Author: LaBonte Construction

6 Considerations When Selecting A Bath Fan

Bath Fan Selection: 6 Considerations for Bathroom Remodeling

The standard bath fan is necessary in most homes, and they are essential in the function of your home’s ventilation system. Showers and baths create steam. If the steam is not expelled it can cause damages to paint and wallpaper, and in extreme situations, encourage mold. Hiring a qualified home remodeling contractor like LaBonte Construction can ensure that the correct fan is used for your next bathroom remodeling project.

While a bath fan’s most important function is removing moisture from the air, they also remove smells from the bathroom. We look at six considerations when selecting a bath fan for your  bathroom remodeling project.

Bathroom Size

Fans are sized by the rate by which they expel air from your home. This measurement is specified in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The lower the CFM rating, the less air the fan moves. It is almost always better to oversize a bath fan than to undersize it.

To specify which fan is appropriate for your space, architects and home remodelers use several rules of thumb or calculations. The most simple rule of thumb is one CFM per square foot of room area.

A typical bathroom in Milwaukee is five by eight feet, or forty square feet. This bathroom would require at least a forty CFM fan. More complex suggestions are made by the Home Ventilation Institute (HVI), who certify bath fans, among other ventilation products. The HVI suggests exchanging the bathroom air a minimum of eight times per hour, and they provide a calculation for this based on cubic feet. If we use the same five by eight bathroom with a common nine foot tall ceiling, you come up with a measurement of 320 cu. ft.

 

EXAMPLE:
360 cubic feet x 8 air changes per hour = 2,880 Cubic Feet per hour
To Convert to CFM
2,880 per hour / 60 minutes = 48 CFM minimum
For large bathrooms, we suggest calculating based on fixtures:
Toilet: 50 CFM
Shower or Bathtub: 50 CFM
Jetted Tub: 100 CFM

EXAMPLE:
A bathroom that has a shower, bathtub and toilet:
50 CFM + 50 CFM + 50 CFM = 150 CFM minimum

 

Bath Fan Installation

Bath Fan Installation in Milwaukee Bathroom Remodel
A bath fan ducted to the roof of a home remodeling project in Whitefish Bay | LaBonte Construction
Bathroom Remodelers that Install Bath Fans Milwaukee
A Panasonic exhaust fan painted to match the ceiling

Most bath fans are mounted on the ceiling, but some are mounted on the wall. Fans should be ducted to the outside. Most commonly, home remodelers use a vent through the roof. Some handymen, DIYers, or unqualified builders could vent your bath fan directly into your attic, which is wrong and can cause moisture problems.

If your bath can not be vented though the sidewall of your home and it passes through an unconditioned space (e.g. attic), the exhaust piping must be insulated.

While some fans are automatic, most require a switch. In commercial settings, and in homes where someone may forget to turn on the fan while using the bathroom, an occupancy sensor or wiring the fan to turn on with the light might make sense.

Bath fans in the ceiling can be an eyesore. We encourage our clients who do not have a white ceiling to consider having their bath fan grill painted by our staff during the remodeling process, in order to match the fan to the ceiling.

Noise Level

One of the main reasons our clients cite not using their bathroom fan is because of noise. Manufactures have worked hard to address this issue by improving the fan bearings, increasing the fan sizes to lower the RPMs while still moving the same amount of air, and by adding additional soundproofing features to the fan housing.

The noise of a bath fan is measured in sones. The lower the sone value, the less volume the fan produces. Sones are not a measurement like decibels, but rather, how sound is sensed. Unlike decibels which are logarithmic, sones are linear.

Sones Decibels Sound Equivalent
1 28 Whisper
2 37.99 Quiet Library
3 43.84 Desktop Computer
4 47.99 Quiet Suburb
5 51.21 Conversation
6 53.83 Refrigerator

Most of the bath fans our clients select are considered quiet or ultra-quiet, having a sone rating of two or less.

Efficiency

Big families can have a bath fan run for hours on end. Fortunately, bath fans have become significantly more energy-efficient in the last ten years. Many of the Energy Star fans we install are seventy percent more efficient than traditional non-rated equivalents. Choosing to use a timer or occupancy sensor for your fan can further increase the efficiency by ensuring the fan is only in use when necessary.

Formfactor

Fans are traditionally ceiling mounted between studs with a white plastic cover. Some have lights, and some do not. Most high-efficiency fans are taller, requiring a minimum of 2×6 ceiling joists to accommodate their housing. Historically, the quieter or stronger the fan, the larger the blades and plastic shroud covering it.

There have been many improvements and innovations in the past few years. Companies like Broan® have come out with their model 744, which combines a recessed can light and a bath fan into one. This hybrid fan/light draws air from around the bulb by having a hole in the back of the can light trim.

Bathroom Exhaust Fan Installation Services Milwaukee
An intake for an inline bathroom exhaust fan

Some clients want to avoid a large plastic cover on their ceiling and opt for an inline bath fan, which has a smaller ceiling intake and mounts the fan remotely. The benefit of an inline bath fan is that the fan can be mounted anywhere between the intake and the outlet. This allows for installations where power may be easier to access, where the fan can be easily serviced, in situations where a large fan will not fit in the joist cavity, and in installations where multiple exhaust points can be combined with only one outlet through the roof or side of the home.

