Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Tag: design build remodeling columbus ohio

  • Your 8 Step Guide to Hiring the Right Remodeler

    Your 8 Step Guide to Hiring the Right Remodeler

    Navigating the Remodeling Maze

    Planning a remodeling project is exciting! You’ve been thinking about the room or rooms you want to change, you’ve probably been binge watching some renovating shows, looking through home magazines or scrolling through Pinterest, and dreaming. But now it’s time for the nuts and bolts of the plan—choosing the right remodeler to make your dream a reality.

    The Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is ready to create your vision and we want to help you hire the right company for you! The following eight steps should help guide your research to find the best company for your home remodel.

    8 Step Guide

    1. Define your project: It’s important to start by clearly defining your project. The scope of the work, your goals, budget, timeline, and any specific requirements and preferences are the first steps to think about. Knowing these allows you to articulate your thoughts and ideas to potential remodeling companies.
    2. Ask for recommendations: Many times, asking friends, neighbors, or colleagues for company recommendations is an effective way to start your search. Who better than those that have been through a project to give you their thoughts? Checking the company websites for reviews is a good unbiased referral as well. From these recommendations, create your shortlist.
    3. Do your research: With your recommended companies in mind, visit their websites, and explore their project profiles, photo galleries, and testimonials. When looking at their websites, find those that fit with your project idea and have a successful company. Another useful resource is the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). A NARI professional remodeling contractor is bound to a code of ethics that holds them to a higher standard of professionalism, integrity and excellence.
    4. Check licenses and insurance: We’ve all heard horror stories of companies starting work and not finishing or taking the money and not doing the work. A reputable company is properly licensed and insured and can be verified by local authorities. Licensing does vary by state, so ensure they have the correct licenses and certifications.
    5. Schedule a consultation: Now take your shortlist and schedule appointments. During the meeting, discuss your intended project’s details, ask questions, and pay attention to their communication skills, expertise, and professionalism. Who are you most comfortable with having in your home? Ask to tour their job sites, office, showroom or design center.
    6. Request references: A remodeling company should have references readily available from their past clients for you to contact. Call them and ask questions about their experiences, the quality of the work, how issues were handled, and how communication was between the client and the company.
    7. Develop a project proposal: Choose the company you feel is the best match for your family and project. Enter into a Design Agreement or request a written proposal or quote that includes the general project scope options, timeline of the project, and estimated costs.
    8. Sign the contract: After finishing the project development process request a contract that includes a detailed proposal with drawings, a scope of work, materials to be installed, project price and payment terms.

    Want to learn more? Read our blog post “Ready for a Home Remodel in 2023“.

    Need some inspiration for your next home remodeling project? Visit our Portfolio!

    Let’s Get Started!

    Following these steps will bring you to the right remodeling company for your project. It’s also your responsibility to communicate openly, set realistic expectations, and relay them clearly.

    The Cleary Company’s Remodel-Design-Build Team in Columbus, OH, would like the opportunity to collaborate with you by engaging in these conversations. Our Design Studio is available by appointment. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator who will answer all your questions, and explain our process. Call today 614-459-4000 or visit our website!

  • Kitchen, Bar & Primary Bathroom Remodel

    Kitchen, Bar & Primary Bathroom Remodel

    Working from home most days gives you a different perspective of your home. What works, what doesn’t and what really needs to be updated. Jen and Tom hired The Cleary Company to modify their primary en suite, refresh their kitchen and create better functionality for their basement bar. What was their experience like working with our Remodel-Design-Build Team? Read on to find out!

    Client Profile: Q & A with Jen & Tom

    What was the goal for your remodel?

    Our goal for the remodel was to refresh our primary en suite, kitchen, and basement bar. The bathroom required a full remodel because the layout needed better functionality. We painted the cabinets in the kitchen and replaced a backsplash—a simple change with a big impact. The 1960s bar was replaced to create an industrial pub feel.

    primary ensuite
    primary en suite

    What is your favorite aspect of your remodeled space?

