Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Tag: design build remodeling columbus ohio

  • First Floor Remodel & More

    First Floor Remodel & More

    Lindsey and Richard bought their 100-year-old Bexley home nine years ago, with the intention to remodel it over time. In 2018, they started the process, talked with another company, and received some estimates. Thinking they knew what the budget could be for what they wanted, they soon realized HGTV was not an accurate representation of their desired plan. They decided to think about it, and then COVID-19 hit. With Richard home more, they both realized that the renovation had to happen to make their home work for their family. The rest is history…

    Q & A with Lindsey & Richard Bexley, OH

    What was the goal for your remodel?

    Our house was a mess! We needed better flow, more space, and more storage. It needed updated and brought into this century. The entire first floor was a priority, as was the upstairs primary bathroom. And we found out after demolition began, that our home was also unsafe!

    An addition from the 90’s wasn’t structurally sound so they installed a beam to make it safe. Also, the entire electrical system was installed to replace all the original knob and tube.

    What feature of your remodeled spaces are your favorite?

    The closets (pantry & bedroom) are a favorite—I just love them! The new kitchen brings a lot to our life as a family. We have sightlines for every area and now it’s fun to entertain. Richard loves our primary bath. Our old one was so bad I refused to use it. It’s nice that we can both enjoy this gorgeous primary en suite now.

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

    • Be ready for surprises!
    • Know what realistic budgets are. We had no idea what we were getting into with our house due to its age and unexpected issues.
    • Roll with the changes, be flexible, and be prepared.

    Take a Tour of this Remodel!

    The Cleary Company Remodel Difference

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company for your remodeling projects?

    When we were ready to begin the process, we spoke with three companies. The Cleary Company was the only one that asked us about our lives, what we wanted out of a remodel, whether we entertained a lot and whether we wanted it formal or informal. Robert noticed things other companies didn’t see, like our window air conditioning units in the 2nd floor windows. Even with a new HVAC system installed two years ago, the house was still hot in the summer and cold in winter. Robert said they could fix that. That comment helped to seal the deal for us!

    The extra level of getting to know us and who we are was a game-changer for us. The Cleary Company took the time to listen and get to know us, making our experience with them more personal. Now we have a dual-zone HVAC air system that we are in love with, and the home is the correct temperature year-round. We don’t think we would have gotten that, along with all of the room renovations, with another company.

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

    I really liked the design process and picking out the materials and items. I found it to be really fun, even though I know some people might find it overwhelming. Our Designer took the time to get to know us well enough that our selection meetings were a breeze. All of the designs are aligned with our lifestyle and preferences.

    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?

    Clarity! From day one everything was clear and spelled out for us.

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    Yep-absolutely. Everyone we had contact with was great! We have a meeting with Robert soon to get started on our next project.

    Want to Learn More?

    Working with our clients is like working with family. We work hard to get to know you through collaboration to design and build a home that works for you. We are honored to be part of our clients’ lives, during the remodel and beyond!

    Contact us today to discuss your remodeling project!

  • George Cleary II | Project Developer

    George Cleary II | Project Developer

    Welcome George’s son George (aka G2) to the Team Cleary family. We’re so excited to have another Cleary generation join our Remodel-Design-Build Team at The Cleary Company!💚🍀

    Lil’ George is a graduate of the University of Dayton with a degree in Operations and Supply Chain Management with a minor in Business Analytics. (He’s much smarter than his dad, just don’t let him know that, lol!). After working several years for big corporations, mainly GE Aviation & Aldi, G2 is excited to join his dad in the industry that has brought so much joy and success to his family.

    The next chapter of The Cleary Company brings George Cleary, founder & CEO, much excitement. He says, “As our business continues to grow, we are constantly looking to hire great people who are willing to work hard and are a good culture fit. Thankfully G2 inherited a lot of his mother’s traits, but maybe one or two from me too. I think he’ll bring a ton of value to the company right away by working on standardizing our procurement processes.”

    On the weekends G2 enjoys hanging out with friends and family, eating pizza and cheering for the Buckeyes. His hobbies include exercising and playing golf. The personal mantra he strives to achieve is “Dream Big, Work Hard”.

    G2 & George at our June Team Cleary Family Fun Night 💚
  • FUNdraiser Supports 2 Local Dog Rescues

    FUNdraiser Supports 2 Local Dog Rescues

    Bring your well behaved furry friends to our office and join us for an afternoon gathering for dog lovers to connect, shop, gain awareness, and FUNdraise!

