So, what better topic for today than Hurricane windows!  So people often ask us what the options are for hurricane protection on Cape Cod and everyone thinks it is very expensive... so here are the answers to some frequently asked questions on the hurricane windows for your Cape Cod Home!

1. When and where are hurricane windows required?
   1. The answer is actually NEVER… but we will get into that later.  In reality, hurricane resistant windows are required anywhere within 1 mile to mean high water on Cape Cod, and there is a map that shows this area defined here: Wind-Borne Debris Zone
2. Do I have to purchase the hurricane-rated windows and how expensive are they?
   1. If you are inside the Wind-Borne Debris Zone, and doing new construction, or changing the sizes of your original windows for replacement purposes, the building code provides 2 options:

             i.      Option 1 (For windows / doors under 4’x8’) – structural wood panels can be pre-cut and left on the site to apply during a storm

             ii.      Option 2 (for windows / doors over 4’x8’) – impact-resistant or hurricane windows must be used

1. The cost of impact-resistant doors / windows runs about 2-3 times the cost of standard windows, so yes they are VERY expensive
2. What is the benefit of using impact-rated windows vs. standard windows with storm panels?
   1. Impact windows are great for a summer house, or  if you think you might be unavailable during a storm event
   2. Some insurance companies will reduce wind deductibles and other costs if you choose to build with these windows, however, the cost savings will not pay for the added expense of the windows over a reasonable amount of time

   If you are thinking of Building your New Home, or Renovating or Remodeling your Cape Cod Home and want more information about these windows... please feel free to contact us by clicking below: 

   Fall is by far the best season on Cape Cod. Warm days, cool evenings, and even a few afternoons at the beach are just some of the things we enjoy here in the fall. One of the best ways to enjoy this season is with an outdoor living space.  If you are building a New Home, Renovation, or Remodeling, you should consider some type of outdoor living space, such as a screened porch, patio, or covered pergola.  There are hundreds of options which range from a basic covered deck to elaborate spaces with fireplaces and full kitchens.  Here is a slideshow from Builderonline.com that talks about the benefits of an outdoor living space: Outdoor Living Spaces

    At REEF, Cape Cod's Home Builder, many of our projects are for second homes that are near or on any one of Cape Cod's fantastic beaches.  These Custom Homes, or Remodeling Projects, are meant to be a fun gathering place for friends and family throughout the summer months.  We came across an interesting article on Decoist.com that highlights the 3 "Must-Haves" for any beach house.  They are fairly simple concepts... but they do make sense:

1. A Sand Room
2. A wooden deck
3. Plenty of outdoor storage

There are also several other great ideas in this article, so click below to take a look:

http://www.decoist.com/2012-08-15/3-things-every-beach-home-needs/

   Professional Builder Magazine recently published their "Design Innovation Repoort" which was developed with leaders in residential design from across the country.  There were 15 key points in this report, many of which make a lot of sense, and can provide some inspiration for your next New Home, Remodeling or Renovation Project. 

See the full article here: http://www.housingzone.com/design/15-great-ideas-leaders-residential-design

    Smartly-designed bathrooms are a nice feature in a home.  With home design moving towards multi-generation living, showers are a big issue.  We have done several homes recenlty with open showers, and flush floors that can accommodate wheelchair access. Also, if the showers are well-designed, no shower door is needed to capture the water.  These types of showers are expensive and time consuming to do in an existing home, but are fairly easy and straight forward in a new home or addition.  By lowering the floor appropriately in the bathroom, the tile floors can be pitched towards open drains, eliminating the traditional shower curb, door or curtain.   It also makes the bathroom really easy to clean!

Here is an article from houzz.com with some great ideas: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2504909/list/Doorless-Showers-Open-a-World-of-Possibilities

    Things have changed for home builders over the last several years.  Trends are moving away from the large trophy type homes, and more towards designs that offer practical livability, efficient design, and style where it counts.   Builder magazine recently produced an article that highlights the fact that modern lifestyles have changed much more quickly than home designs.  One of the biggest demands now is for a design that supports multi-generational living.  As a  custom home builder and home designer, REEF often responds to needs such as these with creative, and innovative solutions for space and functionality. 

Here is the full article from builderonline.com

http://www.builderonline.com/design/the-makings-of-the-next-great-new-home-design.aspx

    As Cape Cod's leading custom builder, we are constantly asked for suggestions on what is most popular in home design and construction.  Whether renovating or building new we have found some consistent trends.  Here is our list of most popular features:

1. 1st floor master suite
2. Open kitchen / dining / living spaces
3. Additional flex space that can serve as bedroom or office area
4. Energy efficient, yet cost effective heating and cooling systems
5. Low maintenance exteriors

Recently the Wall Street Journal published the results of a Better Homes and Gardens survey about this same topic.  Here are their results:

1. Separate laundry room
2. Additional storage / walk-ins / closet built-ins
3. Outdoor living spaces
4. Additional bedroom with separate bath
5. Everyday eating space in kitchen
6. Home Office / Workspace
7. Upgraded bathrooms

You can view the full article here:http://articles.marketwatch.com/2012-04-11/finance/31319268_1_laundry-space-new-space-storage-space

These are all things you definitley want to consider when planning your next new home or renovation or remodeling project. If you want to see how some of these concepts might fit into your future plans, click below to contact one of our design or construction experts at REEF

   If you are considering building your new custom home on Cape Cod, then there is one critical piece of information that you will want to know... how much will a custom home cost?   REEF is a custom builder on Cape Cod, and offers complete design/build services for new construction, remodeling, and tear-down and re-build projects.   We have recently produced a construction cost guide which will give potential clients a good idea of what their project might cost.  We have tailored the information to suit basic small homes, through highly detailed, well-appointed custom homes, and renovation projects.  This is critical information for potential customers who are planning a project over the next several months.   Click below to download our guide!!!