dexter-block

Foundation Cold Weather Warning Signs

clive@locallogy.com (Clive Clifford) — Tue, 29 Dec 2020 17:06:13 GMT

How Winter Can Damage Your Foundation

Winter in Michigan can be cold and harsh for anything that is exposed to the elements. That means the exterior of your home including your foundation. The trouble usually starts without much warning well before the cold weather rolls in. It's only when the cold weather arrives that some of the issues are brought to light. The good news is just because you already have a problem doesn't mean it can't be fixed before it becomes a disaster. Below, we will go over a few warning signs for you to keep an eye out for this winter.

Winter Weather Damage

Southern Michigan is no stranger to severe weather that can change daily. That weather can cause multiple freeze thaw cycles causing water in cracks to continuously freeze and then thaw. Expansion of those hairline fractures can grow into much larger problems like weakening the structural integrity of your foundation.

Frost Heave

As mentioned above severe weather in Southern Michigan during the winter can sometimes mean extreme swings in temperature. This really wreaks havoc on the soil causing multiple freezing and thawing cycles. When the soil gets wet and is above freezing, water will penetrate deep into the soil and start to expand. Then the temperature begins to dip causing the water in the soil to freeze and expand even more, pushing it's way to the surface causing all sorts of issues for your home and it's foundation.

Contact Us Today

Have one of our experts make sure your foundation is ready for severe winter weather

Cooking In The Great Outdoors

jbeecham@dexterbuilders.com (Jeff Brown) — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:17:20 GMT

Outdoor Kitchen Tips & Inspiration

Simple activities in our daily lives like cooking or catching up with family at the end of the day can now have an element of excitement when paired with something as simple as your backyard. Stamped concrete patios paired with decorative stone walls and lush landscaping can only be limited by your imagination. While that imagination runs wild with the endless possibilities of what your outdoor kitchen can become, there still are a few things to consider that might help you pinpoint what exactly you'll need in an outdoor kitchen. Join us below as we go over tips on what materials to use and what to consider while designing your outdoor kitchen.

Location, Location, Location

We aren't talking about how nice your neighbor hood is or what side of town you live in, we want to know where that town is located. This is a big country and weather can be drastically different over the course of just a few dozen miles, and the weather in South East Michigan is no exception. Taking weather into consideration and how to protect your outdoor kitchen from extreme elements will set you up for success during planning. Options like covered or partial covered patios and the materials you use while building will also play a major factor in when and how you enjoy your outdoor kitchen area.

Choosing Your Materials

There are many reasons, like weather stated above, that will help in you decide what materials are best for your project. Of course we are huge proponent of materials like concrete, brick, and stone when planning your project, but really who wouldn't be? This is going to be a new permanent addition to your home and should be built for long term use like any kitchen. Being a permanent fixture of your home means this outdoor kitchen should also compliment your home. Using similar materials that match the exterior of your home in collaboration with masonry materials will ensure a functional and beautiful outdoor kitchen area.

Function & Use

What you plan to do with your new outdoor kitchen area will help further determine the key features you need to budget for. Most homeowners that invest in an outdoor kitchen usually fancy themselves a pretty good cook and will be able to maximize time with family and friends by not being isolated inside while everyone else is outdoors. Coincidentally, this is the same reason a not so seasoned cook can benefit from kitchen elements closer to your outdoor action. You might not be prepping an extravagant meal, but those oh so delicious frozen burger patties will be cooked to perfection in style...who knows it might even make them taste better.

outdoor kitchen or outdoor entertaining area

Your Home's Foundation Might Be In Trouble

clive@locallogy.com (Clive Clifford) — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 14:34:11 GMT

Common Signs Of Home Foundation Problems

Your home is likely the most expensive investment you will ever make in your life. Unfortunately, they don’t come with an instruction manual and there is a list as long as a CVS receipt of all the things that can go wrong with a home. Today we are going to help shorten that list by giving you some tips on how to spot any warning signs your house might be sending you.

Foundation Cracks

Over time structures usually experience settling and will develop tiny cracks near windows or door frames and are easy cosmetic repairs. Often caused by seasonal changes, the underlying wood and drywall will expand and contract causing these cracks. However, not all cracks are worry free and so easily ignored. If you happen to see a crack larger than 1/8th of an inch wide, traveling horizontal, or leaking water then you might need to contact a professional to make sure that there isn’t a larger underlying issue.

Doors And Windows That Stick Or Wont Close

We have all experience a stubborn door or window that needed a little sanding and WD-40 to get it working like new. The problem arises when you notice multiple windows or doors with the same issue that wasn't there before. One window might mean a little TLC is in order but a whole kitchen or side of the house might mean you have a foundation problem. A Shifting foundation will cause the frames of doors and windows to alter their shape and interfering with its ability to open or close. Eventually your doors and windows wont work properly and you’ll be replacing those along with your foundation if left unattended.

