Why Upgrade to a USB Outlet: Changing the way you Charge.

Standard UCable

  Almar is always on the lookout for new products that are going to enhance our clients comfort in their home. I recently read an article in one of the Remodeling industry magazines about the new USB wall plug. These new outlets can be used to replace your existing wall outlet with one that includes two extra USB charging ports.

It seems like today everyone has an item or two (or for some of us a whole lot more) that needs to be plugged in into a USB charging slot. Our laptops, ipads, cell phones and regular phone, everything wireless all have that little USB plug, and for us many of the outlets in the house are taken up with devises. These USB Outlets are great solution when you don’t have a lot of outlets. So Almar often  recommends it as an upgraded option to homeowners when we are installing new outlets anyway.

UCable

According to FastMac’s website their U-Socket “is an AC receptacle with the added benefit of two built-in USB ports that can power any device that is charged via USB. Whether it's an iPhone, gaming device, digital camera, Kindle or an iPad, U-Socket can handle it all. Designed to replace an existing 3-prong wall outlet, U-Socket eliminates the clutter of AC adapters that stick out and take up space.”

There are some special electrical requirements (such as 14 gauge or larger wiring) required to be able to install this product so you should call Almar Building &Remodeling so we can have our electrical team assess if your home is ready to simply make the switch or if we need to make some electrical upgrades to get you ready.

http://fastmac.com/usocket.php/

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT REMODELING PROFESSIONAL

Tips to help save your big investment

May is National Home Improvement Month. Before you dive into a major home remodel, however, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) reminds homeowners to take a close look at the contractor they plan to hire for the job.

Almar Building & Remodeling President Terrance F Quinn, CS, CGR, CAPS, VSI., is a remodeling veteran with more than 47 years’ of experience who says homeowners need to ask the right questions before committing to a contractor. As a professional remodeler has made it his job to inform consumers about what to look for before signing on the dotted line.

“Homeowners are always looking at the bottom line, but they should be aware of what it represents,” he says. “Many homeowners have 60 percent or more of their net worth invested in their homes, so a remodeler can be responsible for half of someone’s physical existence.”

That’s a big responsibility. Quinn recommends that homeowners do their homework by asking the right questions. The goal is to find out whether the remodeler has a track record of happy customers, if he or she will communicate with you openly, work on a realistic time schedule and within your budget. Here are some things to keep in mind:

What type of contractor do I need? Deciding which type of professional to hire will depend on
the size and scope of your project. A general remodeling contractor works on a variety of home projects that either does not require professional design services, or design services are outsourced.

A design/build contractor, on the other hand, provides both quality design and construction services within the same company. They will oversee a project from start to finish, keeping design, budget and engineering in mind. (A Design/Build contractor can also be a General Contractor)

Another option is to work with an architect to help you create plans and drawings. For remodels, it’s important to work with an architect who has done remodeling work in the past because they will be sensitive to the challenges existing structures may represent.

Check references Ask the contractor how long they have been in business and request the names and numbers of references. Also, look at photos of completed work to determine the quality, fit and finish of installations.

Insurance is important Inquire about the contractor’s certification insurance and request to see a copy, or get the name of the insurance agency, to verify coverage. Massachusetts require that contractors carry property damage, personal liability and worker’s compensation insurance, but don’t assume a contractor has it.

Shop for honesty and professionalism Choose a remodeler who is communicative and straight
forward. Quinn says he provided client with a new client kit which includes all of Almar’s contact information for each team member, how to prepare for the project, commonly asked questions, details about the client’s specific project and much more.

How do I compare estimates? Make sure that each contractor provides a quote for the same
scope and level of quality for the work. Beware of bids that are much lower than others. Quinn says “Unless the quotes are written and detailed out you can never assume contractors are estimating the same project for you. You also need to be aware when trying to compare types of contractors to each other, if one is a professional business with an office, staff, and history and the other is not – what could that mean for you short and long term.”

Trust in the professionals Lastly, once you’ve decided on a plan and the contractor, let
them do their job. Too much micromanaging or design changes can take additional
time and ultimately cut into your bottom line, Quinn says.

Certified remodelers with NARI Some NARI members are also certified; NARI certification is a challenging process that requires a contractor have extensive knowledge of the industry and a commitment to professional conduct. Contractors who are certified by NARI have received an acceptable review by the NARI Certification Board by providing an outline of their hands-on experience, training, education, technical skills and practices in business management. They are committed to staying current with industry issues, and have successfully completed a rigorous written exam, which includes questions about business management, building codes, construction law, specification, safe use of tools and equipment, safety standards, math and other special skills.