Bath Fan Features

Traditionally, fan options were limited to including a light or a heating function on more premium models. Lately, companies like Broan® also offer a Bluethooth© fan that allows you to play music through a speaker in the fan’s housing while you sing in the shower. One of our favorite brands at LaBonte Construction, Panasonic, offers add-on modules that can be installed into the bath fan, giving you more control over your bathroom ventilation. Examples of their accessories include condensation sensors, timers, motion sensors and speed controllers.

Upgrade Your Bath Fan with LaBonte Construction

A fan is part of every bathroom remodeling project we complete at LaBonte Construction. Entrusting your home to our staff, who have years of residential construction experience means your bath fan will be properly sized and have the features your family needs to enjoy your bathroom for years to come. Please contact us to discuss your bathroom remodeling project.

 

Make Your Next Home Remodeling Project A Greenhouse

Solar Greenhouses in Milwaukee

Gardeners looking to extend their season, start seeds or those who want to create an indoor oasis may consider a greenhouse as their next home remodeling project. Greenhouses provide a great place to grow your plants, and can offer some other surprising uses as well. Whether you’re an avid gardener, or just a lover of nature, greenhouses can add life, warmth and comfort to your home.

A Brief History of Greenhouses

The idea of growing plants in a controlled environment has existed since Roman times. Roman emperor Tiberius ate a cucumber-like vegetable every day. Needing to make sure their emperor was kept happy, Roman gardeners constructed an artificial garden in order to ensure the emperor had his preferred meal. This garden was certainly not a modern greenhouse, but it is one of the first examples in history of temperature controlled gardening.

The first known description of a heated greenhouse comes from Sanga Yorok, a Korean cookbook from 1459 compiled by a royal physician of the Joseon dynasty. It contains detailed instructions on constructing a greenhouse to grow vegetables, flowers and fruit within an artificially heated environment. They used ondol, a traditional Korean underfloor heating system, to help heat the greenhouse. Cob walls were used to retain heat, and semi-transparent oiled hanji windows were used to allow light into the greenhouse whilst providing protection from the outside environment.

The “Golden Age” of greenhouses took place in Victorian England. Members of the wealthy upper class constructed large and lavish greenhouses. They did this to compete with each other and flaunt their wealth. Those greenhouses followed the same models used by the Koreans, but on a much grander scale.

Modern, at-home greenhouses first proliferated in the 1960s, in large part due to the introduction of wider sheets of polyethylene film, which offered greater protection to greenhouse windows. This wider film allowed small greenhouse owners to create a better and more consistent climate at home.

Freestanding vs. Attached

When deciding what kind of greenhouse you want for your home consider usage, lighting and available space. If you are an avid gardener, you may want to consider a freestanding greenhouse. They can be any size, shape or style and you are only limited by your imagination. They can also be expanded if you find that your initial greenhouse was not big enough. Freestanding greenhouses should be located facing east or west to maximize the light, and given Wisconsin’s winters, be sure the location you choose avoids harsh winter winds.

Attached greenhouses are easily accessible as they are attached to your home, or another structure. This makes connecting water and power to your greenhouse easier. Attached greenhouses retain more heat than freestanding greenhouses because there is less exposure to the outside elements. Attached greenhouses can provide health benefits because they naturally add humidity to your home during the winter, helping alleviate dry skin and other ailments related to dry air.

Greenhouse Remodeling in Wisconsin
An example of an attached greenhouse / Source: Off Grid World

Starting From The Bottom

Once you have picked a style of greenhouse, then construction can begin. Choosing the right foundation for your greenhouse is very important. The foundation contributes to the greenhouse’s ability to retain heat and humidity. There are many different types of foundation to choose from, however, we recommend concrete. This is an ideal choice as concrete provides a permanent and level surface for your greenhouse.

The DIY method for building a greenhouse is generally anchoring a metal frame into the soil, but this can create problems. It is harder to clean a greenhouse that doesn’t have a solid foundation, and framed or hoop greenhouses are not permanent structures and are therefore susceptible to numerous structural problems. The concrete foundations we install provide structural integrity, and can be clad in stone, stucco and many other materials to achieve the desired look. At LaBonte Construction, the greenhouses we install are of heirloom quality and built to last a lifetime.