Bowed Walls And Gaps Between Walls Or Windows

Walls beginning to bow are a sure sign that your foundation has done more than just settle. Bowing walls can also cause gaps between Exterior doors or windows allowing your home to be vulnerable to a number of issues like water damage, Insects, and severe weather further down the road. As stated above normal expansion and contraction of off walls can cause cosmetic damage like nail pops. Small circular cracks where nails have begun to pull away form the wall. These are easy to fix but can be a sign of bigger trouble if they start occurring more frequently.

Musty Smell And Mold

Following that musty smell more often than not leads to the discovery of mold. These are sure signs that you have a water and moisture issue. It could be a plumbing issue or a bigger foundation issue where your waterproofing and foundation have failed letting water get into your basement. Either way this is something that needs to be addressed and if caught early will reduce future damages.

Checkout Your Chimney

A shifting foundation can cause a chain reaction that will resulting in bowing walls and eventually a shift In your roof. Along with damaging your roof it can also compromise the structural integrity of your chimney. Too much of a shift and the chimney will be a serious threat to your family and anyone that is in or around your home.

If you come across any of these warning signs contact us today and have one of our professionals come out and give you a free estimate

Past Foundation Projects

The Endless Possibilities Of Stamped Concrete

clive@locallogy.com (Clive Clifford) — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 18:44:30 GMT

Beauty And Benefits Of Stamped Concrete

Stamped Concrete offers you an almost endless about of design possibilities, that can be an almost overwhelming task with all the combinations of patterns and color schemes. It can come in the form of a large backyard patio or a visual accent piece to an architectural element of your home. Whichever form you choose to use stamped concrete in your design is up to you, but it should bring curb appeal and value to your home for you and future buyers to enjoy.

The value of stamped concrete can be identified in almost any type of home project. Appearing in projects like driveways, patios, pool decks, walkways, and even countertops. Offering an appealing final product, easy maintenance, and the known durability and long-lasting features of regular concrete is why stamped concrete is the home upgrade that's perfect for everyone.

Here are a few ways stamped concrete can add value to your home!

Increased Resale Value

Stamped concrete adds instant curb appeal and aesthetic value to your property. You can maximize the return on your home building and remodeling by choosing stamped concrete over plain concrete for many of your projects.

Fast Installation

Much quicker to install than natural stone or brick pavers because it is poured like a regular slab and in return requires less labor. Your back yard will be out of use for a smaller amount of time, and you can enjoy more of the great outdoors sooner rather than later.

Decreased Maintenance

Stamped Concrete will never sink, be uneven, or loosen becoming a tripping hazard like many other natural stone materials or pavers. It will withstand the test of time holding up to heavy traffic and any demand you, your family, or pets can throw at it. That's why its perfect for strong decorative driveways, to safe front walkways and backyard paths.

Affordability

Most of the time its less expensive than natural stone material and can be just as beautiful. Stamped concrete's initial cost, even if expensive, is still a value for all the reasons stated above. Less maintenance overtime, a fast installation process, and designs that can fit any landscape are all reasons why stamped concrete is an affordable investment.

Stamped Concrete Inspiration

What Is Landscape Masonry?

clive@locallogy.com (Clive Clifford) — Tue, 26 May 2020 15:26:08 GMT

Why Masonry Is A Key Accent To Your Landscape

Landscaping masonry is just a lesser known term for hardscaping. used not as a main structure of a home, but as an accent to a garden, lawn or water feature on your home’s property. Landscape masonry consists of the non-living elements of landscaping, such as a brick, stone, or concrete. It is one of the two major subcategories of landscaping, the other being softscape. One way to consider landscaping masonry is by the purpose it serves: walkways and patios; retaining walls and dividers; decorative features such as archways; and fire pits and outdoor kitchens.

Retaining Walls

In addition to providing essential structural support to large areas of dirt, a thoughtfully designed retaining wall can be an attractive focal point for you backyard. Retaining walls also have a number of other benefits that can help transform your landscape into a functional and beautiful piece of art.

Structural Support- Where the wall will act as a natural barrier to stop soil erosion and possible landslides
Adding Functional Space- adding structure and flat surfaces to your ward are just a few ways to increase our landscape options
Aesthetics- Adding the contract of brick or stone to bright flowers and bold green plants can inspire new ideas for landscaping

Walkways and Patios

Stamped Concrete, Stone, or Brick Pavers are all great examples of how masonry can add pathways or welcome areas for guests. Creating these pathways are a safe way you can tour your landscaped property and strategically place entertainment areas to finish the whole experience

Safety- Creating stable and level walkways and leveling areas around your home makes all 4 seasons manageable and safer for all
Value- Adding curb appeal to your home is one of the best ways to increase value to a home ready to sell or to increase your entertaining space with a finished backyard ready to enjoy
Entertaining- Value and entertainment go hand in hand. Not only will you be the envy of the neighborhood but the more usable and entertaining space you have the more your property and home value will sour

