Schroeder Design/Build Inc

They are extremely difficult to see, but once you spot them, they are all you see! We are talking about clover mites, those smaller-than-the-head-of-a-pin critters that can be seen on floors, window sills, walls and even tubs come Springtime. They are reddish or reddish-brown, and if you try to get rid of them by crushing them, they leave a stain that same rusty color.
So, why do they appear indoors, and how can you prevent them?
Clover mites will crawl into cracks and crevices found under tree bark, foundation walls, beneath siding, and around window frames to molt and lay eggs. Infestation occurs when the newly hatched mites migrate indoors instead of back outside. Once inside, they are very difficult to control with chemicals deemed safe for use in houses. Vacuuming or wiping them up with a damp cloth is probably the simplest way to clean them up. Beyond that, your next step is to contact a pest control professional. The natural way to prevent them is to create a barrier that keeps them from reaching the house in the first place. Mites do not readily cross loose, clean cultivated soil; therefore, an 18 - 24 inch wide grass-free strip all around the house makes an excellent deterrent. You can plant annuals, perennials, or shrubs, but in such a way that mites cannot bridge across the barrier. Interestingly, landscape rock will not act as a barrier to clover mites.
The chemical alternative comes in the form of miticides which should be applied in the Fall to outside walls, foundations, and lawns at least 25 feet out from and all around the house.

Do you have a CO detector?
2010-09-17

What would you do if the alarm sounded?
Of course, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), having a Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector is secondary to preventing CO from becoming a problem in the first place! So let's look at both the prevention and the detection of CO.
Prevention - Don't:

Idle the car in a garage -- Fumes can build up quickly even if the garage door to the outside is open.
Use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.
Ever use a charcoal grill indoors.
Sleep in any room with an unvented fuel-powered space heater.
Use any gasoline-powered engines in enclosed spaces.
Ignore symptoms! Especially if more than one person is feeling them.

Detection - If the alarm does goes off, do:

Confirm it is the CO detector! Smoke detectors and CO detectors can sound the same. Can you tell the difference?
Get family members out of the house immediately.
Check for symptoms of CO poisoning such as headache, nausea, mental confusion and dizziness, and call your doctor. Tell the doctor that you suspect CO poisoning.
Only if you are not feeling symptoms, open windows, shut off all potential CO sources such as oil or gas furnace, gas water heater, gas range and oven, etc...
Engage a qualified technician to inspect all fuel-burning appliances to make sure they are operating effectively and ventilating properly.

Contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission (1-800-638-2772) at www.cpsc.gov for more information on how to reduce your risks from CO and other combustion gases and particles.

Tips to Beat the Heat and Cut Cooling Costs
2010-08-11

- Run fans to keep air moving. Circulating air makes you feel cooler, and cuts down on AC use. Put a fan at the bottom of the stairs blowing cold air up to the next level.
- Close windows and shades in the morning to keep cold air trapped inside all day.
- Change furnace filters monthly or when light passing through it is reduced due to particulates.
- Keep the outdoor AC unit level and raised several inches off the ground. Keep the area clear of fallen leaves, grass clippings, foliage and other dirt and debris.
- Follow manufacturer's instructions to clean AC unit condensers.

It's Spring Maintenance!
2010-04-29

It's not Spring cleaning; it's Spring Maintenance.

Every spring season, we look around the house, and see the cleaning projects that are more evident in the light of the longer day. What is less obvious, but potentially more valuable to accomplish, is the list of spring home maintenance tasks. Have you taken a look around the house at these?

Ventilation systems
You need to clean the fans and filters of your ventilation system regularly to keep it running at peak efficiency. Check the manufacturer's manual for instructions.

Screens
Winter weather can cause screens to rip or come out of their frames. Repair or replace screens now so when it's warm enough to open windows, you won't be inviting bugs in along with the fresh air.

Programmable thermostats
Lower or reprogram your thermostat to take advantage of warmer weather. Enjoy the lower utility bills before the summer sun forces you to turn on the air conditioner.

Humidistat
Change the setting on the humidistat or air exchanger controller as needed. As the weather warms up, the air becomes more moist. If you don't adjust your humidistat accordingly, excess moisture could cause condensation on your windows that can turn to frost during chilly early-spring nights.

Gutters and downspouts
With snow melting and spring rain on its way, your house needs clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage. Scoop out clogged gutters, and then rinse with a garden hose. Use a hose with a spray attachment to unclog downspouts or a plumber's snake for stubborn clogs.

Safety Devices
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors by holding down the test button until the alarm sounds. Replace batteries or detector if necessary. Make sure your fire extinguishers pressure gauge needle is in the green zone. Inspect the pin and tamper seal, and check that the extinguisher is showing no signs of damage. Review fire escape routes with your family and make sure locks to doors and windows are working.

Roof
A harsh winter can cause wear and tear on your roof. Clear off any remaining snow or ice to prevent pooling. From the curb, look for any depressions on the roof caused by heavy snow. Go on the roof and nail down loose flashings. Check for curling shingles and tuck-pointing on the chimney. If damage is extensive, call a professional.

