Wood and Composite Decking Materials | Twin Cities Deck Builder

June 18th, 2013

Ready to plan your new deck?  Visualizing the final result and knowing which materials to use are two very different parts of the process.

Though there are multiple types of decking material on the market today, here at Sass Construction we regularly work with both wood and composite, which offer a range of options within their categories.  Here we offer some helpful information for you on materials we regularly use and recommend:

Within the composite decking market, we recommend:

Azek – Azek is a PVC decking that is 30-40% lighter than most composite decking.  A few of the benefits of this composite decking brand include:

  • Low maintenance
  • Minimized expansion and contraction
  • Mold resistant
  • Paintable

In regards to wood used to build decks, we have a few favorites too.  Different woods react differently to the elements and are some are easier to work with and more durable long term than others.  Here are four wood types we would recommend for a deck with a few details about each:

Tigerwood

  • You don’t have to refinish Tigerwood, but it is recommended that you oil it for the first few years
  • Harder and more durable than Pressure Treated Southern Pine, Cedar, and most other woods

Cedar

  • A soft wood that is often selected as a more affordable option to a composite or PVC
  • Lasts about 15-20 years if cleaned and treated properly
  • Should be cleaned and sealed every 2-3 yrs

Pressure Treated Southern Pine

  • Lasts about 15 years
  • Important that it is sealed well the first time after installation
  • After that, it is recommended the deck is cleaned and sealed about every 2-3 yrs

Ironwood

  • A very dense tropical hardwood
  • Lasts about 25 years
  • Costs a bit more than composite

Wood maintenance note: we do not recommend pressure washing a wood deck.  Only sand a deck (sanding will clean it).  Then seal with an oil-based sealer only — stay away from water-based alternatives.

Though the decking options on available today may seem overwhelming, these are the woods and brands we consistently recommend.  Start dreaming of your new deck today and contact us here at Sass Construction with questions or to start your Twin Cities deck, patio, or remodeling project!

Tags: ,
Posted in Home Improvement | No Comments »

Project Feature: Chanhassen Bathroom Remodels | Chanhassen Remodeler

June 12th, 2013

The homeowners of this 1986 Chanhassen home knew it was time for a change.  Their outdated bathrooms needed updating, so they decided to remodel both their master bath and their hallway bathroom at the same time.  In about three weeks time we were able to complete the remodels with amazing results!

The homeowners selected beautiful new tile, Cambria countertops, new vanities, and updated light fixtures.  We were able to custom fit the new cabinets to meet their needs and match the wall cabinet in the hall bath to the style and color of the new vanity.

Both bathrooms were styled with the same design elements (tile, color, vanity), except for the differences in the showers.  The master bath is now home to a stand up shower with a custom made frosted glass shower door, while the hallway bath is suited with a tub and shower setup.

Check out the before & after photos below!  Ready for your own bathroom remodel?  Contact us here at Sass Construction to get the process started!  Serving Chanhassen and the Twin Cities area.

 

Tags: , ,
Posted in Project Feature | No Comments »

A Well-Lit Home: Lighting Options & Trends for Your Space – Part 2

June 4th, 2013
bathroom with chandelier and sconces

This bathroom creatively uses a chandelier combined with wall sconces to achieve a romantic effect.

Though it may seem like a small factor in  your home, we know that lighting can make a huge difference!  Picking up where we left off last week with Part 1 of A Well-Lit Home, here are four more lighting styles for your interior space, ready to provide the ambiance you’re looking for:

Recessed Lights – Tucked inside an opening in the ceiling, groups of recessed lights give off ambient light without making an overpowering design statement.  Often paired with a dimmer switch, this style of light also allows you to create a low light environment when you want it.  Recessed lights are popular in kitchens and living rooms, especially over islands or sofas and tables.

Chandeliers – Not just for the dining room anymore, chandeliers are adding style to kitchens, bathrooms, even entryways!  A chandelier can add romance, elegance, or modern style to almost any room.  One chandelier is great, but sometimes two is better –  try using a pair of smaller, low-hung chandeliers over a kitchen island or two larger ones over a long dining table. Peak at these beautiful chandelier uses from hgtv.

Wall Sconces – Sconces mount directly to the wall, and are usually used in pairs.  Often seen on either side of a fireplace or doorway, sconces have been a classic source of accent lighting for decades.  Sconces come in a variety of materials such as glass, metal and ceramic.  They shower indirect light on sections of the wall, often forming interesting shadows and backdrops.

