Category: Blog

Brunch with friends, lunch play dates with the neighbors, and long summer nights on the blackstone grilling for the family and friends! Warm weather is here and we are preparing to spend most of our days outside. Make your outdoor space that much better with a home addition. Below are a few ways you can add to your home this summer. 

Sunroom

We are called the Sunshine State for a reason, and if you want to get more of that good ole organic vitamin D a sunroom  may be the addition for you. The term sunroom is usually defined as a recreational space bridging indoor and outdoor living areas. Sunrooms usually include a significant amount of wall space dedicated to glass. Sit and enjoy the views while staying protected from the outside elements. 

• Relaxing in a spa-like retreat
• Reading a good book
• Home office
• Children’s play area
• Cozy space for family gatherings
• Flex-space for multi-activities, games and crafts.
• Exercise room
• Greenspace for plants

Gazebo 

Of course, gazebos easily double as a backyard dining room, but they’re also perfect gathering spaces for family board game night or just sitting and chatting with friends while enjoying the fresh air on a perfect summer evening. Benches can be incorporated into your gazebo’s structure to create a type of nook. Your gazebo will also add usable living space to your property, which effectively adds square footage to your home. The more you upgrade your gazebo with  lighting, and furniture, the more it becomes a true outdoor space. The more things you add the more likely you will find your family getting together out there to spend time together. Gazebos are also great as poolside retreats! Use the area to cool off during the peak of the summer. 

Deck

Imagine sitting out on your deck on a cool summer morning, sipping your coffee while you enjoy the sound of the birds chirping. What more could you want? To some that is all they need to hear and they are ready to build a deck. Decks are completely customizable. You can incorporate a number of different designs, stain colors, structures, materials, and accessories. Some people prefer a simple deck with nothing but a couple of patio chairs and a small table for two. While others prefer to create built-in grilling stations, tables, outdoor sound systems, benches, lounge chairs, and more. Decks are also great for entertaining purposes, space for friends and family to come together. You, your family, and friends playing card games while listening to music and grilling some tasty food, with all the comforts of your home steps away You just cannot beat it. To top it off, decks are very low maintenance and improve your yards overall aesthetic. 

Fridge & Bar

Beer fridges are optimized for your beer, so you’ll want to adjust your fridge closer to 35°F. Beer fridges can be works of art since the glass door on the fridge displays all the awesome craft beers you’ve been collecting.

What is a Man Cave without a bar? The best part about having a bar in your man cave is you decide when it is “open” or “closed,” when  “last call” is, and your mixed drink opportunities are endless!

Seating

Seating is an important aspect of your Man Cave! From folding chairs to bar stools, you’ve got to have seating in your man cave. Some of the fancier Man Cave Sheds have genuine leather recliners, but it is totally up to you. Base it on your budget and your theme. If you are going for a laid-back sports bar type of Man Cave, the foldable chairs will do the job. If you’re looking for something more modern with a cigar lounge vibe, a leather recliner or a mahogany throne will match much more!

Decorations 

Decorating your Man Cave makes it your own. You can have flags of your favorite sports teams on the wall, a neon beer sign, or even a poster of your favorite movie. The more personalized you make it the more you will want to show it off and spend time hanging out in it!

Games

Any games will make your Man Cave Shed more enjoyable. A dart board can be easy to find, cheap, and simple to install. Ring toss is also a great option. You can install the wall size ring toss or you can purchase a table top, double-sided, ring toss. There are several choices for customizable styles for games in your Man Cave. If you go with a large-sized Man Cave Shed, a pool table or poker table may be what you are looking for. 

TV’s & Speakers for music

A TV is a focal point for every Man Cave. It does not have to be a wall-to-wall TV, it can be an old one you already have. You can use your current bedroom TV to put in your Man Cave Shed and upgrade the one in your home. Use the TV in your shed to watch the game, play video games, or enjoy your favorite TV show. If a TV is not in the budget you can always add a Bluetooth®  speaker to your Man Cave Shed! Whether it is a portable speaker or one you need to install, music will make your space even more authentic to you! Create a “Man Cave playlist” to use whenever you are spending time in your space.

