Uniquity Builders, Inc.

Quality Remodeling You Just Have to See! Uniquity Builders Style!

Hello friends! We have another video to share with you! This one is of a home we are currently remodeling in Forest Meadows, Ca. It is a work in progress, but the transformation has been amazing and we just wanted to share what we have accomplished so far on this remodel. Please take a minute to watch the video and feel free to let us know what you think!

 

And don't forget about our summer special!! Now through Sept. 1st, we are running a special offer on any kitchen or bathroom remodel! You could save up to $500 on a 30 inch vanity for the bath or 30 inch sink base cabinet for the kitchen. It's just our way of helping you get the kitchen or bathroom you've always wanted!

So, if you like what you see in the video or have any questions about our special offer, give us a call us at 800-498-1833. Also, be sure to check out our website for more videos and pictures at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below. Also be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

Now is The Time To Save Up To $500 on Your Next Remodeling Project!

Is there a home improvement project that needs to get done in your house, but you just keep putting it off year after year?  Why is that?  Do you think a remodel might be too messy or too expensive, maybe both?  Don't let the fear of a costly kitchen or bathroom remodel stop you from getting the space you not only need, but have been dreaming of for so long.  We would like to help you save your hard earned money and get the new kitchen or bathroom you want.

What we are offering is a chance for you to save some money on your next kitchen or bathroom remodel!  For a limited time, you can save up to $500 on a 30 inch vanity or 30 inch sink base cabinet when you choose to remodel your bathroom or kitchen with us.  The $500 savings is equivalent to a free vanity for the bathroom or free sink cabinet for the kitchen...sounds pretty great, huh?  I mean, who doesn't like free stuff?  After all, free is my favorite four letter word!

 

                            
 

So, if you like free stuff and your kitchen or bathroom, or both, are in dire need of a makeover, then don't put it off another year because this offer will end on Sept. 1st.  Give us a call and make this the summer we turn old and drab into fresh and fab, just for you!

 

If you are ready to start enjoying your newly remodeled kitchen or bathroom, then pick up the phone and call us at 800-498-1833.  Visit our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com to see more of what we can do for you or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

 

A Dream Home Make-over...Are You Next?

What if your house wasn't something you wanted to come home to.  What if your house just doesn't live up to your standards anymore, but you don't want to move.  What do you do?  Do what this family did and remodel!!  We took this tiny cabin and completely transformed it into a gorgeous two-story chalet!  Take a look at this short video to see the transformation and then give us a call so we can help turn your house back into your dream home!

 

                      

 

 

If you enjoyed this video and are ready to take the first step to having the home you've always wanted, don't hesitate to call us at 800-498-1833 or visit our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

Style And Function Meets...Your Toilet?

Did you know that the average person will spend roughly 182 hours per year in the bathroom?  That's almost 8 days of your entire year...in the bathroom.  If I'm going to spend over a week of my time anywhere, I would like it to be somewhere tropical!  But, since we are talking about bathrooms, it should be just as inviting, warm and smell just as fresh! 

Some people might not think of a bathroom as a place in your home that should be inviting and warm.  For most, it's the place where you are rushing to get ready in the morning or it's the place you visit quickly during commercial breaks.  Definitely not a place you'd want to linger or hang out for any extended period of time. 

Well, it's about time we make the bathroom a space we look forward to being in!  It's pretty much the only place in the house where you get complete privacy (unless you have small children), so why wouldn't you want to spend more time there?  Of course, the first thing you think of when it comes to comfort in the bathroom is the bathtub... makes sense, right?  Nothing is more soothing and relaxing than a hot bath after a long day at work.  But, don't overlook the toilet!  Your toilet deserves as much attention as the tub does when it comes to comfort.  Toilets have come a long way as far as comfort goes...and amenities.   Also, more and more designers are designing bathrooms around the style of the toilet...so don't just stick any old commode in there.

Toilets today are made to be comfortable, stylish and cleaner than ever before.  Let me throw out a few examples of some really chic toilets...

• Wall-mount Dual Flush by Porcher - This wall-mount toilet's surface inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria, keeping the fixture cleaner longer and the dual-flush technology saves you water and money.                                              

• Geberit Monolith -  The entire sanitary technology is concealed behind top quality safety glass and is available in three different colors. The practical WC module can be combined with most floor standing/BTW(back-to-wall) toilet pans. The innovative designer unit from Geberit has been awarded a number of international prizes.                                                                                                                                                                   

• Neorest 600 by TOTO - This sleek, tankless, one-piece toilet features a new Cyclone® Flushing system, which means there is no waiting for refill and no refill noise.  It's skirted styling conceals trap-way for easy cleaning.  An integrated Washlet features front and rear warm water washing, automatic air dryer and deodorizer.  It's SanaGloss® super smooth, ion barrier glazing cleans your toilet bowl with every flush and has an automatic operation lid which opens, closes and flushes when sensor is activated.                                                    

                                                                                      

As you can see, you have so many choices when it comes to choosing a new toilet and you don't have to sacrifice style for function.  And with all the water saving features they have to offer,  you won't have to go with the "let it mellow" option to save money.