Heating

Maintaining the proper heating for your greenhouse is a must. There are several ways this can be done:

  1. Hotbeds – Hotbeds are raised beds that you can install in your greenhouse. Fill the beds with layers of decomposing straw and manure (or other organic material) and top that with a thin layer of growing soil. You can then plant your seeds in the growing soil, and the natural warmth from the layers will give your plants a safe space to grow.
  1. Hot Water Heating – If manure isn’t your thing, a hot water heating system may be the way to go. It is a little trickier to install so this should be left to the professionals. For this option, you will need hot water plumbing that is attached to the plant beds in your greenhouse. If you want an eco-friendly option, you can install solar panels to heat the water.
  1. Radiant Heating – Radiant heating systems work by radiating heat from a hot surface to cooler surroundings. This piping is installed under the greenhouses foundation and connects with your home’s boiler to heat your greenhouse from the ground-up.
  1. Rustic Heater – This one is probably the easiest to do yourself. If you have a small greenhouse, simply place a candle (or candles) below a ceramic plant pot. This essentially creates a tiny space heater for your greenhouse.
  1. Heating With Livestock – Keeping chickens in a part of your greenhouse, or in an attached coup, can naturally warm the greenhouse. The body heat the chickens produce, as well as the heat from their manure, can be quite effective in keeping your greenhouse warm during the colder months.

Humidity

Humidity is another key component of a well-maintained greenhouse. Ideally, the humidity in a greenhouse should be above fifty percent.  While this number can be easily achieved and maintained during spring and summer, Wisconsin’s winters provide a tricky challenge. Thankfully, there are a few ways to keep your greenhouse humid during harsh Wisconsin winters.

The simplest way to add humidity is by placing buckets of water in your greenhouse. When the greenhouse warms, the water evaporates, increasing humidity. You can also use your mister to keep the plants moist. Although these are simple, DIY methods, they can be time consuming. We recommend avoiding this problem by having an automatic window and temperature control system included upon installation of your greenhouse. It is just one of the many accessories that can help your greenhouse flourish.

Greenhouse Accessories

Greenhouses can take a lot of time and energy to operate. There are many different accessories and products you can use to keep your greenhouse running smoothly with less physical effort. One of our favorite options for a greenhouse is the self-cleaning glass from Hartley Botanic. This self-cleaning glass has a special coating that reacts with the UV rays from the sun to break down organic matter. Then water, or rainwater, runs down the glass to wash away the loosened dirt. Self-cleaning glass can save you a lot of time and energy when it comes to cleaning your greenhouse.

Another beneficial accessory that you can opt for in your greenhouse is a partition. This is an internal glass wall that separates your greenhouse into different areas, allowing for different climates in separate areas.

Victorian roller blinds can help regulate the internal temperature of your greenhouse. Roller blinds protect your plants from sunlight damage and can provide an attractive environment while working in your greenhouse.

Shelving is another key component of a greenhouse. We prefer aluminum, staged shelving as it provides strength and allows for more space within the greenhouse.

Greenhouse Remodeling in Milwaukee
Aluminum staging and shelving from Hartley Botanic

By including some, or all of the aforementioned accessories, you can ensure that your greenhouse is of the highest quality for you and your plants.

Other Uses For Your Greenhouse

If your greenhouse has year-round heating and plumbing, it can be used as an “outdoor” dining area. Granted you will still be inside, but the combination of warmth and greenery can give you the feeling of being outside in nature. Additionally, greenhouses can be used as a lively studio space for those who enjoy painting, playing music, or doing any other hobby in an outdoor environment. If you miss being outdoors during Wisconsin winters, your greenhouse can provide a small oasis.

Final Thoughts

Adding or remodeling a greenhouse can be a great way to add warmth, and a touch of the outdoors to your home. Whether you’re looking to attach a greenhouse to your home, or add a detached greenhouse, LaBonte Construction can help. Please contact our home remodeling team with any questions regarding adding a greenhouse as your next home remodeling project.

Types Of Lumber Used In Home Remodeling

Types Of Lumber Used In Home Remodeling

While the framework of a home is not visible, it is possibly the most important part of your home. Having the right framing for your home or home remodeling project can lead to lower energy costs and an overall stronger home. At LaBonte Construction we use the highest quality lumber to ensure your home is sound.

There are many different types of lumber that we use use when framing a home. Certain lumber types are more beneficial for the interior of a home, while others are used on the exterior.

Dimensional Lumber

Dimensional lumber is most commonly used for the framing of a home or home remodeling project. While everyone has heard of a 2×4, these are not its actual dimensions. In fact, none of the different nominal sizes of lumber are the size for which they are named.

Nominal Size Actual Size
2 x 4 1 1/2” x 3 1/2”
2 x 6 1 1/2” x 5 1/2”
2 x 8 1 1/2” x 7 1/4”
2 x 10 1 1/2” x 9 1/4”
2 x 12 1 1/2” x 11 1/4”
Spruce-Pine-Fur (SPF)

SPF refers to dimensional lumber that comes from coniferous trees in North America. SPF are softwoods, and the most widely-used dimensional lumber in the framing process. Although they are called softwoods, they are very stiff and strong for their weight. Douglas fir is amongst the hardest and heaviest of the softwoods commercially available in North America. SPF wood takes paint easily and holds nails extremely well, making it among the most popular dimensional lumber choices in construction.

Pressure Treated

Pressure treated lumber is a dimensional lumber that has undergone a chemical process to make it more durable and less susceptible to decay, mold, infestation and water damage. At LaBonte Construction we generally use this lumber on the exterior of a home due to its resistive properties. It can also be used for decks, fences or docks.

