The council offers many services to its members and to the public. Members benefit from consumer shows, group advertising, and educational seminars, while the public can get free brochures on remodeling and a list of Milwaukee/NARI's reliable contractors. They also benefit from educational articles and radio and TV segments to help them get the most from their remodeling.
The Council's goals of encouraging ethical conduct, sound business practices, and professionalism in the remodeling industry have led to the growth of the remodeling industry nationwide and made NARI a recognized authority in that industry.
• When adding a sunroom to the house, make it usable year-round. There are more costs involved in adding a year-round room, but the value and benefit usually outweigh the expense.
• When considering a major remodeling project, find out how long the remodeling company has been in business, what the time frame is for the project, if the company carries workman’s compensation / liability insurance, if the employees are certified, and what percentage of the company’s business is repeat / referral.
• If there is a slight bulge or water stain on basement walls or floor, a homeowner should examine the foundation exterior at the affected area to see if the ground is maintained at the proper pitch.
• Sources of moisture are commonly created from household activities such as cooking, laundry, bathing, and fish tanks or from other things such as open sump crocks and leaks in foundation walls and slab floors.
• Contact a financial institution at the start of your home renovation project for the smoothest planning and financing process.
• If a lawn is in poor condition, chances are that broadleaf weeds are the main problem. These can be removed by applying a liquid systemic broadleaf weed control (products containing Trimec) according to label directions as dandelions finish blooming, which will provide the best results. Do another application in fall when temperatures are in the 60 to 70 degree range.
• For a better-looking lawn, fertilize with a granular 50% slow release nitrogen fertilizer three times a season (May, June, and September) according to label directions.
• Siding can be painted if it is in relatively good shape (apart from fading, stains, and oxidation). A new coat of paint would only exacerbate the problems of dents, creases, and holes.
• The key to avoiding moisture on any slab-based porch is to include the necessary vapor barrier during construction. Adding a sheet of polyethylene between the ground and the concrete creates a vapor barrier that protects the porch from natural moisture. If the porch lacks the barrier, moisture is almost inevitable.
• Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) is the best product to use on oily stains caused by soaps and makeup. If priming and painting stained wood, rinse thoroughly once the TSP is applied and sand the area to assist in the bonding process.
• When painting a home’s exterior, it’s a good idea to prime the backside of any boards that are being replaced. This will eliminate the possibility of moisture entering the board and breaking the bond between the board and paint.
• Landscape contractors install more than just plant material. They install hardscape material including patios, decks, retaining walls, gazebos, irrigation systems, and landscape lighting.