    The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build located at 989 Old Henderson Road in Columbus Ohio is hosting a mini dog expo featuring a market with 8 local small businesses who service dogs and their owners.

    Join us on Saturday June 18th from 1-4pm for Dog Daze

    • Free gift for your dog ~ while supplies last!
    • Silent Auction ~ bid on unique custom dog houses, designed & built by Team Cleary.
    • Meet & cuddle with puppies & dogs ready for adoption!
    • Learn more about fostering and volunteering.
    • Pooch portrait booth by Lady Grace Photography benefiting Haley’s Comet of Change spay & neuter programs.
    • Let us know you’re coming with an RSVP via Evite!

    Shop for Dog Food, Treats, Clothing, Accessories & Services

    Presenting Sponsor
    • Puptown Lounge provides a fun, stress free environment for daycare, boarding, grooming and coming soon – training. Serving Upper Arlington and Northwest Columbus.
    • Nutrition you can trust from Pet Wants with fresh pet food & pet products. Providing a complete balanced diet in every bowl.
    • Pop-up photo booth by Lady Grace Photography $25 donation gets you 2 digital portrait images for downloading plus additional candid shots available for purchase.
    • doggish makes styling your dog easy with apparel and accessories that fit you and your best friends. From chihuahuas to Great Danes, they have sizes for every dog!
    • Benesafe protects pets and people from fleas, ticks & mosquitoes with plant-based sprays without toxic chemicals.
    • Mary Ashley Designs creates bowties, bandanas & more for pups of all sizes.
    • 4 Dog Loves fresh bakes treats and cakes with human grade, dog safe ingredients with grain and grain free options.
    • Crafty Mom & Ari handcrafts adorable pet accessories, facemasks and more.

    All funds raised will benefit two local non-profit rescues!

  • Clients Tackle Two Dream Bathroom Remodels

    Clients Tackle Two Dream Bathroom Remodels

    “It’s time!” During the summer of 2020, Katie and Mario decided they were ready to remodel 2 bathrooms in their Hilliard home built-in 1991. Both spaces were not only past their prime with dated fixtures and finishes they were also not functioning well for the family’s current lifestyle.

    The first remodel completed was the hallway bathroom used mainly by the couple’s two daughters. The footprint remained unchanged but the space was gutted and all of the fixtures and finishes were replaced top to bottom. We needed to complete the hall bath first since the clients would be using it while the primary bath was in construction.

    Second, on their list was the primary en suite. This bathroom required a complete redesign of the footprint. This project was completed by our award-winning Design-Build Team.

    Q & A with Katie & Mario Hilliard, OH

    What was the goal for your remodeled bathrooms?

    Our hall bathroom was basic, old, cracked and broken. We wanted a modern beautiful updated space. Although the space limited the size of bathtub we could select, we were delighted to be able to go with a deeper model to be used as a soaking tub.

    The goal with our main bathroom, connected to our bedroom, was to create a private, calm Zen-like space. It was a poorly designed footprint with small cut-up spaces and builder-grade finishes. It only had one sink! The existing shower was very small, dark and had several cracked tiles. We were worried about the shower leaking and creating water damage. It was very important to us to have an open floorplan with additional storage, a larger shower and a double vanity with two sinks.

    Which feature of your remodeled bathrooms is your favorite?

    Everything! The deeper tub in the hallway is wonderful because we can fully soak in it. We also appreciated their recommendation of relocating the shower plumbing to another wall. This makes it much easier to use, eliminating the bending and reaching around the toilet. Both bathrooms feature custom vanities that are taller and shower niches that add much-needed storage.

    BEFORE
    AFTER
    Hallway Bathroom
    BEFORE
    AFTER
    Primary Bathroom – Vanity
    BEFORE
    AFTER
    Primary Bathroom – Shower

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

    • Planning – Make sure you are ready to do it—we talked about it for years before we were ready.
    • Budget – Be prepared for it to cost a bit more than you think it will because it probably will.
    • Schedule – Give yourself time and understand that it may take longer than planned.
    • Construction – Be prepared for people in your home during working hours and, of course, the inevitable mess (even though everyone on our project did a great job of keeping our home as clean as possible).

