How do I clean EZE-Breeze panels?

EZE-Breeze panels can be easily tilted in and removed for cleaning using a solution of warm water and Woolite or Murphy Oil Soap. We also sell the PGT Preservative/Cleaner, which is the recommended method of maintaining and cleaning the vinyl. For a complete guide to maintenance, view these care instructions.

Are EZE-Breeze panels customizable?

Yes, each panel is made custom to the specific opening. There are 4 different frame color options as well as vinyl glazing options with different shades of tint and clear vinyl.

Feel free to call contact us for questions about the best uses for this product and how it may benefit your home.

How do EZE-Breeze vinyl-glazed panels compare with glass?

Eze-Breeze panels are vinyl panels that offer protection from wind and rain. The panels are not designed to be the equivalent of glass and have little to no R-Value. Although clients often install portable heaters as well as A/C units to extend the seasons, Eze-Breeze panels do have the insulative properties of glass. One added benefit is that these panels do not change the tax assessment at the same rate an addition would and do not require the same finishing details. It is considered a ‘porch’ and this a completely different set of building requirements, which can save considerable amounts of money.

Do I need a permit for building a deck or porch?

Yes, anytime a structure is being built or modified, a building inspection is required to make sure that it meets all local and state codes. Ayars coordinates the submission, scheduling, and every aspect of the inspection process.

Is it more cost-effective to repair an old deck or build a new one?

In many instances, we review an existing structure only to find that there are several failure points:

  • The deck was not permitted and therefore not built to code or inspected.
  • The attachment to the house is incorrect and creates catastrophic failure leading to injury or death.
  • Incorrect footings (depth, circumference, attachment, or lack thereof)
  • Undersized or wrong framing members used.
  • Stairs and handrails are not up to code.

When any or all of the points of concern are identified, it is almost always recommended that we rebuild the entire structure.

My yard is on an incline. Can I still build a deck or patio?

Of course! For steeper grades, Ayars can construct a beautiful raised deck; for gradual slopes, you might invest in a multi-level deck that follows the lay of your land. Check our blog post on deck design for a fuller picture of what’s possible. 

Are wood decks cheaper than composite?

Pressure-treated wood decks are typically less expensive by $10-15 per square foot. The look of the deck is not as refined as composite decks with vinyl or metal railings, but if utility is your primary concern, this is still a viable option.

Who are the suppliers Ayars partners with for bathrooms?

Ayars works with local distributors that carry all major brands. Not all products are created equal, as local big box stores and online retailers carry the same name brands but of lesser quality. They compromise and skimp on internal components using plastics and other cheaper alternatives to save on cost and maximize margins. As the old adage suggests, “You get what you pay for.” Our family-owned business prides itself on meticulous attention to detail — because it’s the little things that add up to amazing work!

How much will a bathroom remodel cost me?

It’s variable, especially if any plumbing or electrical updates need to take place.

Should I go with a shower or a tub?

At least one bathtub in a home is still recommended for resale value. Walk-in shower stalls have become the norm for master bathrooms with soaking tubs added on if there is enough space and requested by the client. Larger showers with frameless glass, seating, and dual shower heads are always amazing, but you have to consider smaller children or guests who may benefit from a tub in a guest bathroom.

I want to remodel my bathroom but don’t know where to start. Suggestions?

For a typical bathroom remodel, it is best to leave the existing layout and update the bathroom design instead. That’s because relocating plumbing or electricals can dramatically increase the overall budget of your new bathroom. However, in some instances, the need for a larger space prevails.

A quick conversation and site visit can help your bathroom remodeling contractor understand your goals and develop ideas. Browse our past work for just a sample of what clients have done.

Wood studs or steel studs?

Our preferred method of framing for basements is always steel studs. We believe minimizing the presence of wood can be beneficial in the event there are ever any water issues, as well as to limit the attraction of insects.

Is drywall in a basement OK? Do I need a drop ceiling?

Drywall is installed in basements all the time. Ensuring the basement is dry and taking precautions to make sure it stays that way is key. The ceilings can also be drywalled as long as there are no mechanical access issues. It is no different than having wiring, plumbing, and HVAC on the first or second floors. The only components to take into consideration are clean-outs, shut-offs, or other important access points since they are typically located in the basement.

How might I use my finished basement?

In most cases, basements are used for additional living space or recreational areas. Sometimes this may include a dry bar/wet bar, which can be custom-designed to fit your needs. Finished basements are often more attractive than additions due to the benefit of not expanding the home’s footprint and are usually less expensive per square foot.

Is my basement ready for a remodel?

That depends on a few factors. First, you must ensure your basement does not have issues with water. Secondly, the foundation walls should be checked to ensure that there are not any structural issues. All mechanicals including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing need to be inspected to ensure that provisions can be made for access to key areas where necessary. Newly adopted New Jersey code requires an additional point of egress in addition to the stairway leading to the basement, and any bedroom in a basement requires a separate exitway. This is typically accomplished by installing an egress window with a window well.

How long should I expect a kitchen remodel to take?

Most kitchen remodels that do not involve moving the plumbing locations can be completed in 4 to 5 weeks. More involved kitchen renovations that include gutting the kitchen completely, possibly moving sink and appliance locations, and/or implementing more elaborate cabinetry and finish trim details can push the timeframe out several more weeks. All of this is discussed in the planning phases and a complete schedule will be finalized prior to the project start. Setting clear and honest expectations is a priority of the Ayars team and a hallmark of our reputation for exceptional service.

What is the “kitchen triangle?”

The kitchen triangle is the distance between the sink, stove, and refrigerator — the three most important workstations when preparing a meal. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends that each leg of the triangle be no shorter than 10 feet and no greater than 25 feet and remain free of clutter and obstruction. By planning with the kitchen triangle in mind and positioning appliances appropriately, your kitchen remodeling contractor can greatly improve the functionality of your new kitchen.

What is the most common kind of countertop?

Quartz, Quartzite, Dekton, and Silestone are the most common countertop materials used today. There is a wide range of price points that will fit just about any budget in style. Other materials include soapstone, marble, wood, concrete, and epoxy.

There is not nearly enough room in my kitchen. Can Ayars add more space to my kitchen to work with?

Yes! We will assess your kitchen from top to bottom and look for opportunities to maximize your storage space. There are plenty of ways to add storage, whether it’s an improved cabinet layout, cabinet storage accessories, pull-out shelves, or a spacious island. Our kitchen design team can help maximize your space for an altogether more functional kitchen.

How long should I expect the home addition project to take? Will the work be disruptive?

It really depends on the complexity of the project — but the average-sized addition requires 5 to 8 weeks for construction.  Certain projects can be more invasive than others and during the planning phases, we can highlight the necessary accommodations needed to complete your project. Contact us and we can have a brief chat to try and give you an estimated timeframe.