Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Author: robintek

  • 5 Backyard Entertaining Trends

    5 Backyard Entertaining Trends

    While we want to get out and resume our lives as we knew them, most of us are still playing it safe and staying home as much as possible here in Central Ohio. As spring arrives and with it the promise of summer and fall, we’re looking to our backyards for entertaining and relaxing. But is it the oasis you’ve always wanted?

    On trend for 2021 is the need to make our backyards better. We crave areas to dine outdoors, spend time with the family, create a staycation feel and have a private outdoor escape. It’s become an extension of our indoor living. A reimagining of the space that we have available. It’s a shift to making it functional for a place to escape from the house. Did you know it can also boost the overall value of your home? For the latest local data on ROI for home remodeling projects check out Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs Value report.

    If you are searching for a backyard that makes you want to spend more time outdoors then read on for inspiration and ideas from our Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus OH.

    What can you do to your backyard to create the outdoor living oasis of your dreams?

    1 – Outdoor living – After spending so much time at home, we really see the value in being outdoors as much as possible. When creating an outdoor living space, we suggest considering these items:

    • Large tables for socially distanced gatherings or neighborhood get-togethers!
    • Comfortable weatherproof furniture placed in designated groupings for conversation or cozy alone time.
    • Water features for background noise.
    • Lighting- string lights, torches, and solar fixtures. Consider safety as well as atmosphere – lighted pathways and placing ambient lighting over seating areas.

    2 – Outdoor kitchens – Maybe you’re ready for more than just a grill on the patio. The outdoor kitchen continues its popularity with homeowners. We love implementing these features in our designs:

    • Built-in grill
    • Beverage refrigerator
    • Kegerator
    • Countertop for food prep and entertaining
    • Prep and/or cleanup sink
    • Pizza oven – portable or built-in

    3 – Pools – The addition of a pool continues to be on the rise. It was very hard to find above-ground pools last year, and no one (that didn’t already have one planned) was able to have an inground pool built. They don’t have to be big; just a way to relax, cool off and float around. When is the best time to call a pool contractor? At least a year before you want to be using it.

    4 – Decks and patios – For most of us, a deck or patio is what summer means. Hanging out with the family, watching the kids play, having neighbors over for a cookout – it all happens on a deck or patio.

    • Create regions on your patio or deck – for the grill or outdoor kitchen, seating areas, and a table. A multi-level deck is a great option.
    • Choose materials that will weather well.
    • Take advantage of a walk-out basement by adding a patio and sliding doors.

    5 – 3 season rooms and sunrooms – Large picture windows, sliding doors, retractable screens and heat allow these rooms to be used for most, if not all, of the year. They serve as an extension of the interior living space, anchor the backyard space and increase the overall function and enjoyment of your home. Our Design Team can create several options to fit your needs.

    • Build additional square feet onto your home’s existing footprint.
    • Enclose an existing patio with either a pergola, roof and/or walls.
    • Replace screens on an existing porch with new insulated windows.
    • Remodel existing rooms to open up the views of your yard.

    Other things to consider when planning your backyard living space.

    Shade – Unless you are blessed with many trees, you will want some shade for hot summer days. Many options are available to create shade. These features also serve to anchor a space, add character and create welcoming spaces.

    • Retractable shades and motorized screens
    • Umbrellas or shade sails
    • Pergola or covered porch
    • Gazebo

    Gardens – Gardens are having a moment for more people and creating a sustainable garden is one of the most searched items on Google. Why not try a raised garden bed, install a drip irrigation system, or just design some container plantings?  Native plants are on the rise to help bring back bees and other pollinators, so talk with a garden nursery for advice on the best plants to use in your yard.

    Technology – We love being connected, even if we’re outside. A Saturday football game setup, a spot to connect and work from home, or just some fun perks all add comfort and fun to the backyard design.

    • Electricity for outlets, heaters, lighting, and media
    • WIFI
    • USB ports
    • Bluetooth speakers

    Among the many things the last year has shown us is what we love about our homes and what we need to change. On the plus side, any upgrades you do in your yard also adds value to your home. If you’re ready to create your outdoor oasis or remodel to include a new sunroom, 3 season porch, patio or deck, we’d love to talk with you. Our Remodel – Design – Build Team will collaborate and create what you’re missing in your outdoor living spaces.

