De Soto, Kan. - Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., a Panasonic Group company, began construction on a new lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility in De Soto, KS, following the approval by Panasonic Holdings Corporation Board of Directors. The project will drive significant economic activity and opportunities for the local Kansas economy making the state a key player in the domestic electric vehicle (EV) industry. 
Facility construction is focused on rapidly ramping up manufacture of "2170" cylindrical Li-ion batteries to meet surging domestic EV battery demand. Panasonic Energy plans to begin mass production in Kansas by March 2025. Upon completion of the facility, it will maintain annual total production capacity of approximately 30 GWh to supply EV manufacturers across the United States. 
“This groundbreaking in Kansas is an important step towards expanding our production capacity in North America to meet the rapidly growing demand for lithium-ion batteries,” said Kazuo Tadanobu, President, CEO of Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd. “With our leading technology, proven expertise, and the state of Kansas as a critical partner, we will continue driving the industry forward while pursuing a more prosperous and sustainable future for our society.”
The facility will be located at the Astra Enterprise Park site and will once again make the location a key economic driver for the region. Two contractors from the local Kansas City area, Emery Sapp & Sons Inc., and Kissick Construction Co. Inc., have been awarded contracts for site preparation, with Panasonic Energy expecting to onboard additional firms in the coming months.
“The Kansas City region, just as it has over the past century, is cementing its rightful place as a leader where transit innovation is occurring," said Tim Cowden, president and CEO, Kansas City Area Development Council. "We are incredibly proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Panasonic as they revolutionize the global transportation industry from the center of the most dynamic economy in the world."
Kansas’s skilled manufacturing workforce, reliable infrastructure, and central location in North America makes it an ideal location for this facility. The facility is expected to create up to 4,000 jobs. Recruitment for the first positions is expected to begin mid-2023 and individuals interested in applying can visit https://na.panasonic.com/us/panasonic-energy. 
“Panasonic deeply values the strong relationships we build with the local communities where we live and work,” said Megan Myungwon Lee, Chairwoman and CEO, Panasonic Corporation of North America. “This factory will open new career opportunities for De Soto residents in one of the most exciting industries in our modern economy. We hope it will also serve as a source of inspiration for the community’s young people, who will become the innovators creating a more vibrant and sustainable future, and we are committed to helping them achieve their goals.”
Panasonic has a long track record of supporting the communities where it operates, including investing in local education, talent development, mentorship, volunteerism and environmental initiatives. As a first step in the company’s new commitment to Kansas and the De Soto community, Panasonic is making a $25,000 donation to Unified School District No. 232 to support educational opportunities for students. 
"The City of De Soto is thrilled to work with Panasonic and welcome them to our amazing community," said Mayor Rick Walker. "De Soto has a rich history of supporting critical manufacturing facilities and we have been planning for this growth and the return of advanced manufacturing jobs to this area for years. We're especially excited for the opportunity to invest in the renewable energy industry and provide strong jobs for generations to come."  
Panasonic Energy is a global leader in lithium-ion batteries, with a nearly 100-year history of innovation in batteries spanning both battery cell technology and battery business operations. The company continues to strengthen its lineup of automotive lithium-ion batteries and expand its production capacity, currently developing the new “4680” high-capacity lithium-ion battery in Japan. Panasonic Energy’s facility in Sparks, Nevada, is now one of the world’s largest lithium-ion battery factories, surpassing six billion EV battery cells shipped. The expansion in Kansas builds on its proven success as the North American market leader in EV lithium-ion batteries and long-term commitment to advancing the EV industry in the United States. 
“Expanding production capacity in Kansas will enable us to continue delivering the highest quality batteries for our automotive partners as demand grows,” said Kris Takamoto, Executive Vice President of Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., Head of EV Battery Business. “We are already producing more than five million battery cells a day in North America, and the new facility in Kansas will further grow our capacity, efficiency and economies of scale which are critical to a net-zero emissions future.”
The new battery manufacturing facility will also support the company’s commitment to contribute to society by reducing global carbon emissions. The factory is a demonstration of Panasonic’s Green IMPACT initiative, which is aimed at reducing the company’s own CO2 emission to virtually net-zero by 2030 and contributing to 300 million tons in avoided emissions by 2050. 
About Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd.
Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., established in April 2022 as part of the Panasonic Group's switch to an operating company system, provides innovative battery technology-based products and solutions globally. Through its automotive lithium-ion batteries, storage battery systems and dry batteries, the company brings safe, reliable, and convenient power to a broad range of business areas, from mobility and social infrastructure to medical and consumer products. Panasonic Energy is committed to contributing to a society that realizes happiness and environmental sustainability, and through its business activities the Company aims to address societal issues while taking the lead on environmental initiatives. For more details, please visit https://www.panasonic.com/global/energy/
About the Panasonic Group
A global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, industry, communications, and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022 with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company and eight companies positioned under its umbrella. Founded in 1918, the Group is committed to enhancing the well-being of people and society and conducts its businesses based on founding principles applied to generate new value and offer sustainable solutions for today’s world. The Group reported consolidated net sales of 7,388.8 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2022. Devoted to improving the well-being of people, the Panasonic Group is united in providing superior products and services to help you Live Your Best. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: https://holdings.panasonic/global/

