Wish for Santa

Last month we received a call from a DeForest home daycare provider who suffered an overnight kitchen fire. The disaster not only closed their business, but also made their home unlivable. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

We began working immediately to return their home and business to normal.

First, we assessed the damage. We found black walls and ceilings, ashes and dirt everywhere, destroyed appliances, and ruined cabinetry. The acrid smell of smoke permeated the house. A thorough clean-up job, new cabinets, new appliances, as wells as a lot of other work was needed to make this house a home again.

Although a fire right before the holidays seems to be doubly tragic, it provided a window when the kids were home for the Holiday break. This allowed Anthony to begin the task of lead safe demolition as soon as A & J Restoration Services finished cleaning. With the lead safe work out of the way, Cheryl of CB Custom Painting quickly sealed the newly clean walls, effectively erasing any residual smoke odors. New cabinets and appliances went on order and the kids were able to come back to their home away from home.

Although Anthony works diligently on all of his jobs, this one was special, as this smoke damaged home is the home of his children’s daycare provider.

Imagine our surprise when the next week we read this in the DeForest Times Tribune:

Dominic, Anthony’s son, had a special wish for Santa. We find it heartwarming that Santa is using Dominic’s dad to make the wish come true.

Wondering what "The Not So Big House" really means?

I've talked to many clients about the concept of "The Not So Big House" as architect/author Sara Susanka presents. In case you've wondered about it, but haven't taken time to read the books, here is a primer in a half-hour webinar that Sarah presents.

You need to enter your email address but this is a free recording and you can also download the slides to review for yourself.

To find out about creating your own "not so big house", an inspired home full of warmth, beauty, and detail, just contact us!  Or consider building yours as our 2011 Parade Home(tm).

2011 Parade of Homes(tm)

Degnan Design Builders is proud to be a 2011 Madison Area Builders Association Parade of Homes(tm) builder.  We are offering Lot 35 in Rivers Turn, Conservancy Place, DeForest.  Please view this video to learn more about the site we are offering and contact us if you are interested.

Ice dams

With winter fast approaching, energy savings and comfort are primary focuses for many of our homeowners. Snow shovels, blowers, boots, and gloves beckon from their various household corners, and we at Degnan Design Builders, Inc. remember the heavy snows of recent winters with visions of ice dams, soggy insulation, and dripping drywall. Here’s to hoping for a mild winter…

Example of an ice dam

But just in case, there’s nothing like a little preparation to be on the safe side.

One of Anthony’s current projects is an interesting 1950’s ranch home in Madison, WI. As you drive down the quiet street bordered by mature trees, you realize that over the years the houses here have shed their post war look-alike aura for the more individual identities provided by generations of creative do-it-yourselfers. This home in particular started out modest, but with the prior addition of a room off the back of the kitchen, the footprint offered workable space for the homeowner’s desired improvements and updates. Specifically, he wanted the added room to be comfortable both during the summer and winter, a roof that did not develop ice dams and leak, and a focus on energy savings. Being a Green Built Home builder and remodeler, we at Degnan Design Builders, Inc. are prepared to help all of our homeowners meet these three goals.

As every experienced remodeler knows, working with an existing structure can offer some unique challenges, and as each new found layer if interest is peeled back, another may appear. In a house of this age, it is not uncommon to find signs of renovations that were poorly executed, and this home is no different: the floor didn’t align, and the roof actually sloped the wrong way. Another roof was built over the top in an effort to correct the problem, but it simply remained non-functioning. Consequently, in an effort to meet our customer’s goals, Anthony and Seth are working tirelessly to make the needed improvements to the existing structure.

After removing the old roof layers, Anthony is creating a cathedral ceiling which will give the room interest as well as provide an appropriate pitch for the roof.

According to permit records, the roof on this structure is only approximately 5 years old. So, as well as sharing a concern for the triple factors of comfort, functionality and efficiency, this homeowner wanted to know what can make a 5 year old roof wear out as if it has protected a house for decades.

Note how the shingles on the front of the house have curled.

Anthony’s answer: Improper insulation.

And, while the homeowner attempted to fix the problem by installing additional insulation in the attic, the new insulation did not extend all the way out over the wall plates at the overhangs of the house. This was the primary source of heat loss in winters past.

Simply described, proper insulation (in the Wisconsin winter season) creates a barrier between the heated indoors and the cold weather outside. In reality, however, it does much more than keep the household inhabitants snug and warm. When installed correctly, the insulation also sees to the protection of the house itself: wood, shingles and all.

Proper installation takes into account issues such as the type of insulation for the space and how the area is ventilated. But how is it that poor insulation can take years off of a good roof?

