Remodeling your kitchen and/or bathroom can be a huge undertaking. This guide will ease you through the process by providing you with expert advice for before, during and after your project.

The Homeowner's Guide to Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling

LIVERMORE — When planning for a kitchen remodel, it’s important to do some research and figure out what direction you want to go in regarding design and budget. Here are three things to investigate: Current trends Find out which kitchen styles and products are currently in vogue and see if there are any you want to incorporate into your remodel. Value added Research which aspects of the remodel are most likely to add to your home’s resale value. This will help guide you in allocating your budget. Timeless style While it’s good to be aware of current remodeling trends, you should also consider the long term and think about style choices that will age well over time. Read more

<h1>Eric Aslami: A Family Connection</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
LIVERMORE — When asked how he became involved in the remodeling industry, Eric Aslami cites a family connection. “Growing up, I had family members who were involved in a variety of trades, including flooring and remodeling,” he explains. “I started out doing kitchen design and transitioned to working in the field, which I liked because it was more hands-on. After five years of working with my cousin, I acquired my general contractor’s license. From there, he and I decided to join forces. He was doing flooring and I was doing kitchen and bathroom remodeling, so it just made sense to combine our abilities into one company.”
Today, as owner of Today’s Kitchen &amp; Bath, Eric says his favorite part of his job is seeing the fruits of his labor. “I enjoy watching the transition from beginning to end, culminating with the completed project. It feels good to see what we were able to accomplish, and of course, the reaction of the customer when they see it as well.”
A resident of Mountain House (where he lives with his wife, Freshta, and their six children), Eric spends the bulk of his time outside of work with his family. “My kids are involved in sports, so I enjoy attending their soccer or football games and watching them compete,” he details. “We also have a big extended family, so there are lots of barbecues and birthday parties. Basically, at any given time, we can call like 20 people and there’s a party an hour later.” Eric and his family also like getting away on vacation to destinations like Mexico and Lake Tahoe.
Regarding a professional philosophy, Eric espouses the importance of treating others respectfully. “The way I see it, you have to treat everyone with respect, whether they’re six years old or 60. Just treat everyone equally and don’t do anyone wrong—if you can do that, everything will go smoothly from that point on.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Eric says he’d take some time to meditate on the future. “I’d probably take a long vacation—just get away for a couple of weeks and figure out what’s next. I have plenty of life left to live, so I’d need to figure out what the rest of it is going to look like.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: The Maldives.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse &amp; Wine Bar in Walnut Creek.
Q: What was your first job? 
A: I worked at Taco Bell.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Stay inside and watch a movie.
Q: What kinds of movies do you like? 
A: Mainly action movies. I like the Marvel movies a lot.

Eric Aslami: A Family Connection By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter LIVERMORE — When asked how he became involved in the remodeling industry, Eric Aslami cites a family connection. “Growing up, I had family members who were involved in a variety of trades, including flooring and remodeling,” he explains. “I started out doing kitchen design and transitioned to working in the field, which I liked because it was more hands-on. After five years of working with my cousin, I acquired my general contractor’s license. From there, he and I decided to join forces. He was doing flooring and I was doing kitchen and bathroom remodeling, so it just made sense to combine our abilities into one company.” Today, Read more

Eric Aslami is owner of Today’s Kitchen &amp; Bath, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (510) 397-8965 or by email.

Eric Aslami: A Family Connection

MILPITAS — One of the biggest issues homeowners encounter when working with building contractors is unexpected price increases. This is typically done through the use of change orders, which provide contractors with a means of altering a project’s original contracted price. Typically, change orders are used when unforeseen costs or circumstances arise during a project. Unfortunately, some contractors use change orders to take advantage of clients by intentionally quoting a low estimate at the outset of the project, only to raise the price later. The best way to avoid price hikes from change orders is to have your contractor sign an agreement that the quoted estimate will stay the same throughout the project’s duration. Read more

<h1>Sami Dadon: Living the Dream</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
MILPITAS — Ever since he was a child growing up in Israel, Sami Dadon always dreamed of moving to the United States, and eventually, he made that dream come true. “My father was a contractor and I worked in construction for more than 25 years in Israel,” he explains. “When I was nearing my 50th birthday, I told myself it was now or never, so I moved to the U.S. and made my dream a reality. I opened my own construction company, and soon after, two of my four kids came to work for me, so it has become quite the family affair.”
Sami relates some of the differences he found working construction in the U.S. versus in Israel. “In Israel, everything is built out of concrete, which makes things very difficult,” he explains. “For instance, if you want to move an outlet, you need to dig into concrete. So, when I came here and everyone was working with wood and stucco, I was delighted—it was so much easier! The only thing I didn’t like at first was permits, but I grew to appreciate them. There are no permits in Israel, so I couldn’t believe I had to wait for approval before I could start a job. However, I soon realized this step helped ensure a good job for the customer, and I decided that I would always pull a permit for any job I did.”
Today, as owner of P A Remodeling/Sami &amp; Sons, Inc., Sami says his favorite part of his job is seeing his clients happy with their final products. “I love meeting customers at their homes after their projects are done and seeing the smiles on their faces. I always emphasize quality and strive to deliver my customers something I’m really proud of, so that makes them very happy with the results.”
When asked about a professional philosophy, Sami espouses the importance of honesty. “When I was a child, my grandma would say, ‘Lies don’t have legs—sooner or later, somebody will catch you,’” he remembers. “Ever since, I’ve tried to be honest in everything I do. When I make a promise to a customer, I follow through, even if I end up losing some profits in the process. Money comes and goes, but when you’re building a company, you need to build it on a good foundation, and you get that by doing right by your customers. We never leave a customer hanging, and we always stick to the price that we quoted at the beginning. Because of this, we get many referrals and continue to grow as a business.”
When asked what his future retirement might look like, Sami says it will likely involve a lot of traveling. “I love my job, but I know I can’t do it forever. I’m building this company for my kids, and when they’re ready to take it over, I will look at retirement. At that point, I think it would be fun to take a trip around the world. I’ve worked hard all my life, so I think a vacation is in order.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite restaurant?
A: Chipotle.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Thailand.
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A: A night owl.
Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Ice cream.
Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: I would travel 100 years into the future. I’m a technology freak, so I’d love to see what kinds of advancements take place over the next century.

Sami Dadon: Living the Dream By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter MILPITAS — Ever since he was a child growing up in Israel, Sami Dadon always dreamed of moving to the United States, and eventually, he made that dream come true. “My father was a contractor and I worked in construction for more than 25 years in Israel,” he explains. “When I was nearing my 50th birthday, I told myself it was now or never, so I moved to the U.S. and made my dream a reality. I opened my own construction company, and soon after, two of my four kids came to work for me, so it has become quite the family affair.” Sami relates some of the differences he found working construction in the U.S. Read more

Sami Dadon is owner of P A Remodeling/Sami &amp; Sons, Inc., a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (408) 827-8917 or by email.

Sami Dadon: Living the Dream

SACRAMENTO — When planning for a home remodeling project, it’s important to reflect on your motivation. Otherwise, you may end up making decisions that you later regret. For example, a lot of homeowners get caught up in following the latest remodeling trends. However, while trends change, functionality always remains the same. You want your new kitchen or bathroom to function well over the next 20 years, so be sure to prioritize function over fashion. Another motivational pitfall that some homeowners fall into is becoming overly focused on the reactions of others. They want to “wow” their friends and neighbors, so that becomes the focal point of the remodel. In reality, you should be designing your new kitchen or bathroom for yourself, Read more