​When home owners take on a remodeling project, they’re often far more focused on choosing glistening fixtures for a new bathroom or debating the type of granite to use on a kitchen counter top than, say, navigating the intricacies of the building permit process. That could be a huge mistake, however, and it may not even come to light until the house is put up for sale. Ignoring local approval requirements not only poses safety and legal problems but also can potentially derail an otherwise smooth sale.
Home owners using licensed contractors for remodeling work typically don’t have to get involved with permitting. Most licensed contractors will handle the cumbersome process for them—filling out the paperwork with the municipality, collecting fees, and being present for the required inspections, says Michael Hydeck, president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. But when home owners tackle do-it-yourself projects or use unlicensed contractors, they risk problems later.
The permit process varies widely from city to city and state to state). But the purpose of the document is the same everywhere: It offers ­assurance by a municipal building department that the work being done meets all safety codes.

Ask Sellers Before You List Home owners may be asked about permits in the process of selling a home. At closing, they may have to disclose any remodeling work they did and verify permits. A home inspector evaluating a property for a buyer may want to know whether a permit was obtained. Furthermore, the buyer’s appraiser may want to see permit records to check the legality of any home renovations.
“If no permits are found and it’s obvious the home has been renovated, the bank will likely refuse to make the loan,” according to the American Bar Association’s book Legal Guide to Home Renovation(Random House Reference, 2006). If the permitless work isn’t discovered until after closing, the home’s value could even be subject to a lawsuit, such as in cases when an addition added extra square footage to the home’s value but the construction wasn’t done legally with a permit.
That’s why contractors and legal experts say real estate practitioners are well advised to ask sellers before they take on a listing for a renovated home: “Did you get a permit for that?”
Remodeling contractor John Price in Merced, Calif., has been called in to help home owners after permit problems have been uncovered. He once worked with a home owner who installed siding by himself, but added it too far down along the wall of the house, so it rubbed up against dirt and picked up moisture. Eventually the poor installation led to mold growing in the drywall throughout the inside of the house.
Some home owners, however, are tempted to sidestep the permit process not wanting to pay the fees (municipalities generally charge a minimum issuing fee—such as $25—as well as an additional fee—sometimes 1 percent—of total construction costs), or they might not want to risk delaying a project or a sale by waiting for city inspections (obtaining permits can take anywhere from a day to six weeks or more).
“People have strong incentives to cheat, and some of that lays squarely on the feet of policymakers who have sometimes created a system that is time-consuming and frustrating,” Price says.
But caught without a permit during resale, home owners may face big consequences. They may have to pay fines (possibly up to quadruple the original permit cost) or may have to tear the project down and redo it.

Virtually No Job Is Too Small Home owners making any changes to the structures of a home will likely need a permit—and you may need more than one, Price says.
While kitchen and bathroom remodels and housing additions are obvious permit candidates, people may not realize they might also need one for such projects as installing a window, adding a new light switch, or replacing a shower. “There are not too many jobs you don’t need a permit for,” Hydeck adds. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

​SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Our services and areas are: Home Remodelers Lawrence KS, Kitchen Remodeling, Bath Remodeling, Basement finishing Lawrence KS, Basement finishing Kansas City,  Room additions, Remodelers in KC, Remodelers in Kansas City, Lawrence home remodelers, Tenant finish Lawrence KS, Tenant finish Kansas City, Kansas City remodelers, Lawrence remodelers,  Home Remodeling Contractors Lawrence KS, Home Remodeling in Kansas City,  Home Remodeling Contractors Kansas City, and all of Douglas and Johnson county 
​Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.

Adding a room, renovating a basement, or doing some much-needed repairs? Finding a good contractor is important — a home improvement project gone wrong can cost you. A good ad isn’t proof a contractor does quality work. Find out for yourself. Check with friends, neighbors, or co-workers who’ve had improvement work done, and check out a contractor’s reputation on online ratings sites you trust. Get written estimates from several firms, keeping in mind the lowest bidder may not be the best choice. Also important: know the signs of a scam.

• Finding a Contractor
• Before You Hire a Contractor
• After You Hire a Contractor
• Signs of a Home Improvement Scam
• Report a Problem
• For More Information

Finding a ContractorDepending on how big or complex a project is, you might hire a:

• general contractor, who manages all aspects of a project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting building permits, and scheduling inspections
• specialty contractor, who installs particular products like cabinets and bathroom fixtures
• architect, who designs homes, additions, and major renovations — especially ones involving structural changes
• designer or design/build contractor, who provides both services

Do Your ResearchCheck with friends, neighbors, or co-workers who’ve used a contractorIf you can, take a look at the work done and ask about their experience.
Look at sites you trust that post ratings and reviewsDo people seem to have similar experiences, good or bad? You also can check out a contractor’s online reputation by searching for the company’s name with words like “scam,” “rip-off,” or “complaint.”
Find out how long they’ve been in businessLook for an established company whose record and reputation you can check out.   SCS Stultz Contracting Services offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.