Outdoor Kitchens and Fireplaces

Increased Home Value- With a higher rate of return than most outdoor upgrades, a outdoor kitchen keeping giving back with entertainment and value
Expanded Living Spaces- Adding a island to your out door kitchen or having part of your patio covered can extend use into inclement weather
Promotes Healthy Fun- Cooking at home is healthier than eating our and what better way to grill than with family and friends

Contact Us Today For Beautiful Backyard Creations Featuring Landscape Masonry

ASHLAR SLATE STAMPED CONCRETE WALKWAY

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

ASHLAR SLATE STAMPED CONCRETE WALKWAY

This summer, while entertaining friends and family, they will take notice of your home's exterior. If you want your home to make a great first impression, you might consider adding a statement feature like a stamped concrete walkway.

Stamped Concrete Walkway

This stamped concrete walkway gives you the look and feel of stone with the versatility of concrete to make flowing curved lines.

Ashlar Slate Stamped Concrete Walkway

To match the rest of the home a mild tan integral color was used along with a double release color of weathered tan and pewter.

Integral color is a mild tan and double release color of weathered tan and pewter

The same Ashlar Slate pattern was used to match the front step.

Matching stamped concrete walkway and front step

CONCRETE BLOCK OUTDOOR FIREPLACE

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

CONCRETE BLOCK OUTDOOR FIREPLACE

This beautiful poured concrete patio features a concrete block fireplace and stone retaining wall. It was finished during the spring and just in time for those summer nights with family and friends.

Outdoor Landscape Block Fireplace

No outdoor fireplace is complete without a convenient storage area for wood and kindling to keep the fire going

Side by Side Outdoor Fireplace and Storage Area

A freshly poured concrete patio offers plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the fire and the great outdoors

Outdoor Concrete Block Fireplace and Concrete Patio

One last picture reveals the entire project with patio, fireplace and retaining wall

Summer Starter Kit including Outdoor Concrete Block Fireplace, Concrete Patio, And Stone Retaining Wall

CUSTOM WALKWAY AND DRIVEWAY BORDER

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

CUSTOM WALKWAY AND DRIVEWAY BORDER

This concrete job adds major curb appeal the to front of the home. The project starts with the new a new driveway

Driveway has a broom finish with a smooth border known as a Cincinnati Finish

The custom driveway features a driveway border that is weathered tan in color and leads up to the new walkway.

Weathered Tan driveway border turns into the walkway boarder

The stamped concrete walkway is a English cobble field pattern that features a light tan integral color and a single release color of weathered tan

English Cobble Field stamped concrete walkway leading up to custom stamped concrete steps

The stamped concrete steps share the same English cobble field pattern

Matching stamped concrete step and walkway

DIY CINDER BLOCK BENCH IS YOUR NEXT WEEKEND PROJECT

Wed, 24 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

DIY CINDER BLOCK BENCH IS YOUR NEXT WEEKEND PROJECT

We have all seen Do It Yourself projects on Pinterest or YouTube and how easy and amazing they look. So you decide to give it a shot and instead your work ends up looking like something your first grader made you for Christmas...they try so hard. This however, is not one those projects. I've seen first hand how great it can turnout. You just need the materials, some elbow grease, and this video to help you !

DIY Cinder Block Bench

There you have your very own rustic bench to spruce up your backyard living area. You can always go the extra mile and add a personal touch

Personal Touches Make Everything Better

Now if you really want to step your game up just have some cute family pet sit on the bench. This may take some coercion and treats

Eggroll the English Bulldog sitting on the DIY Cinder Block Bench

SANDSTONE RETAINING WALL IN CHELSEA, MI

Tue, 25 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

SANDSTONE RETAINING WALL IN CHELSEA, MI

When using stone to build it always takes a little more time and effort...but the results are always worth it. Sandstone was picked for its natural look to match this rustic home in Chelsea and play off of the surrounding countryside.

Sandstone retaining wall boarders this basement entrance

Layers and layers of sandstone perfectly stacked

Natural sandstone to match the rustic Chelsea, MI country side

Sandstone retaining wall in Chelsea, MI

WHAT'S IN A FOUNDATION

Tue, 11 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

WHAT'S IN A FOUNDATION

In many respects the foundation is one of the first and most important components of building a quality home. Most of the time you haven't thought about your foundation since you bought your home, and will never notice it until there is an issue with your foundation or your home that is caused by the foundation. Your home's foundation is the unsung hero that supports your home and keeps it standing for years to come. So its time to learn a little more about what under your feet and home.

