Uncategorized Archives - Page 34 of 49

A Brief History of American Garages

January 13, 2016/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Garages have become an integral part of daily life in America. Many of us use our garage for a variety of purposes: storing our vehicles, working on projects, storing household items, and more. Some of America’s most successful companies got their start in garages. Many of our favorite bands launched their careers from garages. Most people use our garage as the door to our homes, so it is hard to image a time when garages did not come standard with houses. In fact, today’s modern garages are a far cry from their predecessors of the early 1900’s. Do you know how garages came about in America? It all started with one incredible invention: the automobile.

The start of the 20th century brought with it some amazing advances in technology. Most importantly, the automobile started to gain popularity. At first cars were only available to society’s elite, those who could afford the expensive inventions. Wealthy car owners soon realized that they needed a place to store their vehicles to protect them from the elements. Fortunately, automobile owners quickly realized that carriage houses, once used to house horses, buggies, and horse travel paraphernalia, could be easily repurposed. Entrepreneurs and those who owned carriage houses saw a great business opportunity. They opened their repurposed carriage houses to the public, and anyone who owned a car was able to rent a space in the house for somewhere around $15 to $20 per month. Renters got a reserved space in the carriage house, which was heated, cleaned, and maintained by the owner.

These early ‘parking garages’ solved the problem for a while, but issues arose over time. Some of the carriage houses repurposed to store vehicles still had livestock housed within them as well. As you can image, over time, vehicle owners started to notice that their prized possessions started to smell like animal manure, so they sought an alternative. Additionally, as cars soared in popularity in America, and became more affordable to everyone, it became apparent that more storage needed to be available and accessible to everyone.

Thus the garage was born. Derived from the French word “garer” which means “to store,” early American garages were quite basic. Modeled after the carriage houses of the past, homeowners built shed like buildings called garages to store their vehicles. In 1908, the famous Sears Roebuck & Company saw the need for convenient automobile storage and developed a portable garage that could be set up anywhere. At first, the portable garage was popular with automobile owners that did not have a carriage house or newly built garage on their property. With the passing of the Federal Road Act of 1916 and the Federal Highway Act of 1921, however, cars exploded in popularity. It became apparent that cars were to be a fixture of American life, and Americans quickly started building or purchasing storage solutions for their cars.

Early American garages were basically sheds, with a barn door that could be swung open and closed. The structures worked to store vehicles, though they did very little to keep the cars warm, and were difficult to maintain. Opening and closing such a big door each day lead to ware and tear, and if snow was on the ground, swinging the door open was nearly impossible. Sliding doors were invented in the early 1920’s, and while those definitely were an upgrade, having a sliding door in place meant the garage needed to be twice the size of the door so it could slide open and closed. In 1921 the overhead garage door was invented by C.G. Johnson. Five years after that, in 1926, Johnson invented the first electric garage door opener meant to help those who had trouble lifting their heavy doors. The invention took off, and soon every car owner in America wanted a garage with an overhead electric garage door opener.

By 1925, American real estate agents began reporting that a large majority of potential home buyers asked about garages. If the property did not have a garage, it likely did not get purchased. “Real estate men testify that the first question asked by the prospective buyer is about the garage,” wrote a 1925 writer in the “Atlantic Monthly.” “The house without a garage is a slow seller.”

At the start of the 1940’s, architects and home designers started incorporating the garage into home design. Americans wanted a functional garage that also looked nice. At that point, many garages were being built attached to homes that allowed entry to and from the garage from the home. American’s wanted convenience and style. Contractors built garages in a variety of styles; Mediterranean, Old English, Colonial, French, and Craftsman were among the most popular. As the American economy grew, so did the size of American garages. By the 1960’s, the average family could afford more than one vehicle, so garages expanded. In fact, during this time, the average American garage accounted for an incredible 45 percent of the square footage of the entire home.

Today, more than 82 million homes in America include a garage. Over 79 percent of homes have at least a single car garage. Seventeen percent of recently built homes have three-car garages. Most Americans report using their garage as the entryway to their homes, and they do not just use their garages for storage. Eighty-five percent of homeowners report using their garage for other purposes. Garages have been transformed into studios, apartments work spaces, and man caves, and some of the world’s biggest companies like Google and Nike were born in garages.As history tends to repeat itself, we have even seen some modern garages being built to replicate the carriage houses of the past.

No matter what your taste and budget, there is a perfect garage for you. At Blue Sky Builders, Inc., our expert team is available to assist with whatever garage related project you are tackling. Whether it’s building a new garage or simply remodeling your existing structure, our experts have years of combined experience and are here to help. Contact Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online or at 630-852-8485 to speak to one of our team members about your next project today.