Check for qualifications, like licensing Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed and/or bonded. Check with your local building department or consumer protection agency to find out about licensing requirements in your area. Licensing can range from simple registration to a detailed qualification process. If your state or locality has licensing laws, make sure the contractor’s license is current.
Before You Hire a ContractorGet EstimatesOnce you’ve narrowed your options, get written estimates from several firms. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder. Ask for an explanation to see if there’s a reason for the difference in price.
Ask QuestionsHow many projects like mine have you completed in the last year?Ask for a list so you can see how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.
Will my project require a permit?Most states and localities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like decks. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project. You may want to choose a contractor familiar with the permitting process in your county, city, or town.
May I have a list of references?A contractor should be able to give you names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours. Ask each client how long ago the project was and whether it was completed on time. Was the client satisfied? Were there any unexpected costs? Did workers show up on time and clean up after finishing the job? You also could tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.
What types of insurance do you carry?Contractors should have:

• personal liability
• worker’s compensation
• property damage coverage

Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current, or you could be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.
Will you be using subcontractors on this project?If so, make sure the subcontractors have current insurance coverage and licenses, too, if required.
To find builders, remodelers, and related providers in your area that are members of the National Association of Home Builders, visit nahb.org. To find detailed information about a builder, service provider, or remodeler in your area, contact your local home builders association.
Understand Your Payment OptionsDon’t pay cashFor smaller projects, you can pay by check or credit card. Many people arrange financing for larger projects.
Try to limit your down paymentSome state laws limit the amount of money a contractor can request as a down payment. Contact your state or local consumer agency to find out the law in your area.
Try to make payments during the project contingent upon completion of defined amounts of workThis way, if the work isn’t going according to schedule, the payments to your contractor also are delayed.
Get a Written ContractContract requirements vary by state. Even if your state doesn’t require a written agreement, ask for one. It should be clear and concise and include the who, what, where, when, and cost of your project. Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes:

• the contractor’s name, address, phone, and license number (if required)
• an estimated start and completion date
• the payment schedule for the contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers
• the contractor’s obligation to get all necessary permits
• how change orders are handled. A change order is a written authorization to the contractor to make a change or addition to the work described in the original contract, and could affect the project’s cost and schedule.
• a detailed list of all materials including each product’s color, model, size, and brand. If some materials will be chosen later, the contract should say who’s responsible for choosing each item and how much money is budgeted for it (this is also known as the “allowance”).
• information about warranties covering materials and workmanship, with names and addresses of who is honoring them — the contractor, distributor, or manufacturer. The length of the warranty period and any limitations also should be spelled out.
• what the contractor will and won’t do. For example, is site clean-up and trash hauling included in the price? Ask for a "broom clause" that makes the contractor responsible for all clean-up work, including spills and stains.
• any promises made during conversations or calls. If they don’t remember, you may be out of luck — or charged extra.
• a written statement of your right to cancel the contract within three business days if you signed it in your home or at a location other than the seller’s permanent place of business

After You Hire a ContractorKeep RecordsKeep all paperwork related to your project in one place. This includes:

• copies of the contract
• change orders
• any correspondence with your home improvement professionals
• a record of all payments. You may need receipts for tax purposes.

Keep a log or journal of all phone calls, conversations, and activities. You also might want to take photographs as the job progresses. These records are especially important if you have problems with your project — during or after construction.
Pay WiselyDon’t make the final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you’re satisfiedBesides being satisfied with the work, you also need to know that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid. Laws in your state might allow them to file a mechanic’s lien against your home to satisfy their unpaid bills, forcing you to sell your home to pay them. Protect yourself by asking the contractor, and every subcontractor and supplier, for a lien release or lien waiver.
Know the limit for the final billSome state or local laws limit the amount by which the final bill can exceed the estimate, unless you have approved the increase.
Know when you can withhold paymentIf you have a problem with merchandise or services charged to a credit card, and you’ve made a good faith effort to work out the problem with the seller, you have the right to contact your credit card company and withhold payment from the card issuer for the merchandise or services. You can withhold payment up to the amount of credit outstanding for the purchase, plus any finance or related charges.
Use a Sign-Off ChecklistBefore you sign off and make the final payment, check that:

• all work meets the standards spelled out in the contract
• you have written warranties for materials and workmanship
• you have proof that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid
• the job site has been cleaned up and cleared of excess materials, tools, and equipment
• you have inspected and approved the completed work

Signs of a Home Improvement ScamHow can you tell if a contractor might not be reputable? You may not want to do business with someone who:

