Friday, September 3, 2010

Going Green? Recycle

Well it's been about 7 weeks since our last post--too long. But it's been a busy time for us. It has come to my attention that we never finished the discussion of "reduce, reuse, recycle." The recycle portion, that is.
So you want to be green? It's definitely the thing to do these days. But why now? Did it just now become cool not to be wasteful and irresponsible? I think not. My mom always told us "waste not, want not". We all have a personal stake in the planet and how we choose to live affects us as well as others. Utilizing our resources appropriately and being responsible stewards of our Earth only makes sense.
We have talked before about "Reduce" & "Reuse". Now the third component of "Recyle".
It's a shame, but face it, we are a disposable society. When did it become normal and acceptable for us as a society to go along with sub standard products? These products aren't made to last. They are made to be replaced. They are made to be thrown away. Really? Yeah, really. What the heck. We used to manufacture products that lasted. The production costs in terms of the environment were a one time cost. These products weren't filling our landfills because they were still in use. And, therefore, recycling wasn't much of an issue either.
Now, I know we've had to change due to advancements in technology and more improved production techniques but have these "advancements" been good for us? For the environment? Probably not in most cases. Look at just the plastics industry. More oil is used in the plastics industry than for fueling our vehicles. (I was surprised by this, too). Are those in the plastics industry being the responsible parties that they should? How about the ones in China? In other countries with extremely lax or non-existent rules regarding the environment? Not clear is it? We are certainly not going to stop using plastics. Think about all of the different things we use that are made of plastics. Start with your computer, your phone, a good portion of your vehicle. What are we to do about it? It's everywhere.
Recycling all that we can is really the only thing that any of us can do to help lessen the overall impact. Since planned obsolescence isn't going to go away and it doesn't seem as though the majority of us care about sub-standard products, then we need to keep as much of this stuff out of the landfills as possible. The issue of lax manufacturers here and abroad is not going to change, especially abroad. It's all money driven. If there wasn't a monetary incentive for companies here to send the work over there, it would end very soon. In effect, we are allowing, contributing to, and encouraging our own demise. Sub-standard products, planned obsolescence, incentives to ignore the environment and the willingness to accept it (because it's cheap) just don't make sense. Recycling can and does help undo some of the damage, though.
As it relates to remodeling, we, at Paulson's, have been recycling for years. Metals are almost always recycled, we throw out as little wood scrap as possible, and most of the working components that are removed are transferred to organizations such as The Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity so that they are "recycled". It only makes sense. There is a lot more that can be done when working on LARGE projects or for builders doing whole subdivisions. As remodelers, though, our projects are usually smaller and that scope doesn't always make sense like it does for some larger ones.
This is a complex topic that has many issues woven through it. This discussion is just one thread.
Your comments are welcome at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Ready to Remodel? Tax Credits can help.

Professional remodelers can help you cash in on energy efficiency tax credits for saving on remodeling expenses. These credits offer money back on installing energy efficiency improvements such as new windows, doors, insulation, roofing and more (see www.nahb.org/efficiencytaxcredit for more information). Professional remodelers may also know of additional local or state credits, rebates, and other methods of saving money on home remodel.
At Paulson's we are always willing to help in this area. The landscape is always changing and sometimes it seems like you're trying to hit a moving target. We might not have all of the answers, but we will get them to help you navigate through the maze so you can get the best benefit for your hard earned money. It is also a good idea to discuss strategies with your tax preparer ahead of time.
The end of 2010 also brings the end of many of the available credits. The time to act is now. It generally takes 4-6 weeks to get and install Pella windows, for instance. Don't wait until the last minute;Make your plans and let us help you execute them. Once we get close to the holiday season, timing always changes and manufacturers lead times are not always reliable.
Again, we're here to help. Let us. 517-545-8651 www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Thursday, July 1, 2010