So, whether you call it the toilet, the john, the can or commode, replacing your old worn out toilet with an elegant new "throne" can turn any bathroom into "rest" room.

 

If you enjoyed this article and are ready to take the first step to remodel your bathroom, don't hesitate to call us at 800-498-1833 or visit our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

Sources:  Porcher-us.com, Geberit.com, Totousa.com    

Aging-In-Place...There's an App For That!

In my last post, I talked about getting old.  Well, not really getting old, but staying in our homes as we age...better?  Ok.  I mentioned just a few things you can do to your home to create a space to help you live normally and stay in your own home well into your golden years.  From the roll-in showers, to height adjustable kitchen sinks, there are so many cool things out there to help us keep our independence as we age.  Your iPad can even lend you a helping hand when you need a reminder to take your medications, need on-the-go information about other drugs, or want help planning for retirement... there are apps for all of those and so many more!

Because there is so much technology geared towards helping seniors live independently, I wanted to highlight a few...

• Micromedex Drug Information is a free app available for iPhone and iPad that allows you to search for info on over 4500 search terms including dosage recommendations, drug interactions, precautions and so much more.

                      
                                                                                           

• Heartwise Blood Pressure Tracker is an easy-to-use app for your iPad that lets you record and keep track of blood pressure, resting heart rate, and weight.   

• GrandCare Systems is an online system for your home where designated caregivers can log into the GrandCare Website to send communications to the Loved One, view Activity & Tele-wellness sensor information, and customize the automatic caregiver alerts.  The Loved One can also play games, check email, schedule events and receive photos and videos from family members.

                                                              

                                  

• HP Accessibility is specially designed PC packages for seniors which provide easy accessibility to communications, entertainment, and personal management tools designed expressly for the needs of older computer users.  HP and Microsoft have teamed together to make computing easy and rewarding for seniors -- even if they have never used computers before.

 

Whether it's for you or a loved one, do some research and decide if these fancy new technology's is something you would benefit from.  I know computers can sometimes be a scary thing, especially if you've never used one before, but there is so much to gain from them to help you keep the freedom you love. 

While my own dad is cooped up at home recovering from his foot surgery, I'm not able to get to his house to visit as much as I would like, so it is nice to be able to text, e-mail or FaceTime with him and he enjoys "seeing" his grand-kids, also.  

So, channel your inner geek, hop on your cyber surfboard and enjoy surfing the world wide web!  You and your loved ones will be glad you did.

 

If you found this article helpful or have any questions about aging-in-place improvements, don't hesitate to call us at 800-498-1833 or visit our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

Source:    www.hp.com, www.GrandCare.com

 

 

Aging-in-Place...Remodeling for the Long-Term.

Recently, my dad had to undergo major reconstructive surgery on his foot due to diabetes.  Which means for the next six months to a year, he is sitting on his butt (which he hates)!  He is either stuck on the couch or in a wheelchair.  He uses a knee-walker to get around the house, because the wheelchair just doesn't fit through doorways and down the hall.  Luckily for my dad, this is a temporary situation.  My parent's house didn't need any major remodeling to help him get around during his recovery, just a simple ramp so he can get in and out of the house easily, which my husband built for him. 

I do, however, know that when the time comes and my parent's are faced with the decision to either move into an assisted living facility or spend the rest of their time at home...they would much rather be in their own home.  Not only for the comfort and the privacy, but because it's cheaper to remodel than it is to uproot your entire lives and move.  As we age, we obtain a level of independence that we not only enjoy but cherish in our lives.  It's something we take pride in and want to hang onto for as long as possible. 

"Aging-in-Place" is becoming an increasingly popular term among older Americans, as more and more people wish to remain in their own homes as they age.  Remodeling your home to fit your aging needs is the best way to accomplish this goal.  By making certain improvements, you can create a space that is more accessible, easier to use and senior friendly.  Your home may not need a major overhaul, maybe just a few tweaks to help you get around the kitchen or bathroom a little easier.  The National Aging in Place Council has compiled a list of things to consider when taking on such a project.  The following are just a few...

