The tour is scheduled for Sunday, June 3 from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.  Visit JG Development at Tour Site #2 located at ...

Read more...]]> Join JG Development, Inc. for the NARI of Madison Remodeled Homes Tour.  Preview a showcase of remodeled homes throughout the Madison area to collect ideas for your next remodeling project. 

The tour is scheduled for Sunday, June 3 from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.  Visit JG Development at Tour Site #2 located at 7024 Elmwood Avenue in Middleton to preview a kitchen remodel within an existing space.

Tour Site Details:  Traditional arch details were re-created to provide an open layout with a link to the original architecture.  The kitchen, originally galley style, now opens into the dining room and features a functional narrow peninsula with additional counter space and visual interest.  The full kitchen remodel features Alder cabinetry, Silestone® counters, stainless steel appliances, a single basin farm sink, new hardwood flooring and a large window above the sink for maximized natural light. 

Are you thinking about remodeling or updating your home?  Visit us at our tour site to meet our team of remodeling experts.  A limited amount of complimentary tickets are available.  If you are interested in attending, contact Michelle at 608-437-6181.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, window awnings can ...

Read more...]]> Very soon, the hot days of summer will be upon us.  If you’re thinking of ways to reduce your summer energy bills, you might consider investing in a home improvement that will keep your home cool, stylish and comfortable: shade awnings.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows.  You can use awnings to shade individual windows, or you can order an awning custom-made to shade the entire side of your house.  If you don’t want an awning all year around, you can order models that retract or roll up when you don’t need them.

Types of Awnings:
A small, horizontal awning will completely shade a south-facing window during the summer.  An east- or west-facing window needs an awning that extends down to cover a larger part of the window.  Sideless awnings, called Venetian awnings, can be adjusted as the angle of the sun changes.  Venetian awnings, however, are usually not effective at blocking direct sunlight on south-facing windows.  Hood awnings are more effective because they come with sides that block out additional sun. Hip awnings project out and down to accommodate casement windows that open outward.

Fabric Choices:
In the past, most awnings were made of metal or canvas, which need to be re-covered every five to seven years.  Exposure to sun, wind and water wore them out over time.  Today, awnings are made from synthetic fabrics, such as acrylic and polyvinyl laminates, that are water-repellent and treated to resist mildew and fading.  No matter which fabric you choose, you should select one that is opaque and tightly woven.  Also, opt for a light-colored awning that will reflect instead of absorb more sunlight.

Adequate Ventilation
Awnings require ventilation to keep hot air from becoming trapped around the window.  Grommets or other openings along the tops and sides of an awning can provide ventilation.  The awning may also open to the sides or top to vent hot air.

Want more information about adding shade awnings to your home?  Give us a call at 608-437-6181.  We’ll provide guidance on which model and fabrics to choose.

Add a Fireplace:  Install an energy efficient fireplace to any room to add warmth and coziness.  They are not only useful and add functionality to your ...

Read more...]]> Are you are thinking about remodeling or updating your home?  Here are a few tips that you can use to add value to your home:

Add a Fireplace:  Install an energy efficient fireplace to any room to add warmth and coziness.  They are not only useful and add functionality to your home, but create a great decorating space as well.

Install a Bay Window:  Beautify your space by installing a bay window.  There are many ways you can use this feature: create a place to enjoy breakfast by adding chairs and a side table; add a bench and comfy pillows to create a great lounging area; incorporate a bay window near your bed for a more enjoyable place to wake up to (imagine starting your day with abundant natural light!).

Upgrade your Kitchen:  Give your kitchen a fresh coat of paint, install new countertops, upgrade your plumbing fixtures, replace old appliances with energy efficient ones or change out your backsplash with ceramic tiles.

Replace your Windows:  Replacing your dated windows with energy efficient windows is a great investment.  Old windows not only let in the cold air, but also allow warm air to enter, causing your heating and cooling bills to be higher than needed.  Old windows are usually dull and faded, so replacing the windows also freshens up your curb appeal.

Add a Deck:  Everyone enjoys the outdoors.  Add a deck for a quick and easyway to expand your home’s living space.  Add a bench and a chair and you now have a new place to relax and entertain.

