Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Tag: Columbus Home Remodeling

  • Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

    Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

    Your home is likely your largest asset and you probably plan on spending many years living there. So then, why not protect your investment? Over the past 27 years, The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio has seen many great homes with hidden damage that could’ve been prevented with proper home maintenance.

    Home maintenance is one of those things that’s easy to forget or put off because many tasks only need to be done once in a while or a few times a year. Water damage is the number 1 culprit that weakens your home’s foundation, the very core that holds your house together. Before you forget, review the following checklist of recommended home maintenance items you should complete in April & May to protect your home and keep your family safe.

    Staying on top of your home’s maintenance can prevent future expensive repairs.

    April:

    • Wash windows – Winter weather can wreak havoc on the exterior of your home. Washing the windows will rid your home of some exterior grime but you may also uncover minor or major damage from snow & ice. We recommend the squeegee method shown in this video. Make sure water is not getting inside your home. Replace any damaged caulking or flashing immediately.
    • Clean gutters & downspouts – Spring showers are great for bringing winter foliage and flowers back to life however you do not want that water to penetrate your home. Keeping your gutters and downspouts clear of any debris will move any falling water away from your home. HouseLogic.com has many helpful DIY home maintenance tips as well as step-by-step instructions for cleaning your gutters. Again while you are cleaning the gutters and downspouts, inspect for any damage and promptly make repairs as needed.
    • Check foundation, basement walls & exterior siding for any cracks or leaks – Water is no friend to wood, stucco, concrete, etc. Keeping your home’s foundation dry is important in maintaining your home’s integrity. Watch this video to learn how to spot issues which can lead to problems and when it’s best to call a professional. Some types of cracks, when ignored, can lead to severe damage.

    May:

    • Pressure wash your deck – Removing any mold or moss will help with extending your deck’s longevity and also keep your family and guests safe. After washing is completed inspect your deck for stains, hazards or water damage and make repairs as needed.
    • Inspect clothes dryer vents –  Check the exterior vent outlet for blockages due to lint or other debris and remove. Here’s a handy tutorial from wikiHow!
    • Check smoke & CO2 detectors & fire extinguishers – According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least twice a year. If you have hardwired detectors it is recommended they be upgraded after 10 years. Most fire extinguishers last between 5 and 15 years, according to manufacturers. Check the tag on your extinguisher for dates and manufacturer’s instructions. A fire extinguisher with a gauge should be checked every month to make sure it is properly charged.

    If you, a neighbor or family member needs financial assistance maintaining a home, Modcon Living’s Safe at Home program can help! The program offers quality emergency repairs and home modifications to homeowners, with priority to seniors and physically disabled who have limited income, to live in safe and healthy homes. Services are provided by dedicated volunteers, professional contractors, and staff at no cost to qualified homeowners.

  • Whole House Remodel | Bexley, OH

    Whole House Remodel | Bexley, OH

    Project Spotlight: An extensive whole house remodel of a 7,600sf home built in 1958 included gutting a majority of the home’s interior, removing an atrium and building a new family room. Check out the feature profile in the 2022 spring edition of Excellence in Design Central & Southwest Ohio in Architectural Digest!

    Our clients relocated to Columbus to be closer to their grandchildren and needed their new home remodeled to function for family gatherings and their love of entertaining guests.

    Key structural changes included removing the atrium along with several walls allowing the new interiors to take advantage of natural light and unobstructed views out the front and rear windows. The staircase in the foyer was rebuilt to open up the foyer and create flow in the floorplan.

    Existing 1st Floor Layout
    Proposed New Floorplan

    Tour this project on our YouTube channel!

    Family Room Addition
    New Foyer
    New Dining Room
    New Bar
    New Kitchen
    New Living Room
    Bexley, OH – After – Whole House Remodel + Family Room Addition

    Design Features Include:

    • Natural travertine floors throughout main living spaces
    • 2 spiral staircases
    • 3 large kitchen islands
    • 3 unique stone & tile fireplaces
    • Rustic wood ceiling beams
    • Accent wall in bar clad with reclaimed wood

    Design-Build Project Team:

    Learn More About This Whole House Remodeling Project!

    Ready to start your next home remodeling project? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today to schedule a consult!