Protect Your Garage Floor from Winter Damage

January 7, 2016/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Winter proofing your garage flooring may not be on the top of your mind, but it certainly will go a long way towards maintaining the look and safety of your garage. Winter snow and ice are easily tracked into garages by people and cars, leading to damaged concrete and dangerous slippery patches. Fortunately, there are a few easy and affordable ways to winterize your garage flooring and prevent any future damage. It is not too late to protect your flooring from winter weather this year, so try a few of these easy ideas.

Start with a Good Cleaning

Before trying any winterization tactics, be sure to give your garage floor a good scrubbing. Thoroughly clean the concrete, removing any contaminants that may have been spilled or left on the floor. After cleaning is a great time to make any repairs to your garage flooring that can not wait until spring.

Floor Mats

Floor mats are by far the easiest and quickest way to protect your garage flooring. Also known as floor contaminant mats, these mats are made to lay on the floor of your garage and collect any snow, ice, road salts, snow melt, or other deicing solutions that may be tracked in via your car or boots. Floor mats are easy to install. Simply lay down the mat over problem areas – places like where you park your cars or right in front of your garage door. The mats will absorb any water and collect any leftover debris, and are super simple to clean. Once winter is over, the mats can be conveniently rolled up and stored.

There are many different types of floor mats available depending on your needs. Some are built for rainier climates, while others are great at absorbing snow melt and other deicing chemicals, perfect for snowier areas. If you are looking to cover the entire floor of your garage, check out the wide variety of roll out floor mats available. These are great at protecting your entire space, and do a great job of keeping your feet warm too. Most floor mats can be wet and dry vacuumed, so cleanup is a breeze.

Also, if you are noticing that ice, snow, and deicers are damaging your garage floor but do not have time to purchase floor mats right away, try using cardboard boxes. They certainly will not look as nice as floor mats, but they absorb harmful substances almost as good. Simply lay the boxes out over problem areas, likely where you park your car, and pull your car right on top of the laid out boxes. Boxes, however, will not last like floor mats do, so you will likely need to replace them frequently. They are a cheap solution for a quick fix to the problem, and most grocery stores would be happy to pass on a few boxes to those in need.

Seal Your Floor

Another worthwhile winterization strategy is to seal your floor. Sealing solutions prevent water, snow melt, and salt from entering the pores of your concrete floor. Siliconate penetrating sealers are the easiest to use, and can even be applied by the most novice of homeowners. If you are looking to add a shiny look to your garage flooring, try an acrylic sealer. Other great sealing options are coatings, such as epoxy, that are tough enough to prevent any snowmelt or deicing products from doing damage to your floor. Epoxy coatings, despite their toughness, can not be installed in temperatures colder than 50 degrees to work effectively, so it is best to be applied during warmer months in preparation for winter. That said, a polyurea or polyaspartic coating will work just as effectively, and can installed in below freezing temperatures.

Is Your Garage Door Sealed?

People often notice water and snow seeping through the crack between their garage flooring and their garage door. To ensure all of the wintertime elements stay out, make sure that your garage floor door seal is in good condition. If it is not, it could easily be letting water and snow slowly enter your garage.

Other Ideas

There are many other simple ideas to combat snow, ice, and deicing products from harming your garage floor. Try using a broom or squeegee to get any fallen snow and ice off of your garage floor. This is best if done immediately after parking, so the water and ice melt does not have time to do any damage. Also, pulling up outside of your garage and knocking any snow and ice off your car may be a good idea as well. It can not harm your flooring if it never makes it inside. Other homeowners have installed blower fans to help dry out their garages. If you live in a particularly moist climate, this may be something to consider.

Winter can be hard enough to deal with on it’s own. Do not let pesky snow, ice, and ice melting products damage your garage floor. Fixing your flooring is expensive and headache inducing, so a little preparation ahead of time can go a long way.
At Blue Sky Builders, Inc., our team of garage experts is always excited to help with any garage related project. Be sure to follow our Sky Writers Garage blog to stay up to date on the season’s newest, coolest, and most handy garage ideas. Call 630-852-8485, visit Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online, or stop in to chat with us about your next garage related project. Our experts are here to help.

Keeping Your Detached Garage Warm This Winter

December 30, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Are you dealing with a drafty detached garage this winter? Making upgrades and improvements to detached garages is often on the bottom of most homeowners’ DIY project lists, but a little winterization can totally transform a chilly detached garage into a perfect climate controlled space. If you are sick of getting into a freezing cold car every morning, or shivering while utilizing the workspace in your detached garage, try some of these winterization ideas. With just a little work, and a lot of insulation, your garage will be cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and comfortable year round.

Windows

Unless your detached garage is relatively new, your windows are likely the biggest culprits of letting heat escape from your space. As time passes, the wood around the doors and windows of your garage warps, creating spaces for air to pass through. If windows and doors are not sealed and insulated properly, heating the space is nearly impossible. Experts recommend a two part approach to combatting drafty windows. Step one is to caulk the outside of the windows. Second, use weatherstripping to seal the windows from the inside.