    Our favorite is the bar design. While new and unique, the bar blends in with the existing rec room. The copper main bar top and the live-edge walnut back counter along with the waterfall effect on the knee wall is an eye-catcher.

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

    Of course, during a remodel, you have to be prepared for the disruption in your home for the duration of the project. The Cleary teams were great about tidying up every day, but construction is a dusty process. If you are remodeling a home that’s 50+ years old, you need to be prepared for surprises. Be ready to make adjustments in plans and timelines because changes will happen.

    Take a Tour of this Home Remodel!

    The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project?

    We chose The Cleary Company because they just seemed to understand our goal and budget. Their designers listened to our needs and made suggestions that were in line, instead of pushing to make the projects bigger than they needed to be.

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

    My favorite part was the people. Every person on our project team was so kind and fun to be around. We both work from home so we were around a lot. We got to know our project team pretty well. Fantastic people!

    Who from our Team stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?

    Of my goodness, can I name everyone? Jen Sommers designed our kitchen and bar. It turned out amazing! The design of our bathroom project was so simple. We made some choices to determine our style, then BOOM! selections done.

    Don Holmes and his apprentice Tristan were so fun to work with. Don does great work, and he’s a patient teacher! This isn’t his first rodeo. Eric Coleman is a master craftsman. No question that Eric’s projects were going to look perfect! And last but not least, Matt Ames is a gold-star project manager. There were so many balls in the air at any one time, with the subs and internal teams. He kept it all straight and us informed the whole time.

    Just for Fun!

    If you were asked to explain in one word why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company, what would it be? 

    We didn’t know when we chose The Cleary Company, but after our projects were complete we would definitely say ‘Quality’. Quality process. Quality work. Quality people. Which results in a quality experience.

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company? Yes!

    Want to learn more?

    To view more photos of these three projects visit their Houzz albums ~

    Are you contemplating a home remodeling project (or projects)? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today! Call 614-459-4000 or Schedule a phone call on our website.

    Our Remodel-Design-Build Team will help you navigate the remodeling development process and collaborate with you to make your vision a reality.

  • Top Four Benefits of a Home Addition | Columbus, OH

    Top Four Benefits of a Home Addition | Columbus, OH

    Why building a home addition makes sense for your family.

    Do you need more space or functionality in your home for a growing family? Maybe you need a home office or want a sunroom? Or do you desire a ground-level primary suite for aging in place in your home of 20-30+ years?

    A design-build home addition can provide many benefits for your family. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio is who you can trust to collaborate with you to develop and execute a plan that works for your family and lifestyle.

    Furthermore, adding on to your home is a wise investment to make for your family, especially when you want to stay in your neighborhood. The following are some benefits to consider, helping you decide when it’s time to add on to your home.

    1. Increase family living space. How great would it be to expand part of your beloved home without having to move or leave your neighborhood? Adding a bedroom, family room, home office, blowing out the wall to expand the kitchen, or adding a sunroom keeps you in your home without the hassle of moving. Extra square footage can greatly impact the quality of life for your family and give you the extra room you need to grow.
    2. Comfort, functionality, and personalization. Designing an addition for your home allows you to tailor your design plan to suit your family’s preferences and needs. Customizing the plan during development and design gives you the flexibility to create a spa-like bathroom, a functional home office, a spacious family room, or an additional bedroom to serve as a primary or a guest suite. Perhaps it’s the addition of a 4-season room to complete your vision for your backyard oasis. Personalizing it ensures that your home is tailored to your lifestyle and design aesthetic.
    3. Cost-Effectiveness. Of course, a home addition will cost you money. But that will pale in comparison to the cost of purchasing a new, larger home. The cost of moving to a new home involves real estate agent fees, closing and moving costs, and potential renovations to make a new home yours. A home addition allows you to add the room you need, without the cost of relocating to a new home. A side benefit, you will increase the value of your property, depending on what you add to your home. Additional square footage usually translates into a higher market value.
    4. Aging in place. This is a top consideration for many of our design-build clients. They love their home, their neighborhood, and their community. But a two-story home that worked for their family isn’t working as well now that the kids are gone, and the parents are getting older. The need for more living space on the first floor is a common theme we encounter. Creating additional kitchen space, a first-floor primary bedroom and bathroom suite, and a sunroom is high on the list for remodeling projects.

