Home Improvement Blog

5 Reasons you may need a dry well installed/Orange County, NY 10950

Posted by william bateman on Fri, Dec 30, 2022 @ 09:38 AM

Dry wells are essentially excavated pits with adequate amounts of aggregate to catch unwanted water on your property. This usually consists of water from your home gutter downspouts, footing drains, runoff, curtain drains and sump pumps. Other applications may be used for grey water from your home washing machine or sinks to isolate excess water contaminated by detergents that flow into your septic tank and leach fields. Many detergents can be harmful to your septic system and kill off good bacteria needed to break down solid wastes and powdered detergents have been known to not fully dissolve and clog leach fields not allowing water to properly flow and dissipate into the soil. In drainage situations, dry wells are a great solution on properties where water needs to be transferred to a different location but doesn't have sufficient grade on property to relieve water piped to daylight. 

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Dry wells can simply be a large pit filled with aggregate for a fast, simple solution. For longevity and a fuly functioning dry well system, it is advised to install an in ground corrugated dry well basin piped solid to a basin. Then filter fabric is installed around pit/basin with adequate amounts of aggregate applied around basin. Before installing a dry well, a perc test may be necessary in some municipalities to determine the rate of water percolation that dissipates into your soil. Dry well perc tests aren't as necessary as septic systems and leach fields as they are mainly for ground/rain/grey water applications. They can be easily performed by anyone including the homeowner. A small pit needs to be dug and filled with water while timed to see how fast water dissipates. This test should be performed under dry conditions, tested dry and after soil has been saturated. Soil containing high densities of clay and shale will not allow water to percolate into the ground at a fast rate which will indicate that more aggregate will be needed during installation.

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5 Reasons you may need a dry well installed:

  • Removing unwanted water pooling on property with nowhere to drain
  • Removing water from gutter downspouts away from home
  • Relieving water from footing drains that have no outlet and pitch with grade to daylight
  • Draining down pool water(required by some municipalities when installing a pool)
  • Separating grey water from septic tanks and leach fields if you have a septic system

If you have a septic system why should you consider a dry well?

The area you live may not offer a sewer service in your municipality leaving you with no option but installing a septic system. Septic systems have been around since the early 1860's when the first actual septic tank was invented using concrete and clay pipe. While humans have been improving sanitation over the last 3,000 years, it wasn't until the 1940's that septic systems became a common method of waste water management in many parts of the United States. A good functioning septic system relies on good bacteria to break down solids to liquid that in turn is removed through an over flow pipe. It is then discharged through the leach field to dissipate into the soil and  and some of the liquid may evaporate from the surface as well. Heavy detergent agents used in your washing machine may kill off the good bacteria needed to sustain a healthy functioning septic system. Washing machines consume gallons of water during a wash cycle, as much as 50 gallons on older models. This will equate to massive amounts of unnecessary grey water into your septic system. By adding a dry well, waste water can be diverted from septic tank, greatly reducing the amount waste water into your tank and leach fields.

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How a septic tank works:

Sewage both black and grey drain from all plumbing fixtures of your home into the septic tank. This is where heavy solids settle to the bottom where the bacterial action takes place producing enzymes to digest sludge and gases. The lighter solids, such as oils, fats and grease rise to the top to form a scum layer. Solids that are not decomposed remain in the tank. For a healthy septic tank to perform correctly, it is advised to have tank pumped out every 3-5 years. 

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What is a leach field?

A leach field is a major component of a septic system integrated to remove and filter organic material from your septic tank. Leach fields are a constructed underground system of perforated pipes adjacent to your septic tank that allows waste water to dissipate into the soils and be filtered. Allowing sludge buildup in your leach field can result in complete failure of your entire system. This is a good reason to add a dry well to divert unnecessary excess water into your system.

Signs of a failing leach system:

  • Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system 
  • Standing water and/or damp spots near septic tank or drain field
  • Bad odors around septic tank or leach field
  • Bright green, spongy lush grass over septic tank and/or drain field, even in dry conditions 
  • Sewage backups into home

Now that we clarified how your home waste system works if you have a septic system and how a dry well can help in this situation, we can get back to basic drainage issues.  A simple gutter may not seem like much of an ordeal and it may not be if a gutter extension is added above grade and runoff is sloped away from the home. In areas with lower topography that allows water to pool next to foundations can add to hydrostatic pressure and creates strain to your foundation and create possible water infiltration. In this case it is advised to excavate and install a buried line to remove any excess water away from your home to a safe location that won't effect other areas. These areas include locations on property that can contribute to ice buildup in winter or onto neighbors property. If you have proper grade to relieve the water to daylight, do so, if not you may need a dry well installed.