    We also learned that a good project manager makes a significant difference, giving us a primary contact with clear information and who is well-organized. I always knew who to call. Go with a company that sets you up with a project manager and the keys for success.

    The Cleary Company Difference

    Why did you choose The Cleary Company for your bathroom remodels?

    We’ve lived in our home for 20 years and wanted it done well! We only had one other company look at our hall bath, but their options were a bit limited for what we wanted. My husband knew George Cleary from Bishop Watterson High School. When I was looking around on The Cleary Company website, I saw the option to use bath2BATH. This made sense for the hall bath since we would not be changing its footprint.

    I did talk to some neighbors about their projects with other companies and it seemed like the pricing was going to be similar. When we visited the design center, we talked to George. After speaking with him and everyone else at The Cleary Company, we made our minds up to do it the right and lasting way!

    Because we had two construction options available to us, had seen their signs around for years and knew they were a reputable company we didn’t seek out any other remodelers.

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

    The people! One of our favorites was meeting our design team on a visit to the design studio. We felt welcomed immediately and they showed us all our options. George also popped in to sit and talk with us. Everyone we worked with laid out the process and explained how each step would break down, from start to finish. They helped us understand how long it would take.

    Because our construction was during the pandemic, before vaccines were available, we were extremely pleased with the communication, cleanliness and safety precautions each person took while in our home. When my husband and daughter had to quarantine with COVID, everyone was so flexible and friendly when our project was on hold.

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

    Professionalism or Quality (I know it’s two, lol!)

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    Yes! It was a team effort, and we are incredibly happy with our bathrooms.

    Just for Fun!

    Who stood out? Name a Team member(s) and how did they exceed your expectations.

    The Lead Carpenter for the hall bath project stood out because he basically did everything himself. The plumber and tile cutter helped, but he was a one-man show. His work ethic and talent were impressive.

    Justin, the Project Manager for our primary bath, was amazing and kept everything on schedule.

    Katie, our Designer, was not on-site, but if there were questions we needed help with, she came out to our home to help out. We appreciated the design plans they created.

    All the workers that came into our home worked hard, did the best to their ability, and were able to be flexible. There were big supply chain issues and when we had to wait for products or materials to arrive, they utilized the time they had by doing other parts of the project.

    Want to Learn More?

    Read our blog for more details on Katie & Mario’s remodeled bathrooms as well as other client and project profiles!

    Our clients are awesome. We were honored to collaborate with Katie, Mario and others to create their visions of their much-loved homes. Remodeling is our main business but creating raving fans is our goal and we love what we do!

    Ready to remodel any or all of your bathrooms? Contact our Client Relations Coordinator by calling 614-459-4000 or schedule a time for us to call you!

  • Ready to Ditch Your Garden Tub?!

    Ready to Ditch Your Garden Tub?!

    What once was a “wow” amenity years ago in many new primary bathrooms, now doesn’t hold this same affection. A large built-in garden tub was considered a thing of beauty back in the day but hasn’t stood the test of time.

    Built-in garden tubs use gallons of water, are not easily navigated with their large tiled decks (especially as we get older), are difficult to clean, and take up valuable bathroom floor space. Garden tubs evoked the spa-like aesthetic we all craved in the 80’s & 90’s, but for today’s lifestyle, these oversized tubs just don’t cut it for many of our clients who are looking for easy care and maintenance for their bathroom remodels. In fact, removing them is the first request from clients looking to hire our team to design and rebuild their new bathroom.

    Why remove it?

    • Install a larger walk-in shower with a smaller freestanding tub or no tub at all.
    • It could add value to your home, as most buyers don’t want a garden tub.
    • To free up space for more storage, a larger toilet area, double sinks, and more.
    • For a spa-like shower experience, filled with all the bells and whistles – steam, multiple showerheads, sound, lighting – to make it special. (You’ll never want to get out!)

    Design ideas to spark your dreams:

    Now that you’ve decided to remove your garden tub, what will you add in its place?

    • Consider a large walk-in shower. For living in place design, a zero-entry or low threshold shower eliminates the need for a large edge to step over.
    • A larger shower also allows for adding a bench, whether it’s used as a footrest or for sitting, they can be either built-in or removable.
    • Installing a larger vanity with double sinks creates more countertop space and storage.
    • Add additional storage by expanding a nearby closet, create a new closet, or add open shelving.
    • Free-standing tubs are much smaller but can still incorporate some of the functions of larger garden tubs. Our Designers like the Evanescence Collection from BainUltra.
    • A “wet room” design, incorporates the shower and free-standing tub in the same area which is typically separated from the rest of the bathroom by a glass partition or tiled wall.

