| Â | Michael F. Simon Builders April 2010 Newsletter Spring is in the air! There is nothing better than the first sight of green grass after the last of the snow melts. There is no doubt we are all eager to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather in the company of friends. And what better place to do that than your own home!
Chances are you've spent the last few months indoors thinking of ways to improve your living space - an updated kitchen or a bigger dining room to entertain; a spa-like retreat in your master bedroom; or maybe like our most recent remodel customers, making better use of space you already have. Whatever the need, whatever the size or complexity of the project, you can trust Michael F. Simon Builders to get the job done right using the highest standards in the industry. We not only pride ourselves on the quality of our homes, but also on the quality of the relationships we keep. Best regards,
Remember to Visit our Facebook Page 
Last month, we launched a facebook page. Click the icon above to visit our page and remember to become a fan!
Smart Home Imagine having one remote that can: - Control your home theater, shut the window shades, and dim the lights as the opening credits roll
- Turn off all the TVs in the house when the kids are supposed to be doing their homework
- Alert you that you left the garage door open, which you can close from the computer in your office
- Manage your lights, window coverings and thermostats to reduce your energy bills
- Monitor your door locks, lights and security cameras for a little extra peace of mind
- Choose music to play in any or every room of the house
All of these sophisticated home-control solutions are becoming practical and affordable for every home. They can include user-interfaces, like touch screens and remotes; home controllers; lighting and thermostats; and a wide range of audio/visual products. With new wireless communications available, you can create an amazing home theater and multi-room music experience in your home — without pulling wires, tearing walls open or undertaking major construction.
Past Projects: Lower Level Finish One of our recent remodeling projects was to finish off the lower level of an existing home. The homeowners came to us with the idea of changing their lower level to include a new bar and entertainment center along with a craft area for their kids. Outside, we added a screened porch under the existing deck that spans almost 50 feet and includes an outdoor bar and hot tub. Scroll over the pictures to see the "Before" picture. 
A see through fireplace was installed that can be enjoyed from both the living room inside, and the screened porch outside. No detail was overlooked, including the custom tin ceiling. Some things you may not notice are the hidden led lighting until they are all turned on. The mirror was even custom engraved to add that personal touch. 
Finishing the lower level of your home is a cost-effective way to add usable square footage to your home while also increasing the value. We can turn your dark or damp basement into one you will be proud to show off and use.
Now is a great time to call Michael F. Simon to discuss the possibilities of your home.
Caulking - What You Should Know
Noticing a few drafts around your windows and doors lately? Have some unsightly gaps in your wood siding or ceramic tiles? If so, then it may be time for you to get your home improvement gloves on and begin caulking! (Or we can help you out by doing this and any othermaintenance tasks for you.) Caulk is a wonderful product that can be used to fill gaps in almost any material. It can also make a real difference to your heating and cooling bills as well as add a nice finished look to your bathroom tub and kitchen sink. But you may find yourself overwhelmed by all the different types of caulk at your local hardware store! Here are some tips on which caulk you should use for all the different jobs around your home. Types of Caulk
Many people find it overwhelming when it comes to choosing the right type of caulk for a particular job. Because there are so many different kinds of caulk on the market, the decision can be a difficult one. Here is a quick guide to help you choose the right caulk for your repair job. Silicone Caulk
Silicone caulk is the type of caulk that people tend to be most familiar with. It is usually clear in color and has a rubbery, flexible texture when dry. Because of its durability and effectiveness on a wide variety of surfaces, silicone continues to be a popular choice today. It is especially useful on non-porous surfaces, including metal and plastic. And because it stays flexible after it is dry, silicone caulk rarely breaks or cracks as a result of extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes. This makes it perfect for filling gaps around windows and doors. Latex Caulk