  • Dublin OH Kitchen Remodel

    Dublin OH Kitchen Remodel

    Project Spotlight:

    This existing 1995 suburban kitchen was dark, dated and due for a refresh. Although there were no changes to the kitchen’s footprint, there were significant upgrades in function with the addition of customized storage and an updated appliance layout.

    Soffits were removed to make room for taller wall cabinets. The appliance locations were moved to create a better flow of workspace. The island stayed the same size, but storage was maximized with deep drawers and specialized pullouts.

    Upscale Finish & Fixture Selections

    • Cambria engineered quartz countertops (Colton)
    • Blanco Silgranit low divide undermount sink (Truffle)
    • Moen Patterson one handle pulldown faucet (Black Matte)
    • Ceramica Rondine Cubics mosaic backsplash (Beige Angolo)
    • Schaad & Sons custom cabinets – perimeter painted PPG Enduring Ice w/ Vandyke Brown glaze & island painted Sherwin Williams Cocoon w/ Vandyke Brown glaze
    • Feiss Angelo 8 light 46″ chandelier
    • Bosch 36″ gas cooktop
    • Sharp 1.2 cu. Ft microwave drawer
    • Avallon 24″ under-counter beverage fridge

    Before & After Kitchen Photos

    Design-Build Project Remodeling Team

    Project Developer – Jayde Boyd Conlan

    Designer – Katie Florjancic, UDCP

    Project Manager – Justin Juenger, CRPM

    Want to learn more about this kitchen remodel?

    Check out this interview with our clients in Dublin Life magazine!

    After 26 years in the same home with only minor improvement projects, the Wilsons agree that their first major renovation was a win. “It was a very positive experience,” Dave says.

  • Kitchen Remodel Expands Footprint

    Kitchen Remodel Expands Footprint

    Project Spotlight: Existing kitchen with dated 1950’s floorplan was tight on workspace and storage at just 107sf. The new kitchen footprint was expanded by removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room. By reworking the entire layout of the kitchen the new floorplan features more functional workspace and more storage for our client.

    Kitchen remodel existing floorplan needs expanded footprint
    Existing Kitchen Floorplan
    Kitchen remodel expanded footprint
    New Kitchen Floorplan
    Kitchen renovation
    Kitchen with blue cabinet accents
    Kitchen renovation ideas for small counter space
    BEFORE REMODEL – Existing layout of the kitchen lacked adequate workspace and storage for the client’s needs.
    Kitchen renovation with sliding cabinets and blue and white backsplash
    Kitchen renovation with blue and white backsplash
    Kitchen island counter with pull out cutting board
    Kitchen remodeling with backsplash
    AFTER REMODEL – A wall was removed which opened up and expanded the footprint of the kitchen and allowed for the addition of a deep peninsula with custom storage for small appliances. Natural light floods the once dark closed-in space.

    Kitchen Remodeling Columbus, Ohio

    Want to see more kitchens? Watch this video tour of some of our favorites!

  • Mid-Century Whole House Remodel in Upper Arlington

    Mid-Century Whole House Remodel in Upper Arlington

    Project Spotlight – Midwest suburban home gets new life as contemporary California ranch and wins NARI of Central Ohio Contractor of the Year award.

    Single story homes, most commonly known as ranches, for the most part, have recognizable characteristics such as low rooflines, deep overhangs, a covered entry, typically are one room deep and integrated to nature with backyard patios. The most common subsets of this architectural design are Suburban, Tract, Modern and California style.

    The California ranch was originally designed by the Californian architect, Cliff May, and built in 1932. The inspiration behind the design of the California ranch was taken from the Arts and Crafts Movement. In fact, similar aspects can be seen in these homes that were borrowed from the bungalow-style homes.

    Main features of the California style ranch home include:

    • Wide eaves with one or more rooflines
    • Open concept floorplan with a “U” or “L” shaped layout
    • Expansive outdoor living spaces with multiple patios and/or decks
    • Large windows and sliding glass doors – connecting indoors and outdoor spaces
    • Minimal interior and exterior decorations
    • Vaulted ceilings in main living spaces, can also be in bedrooms
    • Casual, informal interior layout
    • An attached garage

    In 2019 we were hired to design and remodel an entire 3000sf single-story home built in the late 1950s in Upper Arlington, OH. Our clients requested an open concept floor plan with vaulted ceilings and modern finishes. After several months of design, planning and estimating, the decision was made to tear off the roof and demo all of the walls so only the basement and foundation remained of the original home.

