Tips for building a Two-Story Addition

November 23, 2011

Many people are wanting to stay in there
home and are deciding to add an addition. Second Story Addition are very common. Below are a few things to consider when looking for that second story addition design.

• Use inspiration from the existing home. A few easy ways are to match roofing, siding and windows.  The whole goal is to make it not obvious that you added on.
• Match key elements. This can be a window or bay, something to pull them together and help them blend in.
• Match the existing.  Blend the floors and ensure the windows are not mismatched.  Sometimes remodeling to the existing home is an easy way to accomplish this.
• Architectural character.  You want to ensure that you are not creating a big box and wants to keep some appeal with stepping things back or forward a few feet.  Maybe a gable or two.

Second Story additions are a large step for homeowners and Modern always works with our designers and in conjunction with the customer to ensure there projects looks right, and is what they want.

The above photo had some windows adjusted on the main floor in the existing living areas of the home and also the front door location was modified. With this and new siding to match the existing garage was completed to ensure it all blended.

For any questions on on additions in Northern Illinois or Southern Wisconsin, Contact Modern Homes, Inc.

Fireplace Cap, Yes it can rust!

July 28, 2011

Do you have a fireplace?  Have you lived in your home for 10 years or more?  If you answered yes to both of these questions then now is the time to check your chimney cap. Typically installed with galvanized metal, they can and usually will rust and if not caught in time can cause serious damage to the chase or attic without you ever knowing.

Other roof vents, such at furnace vents, can rust on the top or the flashing and should also be inspected as well.

Call us before the next rain and let Modern Homes, Inc. in conjunction with our Exterior Division help with any questions. Contact Modern Homes, Inc now or call 847.356.8886.

Feeling the winter chill?

January 19, 2010

The cold months in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin are here. Is it not just cold outside but cold inside too? Making you not to want to leave the warmth of your cozy blanket.

The plus to this all is that you can get rid of the drafts and lower your heating bill. These upgrade will easily pay for them selves. There are options like solar, wind or even geo-thermal, and other leading technologies. Are these worth while?? Well they all need to be looked at dependent on home location and specific circumstances. Typically I would recommend to first focus on the shell of the home. The less energy that a home needs, is the less energy that there is to be saved.

First start with the shell of your home, which can include air sealing, insulation, windows, siding etc. Attic insulation and properly installed Energy Star windows are two of the easiest ways to increase efficiency. Air sealing is very important and even more important on older homes. Siding and sheathing the home with foam board can also help your insulating value and air infiltration to your home.

Once the shell of the home is preforming the way it should your mechnical needs can dramatically change. Then one can determine the proper mechanical needs for your home.

As additional incentive to increase the efficiency of your home, many of these options have tax credits right now too. If your liking the idea of the savings on your electical and gas bill, and getting some tax credits, contact us to find out what options may be right for your home.

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