Tom Reilly

What to Consider Before Remodeling

January 27, 2021 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” As I always like to say, “Sit back, relax and enjoy.” Tom and I certainly hope you enjoy our column this month.

Sandy: Hey, Tom, what splendiferous topic for our readers is swilling around your head?

Tom: Well, I have been thinking about that. As you know, I do a fair amount of consulting with homeowners who are considering a remodel. On occasion, I end up dissuading them from moving forward.

Sandy: Way to go, Tom. Talk yourself out of work.

Tom: Well better to do it then rather than after the remodel is started and folks regret decisions they have made.

Sandy: This is true. I bet people are actually grateful for informed and candid information.

Tom: Yes, they are. It really is a great service.

Sandy: So, what are some of the circumstances you have found that would make you try to talk folks out of remodeling?

Tom: There is a variety, of course. One of the most common I encounter is when folks are wanting to sell their home that they have been in for 20-plus years. The thinking goes something like, well these counters, cabinets, bathroom etc. will never entice a buyer. They feel they are just too out of date.

Sandy: And so they want to replace everything? Why is that bad?

Tom: Trying to decide what a potential buyer, whom you do not know, might want to do with the home is like consulting a Ouija Board.

Sandy: So, you are saying not to guess at major replacement items like kitchen counters, cabinets, that sort of stuff?

Tom: Yes, that is exactly what I am suggesting. I can tell you that we have torn out brand new kitchens that new owners want to change.

Sandy: That could be $50,000-plus for a kitchen. I would say your advice is sound in this regard. What are some other “bad” reasons for remodeling?

Tom: I would say the next “bad” reason for remodeling is to overbuild for the neighborhood. You should consider the neighborhood’s general home values and try to stay close to the maximum.

Sandy: Well, doesn’t that presume the current homeowner plans to sell in the next few years?

Tom: Yes, Sandy, as always, you are correct. If you do think you might be moving in five years or less, then be cautious. If you plan on this renovation to make this home your home for decades, then do what makes it work for you. I spend quite a bit of time meeting with buyers before they buy, helping them decide if the remodel they want to do on a potential purchase will be too costly or just right.

Sandy: I have heard you say that the last thing a homeowner should do is spend six figures on a major remodel and when it is over, look back and say, “I wish we would have done this or that.”

Tom: Yes, not spending that extra $10,000 to get what you really want can haunt you.

Sandy: So, if you’re are planning on staying in your home, do it up, do it right. If you might be leaving or desiring to sell, then pay attention to market values. You can get a read on those through online sites like Zillow or contact a local realtor who can help with those determinations.

Tom: Good advice, Sandy, and you said it more succinctly than I did.

Sandy: So, what else is a bad reason for renovating your home?

Tom: As you know, renovation trends change from year to year. If your goal is to keep up with all things new and shiny, be prepared to spend tens upon tens of thousands of dollars each year or two.

Sandy: Sound advice, but I am seeing what you mean about talking yourself out of business.

Tom: Well, the last thing you or I want is to have a client that suffers from buyer’s remorse. That helps no one.

Sandy: Absolutely. At YCCA, we always try to put the homeowner’s best interest first.

Tom: That is what sets you apart.

Sandy: The crux of this conversation is to help folks be aware of WHY they are remodeling. Kind of a full-disclosure, eyes-wide-open. Good stuff, Tom!

Hey Tom, another question popped into my mind. What about simpler “refresh” projects like flooring, painting, that sort of thing?

Tom: If the house needs painting, then that might help a sale. Your realtor may help you with that decision. If an offer is made on your home as-is, consider it relative to what you might have spent on a kitchen or bath. New flooring is always great, as long as it is relatively congenial.

Sandy: Tom, if you were to give our readers a couple of closing tips on a house remodel, what would they be? We all know that in planning a house remodel, it can be tempting to skip to the exciting stage of choosing new paint colors, fixtures and fittings, but in order for any renovation to go smoothly, there are several things to think about before you even begin. So what are a couple of those “things?”

Tom: No. 1, know your end goal. Before anyone decides how extensively to renovate, you need to know what your end goal is for your home. Are you renovating to raise the resale value of your home or will you be staying put for years to come? Consider the condition of your neighborhood before you begin, and know which renovations are a good return on investment and which will be considered overdoing it for the area. These are the same tips mentioned earlier in our conversation, however, it’s always best to end with repeated information.

Sandy: I would say that knowing your budget and sticking to it is one of the most important parts of renovation planning. Remember to add in a contingency fund for any unexpected costs – and expect to use it – as well as incidental costs like the cost of eating out for a kitchen renovation. It can be easy to want a top-of-the-line renovation, but perhaps all you need are some less costly upgrades that will make your house look more expensive. Do your research and plan your budget before ever lifting a hammer.

Tom: You are spot on, Sandy. The end goal and budget, both critically important.

Sandy: Great information, Tom, and thanks for being our wise sage in the building arena. You are indeed a valued partner.

Together, Tom and I say “Happy February to you.” Until next month. Thanks for stopping in to read At Home With Tom and Sandy. QCBN

Tom Reilly, LEED Accredited Professional, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 www.renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040

Remember to tune in to YCCA’s Hammer Time every Saturday and Sunday morning 7 a.m. on KQNA 1130 AM/99.9 FM/95.5FM or the web kqna.com. Listen to Sandy and Mike talk about the construction industry and meet your local community partners. Hammer Time is a great way to start your weekend.

Resolving to Be RAKtivists

December 30, 2020 By quadcities 1 Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom & Sandy.” Happy New Year! And remember, it is never too late. Every day, people pass up opportunities to make a difference in our community. We can all do “something” and it doesn’t have to cost anything. So, start a daily habit of doing “something.” If you have the power to make someone happy – DO IT. Our world needs more happy!
Tom and I thought our first column of 2021 would be about more happy, human kindness and resolutions. Settle in and thanks for reading “At Home with Tom & Sandy.” We appreciate your readership, comments and to the many new friends that we have met through our column, thanks for your support.

SANDY: Tom, it is that time of year again – the new year – time for those resolutions. Some resolutions are hard to stay the course, like those diets and the exercise.

TOM: I am so bad about doing those personal mixtures of resolutions, but for business, you bet I have made resolutions.

SANDY: Well…continue, Tom.

TOM: OK, there are two major issues that I resolve to continue to address, along with other community partners, and one is continuing to make a real push locally to broaden the opportunities for our young generation of men and women to join the trades as a career.

SANDY: Tom, I like that one and as you know, YCCA developed a Bootcamp for young adults. We have held two Bootcamps, and what a fabulous way to teach the trades to our younger generation. COVID-19 put the kibosh on our third Bootcamp; however, we will plan for another as soon as we can.

TOM: I am really looking forward to helping those efforts. The struggle for qualified tradesmen is not going away. I firmly believe this is a worthwhile resolution. I was so honored to be able to share my knowledge on blueprint reading and construction math with the young adults and I am excited about my continued classroom teaching when you are ready, Sandy.

SANDY: What is the second resolution you are so passionate about?

TOM: The same resolution I am sure you have, Sandy, and that is to our homeowners, using venues such as this newspaper column, radio shows and printed information to help keep them apprised of new information and maintenance schedules, and continue to be an effective resource for them. It is important to share all the new products on the market, new design trends, and general cool stuff that is out there and coming out there and of course being a resource should they need a referral and/or have challenges with unlicensed entities.