It's Deck Season



Summer is always the most popular time for decks. It's when we get the most calls and visit the most homes. You may not realize that decks are a very important structure. Not only in how they function for you but also in a safety sense. If a deck isn't built right, you have a serious problem on your hands. Decks should be built by a licensed professional and always with a permit. Yeah, you can save some money by hiring a guy working out of the back of his truck. But what happens if it goes wrong? Who's to blame? YOU ARE. The Building Department will tell you so. It happens more often than you might think. Being in the business, we see it an awful lot. It is costly, disruptive, time consuming, and a general pain to correct. Check out the photos. Don't let this happen to you. Call us. We will help make sure it is right and that it lasts. 517-545-8651 www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Homeshow Winner


Have you ever wondered if anyone actually wins the prizes from Homeshow vendors? It's all too easy to give your information away for a chance to win a prize, but do they actually give away the prize? Well, we do. This year it was a new high-tech Kohler toilet. This was not a $50 thing but more like a $400 thing. Yes, a $400 toilet that we gave away in our drawing from the Livingston County Homeshow. Thanks to all who participated and congrats to our winners who were from Howell, MI.
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Why hire a professional remodeler?

Professional remodelers are more likely to belong to trade associations (such as The National Association of the Remodeling Industry or The National Association of Home Builders) where they benefit from education programs, acquiring knowledge and skills to run a better business and improve their home remodeling services. A remodeler in good standing can also provide references from past clients. They can also show examples of previous remodeling projects to give you a fell of the quality and style of their work.
Here, at Paulson's, we have been in the forefront of our associations for years. Paul has been a Board member of NARI of SE Michigan for years and currently serves as the Treasurer. Paul and others on the staff hold many designations from both NARI & NAHB. Paul is the only one in Michigan to hold the prestigious Graduate Master Remodeler designation.
Make the smartest investment in your home by hiring a professional remodeler. Hire Paulson's. We'll help you stay on budget, solve remodeling challenges, and provide a higher quality service. Visit us at www.paulsonsconstruction.com to learn more.

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Ready to remodel?

We, as professional remodelers, have solid business skills and understand that remodeling is about providing excellent customer service. We set and take meetings and return phone calls to address customer concerns proactively. We prioritize customer satisfaction and take pride in our remodeling work. Our objective is to make sure your experience with us is a great one.
What can we do for you?
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Monday, May 31, 2010

Happy Memorial Day!

Our veterans and active duty United States military men & women deserve your time and thanks--especially today. In honor of their sacrifice, display the flag, say a prayer, attend a memorial, place a flower on a grave, donate items to be sent overseas, shake a hand, personally thank a vet, listen to "Before you go" at www.beforeyougo.us, teach a child about defending liberty, sponsor a POW/MIA event, resolve to support the VFW or Legion, call Rolling Thunder to lend a hand (810-632-6860), or visit a VA Hospital (Ann Arbor 734-769-5445).

Happy Memorial Day to you & yours!

Our son, Patrick, is leaving for the Navy soon. We wish him the best as he embarks on his military career.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Ready to Remodel?

Following up from yesterday, hiring the Paulson's team can really make difference.
Most remodelers relish the chance to employ new design solutions to reorganize and maximize space in a home. This ability to work with a homeowner on their remodeling dreams, within a budget, is a specialty of ours. We can help propose alternatives that keep the budget in check, such as providing a variety of products choice or redesigning interior space to minimize the need for an addition. Options are what we are after. Then choosing the best one that fits your budget.
Sometimes people are taken aback that we would ask about their budget but, after all, isn't that a huge part of any remodeling project? In order to give proper advice, we need to know what you are thinking. If you think you can finish your basement for $10,000 and we know it's going to be at least $17,000 and up, wouldn't you rather know that up front? We sure would. Estimates take a lot of time and effort and if you know the budget isn't going to work, then why proceed? Sometimes it might be best to reconsider at a later date, other times it might be best to lessen the scope of the project, and sometimes it just doesn't work. All of that is OK with us. Part of our job is to educate, direct, and advise. The budget is a huge part. Once that is settled we can to the rest and come up with something great for you and your home.
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Monday, May 24, 2010

Ready to Remodel? Hire a Professional. Hire Paulson's.

