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Explore Universal Design ideas for your kitchen and bathroom. BUILDING TRUST BLOG UNIVERSAL DESIGN IDEAS Explore Universal Design ideas for your kitchen and bathroom. < Back Will Cord 2017-02-10 Have you found the home you want to grow old in? Modify it to accommodate you as you age. Our Universal Design blog post on Feb 3 received much positive feedback, and prompted this follow-up post. Now you're able to view some really great UD renovations on our Houzz site . On this site you'll find 2 Universal Design idea books titled "Universal Design for Kitchens" and "Universal Design for Bathrooms" to click on. Here's how it looks near the center of our Houzz page. For those unfamiliar with Houzz here's a brief summary . An ideabook on Houzz is a collection of pictures centering around a common theme, much like the concept behind Pinterest, except renovation and design is the overarching theme of Houzz. Our Universal Design for Kitchens Ideabook or Universal Design for Bathrooms Ideabook can start you visualizing your own UD renovation and might help clarify long term living arrangements for yourself or a loved one. Enjoy! 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

A room can go from being dark to being filled with natural light almost instantly. Choosing the right window treatments for your space and your needs is an art. BUILDING TRUST BLOG WINDOW TREATMENTS Choosing the right window treatments for your space and your needs is an art. < Back Will Cord 2023-08-02 A room can go from being dark to being filled with natural light almost instantly. Choosing the right window treatments for your space and your needs is an art. Selecting the wrong window treatments can make a space seem incomplete and the windows look like an afterthought. “Dressing your windows is both about form and function. Yes, it is a vital finishing piece to make your space look aesthetically complete and even show personality, but it also gives you control over the light, ambiance, view and temperature in the room. ” says Hailey Evans owner of Design Your Dream . Here are five qualities to consider when selecting window treatments. Precision is a Prerequisite - The precision of the window treatments is necessary as it corresponds to the shape of the existing windows. Getting specific here involves knowing what type of window frame, as well as home style, receiving the treatment. For example, an arched window may take a valance treatment with overlapping fabric for high-end spaces versus standard slat blinds. The treatments that are tailored to "fit all" are useful for standard but windows with more character and flare should exude their potential. Durability is Indispensable - When choosing your options for your windows, durability is a must since it will be utilized daily. Quality material will contribute not only to the look of the treatment but also to its functionality. Materials to consider are wood, bamboo, and metal hardware, whereas sheer fabric or heavy drapery won’t be your best option. Functionality is Fundamental - What are your needs? Answering that question will narrow your search to the window treatment required. Select a treatment based on your comforts and everyday use. For some, privacy can be the focus while others tend toward blackout curtains for their young kids or request patterned curtains over Roman shades. Either way, a selection will be based on how the room will be utilized, as well as what maximizes comfort. Beauty is a Basic Necessity - Functionality is important, but a treatment must also provide just the right visual aesthetic. The pitfall would be comprising the overall look of the space. If items are competing, it creates a chaotic and overwhelming environment. On the contrary, a window treatment that suits the space ensures a calming and welcoming environment. Safety is Most Significant - Safety is an essential consideration, especially when young children live in the home. Faulty hardware or installation malfunctions are potential hazards. Being aware of safety pitfalls prior to selecting the treatment leads to selecting the right treatment without regret. Even treatments for a bachelor pad require an awareness of safety implications. Are you considering a major custom remodel of your home? Getting the window treatments right are very much part of a successful Guide-Design-Build remodel. Our process ensures you receive professional interior design guidance. 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

