Joe's Blog
Joe has been blogging about the remodeling process and experience since 2011.All Makes Vacuum
I have been spelling vacuum "Rong" for years, I could never remember if it was 2 C's or 2 M's or both. Now that I finally have it right, I have a mixture of happy and sad news to report. My friends Garry and Sandy Ault are retired as of 1-1-11 after 31 years in...
Who Needs a Lien Release?
A lien is a legal document that can be place upon your home if a contractor, material supplier, or subcontractor is not paid. Often called a mechanics lien, they can be anything from a threat, to a huge distraction and a serious infraction. As a contractor...
Building Terminology Translator
This is a snapshot of commonly used terms around our job sites when Levco is remodeling in Boise Idaho. Being familiar with them will help everyone understand or translate construction lingo with an end goal of overall better communication. The list will grow as we...
What does “Licensed & Bonded” mean? (wk 37, 2011)
For years I have listened to companies advertising/bragging that they are "Licensed and Bonded" as a sign of strength I suppose. Being "bonded" sounds strong and reputable. Truth is, being Licensed & Bonded really means something. Just not here in Idaho in...
Levco’s NEW Client Portal
I just added a module to the website. It is designed to keep everyone in the loop. The idea was not new; I just found a company that provides a needed service that I did not need to invent. I partnered with a company that has created an amazing tool. They also seem to...
I Have a Dream
I have the unique distinction of being born on August 28th, my grandpa Ben's 60th birthday, and the date that the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his I have a Dream Speech. It was in 1963 and I was only 5 years old but I vaguely recall seeing it on a...
Keeping an Eye on the Doughnut
As a kid growing up in Berkeley California, there was a place that had a profound impact upon my life. It was a simple doughnut shop on Ashby near College Avenue. It was always a special occasion to go there and I am so thankful for being exposed to great stuff as a...
How Long Will My Project Take?
I had a crazy realization the other day. No one has ever gotten pissed off at a contractor for finishing a project too soon. How important is it for the client to know when the remodeling is going to be done? I would say VERY! important. What does "DONE" mean anyway?...
Being a True Client Advocate
What does being a client advocate mean to me. It is more than just words... It involves taking decisive action sometimes. The design phase was done and the components were selected in a small bathroom project. The construction phase was in full swing. In an effort...
Home Evaluation
I recently had the wonderful experience of providing my powers of observation and interpreted a few home inspections. No I am not a certified inspector but I know my way around a home. This all stemmed from the NARI home tour and a family that was anxious to find a...
