Summit, NJ – May 15, 2012 –

Since 1986, the Remodeling Big50 annually inducts 50 owners of remodeling companies that have set exceptionally high standards for professionalism and integrity through exemplary business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community or the industry at large. Big50 remodelers run successful, often growing, companies of various sizes that have taken the lead in raising industry standards.

The Big50 selection process has become increasingly rigorous in recent years, and the result, Remodeling editors believe, is one of the strongest classes to date. All 2012 inductees “stood up to detailed examinations of their businesses and their books, and they all demonstrated an admirably deft ability to restructure, retrench, and flat-out hustle to remain viable in a challenging economic climate,” according to Remodeling

Remodeling editors, columnists, industry leaders, and the companies themselves make the nominations each year.  Following a lengthy evaluation and interview process of both company and clientele, Joseph Episcopo & Sons, Inc. was selected winner in the category of Business Savvy, which recognizes them as a remodeler with especially effective, established business systems.

“We are very privileged to receive this distinction.” says Joseph Episcopo Jr., President of Joseph Episcopo & Sons, Inc. “Especially in recent years homeowners will scrutinize every detail of a contractor’s business before opening their home to them.  This award recognizes the unique advantage of hiring a professional company who know how to do business.  Our reputation thrives because of positive customer referrals, but the fact that our procedures have attracted national attention is quite an honor.”

Joseph Episcopo, Sr. formed his residential construction company in 1958 in Summit, New Jersey.  There, his two sons, Joseph Jr. and Dean learned every aspect of the trade from a young age and are now seasoned in the construction and remodeling industry, leading their professional crew of carpenters, masons and skilled trades men and women.  Joseph Episcopo & Sons, Inc. serves the Northern/Central New Jersey area and holds a fine reputation of building a quality product, with the emphasis on honest and professional operations.

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BATHROOMS

• Install a hand-held sprayer.  It makes cleaning the tub a cinch.  It also comes in handy hosing down dirty paws.
• If you’re unsure about the amount of lighting, add more.  When it comes to grooming and bathing, brighter is better.  You can add dimmer switches a lot easier than cutting holes in walls & ceilings after the fact.
• Go with thinner grout joints and larger tile sizes.  Less grout, less chance for gunky build-up.  Sanded grout and wavy tiles will need wider joints, so discuss the best combinations with your designer or salesperson.
• Splashy hand-washer?  Perhaps you need to think twice about the size of your lavatory (“sink”) and the finish of your vanity and mirror frames.  Water will damage painted surfaces quicker than stained wood.  Consider a solid-surface (granite, marble or manufactured quartz) material for a back-splash, instead of grouted tile.
• Install a good-quality exhaust fan and use it during your shower!  Reduce moisture as much as possible.

KITCHENS

• Install and use range exhaust fans!  A more powerful than necessary fan is not better (it can actually be a hazard).   The important thing is to reduce moisture, draw out odors and prevent that oily film from sticking to everything in its path.
• Reduce grout joints.  Most of us don’t wipe our back-splashes as often as we should and kitchen floors are typically the dirtiest.  A word of caution: Larger or straight-cut floor tiles can reduce the amount of grout, but also remember that traction is reduced.
• Darker counters and metal finishes (including brushed metals) will show mineral deposits more than lighter colors or polished chrome.
• Painted cabinets are less scrub-able than stained wood finishes.  Distressed or glazed finishes can sometimes hide accidental scrapes and abrasion.
• If morning cereal bowls and cups take over your counters, consider adding another sink to collect the dishes before loading them into the dishwasher later on in the day.

LIVING SPACES

• Have you considered a central vacuum system?  While the long hose can be laborious at times, they do a superb job and keep dust and allergens to a minimum.
• Improve indoor air quality with air scrubbing & HEPA-filtration for HVAC systems.  Some units can be added to existing systems and add value to your home.
•  Reduce the need for dust-collecting drapes and blinds with built-in shades, frosted glass or installing transom windows.
• Design a mud-room with a wash-up space and built-in storage for family’s belongings.  It stops clutter and dirt at the door.

We’re full of good advice!  Don’t forget to mention your pet-peeves and cleaning concerns to your Designer or Salesperson so we can help you make the most out of your new space.  Call us today at (908) 277-0286 or visit our website for more information, www.EpiscopoBuilders.com 

• Call Joseph Episcopo & Sons immediately.  During severe storms, we post phone numbers for 24-hour service on our website.
• If safe to enter area, properly turn off any electricity, gas or other mechanical equipment impacted by water.
• While we’re on our way, further prevent water from entering home, if possible.
• Call your insurance agent.
• Salvage valuable items and remove any items that have absorbed water or humidity through the air.
• Open all cabinets, doors, windows and get fresh air moving through the home with fans and dehumidifiers.
• Be prepared.  Wall board, insulation, wood and electrical components will most likely need to be discarded.
• Our crew will determine the extent of rebuilding and mold remediation necessary.  Time is of the essence.
• Flood-proof as you rebuild.  It is less expensive and an added value to your home and peace of mind.