This full property remodel included a new screened porch, a detached garage conversion, an outdoor pavilion, and a completely redesigned landscape. The interior remodel impacted every room including the foyer, kitchen, great room, living room, 5.5 baths, 5 bedrooms, and music room. CAROLINA CASUAL HOME Simpsonville Bathroom Exterior Upgrade Kitchen Whole Home The transformation of this Simpsonville home involved a departure from the home’s traditional aesthetic. The existing archways were squared off, and the compartmentalized floor plan was opened to create better flow for entertaining. The project scope impacted every room, including the foyer, kitchen, great room, living room, 5.5 baths, 5 bedrooms, and music room. The show-stopping kitchen includes a 12-foot island, custom metal hood vent, coffee bar, and handcrafted herringbone pantry door. A beautiful bar area was constructed beside the kitchen. The formal living room became an exquisite dining room featuring craftsman-built wainscoting. The existing dining room was converted to a music room with floor-to-ceiling mirrors. In addition to the work on both floors of the home’s interior, the project included a new screened porch, a detached garage conversion, an outdoor pavilion, and a completely redesigned landscape, adding 738 square feet of living space and 1248 square feet of outdoor space to the home’s existing footprint. Notable features of the exterior spaces include the outdoor kitchen & outdoor dining area. The screened porch features a retractable vinyl enclosure, two in-ceiling heaters, Ipe wood decking, and multi-slide pocketing doors. The detached garage was transformed into a pool house, including a kitchenette and full bath. Each design selection was meticulously curated by Carol D’Cruz, right down to the organic, handmade tiles of the kitchen backsplash, which inspired the rest of the home’s design, which the designer calls “Carolina Casual.” (Note: AV, pool, & landscaping completed by others: Fusion Audio + Video, Aquarius Pools of the Upstate, & Arbor Land Design.) Previous Next Back to Projects Gallery

Clients throughout the Cliffs Communities in Upstate South Carolina are utilizing our custom process for their home remodel or home renovation. THE CLIFFS COMMUNITIES RENOVATIONS Daniel Builders is renovating homes throughout the Upstate of SC. We know and love working in the South Carolina Cliffs Communities! Homes throughout the Cliffs are being transformed by our Guide-Design-Build team. We invite you to see for yourself. This Cliffs home underwent a custom renovation by Daniel Builders. CONTEMPORARY INTERIOR Previous Next Back to Communities Gallery

Laurilyn Hall and Billy Zion discuss the Design Phase. BUILDING TRUST BLOG WHY DESIGN Laurilyn Hall and Billy Zion discuss the Design Phase. < Back Will Cord 2022-11-22 Can you start a custom renovation without doing any Design work? Laurilyn Hall and Billy Zion discuss how vital the Design Phase is in a custom renovation. Of course you can. Some say Design is unnecessary and suggest one skilled craftsman (or what we affectionately call Chuck & his Truck) can get the job done. Which, for the record, might actually be true, but it's a gamble... like jumping from an airplane without any certainty your backpack has a parachute. Best to verify before making the jump. Starting a custom renovation is a major decision requiring forethought and preparation. Design = Preparation. So, what does a well-crafted Design include? Renovating your whole home will require more Design time than a bathroom reno, but both have similar Design deliverables - a rendering, a detailed scope of work, and a completed list of selections (colors & fixtures). Of course, having a Builder involved makes the transition from Design to Build even smoother. In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! we have two guests well-acquainted with custom renovation Design. Billy Zion of Zion architects and Laurilyn Hall of Thrive Architectural Interiors sat down to discuss the benefits of a good Design. So, without further ado… Let’s get to it! Are you ready to Design your next 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

Clients throughout Keowee Key in Seneca South Carolina are utilizing our custom process for their custom home remodel or home renovation. KEOWEE KEY RENOVATIONS Daniel Builders is renovating homes throughout the Upstate of SC. One area we know and love is Keowee Key in Seneca South Carolina! Homes in Keowee Key are being transformed by our Guide-Design-Build team. We invite you to see for yourself. These Keowee Key homes underwent a custom renovation by Daniel Builders. FOUR SEASONS ADDITION MODERN MINIMALIST KITCHEN Previous Next Back to Communities Gallery

Daniel Builders receives 2020 Bridge Award for Best Kitchen and Remodeler of Year! BUILDING TRUST BLOG AWARDED Daniel Builders receives 2020 Bridge Award for Best Kitchen and Remodeler of Year! < Back Will Cord 2020-10-29 Daniel Builders receives 2020 Bridge Award for Best Kitchen and Remodeler of Year! It’s been an action-packed Fall! And we collected some big honors. Best Kitchen and Remodeler of Year Thanks for helping us Build Trust. 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

