Stucco is a traditional building material that has been used for centuries to create beautiful and durable surfaces. It is made from a mixture of sand, lime, and water, and can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including brick, concrete, and metal.

The origins of stucco can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and the Romans. These early stucco mixes were created by mixing lime and sand with water, and then applying the mixture to surfaces using a trowel or similar tool. Over time, the stucco would harden, creating a durable and weather-resistant finish.

Today, stucco is still widely used in construction, and is particularly popular in warm climates. In modern construction, stucco is typically mixed on site using a mechanical mixer. This allows for precise control over the consistency and composition of the stucco mix, ensuring that it is of the highest quality.

One of the key benefits of stucco is its durability. When properly applied and maintained, stucco can last for many years, and is resistant to damage from weather, pests, and other external factors. Additionally, stucco is fire-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for buildings in high-risk areas.

In modern construction, stucco is used for a variety of purposes. It is commonly applied to exterior walls as a decorative and protective finish, and is also used to create ornate details and architectural features. Additionally, stucco is often used in interior applications, such as creating smooth and durable surfaces on walls and ceilings.

Overall, stucco is a versatile and durable building material that has been used for centuries to create beautiful and functional surfaces. It continues to be a popular choice in modern construction, thanks to its durability, fire resistance, and ability to be customized to suit a wide range of architectural styles and designs.

If you need stucco work done on your property, hiring a licensed Florida general contractor is essential. In the state of Florida, all contractors who perform stucco work must be licensed by the state. This ensures that the work is done safely, to code, and by a contractor who has the necessary experience and knowledge.

There are several other reasons why it’s important to hire a licensed contractor. First and foremost, they are insured. Accidents can happen on any construction project, and if you hire an uninsured contractor, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur on your property. A licensed contractor, on the other hand, will have the necessary insurance coverage to protect you, your property, and their workers.

A licensed contractor will also have the necessary experience and knowledge to do the job right the first time. Stucco is a complex material that requires specialized skills and expertise to install properly. A licensed contractor will know how to prepare the surface, mix the stucco, apply it evenly and smoothly, and finish it to a high standard. They will also be able to advise you on the best materials and techniques to use for your specific project.

Finally, hiring a licensed contractor can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Because they are experienced and knowledgeable, they will be able to complete the job quickly and efficiently, without any costly mistakes or delays. And if any problems do arise, they will have the skills and expertise to fix them quickly and correctly, without causing further damage or disruptions.

In conclusion, it is important to hire a licensed Florida general contractor to do stucco work on your property. Not only is it a requirement by law, but it will also protect you, your property, and the workers on the job. A licensed contractor will have the necessary experience, knowledge, and insurance coverage to do the job safely and correctly, and to save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. If you need stucco work done on your property, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed contractor. They will be able to provide you with a free quote and help you get started on your project.

When it comes to painting your home or business, one important decision to make is which paint sheen to use. Paint sheen refers to the level of gloss or shine in the paint, and different sheens can create vastly different looks and effects on your walls.

The most common paint sheens are flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Flat paint has the lowest amount of shine, giving it a matte finish that is perfect for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings. Eggshell paint has a slightly higher amount of shine, giving it a soft and velvety finish that is great for walls and low-traffic areas.

Satin paint has a medium amount of shine, creating a smooth and lustrous finish that is perfect for walls and high-traffic areas. Semi-gloss paint has a high amount of shine, giving it a radiant and reflective finish that is great for trim and other surfaces that need to be easily cleaned.

Finally, gloss paint has the highest amount of shine, creating a vibrant and glossy finish that is perfect for trim, doors, and other surfaces that need to be durable and easy to clean.

When choosing a paint sheen, it’s important to consider the type of surface you are painting and the intended use of the space. For example, a flat paint sheen may be a good choice for a bedroom wall, while a semi-gloss paint sheen may be better suited for a kitchen backsplas

Overall, understanding the different paint sheens and their characteristics can help you make the right choice for your painting project and create the perfect look and finish for your space. 

Contact us today for a free paint quote for your home or office!

Hiring a licensed Florida architect is an important decision for anyone embarking on a new construction project. Architects are trained professionals who are skilled in designing & planning buildings that are functional, safe, & aesthetically pleasing. By working with an architect you can ensure that your project meets all building codes and regulations, and that it will stand the test of time.

One of the most important reasons to hire an architect licensed in your state is that their expertise in building design and construction. Architects are educated in a lot of subjects, including structural engineering, materials, & construction techniques. They’re also trained to understand the specific requirements and challenges of each project, & can provide insights and recommendations critical for the success of your project.

