Published: Friday, April 12, 2013, 12:01 a.m.

Mike Scoleri figures it'll take a couple of more months to finish rehabilitating the 125-year-old barn, one of Snohomish County's oldest. Scoleri is using vinegar and steel wool to scrub and give a weathered, aged look to the replacement lumber being used in the barn's interior.

The best guesses of everyone who might know figure the barn went up in about 1888.

A European immigrant named Bernard Walther built the board-and-batten structure for his dairy cows. The old-growth Douglas fir he used probably was felled on the property, located in the Snohomish River valley between Lowell and Larimer.

One of the crossbeams in the 40-foot-tall barn is a 60-foot, 12-inch-by-12-inch massive hunk of fir.

Even more impressive is that the barn's posts and beams are held together with mortise and tenon joinery: notches and hand-carved wooden dowel pins. No nails.

"Even when the wind kicked up, you couldn't hear a creak," Scoleri said. "The barn is solid and the men who built it were craftsmen."

Scoleri figures the post and beam arches of the barn were built on the ground and pulled into place by horses.

Arnie Hansen, 66, of Snohomish, grew up playing and working in the barn. His parents, Carl and Lois Hansen, bought the Walther farm in about 1937.

The youngest of three children, Hansen remembers that loose hay was loaded into the barn's loft from a truck driven right into the building.

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Work progressing on one of county's oldest barns

(BPT) - When considering exterior home improvements during spring and summer, many homeowners go for updates such as the replacement of siding or windows. These projects can make the home look great while boosting energy efficiency, but no matter how much homeowners invest in siding or windows, it will only look as good as the trim used to complete the job.

Trim products are designed to be used around windows, doors, eaves and gables, and for application on your homes corners and porch columns. Many installers opt for basic corner posts, J-channels and finishing accessories, which are functional, but also detract from the homes overall style. Going beyond the basics is very affordable and can make a big difference in your investment.

One mistake that homeowners and contractors often make in an exterior remodel is finishing a beautiful window and siding replacement with basic or inexpensive trimwork, says Steve Moore, architect with BSB Design. Working with your contractor to accessorize with high-quality, low-maintenance trim around windows, doors and the roofline helps complete the look and enhance architectural features. Trim and mouldings are the glue that ties the look together.

Whether you prefer a modern, traditional, rustic or Victorian style, there are many trim options on todays market to consider, including products made of wood, aluminum, fiber cement, engineered wood and vinyl, each with their own unique features. But if you want the look of real wood without the maintenance or having to replace in a few years, turn to building products manufacturers like Ply Gem that now offer cellular PVC trim with a 30-year warranty. Features of this material typically include a wood grain or smooth finish option, natural wood dimensions and resistance to rotting, cracking and splitting. Due to the superior material, paint will also adhere better and stay bright longer than painted wood.

Cellular PVC trim and moulding products are easy for your contractor to install, and are engineered to work with virtually any siding type, including vinyl siding, stone veneer, brick, fiber cement and stucco.

Since trim is incredibly visible, it should be chosen with the same care as siding, says Jerry Blais, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem siding group. "The use of low-maintenance products like cellular PVC trim and mouldings really give homeowners a durable and versatile option for making the home exterior stand out from the crowd. The product can also be painted to complement other exterior materials such as windows, vinyl siding, stone veneer, shutters and more to create a cohesive design.

To achieve that cohesive exterior home design, Ply Gem and BSB Design recommend first determining the type of architectural style you are trying to achieve, traditional or modern. This will help narrow the options for not only trim style, but also window grille patterns, color, siding type and accessories like shutters.

To help provide inspiration, design guides are available for recommendations on how to make the most of cellular PVC trim and other exterior products with various architectural styles. Once you have a style, consider ways to accessorize your home with trim:

* Accent arched windows on Georgian or French architectural styles

* Differentiate with decorative gable details for home styles such as folk, shingle, Victorian or craftsman

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It's all in the details - how to accessorize your home exterior

COLUMBUS Window World of Northeast Nebraska has a new Columbus showroom that makes it easier for customers to check out its selection of home improvement products.

The Norfolk-based business is now selling windows, siding and doors through a partnership with Hometown Motors and owner Russ Korth.

Window World of Northeast Nebraska opened a showroom at the 4728 Howard Blvd. automobile dealership to replace the downtown location, and Korth will now sell for the company.

Moving into Hometown Motors has allowed us to be open all day, so somebody can walk in at any time, which is great, said Angie Kruse, manager of Window World of Northeast Nebraska.

Established in 1977 as Northeast Nebraska Insulation and Siding, the family-run business became a franchise of Window World in 2003 and also has a showroom in Sioux City, Iowa.

A Columbus location was added in 2005, but the 2319 13th St. showroom was only accessible by appointment.

Kruse said Korth joins the business as a previous customer who believes in the products.

Its easy to sell something you believe in, she said.

Mike Funkhouser and Jeff White, who started as installers here in 2004, will continue to oversee the Columbus location.

In addition to the expanded hours the showroom will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays Kruse said the new location at the intersection of 48th Avenue and U.S. Highway 81 is more visible and easily accessible.