When planning your home remodel, choose to hire a professional for getting the job done right. You can save time, aggravation, ans money by hiring a professional remodeler. We save homeowners time and money because we have years of training and in-home remodeling experience. Consider some of the qualities that make professional remodelers the best choice for your home remodel.
Are they going to cover up problems that are found or are they going to work with you to find a proper solution and a fix that will last? It may seem simple to assume that all contractors will do it right and we all wish that were the case. However, we know it's not always the case and the homeowners who choose the wrong contractors will certainly agree. When someone is being underpaid to perform the job, do you really think they will take the time to make sure everything is right?
Like most things in life, you get what you pay for. Professional remodelers are WELL worth paying. After all, it's YOUR HOME.
Visit our website to view our work and read some real testimonials. (No, they're not family)
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Saturday, May 22, 2010

It's your home

Your home is worth tens of thousands of dollars. It's where you live, maybe work, maybe raise a family, entertain, create memories, etc. Your home is most likely your largest investment. You don't want your investment to "go South" anymore than the next guy. So, doesn't it just make sense to get the best when it comes to choosing a contractor to work on your home? You want to know that you are getting quality and not wasting your money, especially when it comes to something as valuable and important as your home, right? Well, that's where we come in. We think the same way. We want to help you take care of your home to help you protect what you have. The last thing we want is to be like the toy on Christmas morning that doesn't even last an hour. We use quality products, quality subcontractors, and quality employees as well. It's a different way of thinking for some people--you know what I'm talking about. It's about more than just money. It's called value. It's our whole package that we bring when you hire us that translates to value for you and your home. It's a serious business and we bring professionals not part-timers. We bring better products (Yes, they cost more--up front) that last and have great warranties with them. Everybody knows it's cheaper to do something once rather than twice and that's our whole objective. Do it once, do it right, and deliver great value while doing it.
We are here when you need us and would love to hear from you. Call, email, stop by the showroom, or visit us at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Monday, May 17, 2010

Michigan Historic Preservation Network


This past Friday, Paul & Alison went to Ann Arbor to receive the company's 2010 building award from MHPN. What a nice time. We are truly honored to be selected among such stiff competition. The award is very nice and Paulson's also received a special proclamation from our State Representative and our State Senator. Cindy Denby, our State Rep., was even on hand to deliver it in person. Thank you so much! Also, special thanks to our lead foreman in the field, Mark, for his great work on this project. For those who don't know, it is on Clinton St. in Downtown Howell, MI just West of the Library. We are always interested in talking with you about what we can help you with on your historic home. 517-545-8651 www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Friday, May 14, 2010

Historic Preservation Award


The Michigan Historic Preservation has recognized Paulson's with a Preservation award this year. Paul & Alison are attending the awards ceremony tonight in Ann Arbor. The awards are part of this years annual convention. The convention is held in different cities each year and is a great event for all who are interested the history of our state, its cities, its architecture, and why it's important to preserve the past for future generations.
"We are thrilled to be receiving this award. We have a great staff and MANY talented people who, together, make it all possible. This is truly a team award." So said Paul McClorey when asked about the event.
visit our showroom, call us, or get with us via the web at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Professional, Trained & Experienced

We have years of technical training and experience that cannot be equaled by do-it-yourself books or television programs. We understand a home's structure, mechanical systems, and the other details that must be considered before attempting a home remodel. Inexperience and ignorance can create costly mistakes, but hiring professionals like us can prevent disasters and solve unexpected problems. We're also local and family owned with a commitment to our community and our industry.
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Tax credits

We, at Paulson's, are ready, willing, and able to help you navigate through the maze of available tax credits for your home improvements. Now's the time. The tax credits for the most common items such as windows and doors are expiring at the end of this year. Waiting will not get a better deal for you and your home. We are your local source for Pella windows & doors and so much more.
call us at 517-545-8651, visit the showroom, or see us on the web at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Spring Blog Break Is Over