    Mid-century home renovated to a California ranch
    BEFORE REMODEL
    California Ranch
    AFTER REMODEL

    The result is a contemporary California-style ranch home customized to a family of four’s busy lifestyle. In October of 2020 this home was featured on the NARI of Central Ohio’s Fall Home tour.

    California ranch floorplan
    Designer’s plan for remodeled spaces.
    Large windows allow natural light to flood the interior of this contemporary ranch home.

    Click here to take a check out the before & after transformation of this amazing project on our YouTube channel!

  • Updating Your Home’s Curb Appeal

    Updating Your Home’s Curb Appeal

    The front or curbside view of a home is an important first impression to your neighbors and visitors but what are some ways you can add architectural interest and value to your home’s exterior curb appeal?

    Remodeling projects that upgrade the exterior look of your home have historically had the best ROI for homeowners according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report. This yearly report consists of national averages on job costs, resale value and costs recouped percentage and is also broken down by region and by several major cities. View the full 2021 report for Columbus, OH here.

    For over 27 years The Cleary Company has been remodeling homes in central Ohio. The following exterior remodeling projects have been in high demand for the past 5-10 years. Why? Read on to find out how you can get you the biggest bang for your buck remodeling your home in Columbus Ohio.

    4 Upgrades to Boost the Value on Your Home’s Exterior

    1 – Get a whole new look by replacing the siding. Changing the design and/or architectural details of your home’s front exterior can breath new life and energy into it’s curb appeal. Whether you decide on fiber-cement or vinyl siding you can accept an ROI of up to 68%.

    Before
    After
    Westerville, OH – Exterior Remodel – all new siding, doors, front porch deck & column and lighting

    2 – Create visual interest by adding a stone veneer to accent your home’s exterior. There are a variety of colors and styles on the market. Hamilton Parker has a great selection of veneer stone. Visit their showroom or website. This project can also net you a high return percentage in resale value with a local average return of up to 89%!

    Westerville, OH – 2 story Exterior Remodel – all new siding with accent of stone veneer on porch, also new columns, garage door, shutters and lighting.

    3 – Replace your garage door. What’s distinguishing about most garage doors? Not much and a lack of notable detail can create an imposing facade from the street. A garage that takes center stage for a home’s curbside view should present a welcoming face. A garage door upgrade can also increase the home’s value and net homeowners up to 95% of the dollars recouped!

    Before & Proposed Rendering
    After
    Upper Arlington, OH – Split Level Exterior Remodel – all new doors, lighting, columns and siding.

    4 – Upgrade the entry to your home with a new front door. Entry door choices are almost endless with a variety of materials, styles, finishes and colors available and a number of other additional options to consider like glass or no glass, painted or stained, hardware, etc. Our Clients like Masonite brand doors for their selection, quality and reputation. Visit their website for the full entry door product gallery. Homeowners can also recoup an average of up to 68% of their investment from a front door replacement.

    Columbus, OH – The Knolls – Exterior Remodel – New front door – Craftsman style, solid wood with custom art glass panes.

    Ready to make a change to your home’s curb appeal?

    Visit our Exteriors portfolio for more inspiration or schedule a phone call with our Home Services Team today!

  • Home Remodeling Know-How

    Home Remodeling Know-How

    Make the Most of Your Next Call to a Remodeling Contractor

    You’ve made the decision to remodel your home, so you just call a contractor and get started…right? Not the best approach to find the right remodeler for you and your home. It is important for you to determine your goals and to do at least 3 things before making any phone calls to increase your remodeling know-now.

    1. Research– Know what companies are working in your area. Drive around your neighborhood. Whose signs do you see in your neighbors’ yards? Check out their websites and other social media profiles.
    2. Budget– Know what you can spend. You can easily find average project costs for Central Ohio by reviewing Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs Value Report. If you’re financing your home remodel discuss your options with your banker or check out these key local resources.
    3. Timeline– Know when you want construction to start and/or be completed. Think about your family’s schedule, vacations or other lifestyle changes that could affect your project’s schedule.