Cedar

We commonly use cedar for exterior trim. It has long been a popular choice in the construction industry due to its natural beauty and strength. Cedar is also rot resistant which makes it a good option for the exterior of your home. Cedar is milled to have a smooth side and a rough side, offering the ability to create different looks.

Trusses
Trussed Roof Built by Whitefish Bay Home Remodelers
A trussed roof used in a home remodeling project in Whitefish Bay / LaBonte Construction

Another use of dimensional lumber is that they can be made into trusses. Trusses can add more stability to the roof or floor of your home when compared to traditional stick-framing methods.

Trussed roofs can provide more solidity and stability to your roof than a traditional stick-framed roof. With a trussed roof you may lose storage space, but it can be an optimal trade-off if that extra space isn’t needed. Alternatively, you can opt for a storage truss, which as the name suggests, allows for more storage space.

Trusses can also be used in the framing of a home’s floor, which can increase the floor’s strength. Due to their design, floor trusses allow for more room to run HVAC systems and plumbing, decreasing mechanical costs.

Engineered Lumber

SCL: LSL, PSL, LVL

Structural composite lumber (SCL) is a term that is used to describe a family of engineered wood products. SCL provides numerous advantages over traditional lumber, including increased strength, stability and resistance to moisture. SCL traditionally consists of three products: Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL), Parallel Strand Lumber (PSL), and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL).

Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL) is made from flaked wood strands and is typically a more cost-effective option when compared to other engineered woods. LSL is generally not as strong as PSL or LVL, but it is still quite effective. LSL is great for kitchens and bathrooms because it is naturally straight. If you have a modern home where straight edges and 90º angles are important, this is a great option. It is also perfect for kitchens, making it easier to hang cabinets by avoiding the need to scribe cabinets to the wall.

Parallel Stand Lumber (PSL) is made from veneers that have been laid into long, parallel strands and bonded together. These are typically used in beams where a larger degree of strength is required. Another benefit to PSL beams is that they can be finished or stained if you want them to be exposed in your home.

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is manufactured similarly to PSL. These are used similarly to PSL beams as well, but they can be fabricated in a narrower width, allowing them to be used in smaller spaces where PSL beams would not be possible.

Glue Laminated Timber

Commonly referred to as glulam, glue laminated timber is a timber that has been bonded with waterproof adhesives. This timber can be fabricated to meet any size, giving it more versatility when compared to SCL. Glulam is often used in high, exposed areas of a building or home due to its beauty. Due to the way it is manufactured, glulams can be fabricated into unique shapes, allowing for a wide variety of uses. Glulam can be great option for customers looking to include a high ceiling in their home remodeling project.

TStud™

The TStud™ is a innovative new product in the use of dimensional lumber in a home.

TStud™ is the same exact dimensions and made from the same lumber as a traditional 2×6, but because it is made from two perpendicular 2×3 boards, the gap in between the boards allows for insulation to be applied. In some cases, insulation may be built directly into the TStud™ before its arrival to the job site. The pre-insulated boards have an R-value of twenty, while a traditional 2×6 has an R-value of five. This increase in efficiency reduces thermal bridging, allowing your HVAC system and other applicants to not work as hard. This can reduce your energy costs as well as your carbon footprint.

TJI® Joists
TJI Joists for Milwaukee Home Remodel
TJI® joists ready for the job site

A product of Weyerhaeuser, TJI® joists are great when looking for a high-performance floor in your home remodeling project. TJI® joists are lightweight and come in longer lengths than traditional floor joists, which makes for a quicker install. These joists can be easily drilled and cut to allow for plumbing and HVAC to pass through undisturbed. Because TJI® joists are longer than standard floor joists, they can accommodate more unique floor plans. They are also extremely stable which can help them resist warping, twisting and shrinking that can lead to squeaky floors.

Metal Studs

While homes are traditionally built with a wood frame, you can also opt for a metal frame. If you’ve ever seen a commercial building under construction, you’ve probably seen the exposed metal framework. There are several reasons why these buildings opt for metal studs over traditional wood framing:

  • Moisture and humidity do not make metal studs warp or rot
  • Highly durable and able to withstand severe weather
  • They can be termite resistant and eliminate the need for pest control
  • Steel studs are a green product because steel can be recycled
  • Metal studs do not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Sometimes available during lumber shortages or during price instability

While metal studs are typically used in the construction of commercial buildings, they can also be used in building a new home or a home remodeling project.

Sheet Goods

Sheet goods are the panels used in floor, wall and roof assemblies of a home or commercial construction. These or panels are attached to the already-installed lumber framing of the structure. Sheet goods are used so that other materials may be applied to it, such as insulation, siding, roofing or flooring. There are different materials used in the manufacturing of sheet goods, with each holding their own unique advantages.