<h1>Steve Daniel: Born to Build</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SACRAMENTO — Raised in the construction trades, Steve Daniel was all but destined to become a builder like his forefathers. “My dad was a contractor and so was my grandfather, so it’s in my blood whether I like it or not,” he laughs. “By the time I was 13, my dad was taking me out on jobs regularly. He worked all the time and always needed help, and who do you think he was going to call to help him? That strapping young man sitting on the couch watching cartoons, that’s who!”
Following high school, Steve attended college, but it wasn’t long before he was back on the construction site. “I went to school with plans to be a chemical engineer, but I got bored with it after a year and a half and went back to work for my dad. In 1981, I got my contractor’s license, and I’ve been building ever since.”
Today, after four decades in the construction industry, Steve says his favorite part of his job is pleasing his clients. “I like to see the customer smile. I enjoy helping people, and it feels good to give someone exactly what they want at a price they can afford.”
A resident of Sacramento (where he lives with his wife, Linda), Steve spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “I’m an outdoorsman, so I enjoy camping, hunting and fishing,” he details. “As a matter of fact, I was camping just this past weekend at 10,000 feet, on a mountaintop called Mount Patterson.” As far as day-to-day life, Steve enjoys reading, playing cribbage with Linda, and visiting with his children and grandchildren. “Between Linda and I, there are four kids and eight grandchildren, so we like to spend time with them whenever we get the chance.”
Looking back, Steve credits his professional success in part to his father’s instruction and influence. “My dad instilled a strong work ethic in me,” he explains. “He believed it didn’t take eight hours to do a day’s work, so he would do it in six. But he also put quality first. When he taught you something, you’d first learn how to do it right, and then you picked up speed as you got better at it. It was always quality first with him, whether it was a minor job or the overall project, and that’s the same way I approach the job today.”
When asked what he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Steve says he’d find ways to keep himself busy. “You always need a game; something to keep you creative and active. If you’re just sitting around and watching TV, you’re not being very creative, and that actually shortens your lifespan. So, the first thing I’d do is start on some of the projects I have around the house. That’s the thing about being a contractor—you’re so busy working on other people’s houses that you never get around to working on your own!”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: La Rosa Blanca in Sacramento.
Q: If you could take a vacation tomorrow, where would you go? 
A: I’d probably go to Washington, D.C. and visit the Smithsonian.
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: Both—I’m happy with six hours of sleep.
Q: What types of books do you like?
A: I like good stories where the main character has to overcome the odds and win the day. Some of my favorite authors are Clive Cussler, James Rollins and Steve Berry.
Q: What’s your favorite season? 
A: Spring. It’s when things come to life after winter. The trees are the greenest they’re going to be and all the colors are vivid. It’s very invigorating.

Steve Daniel: Born to Build By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SACRAMENTO — Raised in the construction trades, Steve Daniel was all but destined to become a builder like his forefathers. “My dad was a contractor and so was my grandfather, so it’s in my blood whether I like it or not,” he laughs. “By the time I was 13, my dad was taking me out on jobs regularly. He worked all the time and always needed help, and who do you think he was going to call to help him? That strapping young man sitting on the couch watching cartoons, that’s who!” Following high school, Steve attended college, Read more

Steve Daniel is president of Steve Daniel Construction Inc., a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (916) 229-9554 or by email.

Steve Daniel: Born to Build

CONCORD — One of the most critical parts of remodeling a bathroom is designing the shower enclosure. Due to the importance of both aesthetic and functional aspects, it’s important to choose a visually appealing design that also serves your specific needs. Fortunately, in today’s market, there are many shower design options to choose from. One crucial aesthetic choice is whether to go with a framed or frameless enclosure. While a framed enclosure is a more conventional option, a frameless enclosure is a good choice for a modern and/or minimalist design. Going frameless is also optimal for a shower that features ornate tile or stonework, since there are no frames or channels to detract from the view. Read more

<h1>Joe Matthews: A Clear Trajectory</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
CONCORD — Many young people have trouble deciding which career path to pursue, but for Joe Matthews, it was a clear choice. “My father and grandfather were both in the glass business, so I basically followed the family line,” he explains. “As a kid, I would work at the family glass shop after school and during the summer, and later I got into it full time. We handled all aspects of glass fabrication, but the area I enjoyed most was shower doors, which tended to involve more creativity than, say, replacing a broken window. Eventually, I decided I wanted to do shower doors exclusively, and things have progressed from there.”
Today, as general manager of Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc., Joe says his favorite part of his job is his interactions with colleagues and customers alike. “In addition to working alongside our team, I enjoy working with homeowners, designers, architects and contractors. It’s fun and rewarding to collaborate on a design, come up with solutions, and see the project through to completion.”
A resident of Vallejo (where he lives with his wife, Camille), Joe enjoys being situated amidst the diverse Bay Area setting. “We have so much in the Bay Area—any direction you go, there’s something of interest,” he says. “My wife and I like going on little jaunts around the area, whether to the coast, the forest, the wine country or a nearby town to try a new restaurant.” Joe also likes spending time at his mountain cabin, working in his garden, and hanging out with his and Camille’s three grown sons.
In his life and career, Joe espouses the virtue of doing right by others. “I believe karma is a real thing, which is why I always try to treat people the way I’d like to be treated,” he says. “Whenever you’re faced with a decision, whether in your personal life or professional career, I believe it’s important to do the right thing.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Joe says he’d return to an old hobby. “I’d go fishing. I used to fish a lot, but it’s been on the back burner for a long time, so the first thing I’d do is grab a pole and head to a nearby stream.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Did you play any sports in high school? 
A: I played football and pole-vaulted.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Find a nice restaurant and order a bowl of hot soup.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Palermos in Vallejo.
Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person? 
A: A dog person.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: The Polynesian Islands.

General Manager

Joe Matthews is a longtime veteran of the shower enclosure industry and general manager of <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/schicker-luxury-shower-doors-inc>Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 676-5040 or by <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/schicker-luxury-shower-doors-inc>email</a>.

Joe Matthews: A Clear Trajectory

ANTIOCH — Living space is a precious commodity these days, especially in the Bay Area, where housing prices are higher than most other parts of the country. Whether your house is occupied with people or possessions (or both), you may find you don’t have quite the amount of space you used to. However, this may be a result not of insufficient space but of space being poorly utilized. That’s why, before you think about upgrading to a bigger house, it’s worthwhile to look at your current one and consider ways to improve your use of the space. There are many ways to improve the use of living space in a home. Anything from a bedroom to a hallway or closet can potentially be altered, Read more

<h1>Juan Sandoval: Fueled by Freedom</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
ANTIOCH — As Juan Sandoval recounts his journey to becoming a building contractor, it’s clear his professional progression was largely shaped by a desire for freedom. “Before getting into construction, I worked in a restaurant, and I’d get tired of being in the same place every day,” he remembers. “When I started doing construction, I really liked the fact that we were constantly moving from one jobsite to another. It just felt a lot freer.”
After starting out as a laborer, Juan worked his way up through the ranks, accumulating a wealth of experience as he went. A decade later, he again felt the tug of freedom and decided to make the jump from employee to owner. Today, as owner of East Bay PC Construction, Inc., he reflects on the motivation for his decision. “I didn’t do this to become super wealthy—I just like the liberty that comes with being my own boss. I like making my own schedule and being in control of my professional destiny.”
Juan says his favorite part of his job is collaborating with clients to bring their dreams to fruition. “I enjoy meeting with a customer, learning about their dreams for their remodeled home and helping them turn those dreams into reality. Often, people have lots of ideas but need help with the practical aspects, which is where I come in.”
A resident of Antioch, Juan spends most of his time outside of work with his family. “My wife, Maricela, and I have four beautiful kids, aged 20, 17, five and one,” he says. “Basically, after raising our first two kids into their teens, we decided to start all over again. I enjoy taking time off with my family and going to the beach or on short vacations. We don’t stay at home very much—we prefer to be out and active.”
In regard to his professional career, Juan espouses the value of customer confidence. “I make sure my clients know I’m with them every step of the way,” he explains. “If they have questions, they know they can come to me, even if it’s after hours. Since I keep them updated and informed, they’re not constantly worrying about their projects, which reduces stress for both of us. Overall, I find that making myself available to my clients results in healthier working relationships.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Juan says he’d head south. “I would probably move to Rosarito Beach, Mexico and spend the rest of my life there with my wife. I would likely keep my business running, though—I’d just come by every so often to make sure everything was still running smoothly.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: An early bird. Where I live, if you’re not on the freeway by 5am, you’re going to spend two hours fighting with the traffic.
Q: What’s your favorite TV show? 
A: “The Walking Dead.”
Q: Do you collect anything? 
A: Tools.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: It’s a tie between India 4 U in Brentwood and La Piñata in Concord.
Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future? 
A: I would go to the past and get into architecture. I’ve always been fascinated by building design, so I’d love the chance to go back and follow the path to becoming an architect.

Owner

A glimpse into the life and career of Juan Sandoval, owner of East Bay PC Construction in Antioch.

Juan Sandoval is owner of East Bay PC Construction, Inc., a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (510) 962-5972 or by email.