What about you? What about YCCA? Has the board jumped on the resolution bandwagon? Your turn, Ms. Sandy!

TOM: How about those resolutions that homeowners can follow all year long, like resolve to hire licensed contractors, resolve to hire local contractors?

SANDY: Right on, Tom, and I can add to that list: Resolve to verify insurance, resolve to get estimates in writing – nothing verbal, resolve to turn the estimate into a signed executed contract and always resolve to put changes in writing.

These resolutions are non-fattening, easy to stick to, healthy for your remodeling projects and headache-free.

Tom, in the introduction of our column we talked about “Happy.” I love to SMILE at everyone. It may be the only smile they get all day and, gosh, it makes me feel good and the smiles I receive in return are amazing. What about your input on “Happy” for our readers?

TOM: I always like to hold a door open for the person coming in or going out, young or old, male or female, it is the polite thing to do. Yep, kindness. Now more than ever, people need to honestly think about what it means to be kind. Not because the world is in any more of a state of chaos than it ever has been, but because our world lends itself less and less to kindness. The automatic sliding door has eliminated a common act of kindness people do every day, which is holding the door for someone. There are many instances that still require people to act on their sense of kindness and hold doors open, but the automatic door has diminished those acts.

SANDY: I think it is very important nowadays to give affirmation – praise someone about a quality that they have that you really appreciate. Their face just lights up. That is Happy!

I also love helping someone. When I see an elderly person struggling with their belongings or even groceries, I offer to help carry them and have even put bags into their car. I love the sweet golden-year citizens.

TOM: Another Happy for me is when I stop for cars backing out of parking spaces. With our narrow streets in Prescott, I am always watching for the back-up lights and stop to let the car pull out. The waves I get from the drivers are great!

I am back into driving again. I will continue to resolve to let another driver into my lane when I see a turn signal on. It takes a nanosecond to slow down and let the driver into your lane.

SANDY: I say the ripple effect starts with one – one person to be a spark of kindness. We can all be that ONE person.

TOM: Everybody has the potential to change the world and I believe everyone wants to seize that potential. These people are called RAKtivists. RAKtivists are the heroes of our world. They live and breathe kindness, sharing knowledge and leading by example. A RAKtivist leaves a trail of warm-and-fuzzy feelings in their wake.

So you say, “WHAT IS A RAKTIVIST?” RAKtivist is short for “Random Acts of Kindness activist.” RAKtivists are everywhere. RAKtivist: anyone who believes kindness can change the world, who reminds everyone around them how much love there is. Let’s all be RAKtivists.

SANDY: What I see happening is that when people are not kind, they are labeled as rude. Rudeness is becoming easier to recognize than kindness, such as not stopping to let the car pull out of the parking space, not letting the driver into your lane, not holding the door open, not saying “please” or “thank you” or the people who not only just talk on the phone in a public place, but shout into a conversation.

Without kindness there is rudeness. Kindness is simply when a person isn’t rude, and to avoid rudeness is to simply be kind. Kindness is stepping away from the self-centered oblivion so often promoted in modern culture and appreciating the people around you, even if it is someone just a few steps short of catching the door. So, the only New Year’s resolution we should all care about for 2021 is keeping kindness on the mind and following our resolutions to be better people, better company owners and better community partners.

TOM: I got it, Sandy, and I agree with you – everyone go make a change.

SANDY: Nearly 100 years ago, aviator Amelia Earhart observed, “A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.”

From Tom and Sandy – Happy New Year! These resolutions, happiness expressions and widespread kindness makes our community feel happier. We crave the sweetness that kindness brings to life. In 2021, clear your schedule for kindness. Small, intentional acts of kindness can change the world.

Thanks for stopping in “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. See you next month. QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor,
Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association, 928-778-0040

Remember to tune in to YCCA’s Hammer Time every Saturday and Sunday morning 7 a.m. on KQNA 1130 AM/99.9 FM/95.5 FM or the web kqna.com. Listen to Sandy and Mike talk about the construction industry and meet your local community partners. Hammer Time is a great way to start your weekend.

Creating a Livable, Relaxing Outdoor Space

August 30, 2020 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” As I like to say, “sit back, relax and enjoy.” Starting four months ago, Tom and I began to introduce you to our community/industry partners so you could get to know them better, and what fun that has been. You have met Steve Simpson of Blue Line Designs, Jim Reed of Reed Brothers Construction, Christie Board, our local certified kitchen & bath designer with Board By Board Design, and most recently, Tom Liuzzo, a registered land surveyor for Granite Basin Engineering.

Sandy: Hi Tom, I thought this month we would refer back to our conversational format just to let folks know we are still really here and we have construction stuff to talk about. Although, I must admit, I totally loved the interview sessions with our community partners. I can hardly wait to get you in the interview booth!

Tom: One of these days, Sandy, I promise, I will jump into the interview booth with you. So, how is your summer going? Are you social distancing?

Sandy: I am and staying closer to home than I ever did before. With the weather being so nice and the start of monsoon season, I am even spending time in my yard pulling those pesky weeds. I am wearing my facemask and still managing to give a hug now and then. What about you, Tom?

Tom: Me too. If just to get outside for a few minutes… or an hour… usually with a glass of wine.

Sandy: LOL, I get it. I bet with your new digs, you and your wife probably have a great outdoor space. I love my backyard and just sitting, watching the clouds drift by, the birds tweeting and the bees buzzing. I know there are many folks who probably do not know where to start in creating a sense of balance in their outdoor space. There is something I just love about sitting outside on my patio that can’t be beat.

Tom: A common comment. I congratulate you for saying that, and I know there are lots of folks we can help to get started in creating their Zen backyard space. So, let’s get started with a few questions.

Sandy: I am ready! Fire away, Mr. Renovations!

Tom: Do you cook outside?

Sandy: I have a BBQ and have used it more this year than ever before. I am a real pro with chicken!

Tom: Excellent. When you cook outside on your BBQ, do you have enough space for plates, utensils or even spices you use on your food?

Sandy: Are you kidding me – NEVER! There is never enough space on the bbq top and I usually use a small table that is too low, but it helps.

Tom: You might want to think about getting a rolling tray or small counter to hold your items. These can often be purchased for less than $100.

Sandy: Good idea. And here I was, expecting you to tell me to build a counter with cabinets, spending thousands of dollars.

Tom: Well, sure, you could do that, too!

Sandy: I like the simple approach.

Tom: Always the best approach, as I say. I know you have told your constituents that this might be a time to look around at what needs doing, you know, those things we normally put off “’til we have time.” With COVID-19, our readers have been taking the time at home to look around and see what needs doing on the homefront.

Sandy: Holy Moly Macaroni, as I say – that is absolutely for sure. My phone has been ringing a lot with folks wanting a referral for all manner of home repairs and improvements, from flooring to outside space to bath and kitchen remodels.

Tom: So, back to your outdoor space. Do you have furniture for your outdoor living?

Sandy: Yes, I do have a nice dining table and chairs under cover and then a seating area.

Tom: Would you like to spend more time outside? Also, what might it take for you to do that?

Sandy: In the early morning hours and late evenings is the best time to be in the Zen patio and relax. Let’s help our readers create a livable and relaxing outdoor space.

