Cleary Company: Design Build Remodel

Tag: NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry)

  • Team Cleary Celebrates Clients & CotY Awards

    Team Cleary Celebrates Clients & CotY Awards

    George and several members of the Development Team packed the Animal House with 40 Clients for cocktails and a catered dinner from Metro Cuisine on Friday, April 5th. The party was a kick-off to celebrating 30 years of remodeling excellence in Columbus Ohio but also a chance to thank our awesome clients.

    George gave some brief remarks before dinner was served and a surprise moment came from Rob Lindeboom, Senior Project Manager, when he stood beside George to say a few touching words. April Howe, Marketing Coordinator, began the meal with a lovely blessing. The evening was filled with wonderful conversation, great food and meaningful fellowship. There was also the opportunity to watch the NARI National CotY award presentations live streaming on the big screen. Check out some photos below!

    Cocktails & Clients Photo Gallery

    National CotY Winner x 2!

    The 2024 National Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards were announced at NARI’s (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) annual conference. NARI Level Up, is a week filled with education, networking and access to industry-leading experts sprinkled with fun with fellow remodelers from across the country. The Evening of Excellence ends the week with a reception and recognition all Regional CotY winners and presentation of the coveted National award winners!

    Chief Operations Officer, Aaron Enfinger, CR (& Treasurer on NARI’s Board of Directors) represented Team Cleary along with several others local chapter members from central Ohio in Washington DC at the conference and Evening of Excellence.

    Outdoor Living Space Upper Arlington OH
    primary en suite
    Bar Upper Arlington OH

    Residential Outdoor Living Space $100k – $250k – Tour this project on our YouTube channel. Watch here!

    Residential Interior Element over $50k – Read more about this project and our Client’s remodeling experience. Click here!

    Read more about these winning projects along with our 3 additional projects nominated on our blog.

    30 Years of George & The Cleary Company

    Last month TCC participated in Columbus Business First’s Corporate Anniversary special edition. View photos of George and the evolution of The Cleary Company in this special edition digital timeline. Hard Hats & Heart: The Cleary Company Celebrates Three Decades of Remodeling and Building Community

    Save the Date!

    Join George and Team Cleary on Friday September 27, 2024 for a 30th Anniversary Open House event. For more details click here.

  • Field Supervisor Zach Minniear | NARI Certified Remodeler

    Field Supervisor Zach Minniear | NARI Certified Remodeler

    The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio is proud to announce Field Supervisor, Zach Minniear earned a Certified Remodeler (CR) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).

    NARI Certified Remodelers are recognized as highly experienced remodeling professionals who provide a full range of remodeling services. They possess expertise in a broad range of business management and technical skill areas, identifying them as well-rounded remodeling experts capable of managing all aspects of a remodeling project. As a whole, the NARI CR Program addresses the fundamentals of managing a full range remodeling operation:

    • Sound business operations and procedures necessary for operational efficiency and increased profitability
    • Navigating building codes and communicating with code officials
    • Job site evaluation and identifying hidden defects and unknown conditions
    • Green remodeling and building science
    • Capabilities of the various trades required on the remodeling project and how to determine if the work is performed correctly

    Q & A with Zach Minniear, CR – Field Supervisor

    What is your role for The Cleary Company?

    As the Field Supervisor, my primary responsibility is to handle any warranty issues after construction on the projects has been completed. Other responsibilities include assisting Project Managers with punch lists when needed, scheduling trainings and safety education for the Production Department, and overall help ensure we adhere to our high quality standards of craftsmanship.

    Why did you decide to take the certification test?

    I chose to get certified to further my knowledge and be a better asset to the company.

    How did you prepare?

    NARI provided an online prep course and I also did some self-study and review prior to the exam.

    Why did you choose a career into remodeling?

    After 12+ years in the US Navy Construction Battalion aka Navy Seabees, 5 of those years were in project management, staying in the construction field seemed like a natural transition.

