Somerville, NJ (PRWEB) April 30, 2013

Spring is in the air, interest rates are at an all time low and many homeowners continue to remodel or expand their existing homes rather than move. Somerville Aluminum, one of the leading remodeling contractors in NJ, wants homeowners to know the top five remodeling projects to help homeowners begin planning to remodel during National Home Remodeling Month.

Housing market data reveals that small, smart remodels reward homeowners with better return on investment and can help update and customize a home. These top five most common home remodeling projects can help homeowners decide on which project is right for their home.

1.Remodel the bathroom Payback on remodeling a bathroom can reach 65 percent with new fixtures, tile, toilet, vanity and lighting. Low flow toilets consume less water and can decrease the monthly water bill.

2.Remodel the kitchen A minor kitchen remodel can improve the look and utility of the space without costing a bundle, and yields a 75 percent return. Consider replacing backsplashes, cabinet fronts, countertops, and flooring. Installing low-flow faucets and energy-efficient appliances can also reduce water and energy expenses in a heavily trafficked room.

3.Replace windows and doors Updating windows can also return a solid portion of the investment (71 percent for vinyl). New, energy-efficient doors and windows also help reduce energy leakage from the home and can bring down heating and cooling bills.

4.Repair property damage Property damage is a common but unfortunate occurrence. Seize misfortune as an opportunity to customize and upgrade the home. Homeowners already being inconvenienced with major home repairs should take that time to plan and incorporate home remodeling that may have been put off in the past.

5.Whole house remodeling Repairs and replacements of old components and the desire for upgraded amenities were cited as the top reasons for customers to hire a remodeler. Homeowners should evaluate the use of the entire home to see if it fits their needs. Repurposing spaces to fit their families and making more efficient use of their homes square footage and equity should be considered, rather than moving to a new home and mortgage.

Smart remodeling projects for improving the home can make the home more comfortable for a family's lifestyle.

To honor and celebrate National Home Remodeling Month, Somerville Aluminum continues its Triple Play promotion, with special savings on outdoor living spaces including decking, awnings and sunrooms during April and May.

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Central New Jersey’s Largest Home Remodeling Company Celebrates National Home Remodeling Month

The view of the the Jefferson High School cafeteria in Cedar Rapids through a hole in the wall created at a groundbreaking for a remodel of the cafeteria that took place earlier in the day. (Kaitlyn Bernauer/The Gazette)

Jefferson High School kicked off a remodeling project of the schools cafeteria Tuesday morning.

Most of the current cafeteria equipment is original to the building and about 20 years past its life span, school officials said. The remodeling project will involve replacing that equipment, remodeling the dining area, installing new technology, and improving the layout of the serving lines to get students through faster and more efficiently.

Students eat lunch near a hole in the wall of the cafeteria of Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids. The hole was created at a groundbreaking earlier in the day, and is the future site of a cafe as part of a remodel of the entire cafeteria. The remodel includes new heating and ventilation equipment, windows, flooring, lighting, and ceilings. The project is being funded through the School Local Option Sales Tax, and is scheduled to be completed in August. (Kaitlyn Bernauer/The Gazette)

When were crunched for time in the school day and have to get 400 kids through in ten minutes, its very challenging, so [the new cafeteria] will be good for the school and the kids will be able to truly enjoy their meal, said Suzy Ketelsen, Manager of the Food & Nutrition Department.

The cafeteria remodeling project will cost $1.5 million and is being paid for with funds from the School Local Option Sales Tax, or SILO.

Work is scheduled to be completed by the time students return in August.

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Jefferson High School remodeling cafeteria for first time in school’s history

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Perkins Restaurant & Bakery announced today a remodeling initiative that will be seeded in more than 20 corporate locations during the first half of 2013, with franchise restaurants to follow shortly thereafter. The culmination of extensive research conducted across the country, Perkins remodel package, developed by Louis+Partners Design out of Akron, Ohio includes both external and interior elements, and demonstrates Perkins long-standing commitment to continually enhance guests' overall dining experiences.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130430/CL04329)

Bob Winters, Senior Vice President of Development at Perkins comments, "Amidst a proliferation of dining choices, this contemporary, inviting refresh of Perkins, ensures that we have a relevant, differentiated presence that creates brand separation."The exterior offers a welcoming interpretation of the entry arch along with a contemporary take on size and scale of the trademark green stripe awnings. Perkins signature oval brandmark has been presented on the building as well as remote signage to strengthen overall presence. Inside, guests are drawn into a fresh, warm, comfortable environment showcasing an abundant bakery along with an array of dining zones. These dining areas offer guests different types of experiences through unique presentations in space layout, seating, lighting and graphics, creating greater daypart appeal.

