Derek Barnes Construction

Think it's time for a roof repair or replacement? It may be if there is algae discoloration on your shingles, your flashing is damaged, you detect blistering or curling on your asphalt roofing or -- you got it, there are water spots on your ceiling.

Do not forget to inspect the underside of the roof in the attic. Look for water spots and other signs of damage. If you suspect a problem, act quickly and bring in a contractor.

If you want to save money on utility bills, windows are a smart place to start. Depending on the energy efficiency of your windows, and how many you have in your home, they can account for between 10 and 25 percent of your utility costs.

The contract documents that general contractors review when considering an estimate include the budget and all blueprints and specifications prepared by the design professional (like an architect). Many times, general contractors act as the project engineer or project manager.

A significant amount of your electricity bills can go towards heating or cooling your home during the winter and summer. Using energy efficient windows could help cut your bill by more than 10 percent.

When embarking on a renovation project, recognizing what you want to accomplish and understanding the scope of work involved is important, especially if you have date specific stepped projects scheduled.