Preparing Your House for Spring: Interior Cleaning

Spring is just around the corner!  Now is the time to spruce up those parts of your homes that have been neglected throughout the winter season.  From the interior to the exterior, getting your house ready for spring will ensure you'll be ready to enjoy that warm weather when it hits. All-Star Home Renovations is here to help with any tasks to large to do on your own.  Here are some things for you to tackle now to help prepare your home for the warmer months and keep it in top shape!

Spring Cleaning

Grab a bag, walk through your house and clean out the clutter!  Get rid of any items collecting dust and either donate it or toss it in the trash.  Once you have rid your home of all the junk, its time for some deep spring cleaning. Eliminate those cobwebs and dust that have built up over the past few months and get your home sparking clean again!

1. Open Windows
Opening your windows will help rid your home of toxins built up from cleaners, heating and cooking trapped inside during the colder winter months.  You will eliminate any of  the stale, stuffy air and that burst of sunlight will get you energized to start cleaning. Note that if you have allergies you will want to check your outdoor air ratings to avoid triggering or worsening any symptoms.

2. Washing Windows

By now, your windows are definitely overdue for some cleaning after just sitting there through the winter.  Before washing the glass, rid the sill and tracks of dirt and dust that they've collected.  Pour some water into the sill to make sure the weep holes that drain rain water outside aren't clogged.  You will be amazed at how much you can see out of your windows after a thorough inside and out cleaning. And don't forget the screens!  While you are cleaning, if you notice some maintenance issues, call the All-Star team for window replacement at the Lake of the Ozarks.

3. Test Emergency Systems
Make sure that your home alarm, smoke/fire alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide alarms are all working properly.  Most home owners forget to test these regularly; spring and fall maintenance time is the perfect opportunity to ensure everything is in good working condition.

4. Check HVAC Systems
The spring and fall are the two most important times to check your home's major heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, right before the harsh climate changes occur.  Clean or even replace your air filters and stock up on new filters if you use the disposable kind.  Make sure your air conditioner is working properly before the summer heat hits.  Air conditioners draw moisture from interior air, called condensate, which must run off outside. If sediment and algae clog the drains, water may back up, making your home more humid or creating water damage. If you need a professional to take a look at it, now is the time to do it; if you wait until summer, you will end up spending a lot more money on a service call.

5. Dusting
Clean off any areas that attract dust, such as the tops of cabinets and other furniture and don't forget the ceiling fans. The last thing you want to do is turn on the fans to watch a thick layer of dust being dispersed into the air your breathing.

6. Deep-Cleaning 
Carpets and Curtains are both huge dust collectors and require a deeper cleaning at least once a year. If you have pets, you should do some deep-cleaning more often.  Pull out your vacuum and start on the upholstery and draperies to remove any dust, pollen or dander that may have accumulated throughout the winter months.  If your drapes are heavy, you may want to store them and temporarily replace them with some lighter ones.  Then move on to tackle the carpeting and any large rugs.  If you have a steam cleaner, now is the time to drag it out of storage.  And if you don't, consider renting one.  Using a rug cleaner can help remove residual pet odors and dust mites that can cause allergic reactions and make your home smell less fresh.      

7. Clean Out Dryer Vent
Even if you empty out the lint trap each time you do a load of laundry, lint that you can't reach accumulates over time. Its especially likely if snow got in the way of the back-draft damper over the winter.  A clogged vent can not only reduce the efficiency of your dryer, but can also be a fire hazard, so be sure to clean it out thoroughly.

8. Prepare for Insects
Be more vigilant about storing and discarding food because the warmer weather that comes with Spring attracts more insects.  Follow these tips to help keep the bugs away: use airtight food containers, pick up pet food dishes immediately, always rinse bottles and containers before recycling, and make sure your trash can is still in good shape with a tightly-fitting lid.  You will also want to consider calling a pest control company to come spray your home to help keep the insects out.  

9. Clean Out Kitchen
Spring cleaning isn't all about your house, its also a time to look at yourself and your habits. Look in your cabinets and throw out that junk food!  Clean out and organize your refrigerator too. Try to find a way to add healthier foods to your diet.  Consider planting a garden this spring to grow your own vegetables.