Caulking

Start by using a stiff-blade putty knife to remove peeling paint and old caulk from the outside edges of your windows. Next, use a brush or sponge with warm water and soap to clean up any dirt and dust around the windows. Afterwards, be sure to wipe all of the surfaces dry with a clean towel or cloth. Once all of your windows are cleaned and clear of any leftover caulk, apply new caulk on the outside edges of the windows. The caulk will seal the space between the siding of your garage and the window frame, preventing air from passing through in either direction. There are many different caulks available to choose from, but consider using a siliconized acrylic caulk or a 100 percent silicone sealant. Both of those options will remain flexible and sturdy for years after being applied.

Weatherstripping

Once the outside of your windows are accounted for, it is time to move inside. To completely winterize your windows, use some type of weatherstripping to seal them. The goal here is to seal the sashes, which are the moving parts of your windows that open and close. Like caulk, there are many different types of weatherstripping available depending on your needs. Below are a few of the most commonly used types.

Adhesive-backed foam: This commonly used type of weatherstripping uses foam to seal the gaps of your windows and keep drafts out. Once purchased, simply use scissors to cut strips of the foam to fit your windows, and stick them where they are needed. The foam will compress around your window as you close it, creating a winter proof seal to keep cold air out. Remember to clean the area thoroughly before apply the foam, as the adhesive does not stick very well to dirty surfaces.
Rubber Weatherstripping: Rubber weatherstripping products work very similarly to foam products. Instead of having the window compress into foam to make a seal, rubber weatherstripping products have a hollow rubber tube that the window fits into when closed. Some rubber weatherstripping products come with adhesive and can simply be stuck in place, while others may require nails or screws to keep them secure.
Felt: Felt is one of the oldest and most commonly used weatherstripping products. Felt is often sold in rolls with adhesive backing, meaning it can be easily stuck to any drafty areas. Felt is an affordable option, but it usually does not last as long as other weatherstripping products, so it will likely need to be replaced every few years.
Window Insulation Kits: Window insulation kits use sheets of shrink-wrap plastic to completely seal entire windows. The plastic film is stuck to the inside of the window frame with double sided tape, and then heated with a hairdryer to shrink the film into place and remove any wrinkles. Window insulation kits are extremely effective, but remember that once installed the window cannot be opened or closed again until springtime when the plastic is removed.

Garage Door

Once your windows are sealed properly, it is time to focus on your garage door. Newer garage doors frequently come with spaces built in to hold insulation, so fiberglass insulation can simply be purchased and cut to fit into the door. For older doors, try using polystyrene foam panels. These panels often come ready to match the size of your panels on your garage door, but the foam can also be easily cut to match any door as needed. Be sure that the panels are the right size for your door, then glue them in place using contact cement.

By winterizing your garage door and windows, your garage, detached or not, will be much more habitable this winter. For other garage related tips, ideas, and DIY projects, be sure to follow our Sky Writers Garage blog. At Blue Sky Builders, Inc., our team of garage enthusiasts is available to assist you with any garage project you may be undertaking. Contact Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online or call 630-852-8485 to get started today.

Icicles and Ice Dams: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Home and Garage This Winter

December 23, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Though they may look beautiful, icicles hanging from the roof and gutters of your home and garage can spell serious trouble. Despite making your home look like it is straight out of a Christmas card, the picturesque icicles that hang from your roof each winter can cause major injuries or worse if they fall on somebody, and are also likely indicative of a larger problem: an ice dam. With snow starting to fall across the country, there are a few things homeowners should know about icicles and ice dams, including how to remove them and prevent them in the future.

Icicles

Icicles form as water drips down from your roof, hits your rain gutters or the edge of your roof, and freezes again in a downward formation. Small icicles do not pose much of a threat, but large icicles left to grow over time can be dangerous to you, your family, and your pets. If left hanging, large icicles can become unstable and will likely eventually fall. These sharp and very heavy objects can cause serious harm to any person or animal standing underneath them when they fall.

Due to the dangers they pose, experts recommend that you remove icicles from your roof often, or take preventative measures to stop them from forming. The most common methods to do this are:

Use a Snow Rake – Snow rakes are specifically designed with wintertime conditions in mind. People use them to remove excess snow from their roof and knock down any icicles that have formed. Simply use the rake to knock off any icicles, while standing safely away from where the icicle will fall. If snow has built up on your roof, do your best to use the rake to remove as much of it as you can safely. This will help ease the pressure on your roof and prevent other problems.
Use a Fan – For particularly troublesome areas, where icicles tend to form often, try using a fan. Simply aim a fan at the intersection of your roof and your rain gutters. If you do not have rain gutters, aim the fan at the point where the icicles are forming. Once the fan is on, existing icicles will likely melt, and the airflow will prevent icicles from forming in the future.
Try Heat Tape – Heat tape is one of your best options for preventing icicles and ice build up. Within the tape is copper wiring, through which electricity is channeled, thus preventing any ice buildup from occurring. Ideally, homeowners should install heat tape before a big snow storm or cold temperatures hit, but heat tape can also be installed once ice has formed, just with a bit more difficulty. Consider placing the tape inside your gutters, at the edge of your roof, or anywhere else that ice seems to build up, and simply turn the tape on when winter weather hits.

