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What’s The Difference Between Porches, Decks, Patios & Pergolas?

Understanding Outdoor Spaces: Porches, Decks, Patios, Screened Decks, and Pergolas.

As spring blooms and the warmer months beckon, many homeowners are turning their attention to outdoor living spaces. Whether it’s hosting a barbecue, enjoying a morning coffee in the sunshine, or simply unwinding after a long day, our remodeling experts here at J&R Construction would love to help you design an outdoor area you can enjoy. One that enhances both the beauty and functionality of your home. However, with so many options available, it’s essential to understand the differences between various outdoor structures in order to make the best decision for your space. In this guide, we’ll explore the nuances of porches, decks, patios, screened decks, and pergolas, helping you make informed decisions for your next outdoor remodeling project. 

Porches:

Porches are quintessential features of traditional American homes, providing a sheltered outdoor space typically attached to the front, side, or rear of the house. They often feature a roof supported by columns or pillars, offering protection from the elements while extending the living space of the home. Porches are ideal for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying the surrounding scenery. They can be open or enclosed, depending on the homeowner’s preferences and climate considerations.

Decks:

Decks are elevated platforms typically constructed at the back of the house, providing an outdoor area for dining, entertaining, and relaxation. Unlike porches, decks are not covered by a roof, offering an unobstructed view of the sky. They can be made from various materials such as wood, composite decking, or vinyl, and can be customized in size, shape, and design to suit the homeowner’s needs. Decks are versatile spaces that can accommodate furniture, grills, hot tubs, and more, making them perfect for outdoor gatherings and activities.

 

Patios:

Patios are ground-level outdoor spaces usually located directly adjacent to the house or in the backyard. They can be made from materials like concrete, pavers, brick, or stone and offer a stable surface for outdoor furniture, cooking appliances, and recreational activities. Patios are popular for their durability, low maintenance requirements, and versatility in design. They can be seamlessly integrated into the landscape, creating a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor living areas.

 

Screened Decks:

Screened decks combine the best of both worlds, offering the openness of a traditional deck with the added benefit of protection from insects and other pests. These structures feature screened enclosures that surround the deck, allowing homeowners to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about bugs or debris. Screened decks are ideal for areas with high mosquito activity or in regions where bugs can be a nuisance, providing a comfortable and pest-free environment for relaxation and entertainment.

Pergolas:

Pergolas are elegant outdoor structures characterized by their open-roofed framework supported by columns or posts. Unlike traditional roofs, pergolas feature cross beams or lattice patterns that provide partial shade and create a visually appealing focal point in the garden or patio. Pergolas can be freestanding or attached to the house, offering a versatile solution for enhancing outdoor spaces. They can be adorned with climbing plants, vines, or outdoor lighting to add beauty and ambiance to the area.

In Conclusion:

Porches, decks, patios, screened decks, and pergolas each offer unique benefits and design possibilities for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living experience. Whether you prefer the cozy charm of a porch, the expansive views of a deck, the durability of a patio, the protection of a screened deck, or the elegance of a pergola, there’s a solution to suit every style and preference. By understanding the differences between these outdoor structures, homeowners can make informed decisions when planning their next remodeling project, creating beautiful and functional spaces to enjoy year-round.

If you’re considering upgrading your outdoor living area, our team of remodeling experts at J&R Construction is here to help you bring your vision to life! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and turn your outdoor dreams into reality! 

What Renovations Give the Highest Return Value

Whether you’re planning to sell your home or simply looking to enhance its comfort and appeal, renovations can significantly boost its value. Not all renovations are created equal, though, and it’s important to invest in upgrades that provide the highest return on investment. Here are some renovations that consistently prove to be worthwhile in maximizing the value of your home.

1. Kitchen Remodel: The Heart of the Home

The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and a well-designed, modern kitchen can add immense value. Focus on updating appliances, countertops, and cabinets. Energy-efficient appliances not only attract potential buyers but also contribute to long-term savings. An open and functional layout is also highly desirable, providing a welcoming space for family and guests.

2. Bathroom Upgrades: Small Changes, Big Impact

Bathrooms are another critical area for potential buyers. Upgrading fixtures, installing a new vanity, or adding a stylish shower enclosure can significantly enhance the overall appeal. Consider energy-efficient and water-saving fixtures to align with modern sustainability trends.

