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JULY 2011 
In This Issue
Is it Better to Do it Yourself?
Sunscreen Guide
Testimonial Spotlight
Gardener's Green Tip
Why Hire a Professional?
CAPS Bathroom 
   Project Photo of the Month  

CAPS (Aging-in-Place) 

Bathroom Remodel

 

 More Photos

  

Is it Really Better to Do it Yourself?

Do it Yourself?

 

Before planning your next DIY project, ask yourself the following questions:

 

1. Will I really save money if I complete the work myself?

 

2. Do I have the tools to complete the job?

 

3. Can I achieve the quality of work and outcome desired?

 

4. Do I have the time to dedicate to this?

 

5. What will I do if something goes wrong?

 

 

Most of us do our own work for the personal satisfaction and sense of pride in completing it, but this may not always be worth it.

 

Does the work you do:

 

-Come with a professional warranty?

 

-Meet or exceed applicable building codes and regulations?

 

Your home is most likely your largest investment.

Protect it by hiring professionals to complete your maintenance, repairs, remodels, and renovations.

 

Learn more about our Services.

Summer Tip
summer fun
So many people found this useful, I am leaving it in the July and August newsletter.
  
  
I think you'll be surprised to read about the lotion you're using.
Testimonial Spotlight
Bathroom remodel
We have the BEST clients!
 
Thank you for your continued business and support. We appreciate your feedback.
 
Here's what Pam C. had to say about her projects with us. 
(One is pictured above)
 
"I stumbled upon Irons Brothers when looking for a good contractor in Shoreline. What I found was a GREAT contractor in Shoreline! My first project was a wooden fence up my steep backyard, followed by a complete kitchen remodel, later a bathroom remodel, and then some additional finishing work that I was unable to do myself. Carport and shed drainage and electrical projects were the latest. Now I'm planning to have the front walkway and porch done this spring. I don't have enough money to do all the projects at once but I'm always so happy with the last one I start planning for the next. I would recommend this firm to anyone who is looking for an excellent, knowledgeable and likable contractor who will spend time and work with you, answer all your questions, show up on time, finish on schedule, keep mess to a minimum and has the nicest group of folks I've ever worked with."
  
Green Tips 
Green Tip photo

All - Natural

Gardening Tips:

  1. Control black spots on roses: Add 1 Tbs each of baking soda and vegetable oil to 1 gallon of water. Add 1 drop of liquid detergent and shake well. Spray directly on foliage for 5 to 7 days during humid weather. Get both sides of leaves.
  2. Cutting roses and trimming bushes can be a prickly job, but if you grip thorny stems with barbecue tongs or clothespins - no more pierced fingers!
  3. Hands that are very dirty can be cleansed with a thick paste of oatmeal and water. Rub well into hands before rinsing and wash as usual.

Happy Gardening!

Make it Your Best Summer Ever

 

We hope you had a safe and fantastic 4th of July celebrating our nation's Independence Day with your family and friends.
  
There are still a lot of summer outdoor festivals, fairs, and events coming up in July and August. Put on your sunscreen and a hat and get out and enjoy your best Summer ever!  
  
Local Events:

 

This weekend July 8, 9, & 10th

  • Wallingford Kiddies Parade & Street Fair, N. 45th St., Sat-Parade starts at 11am
  • West Seattle Summer Street Fair, the West Seattle Junction, Fri-Sun
  • Redmond Derby Days, Downtown Redmond,  Fri-Sat
  • Ballard Seafood Fest, NW Market St., Sat-Sun
  • Pioneer Square Fire Festival, Occidental Square Park, Sat 11a-5p
  • Chinatown International Dragon Festival, Hing Hay Park, Sat-Sun 
  • Where the Wild Things Are Gardening Tour, Shoreline area homes, Sat

More Events in July & August:

  • 26th Annual Seafair Indian Days Pow Wow, Discovery Park, 7/16-7/17
  • Bellingham Festival of Music, WWU, 7/10, 7/13, 7/17
  • Kirkland Uncorked, Marina Park, 7/15-7/17
  • Bite of Seattle, Seattle Center, 7/15-7/18
  • Capitol Hill Block Party, Pike & Pine, 7/22-7/24
  • Seafair, Genesee Park, 8/5-8/7

 

 

Tips for surviving the hot weather:

 

Prevent heat related illness by doing the following

  • Drink non-alcoholic fluids;don't wait until your thirsty to consume beverages!
  • Don't drink liquids that have alcohol or large amounts of sugar.
  • Stay indoors if possible, or go to a public place with air conditioning, if needed.
  • Taking a cool shower or bath may be better than running your fan.
  • Wear light weight, light-colored, loose fitting clothing.
  • NEVER leave anyone in a closed parked vehicle.
  • Regularly check on those at highest risk:
    • Infants/young children
    • People 65 and older
    • People with heart disease, high blood pressure, or a mental illness

Have a safe and fun Summer!

Client Meeting  
Why Hire A Professional Contractor?  

 

If you are considering a home remodeling project, the most important decision you can make is selecting the right remodeling contractor to do the job. Your home is too important to entrust to anyone but a professional.
  
What we keep hearing from our clients is, why should I spend my whole Memorial Day or 4th of July weekend working on my house? I can hire someone else
to complete the work for me.  
  
A lot of our clients have shifted from doing it themselves to hiring. Here are the top 5 reasons why:  
  
1. Available Time: Whether you're retired or have little kids running around, it's hard to find time just to get the basic household chores done, let alone a major project that involves planning and big blocks of dedicated time.
  
2. Tools: Do you have tools that are sitting collecting dust in the garage, shed, or attic? Most homeowners find projects a good excuse to buy tools, gadgets and equipment. Unfortunately, most of you will only use the tool you purchase once or twice. Next time, consider spending your money  elsewhere, unless you are employed in the skilled trade industry.  
  
3. Quality & Speed: When you hire the right person, the work is done faster, in a professional manner, and right the first time. They do have "Do-it-Yourself" books for everything, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
  
4. Warranty: Most professional contractors guarantee the quality of their work with a warranty. This means they coordinate and fix any problems during this period.
  
5. Cost of Mistakes: Most of our clients have had at least one project they've completed where they undertook it themselves to save money. Unfortunately, a costly mistake was made and they ended up having to hire a professional to fix it. It is more cost effective to do the work right the first time.
  

Of course the most important tip to remember is to hire the right contractor for the job. Whether you work with us or choose another company, we want you to have a good experience. Review these Consumer Tips when selecting your contractor of choice.

 Dining

As I embark on my European vacation this Sunday, in celebration of my 10th wedding anniversary, I wish you and your family a great Summer. 

 

It looks like the sun will finally be hanging around for a while, which for most of us means outdoor recreation, yard work and gardening. Please use the helpful tips in this issue to help make your life safer and easier.

 

We are currently scheduling Fall projects. Contact us to schedule an appointment and ensure your spot on our calendar.  Joseph Irons

  

 

Have a wonderful weekend!
Joseph Irons, CGR GMB CAPS CGP

 


Irons Brothers Construction, Inc.
President 
2009 MBA & 2010 BIAW Remodeler of the Year
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