    Watch the Home Additions playlist on our YouTube channel to see how we’ve transformed many homes in central Ohio!

    After you hire the Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company, we will not only collaborate with you to develop and execute a plan that works for your lifestyle but our Team will handle all of the details. We are responsible for the budget, scope of work, design plan, quality and completion of your project as well as,

    • Provide you one point of contact.
    • Navigate your local zoning regulations.
    • Draft construction documents & plans for building permits.
    • Determine any impacts on the overall aesthetics of your property.
    • Work within your budget by simultaneously designing and estimating your project.

    What does a home addition cost in Columbus, Ohio? Read our blog to see what investment ranges you can expect when hiring a design-build firm for a home addition.

    Read more tips for planning a home addition from BobVila.com the quintessential resource for trustworthy advice for your home.

    Let’s work together to fulfill your vision and improve your home life! Visit the Contact page on our website or call our Client Relations Coordinator @ 614-459-4000.

  • Dining Room Remodel to Entertainment Hub

    Dining Room Remodel to Entertainment Hub

    Dining Room Remodel to Entertainment Hub

    If you’re like many people, your formal dining room is not used or is only used a few times a year. Instead of making it a dumping place for backpacks, mail, or things that need to be put away, why not make it an entertainment hub?

    Whether you want to create a lounge for hosting parties or game nights, transforming your formal dining room into a usable space can be a fun and creative project. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team offers these tips and ideas to help get you started!

    First Determine Your Needs

    • Do you need more space for entertaining family or friends?
    • Does your family do a lot of gaming?
    • Will you need space for serving food and/or drinks?
    • Does a beverage bar make sense?
    • What audio-visual tech components do you see incorporating?

    Once you have determined your needs, a floor plan can be created to help choose the right furniture, glasses and drink accouterments, TV, or gaming systems that will work in the space.

    Next, Create Zones & Versatility

    Determine your zones based on the needs you identified above. For example, for family entertainment, you might have a seating area, a media area and a bar area. Use furniture and area rugs to visually separate the spaces. Consider modular furniture that can be moved around and tables or ottomans that can double as storage. Seating should be comfortable and fit the activities planned for the space.

    Don’t Forget to Plan for Lighting & Storage

    How do you want to enhance the atmosphere of the room or the different zones? Combining layers of light that use specific types such as task, ambient, and accent will make all the difference. Even hanging string lights can create a fun atmosphere, especially if the room is going to be used for parties. To learn more about choosing lighting for your home, read our blog post on this subject here!

    Incorporate storage solutions for keeping your room organized. Include a variety of storage options such as hanging or standup shelves, cabinets, or dedicated storage units for games, gaming equipment, and books.

    Planning Entertainment Accessories

    The room’s purpose is entertaining, right? A high-quality television, surround sound, gaming consoles, music and an internet source (think Alexa or Google Nest) will take the entertainment to the next level. Perhaps there are board games, a pool table, cards, a karaoke machine, or a poker table as part of the plan. Make these accessible to guests and your family for fun nights spent at home. The layout is paramount here to take advantage of optimal viewing and accessibility.

    The Home Bar

    One of the most requested components to a basement, kitchen, family, or dining room remodel is a bar or beverage station. A dry bar is the simplest configuration. This typically includes cabinetry and shelving for storage and a countertop for serving. There may or may not be cold storage for drinks like a mini fridge or fridge drawer. A wet bar typically means that there is a sink with running water in the space as well as having all the components of a dry bar.

