HIRE RITE!

WE post tips on hiring the right contractor often....why? Because it can be the most important decision you make when updating, building or remodeling your home. For a successful renovation, follow this advice:

- Get a referral!! If a family member or friend has had a good experience, you probably will too.

- Hire a contractor who specializes in the type of work you need done. Don't hire a general contractor to install your wood flooring or granite countertops. Choose a professional with experience in EXACTLY what services you require.

- Check licenses and insurance information with your city's/state's Contractors Licensing Board. Ask your choice for copies of the following documents: Contractors Certification, Worker's Compensation Status, and Liability Insurance Certificate.

- Get at least three References and CALL THEM....even better, ask if you can check out the work in person.

- Go on-line and research your choice with the Better Business Bureau.

- Request a written estimate for the work you need done and if it is a large project, pay in three installments - 1/3 at the start of the job, 1/3 when the job is half way done (or on a mutually agreed upon date) and the balance at completion.

- Sign a written contract that details the above agreement.

Both Bedrock and Rite-Loom Flooring have all of the above documents and licenses available at your request. So, check with your representative and give them an opportunity to show you how it's done RITE!

IS YOUR BACKYARD AND LANDSCAPING READY FOR SUMMER GUESTS?

Whether you are planning your summer parties like professional entertainer or you just want your yard ready for the occasional stop-by guest - look out your window and ask some hard questions: Would I be proud to invite them outside? Have you tended to trees and lawn? Are your flower beds in shape or full of weeds? Is your stone path broken and chipped or covered in dirt?

Come on! Get Busy! Warm sunny days offer no excuses for ignoring the potential of your backyard property. And, once you invest a little time and effort - YOU TOO can step outside and smell the roses!

PICK YOUR PROJECT then have some fun!

- Invest in that new BBQ you have been lusting after.

- Ask Bedrock Stone Fabrication about an outdoor fireplace that can make summer evenings super special.

- How about a dramatic waterfall to update your pool?

- Design a granite island for dining al fresco!

All of these great ideas add value to your home and give you the perfect reason to pick up the phone and ask your friends over to celebrate summer! Dial Bedrock TODAY while summer fun calls!

Marble Staircase - A HOLLYWOOD

Marble flooring has become one of the hottest new materials on the market - and for the extra extravagant (and bigger budgets!) marble staircases are at the top of the wish list. The elegant and natural beauty of marble offers a luxurious, sleek and graceful look which dates back to the glamorous movies of old Hollywood. Who wouldn't feel like Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers walking down a staircase made of this elegant natural stone?

In addition to the natural beauty that marble possesses, marble is also a much sought after material because of its resistance to fire, as well as its natural strength and hardness. It's not just beautiful, it is strong too! And you won't have to worry about stains like you would with a carpet runner - Marble also possesses a rigidness that resists most stains.

And, to keep you're sought after marble staircase at its beautiful best, don't use bleach or any acidic based cleaners - A damp cloth or mop is the best way to remove any dirt or dust. So....not only is a stone staircase luxury at its finest, it's also easy to maintain. Just one MORE reason your Bedrock designer should help you fabricate the marble staircase of your dreams!

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

When it comes to designing with stone, sometimes the smallest details can make a BIG impact. From an entire wall of stone, to the detailed installation of stone baseboards and moldings, the visual results accomplished with simple design details can make all of the difference.

- Frame a boring doorway with a decorative stone trim in an interesting pattern.

- Dress a doorway with a set of matching carved corbels topped with a dramatic, thich mantel shelf.

- Nitches in the kitchen and shower can be highlighted by an intricately carved motifs such as flowers, fruit or simple patterns.

- Surround a mirror or prized piece of art with beautiful granite moldings.



- Introduce a stone mosaic on your tradtional wood fireplace.



- Add a stone countertop to old end tables and dressers for a more formal look.





- Baseboards can be cut from the floor tile itself. Bedrock installers do it right by bullnosing or beveling the exposed edge for a professionally finished look.

- Stone window sills make a dramatic statement.

- Scrap granite or marble make an eye cathcing accessories such as backsplash inserts and wall accents.

- Blend materials for a creative look - mix glass, stone and tile for unique applications that will set your home apart.

STONE FLOORS FOR THE LOOK YOU WANT

Natural stone floors are not a new concept. For centuries stone flooring has been used in homes, businesses, on streets and sidewalks around the world. Today, stone floors are one of the most desired design trends available to homeowners. Consider these important points before you decide on what floor you want under foot:



- If you are going for a subtle, serene look - cool and calm colors should flow uninterrupted from one room to the next. A uniform color with little "movement" work well. Light colors, little veining in stones such as limestone and travertine are the ideal choice for a subdued appearance in a modern or minimalist setting.



- For a rustic or earthly look, slate is a great option. The deep colors and textures provide a casual look, and slate can take abuse, too! From deep tones to muted, earthlike combinations, you can build many styles around slate.

- If cool, rich and elegant is the look you desire, polished marble and granite is the perfect choice. While both stones have veining and lots of movement, they make an unforgettable statement.



- Tumbled stone is used to create an antiquated feel that goes perfect in homes that reflect old-world charm. The worn, weathered style creates a warm look that endures.



Your Bedrock and Rite-Loom designer can help you select just the right style for your stone floor. If you're ready to make a change, step on it and get the look you want TODAY!

ENERGY EFFICIENT FIREPLACES CAN SAVE YOU BIG MONEY!

They don't just look great. They don't just increase the value of your home or create a focal point for your living room or outdoor patio --- fireplaces can also save you big money! Update your fireplace design and see a big drop in your energy bills. Follow these important tips:

- Older wood burning stoves draw the heat up and out of the chimney instead of inside your home. Check out the energy efficient plans that include an air intake that draws from the outside and combines it with a blower that forces the air into the room.

- Include the addition of a fireplace insert which will dramatically affect of the design.

- For outdoor fireplaces, natural STONE is by far the most popular. Your choices are virtually unlimited and can includes either a gas or wood burning feature. Obciously, the wood burning option is more energy efficient as it also adds drama to any outdoor environment.

Have fun with the mantel, fire box design and hearth. Interesting and functional stone designs include a built in firewood storage area and unique seating options.

Have Fun! Now is the best time to get that fireplace project started - just in time for summer entertaining and looking forward to Fall! Call Bedrock today!