So, Tom, from your point of view, where should someone start to enjoy the outside space?

Tom: There should always be an area for shade. Whether under a tree or a roof, there should be a portion of a deck or patio in the shade.

Sandy: What do you think about privacy?

Tom: For sure, you do not need to build a brick wall or a tall fence, but creating some privacy will make your outdoor room feel more intimate and inviting and this can be done with trees and shrubs.

Sandy: How about lighting? I installed a nice simple ceiling light in the covered porch and then soft down lights in the yard as well.

Tom: Besides being functional, lighting at night adds a magical feel to your outdoor room. And now with solar lights, it is really simple and easy to create lighting ambiance.

Sandy: OK Tom, here is the big one – how do you control the bugs?

Tom: Sandy, you are right, that is the big difference between indoor space and outdoor space. The bugs!

Sandy: I know we have bugs, but I honestly do not feel they are all that bad in our climate.

Tom: In our yard, we use Citronella candles and they work quite well.

Tom: Another feature for creating outdoor relaxation would be to install a water fountain in the garden. The sound of water is a great way to create a relaxing environment in your outdoor room.

Sandy: Our local landscapers have created the coolest water foundations out of boulders. They are magical. I do believe that is going to be my next purchase.

Tom: Sandy, we are forgetting one thing about creating outdoor space and that is to have comfortable furniture – outdoor chairs with outdoor tables and an outdoor sectional sofa.

Sandy: I have a rocker that I just love. And I would say do not forget the color in the outside space. I have fallen in love with outdoor rugs. Oh my gosh – so cool and nice.

Tom: And, let’s not forget flowers and plants to provide color and a place for the bees. Plants, plants, plants.

Sandy: And the birdbath! And the colorful flower pots! And the yard ornaments! And and and….

Tom: Sandy, I hope your readers can see that outdoor space can be created on a budget and made to feel comfortable and relaxing. I would encourage our readers to look at Pinterest, and Instagram for images that inspire them. That is a starting point.

Sandy: So, remember readers, decide if you want a seating area, a dining area, a firepit area, an outdoor kitchen, working space, etc. Think about the size of your space and what you want to achieve. And, I am sure Tom will agree, be realistic about what purpose you want your outdoor space to serve.

And remember, you do not have to purchase “new.” Second-hand shops are great for locating lanterns, plant pots, and even some fake plants.

Together, Tom and I say, “Happy Summer to you. Happy outdoor enjoyment to you. Happy relaxation to you.”

Until next month. Thanks for stopping in to read At Home with Tom and Sandy. QCBN

By Sandy Griffis and Tom Reilly

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506, renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association, 928-778-0040.

Getting to Know Tom Liuzzo with Granite Basin Engineering

August 2, 2020 By quadcities 2 Comments

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” Sit back, relax and enjoy. As you know, Tom and I have been sharing our column on a monthly basis with the community for several years now and what fun it has been. Starting three months ago and continuing forward for a few more publications, Tom and I have been introducing you to our community/industry partners so you can get to know them better. Our first month, you met Steve Simpson of Blue Line Designs, then we introduced you to Jim Reed of Reed Brothers Construction, and last month, you met Christie Board, our local certified kitchen and bath designer with Board By Board Design. This month, say hi to Tom Liuzzo, a registered land surveyor for Granite Basin Engineering.

How long have you been a land surveyor?

I have been active in the survey and engineering industry since 1988. I am licensed in both Arizona and Nevada and in addition to my background as a land surveyor, I have been involved with numerous public utility and infrastructure improvement projects throughout the state as a part of planning and design teams. I have an understanding of all aspects of improvement projects, including funding, planning, design, construction and administration. I have personally managed construction projects that have been valued more than $10 million as well as been principal surveyor on projects valued in excess of $100 million. The team at Granite Basin has been in place for 14 years.

Tell us about the services, products you and Granite Basin Engineering provide.

We are a full-service civil engineering and land survey firm that provides field survey, construction documents and layout services for public works, residential and commercial projects.

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

Early bird all the way – before the sun comes up.

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

Early on in my career, it was my first survey party chief. He showed me the important role that surveyors play in a field that is spearheaded by architects and engineers. My recent influences are my team at Granite Basin. We have been together for so long that we are like that excitingly dysfunctional family that always gets the job done.

What skill or personality trait do you most attribute to your success?

I listen to my clients; however, I am that pain-in-the-neck person that will ask you a hundred more questions about what you really want our services to do for you. In the end, both the client and I have a solid understanding of what the next steps are. I am also a good problem solver. As you know with construction in our region, you never know what we are going to dig up, so being able to fit things together in the field on the fly is a good skill to have.

How do you prefer to start your day?

I like to mix it up. Of course, this is all before the current state of affairs. Some days, I get to the office early and get the field crews out the door. Other days, I like to tour the dozen or so construction sites that we have active in the area before getting to the office. Once in a while, I would grab breakfast with an older friend of mine who is retired. I tap him for wisdom on whatever I feel needs his input. We always flip for breakfast.

What was your first job?

I had a job bagging clams for a dollar an hour.

What’s the worst job you’ve ever had, and what did you learn from it?

I used to operate a few sewer treatment plants. The systems were pressure systems, so each house had a grinder pump. I was their Maytag repairman and I would get the call to fix these systems at all hours. I learned two lessons at this point of my career. The first is that one of the treatment plants was my hometown where I lived. Once people found that out, they called my house for help before calling the treatment plant. The second thing is that grinder pumps don’t care for latex (if you know what I mean). No matter what you would flush, the latex pieces would get stuck in the pressure sensors. When I would show up to fix them and the resident would ask what was wrong I would explain it to them, but no one in the house would admit to using anything with latex so they had no idea how that got there.

What’s a mistake you made early on in your career, and what did you learn from it?

Where do I start? It’s not what mistake but how many. I used to get really upset with mistakes, but as I got older I realized mistakes help us learn about things we didn’t know we needed to learn. Mistakes can be healthy and need to be embraced whenever possible. In 1999, I was working on a portion of the new Fain Road or 89A. I had to match a point from another engineering firm on the end of the road section I was working on. I put that position in the computer, began developing the roadway corridor for topographic surveys and parcel description for acquisition of the right of way. At that time, I didn’t realize the issue we have at this elevation with grid and ground scale factors. Arizona State Plane values are large numbers (1.2 million by 500K) and when a value is scaled from the grid to the ground you can’t tell the difference with the naked eye unless you physically look at it on the ground. Not knowing this, I pushed forward with my work for months. Everything looked great on the computer. I finally went into the field with my trusty GPS gear, staked out the match point on the ground and it missed where it was intended to be by three-quarters of a mile. I subsequently passed out from fear! When I came to, I spent the next week burning the midnight oil fixing what I had done and learning how I did it and how not to do it again. That would have been a wild road to travel with a three-quarter mile connection miss!

What led you to this career?
AutoCAD. In 1988 in Northeast Pennsylvania, I was finishing up an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering from Penn State. I met an alumnus who owned a civil engineering firm and he let me know if there was anything I needed to just reach out to him. My final project was designing a stronger shifter for my Mustang GT that broke off in my hand while I was drag racing, legally. I needed a blueprint and I reached out to the alum and he was more than happy to have me come by the office in Scranton (no, not Dunder Mifflin) and get the blueprint made. He looked at it and asked how I drew it and I replied, “AutoCAD.” He showed me a new cubicle that they had built and in it was an IBM 286 computer with a large digitizing tablet. He asked if I could run it. I said yes, and 32 years later, I am still rocking and rolling.