Lamp Light – Though it’s important to install as much light as necessary at the time of your remodel or home building project, do not forget that table and floor lamps can be a key source of light for a room, and certainly add a lot of style.  Lamps allow you to swap out lighting on a more regular basis, especially if you like to decorate with the trends.

To create a well-lit, well-designed room, you’ll likely want to combine direct and indirect light, such as overhead sources with lamps or sconces.  Ideas flowing?  For some unique and trendy ways to use lighting in your home, check out these creative ideas from hgtv and then start planning how you can add ambiance, practicality, and charm (with lights!) to your new or remodeled space.

Sass Construction has the expertise you can trust to create a remodeling experience that will benefit your family and your home.  Contact us today!  Brightening up homes in Chanhassen, Chaska, Eden Prairie, the West Metro, and throughout the Twin Cities.

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Around the House, Remodeling and Design | No Comments »

A Well-Lit Home: Lighting Options & Trends for Your Space – Part 1

May 29th, 2013

Lighting is an amazing tool that can change the look and feel of your home. Dining Room Pendant LightsWhether you want to add ambiance, comfort, versatility, or practicality to a room, lighting is your go-to source.

Most rooms serve more than one purpose.  As you contemplate the lighting for a room it’s best to consider what activities you’re going to use that space for.  This will influence your choice of lighting fixtures and their placement.

Having a strong grasp on different lighting styles can open up a new world of options for your home and make the shopping and design process that much simpler.  Here are some light fixture options and styles that you will likely run across as you consider lighting for your new home or home remodel:

Flush Mounted Ceiling Lights – Illuminating a room directly from the ceiling provides a good overall spread of light.  A flush mounted ceiling light is usually a single fixture that holds one to four bulbs, sometimes in combination with a ceiling fan.  Available in endless styles, often featuring a glass bowl or a shade, an interesting ceiling light can add style to a room.  Flush mounted ceiling lights are especially good for bedrooms or hallways; in other rooms, they will likely need to be accented with additional lighting to provide enough light for the whole room.

Track Lighting – Moveable lights that run along a track, track lighting is multi-purpose and now stylish too. The ability to move light fixtures can help you adapt a room for its many uses – say cooking one minute, doing homework at the kitchen island the next.  Track light spotlights are also beneficial for streaming light on bookcases, artwork, or a fireplace mantel.

Pendant Lights –These low-hanging light fixtures cast “pools” of light, making them great for tasks or ambiance.  Often made in eye-catching designs, pendants can bring style and character to a room – traditional or modern.  Grouping multiple mini pendants together is especially on-trend right now, hung over a kitchen island or bar area. These pendant lighting ideas from Better Homes & Gardens are sure to spark some ideas.

Under Cabinet Lights – Often forgotten or deemed unnecessary, under cabinet lights can be highly impacting in a kitchen or bathroom.  Whether they draw attention to that well-designed backsplash or provide extra light while chopping vegetables, under cabinet are both beneficial and beautiful, adding a reflective glow throughout the room.

Now that your light bulb of ideas has clicked on, want to learn more?  Check out this fun photo tutorial from hgtv that will clue you in on the differences between ambient, task, and accent lighting, and then stop by next week for part 2 of this article, featuring four more lighting types!

Ready to remodel your home and create a beautiful, well-lit space?  Contact us here at Sass Construction today!  Creating beautiful spaces in Chanhassen, Chaska, the West Metro, and throughout the Twin Cities!

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Around the House, Remodeling and Design | No Comments »

Summertime at Sass Construction! – What We Love to Do

May 23rd, 2013

Summer is almost upon us!  summertime leavesHere at Sass Construction we work hard, but we love to play to, especially when it comes to being outdoors over our beautiful Minnesota summers.  Here are some fun insights from the Sass Construction gang on what we like to do in the summertime!

Mark:
Mark enjoys driving his classic cars but mostly spending time and mingling at a car club he belongs to.  Not only spending time with his friends, he likes to restore cars and classic tractors. Now with a granddaughter, Mark enjoys traveling to visit his family and visiting his other life in Alaska.

Ivan:
During the summer time, Ivan likes camping, biking, motorcycling and deaf socializing.

Barb:
“We love to take boat cruises on Lake Minnetonka from Excelsior or on the Mississippi River from Stillwater with family or friends.  Enjoy baseball games – grandkids and/or the Twins!”

Chris:
“I like to sit in the rocker on the front porch enjoying the view in our front yard of the pond with Mark and also with my best friend Mary.  Many great conversations on the porch.  Taking early morning walks with Ozzy, our dog.  Also, look forward to my Dad’s huge family reunion every year in July.”