Since the 1900s Aluminum has been a part of the construction industry. One of the most famous buildings in the Country, the Empire State Building, utilized aluminum. Here at Tool Time you can find aluminum awnings, carports, screen rooms and sunrooms.

1. Why We Value Aluminum 

• A light-weight and strong metal with natural corrosion resistance, aluminum is the third most abundant element on Earth.
• Aluminum has a high strength to weight ratio and durability.
• Aluminum is unique and has the quality of light weight and structural strength which makes it an ideal material for sunroom structures. 

2. Longevity
   • When living in an area such as Florida prone to high winds, rain, or extreme heat year after year aluminum awnings will withstand the elements.
   • Areas of the home that are covered by aluminum awnings can be up to 20% cooler.
   • Unlike wood, there is no dry rot, peeling, or corroding you need to worry about.

3. Affordable
   • Aluminum is cheaper than metal awnings. In addition aluminum awnings that are smaller in size with a traditional shape are even more cost-effective than others.
   • Aluminum awnings come with insulating layers, which absorb heat and promote cooler temperatures in the shade.

4. Low Maintenance 
   •  The only regular maintenance that is required is spraying them off with a hose to remove any dirt buildup on the surface.
   • Aluminum is naturally rust resistant which makes it a low maintenance option.
   •  You won’t have to worry about termites or any other wood-destroying insect problem with our aluminum awnings, sunrooms, carports, or screen rooms.

Coffee in the morning, afternoons in the garden, and nights on the grill cooking for the whole family! Cooler weather has come and we are all itching to get outside. Make your deck as cozy as your home so that you can get your use out of it this fall. Here are some ideas to help spruce things up on your deck this fall!

1. Lighting

Lights are just one of the many ways to dress up your deck this fall! Below are a few different types of lighting methods you can use:

• String Lights – These popular lights use low power compared to functional lights. They even come in solar powered form.
• Lanterns – Lanterns are a great form of outdoor lighting because they are lightweight and easy to move.
• Motion Sensored Lights – This type of lighting is great for those who prefer to have light only when you are outside and need it.

2. Warmth

Fall time can get quite chilly so you want to make sure you keep the family warm while they’re outside! Below are a few ways you can keep you and your family warm this fall:

• Hot Tub/Spas – Finding an inexpensive inflatable hot tub or spa is an easy and cost effective option.
• Portable Heaters – Portable heaters are tall, don’t take up much room, and are usually fueled by propane. They are up and out of the way while keeping you cozy.
• Outdoor Blankets – You can find outdoor blankets at most sporting goods stores.

3. Decor

Decorating your deck this fall will make it yours!

• Pumpkins – Pumpkins are a great way to get in the spirit of fall! Carve some on the deck with family and friends and use them as decorations after.
• Mums – A fall time favorite! They look beautiful when bloomed, come in multiple colors, and can withstand the cooler weather during this time.
• Outdoor Rugs – Cute and practical! Bring your space together with an outdoor rug.

4. Games

Outdoor games are great for all ages! Have a competitive game with friends or teach a new game to your smaller family members.

• Giant Connect Four – Portable and affordable! This is a game everyone knows how to play.
• Tiki Toss – Ideal for parties and bar games.This game is easy to install and brings a friendly competition to any setting.
• Jumbo Jenga – Talk about a classic! It doesn’t get any better than this nostalgic game in jumbo form. Try your own variations and rules to make this the timeless game you remember!

Your yard is an extension of your home, and you should be able to enjoy the outdoor parts of your home just as much as the indoors. Your outdoor living space should be just as functional as any other living space, while maintaining durability, versatility, and flexibility. And with autumn quickly approaching, it should allow you to enjoy the upcoming cool weather in comfort and style. An aluminum awning can provide all of these benefits and more, making it a wonderful addition to your home.

Durability

When you make an investment for your outdoor living space, you want peace of mind knowing that it was last. Here in Florida, we experience a variety of extreme weather, and it’s important that your outdoor living space is protected. Aluminum awnings can withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and intense heat. In fact, since the insulation within the awning absorbs heat, they provide a cooler outdoor living space than a comparable solution would provide. Aluminum awnings provide a long-lasting solution, protecting your valuables from stormy weather while requiring little to no maintenance.