Ice Dams

While icicles are dangerous if they fall on somebody, they likely will not do much else to damage your roof. They can, however, indicate a much more serious problem; an ice dam. When snow and ice melts from your roof, due to warmer temperatures coming from inside your home or garage, it can easily build up in your rain gutters or get stuck behind existing icicles at the edge of your roof, forming what is known as an ice dam. Once an ice dam is formed, any water that melts from your roof is trapped behind the dam, leading to build up beneath shingles or water damage within your roof.

If left unchecked, ice dams can cause serious damage. Eventually, the built up ice and water can seep through your roof, harming your ceilings, sheetrock, and even paint. In addition to interior damage, ice dams can pull off chunks of shingles with them while being removed, and, like icicles, can cause harm to anyone standing underneath them if they fall.

Fortunately, there are many tactics you can employ to remove and prevent ice dams.

Break up the Dam – Removing an ice dam can be dangerous work. One option is to remove the ice dam yourself, or with the help of a professional, by breaking the dam apart. Use a blunt mallet to chip away at the dam, making sure the area beneath the dam is clear at all times. With winter roofs often icy and slippery, removing large dams by yourself can be dangerous, so calling a professional roofer may be necessary. Avoid using sharper tools like axes to remove the dam, as these tools can cause damage to your roof in the process.
Make a Melt Through – If removing the dam completely is too big of a burden, consider creating a passageway for water to pass through the dam and drain off your roof. To do so, grab a nylon stocking and fill it with calcium chloride ice melt. Position the stocking on the dam in a place that will create a tunnel of sorts for the water to pass through. While other ice melting products can work as well, be sure to check and make sure whatever deicing product you use will not damage your roof, or any plants beneath it.
Clear Your Gutters and Roof Often – People frequently allow ice and snow to build on on their roof unchecked for too long, causing ice dams and other problems to occur. The best wintertime preventative measure to keep your roof safe is simply to remove ice and snow each time a storm hits. Use a snow rake to remove as much snow and ice as you can from the edge of your roof, and be sure to keep your rain gutters clear as well. This will keep all pathways clear for water to drain off your roof smoothly.
Install Proper Insulation in Your Home and Garage – If insulation is installed in the roof space of your garage and home, the change of temperatures that causes ice to melt and become a problem will not occur as easily. Look for places where warm air could be rising from your home or garage up to your roof, and be sure to insulate those areas well.

For other helpful wintertime tips for homeowners and garage enthusiasts, be sure to check out our Sky Writers Garage Blog. The staff at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. is equipped to assist you with your next garage improvement project. Visit Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online, or call 630-852-8485 to find out how we can help today.

Get Your Garage in the Holiday Spirit with These Fun Ideas

December 16, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Holiday decorating is no laughing matter. Each year, millions of Americans transform their homes into festive winter wonderlands. We put up trees, hang wreaths, string lights around our homes, and set up all sorts of holiday decorations. From the amateur decorators who keep it simple, to the seriously competitive decorators who strive for the best decorated house on the block each year, holiday decorating is a fun activity anyone can take part in. Unfortunately, as we all start decorating, one area tends to get missed on most homes. All too often, people forget to decorate their garages. An undecorated garage can look strange, especially when surrounded by decorations on other parts of a home. This year, include your garage in the magic of the holidays by trying one of these awesome holiday decorating ideas.

Light It Up

Wrapping lights around the frame of your garage door can really make your garage stand out, without distracting from your other decorations. You can choose to incorporate the lights with the rest of your holiday decor, or simply use plain white or colored lights to add a bit of festivity. There are a variety of different lights available to suit your household’s needs. LED light strands tend to last longer and are more energy effective. If you life in a sunnier climate, solar powered lights are available for those looking to add an environmentally friendly touch.

Take a Simple Approach

Over the top decorations are not always best, and even simple decorations can really make your garage pop this year. Start small by hanging a large wreath in the middle of your door. If you are going for the understated look this year, the wreath alone may be enough. If it needs a splash of something else, consider wrapping it in lights or hanging ornaments from it. A wreath will look good well past the New Year, so you can keep your home looking festive all winter long. If it looks too much Christmas like after the holidays, consider removing the lights and adding a simple bow or garland.