All drainage components used on a property and/or home require an outlet somewhere. If the grade of property doesn't allow for proper distribution of water away from home, a dry well installation may be inevitable. Another thing to keep in mind when installing a new roof or your existing roof is to inspect gutter system for proper function.  Calculations can also be made to determine the volume of liquid consumed into the gutters and downspouts. This can help when choosing the size of dry well to install. All weather systems are different with a far range of liquid carried, so it is better to always go bigger than necessary especially when combining different drainage systems into one.

Determining whether or not you may need a dry well should have been explained here but hiring a drainage professional can help guide you through the process fairly easily. Water is one of Mother Natures strongest forces that is responsible for trillions of dollars in damages a year around the world and by determining the source and rectifying the the issues before damage is done is key.

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Topics: General Contractor, bathrooms, Construction, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, footing drain, drainage, egress windows, finished basement, excavation, septic systems, backhoe, toilet, foundation

What is an egress window and why do I need one?

Posted by Bill Bateman on Sat, Mar 06, 2021 @ 07:19 AM

A common question hear all the time is "what is an egress window" ? Essentially an egress window is a fire escape window for any occupied finished basement in the country. The requirement became part of the International Residential Code in 1997 that all basements require an egress window. From experience throughout the years I have concluded that about 90% of our calls are from customers that are looking to sell or in the middle of selling and find they are in violation. Not installing one will hold up the closing of your home which in some cases can be months which can be a huge burden on both buyer/seller.

 

Customers always ask what is involved and what is the cost of an egress window. Many different factors play into the cost and installation. On average cost of installing an egress window ranges around 4-6K within reason. Not a bad investment considering the work involved and what you get for it. Just peace in mind is worth it knowing that your loved ones will be protected in case of an emergency.

What are the requirements of an egress window?:

  • Minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet
  • Minimum net clear opening height of 24"
  • Minimum net clear opening width of 20"
  • Window well must be 9 square feet
  • Maximum 44" sill height from finished floor
  • Maximum 44" height from inside window well
  • Any heights over 44" require a ladder installed
  • Ladders shall be affixed permanently with width of at least 12 inches; shall project at least 3" from wall and ladder treads should not exceed 18" on center
     

What can determine the cost when installing an egress window?:

  • Block wall or poured concrete wall
  • Access to the location where window is
  • Amount of digging depth
  • Removal of excess dirt off of premises
  • Finish the interior or not
  • Add a Bilco preformed egress window well
  • Removal of trees in front of location where window is to be installed

 

Commonly asked questions:

  • How long will it take to install an egress window? Typically 2-5 days
  • Will there be any dust during the project? Yes, as with any construction you can expect some dust. We have a system though that keeps dust at nominal levels
  • What if there are any gas/water/electrical lines in wall? We will move at an additional cost; unfortunately we cannot determine that until wall has been opened
  • Will not having an egress window hold up my closing? Absolutely, if you have a finished basement you need one and 90% of our calls are for this reason
  • Will an egress window increase the value of my home? Any upgrade will increase the value. Besides more ventilation and light, you bring your basement to code and also protect your loved ones in case of an emergency
  • What kind of window will you be using? We use an Anderson 400 series casement window with a 22" net clear opening

Installing an egress window will also improve light and ventilation for your basement. Basements are always a breeding ground for mold and mildew as they are underground and create moisture. Adding light and ventilation will cut down your chances of toxic mold and mildew forming. Many people add a dehumidifier also to help remove moisture from their basement especially during the hot humid months of summer. Weather you are looking to sell or keep your home, an egress window is a great investment that brings safety and added value to your home!!!

 

Click here and fill out our contact page for a free estimate!

 

Topics: General Contractor, construction-general, bathrooms, Construction, basements, drainage, anderson, egress windows, finished basement, excavation, backhoe, fire escape

Orange County Home Improvement/Remodeling Monroe, NY

Posted by Bill Bateman on Mon, Apr 04, 2016 @ 09:26 PM


Here at WMB CONSTRUCTION we pride ourselves in on time quality work here in the Hudson Valley, NY.  For all your needs we are here for you! Based out of Monroe, NY; we are your one stop construction company.  With that being said, yor home has many needs; roof, siding, kitchen, bathroom, patios, drainage, garage door, finished basement, egress window, anderson windows, pella windows, decks, remodeling, painting, flooring, staining.......etc!  

