Search Results

Daniel Builders is holding fast to these values thru COVID19. BUILDING TRUST BLOG VALUES REVEALED Daniel Builders is holding fast to these values thru COVID19. < Back Will Cord 2020-03-18 How a business responds to a crisis reveals what they truly value. Here is the commitment of Daniel Builders thru COVID19. Your email is full of message after message from business after business telling you how they will address the COVID-19 crisis. Make no mistake, we are equally committed to taking every hygiene and sanitary precaution with our employees, clients, trades and community at large. We want to go a step further though. We want to aggressively deploy our values - Jesus Christ, Trust, and Generous Giving - in new ways. Here are 7 practical ways. Compassion - We can deliver items of need (medicine, food, or household goods) to those shut-in or at-risk. We can also help with urgent home repairs. We can’t meet every need, but we’re committed to meeting as many as we can. Stability - Panic will not be a determining factor for any decision about the business. Trust - Relationships we’ve built throughout the community are vital as ever. We’re doubling down on our mantra and tagline of “Building Trust”. Hope - You see what a person really hopes in when everything in their life feels threatened. We have a Living Hope that never loses power, and we will gladly share that hope. Endurance - Quitting, hiding, hoarding are the easy responses. They’re all terrible options though. We refuse to entertain them. Creativity - So far, the impact to our business has been minimal. We realize things could change dramatically though. If so, we’ll apply heavy doses of creativity to adapt to the market. Resource - For those committed to showing compassion during this time we make ourselves available to you as a resource. Are you contemplating a major home renovation? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

At Daniel Builders we’re fortunate to have great employees gifted in multiple areas of the remodeling process. Today, we’re focusing on commercial remodels. In this blog, you’ll meet Tim Cutliff. Tim is a recent hire who plays an integral part in developing the Daniel Builders Commercial Division!  BUILDING TRUST BLOG COMMERCIAL PROJECTS Meet Tim Cutliff. Tim plays an integral part in the Daniel Builders Commercial Division! < Back Will Cord 2024-07-08 At Daniel Builders we’re fortunate to have great employees gifted in multiple areas of the remodeling process. Today, we’re focusing on commercial remodels. In this blog, you’ll meet Tim Cutliff. Tim is a recent hire who plays an integral part in developing the Daniel Builders Commercial Division! Building Trust Blog (BTB): Tell us a little about your background in commercial construction. Tim: I’ve been a project manager in commercial construction for over ten years, managing a range of projects from small tenant upfits to various new construction projects. BTB: What factors make a commercial remodel successful? Tim: Good client/builder communication. Trust is huge. When trust is lost, everything is impacted. From a business standpoint, losing trust means you’re not likely to have repeat business. BTB: What are some of the major differences between a commercial remodel and a residential remodel? Tim: There are similarities, but differences might include the scale of work. As a homeowner, you have a different level of sensitivity than you would with a commercial building. BTB: Who do you interact with in your role? Tim: I interact with commercial architects, commercial designers, commercial real estate brokers, property managers, building owners, and end users. BTB: What is the competitive advantage of using Daniel Builders for commercial projects? Tim: Having residential knowledge and experience is an advantage, which usually comes with more attention to detail and more focus on personal relationships. If you can succeed in residential then commercial is less challenging, even though they are different. BTB: What excites you most about your role in the Commercial division? Tim: 1. The relationships: strengthening existing relationships and building new ones while executing projects with a high standard of excellence. 2. Honoring God in my work and doing my work for the glory of God as Colossians 3:23 talks about. BTB: What’s next for the commercial division at Daniel Builders? Tim: We’re going to continue Building Trust, as previously established by the Daniel Builders brand. We’ll continue to uphold a high standard of excellence in projects large and small. Are you interested in remodeling your space? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Our team can transform your residential and commercial space! Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Whole home renovation started by stripping everything down to the studs before a complete transformation occurred. CONTEMPORARY OPEN CONCEPT Lake Keowee 2022 Bridge Award Bathroom Exterior Upgrade Kitchen Multi Room Whole Home At the project kick-off, the client sincerely asked, “Is this not the ugliest house you’ve ever seen?” They went on to describe their vision for their home which included a more modern feel, higher ceilings, more natural light, space to entertain friends and family and to be able to see straight through the entrance of the house to beautiful Lake Keowee. The original home had low ceilings, dark wood paneling on the walls and several small rooms that made entertaining very difficult. The clients desired a more modern look on the exterior which we achieved by raising the roof, adding some architectural interest at the entry, painting the stone and using a composite material on some of the siding and decking to give a wood look without the added maintenance. Some unique features of the inside of the house included: a vaulted ceiling with timber beams, wood slat wall in the bar area, a hidden pantry entrance in the kitchen, a Zen-like shower with loose stones in one master bath and tile slat walls and a walnut floating vanity in the other. Wood beams in the ceilings highlighted the drastic change in ceiling height as did the new clerestory windows. This home went from being a dark and dreary 1970’s ranch to a sleek contemporary lake home filled with lots of natural light and wood elements, reminding you that it is a lake house after all and it’s ALL about that VIEW!! Previous Next Back to Projects Gallery

Recapping 2021 with Before & After images. BUILDING TRUST BLOG YEAR IN PHOTO FORMAT Recapping 2021 with Before & After images. < Back Will Cord 2021-12-30 What a year! Here are a few 2021 milestones and memories from our team. Recapping 2021 with Before & After images. We completed a Historic Renovation in Downtown Anderson. The building is located at 106 Benson Street and now the site of Katharine Marie Bridal . It was originally constructed in the early 1900s and has been beautifully preserved. Now it's another great reason to come to downtown Anderson, SC . Here's the Before & After This "Before" image goes back to the early 1900s: Then fast-forward to 2021 for the "After": We didn't go looking for historic renovations, they just seemed to find us in 2021. Fortunately, we turned out to be pretty good at them. In the summer we completed the renovation of a 120+ year old home. Here's the video recap of that project . Another area where we expanded our ability was in the realm of 3D Renderings. This year we actually created quite an extensive library of these virtual renderings. Here's an example from a bathroom renovation and how we transitioned from before the project began: To the rendering: To reality: In 2021 we saw Lazy Susan and Blind Corner Cabinets reinvent themselves: Every year we capture some stunning "Before & After" photos. This year we went to a whole new level. Before: After: We don't typically build furniture, but this renovation required custom bunk beds for visiting grandchildren. So, here's what we did: In 2021 we added more talent to our already talented team. These folks are definitely gifted, but even better at Building Trust: Thank you for your connection to the DB team. We are grateful to all who helped us fill 2021 with positive memories and milestones. Now on to 2022! Happy New Year! Are you contemplating a major home renovation? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Daniel Builders created a Facebook post of a detached accessary dwelling unit (ADU) on Nov 16th. The post took on a life of its own generated over 2,000 likes and that number is still growing as of Nov 22nd. Why all the interest in accessory dwelling units, and specifically this tiny home? BUILDING TRUST BLOG ADU ARCHITECT Discussing tiny homes and ADUs with Billy Zion. < Back Will Cord 2023-11-22 Daniel Builders created a Facebook post of a detached accessary dwelling unit (ADU) on Nov 16th. The post took on a life of its own generated over 2,000 likes and that number is still growing as of Nov 22nd. Why all the interest in accessory dwelling units, and specifically this tiny home? The Building Trust blog asked that question, as well as a few others to the architect, Billy Zion of Zion Architects. Billy designed the tiny home in this Facebook post . As you’ll see ( or hear on the podcast ) Zion Architects is an excellent place to start a custom build whether it’s an accessory dwelling unit, guest house, pool house, or tiny home. Building Trust Blog (BTB): Thanks for sitting down to answer a few questions. To what do you attribute the popularity of tiny homes? Billy Zion (BZ): A lot has to do with the anticipated cost of being lower than a traditional home. Less square footage equates to a lower cost. Also, it takes less time to build a small home compared to building something that’s a few thousand square feet. The idea of being built quicker is attractive to people and the opportunity to utilize it sooner is also attractive. The tiny home movement began with these homes being mobile, which allowed people to relocate when they wanted, meaning it provided the flexibility to travel and live in different places. BTB: The one posted on the Daniel Builders Facebook page was a permanent structure, correct? BZ: Yes, that one was built on a permanent foundation, but tiny homes are often built with a mobile feature. BTB: You hear the names “ADU”, “guest house”, “pool house”, and “tiny home” being used interchangeably. Are there distinguishing features between them or are all those terms synonyms? If so, what are those distinguishing features? BZ: In a way they are all synonyms because they all refer to a smaller dwelling than what we are accustomed to living in. The tiny home movement began as the smallest version of those three. A true tiny home is 500-600 square feet or less. A detached ADU and guest house are probably more synonymous