Utilize the HBA of Greenville as a resource. BUILDING TRUST BLOG BENEFIT BY ASSOCIATION Utilize the HBA of Greenville as a resource. < Back Will Cord 2021-09-16 The Home Builders Association of Greenville serves Upstate Builders and Renovation Contractors. Daniel Builders is a proud member of the Home Builders Association of Greenville (HBAGVL). The Building Trust Blog interviews the HBA executive director Taylor Lyles. Accountability, education, advocacy, and endless opportunity to form productive partnerships is how HBAGVL has become a force for positive change in residential construction. Which ultimately benefits the homeowner. As part of our ongoing effort to Build Trust we recently interviewed executive VP, Taylor Lyles (TL), on behalf of our client base. BTB: Why have an HBA? TL: Great question. On a local level the Home Builders Association educates both builder and consumer. We have an Approved Professional Builder program to help consumers identify quality, vetted builders, which also provides criteria for home builders and renovation contractors seeking to establish a good reputation. BTB: What qualifies a builder to be an Approved Professional Builder? TL: We have some pretty rigorous expectations. Our builder members must be licensed, bonded, insured. Have been in business more than 1 year. Have ZERO outstanding liens and free and clear of major complaints within 1 year. Workers Compensation that is consistent with South Carolina State Law. All while using a written contract in all aspects of business with consumers. As we start looking into the future, we envision a continuing education for SC builders that will continue to ensure a high standard of quality. BTB: How can a consumer know they’re hiring a good builder? TL: Right out of the gate make sure they are licensed and bonded. Make sure the builder provides a written contract. Too often we see “fly-by-night” contractors disappear with a $20K-$40K down payment. That’s completely avoidable and should never happen. The HBA is here to help the consumer vet contractors. BTB: What is the biggest threat from a government standpoint facing our industry? TL: Three words. Land. Development. Regulations. And also, moratoriums. This is where governing bodies like a county council can halt all new construction. That’s very detrimental. In Greenville we need +100K more houses built over the next 20 years. Trying to stop new construction now will only create huge problems for citizens living in Upstate SC. It’s interesting to see council members standing with golden shovels in hand welcoming a new plant or business to the Upstate but giving no thought to where their labor force will live. Also, fewer housing options drives up pricing. So affordable housing can quickly become nonexistent. BTB: The HBAGVL is a resource for all, but who can become a member? TL: Great question. Anyone involved (or seeking to get involved) in the construction industry is eligible to be a member. That includes everyone from appliances vendors to those who provide insurance. And obviously Builders, Remodelers and Skilled Trade partners play a huge role in our membership. Each member has the potential to not only benefit our association but receive even greater benefit in return. Visit HBAGVL or contact them at 864.254.0133 to learn more. 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