• knocks on your door for business or offers you discounts for finding other customers
• just happens to have materials left over from a previous job
• pressures you for an immediate decision
• only accepts cash, asks you to pay everything up-front, or suggests you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows
• asks you to get the required building permits
• tells you your job will be a "demonstration” or offers a lifetime warranty or long-term guarantee
• doesn’t list a business number in the local telephone directory

The Home Improvement Loan ScamHere’s how it works: a contractor calls or comes to your door and offers a deal to install a new roof or remodel your kitchen. He says he can arrange financing through a lender he knows. After he starts, he asks you to sign papers; they may be blank — or he might hustle you along and not give you time to read through them. Later you find out you’ve agreed to a home equity loan with a high interest rate, points, and fees. What’s worse, the work on your home isn’t done right or isn’t completed, and the contractor — who may already have been paid by the lender — has lost interest.
To avoid a loan scam, don’t:

• agree to a home equity loan if you don’t have the money to make the payments
• sign a document you haven’t read or that has blank spaces to be filled in after you sign
• let anyone pressure you into signing any document
• deed your property to anyone. Consult an attorney, a knowledgeable family member, or someone else you trust if you’re asked to.
• agree to financing through your contractor without shopping around and comparing loan terms

Report a ProblemIf you have a problem with a home improvement project, first try to resolve it with the contractor. Many disputes can be resolved at this level. Follow any phone conversations with a letter you send by certified mail. Request a return receipt. That’s your proof that the company received your letter. Keep a copy for your files.

​ SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.

Builders and contractors want to keep up with the latest construction industry trends so that they can stay ahead of the competition. Here are nine trends that could affect how you conduct business in 2019.

Better Construction Management Software Construction management software has steadily improved over the last few years, and many affordable packages are now available that bundle together software for bidding and estimating, project management, change orders, scheduling, human resources, billing, accounting and more. 2019 will see more large and small companies making use of affordable integrated software solutions.

Use of Drones Continuing into 2019 will be one of the hottest trends of recent years: the use of drones. Drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, are here to stay. Drones equipped wih cameras and other electronics can access remote locations, collect data, complete safety inspections, capture project progress and so much more. Surveyors use them to create 3d mapping or images that later can be used to depict an area. You can expect rules on usage of drones to begin clarifying as the FFA begins to refine regulations.

With costs of quality drones falling, usage will expand in 2019.

Green Design and Construction Technology Also continuing into 2019 is the trend toward green design and technology in construction. Every construction project is expected to increase their participation through green design aiming towards the LEED certification. This trend, which started some years ago, will continue to rise in 2019. The essence of green design and construction is the effort to create resource-efficient and environmentally responsible construction projects. It includes every aspect of construction, including planning and design, demolition, and cleanup.

With 20 percent of global emissions directly attributable to the construction industry, green building practices can go a long way toward supporting, rather than harming, the environment—especially at a time when aging buildings make new construction so critical.

As was true in 2018, 2019 will also see more local aimed at fostering the green building trend.

Sustainability Closely related to green technology, sustainability can be defined as a broader policy of using methods and business models that make the world a better place. While "green" building practices are really focused mostly on reducing the carbon footprint of a particular construction project, sustainability has broader goals. Among the elements of sustainable construction practice:

• Preservation of the natural environment
• Efficient use of resources
• Promoting social progress and culture

For example, a sustainable construction project may feature building designs aimed at bringing natural light into the center of a building, thereby reducing electrical costs. Or, a building can be designed to reuse drain water from sinks to flush toilets. Some sustainable projects look to integrate existing structures into a new project, or to make use of recycled or repurposed building materials.

SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.


Increasing interest in sustainability by millennial consumers and clients will require forward-thinking construction companies to accommodate this trend in 2019.


Growing Material Costs Costs of building materials will continue to increase into 2019, a trend that began in December 2017, leading to a 9 percent increase over the course of 2018. Largest cost increases will be seen in iron, steel, manufactured steel products, and softwood construction lumber. The impact of newly initiated import tariffs will increasingly be felt in 2019 through increased costs of materials.

Reduced Labor Force With U.S. unemployment rates low and construction activity remaining relatively high, a shortage of skilled construction labor will continue to be a problem in 2019. The problem will only get worse with expected reductions in immigrant labor. Builders will find it necessary to invest in training to equip existing workers with the skills necessary, and they will need to invest in the tools and higher wages necessary to keep those workers satisfied and productive. Training and development will need to be an integral part of every construction company's policy in 2019.

The labor shortage is so severe in all segments of the building trades that you can expect to see work slow-downs and scheduling delays become routine in 2019.

Better Safety Equipment 2019 will see a push toward better safety equipment to counter the higher number of construction-related accidents and fatalities seen in recent years. For example, there are now "smart" work boots available with GPS transmitters that will allow supervisors to spot workers who have fallen or have slowed down due to fatigue. This technology will become increasingly common in 2019. The quality of moisture-wicking fabrics and cooling vests is also improving. Drones and other robotic surveying equipment will make it easier to spot problems on a job site.