What’s a work-related accomplishment that you’re really proud of?

I was taught to survey at the age of 20 by a guy who didn’t have to teach me but did it anyway. He was my mentor and is still my friend to this day. My accomplishment is that since I became licensed in 1999, I have mentored and helped 12 surveyors obtain their license. I will always pay that forward.

If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?

Ah, I have two things: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and drones. GIS because I know enough to be dangerous and I like to be self-sufficient with my software abilities. GIS software is not something that I use every day. Drones because they are most likely the next evolution just like GPS was 30 years ago. In the wrong hands, GPS is dangerous and so are drones. There is a large gap between how a drone gathers data and the end user. It is essentially a video game that apples to life. I see many game players who didn’t realize they just failed and didn’t know they should hit the reset button.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

When I was in high school, I was a pretty good athlete and my senior year I beat the future NFL standout Raghib (“Rocket”) Ismail in the finals for the 110 High Hurdles at the Pennsylvania District II Track and Field Championships.

What’s the best advice you were ever given?
When I worked for Sunrise Engineering in the mid- to late- 90s, the president of the company, Alden Robinson, told me that I should learn to train my replacement. That way, as I advance in my career, I have a legacy that can be built upon.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Sometimes wine, sometimes craft beer and usually anything maple-flavored, like ice cream, syrup, bacon.

If you could trade places with anyone for a day, who would you choose?

My wife, she makes being a lunch lady super cool and she gets joy from helping the kids. Plus, she is married to me! LOL!

If you had to pick one age to be permanently, which age would you choose?

Right now, in my early 50s, I am the best I have ever been.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Honest, loyal and fierce.

What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?

Riding my Harley alongside my wife on her Harley if we are not in Joshua Tree.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I am an amazing cook. I grew up in an Italian restaurant and I was a carnie for 17 years as a food vendor.

If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?

Time travel.

What’s your favorite sport and team?

Football and the new Las Vegas Raiders. I have been a Raiders fan my entire life.

What is the one item you can’t leave home without?

Knife or gun.

What’s one item you want to own that you don’t?

A mustang GT once again.

What’s your favorite place to eat in town?

Prescott Brewing Company.

How do you spend your free time?

Riding motorcycles, hiking, bowling.

Why do you like this industry?

No matter what the politicians try to do to mess it up, it is resilient and always recovers.

As Tom and I have said previously, we are extremely fortunate to have folks like Tom Liuzzo in the community and the neighborhood. You can meet Tom at granitebasinengineering.com or 928-899-2947.

A big thanks to you, Tom, for stopping in to visit “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” To our readers, we will see you next month with another superstar in the industry. QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506, renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association, 928-778-0040.

Finding that Special Place for Peace and Contemplation

February 1, 2020 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home with Tom and Sandy.”

Here we are, Tom, in a new year. As they say, how time flies. Speaking of time flying, fleeting and anything but coasting – we have been sharing our monthly column with the Quad Cities Business News readers for three years this March. Super cool, over-the-top fun and it is indeed an honor to be your partner, Tom, and share boundless significant information with our readers.

Sandy: I love saying Happy New Year and I promise to stop at the end of February. What about you, Tom?

Tom: It is awesome, Sandy. The close of one year and ushering in a new one inspires us to change.

Sandy: And change for the better. The goal, of course, is improving ourselves so we can improve the world around us.

Tom: Could not agree more. We first take stock of ourselves.

Sandy: I agree, every inspiring phrase I see all points to change beginning from within ourselves.

Tom: And that takes work. Just reading an inspirational quote on a beautiful photograph or work of art does not really cut it for me. We need to put our minds to work.

Sandy: I know. I sometimes get distracted and then pull myself back into focus at the task at hand. There are so many undertakings to do in a day and making sure they are started, completed and/or assigned out is fun, exciting and at times a challenge.

Tom: That is so true for all of us. I find that I need to make time to focus on the positive and to set goals for change.

Sandy: Spot on, Tom. I take some time every day to do something that betters me and the community around me. That is fun, inspiring and rewarding.

Tom: Change really does start with each of us. Whether spiritualness, mindfulness or any other ‘ness,’ I believe there is truth in that.

Sandy: There is truth in that, Tom. You know, I get so busy somedays, with so many ‘irons in the fire’ I need something to keep that fire lit each day. I have a Maya Angelou saying that has been taped to my desk for 15 years now and it says, “Determine to live life with flair and laughter.” I love flair and laughter.

Tom: That is true for all of us. The big question we ask is, ‘How do we get or stay inspired?’

Sandy: I don’t think there is a magic pill out there to instigate that inspirational spark. Like we have been saying, it takes work.

Tom: For me, that work is making time for contemplation. Not only is making time work, but staying focused enough to make that time and my mind sync is not an effortless undertaking.

Sandy: I am loving this conversation, but our topic is supposed to be about the home. Let’s weave that into our dialogue. You know, home is where the heart is.

Tom: I believe that. Your home should have a space in it where you feel comfortable enough to reflect and to get inspired.

Sandy: I love having my first cup of coffee in the kitchen every morning. No phones, no computer; just me gathering thoughts for the day and watching the prisms that I have hanging in my east window separate white light into a spectrum of colors as they float into the kitchen and dining room. Even on cloudy days, a light of color manages to sneak in. I love twirling them and the colors just bounce on the walls.

Tom: Most of us have a place in our home for just that. The important piece of the puzzle is to go beyond the daily routine. Give your mind time to consider matters larger than the day and how we fit into those.

Sandy: So, my coffee every morning may not be getting to it. I am not giving that up, but you make a good point about finding that place in my home.

Sandy: Everyone can take that challenge and find a place in his or her home.

Tom: Great point, Sandy. The first goal of being inspired to change is to find your ‘spot’ in your home.

Sandy: Where that is can depend on the time of day, and day of the week. I, for one, have multiple spaces in my home, sometimes under the bed! Just kidding! Different days and different times, a lot of that has to do with the way the sunlight comes into my house. Gotta have that sun!

Tom: Any place will work where we can consider the thoughts that drip into our minds.

Sandy: Sorting through those thoughts and seizing the ones that get that spark going is where inspiration begins for me.

Sandy: So, readers, what inspires you? We would love to hear from you. What room in your home or yard is there for you to reboot? And how do you reboot?

Tom: Sandy. Good analogy there with the reboot. Where do our readers go to clear out the stuff from the day or start a new day?

Sandy: We all need to remember there are times in our lives where we need to reboot ourselves.

Tom: Yes, it is easy to get stuck or follow the wrong path. We may just simply need a jolt.

Sandy: Tom, rebooting can’t be as easy as pressing a power button or holding down control-alt-delete, is it?

Tom: We all need to step back and survey our surroundings. It is ok to take a day off work, or go into that special relaxing area of our home, turn the music on and clear the mind. The goal is to reset yourself and you can’t do that when you are still wired and still “on.”

Sandy: To our readers, do not quit on yourself and your situation.

Thanks for stopping in and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. So, remember and determine to live life with flair and laughter!

We will be back next month with construction talk! QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040.