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit? An ADU is a self-contained residential unit. This unit is secondary to the main house on a residential lot. BUILDING TRUST BLOG HOME SWEET ADU What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit? An ADU is a self-contained residential unit. < Back Will Cord 2023-06-30 What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit? An ADU is a self-contained residential unit. This unit is secondary to the main house on a residential lot. The purpose of an ADU is to be an independent living spot. It will have its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. An ADU can either be attached or detached from the primary house. Their purpose is to make a home for more people on the same property. ADUs offer a flexible option for families to care for loved ones in a multi-generational home. They can also create opportunities for rental income, add to your existing area, or even provide office space or a place to start a new business. Not only do they go by different names, but ADUs come in a variety of types. Conversion ADU - Conversion or Junior ADUs (JADUs) convert an existing space into a separate unit. This could be a basement, garage, screened porch, or even an existing bedroom. Conversion ADUs take advantage of structures that are already present. This can make them much more cost-effective. Not only do they save on construction costs, a conversion ADU can save time since the foundation and framework already exist. Repurposing a garage or basement can make better use of spaces that are not currently utilized or functional. A conversion also allows you to maintain the original style and character of the home. A conversion ADU is both a practical and cost-effective solution. It maximizes available resources while keeping costs lower than a detached unit. Attached ADU - An attached ADU takes advantage of an existing wall along the side or back of the original home. An attached ADU has its own entry door and may also have a door on the shared wall for easy access between the two. Attached ADUs often share utilities with the main house. This can be cost-saving for both units. An attached ADU can match the original home, unifying both the style and appearance. Having an attached ADU also provides extra security for both primary and secondary residents. Properties with a limited size are more suited to an attached ADU, especially where a detached ADU is not an option. An attached ADU can also save money compared to constructing a separate building. Detached ADU - A detached ADU offers the most flexibility of all types. There is a clear separation from the main home by a strip of land, which can allow for more yard space to enjoy. It is independent of the primary building, and it doesn't share any walls. A big advantage of this is the privacy and independence it provides. This especially benefits renters or home office users. A detached ADU offers design flexibility without the constraints of the existing home. Since there are no shared walls, it provides a quieter space for both the primary and ADU residents. Detached ADUs offer an excellent opportunity for rental income. Homeowners can rent out a separate unit long-term or short-term. They also can increase the market value of the home. Is an ADU a good investment? Whatever type of ADU you choose, there are many benefits to having one. Increased Housing Options - ADUs increase available housing without new development. They offer flexible solutions to current homeowners. ADUs create office space or generate rental income. They can also provide a home for aging parents or a spot for adult children. Cost Effective - ADUs can provide affordable housing to a wider range of people. Building an ADU is often more affordable than building a new home. Multi-Generational Living - ADUs allow you to live with parents or adult children while maintaining privacy and independence for everyone. This can promote stronger bonds within a family and also provide a sense of security and support. Income Potential - renting an ADU can improve your financial stability or serve as a passive income stream. Aging in Place - ADUs allow seniors to age in place, maintaining their independence. All this while remaining close to their family or support network. Sustainable Land Use - ADUs use the existing infrastructure in neighborhoods. This maximizes the use of available space without the need for new development. They support sustainable growth and reduce urban sprawl. Increase Property Value - The extra living space, income, and flexibility of ADUs lead to a great ROI. ADUs are valuable assets and attract potential buyers. Community Integration - ADUs add diversity to neighborhoods and foster social connections. They allow for a mix of housing types and individuals with a variety of backgrounds and incomes. Shorter Commutes and Less Traffic - In urban areas, ADUs help reduce commuting and traffic congestion. People can live closer to where they work or attend school and enjoy local amenities. Are accessory dwelling units legal ? Can I build an ADU on my property? How many accessory dwelling units can you have? The regulations and legal requirements for ADUs in South Carolina vary based on specific locations and local zoning. Consult with local city and county authorities for your specific restrictions. But in general, you need to consider a few things. Keep in mind that rules or regulations can change, so it's up to you to consult your city or county for the most up-to-date information relevant to ADUs in South Carolina. Zoning Regulations - Zoning ordinances will determine if an ADU is allowed and where it must be located on the property. They will also spell out any other conditions such as size or height limitations. Also be sure to check for setback limits, parking provisions, or density requirements. Building Codes - ADUs must follow all building codes and regulations for safety in South Carolina. These rules will include structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, and fire safety. Permitting and Approval Process - You must apply for any permits and approvals before you start construction on your ADU. The process may involve submitting detailed plans and paying fees. It also might include meeting specific requirements and getting necessary approvals from local building departments or planning commissions. Size and Design Limits - Some areas have limits on the size or square footage of ADUs. Restrictions related to the size of the primary home or lot are possible. There also may be designs or styles required that are compatible with the neighborhood. Occupancy and Rental Regulations - There may be limits on how many people live on the entire property including the ADU. Also, there could be restrictions on whether short-term or long-term rentals are allowed. Homeowner Association (HOA) Rules - If your property is overseen by a homeowner’s association, check to see if they have rules that govern ADUs. Some HOAs will have restrictions or extra requirements beyond your local regulations. Utility Connections and Impact Fees - Your ADU should comply with all utility connection requirements. Water, sewage, and electrical all need to be considered as some areas impose impact fees for new ADUs. What are the cost implications of an ADU? The next consideration for ADUs is financing and construction. Things like location, design, size, materials, and your personal preferences will all play a role in the final outcome of both. Personal funds are a great way to cover the cost of construction, but there are other ways to pay if that isn't an option. Home Equity Loans or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) are viable alternatives. You can tap into the equity of your own home and borrow against it to cover the cost of construction. You can also explore construction loans which payout in stages as the project goes on. Government programs, grants, or local tax incentives may be offered for ADUs in your area. Working with professionals like those at Daniel Builders will ensure you follow local building codes. Our Guide-Design-Build process will lead you through developing the plans and getting permits. We also ensure compliance with all Anderson or Greenville building codes. When getting quotes, be sure to include labor, materials, site preparation, and utilities. Establish a timeline that covers any demolition, site prep, foundation work, and framing. Also consider utility installations, interior finishing, and landscaping. It is very important to note that ADUs may face new or increasing legal and regulatory obstacles as they become more popular. Local rules will have a large influence on the growth of ADUs by either enabling or restricting them. We recommend you consult with local authorities in your specific location to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. In South Carolina, cities like Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Anderson have seen an increasing interest in ADUs. ADUs address housing shortages, provide affordable homes, and account for changing local demographics. There is a growing interest in all types of ADUs due to the demand for more diverse and flexible living arrangements. Daniel Builders would love to help make yours a reality! Are you looking to add an accessory dwelling unit to your home? 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 Accessory Dwelling Units on our blog: Accessory Dwelling Unit . 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