3. Curb Appeal Matters: Enhance the Exterior

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see. Invest in landscaping, fresh paint, and an inviting entryway. A well-maintained garden, a new front door, or even updated siding can drastically improve your home’s curb appeal and boost its market value.

4. Energy-Efficient Windows and Insulation: Long-Term Savings

Energy-efficient upgrades not only contribute to a greener planet but also appeal to homebuyers looking for cost-effective and environmentally friendly features. Replace old windows with energy-efficient windows, and consider adding insulation to improve energy conservation. These upgrades not only enhance the value of your home but also lead to long-term savings on utility bills.

5. Basement Renovation: Untapped Potential

Transforming an underutilized basement into a functional living space adds valuable square footage to your home. Whether it becomes a guest room, home office, or entertainment area, a well-finished basement can significantly increase the overall value of your property.

6. Smart Home Technology: Modern Convenience

Integrating smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular. Invest in features such as smart thermostats, security systems, or lighting control. These additions not only provide modern conveniences but also appeal to tech-savvy buyers.

7. Neutral Paint and Flooring: Timeless Appeal

A fresh coat of neutral paint and updated flooring can work wonders. Neutral tones create a blank canvas for potential buyers, allowing them to envision their style in the space. Hardwood floors or high-quality laminate are attractive options that stand the test of time.

When it comes to home renovations, strategic planning is key. Focus on projects that not only enhance your living space but also provide a strong return on investment. By targeting these high-value renovations, you’re not just improving your home’s appeal; you’re making smart investments in its long-term value. Here at J&R Construction we are available to help with whatever renovation you are looking to do. Call us today to schedule your in-home consultation.

Accessible Modifications Division

J&R Construction is your trusted partner in crafting barrier-free living environments for both residential and commercial spaces. As a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) accredited by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), we take pride in our commitment to creating spaces that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. With a focus on wheelchair ramps, roll-in showers, grab bar installations, walk-in therapy tubs, expanded walkways, improved accessibility for kitchens and bathrooms, and automatic door openers, we specialize in transforming spaces to enhance the quality of life for individuals with diverse abilities. J&R Construction is based in Kentucky. However, through our vetted national network of contractor partners, we can provide accessibility services from coast to coast, throughout America.

Our Commitment to Barrier-Free Living:

At J&R Construction, we understand the significance of a home or workspace that is welcoming and accessible to everyone. Our mission is to break down barriers and create environments that facilitate independence, convenience, and comfort. Whether you’re looking to retrofit your home or enhance the accessibility of your commercial property, our expertise in barrier-free living environments ensures that every project is approached with dedication and precision.

Residential Accessibility Solutions

Our residential services are designed to transform houses into havens of accessibility and comfort. From the installation of wheelchair ramps to ensure seamless entry and exit, to the construction of roll-in showers that eliminate barriers, we tailor solutions that cater to the unique needs of each household. Our walk-in tub therapy options combine safety and luxury, providing individuals with mobility challenges the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and therapeutic bathing experience. J&R can also design and build multifunctional room additions, as well as construct brand-new wheelchair-accessible homes for our clients.

Transformative Commercial Spaces

In the commercial sector, we recognize the importance of spaces that are not only accessible but also welcoming to everyone. Our team excels in constructing barrier-free features that comply with the highest ADA standards. From expanded walkways, doorways, hallways for smooth navigation, to bathrooms designed with utmost safety and accessibility in mind, we ensure that your commercial property is inclusive and complies with relevant accessibility regulations. We provide services to medical facilities, restaurants, retail stores, office buildings, workplaces, and so forth.

Why Trust J&R Construction?

Trust in J&R Construction is not just a commitment; it’s a foundation built on years of unwavering dedication to excellence, integrity, and client satisfaction. Our proven track record in crafting barrier-free living environments for residential and commercial spaces, coupled with our CAPS certification from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), showcases the depth of our expertise. We prioritize transparent communication, collaborative design processes, and adherence to the highest industry standards, ensuring that each project is executed with precision and care.

Clients trust J&R Construction for its commitment to inclusivity, innovative solutions, and a client-centric approach that goes beyond construction, creating spaces where accessibility and quality of life seamlessly coexist. With us, trust is not just earned; it’s built into every aspect of our work, creating enduring relationships based on reliability, professionalism, and a shared vision of transforming spaces into welcoming environments for everyone.