with each other. They tend to be closer to 1,000 square feet. ADUs and guest houses still offer the same amenities of a normal home with a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living space, etc. But as you get closer to that 1000 square feet size you really lose the mobility feature of a tiny home. BTB: How many of these smaller dwellings have you designed? BZ: This year I designed 4-5 different tiny homes and 3-4 detached ADUs. On average the tiny homes have been approximately 800 square feet and the detached ADUs, guest houses, and pool houses I’ve done tend to be 1000-1200 square feet. BTB: What are some of the challenges you encounter when designing and building these type of structures? BZ: Fitting everything into these smaller structures presents a few challenges. When a client is transitioning from a 3000-4000 square foot home they may not totally understand the adjustment required. They need help visualizing and experiencing what a smaller space feels like, and they can be a challenge. 3-D and 2-D drawings help them visualize the new space they want. Also site adapting is a challenge. In other words, making sure the home is best suited for where it's going to be built. Every city and town will have their own zoning rules so working through zoning requirements is another challenge. Weather, grading, neighborhood associations all factor in as well. Design and features tend look great on paper and tend to get people excited but additional modifications will inevitably be necessary depending on location. BTB: One of the challenges of building a detached ADU is designing it to match the home already existing on the property. Talk a little about that challenge. BZ: That’s right. Most people want the structure to match their existing home, not always the case, but most of the time it is. Review boards and HOAs have requirements regarding this issue as well. You want the new structure to “fit” what is already there. BTB: Daniel Builders is a licensed South Carolina builder, but the Facebook post generated interest from people living in other states. One gentleman from Arizona inquired about building there. We had to kindly decline. When it comes to you architectural work, what geographical limitations do you face? BZ: As a licensed architect I am NCARB certified which means my license is reciprocal in any state in America, as well as Canada, Mexico and Australia. BTB: Are you able to do all your work remotely? In other words, do everything from design a standpoint without meeting the client in person or doing a site visit? BZ: Covid made remote designs more of the norm. I prefer doing a site visit if possible. So being completely detached is difficult, but not impossible. BTB: The big question on everyone’s mind is how much do these small dwellings cost? How do you approach the cost issue when designing a tiny home or detached ADU? BZ: First, the price hinges a lot on how many people will be living in the home and their ages. I also gauge what amenities the client wants. Do they want high end finishes? Clients typically come to us with a budget in mind. A lot of customization will go into the cabinetry given the size challenges. Price is really all over the map. I’d say the lower end is $100-$200 and the high end is $700K and up. Knowing the amenities and how many plan to live in the and then having a budget to work with is the best way to design a small dwelling. BTB: What is the best way for someone to contact you? BZ: The best way is going to the Daniel Builders web and complete a getting started form. Mention me, Billy Zion, when describing the small dwelling you want to design. Are you living in Greenville South Carolina or Anderson South Carolina and need more information about building a tiny home or an accessory dwelling unit? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Read more about home additions here , and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) here and here . Read more about how we proudly serve Greenville, South Carolina here and learn how to choose a reliable home renovation contractor here . Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Ask your renovation contractor these seven questions. BUILDING TRUST BLOG CONTRACTOR QUESTIONS Ask your renovation contractor these seven questions. < Back Will Cord 2017-06-27 Be prepared to speak with your renovation contractor prior to a face-to-face meeting. Great questions to ask a GC before starting a custom renovation. Hiring a renovation contractor is a major investment. As with any investment, you must determine cost (not to be confused with price; more on that difference here), and value. This info can be acquired by asking your contractor the right questions. Here are 7 questions for evaluating a renovation contractor. Are reviews and references available? Avoid making mistakes others have already made. Instead, listen to their feedback. This feedback is available in the form of reviews and references. Reviews can often be found by doing a simple online search. Houzz, Guild Quality and Angie’s List are places to look. Before getting too serious with a contractor (especially when a large project is at stake), request references. A reference typically has favorable feedback but will also speak specifically to what matters most to you (ie. your interest in quality, communication, timeliness, safety, etc). Bottom line: Word of mouth