    For inspiration, take a look at some of our gorgeous bathrooms after the removal of a garden tub!

    Before
    After
    Built-in tub removed to create zero entry shower.
    Before
    After
    Standard hall bathroom alcove tub removed for low threshold shower.
    Before
    After
    Doubled the size of the shower and able to add a large vanity with more storage.
    Before
    After
    Doubled the size of the shower and left enough space for a more functional freestanding tub.

    Our award-winning Design-Build remodeling Team is here to collaborate with you to create a design plan that fulfills your vision of a new bathroom that’s not only a beautiful retreat but also functions for your lifestyle. Contact us today to get started! 614-459-4000

  • Highlights from KBIS 2022

    Highlights from KBIS 2022

    Have you looked around at your kitchen or bathroom recently thinking, “Something has to change.”? Make this the year you do something about it!

    Remodeling your home can make such a big difference in your daily home life. It’s a positive step to take and we are here to help you every step of the way. At The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus OH, our Designers and Design Consultants listen to your needs and issues with your space and collaborate on a plan that incorporates fixtures and finishes to solve those problems.

    In February, four members of our Team attended the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas. Design Consultants Shannon Tannehill & Margot Sheehan came back excited to share with us and their clients all of their favorites.

    What trends are they most excited about?

    Natufia Smart Garden
    Beko Front Load Recycled Tub Washer
    LG Signature InstaView Door Refrigerator
    • Wellness — Focus on nature and “me” time to revitalize the mind and relax the body. Products they loved included:
      • Natufia Smart Garden, grows 32 plants simultaneously with automatic watering and lighting to allow you to enjoy fresh, flavorful, and nutritious-packed plants anywhere, anytime.
      • Kohler bathtubs offer 4 types of bathing features – Soaking, Heated Bubble Massage, Whirlpools, and Vibracoustic. Their signature hydrotherapies create a luxurious spalike experience. Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for soothing an aching body or speeding the recovery of other muscular ailments.
    • Smart Home — Innovations that make ordinary experiences in your home more enjoyable. Some of these products included:
      • Beko Washing Machine – The Eco Recycled Tub is the first washer made from recycled plastic bottles. It uses 30% less energy and features 60 recycled water bottles used to make the drum of each washer.
      • GE Profile Kitchen Hub – An innovative way to have smart home integration. Incorporating U+ connect app and Google Assistant along with a guided cooking app and the ability to stream music, shows and movies.  
    • Living in Place — This has been at the forefront of design for the last few years. We need cleanable, multi-use spaces that are bigger and more adaptable, to make life easier at all ages. What we loved:
      • Appliances – LG Signature Kitchen French Door Refrigerator. It features reduced depth for easy access, LED lighting for clear visibility and the bottom drawers are interchangeable between freezer or refrigerator storage.
      • Lighting – A well-lit home is a safer home for all. Natural light plays a huge role in mental and emotional health of all, especially those living alone. Motion sensor lights not only conserve energy but are helpful for moving around your home at night. Toe kick lights on bathroom vanities are also helpful.

    What sparked their inspiration at KBIS?

    Color, color, color

    Colors are a true reflection of our environment, and the impact our health has had on us the past few years. We saw color in appliances, cabinetry, knobs and drawer pulls, paint, tiles, and more. The reigning colors included:

    • Green—evoking nature, outdoors, organic feel
    • Blue—evoking a feeling of trust
    • Pink—suggesting calmness
    • Taupes—moving us away from grays and bringing earthiness and serenity

    Artfulness

    Art can make us feel and react in different ways. Our designers were so intrigued by the artful designs they saw that turned sinks, tubs, shower flooring, shower drains, countertops, tile, lighting, and range hoods into pieces of art for your home.

    Outdoor living

    The options are endless for taking cooking and entertaining outdoors. The days of a grill on a patio have been encompassed by outdoor kitchens complete with refrigerators, waste containers, sinks, cabinets, countertops, and pizza ovens. If you want something from your kitchen outside, it can be done!

    KBIS always brings our Team new ideas, excitement and energy! We’re ready to incorporate these new products and ideas into our projects for 2022 and beyond.