Versatility

Your new aluminum awning should be as bold or as subtle as you want it to be. The design and style should not clash with your home’s architecture, and it should be able to serve its intended function. Aluminum awnings come in a variety of colors and styles to meet the needs of your outdoor living space.

Flexibility

Aluminum awnings can be used for a variety of outdoor projects. A covered patio can provide the benefits of being indoors and being outdoors. An outdoor kitchen can be great for entertaining guests. A car port can protect your vehicles from harsh weather conditions. No matter your need, an aluminum awning can provide your outdoor living space with protection and comfort.

Custom-Built For You and Your Home

Your next outdoor living space project should be durable, versatile, and flexible enough to meet your needs. An aluminum awning is a great solution to a variety of outdoor living space additions. Tool Time will provide you with an outdoor living space solution that is right for you. We will work with you to determine what your needs are, and provide a product that will work for you and will last.

Tourists are returning north, kids are back in school, and stores have resumed selling Halloween and Christmas decorations. It’s official: summer is coming to a close, and with it, vacation season. For the next several months, your favorite recreational vehicle will be sitting in your yard, exposed to the elements: the Florida heat, sporadic thunderstorms, and hurricane debris.

Instead, you should consider building a metal RV or boat cover – similar to a carport or pole barn – to protect your investment, so you and your family can enjoy the summer for years to come.

Protection from the Florida Sun

They call Florida “The Sunshine State” for a reason. But with that sunshine comes heat, and that heat and direct sunlight can have adverse effects on your vehicle. The paint may fade, or worse, parts may crack or even melt. An RV or boat cover can conceal your vehicle from that harmful heat, providing a cool shade that will ensure that your RV or boat will look as good next summer as it does now.

Protection from Water Damage

Almost as famous as the Florida summer is the Florida thunderstorm. Like the Florida heat, the Florida rain can wear on your RV or boat, shortening its lifespan and reducing its resale value. The rain can cause the metal components to rust, and any collected pools of water can lead to stains, mildew, and pests. An RV or boat cover will act as a canopy, preventing the intense rainfall and subsequent aftermath from weathering your vehicle.

Protection from Hurricanes and Other Storms

We’re halfway through hurricane season now, with the strongest storms yet to come. We’re lucky if we get a few days of prior notice before the next storm strikes. These storms are powerful, and can send debris of all kinds scattered throughout your yard. With a metal RV or boat cover, you can shield your vehicle from storm debris, such as falling branches. An RV or boat cover can also protect your vehicle from hail damage.

Install a Custom-Built RV or Boat Cover

If you’d like to keep your vehicle protected against weather damage, Tool Time can build a custom RV or boat cover specific to your needs. We know how much your vehicle means to you. We know how much of an investment it is. Preventive maintenance like installing an RV or boat cover is the best way to ensure your recreational vehicle lasts.

The summer weather often has homeowners thinking about adding new outdoor structures to their homes. Last year, the top three most popular outdoor structures according to the 2017 Residential Landscape Architecture Trends Survey were pergolas, decks, and fencing. But there is one outdoor structure that will never go out of style: a screened porch addition. Allowing homeowners to enjoy the outdoors without actually having to be outdoors, a screened porch enclosure is the perfect addition to any home. If you’re looking into porch additions, there are a few must-have features you should consider for the added space.

Lighting: Lighting is an important feature of any area in a home. But it’s especially important for a screened porch addition. With the right lighting, you’ll be ready to use the area for a variety of things. For example, if you plan on entertaining at night, you should include some twinkle lights around the ceiling for a festive feel. Or if you plan on reading out there, make sure it’s well lit so you don’t strain your eyes. Overall, it’s important to think about how you’re going to use the space and what kind of lighting you’ll need.

Kitchen area: With more homeowners cooking outside, it’s important to have a nice kitchen area to use. This is especially great in the summertime when the whole family wants to be outside. Working with your home remodeling contractor, you can include a kitchen area in your enclosed porch to use all year round — with the right set up, you and your family can enjoy eating right in a dining area in your enclosed porch. It can be a convenient way to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about bugs bothering you while you’re eating.