    Visit the Outdoor Living Portfolio on our website for inspiration!

    7 Amazing Before & After Backyard Transformations

  • Family Traditions & St Patrick’s Day

    Family Traditions & St Patrick’s Day

    Although all of our celebrations have looked very different this past year, I think we can all agree family, friends and connections with others is very important to our mental and physical sense of well-being.

    St. Patrick’s Day observes of the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The holiday has evolved into a celebration of Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, drinking and a whole lot of green.

    Did you know the first St Patrick’s day parade was held in America? According to history.com, the first parade was held on March 17, 1601 in a Spanish colony in what is now St Augustine, Florida! To me and my family it is a national holiday and always will be.

    Family, Food and Fun!

    Coming from a large Irish Catholic family my dad was always into celebrating our heritage. Growing up, St Patrick’s day with the downtown parade and festivities was always a way I could connect with him. Participating and watching folks celebrating all the good stuff – being alive, being Irish – instilled in me the importance of family, tradition and a sense of community. When I became a father, I knew that I wanted to continue to pass along those feelings and memories to my kids.

    My fondest memory with my dad on St Patrick’s day is from about seven years ago. My dad was suffering from Parkinson’s and his dementia was pretty far along. I was driving The Cleary Company van. Me and my dad in the front seat. My girls were passing out candy to children along the parade route.

    It was a beautiful day and the sun was shining. As we made the turn onto W Broad St, I looked over at my dad, wearing his St Aquinas jacket and Irish cap and he had the biggest smile on his face. He looked to me to be having the time of his life waving to all the folks along the street. Then he asked me, “Who are all these people and why are they waving at me?”. With a sad smile on my face I said, “Dad you’re a celebrity, they want to wave to the guy in the letter jacket!” and he responded, “Really, huh, feels good.”

    Whether I was watching or participating in the parade with my dad and my kids, those are memories I will cherish forever. Slainte! George

    May your troubles be less, and your blessings be more. – Traditional Irish Blessing

    Click here to check out these 7 surprising facts about St Patrick’s Day!

    Flasback Friday – George celebrating with family & friends!
  • New Home Services Division Gives Back to Community

    New Home Services Division Gives Back to Community

    Even before establishing his remodeling company 27 years ago, George Cleary was active in his community. Regularly, he gives his time, talents and funds toward many local organizations. Choosing to surround himself with similarly passionate people committed to serving their communities has been a goal of building his Team. Over the last few years, the company has been particularly active with Pelotonia, Hope Hollow, Operation Backpack, Dublin Woman’s Philanthropy Club and Special Spaces.

    The Columbus Community

    Despite the launch of their new division, Home Services, during the pandemic, The Cleary Company committed to paying it forward to the Columbus OH community. The unanimous decision of the management Team? Supporting Central Ohio’s front line workers at area hospitals!

    By choosing to donate 20% of the 2020 proceeds from Home Services, funds totaling $6,800 were evenly distributed between Ohio Health Foundation’s Associate Emergency Assistance Fund and Mount Carmel Foundation’s COVID-19 Rescue Response.

    Fixed Spaces = Happy Faces

    Between March and December 2020, Home Services, led by Director Jen Sommers, CR, Allied ASID and Lead Carpenter Michael Seyfang, completed 41 small projects. 21 of those projects were for past clients of The Cleary Company and bath2BATH.

    Lead Carpenter Michael Seyfang (R) along with Carpenter Angel Aquino and Home Services client – Installed new shutters for past client in Upper Arlington OH.

    “Improving Your Home Life” is a main focus of Home Services by The Cleary Company in Columbus OH. The Team specializes in the following projects.

    • Carpentry
    • Window & Door Replacement
    • Drywall & Paint Repairs
    • Electrical & Plumbing Fixture Replacements
    • Porch-Patio-Deck Replacements & Repairs
    • Mud & Laundry room Updates
    • Smart Home Upgrades
    • Small Spaces Refresh
    • and MORE!