Jamie:
Jamie enjoys being outdoors with his family.  And this means anything, as long as it’s out of the house.  Spending time around the fire pit, playing games, camping, etc.

Wayne:
“When I get a chance I love to fish camp and spend time with my wife and kids…  what more could you ask for.  Life is what you make it and life is good.”

Amber:
“Back in Colorado I loved to mountain climb, and enjoyed mountain biking and boating on our little lakes.  But I’m excited to explore Stillwater and Hudson this summer!  Most of all, no matter where I may be in this world, I enjoy spending time outside with my dog Bella.”

————————————————————–

We love helping people create new spaces in their homes and businesses too!  Need help with your remodeling or construction job?  Get in touch today.  And don’t forget to spend some time outside while you’re at it!

Posted in Sass Construction Team | No Comments »

The 70s Are Back! – Retro Renovations & Vintage Home Style Tips

May 16th, 2013

Retro-inspired renovations are taking the design world by storm.  Retro Pattern - 70s style WallpaperWant to incorporate some groovy touches into your home’s design?  Try adding one of these elements or combine them all for a 70s-inspired look with a modern spin:

Darker Woods – Contemporary turns have taken us the direction of light wood, white woodwork, and airy style, but dark wood, well known in the 70s, is making a comeback.  The trick to keeping it modern and avoiding the gloom-effect?  Mix it with bright accents, don’t go overboard, and use it in a room with lots of light (natural or otherwise).  Check out these fresh ways that dark wood paneling is mixed with lighter tones to provide sophisticated contrast with some underline groove.

Flat Panel Cabinets – Flat Panel Cabinets are most often associated with sleek, modern style, but really they picked up steam during the 70s.  Once considered boring and non-dimensional, flat panel cabinets used with nice finishes, wood textures, or striking handles come off as polished rather than bland.  Peak here for some great tips from Houzz on selecting hardware that will really make your flat panel cabinets come to life.

Geometric Shapes – From shirts to walls to sofas, the 70s saw no shortage of geometric patterns and shapes scattered throughout.  Accenting with big, bold patterns can be a great way to add some fun style to your otherwise modern home.  Furniture with geometric angles is also back, like square-back chairs and mod sofas.  This company is known for their all-things-retro furniture and accents if you need help finding the perfect piece.

Pops of Color – Hard not to love, pops of bright colors make any room more exciting and welcoming.  The 70s was known especially for bright orange tones (super trendy right now), hot pinks, intense blues, and slightly muted greens and yellows.  Click here to see some fun photos of rooms that have taken color pops to a very groovy level.

Textured Walls & Wallpaper – Because nothing about style in the 70s was simple, walls couldn’t be either.  The more texture and pattern the better.  Using modern but 70s inspired wall papers in moderation (say one wall) can be a fabulous way to add pizzazz to a room without going overboard.  Check out some vintage inspired wallpaper patterns spotlighted by hgtv here.

What’s stopping you?  Find one item you love and start from there!  Mixing up single items in your home is a great way to keep up to date with trends and keep your spirits up too — though we won’t stop you if you want to go full force ahead with a complete retro renovation!

———————————————————————————-
Sass Construction is a remodeling and building company serving the Twin Cities MN, including Chanhassen and the West Metro area.  Ready for a renovation of any kind?  Contact us today!

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Remodeling and Design | No Comments »

Create the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen & Entertaining Space

May 7th, 2013

Now that beautiful weather has arrived here in Minnesota, we are anxious to get outdoors — and stay there!  Beautiful Outdoor Kitchen & PatioWhat better way to enjoy the weather than by bringing your kitchen outdoors for the summer!  From simple to luxurious, here are some fun ways to create a cooking, dining, and entertaining area right in your own backyard.

The Grill – Whether you prefer the old school charcoal method or the latest and greatest in gas grills, selecting a grill for your space is absolutely necessary to preparing and enjoying meals outdoors.  If you’re space is smaller, consider adding a rolling cart or tall table nearby your freestanding grill to help with preparation space.  If you’re looking to add a more elaborate backyard kitchen, then including a large built in grill along with stonework and a countertop area are a must.  For true outdoor kitchen inspiration, look to Better Homes & Gardens here.

Outdoor Fireplaces – Not just for keeping warm, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits can add entertaining ambiance, give off evening light, or just provide a place for roasting marshmallows.  If you’re building an outdoor kitchen, include one in the countertop arrangement to add height and variety to your luxury look.  If you’re keeping things simple, purchase a small portable fire pit and surround it with inviting seating.  For some beautiful ideas peak at these hgtv photos & these from BH&G.