Remodeling your home can be one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Homeowners can gain a sense of security knowing they’ve done their homework before choosing a remodeling professional.

# # #

About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the only trade association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. The Association which represents more than 8,200 member companies nationwide—comprised of 63,000 remodeling contractors— is “The Voice of the Remodeling Industry.”™ To locate a local NARI chapter or a remodeling
professional, visit NARI’s Web site at www.nariremodelers.com, or contact the national headquarters, based in Des Plaines, Illinois, at 800-611-NARI.

Almar (781-826-2577) is proud to be a member of NARI and is committed to uphold the
standards that all NARI members represent. Almar’s entire team is ready to work with homeowners from all over the south shore of Massachusetts like Hanover, Pembroke, Hingham, Norwell, Scituate, and Cohasset. As a full service Design/Build remodeler Almar can handle all phases of remodeling: Additions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Basements, and Sunroom projects.

Hanover, Ma: Earth Day 2012 - Tips for Your Home

by: Allison Q Guido, CS (Hanover Ma)

Yesterday was Earth Day 2012. Earth Day is a celebrated each year, and events are held worldwide to increase awareness and appreciation of the Earth's natural environment. 2012 was the 42nd anniversary of that mission which was attributed to John McConnell staring in 1969.

In honor of Earth Day Almar Building & Remodeling, Hanover Ma wanted to share some tips and information about how you can make changes in your own home to improve the earth’s and your personal environment.

1.      Replace leaky Faucets: gallons of water can be wasted each day from what appears to be a minor leak.  Need helping finding the right faucets for your home? Stop in and see our friends at Snow & Jones in Norwell to get a Kohler faucet.

2. Choose the Right Cabinets: “Many cabinets are made from particle board, hardwood plywood paneling, or medium density fiberboard glued together using a formaldehyde-based adhesive. To avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, purchase cabinetry made with formaldehyde-free adhesives and finishes.”*1 Almar installs Huntwood Custom Cabinets which offers us Green Manufacturing.  

3.      Choose Flooring that has environmentally friendly attributes without sacrificing style.

a.       Sustainable Grown/Harvested Materials

b.      Reclaimed materials

c.       Recycles materials

d.      Reduced Toxicity 

4.      Water Filtration: Although the EPA enforces national standards for taps water approximately 4 out 10 American homes also have a water filtration system.  

5.      Replace old toilets: Toilets account for almost 30% of your homes water usage. In 1992 the Energy Policy Act was enacted which mandated water efficient toilets use up to 3.5 gallons of water per flush. By replacing your old toilet with a to high-efficiency toilets can save a family of four, on average, $2,000 in water bills over the lifetime of the toilets.*2 

6.      Upgrade Insulation: By insulating your house or sealing up air leaks you can your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Installed correctly, insulation can deliver comfort and lower energy bills during the hottest and coldest times of the year. 

7.      Weatherize with Windows, Doors and Skylights: Leaky unites allow warm air to escape which makes your heating/cooling units run more. By installing Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors (Like Harvey Classic or Alside Excalibur Windows) you can reduce energy costs.  

8.      Low-VOC Paint: When choosing paint opt for Low-VOC products to reduce air pollution.  

9.      Choose low-maintenance Exterior Finishes: “When choosing the finish for your home, look into recycled-content materials that are locally manufactured. High-maintenance materials (such as wood) should be avoided to reduce repair, replacement, and upkeep costs (e.g., repainting). Brick, concrete, stucco, steel, aluminum, and fiber-cement offer superior longevity, and resist cracking and other deterioration.” *3 

     10.  Choose a Cool Roof: Most people choose dark roofing shingles. But if you choose a lighter roof shingle (or one of Certainteed’s Solaris Shingles) that have high reflectance and emissivity you can keep your roof up to 70degrees cooler than traditional shingles. Which can help save you money on air conditioning costs.

You can also get information about programs and incentives for renewable energy in Massachusetts please visit: http://www.dsireusa.org The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency.  “DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility and federal incentives and policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Established in 1995 and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, DSIRE is an ongoing project of the N.C. Solar Center and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.”

*1. http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/Kitchen.htm

*2. http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/bathroom.htm

*3. http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/WholeHouse.htm

Business Admin/Marketing Internship

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY:
Business Administration/Marketing:

When I was in school I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to work in several different professional enviroments and attend some professional conferences, and I think that those experiences really help me start to prepare for what I was going to find once I graduated. And it seems like without experience you can't get experience these days.