10. Rearrange Furniture
Once your home is clean and de-cluttered.  Its time to rearrange the furniture to give your home a new feel. Start with the room you use the least, spin some beds around and add or remove some pieces of furniture. Then move on to the rest of the house from the living room to the office giving each room a refreshing look.

This week we focused on getting the interior of your home ready for Spring and next week we will provide you with tips for getting the exterior of your home ready for the warmer weather as well. Spring is nature’s fresh start – make it your fresh start too!

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

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9 Features to Consider for Your Screened-In Porch

An outdoor living space without the outdoor nuisances 

Sitting outside on a nice spring day, can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience.  But if you want to indulge in a snack or have a meal with your family, the bugs can get in the way. Why not add a screened-in porch to your home?  It will give you extra living space, where you can enjoy the outdoors without all the critters.  Plus its less expensive to add on a porch than an extra room when remodeling your house at the Lake of the Ozarks.  Between Naps on the Porch has a great list of features for you to consider when designing the plans for your screened-in porch at the Lake of the Ozarks.

1. Size Matters

Size is pretty important when designing your new space.  Depending on your vision for the space, you need to have enough room to move around, entertain guests and fit all the features you want. Most people don't wish their porch was smaller, but they do regret if they went too small with their design.

2. Critter Proof

When it comes to flooring, you have a number of options.  If you choose to go with traditional decking, you would need to screen under the flooring in order to keep the bugs out.  To avoid this extra step, go with something such as tile or KDAT flooring, you won't have to worry about any critters getting through the cracks.  Also consider materials that won't warp with the weather changes. Think about the feel you want your porch to have and then decide what works best for you.

3. Dining Area

Sometimes food just tastes better when eaten outdoors, especially ice cream on a hot summer day. You want to include enough seating for your family of course, but consider adding a couple extra spaces for entertaining guests.  Just imagine all the cookouts and dinner parties you could enjoy with friends and family out on the porch.  

4. Storage Space

If you a going to be dining and hosting dinner parties on your deck, consider adding a piece of furniture to store some dinnerware.  It will make it easier to dine outside whenever you are in the mood.  You won't have to haul everything outside, just to haul it back in when you are done. Depending on how often you use them, you may need to take things out each spring and give them a quick wash for the season, but it really comes in handy having a cabinet close for storage.

5.  Power Outlets

Depending on what you intend to use the porch for, you will probably need at least a little electricity. Lighting is very important for any space.  Maybe you want overhead lighting to light up the whole space or some lamps for a more romantic and relaxing feel.  You will need outlets for the lamps and if you want to add music or maybe a TV to watch the big game while having a cookout with friends, you will need even more outlets.  It's better to have extra than to regret not putting more in later. They also come in handy for cleaning.

6. Music 

The only thing better than decompressing under the swirling fans on a screened-in porch is doing to the sound of your favorite songs.  Pre-wire your porch for some great outdoor speakers; be sure to use the ones designed for the outdoors because the regular ones won't hold up through the season changes.

7.  Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are pretty much a must have.  Not only will they provide a cool breeze on a hot summer day, but they add ambiance and romance to the room.  One fan will do, but two is even better depending on the size of your porch.  Be sure to buy exterior grade fans otherwise after awhile, the heat and humidity will cause the blades to drop.  Also if you use interior grade fans, the housing and inner parts of the fan may rust and cease to work. Exterior grade fans don't cost much more than the interior ones and are the smarter way to go.  They will last much longer and come in various colors and styles to match the theme of your room.

8.  Ceiling Height

If you have the room and your house will allow it, go up in your design.  The extra space above you will make a smaller porch feel much bigger and even cooler.  Height will add to the airy, summer-breeze feeling you desire out on a porch.    

9. Porch Swing 

A swing is one of the most common aspects of many screened-in porches.  Even if you don't like the idea of sitting in something that moves, most of your guests will probably be drawn to it. You can create a sitting area to include other stationary pieces of furniture, so you and your guests can choose your preference.  This would be the perfect area to sit and read a book or enjoy tea with the girls.  A swing adds that extra little special something to the space.