    Fun & Inspiration from KBIS in Las Vegas!

    Are you ready for a remodel? Our Team is here to help you love your home again. Contact us to get started!

    Interested in tile design trends? Read our blog post Tile, Design & Home Remodeling to learn about innovative designs in tile.

  • Patio & Deck Season is here!

    Patio & Deck Season is here!

    Are You Ready?

    It’s about that time—to fire up the grill and firepit, toast a glass with friends, and while away the evenings and weekends on your patio or deck. Is your deck the livable space you want it to be? Does it need a refresh with some cool appliances and furniture? Or maybe it’s time for a new deck or patio. No matter where you are in your deck/patio dream, what you are envisioning can happen.

    Our Design Team at The Cleary Company Design-Build-Remodel in Columbus, Ohio has gathered some of their best ideas to help you create the deck or patio you want for your backyard. And remember, our Team is here to help you create the outdoor living space you want for your home!

    Over the past few years, our outdoor living spaces have evolved into everyday use, not just a place to grill on the weekends and hang out with friends. It’s additional living space, an office, a homework area, an area for family gatherings and relaxing—all on a daily basis.

    Turn your patio or deck into a haven with these innovative ideas from building to decorating.

    Outdoor Living Room

    Your patio or deck should be treated as another room of your house. This begs the question— how are you going to use it? Create a seating area, a dining area, a place to cook, an office area, a kids’ play space, and more. Comfy weatherproof couches and chairs, a dining table, blankets, pillows, ambient lighting, water features, and storage will help you define and use the spaces on your patio or deck.

    Furniture features

    The furniture you choose creates the look and feel you want for your outdoor living. You’ll want it to be comfortable, stylish and durable—and as weatherproof as possible. On a deck or patio, furniture has to stand up to wind, rain, sun, changes in temperature, and how it can be cleaned.

    • Many materials are used for outdoor furniture, all with their own pros and cons. Know your environment and the impact it has on the furniture as well as how much wear and tear it can take (we see you kids).
      • Wood furniture is easy to work with and looks beautiful. Softer woods don’t hold up as well to the elements over time, while hardwoods are more weather resistant. We love the information about the various types of wood furniture found on this blog from Décor Outdoor.
      • Metal is very durable and works well for side tables, coffee tables and chairs & couches covered with cushions. Metal can rust and might be harder to move if stored inside during the winter.
    • Be sustainable with recycled plastic outdoor furniture, with brands like Polywood , Comfort Craft and Luxcraft, or Sunbrella), or eco-friendly reclaimed wood, rattan, wicker and bamboo.
    • Don’t forget to have small tables available for drinks, electronics, and plates.

    Bring in Color

    Earthy, calm, and neutral or bold, bright, and colorful? Someplace in between? Pillows, cushions, outdoor rugs, planters, accent chairs with pops of color, and botanical prints are just a few ways to facilitate some color. This is a fun way to let the personality of your home shine through.

    Lighting

    You don’t just use your deck or patio during the day. Evenings are meant for neighborhood fun, with the kids running around and the adults hanging by the fire table, chilling with a cold one. Keep the evening going with a bit of illumination. Don’t let the fun stop just because it’s dark.

    • Install LED strip lighting along the deck to create safety points
    • Place solar lights to light up pathways, landscape borders and decks
    • String bulb lights under the pergola or across the deck for some ambiance
    • Torches and candles create mood lighting and help with bug control (citronella is the go-to scent)

    Control those temps

    Right, we get it—we are outside and while we can’t control the weather, we can control aspects of the temperature on our patios when it’s really hot or if it’s a chilly evening.

    We can use these great options!

    • Overhead heating lamps
    • Firepit tables or fire pits, using gas, propane or wood
    • Ceiling fans
    • Outdoor evaporative coolers (aka, swamp coolers)  

    All of these can cool us down and warm us up, keeping us outside longer! And who doesn’t want that?

    Summer Shade

    During a sweltering summer day, shade is a necessity. If you’re not blessed with a yard filled with mature trees, there are other ways you can create shade.

    • A pergola provides dappled shade
    • Part of your patio can have some type of roofing structure
    • Oversized umbrellas, covering tables, chairs or part of the patio, create pockets of shade

    Go Green with Plants

    A deck or patio immediately feels comfortable and homey with plants. Border plants surrounding the area create areas of privacy, as well as visual interest.