It begins with our weather. Remember, in the simplest terms insulation keeps the cold out and the heat in. In addition, it also provides a buffer so the cold and heat do not meet anywhere on the house. It is this meeting of extreme temperatures that damages so many roofs, including this one.

The damage occurs when snow falls on the roof and stays. If the insulation is inadequate, the rising heat meets the cold and begins to melt the snow.

http://www.tecotested.com

Now, in Wisconsin, in the dead of winter, this melt may only happen for a few hours during the short afternoons followed by a hard freeze at night - especially over the soffits and gutters at the edge of the roof. This freeze thaw cycle can take place daily for much of the winter and is the cause of the huge, dangerous looking, overhanging chunks of ice that we call ice damming.

The cycle can go largely unnoticed for most of the winter, but spring eventually comes to Wisconsin, and when the roof begins to reappear, the curled shingles are only the beginning of the problems.

The blockage of ice that forms at (or near) the gutters for most of the winter forces the melting water into the attic. This saturates wood, insulation, and sometimes pushes enough water into the house to penetrate the drywall as well. All this moisture leaves tell-tale lines and streaks on ceilings and walls, along with mold in the attic.

Example of mold due to moisture in the attic

Luckily, this problem is easily avoidable, and although fixing the damage can be daunting, protecting your home from the potential damage can be rather painlessly arranged.

There are many functional options to choose from when considering better insulation, or even replacing a damaged roof. With Anthony’s help, the homeowner of our current job chose a multifaceted approach to make sure that the new roof will stand up to whatever winter brings this year. For his new roofing material, he selected an upgraded, heavier-gauge standing seam metal roof system. In addition, the new roof over the old addition will receive foam insulation and dense-packed cellulose in order to achieve ventilated rafters, air sealing, and maximum energy efficiency. As we replace soffit and fascia around the perimeter of the house, ventilation baffles will be installed along with insulation over the wood top plates of the house (which were the previous heat loss and ice damming culprits).

All of these choices were made with energy savings in mind, and because of his focus on efficiency, over the upcoming years our homeowner will not only look forward to lower energy bills, but also a functioning roof that will last, and a room that will be comfortable in every season.

Do you have any questions or concerns about your roof? Call or post a message to us and we will do our best to help. You can find us here on our blog, on Facebook, Twitter, and in the office too!

If you clog your sink drain...

A client recently reported that he has clogged his prep sink and asked for advice. Personally, I find clogs to be rare if you use your garbage disposal properly while running water through it. The only time I ever clogged a pipe myself was in an apartment after putting potato peels down a disposal. I learned my lesson!

Here is a primer on how you can try to first avoid, and then repair, this potential problem.

1) Make sure that the garbage disposal gets run every time anything is put down it. Run it with water. If there is a lot of waste going down it, run the disposal with water running for 30 seconds after the disposal sounds like the debris is cleared.

2) If you do clog the drain, one way to try to "force" the issue is to fill the sink up with water, pull the drain plug, run the disposal, and the disposal will "push" the debris through by force because it will be pushing the water out.

There is a risk: that you end up with the sink full of water and a clog so severe that it does not clear out with that force. The other risk is that if there is a dishwasher air gap or a double sink, you will actually force water backwards up into the other sink or out through the air gap. If this happens, it is an indication that the clog is beyond the P-trap and in the main line of the drain.

If the sink remains full of water, take a container and scoop out the water and get rid of it through another sink so that the next step gets easier for you.

3) Disassemble the P-trap under the sink and clear it out. That can be done without tools, usually you can do it by hand because they are plastic fittings. Pay attention to how it comes apart and put it together exactly the same again. Place a bucket underneath as you disassemble it so that no water spills into the cabinet. Wear long rubber gloves if you are going to get grossed out about getting a little dirty water/debris on you.

After doing this, you should be able to visually see whether the trap or pipe is clogged. Look at the inside of the P-trap. Is it full of debris? Is gunk caked onto the sides of it? Clean it out. Look where the drain pipes continue toward the wall, usually a horizontal run before it goes to the wall into a vertical drain. Is that clogged with gunk or debris? Clean it out. If the P-trap and the adjacent run of pipe are not the culprit, then move on to part 4.

4) Use a drain snake to clean out the pipe. If you don't own one, you can buy one or rent one from a home center, lumber yard, or supply house. You can also call a plumber at this point if it is beyond your skills or your gag reflex!

Good luck. Please respond with any additional tricks, tips, or questions that I can answer.

New Building Materials Called Into Question

The Madison Fire department recently called into questions new building materials saying they can accelerate fire damage after a fire on the far East Side of Madison. See this recent article in the Wisconsin State Journal.

The loss of property is always tragic. Thankfully, in this new home built to modern standards, there was no loss of life.

