Category: News

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you gather with family, entertain friends and in general, make memories. As such, it should exude comfort. If your current condo kitchen is outdated and not your favorite place in your home, it may be time for a remodel. If you’re considering remodeling your condo kitchen, here are five questions you should ask yourself before getting started. 

1) What are my goals? 

Before taking a sledgehammer to your dated countertops, you should first ask yourself what you would like to accomplish with your kitchen remodel. Ask yourself if you’re looking to update the look of your kitchen, make it more functional and/or add more storage. Are you looking to turn your kitchen into a chef’s paradise, make it a place to entertain or add space so your kids can do their homework? Keep in mind that the more goals you have for your kitchen, the higher the price tag may be. It’s important to ask yourself if you’re willing to splurge to make your kitchen into your new favorite room in your condo. 

2) What’s my budget? 

Now that you have an idea for what your goals are for your new condo kitchen, you can set a budget. Setting a budget will help you stay on track and keep things realistic. If you’re planning on hiring a contractor, be sure to share your budget with them so you both are on the same page. 

3) Do I want to keep this layout? 

Keep in mind that if you do decide to move major plumbing fixtures like the sink, this will add extra costs potentially raising your budget. However, if you have big dreams and your budget is up for the task, changing your layout can be the perfect way to finally add that breakfast nook you’ve always wanted or near endless amount of counter space. 

While considering changing your layout, you should also consider the lighting of your kitchen and how it could be improved. Would you like to add more natural light, utilize the natural light you have most effectively and/or get rid of dated light fixtures that won’t do your new space any justice? Thinking of your lighting during when deciding if you’d like to change the layout of your kitchen will aid you in making this critical decision. 

4) How much storage do I want and need? 

A lot of homeowners decide to remodel their kitchens due to a lack of storage. When you’re remodeling your condo kitchen, think of what storage needs and how a remodel can solve these problems. Are you in need of a bigger pantry, a double-door fridge/freezer or even a wine cooler? Considering these options first will ensure the end result you desire.

5) Do I need professional help? 

Remodeling a condo kitchen is not a simple task by any means. Before you decide to make this project a DIY, ask yourself if you’re going to need professional help. For large projects like a kitchen remodel, it’s definitely recommended. A contractor can help you with construction, design, architecture, permitting, working with your homeowners’ association and more. In Florida, you’re required to obtain a building permit before renovating your condo kitchen because condominiums are considered a multi-family, a homeowner is not allowed to obtain an owner-builder permit. A contractor knows these requirements and regulations and can take the stress of them out of your hands. You’ll quickly see the ROI when the project is in a trusted professional’s hands and you’re left with your dream condo kitchen without all the stress of managing the remodel yourself.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your condo kitchen remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.

Having spent more time in our homes that ever before, you may have noticed your bathroom is in need of a refresh. However, if you’re not in the market to spend tons of money on the project, there are creative ways to get the project done on a budget. If this is your case, here are five bathroom remodeling ideas that won’t break the bank. 

1) Limit your tile

Tile can get expensive. If you’re looking to save money on your bathroom remodel, limit the amount of tile you use and concentrate on using it in areas that are a necessity, such as high-impact areas like the floor. In your shower, the tile will need to go to at least the showerhead. To avoid using floor-to-ceiling tile in the shower, you can save by tiling to the showerhead and then painting the rest.

If you have expensive tastes, consider using artistic and expensive tile only as an accent. They will stand out against the rest of your bathroom and save you money by utilizing a less-expensive tile on the majority of the area. 

2) Get smart with your countertops 

Lots of homeowners are splurging on granite countertops. Because the sheer amount you’ll need in your bathroom is much smaller than in your kitchen, while you’re not spending as much here there’s still an opportunity to save money. 

Take a look at the most popular colors of granite countertops. Neutral colors like tan, brown and white are being used by most homeowners during remodels. You can instead opt for colors that aren’t used as frequently to save money and make your bathroom stand from the crowd.

Additionally, most countertop fabricators have remnants from larger projects that are the ideal size for bathroom countertops and are much more affordable. You can look into this option to save money and recycle at the same time.

3) Try a new paint color

A budget-friendly way to give your bathroom a new look is to give it a fresh coat of paint. However, if you’re going to take on this project, it may be best to enlist the help of a professional. This project will take a lot of time, patience and painters’ tape due to the smaller space of most bathrooms. There are nooks, crannies, bathtubs, windows, mirrors, tiles and more to avoid. Although you’ll save money on the paint, trust us when we say you may want to hire a professional for this one!