Certified Expertise

As a CAPS-certified contractor accredited by NAHB, we bring a wealth of expertise to every project. Our certification is a testament to our commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in accessible design and construction. Our professionals are top-notch. We take the time to forecast not only the unique needs of our clients today but well into the prospective future. You can trust that our team possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to create living and working spaces that meet the highest industry standards for accessibility.

Collaborative Design Process

We believe in a collaborative approach to design, involving our clients in every step of the process. By understanding your unique needs and preferences, we tailor our solutions to align with your vision for an accessible and inclusive space. Our collaborative design process ensures that the final result not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Compliance and Quality Assurance

We understand the importance of compliance with accessibility regulations, and our projects consistently adhere to the highest industry standards. Our commitment to quality assurance means that every aspect of the construction process is closely monitored to deliver outcomes that prioritize safety, functionality, and durability.

Building a Future of Inclusivity

At J&R Construction, we are not just remodeling existing dwellings and/or constructing new buildings; we are building a future of inclusivity. Our dedication to creating barrier-free living environments is driven by a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with diverse abilities. Contact us today, and let’s work together to build a space where accessibility is seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily living – creating a home and workplace that truly embraces everyone.

Free On-Site Consultations 

Our team will come to your home or facility to evaluate and then provide recommendations for the best accessibility solutions. Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.

Handyman Services

J&R Provides Quality Handyman Lexington KY and Surrounding Areas J&R Construction is a trusted provider of handyman services in the Lexington, KY and surrounding areas. Our team of skilled handyman in Lexington KY and surrounding areas is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable services to homeowners and businesses throughout the region. We offer free estimates on … Read more

4 Tips on Putting Together Your Outdoor Living Space

4 Tips for Setting Up Your Outdoor Living Space

  1. Use pieces that highlight your space, not take from it.

Maximizing space is key, you don’t want to feel like you are cooped up indoors when you’re enjoying the weather outdoors. So analyze your space and decide exactly what furniture you want and how much your space will fit.

  1. Continue your style outdoors as well.

It’s easy to consider your outdoor space as separate from the rest of your home, but tying the aesthetic of your outdoor space to your indoor space emphasizes your existing design and maximizes your square footage.

  1. Function is just as important as style.

Don’t waste space with pieces that won’t get used. Think about what you intend to do with your outdoor space and how you like to entertain. That should be the driving force behind your furniture selections.

  1. Durability is a must.

This one is simple, but often overlooked. When selecting your outdoor furniture, pick pieces that are weatherproof. That way, they can either be used or left in the winter, rather than stored.

Budgeting for a Porch Project

This post is an adaptation from https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/outdoor-remodel/budgeting-for-a-porch-project, not an entirely original blog.

No two porches are exactly the same, especially when you are working with a design-build remodeler like J&R Construction. For this reason and more, the cost to upgrade an existing porch or add a new one varies widely.

Costs depend on what you prefer.  Factors like size and complexity play a large role and costs also vary region to region. A small and basic do-it-yourself porch project can cost about $5,000 to $10,000, but the budget for even a small porch project can go up quickly when lots of extras are included.

Things like lighting, hardware, architectural details and furniture add to the basic cost of the project. A major extra, like a large fireplace, can really drive up the cost of a porch, since it involves more materials and labor — and may require an upgraded foundation. When you work with a remodeler, labor costs also weigh into the cost of a porch, but likely mean less in maintenance costs.

A basic concrete-slab porch will be easier on the wallet than a larger screened-in porch or sunroom.

Prefabricated porches can be found for approximately $10,000 to $20,000, and expect to pay anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 for a good-quality, medium-sized (about 16′ x 20′) porch with a floor and roof built by a contractor.

Large custom porches with lots of extras can easily top $50,000, so it pays to do your homework and planning. However, a custom porch is built to your specifications and requires less work in the long run. Companies like J&R offer warranties on their work, so you don’t have to worry about issues lingering. This ultimately is money back in your pocket.