Now its time for you to sit down and start planning.  How do you want your space to look and feel? These features are great starting points, but maybe you have some other ideas for your space. Maybe you want a flat screen TV, a game area or hot tub.  Dream big when you are making your list; you can always make changes later to fit your budget.  Be sure to do lots of research because you don't want to spend money to realize later you left out something you really wanted.  So if you are thinking about adding a screened-in porch at the Lake of the Ozarks, go for it!  Call All-Star Home Renovations today for your free estimate.  It may just end up being your favorite room in the house!

For the full article from Between Naps on the Porch, visit http://betweennapsontheporch.net/9-great-features-for-your-screened-in-porch/.

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

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6 Ways Improving Your Home Can Also Improve Your Relationship

Valentine's Day is just a few days away and you have no clue how to spark that flame again!  If you really want to rev up the romance, think remodel at Lake of the Ozarks.  Working on a project together can bring you both closer to each other. ThisOldHouse.com brings us a dozen arguments for why improving your home can also improve your relationship.  We have selected a few of our favorites to share with you. 

1.  Dreaming in Bed

The perfect time to talk about starting a remodeling project at the Lake of the Ozarks is when you are cuddled up, relaxed in bed.  Sharing your fantasies about your dream home is sure to deepen your bond. Maybe you want to update the Master Suite to make it more romantic. Or redo the kitchen to make it easier to cook your favorite meals.  Browse through websites to look at pictures for inspiration and talk about why you like them.    

2. Bath Action

A spa-like bathroom is definitely the way to a woman's heart.  Who doesn't love a relaxing bubble bath in that giant garden tub?  Maybe you want to upgrade your tub so it's big enough for two. Or add a large walk-in shower with massaging sprayers.  Romantics may yearn for a deep claw-foot tub and a Victorian vanity; others may dream of heated floors and a Jacuzzi. Even small things like new fixtures and window treatments can turn a boring bath into a sweet spot.

3. Cozy Kitchen

Men just can't keep their hands off a woman busy cooking. And its a good bet that a man doing the dishes will put her in the mood.  So keep the kitchen in mind when planning your renovation at the Lake of the Ozarks.  A kitchen island is perfect for that quick meal, while a cozy breakfast nook is perfect for cuddling one last time before your off to work for the day.

4. Store to Score

You could use more storage space and so could your love life.  Allowing her that extra space for all her treasures can score you big brownie points. There's not much a woman wouldn't do for additional closet space.  The idea of custom-built shoe racks will dilate her pupils and send her straight to swoon mode.  And for men, nothing squelches desire like having your cherished comic-book collection burned in the barbecue pit because someone decides there's no room for it.

5. Bedroom Fantasies

A boring bedroom dampens intimacy, but change things up in there and you'll recapture that flame. Paint colors can arouse the mind; studies have shown a link between red and romance. Flattering shades for enhancing the skin tone include eggplant, soft rose, and teal blue.  Dimmers on the lights can set the mood, while simple lampshades can soften the glow. And pushing out the bedroom walls might allow for that king-sized bed you have been dreaming of.

6. TV Room Turn-On

The big screen can be a big inspiration.  Cushy couches, deep-pile carpet, abundant pillows and throws, and a wood-burning hearth are cliches for romance.  But that's because they reliably seal the deal. And don't forget a wet bar to help loosen you up. Cuddling up to a good movie with a glass of your favorite wine is the perfect ending to a job well done!

Now's the time to call in the pros. Hook up with All-Star Home Renovations to put your dreams and fantasies to a reality.  Seeing your project through a professionals eyes will solidify your plans and make you feel more secure about the job while boosting your happiness.  Call us for your Lake of the Ozarks remodeling needs and give your sweetheart the house you've been dreaming of!

For the full article from ThisOldHouse.com click here.

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

Like us on Facebook
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Caring for Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors make a great addition to any home remodel at Lake of the Ozarks.  Although they aren't soft like carpet, they require less maintenance, last longer and don't hide all the harmful matter that carpet does.  However, that means you can actually see this matter building up on your hardwood floors; so how do you keep them clean?  Check out these tips from Lowes.com to keep your hardwood floors scratch and dirt free!