This week ends the 6 week spring blog drought that had besieged us at Paulson's. Many Homeshows, many late nights and many working weekends helped bring on the drought. While the work never stops, we are ready to continue to inform, educate, humorize, and annoy you once a day whenever possible. Look for all of our exciting updates coming soon--right to your computer.
Thanks for your patience.
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Livingston County Homeshow

This weekend puts a wrap on our early home show season. We will be at the Livingston County Homeshow at the old Howell High School this Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. Come and see us. We'd love to meet you and discuss how we can help make your dream project a reality.
We will be offering spring/home show specials so be sure to ask. We will have some great deals on Pella windows & doors, kitchens, baths, and finished basements. For those considering additions, now is the time to get started. Talk to Paul specifically about the new deals he has for you.
As always, you can visit us online at www.paulsonsconstruction.com or stop by the showroom.
We look forward to seeing you soon.

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Home Show Season

Well, it's hard to believe February is almost over. That means home show season is upon us. Paul is in Lansing this weekend at the show at the Lansing Center and Todd is in Novi at the Rock. In two weeks we'll be at the Meridian Mall in Okemos. The week after that, we'll be at the MSU Pavilion. And the week after that, we'll be at the Livingston County Show at the old Howell High School.
Come and see us. We'd love to meet you and discuss how we can help.
Don't forget to ask about our Spring specials. Unlike most companies, we extend our specials to ALL clients, new & existing.
Spring is around the corner. Now is the time to get moving on your home projects. We are here to help!
Check out our website at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Paulson’s Construction Selected as Finalist in SAFE Awards Program

Howell, MI – Paulson’s Construction of Howell was awarded second place in the National 2009 Safety Award for Excellence (SAFE) Awards Program in the category of Remodeler Safety Program of the Year.

The award was presented by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and winners were recognized at the SAFE Awards Banquet on January 20, 2010 at the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The purpose of this national awards program is to recognize the achievements of companies in the building and remodeling industry who have developed and implemented high quality construction safety programs.

“Along with customer satisfaction, safety on and off the job site is of utmost importance to us at Paulson’s,” says Paul McClorey, president of Paulson’s Construction, “We are proud to be recognized for our achievement in the area of job safety.”

Located in Howell for over 13 years, Paulson’s Construction is a professional full service remodeling, renovation, and restoration company. Their services range from the smallest home improvements to the largest renovations and custom additions. Paulson’s is also an exclusive dealer for Total Basement Finishing in Michigan.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Lead-Safe Certification

Paulson’s Construction Awarded Lead-Safe Certified Firm

Howell, MI - New EPA regulations regarding safe practices while working with lead on job sites are going into effect this year. All contractors performing renovations in buildings built before 1978 are required to be in full compliance by April. Effective this month, Paulson’s Construction has completed the certification process and has been named a Lead-Safe Certified Firm by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. To protect against this risk, the EPA issued a rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning. Under the rule, beginning April 2010, contractors performing renovations, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. In addition, the supervisors of these types of projects must be certified by the EPA by successfully completely a Lead Renovator course.

In October of 2009, Paul McClorey, president of Paulson’s, and Andy Tuck, Paulson’s lead carpenter, completed Certified Lead Renovator Classes. The courses fulfilled EPA requirements to become Certified Renovators. Other Paulson’s staff members are in the process of being trained.

Paulson’s is one of the first remodeling companies in southeast Michigan to have both our staff and firm certified by the EPA. Any questions regarding renovations to older homes can be directed to our staff at 517-545-8651 or come into our show room at 115 University Dr, Howell, MI 48843.