AdvanTech®

AdvanTech® is our first choice subflooring sheet good at LaBonte Construction. It possess moisture protection throughout the entire panel and is precisely engineered to ensure that every panel fits together easily. Because it is resistant to moisture, there is less impact from weather exposure during the framing process.

home remodeling
AdvanTech® subflooring used in a home remodeling project in Whitefish Bay / LaBonte Construction

Because of the way it is manufactured, AdvanTech® possesses more wood than other types of sub-flooring materials like OSB or plywood, which gives it more strength when compared to those other materials. It allows you to use hardwood flooring in your home remodeling project, whereas you should not use hardwood flooring with OSB. Using the AdvanTech® subfloor material, combined with their subfloor adhesive, we are able to help eliminate floor squeaks and help with sound suppression and provides a strong factory warrantee.

When it comes to subfloor panel sizes of AdvanTech®, it only comes in 4’ x 8’ boards. These boards are thicker than OSB or plywood and the minimum size used is 19/32”, with the thickest boards being 1 1/8”.

OSB

Oriented strand board (OSB) is the most commonly-used sheet good today because of its price when compared to plywood. OSB is also denser than plywood, which makes it less permeable to vapors, which can result in a slightly better-insulated home. OSB most commonly takes the form of a 4’x8′ sheet and ranges in thickness from 5/16” to 1-1/8”.

Plywood

Plywood has long been the traditional sheet good used in  construction. Since the introduction of OSB, the use of plywood has declined. However, there are still many benefits to using plywood. Plywood holds a significant advantage over OSB when it comes to moisture. When plywood gets wet it tends to swell; when plywood dries out, it can return to its original dimensions. Plywood also dries out quicker than OSB, which can result in little-to-no defects to the floor or roof. There are two additional common treatments of plywood we use in the remodeling process: pressure-treated and fire-rated.

Pressure-treated plywood is plywood that has undergone a chemical treatment to make it less susceptible to rot, insect infestation, mold and water damage. This allows the plywood to maintain structural rigidity and avoid some of the common issues associated with untreated lumber.

Fired rated plywood is specially treated with chemicals as well, but these chemicals provide a physical barrier to the spread of flame. The wood chars but does not oxidize, which can significantly reduce the spread of a fire.

home remodeling
OSB and plywood boards at a lumber yard
ZIP System® And ZIP System® R-Sheathing

ZIP System® sheathing is a favorite of ours at LaBonte Construction. Another product of Huberwood, ZIP System® sheathing provides a continuous air barrier for your home as well as thermal resistance. One of the biggest benefits to ZIP System® sheathing is that it is water resistant. This water resistant air barrier is built directly into the product, so there is no need for extra protection. Another great benefit is that it allows for numerous types of wall claddings including brick, siding, stucco or cedar shingles. ZIP System® sheathing eliminates the need for housewrap.

ZIP Sheathing in Whitefish Bay Home Remodeling Project
Standard ZIP sheathing in a home remodeling project in Whitefish Bay / LaBonte Construction

ZIP System® R-Sheathing is a step up in efficiency from the standard ZIP System® sheathing. R-sheathing has all of the same components as the standard ZIP System® sheathing, but it also includes a layer of foam insulation bonded to the interior. By providing this added layer of insulation, your home can remain warmer during our frigid Milwaukee winters. R-sheathing includes exterior water, air and thermal management properties all in one product. By having this installed in your home remodeling project, you can help reduce your energy costs.

Find the Best Lumber for Your Home Remodel

Having the right type of lumber for each part of your home remodeling project can help give your home rigidity and structural integrity. Along with saving on energy costs, it can add peace of mind knowing that your home remodeling project is solid. Please contact us at LaBonte Construction to discuss the best type of framing for your new home or home remodeling project.

Insulation Options For Your Home Remodeling Project

Insulation Options For Your Home Remodeling Project

There are many different types of insulation to consider when remodeling your home. From the most common, to the most effective, we will take a look at some of the different types of insulation we use in the home remodeling process.

Remodeling With Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass is the most common insulation material used today. It is the material LaBonte Construction uses most when insulating a home or home addition. Made from fine glass fibers, fiberglass insulation generally takes the form of batts, rolls and loose-fill. Fiberglass batts are also quickly installed, which provides our clients with a cost-effective option. Common fiberglass insulation brands include Owens Corning or Johns Manville. Fiberglass insulation meets code by having adequate thermal properties and can even provide some acoustic dampening.

Fiberglass Insulation for Whitefish Bay Home Remodel
Fiberglass insulation in a residential sport court in Whitefish Bay, WI

There are several benefits to using fiberglass insulation. It is the most cost-effective, most readily available, it meets code and it is easy to work with. Fiberglass insulation comes in all off the necessary joist spacing sizes, R-Values and facings which makes it easy to find the right option. Because it contains sand and recycled glass, fiberglass insulation is naturally noncombustible.