An extremely helpful brochure, “Repairing Your Flooded Home” is available through the Red Cross.

Here is a link to the free material, with contact numbers, safety tips and illustrations.

http://www.redcross.org/www-files/Documents/pdf/Preparedness/file_cont333_lang0_150.pdf

Fixing a wet basement is not an easy do-it-yourself project.  Whether you are building a new home or renovating existing one, be sure to consult with Joseph Episcopo & Sons on the most efficient water proofing solutions for your particular conditions.  Solutions don’t always have to be disruptive and expensive.  There are a variety of economic systems we use to resolve basement and foundation moisture issues, without major interruption to your schedule.

During every project, we take time to isolate the work area, are protect all areas around the work space.  One of the most frequent and reliable systems we use is sump pumps.   They are a great way to keep your basement dry.  Sump pumps are used to remove excess rain or natural ground water.  The surplus water is funneled into a basin through perimeter drains.  Water is then pumped away from the house, so it is no longer problematic.

Don’t forget the battery back up!  With frequent or unexpected power outages, a sump pump battery backup is a great standby solution that will help keep your basement dry.  We have found that failing sump pumps sometime cause flooded basements – an issue easily remedied with a battery backup.

Here’s an example of our most frequently specified Sump Pump Replacement Package:

• Remove & dispose existing sump pump

• Purchase and install one Zoeller M98, ½ hp pump with 1 ½ discharge and 4320 gph at 5’ head capacity; New 1 ½ check valves will be installed

• Purchase and install one UltraSump lll 2000 ghp back-up pump, UltraSump Switcher panel, check valves, UltraSump battery with 2000 gph pumping capacity and battery casing.

Prevent hazards before the storm.

 Our 10-Point Emergency Home Inspection service will put your mind at ease before the unexpected happens.  No matter the season, monitoring your home’s condition will save you money and headaches in the long-run.  Call us today to have one of our professionals stop by.

MENTION THIS ARTICLE FOR A FREE INSPECTION!

1. Gutters & Leaders
2. Flashing & Siding
3. Roofing
4. Property Drainage
5. Walks & Driveways
6. Basement Waterproofing
7. Plumbing Risks
8. Backup Electric Solutions
9. Heating System
10. Proper Insulation

Perlick's 18" Beverage Center

1.  18″ Deep Under-Counter Beverage Refrigeration by Perlick

The perfect choice for shallow spaces where kitchen designers sneak in a butler’s panty, wet-bar or the short-end of an island.  Full-extension pullout shelves are standard and convertible door design allows all units the ability to be converted to wood overlay from stainless steel.

Custom Cabinet Filler Pullout

2.  Cabinet Filler Storage Pull-Outs

When you’re adding columns or fluted filler pieces to accent your sink, stove or hood cabinetry, make the best use of the space behind it.  Most kitchen designer will offer a variety of storage options.  We can also custom-build the perfect solution for those skinny (3″ or larger) spaces, like this one with a stainless steel peg-board.

Custom Banquette Seating

3.  Banquet Breakfast Nook Seating

Banquet seating makes any space a breakfast nook.  We built this corner unit with deep storage drawers, at a height just right for the family.  Other options we often build are open bookshelves, lift-up storage seats, toe-kick HVAC vents, built-in speaker panels, pull-out shelves and tilt-out bins.

Kohler Whitehaven Farmhouse Sink

4. Whitehaven Farmhouse Sink with 7″ Deep Apron by Kohler

In the past, adding a farmhouse sink to existing kitchen cabinets would require extensive carpentry work.  Because of the deep apron, the base cabinetry under farmhouse sink would have to be reduced, including the need for new cabinet doors.

Kohler’s unique 7″ deep apron design has eliminated this problem.  We were happy to know the basin depth is still a generous 9″ and the self-rimming & under-counter features also make this a great choice for a kitchen makeover made easy.

GE Profile 18" Wide Dishwasher

5. GE Profile Fully Integrated 18″ Wide Dishwasher

We’ve seen these tiny dishwashers for some time, now.  However, there are only a couple of options when you’re looking to add custom panels, hiding them away.  GE’s Profile model offers a model under $1,000.

This option is perfect for a second dishwasher in a kosher kitchen, a butler’s pantry, basement or outdoor kitchen.

(Chandelier/Bathtub)  is equal to (Electricity + Water).

This equation is an important one and we’d like to take a minute to explain how it prevents you from installing that gorgeous chandelier over your tub.

Who would ever think about preventing you from your dream of filling the tub with bubbles, dimming the lights and looking up at a kaleidoscope of crystals as you soak your cares away?  Simply put, the NEC Building Code 410.4(D).

Here’s what it says:  “Bathtub and Shower Areas. No parts of cord-connected luminaires (fixtures), hanging luminaires (fixtures), lighting track, pendants, or ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall be located within a zone measured 900 mm (3 ft) horizontally and 2.5 m (8 ft) vertically from the top of the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. This zone is all encompassing and includes the zone directly over the tub or shower stall.”