Press Release: J&R Construction Ranked #371 Remodeler in Nation

CONTACT

Ben Taylor, Marketing &

Communications Coordinator

J&R Construction

(859) 225-0162 – [email protected]

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

J&R Construction named to

Qualified Remodeler

 TOP 500 for 2021

 

LEXINGTON, KY (August 10, 2021) – Qualified Remodeler, a leading publication serving remodelers and home improvement companies in the U.S., has ranked J&R Construction as the No. 371 on its 43rd annual TOP 500 remodelers of 2021. Since 1978, the QR TOP 500 has tracked the industry’s largest and fastest growing companies. In 2021, the TOP 500 represented $13 billion in remodeling sales volume on 1.1 million jobs.

J&R Construction was chosen as a 2021 TOP 500 remodeler by the Qualified Remodeler editorial staff for meeting a set of criteria including installed remodeling dollar volume, total years in business, industry association membership, industry certification, industry awards and community service.

J&R Construction is Lexington and Central Kentucky’s leading Design-Build & Home Remodeling company. Design-Build is when a company has professional interior designers on staff to show you what your home remodeling project will look like, guide you in selections, and hand hold you throughout the project. Then having project managers, carpenters, quality craftsman, and trade partners build and remodel your dream.

“Based on Qualified Remodeler’s analysis, firms that are ranked on the 2021 TOP 500 are experiencing a boom in business. Firms that have made the list multiple years tend to share common attributes — strong revenues, a commitment to customer service, as well as leading sales and marketing programs,” said, Patrick O’Toole, co-owner and publisher of Qualified Remodeler. “These attributes helped put the firms on this list and contribute to their ongoing success in remodeling and home improvement.”

Additional information on the TOP 500 can be found on www.qualifiedremodeler.com.

 

9 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Fall

This post is an adaptation from https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/a22652916/fall-home-maintenance-checklist/, not an entirely original blog.

Fall brings a lot of changes with it. It magically gets colder, leaves begin to fall, the holidays are suddenly right around the corner, and the air just feels fresher. These changes present several challenges to homeowners who may have spent more time at the pool than thinking about how to prepare for Fall (rightfully so)! Here are some simple ways to make sure your home is just as ready for a challenging as your stretchy pants are, come Thanksgiving time.

Clean, or possibly replace, your gutters.

Your gutters take a beating and if they’re clogged, you’re in for a world of hurt and dirty water in your home. So, clean them, and if necessary, replace them.

Check for leaky windows.

Heat loss through windows is responsible for 25-30 percent of heating energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. But it can be easily fixed with some weatherstripping.

Pro tip: To check if you have a draft issue, close a door or window on a strip of paper. If the paper slides easily, you need to update your weatherstripping.

Drain your outdoor faucets.

Drain and disconnect all garden hoses from outside spigots to prevent any water freezing. Not doing this can result to pipes bursting. No bueno.

Bring your outdoor furniture in.

It costs you money and time to set that outdoor space up, so if you want to get another summer season out of it you should store it in a garage or shed. If you don’t have anywhere to store the items, you should cover it in a waterproof furniture cover.

Fix any cracks in your driveway.

When water gets into cracks it freezes, expands, and can make the crack even bigger. Enough small cracks can turn into big cracks, and eventually the concrete can crumble. So, using concrete crack sealer, fill it up and be done with it.

Change your filters.

If your filters are clogged, it’s harder to keep your home at the temperature you want it to be which will increase your heating bills. Clean these filters monthly, not just before the fall, and thank me later. FYI: Disposable filters can be vacuumed one time before you replace it, and foam filters can just be vacuumed and not replaced.

Fertilize your lawn.

If you want to keep your lawn looking great in the spring and summer, you need to prep it for the fall and winter. Roots are still active when the grass isn’t growing, so applying fertilizer will prevent winter damage. Doing this will also help your lawn turn green faster in the spring.

Test winter equipment.

Seriously, just check it all now and make your life easier later. You’ll be really happy when you discover you need a new snow blower in the summer, rather than when you’re standing in the snow, and they’re sold out.

Change your batteries.

Once a year you should be checking to make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices are working. Fall and Winter mean it’s time to “roast those chestnuts on an open fire,” lets not roast your blinds and couch because you didn’t catch a stray log!

10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Summer

This post is an adaptation from https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/get-your-house-ready-for-summer, not an original blog.