Remodeling With Spray Foam Insulation

The second most common type of insulation we use in the remodeling process is spray foam. Spray foam insulation is used to seal wall, floor and ceiling cavities against air movement. If applied correctly, spray foam never loses its shape over time. It will not compress, sag nor settle. The foam is made from organic chemical compounds derived from petroleum extracts. Although that may sound dangerous, it is considered environmentally safe and one of our favorite options for maximum efficiency.

remodeling
Spray Foam Insulation used in a pool house in River Hills / LaBonte Construction / HB Designs / Peabody’s Interiors

Spray foam insulation can help reduce high energy bills because the foam prevents air leakage. It can also helps prevent ice dams, which can be an issue for some Wisconsinites. The reduced airflow that spray foam creates helps prevent drafts and cold floors. A tighter envelope can lead to a more energy-efficient home.

There are two main types of spray foam insulation: Closed Cell and Open Cell.

Closed Cell

Closed cell spray foam insulation creates an air seal within the home and provides continuous insulation. We use closed cell foam regularly at LaBonte Construction, and Johns Manville Corbond III® is one of the most common closed cell options we use. It can be applied to open cavities of new homes, existing homes, pole barns and commercial buildings. Closed cell foam is durable, and can be left exposed without worrying about damage to the foam. It is unique in that it does not require a roof to be vented during the remodeling process, and the entire home envelope can be sealed which creates a tighter home.

Closed cell foam is waterproof and limits air leakage where it is installed. Closed cell foam’s higher R-Value per inch of thickness makes it a great option in older homes that have shallow joist cavities. This may not allow for traditional insulation to achieve code without additional furring and carpentry, which may be costly and reduce precious ceiling height.

Open Cell

Open cell spray foam insulation is generally applied to open cavities in any structure. Just like closed cell foam insulation it creates an air seal and provides continuous insulation. It is most commonly used in new homes, existing homes and pole barns. Open cell foam is light, pliable and can expand up to 100 times in volume to fill every crack and crevice where it is sprayed.

Homes naturally shift and settle over time, and open cell insulation will move with the structure without cracking or pulling away from the studs. Unlike closed cell insulation, open cell foam allows moisture to move through it, but it does not soak up or retain the moisture. Because of its composition, open cell foam can dry if the building envelope is properly engineered.

Mineral Wool: A Favorite Of LaBonte Construction

Mineral wool, sometimes referred to as stone wool or ROCKWOOL®, has been around for decades with a proven track record. First patented in the United States by John Player in 1870, mineral wool was first commercially produced in Germany in 1871. It wasn’t until the 1970’s that mineral wool became a common insulation option. Mineral wool is widely used in Canada and Europe, but saw a decline in its usage in the United States over the past thirty years. However, more recently, mineral wool has made a comeback in the U.S., and is now a favorite choice of ours.

Mineral wool is made by melting down basalt stone and recycled slag from steel mills, which is then spun into fiber and formed into batts or boards. It is a terrific option for damp spaces and exterior uses, and it also has greater health benefits when compared to other options.

Mineral wool is also denser than other types of insulation which makes it effective for soundproofing. It is fire resistant and is often used as fire stopping around holes and pipes between floors during remodeling projects. Like open cell foam, mineral wool does not absorb water which discourages the growth of mold and mildew. Containing up to seventy percent recycled materials, mineral wool is an eco-friendly option. Mineral wool also possesses a higher R-value per inch compared to that of traditional fiberglass insulation, making for a warmer home.

Denim Insulation

Denim insulation is not the most widely-used insulation but is one of the highest quality options. Made of scraps and clippings that come from the manufacturing of denim clothing, this insulation is extremely sustainable as it contains around eighty-five percent recycled materials. Its natural cotton fibers are also one hundred percent recyclable at the end of the insulation’s usable life. Manufacturing denim insulation requires much less energy than traditional fiberglass insulation, and is considered an efficient manufacturing process.

As well as being an eco-friendly alternative, denim insulation provides better acoustic dampening when compared to other insulations. Denim insulation can provide up to thirty percent better sound dampening than traditional insulation, making for a quieter home. It also contains no volatile organic compounds (VOC) or formaldehyde, which can contaminate a home’s indoor air. Denim insulation is treated with an EPA-registered fungal inhibitor which protects it from mold, mildew and pests. The insulation is also treated with an EPA-approved borate solution that makes it flame resistant.

AeroBarrier

If you’re looking to insulate your home without having to take apart walls, AeroBarrier is a great option. AeroBarrier can seal air leaks in your home up to ½” in size. Using a blower door, the space is pressurized. From there, a computer controls the rest, including the temperature, pressure, humidity and the distribution of the sealant. Another perk of AeroBarrier is that you can see the results in real time as the blower door test improves.

After the sealing process, work can resume within thirty minutes. The overall process (pre-sealing, preparation, setup/seal/breakdown, cover removal, post test and additional cleanup) takes anywhere from 14-22 hours, depending on the size of the space you are getting air sealed. AeroBarrier is best used in new construction and whole home remodeling projects.

Interior vs. Exterior Insulation

Interior

Interior insulation is required by code, therefore choosing the right option for your home is important. One of the perks in searching for the right interior insulation for your home is that there are many different kinds, so finding the right option shouldn’t be too difficult.

