There are a lot of ways to add interest to your home and help it stand out from all the other houses on the block. Adding stonework, for example, to the front of the house can give your house that special touch that makes it unique to your and your style. However, stonework has, in itself, a ton of choices: the shape of the stones, color, and location, just to name a few.

So where to get started? This is when the home style and design experts at Carolan Contractors come in. We can help you plan out a terrific upgrade to your house that is all your own.

How? Well, in this article, we’re going to take some inspiration from a gorgeous project we did on a rustic-style Verona Craftsman House to discuss some ways to add character, elegance, and charm to your home.

Ways To Add Character and Charm To Your Home

To get your own creative juices flowing, here are some of the methods Carolan Contractors used to improve this Verona Craftsman house, which included giving the facade a major upgrade:

• Metal roofing accent: a new mansard roof over the garage, clad in bronze-colored metal roofing
• Custom masonry
• A new bracketed portico
• Gable ornaments
• Two-toned siding (clay and canyon), mixing clapboard vinyl siding and cedar shake impressions vinyl siding
• Mixing siding profiles/types
• New fiberglass front door by ProVia

Adding A Portico To Your New Jersey Home

Carolan Contractors are master craftsman, and adding a portico to your house in will provide quite a few benefits, such as adding dimension to the front of your house, so it’s not flat and/or plain. In addition, not only is a portico stylish, but it’s functional! Porticos provide shelter from the rain or snow when you’re getting your keys out.

And as you can see in the picture featured here, cladding the portico in metal roofing gives a farmhouse accent while still looking appropriate for your New Jersey neighborhood. Just that little bit of style goes a long way!

Why Metal Roofing in New Jersey Is A Great Choice

While we do roofs in all kinds of styles and materials, we love when a client is looking for metal roofing. This is because metal roofing is long lasting, available in a wide variety of colors to match your home style, and very popular in farmhouse decor. In addition, if you’re a fan of home design shows, you’ll see it used all the time–just watch an episode or two of Fixer Upper.

Learn more about our roofing services here.

What To Consider When Renovating Or Installing New Doors

A door is not just functional, but is a statement for someone entering your home. (Read more about our entryway services here.) Fiberglass is nice because it’s maintenance free, which is extra important in NJ, since we have harsh winters and harsh summers. In addition, Fiberglass doors are more energy efficient than wood.

It’s also important to consider which manufacturers and suppliers your contractor is working with. One thing we like is that there are hundreds of door options from ProVia, one of our preferred door partners, including different wood grains, different colors and stains, decorative art glass in a variety of styles, hardware upgrades, door shapes/profiles, and much more. This variety allows us to work with our clients to get that exact, specific look for their home.

View all of our suppliers here.

Materials Needed To Add Character and Charm To Your Home

Great ideas is only part of the solution, obviously. You still need to make it happen! So what products went into creating this new dream home?

• Cedar Impressions
• Vinyl siding
• ProVia Doors
• Entry Doors
• Stonework/Custom Stonework/Masonry/Stone Veneer
• Metal roofing
• Gable ornaments for an added touch of character

Add Curb Appeal and Stand Out From the Other Houses In Your Neighborhood

We all know how important curb appeal is when determing the value and sellability of your home. Having a house that stands out from the pack is not only aesthetically pleasing to you as a homeowner, it will also help attract more potentials buyers and, hopefully, more bids if and when you’re ready to sell.

A beautiful home is also a comfortable and nice place to live, and we here at Carolan Contractors want to make that a reality for all of our clients. Give us a call today at (973) 857-1555 for a free quote or contact us here so we can discuss your project.

The post How To Add Character And Charm To Your Home appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

However, roofs, like any part of a house, require attention and care, and there may come a time when getting a new roof becomes a necessity. Whether you’re dealing with age-related deterioration, storm damage, or simply seeking an upgrade to enhance your home’s curb appeal, embarking on a roof replacement project is a significant undertaking that requires careful consideration.

What should I look for in shingles for my roof?