Create a Tree out of Lights

If you are looking for a little decorating project for your garage door, consider making a Christmas tree out of lights. Using clips or hooks that can stick to your garage door, string out lights in the shape of a Christmas tree. Use any remaining lights left in the strand to zigzag across the tree outline, giving the appearance that the tree is decorated with lights. Then, hang ornaments from the lights, or from hooks hanging around the lights, and do not forget to stick a star or bow on top. This simple project typically takes less than an hour, and can really make your garage door stick out this year.

Try Some Holiday Door Decor

Have you heard of garage door decor? Many companies sell full sized garage door murals that people can custom order and stick to their garage doors. Now you can turn your garage door into a scene from a winter wonderland, Santa’s workshop, or choose one of hundreds of other holiday designs. Unlike some of our other holiday decorating ideas, garage door decor murals are made to allow your garage door to continue being opened and closed. Once purchased, the mural can be hung in as little as ten minutes, making it an easy option for those not looking to invest tons of time into decorating. The murals are also built to last a few years, and start at around $150, so they are a very affordable way to get years of decorating done.

Make Your Own Holiday Mural

If you have an artist in the family, consider letting them create a holiday scene on your garage door. Yes, painting the door would be permanent, so this idea is best saved for families who intend on replacing their door soon after the holidays. Consider painting more of a winter scene versus a Christmas one, so that the art will stay in style a little longer.

Use a Projector

This is a really fun idea that requires very little work to set up or clean up afterwards. During high traffic nights in your neighborhood, set up a projector in front of your garage door and project a fun holiday scene, or maybe a holiday movie. You will have to wait until after dark to start showing your projection, so maybe consider letting some neighbors know about it ahead of time so they can be sure to come check it out. Be sure to clean your garage door before hand so the picture quality looks nice. For some additional fun, set out chairs, pop popcorn, and have a family or neighborhood holiday movie night.

Stickers, Magnets, and Other Decorations

Aside from the ideas we have already mentioned, there are limitless possibilities of what you can do with your garage for the holidays. Look for vinyl garage door stickers to create fun holiday designs on your door, or magnets to spell out holiday greetings and phrases. A plus for spelling out holiday phrases is that you can reuse the letters all throughout the year. The next holiday that rolls around, add a little festivity to your home by spelling out another phrase or greeting. They are also fun to show a little sports team loyalty.
With the wide variety of decorating options out there for your home and garage, decorating this year should be a breeze. Invite your whole family to take part in the decorating to get everybody in the holiday spirit. For other garage related tips and ideas, be sure to follow our Skywriters Garage Blog. We will keep you up to date on the latest garage trends, tips, DIY ideas, and more. Be sure to visit Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online, in person, or over the phone at 630-852-8485 before starting your next garage related project. Our experts have years of garage related experience and are here to help with whatever your next project may be.

Which Ice Melting Product Should You Use This Winter?

December 10, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

As winter gets into full swing, homeowners across the country are preparing for cold temperatures and snow. While shovels and snowblowers are a great place to start, especially for those living in snowier areas, you will likely need some type of ice melting product to keep your driveway and sidewalks clear, and ensure easy access in and out of your garage. With the myriad of de-icing products available both in stores and online, choosing the right one can be difficult. Follow our helpful product guide below to ensure you purchase the right ice melting product for your household this winter.

Calcium Chloride – Calcium chloride is a commonly used and widely available ice melting product. Calcium chloride will melt ice in temperatures as cold as -25 degrees, and will do little damage to your driveway or sidewalk. Calcium chloride works quickly, so it is a great product for anyone needing to clear their driveway in a time crunch. Be careful when using calcium chloride near your grass or plants, as too much of the product can do damage to your lawn, flowers, and shrubbery. Calcium chloride is also an inexpensive solution, with 50 pound bags running between $10 to $20 each.

Magnesium Chloride – Magnesium chloride is another frequently used ice melting product that has many benefits for homeowners. Magnesium chloride works in temperatures of -13 degrees and warmer, and is environmentally friendly, making it a favorite of gardeners. Like calcium chloride, magnesium chloride works quickly to remove your driveways ice, so it is great for the morning after extremely cold and icy nights. Magnesium chloride is also pet safe, so it is a great choice for pet owners. If your pet has kidney disease, however, steer clear of magnesium chloride, as it is lethal if ingested by pets with the disease. Magnesium chloride can also damage plants, so homeowners should avoid over applying the product in greener areas. In addition to damaging plants, using magnesium chloride can do damage to your driveway and sidewalks, so use caution. Bags of magnesium chloride typically run anywhere from $10 to $20.

Potassium Chloride – Potassium chloride is very similar to magnesium chloride. Both are pet safe, and are easy on the environment, so they are favorites of pet owners and those with green thumbs. Potassium chloride is not as effective in colder temperatures, and should only be used in temperatures of 25 degrees or warmer. Potassium chloride is a great choice for pet owners living in warmer climates. Also, unlike magnesium chloride, potassium chloride will do little to damage your driveway and sidewalks. 50 pounds bags of the product tend to start at $20 each.

Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt) – Sodium chloride is one of the cheaper ice melting products on the market, with 50 pound bags usually costing under $10. Sodium chloride works effectively in 20 degree temperatures and higher, so it is great for homeowners in warmer areas. While inexpensive, sodium chloride does have it’s drawbacks. It can easily damage concrete, brick, metal, asphalt, grass, plants, and any wood, like a front porch, deck, or garage siding. Sodium chloride is also very dangerous for pets, so cat and dog owners should probably avoid it.

Urea/Carbonyl Diamide – Our last option is great for those looking to protect their driveway and sidewalks. Urea is pet friendly, environmentally safe, and does not harm concrete or asphalt. It is also one of the cheaper products, running usually at under $10 a bag, making it a great choice for bargain hunters with pets. The drawback to urea is that it is not as effective as other ice melting products, especially in colder temperatures. Urea works best in warmer temperatures, and loses it’s effectiveness when outside temperatures get to below 10 degrees.

Using Your Ice Melting Product

Once you have found an ice melting product to fit your needs, you need to know how to apply it properly. First, be sure to remove any snow from your driveway and sidewalks. Ice melting products only work effectively if they are able to target ice, not layers of snow. Once all the snow has been removed, use gloves or a spreader to spread the product evenly on all desired surfaces. All ice melting products should have directions on the bag, so be sure to follow them closely. The directions will indicate how much of the product to use, and warn users of any surfaces the product could potentially damage. When storing, be sure to keep your product away from pets and children, even if the product is labeled pet safe. Also, remember to wipe pets paws off as they come back from playing outside or taking a walk. While you may use pet safe products on your property, your neighbors may not, and your pet could potentially lick their paws and ingest dangerous chemicals. Experts say to call poison control immediately if any dangerous product is ingested by a pet or child.

For more useful garage tips, and all other things garage related, be sure to follow our Sky Writers garage blog. We’ll keep you up to date on the latest and greatest garage ideas, and provide helpful tips for your next DIY project. ContactBlue Sky Builders, Inc. online or at 630-852-8485 to speak to a garage expert about your next project.

Is a Fall Garage Sale a Good Idea?

November 25, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

With cold weather in full swing (and even snow!), many people would tell you that garage sale season is over. Spring and summer are both widely considered the best seasons of the year to host a yard sale for many reasons. Millions of Americans participate in “spring cleaning” each year and discover many unused valuables that they then sell at a garage sale. What if, however, you find yourself needing a garage sale in the fall? While fall may not be the most popular season of the year to host a sale, you should not be discouraged. A fall garage sale can have many advantages.

Weather

The first thing that typically discourages most people from hosting a fall garage sale is the weather. Fall weather is unpredictable, making planning an outdoor activity like a garage sale a little difficult. You may face snow one day, only to have a beautiful warm day the next. When planning your fall garage sale, checking the weather is important. Sure, on crummy fall days people typically tend to avoid outdoor activities. On those beautiful, blue sky, perfect fall days, however, people flock outside to soak up the weather before winter hits. When planning your fall garage sale, allow yourself a couple of different weekends to choose from. The more options you give yourself, the better your chances are of scoring a beautiful fall day. The more people out and about, the better for you and your wallet.

Competition

Spring and summer may be the most popular garage sale seasons, but popular is not always a good thing. Garage sales thrown in the spring and summer face competition from hundreds of others each weekend. Sellers rush to claim well-trafficked areas to hang signs and hope that their sale is among the most visible of the weekend. If not, they may end up unsuccessful. A fall garage sale, however, typically faces little to no competition. Put your signs up in busy areas and watch the people flock in. With no competitors, you could be the busiest sale in town.

Holiday Goods

Selling holiday goods, like winter and Thanksgiving decorations, is best avoided during spring and summer garage sales. Those items seem out of season during that time, and for the most part people are not looking to stock up on winter holiday supplies in June. Fall, however, is the perfect time to unload any of your unused goods. Those left over Thanksgiving decorations? Check. That old fake Christmas tree? Check. On top of that, because the holidays are coming up, you can mark up the prices on your seasonal items. Consider creating a specific table for each holiday, and set up your items so people can truly see how they look being used.

Clothing

While summer might not be the ideal time to sell a down jacket, fall is perfect. Your fall garage sale is the perfect time to set out some of your unused winter clothing items. With the air getting slightly crisper as we head into winter, people are in the mood to buy warm, comfortable winter clothing. Remember to set out any children’s clothing as well. Winter gear is expensive, especially for growing children, so many parents turn to garage sales and thrift shops for gently used winter coats and accessories for their children.