Chris Nonno, a Partner at Louis+Partners Design adds, "The refreshed Perkins experience puts greater emphasis on fresh, provides a more engaging guest experience, and portrays a richer overall presentation that's in keeping with the brand's food and heritage."

About Perkins Restaurants & Bakeries:

Founded in 1958, Perkins system consists of 416 restaurants in 34 states and Canada, which includes 134 company-owned and operated restaurants and 282 franchised units. The Company also has a baked goods manufacturing division which manufactures pies, pancake mix, cookie dough, and muffin batter for in-store bakeries and third-party customers. Private investment funds managed by Wayzata Investment Partners LLC are the majority owners of Perkins & Marie Callender's Holding LLC, the parent company of the Perkins & Marie Callender's, LLC and affiliated companies. More information about Perkins franchising opportunities can be found at http://www.perkinsrestaurants.com.

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Perkins® Restaurant & Bakery Launches Remodeling Initiative

CHESTER, Pa., May 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Power Home Remodeling Group, one of the nation's largest home remodeling companies, was named to the Atlanta Journal Constitution's 2013 Top Workplaces list. The Top Workplaces program identifies leading businesses in the Atlanta metro area based upon results from employee surveys.

Employees based at Power's Atlanta, GA location completed a detailed survey about their jobs including questions related to team effectiveness, retention, employee alignment with company goals and manager effectiveness citing the company's mission, ethics and positive culture as reasons why Power should be named one of Atlanta's top employers. Power also received a Doer Award for their unique structure that gives employees a clear vision for their role in the company, with departments responsible for every aspect of the job.

"Our goal is to create a work environment that encourages employees to exceed expectations and become truly invested in the company," said Asher Raphael, Power's Chief Strategy Officer. "We are thrilled that our Atlanta employees have helped us achieve this honor. Our Doer Award truly speaks to the exceptional work ethic that our employees demonstrate every day and the home improvement experience we provide to our customers. It's reassuring to know that our employees fully embrace this critical aspect of our company culture."

Power was recently recognized on Inc. Magazine's inaugural Hire Power award ranking for adding jobs and helping to rebuild the economy, and was named to Glassdoor's "Top 25 Companies for Career Opportunities" in 2012. The company provides all employees with a variety of comprehensive customer service training programs, a mentor to ensure continuing guidance and growth, and unique compensation models and incentives that reward employees beyond traditional salaries. From monthly company-wide sales competitions with opportunities to win highly coveted prizes, including trips to overseas destinations, iPads and theater tickets, to an annual holiday vacation paid for by Power, the company provides each employee with perks to keep them engaged and motivated throughout the year.

For more information on career opportunities at Power Home Remodeling Group, please visit the company's LinkedIn page or PHRGCareers.com.

About Power Home Remodeling Group

Family-owned since 1992, Power Home Remodeling Group is the nation'ssixth largesthome remodeling company with more than 1,200 employees and $170 million in sales. Headquartered in Chester, Pa., Power provides energy-saving and environmentally friendly exterior remodeling solutions to residents across the country, including Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington, DC.AnInc. 5000company, Power has served more than 87,000 homeowners and is recognized as a home improvement leader by its two-time "Dealer of the Year" award fromWindow and Door Magazineand was named the top remodeler onProfessional Remodeler's 2012 Market Leaders Philadelphia list.For more information please visit PowerHRG.com, or follow the company on Twitter@PowerHRGand Facebook atfacebook.com/PowerHRG.

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Power Home Remodeling Group™ Named Top Workplace by Atlanta Journal Constitution

MONTCLAIR -- While the 40-year-old Montclair Plaza has gone through an interior remodeling, it is no secret that the exterior of the property needs a new look.

It's something city and mall officials have been discussing, including the restoration of the mall's east side - where the old Broadway building now sits empty - with the creation of a mixed-use development.

City officials may know the fate of any future lifestyle expansion within the next month, as they requested a workshop with the leasing company.

"The (leasing group) has shown interest in bringing change to Montclair Plaza and it appears this year they are ready to begin that process," Councilman John Dutrey said.

Cushman & Wakefield is managing Montclair Plaza for a group of lenders led by CWCapital Asset Management. Spinoso Real Estate Group based in Syracuse, N.Y. is overseeing the leasing for the east side of the mall, said Steve Lustro, director of the city's community development department.

The leasing group is considering a combination of retail and restaurants uses that would fit in the mall. There is also the possibility of tearing down the old building and creating an exterior "lifestyle" component, Lustro said.

The shopping center has four anchor tenants: Nordstrom, Macy's, J.C. Penney and Sears.

The mall's fifth anchor was Broadway, which vanished from the mall in 2007 after its parent company merged with Macy's ownership.

The last major exterior renovation at Montclair Plaza occurred in 1986, Councilman John Dutrey said.