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A whole new World

In an effort to provide even better service, MinTex Exteriors recently hired SpotOn SEO to manage its website and Internet marketing needs. By improving and expanding our website, Langerud said, we can become a comprehensive exterior remodeling resource for our customers and prospects.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) April 04, 2013

Home and commercial property owners throughout the Houston area have turned to MinTex Exteriors for their exterior renovation needs for over 20 years. MinTex Exteriors provides skilled labor for all types of exterior renovation projects including window replacement, roofing repairs and installations, Hardie siding, and gutters. Free consultations are standard with every inquiry.

MinTex Exteriors is dedicated to delivering quality service at a fair price. The company uses LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding, Owens Corning and Gaf Elk roofing, as well as other top brand products. From consulting and management to contract services, MinTex Exteriors gives its customers the information, products, and services they need to transform their home or commercial property.

Jason Langerud, President of MinTex Exteriors said that the companys focus is on providing every customer with the best possible experience. All jobs are backed by honesty, integrity, and professionalism from initial consultation to completion. We understand that your home is your biggest investment, and we will complete your project right the first time.

For more information about MinTex Exteriors and to view a photo gallery of past projects, visit MinTexExteriors.com. For more information, call (866) 787-2186.

Jason Langerud MinTex Exteriors (866) 787-2186 Email Information

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Houston, TX Home Improvement Contractor, MinTex Exteriors, Announces Partnership

Replacing a Second Story Window
Replacing a Second Story Window with Music by The Peach Truck Republic.

By: PhilMoon100

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Replacing a Second Story Window - Video

Siding Day 1
Siding Day 1.

By: Michael Cooper

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Siding Day 1 - Video

Deck Helmet, a top-rated deck restoration company in Bethesda, Maryland, will be celebrating National Home Improvement Month in May 2013 with an incredible deal for homeowners looking to upgrade and enhance their deck.

Bethesda, Maryland (PRWEB) April 01, 2013

According to a consumer poll from NARI.org, the official website of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), the largest determining factor for deciding to do it yourself or hire a professional was cost, at 40 percent. Thirty percent of respondents placed project type and know-how as the second most important factor, and level of difficulty was close behind at 25 percent. Safety and length of time required to complete the project were last, with 2 and 3 percent respectively.

With home prices rising throughout the United States for the first time in the past five years, many homeowners are thinking about making modest renovations that can increase the value of their existing home without costing a small fortune. While many are still reluctant to make major renovations there are many smaller updates that can transform the look and feel of a home. Homeowners are reconsidering costly deck replacement which can easily cost more than $10,000 and choosing Deck Helmet for deck resurfacing and refinishing as a cost effective alternative, says Jason Apter, owner and President of Deck Helmet.

Safety is another concern for people with aging decks, by replacing warped and rotting wood and resecuring railings and stairs, we have helped hundreds of homeowners enjoy their deck year round with the safest and most affordable deck resurfacing system around.

Other popular home renovations this season include upgrading kitchens and bathrooms with new flooring and modern energy-efficient appliances, roof repair/replacement and exterior painting and siding. National Home Improvement Month is a great opportunity to think about how to add improvements that will enrich the quality of your life and increase the value of your home, says Apter.

About Deck Helmet

Deck Helmet reviews its Revolutionary Deck Resurfacing System to transforms an old worn out deck to a beautiful low maintenance composite deck at a fraction of the cost of deck replacement. Deck Helmets Patent Pending System eliminates yearly maintenance and permanently protects your deck for ten years. Deck Helmet eliminates rotting, cracking, warping, splitting and does not stain or splinter providing a mildew resistant finish that can easily be cleaned with just soap and water.

K. Boza Reputation Rhino LLC 888-975-3331 Email Information

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Deck Helmet Reviews Top Tips for National Home Improvement Month

Great Day Improvements expands into the central east coast with latest acquisition.

MACEDONIA, Ohio (PRWEB) April 02, 2013

Reamco was a perfect fit for us, said Steve White of Great Day Improvements, LLC. Much like us, they offer design, installation and warranties on virtually every type of home improvement product and service on the market. Our acquisition of Reamco gives us the ability to grow and service our customer base in the central portion of the Atlantic coast.

Reamco builds and installs Patio Enclosures sunrooms, conservatories, additions, decks, patios, awnings, siding and replacement windows. Bill Reames, General Manager of Reamco added, Our goal has always been to offer customers the peace of mind that comes from working with a knowledgeable, well experienced company that can guide them every step of the way during a remodel from design through installation and warranty. Were proud of our reputation for excellence and are excited to be a part of Great Day Improvements growth and expansion on the East Coast.

In addition to Reamco, Great Day Improvements has also recently acquired Ric-Lee Corporation and Stanek Windows brand replacement windows.