    To learn more about Home Services by The Cleary Company visit their webpage. Do you have a project you’d like to discuss? Contact our Team today!

  • Bathroom Remodel | Westerville OH

    Bathroom Remodel | Westerville OH

    Project Spotlight: The age of this suburban primary en suite was beginning to show it’s age. This renovation resulted in a stunning spa-like bathroom that embraces minimalist design and natural elements like walnut cabinets. A Design-Build remodel that won to TWO Contractor of the Year awards from the National Association Remodeling Industry! (Central Ohio Chapter 2020 & East Central Region 2021)

    Client Profile: Repeat clients who have hired our team for several remodeling projects! (basement, exterior & outdoor living spaces). A Busy professional dual income couple with young children. Their home was built 2002 and they’ve lived their since 2003.


    Clients Needs:
    • Desire an updated & low maintenance bathroom that feels like a calm & relaxing retreat.
    • Neutral palette that incorporates nature.
    • Dislike the existing large soaking tub & deck, obtrusive and feels cramped.
    • Larger shower with upgraded “luxury” plumbing components.
    • Address water & mold issues in cabinets & exterior wall.
    • Increase ventilation of space – airflow & control moisture.
    • Modern design style with fixtures & finishes that are easy to maintain.
    • Mindful consideration of client’s environmental sensitivities with respect to dust, mold, odors & VOCs.

    BEFORE – Builder grade cabinets and fixtures were showing age after years of use.
    Proposed Design Plan

    Successful meeting of client needs is evident in the design & execution of the proposed plans:

    • Style & luxury evident in the selections custom walnut vanity cabinets, custom vanity mirrors, Cambria quartz, Hansgrohe shower components, porcelain tile floor & custom shower pan & door.

    • More open spacious floorplan, larger shower frameless glass surround creates more open/spacious feel.

    • New exhaust fan upgraded ventilation of space.

    • Easy to maintain surfaces like quartz, porcelain tile & glass.

    Items proposed during design phase but client opted not to include in their budget:
    • Champagne gold finish on Delta plumbing fixtures
    • Larger shower with built-in bench
    • Build and install custom walnut bench & shelving outside shower
    • Heated floors

    Bathroom Remodel Project Cost: $60 – $75k

    Time Commitment: Estimating & Design – 6 weeks / Construction – 8 weeks

    5 star Guild Quality review & testimonial:

    “This bathroom remodel was our fourth project with The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio. The communication has always been great, everything was smooth, and the results are just what we wanted. Organization of their whole design build process is also top notch.”

    Read more about this project in Westerville Magazine.

  • Help Feed Hungry Families in Central Ohio

    Help Feed Hungry Families in Central Ohio

    Team Cleary Hosts Food Drive March 1st thru 31st Benefiting Mid-Ohio Food Bank

    Do you know where your next meal is coming from?

    According to Mid-Ohio Food Bank’s website, one in five Ohioans is food insecure. During the uncertainty of the pandemic many more families must choose between paying for housing or medical expenses and putting food on their table. Food insecurity can happen to anyone. It could be your coworker, friend or neighbor.

    Since 2012 our Team has collected food and funds for those in our community who need a helping hand. This year, we are again partnering up with Mid-Ohio Foodbank and hosting a food drive at our office and design studio March 1st – 31st. Donations can be dropped off during business hours Mon-Fr 8am to 5pm. Or you can use this link to donate online!

    Even without the ability to host an event to promote it, last year we collected enough donations for 750 meals. Help us double that for 2021 with a goal of 1,500 meals! For every $1 donated MOFB can distribute 4.5 meals or $9.50 worth of groceries and every pound of food donated is equal to 1 meal.

    Mid-Ohio Food Bank Stats & Facts:

    Clients dropping off donations March 2020
    • Over 66 million pound of food was distributed last year
    • More than 600,000 individuals receive emergency food assistance each year
    • 50% of customer households have at least one working adult
    • 20% own their home
  • Open Plan Home Remodel in Columbus, OH

    Open Plan Home Remodel in Columbus, OH

    Alex and Lisa have lived in their home for 15 years. Their kids are grown and all moved out. They knew it was time for some changes to make the 4,100 sq. ft. ranch their forever home. The recent, extensive remodel was the first large-scale project they’ve undertaken and they couldn’t be more thrilled with the results! Our Team enjoyed working with them on the open concept home remodel. Read on as they share more on their experience.

