Qualified Remodeler Magazine

MAY 2017

Qualified Remodeler helps independent remodeling firms to survive, become more professional and more profitable by providing must-have business information, namely best business practices, new product information and timely design ideas.

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contractors must be able to discuss any range of possi- bilities and help homeowners find the optimal solution. VISUAL CONFIRMATION e internet enables homeowners to browse outdoor living projects from around the country and develop their own visions for creating shade. Home design websites, such as Houzz, allow clients to explore different approaches for shading an outdoor living space and to discover products that can integrate seamlessly within the project layout to provide necessary shelter and protection. "I like to have pictures when any homeowner is trying to explain what they're looking for," says Missie Reed, pres- ident of T.R. Builder, Inc., in Newport News, Virginia. "Anybody can explain something in words, [but] every- body interprets those words a little differently. If they can come with a picture or if you can pull up a picture, it's easier and less time-consuming to do that way." e type of shading element used in a project depends on the needs of clients and how they plan to use the outdoor living space. For example, some homeowners intend to utilize the area during the middle of the summer, primarily, so they will need to block out direct sunlight. Others might seek to employ the space in other seasons as well and will require refuge from the wind and rain. "When we're doing any type of design-build project, you really want to find out what their need is," says Reed, When installing a hard cover just outside windows or patio doors, remodelers must consider how the structure will affect the natural sunlight available inside the house. T.R. Builder brings the indoors out for many of its outdoor living projects, such as the wood ceiling and pitched roof that adorn this large covered structure. A pergola over the hot tub allowed T.R. Builder to let in natural light but afford enough shade so that the area does not become uncomfortably hot in the summertime. Photos: ARC Imaging QualifiedRemodeler.com QR May 2017 37

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