How long have you been in business?

KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. has been proudly serving the Piedmont Triad for over 30 years. We are a family run business geared toward total customer satisfaction!

Are you licensed to work in North Carolina?

Absolutely! We are a licensed General Contractor with the North Carolina Licensing Board of General Contractors. Our licenses are proudly displayed in our office and copy can be provided to any Client who requests it! We always encourage our Clients and potential Clients to review the NC Board of General Contractors to verify a contractors license is in good standing.

Does KC’s belong to any professional organizations or have special certifications?

Yes! We love being part of the community we are privileged to serve! Not only are we a member of the North Carolina Licensing Board of General Contractors (NCLBGC), but we are also proud members of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Guilford Merchant’s Association (GMA), Greensboro Builders Association (GBA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). We are proud of our special certifications as well! We are Certified Lead Renovators with the North Carolina Division of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS). If your home has lead that needs to be removed or you want to learn how we can help you age-in-place in your current home be sure to reach out to us!

Are you insured and bonded?

Yes! Part of the requirements to be a licensed General Contractor in the State of North Carolina requires maintaining insurance. KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. holds General Liability, Commercial Automobile, Workers Compensation and Umbrella coverage. We can provide a Certificate of Insurance to any Client who requests it! We always encourage our Clients and potential Clients to request a certificate of insurance from any Contractor who performs work for you. It is one of the best pieces of protection for your home during a remodel. Never use a contractor who is unwilling to provide you documentation of their insurance coverage.

Do you have references?

Absolutely. We have testimonials on our website so you can see some of the great things our previous Clients have said! We take our Client’s privacy seriously. Because of that we will request that a potential Client firm up their commitment to building with KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. prior to providing telephone contact of a past Client with a similar project.

Where can I see pictures of your past work?

We want to share all the beautiful things we have built! You can view many of our past projects on our website and social media profiles. Click here to be taken to our Project Gallery Page! Whether you need some inspiration or just want to see what KC’s can do, this is the spot for you!

Do you offer financing?

If you are searching for a cost effective way to finance your remodel project we have solutions that can help fit every budget!

Want to know what remodeling with KC’s looks like?

We want our Client’s to know how we work! From questions about your daily interaction with our team to questions about your customer portal! We know the key to a successful remodel is setting up expectations before we break ground! Check out some questions about our remodeling process and how working with KC’s will keep you in the loop every step of the way!

What should I expect before, during and after construction?

You should expect quick and courteous service. You should expect regular communication with every member of your project team. You should expect us to act professional at all times and respect your property as it is our own. We take the time to set up your project on the front end to minimize interruptions and to enable us to have a successful build.

What is this customer portal that KC’s clients use?

Ah! So glad you asked! KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. believes in transparency from start to finish. One of the ways we provide that to our Clients is by providing our Client’s with a customer portal. The Customer Portal allows you login from your desktop, tablet or mobile device and access every piece of information important to you project. Whether you want to view daily logs and pictures of activity that has happened on your project, view your contract balance, find out what calendar items are next, or communicate with your project team about questions or change orders your customer portal will allow you unprecedented access to everything related to your project. Want to know more about our Customer Portal, drop us a line and we’d be happy to give you a tour!

Will I be kept informed about the progress of my project?

Absolutely. We will provide you with access to your customer portal and the cell phone and email of your Project Manager and Project Assistant. Your project team will update your customer portal daily with a log of daily activities, pictures, to-do’s, questions and comments, and anything else pertinent to your project. We make it a point to ensure that our clients have an idea of where their projects stand every day. Our project team will also communicate with you through the customer portal. This ensures that you have access to all communication regarding your project without having to dig through your email to locate important details. From selections to scope of work documents you will know what to expect day to day.

Do you use subcontractors?

The long and short answer is, it depends on the scope of work. KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. employs a full staff of working carpenters. In North Carolina, it is common for a General Contractor to subcontractor trade work. Trade work such as electrical, HVAC and plumbing require a licensed trade person to pull the appropriate permits and most General Contractors will use subcontractors to perform this type of work. KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. will always use subcontractors who are licensed to perform the work we are hiring them to do and as our Client you will be introduced to any worker that will be on your property by a member of KC’s team.

Who do I call if I have a problem?

Your project team will be available for emergencies at all times. Should an emergency arise you should call a member of your project team immediately. While we do our best to ensure that no disasters happen, we live in an imperfect world and from time to time issues may arise. Rest assured, we will be on top of any issue that does happen and remedy it immediately. We are the professionals and we know our Client’s are looking to us to provide them with guidance when the unexpected happens. We will treat any issue with the respect and urgency it deserves.

How much will my remodel cost?