    Adding a bar to your entertainment hub keeps everything in one place for you and your guests. A refreshment area is a great idea, whether it’s a bar cart, a built-in bar cabinet, or a dedicated countertop with space for storing and serving.

    Add Your Finishing Touches

    Finally, add personality to make your new space inviting and cozy. Use a bold color for the walls or hang a bold piece of art. Photographs of family vacations, sporting events or hobbies will also bring life to the room. Of course, the rugs, throw pillows, blankets, curtains, and plants you choose will also help to create the right atmosphere for you and your guests.

    Have fun and let your creativity shine! After all, it’s a room that hasn’t been used to its potential and repurposing it is going to create endless possibilities for you.

    Need help reimagining, designing and building your new entertainment hub? Our Remodel-Design-Build Team is ready to collaborate with you to turn your unused formal dining room into the functional family space you need. Contact our Client Relations Coordinator today to get started! Call 614-459-4000 or visit our website.

  • First Floor Remodel in Upper Arlington, OH

    First Floor Remodel in Upper Arlington, OH

    Having lived in their two-story home in Upper Arlington, OH for about 6 years, Linda and Joe knew they wanted to remodel and expand their kitchen’s footprint and create a new mudroom from the garage entry. They also wondered how the entire first floor of their home could better function to fit their needs.

    Our Remodel-Design-Build Team gave them a new floor plan that addresses their busy family’s lifestyle by removing a wall, adding a large pantry, reconfiguring the layouts of the laundry and powder rooms, and adding a new mudroom.

    What do Linda and Joe think of their home now and their experience working with The Cleary Company? Read on to find out!

    Q & A with Linda & Joe

    What was the goal for your remodel?

    We wanted to create a more functional floor plan for our family with young children, including a mudroom area to collect their things, as well as we wanted to open up the kitchen to allow for gatherings, making it a fun, beautiful place where we actually want to cook and spend time together!

    first floor remodel
    mudroom
    Kitchen & Dining spaces before remodel

    What is your favorite aspect of your remodeled space? 

    It is hard to name just one! Our top 3 are the mudroom, the bar area of the kitchen, and all the lighting! When we previously entered our house through the garage, it basically went right into the kitchen, so the kitchen became a catch-all for coats, shoes, bookbags, etc. Now we have a very functional mudroom/laundry space that we enter into, and can keep everyone’s things organized.

    We have gotten tons of compliments on the bar area of the kitchen, which includes a second island and a seating bench by the window. It is a great space for gathering and adds a little something extra to a traditional kitchen!

    mudroom
    mudroom
    mudroom
    first floor remodel

    Our old kitchen was so dark with very minimal lighting. We love all the new lighting features, including under cabinet lights, recessed LEDs, and pendent fixtures!

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

    Have an idea of what you want, but let the designer step in and offer suggestions and improvements to your initial plan. It’s also important to be prepared to be flexible if some things need to change along the way.

    The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project?

    They listened to what we wanted to suit our family’s needs. They were also quick to get back to us when we reached out to them and always followed up!

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

    Once the project was underway they provided a clear estimated timeline and then remained available for any and all questions along the way. If something didn’t seem quite right they were always responsive and helpful.

    Who from our Team stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?

    We worked with a number of great people. Laura, our designer that stepped in midway thru our project, really helped us bring the final details together. The carpenters that did a lot of work on the house, especially Justin, Ed, and Dave, were very friendly and made sure we were happy with all the small details of the project.

    Just for Fun!

    In one word, why did you choose to do business with The Cleary Company? 

    Expertise.

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    Definitely. While it wasn’t cheap, the confidence in knowing that things were being done correctly and the open lines of communication were worth it. The end result is truly spectacular!

    Are you ready to remodel your home?

    Get started today by visiting our website or call the office to speak with our Client Relations Coordinator! Our Remodel-Design-Build Team will help you navigate the remodeling process and collaborate with you to make your vision of your home a reality.