So I figured now was a good time to start "paying it forward" and offer an internship so someone else can start to build the foundation of thier careers. And hopefully we can teach each other something along the way. And as a small buisness there is the opportunity to learn about many different areas of business.

- High School Senior or College Student
- Flexible Schedule (Preferably, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, Approx 18-20/week)
- Will work with out General Manager to learn daily administrative tasks, and operating procedures.
- Will learn to work with Account and Client Management Software
- Opportunity to attend Networking Events and learn Networking skills
- Work on Marketing and Social Media projects
- Participate and request other opportunities that become available.

Visit the Almar Building & Remodeling Website for more information about Almar - who we are and what we do. http://www.almarbuilding.com

Email Allison Guido for more information or to submit an request. Allison@AlmarBuilding.com
(Please put Internship in the Subject Line and please include why this opportunity interests you)

Hanover Designs: Designing Your Remodeling Project

By: Allison Quinn Guido, CS

Networking can open small businesses up to a whole world of people and connections that they might not have ever been exposed to otherwise. I have had the honor of getting to know Paulette O’Connell, AIA, LEED AP thru Almar Building & Remodeling’s association with the South Shore Women’s Business Network. And now by getting to know each other we are looking forward to collaborating on upcoming Design and Remodeling projects to service our client better.

Paulette is the principle at OCO Architecture located in Hingham Ma. She started this firm to offer more personalized design solutions to homeowners and clients alike on the South Shore and beyond. She has a diverse background which allows her to bring a fresh eye to her custom
residential projects.

A registered architect and a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Boston Society of Architects, Paulette is also LEED certified. LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system.

Almar is looking forward to collaborating with OCO Architecture as part of our Design Build process. Design Build is the one-stop shopping approach to remodeling. Our clients hire us to do everything, from design to finish. From conceptual designs, to the working plans, right through
production management of getting your project built.

Choosing Deign Build your whole team is listening you your wants, needs and budget and
working together to create the best project for you that can be built with in your budget.

For more information about on how you can work with Almar Building and OCO
Architects on your upcoming Renovation (Addition, Kitchen, Bathroom, Basement,
Sunroom) then please give call us at 781-826-2577

Plymouth Remodeling: NARI Helps Educate Homeowners

By: Craig H. Guido, CS

Even though we had a mild winter here on the South Shore, I can feel the excitement of Springs approach in our Almar family. Clients are excited about getting new projects underway. Our carpenters are excited that they can comfortably work on exterior projects again, and I’m
excited to start talking to new clients about new projects and how Almar and CAT Exteriors can make their homes even better.

With that in mind I was delighted to be invited by the Eastern Massachusetts chapter of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) to help represent professional remodeling companies at last weekend Plymouth Home Show. EM NARI is a not-for-profit trade association committed exclusively to enhancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and providing ethical and quality service to the region's remodeling homeowners.

I was happy to have the chance to talk to many of the Home Show attendees and educate them on how as a member of EM NARI professional remodelers and industry associates come together to improve our companies and client experience thru education and collaboration. And also to
let them know that homeowner’s can utilizes the resources that EM NARI provided
to educate and protect themselves and their homes when they decide to partner on remodeling projects.

EM NARI’s commitment is shown in our PEAK program, which aims to provide the absolute best remodeling experience for homeowners in Eastern Massachusetts. PEAK represents the four key aspects of the remodeling industry — Professionalism, Excellence, Ability, and Knowledge — to ensure that homeowners can find the right professional partner to do their remodeling.

Professionalism — All EM NARI members agree to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards of care outlined in our six-part Code of Ethics. These extend beyond building standards to all areas of business practices including marketing and sales, contracts, and customer satisfaction.

Excellence — NARI sponsors both regional and national Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards to recognize the excellence and quality of its members. These prestigious awards encourage EM NARI members to strive for quality and excellence in every remodeling project. (View the latest
EM NARI CotY Award winners.)

Ability — EM NARI expects its members to maintain skills and expertise through continued learning and education. NARI offers a number of educational programs, seminars, conventions and rigorous remodeling certification programs. The better informed and trained your contractor is, the better your results.

Knowledge — Knowledge is power. Our extensive library of resources offers homeowners information on any number of topics from how to hire a contractor and what questions to ask, to adding value to your home and local licensing laws. The more educated the homeowner, the more
successful your remodeling project will be.

Almar is proud to be a member of NARI and is committed to uphold the standards that all NARI members represent. Almar’s entire team is ready to work with homeowners from all over the south shore of Massachusetts like Hanover, Pembroke, Hingham, Norwell, Scituate, and Cohasset. As a full service Design/Build remodeler Almar can handle all phases of remodeling: Additions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Basements, and Sunroom projects.