    How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

    George and the entire management team encourages all of us to better ourselves and in turn the company by continuing to learn and grow. The company provides all team members opportunities like certifications classes, online trainings, industry conferences and networking.

    What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

    100% it’s the people!

    What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

    Beyond the team of people I work with it’s the atmosphere and culture of professionalism, support and encouragement that George models each day.

    Why Do Certifications Matter?

    Remodeling a home is a big decision and homeowners should be sure the remodeling professionals they hire are qualified to perform the work to the highest level of professionalism, integrity and quality.

    Hiring NARI Certified Professionals assure:

    • Your remodeling professional has met strict standards for remodeling expertise, project management and professional conduct.
    • You are selecting an expert in the field, capable of completing your project to industry management and quality best practices.

    As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of Our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, throughout each year, our Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

    Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

    Looking for a Career in Home Remodeling?

    We are in a skilled labor shortage in the Columbus, Ohio, area and you will find work here in the construction and building industry. At The Cleary Company, we look for motivated individuals who are willing to learn and have a positive work ethic.

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

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

  • UDCP NARI Certification | Designer Shannon Tannehill

    UDCP NARI Certification | Designer Shannon Tannehill

    Join us in celebrating Design Consultants Margot Sheehan & Shannon Tannehill! They both earned Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) certification from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

    Preparation for the UDCP test includes attending an 8-hour online course and reviewing the study guide materials provided by NARI. The program addresses the key concepts of Universal Design as applied to residential remodeling:

    • Conducting client needs assessments
    • Universal design applications used in residential remodeling
    • Construction techniques used to implement universal design in a remodeling project
    • Plumbing and electrical systems unique to universal design
    • Differences between model building codes and ones described in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    Q&A with Shannon

    Shannon Tannehill, UDCP | Design Consultant

    As Design Consultants at The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus Ohio, they serve a crucial role on our Project Development Team. Their main role and responsibilities include collaborating with our clients in selecting the fixtures and finishes for their remodel, all the while keeping the client’s needs, style and budget top of mind.

    Shannon Tannehill – 6+ years industry experience, 1.5 yrs @ TCC – Interior Design @ The Art Institute of Cincinnati

    Why did you decide to take the Universal Design test for certification?

    Shannon – To further my education and be able to spot things early on that need to be adjusted for living in place or multigenerational households.

    How did you prepare for the UDCP test?

    Shannon – Attending online classes and studying with flashcards.

    Why did you choose a career in remodeling?

    Shannon – I have a diverse background in the design world and this role incorporates all my knowledge.

    How has TCC supported your growth, both personally and professionally?

    Shannon – TCC has supported my growth with continuing education, job site visits and working with other team members, lots of teamwork! 

    What do you believe is the hidden gem of working for TCC?

    Shannon – The team! we all have such unique backgrounds and knowledge that make a dream team for every project.

    What do you enjoy the most about working for TCC?

    Shannon – Being around other creative problem solvers and having events that cultivate our role in the community and with our vendors. 

    What is NARI Certification?

    Passing a comprehensive 90-question examination under the supervision of an examination proctor is the last step to professionals earning a NARI Certification.

    Certified professionals represent an elite group of industry experts who possess extensive technical and management skills. These skills set them apart as capable remodeling professionals. Standards and exam questions are developed by leading remodeling experts who are well-versed in technical and management best practices for the remodeling industry.

    Why does our Team values industry certifications?

    As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, our team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations each year to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

    Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

    Want to know more about what Universal Design is? Click here to read our blog post on the subject!

    Certification
  • NARI Certification for Lead Carpenter | CLC

    NARI Certification for Lead Carpenter | CLC

    Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Are the most knowledgeable members of our Production Team!

    Certified Lead Carpenters (CLC) are recognized as expert hands-on field professionals who oversee every on-site aspect of the project, such as personnel management, subcontractor management, scheduling, safety, administration, customer satisfaction, etc. while also working on the site.

    A Lead Carpenter’s motto is “Be prepared and do your best, always”. They study all of the materials available thru NARI’s website and attend local chapter study sessions to prepare themselves for the comprehensive 180-question examination.