Phantom Screens  – Do you have a covered patio area off your house that extends into or includes your outdoor eating area?  A phantom screen can be a great accent to your space.  Designed to keep insects at bay, provide shade from directly sunlight glare, and enhance your patio privacy, these motorized screens are simple to use, providing benefits without blocking your outdoor view!

Heaters  -  No need to take the conversation inside on a relaxing evening just because the temperature drops a bit.  Keep the outdoor ambiance strong and stay cozy at the same time with a portable outdoor heater.  Heaters are also fabulous accents to poolside setups for guests who are damp and need some extra help warming up.   Not sure what type of heater to get?  Read more here from the experts at hgtv.

Bar Area – Classy and practical, an outdoor bar area means less running in and out of the house as guests need beverages.  Affordable and decorative, you may want to use a simple rolling cart with drinks and glasses that you can maintain and restock each time you entertain outdoors.  If a more elaborate bar is in your plans, you can either purchase an outdoor bar as a freestanding furniture piece, or build one into your luxury countertop cooking space.  Houzz offers no shortage of outdoor bar ideas shown here.

Seating & Décor – Don’t forget to make your space visually appealing and comfortable as well.  Make sure you have lots of cozy seating, and consider benches for fitting multiple guests in a smaller space.  Add outdoor pillows as accents, and pots and vases in bright colors – and don’t forget freshly cut flowers from the garden!  For more ideas on stylish touches for your space look to the inspiration of BH&G here.

Wishing you a beautiful season of cooking and entertaining while the weather is at it’s best!

Ready to add a patio, deck, or some outdoor brickwork?  Need help with your outdoor kitchen construction plans?  Connect with us here at Sass Construction for Twin Cities / West Metro / Chanhassen remodeling and building help today!

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Home Improvement | No Comments »

Home Projects to do Now Before Summer Arrives!

April 23rd, 2013

Yep, we’re all antsy for summertime here in Minnesota, but making good use of your spring now can enhance your summer experience that much more.  Here are some home projects you can tackle now to be ready for the long awaited summer:Spring Yard & Home Projects

Windows  –  Springtime is the perfect transitional season for putting in new windows, once we’re finally ready to let some air in.  Installing new windows now will help keep your home cooler this summer (and warmer next winter).  Adding new windows will not only improve the look and feel of your home, it can benefit your pocketbook, as ENERY STAR rated windows provide as much as a 30 percent reduction in energy use.  As summer approaches and the sun stays around longer each night, beautiful new windows will also bring a welcoming ambiance to your home’s interior.

Patios & Decks  –  Come summer, everyone in Minnesota is ready to get outside; but wouldn’t summer be that much sweeter with a new deck or patio to enjoy?  Making your deck and patio plans now will mean that installation can begin before summer grilling season does.  With more product choices for your deck than ever (treated wood, cedar, or composite), designing a durable retreat space for your family is worth the effort before summer begins.  Planning your outdoor space?  Read here for some more ideas from HGTV.

Siding  –  Whether you’re simply not in love with the color of your home or your old siding has taken a beating and needs a serious upgrade, it may be the perfect time to replace your home’s siding.  Vinyl siding has come a long way in recent years and new options for homeowners are bountiful.  New sidings, such as fiber cement from Hardie Plank and polymeric cladding from Everlast are even more durable than vinyl, designed to stand up to the harshest weather.  While you’re at it, upgrade your home’s insulation, an effective barrier for storing air, hot or cool.

Entries & Mudrooms  –  Summertime means lots of moving between the outside and in!  Is your entryway ready for the extra storage, gardening boots, and kid traffic the outdoor season will bring?  Update your entryway or mudroom now to include coat hooks, a bench for shoes (& sitting), and ample storage, such as cubbies or cabinetry.  Also make sure all door hinges are ready for the extra swinging and give them a good dose of oil if need be.  Need some fabulous mudroom makeover ideas?  Check out these!

——————————————————————-

Need assistance with spring home remodeling projects in the Twin Cities or West Metro area?  Check in with us here at Sass Construction to get started on your home remodel project or addition today!

Tags: , ,
Posted in Home Improvement | No Comments »

Project Feature: Schlotzsky’s Deli in Edina Gets a New Look!

