DIY Better with Building Solutions

DIY projects are a great way to get the work done just the way you want. These types or projects can also help you gain new skills, save money, and complete projects on your own timeline. While there are many more reasons that you may choose to choose a do-it-yourself project rather than hiring an expert, you should still keep in mind the safety risks that DIY projects can pose.

Whether you are an expert DIY'er or you are just getting into it, safety should always remain a top priority when it comes to working on your project. That is exactly why we have put together this list of safety tips to ensure that you are keeping safe when working on your project.

Ready to begin your DIY project? Make sure you check out these tips below before getting started:

Tip #1: Wear Proper Gear

Be sure to invest in gear and clothing that is best suited to protect you while working on any do-it-yourself project. Depending on the project you are working on, this could be a number of different items. For example, if you are painting or working with harsh chemicals, you will likely need a respirator or mask to shield yourself from inhaling the dangerous fumes. If you are working with saws, especially chainsaws, it is always important to wear safety goggles to make sure wood doesn’t find its way into your eyes.

No matter what specific project you are working on, one piece of gear that you will likely need no matter what, is a good pair of sturdy work boots. These will provide you with stable footing, but will also protect your feet against potential punctures or other hazards that can occur on a construction site.

It is also best that you wear clothes that fit well and are not too baggy. If you have long hair, make sure you pull it back as well. This will protect your hair and clothing from getting stuck around any power tools, which would be a recipe for disaster!

Tip #2: Don't Use Broken Tools

It may seem like a rather obvious tip, but sometimes DIY'ers are willing to take a risk on a dull or damaged tool. When you do so, you are putting yourself at serious risk. Broken tools pose a numerous amount of safety hazards.

If you’ve got old tools, consider upgrading and purchasing new, reliable equipment that will get the job done while keeping you protected. Swing by our design center or give us a call to learn about the materials and tools that Building Solutions Bend offers.

Tip #3: Handle Tools Properly

You may own the proper tools, but do you know the correct way to use them? A huge safety hazard for DIY'ers is not using tools properly. Equipment such as power tools or high-speed blades should not be taken lightly. Before you get started on your project, make sure that you watch some tutorials and read up on some how-to's to make sure that you are handling your equipment the right way.

If you have any questions about how to use the tools, we would be happy to work with you. Get in touch with us and we can either provide you detailed instruction or point you in the right direction for a tutorial on the specific products that you are working with.

Tip #4: Use the Right Tools

Many DIY'ers will try to take shortcuts or simply just use what they have for a project instead of purchasing new materials. You may not want to invest in buying new tools, but using the wrong equipment for your project will likely lead to using the tool improperly, which is a number one cause for DIY injuries.

When it comes to DIY projects, don’t take the shortcut. Be smart and stay safe by using the right materials! Our team of experts would be happy to walk you through this process and help you find the right equipment to get the job done. In fact, our design center in Bend has a wide selection of the best tools from top name brands like Makita and Diablo, and we always have special offers to browse.

Tip #5: Take Breaks

Home improvement projects can be exhausting and with that, you’ll likely become fatigued quickly. Pushing yourself too much will increase your risk for injury or poor decision making, so make sure that you factor this into your work day! It will be important that you take multiple breaks and know when to end each day so that you don't push yourself beyond your limits.

Along with this, be sure that your breaks include drinking plenty of water and replenishing your body with food and nutrients to keep you fueled for the big project.

Tip #6: Clean Up

As a DIY'er, you’ll also need to double as your own safety manager. Cleaning up after yourself is an important component that will keep your job site safe. Make sure that scraps of wood and other project materials are picked up and thrown out so that they do not pose any safety hazards to yourself or others who may be in the area. Wrapping up power chords and putting away tools after use is also a great habit to get into as it will avoid any tripping hazards.

Tip #7: Don’t Rush

You may be tempted to finish your DIY project as soon as you can, but in doing so, you will be tempted to cut corners and rush to finish the job. Not only can this lead to injury, but will also lower the quality of your work, which may cause you to have to re-do or fix your project later.

Some projects are best left to the experts, but if you must complete a DIY project, make sure you are taking the right safety precautions to ensure your project is completed well and that you stay safe while working on it.

Whether you’ve got a big or small project in the works, Building Solutions is here to help you get the job done. Bring your plans into our design center today and learn how we can help you. We strive to help you by providing:

• In-house Takeoffs: We use your plans to generate accurate takeoffs for efficient material sourcing. Let our expert staff calculate exactly what you need.

• Prompt Delivery Crew: Our excellent delivery fleet and drivers mean you get your materials when and where you need them.

• Customer Satisfaction: Why were we voted Central Oregon's Material Supplier of the Year? Selection and service. Let us show you the Building Solutions difference.