    What is NARI Certification?

    NARI certified professionals are those people who possess extensive technical and management skills. This adds to their skillsets in their fields and adds a higher level of competence. Clients want the professionals they hire to perform the needed work at the highest levels. These certifications assure clients that our Team members have met strict standards and are committed to their craft.

    With over 1400 certified professionals holding nearly 1800 individual designations nationwide, NARI is a leader in certification of remodeling professionals. What does the certification mean to Dan? “The certification really shows a commitment to quality both in the production and management of the project. That commitment will take me far in this field.”

    A Desire to Grow and Learn

    At The Cleary Company, we feel strongly that learning and growth are important. Not just for the benefit of our Team members, but as a responsibility to provide our clients with the best Remodel-Design-Build projects in Columbus Ohio. Our clients expect the best remodeling experience, with the best people working on their project. We challenge our Team to study for and receive certifications as a way to become more knowledgeable, grow within their career, and be the best in their remodeling craft. Not only do we value our employees continuing education, but also 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

    Click here for a full list of NARI certified professionals at The Cleary Company!

  • Winners of 10 CotY Remodeling Awards

    Winners of 10 CotY Remodeling Awards

    We won! Kudos to our Team for receiving 5 Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards from NARI of Central OH. George Cleary, CR, Owner & CEO of The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build in Columbus, OH believes, “Winning a CotY is not only great for company moral but it also gives us multiple chances to show off our amazing projects to more people. We love what we do and it’s a great feeling to be recognized by our industry peers!”

    NARI of Central Ohio announces CotY winners annually at their Evening of Excellence gala. On December 3, 2021, at the spacious Wigwam Event Center in Pickerington, 177 remodeling industry members gathered for fellowship, food, fun and awards. 50 entries were submitted by 11 companies in 22 categories.

    Watch this video to see all 5 winning projects!

    Project categories & Team Cleary recognition

    Addition under $100k

    • Project Developer – Jayde Boyd
    • Designer – Matt Zimmer

    Bathroom $75-100k

    • Project Developer – Jayde Boyd

    Commercial Interior

    Entire House $750k-$1m

    Residential Exterior

    • Designer – Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP

    Stay tuned for more announcements! Regional CotY winners will be announced next month and National awards will be presented in April at NARI’s annual conference.

    5 More Awards from NARI’s Regional Competition!

    On Tuesday February 1, 2022 NARI announced the winners of the Regional CotY competition. Team Cleary was honored with 5 additional awards for Region 4 East Central. 4 of the 5 projects are two time winners now! Watch this video to see which additional project took home an award.

    Residential Interior under $100k

    • Project Developer – John Coleman, CRPM
    • Designer – Laura Watson, ASID, UDCP
    • Project Manager – Rob Lindeboom, CLC

    What is a CotY Award?

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

    CotY award winning remodeling projects demonstrate exceptional design and craftsmanship in renovation. A diverse and impartial panel rates each project based on 5 criteria.

    • To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met?
    • To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure functionally?
    • Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship?
    • To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically?
    • Were innovative used of materials and/or methods of construction used in the project?

    Projects entered into the National CotY competition are eligible to win a Regional award among 48 categories in 7 regions nationwide. The National CotY awards are selected from those Regional winners in each category. The 2022 National project winners will be announced on Thursday April 7th in Savannah, GA.

    Team Cleary’s commitment to NARI

    The Cleary Company is proud to have several active members in NARI’s Central Ohio chapter, which is located in their East Central Region. Aaron Enfinger, CR, COO also serves on the National Board. There are currently 11 team members who’ve earned professional certifications from NARI. Click here to learn why we believe continuing education should matter to you!

    • George Cleary CR
    • Aaron Enfinger CR
    • Jen Sommers CR
    • Laura Watson UDCP
    • Katie Florjancic UDCP
    • Coury Sicker UDCP
    • John Coleman CRPM
    • Justin Juenger CRPM
    • Rob Lindeboom CLC
    • Pete Mossman CLC
    • Dan Irwin CLC

    Visit The Cleary Difference page on our website to learn more!