Visit us at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Green is good

Please don't misunderstand; green is good. It's good because it's the right thing to do and makes good sense. But in today's climate green has become "all about the money". (Those might say that greed is good. One letter makes a big difference.) Companies are even altering what they do and how they do it and are moving toward green practices because "there's money in it". Come on, as I've said, we have been doing this for years. We stay up on what's new in building science and in products. We lead the way in education and installation practices. And it's not because it's "all about the money". It's because it's what professionals do.
If you sense a little ranting in these blogs then that's okay. We're tired of people making this whole thing such a big deal. This stuff should be standard and not something special. It certainly isn't new. There is a natural progression and some get it sooner than others. Then there are those who have to be force-fed.
In short, we are a green company applying green practices and employing green products. Everything in life is a balance though, and different people will see the trade offs differently. We are here to help educate, inform, and get the job done in a way that works for each client individually.
Thanks for following the discussion. Share your thoughts and project ideas with us at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Monday, February 1, 2010

Green is the word--Reuse

Well, if green is the word, then "reuse" has to be right up there. Re-using and re-purposing are two very simple ways to be "green" and to lessen our impact.
What are we talking about? Again, there is so much you could talk about but let's keep it to what we, at Paulson's, are doing. The idea is to reuse what we already have to lessen the impact of disposal of the existing and production of the new. Even shipping of the new comes into play here. There is an awful lot to consider when going green.
Cabinets are a classic example of what we do to be green by reusing them when they've been taken out for an update of a bath or kitchen. Rather than put them in a landfill (or purchase new ones), we'll install them in a basement or garage. It works out great. Other examples include light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, countertops, windows, doors, and on and on. We have been doing this for our clients for years. Because it's green? No, because it only makes sense!
Then you take into account organizations such as The Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity. They will pick up items and then sell them in their thrift stores and the money funds their charity operations. The stuff doesn't hit the landfills, all that goes with new is not a factor, someone out there is getting something they need at little cost, and the charity makes out as well. See, common sense does work.
Items can also be re-purposed. Old metal cabinets make nice potting sheds, old windows make interesting decoration inside or out, and old woodwork can be used in many different applications.
All of this is especially important in the historic arena. Since we are one of the very few that specialize in historic remodeling we are always prepared to discuss and carry out our clients objectives when it comes to reusing and re-purposing.
Thanks for following the discussion. Share your thoughts and project ideas with us at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Friday, January 29, 2010

Ethanol; is it worth it?

Well, as in our previous discussion, that depends. If the green mission is to reduce and not trade or increase, then ethanol is a waste of time, money, and energy.
When used in an internal combustion engine, it burns cleaner than gasoline. OK, good. But that's just what's on the surface. The cost to produce it is more. The damage done to the environment as it's produced is much more than we get back. And it takes a lot more of it to make a vehicle go the same distance (the burn rate is different).
I mean really, why should we pay the same, or more in some cases, for a product that doesn't take us as far and damages the environment more than if we just used gasoline? These arguments for "green" are really more about money than the environment. Preserving our environment is serious and we all need to do our part. But let's do things that make sense--COMMON SENSE. We, Americans, still have it but aren't using it. It's really not that difficult. But then we sit by and import human, toxic, and general waste from another country (and states) into the center of the world's largest supply of fresh water! Common sense--I think not. We are supposed to reduce how much we put in our landfills and then we go ahead import more. What the heck?! Tell me the "green" isn't about the money. I thought it was supposed to be about reducing.
Next we'll address "reuse". Thanks for following the discussion. Remember, there's a lot to be said in such a small space so we're trying to hit the highlights.
Send your comments through at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Thursday, January 28, 2010