Hanover Remodeling: Celebrates National Organize Your Office Day

Did you know that March 8th is National Organize Your Office Day?

I don’t know about you but I work much better when things are organized and I am not surrounded by clutter and piles. All those piles juts make me stress about everything on my to-do list that I haven’t gotten to yet. So as I sit here on Organize Your Office Day I wanted to share some of our favorite tips that we use to keep our office running smoothly and organized.

1. Add Built in Cabinets
Adding Huntwood Cabinets to your home office can be a great way to utilize your space. From desks to storage cabinets built in can be a great way to customize your office. Adding sufficient storage is easy and can even make your work space feel bigger if done right.

2. Labeling
By labeling your binders and folders you will be able to store important items when you don’t need them in a uniform manner while still being able to find them in seconds when you do need to reach for them. Labeling also helps smooth the transition when someone new comes in to help or find files

3. Custom Shelves
You can Recreate a Grand or not so grand library. These can be a great way to display your cherished items while still being organized and still have space to have all your work needs at the tip of your fingers.

4. Purchase Magazine boxes to store booklets, magazines, catalogs you want to keep. Remodeling like many other industries has plenty of industry and homeowner based magazines. These publications have great Renovation ideas and information but sometimes we can’t look at them all right away. Magazine boxes help us sort ideas and keep from having piles of old publications lying around

5. Add Natural Light
Natural light is so good for us. It keeps us from getting tired and keeps us healthy. If you have to spend a lot of time in the office a large Replacement window or Velux Suntunnel could be just thing you need to make your office space more comfortable. In addition to reducing energy needs natural light can help make you more efficient.

Of course there are hundreds of other tip and suggestions and to-do to help you be more organized but I think 5 is a stress free amount so give us a call and we’d be happy to help you tackle some of the suggestions above.

And don’t forget to give us a call (781-826-2577) at Almar Remodeling Co to help organize all of your remolding projects. Almar is located in Hanover Ma, and serves many South Shore towns like: Hanover, Scituate, Norwell, Hingham, Cohasset, Duxbury and Pembroke for all of your Home Remodeling needs (Additions, Kitchen Renovations, Bath Remodels, Basement Finishing)

*Photos of Huntwood Custom Cabintry. Almar is a Huntwood Dealer

Moen Old Word Style Bath Collection: The Weymouth

Your bathroom might be a small space but you will have lots of decisions to make once you are ready to remodel it. Aside from the tile, tubs, toilets, showers, mirrors and paint you'll have to select the plumbing fixtures.

One of Moen’s new bath collections features an Old World style, and is a great option to consider. The Weymouth bath collection has elaborate details including Porcelain in lays, wall mount or standard faucets with Cross or Lever handles.

A few of the items in this line include:

Chrome two-handle High Arc bathroom faucet
This two-handled lever design creates ease of use, and you can selection your widespread installation amoutn anywhere from 8-16". The "laminar stream allows for clear and quiet water flow, and it meets WaterSense criteria to conserve water without sacrificiing performance."*






Chrome Two-Handel High Arc wall mount bathroom faucet
"The wall mount installation allows for efficient use of space, and includes aerated flow for everyday use."* This unit also meets WaterSense criteria, which conserves water without sacrificing performance or style.






Chrome Posi-Temp Tub/Shower:
The PosiTemp pressure-balancing valve. Helps maintain water pressure and controls tempureatur at yhe same time. The rainshower head has comes in 9" diameter and with Moen's "advanced, self-pressurizing Immersion rainshower techonoligy channels water through the showerhead with three time more spray power than most rainshowers."* (ADA compliant)

In addition to the Facuets, Tub/Shower unites you can get a full line of Spa options and matching accessories in this Weymouth Line.

So when you are ready to start planning your next bath renovation give Almar a call 781-826-2577 and our team can go over all the different options to find the right look for your style.

*Information Curtosey of the Moen Website:www.moen.com

Basement renovations of today are not your grandparent’s projects.

by: Craig H Guido, CS

For years wood paneling has been the staple of a finished basement.

The majority of basements were that we're finished in the 79's and 80's were done with faux wood paneling stapled to 2x4's with little or no insulation, making for a cold uninviting space. To day's basements can be designed in to more relevant and comfortable space in your home. Here are some tips on how you can make your basement into a more warning and inviting living

1. Lots of lighting: a basement should have more lighting than above-grade areas. Most basements don’t have a lot of natural light. And with today’s LED lighting options you can make a basement feel warm with artificial lighting.