No two remodels are the same, because of that, a one price fits all model does not work. Your investment into your remodel will depend on your selections, materials you decide to use, and your actual scope of work. We have developed a rough project calculator to get an idea of how much you should anticipate investing in your project. Click here to view our project cost guideline then give us a call to schedule your estimate appointment!

How long does a typical remodel project take?

Remodeling and renovations are so different identifying a time frame before understanding the scope of work would be irresponsible. As our Client, prior to the start of your job, you will be provided a full calendar of anticipated events. This will detail what work should be performed each week and should give you a fairly good indication of when you can expect to have your home back in working order. From our experience generally you can anticipate a typical bathroom remodel to take 2-3 weeks, a typical kitchen remodel to take 5-8 weeks and a typical addition to take 8-12 weeks.

Will my family need to move out of our home during construction?

Renovations can take weeks and sometimes months. Noisy tools, dust and crews should be expected on a regular basis during your remodel. Some minor projects can disrupt your daily routine as well. While KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. takes every precaution to minimize your daily interruptions only you can identify if your family will need to move out. Most renovations and remodels can be accomplished while your family stays put and KC’s Team will make every effort to ensure that stays feasible.

Can I provide my own materials?

Items such as vanities, light fixtures, bath fixtures etc. you are welcome to supply your own materials. In our experience, customers who handle them on their own typically experience some delays that impact the timing of the job. Client provided materials are not warrantied by KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. As professionals in remodeling, our guidance and network of suppliers and vendors are generally preferred.

Speaking of warranties, what is KC’s Warranty?

KC’s Improvement & Construction Co. absolutely warranties our work. We will never leave a Client unhappy. We guarantee, in writing, that construction performed at your home is free from workmanship defects due to noncompliance with the performance standards referenced and incorporated into our limited warranty for a period of one year from the date of substantial completion. All manufacturers warranties are passed through to our Client!

What about design? I am not sure what I want my remodel to look like yet…

As a full design-build company we can handle designing your space! We offer design contracts to our Client’s. A design contract can be as simple as floor plan development or as detailed as a set of architectural plans. Maybe you just need help making selections? We can help you there too! We have a preferred network of suppliers who help give our Clients guidance picking out any selection. Contact us today to find out more about our design process.

I am looking for a specific product. Can you install it?

Yes! We work with specialty products everyday. Whether you want specialty composite decking like Trex, EZE Breeze or Screeneze windows for your sunroom, or Schluter-Kerdi shower systems, KC’s has the knowledge and experience to install these specialty products and ensure they meet the manufacturers recommendations!

Do I need a bathtub in my home?

We hear this question everyday! The tub/shower combination remains the standard in the industry because of its flexibility of dual use. With the aging population, climbing into a tub can create dangers that a curbless (or universal design) shower can eliminate. Generally speaking, if you have multiple bathrooms, you should keep at least one tub in one of them. A home without a tub can affect the re-sale value. Some recent polls indicate that 50% of buyers are not concerned whether a home has a tub or not, 50% of people, especially those with young children, find it to be a problem. Whatever way you decide, having a tub is a very personal decision. Whether you want that deep soaker tub to soak off the troubles of the day, or the idea of a nice steamy shower after a long day seems to be right up your alley KC’s can help you achieve your dream!

What is a curbless shower?

Curbless showers are all the rage right now! As a popular trend, many of our Client’s are interested in knowing the pros and cons of installing a curbless shower. A curbless shower, commonly referred to as a walk-in shower, have many advantages. They provide universal functionality from young children to grandparents, the are easier to clean, the eliminate the cost and hassle of a shower door and they are aesthetically appealing. With very little disadvantages, it is not wonder that curbless showers are a popular trend that we do not see disappearing anytime soon! Want to see some of the curbless showers we have installed?

Does my bathroom need more ventilation?

The primary purpose of a bathroom fan is to remove the moisture out of the bathroom. Bathroom fans also help to control and remove bathroom odors. Having proper bathroom ventilation is crucial to ensuring the long-term health of your newly remodeled bathroom. When we come out and assess your scope of work we will identify the need for an upgrade on your current bathroom ventilation and communicate that to you!

Are there ways to make my small bathroom feel larger?

If your budget doesn’t allow for a drastic change in the layout of your bathroom there are multiple ways to make a smaller bathroom more user friendly and appear larger. Playing with white colors can make an immediate impact on the look. White on white will give you the immediate appearance of a more spacious space. It also helps reflect light rather than absorbing it. Speaking of lighting, a good lighting set up can make any space look big and open. A large mirror to help reflect the light and elongate the space will also help make a smaller bathroom appear roomier. Floating vanities are another great way to maximize space. Having a little peak at the flooring under the vanity can make the space feel more open it it also helps to have a little more space to plant your feet. You can even use a glass shower panel to help increase visibility throughout the space. The glass will make the room look larger and can make the room much more visually appealing. If you are worried about privacy with glass, do not worry, frosted or tinted glass panels help with privacy while still minimizing that claustrophobic feel.