Latex caulk can last for up to 20 years and it can also be painted over to match any décor. This makes it perfect for indoor use. Latex caulk doesn't stand up to temperature changes well, so it shouldn't be used outdoors here in Wisconsin. It is particularly good for wood siding and filling small cracks in door frames and window frames. Acrylic Latex Silicone Blend Caulk
This type of caulk is a hybrid of acrylic, latex, and silicone caulks. It is easier to apply than regular silicone caulk but has a similar durability. This type of caulk is good for both indoor and outdoor uses, including wood siding, cracks in brick and stone, and for weatherproofing windows and doors. Kitchen and Bath Caulk
Kitchen and bath caulk is designed for use in areas that have high moisture content. It can stand up to mold and mildew growth and is excellent for sealing bathtubs, shower stalls, toilets, and sinks. Butyl Rubber Caulk
Butyl rubber caulk is another popular caulk alternative. It is excellent for use in gaps and cracks that are up to ¼" wide, such as those appearing on windowsills and between doors and door frames. Strong and durable, butyl rubber caulk can last up to ten years when applied correctly. Oil-Based Asphalt Caulk
This type of caulk is designed for use in heavy-duty repair jobs, including chimney repairs, flashing and air pipe sealing, and outdoor vent sealing. Similar to a soft tar, oil-based asphalt caulk hardens very quickly and provides durable sealing for up to 4 years. |  |  | Household Tips: Spring Checklist Here's a checklist that can help you get your home ready for spring. 1. Clean or replace furnace filter. 2. Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV/ERV). Check your manual and follow manufacturer's recommendations. 3. Clean range hood filter. 4. Clean and check sump pump and pit. 5. Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater (recommendations and safety needs). 6. Clean faucet aerators and turn on infrequently used faucets and put water in floor drains to maintain the trap's water barrier. We always recommend pouring ¼ cup of vegetable oil in after adding water. The oil keeps the water from evaporating.
Rental Space Available 
This rental space is available from April 1, 2010 in Waunakee. It is located at 605 Knightsbridge Road in the Michael F. Simon Builders office building. It is approximately 550 square feet and the rent is $749 per month. All utilities are paid for by the landlord (Michael F. Simon Builders, Inc.). All exterior maintenance and upkeep (i.e. shoveling, plowing, mowing, etc.) are provided by the landlord. 
This rental space would be ideal for a small business. There is plenty of on and off street parking for you and your clients. It is set up as two offices and two bathrooms with a common reception area. For more information or to set up a showing, please contact Phil Simon at Michael F. Simon Builders, Inc. at 608-849-5916 or email at
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. Our office hours are Monday through Friday 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Tips from Bob & Terry: Bob Clemens (remodeling expert) and Terry Dowell (Project Manager) from Simon Builders, have picked up a few tips and tricks over their 50 plus combined years here at Simon Builders. This month, they would like to remind you to do an inspection of your home now that the snow is gone. The Spring Checklist (found at the top of this page) is a very good way to get some "Peace of Mind" that your home is running as it should. Especially with the spring rains that are sure to come soon. Terry thinks one of the most important things you can do is make sure your downspouts are clear and the sump pit is working. Cleaning a flooded basement is no minor task and can usually be avoided with minor preparation. If you'd like Bob & Terry to answer any specific home related questions, feel free to email them to
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.
Cheers to You: Our New Referral Program  The greatest compliment we can receive is a referral from you! If you know of anyone looking for a lot, a new home or a refresh or remodel in their current home, please have them give us a call.
As a token of our appreciation, we will treat you to a wine or brew of the month club, if your referral builds with us. Please contact us for more details. Cheers & thank you!
New Product: 3D Home Theater What do Avatar, Alice in Wonderland and Toy Story 3 have in common? They are all following the new 3D trend! Although 3D dvd's aren't available to consumers yet, it will be soon! Be the first to have a 3D theater in your home! No more debating where to watch that new release! Find out what you'll need to be one of the first to have 3D in your home. Read Stephen Hopkins article for more information.
In the next issue: » Available Lots
» New Products - IPhone Universal Remote Control » Past Projects - Added Cubbie Space » Cabinet Cornucopia » Tips from Bob & Terry - » What You Should Know About Mold
Send story ideas and feedback to Paul Simon (
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). | Â |