Another benefit of working with a licensed architect is their ability to create a design that is not only functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also fits specifically with your budget and meets your needs. Architects are skilled in developing innovative solutions that balance form and function. They can also help you make informed decisions about the design of your project.

Hiring a licensed architect can help you avoid potential problems & delays during the construction process. Architects are familiar with our local building codes and regulations, and can help ensure that your project complies with all applicable laws and standards. They can also provide valuable guidance and support throughout the construction process, helping to prevent costly mistakes and delays.

Hiring a licensed architect is a super important investment in the success of any construction project. By working with a trained and experienced professional, you can benefit from our expertise and knowledge, and ensure that your project is designed and built to the highest standards.

Previously, we discussed the importance of hiring a great general contractor for your new construction or renovation project. Similar to the contractor you choose, your architect is a critical selection in leading to your project’s success. However, many clients are unsure of what to ask when looking for an architect to make sure it’s the right fit. Below, we list some helpful questions to ask before your next project.

“Why do I need an architect?”
This question is one that a client should ask themselves so they can effectively communicate what they’d like for their architect to do. Since architects can provide a variety of services, it’s important for clients to have specific goals in mind. For example, do you need an architect to create a conceptual design? Or do you need someone to review and sign off on a permit?

This question can also help architects better understand your end goal for the project. When it comes to new construction, an architect will factor in your budget, lifestyle, and design preferences.

“What is included in your basic services for a project as my architect?”
Many clients are not familiar with the different types of schematics and drawings that go into new construction. This question helps you understand which basic services your architect will provide. This can also alert you as to whether you’ll need supplementary or additional services for your project.

“What will be expected of me as the client?”
Sometimes, clients do not have existing drawings, surveys, or permit records for the property they are building. In this case, there are additional steps the client may have to handle for the architect to perform their duties.

This is also a point to consider if you want an additional level of detail and management to be provided for your project. This can be delivered for your project through an interior designer, Fixture, Finishes and Equipment (FFE) Selection, or construction administration services.

“What is your design process like?”
This question can help the client understand what phases their architectural project will have and ensure everyone is on the same page. This can also help clients understand their level of involvement at each stage.

If you’re looking for an experienced and innovative architect in Fort Lauderdale, contact us at Rose Architects.

One of the quickest ways to complicate a project is to have a general contractor who is not thoroughly involved. Without a hands-on approach, a general contractor cannot manage the needs of the client, the architect, and the many subcontractors on a given project. This can cause long delays and expensive mistakes. To help save time and money, we discuss some features of a “hands-on” general contractor below.

Being a hands-on general contractor starts with regularly visiting the construction site and having a full understanding of all of the trades involved, such as plumbing, electrical, and so on. Regular involvement helps to establish a good rapport with the subcontractors and helps the general contractor provide accurate information to their client. This all sets the tone for the project and helps everyone involved stay on the same page for maximum efficiency.

Regular site visits also give the general contractor a chance to zoom out and take in a holistic overview of the project. They must know how every moving part is connected to one another throughout different phases of the project, and how changes or delays can impact this dynamic process. It’s much easier to orchestrate a complex project when the general contractor is proactively at the job site and closely involved with the day-to-day.

A hands-on general contractor also does regular walkthroughs with subcontractors. Usually, a subcontractor receives a “punch list” or a to-do list explaining which tasks need to be done by which date. As a project progresses, however, new tasks may come up and get lost in the constant construction happening on the site. This is where a general contractor can assist with a walkthrough or physical layout of the project. This process helps orient subcontractors so that the architect’s design and client’s desires are executed properly to their full intent.

It’s important for general contractors to be hands-on during every step of the construction process. They serve as the main point of contact for everyone involved on the project and their effective communication and delegation is the key to a successful outcome.

If you’re looking for a general contractor in Fort Lauderdale, you can read more about the typical process here, or contact Rose Architecture + Construction to consult with our team about your dream project!

For the past two years, supply chain shortages have put the construction industry through the ringer. Materials are scarce and project costs have reached a 50-year high. Yet, many clients don’t know how much this shortage can impact their construction plans. Below, we explain some challenges facing new construction right now and how clients can best prepare themselves.

Challenge #1: Inconsistent, unpredictable inventory
The immediate effect of global supply shortages is that vendors have less stock available. With reduced labor and major shipping delays, it is also difficult to predict restocks.

This means many online inventories and estimated delivery dates are inaccurate. It’s important for clients to understand that many vendors will list products as “in stock” because they’ve ordered it from the manufacturer, not because it’s currently in their storefront.