    Gaining the remodeling know-how to get the job done right

    The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build Columbus OH has extensive experience and the best team to help you with your home remodeling, but it’s important that you do your homework so that you have your questions and answers ready for our Team when we talk. Check out Redfin’s blog post Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor for more information.

    So, before you contact a contractor and invite them into your home, do your own research and increase your remodeling know-how first. Ask around (find out who your family and friends have used), read reviews and testimonials, and check out each company’s certifications, licenses and affiliations. It’s important to get a feel for each company’s values, reputation and connection to the community before you call so that you find someone that you will be able to work with successfully.

    Be Prepared to Answer Questions Too

    Having your answers ready for the following questions before you call will also help our team in getting to know you and your home’s needs. The more we know upfront, the better we can streamline the process and start your renovation project! We don’t want to waste your time, so this information helps us all determine whether there is a good fit before diving too far in.

    • How long do you see yourself living in the home?
    • Have you ever worked with a remodeling company before?
    • When do you ideally want the project to start? OR Is there a target date for completion?
    • What type of project do you need or want? (one room, multiple rooms, addition, exterior work or handyman type work)
    • What is your vision for the project? Give us all of your thoughts and ideas.
    • How long have you been planning this project?
    • What is your projected budget?
    • What are you looking for in a contractor?

    Working with The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build Columbus OH means you’re working with a TEAM and reputable remodeling professionals. Our experience will make your next remodeling project seamless, organized, and exactly what you wanted, if not more! Do your homework, make inquiries, and know the answers to as many of these questions as you can. Find out more about The Cleary Company Difference!

    Once we’ve both decided there is a good fit and you have chosen to work with our Team, we’ll work together to design a remodeling plan to meet your family’s needs. Together, we can make your remodeling dream a reality!

    Watch this video to hear our clients Melanie & Jon describe their relationship with The Cleary Company.

  • Hiring Trades & Remodeling Experts in Central Ohio

    Hiring Trades & Remodeling Experts in Central Ohio

    We are actively searching for the best and most dependable people to join our TEAM here at The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio! Do you want to put your talents to work for a company with a stellar reputation and strong connections with each other and our clients? Are you looking to grow professionally and be challenged to learn and do more?

    Having the best people working with us makes what we do more than a job—we are a Team! At the Cleary Company fostering relationships and having fun is part of our culture. We work together to build our clients’ dreams while being dedicated to the growth and job satisfaction of each team member.

    If you are a team player, have a strong work ethic, are responsible, skilled in your craft, interested in career growth and longevity within the same organization, and ready to work for a premier remodeling company, we’d love to talk to you!

    Currently Seeking New Team Members Skilled in:

    • Painter – there is no project we do that doesn’t involve paint!
      • Experienced in drywall repairs
      • Adept at painting using airless sprayer equipment and brushing trim
      • Proficient in painting walls and exteriors
      • 5-7 years experience preferred
    • Tile Setter 
      • Experienced with installation of tile for floors, tub surrounds, detailed backsplashes and shower waterproofing systems
      • Experienced with floor assemblies including underlayment, uncoupling/crack isolation membrane, and heated floor systems
      • Familiar with installation best practices and invested in surpassing industry standards
      • 5-7 years experience preferred
    • Carpenter
      • Skilled in light interior framing
      • Skilled in stair systems
      • Experienced with interior trim details
      • Experienced with cabinetry installation
      • 5-7 years experience preferred
    • Licensed Electrician
      • Must be licensed in the state of Ohio
      • Able to apply for permits for residential electrical work
      • Install all types of residential electrical work
    • Licensed Plumber
      • Must be licensed in the state of Ohio
      • Able to apply for permits for residential plumbing work
      • Install all types of residential plumbing work

    Bathroom Installers – must be proficient in all facets of interior bathroom remodeling

    • Light electric
    • Light plumbing
    • Light carpentry
    • Tile work
    • Drywall repairs
    • Painting
    • Installation of all finishes in a residential bathroom
    • 3-5 years experience preferred

    Technicians – this is for the person who can do a bit of everything involved with residential repair and replacements

    • Knowledgeable in light electric, plumbing and carpentry
    • Perform tile work
    • Perform drywall repairs
    • Experienced painter
    • 5-7 years experience preferred

    Are you interested in one of these positions? Please send an email to  careers@the-cleary-company.websitepro-staging.com to apply, request information, or ask questions.