When choosing shingles for your roof in New Jersey, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key aspects to look for:

• Durability: Look for shingles that are durable and able to withstand the climate and weather conditions of New Jersey. But also consider factors such as wind resistance, impact resistance, and resistance to fading or discoloration.
• Longevity: Consider the expected lifespan of the shingles. Some shingles may last 20 years, while others can have a lifespan of 30 years or more. Longer-lasting shingles may require less frequent replacement and maintenance, which can save you money in the long run.
• Material: Shingles are available in various materials such as asphalt, wood, metal, and synthetic materials. Each material has its own advantages and considerations, including cost, appearance, weight, and maintenance requirements. A qualified roofing professional in New Jersey such as Carolan Contractors can help you choose a material that suits your preferences, budget, and the architectural style of your home.
• Style and Aesthetics: Consider the overall look and style you want to achieve for your roof. Shingles come in different shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. Choose a style that complements the architectural design of your home and matches your personal taste. As we’ll discuss more below, oyster gray and pewter gray are popular choices.
• Energy Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a priority for you, consider shingles that are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This can help lower cooling costs in warmer climates.
• Warranty: Look for shingles that come with a solid manufacturer’s warranty. A good warranty can provide you with peace of mind and protect your investment in case of defects or premature failure.

What is the difference between oyster gray and pewter gray shingles for a roof?

It’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified New Jersey roofing professional such as Carolan Contractors who can provide guidance based on your specific needs and local conditions. We can assess your roof’s structure and help you select the most suitable shingles for your home.

That being said, both oyster gray and pewter gray are popular choices for roof shingles, and while they may appear similar, there are subtle differences between the two colors. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics:

Oyster Gray Shingles

Oyster gray shingles typically have a lighter and softer appearance compared to pewter gray. They tend to have a base color that is a light gray or beige with hints of brown or tan mixed in. Oyster gray shingles often create a more delicate and understated look on a roof. They can complement a variety of exterior color schemes and architectural styles, especially those with lighter or neutral tones.

Pewter Gray Shingles

These have a slightly darker and cooler tone compared to oyster gray. They usually feature a base color that is a medium to dark gray with subtle hints of blue or green. Pewter gray shingles can create a bolder and more dramatic appearance on a roof. They work well with a range of exterior colors, particularly those with cooler tones or contrasting elements.

Read more about picking a roof color here.

Looking for help with a new roof in New Jersey? Contact Carolan Contractors

Ultimately, the choice between oyster gray and pewter gray shingles depends on personal preference and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve for your New Jersey home. We recommend that you consult with a roofing professional like Carolan Contractors to see how each color would look on your specific roof and in relation to your home’s exterior.

Call Carolan Contractors at (973) 857-1555 or get a free quote today!

The post The Aesthetics of a New Roof: Oyster Gray and Pewter Gray Shingles appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

Selecting A Window Material: Wood

Historically, only wood windows were available in color/paintable. Wood is still the best option if you like to mix up your color scheme, as they can be scraped/sanded and repainted again and again.

For wooden windows, we work with Andersen and Marvin. Both companies offer stock colors as well as custom paint colors, and they can also be ordered primed and painted onsite. As a rule of thumb, however, remember that a factory paint job will hold up better than windows painted on site.

Finally, one cost saving tip when working with colored windows is to pick a stock color (non-custom), and base your color scheme around that. 

Selecting A Window Material: Vinyl

A more economic alternative to wood windows can be found in Sunrise Vinyl Windows. These windows also come in stock colors or custom, but they must be factory finished. It is not advisable to field paint vinyl windows.

For that reason, Sunrise is a great option for those willing to commit to a window color for the long haul. Be advised, though, that this can be a double-edged sword: on one hand, windows will not require costly paint maintenance; on the other hand, you will have to live with that color for 20+ years.

Selecting A Color Scheme and Design

Carefully designing a color scheme is an important step in making the most of your renovation. There are a number of color scheme frameworks to consider, and they all produce a different look or style:

• A monochromatic color scheme, where your homes siding, trim, and accents are all one color is a traditional colonial look. While it has fallen out of fashion now, it still produces a very charming result.
• An analogue color scheme is created by selecting 2 or three different shades of a similar color for your base, trim, and accent. This is more commonly thought of as a “shades of…” color scheme, such as shades of neutrals, shades of blues, etc. This is still a traditional look, but it looks more deliberate than other options. Taking the time to select complimentary shades that work together to produce a great look makes your home look more custom and more luxurious.
• A complimentary color scheme is one which makes good use of a color wheel. Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel are called compliments, and traditionally look very good when mixed. For example, in Victorian design often a yellow home will be given purple trim to add punch and contrast
• A dichromatic color scheme where only two colors are used is probably most popular today. A classic example of this is the ever popular modern farm house style. Crisp white walls and trim are grounded by black windows which add the modern flair customers are looking for. Other examples of a dichromatic color scheme would be when walls are painted one color, and trim and windows are painted another. This produces a homey, cottage-like effect, adding charm and warmth.