The ground rules of a Guide Design Build custom renovation. BUILDING TRUST BLOG LAWS OF THE UNIVERSE The ground rules of a Guide Design Build custom renovation. < Back Will Cord 2018-01-01 The ground rules of a Guide Design Build custom renovation. Production Don't be hurt by a little dirt . Work sites can get messy. Keep in mind it is a WORKSPACE, and some dust & debris is expected. Trades and carpenters are responsible to maintain a level of cleanliness, organization, and safety, but deep cleaning and detailing happens after the work is complete. Stick to the scope . Existing imperfections not addressed in the scope of work will still exist at the end of a renovation. Examples include: Trim not replaced or painted will still have old paint & stain imperfections. Foundation problems will negatively impact a new renovation potentially causing floors not to be level and walls out of square. Marginal electrical and plumbing won’t improve unless included in the renovation scope. Acknowledge the unknown . There is no way to know for certain what is inside existing walls, ceilings, and floors until they are open and exposed. See colors change . Paint & stain colors appear different based on lighting, surface type, material type (wood, brick, Hardie plank, etc.) and even angle of viewing. Give up match making . Matching an existing stain perfectly is impossible. Blend in, but not seamlessly . Seams are part of a countertop hard surfaces. They can blend into the surface but can not be completely invisible. Scheduling Anticipate inactivity . Sometimes on-site physical activity slows to a halt, and that doesn't always indicate a scheduling delay. Actual delays (those that push back the project end date) will be communicated by the Project Manager. Permit a permitting delay . Local permitting and inspection offices operate on a schedule outside the General Contractor’s control, which may contribute to scheduling delays. Weather the storms . Poor weather negatively impacts a renovation schedule. Specialize in patience when special ordering . Special orders have been known to create scheduling delays. Delivery and product condition of a special-order impact when it can be installed. Expect a variety of inspectors . Different code inspectors interpret codes differently. Sometimes satisfying a particular inspector requires extra time, effort, and possibly, unexpected modifications. Stay ahead of invoicing . Invoices are issued prior to milestones, but due at the milestone. This form of proactive scheduling keeps your project moving efficiently. Communication Pinpoint your project point person . Communicating directly with trades can unknowingly complicate a renovation. Keep communication channels clear and current with an appropriate point person, or Project Manager. Get routine updates . Expect (at minimum) weekly written updates from your Project Manager. Anything longer and small problems grow into large problems. Don't let concerns linger . Immediately notify your Project Manager if you see a problem. If your concerns go unresolved, notify the Production Superintendent. If still unresolved, go to the business Owners. Unresolved concerns break down trust, and makes for a miserable experience. Communicate what you don't appreciate . Trades and carpenters are meant to uphold the values of your General Contractor. When that doesn't occur a project manager needs to be notified. Renovation teams are only as strong as their weakest link, so definitely communicate if someone acts "out of character" with the business. Make progress accessible . Communicate any special instructions for gaining access to the work site throughout the day. An extra set of keys or lock box is helpful. Being unable to access all aspects of a job site creates production delays. Help them help you . Communicate any unique needs involving pets, noise, dust, etc. prior to the renovation. This info keeps everyone safe and comfortable throughout construction. Outline the "off limits" . Communicate areas not suitable for dumpsters, parking, portable toilet, and staging materials prior to the start of the project. The less time spent moving stuff means more time spent being productive. Minimize outside damage . Communicate any special landscaping needs outside your home. Keeping your yard from damage is a top priority during a major renovation. 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