• No-Step Entries - By creating a smooth surface at the threshold of your front door, you make it easier for a wheelchair to gain access to your home, also eliminating any trip hazard.
• Bathrooms - Swapping your old shower for a roll-in shower with an adjustable shower head and installing grab bars increases safety and helps you keep your freedom in the most personal space in your home.                                

                                                                         

• Kitchens - Installing a sink with knee clearance, varying the height of countertops and lowering cooking surfaces are just a few ways to make your kitchen more accessible and safe.                                                                    

              

• Lighting - One way to reduce accidents is to ensure you have proper lighting.  Well lit areas help prevent falls and trips and by using rocker-type light switches, you can easily turn those on with an elbow if your hands are full.

 

                                        

 

If you are at a time in your life when you need to start thinking about making adjustments like these, either for yourself or for aging parents, you want to make sure you choose the right contractor for the job.  You'll need someone who is experienced in making these very special changes and creating a home to help you live freely and independently for the rest of your life.

Weigh your options, determine your budget and talk to our experienced licensed professional to help you through the process of making the changes you need.  And remember, the lowest price is not always the best way to go and does not ensure quality work.  Quality work comes from experienced contractors and highly skilled carpenters, and we have both of those! 

We are a family owned and operated construction company and we care about our customers and their homes.  If you are ready to make the changes needed to make your life easier, give us a call so we can get to know you and your home.

 

 

If you found this article helpful or have any questions about aging-in-place improvements, don't hesitate to call us at 800-498-1833 or visit our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

 

Deck Out Your Backyard With the Beauty of Machiche!

As I mentioned in my last post, summer time will be here before we know it and you'll most likely be spending more time outdoors.  Maybe you play a lot of sports during the summer, or perhaps you try to spend as much of your free time at a lake, river or the beach.  Maybe your house is the place where all your friends and family seem to gather for last minute get-togethers.  If that's the case, then you probably use your barbeque ALOT!  Of course it's the obvious choice for when you have guests over and there is most likely more space outside, on the deck.  Which also means the deck gets a ton of use!   So, when was the last time you really looked at your deck?  Did it survive the rainy season?  Is it looking a little shabby?  Does it need to be re-stained or completely redone? Whatever your deck needs, we can help you with that!

It's exciting when you decide to make some upgrades to your home, especially if you entertain a lot.  You want your space to be inviting, comfortable, and look good.  A deck is as much part of your home as your living room or kitchen, so why not spruce it up?  The most important decision to make when you take on a deck remodel is what should it be made of?   With so many choices out there, like redwood, oak or teak, even various composite materials, this process can be a bit overwhelming.  But let me make a suggestion, we have recently had the pleasure to work with an exotic wood called Machiche.  We took a drive to San Fransisco to pick up the lumber as seen in the picture below.

 

 

Machiche wood is sustainably harvested from the Caribbean, southern Mexico to northern South America and Brazil.  Machiche is an excellent hardwood with deep browns, brick reds, and fine grain patterns.  It's a very dense wood, which makes it a very hard wood.  Though it is hard, the wood machines fairly easily, responding well to sharp cutters and also finishes well, bringing out beautiful highlights in the grain.  Often used as railroad crossties, machiche is also a very durable, long-lasting wood.  Machiche is a very attractive wood and makes excellent flooring for both inside and outside your home.

 

                       

These are photos of the deck in progress using the machiche lumber.  Notice the variation between the light browns to the dark, chocolaty browns, not to mention the quality craftsmanship!  Machiche decking will age gracefully to a mellow silvery patina, if left to weather naturally.  This exotic wood is highly resistant to shrinking, splintering, twisting and cupping and is very resistant to a wide range of punishment...including your many fabulous parties!

So, if your deck needs some serious TLC before you start your summer entertaining season, then check out machiche and give us a call to help you bring your new deck to life!

 

If you are ready to upgrade your deck or have any other home improvement needs, give us a call at 800-498-1833 or visit our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

Water Conservation Starts With Not Using So Much of it...Duh!

I don't know about you, but 2012 seems to be whizzing right by!  Winter seemed non-existent, the first day of spring was last week, even though we've had spring-like weather for months now.  Summer will be here before we know it, and I have a feeling it will be a record breaking year for those hot temperatures!  Which means we will all be looking for ways to keep cool.  Your A/C will be cranked up, fans will be blowing and water will be drank...lots of water!  Not only drank, but swam in, frolicked in, lounged in, those misters will be fully taken advantage of...however you can use water to cool off, I'm sure it will get done.  Which raises a question... How much water will we be wasting in our efforts to stay comfortable?  