Our experienced staff will help you get the right tools for any job. We are Central Oregon’s one-stop-shop for building materials and our reputation was built on quality and service.

Visit us in Bend today, and find everything you need to complete your next project. Oregon’s top home builders and leading contractors choose Building Solutions to get the materials they need to do the job right.

Give us a call today or stop by our design center to learn how we can partner together on your next DIY project.

📞 (541) 388-9988

📍 62960 Boyd Acres Road - Bend, OR

Windows - To Replace Or Repair?

As a locally owned company, we believe that long-lasting building materials benefit our Central Oregon communities and neighborhoods. That’s why we do our best to provide you with high-quality, sustainable materials from lumber and trusses, windows, doors, deck materials, and hardware and tools. We also specialize in handling a building project from beginning to end, from the ground up. From foundation materials down to the doorknobs, we have the knowledge and experience to complete almost any project to create your dream home.

Now onto today’s topic…windows!

Customers often come into the Design Center with questions about window replacement or repair. With goals to save money and energy, we know it can be confusing with all of the options out there. Thankfully, we know which replacement windows to recommend, which to avoid and if what you have is considered unsalvageable.

Central Oregon is a beautiful place to call home and being comfortable in your own home is well worth investing in. Sometimes your windows just need a few repairs to get them back to their original condition and we would be happy to help you navigate this process. Consider these factors when you think this is the case…

YOUR WINDOWS NEED TO BE REPAIRED IF:

Cracked and broken glass- The first things to consider when your windows are cracked are safety and appearance. Most of the time, single-pane windows can be easily repaired whereas multi-paned windows can not. If you’ve been dealing with window problems for a while though, it may be time to look into other options.

Damaged muntins or mullions- Muntins are the vertical dividers that divide panes of glass in a window while mullions separate two sides of the window itself. Most of the time, rotting muntins or mullions can be repaired by removing the glass, cleaning, and applying fresh putty.

Stuck window sashes- In many cases, older window sashes get stuck due to layers of paint or the sash getting off track. Usually, this problem is able to be fixed with a window sash replacement kit.

Broken exterior drip cap- New drip caps can be easily purchased, fixed, nailed, and caulked into place.

Degraded exterior trim or casing- Not only is this unattractive, but it can also make your windows susceptible to more damage. Although you most likely won’t need an entirely new window here, you want to make sure you choose weather-resistant products or paint during the repair.

Minor water leakage- Many cases of interior leakage are caused by poor drainage, whether that be your gutters or other systems around your house. Make sure to check areas around your windows before assuming the windows themselves are leaking.

The hope is that any problems you may be facing with your windows can be repaired but if this is not the case, we have an experienced and knowledgeable staff that will help you choose the best window replacement options for your home and location.

YOUR WINDOWS NEED TO BE REPLACED IF:

Foggy windows or noticeable condensation- Unfortunately, this is usually an indication that your windows need to be replaced. Sure, the glass itself can handle moisture, but when condensation gathers between panes, it’s time to replace those windows.

Rotting wood or insect damage- Rotting or damaged wood can allow air to leak into your home. There are many reasons why wood deteriorates, including insect damage, but if your window frames are thoroughly rotten or damaged, new windows are worth the investment in the long run.

Problems with the outer structure- Whether you need a new-construction window because the area surrounding the window is also in poor shape, or simply a replacement window, when the structure itself is falling through, it’s time to replace the window.

Major water leakage- Major leakage can be a sign that the casing is shot or irreplaceable but when it does seem as if water is coming through the windows and no issues to the surrounding exterior area can be detected, looking into replacements is recommended.

Photo Credit: Milgard

Whether you’re experiencing drafts, condensation, or broken glass, or have aesthetic concerns about your windows, replacing them is always an option. Since 2003, our experienced professionals have been supplying Central Oregon’s leading home builders and contractors with new, replacement and upgraded windows or doors. We carry a variety of choices from the most reputable manufacturers like JELD-WEN, Milgard, Prime Window Systems, Weather Shield, and Ply Gem.

If we don’t have what you’re looking for in stock, we can get it ordered and even delivered. We’re proud to say our service area covers most of Central Oregon, including Redmond, Madras, La Pine, Sisters and Sunriver!

As mentioned, we can also help you access whether what you’re dealing with is replaceable or repairable. Our building material experts begin with the in-house takeoff from your blueprints and, when necessary, will visit your jobsite to ensure accurate measurements and planning.

Let’s get started on your next project! Stop by and take a look at the color choices and specialty glass samples, or our wood and vinyl options. You won’t be disappointed with the money you save having a more energy-efficient home!