2. Light wall and trim colors: because most basements have few or no windows utilizing light colors on the walls, trim and ceiling will help keep the room feeling more open.

3. Headroom is critical: You want to make sure that the ceiling height is as high as possible. So your design should addresses moving, relocating or installing new ducts and pipes in wires if possible. (There are state building code requirements about how high your ceiling height has to be.)

4. Use horizontal design elements to emphasize the width and length of the room rather than its lack of height. Set tiles in a diagonal pattern to make the room feel wider.

5. By adding a separate heating zone with its own thermostat you can control the temperature in just the new space, so when you’re not using the room you don’t have to heat the space.

6. Adding an extra Full-bathroom in the basement is a popular

way to increase the functionality and value of the house. Utilizing a well designed plan we can either find in stock items or you can opt for a custom shower, with some of the following options: built-in seat, steam, walk-in, and multiple heads. Saunas are also increasing in popularity.

7. Built in Cabinets and Shelving gives you are great place for extra storage without having to have a lot of furniture cluttering the space. Huntwood cabinets can be utilized to create an entertainment cabinet that the TV and components can be stored.

8. Built in Bar: By adding some Huntwood Cabinets (which we match to the kitchen cabinets) you can add some nice finishing touches to the room, and have a comfortable place to host your guests.

9. By adding some foundation sealant and a dehumidifier we can help reduce the moisture in the room and almost eliminate that tell-tale basement smell.

10. Spending the money to include a subfloor product like “Dri-Core” as a subfloor over the concrete prior to installing carpeting can help increase the air flow allowing the concrete to breathe reducing the potential for mold and mildew. This subfloor will also help the floor feel warmer by getting the flooring up off of the concrete.

With the right design tips you will appreciate your basement just as much as the other floors. The planning and designing that goes into a renovation is incredibly important and how much you do will have a noticeable effect on the budget. So consider these tips and for more suggestions ask your contractor.

Name Your Payment Financing

Our last Blog post told you all about our new financing offerings, now you can visit our website to Name Your Monthly Payment.

All Applications are welcome, Just Choose Yours Terms & Send us your information we will follow up with you and get your Home Improvements Started. Almar is excited to be able to offer our clients the features of a large company thru our small Family-Run Business.

FICO Scores as low as 620

Bankruptcy

Open Collections

No Appraisal Required

No LTV Required

No Prepayment Penalty

No Money Down

Approval Within 5 Minutes*

Secure Fast Online Application

* Based on past performance during the business hours of Almar Building and Remodeling. If approved, Almar Building and Remodeling will contact you as soon as possible during our normal business hours.

Almar's Now Offering Financing

Almar clients have often asked about the option to finance their project thru us. Because they like working with a family run local business so Almar now offers Financing for remodeling projects, up to $25,000 for qualified borrowers.

Our ability to offer financing has now made it possible to again complete a remodeling job on you home without using up all of your savings. And most remodeling jobs under $7,500 can be financed without a secured loan. All our team needs to do is take some information and have an answer for you in you home in less than 10 minutes.

What kind of information will we need? For the preapproval – just a basic application filled out. Then once you are approved all you need is a few pay stubs and some everyday documents.

How to pay for a remodeling project has often been one of the harder choices for homeowners: with either a personal bank loan, a home equity loan, or a combination of savings and loans. But since the financial collapse of the banking system, these options have been severally limited for most average homeowners who still pay their bills but might not look like a good risk on paper, or are upside down on their homes value. For these types of homeowners lines or credit and personal loans have hard to obtain the last few years.

That is why we at Almar have searched out a way for you to get a loan and be able to have the remodeling project you want without having to save up for years.

Some of the features of our new program include:

No Appraisal required.
FICO score as low as 620 accepted.
Bankruptcy Okay
We have a 75-80% Approval Rate
Fixed rates as Low as 9.99%
No Prepayment Penalty
Secured & Unsecured Loans Available

Just call or go on line to http://www.almarbuilding.com/contact.htm to request information and to schedule an appointment for you remodeling project. You next project is just a few dollars a month away.



We’ll finance roofs – siding- windows – kitchens – baths – decks – basement remodels as well as small additions.

Ten Things to Know when Buying Replacement Windows

By Terry Quinn: CS, CAGR, CAPS, VSI

Not all windows are the same. Some met Energy Star requirements and some don’t. There are many things we could go over but here are ten things you should know when evaluating & choosing windows and a professional installer.