    What spaces did you have redesigned?

    The remodel included significant changes to the floorplan and updating the kitchen, family, living and dining rooms, along with the master bathroom. Walls were removed in the main living spaces to create an open layout which we desired for large family gatherings. Featured between the dining and living spaces is a new double-sided fireplace with custom bookshelves flanking both sides.

    What is your favorite feature of your newly remodeled home?

    I (Alex) like the living space because it’s now open and natural light comes from both sides of the house. The large front windows are new and we can open them–which we couldn’t do with the old windows. We have full light streaming in and good breezes! The fireplace warms the room without having to turn up the heat in the entire home. My wife, Lisa loves the kitchen because of the increased prep space and storage. The new design improved the kitchen’s layout and makes it easy to prep meals. She is a baker and with the large island and multiple ovens she is able to cook and bake even more! And we both love the air jet soaker tub in our new master bathroom. Along with the heated tile floor, we feel like we have our own spa.

    New Kitchen – walls were removed between the kitchen, formal dining & living rooms CLICK HERE to view more kitchen remodels by The Cleary Company!

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company to design and build your remodeling project?

    We spent several months trying to find a contractor in our area that we could work with and have them complete the entire scope of our project. Since we have a connection to the Cleary family, through our kids attending college together, we reached out to George to see if our project was a good fit. John Coleman, our Project Developer, met with us and understood what we were looking to accomplish and it was an obvious choice to hire The Cleary Company to complete our remodel. We are thrilled. We feel fortunate to have had the family connection and knew of their great work already.

    What was your favorite part of working with The Cleary Company and why?

    When we first reached out to George, it was because we wanted someone who could do everything from design through the build and manage everything for us in one company. We wanted to work with someone who had been through a project like this before, did good work and could manage it all. This was our first big project and everyone on the Team worked through it with us, step by step. No project goes without a few issues or changes and everyone addressed all of our needs professionally. The work was tremendous, so well done and thought out. We enjoyed all of the personalities of the people we got to work with along the way.

    Was there a Team member(s) who stood out? How did they exceed your expectations?

    Each one in their role stood out. John, from our very first meeting, explained how the scope and process of the project would work. Matt and the design group really listened to us as we discussed how we wanted the project to come together. Eric, our Project Manager, was a pleasure to work with during construction. Steve and his carpentry team did amazing work. Even Joe, the remodeling apprentice, had a connection to a high school buddy of my son’s. We were able to build relationships with all of these folks as they were in our home over the three months. It was very enjoyable! And of course, none of this would have happened without George telling us he would be willing to work outside of their normal service area and we can’t thank him enough!

    What advice would you offer to someone who is thinking of remodeling their home?

    Find somebody who can do everything you need for the whole design-build process. I can’t imagine myself having to coordinate everything that had to happen if I was using different people or companies for the remodeling project. Search for a company with experience, a good reputation and completed projects they can point to demonstrating good, high-quality work. This is a huge investment and a tremendous disruption while you’re going through it. It’s important to work with someone you trust. When the project is completed, you want it to be what you wanted and that’s what we got with The Cleary Company.

    Do you have one word why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company?

    Quality, but I would also add relationships. We had some fun along the way and that was special but it was the time and attention they paid to us was very much appreciated. We had no crazy surprises and the project went the way we expected. The Team was adaptable as we threw them a few curveballs. They were flexible and worked with us to make what we wanted to happen with our plan, budget and schedule.

    Project photos – Before & After:

    BEFORE – Kitchen remodel
    BEFORE – Master bathroom remodel
    New Master Bathroom – custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, heated tile floors
    CLICK HERE to view more bathroom remodels by The Cleary Company
    New Open Concept Floor Plan – built new 2-sided fireplace with brick hearth & custom bookshelves CLICK HERE to view more Interior remodeling projects by The Cleary Company

    Want to see more photos of this project? Click here!