Is it better to replace or refinish my bathtub and shower tile?

We get this question a lot, unfortunately this is really a personal choice. Refinishing a tub can reduce the cost of your bathroom remodel significantly. Properly maintained, a refinished bathtub can last another 20 years. You can also refinish your ceramic tile. It can be much more affordable than replacing and is equally as durable and beautiful. The option to refinish or replace is yours. As our client, we will guide you on the best option for your project and your budget.

What type of tile can I use on my bathroom floor and shower?

With every option on the market now, selecting a bathroom floor or shower tile can be exhausting. For the last 30 years, we have been cultivating our relationships with a variety of vendors, to provide our Clients with hands-on assistance when it comes to making tile selections. There are so many factors to consider when selecting the perfect tile for you. Regardless of the size, shape, type or color a good tile for shower floors is slip-resistant, relatively impervious to water and sized appropriately for the space and the slope of the shower pan. The selection of shower tiles is unlimited. Whether you are looking for that subway tile shower, a rock tile look or glass tile shower our Clients can feel confident that KC’s Improvement & Construction is up to the task of designing and implementing that must have look for your bathroom!

How long does a double sink vanity need to be?

You’ll spend a lot of time at your bathroom vanity. Before selecting a single or double vanity you should think about your morning routine. Are you a teeth brushed, hair combed out the door kind of person? Do you have a long beauty regime that requires ample space and multiple outlets? How many people will be using this bathroom at one time? Single sink vanities should be a minimum of 30 inches but 36-48 inches is much more comfortable. You can squeeze two sinks into a 60 inch vanity but 72 inches is definitely preferred. With a variety of vanities, whether you need that narrow vanity to maximize your space or you want enough space to keep all your bathroom necessities within arms reach, we can help you identify the style that will work best for you and your family.

What does it take to create an open concept kitchen floor plan?

So you love to entertain? Want to talk to your family or guests while you prepare a meal? The options are endless! Creating an open concept kitchen floor plan can make your home feel larger, improve the flow of light throughout the common areas and increase the time your family gets to spend together. Achieving that open floor plan can be involved. Removal of walls usually requires an engineered beam to help support the load of your roof and eliminating flooring transitions can require a new floor. Choosing the right kitchen cabinets, whether its a mix of traditional cabinets and open shelving to make the room more welcoming or selecting a layout that includes a breakfast bar or island can help you achieve the look you want without sacrificing storage space.

What should I consider when building a garage?

If you are looking for a simple 1 car garage or if you are considering a full multi-car garage with a finished space above there are many things you should consider during your planning phase. Are you looking to get some additional storage? How about electrical? Do you want many options for lights around the new space? Do you want the roof design to match your current home? Does it need to be insulated for climate control? These are just a few things among the many to consider. Our design experts can help you identify all your must haves and will walk you through the entire process from concept to completion. Give us a call today and let us help you build your dream garage!

I have some other questions ?

If you have any other question you can contact us at 336-288-3865 or visit https://kcsimprovement.com/contact-kcs-improvement-construction-co-inc/

10 Ways to Spring Clean Like A Pro

Spring is here! Time to set aside a day to deep-clean your home and get it ready for the upcoming months of summer fun! With this hand checklist, you can rid your home of the winter blues in one day! Not only will a day of cleaning qualify as your workout it will ensure a clutter-free, blissfully clean, light and airy home ready to take on the grit and grim of the coming summer!

Hit the Bathrooms Hard

Vacuum first. Use the wand attachment to hit all of your baseboards, corners of your wall, bathroom vent, fans and floors. After vacuuming, spray all tile and washable surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner. The best all-purpose cleaners are fine painted walls. Apply generously and leave for 15-20 minutes. Then wipe down with a clean cloth. Vacuum one more time and then wipe your floor. All that impossible grime will be gone and your bathroom will be left feeling light and ready for a day of beauty!

QUICK TIP: Shower faucets not running well? Grab a sealable baggie, fill the bag with vinegar, secure the bag around the showerhead with a rubber band, leave the bag for 2 hours, remove bag and run the shower. Voila! Poor water pressure NO MORE!

Let Your Bedrooms Breathe!