1. Most advertisements that you see in the paper or mailings that list a price also list a United Inch size.
a. A United Inch is a figure arrived at by adding the width and the height together….so a 30 inch wide and 57 inch window is 87 united inches.
b. Many advertisements that you see for windows as low as $159 etc…are for small windows with a low united inch number.

2. Many advertisements that you see with prices included in the ad do not include installed pricing.

3. Replacement windows are installed in the frame of the existing window.
a.If you want to install a window that is a larger or smaller size than existing we may recommend a new construction window.

4. Most replacement window installations do not require new interior or exterior trim to be installed.
a. The existing interior trim can be removed and reinstalled. This will require some touch up paint be done.

5. The most important part of a replacement window installation is the insulating around the new units frame and the old window frame.
a. If you have an older home where the old windows had a weight/pulley system this also include making sure the old weight pocket is stuffed with insulation before the new window is installed.

6. Most installations require removal of storm windows if they exist.
a. As long as you pick a quality replacement window (like the Excalibur) you won’t need the storm windows anyway because the new windows are much better insulated and energy efficient.

7. Grids can be order “between the glass”
a. There are many different Decorative Options available to you based on you and your homes personal style. They can add style and dimension to your windows.
b. You can choose from a Classic grids, Contoured Grids, or Gold Tone Brass Grid patterns.
c. There are also options available in replacement windows for V-Grooved Cut Glass where you can add a cut polished V-grooved glass pattern into your window for the perfect touch of elegance.

8. Most window replacement jobs require RRP Protection
a. If you house was built before 1978 and you do not have a lead report stating you house is free of lead paint you are required to work with an RRP licensed contractor by the EPA.

9. Tax Credits are still available.
a. Although less tax credit money is available now than in previous years when you purchase new products that meet energy efficiency guidelines you may be eligible to take advantage of these incentives.

10. Replacement windows can be designed for all styles: windows, bays and bows.
a. You can choose double-hung windows, sliding windows, casement windows, awning windows, garden windows, bay & bow windows, and even sliding patio doors.
b. Replacement windows come in vinyl, wood, steel and a combination of each.

We could go in to a lot of detail on each of these ten items plus many more, so please let us know if you have a specific question or would like more information about any of the topics mentioned above. Almar also offers Financing - so ask about details on low monthly payments.

ALmar's Newest Team Member

The entire team is please to anounce an addition to our Almar Family. Our Sales & General Managers Craig & Allison Guido welcomed their first son Giovanni Quinn Guido into the world on August 1st. "Gio" was 6 lb 2 ounces and 19 3/4" long. We are pleased to have him as part of our team, and wish wish Allison a speedy return to the office.

CRAIG is an AWARD WINNER!

A Huge Congratulations to Craig Guido. Who was honored on June 9th by Cape & Plymouth Business Magazine as one of this year 40 Under 40 Award Winners. Which honors distinguished businesspeople under the age of 40. This program spotlights the region's top young business leaders who excel in their industry and show dynamic leadership.