Thanks to modern construction materials, building products perform better than ever. We no longer log old growth forests to get 2x12's like we did in the 1960's. We build stronger and greener using trees created for the purpose of engineered building materials. Clients actually get a stronger, better performing home thanks to modern materials.

Besides, this is a green building practice to farm & harvest materials in our own part of the country as opposed to logging old-growth forests in the pacific northwest and Canada to get the big 2x12 joists, which can still burn!

When it comes to life safety, homes built since the Uniform Dwelling Code was implemented in 1978 all have smoke detectors. They are now required to be interconnected so they all sound no matter where one goes off. The deaths from fires occur in old homes and old multi-family buildings. New homes are safer than ever thanks to fire blocking, smoke detectors, fire doors to the garage, etc.

I wonder if ALL the smoke detectors in this house were working? And, what was stored in the basement that was the source of this fire? The building alone could not have caused the fuel for this fire. Something else had to fuel it to cause that much destruction.

There is so much missing from this story that we don't yet know. I look forward to a full report after the cause of the fire is determined. Unfortunately, almost a month later I have seen no follow-up and limited discussion.

Ban on multiple shower heads?

The Department of Energy is considering a ban on multiple shower heads as reported by the NAHB. Good or bad? Most of you know us as proponents of wise energy use and Green Building techniques, but it concerns me from a standpoint of personal liberty as well.

In fact, there are several reasons why I actually think multiple shower heads can be more efficient than the alternatives. I encourage you to consider:

A nice shower with a body spray system can often take the place of a large, water-guzzling whirlpool tub. You can enjoy your body spray shower every time you use it, and you can use it for as short or as long as you wish.

By eliminating a whirlpool, you can save on the square footage of your home. Not only do you not need a $1500 - $5000 whirlpool, you can save between 20 and 60 square feet of floor space by not needing to oversize your bathroom further.

While some shower systems can use as much as 10 gallons or more per minute, this is rare. And,you have the opportunity to still get a refreshing shower with as little as 4 or 5 gallons per minute with greater bursts of water when needed. Or, switch on the single shower head for average use of 2 gallons, and then go to full blast when you rinse your body.

In almost any case, a 10 minute shower is going to use less water than a 70 gallon fill-up of your whirlpool. And in any case, water conservation and energy conservation is up to you. Choose to live your life responsibly. Enjoy it, but why waste it?

I hope that if we all make wise decisions, and bit by bit take personal responsibility, we can avoid misguided, overreaching mandates by the government that intrude into our daily lives.

Your thoughts are always welcome!

Choosing an efficient air conditioner

A friend asked me about choosing a replacement air conditioner. He wonders about what SEER rating to choose in order to get best payback for the added cost of a higher SEER efficiency.

Until about 3 years ago, the minimum standard was 10.0 SEER. New minimum requirement is 13.0 SEER. It is a linear scale, so 13.0 is 30% more efficient than 10.0. You can get them as 16, 18, even 20 or more.

Typically, the highest efficiency units are a Hybrid Heat Pump which will run the AC summer & in the winter to provide heat. It runs "forward" in summer, and "backward" in winter. Then when it gets too cold in winter for the heat pump to be efficient, the gas furnace kicks on. The combination of the electric heat pump and the gas furnace is what makes this a Hybrid system.

Now, to analyze efficiency. If you use the AC a lot, then the quicker it will pay back for you, and the higher the SEER you should get. If the AC is running almost constantly, then the more money you are saving with a high SEER unit every hour it runs! The money you save goes toward paying back the higher upfront cost.

But if you don't use the AC often, then the efficiency hardly matters at all. Think about it - if you only drive 5 miles to work, then the gas mileage of your car hardly matters. On the other hand, if you drive 60 miles each way, the savings of an efficient car really pays off. The same goes for AC: the more you use it, the more important efficiency is.

And, if you are going for a high SEER AC then it might make sense to also get the Hybrid Heat Pump version of it. The heat pump will generally save you money on winter heating bills, and it gives you the flexibility to fine tune your gas and electric use in case of a massive fluctuation in the price of one or the other.

My own house uses a 14 SEER AC unit, and it was built 4 years ago when 10 SEER was still standard. So it was an upgrade at that time, but now it is just slightly more efficient than the minimum standard. We are not heavy AC users. But even though we don't use the AC too much, if I was building a house now I probably would use a hybrid heat pump. The extra expense would be justified by the winter savings, and as a added benefit I would save on the summer AC costs as well.

Hemp Underwear?

My colleague and advisor Robin Pharo has a new book with a different take on how to be green. To find out more, take a look at her promotional video. The video itself is fun. Now, it is time for me to read the book, soon!