Juan Sandoval: Fueled by Freedom

SOQUEL — One of the most overlooked sources of potential damage to a home is inadequate soil drainage. When water is allowed to collect around the perimeter of a home, it can lead to numerous problems, including foundation settlement, termite infestation and the growth of harmful fungi like dry rot. As a homeowner, the most important thing you can do to protect your investment is control the groundwater outside of your house. There are a few proactive steps you can take to control exterior groundwater. One is to avoid situating plants right next to your home’s foundation or attaching planter boxes to your home’s exterior. Even more important is to make sure the ground outside your home is properly graded, Read more

<h1>Michal Gerard: A Bigger Wave</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SOQUEL &mdash; While many contractors first get involved with the trade because of an interest in the work or to follow in their parents’ footsteps, Michal Gerard says his initial motivation was to fund his primary passion: surfing. “As a young man in my 20s, the only place I wanted to be was out catching waves,” he remembers. “I figured construction work would be seasonal and allow me plenty of time off to go surfing. It didn’t quite work out the way I had it in my head—instead, I got busy and stayed busy!”
Today, as owner of Michal Gerard Construction, Michal says one of his favorite parts of the job is taking on daily challenges. “I enjoy solving the various problems that come up every day with construction work, as well as the challenges that come with maintaining relationships with my clients. Between the actual work and the customer service end, my line of work is never boring.”
A lifetime resident of the Monterey area, Michal grew up in Watsonville before later settling in Soquel, where he says he enjoys the weather, the environment and, of course, the close proximity to the ocean. While he doesn’t surf as much as he did in his younger years, Michal still engages in plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking at Nisene Marks State Park and canoeing in the Monterey Bay. He also appreciates the variety of local culture. “I enjoy the range of options we have here in terms of food and entertainment. There are a lot of world class performers who come through, so it’s just a fun place to be.”
In reference to a professional philosophy, Michal says performing quality workmanship furnishes its own rewards. “I don’t do this just to make a living—I do it because I get a lot back on many different levels. The main reward I get is the satisfaction of a job well done. That’s why, whenever I build something, I’m equally concerned with the structural details as I am with the way it looks on the outside.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Michal says he’d pursue his dream of being a sustainable farmer. “I’d like to live a more ‘close to earth’ existence. I enjoy living outside of mainstream consumer society as much as possible, and I think being more self-sustaining by growing my own food would enable me to take things to the next level.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!</h8>
Q: What’s the most death-defying feat you’ve ever attempted? 
A: Surfing off the coast of Mexico during a big swell.
Q: What was your first pet? 
A: A terrier named Annie.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Sunrise Cafe in Soquel.
Q: What’s your favorite smell? 
A: Star jasmine—it’s a large vine with aromatic flowers.
Q: What’s your favorite snack? 
A: Toast.

Michal Gerard: A Bigger Wave By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SOQUEL &mdash; While many contractors first get involved with the trade because of an interest in the work or to follow in their parents’ footsteps, Michal Gerard says his initial motivation was to fund his primary passion: surfing. “As a young man in my 20s, the only place I wanted to be was out catching waves,” he remembers. “I figured construction work would be seasonal and allow me plenty of time off to go surfing. It didn’t quite work out the way I had it in my head—instead, I got busy and stayed busy!” Today, as owner of Michal Gerard Construction, Read more

Michal Gerard is owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/michal-gerard-construction">Michal Gerard Construction</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2013. He can be reached at (831) 296-2839 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/michal-gerard-construction">email</a>.

Michal Gerard: A Bigger Wave

CONCORD — When remodeling your bathroom, it’s important to consider how long you plan to live in your home and if you want to age in place. If so, you’ll want to take measures to improve safety and accessibility in your bathroom. The first thing to do is consider your tub and shower options. Whereas a traditional bathtub can pose a danger to those with limited mobility, a walk-in bathtub is equipped with a door that provides a lower, more safely accessible entryway. Another important component of bathroom safety is grab bars. While traditional grab bars can help prevent slips and falls, they often have an unpleasant, institutional look to them. Read more

<h1>Kimeri Opacic: A Firsthand Perspective</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
CONCORD – After more than ten years as marketing director for Re-Bath by Schicker, Kimeri Opacic’s only regret is that she didn’t always know what she now knows about bathroom remodeling. “I bought a house in 1998 that was stuck in the ’70s, and it’s been one big remodeling project ever since,” she explains. “When it came to remodeling the master bathroom, I went the traditional route and did a lot of legwork myself. It turned out to be a lot of trial and error, with me going back and forth between multiple locations to find fixtures and components, many of which I had to return because they were the wrong size or incompatible with the design. After going through that experience and now working for a bathroom remodeling company, it’s easy for me to see the value in hiring a company that handles every aspect in-house.”
Originally from Sacramento, Kimeri relocated to the Bay Area in 1986, where she continues to reside in Walnut Creek with her husband, George, and their son, Tyler. Outside of her role as a marketing consultant, she describes herself as a soccer mom in the most literal sense. “My son plays competitive soccer and my husband coaches, so for much of the year I’m likely to be found on the sidelines of a soccer field.” While she enjoys being part of the action, Kimeri also appreciates spending time with her family off the field. “I really enjoy just hanging out with them, whether going out to eat, going to the movies or taking long walks with our golden retriever, Max.”
In her life and career, Kimeri emphasizes the importance of honesty. “As a consultant, I believe honesty is always the best policy,” she affirms. “When you’re serving customers, it’s important to be upfront with them, take responsibility for your actions and make good on your promises, because that’s what can make or break your reputation. Unexpected issues or mistakes can happen in any situation, but it’s usually in the best interest of all parties involved to just be upfront and honest rather than cover things up or deny responsibility.”
When asked the first thing she’d do if she could retire tomorrow, Kimeri says she’d catch a plane and head to Europe’s wine belt. “I’d like to spend a month or two in Italy and France. I’ve been there once, and I’ve wanted to go back ever since.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What was the name of your first pet? 
A: Gigi—a fitting name for a purebred French poodle.
Q: What’s your favorite restaurant? 
A: Mustards Grill in Napa.
Q: What were you most known for in high school? 
A: Music—I played the violin and was part of a youth symphony.
Q: What was your favorite toy as a child? 
A: My Raggedy Ann doll.
Q: Do you share a birthday with anyone famous? 
A: Bruce Willis and Glenn Close.

Marketing Director

Kimeri Opacic: A Firsthand Perspective By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter CONCORD – After more than ten years as marketing director for Re-Bath by Schicker, Kimeri Opacic’s only regret is that she didn’t always know what she now knows about bathroom remodeling. “I bought a house in 1998 that was stuck in the ’70s, and it’s been one big remodeling project ever since,” she explains. “When it came to remodeling the master bathroom, I went the traditional route and did a lot of legwork myself. It turned out to be a lot of trial and error, with me going back and forth between multiple locations to find fixtures and components, Read more

Kimeri Opacic is marketing director of Re-Bath by Schicker, a Diamond Certified company since 2009. She can be reached at (925) 309-5867 or by email.

Kimeri Opacic: A Firsthand Perspective

DUBLIN — Every woman should have a toolbox—they’re handy for making quick home repairs and essential for many decorative projects. If you’re planning on hanging pictures, putting up shelving or displaying your kids’ latest creations from art class, start by making sure you have a fully stocked toolbox. Most toolboxes come with basics like screws, frame hangers and pin nails, but you should also include a tape measure so you can organize frames and shelves proportionally across your walls. For placing nails, there’s no substitute for a good hammer, so choose one you can use comfortably and accurately. Next, you’ll need a level, which will help you determine if a frame is tilting or if new shelves are straight. Read more