Cape & Plymouth Business 40 Under 40 winners announced

Almar is please to share that our very own Craig Guido has been named as one of this years 40 under 40 by Cape & Plymouth Business Magazine. From the Cape & Plymouth Business Magazine webiste: Cape & Plymouth Business 40 Under 40 winners announced Published on Thursday, March 31, 2011 Cape & Plymouth Business’ 40 Under 40 Awards spotlight the region’s top young business leaders who excel in their industry and show dynamic leadership. The 2011 class is exceptional in many ways, showing the diversity of paths to success in our region. Working in conjunction with the Cape Cod Young Professionals and South Shore Young Professionals, hundreds of nominees have been culled down to the 40 who best exemplified an entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to community service and potential to positively contribute to the future of our region. Cape & Plymouth Business is proud to announce the 2011 40 Under 40 Awards honorees: Peter Abraham, Convention Data Services; Shawn A. Avery; Dennett Elementary School; Bill Baker Jr., Cape & Islands Glass; Nicole Bernard Dawes, Late July Organic Snacks; Meghan Blair-Valero, Fogged In Bookkeeping; Jamie Bohlin, Cape Cod Celebrations; Bryan Braley, New York Life; Brian Carey, DePaola, Begg & Associates; Cecelia Carey, Carey Commercial; Amy Carpenter, Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce; Matthew Cole, Cape Associates; Adrienne Cormier, Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank; Jeff Cotto, Rogers & Gray Insurance Agency; Eliza Cox, Nutter McClennen and Fish; Heather Cozby, Cozby & Bruno; Shawn Delude, Nauset Disposal; Nicole DiGiusto, Carmen's Café Nicole; Stephen Drowne, BackOffice Associates; Michael J. Duffley, Maffei Landscape Contractors; Vincent Fantasia, The Bank of Canton; Molly Garcia, Mayflower Bank; Craig Guido, Almar Building & Remodeling; Laurel Hartman, Catania Hospitality Group; Felecia Hilliard, Why Weight Coaches; Annika Iliadis, Centerville Yoga & Wellness Center; Justin Labdon, Cape Cod Beach Chair Company; Craig M. LeBlanc, Allen Harbor Marine Service; William L. Leone, Wells Fargo Advisors LLC; Sue Malomo, 20Mile Technologies and Surf Web Studio; Kristen Mitchell Hughes, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce; Catherine Oldham, Alzheimer's Services of Cape Cod & Islands; Tracy Post, Town of Yarmouth; Bobby Rice, Reel Deal Fishing Charters; Sandy Rubenstein, PureHeat/Camp Wingate*Kirkland; Saul Schrader, Acella Construction Corporation; Dan Shaughnessy, Joyce Landscaping; Jenny Spurling, Simply Be Creative; Jessica Tinti, Hyannis Area Chamber of Commerce; Danielle G. Van Ess, DGVE Law; and Taryn Wilson, Cape Cod Cooperative Bank. The honorees will be celebrated at a special event on June 9, 2011, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa in Hyannis. The Master of Ceremonies will be Shailene Jackson of Cape Cod Broadcasting. Jackson is best known as Morning Show Host “Shai” on Cape Country 104. Behind the scenes, she is also Traffic Director and Producer for Cape Cod Broadcasting. Sponsors to date of the Cape & Plymouth Business 40 Under 40 Awards event include Constant Contact, Comcast Business Class, Ryan Family Amusements, Cape Promotional Products, Advacned4Color.com, Cape Cod Broadcasting, Cape Cod Young Professionals and South Shore Young Professionals. Further details on speakers and sponsors will be announced as they are available. Seating is limited at this event, register online here.

Remodeling Misconception #3 If a person claims to have many years of experience, they must do quality work.

The following is an excerpt from our FREE Report: Six “Secrets” To The Perfect Custom Remodel Of Your Home (To Request your copy of the full report please visit our website http://www.almarbuilding.com/)

I can't tell you how many people receive bad workmanship from contractors who've claimed to be in business for 15, 20, 25 years. Take experience claims with a grain of salt. Don't believe just because a person has twenty years experience, he will do a good job. He could have done a poor job for twenty years. Investigate further to make sure you're dealing with a qualified professional.

Ask for the following Items: (or better yet you should be given these items without asking. These items come standard in all Almar information packets)

1. Reference List
2. Testimonials
3. Copies of their Workman’s Compensation & General Liability Certificates (for the current year)
4. Current Copies of their Home Improvement Contractors License
5. Current Copies of their Construction Supervisors License
6. Current Copies of their EPA EER Certificate (required if your house was built before 1978)
7. Current Copies of their Lead Safe Renovator Certificate
8. Other certificates of Merit or Elite Contractor Status from Manufacturers.

So besure you do a little research and realize that you need to compare apple to apples when talking to contractors. If someone is giving a significantly lower pricer you need to know why. If you have any more questions about what you look for feel free to drop us a line at almar@almarbuilding.com or 781-826-2577

Remodeling Misconceptions - Part 1

The following is an excerpt from out FREE Report: Six “Secrets” To The Perfect Custom Remodel Of Your Home (To Request your copy of the full report please visit our website www.AlmarBuilding.com)


Misconception: Going with the lowest price saves you money.

No, not necessarily! Everyone tends to look for the lowest price! On a low estimate, you must ask yourself what is being left out or what short cut is being taken.

One roofer had his re-roof job $750 cheaper than anyone else. The homeowner wanted to save money and accepted his proposal. After the job was completed, all the old shingles and nails were still lying around the yard and shrubs and the homeowner was having a fit. The contractor told them that he had not figured clean up in his proposal and that was how he could do the job so much cheaper.

One of the most common signs of trouble ahead is someone who is offering to do comparable work for much less money than others. Chuck Morn learned that lesson the hard way when he converted an attic to living space at his home.

"It was a $50,000 project, but the contractor bid $40,000," Morn said. Not only did that contractor not finish the project, we had to get someone else to finish the project." Meanwhile, the first contractor declared bankruptcy, leaving Morn stuck with bills from subcontractors. Liens were placed against his home.