    Perennials, succulents, flowering baskets, herb container gardens, and vertical gardens are fun ways to provide pops of color and natural beauty. You’ll want to spend all your time outdoors when you bring flowers and foliage into the space.

    Cook in an Outdoor Kitchen

    Depending on the kind of cook you are will determine what type of outdoor kitchen you want. Do you just want to chill, entertain while grilling, or create a whole new kitchen for cooking outside?

    Your kitchen could include…

    • A grill—either coal or propane
    • A mini-fridge for condiments, drinks and prep items
    • A pizza oven
    • A sink for washing hands and quick clean-ups
    • Bar space, with a kegerator, wine fridge, and drawers for mixologist items
    • Granite or concrete countertops that will hold up to the weather
    • Storage

    This article from BBQGuys lists some of the top-rated appliances and equipment for your outdoor kitchen—check out the bar centers! A built-in trash container saves you trips to the garbage can and a dishwasher might just be a game-changer!

    Outdoor Office

    Are you still working from home? Create an area of your porch, patio, or deck to allow you to spend time outside while working. That Zoom background will be the envy of others!

    Are you ready to make some changes?

    Your patio or deck can be more than just an occasionally used part of your home. It can be your oasis, the place you come home to and don’t want to leave. Reach out to us at 614-459-4000 if we can help you remodel your home and give you the oasis you deserve. And keep the fire going—we will be there soon to roast some marshmallows!

  • What to Expect With a Home Remodel?

    What to Expect With a Home Remodel?

    Short answer – Expect the unexpected!

    Did you put off remodeling during the height of the pandemic? Did you recently buy a home that requires some time and attention to make it your own? Were you going to move, but just can’t find a new place to call home?

    Your home has become more than a place to come to after work over the past few years. It’s transformed into the center of most aspects of your life! Serving multiple purposes, such as an office, a school, a safe place to entertain, a gym, and your retreat for self-care. You’ve realized that the community where you live and the home you love is where you want to stay. But it needs to be more than what it is now, for it to function for your family.

    We get it—a remodel of your kitchen, first floor, bathroom, or the whole house, needs to happen sooner rather than later—you want to do it now. At The Cleary Company, Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, OH, we want nothing more than to start your project as soon as we meet with you. But there is a process and the challenges of our industry right now are creating delays in everyone’s timelines.

    What do you need to know before you call a remodeler?

    The pandemic brought forth many unforeseen issues, many of which, have challenged the construction industry. While we aren’t lacking for clients or new projects, (in fact, we’re busier than ever!) there are many factors right now affecting our schedules. If you have completed a project in the past five to ten years, expect it could now take double the time to complete.

    • Supply chain issues continue to cause delays. Appliances, windows, doors, and other vital construction items are taking longer than normal to ship and arrive. The good news is if you’re willing to select an in-stock item vs a custom item lead times can be significantly shorter.
    • Manufacturing of materials, as well as the distribution of them is taking longer. The semiconductor chip issue does affect some appliances, but beyond that most manufacturing plants are not at worker capacity, and some raw materials still are still in short supply. All of this means products are not being made at the rate they were before coupled with the higher than expected demands. Luckily, we work with some amazing vendors, that are doing everything they can to get us materials.
    • Costs have continued to increase. We have all heard what has happened to lumber prices over the last two years, but other items we need, have risen as well. This means the bottom line for your project has increased. Keep in mind it’s never going to be cheaper than right now. Although some costs may stabilize or even drop slightly, overall most prices will continue at their current rates or even rise further.
    • Labor shortages for skilled trades were an issue before the pandemic and since then the problem has only gotten worse and has started to lengthen the time it takes to complete a project. While we feel blessed to have such an amazing Team and trade partners, we are still hiring, as are most remodeling companies. Check out our open positions here!
    • Utility companies (water, electric, gas) are suffering from the same issues as stated above. This trickles down to us when we need to do work that involves them. This means we could be waiting on them to come out to the site to take care of what is needed for your project.
    • Surging home prices and lack of available inventory has made the decision for many people to just stay in their homes and remodel them, rather than try to purchase a new home.

    Our Team will help you through this process.

    Remodeling your home is important and we understand! Our job isn’t only to complete your project, but for us all to be a part of the same Team. We take what we do seriously and pride ourselves on having a solid, well-respected reputation.