(541) 388-9988

62960 Boyd Acres Road - Bend, OR

7 Ways To Increase Your Home Value This Year

Think back to when you purchased your house. It was likely an exciting and fulfilling experience as you moved in and began to make your house feel more like a home. And while buying a house is an emotional decision, it is also a major financial one. Over time, you should be considering multiple ways that you can begin to build equity and increase your property’s value overtime.

With the current situation of the housing market, you may not see right now as a good time to sell your home; however, it is a great time to invest in your property and increase its value. Thinking long-term about your property is one of the best things you can do as a home owner. The changes and updates that you do to your home now will help you (and your wallet) in the long run.

If you’re looking for ways to increase your home value this year, keep on reading!

Renovate your kitchen

Whether you’re cooking, baking, or hosting friends and family at your house, most people find themselves spending a good chunk of time in the kitchen. Having an updated kitchen can change the look and feel of your home in an instant!

Most kitchens that are trending right now have a modern style with features that allow for social gatherings. Consider adding an island to your kitchen, switching to different countertops, or upgrading your cabinets. Any renovation you put into your kitchen, no matter how small, will contribute to the overall value of your home.

Freshen it up with paint

It may not seem like much, but adding a fresh coast of paint can make all the difference! Adding new paint to the interior or exterior of your home will clean it up and allow your home to shine. You can hire or a professional painter, or turn it into a DIY project for yourself. If you do the latter though, make sure you have a plan in place and remember to paint meticulously! The last thing you want is to make a few painting mistakes and have to re-do it.

Painting your house is a cost-effective solution for home owners that are not ready to put thousands of dollars into their home, but still want to increase their home’s value. This is especially true if you decide to paint it yourself...a gallon of paint won’t cost you much!

Invest in energy conservation

Call in a local energy conservation company to audit your home. These professionals will help you understand the areas where you can cut energy costs and maximize the energy in your home. This may look like switching to energy efficient appliances or adding insulation.

Not only will this help you save money now, but it will contribute to the future value of your home.

Replace (or remove) old carpets

We all know when our carpets are outdated...the stains won’t come out, they begin to fade from their true color, and they just do not add to the aesthetic of your home. It is probably time for you to replace your carpets for fresh ones or remove them completely!

Natural floors are currently trending, but they are also a look that will add value to your home for years to come. Hardwood has paved the way for most natural floors, leading with its sustainable and fresh features. Not to mention that wooden floors are a lot easier to clean than carpets! You know what we mean, pet owners...

Replacing your floors is another project that you can hire professionally or get it done yourself. As with any home improvement project, you want to make sure it is done right. Find the right resources, materials, and tools to make sure you complete the project with care. Got questions or not sure where to begin? Give us a shout! We would be happy to provide guidance on this subject.

Add a deck

There are many simple pleasures in life. Sitting on your deck in the summer time is one of those, which is exactly why adding one will increase the value of your home!

You can add a small, intimate space for your personal pleasure and relaxing or invest in a larger deck for entertaining purposes, either way, it is an investment in your home. Visit our design center in Bend to see our deck materials and siding displays, or call now to get your deck project underway.

Update bathroom fixtures

Alongside the kitchen, bathroom updates are another leader for an increase in home value. Replacing the mirrors, shower glass, plumbing, lighting fixtures, and tile floors are all modern renovations that will increase your home’s value.

Install new lighting

Installing new lighting in your home is another great project to get done in winter that will increase the overall value of your home’s property. Adding new lighting will add to the overall ambience of your home and brighten up your space.

You can install new lighting to the interior of your home or add outdoor lighting for enhanced security purposes. Outdoor lighting can even be paired with smart technology. This technology has sensors which detect movement and tell the lights to turn on - an increasingly attractive feature for people looking to purchase a home!

These seven tips are tangible updates that you can enjoy while still living in your home, but they will also prepare your property for when you are ready to put it on the market! It is always a good idea to be thinking long-term when it comes to your home. You do not have to get all of these projects done at once, but by implementing a few updates and remodels here and there, you will be investing in the overall value of your home. Feel more at ease when you put your home on the market knowing that you put in the hard work to increase your home’s value.

No matter which project you get started on first, don’t forget we are here to help! We will partner with you to deliver the knowledge, experience and materials required for your next construction project. We specialize in lumber and trusses, decking and siding, windows and doors, and just about anything else you might need for your commercial or residential building project.

As Central Oregon’s most respected home builders and contractors, we are happy to provide top-quality building materials and top-shelf customer service to help you get the job done.

Give us a call today or stop by our design center to learn how we can partner together on your home investment project.

(541) 388-9988 62960 Boyd Acres Road - Bend, OR