Making Resolutions, Spreading Kindness

January 6, 2020 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” Happy New Year! It is never too late. Every day, people pass up opportunities to make a difference in our community. We can all do something and it doesn’t have to cost anything. So, start a daily habit of doing something. If you have the power to make someone happy – DO IT. Our world needs more happy!

Tom and I thought our first column of 2020 should be about more happy, human kindness and resolutions. Settle in, and thanks for reading “At Home with Tom & Sandy.” We appreciate your readership, comments and to the many new friends that we have met through our column, thanks for your support.

SANDY: Tom, it is that time of year again – the New Year, time for those resolutions. Some resolutions are hard to stay the course like those diets and the exercise.

TOM: I am so bad about doing those personal varieties of resolutions, but for business, you bet I have made resolutions.

SANDY: Well…continue, Tom.

TOM: OK, there are two major issues that I resolve to continue to address along with other community partners and that is continuing to make a real push locally to broaden the opportunities for our young generation of men and women to join the trades as a career.

SANDY: Tom, I like that one and as you know, YCCA developed our first YCCA Bootcamp for young adults one year ago, January 2019, and our second YCCA Boot Camp is taking place this January 2020. The Bootcamp is FULL! This is a fabulous way to teach the trades to our younger generation.

TOM: I am really looking forward to helping those efforts. The struggle for qualified tradesman is not going away. I firmly believe this is a worthwhile resolution. I am honored to be able to share my knowledge on blueprint reading and construction math to the young adults. I am excited about my three hours of classroom time.

SANDY: What is the second resolution you are so passionate about?

TOM: It’s a resolution to our homeowners that by using venues such as our column, radio shows, our company newsletter and printed information we will help keep them apprised of new information, maintenance schedules, and continue to be an effective resource for them. We need to expand our ability to share all the new products on the market, new design trends and generally cool stuff that is out there and coming out there.

TOM: What about you? What about YCCA? Has the board jumped on the resolution bandwagon?

Your turn, Ms. Sandy!

SANDY: As an organization and partner in the community, we have resolved to continue to promote our organization and share with the community the importance of using local licensed contractors. YCCA and our board have also resolved that we will continue to give back to the community through our membership. There are many good causes that matter and YCCA will continue to give, mentor and volunteer in our community to try to make our community a better place. The most recent community partnership was the Shop With a Cop in December 2019. YCCA partnered with SignalzAZ and through our members, who graciously contributed. We collectively raised more than $15,000 for the underprivileged kids in our communities.

TOM: How about those resolutions that homeowners can follow all year long, like resolve to hire licensed contractors, resolve to hire local contractors.

SANDY: Right on, Tom, and I can add to that list: resolve to verify insurance; resolve to get estimates in writing, nothing verbal; resolve to turn the estimate into a signed executed contract; and, always resolve to put changes in writing.

SANDY: These resolutions are non-fattening, easy to stick to, healthy for your remodeling projects and headache-free.

SANDY: Tom, in the introduction of our column, we talked about “Happy.” I love to SMILE at everyone – it may be the only smile they get all day and gosh, it makes me feel good, and the smiles I receive in return are amazing. What about your input on Happy for our readers?

TOM: I always like to hold a door open for the person coming in or going out, young or old, male or female, it is the polite thing to do. Yep, kindness. Now, more than ever, people need to honestly think about what it means to be kind, not because the world is in any more of a state of chaos than it ever has been, but because our world lends itself less and less to kindness. The automatic sliding door has eliminated a common act of kindness people do every day, which is holding the door for someone. There are many instances that still require people to act on their sense of kindness and hold doors open, but the automatic door has diminished those acts.

SANDY: I think it is very important now-a-days to give affirmation, to praise people about a quality that they have that you really appreciate. Their faces just light up. That is Happy!

SANDY: I also love helping someone. When I see an elderly person struggling with belongings or groceries, I offer to help carry them and have even put bags into his or her car. I love the sweet golden-year citizens.

TOM: I will continue to resolve to let another driver into my lane when I see a turn signal on. It takes a nanosecond to slow down and let the driver into your lane.

SANDY: I say the ripple effect starts with one. One person to be a spark of kindness, we can all be that ONE person.

TOM: Everybody has the potential to change the world and I believe everyone wants to seize that potential. These people are called a RAKtivist. RAKtivists are the heroes of our world. They live and breathe kindness, sharing knowledge and leading by example. RAKtivists leaves a trail of warm-and-fuzzy feelings in their wake.

So you say, “WHAT IS A RAKTIVIST?” RAKtivist is short for ‘Random Acts of Kindness activist.’ RAKtivists are everywhere. RAKtivist: Anyone who believes kindness can change the world, who reminds everyone how much love there is. Let’s all be a RAKtivist.

SANDY: What I see happening is that when people are not kind, they are labeled as rude. Rudeness is becoming easier to recognize than kindness, such as not stopping to let the car pull out of the parking space, not letting the driver into your lane, not holding a door open, not saying, “please” or “thank you.” How about the people who not only just talk on the phone in a public place, but shout into a conversation?

Without kindness, there is rudeness. Kindness is simply when a person isn’t rude. To avoid rudeness, simply be kind. Kindness is stepping away from the self-centered oblivion so often promoted in modern culture and appreciate the people around you, even if it is someone just a few steps short of catching the door. So, the only New Year’s resolution we should all care about for 2019 is keeping kindness in mind and following our resolutions to be better people, better company owners and better community partners.

TOM: I got it, Sandy, and I agree with you. Everyone, go make a change.

SANDY: Nearly 100 years ago, aviator Amelia Earhart observed, “A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.”

From Tom and Sandy – Happy New Year! These resolutions, happiness expressions and widespread kindness makes our community feel happier. We crave the sweetness that kindness brings to life. In 2020, clear your schedule for kindness. Small, intentional acts of kindness can change the world.

Thanks for stopping in “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. See you next month. QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040.

Protecting Homes, Businesses from Wildfire

June 26, 2019 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” Sit back, relax and enjoy. Here we are, Tom, halfway through the year. Whooshing, zooming and rocketing through life.

Tom: Hello Sandy, my zipping, zooming and zapping gal. It is a joy to be with you again this month and to share our column with the community. I am not sure what we will end up talking about, but hey, hasn’t this weather been wonderfully crazy?

Sandy: Hello! Back at ya, Tom, and yes the weather has been glorious. The rain was so wonderful, even though it did slow down some construction; however, on the positive side we sure did need the precipitation.

Tom: Agreed. I don’t recall this area being as flush with water since the mid-‘80s after monsoons. It sure is helping all of the plants grow.

Sandy: And don’t forget the weeds, they are making me crazy. The rain brings many wonderful things, but weeds are not my favorite and they are popping up overnight. Tom, speaking of weeds and grass growing like crazy, let’s talk about what happens when things dry out and now these weeds contribute to an increased wildfire danger.

Tom: Sandy, good call. It is important for our readers to know what they should be doing around their homes and businesses to help them be safe.

You are talking about what it is like to live in the Prescott Area Wildland Urban Interface area. There is a lot of smart information out there for our readers. I know you have something up your sleeve on this subject, so who are you going to bring into the conversation?

Sandy: Why, our renowned and recognized Don Devendorf, division chief/fire marshal for the City of Prescott Fire Department. Hi, Don, and thanks for being our community partner this month.