feedback can take the form of reviews and references and is still a great method for assessing a contractor. Do you provide a detailed scope, appropriate renderings/drawings, guaranteed cost and clear payment schedule? Red flags should fly up if any of these are missing. Detailed scopes and renderings provide a clear idea of what to expect. As opposed to being unpleasantly surprised by getting less than you expected. Don’t just “hope” you and your contractor share the same expectations. Get clear documentation and renderings before construction moves forward. Bottom line: Clear, documented expectations ensure you and your contractor are on the “same page”. How long is your craftsmanship warrantied? Move quickly away from the contractor who offers no warranty. A contractor unwilling to warranty his work likely has little confidence in the quality of his craftsmanship. Or, he sees little value in customer service. Neither scenario is good. Bottom line: The best contractors stand behind their work for years to come and beyond . Will you provide a copy of your insurance and contractor’s license? Many “would be” contractors attempt to skip this requirement, and consequences can be devastating. Some of the potential problems include investigations, fraud, and liability disputes. Instead, protect your investment (ie. value) by hiring someone who is operating legally. Plus, you can be assured any person trying to circumvent the law is likely to take advantage of you as well. Bottom line: Don’t entrust your home to a contractor breaking the law . What is your process for handling change orders? Changing your mind or encountering unforeseen problems during a renovation can be costly, but it happens. Knowing the change order process upfront can really protect your budget. (No renovation is worth bankruptcy.) A contractor who says, “Let’s worry about change orders when they happen,” is really saying, “I don’t have a process. “Bottom line: A clear change order process prevents the homeowner from feeling trapped when unforeseen expenses escalate. How frequently will a dedicated project manager communicate with me throughout the project? “I can’t get my contractor to call me back,” is a far-too-frequent complaint among homeowners working with contractors. This is a great topic to discuss as you speak with references. Before starting a project make sure you 1) meet the project manager assigned to you and 2) receive an overview of the communication process. Otherwise, your renovation might cost you significant confusion, frustration and lost time. Bottom line: Know the plan for communication before construction begins . How do you resolve disagreements? Granted this is a bold question to ask and may cause a slight bit of awkwardness. However, that’s a small price compared to a project gridlocked by a disagreement. A serious disagreement can still happen despite every effort on the front end. The good news is disagreements don’t need to be terrible experiences. A clear method for resolving disagreements will ultimately strengthen the credibility of a contractor. Bottom line: Disagreements can be costly if not handled in a professional, ethical and timely manner. Are you contemplating a major home renovation? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Why? plays a crucial role in the remodeling process. An honest answer enhances your remodeling experience, but more importantly protects you from a terrible one. BUILDING TRUST BLOG REMODELING FROM WHY Why? plays a crucial role in the remodeling process. < Back Will Cord 2023-06-05 "Why?" plays a crucial role in the remodeling process. An honest answer enhances your remodeling experience, but more importantly protects you from a terrible one. Do you remember the first question you ever asked? Probably not, but it was a likely a single word question, one asked by toddlers with intense frequency throughout human history. "Why?" Pretty cool how the human mind is uniquely programmed at such an early age to start looking for that answer. Turns out "Why?" plays a crucial role in the remodeling process. An honest answer enhances your remodeling experience, but more importantly protects you from a terrible one. In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Chris Cloud talks about finding the reason behind the renovation or finding your WHY. Why watch or listen to this episode? Glad you're asking. Getting your remodel right (or anything for that matter) starts with knowing why. Are you contemplating a major home renovation? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Anyone living in the area can recall the devastation experienced on September 27, 2024. Tree arborists, like Athens Tree Service, saw an unprecedented number of inquiries due to Hurricane Helene. It took months of non-stop effort to resume some semblance of “normal.” During this time, Athens Tree Service joined forces with Daniel Builders and a few other trades to restore the home of one Anderson, SC resident. Owner Jonathan Athens joins us on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! to describe Helene’s impact, the ensuing recovery efforts, and giving generously, especially in times of need. BUILDING TRUST BLOG HELENE HEROES Jonathan Athens, an arborist, discusses the impact of Hurricane Helene. < Back Will Cord 2025-07-31 It's almost been a year since Hurricane Helene blew through the Carolinas. Anyone living in the