4) Fight the urge to move major plumbing fixtures

You can save lots of money by leaving the toilet and tub/shower right where they are. If their current locations fit your needs, there’s no need to move them! Moving these plumbing fixtures will drive up the cost of any bathroom remodeling project. 

5) Go green 

If you’re looking for bathroom remodeling ideas, consider going green with your choices. Adding new appliances like low-flow toilets, sinks and showerheads will not only help you conserve water, but they’ll save you money month to month on your energy and water bills.

All in all, remodeling your bathroom on a budget is a great way to give your home a refresh. Additionally, it can benefit you in the long run, as renovating your home’s bathroom is a proven way to increase your ROI should you choose to sell down the road.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your bathroom remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your bathroom remodeling project.

While movie theatres, restaurants and other businesses must close during the coronavirus pandemic, Varian Construction is classified as an essential business. Our operations are able to continue as “normal” during this time and we’re taking intentional and careful measures as outlined by the Center for Disease Control to slow the spread of the virus, maintain a safe jobsite and ensure the safety of our staff and clients. Here’s what we’re doing: 

• Frequently cleaning and disinfecting of commonly used surfaces 
• Practicing social distancing 
• Employees who have symptoms are encouraged to stay home until symptoms have subsided 
• Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
• Avoiding using other employees’ phones, desks, offices and other work tools and equipment, when possible. If necessary, they are cleaned and disinfected before and after use.
• Wearing personal protective equipment on and off the jobsite 

As an essential business, we’re hard at work continuing to transform people’s homes into their dream homes through our remodeling services. If spending more time in your home has you thinking of all the projects that need to be completed, the perfect time to start is now, and Varian Construction is open for business and able to help you get the ball rolling.  

Nonessential businesses have had to close their doors temporarily. As a business owner, now might be a good time to give your business a facelift. With Varian Construction’s commercial remodeling services, we can assist with the design and completion of all project types so your business is looking its best when your employees and patrons can safely return. 

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.  

In this time of social distancing, homeowners are spending more time in their homes – and kitchens – than ever. If spending time in your kitchen has revealed that it’s time for a revamp, here are 10 kitchen design ideas that will breathe new life into your space. 

1) Large tile backsplash

Popularly seen in many kitchens is a tile backsplash. While this feature is practical, why not mix it up with new, large tiles? It’s an interesting and unique way to breathe new life into your kitchen. Because this isn’t a major project, it’s a simple way to refresh your kitchen without breaking the bank. 

2) Natural textures and tones

Stained and painted woods are on the rise for 2020 kitchen trends. However, lots of homeowners are leaving the materials in their natural state or adding an exposed rock look to their kitchens to make them feel more earthy. Many are adding kitchen islands, or just the topper, with pretty, grainy wood. Brown wooden shelves that appear original to the home would also make a great addition. 

3) Floor-to-ceiling storage

Floor-to-ceiling storage is a great way to mix up the look of your kitchen while adding functionality. You’re able to effortlessly hide bulky pots and pans, oversized serving platters and many other miscellaneous items. You may want to consider adding sweeping dark wood cabinets that contrast against a lighter kitchen theme. 

4) Waterfall islands

Waterfall islands are a luxury trend that’s sure to serve as an easy upgrade to your kitchen. They flow seamlessly from the top of the counter and over all the sides to the floor. They tend to blend all surfaces of your kitchen in a new and trendy way. 

5) Hidden kitchen appliances

If you’re over stainless steel facades, try hiding your kitchen appliances with fronts that mimic your cabinetry. Refrigerators and dishwashers disappear when clad to match your cabinets. Many homeowners are even getting their massive oven hoods in on the action and hiding them from view!

6) Standout sinks

While some are looking to hide their appliances, other trends encourage you to make them stand out. A stand-out, apron-front sink is sure to make your farmhouse kitchen go from outdated to on-point. 

7) Open shelving

Open shelving in your kitchen is a unique way to showcase your treasures whether it be kitchenware, antique or other china treasures. See-through storage means everything is easy to find! 

8) Statement floors

Rugs aren’t practical for a heavy use area like kitchens. Not to mention, spills happen often here, and rugs aren’t as easy to clean! If you’re craving a statement piece in your kitchen, statement floors are the optimal way to get it done. 