    When you work with The Cleary Company, you can expect:

    • Honesty
    • Transparency—we will let you know what we are dealing with and how it could affect your project
    • Realistic expectations
    • A positive working relationship
    • An open dialogue
    • Timely updates during the construction phase of the project
    • Proactive problem-solving to keep your project moving forward
    • Innovative ideas
    • Your vision comes to life

    How can you create a positive remodel experience?

    • Do your research – be prepared with a vision and a budget
    • Remain flexible and understanding when a problem or issue is discovered
    • Be honest and forthright with our Team
    • Keep realistic expectations for the timeline
    • Be patient

    With all this, we encourage you to start a conversation with our Team now and not wait. The sooner we talk, the sooner you get into the queue and the sooner we can build your project. The entire remodeling industry is in high demand, and we want to get your project ready to go. The phrase — “Together, we can accomplish anything” is the standard we work to achieve. Ready to set up that initial meeting so we can share in your vision for your remodeled home? Contact us here.

  • Front Porch Addition | Grandview, OH

    Front Porch Addition | Grandview, OH

    Transformational is how Natalie and Pierre feel about their home porch addition. They hired The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, Ohio to create a spacious front porch on their 2,140sf farmhouse style home built in 1928. Their main objectives were to create functional exterior living space for entertaining and enjoying the gorgeous views from their hillside home.

    Working with clients that have a vision and a budget ready to go can make the home remodeling process a bit easier! We appreciated their time and commitment to collaborating with our Team on the design and development of their porch project.

    Click here to read the article on this award winning project in CityScene magazine!

    Q & A with Natalie & Pierre Grandview Heights, Ohio

    Why did you remodel your home?

    We added a front porch to our house and replaced the original front door with a French door. Based on the traditional style of our home and other homes in the neighborhood, it should’ve had a porch, but it didn’t. Adding the porch has been transformational in terms of how we use this space. It has also brought so much light and brightness into the front of our home. We open the French doors when the weather is good and leave them open all day long. We can now enjoy the front view of the yard.

    What is your favorite part of your new porch?

    It is designed with two specific areas. One end of it is for dining, with seating for 8 people. The other side has a sitting area with a firepit. We have turned it into a comfortable, flexible outdoor space for dining, chatting, napping, and working. It’s delightful!

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

    Use The Cleary Company! But, beyond that, before you reach out to a company, have a good idea of what you are trying to accomplish and why. Know what the scope of the project is, and your budget. Have your vision laid out, and then when you meet, you’ll get a better sense of how they can help you with the specifics of your project. Pay attention to what questions they ask and what questions they don’t ask. Make sure they understand what you’re trying to achieve. And finally, be open to their input and guidance as they’re the experts in remodeling.

    The Cleary Company Design-Build Difference

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

    Our process began by looking at which companies were doing remodels and porch additions in our Grandview neighborhood. We approached three Design-Build remodeling companies, one didn’t respond. In the end, after meeting with two companies, one of them being The Cleary Company, our interactions with the people at The Cleary Company really hooked us. Our Project Developer, took us on a tour of completed porch projects. We were able to see the quality of the work they had done and had the opportunity to speak to some of the homeowners to find out about their experiences throughout their remodeling processes.

    I also spoke with George Cleary for an hour during one of their Remodeling 101 open house events. He told me about his company, showed me around the office and design studio, and answered my questions about remodeling. After these interactions, it became a very comfortable choice for us.

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

    Their commitment to quality and customer service. Every person involved with our project brought their “A” game, including the subcontractors. We work from home, so we got to see everything happening, how conscientiously they all worked, solved problems, and resolved any issues that came up, which was a wonderful experience for us.

    Our project presented some challenges because of how our house is located on the lot, with tight maneuverability, a hill sloping away from the house, and a common driveway shared by several households. We were concerned about possible disruptions and inconveniences for our neighbors and damage to our neighbors’ lawns during the project. Before The Cleary Company started construction our Project Manager, dropped off a letter to each neighbor’s home. He also spoke with many of them to let them know what was going to be happening and to be sure to inform him of any issues. We saw this as a big, proactive step, and some of our neighbors commented on how nice that was and how conscientious The Cleary Company was.

    Another example of the extra efforts made during the construction was installing the concrete pad for the porch. It was pumped up the hill from the street, rather than driving a concrete mixing truck onto our common driveway, which could have caused damage and inconvenience. Everyone worked together to successfully resolve all of the challenges.