Similarly, estimated delivery dates are just that – estimates. For example, raw materials typically see a delivery delay of 3-6 weeks. For materials coming from overseas, the delay can be as long as 5-11 months. This is also true for appliances and furniture due to shortages of steel and small, finished parts.

Some vendors have stopped taking new orders entirely for 2022 due to their backlog, further reducing global stock. The lack of inventory brings us to the next challenge.

Challenge #2: Increased construction costs
Limited stock means that projects are more expensive. How expensive? According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, construction costs went up by 17.5% in 2021 alone. Prices for individual materials have also increased. In turn, price quotes have become volatile; as parts go in and out of stock, quotes that used to be good for months need to be updated every few days.

Tips for Clients
So what can a prospective client do in the face of a supply shortage? The most important thing is for clients to remember that their construction team is always working with them to deliver on their design goals. Besides trusting the process, here are some tips:

Be Flexible: It may take a little longer, be a bit more expensive, or require an atypical approach to achieve your design dreams.

Start Early: If possible, it’s best to start planning out your project as soon as possible. This gives your design and construction team time to source supplies at the best rate and account for any market changes. You can learn more about beginning the new construction process here.

Expect Delays: With the supply chain shortage, even the best planned projects may experience some delays. Your design team will help factor this into your project goals.

Be Prepared to Act Fast: Limited quantities means that price quotes can change quickly. Be prepared for any developments in your project and communicate in a timely manner so your team can best serve you.

If you’re looking for an experienced and resourceful Architect and General Contractor in Fort Lauderdale to see your project through these challenges, contact us at Rose Architecture + Construction.

This page highlights the products and tools we recommend across our jobs and promote via various social channels. Note that some of these have affiliate links, which means we are compensated if you purchase. This list will be updated often so check back for more!

1. Ray-Ban stories: https://amzn.to/3w1cvR8
2. Smartkey deadbolts: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F8MT9Q6/?tag=zr087-20
3.  13″ flush mount ceiling light: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VB3NR29/?tag=zr087-20
4. Laser transit by Johnson: https://amzn.to/3FnPFGk

Finding a Fort Lauderdale general contractor can be very difficult, so here are a few things to look for when you’re hiring a reputable and reliable contractor. With the right contractor, you’ll save time and money and arrive at a result that’s perfectly tailored to your needs.

Here is what you should be looking for in a general contractor:
– If they specialize in project types you’re interested in
– If they carry proper liability insurance
– How long they’ve been in business
– The number of projects they’ve completed successfully
– Reviews from their previous clients

Another important consideration is having the opportunity to look at actual completed projects. The projects completed by a general contractor can give you an idea of their level of experience. If they have a number of projects that have been completed, you have to take into consideration infrastructure, materials and products being used. It’s not uncommon to see many contractors building a house with a certain type of wood, tile or even a door.

You may be wondering how you’re going to find a Fort Lauderdale general contractor. If you know someone who has hired a general contractor before, they can help recommend one. You can also consult your local contractor licensing board to get referrals.

This is an important step because the more details you provide about your project, the better you’ll be able to compare quotes. Laying out the plans of your home will help the general contractor give you a more accurate quote. The best way to do this is to hire a licensed architect in the state of Florida to assist with this process.

There are a few questions you should always ask a Fort Lauderdale general contractor before hiring them. They have to have a solid payment plan. They have to be prompt about returning phone calls and emails. Make sure they’re on time with the work being done as well as with their payment schedule. You don’t want to hire a general contractor who’s going to cause more problems than they solve, so it’s important to make sure they’ll complete the project on time and within your budgeted amount.

There are plenty of other considerations when hiring a Fort Lauderdale general contractor so please reach out to us today so we can help you.

The City of Fort Lauderdale recently joined Gridics, an interactive zoning map application. The map simplifies some processes in property development due to the extensive, verified zoning information now readily available online.

One of the most useful features of Gridics is its 3D modeling capabilities. The continuous map allows engineers, architects, and designers to visualize new projects. Through color-coded zoning layers, the app helps calculate build-out potentials without having to consult multiple city officials. Moreover, the map shows existing and proposed projects in Fort Lauderdale all in one place.

For property owners, the app provides key information on their property’s zoning requirements in Fort Lauderdale. This can be helpful to anyone in the first stages of single home family construction. By providing the property’s zoning information in one interactive visual map application, owners can easily understand the potentials and limitations of their design goals.

The new Fort Lauderdale zoning map application provides many helpful features for both developers and owners all in one place. For more information on Fort Lauderdale Gridics, visit their website or announcement.

For more information on zoning, construction permits, and development, contact Rose Architecture + Construction.