Don: Hi, Sandy and Tom. Looks like you two are having a conversation that is right up my alley and I agree. It is so important to encourage everyone in Yavapai County to be prepared for this coming fire season by creating defensible space around their homes and having a plan for evacuation.

Sandy: Don, I know you can help our readers prepare their homes for the fire season. Where should we start?

Don: Would love to start the conversation right out of the gate that rains do more than just cause weeds to grow. Weeds can become a hazardous fuel when not managed.

Tom: So, Don, you are saying that no matter how hard we all work to contain the vegetation that surrounds us, we all know it will grow back.

Don: Yes, Tom; however, when hazardous fuels are managed, the possibility of a wildfire disaster is drastically reduced. Whether a wildfire starts with a lightning strike or is human caused, fuel management is the key to safety.

Sandy: I would say that every individual property owner has a stake in making sure that our area, all-encompassing Yavapai County, is safe, not to mention protecting their own home.

Sandy: Don, what exactly is hazard mitigation?

Don: Hazard mitigation is any action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from natural and man-made hazards.

Tom: Don, are there certain easy points that break down actions for homeowners to take to protect their property in order to create defensible space?

Don: First and foremost is to be ready. That begins with a house that firefighters can defend. That means to maintain an adequate defensible space by creating the buffer around your home, by removing dead plants, grass and weeds. This buffer helps to keep the fire away from your home.

Sandy: Defensible space is the required space between a structure and the wildland area that, under normal conditions, creates a sufficient buffer to slow or halt the spread of wildfire to a structure.

Don: Sandy, you are a great student and working with all of our builders and landscapers, I know you are a fan of defensible space.

Tom: Let’s share with our readers the different zones that a property owner should manage.

Don: Zone One extends 30 feet out from the buildings, structures, decks, etc. Zone Two extends 30 to 100 feet out from buildings, etc. In each of these zones, there is a requirement for removing dead materials, thinning vegetation, removing combustible material and removing “ladder fuels” (low-level vegetation that allows the fire to spread from the ground to the tree canopy) along with several defensible space actions.

Sandy: And then there are fire-resistant plants.

Don: Yes, indeed. All homeowners should look at planting high moisture content and low-growing plants in their yards.

Tom: This sure is not just a single column article. There are so many other components to protecting a home and a family.

Don: You are right, Tom. Every family should have an action plan. The fire season is now a year-round reality and our fire departments take every precaution to help protect homeowners and their property. However, successful preparation for a wildfire requires the homeowner to take personal responsibility for protecting themselves, their family and their property.

Sandy: As you say, Don, it’s not a question of IF but WHEN the next major fire will occur. And that’s why the most important person in protecting their life and property is not the firefighter, but the property owner. So, to all of our readers, please take advance planning and preparation.

Tom: You are so right, Sandy. We have many local landscapers that are educated in defensible space and will come out and survey your property as will the fire departments.

Sandy: So, together from Don, Tom and me, we say be aware and make a more fire-safe environment for you and your family.

Don: We hope the lesson learned from this column is that good preparedness efforts completed with neighbors working together with local agency partners can make a difference. For our readers, please check out yavapai.us/firesafety. This is a wonderful brochure that has more information about creating an evacuation plan and help for creating defensible space.

Sandy: In closing, for our readers, please reach out to PAWUIC, now known as Yavapai Fire Wise, they can help your community become firewise and learn what you can do within your neighborhood to take responsibility to protect your homes and your neighbors. yavapaifirewise.org

Tom: And one more important piece of information, everyone should sign up for

CODE RED at ycsoaz.gov/community/Emergency-Preparedness/Emergency-Notification-System, which will notify if there is a wildland fire in the area.

Thanks readers for stopping in and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. And a huge thank you to Don Devendorf, division chief/fire marshal with City of Prescott Fire. We truly appreciate you. QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040.

Finding Reputable Companies When You Cannot Shop Local

June 10, 2019 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” Sit back, relax and enjoy. Here we are, Tom, with the year just whooshing and whizzing as fast as can be.

Tom: I think I would add zooming to the industry life we are in.

Sandy: Agreed. But fun it is!

Tom: Sandy, what is your topic for our readers this month?

Sandy: Well, I have been talking to vendors around the area and even vendors in Phoenix to see what they do if they cannot readily supply a needed item to a home project. It seems that if the vendor cannot supply an item to the contractor in order to complete their job at hand, or the material is back-ordered, contractors are going online to purchase items for new homes and remodels. What would you do if you were faced with this dilemma?

Tom: We have, from time to time, purchased items online when we cannot find what we need locally or something is on backorder that can potentially delay the job.

Sandy: I know that you, Tom, and so many of our other contractors and local business men and women and our citizens’ first stop is supporting our local vendors first. That is not only smart but good business practice as well. Supporting local should always be first!

Tom: Absolutely. We look at the locally owned stores first and the larger companies that have served us for decades.

Sandy: Tom, for our readers, when you buy local, more money stays in the community. When you spend money at locally owned businesses, it is pretty easy to understand that those dollars directly impact the local economy, as they keep local businesses in business. The multiplier effect is the amount of local economic activity that is triggered by the purchase of any one item. Community economics tells us that the more a dollar circulates in a defined region, and the faster it circulates, the more income, wealth and jobs it creates.

Keeping dollars local is an act of reinvestment in your community. Buying local products and services and banking locally keeps money circulating closer to where you spend it. This creates a ripple effect as those businesses and their employees in turn spend your money locally. Corporate chains send most of our money out of town. Okay, I am off my soapbox!

Tom: Very true. We believe in local; however, there are times when we are unable to purchase what we need locally, so we must purchase item online.

Sandy: I say shop local, except, I admit, I am an online shoe shopper. There are perils to online shoe shopping as well as benefits; shoes too small, too big, too flat, heels too high, so in the case of online purchasing perils, what steps can you recommend to our readers that Renovations takes to ensure security and quality and good fit?

Tom: Great question. And I will start with a one-word answer from which we can expand upon, RESEARCH. We do a lot of research.

Sandy: Do you research companies or products or both? I would imagine both.

Tom: Yes, Sandy, you are correct. Some of the products we have purchased in the past because no local stock or back-order have been high-ticket items. Initially, we look to well-established manufactures as a source for what we need. They, of course, do not require the vetting that less well-known manufactures need. Smaller specialty products are out there in abundance and often with a little background checking, they turn out to be reputable companies.

Sandy: Interesting. What are some of the methods you use to determine the reputation a company has?

Tom: We start by looking in the web address of a company to see if it is noted as a secure site. There is a padlock icon that appears, letting you know there is a secure system within which to do business.

Sandy: I always read the product reviews. They tell a real story about a company. And if the website doesn’t have reviews, I move on.

Tom: Exactly. Dee, in our office, is our online research guru. She looks at the reviews for everything we purchase and determines if the site is secure enough to do business with.

Sandy: So, the two steps are determining if you move forward are company/product reviews and to verify their website offers a secure means to do business with.

Tom: We also look at it in context of the time it would take to travel to another area, like the Valley, vs. ordering online.

Sandy: Good time management. I like that. What are some of the pitfalls you have found?

Tom: Whenever you get on the internet, or the information highway, you are putting some information about yourself out there. When you purchase using credit cards, that info can be out there, too, so our firm is extremely cautious. In fact, many times if we need to order a product online, we even call and talk with a principal of the firm as well.

