Posted on Wed, Apr 25, 2012 @ 11:25 AM
Barefoot & Company was established more than 40 years ago by my grandfather, Bob Barefoot. My grandpa was a devoted, genuine and hard working family man. I have much respect for how he envisioned this establishment and built it on his core of high morals, honesty, integrity and accountability.
I grew up watching Granddaddy and Dad run Barefoot & Company. Granddaddy idealized the dream of developing a business that he could some day leave as his legacy and a great inheritance to his children. I believe because of this rich and deep family-developed company, he was able to create a work environment that focuses on the employees and customers and has created a company culture rich with a sense of community.
After graduating from high school I decided to study Marketing at Clemson. From there I went on to obtain my MBA at San Diego State. Understanding Granddaddy's vision and Dad's passion for Barefoot & Company I decided to return to Indian Trail, NC to take over the marketing department and assist in my family's legacy.
I am also proud to be able to give back to my community as I work at Barefoot and Company. I have been a member of NARI for three years. I have been able to be very active, participating in monthly meetings, NARI-sponsored charitable causes, and various industry meetings and shows. I also have worked with the group to represent all businesses and to help NARI and its members receive more exposure in the local market. I believe community involvement is something that has been ingrained in me because of my family's leadership in Barefoot and Company.
In my tenure at Barefoot & Company, I have been able to help rebrand the company, optimize our website, social media and marketing strategies, implement strategic inbound marketing efforts and ensure quality customer service. Because of this I have been honored to receive recognition in the Greater Charlotte business industry.
I love my community and being of service to the greater Charlotte area through programs like soup kitchens, Charlotte Rescue Mission, and Habitat for Humanity.
In the past five years I have come to know Barefoot & Company and have grown to love my family's vision for this company. We continue to grow as a team and develop better ways for Barefoot and Company to function. I am glad to have become such a key component in so few years.
I look forward to the next 40 years and to see where Barefoot & Company will go in that time. I am proud and grateful to work here and to carry the Barefoot name and legacy.
Thank you Granddaddy and thank you Dad!
Laura Barefoot
About the Author
Laura Barefoot, Director of Marketing and Quality Assurance
As the Quality Assurance Representative and Marketing Manager for three years, Laura oversees and manages all aspects of the company's quality assurance system as a NHQ Certified contractor for Quality Assurance. Furthermore, she designs and manages custom closets and is the New Construction Builder Design Center Liaison. Laura brings exceptional marketing expertise to the company and lives the company’s mission statement. She holds a BS in Marketing from Clemson University and an MBA in Sports Business Management from San Diego State University. Laura's professional... VIEW FULL BIO HERE
Posted on Mon, Mar 19, 2012 @ 03:43 PM
By Bill Green
Last week most of our customers were up in arms about the impact of the NC 2012 building codes that were implemented March 1, 2012 and no one had a code book to follow. I am sure that the number of building permits applied for in February 2012 possibly set a new record for February.
Code changes have always been a very challenging part of our business.
The latest 2012 code change caught us by a bigger surprise. Everyone as late as February 23, 2012 thought the code would not be enforced until June 1st, 2012. Well, thanks to the NC general assembly we were all incorrect.
Basically everyone had a code to follow and no clear understanding of what the code changes were because the code book had not been published. That being said many of us are scrambling to make sure we are code compliant.
I think codes are a good thing and they make us safer, but sometimes the government timing really stinks. The code changes add cost to our struggling housing market. House prices are staying the same and economic conditions are pushing house prices down constantly. Appraisers do not add any more to the value of a house because of which code it was built under. They should because there is a cost associated with the code that was followed.
What are we to do?
For Barefoot and Company, the new March 1, 2012 building and energy code added at least a 10% increase to the window cost, and in some cases as much as a 20% increase to the window package. Here we are making it a priority to build safer and better, aligning with the codes. This way we can do our part to prevent injury, save lives, and make strides to benefit the environment.
What we are pressing for here is a balanced outlook from the government end. We think that the newer houses and homes that are brought up to code should have added value by the market and the appraisers.