Quick Checks for Snow Damage
2010-02-19

Check exterior air intakes, exhausts and meters
Snow and ice buildup around the air intakes of ventilation systems, exhausts from the dryer or furnace, and on meters can significantly reduce their effectiveness. Clear out these areas to make sure systems work well, and meters can be read accurately.

Remove ice dams on eves and gutters
Snow and Ice should be removed from roof edges and gutters to prevent ice dams. Ice dams can cause leaks not only into soffit areas but also into the roof. See the picture below from the February 11 Washington Post for further explanation of ice dams. Exercise extreme caution if you decide to clear ice dams yourself. It is not recommended to climb on the roof to remove the ice dam because of the danger of falling as well as damaging your roof.

Inspect basements or crawl spaces for seepage
Melting snow often saturates the ground, and can seep into basements and crawlspaces. Check for dampness around water lines.

Clear walk areas
As the snow on your house melts, ice becomes an issue on walkways. Also, make sure to check for any overhead hazards that have potential to fall on walk areas.

Avoid snow piles or drifts around windows and doors
You should clear snow from windows and doors because when the snow melts it can leak into areas around these openings.

If Schroeder Design/Build, Inc. can be of any assistance please let us know.

Tax credit info
2009-09-08

Stimulus legislation in late 2008 and early 2009 greatly expanded the range of Federal Tax Credits for improvements that increase the energy efficiency of your home. The rate increased from 10% of the cost, up to $500 to 30% of cost, up to $1500. The list of eligible improvements has also been expanded, and the deadline for installing them has been extended through the end of 2010. With incentives like these and cold weather around the corner, there is no better time to take action to lower your home utility costs.

The 80 Minute Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
2009-09-08

Stock up on furnace filters (12) and replace them each month.
Deep clean the inside of the house to reduce allergies. Hire a professional if needed.
Be sure gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris.
Visually inspect the outside of the house and basement for evidence of small animals or rodents getting access to your home. If so, make sure to seal those areas with caulk and spray foam.
Be sure your attic vents (lower and upper) are not covered or blocked by insulation. Ice dams on your roof are often caused by poorly performing insulation or improper ventilation in the attic.
Close and lock every window in the house.
Un-hook and store your garden hoses.
Make your list of BIG and small projects for Schroeder Design/Build to handle for you. Even if you just have a home maintenance question, feel free to give us a call.

Lead paint legislation and homes built before 1978
2009-09-08

SDB is committed to be among the first to be certified and fully trained in those work practices set forth by the EPA that will keep your home safe from lead contamination during renovation. The EPA is enacting legislation that says "Beginning in April 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination." More information on the hazards of this toxic metal can be found at http://www.epa.gov/lead/index.html.

In the News

40 Under 40 - What?
2011-12-07

According to Professional Remodeler, Andrew Schroeder is a bright star in the remodeling industry. And we couldn't agree more! In July 2011, Professional Remodeler magazine presented the first 40 Under 40: 40 young leaders chosen by the editors of Professional Remodeler and HousingZone.com as shaping the future of residential construction.
Congratulations Andrew!

Remodeled Home Tour on Saturday, December 3 from 1
2011-12-03

You are invited to see how Schroeder Design/Build transformed this home with an exceptional whole house remodel of the interiors which include: a Gourmet Kitchen including Angled Island with Seating, a Stunning Master Bath - Soaking Tub/Shower Enclosure with Vertical Body Sprays, a Screened-in Porch and a Finished Basement with Guest Suite
Location: 6800 Old Chesterbrook Rd. McLean, VA 22101

Remodeled Home Tour on Sunday, June 26 from 1 to 4
2011-06-26

Whole house remodel including a family room and 2nd story addition!
This project is highlighted by an Open Floor Plan to Create More Light, Travertine Tile, Hardwood Floors and New Kitchen Cabinets and Appliances.
LOCATION: 6532 Elnido Drive McLean, VA 22101

Remodeled Home Tour on Sunday, June 12 from 1 to 4
2011-06-12

You'll enjoy seeing how Schroeder Design/Build transformed this home by adding an exceptional new living space that includes: family room and screen porch addition, fireplace with walnut travertine surround, hardwood floors and accent lighting.
Location: 11406 Drop Forge Lane Reston, VA 20191-3902

Remodeled Home Tour on Sunday, Nov 7 from 1 to 4p!
2010-11-07

A remodeled basement, foyer and laundry room! It all started with a well thought-out plan and a great design to create the custom remodeling experience for this customer which resulted in the living space of their dreams. We take great pride in this basement design. The design team was thinking out of the box, and our clients were pleasantly surprised with the unique ideas that we presented and subsequently built. Join us to look at this beautiful project, and chat with our client to hear firsthand how the experience went!
LOCATION: 8508 Queen Elizabeth Blvd. Annandale, VA 22003

Remodeled Home Tour on Sunday, Oct.17 from 1 to 4p
2010-10-17

An extended kitchen and bedroom!
Our delighted clients are eager to show off their beautiful new kitchen and bedroom extension that has transformed their home into an open, airy space. Learn about our unique Design/Build process that met not only their needs, but their budget.
Tile floors - Granite countertops - Custom cabinetry - Bay window
LOCATION: 6511 Byrnes Drive McLean, VA 22101
SPONSORS: Clifton Drywall Incorporated, Sandy Spring Mortgage and ThermaTru Doors.