About Great Day Improvements, LLC:

Great Day Improvements, LLC is a residential /commercial remodeler and manufacturer offering a portfolio of home improvement solutions including: Patio Enclosures brand screen rooms, sunrooms, solariums, room additions, design and build construction and EasyRoom DIY sunroom kits; SoftWall Finishing Systems, an acoustically-efficient interior panelized wall finishing system for basements, home theaters, offices, media rooms and bedrooms; Stanek Windows brand vinyl replacement windows, doors, siding and roofing; Backyard solutions including awnings, patio covers, decks, railing and fencing; Green Home solutions including insulation, radiant barriers, solar shades and window film; Hardscape solutions including decorative concrete, stamped concrete, patio pavers, concrete overlays, driveway and sidewalk installation; and Commercial solutions. Great Day Improvements operates across 28 states, is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has serviced over 250,000 customers nationwide. For additional information, visit http://www.greatdayimprovements.com.

Melissa Skinner Great Day Improvements, LLC 330-468-7183 Email Information

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Great Day Improvements, LLC Announces Acquisition of Reamco, Inc.

DES PLAINES, IL--(Marketwire - Apr 1, 2013) - Feldco Factory Direct has expanded operations in Central Illinois by opening a new location in Peoria. Feldco offers homeowners in Peoria exceptional value in replacement windows, siding and doors.

"We are very excited to be opening our doors in Peoria," stated Ron Gerstung, Chief Operating Officer, Feldco. He continued, "Our quality products are especially crafted for the Midwest weather and we think Peoria homeowners will find them to be the best solution for their home renewal needs."

KentWessley, Feldco Peoria's General Manager, adds, "We have been serving the Midwest for over 37 years, and we are pleased to open our doors in Peoria."

Feldco will operate a showroom, corporate office and warehouse in its new location. Over the next 24 months, Feldco anticipates creating a number of new local job opportunities for Peoria residents.Feldco will be hosting an Employment Open house on April 4th at their new location at 1401 West Glen for positions including sales reps, installers and field technicians. For more info, visit http://www.4feldco.com/feldco-employment.

Feldco products are Energy Star rated and are manufactured in the U.S.A.

ABOUT FELDCO Feldco is the Midwest's leading window, siding and door replacement specialist. Founded in 1976, the company is focused on delighting customers by making home improvement projects simple. With premium products, factory-direct pricing and certified installers, Feldco provides an excellent overall value and experience for nearly 250,000 customers. The company offers free in-home demonstrations and lifetime product warranties. Feldco serves all of Central and Northern Illinois, Northwest Indiana, as well as Southern and Northeast Wisconsin. Feldco has showrooms in Madison, Milwaukee, and Menasha, Wisconsin and Chicago, Des Plaines, Rockford, and now proudly Peoria, Illinois.

Please visit Feldco's website (www.4feldco.com) or contact the company's appointment center (866-4FELDCO or 708-437-4000) to learn more about Feldco's products and services.

Feldco was named the 2007 and 2009 Dealer of the Year by Window and Door Magazine, and was also named one of the Best Places to Work in Chicagoland by Crain's Chicago Business, and a Top 100 Workplace in 2010 and 2011 by the Chicago Tribune.

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Feldco Windows, Siding , and Doors Opens New Location in Peoria, IL

Lanham, MD (PRWEB) March 29, 2013

Thompson Creek Window Company, the mid-Atlantics leading home improvement replacement products company, today announced it has been again named to Window & Doors annual list of North Americas largest manufacturers of residential windows, doors and/or skylights. The national list is based purely on sales volume.

According to Window & Door magazine, The industry is poised for growth. Last year, most of Window & Doors 2013 Top 100 Manufacturers enjoyed the beginning stages of a recovery in the new construction and remodeling/replacement markets. Today, they are leaner and still cautious, but ready for more.

We are proud to be continually recognized on a national level for our regional success. From service to product to install to guarantee our priority is and will always be our customers. To be recognized and included in such a prestigious national ranking - based on sales volume only highlights our continued growth. This growth is a result of the business we generate from our satisfied customers and the great feedback they give that creates new customers. Our inclusion in this list is a clear sign that we are meeting and exceeding our goals, said Rick Wuest, president of Thompson Creek Window Company.

For a complete list of all winners, visit The Top 100 Manufacturers of 2013.

About Thompson Creek Window Company The Thompson Creek Window Company is a privately owned and family-operated manufacturer and installer of energy-efficient home improvement replacement products. Founded in 1980, Thompson Creek Window Company began as a manufacturer of energy-efficient, maintenance-free vinyl windows. Since that time, Thompson Creek Window Company has evolved into one of the leading specialty home improvement contracting companies in the nation. The companys product mix includes replacement windows and doors, vinyl siding and a clog-free gutter system. Thompson Creek Window Company is headquartered in Lanham, MD with an 80,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Landover, MD.

About Window & Door magazine Published eight times a year, Window & Door serves the entire fenestration industry, including manufacturers, distributors, and dealers. Window & Door has an experienced editorial team and offers readers focused news coverage; insightful articles on market and design trends; regular columns on codes, legal issues, and marketing ideas; full coverage of new products; expert articles on operations and technology; and much, much more.

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Thompson Creek Window Company Named to Window & Door’s Top 100 Manufacturers List