You may also see increased regulatory enforcement aimed at reducing the increased incidence of job site accidents.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.

Is there anyone who does not love to remodel their house every year? Probably not.
Yes, we understand that people are bound with a number of factors that refrain us from upgrading the house or following the latest trends. One of the major problems that hold back majority from renovation or remodeling, is the budget. Unfortunately, remodeling is expensive.
However, the next year 2019 is expected to be a little different for remodeling says the home remodeling contractors Campbell CA. The new year is coming with decorating patterns, stylish and timeless pieces that uplift the house like nothing else. And you know the best part? They are not as expensive as remodeling anything in your house. Read the post below to know the fantastic home design trends for the upcoming year.
Artisan FixturesMany home decorators, remodelers and renovators have highlighted the trend of artisan fixture in the home. These lighting fixtures are unique and personalize the home like a natural element. To get a very nice blend of both, a tech world and a natural world.
Adding natural elementsPeople seem bored with the tech-obsessed world and they are looking for something unique and natural. These elements will help bring an organic and serene ambiance to any space while reflecting the world around your home.
Velvet furnishingsUntil the mid of 2018, velvet was considered as old fashion and stuffy. But the views have now changed. They are not becoming more in trend and are considered as luxurious yet funky. This fabric is becoming the highlight for the furniture trends in the coming year, especially for sofas and chairs.
PatternsLately, it was common to paint the accent wall with a bright color but now the trend has shifted to the floral patterns for the walls. Decorators expect to find exaggerated proportions and contrasting colors used for this timeless decor pattern.
The downfall of rose gold2018 was the year of rose gold. From wrist-watch to decoration pieces and everything was painted in rose gold. However, the next year is expected to be the downfall of rose gold. Expect everything to be in the copper shade along with the tones of red, oranges or overall earthy hue, suggested by the best home remodeling companies in Campbell CA .
Muted Colors are OverThe coming year is the year for bright and bolder colors. However, no doubt muted color keeps the space away from being overwhelming, yet the trend will leave us in 2018. The trends of bolder color will convince you using dramatic reds, statement pinks, yellows, and organic greens.
Blend of black and whiteA truly timeless trend will again be on the top of the list while decorating a house. The reason behind the trend of black and white provides a sense of balance and boldness in your home.
So, if you are planning to uplift your house internal look, follow the latest trends mentioned above. You will fall in love with your house again.



SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects. 

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Get Started! When it comes to the changes you can make to your home, the options are endless. If you plan on selling your home in the next few years and are looking to make a few home improvements, knowing the latest remodeling trends are a great place to start. These trends indicate what potential buyers are looking for and can help you prioritize your remodeling projects.
With a new year approaching, there are some new remodeling trends emerging. To help, here’s what remodeling trends will be hot in 2018.
Are you planning a new remodeling project in your home? contact SCS today, 785-840-4040 

What’s Hot In 2018 Remodeling If you’re planning to sell your home this year, or just want to make some needed upgrades, 2018 is the year to do so. While kitchen and bathroom remodeling will always top the list of projects homeowners want to do first, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on what else is trending. These projects can really make your home stand out from the rest. Here are a few hot home remodeling trends in 2018:

• Accessibility Remodeling
• Master Bedroom Suites
• Mudroom Additions
• Eco-friendly Remodeling Materials
• Luxury Finished Basements

SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.


1. Accessibility AccommodationsIn the last few years, homeowners have had an increased focus on aging in place. Now more than ever, those looking to buy are looking for a universal design with accessibility accommodations. Specifically, these remodeling projects include widening hallways and doorways. Accessibility remodeling is not a cheap project, but can certainly benefit you and your family. The average cost of accessibility accommodation remodeling is $5,233, with most homeowners spending between $2,488 and $5,587.

2. The Master SuiteLuxury could also be a common theme to this year’s trends. Remodeling trends are pointing to the bedroom, with a luxury bathroom and closet attached to make a suite. No longer is a small master bath attached to the bedroom, but rather the best accommodations are reserved for this space. Increased storage will be hot in this area. This luxury upgrade is worth it, but it may also mean you have to remodel multiple rooms. The average cost of home remodeling is $34,477, with most homeowners spending $19,891 and $37,319.

3. Mudroom AdditionSome homeowners could use just a little more space and are finding value in a mudroom addition. This small room will allow for children to store their coats and dirty shoes before entering the home. It might also serve as additional storage space for outdoor wear and necessities.
While the average cost of an addition, such as a mudroom, or enclosed patio is $14,180, this price could change depending on the extra needs you have for your space. A mudroom that needs additional electrical or plumbing work could end up costing more.

4. Eco-Friendly RemodelingAs a trend that’s here to stay, eco-friendly remodeling is what homeowners and homebuyers are looking for. This means upgrading insulation, installing smart home automation features and choosing earth-friendly remodeling materials as you build.
To see what you can do in your home, read Eco-Friendly Home Remodeling Ideas.