Final Thoughts

These are just some options, and one should consider their home’s architecture when selecting a color scheme. Often customers feel they need to work with a color consultant, which is a great option if you have the extra cash; however, we can offer complimentary color design with your window project to ensure our customers get the most out of their project. Give us a call today at (973) 857-1555 to see how we can help!

The post All About Colored Windows appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

Tips on Finishing Touches

1. Do you want shutters or decorative trim on your windows? Shutters are typically louvered (with slats), or raised panel. Options for window trim range from simple crown molding to decorative Fypon Crossheads in a range of profiles. You can apply these treatments to all of your windows, or just the ones in front. Decorative trim also nicely dresses up a sliding door or garage door.
2. Consider entryway trim. New low maintenance pilasters and a mantle to match your window trim will make your front door a great first glimpse at your home.
3. Another great place to add some character and charm through detail is fascia trim. Either stately dentil trim or classic crown molding are a great finishing touch just under the roofline.

Tips for a smooth renovation

1. Does your home have any built-in china closets, book cases,  or storage closets on the exterior walls? What about radiators recessed into the walls? When installing siding, your contractor is putting nails in the exterior walls of your house, so make they’re aware of these special attention zones. Other items you want to let your contractor know about include fuse boxes and AC draining systems.
2. If you want to top off your exterior makeover with new house numbers, a new mailbox, new door bell, etc., try and have those ready when your project begins. Contractors are of course happy to install small items, but as an example, we just want you to make sure the wiring on your doorbell is functional.
3. If you want the exterior light fixtures replaced, order them ahead of time so they are ready when your project begins.
4. Last but perhaps most important, if you have paintings, mirrors, or knick-knacks mounted to the walls bordering the exterior of your home, remove them. These items can often fall when installing siding. If any items are too large for you to manage, ask for help.

Replacing the siding of your house is a big undertaking, but Carolan Contractors has decades of experience in New Jersey – so give us a call at (973) 857-1555 to see how we can help you!

The post Tips When Getting Ready to Replace your Siding appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

Most Costly Option

The most costly option to spruce up your home is our total exterior renovation service. This typically includes replacing the siding, masonry if present, trim, garage doors, and more. Doing all of these projects at once will save you a bit of time and money, and you will also be able to totally customize the look of your home.

Indeed, new siding, a new entryway, and new garage doors often make a home look completely brand new. This is a great option for those who are dissatisfied with the entire look of their home, and have the budget to do a major overhaul. But note that as a small, private enterprise, we at Carolan Contractors can work with you to make your home’s exterior reflect your dreams.

Mid-Range Options

Some mid-range options would include new doors, a new roof, or maybe a portico, for example:

• Doors: While often overlooked, your front door is the first thing you and guests see when entering your home. A new door is a great start at making your home more attractive. We work with ProVia entry doors, which are available in a wide variety of styles and budgets. Contact our office for an e-catalog if you want to learn more.
• Roof: Depending on your home, your roof is more important to its aesthetics than you probably realize. For example, on Cape Cod and ranch style homes, where much of the roof is visible from the street, an old stained roof can really drag your house down. Replacing your roof with Architectural Shingles by GAF or Owens Corning will not only add value and water security to your home, but will also refresh its look.
• Portico: A new portico (also known as a “covered entry”) is a very popular project to boost curb appeal. Either as part of a larger project, or as a standalone job, a portico adds great value to your home. Not only does it provide shelter from the elements, it adds important dimension to the front of your home. When they come to us, our customers sometimes complain about their house looking ‘too flat’ or too much like other houses on their street. A portico is a custom detail that sets your house apart from the rest.

Other Options

Our recommendation for sprucing up ones home on the lower end of budgets is a full trim/shutter upgrade. We have often worked with customers who have purchased homes with vinyl siding that don’t have much character or charm on the outside. Adding decorative crown molding over windows, new shutters, and luxurious yet low maintenance Fypon entry door surrounds can totally transform the look of your home.

There’s a lot you can do, and there are a ton of options. But the best way to figure it out is to contact us so we can discuss the best strategy for you to upgrade your home. Call us today at (973) 857-1555.

The post How to Spruce Up Your Home On a Range of Budgets appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

• White: If your house is white, consider a contrasting dark roof color. Some of our favorites are GAF ‘Charcoal’ and Owens Corning ‘Estate Gray’. If you’re not a gray person, consider a light brown that mimics the look of a cedar roof; some of our favorites are GAF ‘Shakewood’ and Owens Corning ‘Amber.’
• Dark: If your house is a darker color, such as gray or a brown, we recommend picking a dark roof color. For a roof that can stand up to a dark colored home, you will want want to look at GAF ‘Charcoal’ or Owens Corning ‘Onyx Black.’
• Blue: If your house is blue, you will want to pick a similarly cool-toned roof that will complement your home. For a cool gray, we like GAF ‘Oyster Gray’ and ‘Pewter Gray,’ as well as Owens Corning ‘Quarry Gray’ and ‘Slatestone Gray.’
• Neutral/Beige: If your house is a neutral to beige color, consider a dark roof color for some contrast. GAF ‘Charcoal’ and Owens Corning ‘Onyx Black’ are dark colors that complement beige well. We would also suggest avoiding a brown hue, which can look drab on a beige home.