Update your Entry Way:  Your entry way is the first place people see when they visit.  Update both the inside and out to be more welcoming.  Improve your staircase if you have one, paint the risers, consider new spindles, railings and newels.  Freshen up the landscaping around your entry by cutting back overgrown bushes.  Declutter your walk way if need be and add some fun planters or flower beds with bright, vibrant flowers!

For more home remodeling or home improvement tips, contact the JG Develoment experts.  Visit our remodeling photo gallery to preview an assortment of kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, basement remodels and more!

Storage tank water heaters have an insulated tank where water is heated and stored until it’s needed. They’re ...

Read more...]]> Most homeowners don’t give a second thought to their water heater—until the hot water stops flowing.  Here’s what you need to know when selecting a new one and maintaining the one you have.

Storage tank water heaters have an insulated tank where water is heated and stored until it’s needed. They’re available in electric, propane and natural gas models.

• Tank size is an important consideration. Base your decision on household size. One to two people will need a 30- gallon tank.  Three to four people will use a 40- to 50-gallon tank.
• Also think about the recovery rate, the number of gallons of water the water heater can heat in an hour.  The greater your demand for hot water, the higher recovery rate you need.
• Know the dimensions of the space where your water heater will be stored and ensure that the one you want will fit.

Tankless or on-demand heats water as it passes through a series of coils in the unit instead of storing it.  They’re available in electric, natural gas, and propane models.

• These units only heat water as you use it, so they are usually more energy-efficient than a traditional storage tank water heater.
• They’re available in electric, LP and natural gas models.
• Most tankless units can provide up to 3.5 gallons of heated water per minute.  They are best for homes that demand only one or two areas of water use at one time, say the shower and the dishwasher or the kitchen sink and the washing machine.

Energy-efficiency:
Whichever fuel source you use, a water heater can be the third largest energy user in your home, so you’ll want a unit that offers energy and cost savings.  Research the energy-efficiency and yearly operating costs of a water heater before you decide which one is right for your needs.  You can find this info listed clearly on the Energy Star label.

Maintenance tips:
Many new water heaters come with a self-cleaning feature that automatically fights lime and sediment build-up to lengthen tank life and maintain peak efficiency for a longer period of time.  As water is pumped into your water heater tank, sediments settle on the bottom. Depending on the water quality, these materials can rob your water heater’s efficiency.  If left unchecked, they can not only make your water heater work harder but also allow your tank to rust and slowly be corroded until you need to replace the entire unit.

Resources:

• Which Type of Water Heater is Right for Me?
• Learn more about High Efficiency Energy Star Water Heaters. 

Contact JG Development for more information or tips of how to select the right water heater for me.

A great solution for typical moisture issues is an innovative humidity-sensing ventilation ...

Read more...]]> Are you having moisture problems in your bathroom?  A bathroom ventilation fan is one of the most under-valued and under-used products in the home.  They are often improperly sized and homeowners don’t run them long enough after a bath/shower.

A great solution for typical moisture issues is an innovative humidity-sensing ventilation fan.

This type of fan detects rapid increases in moisture levels at the ceiling and automatically turns on to remove the excess moisture from the room.  The fan runs for the recommended amount of time and then automatically shuts off.

Some of the benefits of installing a humidity-sensing fan are less cosmetic damage to your bathroom, they run quietly, offer hands free operation and are great for high-traffic bathrooms!

For more information on humidity-sensing ventilation fans, contact the JG office at (608) 437-6181.

Low lighting is a great way to add the cozy warmth that makes the season so lovely, consider dimming the lights ...

Read more...]]> If you feel like Christmas has snuck up on you this year, don’t fret- try these guest worthy ideas to bring warmth and sparkle to your dining room with ease.

Low lighting is a great way to add the cozy warmth that makes the season so lovely, consider dimming the lights in your dining space (or using lower wattage bulbs if this is not an option). 