5. Luxury BasementsWhile everyone desires a finished basement, current trends are pointing to really going the extra mile with your basement remodel. This means more than just waterproofing and laying down some flooring, but also building out your basement to include all the amenities the rest of your home has. A small kitchenette in the basement is a hot item to have as well as a full bathroom. Not to mention, a basement is a perfect place for a home theater. You’ll be the talk of the town with this style of finished basement.

Industry groups like the AGC and the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) have for years lobbied lawmakers for increased federal, state and local funding for trade school, high school and middle school trade education programs as a way to help create a construction industry labor pipeline, and those efforts could pay off and help ease the problem.
Meanwhile, the industry is turning to alternative construction methods to make up for the short supply of workers. Offsite construction and prefabrication, for example, are helping contractors sidestep some labor issues. Gaston Electrical principal Bill Weber told Construction Dive in June that prefabricating MEP racks — 20- to 30-foot panels that are pre-fitted with ductwork, piping and raceways — allow MEP contractors to make their final connections more quickly on the jobsite and require up to 50% less labor. 
Along those same lines, increased use of modular construction in 2018 and beyond could also reduce the need for additional workers. Its use has taken off in the hotel and multifamily sectors, and, according to Lad Dawson, founder and former CEO of Guerdon Modular Buildings, in Boise, ID, offsite construction can absorb up to 60% of a project's labor requirements.
Offsite construction on the riseFor much of 2017, offsite construction and investment in the delivery method was a key trend. Offsite startups like Katerra and FullStack snagged millions in funding, while a growing number of U.S. contractors partnered with prefab companies to fold the method into their operations.
"With companies like Google, Marriott, Starbucks and other high-tech firms like Autodesk embracing offsite, there is a ton of investment money looking to revolutionize the construction industry," Tom Hardiman, executive director of the Modular Building Institute, told Construction Dive in October. "It's going to change so fast in the next year."
Increased pressure from supply-side challenges and a growing need to jumpstart productivity will continue to drive offsite into the mainstream. Traditional contractors’ desire to increase project efficiency with offsite components is opening the door to greater collaboration between general contractors and offsite fabricators. Less than a decade ago, many projects were modular or conventional, Hardiman said.
Today, many are a hybrid of the two. And with larger companies like Turner Construction and Gilbane adding project manager roles for offsite to their payrolls, the delivery method only stands to build momentum.
Suppliers, too, are building up their operations with the segment in mind. Until recently, many had not created product lines specifically for offsite. Now, suppliers like Tremco are developing lines for the market to help streamline operations.
But perhaps one of the biggest disruptors in offsite’s expansion will be Marriott International’s use of the method. The hotel chain plans to add seven offsite manufacturers to its existing lineup this year, and will do so while developing a set of goals to compare offsite projects against their site-built equivalents.
Investment up for public transportation Former transportation secretary under President Barack Obama, Anthony R. Foxx, talked at Autodesk University in November about the state of infrastructure in the U.S. He said that focus now is on integrating existing infrastructure because end-to-end systems already are in place. “We can’t look at modes of transportation as separate an distinct anymore,” he said. “It’s all one whole.”
Nashville, TN’s, ambitious $5.2 billion infrastructure and transit plan, which citizens will vote on in May, is just one example of cities making big investments in transportation. The plan would not only link parts of the city to each other, but better connect it with surrounding Davidson County communities.
Although Nashville’s proposed plan is among the largest, it isn’t the only notable project underway. Minneapolis’s $1.9 billion Southwest light-rail has encountered a slew of obstacles, largely relating to financing. Nevertheless, the Metropolitan Council expects to award the contract in the first quarter of this year, with construction commencing in the spring. Boston’s Green Line light rail is undergoing a $2.2 billion reboot, which will add 4.7 miles and seven stations to the system between Cambridge and Medford, MA.
Beyond traditional rail and bus systems, the country is exploring higher tech options, such as high-speed maglev trains and hyperloop systems, several tunnels of that have been okayed in Maryland and California.
Technology and automation tackling jobsAt Autodesk University in November, Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost grabbed the automation bull by the horns, saying, “Instead of worrying about automation taking our jobs, let’s have a conversation about where automation can take us.”