  • The Anatomy of a Basement Remodel

    The Anatomy of a Basement Remodel

    Basements are an often-underutilized area that, when remodeled, could improve your home and how you live in it. However, understanding what it takes to remodel a basement is a topic we felt important to discuss. At The Cleary Company in Columbus, Ohio, our Remodel-Design-Build Team has collaborated to create many basement remodels. Read on to learn what Development & Design Manager, Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP, believes clients should know, think about, expect, and understand about remodeling their basements.

    When should you remodel your basement?

    So, how do you know you need to remodel? There are many variables to consider when determining this, and depending on what they are, the scope of the work will differ.

    • You want additional living space for a craft or hobby area, home office, workout room, or a place for the kids to play or hang out with friends.
    • You’d like to entertain more. How about a space for a custom wine cellar with a tasting room or a home bar ready for football games?
    • You need another bedroom and/or bathroom for in-laws, guests or when a kid returns during or after college.

    Need some basement remodeling inspiration? Visit our YouTube channel to view completed projects!

    8 things a homeowner needs to know about remodeling a basement:

    1. A basement remodel doesn’t go any faster than other remodeling projects. Supplies have to be ordered and delivered, areas must be demoed and rebuilt, permits need to be pulled, inspections completed—you get the idea. A great remodeling project takes time, no matter where it is in your home.
    2. Headroom matters! The Ohio Residential Building Code dictates the “ceiling heights in basements shall not be less than 6 feet 8 inches clear except for under beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions where the clear height shall be 6 feet 4 inches”. Ductwork might have to be moved or raised, especially in older basements. This height applies to staircases as well. In some cases, the stairway must be reworked to create the appropriate head height.
    3. To be classified as a finished basement, the space must be a walkout to the yard or have an egress window.
    4. Mechanicals (sump pump, water heater, HVAC) can be in the way of a new design plan. In cases where these mechanicals are cost-prohibitive to be moved, they can be enclosed in a separate room. Doing so often means a louvered or vented door must be installed for proper airflow.
    5. If a bedroom is in the scope of work, there must be an egress window in the room as well as a closet added for it to count as a habitable bedroom.
    6. What is the heating and cooling like in the basement? This will determine the kind of flooring installed if your basement tends to be chilly. Carpeting might be a good option if you love to be barefoot or if the space is going to be used for sleepovers and kids hanging out. If heating/cooling isn’t an issue, LVT (luxury vinyl tile) flooring is a great option.
    7. How are you going to use the space? If it’s going to be a place for kids, you might need to deaden the sound with more insulation or other soundproofing materials.
    8. Determine how you want the space utilized for your needs—a beautiful laundry room, a guest suite with a bathroom, a play area, a workout room, more storage, or a home bar. Knowing what will work for you and how YOU want to use the space determines the scope of the project and the cost.

    How much does a basement remodel cost in Columbus, Ohio?

    What you need to do before your project starts:

    There are several things that need to be done before the construction of your remodel can begin. Knowing these ahead of time makes the whole process easier for you and your remodeler!

    • Move everything away from the walls so every area can be accurately measured during your initial meetings and trade partner inspections.
    • Purge, organize and store items someplace other than in the basement to create adequate room for carpenters and trades to complete their work. If you need help with this process, Our Team can connect you with a professional organizer.
    • Is there water damage or areas where water gets in during heavy rains? Have this remediated before your remodel begins. Again, Our Team can recommend a professional to tackle any waterproofing issues.
    • Consider adding a sump pump with a battery backup. You may not have water issues now, but they can happen to anyone at any time.
    • Assure adequate space and clearance to get furniture and supplies down into the basement.

    Ready to get started?!

    Value added, another place to hang out, the added space you need for your home, all of these contribute to the anatomy of your basement. We’re here and ready to collaborate and create your vision. Contact us today! Visit our website or call at 614-459-4000 to discuss your basement remodeling ideas with our Client Relations Coordinator.  