  • Team Cleary Wins NARI Remodeling Awards

    Team Cleary Wins NARI Remodeling Awards

    George Cleary, CR, Owner & CEO of The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio, is proud to announce his Team’s recent industry achievements in design and craftsmanship. “The CotYs are great for recognizing the best of the best. I’m more thrilled with each win we receive. It’s truly a Team effort but it’s also great for the Project Developers, Designers, Project Managers and Carpenters who collaborate with our clients to build these winning projects that showcase their awesome talents. It’s also great to receive remodeling recognition by our industry peers with these wins.”

    The NARI CotYs are awarded at the local, regional and national levels. In December 2020, three projects designed and built by The Cleary Company won NARI of Central Ohio CotY awards. On February 1, 2021, those three projects plus a master bathroom remodel each won a NARI East Central Region CotY award. National awards are scheduled to be announced the afternoon of Friday April 30, 2021 in a virtual presentation of NARI’s annual Evening of Excellence.

    Residential Exterior Remodel $100-200k :

    Project Developer John Coleman, CRPM & Designer Matt Zimmer

    Residential Kitchen Remodel $60-100k

    Project Developer & Designer Jen Sommers, CR, Allied ASID – Read more about this project on our blog!

    Kitchen Remodel – Dublin OH

    Commercial Interior Remodel:

    Project Developer Robert Raskin – Designer Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP – Project Manager Eric Isler

    Fun facts! This Commercial Interior project remodeling award winner was our previous office location. Our Team also won a CotY in 2012 for this building in this same category for the extensive remodel and addition we designed and built. Now it’s home to Puptown Lounge‘s newest location! Check them out at 4766 Kenny Rd, Columbus, Ohio, 43220.

    Residential Bath Remodel $50-75k

    Project Developer Robert Raskin & Project Manager Rob Lindeboom, CLC

    What are the CotY Awards?

    The prestigious CotY (Contractor of the Year) awards are presented each year to NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. Members submit projects voluntarily through an online portal for judging by their peers located outside their local chapter.

    Because CotY-winning remodeling award projects demonstrate exceptional design and craftsmanship in renovation, a diverse and impartial panel judge each project. Projects entered into the National CotY Awards program are eligible to win a Regional award among 48 categories in seven regions nationwide. Selection of one National CotY winner is from amongst the Regional winners in each category. Stay tuned for more announcements!

    The Cleary Company Team has several active members in NARI’s Central Ohio chapter, which is located in NARI National’s East Central Region. Ten Central Ohio remodeling companies submitted a total of 45 project entries in the 2020 local competition. Ultimately, twenty-seven winners were announced in 26 award categories with a rare tie in the Commercial Interiors category!

  • What Does it Take to Work in the Building Industry?

    What Does it Take to Work in the Building Industry?

    Have you always been interested in building and creating? As a kid, did you like using scraps of wood to build birdhouses, ramps, or a playhouse? And perhaps now you enjoy fixing things in your home, either plumbing or electrical. Is painting a room your happy place? Maybe it’s time for a career change to work in the building industry. Especially if, you like to work with your hands, utilize your brain in new and different ways, and work hard.

    At The Cleary Company, we love what we do! From designing a remodeled home, to constructing the plan for our client’s dream living space. We revel in solving problems, working with our hands and brains, and being a part of a dynamic Team.

    Aaron Enfinger

    General Manager at The Cleary Company Remodel – Design – Build, Aaron Enfinger, CR, shares important information to help guide you in your journey to join the construction and remodeling industries.

    Education and experience

    • For the construction field, nothing replaces experience. Building knowledge is important but being able to perform on the crew is your foot in the door.
    • Find ways to be on a jobsite as an apprentice or laborer. This is the quickest way to learn the knowledge you will need.
    • A trade school or community college may be important to you in order to learn more terminology and concepts and advance your career in a specialized field. One thing to consider is attending a trade school while working on the job.
    • Gaining employment in interior design and architecture usually does require specific education in design. However, The Cleary Company has hired people not formally educated in interior design or architecture. These employees had committed themselves to learning the industry and excelling regardless of the course of study they had pursued as a student. (Though this is an exception, as most have received a college education.)