The post How To Select a Roof Color appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

Remember: Vinyl is Final

More Tips

• Keep in mind how long you plan to stay living in your current home. If you’re planning on bringing your home to market within the next 5-10 years, its best to consider a neutral color that people will not find particularly unappealing. If you plan to own your home for many years, you can have a little more fun and pick something you really like.
• Consider the architecture of your home. For example, whites and neutrals are great on homes large and small, and allow the little details to really shine. Colonial homes, however, look great in traditional color schemes, like reds, yellows, greens, and blues.
• If your house doesn’t have much detail, consider going for dark grey, with white or black trim for a clean and contemporary look.
• Grey is great, but… If you like gray, but want something different, consider a dark brown. It looks equally contemporary, but just a little different.
• Consider the color of the homes on either side of yours. Avoid picking something close to your next door neighbor, you want your house to have a sense of individuality. With that said, consider picking a color that compliments the homes around you. We always recommend customers take their samples outside to visualize their color choice, and even hold them up to the neighbors house
• Last but not least, consider your landscaping. If you have a lot of shrubs and trees on your property, consider something that will work well with all that green. If you have flowers or blooming bushes and trees, pick a color that will serve as a great backdrop to their colors.

Carolan Contractors has been working with homes in New Jersey for many years, and we would be thrilled to consult with you on the right color of your home’s new siding. Give us a call at (973) 857-1555 or contact us here.

The post What to Consider When Picking a Siding Color appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

In this article, we’re going to offer some window replacement tips and tricks that we’ve learned over the decades serving Northern New Jersey.

So you’re thinking about replacing your windows–here are some of the most important aspects to consider:

1. What are your biggest goals in replacing your windows?

Typically, customers are looking for a few things when replacing their windows:

• Increase the energy efficiency of their home
• Improve the look of their home, both inside and out
• Maximize their home value and curb appeal

Keep the balance of these in mind when selecting a window manufacturer. You should always ask your contractor for information about the energy efficiency of the proposed new windows, as well as ask to see, if possible, a couple of homes where the product has been previously installed.

2. Do I need my windows replaced using the standard replacement or new construction method?

There are two options for getting windows, standard replacement, or new construction. The replacement method entails fitting a new “replacement” window into the existing frame of an original window. This is a very common and more economic option, but you must make sure your contractor plans to insulate any hollow pockets around the replacement window.

The new construction method entails removing the trim and installing the window either in the old frame or in a new opening.

3. The State of the Original Windows

When you’re thinking about replacing your windows, there are a few questions you need to answer about the original windows in order to figure out the best strategy:

• What is the condition of your current windows?
• Are they original to your home, or previously replaced?
• Are they wooden or vinyl?

If you have stained wooden windows and trim and prefer to keep that look, you have two options: a range realistic wood laminates offered by Sunrise Vinyl Windows on the one hand, and pre-finished wooden replacement by Andersen, Pella, Marvin, on the other. Typically, vinyl replacement is a more economic option, while wooden replacement is best for those looking to most closely replicate what they have now, but in a more energy efficient form.

If your windows are original, you’ll need to know if they are large enough to accommodate a replacement application (which slightly reduces the glass size). Because of the Narrowline Frame from our manufacturer, Sunrise Windows, most of the time the answer to that question is no. Sunrise’s frames minimize one of the larger drawbacks to replacement windows, which is thick unappealing frames. The frames on Sunrise Windows are narrower than others on the market, and they are double contoured to add curb appeal and depth.

If they have been previously replaced, think about if you could benefit from the Narrowline Frames of Sunrise Windows–and if you’re not sure, feel free to call us at (973) 857-1555 and we can help advise you.

4. Do I need the window trim replaced inside or out?

When installing windows using the replacement method, typically the trim does not need to be disturbed. If your trim is in bad condition on all or some windows, or if you would like the trim painted, ask your contractor for a price ahead of time.

Some window install situations, call for the new construction method, which will always require re-trimming and thus added cost.