Your bedroom should be inviting and relaxing. Pop those windows open! A good airing will reduce the allergens in your mattress. Remove the linens and leave the windows open for a few hours. Grab all the bed coverings, including dust ruffles, curtains and washable rugs and pop them in the washer. If you move to lighter quilts in the spring make sure you wash your winter bedding before storage.

Wash mirrors and the insides of the windows. Don’t forget the window screens. Gently scrubbing, with warm soapy water will ensure dirt and insect debris does not flow into your house with the fresh air. Quickly scan for holes and cuts and repair them with a screen repair kit from your local home repair retailer.

Got Ceiling Fans?

Ceiling fans that are dusty or dirty circulate allergens and germs through your room every time you turn them on. Take the brush attachment of your vacuum and suck off any dust. Use a wood cleaner to dust off the fan blades.

QUICK TIP: Rub a dryer sheet over the blades of the fan to help eliminate dust build up.

Give Your Laundry Room Some Love

We expect our laundry room to protect our clothes during wash cycles. Make sure you give it a fighting chance! Start with your lint trap. Did you know all lint doesn’t get caught in the lint trap? Lint can easily make its way into your dryer vent. A lint filled dryer vent not only wastes money but is also a fire hazard. Head to your local home improvement retailer and purchase a flexible dryer vent cleaner. These inexpensive dryer vent cleaners will ensure your dryer doesn’t work too hard and can help prevent a major catastrophe.

Don’t forget to check your washing machine hoses. A kinked or damaged hose can cause a major water leak. Look for cracks in the hose and replace them if necessary. Cleaning or replacing your washer seal can ensure your clothes always smell fresh. An old or dirty seal can cause clothes to smell of mildew. Take a bleach mixture and wipe the seal well ensuring you get in every crease. Find a tear? Replace the washer seal.

The Kitchen

If your kitchen is like mine, it’s the lifeblood of the the house. It also gets the most wear and needs a deep clean! The appliances are my favorite place to start. Clean the refrigerator and freezer. Empty contents. Throw away anything expired and store the rest in a cooler. Turn off your fridge and let the shelves and drawers come up to room temperature. Cleaning cold glass and ceramic parts can cause them to crack when you use hot water. Make a mixture of 1 quart of water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda and GO TO TOWN! Clean the seals, shelves, walls, and everything in between. Using a mild dishwashing liquid can help get rid of the stuck-on grime. Dry them well.

QUICK TIP!

Don’t forget the coils. Keep your refrigerator running well by cleaning the coils. The coils help ensure your fridge cools your food correctly. Dusty coils can impact their ability to manage the temperature. Take the wand attachment of your vacuum and clean off the dust.

Degrease Your Cooking Appliances

Remove all removable parts of your stove, grates, drawers and shelves. Scrub them with a soap steel wool pad. Use an all-purpose stove cleaner and scrub all the walls and doors of your stove. Get rid of all burnt on food and clean the elements. Make sure you unplug your stove before a deep clean. If the grease wont come off of your racks, try putting them in an airtight bag with a quarter cup of ammonia and leave them overnight. The ammonia will help loosen debris and grease for an easy clean the next day.

Wash the surface of your cabinets. A solution of warm water and dish washing liquid works best on wood cabinets. Make sure you dry all surfaces well. After vacuuming all wall and ceiling surfaces, don’t forget to use an all-purpose cleaner on all tile and washable surfaces. Leave for 20 minutes and then wipe with a clean cloth. Your kitchen will be ready to tackle spring flings and upcoming summer events!

Your Water Heater Wants to Be Cleaned Too!

Your water heater needs a deep clean too. Sediment builds up in your water heater over the year. Sediment buildup can cause hard water and can damage the water heater. Make sure you drain the water out of your water heater. Draining old, sediment filled water can prolong the life of your water heater and reduce your electric bill!

Last but not least…Spring Clean Those Decks and Outdoor Furniture

When we think about spring cleaning we often forget about our furniture outside. You can revive outdoor furniture with a thorough cleaning and prolong their life by sealing and ensuring finishes are not cracked.

Take off cushions and clean all crevices of chairs and tables. Wipe down or wash all cushions and allow them to dry. Sand and touch up any chipped paint. Repair loose wrappings on the legs of wicker furniture and replace any broken pieces. Click here Wicker Furniture for a quick guide to repairing wicker furniture from our friend at the DIY Network. Don’t forget to pressure wash and seal your deck. Use quality outdoor sealer available at a major home improvement retailer. Look for a VOC Free non-toxic lumber sealer, great for the environment and child and pet friendly!

Do you have a favorite Spring cleaning routine? Leave us a comment below, we’d love to hear about it!

1 Comment

Mary on 2020-05-04 at 3:14 am

Thank you for this!
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10 Ways to Spring Clean Like a Pro