9) Pretty pantries

If you’re one of the lucky ones that have a pantry, a 2020 home trend is to give that pantry a makeover and have it be a room where you show off your organizational skills and stockpile of nonperishables. Some owners are even removing the doors and adding a refurbished and brightly painted screened-in porch door so you really can’t miss the room!

10) Black appliances

Black appliances are making an appearance in trendy kitchens across the globe. Stainless steel has its merits, but in smaller kitchens the silver can quickly dominate the space. Appliance manufacturers like GE, Samsung and Whirlpool have noticed this and began introducing refrigerators, stoves and microwaves in sleek and sophisticated shades of black and slate. 

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.  

The end results of a home remodel are extremely exciting. However, the process of accomplishing this big task can be stressful and is something that you, as a homeowner, should prepare for. If you’re not sure how to prepare for your home remodel, here five things we recommend doing.

Make a record of your belongings

Whether it be a kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel or whole-home remodel, we recommend making a record of your belongings. It’s important to do so for a few reasons. For one, it’ll let you know what new items you should purchase and what doesn’t have a new place in your new space. Second, it’s not easy to keep track of your assets for insurance purposes. This is an opportunity to make a record of your assets and values. Lastly, it’ll help you identify a storage solution. For some, these items may be stored in a guest bedroom or large closet on a temporary basis. If you’re contemplating a larger project like a whole house remodel, you may need to consider getting a storage unit for the project’s duration.

Clean out the fridge

If you’re remodeling your kitchen, now’s the time to clean out the refrigerator. Whether it’s finding a way to consume what you have, throw out what you’ll never use in the freezer or donating your nonperishables, they won’t be needed or of much use while your kitchen is being redone.

Prepare for dust

Dust and debris will be an unavoidable aspect of a remodel, so all you can do is prepare for it! We recommend using extra fitted sheets to cover furniture like couches and chairs. If you have large and open shelving units, attach a plastic sheet to the front of them so your china doesn’t gather more dust. Any doors to any rooms that are not being worked on should be shut during construction. While you’re at it, roll up any extra area rugs you may have in your home so they don’t collect dust and any other debris workers’ boots may bring in from the outdoors.

Create a safe room for pets

You’re not the only one who might be stressed out during your remodel, your pets might be too! If you’re planning on leaving your pets home during the day during construction, we recommend creating a safe room for them where they can be left alone. Extra treats and new toys are encouraged, too!

Have fun with it!

Keep your eyes on the prize during this process, as your dream will soon become a reality! Take lots of progress photos so you may look back on this time fondly and be appreciative of your new space.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to begin your home remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. They go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.

By remodeling your home, you’re bringing it up to date without having to buy new. One of the greatest benefits to remodeling is that it improves the value of your home and makes it more attractive to future buyers, should you decide to sell down the road. If you’re looking to remodel your home to improve its value, here are five ideas for you to consider.

Upgrade the bathrooms

One sure way to improve the value of your home through a remodel is by looking at the new design trends for the year and implementing them. For example, one of the new trends for bathrooms is a destination tub. This free-standing tub opens up your space and can make a master bathroom feel like an all-inclusive resort. In fact, many millennial homeowners are removing their tubs entirely as they don’t have time for baths and instead prefer showers. If you’re really looking to appeal to the millennial market, a walk-through, dual-head shower may be perfect for the on-the-go homeowner.

Improve your home’s wellness

Another home improvement trend is an increased focus on home wellness. Home wellness upgrades include, but are not limited to, non-toxic materials being used during the remodeling process, water and air purification systems and circadian lighting to improve sleep. Since home wellness is a popular trend with the millennial market, adding these improvements to your home during a remodel will help you appeal to them and will increase the value of your property.

Update the kitchen

Most Americans spend a considerable amount of time in their kitchen. With this being said, it should be a pleasant and up-to-date room to hang out in, and future homeowners agree. If you are looking to remodel your kitchen to increase the value of your home, it’s extremely important to consider the cost of the materials and work compared to the value it will add. If you add marble or granite counter tops, will you be able to get back this money and more when and if you sell? If not, it’s recommended to consider other upgrades that can help increase the value of your home without breaking the bank.

Add smart features

In a world where everything is at our fingertips thanks to technology, why should our homes be any different? Many homeowners are upgrading their homes to have smart features. If you can beat them to it with a home on the market that already has these features, this is sure to stand out against any other homes they may be looking at. Smart features can range anywhere from smart sinks in the kitchen, to smart lighting and to unmonitored security systems.