  • Designer Katie Florjancic | NARI UDCP

    Designer Katie Florjancic | NARI UDCP

    Kudos to Designer Katie! Committed to excellence in her field, she earned a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) accreditation from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Katie joined our Design Team in 2020 with over 10 years of experience in the home design and residential remodeling industries. Originally from Cleveland, she’s a graduate of Ohio University, where she studied Interior Design and Business Management and was also an active member of the OU Design Group.

    Katie prepared for the UDCP test by attending an 8-hour online course. Also helpful to her preparation was reviewing the study guide materials provided by NARI and the many notecards she created. She hopes to add additional certifications and actively participate in offerings from NARI of Central Ohio. “My certification has broadened my knowledge, provided me with more tools as I’ve learned to design with everyone in mind.”

    Because more of our clients are wanting to live in their homes longer, our Design Team, at The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio, recognizes that all of our projects should include principles of Universal Design. This not only applies to our clients looking to “age in place” but also to their extended family, caregivers and guests living or visiting with them.

    Read more about Age-in-Place Design and future-proofing your home on our blog!

    What is NARI Certification?

    Certified professionals represent an elite group of industry experts who possess extensive technical and management skills. These skills set them apart as capable remodeling professionals. Standards and exam questions are developed by leading remodeling experts who are well versed in technical and management best practices for the remodeling industry.

    Why our Team values industry certifications?

    As a trusted Remodel-Design-Build firm in Columbus, Ohio, we believe continuing education is important and the development of Our Team is a responsibility we have to our clients. From formal CEU classes administered by our industry partners to informal Lunch-n-Learns hosted by our vendors, throughout each year, our Team regularly participates in webinars and live presentations to improve our knowledge of home remodeling.

    Not to mention, data suggests 80% of consumers would choose a remodeling professional who is certified over one who is not.

    Want to know more about what Universal Design is? Click here to read our blog post on the subject!

  • Winners of 38 (& Counting) NARI CotY Awards!

    Winners of 38 (& Counting) NARI CotY Awards!

    At The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus OH, we’re proud members of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). NARI’s Central Ohio chapter (NARI-CO) is located in the organization’s East Central Region. Each year NARI presents their Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards to it’s membership. NARI-CO local winners are announced the first Friday each December. Our first local winner was received in 2007. Since then our Team has won a total of 21 local CotY awards. A record number 6 wins were awarded in 2019 which was an extra special honor since we were also celebrating 25 years of remodeling!

    The NARI Regional winners are announced each February. In 2017 we won our first East Central CotY for a whole house remodel in the $250-500k category. To view before and after photos of this project click here! Since then we have been won a total of 14 Regional CotYs including 4 in February 2021. Watch this video clip of our four East Central Region winners!

    All winners from each Region move on to the National competition. They are then scored by a panel of judges who are leading experts in their field. Our Team’s first National CotY award win was in 2019 for an amazing master suite addition that included a private Zen inspired courtyard. A video of this courtyard has over 4 million views on YouTube! Watch it now. We were so excited to win 2 more National CotY awards in 2020 and our fingers are crossed for even more in 2021.

    What are the NARI CotY Awards?

    The CotY or Contractor of the Year awards are presented each year by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) to its members at the local, regional and national levels. Remodeling projects submitted by members have demonstrated outstanding work through their craftsmanship, problem solving and use of innovation to meet the needs of their clients. The awards recognize excellence in remodeling and with over 45 categories available, there’s a category for every sized remodeler and project.

    NARI’s promise, Remodeling Done Right, is exemplified by members who submit projects for judging. Each year entrants exhibit the highest level of skill, professionalism and dedication to the remodeling industry. “For forty years, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry has celebrated the best remodeling projects in the country through our Contractor of the Year Awards competition.” says David Pekel, CEO at NARI. “These award-winning projects exemplify the pinnacle of what the professional remodeling industry represents in both craftsmanship and innovation and NARI is proud to recognize the year’s best of the best.”