"It ended up costing a lot more," Morn said. Now, Morn is adding a deck and 600 square feet of living space. "Our thought was, this time let's go with the best contractor we can find," he said.
Like anything else, you can't get somethin' for nothin'. Be careful of choosing your remodeler based upon lowest price.

So when you are comparing Remodeling Professionals make sure you are comparing similar companies, a professional company will look and feel much different to you then a fly-by-night "guy in truck" and although a much lower price might look attractive on paper consider what you are really getting and who you are allowing into your home.

For more tips or a copy of this complete article please visit our website: www.almarbuilding.com

Award Recognition

The Almar team was pleased to find out that we have been award 2 Angie's List Super Service Awards for our work in 2010.

The Award was present to us in the Remodeling - General as well as the Architects & Building Design Categories "for achieving and maintaining a Superior Service Rating on Angie's List throughout 2010 as determined by Angie's List members."

We appreciate and are honored by the support our friends and clients have given us over the years and look forward to continuing and improving upon our systems in 2011 so that we can live up the high standards and expectations we have set for ourselves in the past.

2011 Tax Credits for Energy-Efficient Home Imporvements

NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) has an article posted on their website dated 12.26.10, talking about how new federal law guts tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements. While reading this article I feel like they are taking a totally negative attitude towards the revisions in the tax credits.

Personally Almar was taking the opinion that once the tax credits expired on 12.31.10 that was it we weren’t getting anything in 2011. So my perception of the NARI article is a bit different, cause I’m reading it thinking “Great! At least my homeowners can get something a little extra for the improvements they continue to make this year”

The long and the short of the changes for 2011 are:

1. The bill pushed back the expiration date for tax deductibility of mortgage insurance premiums for another year.

2. In 2011 you can get a 10% credit with a $500 maximum for purchases of insulation materials, exteriors windows, storm doors, skylights, metal and asphalt roofs that resist heat gain.

3. $150 tax credit limit on the cost of qualifying gas, propane, and oil furnaces, and hot water boilers.

4. $300 credit limit on central air systems, electric heat pumps water heaters, biomass stoves, electric heat pumps, and gas and propane water heaters.

5. $200 is now available for installing energy efficient windows in 2011.

These are all huge cuts from the 2010 credit available, but it is still and extra something just for making smart improvements to your home that will continue to save you money year after year. Because don’t forget that once you make an energy efficient improvement the long-terms savings need to be taken into consideration as well.

My hope is that there will be another change and increase in the tax credit program for energy efficient projects, because I think they are very important to the health and comfort of Almar’s clients. Until you experience the change from draft windows to new vinyl replacement, or the change from a home with no insulation to one with you can’t really understand how vitally important the changes your can’t see sometimes are your home.

Allison Q Guido, General Manager

Residential Saunas

I was just skimming thru http://www.wsj.com/ to see if there was anything in the real estate section when an article titled “The Home Improvement That’s the Hottest of them All by Anne Marie Chaker” caught my attention.

The article talks about how residential Saunas have long been part of the Finnish culture, but that they are also making a name for themselves in US households. And it made me think about a basement renovation Almar did a few years ago in Hanover where we added a Sauna to the bathroom section of the remodel.

The article says that “More Americans are making space for sauna rooms, clearing out basements, converting closets, and even partition off backyard sheds.” I think this is an interesting observation. Because we have found that more people in the last ten years have been choosing renovations to make their own homes more enjoyable and resort like even with the unstable economy, and a sauna is a perfect example of bring that comfort home.

Can you imagine anything better in the dead of winter, after a long stressful day, where you don’t want to go to the gym and deal with people any more than coming home and relaxing in your own personal sauna. You can have it be dry or add humidity just by adding water to the rocks.

In our project we were renovating a walk out basement and adding a full bathroom with the sauna as well. While designing the overall space we were able to find out from the homeowner what their wants and needs were for the over all space and then the bathroom specifically.

This homeowner was an athlete (who ran marathons) so the basement had a section for his gym equipment. And the shower was going to be mainly used after work outs, so the faucet and sprayers we picked we are all designed to help facilitate his post workout needs.

The sauna was to help him after his work outs but they also decided that they wanted it to be a social experience as well. So we went for a 2-4 person unit. But positioned it in the new bathroom space so that it wasn’t the focal point of the bathroom, and they chose a light colored wood to help keep the basement space from getting too dark.

So could a home sauna be right for you? I don’t know. I think that they are defiantly a luxury that many people don’t realize they could afford. But I thought it might be something fun to consider if they want to bring the calming feeling of well-being home.