What do you think? How are these codes effecting you as either a business owner or a consumer? Let us know your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter or Google+. We would love to continue this discussion as we search for solutions that will benefit everyone involved.
Bill Green, Director of Operations
As the Director of Operations, Bill Green has maintained the position for 7 years. He began his career with the company in 1996 and has held several management positions since. A graduate of North Carolina State University with a BA in Business Management, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the company. He has a unique ability to create innovative solutions, just one of the many traits that make him an invaluable asset to the company. In his current role, ...
VIEW FULL BIO HERE
Posted on Fri, Mar 16, 2012 @ 02:52 PM
Have you always desired that
seamless glass door look for your shower? Of course! The only problem is you don't know where to begin. Here are some simple factors that you should take into consideration when you begin "window" shopping.
1. Budget
Although this isn't the fun part, it is where you need to begin. Thankfully many companies, like ourselves, supply estimates to simplify this process for you! You will be on your way to selecting the perfect shower door in no time. No matter the budget you will soon have that great aesthetic feel you've always wanted. But forget that for now… let's get down to the fun stuff!
2. Functionality
When deciding what door you would like to install, you have to take into consideration how it will function. Where is your shower or tub located in the bathroom? What are the walls made of? Where are the supporting studs? The answers to these questions help determine the maximum weight of the glass the walls can support. Therefore it will narrow down your decision on what
type of door you would like and what would look best in your bathroom.
3. Available Space
Next you should look at the available space you have to work with. How do you want the space to feel inside of the shower? Depending on how your shower/tub is laid out already will determine what kind of door should be installed. The goal is to make the shower feel more spacious and for the functionality to make clear sense.
4. Upkeep
As I am sure you all know, the look of a glass shower door pales in comparison to the other options. But do you know how different choices will determine your upkeep? Sealed glass doors will keep the moisture in and therefore will require more cleaning. Although, a sealed door is also great because of all the heat it retains while showering. On the other hand, a shower door with space above the door will allow it to ventilate and the shower can dry easily. That is what is great about a glass shower door. You have options!
5. Personal Style
This is our favorite part! Whether you're designing from scratch, remodeling, or upgrading a starter shower, you'll want to choose colors, finishes and glass types that will suit your personal style. Of these considerations, glass type is the most important. For example, clear glass doors are more suitable to darker spaces, as they allow more light to reach the shower. If lighting isn't a concern, you may consider milkier glass types, as they provide a more private shower experience.
6. Glass Shower Doors Are Awesome (Oops… did we say there are only 5?)
Really, once you have one you won't want to go back.
Here's Why:
Glass shower doors are designed to keep water in, shower doors allow for a hassle-free after-shower experience, eliminating the need for drying the leakage often associated with shower curtains. This means less time wasted with unnecessary cleaning, and more time devoted to the essential aspects of your daily routine. Shower doors also contribute to overall bathroom safety. As less water escapes into the floor, you'll have less chance of slipping on your way out of the shower.
Do you already have a shower door or are you looking for the perfect one? Tell us about your experience in owning or searching! You can post on our
Facebook, mention us on
Twitter or share with us on
Google+!
Posted on Thu, Feb 23, 2012 @ 10:42 AM
by Laura Barefoot
How do bathroom mirrors always end up so dirty? Well when bathrooms mirrors are subjected to a battery of household grime: spit, fog, toothpaste, fingerprints, and hairspray, to name a few, it actually begins to make sense. Here are some tips for taking care of your mirror from a daily basis to whenever you have that weekend when you clean the whole house.
1. Bathroom Fan
Leave it on. It will help to keep the mirror from fogging while you are in the shower and will help it dissipate much faster after your shower!
2. Baby Wipes
Any disposable wipe will do, but these come in handy when your mirror needs a quick clean! This will remove any surface grime and help you keep up on a daily basis.
3. Alcohol & A Soft Cloth
Did you know that you could remove hair spray from a mirror with a little rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth? If you use hairspray on a daily basis this little remedy will help keep grime from collecting.