Did you remember to claim your tax credit?

I am a little late in telling you this, for most of your 2009 taxes. But in case you forgot to claim your ARRA federal tax credit, here is a link that will tell you how. You can always file an amended tax return, or, you may be able to claim credit on your 2010 taxes.

Remember the tax credit it typically for materials only, and you need purchase receipts or documentation from your contractor of the material price. It generally applies to insulation and energy efficiency improvements in your home.

Contact me with any questions, and, if you wish to make improvements to your home to claim your 2010 tax credit!

Claiming the Tax Credit: About IRS Form 5695 - Tax Credits, Green Policy, Legislation - Remodeling Magazine

Post #5 - Opt out clarifications

Comments about whether you can opt out from Lead Safe Work Practices lead me to post clarification:

You need to PROVE that you are free of lead coatings in order to not use lead-safe work practices. Or, you need to prove that your home is built 1978 or later. To prove 1978 or later, a building permit or real estate record will serve as proof in most cases. They say it must be a legal/municipal record of some sort.

If you are in the Dane County WI area, I can help you to get the testing done. Otherwise, look up your state's list of Lead Risk Assessors and one of these consultants can do the testing on your home.

I want to have some remodeling done on my pre-1978 home. What do I have to do first? FAQ # 21

This is the last in our series on Lead-Safe Renovation Practices FAQs. We hope you found these FAQs informative.

Q. I want to have some remodeling done on my pre-1978 home. What do I have to do first?
A. Give us a call @ 608-846-5963 or e-mail . We will be happy to talk to you about your project and help you through the process from beginning to end.

Follow us on Facebook

What does a general contractor need to know when working with sub‐contractors? FAQ # 20

What does a general contractor need to know when working with sub‐contractors?
A. The person/firm who has the contract with the homeowner to conduct renovation work must be a certified firm and is responsible for all reporting requirements. While it is strongly recommended that all companies involved in a renovation are certified, a general contractor can hire an uncertified lead safe renovator sub‐contractor as long as the following is met:
o The general is responsible for assuring that other companies are properly trained and certified for the tasks they will perform and that work is performed per the work practice standards
o An uncertified sub‐contractor may not be in the work area while paint is being disturbed
o An uncertified sub‐contractor cannot disturb more than 6 sq feet of interior surfaces, 20 sq feet of exterior surfaces or remove or replace windows
o The general contractor must educate the uncertified sub‐contractor on:
The requirement to keep barriers and containment up, intact, and secured
The requirements of entering and exiting the contained work area
o The general contractor that hires a subcontractor is also responsible for lead‐safe renovation violations committed by the sub.

Visit us on Facebook

DEGNAN DESIGN BUILDERS WINS 2010 DANE COUNTY SMALL BUSINESS AWARD

Degnan Design Builders, Inc., a local Remodeler and Builder, was honored to receive a 2010 Dane County Small Business Award at the 28th annual Awards Presentation Breakfast held June 18th at the Sheraton Hotel in Madison, Wisconsin.
“I am who I am”, Abe Degnan, President of Degnan Design Builders, Inc., remarked to the audience when presented with the Award. “That was how my Dad, who began the business 29 years ago operated, and that is how I run the company. Just be yourself!” By being themselves, father and son developed a loyal following of satisfied clients over the years that continues on today.
The Awards Event celebrates small businesses and the contributions they make to our communities and economy. The Award is given to the business including all of the employees— not just the owners. Award judges recognize that the owner(s) have the vision and take the risk, but it is the teamwork of all the employees that makes a successful company.
Degnan Design Builders was chosen for the 2010 Small Business Award because they have proven that they are successful. Their reputation and character say a lot about them as a company and as individual team members. They have the ability and foresight to carry them through the tough times. Company owners and staff also find significant ways to give back to their communities, even in our difficult economic climate. Some of the ways Degnan Design Builders’ owners and staff contribute to their communities are — volunteering at events held by local schools, their church and non-profit organizations; being involved in public service and community organizations; coaching their children’s sports teams; and participation in annual home building projects in partnership with local non-profit organizations.
Degnan Design Builders wants to thank the Award judges for choosing our company as one of this year’s Award recipients, our clients and vendors/subcontractors for remaining true business partners over the years, and our employees who have maintained a passion for the remodeling/building profession and created trust with those who do business with us.

Who can do the testing? FAQ # 19

Who can do the testing?

A. We work with local testing consultants who are certified to conduct the proper testing for the presence of lead. We can arrange for the testing to be done for you.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit Monday's Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

What if I don’t know when my home was built? FAQ # 18

What if I don’t know when my home was built?