Look at 3-D printing. In the final quarter of 2017 alone, the industry boasted several innovative projects, such as Europe’s first 3-D printed building built in Denmark, a 3-D printed concrete bridge in the Netherlands and the issuing of a grant to 3-D print concrete turbine towers in California.
Machines also are tackling jobs that are traditionally dangerous for humans, such as the tele-operated humanoid robot RoboMiner going into pit mines. A Pittsburgh-area robot ties rebar to form bridge decks, which halves labor hours compared human labor, as well as reduces injuries workers sustain while straddling rebar frames.
Construction tech earned the distinction as Trend of the Year in the 2017 Construction Dive Awards. The industry saw $433 million of funding in the first nine months of 2017 alone. Out of the 56 total deals, two of them were valued at more than $50 million. One of those large deals was Innovator of the Year, Katerra, which uses factory-based construction to automate and standardize design and construction to create a continuum of services to replace the typical chain of handoffs.
New policy regulation impacting businessesThe House and Senate approving President Donald Trump’s tax overhaul capped 2017. Although not construction-specific, it certainly will have a significant impact on businesses. The public construction sector will benefit from private-activity bond (PAB) financing and contractors structured as C-corporations and pass-through entities will benefit from tax relief. PAB use, however, may limit and lock out design professionals from taking advantage of the new lower pass-through tax rate.
Beyond federal policy shaping the industry, some cities, states and agencies are passing regulation as well. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio in October signed Intro 1447, a controversial law that requires construction workers to undergo at least 40 hours of safety training.
California Governor Jerry Brown signed a law in October requiring contractors acting as direct contractors on private construction projects to be financially responsible for any wages, fringe benefits and union contributions left unpaid by subcontractors and their sub-tiers. Los Angeles also kicked off its seismic retrofit program by sending notices to owners of an estimated 1,200 older concrete buildings that fall under the new ordinance.
Many also will be keeping an eye on the infrastructure bill, which may be revealed later this month, and has the potential to put up to $1 trillion into the pipeline. Several companies have engaged in large acquisitions, such as Jacobs Engineering Group acquiring CH2M Hill and AECOM’s acquisition of Shimmick Construction, in preparation to take full advantage of the anticipated work.
Giant companies expanding spaces While last year saw the addition of new high-tech campus facilities from the likes of Google and Apple, 2017’s hype around a second new North American Amazon headquarters will likely fuel increased momentum for similar expansions in 2018.
Software giant Microsoft is slated to begin a multi-billion-dollar redevelopment of its existing Redmond, WA, campus later this year, joining Apple, Google and other tech giants that are expanding their capacities “at home.” Meanwhile, companies like Marriott and General Electric are expected to break ground on new headquarters developments.
As more firms continue to build out their facilities, many are also likely to add infrastructure needed to support their operations. Data center construction, especially, is taking off as companies increasingly amass unprecedented amounts of information in their servers.
By the first half of 2017, data center investments had already doubled those made in 2016, coming in at $18.2 billion. And if the market maintains that pace, investments in the category this year could exceed the combined total of the past three years.
“Driving the market will be companies you’ve never heard of doing things we can hardly imagine,” Todd Smith, chief technology officer of data center solutions at national commercial real estate firm Transwestern, told Construction Dive in November.
AR/VR, wearables and drones transforming jobsitesIn the face of mixed-reality headsets, such as Microsoft’s HoloLens, and wearable devices, such as Triax’s Internet of Things-enabled sensors, it’s a safe bet that high-tech wearables and augmented and virtual reality will continue to infiltrate jobsites. Two of the greatest benefits these technologies offer are safety and efficiency — both areas where the construction industry tends to struggle.
Beyond the innovations and investment in con-tech, it’s also possible that technology will help recruit younger workers into a field plagued by a labor shortage. Garrett Harley, vice president of strategic accounts for Aconex, told Construction Dive that “Technology is another emerging way to get people into this business. Not many people coming out of school understand there’s this much tech in construction. It’s an exciting time to be a part of it.” These technologies include gamify safety training courses, which can improve learners’ engagement and retention rates.
Construction is a notoriously dangerous profession — construction worker fatalities increased 6% from 2015 to 2016 — and these technologies can be a major boon to increasing safety. Although wearables are slow to be adopted, according to the report Safety Management in the Construction Industry, 82% of adopters say they have a positive impact. Meanwhile, more contractors are looking to drones to survey sites and improve upon worker safety as well.

