Feb 24, 2014
How do I go about find out whether I have a mold problem?
May 19, 2014

So you think you may have mold,   then it a fairly simply solution....bring in the best people you can find and be on site when they do their walk thorugh and walk around with a pad of paper.  They are some of the best people in the industry. 

Philip Anderson

Berkeley Ca

Alex Graham asked:

May 14, 2014
The Nest thermostat and its competitors: What do the pros think?
May 19, 2014

With anything like this, I hate to be the first especially with this manufacturer. They brought out the Nest smoke detector and it get recalled.  I would rather wait  and watch the press and blogs and when the dust clears and all is good then starting specifiing them. 

Phililp Anderson

Berkeley CA

John Ford asked:

Feb 17, 2014
What are the top 3 energy efficiency upgrades I can do to my 2-story home?
May 8, 2014

Before you do anything new...look at what is already there. 

1. Do the existing windows allow drafts?  Upgrade existing windows first before considering new windows.  I don't think the payback is that great over existing windows that are properly maintained. 

2. Is the header serviced annually?  Change the filter monthly (there are so cheap), check all the ducts for breaks and tape them up.  Walk around the house when the heater(s) are on and check the temperatur in each room.  When you have done your homework then have a profeswsional come in.

3. Seal around the ceiling can lights on the second floor that are allowing heater air into the attic. 

4. Replace the seal around all your exterior doors.  This is really the case on the door from the garage to the house. 

Start there \Philp Anderson HDR Remodeling Berkeley CA

Mar 6, 2014
How to Maximize the available storage space in my kitchen?
Apr 17, 2014

Are you planning a full remodel (in that case new cabinets will answer the problem) doing only a refresh (pull our shelves will dramatically increase storage)

Philip Anderson

HDR Remodeling

Berkeley Ca

Mar 26, 2014
I am looking to remodel my bathroom shower. Does anyone have information about the process and some price ranges that these jobs typically run?
Apr 15, 2014

Nathan, 

If we average the last couple of bathoom shower with bench including new shower, drain assembly, shower value and water line, gut and redo the shower with upscale tile and venting and lighting it runs about $35k.

Philip Anderson

Sean Cook asked:

Feb 17, 2014
What are the questions that remodeling customers forget to ask when selecting a contractor?
Apr 15, 2014

What experience do you have in this type of house?  Can you give me names of one or two (not three) clients for which you have done this type of work? How long does it take from start of design to significant completion?

Philip Anderson

HDRRemodeling. Berkeley, Ca