Incorporate these features in a renovation for your health's sake. BUILDING TRUST BLOG WELLNESS BY DESIGN Incorporate these features in a renovation for your health's sake. < Back Will Cord 2021-11-30 Can renovating your home be beneficial to your health? Renovate your home to have maximum health benefits with air purification systems, soundproofing and water purification systems. Yes, it absolutely can be. During a renovation's Design phase, you have an opportunity to be intentional with options and features that have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Afterall, your home is meant to be a place where you sleep soundly ( when your body naturally heals itself ), think clearly, and even exercise effectively. Here are 8 ways to Design-Build a physically and mentally restorative environment. Air Purification - Clean air is essential to a robust respiratory system. When it comes to air purification systems there are numerous options from stand-alone systems to a complete overhaul of your home’s existing HVAC . Soundproofing - Noise compounds stress levels, especially when you’re trying to rest. Even those little annoying noises need to disappear while you unwind. There are several sound reducing techniques that can be incorporated into your renovation, ranging from sound dampening panels to additional layers of drywall to wall hangings . Simple Uncluttered Layout - Albert Einstein famously asked, "If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?" Precisely! When designing your home to be a sanctuary of mental well-being, the goal is unencumbering your mind. Keep the layout functional, where storage is easily accessible. Water Purification Systems - A whole home system is the idea here, not just purification of drinking water, which definitely benefits health. Removing chemicals and heavy metals from the entire water supply will reduce skin irritants and result in cleaner dishes. Plus, the buildup of limescale and other mineral deposits won’t occur. Home Gyms - Exercise is obviously a great way to keep your body robust. Having a gym in your home means the stress of rushing to and from a gym is eliminated. Plus, perusing Pinterest for home gym Design ideas is a ton of fun. Basements, garages, and attics can all be converted into a home gym. Home Sauna and Steam Room - Sweat those heavy metals out of your body. Saunas and Steam rooms can be incorporated into your bathroom Design. Trying to decide between the two? Both offer numerous health benefits. For example a sauna can help with skin problems and a steam room clears congestion. Hydrotherapy Tubs - Having an on-call masseuse is the ideal scenario. Unfortunately, for most that’s outside the realm of possibility. A Hydrotherapy tub is much more realistic method for obtaining many of the same benefits (reducing muscle tension, relieving pain, rehabilitating injured muscles, boosting the immune system, encouraging detoxification, relieving stress, etc.). Calming Paint Colors - The color of your walls influence how you feel. Blues, Grays and Tans are a few stress reducing colors . Are you able to retreat to restorative environment? We would love to speak with you further about a Design-Build renovation to create one. 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

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