Clean the walkway
Pressure-wash the walkway, then replace damaged pavers or bricks, or just flip them over. If any pavers are sticking up too high, raise them, remove a little dirt, and drop them back in place. On concrete walkways fill in cracks with a masonry crack filler that matches the color of your concrete.

Spruce up the front door
Probe the weather stripping around the door with a screwdriver and caulk any post-winter gaps before tightening hinges that may have come loose due to shifts in temperature.

Prep the windows
Caulk any gaps in the framing and check that the mechanics are working by opening and closing each window a few times. Wash windows with a vinegar-ammonia solution first, then with water only. Dry with a squeegee.

Quick tip: Wash windows on a cloudy day. The sun may dry the solution too soon, leaving streaks.

Tidy up the flower beds
Clear out weeds and use a spade to redefine bed edges. Till the top inch or two of soil if it’s tightly packed, being careful not to disturb any bulbs below. Apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch.

Fill in the grass
Remove leaves and twigs and de-thatch dead grass with a metal rake. Ask for help choosing the right seed at a garden center, then apply it to bald patches or anywhere you want a thicker lawn.

Quick tip: Weed-killing fertilizer will work fastest if applied right before it rains.

Fix the sprinkler
Check for any winter damage, including broken heads and cracked pipes, by running your sprinkler one zone at a time. Any bubbling or geyser-like area needs a new head.

Clean out the birdbath
Empty the bath and fill it with warm water and ¼ cup of chlorine bleach. (Bleach is safe if you rinse thoroughly, but you can also swap it for 1 cup of white vinegar.) Cover the bath with a tarp or plastic bag, and let the solution soak for 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Hose down the air-conditioning condenser
Shut down the power on the electric panel, then clear away any leaves or branches lodged in the unit. Wash down all the coils with a garden hose. If you find any chewed wires, call a pro to repair them.

Clear out the gutters
Clean leaves and debris from your gutters. The next time it rains, stand outside and look for breaks or leaks in your gutters and downspouts.

Repair the siding
If your house has wood siding or shingles, inspect for post-winter rot, repair the damaged areas, then touch up any faded stain or chipped paint. A nylon scrub brush and all-purpose cleaner should eliminate dirt and mold on engineered wood, vinyl, or aluminum siding.

Remodeling Demand at Highest Level in Years

According to a report by Qualified Remodeler the demand for remodeling services is at its highest level in three years. QR partnered with John Burns Real Estate Consulting to conduct the study that gauged remodeling demand in Q1 of 2021 against the remodeling demand in Q4 of 2020. The study found that the U.S. Remodeling Index was at a staggering 75.2 in Q1 (2021), up from 63.5 in Q4 (2020), where all levels above 50.0 are positive. Remodeling in the South alone is up 9 percent. So what does this practically mean for those seeking remodeling services?

Recently, J&R did this beautiful remodel of a kitchen and laundry room which included a pet shower requested by the client. This remodel took involved a lot of time and money, but look at the quality of work! This is the difference it can make when you pick a luxury remodeler that (1) knows what they are doing and (2) cares about you and your home.

The remodeling market is going to see an influx of new remodeling businesses looking to capitalize on this boom (a boom that Qualified Remodeler asserts will be here for the long haul). It is more important than ever to vet your remodeling contractors before deciding who to award the job. You want to go with an established company with a body of prior work that lines up with the vision you have for your home, not an unexperienced remodeler that may be experiencing their “growing pains” at the expense of your project. You may have to spend more money and time on your project than you thought, but it’s worth it to hire a remodeler that (1) knows what they’re doing and (2) cares about you and your home. Here’s where I sell you: at J&R Construction Services, we take  “Enjoy the Process” so seriously that it is our motto. We aren’t going to be the cheapest 90% of the time, but we have an impressive body of work, we care about you and your home (because it isn’t just a house), and we have your back after the job is done through our warranty program. Okay enough of the selling! Regardless of who you hire you don’t want to skimp when it comes to your home, so be careful as new remodeling companies enter the scene or you may end up regretting the process instead of enjoying it.

Read the study: https://www.qualifiedremodeler.com/u-s-remodeling-index-soars-to-75-2-signals-extended-cycle-of-big-project-spending/?oly_enc_id=0552E7082034G4U