Know Your House: What Makes Up a Home's Foundation

JOIN THE DEXTER BLOCK TEAM

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

JOIN THE DEXTER BLOCK TEAM

Think you’re tough enough for a career in the concrete and Masonry Industry? Then you are exactly what we are looking for. Dexter Block wants hard workers that take pride in a hard day’s work and a job well done. We are looking for Skilled Masons, apprentices and general laborers. Not everyone is cut out to sit in a cubicle, staring at a computer screen, and punching that clock from 9-5. Some of us need the outdoors to be our office and to be able to see our hard work become a beautiful part of someone’s dream home. Dexter Block, We’re building the foundation for a better community and a brighter tomorrow.

Contact us Today!

CONCRETE TOUGH

Tough as nails? More like Tough as Concrete. The Concrete Industry has an immediate need for people to fill great jobs. From being a Ready Mix Truck Driver to Quality Control Techs to Heavy Equipment Operators to Concrete Contractors, these are great paying jobs that mean something.

SIGNS YOUR FOUNDATION IS IN TROUBLE

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

SIGNS YOUR FOUNDATION IS IN TROUBLE

Spring is in the air and warm weather is upon us. For most of us this a good thing...but for others it can be the beginning of repair season. April showers don't only bring May flowers but it can also reveal what the brutal Michigan winter has done to your home. Warning signs like dark spots of floors and walls, cracks, or window and doors having trouble closing/opening can all be signs that your foundation is in need of some repairs. Check out these warning signs and have one of our professionals come out and give a free estimate before its too late!

Foundation Repair in Ann Arbor by Dexter Block

DEXTER BLOCK HITS THE STRIP!!!

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

DEXTER BLOCK HITS THE STRIP!!!

Their names or pictures might not be on giant billboards but they did get to stand next to a big truck and just look at the those smiles. That's right he Dexter Block Crew headed out to the World of Concrete Expo in fabulous Las Vegas!

Dexter Block Crew at the World of Concrete Expo 2017

RUMFORD FIRPLACE AND NEW BRICK CHIMNEY

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

RUMFORD FIRPLACE AND NEW BRICK CHIMNEY

This fireplace is making a comeback in a big way with their classic look and energy efficient design.

A New Chimney And Rumford Fireplace Is A Key Feature On This Addition

Dexter Block Hard At Work Building The New Chimney Brick By Brick

Rumford Fireplaces Are Tall And Shallow To reflect More Heat.

The New Chimney Being Worked On From The Second Floor

Rumford Fireplaces Have Streamlined Throats To Eliminate Turbulence And Carry Away The Smoke With Little Loss Of Heated Room Air.

RED BRICK KITCHEN & GRILL IS GETTING A LITTLE BRICK WORK

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

RED BRICK KITCHEN & GRILL IS GETTING A LITTLE BRICK WORK

You Heard it Right…Red Brick Kitchen & Grill Is Expanding! Here are some inside looks at what is going on. The Existing Brick wall will soon house three entryways that connect the old Red Brick to the new kitchen and entrance! Learn some more about the project at the new We Love Dexter Website Red Brick Expansion

Opening Up Existing Brick Wall For The Red Brick Kitchen And Grill Expansion

Getting Ready To Break Though The Brick Wall

Stacking Bricks From The Existing Wall To Use For The Entryways

Opening Up The Brick Wall For The First Entryway

WE LOVE DEXTER FEATURES DEXTER BLOCK AT RED BRICK

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

WE LOVE DEXTER FEATURES DEXTER BLOCK AT RED BRICK

Last Friday We Love Dexter stepped onto the jobsite to get a first hand look at what’s going on behind the scenes at Red Brick Kitchen And Grill. Listen to interviews and get a closer look at some Masonry Skills in action!

Stacking Bricks From The Existing Wall To Use For The Entryways

LUCY ANN LANCE SHOW FEATURES DEXTER BLOCK

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

LUCY ANN LANCE SHOW FEATURES DEXTER BLOCK

Last Friday there was another amazing installment of the Lucy Ann Lance Show. Like every show it was full of guests, interesting segments, and upcoming events in the Ann Arbor Area. However, it was extra special because it featured Dexter Block’s Owner Kyle Davis. Listen to hour one and pay special attention to the last ten and a half minutes during the Around The Home Segment. Kyle Does a Q&A, talks about a few projects that are underway, and gives a brief history on Dexter Block.

BRAG ANN ARBOR HOME GARDEN & LIFESTYLE SHOW FEATURING DEXTER BLOCK

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

BRAG ANN ARBOR HOME GARDEN & LIFESTYLE SHOW FEATURING DEXTER BLOCK

It’s that time of year again…time to head down to the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds for the largest Home Show In Washtenaw County. March 20-22 discover local professionals that offer the newest and best products for your home and garden! Make sure to swing by Booth E167 and ask our experts from Dexter Block any questions you might have about your next masonry project!