    Getting started with school and/or a job

    • Find a company you respect and approach them. Ask what it would take to work in the building industry for them. Can you shadow someone to get a sense of the job you want to do? Show a true desire and initiative to work in the industry and at their company specifically.
    • Network! Find industry associations where you can attend meetings and get to know who the great companies are in the area. NARI of Central Ohio is the local industry association in Columbus OH and provides a great way to meet some of the successful companies and people in the industry.
    • Jobs are landed through connections. Be proactive in making many connections. Ask family and friends as well as people working in local tool, woodworking and construction stores around town to find someone who knows who is hiring.
    • Start to build your collection of tools to show how motivated you are to those that are willing to give you a chance.
    • Read publications to learn the jargon and search out opportunities on social media for learning the basics.
    • If school is going to be your route, talk with graduates and track their career path. Make sure a program combines theory with practical application. Someone understanding that studs are on 16” centers is different than being able to read prints and then layout and build wall sections.

    Financial opportunities

    • If you are motivated and possess an entrepreneurial spirit, there are many opportunities to build your own business in the construction, building and remodeling industry. Your goal may be to have your own company one day and we can tell you it is possible and financially rewarding if you’re willing to put in the hard work.
    • Working directly for a company is what most people choose to do. You can still earn a comfortable wage and enjoy a fulfilling career working for a great company. According to Indeed, this list gives you an idea of salaries, though this depends greatly on the geographical area of the country.

    Finding work

    • Being a hard worker is the key to landing and keeping a great job. Show up to work on time, be present and be willing to learn. Offer to help out in all areas of the company and prove yourself indispensable.
    • We are in a skilled labor shortage in the Columbus, Ohio, area and you will find work here in the construction and building industry. At The Cleary Company, we look for motivated individuals who are willing to learn and have a positive work ethic.

    At The Cleary Company our Team enjoys teaching those that choose to join us! Our culture is one of collaboration, a strong work ethic, and a desire to create the very best remodeling projects for our clients. If you want it and are willing to put in the work, the rewards are many.

    Check out this online resource for more information as you consider matching your interests with a career in the construction industry. Or visit our Careers page for current open positions!

  • Should I Remodel My Kitchen or Refresh?

    Should I Remodel My Kitchen or Refresh?

    Kitchen Remodeling Questions Answered

    Many of us, having lived the last year mainly at home, are realizing things about our homes we don’t love. Likely, the kitchen is at the top of the list. At The Cleary Company, we’ve been fielding many calls about kitchen renovations and updates. The number one question we are asked? Should I remodel my kitchen completely, or just upgrade it?

    Whatever you choose to do, you will get a positive return on your investment. According to the National Association of Realtors®, the two most important interior projects you can do in your home are a complete kitchen renovation and a kitchen upgrade.

    Click here for the full report from REALTOR®

    At The Cleary Company Remodel – Design – Build, we know kitchen remodels boost the value of homes here in the Columbus, Ohio area! Remodeling magazine regularly publishes a Cost vs Value report which analyzes data and lists the average cost of popular remodeling projects. This report validates what we’ve found to be true in Central Ohio, you can recoup between 58 to 80% of your kitchen remodeling costs when you sell your home.

    What is the difference between a full kitchen remodel and a kitchen update?

    A kitchen update or refresh can involve a multitude of projects in the space or just a few minor revisions. Think of it as a facelift to update all the “pretty stuff” in your kitchen that you notice immediately.

    As you seriously inspect your kitchen, think about what doesn’t work for you. What are some easier, not as costly fixes that would make the biggest difference in the space? Fixing just one or two of these items by replacing, updating or refinishing can give your kitchen a pleasing face-lift, quickly and for a fraction of the cost of a full remodel.

    • Cabinetry
    • Fixtures
    • Countertops
    • Flooring
    • Plumbing
    • Electrical
    • Backsplash
    • Lighting
    • Wall color, shelving and decor
    BEFORE
    AFTER – Kitchen refresh – Dublin OH
    Learn more about this project click here!