<h1>Kevin Abrew: Old-Fashioned Values</h1>
<h6>By Suzanne Carroll</h6>
DUBLIN &mdash; Kevin Abrew started his own construction company when he was 19 years old—a logical step for an entrepreneurial young man who had been working on construction sites since he was pulling nails at age 12. The problem was the stiff competition from another local contractor: his father. “My dad and I eventually realized it was silly to be bidding on the same jobs,” he explains. “So, we decided to combine forces and started working together.” 
In the early years of their partnership, there was a noticeable generation gap. “I remember trying to talk my dad into getting nail guns and paint sprayers when they first came out,” says Kevin. “I tried to convince him we’d be saving time and money, but he was committed to doing things the old-fashioned way.” Despite their different approaches, the Abrew men managed to cultivate a respectful working relationship. As the years passed, Kevin assumed more managerial responsibilities and took over the company after his father’s retirement in 2002. Today, he operates Abrew Repair and Construction with his wife, Shannon. 
Kevin doesn’t shy away from challenging projects. In fact, he takes great pride in solving problems that other contractors say are impossible. “Recently, we had a client who wanted to remove a 23-foot-long wall,” he recounts. “Two other contractors said it couldn’t be done. I said, ‘That’s not a problem, we’ll put in a steel beam.’ The client was amazed. No one else was willing to work with steel. We’re happy to put in the extra effort to get clients what they want.” 
For Kevin, providing top-notch customer service goes hand-in-hand with his faith. “Ethics and morals are very important to how we operate as a company,” he explains. “In practice, this means listening to the client and doing whatever we can to set things right. Renovating a home is stressful and sometimes people get emotional, but we always approach every client with dignity and respect, no matter what.” 
Kevin was born and raised in Dublin, California, and he bought his first house just down the street from his parents. “The Bay Area is home for me,” he says. “It’s a great location with perfect weather, and we’re so close to the mountains, the city and wine country. Everything that I like to do with my family is nearby.” 
Kevin, Shannon and their two daughters participate in a variety of sports. “We like to stay involved by coaching our daughters’ teams. Right now, the girls are doing softball, soccer, football, competition dance and karate. It’s a pretty full schedule!” The Abrews also enjoy traveling, which is something Kevin hopes to do more of once he retires. “We’d love to visit England and Ireland, but I think our first stop would be Disney World.” 
<h8>Ask Me Anything!</h8>
Q: What’s your favorite sports team? 
A: The San Francisco 49ers.
Q: What’s your favorite movie? 
A: “Back to the Future.”
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A Pontiac Sunbird.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? 
A: Donuts.
Q: Music or talk radio? 
A: Music, especially Christian music.

Kevin Abrew: Old-Fashioned Values By Suzanne Carroll DUBLIN &mdash; Kevin Abrew started his own construction company when he was 19 years old—a logical step for an entrepreneurial young man who had been working on construction sites since he was pulling nails at age 12. The problem was the stiff competition from another local contractor: his father. “My dad and I eventually realized it was silly to be bidding on the same jobs,” he explains. “So, we decided to combine forces and started working together.” In the early years of their partnership, there was a noticeable generation gap. “I remember trying to talk my dad into getting nail guns and paint sprayers when they first came out,” says Kevin. Read more

Kevin Abrew is owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/abrew-repair-and-construction">Abrew Repair and Construction</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 833-0128 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/abrew-repair-and-construction">email</a>.

Kevin Abrew: Old-Fashioned Values

UNION CITY — When it comes to kitchen countertops, two of the most popular materials on the market are quartz and granite. Both materials are similar in some ways while very different in others. To make an informed choice, it’s a good idea to learn about these similarities and differences. Similarities Fabrication/Installation: Both quartz and granite countertops are fabricated and installed in virtually the same way. Dimensions: Regardless of what material it’s made of, your countertop will have the same thickness (typically two to three centimeters). Differences Composition: Quartz is a man-made, non-porous material that is easy to clean and doesn’t require any auxiliary sealers. Read more

<h1>Mitch Alves: A Hands-On Inclination </h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
UNION CITY — When asked how he got involved in home remodeling, Mitch Alves says it was just part of his upbringing. “My father and grandfather were both builders—real hands-on guys. I learned to do carpentry and masonry work at a young age and went right into the trades following high school. I wound up working for one of the largest general contractors in the United States, where I was eventually promoted to Western Regional Manager.”
Despite his prominent position, Mitch felt drawn toward a more hands-on professional situation. “As an employee of another contractor, I would often see flaws in the way things were done,” he explains. “After a while, I started thinking, ‘I could do this better on my own.’ I wanted to go out there and make a difference with contracting in terms of quality and customer service. Eventually, I decided to take that path and get my contractor’s license.”
Today, as owner of MCA Remodeling Inc., Mitch says his favorite part of his job is making his clients happy. “I enjoy exceeding my clients’ expectations for their finished products. It’s very satisfying to see the smiles on their faces when it’s all said and done.”
A resident of Castro Valley (where he lives with his wife, Leslie), Mitch likes to spend his free time enjoying the outdoors. “We have some property on the north fork of the Stanislaus River, so we like to go up there when we can,” he details. “We do a lot of fishing and off-roading with our ATVs. In the winter, we like to go skiing at Tahoe.” Mitch and Leslie also enjoy spending quality time with their six children and three grandchildren.
In regard to a professional philosophy, Mitch espouses the importance of staying true to one’s word. “Basically, my philosophy is to let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and your ‘no’ be ‘no,’” he explains. “I’m more of an old-school, handshake agreement kind of guy, and I really pride myself on the fact that I stand by my word. When dealing with customers, you have to do what you say you’re going to do and be clear about it so there’s no miscommunication. If you can do that, you’ll do all right.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Mitch says he’d take an extended vacation. “My wife and I often talk about traveling, but it’s hard to pull away from the business for a long period of time. So, if I retired, we’d probably plan a big trip—maybe go overseas and see some more of the world.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Do you collect anything?
A: I collect watches.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Genghix Asian Fusion in Castro Valley.
Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The Oakland Raiders.
Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: I’d probably go 20 or 30 years into the future to see how far technology has come.
Q: Pancakes or waffles?
A: Waffles.

Mitch Alves: A Hands-On Inclination By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter UNION CITY — When asked how he got involved in home remodeling, Mitch Alves says it was just part of his upbringing. “My father and grandfather were both builders—real hands-on guys. I learned to do carpentry and masonry work at a young age and went right into the trades following high school. I wound up working for one of the largest general contractors in the United States, where I was eventually promoted to Western Regional Manager.” Despite his prominent position, Mitch felt drawn toward a more hands-on professional situation. “As an employee of another contractor, I would often see flaws in the way things were done,” he explains. Read more

Mitch Alves is owner of MCA Remodeling Inc., a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (650) 273-5399 or by email.

Mitch Alves: A Hands-On Inclination

VALLEJO — Many homeowners think of bathroom exhaust fans as a “one size fits all” affair, but in reality, there are several variables to consider. As modern homes are being built tighter to maximize energy efficiency, the need for adequate ventilation has increased, which is why building code legislation now requires bathroom fans to be installed in any new or remodeled bathrooms, regardless of whether they have windows. Few people realize that a bathroom fan doesn’t merely reduce moisture—it actually improves air quality by removing pollutants like mold, mildew and dust from the indoor environment. However, simply having a fan isn’t enough; you need one that’s correctly sized for the space. In determining the right fan size for your bathroom, Read more

<h1>David Cook: From Restaurants to Remodeling</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource</h6>
VALLEJO — Despite having an innate predilection for building, David Cook spent the bulk of his early career working in the restaurant business. Eventually, however, he decided to take a chance and pursue his professional passion. “I’ve always loved working with my hands and building things…let’s just say I had the best treehouse on the block when I was a kid,” he laughs. “Later, I ended up in the restaurant business, where I got stuck for many years until I finally burned out. I decided it was time to follow my heart and do what I really loved, so I went to work for a general contractor in San Francisco.”
It was during this time that David got an opportunity to enter a specialized area of the field, although he initially rejected it. “I was offered a job from a guy at my church who installed kitchen cabinets,” he recounts. “I politely declined, but less than a month later, the contractor I worked for laid everyone off, so I went back to him and asked if the offer still stood. After working with him for a while, I realized that while he was good at installing cabinets, he wasn’t so good at the administrative aspects, so I decided to get my license and start doing my own thing.”
Today, as owner of Cook’s Kitchen &amp; Bath, Inc., David says he enjoys the inherent variety his career entails, as well as the sense of accomplishment he derives from it. “In this line of work, every job is different, which keeps things challenging. It’s also neat to stand back, look at what we accomplished for our clients and see the reactions on their faces.”
Born in Chicago, David moved to California when he was five years old; today, he resides in Vallejo with his wife, Tina. Outside of work, he spends much of his time hanging out with family and enjoying the outdoors. “Tina and I don’t have any kids together, but we have four kids and six grandkids between us, so we spend a lot of time with family,” he says. “I’m also pretty outdoorsy, and I like going camping and skiing. Additionally, since I love my profession, I enjoy working on my house, as well as on developing and improving my business.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, David says he’d spend some time doing charity work before heading out for an extended vacation. “One of my business coaches is currently raising money to build 5,000 homes in Nicaragua for the extremely poor. I’d love to be a part of something like that and use my abilities to help those in need. I’d also like to do some more traveling—at the moment, Bora Bora is at the top of my list.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite sports team? 
A: The San Francisco Giants.
Q: What’s your favorite snack? 
A: Grapes.
Q: If you could travel to the past or the future, which would you choose? 
A: The future—it’s not good to live in the past.
Q: What was your favorite toy as a child? 
A: My fishing pole.
Q: Pancakes or waffles? 
A: Waffles.

