Northwood Construction Blog

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Garage Addition Ideas for Northern Virginia Homeowners

By Bob Benedict | May 8, 2024
A white two-story house with a covered porch and a detached garage sits among tall trees, with a lion statue at the end of a curved driveway.

When it comes to upgrading and optimizing your home space, the often underutilized garage area is a hidden gem. Gone are the days when a garage’s primary function was just to house vehicles or lawn equipment. Homeowners in Northern Virginia, especially in bustling counties like Fairfax, Arlington and Loudoun, understand the value of maximizing every…

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Kitchen Backsplashes: A Palette of Possibilities

By Whitney Simons | April 25, 2024
Modern kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel stove, black refrigerator, countertop appliances, and a kitchen island with bookshelves. Stylish kitchen backsplashes add flair behind the blue pot sitting on the stove.

As we move into the mid-20s, the world of kitchen design continues to evolve, with kitchen backsplashes making some bold changes with stylish and functional decor. These essential design elements are not just about protecting walls from spills and splatters anymore. Kitchen backsplashes today are all about adding personality, color, and texture to one of…

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Different Types of Home Additions

By Bob Benedict | April 17, 2024
A modern kitchen with light wood cabinets, a patterned tile backsplash, white countertops, glass pendant lights, and a window above the sink—showcasing how different types of home additions can beautifully enhance your living space.

Exploring the various types of home additions can significantly enhance the functionality and value of your residence, especially in areas like Northern Virginia, where many of our homes are older, yet our needs are constantly evolving. Understanding the options available for expanding your living space can help meet the growing demands of your household or…

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The Versatility of Mini-Split Heating and Cooling Systems

By Bob Benedict | April 3, 2024
mini split heating and cooling systems

Mini-split heating and cooling systems offer a versatile and energy-efficient solution for managing the temperature in your home. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, mini-splits require no ductwork, making them a suitable option for home additions, renovations or spaces where extending ductwork is impractical. Their compact size and flexibility allow for a tailored approach to climate control,…

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Decluttering Before a Home Remodel

By Whitney Simons | March 22, 2024
Two baskets labeled "To Donate" and "Garage Sale" hold various toys and household items as a person sorts belongings on a wooden floor, decluttering before a home remodel.

Remodeling your home is an exciting time because you get to enjoy a new, tailored space that functions for you and your family. Keep those goosebumps alive but know that the first step is to remove and store items from the space being remodeled.  We’re not trying to give you homework but it needs to…

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Attic Insulation in Northern Virginia: Types and Energy Savings

By Bob Benedict | January 23, 2024
showing the depth of attic insulation

Proper attic insulation is one of the first things homeowners can do to improve energy savings and their overall comfort. This is especially true for those living in regions that experience extreme temperature swings, like Northern Virginia. Types of Insulation Materials for Existing Homes For existing homes, there are four primary types of attic insulation…

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The Advantages of Design Build in Home Remodeling

By Bob Benedict | January 9, 2024
A backyard with a swimming pool, attached hot tub, stone patio, and a house featuring a raised deck with black spiral staircase highlights the advantages of design build for seamless integration and modern style.

Design build in home remodeling offers many advantages that can truly transform your project. By seamlessly integrating architectural design, product selection and construction, this approach ensures a smooth transition across every phase of construction – from design and budget control to completion. What is Design-Build Remodeling? Design build remodeling is a construction approach where a…

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Tips for Home Winterization in Northern Virginia

By Bob Benedict | January 3, 2024
A brick house with a snow-covered roof and yard showcases home winterization, featuring a snowblower on the driveway and leafless trees surrounding the property in winter.

Home winterization in Northern Virginia should not be overlooked. Preparing our homes for the freezing temperatures and harsh weather conditions that winter brings is important. Failure to do so could lead to damage to your home and costly repairs. This article will provide practical tips to effectively winterize your home, ensuring it remains warm, safe…

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Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Entertainment

By Whitney Simons | December 12, 2023
white kitchen with double oven perfect for entertaining

Are you looking for kitchen remodel ideas that can transform your cooking and dining area into a warm, inviting space perfect for entertainment? Whether you love to throw sumptuous dinner parties or casual Sunday brunches, your kitchen can be designed to cater to your lifestyle. Let’s explore some creative ideas to help you reimagine your…

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Window Egress & Safety: What You Need to Know 

By Bob Benedict | November 29, 2023
egress window in the basement

As a remodeling contractor, I often get asked about window egress, particularly in basement remodels where the homeowner wishes to dedicate part of the basement to sleeping space. This is an important topic to cover, as egress requirements are put in place for the safety and well-being of occupants. Here’s a quick overview:  What is…

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