Now, this doesn’t completely out-rule hanging a chandelier over your tub…but the odds are if you’re reading this article, your ceiling isn’t high enough or your room isn’t wide enough to comply with the above code.   (Also, please note that this code includes the all-encompasing text, “any part” of fixture (including crystals) and “rim or shower stall threshold” (not above the finished floor height.)

Yes, we know you still want one.  What can you do to circumnavigate this pesky code?

Not much, unfortunately.  We have to follow the law, especially when water and electricity mix.  (May we also add here that we do not encourage our customers to coerce electricians to illegally install chandeliers after inspections are performed.)  We’re sorry to break the news, but don’t stop shopping for your lighting just yet!

Now then, can we persuade you to try an alternative idea?

Here are our top five suggestions that still give the luxury, sparkle and the glow you’re looking for:

1. If you have enough space, center your chandelier in the room, instead of over the tub (According to code, of course).

2. Install multiple recessed lights over tub (moisture resistant). The smaller the light, the more dramatic.

4. Install a real candelabra (Such as this one, from Pottery Barn) or a pair of sconces, taking care to avoid curtains.

We hope these tips help and get your creative juices flowing.  May we assure you that we do have happy customers who have survived the disappointment of forgoing their chandelier dream.  Keep your eyes out for our next blog article, “Shopping for Lighting Made Easy”.

If you’d like more information about electrical codes or bathroom design ideas, contact our designer, Kerry.  Or call us at (908) 277-0286.

But, once you’ve made the decision to replace your old windows, consider these essential facts before you shop:

THE DESIGN OF YOUR HOME

Traditional-styled homes will typically have double-hung windows with divided lights (aka grilles or mullions).  You have a choice of divided lights on the top and bottom sash, or the top only.

More contemporary homes forgo the mullions completely and usually feature large casement & picture windows.

For added charm to Tudor-styled homes, consider diamond shaped divisions.  Palladian windows are perfect for high, gable-pitched walls.

Transom-positioned windows (rectangular, round or elliptical) are windows placed close to the ceiling and work very well to let natural light flood in while offering privacy (such as in a bathroom, mudroom or bedroom).  Transom windows also allow for ample wall space to place furniture or pictures below.

Don’t forget about expressing your creative side—stained glass or cut-glass accent windows are a great choice near a front door, side entrance, kitchen or powder room.

WINDOW FUNCTION & MAINTENANCE

A very popular choice is an exterior window frame clad in vinyl for easy maintenance.  If you’d like the best of both worlds, preferring the interior frames stained or painted, factories also offer this option.

SDL’s (Simulated Divided Lights) with Grills-Between-Glass are a great choice for easy cleaning, inside and out.

In addition, Removable, or Snap-in Grilles also allow for easy painting.  “Tilt-ins” allow for both sides of the windows to be cleaned from the inside of your home.  (Whereas, casement windows have limited options for this convenience.)

And don’t forget about the screens—most manufacturers offer visibility options, offering superior clarity.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Joseph Episcopo & Sons will be happy to drop off window samples or guide you to the best local showroom to see more.  We supply and install a wide variety of brands, including Pella,

Marvin, Andersen and many more!  We’ll guide you every step of the way, from initial designs to professional installation.

“I still drive past walls that my father, brother and I built together over 20 years ago.”, says Dean, “Taking the time to work alongside my sons and crew is one of the most rewarding things I enjoy.  One day I want my kids to drive past these projects and say, ‘30 years ago we built that and it still looks perfect!’ 

That’s what our name stands for—A quality job that stands apart for years to come.

Warren W, Dean Episcopo & his sons Kurt & Konnor Building Block Foundation Wall Together

Curious about what masonry projects our customers are asking for?

• Dry-laid stacking stone flower beds
• Cultured stone & real stone veneers on house fronts, walls & chimneys
• Brick steps and planters
• Bluestone patios (dry or mortar-set)
• Patio & driveway pavers
• Built-in grills & outdoor kitchens
• New swimming pool tiles & surrounds
• Retaining walls
• Built-in outdoor seating & fire pits

Episcopo & Sons offers full design services to help plan your interior and exterior projects.  We’ll help you sort through the overwhelming number of products flooding the market.  We’ll draw up options that work within your budget.  Our masonry crew is ready to work on outdoor projects now, through early winter, so start planning with us today!

While birds, blossoms and sunshine are a welcomed sight, the last few months have been exceptionally wet.

Here is our top 10 list of homeowner requests this time of year:

    10. Add or replace sump pumps & install

           battery backups

    9.  Install French drains

    8.  Build a portico over front or side entries

    7.  Replace siding & roofing

    6.  Replace skylights

    5.  Add insulation & seal up drafts

    4.  Install back-up generators

    3.  Replace front steps, walkways & railings

    2.  Dig around foundation & waterproof

    1.  Install new energy-efficient windows &    

          doors (including front & garage doors) 

Maintaining your most valuable investment, your home, is sure to pay off and keep your family comfortable during the warmer and more humid months to follow.