         


The average american household uses 350 gallons of water each day, according to Whole Living magazine.  Between showers, laundry, flushing toilets and washing hands, it does add up!  Water is an essential part of our lives, but there are ways to cut back our usage and reduce our water footprint.  Whole Living magazines April issue is dedicated to the wet stuff and highlights ways to conserve our most precious resource.  Here are just a few...

• Harvest the Rain! Put a rain barrel below your gutter downspout and you'll capture a little more than a half a gallon of water for every square foot of roof during a one-inch rainfall.  That means a 90-square-foot roof would completely fill a 55-gallon barrel!  Use this to water your garden instead of the hose.
• Skip the Garbage Disposal!  That food sludge gets extracted at wastewater treatment plants and eventually winds up in a landfill.  Plus, you'll save on water and electricity.
• Fix Your Toilet!  If you have one that is constantly running, you could be wasting up to a whopping 200 gallons (or 40 flushes) every day!  
• Take Shorter Showers!  Shaving just one minute off your typical time will save 2.5 gallons of water. 
• Run Fewer, Fuller Loads!  This goes for both the dishwasher and the washing machine.
• If It's Yellow, Let It Mellow!  Yep, I said it! By making it a new rule to not flush every time, a family of four could save 9-11 flushes--that's 45-55 gallons a day!  

As you can see, some methods are pretty obvious, some you might have to get a little creative to accomplish, but it is all worth it.  There are many more tips throughout the issue to help you in your journey to live green, give back and conserve.  What are some of the ways that you and your family save water?     

For the full article and more water saving tips, visit  www.wholeliving.com, and thanks for stopping by our blog!

 

 

If you enjoyed this article, feel free to stop by our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

Source:  www.Wholeliving.com

 

 

 

Let The Home Depot LEED The Way to a Greener Home!

We have all been to The Home Depot for one reason or another.  Whether you needed to replace a light bulb or an entire light fixture, Home Depot is bound to have it.  As builders, we rely on The Home Depot for many of our supplies.  They have the products we need to continue to create beautiful and sustainable homes for our customers, as well as the things we use in our own home.  Needless to say, The Home Depot has been there for us time and time again. 

We are always looking for ways to live a little "greener" these days, and The Home Depot has the perfect tool to help you.  The Home Depot and the U.S. Green Building Council has teamed together to create LEED For Homes.  This tool is a product finder at Homedepot.com to help you choose items such as replacement windows, doors, flooring, or a light bulb that all meet LEED requirements.  The Home Depot has over 2500 products that meet LEED specifications.

 

                

The wheel pictured above allows you to select the products you are searching for and shows you which ones are more environmentally friendly.  Each product is awarded a series of points; the higher the points, the closer you are to achieving LEED certification for your home. 

So, in your quest to be green and improve your home environment, check out their website to get the products you need to achieve your green goals.  And don't forget to call us when you need help with those bigger projects!  

 

If you are ready to make some green improvements to your home or just want to check off a few projects from your honey-do list, give us a call at 1-800-498-1833 or stop by our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!

 

Source: leed.homedepot.com

Your Nook...Made For Life's Relaxing Moments.

It's where you like to read.  It's where you like to relax.  It's where you like to create.  Whenever you have a moment of down time, this is where you spend it.  Your favorite spot.  That cozy little corner in your bedroom.  The bench by the big bay window.  Your favorite spot.  It's where you spend your lazy Sunday mornings, just you, your coffee and a good book.  It's your sanctuary, your kid-free zone, your nook. 

 

                            

 

But what if you don't have a spot like this in your home?  Maybe you settle for the breakfast table to drink your coffee, not exactly comfy chairs.  Or perhaps you retreat to the bathroom for a little peace and quiet.  Creating a relaxing space like this is easy, even if you live in a fairly small house.  All you need is a little imagination and a few throw pillows. 

There is bound to be an area of your home that you've been meaning to clean up or that spot in the corner of the living room that always seems to be a cluttered mess.  Take that spot and transform it into your nook.  By adding a comfortable chair, a few plush pillows and a side table, you can turn just about any small space into your own little getaway.

After a long work week, it's nice to have a something to look forward to during your weekend to help you recharge.  So, take a look around your house, find the best space for your nook and enjoy your moment of serene solitude! Even if it only lasts a few precious minutes.

 

If you found this article helpful, take a minute to stop by  our website at www.uniquitybuilders.com or simply scan the QR code below.

Also  be sure to "like" us on Facebook!