David Cook: From Restaurants to Remodeling By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource VALLEJO — Despite having an innate predilection for building, David Cook spent the bulk of his early career working in the restaurant business. Eventually, however, he decided to take a chance and pursue his professional passion. “I’ve always loved working with my hands and building things…let’s just say I had the best treehouse on the block when I was a kid,” he laughs. “Later, I ended up in the restaurant business, where I got stuck for many years until I finally burned out. I decided it was time to follow my heart and do what I really loved, so I went to work for a general contractor in San Francisco.” It was during this time that David got an opportunity to enter a specialized area of the field, Read more

David Cook is 19-year veteran of the remodeling industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/cooks-kitchen-bath-inc">Cook's Kitchen &amp; Bath, Inc.</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2007. He can be reached at (707) 901-7940 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/cooks-kitchen-bath-inc">email</a>.

David Cook: From Restaurants to Remodeling

SAN FRANCISCO — One of the most common complaints regarding shower doors is the difficulty involved in keeping them clean. Most people don’t realize there’s a reason this is so difficult: Glass is porous, just like our skin. When the pores in a glass shower door are compromised by contaminants, it makes the glass harder to clean and leads to issues with corrosion and water stains. Fortunately, there are products that address the difficulty of maintaining shower doors. One is called “Diamond Seal,” a polymer coating that’s applied to the interior of the shower glass. Diamond Seal gets into the pores of the glass so contaminants can’t, which makes cleaning easier and less frequent and consequently helps prevent water stains. Read more

<h1>Tom Nolan: Only in America</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SAN FRANCISCO &mdash; When Tom Nolan started working at California Shower Door Corporation as a teenager, the last thing he expected was to one day be its president and CEO. “It’s one of those ‘only in America’ stories, where the kid who starts out sweeping the floors winds up owning the company,” he says. “It began as a summer job during high school, and I continued part-time through college while I earned my master’s degree in psychology. After graduating, my intention was to become a teacher, but unfortunately there weren’t any full-time teaching jobs available. Thankfully, the company owner offered me an opportunity to run the business until I found a teaching position. Twenty-five years later, I’m still here.”
When asked his favorite part about his job, Tom gives a twofold response. “First, I enjoy interacting with our team members, who are wonderful employees and even better human beings. Second, I like being a problem-solver for our clients. From the beginning of California Shower Door’s history in 1935 to now, we’ve been innovators in every aspect of what we do, pushing the possibilities for installation and design, so that’s something I take a lot of pride in.”
A native resident of San Francisco (where he lives with his wife, Monica, and their children, Patrick and Malena), Tom express his appreciation for the diverse character of the City by the Bay. “There’s no place like San Francisco, especially in terms of sheer diversity—there’s something for just about everyone. I’m very proud to call myself a native San Franciscan.”
Outside of work, Tom spends his free time on a number of active pastimes. “My two main hobbies are playing guitar and reading,” he says. “I started playing guitar when I was a teenager, and it’s something I still enjoy today. I also love going to the beach and traveling with my family.”
In his life and career, Tom espouses the virtues of the Golden Rule. “I just try to treat others the way I would like to be treated,” he affirms. “In regard to our business, this means treating both our clients and employees with respect and consideration. It’s a pretty simple philosophy, but it’s effective.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Tom says he would do more of the things he currently enjoys, especially traveling. “At this point in my life, I don’t have the chance to travel much, other than vacations to Hawaii, so I’d take the opportunity to visit Europe and other parts of the world.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!</h8>
Q: What’s your favorite book? 
A: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.
Q: Music or talk radio? 
A: Music. I went through a talk radio phase, but as I’ve gotten older and hopefully a bit wiser, I’ve grown tired of all the banter.
Q: What were you most known for in high school? 
A: Playing the guitar. I played in a band from age 14 until I was about 21.
Q: Who’s your all-time favorite guitar player? 
A: Jimi Hendrix.
Q: If you could immediately master any musical instrument, what would you choose? 
A: Clarinet, because I love traditional New Orleans jazz.

President/CEO

Tom Nolan: Only in America By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SAN FRANCISCO &mdash; When Tom Nolan started working at California Shower Door Corporation as a teenager, the last thing he expected was to one day be its president and CEO. “It’s one of those ‘only in America’ stories, where the kid who starts out sweeping the floors winds up owning the company,” he says. “It began as a summer job during high school, and I continued part-time through college while I earned my master’s degree in psychology. After graduating, my intention was to become a teacher, but unfortunately there weren’t any full-time teaching jobs available. Thankfully, the company owner offered me an opportunity to run the business until I found a teaching position. Read more

Tom Nolan is a veteran of the shower enclosure industry and president/CEO of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/california-shower-door-corporation">California Shower Door Corporation</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2005. He can be reached at (415) 763-5983 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/california-shower-door-corporation">email</a>.

Tom Nolan: Only in America

REDWOOD CITY — When taking on a remodeling project, many homeowners feel overwhelmed with the complex nature of the process. However, by addressing a few important aspects ahead of time, you can set yourself up for success. Here are a few things to consider: Purpose. First, it’s essential to determine what you want to get out of your remodeling project, whether it’s a refurbished kitchen, an additional bathroom or simply extra square footage. Having a clear goal in mind at the beginning will help you keep the rest of the project in focus. Budget. It’s crucial to establish a budget early, as it affects every other aspect of the process, including the design, Read more

<h1>Jim Adkins: Finishing Strong</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
REDWOOD CITY – While he’s since made a successful career for himself, Jim Adkins’ involvement in the construction industry began with a rude awakening. “I started out as a teenager, working summers for my grandfather, Walter Springs Sr.,” he recalls. “I remember coming to work the first day and thinking I was going to do something easy like drive around in a truck or backhoe. When I walked into my grandfather’s office, he pointed to a brand new shovel in the corner and told me that when I learned how to use that tool, he’d give me the next one. Basically, I started my career making blisters!”
Despite a less-than-idyllic start, Jim went on to become well-versed in all aspects of construction and eventually earned his certification as a master finish carpenter. Today, as president of Springs Construction, Jim says he enjoys building relationships with clients as much as he does building their homes. “I always tell people that my favorite part of the job is handing the keys to the clients and telling them, ‘Here’s your new home!’ The whole process is very rewarding.”
A native of Northern California, Jim lived in various parts of the San Francisco area before finally settling in San Jose, where he lives with his wife, Chris, and their children, Laurel and Bryce. He says his favorite part about living and working in the Bay Area is its natural diversity. “You drive 45 minutes west and you’re at the ocean, and you drive four hours northeast and you’re in the snow. Essentially, you could go surfing and skiing in the same day if you wanted. Not a lot of places can boast that kind of versatility. The more I travel, the more I realize that I have a pretty good place to live.”
While he’s passionate about construction work, Jim’s other love is motorsports. “I watch drag racing and Formula One religiously, and I also follow Motocross and Supercross,” he says. “Whenever there’s a race in town, my son and I are there to see it.”
In both his life and career, Jim attributes his personal success in part to an ongoing process of self-improvement. “I just try to do a little better every day,” he explains. “Whether it’s my performance in the field or my role as a husband and father, my goal is to do things better today than I did them yesterday. I think that attitude has motivated me and helped bring me to where I am today.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!<h8>
Q: What’s your favorite sport? 
A: I’m a big motorsports fan. In NASCAR, I root for Jeff Gordon; in drag racing, I really like John Force; and in Formula One, my favorite driver is Kimi Räikkönen, who drives for Ferrari.
Q: What was your first concert? 
A: Eddie Money at the Cow Palace, when I was 16 years old.
Q: What do you like on your pizza? 
A: Pepperoni and extra cheese.
Q: If someone was making a movie about your life, what actor would you choose to play you? 
A: Brad Pitt, because I’m extremely handsome! (Laughs)
Q: What Seinfeld character do you identify most with? 
A: Kramer. He’s just a happy-go-lucky person—he has his friends and his ideas, and that’s about all he needs.
Q: What’s the best gift you ever received? 
A: When I was 12 years old, I wanted a radio-controlled car called a Baja Buggy for Christmas. I was sure my parents got it for me, but Christmas morning came and there was no Baja Buggy. I was disappointed, but I was old enough to understand that my parents probably weren’t able to afford it, so I let it go. Later that afternoon, after some family members had come over, my dad said to me, “Hey, go open the drapes on that sliding door and let in some light.” I pulled back the drapes and there was the Baja Buggy!