Insulating interior walls can reduce sound transfer from room to room. Interior insulation also helps prevent mold and mildew from building within the walls. Finding the right interior insulation for your home can also help you reduce your energy costs. If less heat escapes from your home you can expect your energy bills to drop.

Exterior

Having exterior insulation in your home is extremely helpful. At LaBonte Construction, we advocate the use of ZIP R-sheathing for your exterior insulation. ZIP R-sheathing is the easiest way a client can add exterior insulation during a remodeling project. The biggest benefit to ZIP R-Sheathing is that it is extremely effective at preventing thermal bridging. It is also handy if you live somewhere noisy, as a ZIP R-sheathing can help dampen some of the outside noise.

Remodeling
ZIP sheathing in a home in Whitefish Bay / LaBonte Construction

Whether building, remodeling or adding an addition to a home, look to use exterior insulation whenever possible. Installation can be tricky, and is best left to the professionals.

R-Value Requirements

Each type of insulation is assigned an R-value. An R-value is the measure of an insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it. The higher the R-value, the better the insulating performance and resistance to heat loss. In the United States (and its territories) there are eight different zones that are used to determine the required R-value for insulation.

remodeling
R-value map from the Department of Energy

Below are the R-value requirements from the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) for different parts of a structure in Zone Six (Milwaukee County’s Zone):

  1. Attics: R49-R60
  2. 2×4 Walls: R13-R15
  3. 2×6 Walls: R19-R21
  4. Floors and Crawl Spaces: R25-R30
Final Thoughts

Insulation is a key part of the building and remodeling process. Finding the right insulation for your home can make your home more comfortable. Please contact us at LaBonte Construction to discuss a remodeling project incorporating the best insulation practices.

10 Ways To Make Your Bathroom Remodel Feel Luxurious

Master Bathroom in Whitefish Bay Home Remodel

At LaBonte Construction, we focus on delivering the highest quality remodeling projects to our clients. Even if you do not have an unlimited budget, incorporating some of these ideas into your bathroom remodel can be a cost effective way to make your bathroom stand out.

Adding Upgraded Angle Stops and P-Traps

Angle stops are the valves that act as the shutoff for each of the fixtures in your bathroom. Traditionally, there is one located on the supply to your toilet. There is also one on both the hot, and cold sides of your sink’s faucet. If you have a standalone bidet, there would also be an angle stop on the supply line to that fixture. Usually, production builders would install the least expensive stop code allowed. These stops would require several turns to close. These valves often omit quality brass internals in favor of plastics for cost saving measures.

At LaBonte Construction, our standard is a solid brass quarter turn valve. This angle stop requires you turn it 45 degrees from on to off, and also gives the handle a better chance of not failing over time. It is vital that these valves work years later to avoid flooding when you have a leaking faucet, or to avoid draining the water lines of the entire home during routine maintenance.

P-Traps

As another cost saving measure, builders use a PVC P-Trap to connect the sink drain to the waste lines in the wall.  Although we think these are fine for the inside of a vanity where they will not be seen, they are ugly and can cheapen your space when exposed. A pedestal or console sink does not do a great job of hiding the pipes under the sink. We recommend considering other options to make your bathroom remodel look more refined.

Our standard inclusions are great for vanities, but designers and clients often appreciate using upgraded, decorative angle stops and P-Traps in their projects. These plumbing upgrades are most common on toilets and sinks, where valves are visible and can be appreciated. Not only are several styles of handle offered, but also all of the popular finishes. This allows our remodeling clients to match the angle stop to the finish of their plumbing fixtures.

Make sure to let us know you want upgraded stops at the beginning of your project because the builder needs to install the plumbing in a way that allows for these upgraded valves. To complete the look, our plumbers will utilize hard-piped supply lines and premium escutcheons around the pipes.

Custom Medicine Cabinets

LaBonte Construction’s cabinet shop can fabricate a medicine cabinet to match your space. Stacked moldings with butt hinges and a hand-brushed oil finish can give your bathroom an old-world feel. Other clients may desire a modern look and have us fabricate something like a sleek walnut frame. Choosing between a flat or beveled mirror can also make a big impact. While usually not a large portion of the budget, the mirror takes up a lot of the total surface area in your bathroom remodeling project. Quality execution is essential when tying the space together, as well as providing the perfect place to store your toiletries.

Painting Light Fixtures and Fans

When trying to achieve the most luxurious feel for your bathroom remodel, we suggest getting rid of white eyesores on the ceiling (unless your ceiling is white). Usually, it is easy and inexpensive to paint the plastic trims around can lights and bath fan covers. Our qualified painters prepare these plastic and metal surfaces, then apply paint that will help the electrical fixtures vanish into the ceiling in a stylish way.

Upgrading Light Switches

Upgrading light switches is one of the least expensive ways to add luxury to your bathroom remodel.  It can have a big impact on the way you enjoy you newly remodeled space. In a bathroom that is meant to look historic, we recommend reproduction push-button light switches. They look like the originals, but increase safety and include the ability to add a dimmer function.