A. In this case, we must assume that lead-based coatings are present and proceed as though they are. The homeowner can assist us by providing a copy of public records documenting the age of the home such as an Abstract available from the Register of Deeds office.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

Do I need to have my house tested? FAQ # 17

Do I need to have my house tested?

A. If you are remodeling and your home was built before 1978, test to prove. In 1960’s and 70’s houses, it is beneficial to test because there’s a low chance of having lead present. The hazard of lead is creating dust through disturbing surfaces by means of cutting through, sanding, or scraping, and similar actions. It is helpful to know the specifics about any past remodeling done on the home. We need to prove that coatings such as paint and varnish do not contain lead. We look to the homeowner for the home’s history.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

How do I know where the lead problems are in my home? FAQ # 16

How do I know where the lead problems are in my home?

A. Statistics show that from 25% to 86% of pre-1978 homes, depending on when they were built, contain lead-based coatings. In Wisconsin we currently need to use EPA recognized test kits, an XRF (x-ray fluorescence instruments), or paint chip sampling and laboratory testing to determine and prove exactly which surfaces do or do not have lead coatings. Otherwise, on pre-1978 houses, we must assume that lead coatings are present and work as if they are.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

What if the required work is minor? FAQ # 15

What if the required work is minor?
A. The rule applies to any remodeling done in a pre-1978 home where the work will disturb 6 square feet or more of paint per room inside, or 20 square feet or more on the exterior of a home or building.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.


Follow us on Facebook

Extreme Makeover Home Edition continues to amaze me.

Once again, Extreme Makeover Home Edition doesn't disappoint and never ceases to amaze me. The current build starts with the family being invited to attend a New York Mets game. Ty comes out to the mound to throw out the first pitch, bullhorn in hand, and yells, "Good morning Lutz family!"

They continue to find amazing families with heart-wrenching stories: Kathleen Lutz has an inoperable brain tumor and is the adoptive mother of 6 children with Down Syndrome.

I can only wait to see this episode air.

A win-win at Yankee Stadium: Lutz family's Long Island home to get 'Extreme Makeover'

Will old lead coatings be covered up or removed completely? FAQ # 14

Will old lead coatings be covered up or removed completely?

A. Again, it depends. Items that are being disposed of or that exhibit flaking, chipping, or peeling of the paint or other finish are removed completely from your home. However, if you have lead paint on your walls that is in good condition and not flaking, chipping or peeling and is not part of the remodeling process, there is no need to remove it.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.
Visit Monday’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.
Follow us on Facebook

Will all lead coatings be removed from my home during the lead-based renovation project? FAQ # 13

Will all lead coatings be removed from my home during the lead-based renovation project?

A. Depends on the scope of the project and the degree of lead found in the home. Under the lead-safe renovation rules, we, as lead-Safe Renovators, are required to address only the specific areas within the parameters of the job contracted. If true lead abatement is necessary because of the extent and level of lead-based contaminants found in the home, a lead-abatement contractor would need to be consulted.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.


Follow us on Facebook

What about my pets, children? FAQ # 12

What about my pets, children?

A. Pets must be confined to non-containment areas of the house during the renovation period. If pets gained access to the containment area, they could get lead dust on their feet and coats and track it to other areas of the home and yard exposing you and your children to lead dust. Children must be kept out of the containment area at all times for the same reason.

Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.
Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

What about heavy furniture or other things that cannot be removed from the work area? FAQ # 11

What about heavy furniture or other things that cannot be removed from the work area?
A. Immovable objects are covered in protective sheeting. This includes such items as furniture, floor/carpet, lamps, televisions, etc.

Please contact us if yo have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

What is a containment area? FAQ # 10

What is a containment area?

A. Containment is the process of blocking off an area where work is conducted to keep lead-contaminated dust confined to the work area where it can easily be cleaned. Proper containment of the work area helps to limit the area to be cleaned after the job is completed, saving time and money on the clean-up process.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.


Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.


Follow us on Facebook

Can I have access to the renovation area during the project? FAQ # 9

Can I have access to the renovation area during the project?

A. Unfortunately, that is not an option. The renovation area must be completely contained (closed off) during the renovation work period. The Rules prohibit any person (other than certified lead-safe renovation workers) or animal from entering the work area while it is blocked off. Only after final clean up can anyone enter the area. If you were to use the area during the work period, it would have to be cleaned to Rule specifications prior to each and every time you wanted to enter the area. This would add significantly to the cost of the project.
Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit Monday’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.


Follow us on Facebook

Will I be able to live in my home while the lead-based renovation work is being done? FAQ # 8

Will I be able to live in my home while the lead-based renovation work is being done?

A. Depends on the scope of the renovation. Basically, follow these guidelines during the renovation project to protect your family or the children (and pets) in your care:

• Stay out of work areas while work occurs


• Move children and pets to a different location until the work is completed.