Vice President

Jim Adkins is a 24-year veteran of the construction industry and vice president of <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/springs-construction>Springs Construction</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2004. He can be reached at (650) 720-5949 or by <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/springs-construction>email</a>.

Jim Adkins: Finishing Strong

GILROY — Whether caused by a swinging door or another accidental source, drywall is easily damaged. Luckily, it’s also fairly easy to repair. Using the following procedure, you can repair a damaged area of drywall in your home: 1. Cut out a square-shaped patch around the damaged area of drywall and remove it. 2. Cut a long, thin piece of plywood, place it behind the drywall and use a drill to screw it in at two points. This will serve as the backing for your new patch. 3. Cut out a piece from a drywall sheet that matches the size of the patch you removed. Using your drill, screw this piece into the plywood backing and fill in the gap in the drywall. Read more

<h1>Charles Irwin: House of Dreams</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
GILROY — Charles Irwin received an early education in the construction field by doing something most kids only dream of: building a house. “When I was 14 years old, my parents decided to sell our house in San Jose and build our own,” he remembers. “Over the next four years, I spent all my holidays, weekends and vacations working on the house. Besides the realization that I enjoyed working with my hands, that experience taught me a lot about construction and got me started in the field.”
Following high school, Charles further expanded his versatile skill set by working in various industry capacities. “I was a roofer for a while, did drywall for a bit and was also a framer,” he recounts. “Eventually, I decided to go back to school and get my CAD degree, which led to a career in civil engineering. After about nine years of designing traffic signals and roadway plans, I decided to get back into construction, which is what I’ve been doing for the last 15 years.”
Today, as owner of Irwin Construction Kitchen and Bath, Charles says his favorite part of his job is breathing new life into old spaces. “I like taking an old, beat-up kitchen and turning it into somebody’s dream kitchen. The process of transforming something a client doesn’t like into something they love is very exciting for me.”
A lifetime resident of the South Bay (where he lives with his wife, Tricia), Charles spends his time outside of work on a variety of active pastimes. “I’ve always loved cars and racing, and I used to do dirt track racing over in Watsonville,” he says. “My latest passion is car restoration—right now, I’m rebuilding a ’33 Dodge sedan.” Charles also enjoys going shooting at the archery range and spending time with his family, including his two grown children, Branden and Samantha.
In his life and career, Charles espouses the importance of integrity. “I believe that a person is only as good as their word,” he explains. “If somebody says they’re going to do something, it’s important that they do it. That’s why I never promise our customers anything I can’t deliver, and I always deliver what I promise.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Charles says he’d take a long vacation. “I’d probably take a trip to Italy. I’m Italian, and my wife was actually born in Italy, so I think that would be a really special vacation for both of us.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite TV show? 
A: “Vikings” on the History Channel.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Maurizio’s in Morgan Hill.
Q: What’s your favorite holiday? 
A: Halloween—even though both of our kids are grown up, we still get dressed up and go out!
Q: What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child? 
A: The Greatest American Hero.
Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future? 
A: The past. I think it would be really cool to go back to the Renaissance period and see all the art and technology as it was being developed.

Charles Irwin: House of Dreams By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter GILROY — Charles Irwin received an early education in the construction field by doing something most kids only dream of: building a house. “When I was 14 years old, my parents decided to sell our house in San Jose and build our own,” he remembers. “Over the next four years, I spent all my holidays, weekends and vacations working on the house. Besides the realization that I enjoyed working with my hands, that experience taught me a lot about construction and got me started in the field.” Following high school, Charles further expanded his versatile skill set by working in various industry capacities. Read more

Charles Irwin is a 27-year veteran of the construction industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/irwin-construction">Irwin Construction Kitchen and Bath</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (408) 214-1500 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/irwin-construction">email</a>.

Charles Irwin: House of Dreams

CASTRO VALLEY — Does your kitchen feel cramped? Do you wish you had more space for cooking, sharing family meals and entertaining? There are several ways to improve upon a small kitchen, but perhaps the most popular option nowadays is to remove one or more walls to open up the space. By altering the room’s structural layout, this option gives homeowners more freedom to design their dream kitchens. The biggest challenge with this type of kitchen remodeling project is dealing with load-bearing walls. Removing a non-structural wall is pretty simple, but some walls provide necessary support for the roof. In such cases, the solution is to install a structural beam across the affected area. Read more

<h1>Ric Plummer: An Elevated Career</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Program Reporter</h6>
CASTRO VALLEY — As owner of one of the East Bay’s premier kitchen and bath showrooms, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that Ric Plummer is at a high point in his professional career. However, there was a time when being at elevated heights was literally part of his everyday job. “I started out doing framing and drywall in San Francisco high-rises, including Four Embarcadero Center, one of the city’s tallest buildings,” he says. “After fifteen years, I grew tired of working in the city and decided to go into business for myself.” As an independent kitchen and bathroom remodeling contractor, Ric started out small, making house calls and working out of a pickup truck. Eventually, he progressed from his truck bed to a central location, opening Ric’s Kitchen &amp; Bath Showroom in 1996.
Today, Ric says his favorite part of his job is bringing clients’ projects from vision to reality. “I like it when we’ve accomplished a difficult project, and the homeowner is amazed that it came together the way I said it would. To me, that’s better than money.”
A resident of Castro Valley (where he lives with his wife, Debbie), Ric says he enjoys living in a place that offers the best of both worlds. “I like the fact that I live in the country, but I’m only five minutes from the city. It’s also just a nice area to live in, having grown over the years from a little cow town into an active and diverse community.”
Outside of work, Ric divides his time between two principal hobbies: hot rods and horses. “I love old cars and have a workshop on my ranch where I rebuild them from the bottom up,” he says. “I own six different hot rods and like to compete in car shows. My other major pastime is raising and training horses. My son, Dillon, competes in equestrian events, and during the season, he trains six days a week here at the ranch.”
In his life and career, Ric espouses the importance of surrounding one’s self with the right people. “I’m only as good as the people behind me,” he affirms. “In this business, there are a lot of variables, so it’s vital to have competent people that can keep things organized and moving efficiently. From my floor staff to our product suppliers, I make it a point to work with people I can trust and whose quality of work I’m happy with.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Ric replies that he wouldn’t. “My business is a big part of my life, and if I retired, I would miss it,” he says. “When I wake up each morning, I don’t lament having to go to work, rather, I look forward it, so I don’t plan on retiring anytime soon.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Do you have a favorite sports team? 
A: The Dallas Cowboys.
Q: Do you have a favorite band or musician? 
A: Tesla. Their drummer is a good friend of mine.
Q: Do you have a favorite movie? 
A: “The Swiss Family Robinson.” I used to watch it as a kid and loved the ingenuity they employed to build their house. I’ve always been fascinated by the scenario of having to survive in an uninhabited environment.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Work on cars in my shop.
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A ’64 Volkswagen.
Q: What’s your dream car? 
A: A ’57 Chevy.

Ric Plummer is a longtime veteran of the remodeling industry and owner of Ric's Kitchen &amp; Bath Showroom, a Diamond Certified company since 2003. He can be reached at (510) 371-4954 or by <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/rics-kitchen-bath-showroom>email</a>.