  • Exterior Remodel | Hilliard, OH

    Exterior Remodel | Hilliard, OH

    Referrals from past clients are an essential marketing tool in business and especially important in home remodeling! Christina and Brandon were recommended by their neighbor who hired our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company in 2016 for a similar exterior remodel project.

    They contacted us to discuss upgrading the curb appeal of their home in Hilliard, OH. The results are gorgeous! Read on to learn more.

    Q & A with Christina and Brandon

    What was the goal for your exterior remodel?

    The goal of our exterior renovation was to transform our cookie-cutter suburban home into a unique and modern farmhouse representative of our style.

    What is your favorite feature of your home remodel? 

    The King’s Truss! It serves as a beautiful focal point for the house! The simplistic design and cedar finish make it a timeless addition that we hope to enjoy for many years. It’s by far the most complimented part of the renovation and we love seeing it every time we come home!

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

    My advice would be to choose a company that has plenty of experience and recommendations. After hearing so many contractor horror stories, it was important to us to go with a company that we could trust. The Cleary Company made the renovation process a fun and pain-free experience!

    exterior remodel
    BEFORE & AFTER EXTERIOR REMODEL

    The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company to complete your remodeling project?

    They completed a beautiful renovation of a neighbor’s house. We were impressed with the design, professionalism, and result of the project. Plus, our neighbors gave us a great recommendation which provided us peace of mind!

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

    Their Team was professional and patient throughout the entire process. They made our dream a reality all while staying respectful of our budget and time frame. It was a pleasure working with them from the first step to the final!

    Who stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?

    We worked with so many great people, especially Jayde, Katie, Matt, and Eric. The entire team was so patient and helpful and made sure that we were comfortable and happy throughout the entire process!

    Just for Fun!

    What is the one word why you choose to do business with The Cleary Company? 

    Professionalism

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    Yes, absolutely, I already have!

    Get Started on Your Remodel Today!

    Call our office at 614-459-4000 or visit our website to speak with our Client Relations Coordinator. Our Remodel-Design-Build Team will help you navigate the remodeling process and collaborate with you to make your vision of your home a reality.

  • Kitchen & Primary Suite Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    Kitchen & Primary Suite Remodel | Upper Arlington, OH

    Project Spotlight: After living in their home for more than 15 years Holly & Sam were ready to make some big changes to their two-story home in Upper Arlington, Ohio. After seeing several signs and trucks they contacted The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build to discuss their projects and ideas.

    Designer Katie Florjancic, UDCP collaborated with them to create a design plan and scope of work to fit the needs of their lifestyle. Project Manager, Rob Lindeboom, CLC and Lead Carpenter, Ben Ludlow managed the job site construction to complete the build.

    Kitchen
    Kitchen
    BEFORE Remodel Kitchen – Morning room – 2pc Powder room
    primary suite
    BEFORE Primary Suite

    The Plan?

    Kitchen

    • Expand the kitchen’s footprint by removing the wall between the adjacent dining room.
    • Rework the kitchen’s floorplan to create better flow and a more functional workspace.
    • Remove the existing powder room, rework the layout to create a smaller but more functional footprint.
    • Design and build new cabinetry and bench seating in the morning room.
    Existing Kitchen floorplan
    Proposed Kitchen floorplan

    Primary Suite

    • Rework floorplan of the existing bathroom to create space for a larger shower and double vanity.
    • Remove the existing walk-in closet and build a new larger walk-in closet within the existing footprint of the bedroom.
    • Remove the door of the smaller standard closet and install a new custom built-in cabinet.
    Existing Primary Suite floorplan
    Proposed Primary Suite floorplan

    Completed Projects!

    Kitchen

    Kitchen
    AFTER Remodel New Kitchen, Morning room & 2pc Powder room

    Primary Suite

    primary suite
    primary suite
    AFTER Remodel New Primary Suite

    Both the kitchen and primary suite not only received significant upgrades but both spaces now function better for our clients!