    3 Reasons Why CotY Awards Matter to Our Team?

    The numerous marketing opportunities available to CotY winners help set our business apart from other remodeling companies, and NARI helps by providing tools and resources to make the most of this distinguished honor. “We’re proud of our association with NARI and when our projects are recognized thru the CotY awards at any level it’s an accomplishment with a great ROI”, says April Howe, Allied ASID, Marketing Coordinator for The Cleary Company. Sure the most obvious reason for winning CotY awards is marketing but beyond showing off our amazing and setting our business apart from other local remodeling companies there are 3 reasons we value our wins.

    1- Motivation – Who doesn’t love friendly competition? Each award winning project at The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build was produced by many members of our Team. As part of our Team’s culture we strive as individuals to always be better but to also support each other to be better. Winning a NARI CotY award is also an extra validation from remodeling industry peers.

    2- Education – When our company wins our Team benefits. Each winning entry at both the Regional and National level earn scholarship money applicable toward new certification fees. These funds help offset professional training courses for employees looking to further their remodeling knowledge. Aaron Enfinger, CR, Chief Operations Officer at The Cleary Company says, “NARI Certifications not only benefit our company’s bottom line and our Team’s professional development but also demonstrate to our clients our commitment to our industry.”

    3- Recruitment – We’re always on the lookout for great industry talent. Promoting our CotY award winning projects to prospective new Team members shows we value the highest level of skill, professionalism and pride in our industry. For many remodeling professionals looking to improve their careers, searching for opportunities with the companies that are showcasing innovative and creative designs and construction is a good place to start.

    Stay tuned for more award announcements! The 2021 NARI National Contractor of the Year awards will be presented via Zoom on Friday April 30th at the their annual conference.

  • NARI National Board Member | Aaron Enfinger, CR

    NARI National Board Member | Aaron Enfinger, CR

    Did you know? National Volunteer Week takes place April 18-24, 2021. During this special week, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is highlighting and thanking members who have donated their time and expertise to the advancement of the organization and the remodeling industry as a whole.

    NARI is celebrating with the first in a series of profiles of their member volunteers who help advance the organization’s mission every day! At The Cleary Company Remodel Design Build in Columbus Ohio we couldn’t be prouder of our own Aaron Enfinger, CR. Who’s one of five member volunteer members across the country who shared their remodeling stories. Aaron has helped develop certification study guides, put together workforce development initiatives and more!

    Pam Patter, Executive Director of NARI’s local chapter, describes Aaron as, “Someone who’s always willing to pitch in and help. He was instrumental in organizing a local Certified Lead Carpenter class. Education and certifications help our members advance their careers with advanced industry knowledge and skills. NARI of Central Ohio is proud to have Aaron as an active member of our chapter.”

    Aaron has advice for members thinking of joining a committee or volunteering for NARI. At both the local and national level, there’s a lot of opportunity for getting involved. Areas like membership, PR and marketing, bylaws and ethics, all the way to government affairs. If you’re someone with diverse interests there’s all kinds of conversations you can be a part of. You’ll easily be able to find something that you’re interested in and feel inspired to be engaged with”. Read the full Q&A interview with Aaron now!

    To learn more about NARI membership and certifications visit trustNARI.org.

  • Team Cleary Wins NARI Remodeling Awards

    Team Cleary Wins NARI Remodeling Awards

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

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

    Residential Exterior Remodel $100-200k :

    Project Developer John Coleman, CRPM & Designer Matt Zimmer

    Residential Kitchen Remodel $60-100k

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

    Kitchen Remodel – Dublin OH

    Commercial Interior Remodel:

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

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

    Residential Bath Remodel $50-75k

    Project Developer Robert Raskin & Project Manager Rob Lindeboom, CLC

    What are the CotY Awards?

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

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

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