Hiring a contractor who is not bonded, insured — and licensed, if applicable — is a risk you don’t want to take.

Let’s talk about the importance of insurance first. Contractors should carry two types of insurance: liability and worker’s compensation. As a homeowner, these protect you in two ways. First, liability insurance will protect you in the event the contractor causes damage to your home. What if, say during an upstairs bathroom remodel, your uninsured contractor was doing work that caused the bathtub to crash through the floor? If you think your homeowner’s policy would cover you, think again. It likely won’t, unless you’ve purchased additional coverage for in-home employees.
What if the contractor had an employee on the job at your home who was injured on your property but the contractor didn’t carry worker’s compensation insurance? Your homeowner’s insurance policy might help cover the cost to pay that worker’s claim, after you meet your deductible, but that claim could result in an increase in your rates and make it more difficult for you to get insured in the future.

Bonding is often confused for insurance, but there is a notable difference. A bond is intended to act as a guarantee that the contractor will perform the work as he or she is supposed to. It is secured money that would be distributed to the homeowner in the event the contractor failed to perform as he or she should. For example, if a plumbing contractor failed to perform a pipe repair adequately and caused a leak that went undetected and caused damage to the home. Or, if a company employee stole personal items from your home, the bond would cover that loss. Don’t take a contractor’s word that he or she is bonded. Ask for proof of the bond and be sure you understand exactly what it covers.

Finally, you want to make sure your contractor holds the appropriate licensing, if it’s needed. Check with your local licensing authority and, if applicable, ask for a copy of the license. Licensing offers proof that the contractor has met certain industry training standards and is allowed to do the work in your area. Hiring an unlicensed contractor could cost you big. If the work does not meet local building codes, or the contractor doesn’t pull the necessary permits (which an unlicensed contractor cannot do), you will be responsible for making the repairs to meet code. Allowing work to be done by an unlicensed contractor could also void your homeowner’s insurance policy, should a claim arise as a result of that work.

It might be appealing when comparing the estimate of an unlicensed, uninsured and non-bonded contractor to one who has those credentials. Licensed, bonded and insured contractors usually charge more than those who haven’t earned the credentials or paid for the insurance protection. I like to look at it this way: if a contractor doesn’t follow the law (or good business practices) in being licensed, insured or bonded, what else is he or she cutting corners on? If something goes wrong, it’s you who will be paying the price.

My advice is to save yourself the stress and risks involved with hiring cheap, unqualified help. Hire a contractor who you know has earned the credentials of his or her trade and follows good business practices. You’ll have a much better chance of seeing your job done right the first time.

SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Lenexa, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.

 BY MELISSA DITTMANN TRACEY When home owners take on a remodeling project, they’re often far more focused on choosing glistening fixtures for a new bathroom or debating the type of granite to use on a kitchen counter top than, say, navigating the intricacies of the building permit process. That could be a huge mistake, however, and it may not even come to light until the house is put up for sale. Ignoring local approval requirements not only poses safety and legal problems but also can potentially derail an otherwise smooth sale.
Home owners using licensed contractors for remodeling work typically don’t have to get involved with permitting. Most licensed contractors will handle the cumbersome process for them—filling out the paperwork with the municipality, collecting fees, and being present for the required inspections, says Michael Hydeck, president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. But when home owners tackle do-it-yourself projects or use unlicensed contractors, they risk problems later.
The permit process varies widely from city to city and state to state). But the purpose of the document is the same everywhere: It offers ­assurance by a municipal building department that the work being done meets all safety codes.

Ask Sellers Before You List Home owners may be asked about permits in the process of selling a home. At closing, they may have to disclose any remodeling work they did and verify permits. A home inspector evaluating a property for a buyer may want to know whether a permit was obtained. Furthermore, the buyer’s appraiser may want to see permit records to check the legality of any home renovations.
“If no permits are found and it’s obvious the home has been renovated, the bank will likely refuse to make the loan,” according to the American Bar Association’s book Legal Guide to Home Renovation(Random House Reference, 2006). If the permitless work isn’t discovered until after closing, the home’s value could even be subject to a lawsuit, such as in cases when an addition added extra square footage to the home’s value but the construction wasn’t done legally with a permit.
That’s why contractors and legal experts say real estate practitioners are well advised to ask sellers before they take on a listing for a renovated home: “Did you get a permit for that?”
Remodeling contractor John Price in Merced, Calif., has been called in to help home owners after permit problems have been uncovered. He once worked with a home owner who installed siding by himself, but added it too far down along the wall of the house, so it rubbed up against dirt and picked up moisture. Eventually the poor installation led to mold growing in the drywall throughout the inside of the house.
Some home owners, however, are tempted to sidestep the permit process not wanting to pay the fees (municipalities generally charge a minimum issuing fee—such as $25—as well as an additional fee—sometimes 1 percent—of total construction costs), or they might not want to risk delaying a project or a sale by waiting for city inspections (obtaining permits can take anywhere from a day to six weeks or more).
“People have strong incentives to cheat, and some of that lays squarely on the feet of policymakers who have sometimes created a system that is time-consuming and frustrating,” Price says.
But caught without a permit during resale, home owners may face big consequences. They may have to pay fines (possibly up to quadruple the original permit cost) or may have to tear the project down and redo it.

Virtually No Job Is Too Small Home owners making any changes to the structures of a home will likely need a permit—and you may need more than one, Price says.
While kitchen and bathroom remodels and housing additions are obvious permit candidates, people may not realize they might also need one for such projects as installing a window, adding a new light switch, or replacing a shower. “There are not too many jobs you don’t need a permit for,” Hydeck adds. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

​SCS offers custom home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bath remodeling, basement finishing, room additions and total home remodeling services with unprecedented reliability and a conscientious desire to help our customers achieve their dreams in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. On the commercial side we provide services for light commercial construction, tenant finish and general contracting services also in the Lawrence, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Overland Park, Kansas City and Topeka, KS areas. Contact us today and find out why our customers are completely satisfied with their remodeling and home building projects.