• Turn off forced air heating and air conditioning systems while work is being done.

In the case of large projects, you will find it more convenient and less expensive to move out of the house due to the new lead-safe work practices. With large or whole house renovations, we can set you up with a camper trailer during the lead-safe renovation work. Once the work is completed and clean-up meets the new Rule standards, you can move back into your home. Other options past clients have used are taking a vacation, moving daily living activities to another portion of the house, or possibly living with relatives/friends.

Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Follow us on Facebook

Who is considered to be a contractor under the new rule? FAQ # 7

Who is considered to be a contractor under the new rule?
a. In general, anyone who is paid to perform work that disturbs paint in housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, this may include, but is not limited to:
– Residential rental property owners/managers
– General contractors
– Special trade contractors, including Painters, Plumbers, Carpenters, Electricians
As your general contractor, we take care of making sure subcontractors are licensed or trained in lead-safe renovation practices before beginning any work on your project.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.


Follow us on Facebook

Can I use the services of anyone to remodel my home? FAQ # 6

Can I use the services of anyone to remodel my home?
a. The new rules require that renovation contractors who disturb lead-based paint must be lead-safe certified by the State of Wisconsin and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Contractors must provide a pamphlet called Renovate Right to the occupants of the housing. Also, they must inform the occupants about how the work areas will be set up, what work practices will be used to minimize dust and debris, how work areas will be cleaned, and what is to be expected after the work is completed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to make sure they hire a certified lead-safe renovation company. Be sure to request to see a copy of the company’s Lead-Safe Certification certificate and the Lead-Safe Renovator certificate of the Lead Carpenter who will be working on your project.


Please contact us if you have a specific questions that is not addressed in this series.


Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.


Follow us on Facebook

Can I exempt my home from the new rules? FAQ # 5

Can I exempt my home from the new rules?
a. No. Wisconsin no longer allows the opt-out rule for pre-1978 homes or facilities where children or pregnant women are present. The only way to opt out is to have your home tested for the presence of lead paint and other types of finishes. If your home tests negative or under the threshold requirement set by the State for lead contamination, lead-safe practices are not required.


Please contact us if yo have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.


Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.



Follow us on Facebook

What types of homes & buildings are subject to the new Lead-Safe Renovation Rules? FAQ # 4

What types of homes & buildings are subject to the new Lead-Safe Renovation Rules:

a. Any home, child care facility, or school containing children under age 6 built prior to 1978.

Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

Visit Monday’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.

Follow us on Facebook

Why was the Lead-Safe Rule enacted into law? FAQ # 3

Why was the Lead-Safe Rule enacted into law?
A. The Rule was enacted to protect young children during renovation activity in homes, child care facilities and schools built before 1978. Lead-tainted dust is a serious health hazard for workers, occupants and their families, especially young children.


Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.


Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.



Follow us on Facebook

Why should I be concerned about lead poisoning? FAQ # 2

Why should I be concerned about lead poisoning?
A. Wisconsin consistently ranks in the top ten states in the nation for the number of children identified with lead poisoning, and since 1996 more than 44,000 Wisconsin children younger than 6 years of age were identified with lead poisoning. Lead poisoning interferes with the normal development of a young child’s brain, resulting in lowered IQ, attention disorders, developmental delays and aggressive behavior problems. Children who are lead poisoned are more likely to suffer as adults from kidney disease, diabetes, cognitive deficits such as memory loss and Alzheimer’s, and early death from high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.



Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in ths series.



Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.



Follow us on Facebook

What is Lead Safe Renovation? FAQ # 1

With the advent of the new Lead-Safe Renovation Rule that went into effect on April 22, you may be wondering what this Rule will mean to you, as the homeowner.

Watch our blog for the next 19 days (M-F). We will present a series of Questions and answers to address some of your concerns.

Please contact us if you have a specific question that is not addressed in this series.

What is Lead-Safe Renovation?

A. Safely remodeling a pre-1978 home containing lead by using lead-safe renovation practices as contained in Wisconsin’s Administrative Rule, DHS-163, that went into effect on April 22, 2010.

Visit tomorrow’s Blog Post to read another FAQ on Lead-Safe Renovation.



Follow us on Facebook

Bob Degnan featured in Waunakee Tribune

Bob Degnan, founder of Degnan Design Builders, Inc. was recently featured in the Waunakee Tribune. The article features his personal and business history, specifically about his constant desire to learn new skills. Whether as a self-taught carpenter and business man, or now a 3rd degree black belt at Kicks Unlimited, you'll find out about Bob Degnan: He's constantly learning new skills - The Waunakee Tribune - Waunakee, WI

Commercial Design Award

We occasionally dabble in commercial design. We recently helped Steven Kalscheuer atAdvanced Building Corp with this commercial remodel, turning a formerly ramshackle warehouse into a classy vehicle lettering facility.