Along with clothing, set out any leftover sporting gear you may have laying around. Many kids participate in fall sports, so now is the perfect time to unload any unused gear you have collected.

Food

If you are still nervous about your fall garage sale being neglected by customers, consider providing some delicious food. Food can be the key to a successful garage sale during any season, but there are some amazing fall favorites you can prepare for your customers. Everyone loves hot chocolate and warm apple cider. Add in a delicious pumpkin pie, or a hearty soup on a chillier day, and you will be booming with business.

For more garage related topics, be sure to follow this blog. To inquire about the services we offer in the Chicagoland area, contact Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online or call 630-852-8485.

Thanksgiving Fun for Your Garage

November 18, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, now is the perfect time to focus on fun, family, friends, and giving back to your community. Did you know that you can use your garage for a variety of wonderful Thanksgiving oriented activities? Transform your garage into the perfect setting for your family’s Thanksgiving meal, or set up a community fundraiser and give to those less fortunate in your area. There are endless possibilities for getting the most out of your garage each season. Here are a few amazing ideas for incorporating your garage into your Thanksgiving this year.

Transform Your Garage into Your Thanksgiving Dinner Venue

Thanksgiving is a time to come together as a family, enjoy traditions, and eat ridiculous amounts of food. Many people celebrate by getting together with friends and family, but inviting lots of people over can lead to space problems within your kitchen and dining room. If you are out of seats at the table this year, consider transforming your garage into a makeshift dining room for all of your Thanksgiving guests. Especially for families with smaller homes, or small dining rooms, the garage can be the perfect Thanksgiving party venue.

Start by cleaning the space of any dirt, garbage, and clutter, and then lay out your arrangement from there. Many people place comfortable couches and chairs around their garage to encourage socializing, and then set up a long, large table and chairs in the middle of the room for the meal. Spruce up the space with extra holiday decorations, and be sure you have a way to get music playing to create the perfect ambiance. People living in colder climates should also remember to plan for heat within the garage. Purchasing an additional space heater or two may be necessary to transform your garage into a warm party venue.

Provide Dinner for Those Less Fortunate

As we prepare to celebrate what we are grateful for, it is important to remember to give back to our community and help those that are less fortunate. Millions of Americans take part in community service and volunteering over Thanksgiving as their way of giving back. This year, skip the soup kitchen and provide a Thanksgiving dinner for those less fortunate in your neighborhood. Your garage is the perfect place to set up a makeshift Thanksgiving dinner for those in need in your community.

Host a Sports Equipment Swap

With fall sports officially wrapped up, and winter sports just beginning, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to host a sports equipment swap, especially if you have children. Youth sporting gear is expensive, so many families seek out equipment swaps and used sporting good sales. This year, gather all of your family’s unused sporting equipment, and host an equipment swap in your garage. Invite neighbors and other community members to bring their own gear to trade or sell. You will quickly be able to declutter your home, trade for some new kids gear if needed, and walk away with a little extra money for Christmas gifts.

Put on a Community Coat Drive

As the weather becomes colder, many families are struggling to provide warm winter gear for their children. This year, give back by hosting a community coat drive. Dig out any unused coats in your home, and ask neighbors and other community members for donations as well. Consider setting up a drop off bin at your office, or your children’s school, and encourage coworkers and classmates to bring unused winter items. Then, pick a day or time sometime around Thanksgiving and open your garage for the drive.

Make Your Garage NFL Headquarters

We certainly cannot forget about Thanksgiving football. Your garage is a perfect space to create either a makeshift or permanent football den. Check out this earlier post on converting your garage into a football den. Your guests will thank you when they have a beautiful spot to catch this year’s games.

This year, transform your garage into the center of your holiday fun. No matter the season, there is always something awesome to do with your garage. For other useful tips, tricks, and garage ideas, keep following our Skywriters Blog. Contact Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online or over the phone at 630-852-8485. Our talented team of garage experts can assist you with anything you need.

Replace or Remodel: Which Option Is Right for You?

November 12, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Many people set aside time each spring to work on home improvement projects. As the snow melts and temperatures become more tolerable, millions of families embark on remodels, renovations, and all sorts of other household projects. If garage repairs are on your to-do list this spring, you may be wondering how to best go about them. Should you tear down and rebuild a new garage, or is remodeling your existing garage the best option? Based on your needs, we will help you find the perfect plan of action for your garage repairs this spring.

What Changes Need to Be Made?

First, make a list of the changes you would like to accomplish this coming spring. Are you hoping to improve the look of your garage? Replacing things like garage doors and windows is fairly simple, and if the overall structure of your garage is still in good shape, remodeling is likely your best option. If, however, you find structural flaws on your garage, things like cracks in the walls or floor, tearing down and replacing your garage could be necessary.