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We perform all phases of construction and home remodeling all over Orange County, NY  Most of our work is close based due to word of mouth recomendations with repeat customers. We like establishing trust within our customers that lasts a lifetime. 

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Topics: General Contractor, remodel, bathrooms, basements, Roofing, home, Decks, egress windows, finished basement

Benefit of bathroom remodel

Posted by william bateman on Thu, Feb 11, 2016 @ 07:07 PM


We all have bathrooms in our homes and here at WMB CONSTRUCTION we pride ourselves in building and renovating them here in Orange County, NY 10950. Bathroom can range in any shape or size and can have many different features you can add or choose from. Nothing beats a hot shower on a cold morning or cold shower on a hot muggy day.


New or old revovation, bathroom designs are always exciting! Every customer has different tastes, wants and needs which makes it exciting for us to create your inside oasis. 

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Bathroom options:

  • Bathtub
  • Showerstall
  • Concrete showerbase
  • Body jets
  • Jacuzzi
  • Jacuzzi tub
  • Bidet
  • Multiple showerheads
  • Heated floors
  • Handicap tubs and bars
  • Shower jets
  • In wall shelves

 

 

 


Bathrooms are a part of our everyday lives and we all deserve to be clean in a fashionable way. Nothing better than a nice bath/shower after a long days work or even a night on the town. 



 

Topics: Monroe NY, painting, General Contractor, construction-general, bathrooms, basements, contractor, anderson, toilet

5 home remodels that can make you money

Posted by william bateman on Sun, Jan 06, 2013 @ 08:27 AM

Remodeling a home can be a very costly venture. Homeowners looking to add value to their homes may try to add upgrades or renovate entire sections of their homes to make them more marketable. Not all home upgrades and renovations are worth spending your hard-earned money on, though. Here is a look at five ways to make your home renovation worth the money and effort you put into it.

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Your roof is the main component of your home. Without a good roof your house will remain worthless. A new roof is always a great investment because no bank ever wants to get involved in loaning money for a home that isn't protected. A poor roof can also increase your chances for mold and mildew build up due to leaking water that can cause health ailments and thousands in damage.

Signs that you need a new roof:

  • Algae growth on shingles

  • Damaged flashing

  • Buckling of sheathing under shingles

  • Curling of shingles

  • Blistering of shingles

  • Missing shingles

  • Ceiling spots inside of your home

  • Missing granules on shingles

  • Evidence of rotting

 

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Your bathroom is one of the most frequented rooms in your home. It is the room where you freshen up everyday and take care of your personal hygiene. Bathroom remodels have been known to return 30-40% on your initial investment when you sell. Nobody wants to move into a home knowing that the bathroom is in need of complete renovation and will in most cases pay more for the home with a good finished bathroom remodel.

Signs that you might need a bathroom remodel:  

  •  Visual evidence of mold and mildew build up

  • Soft spots on floor/and or walls(may indicate rot which could be serious if not addressed)

  • Leaking water

  • Musty smell

  • Grout missing in many areas

 

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Your Kitchen is the most frequented room in your home. It brings family together and is the heart of every home. The kitchen is usually the first room you see in a house, so with that being said, it is the most important. I have seen returns as high a 50% on real nice kitchen remodels. The first thing you want to do when selling is knock your buyer off their feet and you can do this with a good quality kitchen.

Signs you might need a new kitchen:

  • Soft spots on floors

  • Cabinets are delaminating

  • Cabinets are faded

  • Circuit breakers keep tripping when you plug in appliances

  • Mold and mildew build up

 

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 Decks are always a great benefit to any home. Outdoor living and entertaining is on a rise and each year the demand keeps rising for these projects. It creates a personal oaisis and tranquility right in your backyard. It is a guaranteed investment that you and your family can enjoy for years and still have return at the end.

Signs you might need a new deck: 

  • Deck surface is splintering

  • Deck bounces or sways when walking on it

  • Railings are loose and wobbly

 

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 Finished basements are key to any home. Unfinished it adds no square footage or value to your home. A nice finished basement will most likely have any male interested in purchasing your home know it has beautiful hideaway known as "The Man Cave"! But besides that it creates a great area for entertaining or even just a playroom for the kids. The ideas can become endless when designing your basement. You can add a bathroom, bar, play areas, pool table, etc.!!! A definate asset to your home. Right off the bat when listing your home your square footage will increase by 600-1000 which equals big gains.