"Montclair Plaza is an important destination to our region," Dutrey said. "My plan has always been to make sure it remains very competitive and appealing that the public wants to shop there. "

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Council to get update on Montclair Plaza remodeling effort

After nearly 25 years in the general contracting industry, there is truly no job that Design Construction & Remodeling Inc. (DCR) cant handle. Led by Brian Wilson, the firm combines fine, quality craftsmanship with honesty and integrity, and their lengthy list of services includes design, construction, commercial build-outs, project management, reports and testing, mold remediation and removal, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, painting, concrete repair and restoration, remodeling, leak detection, and fire and water damage. However, DCR truly became full-service last year when it merged with Sloan Shutter Company, a hurricane protection firm owned by Mark Sloan that has served Palm Beach County and the surrounding communities for more than two decades. In addition to their general contracting services, DCR now offers shutters; impact windows, doors, skylights and garage doors; TM windows; and is the largest Armor Screen dealer in the U.S. They provide products from several quality manufacturers, and all meet or exceed current building codes. No general contractor specializes in hurricane protection like we do, said Sloan, DCRs Senior Vice President. Several high-end insurance companies and many brokers nationwide refer clients to DCR on a regular basis for their hurricane protection needs. Sloan and Wilson, the companys Vice President, ensure that every job no matter how large or small not only meet the budget and time goals, but also exceed their clients expectations. The duo also has more than 60 years of combined experience in their fields. We specialize in home remodeling and hurricane protection, but we offer more than 30 services, including design, said Trish Faller, Operations Manager for DCR. From conception to completion, we do it all. For a full list of the companys services and products, go to http://www.DCRgroup.net. You can also visit their showroom, located at 1955 10th Ave. N. in Lake Worth. Were extremely proud of the work we do and the relationships weve established, but we constantly strive to improve in every element of our business, including quality and service, said Wilson.

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DCR Group specializes in hurricane protection, home remodeling

Provided by Networx.com

In her great essay about designing a wheelchair accessible kitchen, Dr. Rosemary Rossetti calls the kitchen "the most important room of the house". I agree. Can you imagine not being able to use your own kitchen? Fortunately, there are some great remodeling contractors, architects, and designers out there who are trained in Universal Design. If you are just getting started with the process of remodeling a kitchen to make it wheelchair accessible, this list could help you to get an overview of the components of a wheelchair accessible kitchen.

Position of food prep, cook surface, sink, and refrigerator: Although open kitchen layouts that feature islands, large built-in refrigerators, and high counter tops are fashionable, a big open kitchen layout isn't too practical for a wheelchair user. Having to wheel oneself from one side of the room, past an island, to go from the refrigerator to the sink is not ideal. When designing a kitchen for a wheelchair user, a close, L-shaped arrangement of the major kitchen features is more efficient. It's also possible to make the most of an island by pairing it with a grouping of other important kitchen features.

Wheelchair turning diameter: In order not to bump into cabinets or appliances, there should be a turning radius of five feet built into the work areas of the kitchen.

Height and structure of cabinets: In order for cabinets to be accessible, they need to be set at heights and angles that make it possible for someone in a wheelchair to reach the upper shelves with a grabber. Lazy Susans can help to make upper cabinets more accessible. In lower cabinets, installing rolling drawers inside can allow a wheelchair user to reach items that are in the lowest part of the cabinets. Little drawer pulls won't do it; in a wheelchair-accessible kitchen, you need to install larger, more ergonomic handles.

Space under the sink for a wheelchair: A major impediment for wheelchair users is sinks with unreachable faucets. In order to make a sink accessible, there needs to be clear space underneath the sink so that a wheelchair can be rolled underneath the sink. The sink should be customized to the wheelchair user. He should be able to roll his chair so that his legs can rest comfortably beneath the sink, reach inside the sink, and also comfortably reach the sink's faucets.

Counter height: While cabinets tend to occupy the space beneath counters, a low counter with nothing underneath it needs to be built into the kitchen in order for it to be wheelchair accessible. The wheelchair user should be able to wheel his chair underneath the counter as if he is sitting at a table. The counter should be low enough that it is comfortable for the wheelchair user to do such tasks as chopping vegetables.

Type of refrigerator: A side-by-side refrigerator is more wheelchair-user-friendly than a fridge with a freezer on the top or bottom. It helps to have a lazy Susan installed on the refrigerator and freezer shelves. A counter-depth refrigerator might work better than a deeper refrigerator.

For more information on designing a wheelchair accessible kitchen, visit the Universal Design Living Laboratory. It is a house that was built by contractors in Columbus under the direction of Manley Architecture Group.

Chaya Kurtz writes for Networx.com.

Originally posted here:
Kitchen remodeling to accomodate wheelchairs

Remodeling Projects Recouped!