Cleaning Your Hardwood Floors

Since hardwood floors are one of the largest investments in your home, avoiding permanent damage is important to protecting your investment. Cleaning your floors is the first step in protecting your hardwood floors and eliminate the expense of replacing them in the future. Routinely clean and maintain your floors to avoid dirt and scratches that will dull the finish.  To ensure your beautiful hardwood floors will last a lifetime, be sure to use products that are safe for your floor, family and the environment.  While kids, pets and environment are all key factors in the amount of dirt your hardwood floors attract, you should clean your floors as often as possible.  This frequent cleaning will keep dirt and dust off the floors and avoid scratching.  In addition, it will keep harmful pollutants such as dust and allergens out of the home.  

Polishing Your Hardwood Floors

Depending on the amount of traffic your hardwood floors get, you should polish them every two to four months.  Polish provides a protective layer and evens out your floors by filling in the micro-scratches.  Polishing your floors is a simple do-it-yourself task that starts with sweeping, vacuuming or dust-mopping your floor.  Make sure your floor is dry and then squirt the polish on, spreading it with an applicator.  Follow the coverage specifications and allow it to dry completely.  Don't walk on it for at least an hour and wait 24 hours before allowing heavy traffic on it.      

Steps to Protecting Your Hardwood Floors

1. Daily 

Dust: Dusting each day keeps dust and dirt off the floor therefore preventing scratching.  Daily dust-mopping will also significantly reduce allergens in your home.  Try using a microfiber material because of its static charge that attracts more dust and allergens.  The smaller fibers reach into the floor pores to lift dirt more effectively, extending the life of your floor.

2. Weekly

Clean: Did you know there is actually a wrong way to clean floors?  Too much liquid can damage your hardwood floors, while the wrong formula may not work at all.  When choosing a cleaning product, look for pH-neutral, nontoxic and biodegradable formulas to clean effectively and keep you safe.  Vinegar, for example, can eat away at the finish, even when diluted with water.

3. Quarterly

Polish: Every two months, use water-based polishes to restore luster and shine. These types of polishes won't leave a residue or emit harmful toxins.  Plus they'll prevent over cleaning and stripping of your floor.  Durable, urethane-based polishes have fast dry times, no waxy buildup and a protective wear layer to fill in micro-scratches and even out the appearance of your floor.    

Hardwood Floor Maintenance Tips

• Avoid using water and vinegar, soap-based cleaners, wax or steam cleaners on your hardwood floors.  Vinegar and water will dull your floors finish over time, while soap or wax will leave a residue.  Steam cleaners put hear and excessive water on your floor, which can lead to cupping and long-term damage.
• Use a natural, rubber rug underlayment with a waffle pattern in the entry ways or high traffic areas.  Use felt floor protectors on your furniture and avoid walking across your hardwood floors in high heels.  
• Frequently dry-dust your hardwood floor with a microfiber dusting pad.  The electrostatic action will attract dirt, which is the main cause of scratches, micro-particles and common household allergens.    
• Using the proper tools to clean your floor is important.  A mop paired with a machine-washable microfiber pad is perfect for dusting and cleaning.  Avoid string mops because they put excessive amounts of water on the floor, which can be damaging and actually push dirt around, instead of picking up and removing dirt. 
• Wipe up all spills immediately to avoid permanent stains. 
• Keep pet nails trimmed to avoid scratching on your floors. 
• Maintain a comfortable environment and temperature, especially no extremes in humidity.  

Keeping your hardwood floors looking beautiful and new should be easy if you follow these tips. If your hardwood floors at the Lake of the Ozarks are already dull and scratched up, consider having All-Star Home Renovations install some new ones for you.  Or do you not have any hardwood floors in your house? Consider adding some!  Whether you are looking to sell or just update your home for your own enjoyment, hardwood floors add value to your home, proving to be a sound investment.

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Connect with us on LinkedIn

Follow us on Google+