area can recall the devastation experienced on September 27, 2024. In some parts of Western North Carolina, recovery efforts are still occurring. The storm caused some local businesses to shut down temporarily, while others saw enormous (and urgent) demand for their services. Tree arborists, like Athens Tree Service, saw an unprecedented number of inquiries. It took months of non-stop effort to resume some semblance of “normal.” During this time, Athens Tree Service joined forces with Daniel Builders and a few other trades to restore the home of one Anderson, SC resident. The story grants a glimpse into the generous heart and culture at Athens Tree Service. Owner Jonathan Athens joins us on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! to describe Helene’s impact, the ensuing recovery efforts, and giving generously, especially in times of need. Is your home in need of major repair work due to a storm, or are you contemplating a major home remodel? Now is a great time to start that process with Daniel Builders! Reach out to us here or call us at 864.506.5546. If you’re interested in more information about Athens Tree service, contact them at 864.556.5500 or https://athenstree.com/ . 0:00 Introduction 1:23 About Athens Tree Service 2:29 Safety Overview 3:14 Chainsaw Safety Tips for Homeowners 4:47 Hurricane Helene's Impact on Athens Tree Service 7:19 Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts 8:22 Generous Giving Project Collaboration 9:31 Creating a Culture of Giving 10:10 The Future of Athens Tree Service 10:46 How to Contact Athens Tree Service 11:11 Conclusion 11:33 How to Contact Daniel Builders Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Prior to the commercial renovation work this building was a nondescript strip mall unit (plain vanilla shell), but became a trendy wine and cheese shop. THE CHEESE WHEEL Greenville, SC Exterior Upgrade Interior Renovation Retail Spaces What started as a nondescript strip mall unit (plain vanilla shell) was transformed into a trendy wine and cheese shop. https://gsabusiness.com/news/retail/82818/ Previous Next Back to Projects Gallery

After collaborating on a recent remodel, we sat down with Krystal Lord from Gallery of Lighting for an illuminating conversation. BUILDING TRUST BLOG LOVE AT FIRST LIGHT Thanks to the Gallery of Lighting, this project really shines! < Back Will Cord 2025-02-28 Not long ago Daniel Builders wrapped up a $1.7M home remodel of a Simpsonville, SC residence. As you might expect, the lighting fixtures were quite impressive! The Gallery of Lighting in Greenville, SC was one of the lighting suppliers for this project. We recently spoke with Krystal Lord from the Gallery of Lighting about her role in the renovation process. From selection to installation, Lighting Specialists like Krystal help “illuminate” the path forward. Check out our interview with Krystal in the video above! When asked to comment on the remodel, here’s what Gallery of Lighting had to say: “It’s clear this homeowner had a vision for their home, and a sense of the importance that quality finishes and construction would play in making that vision come to life.” This project’s interior designer, Carol D’Cruz of D’Cruz Design, explained the “why” behind the lighting selections: “The light fixtures were all chosen for a modern aesthetic that incorporates natural materials. I combined iron, alabaster, nickel, marble, frosted glass, and silk to achieve a timeless yet current feel.” Collin Amos from the Gallery of Lighting explained the role and priority of lighting during a remodel: “Lighting is just as important as any other detail in a home, so putting the same amount of effort into light fixtures as countertops, floors, etc. is paramount.” It all starts with “getting a plan on paper" (something her team is adept at doing). Here’s a glimpse at a few lighting fixtures that went into this massive remodel: Dining Room Nine Light Chandelier Height: 39.00" Width: 23.50" Master Bathroom This photo showcases four fixtures: a backlit mirror, two vanity lights, and a pendant light. The brass Cannes pendant by Ralph Lauren is visible in the mirror’s reflection. The shade is comprised of white glass. Here’s a few more specs: Height: 30.50" Width: 22.00" Depth: 22.00” A brass Calliope LED vanity light by Thomas O’Brien is located on each side of the mirror. This dimmable fixture can be installed vertically or horizontally. Height: 32.75" Width: 3.75" Depth: 3.50” In terms of new technology and trends, the future is bright. According to Collin, “We’re seeing more and more in the way of LED mirrors in bathrooms. They contribute to a high-end, spa-like feel in a space, and more lighting manufacturers are jumping on this trend and releasing their own designs. Key features to look for in a LED mirror are dimmability, color changing capability (warm to cool based on task at hand), and defogging features.” Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by calling 864.506.5546 or get your renovation started here ! If you’re interested in more information about lighting fixtures from the Gallery of Lighting, you can visit their website or reach out to them at 864.370.4451. Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Warm weather has arrived, and at this time of the year it’s not uncommon to say, “Let’s go out on the deck!”  While your deck is top of mind, it’s a good idea to do a deck safety evaluation.  