Schroeder Design/Build - EPA Lead-Safe Certifi
2010-06-01

At Schroeder Design/Build, we understand that the basics of renovation - demolition, cutting, sanding - can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. With the safety of our employees and clients so ingrained in the Schroeder Design/Build tradition, we made the commitment to be among the first to be fully trained and certified in the work practices set forth by the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule. This rule states, "beginning in April 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes... built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination." We are pleased to announce that Schroeder Design/Build is now an EPA Lead Safe Certified Firm. As an EPA Lead Safe Certified Firm, families can rest assured that our staff are fully trained in the lead-safe work practices that prevent lead contamination.

Andrew announced as Chairperson
2008-08-20

Andrew Schroeder was recognized for his hard work and dedicated to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Education Committee and was elected Chairperson.

SDB noticed by Andersen Windows
2008-07-20

Schroeder Design Build's great work is captured in 3D. Kitchen/Eat-in/Great Room in 3D

Schroeder Design Dispatch
2008-03-31

- Schroeder Design Dispacth page 1 - Schroeder Design Dispacth page 2 - Schroeder Design Dispacth page 3 - Schroeder Design Dispacth page 4

Trish Featured on NBC 4
2007-07-16

Trish Interviewed on NBC 4 with Wendy Reiger - Trish and Wendy Reiger - Trish, Wendy Reiger, and Susan Clark - Trish, Wendy Reiger, and Susan Clark

Andrew becomes a CR
2007-06-13

- Andrew awarded his Certified Remodeler's plaque from NARI MetroDC chapter

2 Coty Awards for 2006
2006-12-02

- Fonda and Andrew Receiving NARI Coty Awards

SDB in Washingtonian Magazine
2006-08-01

-Schroeder Design/Build named the Top Remodelers by Washingtonian Magazine.

Schroeder Design/Build featured
2006-05-01

Schroeder Design/Build featured in Try a Staffing Company

Winner of a Regional COTY Award
2006-03-18

Schroeder Design/Build won: -Residential Bath $30,000 - $60,000 (1 Page) -Residential Bath $30,000 - $60,000 (Full Version - page 35) -Andrew Receiving Award from NARI National President Paul Winnas

Winner of 3 Local COTY Awards
2005-12-03

Schroeder Design/Build won: - Residential Bath $30,000 - $60,000 - Residential Interior $100,000 and Under - Residential Exterior Under $100,000

In The Community

Run For the Rainforest 5K
2010-02-17

Have you heard about the Amazon Conservation Team (ACT) "Run for the Rainforest" 5K? Our clients Lisa Hundley-Reeves and Kristen Hundley-Reeves are actively involved in supporting this great cause. Lisa is this year's Race Director. We learned of their passion for the Amazon when we put a family room/kitchen addition on their home (see picture), and have been very impressed ever since!

SDB Sponsors Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk
2009-09-08

SDB will once again sponsor our own Beth Botwright in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day 60 Mile Breast Cancer Walk. Beth is once again serving as a trainer and team leader. Net proceeds benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and National Philanthropic Trust, funding important breast cancer research, education, screening, and treatment.

SDB Participates in Relay for Life
2009-04-09

Schroeder Design/Build's very own Beth and Tom participated in George Mason's Relay for Life.

SDB Participates in Relay for Life
2008-10-18

Schroeder Design/Build's very own Andrew, Beth, Tom, and Trish participated in Relay for Life at Chantilly High School. It was a cold and gratifying evening.

SDB Sponsors Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk
2008-10-03

Schroeder Design/Build's very own Beth Botwright participated in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk. We are all very proud.

SDB Sponsors Amazon Conservation Team
2008-06-21

Schroeder Design/Build sponsors clients' Amazon Conservation Team in the Run for the Rainforest 5K.

Safety First
2007-11-08

As a whole company, Schroeder Design/Build received CPR and First Aid certifications for Infant/Child/Adult.

SDB Holiday Party 06
2006-12-10

- Holiday Party Pic 1 - Holiday Party Pic 2 - Holiday Party Pic 3

Schroeder Design/Build featured
2005-12-01

Schroeder Design/Build featured in Selecting the Right Contractor

Tom Schroeder - Braddock District Appointee
2005-06-20

Tom Schroeder serving on our local Board of Building Code Appeals

Winner of COTY's
C o n t r a c t o r o f t h e y e a r


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