Examine your garage and make a list of all the necessary changes. Sagging walls, standing water within your garage, and cracks in your garage floor are all signs of a larger problem that might mean a new garage is needed. Homeowners are often too late noticing these problems, and once extensive damage has been done to the foundation of their garage, the best option is scrapping and starting over. Remodeling a garage on a bad foundation is costly and ineffective in the long run. The problems will just continue.

Many homeowners run into issues with their garage roofs. Just like the rest of your home, the roof of your garage needs yearly maintenance. Without maintenance, shingles go missing, holes form, and leaking starts to happen. If you notice any of these problems, speak with a roofer about your options. If small repairs can do the job, rebuilding is not necessary. If more significant repairs are needed, ask your roofer about the costs. If roof repairs alone cost close to the costs of rebuilding a brand new structure, that may be your best option.

If you find your list only contains aesthetic changes, remodeling is likely the best option for you. Doors and windows can be replaced easily and cost effectively. A fresh coat of paint can provide a much needed face lift to a dated garage. Many interior changes can be done affordably by garage contractors or even skilled homeowners themselves without requiring changes to the existing foundation.

Set Your Budget

Hopefully by now you know what changes you hope to make this spring. The next step is setting your budget. Is your garage the only thing on your spring to do list, or do you have other projects as well. Even DIY projects can become costly very quickly, so be sure to map out your budget. American homeowners report that serious garage remodels cost somewhere between $5,000 to $15,000 on average. Brand new garages, homeowners report, cost on average between $14,000 to $32,000. Of course, if minor repairs are all that is needed, you will likely spend much less, but these ballpark numbers might help you decide which option you can afford.

Once you have mapped out what you can spend on your garage project, speak with a garage contractor to go over your plans. They will provide you with a variety of different options and you can choose one that fits your needs within your budget.

The talented team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. is available to assist you with all of your garage related needs. If you are in the Chicago area, visit us online or speak to one of our garage experts to get started on your project. Contact Blue Sky Builders, Inc. at 630-852-8485 to get started today.

The Future Is Here: Amazing Garage Technology

November 4, 2015/in Uncategorized/by Blue Sky Builders

Smart home technology is a rapidly growing industry in America. Over the past few years, many new products have been released that make controlling a home as easy as clicking a button. Using apps on smartphones and tablets, people can control almost everything within their homes; turn lights on and off, monitor their thermostats, lock doors and windows, and control music, just to name a few possibilities. Beds are now controllable with an app. Crock pots can be controlled from work. While smart home tech is still a relatively new industry, it is safe to say that American homes will continue becoming more futuristic. One of the most recent areas smart home technology has expanded into is garages. Make your garage the talk of the block by using some of these amazing new technologies.

Smart home tech has allowed people to monitor their home’s security for years now. Apps allow homeowners to lock and unlock doors from a distance, monitor video feed of their property, and report any suspected threats immediately to authorities. Now, your garage door can be high tech too. WiFi compatible garage door openers are available for sale, and are typically not much pricier than unconnected door openers. If your door opener does not need replacing yet, adapters allowing WiFi capabilities can be retrofitted to unconnected door openers.

Once a wireless compatible opener is installed, your garage door can be controlled using an app on your tablet or smartphone. One click using the app will open and close your door, an extremely convenient solution to having to dig around your car for your garage door clicker. Smart home and garage apps can also replace your keys. Many apps can open doors to your home by simply holding your phone up to the lock. They can also remind you of any unlocked doors, and allow you to lock them from a distance. Popular garage door app MyQ will remind you if you forgot to close your garage door. A notice will alert you on your phone, and through the app you have the ability to close the door from a distance. Before the door closes, alerts will sound and lights will flash, providing safety to anyone at your home.Wireless openers also provide homeowners with status reports. The app allows users to see each time the garage door has opened and closed, a helpful tool for parents trying to keep track of their families.

Developers are working on other useful features for garage door openers. MyQ will soon be able to track when you approach your driveway and automatically open the door for you. Other apps are working on syncing your garage activity with the rest of your home. Soon, your smart thermostat technology will be able to sync with your garage door, allowing the thermostat to heat or cool at more optimal times. Chamberlain, creator of the MyQ app, plans to release a garage door opener that is compatible with Apple HomeKit, a popular smart home app controllable with iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. Apple HomeKit users will be able to ask Siri to open or close their garage door and turn lights on or off in the garage.

Bigger plans are also in the works for smart home technology. Developers plan to connect many different smart home devices, allowing your home to virtually function on its own. Garage doors will play a key role. By monitoring when the door opens and closes, app designers hope to track families patterns, and run things like the dishwasher at times when nobody is home. Developers face many challenges, and these ideas are still in the early stages, but it will be exciting to see what new tech is released in the future.

If you would like to learn more about smart technology for your garage, contact a garage expert at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. today. Call 630-852-8485 to get started.