Add a home office

An increasing number of companies are allowing employees to work from home either part-time or full-time. Opening up an existing space or converting an extra bedroom into a home office can really increase the value of your home both monetarily and functionally for millennial homeowners. If this is something you’re considering, be sure to add grounded outlets and USB ports to the room for easy charging and accessibility.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project all while improving the value of your home, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their work all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.

Big projects like home remodels will always come with both challenges and opportunities. For a better understanding of what to expect during your remodeling project in Southwest Florida, here are the challenges and opportunities we often see during a remodeling project.

Challenge #1 – Moisture

In Florida’s subtropical climate, the weather can have an adverse effect on our homes. During the remodel, the smell of moisture damage may become overwhelming with the homeowners often finding they have mold and didn’t even realize it. To overcome this challenge and prevent further damage, your contractor should find any and all leaks and repair them. Additionally, in Florida, the humidity in homes is controlled by the HVAC system. An evaluation of this system is a good way to determine its efficiency and if it needs to be repaired or replaced to prevent future damage.

Opportunity #1 – Life in the 21st century

Remodeling your home will allow you to reflect current trends. Since most of us use technology nearly 24/7, you can update your home with smart home features. Whether it’s checking to see if the door is locked when you get to work, sending your Roomba to clean while you’re away or turning the temperature on so your pool is warm when you get home, adding these modern features to your home will make your life all the more convenient.

Some trends we’ve also noticed for 2020 include the destination tub, home wellness improvements and climate proofing. These new trends are bound to not only make your home more current, but also more convenient.

Challenge #2 – Managing a temporary relocation

What stresses some individuals most about remodeling is the temporary relocation and an essential space that can no longer be used such as a kitchen. Unfortunately, it’s something that comes with a remodel and cannot be avoided. However, to make remodeling a little less stressful, you can ask your contractor a few key questions to better prepare you for what this process will be like. We recommend asking the following:

• What does a day of work typically look like for you?
• Do you work 9 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday or are there additional times I should prepare for?
• Who will be working in my home?
• Do you clean up each day at the end of the day?
• Have you completed projects like mine of a similar scope?
• How long do you expect my project to take?
• How long have similar projects taken?

Opportunity #2 – Remodel the home to grow with you

Florida is the #1 spot in the country for individuals to retire. In fact, people over the age of 60 make up about 23% of the population. If you’re getting older but aren’t looking to spend your glory days in a retirement home, you can use a remodel as an opportunity to have your home grow with you. A number of contractors are Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists. This certification program teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills that are essential to older adults. Remodeling your home into a safe, yet stimulating environment that allows you to maintain your independence as you age. It provides the contractor with the skills necessary to help their clients make choices that will help them stay in their homes safely and securely as they get older. Read more here.

Challenge #3 – Homeowners’ Associations

While a majority of homes in Southwest Florida find themselves in gated communities, they also find themselves with homeowner associations. Homeowner associations ensure that our properties are maintained, that shared areas and clubhouses are up to date… and they are often accompanied by a strict set of rules. Homeowner associations can prove to be challenging when it comes to regulations on when workers and trucks can be present, how long the duration of your project can last and so on. Be sure to check with your homeowner association before beginning any major project and work with a contractor that will actively communicate with them during the process.

Opportunity #3 – Make the space all your own

Did you buy your home because it met your basic needs? Was it in your budget? Have you always dreamed of something better, but too many memories have been made to leave behind? Good news. Remodeling your home allows you to make the place all your own while staying put. With a remodel, you can finally get rid of the tub in the master bathroom that you despise. You can add the kitchen island you’ve always dreamed of and open up the space in your living room. You’re able to make the home all your own while keeping all the memories you’ve made there over the years.

Challenge #4 – Hiring the right contractor

One of the biggest challenges to remodeling your home is choosing the right contractor. You put a lot of trust into this individual and their company to make your dream a reality. Be sure to ask a lot of questions and fully vet your potential contractors before hiring them. If you’re not sure what questions to ask, check out our blog on the topic here.

Opportunity #4 – Save money

Remodeling your home is often less expensive than buying new. If you take a look at the current market, it’s extremely rare, if not impossible, to find a home with all the modern finishes you desire. The average cost of homes on the market will vary based on your location, but according to Zillow.com, the median home price in Collier County, Florida is $335,900. In comparison, the average upgrade to finishes within your home such as paint, trim, flooring and cabinetry may range from $40,000-$60,000. Not to mention, after remodeling you won’t have a new, more expensive mortgage to pay off, closing costs, realtor expenses and more. It’s a cost-effective win-win.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are eager to take on the challenges and opportunities of a remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner. The company’s owner, Bill Varian, is also a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist. Varian Construction promises to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project.

