This 1970s St. Louis ranch home was purchased as a fixer-upper. There were many obvious improvements to be made, and a home inspection showed it was in decent shape, making it a good candidate for a remodel and updates.

While renovations were in full swing, Mosby Building Arts? carpenters made an interesting discovery when replacing interior trim on all of the windows: one of the load-bearing walls had been compromised by an improperly installed window.

It appeared that in the recent past, a window was turned into a doorway, and a new window was installed into a previously blank wall without understanding of structure or concern about which walls were load-bearing. As shown in the diagram above, four vertical wall studs were severed to make way for a 6? wide window. Blocks of 2x4s were installed between the cut studs above the window. From work they had completed in the basement, the Mosby crew knew this was an exterior load-bearing wall, and that these blocks were a bad sign. Suddenly, the slightly sagging ceiling above this window made sense ? it wasn?t just the normal movement seen in older homes, it had begun caving in from having no support!

This compromised load-bearing wall was undetected during inspection because it was a non-destructive home inspection. Other than that slightly sagging ceiling, there were no other indications of a structural problem to tip off an inspector. Only when the interior of the wall was exposed was the damage revealed. This is, unfortunately, a common occurrence for remodelers, because they are the ones who dig into walls and uncover what lies behind them.

Uncovering unknown problems is also what makes remodelers problem solvers. Mosby quickly formulated and executed this plan:

? Remove the drywall from the majority of the affected wall
? Install a temporary stud wall a couple feet away from the exterior wall to support the roof trusses
? Remove the window and adjacent door
? Remove the cut studs from above the window opening, remove the short header above the adjacent door, cut a few studs in place to create jack studs for the new header
? Install new appropriately sized header of two 2╫12 boards to span above the window and door
? Install a new window and re-install the original door
? Install drywall
? Trim out the window

The discovery of the compromised load-bearing wall prompted a decision from the homeowner to install a new window unit. This repair and the lead-time on ordering a new item caused an unplanned delay in the project. But it was fortunate to find this potentially serious problem during construction rather than years later when damage and the expense to repair it would have been substantially more serious and expensive.

This story illustrates how important it is for qualified professionals to identify load-bearing walls before undertaking any remodeling project. And that sometimes shoddy construction can be covered up just well enough to go undetected by home inspectors and remodelers ? but only for so long.

Unexpected curve-balls are the nature of remodeling, and luckily for these homeowners, the Mosby Building Arts construction crews are experienced professionals who work quickly to solve problems. If you need load-bearing walls in your Metro St. Louis home identified, repaired or modified, call the Mosby office at 314.909.1800 or contact them here.

Cozy Bathroom

If your bathroom space rivals that of a Japanese capsule hotel room (6?7? by 3?3? by 4?1?), don?t fret; there are a variety of bathroom remodeling options that can improve the area?s function and aesthetics. Today?s bathroom supply manufacturers embrace minimalist designs with powerful performances, a far cry from some of the bulkier designs of the ?80s and ?90s. Whether you?re renovating a powder room or a small full bath, selecting the right bath products will help your bath seem roomier.

Need some creative ideas on how to maximize the space in your cozy bathroom and widen its appearance? Follow the simple, easy steps below.

Mirror, mirror on the wall.

Placing a cleverly-positioned mirror to your bathroom not only creates the illusion of depth, it also reflects light and color. The size of the mirror depends on your personal preferences, but remember that the bigger the mirror, the more depth is reflected. Plus, a large mirror has the added practical benefit of helping you check yourself out before an evening out or a big business conference. Some places to position a large mirror: the ceiling, the wall adjacent to your bathtub, above your vanity space.

Sandy neutrals are your friend!

When it comes to fashion, the old adage is that black makes you look slimmer, whereas light colors add width and curves. This same fashion design principle also applies to your bathroom?a dark wall color will make your bathroom seem smaller, whereas light neutrals will make your bathroom look bigger. Also, aim for a monochromatic color scheme. You can switch up the look with varying textures and shades, but it?s best to stick with one light color to create a larger space.

Big windows for big dreams.

Natural lighting makes your bathroom sparkle and helps open up the space. If you feel comfortable placing large windows in your bathroom, consider doing so to let natural light in. If you?re not comfortable with the idea of large bathroom windows due to privacy reasons, try installing a skylight in your bathroom?it accomplishes the same lighting technique.

Take a minimalistic approach.

For limited bathroom space, clean lines and airy furniture/fixtures are your friends. Wall-mounted toilet and vanities open up your floor space and make it easier to clean your bathroom. If you don?t need a vanity, consider installing a pedestal sink instead for added space. Floating shelves can be installed over your toilet as an extra storage space or a place to store decorations. Try to avoid overloading your bathroom with accessories; this can make your bathroom feel and appear cluttered.

Save space with smart storage solutions.

When you have a small space, it?s important to make every square footage count! Cabinet manufacturers such as Merillat offer a wide selection of bathroom storage accessories to help compartmentalize your bathroom necessities. Space-saving bathroom storage solutions include: wastebasket drawers, toiletry organizers, tiered storage, pull-out vanity filler drawers, vanity hamper drawers, wall-top hinge cabinets, tall shelves, and glass cabinet doors.

Lighten up your bathroom.

Bright lighting in your bathroom can help open up your bathroom space, especially in conjunction with a mirror. Well-placed task lighting above your vanity (preferably near a mirror) creates the illusion of extra depth. Making sure your shower is well-lit (recessed lights on the ceiling work well for this purpose). A pendant light can also make a great focal piece without overwhelming the room.

Use glass to add a touch of class.