Sandy: What about returns or items that aren’t what they appear to be?

Tom: Yes. Most reputable companies will have a return label in the shipping box.

Sandy: Yes, my shoes always have a return label! Try them on; too large, too small, color off, back into the box they go. What are some of the sites you work with, Tom, when purchasing items for remodels and or new builds?

Tom: We work with several construction specialty sites that are geared and set up to assist with prompt shipping. Build.com is a source we use as well.

Sandy: Tom, product selection and availability is probably a major reason why you and other contractors would turn to relatively specialized online retailers for items.

Tom: Indeed, it is. A purchase from an e-commerce business primarily happens because that business offered a unique product not available from larger competitors or offers the product that will keep us on schedule should our regular supplier not be able to support us.

Sandy: It is refreshing to know that these smaller retailers and/or specialized online companies can offer particular products, those hard to find products and in-stock products to keep you builders on schedule.

Tom: There are specialty retailers that many contractors use because they have many times the number of products in a particular category vs. the relatively larger mass-market retailer with more product categories and less product items.

For example, we recently had a new build with specialized hardware. There is a mid-market, e-commerce retail chain that carries more than 90,000 product SKUs. Among these many thousands of products, this retailer carries roughly 20 different hardware designs.

In contrast, there are several small online hardware specialty stores that carry a few hundred different hardware designs. This incredible product depth and breadth within the hardware category attracts builders when we need a specialty hardware item.

Sandy: Tom, is it the number of products within a category that matters as much as which products are offered?

Tom: Unique choices are important.

Buying direct from big box stores is popular; however, it all depends on what you are looking for. Our experience with purchasing items for our projects has been all over the board, with our first choice of course buying local.

Sandy: However, supporting local businesses and organizations means your money stays local, through taxes, investments and more. That means that your hard-earned money, once spent, continues to work for you. Local first, then check out those specialty construction online sites.

Thanks, readers, for stopping in and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. We will see you next month. QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040.

Understanding the Energy Code

June 3, 2019 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” Enjoy the read!

Sandy: Well, Tom, here we are once again, ready to keep our readers educated and informed. I have received several calls from homeowners asking what the energy code is all about. What do you say we talk about that?

Tom: Great topic. We educate our clients about this exact item quite often. Especially those homeowners with older homes; often those with homes built in the early 1900s.

Sandy: So, Tom, I know building codes in one form or another have been around for centuries, what do you say we give our readers a little history on the Energy Code? Buildings account for approximately 41% of all energy consumption and 72% of electricity usage in the United States. Building and energy code standards are in place to set minimum requirements for energy-efficient design and construction for new and renovated buildings, assuring reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions over the life of buildings. Boy, did I start off with a big statement. Now, it is your turn.

Tom: Glad to. Around the late 1970s, the Department of Energy and the foundation organizations of the ICC (International Code Committee) began looking at ways to reduce energy consumption of the built environment and all facets of our lives. Working on updating codes and developing something that could be implemented introduced the initial IECC, (the International Energy Conservation Code) in the 1990s.

The code was developed by several organizations and the DOE basically endorsed the code. You and I are both aware that building code adoption of any kind is a local jurisdictional decision. The ICC recommends and the locals decide.

Sandy: Building codes are state laws. The United States does not have a national building code or energy code.

Tom: You are absolutely correct, Sandy. Instead, states and our local governments can choose to adopt one and/or a portion of the national energy code and or one of the many building codes, such as fire, electrical, structural or plumbing.

Sandy: Energy codes are different than appliance and equipment standards. Energy codes cover the building itself such as walls, insulation, windows, air leakage and duct leakage. Appliance and equipment standards cover energy consumption and usage of the products that go into our homes.

Sandy: Okay, Tom, how does the energy code work?

Tom: First, the energy codes are developed and as I said the International Code Council develops the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which contains chapters for both residential and commercial buildings.

Sandy: How often are new codes developed?

Tom: New codes being developed every three years. Final versions of each new edition are determined by a vote of the committee.

Sandy: Codes are developed, and then they are adopted, which is what our local jurisdictions are going through right now. Our local jurisdictions are reviewing these codes through our Advisory & Appeals Boards, then through our mayors and councils for adoption.

Tom: Code Compliance is the final step and a key issue. The key to realizing the full savings potential of building energy codes is by ensuring that builders are complying with them. Sandy, it is great what YCCA and the local jurisdictions have been doing to educate and share with our industry the changes in the codes.

Tom: Our other jurisdictions: Town of Town of Chino Valley, Town of Prescott Valley, City of Prescott, all adopted the 2006 energy code several years ago and that really changed our industry quite a bit. The Town of Prescott Valley is staying with the 2006 Energy Code as is Yavapai County. The City of Prescott adopted the 2012 Energy Code.

Tom: For commercial construction, the compliance system is referred to as COMcheck. REScheck is for residential. That is the one I am most familiar with. These software systems will help analyze a building’s design by assigning a value to the various components. These values are added up and the overall building needs to hit established minimums to be considered compliant.

Sandy: There are a lot of details that go into that process. The standards for construction have changed quite a bit through the years. Areas such as foundations, insulation, minimum R values for walls and roofs, window size and orientation are just a few of the components affected.

With new construction, meeting those standards is a little easier than when remodeling an existing older home. How do you incorporate these new codes into your projects?

Tom: Great question. As you might suspect, each project can be a little different. The accepted standard by local jurisdictions is that if you touch it, you must bring it up to current codes. That includes all building codes.

Sandy: So if you remove the drywall in a master bath remodel, will you have to change the structure and electrical if it does not meet current codes?

Tom: Depends. If we are making a new window opening then the structure must comply. If we open the wall up for plumbing modifications and it is an exterior wall then we would need to bring the insulation of the opened area up to code. That can be a challenge sometimes, depending on wall thickness.

Sandy: What if you can’t meet the code? Will jurisdictions look at extenuating circumstances on a case by case basis?

Tom: Usually, yes. We have found building officials to be realistic in the application of codes.

Sandy: Do you need to perform a REZcheck on remodels of an existing home?

Tom: Typically, only if we are doing an addition to the home. The addition must meet the energy code standards.

The goal in adopting the Energy code is of course to reduce the energy footprint of the built environment. In developing the code, the committee looked at the areas and components of a building that typically cause energy to be consumed and created standards for these to address the specific cause.

Sandy: Windows, Doors, Duct work, HVAC systems all those have standards based on reducing energy consumption. Not just insulation, although that is addressed.

The climate in different areas will require a different approach and different standards. Tell our readers how this is addressed. One size does not fit all!

Tom: Very true! The codes established different zones to address the variations of climate in different areas. Yavapai County alone has 5 different zones. The standards in Camp Verde are not the same as Crown King.

Sandy: What are some of the differences?

Tom: Perhaps the most obvious would be insulation requirements. Less obvious would be the U value in windows.

Sandy: Ahhhh I know what U value is – the measurement of the ability of the window to transmit heat.

Tom: WOW, you are not just another pretty face! That is correct. The lower the U value the greater resistance to heat transfer.

Sandy: Thanks for that, mister. So, in short, the energy code is here to stay. It has added cost to the construction of buildings. Has anyone determined the savings to the homeowners?

Tom: Great question. I am sure they have but I am not aware of a study. Might be a google moment.