Why you might want to remodel your basement:

  • Added square footage

  • Added value

  • Creates entertaining/playing area

 

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When performing any remodel it is important to pay attention to detail and quality! The sight of a poor install can have adverse affects on your return. While all these recommended projects can be costly, I advise customers to set up a five to ten year plan to save and complete these projects for your enjoyment and to increase the value of your largest investment, your home! 

 

 

 

Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, painting, orange county ny, General Contractor, remodeling, remodel, bathrooms, basements, Composite Decking Orange County NY, construction-general--monroe, Roofing, footing drain, anderson, egress windows, painter

Check out our latest bathroom remodel

Posted by william bateman on Sat, Jun 30, 2012 @ 09:34 AM

 

A bathroom remodel is always exciting and something to look forward to. Removing all of that mold and mildew to start with! WMB Construction has been tranforming customers bathroom dreams into reality for years in beautiful Orange County, NY.

 

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Most bathroom remodels are performed within two weeks from start to finish. We try to minimize any inconvenience to your regular schedule while construction is performed.

What to expect during your bathroom remodel:

  • First day all contents are removed from bathroom down to original studs.

  • Second day all plumbing and electrical is performed. New tub installed.

  • Third day all sheetrock and cement board installed.

  • By the fourth day we are usually ready to start installing your ceramic tiles on walls and floor. Tile installation can take 1-4 days depending on amount of tile and precision cuts to be made.

  • After tile has been installed and glued has dried we apply latex fortified grout to all seams of tile.

  • Paint all walls and ceiling.

  • Install all new plumbing and electrical fixtures.

  • Drop clothes are layed down everyday and removed at the end of everyday.

  • At the end of project all tools, material and garbage is removed off premises.


 

How we enhanced and protected this bathroom:

  • First we removed all over the toxic mold and mildew from bathroom.

  • Installed a new high quality  "Americast" tub in place of the old tub.

  • Replaced all corroded supply valves and tub plumbing.

  • Installed waterproof cement board on walls of tub area and on floors for superior protection.

  • Removed old exhaust fan and installed a new high powered and quiet one. Old fan was vented into attic creating mold and mildew to grow. We vented exhaust through the roof.

  • Constructed in walls shelf.

  • Installed all new high end coppertone fixtures.

  • Caulked all seams and corners in tub area for superior water protection

  • Installed new fiberglass insulation in walls and ceiling to gain more R-value.

  • Removed double hung window in tub area and added an awning window.

  • Removed soffit over tub area for more light and ventilation.


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WMB CONSTRUCTION has years of experience in the field to install the bathroom of your dreams with peace in mind that everything was installed correctly and finished in a timely matter so you and your family can get back to schedule. Leave the hard work to the professionals.


 

 

 

 

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, Monroe NY, orange county ny, General Contractor, bathrooms, construction-general--monroe, improvements, drainage

Five key reasons to remodel your bathroom

Posted by william bateman on Tue, May 22, 2012 @ 12:52 PM

A bathroom remodel is most likely in the near future for many of us. The naturally moist enviroment of your bathroom will take its toll on any room over the years. WMB CONSTRUCTIONhas been professionally remodeling bathrooms for years out of Monroe in beautiful Orange County, NY

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Hidden behind your ceramic tiles you may find mold, mildew and rot. When we renovated this bathroom we found that the toilet bowl flange had been leaking for years which called for major repair to the subfloor.

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Tub areas always take a beating due to the fact they are always in contact with water. If you don't take care of your tub, it won't take care of you.

 

Problems with this tub:

  • This is the cheapest tub you can install, a steel tub. As you can see, the drain has completely rotted out. this wouldn't happen with a cast iron or Americast tub.

  • Diverter is too low. When showering water hits your body and goes behind schutching plates creating leaks over time.

  • Caulking maintainance has not been kept up on this tub.

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New tub, cement board, plumbing and tile and the bathroom takes on a whole new smell and look.bathroom kitchen remodel hudson valley ny

Five Key Reasons for Bathroom Remodel:

  • Added value to your home

  • More healthy enviroment for you and your family

  • Upgrade your bathroom for a more modern look

  • Faster sale of your home. Kitchens and bathrooms make for faster sales at a higher profit.

  • Peace in mind that all mold and mildew has been removed

 

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Topics: Monroe NY, orange county ny, bathrooms, Construction, construction-general--monroe, drainage

Start planning your outdoor project now!

Posted by william bateman on Thu, Jan 05, 2012 @ 09:47 AM

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Dreaded winter has arrived bringing in the cold and windy weather that we experience every year here in the northeast. Bathing suits and barbeques have been put away and for most of us our outdoor activities have been moved indoors. But rest assure, summer is not too far away!