    Who stood out and how did they exceed your expectations?

    Companies take direction from their owners and that showed with all our interactions with the people at The Cleary Company. More than one person stood out to us!

    George Cleary (Owner) — All of the interactions we had with him were wonderful and he came to check on the project while it was in progress. Our Project Developer was also instrumental in the success of the project from beginning to end. Providing knowledge, guidance, and expertise in a friendly manner.

    Laura Watson (Designer) – Her involvement with the design got everything moving. She captured our vision for how we wanted to use the space and the look and feel of it. She walked through the project with us and came out partway through to see how it was going. Several other employees helped on our project as needed. Our Project Manager was on-site making sure everything was on track and moving smoothly.

    Also of note were the concrete contractors who were phenomenal and efficient and the framing contractor who was so detail-oriented and made sure he made everything right.

    The way the Team interacted with us as clients, as well as how they interacted with their subcontractors, was above par. All the right people fit together to complete the perfect project. All of them went above and beyond. It was a great experience for us!

    What one word describes why you choose to hire The Cleary Company?

    Exceptionalism. (Natalie) Integrity. (Pierre)

    Would you recommend The Cleary Company?

    We already have—to anyone we know who is going to undertake a remodeling project. One neighbor has already hired them and another neighbor has had an initial consult meeting.

    In the end, the people and the details are what really matter, they differentiate one company from another…and The Cleary Company delivered! The Cleary Company was clearly the best company for our home remodel!

    Watch the video tour of this CotY Award winning home addition!

  • 28 Years of Building Relationships & Remodeling

    28 Years of Building Relationships & Remodeling

    George Cleary, a native of Columbus, Ohio and 1984 graduate of Bishop Watterson High School, founded The Cleary Company in April 1994. With $10,000, a computer, a truck, some tools along with his buddies as labor, he used his experience in remodeling sales and his reputation in the community to secure jobs as a general contractor.

    “The thing I love most is being part of the emotion of a remodeling project. Translating a customer’s vision into a design and then building their dream is the best part of what we do. This coupled with working with great friends makes what I do so rewarding.”

    George’s Top 4 Favorite Client & Projects

    “When I was asked to list my favorite projects, I found it was very hard. They are weaved in relationships more so than projects. I cherish that I have lifelong friendships with so many of the clients who hire our Team!”

    Number 1, of course, is his first client! “Luke and Gail were confident enough to trust me with not only The Cleary Company’s very first job but a project that in today’s dollars would cost $150K+ to build.” They eventually sold that home in Upper Arlington, Ohio but guess who they called to remodel their next home and most recently again for their retirement home in Westerville, Ohio? George! Read more about their projects and George’s relationship with them on our blog.

    Second, of his favorites is another longtime client, whose home we’re currently working on, is Georgeann in Bexley, Ohio. “She reminds me of my mom, always smiling and doing whatever she can to make you comfortable.” Starting with new windows in 2006, The Cleary Company has completed over 6 remodeling projects in her home and currently are designing another! Click here to see the 3 bathrooms we remodeled for her in 2014. To view her 2011 kitchen remodel click here.

    “Another favorite is the custom home we built for Kate, a dear friend of my wife Cathy and my family.” After months of design, development and estimating for an extensive addition and whole remodel to a modest ranch in Upper Arlington, OH, we all came to the same conclusion. The better value for her project was to tear down the entire house and rebuild the foundation. Building a new foundation allowed us to better position the home on the lot as well as create a new dry basement with taller ceilings. Fun Fact ~ Project Manager Rob Lindeboom was the previous owner and sold this home to Kate years before she hired The Cleary Company. Read more about this project on our blog!

    Although he could go on to list many more George’s final favorite clients are Julie & Garth. The Cleary Company has completed 7 projects for them over the last 10 years! In 2011 they started with updating the millwork and doors, then came the kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a basement and a new sunroom. Tour their 1st-floor addition in this video. The addition included enlarging the sunroom plus building a new master suite, laundry room and mudroom. This project will allow them to age-in-place in their beloved home. “I see them several days a week at the gym and they remind me how they love their home. You can’t get better than that!” Fun Fact ~ George was the altar boy at their wedding when he was in middle school!

    George attributes his success to his honesty, integrity and his ability to build such a wonderful team. He’s happy to be part of enhancing properties in the neighborhoods where he lives and works. To learn more about George read our blog!