    5-star Guild Quality review ~ “Great people to work with. Very friendly and professional.”

    Are you ready to remodel your kitchen and/or primary suite? Click here to get started!

  • 5 Ways to Protect Your Home’s Interior

    5 Ways to Protect Your Home’s Interior

    It’s your sanctuary, your escape, the place you come back to every day. But how do you protect the interior surfaces and furniture? Knowing how to keep your home looking great will put a smile on your face every time you walk in!

    Carpets, Upholstery & Floors

    Stains, pet accidents, shifting furniture around, movie night snacks—your furniture, carpets, and floors can all take a beating. First, pretreat with a stain protector like Scotchgard or a professionally applied finish, both are great options for upholstery and carpets. Secondly, felt pads on the bottoms of chairs are a must but don’t forget your table legs and bed frames too. They are an inexpensive purchase and will go a long way to keeping the floor looking new. Also, choosing flooring and furniture materials and finishes that work for your family’s lifestyle goes a long way to keeping your home’s interior looking its best. As your kids get older and pets are trained, and family life changes, so might your décor!

    Walls

    Keeping walls free of scuffs and scrapes doesn’t have to be an all-consuming chore. First, choosing a high-quality wall coating (aka paint) is the best defense. Latex paints have the longest-lasting finish, are easy to work with, dry quickly and are extremely durable but the finish options can be confusing for most homeowners. Check out this easy-to-use Guide to Paint Finishes from houselogic.com! A high-quality paint that is formulated for each room keeps walls looking great and makes clean-up easier. According to improovy.com, by and large, most professional painters use either Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore paint products.

    For areas that are more prone to daily dings, install rubber stoppers, felt or plastic bumpers behind doors, chairs, headboards, etc. A chair rail in the dining or living room is a more stylish option to protect your walls. Scuff marks are unavoidable but keeping an eye out for them and cleaning them up as soon as you can is key. Mr. Clean’s Magic Eraser is an effective tool for touching up or cleaning walls and doors.

    Pets

    Fur is a constant struggle with cats and dogs. Even if you vacuum every day, sometimes not even the most powerful vacuum will remove pet hair from every inch of your home. Keeping pets well groomed is not only good for their health and behavior it also prevents shedding. With their dead hair removed and their short hair prepped up by the groomer, your pets will shed less hair and contribute to making your home a cleaner place. Other options for creating a pet-friendly home include large, washable throw blankets decoratively tossed over a couch or chair to gather pet hair. Creating a cozy space just for your pet might be a fun idea to try. Safe, comfortable, loved pets tend to stay off the furniture if they’ve been taught that nor are they apt to destroy anything.

    Scratches and claw marks can be a struggle. With several states now banning declawing, cat owners may be wondering how they can keep their home free of claw marks. Invest in scratching posts, unobtrusive corner protectors, or anti-scratch tape for couches and chairs to keep cats from scratching furniture. Again, grooming will help by regularly trimming the nails of both cats and dogs. Of course, choosing furniture and flooring that works best for your pets is another thing to consider.

    Windows

    Oh, that beautiful natural light. While most crave it and want natural light in our homes, the sun can also damage wood floors, fabrics and furniture. Curtains are one option, but also consider tinted windows, sun-filtering blinds, or UV film coatings. An awning might be a clever idea or if you’re remodeling or building, consider deeper overhangs for the windows that get the most direct sun during midday.

    Keep it Clean!

    While this really is obvious, keeping your home clean is an important preventive measure for protecting what is probably your largest economic asset. Cleaning spills as they happen, dusting and sweeping, protecting irreplaceable furniture pieces, and cleaning appliances frequently will all go a long way to protecting the interior of your home!

    Working with our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company means you get all of our expertise, not only with the creation and implementation of your remodel, but we are here to assist you with choosing the right finishes and fixtures to fit your family’s lifestyle. Collaborating with you on design choices and providing information to help you protect the interior of your home.