Entertainment: If you’re planning on using the enclosed porch as a room for relaxation and fun, then it’s important you have the right entertainment equipment. One option is to include televisions. Family movie night just got a whole lot better when you can watch your favorite movies with fresh air blowing through. Or if you want to have parties, then music is a must. Installing outdoor speakers is an easy task that can allow you to blast your favorite tunes whenever you want. With the right equipment, you’ll never be bored in your enclosed porch.

A screened porch addition is a great option for any home. Whether you’re looking for additional entertainment space, a safe area for the kids to play, or a way to enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by external elements, consider adding an enclosed porch to your home.

After a long, harsh winter, you may find that your house, garage, or garden shed is in need of a new roof. When it comes to choosing roofing materials, there’s no better choice than metal roofing. Not only can metal roofs last at least 50 years when taken care of properly, but they are durable and easy to maintain. Let’s talk about why metal roofs are so great.

They’re long-lasting
As previously mentioned, metal roofing can last over 50 years! Metal roofs keep out the water, resist fire, can withstand strong winds, and are overall very durable. If you take care of the roof properly, you won’t have to worry about insects, mold, or rot. Because this roofing material is so durable, roof troubles are one less thing you’ll have to worry about. You’ll be able to save both time and money on roof repairs or replacement.

They’re easy to install
Metal is one of the most lightweight roofing materials available. Because it’s so lightweight, it can be installed quickly with ease. The materials come in large sheets, meaning it takes much less time to install than other materials. Furthermore, depending on your existing roof and the type of metal you choose, you may be able to have the metal material installed right on top of your current roofing materials. If that is the case, you’ll be able to save significant time and money without having to tear up your existing roof. And because of the easy installation, you’ll be able to save on labor costs as well.

They add insulation
While it’s true that the metal material itself is not a good insulator, the way the metal roofing is installed can significantly improve energy efficiency for your heating and cooling system. Many many roofs are installed with leaving space between the metal and the roof deck. This means the dead air space in between can act as an insulating barrier. Additionally, the sunlight can be reflecting off of the metal, keeping your house cool.

As you can see, metal roofs have plenty to offer. If you’re looking for a low-cost, durable, reliable material that will leave you worry-free, choose metal roofing.

When homeowners begin to find that their home is simply too small for their needs, they may consider adding an addition. Additions can make great options instead of having to buy a bigger house. However, most homeowners don’t know where to begin when planning to add on additional space to their home. This article will discuss a few common additions homeowners can consider.

Sunrooms: Sunrooms are often underrated. Poor installation of materials can lead to sun rooms being too hot or too cold and uncomfortable to use. However, with today’s technology and knowledge, sunrooms can make a wonderful addition to any home. Think of a sunroom as halfway between an outdoor deck or a screened in porch and a complete room addition. Sun rooms allow homeowners to enjoy the view of their outdoor environment with more of an indoor climate. With materials like thermal resistant glass, homeowners can enjoy the outdoors all year long — without dealing with the varying temperatures and other external elements like pesky insects.

Room addition: This is the most simple and common type of house addition. For homeowners who are simply looking for an additional bedroom, more living room space, or maybe a dining room, a standard room addition is a great option. Generally, if homeowners are going to the trouble of adding additional standard living space, they’ll add more than one room during the project. This may be a much longer project than a one-room addition, but it can pay off big in the end.

Garage conversion: If a garage goes mostly unused, homeowners may consider converting it to additional living space. This makes a convenient choice because the area is already there; it just needs to be finished off. Depending on the size and foundation of the garage, it can be used for almost anything – like an additional bedroom or extra entertaining space. With a little renovating work and some furniture, homeowners can turn their unused garage into a functional part of their home.

If homeowners are looking for additional storage space but don’t necessarily want to add to their existing structure, there are options for unattached storage buildings. Portable garages, sheds, and pole barns all make great options for additional storage and usable areas without having to add on to a home. When purchasing sheds and other storage structures, it’s important to determine current needs for space and add an extra 25% for future storage needs.

Running out of space in a home is often a common problem. But with the right contractor and a good plan to add a functional addition, homeowners can enjoy their current home, just with more space.