4. Defog Your Mirror
Defogging will extend the life of your mirror and keep it shining like new! If you like to pre-emptively take care of your mirror follow these instructions; when you go to take a shower, spread a thin layer of foam shaving cream over your mirror. When you’re done with your shower, wipe it off with a paper towel and, your mirror will not fog up for up to three weeks!
Or try one of the following tricks:
- If you’re about to take a bath, run an inch of cold water before turning on your hot water. This should prevent your mirror from fogging up.
- If your mirror is already foggy, use a hairdryer to de-fog your mirror.
- Buy anti-fog wipes used for car windshields and apply them to your mirror.
5. Washing Your Mirror
If you already have some build up on your mirror it is going to take an extensive cleaning to bring it to it's best potential. It's a process, but it's worth it!
What You’ll Need:
- Soft cloth
- Old newspaper
- White vinegar
- Foam shaving cream
- Pre-clean the mirror by wiping it with a soft cloth.
- Crumple up newspaper in usable sizes. (Use newspaper and water to get a streak-free shine. You may also choose to use a squeegee to dry the mirror if you have one.)
- Dip newspaper into water and rub in slow circles across the mirror. (You may also use a solution of 1-c. white or distilled vinegar and 1-qt. warm water. Make sure to keep the area well-ventilated—the combination of newspaper and vinegar can be quite pungent!)
- Go over wet areas again with dry newspaper to prevent drip marks.
- If you still have streaks, just repeat steps 2 and 3. A residue may have built up from using commercial cleaners in the past.
6. How to Avoid Damaging Your Mirrors
- Avoid using commercial cleaners with acid, alkali, or ammonia—they are too abrasive.
- Keep liquid away from the edges of your mirror. This can cause “black edge,” which damages the backing. If you do accidentally get liquid on these edges, wipe up immediately!
- Never spray cleaner/vinegar/water directly onto the mirror—this helps avoid “black edge.”
- If you have several wall-mounted mirrors next to each other, do not clean across their joints. Liquid can collect in these areas and cause damage. Instead clean each mirror separately.
- Don’t use newspaper with a soy-based ink.
I know what you're asking, is ALL this really important? Well let me put it like this…
That misty condensation that sits on your mirror contains bacteria and oil from your body, this attracts dust and residue left from shower products. All this together is an absolute cleaning nightmare and will cause your mirror to look dull over time. There is nothing worse to look at in a run than a dull dirty mirror.
Take a little time after your shower to use a cleaning product and go over the mirror with a damp cloth, ensure you leave the bathroom door open whilst the mirror dries out, this will help maintain your mirror.
A clean crisp makes a difference, so keep it like that!
Posted on Wed, Feb 15, 2012 @ 03:03 PM
by Laura Barefoot
Have you ever noticed how popular aged products are? From faded and torn jeans to enjoying a dated wine. Our society and culture truly appreciates that nostalgia of preserving things from our past - or at least things that look like they are!
Antique Mirrors are one of these products. The difficult aspect with mirrors is that, if you actually acquire an aged mirror from an antique shop or from an older relative, they are often warped or damaged beyond use. With actual antique mirrors the unevenness, chipping, and fading is not popular or desirable to modern living. However there are solutions to this dilemma! Now there are highly-detailed and accurate reproductions of mirrors and frames that offer the look of times past without looking too damaged or grungy.
A key component to creating an antique mirror is the process. The distressing process used creates a medium coverage, with a hint of copper color to it. A few imperfections are what give antique mirror their character. Manufacturers purposely avoid large-scale blobs, swirls, or blotches. The process is somewhat automated, so that the mirrors can be more consistent with the design. The goal with creating the distressing in a mirror is for it to feature a much softer reflection.
As you may know, here at Barefoot & Company, we do custom glass and framing - this includes mirrors as well! That's right. We create custom size and style antique mirrors. These timeless mirrors are great for backsplashes, cabinet inserts, table toppers, furniture inserts, and wall installations like wet bars, restaurants, lobby areas, and lounges.
