April 27, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 29 ����������������������������� (ARA) It’s the time of year when homeowners look around their properties and create project lists. Some projects are minor, like changing the accents in the bathroom. Other projects can end up being involved remodels that require the right tools and strategies. If you’ve committed yourself to a home improvement project, congratulations! You’ve won half the battle. The next hurdle to overcome is successfully preparing for the task at hand. Minor adjustments can save time and money down the road, so it’s important that you do your homework in advance. Before getting started, consider the tips below. These handy hints can help you maximize project results and avoid unnecessary stress. Prioritize: Put simply, don’t bite off more than you can chew. When taking on home projects, remember to consider quality over quantity. There is no sense in rushing 3-2-11 karen/janine through one project just to cross it off the list. Decide what HomeImpDecBanner6x upgrades are most important and pay them their due dili6 x .75” gence. Identify what requires your immediate attention, Tips for tackling home improvement projects with ease and what can wait. More importantly, recognize when you’re in over your head and don’t be afraid to enlist professional help. Update your tool box: We create more work for ourselves by not investing in quality tools that address multiple project needs. The right tool can give you professional looking results while dramatically reducing frustration. For instance, the new RotoZip ZipSaw is outfitted to handle applications in a variety of materials, including tile, wood, and metal. From installing new flooring to removing old bathroom grout, this powerful cutting tool combines the best features of angle grinders and jamb saws to tackle straight, curved, notched, and flush cuts with ease. Plan a budget: Identify how much you’re able to spend and stick to it. There is no sense in taking on debt or refinancing your home just to keep up with the Joneses. If you can’t afford the kitchen remodel this year, consider investing in smaller updates that won’t go unnoticed. You’d be surprised how updated appliances or a simple paint job can add new life to your home. There is always the risk of unforeseen costs, so research common project pitfalls and try to eliminate those possibilities. Remember to incorporate the cost of tools if you are not hiring help. Set regular goals: The home improvement process can be overwhelming, so it’s important to set goals for each portion of the project. These ongoing checkpoints are rewarding and can help motivate you to keep going. Remember to use these intervals to take a break and clear your head. The time off allows you to come at the next step fresh, ultimately minimizing fatigue and frustration. Regular breaks also enable you to monitor your project supplies and stock up as needed. Don’t let project logistics intimidate you to push off home updates yet another season. Home improvement is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time and trust that the end result will be well worth the effort. With the right tools and proper preparation, you can avoid costly mistakes and tackle that to-do list like a pro. PLEASE TAKE MY HUSBAND ! Need someone to help tackle the honey-do list ? Mature local resident can work on anything from cars to faucets. No job too small. If you are looking for a responsible individual to help you around the house … ED GOSTISSA WYCKOFF, NJ 201-891-1033 NJ Lic #13VH02050500 Steve’s Quality Roofing & Gutters “Our goal is Ultimate Customer Satisfaction” Roofing – Gutters – Siding – Windows Gutter Cleaning – Repairs Hand Nailing Specialists “A Carpentry and Remodeling Company” DECKS • BASEMENTS • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • DOORS WINDOWS • ROOFING • SIDING • ADDITIONS AND RENOVATIONS EBG CONSTRUCTION LLC PLEASE CALL MIKE AT 201-327-3255 “Architectural Millwork & Design” www.ebgconstruction.com 20l-939-0044 – 201 403-1755 Residential or Commercial Fully Insured – Lic#13VH05716900 ������������������������������ ������������������������������� ���������������������������� �������������������������� ������������������������������ 35 ������������������������������� �������������������������� 4-13-11 pat/janine EBGConst2x2(4-13-11) 2 x 2” Rev2 � Umberto’s Home Improvements Painting • Power Washing • Drywall Carpentry • Floors • Renovations Masonry • Gutters • Roofing Tile • Siding Gutters Cleaning $60/$90 Most Houses FREE ESTIMATES We are fully licensed and insured Lic. #13VH05800800 • Lic. # 13VH0456700 3-30-11 pat/janine StevesQualityRoofing2x2(3-30-11) 2x2 ����������������� ������������������ ��������� ������ �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � Roofing .................................... $500 Off Chimney .................................. $300 Off Cement .................................... $300 Off Carpentry ................................ $500 Off Siding ...................................... $300 Off Gutters ......................................10% Off 153 Dayton St. • Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-857-4947 • 201-294-5346 Umberto_home_improvement@hotmail.com ������������� � �������������������������� � ���������� �� References Available 3-16-11 pat/janine