Take a look when you drive by! It is highly visible on the east side of Hwy 51 in Madison when you are between Cottage Grove Road and Milwaukee Street. Map it and view it as a "before" street view by clicking here.

American Buildings has it posted here.

View Larger Map

Digging Out - Madison Magazine - June 2010

It's no secret that the home building and remodeling industry has been challenged for the last several years. But things are changing. There are bright spots out there. Find out what Madison Magazine reports in their latest article: Digging Out - Madison Magazine - June 2010. There is great information from Degnan Design Builders and many other of Dane County's best companies.

Quality Leaders

What are the best companies doing to ensure quality work? Find out what Qualified Remodeler Magazine has to say about Quality Leaders and why Degnan Design Builders, Inc is one of the 55 featured companies!

2010 Guildmaster Award Winner

We are honored that Degnan Design Builders has earned recognition as a 2010 Guildmaster With Distinction. GuildQuality, a leading survey company, publishes their Guildmaster Awards in May of each year. We are particularly delighted that our company is one of only three companies in Wisconsin to earn this Award in 2010. We have surveyed our customers since April 2009 and received a 93.3% "easier than expected" rating. We appreciate the confidence our customers have in the quality of our workmanship and customer service.
Follow this link to see the GuildQuality website and learn more about this Award.

This Old House Magazine's badmouthing of Remodelers

Dear Scott, and the TOH staff,
I've been reading This Old House magazine for about 4 or 5 years now. I have to tell you, your April 2010 editorial may be the straw breaking my back. Scott, gain you compare contractors to criminals, con-men, and robbers? Shame on you!
You are doing nothing to help the average homeowner. You are perpetuating a myth. Do you describe Norm Abram, Tom Silva, Rich Trethewy, Roger Cook, or any of the other TOH professionals in this way? Do those guys even read what you are writing? They should be furious!
If you truly have this many problems with your remodelers, this reflects poorly on your own choices. Have you ever check references? Here, check my GuildQuality satisfaction rating: http://www.guildquality.com/cr/Degnan-Design-Builders/7JU42382883JRF/. Have you ever asked one of your contractors for a 3rd party customer satisfaction rating? Have you ever checked Angie's List? Have you checked with the Home Builders Association or NARI in your area? If you are hiring bozos, this only reflects your own business acumen.
I hope that you'll proactively address this and QUIT IT! I'm in the middle of my subscription so I'll keep watching for improvements until that runs out. But if some things don't change in your editorial attitude, don't hold your breath for my renewal payment.

Degnan Design Builders is Winner of WBA Remodeling "A Cut Above The Rest" Award for Room Additions over $75,000

Our client recently came to Degnan Design Builders, Inc. with a concern--and a challenge. Create a beautiful, yet functional, 3-season sun porch and prevent future water damage to their home.

These clients had a full walk-out basement looking out toward a small river about 50 yeards away--a river with a propensity to overflow its banks during spring melting or times of heavy rain. Should the river ever flood to the point of reaching their home considerable damage could occur.


A small outdoor patio remains under the waterproofed deck, adjacent to the 3-season sun porch. The deck provides a small overhang to prevent excessive heat gain during summer months while still allowing for sun rays to prenetrate deeply in the spring and fall. The deck was made into a "hot roof" ceiling for the patio by using 10" of dense-packed cellulose insulation. Foam insulates the floor slab and foundation of the 3-season sun porch in case of a future conversion to a 4-season sun room. TThese design and insulation techniques help to ensure the new 3-season sun porch and patio stay as comfortable as possible--for as long as possible.

Installation of a glass railing from RailCraft Glass Railing Systems improved the main level views from the deck.

Natural finished knotty pine

creates a warm interior finish

and appearance

Aesthetics were paramount--both from inside and outside the home. To comply with this request, full Mon-Ray Glasswalls windows were chosen to preserve the views from the home's lower level porch enclosure.

The beautiful, functional 3-season sun porch features a clear-finished knotty pine on the walls and ceiling over top of brick that covers the foundation. A cove for rope lighting tops the patio doors. Wriing for a TV is present if ever desired. Tile, which was an afterthought added by the owner, finishes the floor. The owners report that on sunny days, even when the outdoor temperature is zero, the 3-season sun porch warms to 55 degrees. Sunny November days brought temperatures of 70 degrees! With two ceiling fans installed, the roof deck overhang and all the operable windows, the summer temperatures during construction allowed the 3-season sun porch to maintain a comfortable screened porch atmosphere, as well.