Remodeling your home gives you the opportunity to bring your space up to date without having to purchase an entirely new home. While being able to update your space is very exciting, it doesn’t hurt to take a look at what’s popular and on the rise in today’s remodeling market to get a better idea of what you might want to add to your home during its remodel. Here are our top five predicted remodeling trends for 2020:

1) Smart home features

Smart home features are extremely popular with today’s home remodels. In a world where almost everything in our lives is activated by touch or voice, why should our homes be any different? In many kitchen remodels, homeowners are opting for features like smart sinks. With the touch of your hand, the water will turn on and off or adjust to hot or cold. Today’s homeowners want their homes to be as accessible and user friendly as possible. It’s no wonder so many are adding smart home features during their remodels such as smart lighting, robotic devices that make cleaning easier and unmonitored security systems.

2) The destination tub

With bathroom remodels, many people are opting for the destination tub. Typically, it’s a free-standing tub in the middle or off to the side of the bathroom to make it seem like an exclusive and private retreat. Many homeowners are opting to remove their tubs entirely! Contemporary design popularity is also on the rise for bathroom remodels, as is increasing your bathroom’s size if possible.

3) Home wellness

In 2020, you can expect to see a rise in home wellness improvements during renovations. These include but are not limited to non-toxic materials being used during the remodeling process, water and air purification systems and circadian lighting to improve sleep.

4) Climate proofing

Many millennial homeowners have turned their remodeling efforts toward “climate proofing”. With a concerned eye on climate change and the effects extreme weather patterns have had on their homes, many are investing in home improvements that will help make their homes “disaster resistant”.

5) Saving money is the focus

For a lot of millennial homeowners, saving money is a focus during their remodel. They have a budget and they plan to stick to it – and for good reason! While remodeling projects won’t cease entirely, contractors can expect homeowners to be more cognizant of their spending and opt for features that will save them money down the road such as energy-efficient lighting, home insulation and improved roofing.

If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Varian Construction is a 30-year-old, owner-operated company that takes pride in their projects all while alleviating the stress on the homeowner.

Just what exactly is commercial remodeling? Commercial remodeling is a process that businesses undergo to remodel their space as opposed to a more costly move into a new facility. Oftentimes, business owners choose to remodel when they do not have the room for a major expansion, want to maximize the efficiency of their space and/or the business has a need for growth but not the financial means to invest in a new location. Here are five key benefits to commercial remodeling for business owners:

1) It maximizes the efficiency of your space

Remodeling can help maximize the efficiency of your space. If your building is outdated, it may be cluttered with cubicles and unused space. In a remodel, the business owner can plan along with the contractor to create a space that opens up the existing location and makes use of unused areas of the building. Additionally, not only will a remodel improve the look of a property, but it will also allow the business owner to express themselves architecturally and create a space that best represents their company and its values.

2) Remodeling is less expensive than investing in a new location

A commercial remodel means the business will stay put while renovations are competed. While employees may be displaced for a period of time, remodeling an existing structure takes much less time than building a new one. Not to mention, it’s less expensive than purchasing an additional location on top of the existing one.

3) It can help with a rebranding of your company

Similar to how a commercial remodel can help maximize the efficiency of your business’ space, it can also help with the rebranding of a company. An outdated office typically doesn’t reflect the energy and values of a vibrant 2020 firm. A remodeling project for your business can help you redesign the space into the office of your dreams while reinforcing your brand.

4) It can maximize employee productivity

If your business is located in an older building, the office may begin to feel outdated, especially to your younger, millennial-aged employees. By remodeling your space and giving it a new look, your employees may feel more eager and excited to work in an environment that better represents and relates to them as individuals. Additionally, if your remodel opens up your space by removing outdated cubicles, your employees may feel literally less trapped and encouraged to work more freely or in ways that make them their most productive.

5) It can help you expand your business financially

A remodel can also help your business grow financially. If you’re in a place where you need more room but do not have the means to invest in an entirely new property, a remodel is the way to go. With more room for more employees, more work can be accomplished and you can maximize the productivity of your business. Additionally, remodeling will also increase the value of your commercial property, should you do plan to move locations in the future.