If your bathroom is more modern or high-tech, you can select a smart switch that allows for smart phone and home automation integration, programmable moods, and can even control the shades.

Others prefer an industrial or masculine look, and opt for a machined-metal light switch like the offerings from Buster & Punch. Adding decorative or sleek switch plate covers that match the finishes in the bathroom can complete the look, and turn an eyesore into a focal point.

If you are remodeling your bathroom and want the switches to disappear, it might be worth investing in a solution like the offerings from TRUFIG or Forbes & Lomax.

Using an Oriental Rug

Bathroom Remodelers in Milwaukee

Most people use a bath mat that coordinates with their towels in their newly remodeled bathroom. There is nothing wrong with that.  If you are looking for the perfect bath mat, we love the offerings from Waterworks. You might, however, be missing an opportunity to express yourself and add visual interest to your new space. Oriental rugs in bathrooms have been popular for years and can add color to the monochrome bathrooms so many remodeling clients request.

It is a popular belief that Oriental and Persian Rugs are very expensive, and in many cases that’s true. However, size is a major  factor in the price of many of these rugs. Your new master bathroom gives you the opportunity to buy a luxury item in a smaller size. Oriental rugs may not be a good option for your living room where your kids or pets might destroy them, but may be a worthwhile investment for your bathroom.

If the local rug galleries do not have a rug you love, we have had success buying them at auction in Chicago, at resale stores and at local estate sales. Buying your bathroom rug this way can involve a little more knowledge, and will likely require coordinating the cleaning of your new rug. Additionally, your new rug should have a pad so you do not slip. Please make sure to check with the tile manufacturer if your floor has a temperamental natural stone in order to avoid staining from dye bleed or materials in the pad.

Adding Custom Shades

While we are not usually involved in the selection of window treatments as a remodeling contractor, we do assist with coordinating the installation of specialty shades and blinds. In addition to adding beauty through another texture and material, bathrooms benefit tremendously from harnessing and controlling natural light. The right lighting can positively affect your mood, help you while you shave or put on your makeup, and present your newly remodeled bathroom in the best light.

For privacy, many of our clients select plantation shutters or top-down bottom-up blinds. Clients with an interest in home automation can tie their blinds to their lighting scenes. With the touch of a button or by schedule, they can open and close their blinds to suit their needs.

Heated Towel Racks

Much like a heated floor, a heated towel rack is a luxury some can’t live without during our cold Milwaukee winters. There are three types of towel racks we install: electric, central/hydronic, and dual-fuel. Electric towel racks use a heating element that is on a timer or a switch to heat the towels. A central or hydronic towel rack is hooked up to your home’s boiler and can act as an additional heat source in your bathroom, often requiring no additional energy. A dual-fuel towel rack is connected to your boiler and is supplemented by an electric element when the boiler system is not on.

Upgrade Your Baseboards

Marble-Tile Baseboards in a Milwaukee Bathroom Remodel

Most homes in the U.S. have a 3.25” painted wood baseboard. In some applications, this type of baseboard fits with the style of your home, but in others, a taller or more ornate option would better fit the bill. Together with the client or designer, we can work to select a more significant baseboard, mill a custom baseboard in our shop, expertly install a tile baseboard to match your bathroom tile, or combine several stock molding profiles from a lumber supplier to create a one of a kind stacked baseboard.

Add Decorative Cabinet Hardware

Decorative hardware can be subtle or make a statement. When well executed, hardware can tie a bathroom together and have a huge visual impact. Often described as “jewelry for your cabinets”, decorative hardware comes in all shapes and sizes. When compared to a kitchen, bathrooms usually require fewer pulls and knobs which allow many of our clients to splurge without impacting their budget while having us install something really special. With the variety of shapes, sizes and price points, most of our remodeling clients find hardware is a great place to inject their personality into their bathroom remodel.

Heated Tile Floors

One of the most popular upgrades clients request are heated tile floors. There is nothing worse in a cold Midwestern winter than getting up early and stepping onto a chilly floor. Luckily, you do not need a boiler to have heated floors. There are several manufacturers of electric in-floor heating. We work closely with the architect, suppliers and HVAC contractors to make sure we specify the correct system to provide safe, reliable underfloor heating for the life of your bathroom.

Heated Flooring Installation in Milwaukee Home Remodel

Our current favorite system not only warms the floor, but also provides uncoupling, load support and vapor management for the most solid tile installation possible. These in-floor heating systems can be put on a schedule like a traditional thermostat, and some can also be connected to home automation systems.

Finishing Touches

LaBonte Construction has focused on high quality remodeling since our founding in 2006. Our motto is “Home is in the details”, and in no place is this more evident than in the details we incorporate into our client’s bathrooms. When designing and budgeting for your next bathroom project or addition, it is important to onboard the builder at the early planning stages. This allows you to make sure you have an accurate budget, but also take advantage of our years of experience. We have done hundreds of bathroom projects and can help you create the heirloom quality space of your dreams.

Contact the home remodeling team at LaBonte Construction today to get started.