    For updating any of these specific areas, check out Home Services by The Cleary Company. Completing a small project in the kitchen might be all that’s needed to complete your vision. Our Home Services Team is able to work on small kitchen updates serving many clients’ needs.

    A complete kitchen remodel is just that— a full demo of the entire space that can also include a rework of the entire floorplan. Clients seek this solution when they find their kitchen no longer works for their lifestyle. It might be too small, doesn’t function the way you need it to or is very outdated and in need of a brand-new look. Tearing out everything down to the studs allows for reconfiguring the space for functionality and better flow. You might choose to add more space through an addition. And, typically, any outdated electrical and plumbing is replaced increasing safety as well as meeting all local building codes.

    What to consider?

    You need to think about many things when trying to decide what to do in your kitchen. What are your short and long-term goals? How will all the factors below play into your decisions?

    • Cost
    • Functionality
    • Enjoyment
    • Needs and Wants
    • Livability
    • Selling soon or staying for a long time
    BEFORE
    AFTER – Kitchen remodel – Powell OH
    See more kitchen photos by clicking here!

    As you read the lists above and objectively evaluate your answers, you may realize everything in your kitchen needs to be “updated.” Maybe a wall needs to come down to create a bigger room or you want to relocate the kitchen in the home altogether. At The Cleary Company, this is what we do. Our Design Build Team works with you to create and execute your vision. We help you determine your needs as we work through all the factors to consider and your ultimate goals for your kitchen.

    Whether you decide on several cosmetic updates or go all in with a completely new kitchen remodel, you will increase the ROI of your home.

    Contact us today to discuss your kitchen remodeling project! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.

  • Are You Ready For a New Career in Construction and Remodeling?

    Are You Ready For a New Career in Construction and Remodeling?

    Skilled trade jobs in the burgeoning construction and remodeling industry are in high demand in the Columbus, Ohio, area and throughout the country. Many of us have been told a college education is the only way to a successful career. However, we know firsthand a career in construction and the skilled trades can be fulfilling, satisfying and lucrative!

    We challenge you to find out more about a trade you find interesting, get the schooling or on-the-job training you need, and pursue it with passion. You will be able to build a stable career in construction and remodeling if you’re willing to work hard, stay motivated, and enjoy solving problems. For example, a great start is to check out Columbus State Community College‘s program offerings.

    What jobs are available in the construction and remodeling industries?

    • All skilled trades are currently in high demand! Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, painters, tile setters, HVAC technicians, welders, and masons.
    • The current labor shortage is bound to continue. As the current talented workforce ages out, the need continues to grow.

    Benefits of pursuing a career in the remodeling and construction industries:

    • It’s rewarding! Specifically, at The Cleary Company, we are primarily residential remodelers and find creating, building, and fixing intrinsically rewarding. At the end of the day, we see a real and tangible result. Walls are framed, floors are laid, rooms are painted, and plumbing is installed; it’s satisfying to see what you and your team have created.
    • You directly impact the quality of life for your clients. This is because you get to work in their homes, build rapport, and get to know their daily life. Their appreciation of your work is rewarding as well.
    • Jobs are plentiful. Due to retirements and fewer people entering the industry, you will have job security.
    • Residential real estate continues to be a booming industry in Central Ohio and with this come all of the jobs needed to build and remodel homes. Your skilled trade will always be needed.
    • You can earn a comfortable, even lucrative, income.

    How important are construction trade jobs?

    Remodeling Apprentice – Joe Hamlett
    • If current jobs continue to go unfilled the labor shortages in trade careers will continue to rise. Due to this, the availability of these services will become harder to secure, resulting in the window to complete home improvement projects will become longer and, most likely, remodeling costs will go up at an accelerated rate.
    • “People place a high value on the talents of a tradesperson. Just ask someone that needs a toilet fixed or old light fixtures replaced how they view the tradesperson who helped them fix their home,” shares General Manager of The Cleary Company, Aaron Enfinger, CR. “One of the keys to people loving where they live is loving how it functions. Or conversely, how they hate it because it has so many things that do not function properly. Loose handrails, doors and locks that won’t shut or latch; When a tradesperson fixes these concerns, the value of their skills skyrocket to those whose quality of life was just enhanced.” 

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