Commercial construction is all around us, especially in rapidly growing areas like Southwest Florida. If you’re in the Southwest Florida area and are looking for a contractor that’s going to go above and beyond the call of duty for your commercial remodeling project, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. As a full-service general contractor, they are able to complete a variety of commercial buildings, tenant buildouts and interior office renovations, and can assist in the design and completion of all project types.

Four Ways to Make Your Home More Sustainable

Sustainable construction is when a contractor or construction company adopts environmentally responsible and resource efficient practices throughout a project’s duration. Standard construction practices rely heavily on cheap oil, regular logistics, several types of materials, large amounts of electric energy and water. By having sustainable construction practices, a company will help in the enhancement of local flora and fauna, effectively and efficiently use resources, reduce pollution and incorporate renewable sources of energy. Not to mention, sustainable construction practices will help counter climate change and global warming.

If you’re an individual that is looking to complete a home remodel but wants to be environmentally conscious throughout the process, considering working with contracting company that practices sustainable construction. Not only will it save you money month-to-month after the project, but it will also help you reduce your carbon footprint. Knowing that you saved energy, materials and money when completing your remodeling project is a win-win for yourself and the environment. If you’re looking to give your whole house or a couple of spaces a new look through a remodel, here are four ways to work in sustainable construction practices:

Work with a Certified Green Professional

Going green often comes with the notion that it will cost you more green. For a Certified Green Professional, this is not the case. The Certified Green Professional™ designation recognizes builders, remodelers and other industry professionals who incorporate green and sustainable building principles into homes— without driving up the cost of construction. You read that right. Certified Green Professionals complete your remodel without increasing the price of your project. CGP coursework is closely aligned with the ICC 700 National Green Building Standard, which includes chapters on energy, water and resource efficiency, indoor environmental quality, lot and site development and homeowner education and is the core curriculum for the required CGP classes. This distinction is not an easy one to achieve, so working with a Certified Green Professional almost guarantees you’re working with someone who’s passionate about their work and the environment.

Simply put, a Certified Green Professional has the tools, knowledge and resources to make your home as sustainable and energy efficient as possible without increasing your budget.

Select the right materials

While working with your sustainable contractor, you can select the right materials that will get your project off on the right foot. First, consider selecting recycled products or products from local sources. The materials can be virtually anything from renewable products like bamboo floors, to recycled woods and other flooring materials that will put a unique twist on your custom home. If you’re looking to add wood floors, check to see which trees typically grow in our close to your area. By choosing locally sourced products, you’re reducing the amount of fuel it takes to get the product to your door.

Construction processes are heavily reliant on water whether it be for curing concrete, preparing process or clean up post-project. To reduce the water used from local resources, consider harvesting rainwater during construction for these processes. If you live in an area where it rains often like Southwest Florida, there will be plenty of water for your project. To reduce water usage after your project is complete, have your contractor install water-saving dual-flush toilets, low-flow faucets and other water-saving features.

Incorporate renewable sources of energy

It’s important to note that depending on the climate in your local region and the size of your home, you may not be able to power it entirely by renewable energy. But something is always better than nothing! However, incorporating these practices into your home are guaranteed to save you money and help the environment. There are some things to consider when adding renewable energy resources to your home such as HOA and zoning regulations. Be sure to work with your contractor, do your research and ask questions before getting started. Here are eight renewable energy options to consider:

• Rooftop solar panels
• Wind turbines
• Solar ovens
• Hydropower
• Solar water heating
• Solar air conditioning
• Tesla powerwall
• Tubular skylights

More information on these eight renewable energy sources can be found here.

Practice smart designing methods and considerations

Technology is nearly inescapable in today’s day and age. While some may see it as a hindrance, the technology that can be used in construction is more advanced than ever and can help make the process more sustainable. This is known as smart designing methods and considerations. These advancements include the utilization of latest technologies such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) which can help estimate the materials required to complete a project. This reduces the chances of over ordering materials and reduces waste. For those who live in colder regions, proper insulation will reduce energy loss. During a remodel, a homeowner may consider a smarter placement for their windows. Strategically placing windows throughout the structure to let in more natural light will reduce the need for artificial light during the day. Additionally, thick, high-quality glass that keeps heat and cold air in will reduce energy usage in the home. If you’re in a state prone to bad storms like hurricanes, having thick glass in your home will also benefit you during hurricane season from a preparedness and safety standpoint.

If you live in Southwest Florida and are looking for a contractor who cares not only about the environment but about you as a homeowner, look no further than Varian Construction. Bill Varian, President and CEO, is not only a talented contractor but a Certified Green Professional™. Contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103.