Now is the time to start planning for your homes outside oasis!

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Besides the occassional vacation here and there, your home is the area where you live and create the most memories in. From everyday life to the family parties to the last minute BBQ,s with a few friends. Creating a peaceful and tranquil outdoor enviroment to your home will not only greatly increase the value of your home but also offer that vacation feeling without the hassles.

Three recommended outdoor enhancements: 

1) Deck

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  • Added entertaining area

  • Can be constructed around pools

  • Screen in areas can be created

  • Elevated decks can be built for second story applications

  • Added value to your home

  • Options of treat/cedar lumber or mantainance free composite

2) Pool House/Purgula

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  • Added outdoor kitchen areas can be added to your entertaining area

  • Hidden pool equipment and protected inside from mother nature

  • Purgulas add a unique look to any project and help filter sun

  • Create outdoor shower and changing area

3) Concrete patio

 

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  • Offers added entertaining area at ground level

  • Great base for fire pits

  • Variety of colors

 

Now is the time to start planning for your outdoor projects!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, Monroe NY, orange county ny, bathrooms, outdoors, Roofing Monroe NY, kitchens, excavating, general, contractor, home, improvements

Key factors to consider when remodeling your bathroom

Posted by william bateman on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 @ 07:42 PM

Is your bathroom old and deteriorated? Is mold and mildew overtaking everything in your bathroom? Ready for a change? WMB Construction has been transforming bathrooms with these problems for many years in the area with unmatched results. Your bathroom is the most frequented room in your home and also adds the most value to your home. It also has the most potential for producing mold and mildew conditions that can create a potentially hazardous atmosphere.

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Recent bathroom job we ripped out! The mold and mildew behind the tile is clearly obvious. The customers were so surprised to see what was growing behind their walls, especially because they were considering Rebath or Bathfitters! Those companies cover up toxins that should be removed from your home!!!

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 On top of just finding mold and mildew behind the tiles, we next found a great deal of rotten wood under the tile floor and vinyl shower base. WMB Construction removed all the mold and mildew and recommended a "mud job" to replace the worn out vinyl base.

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What is a "Mud Job"?

Instead of a vinyl shower base, we form and construct our own out of concrete and tile for superior strength and longevity.

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Added benefits of performing a "Mud Job"

  • Concrete shower bases are far more stronger and durable than regular vinyl bases

  • More aesthetically appealing appearance

  • Added value to your home

  • Base will not crack, tarnish or fade over time

  • Give your bathroom a more unique look

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WMB Construction constructed and installed the very popular in wall shelf. It coordinates with all the decor in the bathroom. A really awesome accent!!!

 

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WMB Construction specializes in:

  • Bathroom remodels

  • Kitchen remodels

  • All phases of home improvements

 

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, Monroe NY, orange county ny, General Contractor, remodeling, construction-general, bathrooms

Can you imagine your next bathroom?

Posted by william bateman on Sat, Jul 09, 2011 @ 10:05 PM

You shower, bathe, and take care of all your basic needs in your bathroom. It is the one area of your home where you can relax and create a surreal enviroment. Whether your prefence is a hot shower or a warm bubble bath to loosen your muscles, the bathroom is the room that will bring relaxation and comfort to your own home.

bathroom remodel monroe ny

A bathroom remodel might be an excellent choice for you and your family. A bathroom remodel is more than just an enhancement, it is an added investment to your home.

Bathroom remodel benefits:

  • Instant added value to your home

  • Removal of all toxic mold and mildew

  • Enhanced appearance

  • Create a relaxation area for after those stressful work days

  •  Create better use of space in your bathroom. Integrate elegant pieces of furniture or extra closets for more useful storage

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 Many concerns my customers have are; how long and what is involved with a full bathroom remodel. All bathrooms are different as far as size, water damage, age, tilework involved, plumbing, etc.....

What to expect in a bathroom remodel:  

  • First day is full removal of bathroom contents. Drop clothes are placed throughout your home to maintain cleanliness.

  • Next day plumbing and electrical is performed and new walls start to be installed.

  • Tile, paint, fixtures, grout, etc...... are all installed. Standard start to finish for a bathroom remodel is 1 1/2 weeks.

  • Everyday your home will be cleanly vacuumed and drop clothes removed so you and your family can maintain regular life.

  • For homes with only one bathroom, Porta-Potty arrangements can be made.

 

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Topics: Monroe NY, orange county ny, remodeling, bathrooms, construction-general--monroe