Ric Plummer: An Elevated Career

WALNUT CREEK — There are a lot of decisions to make during a kitchen remodeling project, one of which is choosing a countertop material. Below, we’ll briefly look at three potential options: quartz, quartzite and marble. Quartz As an engineered (man-made) stone, quartz is very durable and affordable, but it does have some downsides. Because it’s made in a factory, it lacks the unique natural beauty that other stones possess. Also, while quartz is tough, it’s not indestructible. Most notably, it’s very sensitive to heat. If you took a pot off of the burner and placed it directly on the countertop, the heat could actually cause it to crack. Quartzite This option has a similar name as quartz, Read more

<h1>Avi Edri: In His Father’s Footsteps</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
WALNUT CREEK — When asked how he got into the construction industry, Avi Edri credits the instruction and inspiration he received from his father. “My dad is a contractor, so I learned pretty everything I know from him,” he affirms. “He’s not only extremely professional, he’s an artist in his trade, so I was lucky to have him as a teacher. I started learned the trade from him when I was 14. It was difficult, but I loved it, and I knew early on that this would be my lifelong career.”
After accumulating several years of experience, Avi started a contracting firm with his business partner, David Tejeda. Today, as owner of Edri Construction, Avi says his favorite part of his work is the satisfaction of a job well done. “I love to see the client happy at the end of the job. For me, there’s no better feeling than that.”
A resident of Walnut Creek, Avi spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “My girlfriend, Elvira, and I have two dogs, Josan and Maximus, and we like to travel with them. Also, we both have big families, so we enjoy visiting our relatives and hosting them at our home.”
When asked about a professional philosophy, Avi espouses the importance of doing right by others. “I believe that if you do good, good things will come back to you,” he explains. “That’s why I’m always straightforward with our clients and follow through with my promises. Some contractors take a ‘hit and run’ approach, where they take advantage of their customers. Not only is that wrong, it also doesn’t bring any good. You can’t get another referral or opportunity from doing people wrong—it’s a dead end. It’s much better to do right by people, because you can sleep well at night and get more opportunities.”
When asked what he would do if he were to retire tomorrow, Avi says he would relax and enjoy his free time. “I would move to Hawaii and just enjoy life. I’m actually planning to retire young if I can. I don’t have any children yet, but if I do, I’d like to retire when they’re between six and 10 years old. That way, I would be able to give them extra attention.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Coffee or tea? 
A: Coffee.
Q: What was your first pet? 
A: A black German Shepherd named Sandy.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Watch movies and hang out with my puppies.
Q: What kinds of movies do you like? 
A: I like action movies and crime thrillers. My favorite actor is Denzel Washington, and a couple of my favorite movies are “Man on Fire” and “American Gangster.”
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: Africa.

Avi Edri: In His Father’s Footsteps By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter WALNUT CREEK — When asked how he got into the construction industry, Avi Edri credits the instruction and inspiration he received from his father. “My dad is a contractor, so I learned pretty everything I know from him,” he affirms. “He’s not only extremely professional, he’s an artist in his trade, so I was lucky to have him as a teacher. I started learned the trade from him when I was 14. It was difficult, but I loved it, and I knew early on that this would be my lifelong career.” After accumulating several years of experience, Read more

Avi Edri is owner of Edri Construction, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 488-0900 or by email.

Avi Edri: In His Father’s Footsteps

SEBASTOPOL — When installing a new deck, waterproofing is a crucial aspect of attaching it to your house. By taking thorough measures to properly waterproof your deck, you can expect it to have a longer lifespan and avoid rot issues with both the deck and your house. One of the main components of deck waterproofing is the flashing, which consists of a couple different elements. First, there’s the Z bar, which is a piece of metal in the shape of a “Z” that fits over the wooden ledger to deflect rain and moisture. Another important component is membrane flashing, which is installed under the Z bar, behind the ledger and in any area where moisture is a concern. Read more

<h1>Steve Labourdette: A Labor of Love</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SEBASTOPOL – When Steve Labourdette took his first remodeling job as a young man, it was simply a means to earn extra money for an upcoming trip. However, the passion he developed for his work would later blossom into a full-fledged career. “When I was 20 years old, I decided I wanted to do some traveling,” he remembers. “I’d already had some construction experience, so I was able to get a second job doing home remodels to save up some money. I found that I really had a knack for it, so when I returned after six months of traveling, I decided to get back into it. Later, I got my license and started my own company, and that’s how I got where I am today.” Since 1999, Sonoma County residents have been benefitting from Steve’s expertise as owner of Labourdette Construction.
Steve is a lifetime resident of the Bay Area—after living everywhere from the Presidio in San Francisco to Novato, he eventually settled in Sonoma County, where he resides with his wife, Maya, and daughters, June and Eva. “Since I’m the only guy in the house, we have a joke that when we got cats, I made sure they were males,” he laughs. “The truth is I love being surrounded by all this girl power.” When asked his favorite part about living and working in the Bay Area, Steve cites its versatile population. “There are so many different types of people here. I’ve worked for CEOs and winemakers, and I’ve worked for people who punch a clock, so it’s been a neat opportunity to build relationships with folks from all different walks of life.”
Outside of work, Steve enjoys a variety of pastimes, from playing acoustic guitar to outdoor activities such as hiking. “I love to go on hikes to the beach, in Annadel or on any West County trail,” he affirms. “I also read a lot, and I’m a fairly avid gardener.”
In his life and work, Steve espouses the importance of personal authenticity. “I went through a difficult time as a teenager, and when I opened up to my dad about it, he gave me a quote I hadn’t heard before: ‘Be true to yourself and no one can deceive you.’ It was just what I needed to hear at that time. I think it really helped me become who I am today, and it’s something I continue to live by.”
When asked what he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Steve says he’d devote more time to a couple of his favorite hobbies. “I would probably double the size of the workshop I have now and focus more on building cabinets and furniture, which is an aspect of carpentry that I enjoy but currently don’t do much of. I’d also build a recording studio on top of the shop where I could play and record my music.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!<h8>
Q: What’s your favorite movie genre? 
A: I like all kinds of movies, but documentaries are probably my favorite. The first year we had Netflix, my wife and I watched documentaries almost exclusively, and we still watch them often.
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: I could be either. Sometimes I stay up late, other times I’m up early—never back to back, though.
Q: What’s your favorite season? 
A: Fall. I love the nice, mild weather.
Q: Ever have a conversation with a famous person? 
A: One time at a Giants game, I found myself in an elevator with Willie Mays and ended up chatting with him for a few moments.
Q: If you had a warning label, what would it say? 
A: “Grumpy When Hungry.”

Steve Labourdette: A Labor of Love By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SEBASTOPOL – When Steve Labourdette took his first remodeling job as a young man, it was simply a means to earn extra money for an upcoming trip. However, the passion he developed for his work would later blossom into a full-fledged career. “When I was 20 years old, I decided I wanted to do some traveling,” he remembers. “I’d already had some construction experience, so I was able to get a second job doing home remodels to save up some money. I found that I really had a knack for it, so when I returned after six months of traveling, Read more

Steve Labourdette is a 28-year veteran of the construction industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/labourdette-construction">Labourdette Construction</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (707) 234-5963 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/labourdette-construction">email</a>.

Steve Labourdette: A Labor of Love

SACRAMENTO — If your home is your biggest asset, your roof is its first line of defense. What’s more, ignoring your roof can cost you an exorbitant amount of money in the long term. That’s why it’s important to check on the condition of your roof by performing regular visual inspections. Here are a few things to look for: Improper ventilation Ventilation is a crucial aspect of roof installation, but it often gets ignored. If the attic space beneath the roof can’t “breathe,” the resulting buildup of heat and humidity can cause the roofing materials to deteriorate from the bottom up. That’s why it’s important to assess your roof’s ventilation and look for signs of premature deterioration. Read more