    Spring is just around the corner, for more information on how to protect your home, check out our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist!

  • Remodeling Workforce Development

    Remodeling Workforce Development

    Recruitment and Retention of the Remodeling Workforce

    Many well-intended companies view training as a key solution to obvious learning opportunities. The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio takes this to a higher level. Our goal is to empower our Team to make decisions on their own. A training program can be a powerful medium for that process. The most successful programs include customized content, relevant case material, skill-building practices, and a final measurement of skill.

    Learning is a consequence of thinking, not teaching. It happens when people reflect on and choose a training program. If the work environment does not support that behavior, a well-trained employee will not make a difference.

    George Cleary and his management Team take a bold approach to provide a robust training program for their Team. By implementing training solutions through various sources, we create a better work environment, a higher skilled workforce, and most importantly a great company culture that offers a superior client experience.

    Below are four key programs plus a general overview of the successes of The Cleary Company training programs. These programs have been initiated with collaboration between our internal teams, management, as well as external support.

    Leadership Development

    Since 2014, George has utilized the services of Peg Buehrle, Certified Business Coach and her associates with ActionCOACH Columbus for executive leadership and business development. They specialize in helping business owners craft strategies that create a better work-life balance with a unique niche serving the remodeling industry. George, his company and his employees have benefited from their coaching as evident in The Cleary Company’s tremendous growth and acquisition of exceptional talent.

    While most of their programs center around our management team, helping them to look towards the positive advantages of change, we’ve also been able to collaborate on some very beneficial training for the entire Team as well as some of our Trade Partners. Some of these key training sessions include Laws of Attraction, Emotional Intelligence, and key communication education.

    Chief Architect (CA)

    This is the software program our Design Team uses to inspire clients. CA can also create the construction documents our Production Team uses on their jobsites. Just like a carpenter with their hammer or a painter with their brush, we must consistently practice with our tool to improve our skill set. We utilized targeted training videos, as well as a community learning approach, in our weekly meetings focused on improving our skills with this platform. One of our Team goals is to design and build amazing award-winning projects and Chief Architect is one of the tools that help us achieve this.

    NARI Certifications & CEUs

    The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is a leader in the certification of remodeling professionals. These certifications were developed to recognize highly experienced remodeling professionals, capable of planning and managing complex remodeling projects to client satisfaction and are to be renewed annually. Additionally, they offer continuing education to all industry professionals looking to gain knowledge and advance in their career.

    These educational opportunities are offered throughout the year through in-person events and webinars addressing specific topics for the remodeling professional. NARI provides the environment for collaboration and connection in the remodeling industry with contractors, vendors, and skilled trade professionals. NARI’s national presence provides confidence to the consumer through its Code of Ethics which each member promises to uphold.

    Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio

    The WDBCO helps local businesses acquire, develop, motivate and deploy talent. As an industry leader in Columbus, Ohio, The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build takes pride in these opportunities to enhance the skill levels of our Team. Their Employer Advantage funded program enabled George and his management Team to provide an even more robust training program across all levels of our organization in 2021. On July 22, 2022 WDBCO presented its annual awards at Columbus State Community College. George Cleary, CR and Aaron Enfinger, CR were in attendance to receive an award for Company of the Year! An annual award presented at the WDBCO annual meeting.

    Utilize Training Programs to Achieve a Highly Talented Organization

    Any thorough organizational assessment will not only define the skills employees need to develop but will also reveal the conditions required to reinforce and sustain those skills once a training solution is implemented. With the training programs and other similar programs above, we have initiated our company’s ability to thrive in today’s challenging employment environment.

    We know that creating raving fans starts with raving employees. We focus on both the personal well-being and the professional development of each of our team members to create an amazing family culture that creates awesome projects for our clients. That is our commitment to the Central Ohio community we love to serve!

    Training program

    Are you ready to work for The Cleary Company? Visit our Careers page to see all our available job openings, submit a resume, ask questions, or request more information. We look forward to connecting with you!