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.

That's why we've reformatted our newsletter in an effort to bring you even more home improvement inspiration, tips for maintenance, and features from local experts. We hope you find it to be valuable information for your home and life.

Best regards,


PS - Do you know someone that would benefit from receiving this newsletter, please feel free to send it on or send us their email address.

Featured Lot for Sale

Fieldstone Estates, Town of Middleton
Lot 2 & Lot 10, Deering Trail
Click for Printable Lot Map
A very private subdivision located 2 1/2 miles west of the Beltline off Airport Road. Bordering the south side of Whispering Winds subdivision, this cul-de-sac contains eleven lots, which are all approximately 1 acre in size. All eleven lots have mature trees along their rear lot lines. Hurry we only have two lots remaining, both are large (40,000 sq. ft.) lots in a quiet cul-de-sac with one, the front is facing east and the other the front is facing west. Sloping elevation would allow for an exposure to the rear yard. Rear property line is heavily wooded. Priced at $195,000.00.

Current Remodel Project : Screened-In Porch to Four-Season Sanctuary

A client in Savannah Village contacted Michael F. Simon Builders to convert their existing screened-in porch into a four-season room. While the screen porch may keep out mosquitos in the summer, it is space that could be more appreciated during other months of the year. This type of improvement not only adds more days of enjoyment, it also adds living space increasing the home's value.

The remodel in Savannah Village began by removing existing decking, screens, and siding from the porch. Because Michael F. Simon is a green builder, the siding was salvaged to reuse on the outside of the four-season room. Using a heavy-duty jack, our builders returned a settled post to its appropriate height. New walls were built using R-26 insulation to ensure energy efficiency and comfort. Several large picture windows (type) were installed, along with the siding to complete the exterior of the room. The interior finishes are underway and are scheduled to be complete before the end of April - just in time for pleasant spring weather and bustling summer gatherings. Just think of all of the ways a four-season room could add value to your home and lifestyle.

Now is a great time to call Michael F. Simon to discuss the possibilities of your home.

In the next issue:

» Exciting referral program benefits
» Latest in energy efficient windows
» Ways to improve curb appeal

Send story ideas and feedback to Paul Simon(paul@simonbuilds.com).

New Product Feature - Silhouette Low-Profile Smoke Alarm

Each year, daylight savings reminds us that a change of season is upon us. It is good practice to use this time of year as a reminder to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are in working order.

If you are looking to update your smoke alarm, you may be interested in our new home product feature this month, the Silhouette Low-Profile Smoke Alarm.

When installed, Silhouette smoke and carbon monoxide alarms blend in effortlessly with their surroundings. Silhouette alarms contain a sealed, rechargeable battery that lasts the life of the alarm, meaning homeowners never have to replace a battery. Homeowners will enjoy the low maintenance and look of Silhouette, as they will never have to climb a ladder to change the battery. These UL-approved, hardwired alarms are a distinctive home feature that will serve as an exceptional upgrade option for remodels and new construction.

Household Tips:

April Checklist -Easy ways to improve your home right now

» Deep-clean carpets
All that sand and salt you tracked in during snow season wears out carpet fibers fast. Make rugs last longer by vacuuming them well, then use a steam cleaner to get rid of embedded grime. If you’d rather hire a pro, check your mail for coupons; carpet cleaners usually offer deals in springtime.

» Get your water flowing again
Your outdoor faucets may not see too much action when April showers are falling, but now's the time to make sure they're working properly. Open the shutoff valve indoors, then close the spigot to check for leaks. If water escapes around the nut that holds the spigot in place, tighten the nut by hand; if it drips from the spout itself, try replacing the washer.

» Book your annual AC tune-up
You can slash your energy bill by up to 25 percent by having your central AC system inspected and cleaned so that it runs efficiently. (Bonus: It's an easy way to commemorate Earth Day, April 22.) Set up the appointment now, before the rush of people calling for summertime AC repairs.

--Source: This Old House

Green Tip:

Run the dishwasher at night to reduce cooling costs and daytime humidity.