Glass (or other transparent materials) helps to maintain an airy, open bathroom appearance. A glass vessel lavatory above a sleek, modern vanity adds a focal point without clutter. Bathroom accessories made of transparent materials also create the illusion of free space in the bathroom. Transparent bathroom accessories include: glass floating shelves, transparent tissue paper holders, transparent towel rings and racks, and soap dishes.

Looking to select space-saving bathroom products for your cozy kitchen? Visit a Crawford Supply Group showroom, located inaIllinois,aMichigan, and Pennsylvania, and we?ll connect you with the right products for your needs.aYou can also set up a free Showroom Consultation with one of our knowledgeable team members.

The ?honey do? list is alive and well in April as warmer weather means it?s time to tackle home improvement projects.

Start by focusing on your bathroom. Get invigorated and gain a feeling of accomplishment by making a home projects checklist that allows you to really accomplish things in a single day.

Here are some fast, must-do DIY home projects that we?ve developed at Mansfield Plumbing that you can tackle in your bathroom in just a few hours:

Project #1 ? Remove and thoroughly clean any window screens so your bathroom can welcome in fresh, clean breezes.

Project #2 ? Replace an old, water-hogging toilet. Invest in a WaterSense« rated toilet, like the Brentwood HET, and start saving on water bills with every flush.

Project #3 ? Brighten up the bathroom with new lighting fixtures.

Project #4 ? Stop stuffing things in the back of your drawers. Clean out existing bathroom cabinets and drawers. Add in shelving units and under-counter stackable storage containers to maximize valuable bathroom space.

Project #5 ? Toss out worn or moldy shower curtain liners, towels and bathroom rugs and replace with coordinated new items.

Project #6 ? Get colorful. Repaint your bathroom (using mildew- and moisture-resistant paint like PermaWhite from Zinsser) in a new color to change the look and feel of your bathroom.

Project #7? Take apart ceiling exhaust fans and give them a good cleaning.

Project #8 ? Upgrade your sinks. Toss out your 1960s or 1970s era sinks and replace with newer, more contemporary styles, like the Verona pedestal lavatory or the Razionale above counter vessel.

Project #9 ? Look at your bathroom ?hardware.? Replace your outdated towel rack and toilet paper holders ? and consider adding new cabinet and drawer knobs and pulls.

Project #10 ? Splurge. After making some necessary enhancements to your bathroom, shop online and add some ?niceties? that make life better ? like candles, new soap dispensers and toothbrush holders.

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The Ins and Outs of Repiping

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How Will I Know When I Need Piping Services?

If you?re a homeowner who wants your plumbing to function in a pristine fashion, it?s important to note that you will likely need repair and maintenance work to accomplish this objective. In many cases, the aspect of your plumbing that is in need of professional assistance is the piping. There are several signs that you can look for to determine whether you?re in need of repiping or repair work. One of the first signs to be on the lookout for is rusty water flowing through the pipes. If you pour yourself a glass of water and note that the color is not clear or that it tastes a bit ?off,? this is almost always a clear indication of rusty pipes. When you find yourself experiencing rusty pipes, it?s time for complete repiping.Another indication that it?s time for piping work is an old plumbing system. In the event that your plumbing system is quite old, the most prudent thing to do is have it replaced with new piping. Otherwise, you will likely deplete your finances with perpetual repair and maintenance jobs. Another sign you should be aware of as you attempt to determine whether you need pipe work is leaky pipes. At times, homeowners note that their pipes leak once in a while. When the experience of leaky pipes is isolated, you may just need pipe repair. However, when you note that your pipes leak perpetually, this is a clear indication that it?s time for professional repiping work. a

How Will Professional Repiping Services Affect My Daily Routine?

Oftentimes, homeowners avoid the process of attaining professional repiping services because they do not want their daily routines disrupted. This is understandable given that many hardworking people have jobs to perform and want to relax when they come. However, when you choose our plumbing company for all of your piping needs, your daily routine will not be disrupted. Our skilled technicians have extensive education and hands-on experience in the piping field, and this ?know-how? has empowered them to quickly address and resolve your issue. Also note that there will be no need for you to vacate your home in order for us to complete the repiping process. We?re a swift, reliable, and friendly customer-service oriented company with your needs in mind. a

Will The Piping Process Take A Long Time?

We make the repiping process as short and simple as possible. Generally, our technicians can have the work done in two or three days.

Not sure if you need a repiping job or a pipe repair job? Call ABC Plumbing & Rooter at (480) 726-1600 today!

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With more and more people having access to the Internet through either their PC and/or their Smartphone?s it?s becoming easier for consumers to provide useful feedback via online review sites.

Now as you can imagine this is a double-edged sword for most companies, in particular service companies. aIt?s inevitable you will receive both positive and negative reviews posted for everyone to research and view online.

Now like most of you, I am a consumer who often uses the internet to research potential vendors and reviews posted by customers to determine if you want to hire the company.

It?s with this in mind that we would like to toot our own horn a little, now that?s not to say we didn?t receive some poor reviews during the past 12 months, but overall we are kicking butt!

From April 30, 2012 through April 29, 2013

• Number of jobs completed ? 19,810
• Number of negative reviews ? 4*
• B Rating from Angieslist
• A- Rating from the Better Business Bureau

* Data pulled from Insiderpages, Yelp, AngiesList and Better Business Bureau for 12 month time period for John C. Flood of VA.

Again there are two John C. Flood?s so keep that in mind. We are not the John C. Flood of DC based in Washington, DC. We are based in Alexandria, VA as well as Brentwood, MD.

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