Hello Spring! This is a great time for a remodel. From the National Association of Realtors Cost vs. Value Report here are the top 6 remodeling projects that get the best return in the RI-South, MA area.

1. Entry Door Replacement 85.6% - How easy is that! This is because it creates curl appeal and walking up to a nice entry door creates an instant welcome.

2. Deck Addition 77.3% - Do it early so that you have time to enjoy it before you sell! Doesnt everyone love a deck? A great place to sit out and joy a meal, company with friends and family or quiet time to enjoy the sun and read.

3. Garage Door Replace 75.7% - Again, easy and improve that curb appeal. Especially if the garage doors are visible from the street or when you pull up. It gives the house a nice clean, well-kept feeling to the home.

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel 75.4% - This is what I dream about, and now that I see the numbers I have an excuse too! Just some paint, new hardware and touch ups here and there can make a huge impact on a small budget.

5. Window Replacement 72.9% - This is high in this area for a few reasons. The climate of course, the fact that many homes in this area are older and therefore have older windows, and people becoming more energy conscious. They understand that the windows will help reduce heating and AC costs.

6. Attic Bedroom 72.9% - This surprised me because I didnt think there were that many houses in this area that had attics that could easily be converted to bedrooms. I do know that bedrooms increase the value of any home so this makes sense. If you can walk around in your attic maybe this will get you thinking!

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Remodeling Projects Recouped!

Creative Kitchen and Bath offers a combined 42 years of experience on kitchen, bathroom, and home remodeling. Every remodeling job comes with the personal touch and a design made just for you.

St. Louis, MO (PRWEB) April 25, 2013

Our designer will work on an individual basis to ensure the precious choices meet every living requirements and expectations, said Jim Hubbard, owner of Creative Kitchen & Bath. We know St. Louis and we know remodeling, which is why our St. Louis home remodeling experts will guarantee an efficient and quality installation.

Creative Kitchen and Bath is the perfect choice for any home remodeling job. Customers thinking about a new St. Louis kitchen design or remodeling a bathroom should consider Creative Kitchen and Bath for the job, as no job is too big or too small. The team at Creative Kitchen and Bath are capable of taking on the challenge of that major St. Louis kitchen remodeling job.

With the new website creativekitchenstl.com, its easy for the consumer to browse other remodeling jobs the company has completed. There are several portfolios waiting to be viewed. The website also makes it easy to contact Creative Kitchen & Bath with any questions that might be lingering before a big project, such as a remodeling job. By visiting the website a potential customer can fill out a contact form for a simple question or get their phone number.

The new website is a great addition to our company and makes it easy for new and valued customers to view and get ideas for new projects, said Jim Hubbard, Owner. The website also features a services page, which will give you a better idea of what our company can do.

About Creative Kitchen and Design:

Creative Kitchen and Design is the premier St. Louis remodeling company with over 42 years of combined experience. We provide custom to standard cabinets, countertops and fixtures. We provide careful planning, quality of product and installation, with the commitment of personal attention. We are one of the few showroom retailers that will also complete installation services. We complete any job, small or big by providing great service, great products, and great prices.

Looking to book at appointment or need any additional information, please visit creativekitchenstl.com or call (314) 821-2338.

Susan Deffa Creative Kitchen and Bath (314) 821-2338 Email Information

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St. Louis Remodeling Company, Creative Kitchen & Bath, Announces New Website

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., April 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Harrell Remodeling, a custom remodeling company based in the Bay Area of California, was recently featured in the Mountain View Voice community newspaper. The feature story highlighted the company's founder, Iris Harrell, and her quest to create a quality business that values its employees and its clients.

The story focused on Harrell's passion for remodeling and home improvement as a career by developing a prospering Bay Area design-build remodeling business. It centered around her decision to leave the company in the hands of her employees in 2001 through a gradual Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

"There are very few companies today that strive to make their working environment one of positive collaboration and innovation through employee ownership and accountability," said Ciro Giammona, president of Harrell Remodeling. "Through a carefully devised plan, we expect to be 100 percent employee-owned in less than 10 years."

Now 40 workers strong, Harrell Remodeling is 37.7 percent owned by its employees. This spurs added enthusiasm, pride and accountability for all team members, from designers to carpenters to the sales staff.

According to the Mountain View Voice, Harrell Remodeling is one of 11,000 ESOPs in the U.S.

About Harrell Remodeling: Harrell Remodeling (http://www.harrell-remodeling.com/) is a design and build residential remodeling company which has been serving the Bay Area of California for more than 28 years. Based in Mountain View, the company provides quality craftsmanship and innovative design for kitchen remodeling, outdoor living spaces, whole-house renovations, home additions and bathroom remodeling in the Bay Area.

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Harrell Remodeling Featured in Mountain View Voice