Sandy: Tom, this is a huge subject that we have just lightly touched upon. I say we continue this topic next month. The Impact of Building Energy Codes is mammoth and represents significant savings to home and business owners. What that amount is I have no idea, but to our readers – Tom and I are on it and more to follow next month!

Thanks readers for stopping in and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. Until next month. QCBN

Tom Reilly, architect, contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, executive director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040. ycca@cableone.net

What to Consider When Choosing Cabinets

October 24, 2018 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Welcome to “At Home With Tom & Sandy.” As we always are, Tom and I are happy and enthusiastic and maybe a little wound-up to give you the inside scoop, what’s up, what’s down and what’s hot on cabinets this month.

Cabinet [kab-uh-nit]

Noun – a piece of furniture with shelves, drawers, etc., for holding or displaying items: a curio cabinet; a file cabinet, a wall cupboard used for storage, as with kitchen utensils or toilet articles: a kitchen cabinet; a medicine cabinet, a piece of furniture containing a radio or television set.

Adjective – pertaining to a political cabinet

Sandy: What should we discuss today, Tom, Noun Cabinet or Adjective Cabinet?

Tom: Since we both love the construction industry, I say let’s stick with the Noun Cabinet.

Tom: Hey, Sandy, ask me anything about cabinets!

Sandy: Really – anything?

Tom: Yeah, ask me, come on, ask me!

Sandy: Okay, Mr. Reilly, give me all you have on cabinets.

Tom: We all have cabinets in our homes, offices, apartments, garages and every place of business has some sort of cabinet. Some are good, some are great and some are just over the top.

Sandy: The difference in those categories of good, great and over the top must have something to do with the construction materials. I have seen a lot of different cabinets. Tom, what is the real measure of a cabinet, surely, it just isn’t the doors, is it?

Tom: Correct. The basic cabinet is a box. Base, or lower, cabinets are typically two feet deep and upper cabinets typically one foot deep. There are four materials used commonly in the construction of the cabinet boxes.

Sandy: I am sure they are all wood products. I am aware of particleboard and plywood, with some solid wood thrown in. What is the fourth?

Tom: There are two types of particle board. Each are made with wood chips and glues. Regular particle board is one the other is MDF board, Medium Density Fiberboard. This is made under pressure and is a dense and more structurally sound product.

Sandy: So, the boxes are always made from one of these four products. How would you grade them from good to “over the top,” as you put it?

Tom: I would start with Particle board, then MDF, moving to plywood and over the top would be a solid wood cabinet.

Sandy: I have seen solid wood on cabinets, but the whole box? That would be over the top. Those products sound more like furniture.

Tom: Well, yes and no. Often upper cabinets might be fitted with clear glass in the door frames. Since you can see inside, those cabinets are the ones you might see solid wood boxes.

Sandy: Tom, can cabinets also be a veneer of wood on any of the other products as well?

Tom: True. We can talk about that when we get to finishes. Going back to the box construction, they can be either face frame, or frameless. This has to do with how the cabinet fronts are made. The face frame is typically solid wood, and door hinges are mounted to this frame. With frameless cabinets, the hinges and doors are mounted to the sides of the box.

Sandy: That would be more of the Euro style where the doors and drawer fronts cover the entire box, as opposed to the face frame cabinet where the styles and rails are partially exposed.

Tom: The doors and drawer fronts can be flush with the frame as well. This inset style has a very slick look to it, and gives more texture to a cabinet system.

Sandy: I have seen that style and it is a fantastic look. Ultra-modern! I have seen kitchens where wood grain is all lined up, boy oh boy, is that neat.

Tom: Yes they are. That style tends to be a higher end cabinet. There are other styles that look great as well. The face front or partial overlay are fairly standard and comprise most of what we see these days.

Sandy: The door and drawer front choices are what make the look. And there are so many to choose from, hundreds I would guess.

Tom: Oh yeah. When we understand our client’s aesthetic goals, we can help narrow down the choices to a less formidable array of choices.

Sandy: Can I go back to finishes now?

Solid wood isn’t the only frame I have seen. Particleboard, MDF and plywood is often clad with a veneer of either wood, plastic laminate or in some areas I have seen a photographed finish applied to one of the manufactured wood products.

Tom: Yes, I have seen that as well. That is often referred to as a Melamine finish. The thin, plastic-like film is adhered to one of the manufactured wood products to protect that product as well as lining the cabinet box making it easier to clean and maintain.

Melamine is also a great finish for cabinets that are used for storage in garages and sheds. With those applications, I highly recommend using plywood for the cabinet frames. Why? Because plywood tends to be stronger and more durable than the other manufactured wood products.

Sandy: We talk about wood cabinets that can be finished with a stain, making them lighter or darker depending on the chosen color scheme. Would you recommend painting cabinets or stain if wood is being used?

Tom: That depends on the client’s aesthetic goals. Paint can add a colorful solution to staining wood. It certainly opens up different possibilities. Personally, I like wood and would probably opt for a stain if the wood grain is really cool, like a rosewood or fine maple type of grain.

Sandy: Tom, these days, with all of the Get Stylish cabinets that homeowners desire, I would think that even high-quality cabinets can be ordered if there is a tight timeline because of the dramatically improved cabinet materials, form and function and then if folks have the time they can order – of course – the wonderful custom cabinets.

Tom: Homeowners these days have what seems like thousands of cabinet styles, configurations from wall to base cabinets, door styles, finishes, even solid wood shelves, hinges and drawer slides are extremely popular now days.

Sandy: Tom, based on that statement, I would say there are unlimited possibilities for mixing and matching kitchen cabinets or vanity cabinets so the homeowner can get the configuration they desire.

Sandy: We have several fabulous cabinet contractors in town and whether homeowners are working on high-end homes or a small condo or anything in between, our cabinet Van Goghs as I call them have a solution that will fit any budget, lifestyle and give the homeowner great value for their money.

Tom: To end our cabinet column, I want to let our readers know there are many things to take into consideration when planning your cabinets. First, consider placement of the cabinets. Open floor plans have become a common trend, and the placement of your cabinets will be important.

Sandy: I would say next order of importance would be the consideration of the materials for the cabinet design.

Tom: Yes, Sandy, you are right and then the next order of importance would be to consider cabinet doors. Door style is an important component of kitchen cabinet design, as it commonly defines the style of a kitchen. Modern cabinets have a more streamlined design, featuring straight, clean lines without extra ornamentation and then there are the traditional cabinets, often with raised panel doors.

Sandy: And then I love cabinet hardware. Hardware is such an opportunity for a homeowner to express their personal design style. It is an inexpensive and easy way to change the look of your cabinets. I would love to change my cabinet hardware like I change shoes! How cool would that be?

Tom: Whatever details a homeowner decides to go with when choosing their kitchen cabinet design, it will make a big impact in your home. My recommendation is to take some time to check out all the different combinations.

Sandy: Tom, I hope our column has informed homeowners that the range of kitchen cabinet design ideas is endless, but the truth is that kitchen cabinet styles generally falls into one category and that is the one which suit the design tastes of the homeowner.

As always, thanks to our readers for stopping by and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing our column with you. Always love hearing from the community. Enjoy October! QCBN

Tom Reilly, architect, contractor, Renovations 928-445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Sandy Griffis, executive director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-778-0040. ycca@cableone.net

Tom Reilly

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