy saving the money.” [ . . . ]
Established in 1964, and remaining still as a fully-owned subsidiary of the National Association of Home Builders, the NAHBRC enjoys a unique insider’s relationship with the housing industry. The for-profit institution has evolved through the years and works today under the primary mission to improve the quality of, as well as the durability, affordability and environmental performance of our nation’s housing stock. [ . . . ]
To hear Bryan Koerber describe it, you would think he was there. We sold components, pigments in the form of pastes or powders – red lead, white lead; linseed oil; solvents like turpentine, Japan driers . . . the painters would take these raw materials and mix them by the batch in the field. Bryan is President of Budeke’s Paints and Decorating, one of oldest independent paint retailers in the country. Read on to see our discussion.
Remodelers Spotlight: Da Vinci is a high end, low volume remodeling company based in Denver, Colorado. With only Paul and his partner working in the field …
(By Sean Lintow, Sr.) – I am from the government and here to help you is often joked about as being ten of the most terrifying words that one could expect to hear in their lifetime. Now it appears that would fall to second place if you replace the word help with the word protect. Effective April 22nd, the EPA has a new regulation that goes into effect affecting anyone living in or working on pre-1978 houses that may contain lead. As a homeowner, there is nothing in there that says you have to follow, or even care about the regulation, but it is still going to affect you in many ways.
An inexpensive digital camera (or smart phone camera) comes in handy. For uses for a camera during home improvement. Add more in the comment section below. Thanks!
These conditions are due, in part, to the temporal and fading nature of things. Much as a car’s odometer rolls with every tenth of a mile accumulated – your home loads on mileage, too, with each passing year. Short of noting proactive discretionary improvements, and extending beyond the mechanical equipment found in your home, all parts in, on or of your home will wear and ultimately fail (if left unchecked). [ . . . ]
While the use of the word free could remain open for debate; this strategy, in principle, is an efficient, effective and proven means of executing promotions. And — it should be said — efficient promotions, i.e. maximizing output with minimal input, in theory, helps keep cost down – for both the seller and, well, the buyer.
We then took our dough and kneaded it in some flour (wow, what a mess). We now had to take it and split it into 3 equal parts. What the instructions didn’t count on was that the girls had been hitting it up for minutes. They systematically licked everything clean, the bowl, the utensils, while simultaneously consuming any piece of dough not firmly attached to our mound lying there.
On an interior wall, possibly already probed with a stud finder, I guess I’d probably grab a drill. Having removed the shoe molding and being careful not to damage the floor, I would drill two, I don’t know, 1″ holes where the baseboard meets the floor. These holes would be spaced maybe 3 1/2 apart – and they would represent the base of my arch.
I would then probably grab my compass (remember from geometry). After finding the center point between the outside of edges of both holes, and holding the fixed point off of the floor slightly, I would scribe the arch in a dark pencil line. [ . . . ]