To meet the flood damage protection challenge, Degnan Design Builders used strategies to prevent water from infiltrating the foundation of the home. Siding was stripped from the lower portion of the rear of the house, wood decking removed, and a new foundation was poured for the 3-season porch addition. As a preventative measure, a new concrete wall was poured against the existing wood-framed wall of the house to just below the height of the windows.


A new deeper foundation was added for the 3 season sun porch addition so that the patio doors are protected from potentia flooding.




Before the concrete was poured, a waterproofing membrane was applied over the wood wall, and again, a waterproofing membrane was sprayed on over top of the new concrete and wrapped around the end, tying it into the original foundation. Thus, if water ever rises, it will be blocked by the new foundation and waterproofing membrane.

Drain tile was installed on the interior of the new foundation and tied into the existing drain tile system. That original drain tile had drained to daylight and did not have a sump crock in the basement. The daylight drain was eliminated because in a high-water situation, it would actually allow water to flow backward into the house. Instead, a crock was installed in the unfinished basement with a pump draining to the side yard. This will relieve any water table pressure from underground and any water that may follow the foundation of the house in a heavy rain.

The existing deck structure was re-used to become the roof of the room below. The shape was modified to create octagonal corners to flow with the theme of the octagonal dinette on the existing home. The next challenge was to waterproof this deck roof. Degnan Design Builders elected to treat it much like a shower, using Schluter products, with an exterior porcelain tile installed over a layer of cement board and 3/4" plywood. The multiple layers ensure stability to prevent tile or grout cracking and ensure a waterproof deck/roof surface for years to come. Repairs were made to the joist hangers and fasteners and a new beam system and posts installed over the new foundation to slope the deck surface away from the house for proper drainage of rain and snowmelt.

The deck is unique and stunning with its glass railing and tile surface. The 3-seson sun porch adds diversity to the home, since it already has a sunny 4-season sun room on the main level. The homeowners are benefitting from peace of mind that their home is protected from flood damage as they enjoy the view from their beautiful, new 3-season sun porch.


Railcraft railings preserve the view of the backyard

See us on Facebook

Abe Degnan installed as Madison Area Builders Association's 2010 President

Abe Degnan (L) with his wife, Lisa, and parents, Linda & Bob Degnan, after presenting his installation speech as the MABA 2010 President



Abe Degnan (President of Degnan Design Builders, Inc.) is now the official 2010 President of the Madison Area Builders Association (MABA). Abe presented his installation speech during a crowded gathering of Madison Area Builders Association members, family, employees and associates at Fitzgerald’s Supper Club in Middleton on February 1, 2010

In addressing the crowd, Abe reflected on the many influences by Madison Area Builders Association members that have strengthened his own business since joining the Association. Through active participation in Association projects and committees, Abe has come to recognize the advantages and strength of character he has gained since joining MABA. Abe told members that they

• “should be aware that we can strongly influence others to be the best they can be in our industry. "


• "Each of us has the ability to make a huge difference in the lives of other members."


• "Bring others UP to your standards by encouraging professionalism.”
  Events such as Green Built Home Makeover and Hammer With A Heart, “are particularly close to my heart.” “These two events give members an opportunity to give back to the community,” Abe said.

Abe Degnan is a true advocate for the Association, its members and its services. Abe commented, “I’ve met so many good and trustworthy people—

• Other builders and remodelers who truly love what they do and have pride and passion for their craft.


• Trade contractors and suppliers who desire to be helpful and want to be the best at what they do.


• Staff members who are experts in their fields and who help us to make our jobs easier and our businesses better.”

As 2010 President, Abe plans to focus on close communication with all the Association’s committees and work groups so the Board of Directors is in tune with members’ needs. In addition to maintaining current member services, he will be exploring new ideas for additional services that can be implemented, within the scope of the current budget, that will help to reinforce the value of MABA membership.

Abe’s pledge to members is to keep the Association strong so as to help members keep their businesses strong.
As the 2010 President, Abe will lead the Madison Area Business Association in its efforts to monitor and influence issues and regulations affecting the building industry, especially those related to housing availability and affordability.

In addition, MABA provides a forum for education and information exchange for the benefit of the industry and the communities its members serve. MABA presents a variety of home-related public events and tours throughout the year.

The Madison Area Builders Association is a trade association affiliated with the Wisconsin Builders Association and the National Assocaition of Home Builders. With more than 650 company members, MABA represents persons involved in the residential and light commercial construction industry--collectively the eighth largest source of private employment in the Dane County area. Every 100 homes MABA members build will create nearly $60 million in community income over a decade. Click here for more information about the Madison Area Builders Association and its members.

Visit Degnan Design Builders, Inc. on Facebook.