Supplement the lowered light level using lamps.  Place a table lamp or two on your buffet/sideboard and serve drinks from here or add a floor lamp beside an accent table filled with cookies.  The glow from these lamps will draw attention to the items you’ve worked so hard to put together and your guests can help themselves.  The lamps will add a unique layer of lighting which is more interesting that the standard overhead lighting that we are accustomed to. 

Finish the look by purchasing a set or two of filled glass votive candles and scatter clusters of them throughout your living and dining room.  A line of these scattered on your table with a festive garland or swag acting as your centerpiece is lovely, simple and customizable to your decorating style.

Article written by JG Development’s Interior Designer, Amanda Funk.  Learn more about JG Development’s Interior Design Services.

Consider installing a gradual sidewalk to your ...

Read more...]]> Now that winter is upon, and we open not only our hearts but our homes, it is time again to think of the safely of our family, friends and visitors.  Making your home accessible, safer & more comfortable is the focus of Universal Design.

Consider installing a gradual sidewalk to your front door and a stoop raised to the bottom of the door to avoid any steps from the driveway.  Easy for you, easy for everyone! Think it will look like a care center?  Think again; install plantings or planter beds and bushes between the sidewalks to soften the look.  Add some interest by curving the sidewalk. Universal Design is not about making your home look like it is only for people with disabilities, but it is one of incorporating ideas, designs and products that blend with the décor of your home while at the same time having elements that people with disabilities or handicaps will appreciate.

Have parents that are or will be living with you?  Think of all the things that would be helpful and useful for them around the home, that’s Universal Design! Counter-tops of varied height, lever door handles, hard surface floors, custom tile showers, adequate lighting, wide hallways, easily accessible cabinets and sinks.  Anyone of these is easy to incorporate, will be functional with your décor and will be appreciated by everyone.

Keep in mind that Universal Design is for all ages, not just the elderly.  Contact Randy to learn ways you can implement Universal Design into your home.

Article written by JG Development’s Sales/Building Consultant, Randy Ziebarth, NARI Universal Design Professional and Certified Remodeler.

When looking for items to decorate with this year, select pieces that can be more than just holiday focused.  Go for accessories that are based on the fall color scheme.  That ...

Read more...]]> Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends; let your home décor set the perfect tone for the holiday festivities.

When looking for items to decorate with this year, select pieces that can be more than just holiday focused.  Go for accessories that are based on the fall color scheme.  That way, come next year, you won’t be waiting until the week of Thanksgiving to enjoy the pieces you worked so hard to find.  No one will look down on the occasional Turkey themed item, but simple things like changing out your everyday pillows and throws with ones that suit the season is a nice way to bring in that holiday warmth without having to redecorate every few weeks. 

If your furniture is not a neutral tone or does not mix well with fall colors, use candles or picture frames that have a leaf theme for the center piece of your coffee table instead. 

Placing baskets or wreaths throughout the home is also a great way to add texture and color without looking too permanent.

Article written by Amanda Funk, Interior Designer.  Learn more about JG Development’s Interior Designer and Interior Design Services.

•Select exterior shades that harmonize with the home’s surrounding.  Steer towards the earthier shades (e.g., a grey-blue vs. a bright royal blue).

•Consider the style ...

Read more...]]> Selecting paint colors can be both fun and stressful.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting paint colors for your home or office:

•Select exterior shades that harmonize with the home’s surrounding.  Steer towards the earthier shades (e.g., a grey-blue vs. a bright royal blue).

•Consider the style and era of your home.  There might be some traditional colors associated with them, especially with Victorian and traditional Colonials.

•When viewing paint samples, look at chip sizes proportionate to how they will ultimately be used (e.g., if a wall will be painted taupe with a red accent, view a larger sample of the taupe paint against a smaller sample of red).

•Less is more.  Don’t overuse color, especially in a small room.

•Even though a color may be too strong for an entire wall, consider it for an accent color.

•Most importantly, select colors that work for you and your lifestyle, not what’s considered “in” or “out” at the time.  But don’t be afraid to color your world, you’ll find it will make a world of difference

Article written by Amanda Funk, Interior Designer.  Learn more about JG Development’s Interior Designer and Interior Design Services.  Follow us on Facebook for more home decorating and interior design tips.