CFL's cost/benefit

Since I touched on Compact Fluorescent light bulbs yesterday, I thought I'd take a moment to explain.
All of these things in the green arena have a cost/benefit to them. CFL's, for instance, cost more to purchase. Supposedly they last longer and use less energy to burn. True or not is a matter of facts that won't be argued here. The light they put out is different, as we all know. Another fact but one that's lost in the glamor and the feeling good part. Having your home lit up like an office is an individual choice. It comes down to what I call the offsets. We deal with them all the time. If I see it as a benefit I might pay more or do more. If I don't, I won't. If I like the way it looks or the performance then great. If not, oh well. Everything has an offset. None of these things are perfect and they'll be different for different people.
The other part that is often overlooked in the glamor and good feelings is what is the production cost of such items as CFL's. What is the impact on the environment from the production? And so on. I mean really, these things are manufactured in China, they contain Mercury, and we are supposed to feel good about spending more money to buy the darn things. Do you really think China handles their production waste the same as we do? When did mercury become safe to put back in homes? What happens when a bulb breaks? Should children be handling them? And on and on. What I say is that all we have really done is traded the impact around the globe a little. The environment in China is damaged (and here when these things are disposed of in our landfills), we spend more money to purchase, less to operate, have an undesirable effect, and all to what gain. Have we really lessened our "footprint"?
What we should really be doing is increasing our energy efficiencies as they exist. This is what we HAVE been doing in our industry and at Paulson's. There are so many ways and things to discuss that this forum does not have room for but a few are related to energy efficient appliances, furnaces, air conditioners, dimmer switches, lower wattage bulbs, etc.
So, are you green because you changed some light bulbs? I think not. It's a lot more than that. Thanks for reading. Send your comments through at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Green is the word--Reduce

Well, if green isn't the word, then I don't know what is. After a couple of very busy weeks, I'd like to get back to our green discussion.
Reduce. Reuse, Recycle. The three most critical words in the green movement. They aren't new, are they? No, they have been around for years, following the "Don't litter!" campaigns and then the adding of deposits on certain beverage containers and so on. This way of thinking and doing is nothing new. But then came the reduce, reuse, recycle campaigns that were designed to cover it all and they really do.

Let's start with reduce. The main idea is to reduce consumption. Of what? Everything. Eliminate waste, improve efficiencies, and lessen our overall impact on our environment.
Not a bad concept. Sounds good. If we all pitch in and everyone does a little, the impact can be huge. Right? RIGHT.
So what am I talking about? Well, like I said this stuff is nothing new. As it relates to Paulson's Construction being a green company or even to our industry, we've been reducing for years. We have always looked for ways to reduce: using short pieces of lumber instead of cutting down a long one, using both ends of shingles and siding wherever possible, and generally making sure ALL of our materials are put to use and only TRUE scrap is discarded. This lessens the amount of materials needed to be purchased and also what ends up in the landfill. For years we have been looking at ways to become more efficient: fewer trips to the suppliers, fewer trips from them to us, and better and more efficient products (ie furnaces and air conditioners) and practices. I won't take space here touting the virtues of increased efficiencies and what that means to the environment.
These are but a few examples of reducing our impact. And we do a darn good job of it. The real point is that this is nothing new. Somehow, some glamor is being attached to being green. That's nice but that's not what it's supposed to be about. It's supposed to be about practical solutions to everyday issues and what can we do to help lessen the overall impact. "We" here is all of us. And Paulson's is part of "us".
Being green is more than saying it or putting fancy logos on some stationary. It's just common sense and we try to use it regularly. But when it's taken to extremes, where's the common sense? Compact fluorescent light bulbs, ethanol, and battery cars are three that, on the surface, seem great but that's the glamor. The WHOLE picture needs to be evaluated not just what's on the surface. Remember, the idea is to reduce not trade or increase.
More to come. Thanks for reading. Send your comments through www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Company Retreat

We had our first annual company retreat a week ago. For two days we, as a team, got together away from the office and really got into what we are doing for 2010. Everything from job descriptions to marketing from production analysis to our values statement. It was a long but very productive time for all of us. Thanks for being patient with us.
www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Green--it is what it was and a little different