April 17th, 2013

A popular eatery in Edina near the Southdale mall, this Schlotzsky’s Deli is loved by many!  But congestion during the lunch rush, outdated displays, and the need to add new food features made the owner realize some updates needed to be made to this well-loved space.  Taking on the slow process of remodeling on their own for over a year’s time, the Schlotzsky’s owner then decided to enlist professional help and invited us here at Sass Construction to take control.  In under two weeks we were able to make major changes and left the deli with a fresh look and convenient layout!

Before the remodel the display surfaces were bland and smooth, and the room wrapped around the food service area with limited seating.  The register was always congested during lunchtime because the soda machine display was right behind it.

The goal of the remodeling project was to:
1.) Bring in the Cinnabon Unit for a large feature display
2.) Add updated style with new textures and colors
3.) Provide a larger and more open seating area
4.) Move the soda machine around the corner (out of the way)

With fresh ideas, good design, and efficient work, we were able to meet all of these goals quickly and effectively!  We brought in brighter colors throughout the eatery and a beautiful stone veneer along the cabinetry to bring some texture to the eye.  We also custom made the cabinets and countertops to a perfect fit.  We worked with Coca-Cola to move the soda fountain to the other side of the room, adding ease to the ordering process and creating a roomier environment all around.

Schlotzsky’s Deli is now better than ever, offering customers a more comfortable experience all around and proud of their new updated look.  Peak at the before and after photos below, and then stop into the Edina Schlotzsky’s Deli to enjoy the look and experience for yourself!

Sass Construction handles commercial and residential remodeling projects in Edina and throughout the West Metro and Twin Cities areas!  Need help finishing your construction job?  Contact us today!

 

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Project Feature | No Comments »

Why a Bigger Remodel Might Just Be Better: 4 Reasons to Remodel Multiple Rooms in Your Home at the Same Time

April 9th, 2013

If remodeling part of your home seems like a daunting task, then remodeling more than one room at a time may seem even more overwhelming.  But in reality, there are a lot of great reasons to undertake more than one remodeling project at a time.  If your home needs a few changes, read on to see why making them all at once might just be the best decision you can make:remodeling MN

1. Less Mess
Remodeling projects generally kick up a lot of dust.  They often require a dumpster to be present at your home.  And living with piles of boards and paint cans isn’t generally the type of home decorating you want long term.  So why invite a second bout of clutter and deal with more dust later when you’re ready to tackle “the other room”?  Utilize that dumpster for more than one project and get it out of the driveway for good instead!  Live with the inconvenience one time around while remodeling multiple rooms and be done with the mess all in one shot.

2. Better Use of Time
Remodeling projects done simultaneously are ultimately going to be finished quicker than tackling them separately.  Sure adding a bathroom remodel to that kitchen upgrade will stretch the whole project out a tad, but with a crew already there and materials already being ordered, adding on an additional room is really just an extension of what is already being handled.  Plus it’s a better use of your own time as well — all those trips to the home store or afternoons spent picking out paint colors are doing double duty and won’t have to be repeated.  Using your time wisely also means enjoying your remodel sooner.  What fun is a beautiful new kitchen if you’re avoiding the outdated dining room and living room nearby?

3. Less Cost Overall
No doubt, the more rooms you remodel, the higher the cost.  But in the end, doing them at one time will save you money over remodeling them separately.  With the plumber, tile layer, or electrician already involved, you’ll save money over having them come out for an entirely separate project.  Creating your design all at once may also prove a better value, allowing you to tackle all hurdles at once rather than running into new ones that could have been avoided as you remodel and design rooms individually.

4. Better Home Value
Yes, remodeling that kitchen of yours will increase the value of your home.  In fact, according to the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report 2013 a minor kitchen remodel in the Midwest is predicted to bring you a hefty 75.4% return on your remodeling investment.  However, savvy buyers are going to have a hard time looking past the crowded mudroom they walk through on the way to your beautiful new space, or that outdated bathroom off the remodeled kitchen.  Showcasing more than one remodeled space makes for a better impression and higher bids once your house is on the market.

Ultimately if your home needs an update, it’s worth putting the time and money into multiple spaces now in order to save time and money later.  Not to mention the amazing outcome of a fresh new look for your entire home, adding ease and ambiance to your family’s lifestyle.

——————————————————————————————-

Sass Construction specializes in remodeling and building projects in the Twin Cities / West Metro area of MN.  Located in Chanhassen, we are your local, full-service remodeling team, completing affordable, safe remodels for over 30 years.  Contact us to inquire about your remodeling project today!

Posted in Home Improvement, Remodeling and Design | No Comments »

« Older Entries