Next Steps

All in all, our best advice when thinking about replacing your windows in Northern New Jersey is to plan ahead! Know what you are trying to achieve, and work with your contractor to make it happen. If you have specific goals or concerns with your window replacement, make your contractor aware of them so you are all on the same page. And when you’re ready to get started, give us a shout and we’ll be happy to provide a free quote.

The post Window Replacement Tips, Tricks, and More appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

About Me

My name is Ed Carolan, Jr. As the son of contractor, I have been fascinated by homes and structures since I was a kid, whether I was visiting job sites around beautifully old Essex County, New Jersey with my dad, or walking the neighborhoods of my hometown of Westfield, New Jersey with my mom. Now I am lucky to work in the business with my father, dedicating my days to helping people improve their homes.

I’ve always wanted to know more about home styles and their components, and growing up I absorbed everything I could. I learned the difference between double-hung and casement windows, the different styles and materials of home facades, the various trim profiles, and all the rest. At this point I could probably write a dictionary of home jargon.

The Aesthetics of Classic vs. Modern

I have always found myself most drawn to the very old, modest Spanish and Dutch Colonials that dotted my street growing up, as well as the larger Victorian homes around town, with their seemingly endless amount of delicately painted woodwork. From a young age I have always appreciated the old, classic styles, as opposed to the “modern” McMansions that have, regrettably, been slowly replacing the charming homes I once knew. In home design and construction there will always be a debate between form vs. function, but there is no reason to sacrifice either.

So as soon as I graduated from Saint Joseph’s University in 2017, I joined the family business and got to work preserving old homes. At Carolan Contractors, our whole business is preserving and renovating existing homes, rather than demolishing and building new. Where other’s see a “knock-down,” we see potential.

After a couple years in the business, my love of homes and home styles has only grown, especially as I’ve been able to work on so many different projects. To continue my education and get even better at my job, I enrolled in an Interior Design Program at Parsons School of Design, part of The New School in Manhattan. At Parsons, I honed my skills to better serve clients in home improvement, as well as get a large knowledge base in the world of interior design.

About Our Blog, Home Savvy

In this blog, I will discuss all manner of home improvement and construction, with a focused eye on design and aesthetics. We will cover a range of topics, from how to select the right roof color, to tips on replacing your windows. At Carolan Contractors, we provide a range of services, from deck replacement to siding to masonry, and this blog will touch on all of it. My knowledge of design always plays a part in working with clients to execute their vision to its fullest potential, and I hope these articles inspire and educate you.

The post Introducing Home Savvy, A Home Improvement Blog appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

Woodgrain or Vinyl Window?

White Vinyl windows are the most affordable option, but don’t expect a lack of quality. Sunrise White Vinyl Windows are made right here in the USA, outside Detroit, Michigan. They have double-paned Low E glass, insulated with a layer of Argon Gas for an extra thermal barrier. They have a narrower frame than your typical low-cost vinyl window, allowing the most sunlight in as possible while maintaining a very attractive look.

If you need a woodgrain finish to match existing woodwork in your period home but need to stay within a certain price range, you may want to consider Sunrise’s line of Wood Laminate Interiors. This is a high-quality laminate application, printed to have a very realistic woodgrain look. Specials and finishes include English Walnut, Colonial Cherry, Provincial Oak, Norwegian Maple, and More.

If you live in a home that calls for real wood, we recommend the Andersen Woodwright 400 series. This may possibly be the most expensive option, but there is something to be said for real authentic wooden windows. Andersen Windows are famous for looking like a historically accurate window and performing like a modern window. They are truly the best of both worlds, but you pay a premium price. That being said, if you’ve gotten Andersen quotes already that were too high, consider having us give you our best price on them, we may surprise you!

Choosing your Grid Style

The most cost-effective option will be to get no grids. This may not look as nice as other options, but you will save a bit of money and still get a beautiful new window

The first upgrade is to flat, between-the-glass style grids. This gives the appearance of colonial style grids, but still at an affordable price point.

The next upgrade is Divided lights. This is the most historically accurate and high-end finish, the grills are on the outside of the windows, simulating the days when high glass costs meant windows were made of small panes joined together by grids.

While 9 out of 10 customers choose traditional colonial style windows, you are not limited to those options–we love getting creative!

Next Steps

These are just a few of the considerations you will have when choosing to replace your windows, but as with any project, unforeseen complications may always arise. That’s why it’s great to have professional help, and Carolan Contractors specializes not only in replacing windows, but in aesthetics and design as well. Contact our office today at (973) 857-1555 if you want to talk more about how we can complement your home’s existing style!

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