After all, May is “National Deck Safety Month”.  Here is a checklist provided by the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) regarding what to look for when inspecting your deck. BUILDING TRUST BLOG LET'S GO OUT ON THE DECK While your deck is top of mind, it’s a good idea to do a deck safety evaluation. < Back Will Cord 2024-05-25 Warm weather has arrived, and at this time of the year it’s not uncommon to say, “Let’s go out on the deck!” While your deck is top of mind, it’s a good idea to do a deck safety evaluation. After all, May is “National Deck Safety Month”. Here is a checklist provided by the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) regarding what to look for when inspecting your deck. Evaluate flashing - NADRA describes flashing as “a metal or plastic guard that directs water out and away from sensitive areas. It’s often installed where the deck and house come together, keeping moisture and debris from collecting between the house and the deck’s ledger board.” [1] If you notice standing water in this area on your deck, you may need to replace the flashing. Evaluate wood surfaces - Even when a deck is built with composite materials, some aspects of the structure are still built using wood. For example, the ledger board will likely be made of wood. It’s often the culprit of deck failure. [Photo: Waller Before 1.jpg] Also inspect the decking, joists, posts, railing, banisters, and stairs for holes and decay. Holes can indicate an insect problem. There are three easy tests for rot and decay. 1) Can a screwdriver pierce the wood ¼ - ½ inch deep? 2) Does the wood splinter or break off in a clump? Splinters are a good sign that rot hasn’t set in. 3) Are any areas of the wood moist, spongy, or damp? Evaluate the fasteners - [Wooden Board – EnvatoStock.jpg] Evaluate fasteners, nails, and screws for corrosion. Rusty fasteners should be replaced as they can cause the wood to deteriorate. Nails and screws should be flush with the surface. Fasteners should be tight. Evaluate the stairs - Nothing could be a bigger safety hazard than insecure stair treads, risers, stringers, and railings (especially when the deck is high off the ground). [Photo: Waller Loose Handrail.jpg] If the riser area is open, the opening should not be larger than 4 inches. Keep stairways clear to prevent potential tripping hazards. Evaluate potential fire hazards - Be aware of the proximity of heat sources to flammable items. Read through manufacturer guidelines for grills, fire pits, etc. to review best practices for general safety and operating distance. Adjust placement if necessary. Lighting and electrical outlets are also included in this category. Outdoor electrical elements should adhere to code, be in working order, and be childproof. Evaluate outdoor furniture and storage - Ensure furniture, swings, and hammocks are in good working order. Secure grilling and chemical products out of reach of children. Evaluate the surrounding trees - Contact an arborist to prevent accidents due to falling limbs. Have a question about your deck or are you looking to build a new deck? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! [1] https://www.nadra.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/NADRA_DSM_Checklist.pdf Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED

Some remodels require extensive Design work. Producing architectural drawings, a detailed scope of work, a complete list of selections and a fixed cost to build is time consuming. Which is precisely why Daniel Builders created the Guide-Design-Build process, to handle the bigger, more complex remodels. BUILDING TRUST BLOG GO DIRECTLY TO BUILD Many Figueroa discusses Direct Projects. < Back Will Cord 2023-12-14 How much Design time should you spend prior to remodeling your home? Some remodels require extensive Design work. Producing architectural drawings, a detailed scope of work, a complete list of selections and a fixed cost to build is time consuming. Which is precisely why Daniel Builders created the Guide-Design-Build process, to handle the bigger, more complex remodels. Not all remodels require this level of upfront legwork though. Some have a super straight forward Scope of Work, which means the remodeling process is different. At Daniel Builders these remodels are known as Direct Projects, as they largely bypass the Design phase and go directly to the Build phase. Sometimes a client brings Design work from a third party architect and/or designer, which also could be considered a Direct Project in our business model. In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate Many Figueroa discusses Direct Projects and identifies the type of remodel that makes a "good fit” for this division of Daniel Builders. As you’ll hear, Manny thrives on being a problem solver, as well as someone who facilitates a wonderful remodeling experience for his clients. So let’s get to it! Do you have a question about Design time or our Guide-Design-Build process? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 and discuss the best path forward for your custom renovation or get your renovation started here! Previous Post Next Post Back to Blog SEE OUR WORK LET'S TALK We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to start a major remodel, or simply learn more about our process, we’re ready to assist. How can Daniel Builders renovate for you? GET STARTED