    We look forward to connecting with you! Learn more about The Cleary Company by visiting our website.

    Office & Design Studio located at 989 Old Henderson Rd Columbus, OH 43220
  • Q & A – Project Manager Rob Lindeboom CLC

    Q & A – Project Manager Rob Lindeboom CLC

    Project Manager Rob Lindeboom Reflects on 25 years of Home Remodeling in Columbus OH

    Rob & George have been buddies since their high school days on the Bishop Watterson Football team. (Can you spot them in the photo below?!) So when George made the decision in 1994 to start his own home remodeling company, he asked his friend and teammate to help him run his first job. The Cleary Company has changed a lot since completing that first project 25 years ago and Rob’s been standing right along side George for the ride. Remember beepers and Nextel? That’s how Rob remembers communicating with clients and crews on our job sites in the 90’s. He’s most amazed at how communication has changed. “The internet, smart phones and tablets have dramatically improved how we all do our jobs. We even have our own APP! The client experience is much more collaborative. Our Design Team can create detailed 3D renderings in a fraction of the time it use to take. And our Sales Team can get real-time estimates and product updates from our vendors.”

    Over the last 10-15 years Rob’s role on our Team has evolved into a senior management position. In addition to managing his own projects, he also oversees and mentors our entire production staff. Rob says, “I try to make myself accessible and approachable to the younger guys, offering them guidance, especially when I notice them looking stressed.” George says, “Rob has one of the keenest eyes and sharpest minds in the business and when he’s part of the project, every detail is done right. Rob is our go-to guy for problem solving on every job site. Carpentry is in his DNA!”

    Rob’s very optimistic for the future of the home remodeling industry in Columbus Ohio. “Central Ohio is a great area. Geographically and economically we’re in great shape for growth with new builds but also we have some great individual communities that have their unique feel and homeowners are investing their money to improve the older homes.”

    Read more about Rob on our website!

  • Tips for Adding Color to Your Kitchen

    Tips for Adding Color to Your Kitchen

    Kitchen remodeling is one of the most popular home remodeling projects call our Team receives. And it’s also one that we love to design and build for our clients! The kitchen is the heart of your home, a place for family and friends to gather and cook, eat, and hang out. But when you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, it can be tough to know where to start.

    That’s where our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, Columbus, OH comes in. We get to see the kitchen renovation process from start to finish. We are blessed and grateful to work with so many amazing clients since 1994 and to share their joy when they see their vision come to life.

    Choose a colorful Appliance:

    Houzz published some great inspiration for adding color to your kitchen design. Of course, we think #4 is the best example!

    Have Fun with Color in Your Backsplash:

    Tile can take a backsplash from boring to beautiful with some careful planning.

    • Choose a different finish on the tile to impact the result of the design. Glossy or matte finishes create visual cues, as well as changing the design aesthetic.
    • Let your personality shine by transforming the way a room looks and feels with tile. Using different lay-outs, textures, and color, all help make the space unique.
    • Contrast the grout color for even more flair or keep it neutral so that it doesn’t stand out—options abound.
    • Keep it simple for the look you want or go bold and unexpected for more flair.
    Blue glass mosaic tile Upper Arlington OH Kitchen remodel

    Make a Statement with Your Cabinets:

    Light or dark, painted or stained? It is a big decision. Why not both?! Each type has their pros and cons. It really just depends on the type of cabinets being used, the design style, your preference, and the benefits or challenges for both. This mid century modern kitchen uses a combination of light and dark stained cabinets with simple flat panel drawers and doors to compliment the unique light fixtures and orange accents.

    Kitchen Mid Century Modern The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build Columbus Ohio

    Don’t Forget the Hardware:

    Go beyond polished or brushed chrome and nickel. Why not choose antique copper, bronze or matte black? Don’t be afraid to try different shapes and sizes too!

    Need more inspiration? Check out our Kitchens Portfolio on our website.

    Ready to Get Started on Your Kitchen Remodel?

    Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is here to collaborate with you on your new kitchen. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or visiting the contact page on our website.