This will be a little different over the next few days as we discuss the increasing popularity of "going Green".
Without question, this is a very popular subject. It seems as though everywhere you turn, there is a green element involved. Especially in the building industry. Who doesn't want to save trees? Who doesn't want to use less energy? Who doesn't want to lessen the impact of what we do to the environment? I mean really, are we as Americans and us as remodelers hell bent on wasting energy and destroying the environment? Absolutely not!
As Americans we are told we consume too much with what we drive, with the size of our homes and with how much waste we create. Do we use a lot? Sure, we do. But the way it's made to sound is that we do it on purpose. That is just not true. In the building industry we are told we are wasteful and don't pay enough attention to how we build and the energy consuming systems that we install. Could we do better? Of course, we could. But, again, we are made out to be the bad guys and that's not the case either.
Is what we are doing really all that bad? Are we all destroying our surroundings as fast as possible? On purpose? I think not. I know we're not. Room for improvement--of course. But is what we are already doing that far off the mark?
Over the next few days, I will try to put some perspective to this issue of "going green". The perspective that I'll take will be from a common sense and logical point of view.
In short, the current "movement" is great for raising awareness but falls short on practical and economical solutions.
Our discussion will begin soon with the first of: reduce, reuse, recycle.

Send us your thoughts at www.paulsonsconstruction.com

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Winter constructiion--A great idea!

Add on in winter? Siding, windows, etc. in winter? You're nuts--right? WRONG.
Winter in our area is a great time to get projects done because contractors are typically slower than in the Spring and Summer. This is a by product of the thinking that winter is a bad time to do work on your home. Again, quite the contrary.
Spring in when almost all manufactures put out their price increases. Like it or not, it is only getting costlier for these manufacturers to produce their products and get them to us.
Winter is usually when people don't do too much outdoors. For this reason, especially if you live on a lake for example, it's a great time to have the contracting work done. We are doing the addition or exterior remodel while you are not "using it". In the Summer, it's entertaining time and time spent outdoors. This way the noise, the workers, the extra vehicles, material staging, and clean up are all done with less impact and when Spring and Summer arrives, we are done and gone leaving you with home improvements that you will certainly enjoy and be proud to show off when guests arrive. Really, if you think about it, would you rather have us there in the Summer in the way, or have the Summer to enjoy the investment you just made to your home.
Snow is easier to deal with than rain. Once the guys get wet, it's time to "call it a day". If it's pouring in the morning, that day will be lost because once the guys have gone home or decided to "call it", it's not practical to bring them back even if it clears up. In most cases we can work with the snow. It can me moved and doesn't create the mud that rain does. The guys can work through it much easier than rain. Basically, less time is lost when dealing with snow vs. rain. There are obvious exceptions but the rule works.
Bottom line:
1 Contractors are slower and that can translate to better pricing
2 Beat product increases that are typically in Spring
3 Enjoy your investment more by having it done when it's not being used
4 Snow is easier to deal with than rain
5 Winter works

Call us today at 517-545-8651 or visit us on the web at www.paulsonsconstruction.com We're here to help and will do our best to make it work for you.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Additions, Kitchens, Baths, Finished Basements

In 2009, the last 1/2 of the year showed that many clients are doing additions to their homes. We have seen porch additions, first floor additions, second story additions, garage additions, and even small bump outs and bay additions. Going against the trend, these clients have improved their homes, improved the way they and their families function, and improved their lives. And here's the "shocker": They have also improved the value of their homes. YES--IT'S TRUE!
Right now is about the best time we have ever seen to remodel or add on. Prices are at or near lows for materials. Labor, are you kidding, we haven't had a increase in labor in three years. Winter, yes, a great time to improve what you have for many reasons (check next blog). Plus you are beating all of the price increases from manufacturers in the Spring.
Not sure what's holding you back? We talk to a lot folks who aren't sure either. It really is a great time to get those projects done and we can help. Visit our website at www.paulsonsconstruction.com and then give Paul a call. He will come out to meet with you and get the process started. Let us help from the design through completion. We've got a great team and we look forward to working together.
517-545-8651

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Happy New Year!

We, at Paulson's, wish you all a very Happy New Year! 2010 is well worth looking forward to and we can't wait to get it going. See you soon.

www.paulsonsconstruction.com