<h1>Gary Kluck: On the Upbeat</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
CITRUS HEIGHTS – Gary Kluck has a lot on his plate. Between managing a home improvement company with more than 180 employees to singlehandedly running a household, it’s easy to think the stress might get to him now and then. However, Gary says maintaining a positive outlook goes a long way toward achieving both inner peace and outward success. “I’m a ‘glass half full’ kind of guy. I have a very upbeat personality, so when I do get stressed, I just stay calm and look at the positives of the situation, and pretty soon I’m back to normal.”
Born and raised in Wisconsin, Gary got his start in the construction industry at an early age. “I began working for my father when I was about 12 years old,” he remembers. “He was in home improvement and did a lot of concrete work and rough framing. I started out doing mostly grunt work, but I continued to learn and develop my skills, and I’ve been immersed in it ever since.”
Gary’s westward migration began in the early 1980s and included a five-year stint working in Colorado before he eventually reached Northern California. When the company he had been working for went bankrupt following a change of ownership, Gary reached out for advice on his next move. “I called the original owner of the business and asked him what I should do next,” he recalls. “He said, ‘Go do your own thing.’ I took his advice and started my own company, and it was the best decision I ever made.” Today, nearly a decade later, Quality First Home Improvement, Inc. is going strong with Gary at the helm.
In addition to running a business, Gary is employed as a full-time father and homemaker, raising his youngest of four daughters while his wife, Tamara, is pursuing her own career out-of-state. “A few years back, my wife decided to go to medical school to become a physician,” he explains. “She’s actually in Pennsylvania doing her residency right now, so I’m kind of like Mr. Mom for the next couple years.” Though his responsibilities keep him busy, Gary does find time to play golf with his friends on a regular basis. He also takes advantage of the occasional opportunity to get away from it all. “We have a cabin up at Eagle Lake, and we like to go out there to do some boating and fishing and just enjoy the peacefulness of nature.”
Gary attributes much of his personal and professional success to the power of positive thinking. “We attract what we think and feel, so it’s important to feel great and think great,” he says. “That’s what I tell all my employees, and it’s really how I built the company. When we started, there were four of us; now, there are 181. By putting out positive energy, we’ve been able to attract positive people who want to do good things.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite sports team? 
A: Green Bay Packers.
Q: What’s your earliest memory? 
A: Digging up worms in the garden when I was three or four years old.
Q: Do you do any celebrity impersonations? 
A: I used to do a pretty good Humphrey Bogart, but it’s been a while.
Q: What were you most known for in high school? 
A: Playing basketball. I could really jump—as a 6’1” forward, I could out-jump our 6’4” center!
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Sit by the fire.
Q: If you had a theme song, what would it be? 
A: “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin.

Gary Kluck: On the Upbeat By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter CITRUS HEIGHTS – Gary Kluck has a lot on his plate. Between managing a home improvement company with more than 180 employees to singlehandedly running a household, it’s easy to think the stress might get to him now and then. However, Gary says maintaining a positive outlook goes a long way toward achieving both inner peace and outward success. “I’m a ‘glass half full’ kind of guy. I have a very upbeat personality, so when I do get stressed, I just stay calm and look at the positives of the situation, and pretty soon I’m back to normal.” Born and raised in Wisconsin, Read more

Gary Kluck is a veteran of the home improvement industry and CEO of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/quality-first-home-improvement-inc">Quality First Home Improvement, Inc.</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2008. He can be reached at (877) 297-8594 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/quality-first-home-improvement-inc">email</a>.

Gary Kluck: On the Upbeat

Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can be a huge undertaking. This guide provides you with expert advice for before, during, and after your project.

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<img src="http://live-diamond-certified-wp.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/HOUSEworks-1024x696.png" alt="When" style="height: ;width: "/>
When planning a kitchen remodel, it’s important to pay attention to detail. Photo: HOUSEworks, Inc. (2015)
Remodels can add style, function, and safety by way of updating electrical and plumbing systems to current building codes. Not only can this enhance your enjoyment of your home, it can also add value to your house upon resale. The most popular rooms to remodel are kitchens and bathrooms—they’re the most used rooms in the house and the spaces where we interface the most with materials, so they require the most planning and attention to detail. It’s your designer’s job to take the information you provide and develop a plan that targets your needs and budget.
Serious customers prepare for satisfaction. Here’s a simple formula: if you get what you want, you’ll be satisfied. Over the years, design professionals have learned that it’s in everyone’s best interest to work with serious customers. Here are some qualities of serious customers:
<ul>
<li>They take the time to come to the showroom</li>
<li>They’re prepared to answer questions about their needs and budget</li>
<li>They’re more likely to be satisfied if they invest time into getting clarity on their vision and need.</li>
</ul>
<img src="http://live-diamond-certified-wp.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/Holly-Associates-Bedroom.jpg" alt="A" style="height: ;width: "/>
Begin your design process by creating a scrapbook of what you like. Photo: Holly &amp; Associates, Inc. (2015)
Deborah Cleveland of Ashley Interiors, Inc. has the following advice for consumers who are serious about locking in a satisfying experience:
1. Create a wish list or scrapbook of various images that appeal to you style-wise.
a. Google images
b. <a href="http://www.houzz.com/" target="_self">Houzz.com</a>
c. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/" target="_self">Pinterest</a>
d. Books and magazines
2. Take photographs of your kitchen or bathroom and jot down general measurements (they don’t have to be precise).
3. Grab your scrapbook and measurements and head to a design showroom.
a. Talk to a designer.
b. Get a feel for the products.
c. Get a feel for the firm and the designer.
i. Do you like the designer?
ii. Does the designer understand your needs and vision?
iii. Are you communicating well?
4. Budget
a. According to Ric Plummer of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/rics-kitchen-bath-showroom" target="_self">Ric’s Kitchen &amp; Bath Showroom</a>, a Diamond Certified company, you should expect a basic kitchen remodel to start at about $30,000. Houzz.com advises that a “basic kitchen remodel” will cost between $20,000 and $30,000 and include simple lighting, basic appliances, and tile and flooring. What Houzz.com calls a “deluxe kitchen remodel” may start at $100,000. Of course, the actual cost can be worked out at the showroom. This is where the designer’s understanding of your needs and vision meets their expertise with the various product lines.
Once the designer knows your measurements, style and budget, they’ll work with a computer design program to provide a mockup. The mockup can give you a ballpark estimate of what your project will cost by plugging in different products. After the mockup, the design firm will send someone to take the actual measurements before drawing up a contract.
<img src="http://live-diamond-certified-wp.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/Rics-Kitchen-and-Bath-Showroom.jpg" alt="Designers" style="height: ;width: "/>
Designers want their clients to be satisfied with the end product. Photo: Ric’s Kitchen &amp; Bath Showroom (2015)
The design professional wants satisfied customers. A company’s survival depends on generating happy customers. To that end, Ric Plummer draws from 30 years of experience when implementing his business model. His company’s overarching concern is that they want to work with serious customers who are prepared to have satisfying experiences.
Ric likes people who come in, get to know his employees and take part in the process because it shows they’re serious. “Visiting the showroom means the customer is invested,” he says. “When a customer isn’t willing to visit the showroom, it sends a message that they aren’t ready to move forward.” When Ric started, he found that 25 percent of the cold calls he received for measurements and estimates were from renters who were trying to convince their landlords to do a remodel. With this business model, he could spend half the day and not even get the job many times. “It’s not just about money; it’s about brand management,” he says. “We don’t want to hold up serious customers.”
Ric says there are a few exceptions to this rule. “I’ll go to a home and measure if the customer is physically unable to take measurements themselves. I’ll also make an exception if the customer is willing to pay a fee for our time, which is what Home Depot does. If the homeowner becomes a customer, the fee is credited to their contract.”
The initial meeting usually takes about two hours, and then there’s a computer mockup that uses the customer’s measurements and chosen material line, which can take six to seven hours. So, there’s about eight to 10 hours of work before there’s even a contract for the customer to sign. About 90 percent of the time, this effort results in a signed contract. After the contract signing, there may be two or three additional meetings to finalize details. So, the company invests 15 to 20 hours before they even get started. Ric’s Kitchen &amp; Bath Showroom only does full kitchen and bathroom remodels—they don’t take on new clients who just want one piece changed out. However, if a former customer needs a vanity or shower door replaced, they’ll do it.
Ric says the secret to maintaining a great reputation is to not take on the drama. “You have to know where the drama starts and ends. A reputable designer will know what types of situations can lead to conflict and understand how to avoid these situations so they can concentrate on delivering quality experiences to quality customers.”
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Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Kitchen-Bath-Remodeling/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Kitchen &amp; Bathroom Remodeling</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-top-rated-companies/hub/ca/san-francisco-bay-area/" target="_self">Find Top Rated Companies in the San Francisco Bay Area</a>&nbsp;

Joy Lanzaro

Get the most out of your home remodel by preparing for remodeling design services. Here, find steps to get the best kitchen and bath remodel outcome.

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