Once the style of aging is selected for your antique mirror it's time to bring it all together with the perfect frame. Be sure to check out our website to see our Custom Framed Mirrors or give us a call for a specialized quote for your project!
Posted on Tue, Jan 24, 2012 @ 02:22 PM
By Bill Green
What's a bathroom without mirrors in the all the right places? Mirrors are used functionally as well as aesthetically in great bathroom designs; they can be used to enhance a decorative style, reflect more light and to give the appearance of a larger space. Yet, improperly installed mirrors can pose a major safety threat to your family.
There are two common methods for hanging bathroom mirrors: mastic adhesives and mechanical fasteners.
Mastic adhesive is a bond-like substance applied to the wall to hold the mirror in place. When the mirror is hung, it generally sets within 10 minutes, yet takes up to 24 hours to cure. There are many factors that may cause safety concerns with the mastic adhesive approach, including room temperature, whether the room is well ventilated, the weight of the mirror and the stability of the surface on which it is being attached. Various conditions could cause the adhesive to loosen. Barefoot and Company recommends (and routinely follow its own advice) that all mirror installations be performed using a back-up method alongside the glue - mechanical fasteners.
There are a variety of fasteners that have been specifically designed to hold mirrors upright. We strongly recommend that every mirror be mounted to the wall mechanically with J-channel, clips, or a combination thereof.
Safety Tips:
- Be certain your bathroom is well ventilated and free of dust and dirt prior to the glue application
- If you are hanging a heavy mirror, be certain you have the appropriate support parts clearly identified for the weight of your mirror.
- Seek a professional installer to assist with your mirrors. When it comes to the safety of your family, peace of mind is everything.
Get Professional Help for Safety
We recommend consulting a professional to help select and recommend placement of bath accessories and mirrors. These professionals can also ensure your products are installed and mounted correctly and safely. At Barefoot and Company, we are always here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns.
Posted on Tue, Jan 17, 2012 @ 02:15 PM
by Laura Barefoot
What is a frameless glass shower enclosure?
A frameless shower enclosure is made of strong, tempered and polished safety glass. Since the glass is thicker than "framed" enclosures (those with metal frames), the glass requires minimal framing to support it. Metal is only used to secure the panels. Many consumers prefer the sleek, contemporary look of a frameless enclosure.
How is it installed?
Barefoot & Company’s highly qualified installation team installs your frameless glass shower enclosure to exacting specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and a leak-free installation. We trust no one but our own experienced experts to do this type of installation, which is something that requires accuracy and leaves very little room for error.
Does it leak?
No. When they are professionally installed, frameless shower enclosures do not "leak" and can provide you with years of worry-free service. These durable shower enclosures perform exceptionally well and operate smoothly even with rigorous daily use. Although the shower does not “leak” per se, but water may get out because the lack of frame creates a gap in between the shower glass and the curb. For example, if you open the door when it is wet water may drip off from the door to the floor…This is the nature of a frameless shower.
What are the benefits?
The first thing you will notice about a frameless shower enclosure is its clean lines and distinctive, elegant appearance. Frameless enclosures enhance architectural interest in the bathroom and can add to the value of your home. Beyond the obvious aesthetic advantage, frameless shower enclosures eliminate the need for thick metal framing and often last longer than framed enclosures since there is no metal to discolor or corrode. They are remarkably easy to maintain, and only require occasional use of a rubber squeegee to retain their “like new” condition.
Is it available in custom sizes and shapes?
Yes, frameless showers can be custom fabricated in a wide range of configurations to suit your needs. During your free in-home consultation, a Barefoot & Company design representative will go over all the available options and provide your with a free estimate. Note: Custom shapes and sizes are dependant on the space we have to work with. We will guide you in the consultation stage about all the options.
What types of glass are available to choose from?
Select from a diverse assortment of glass styles, ranging from plain or tinted clear glass to styles that will bring to mind frost and ice; glass resembling a waterfall; charming antique-looking glass, and everything in between.
Is the frameless glass shower enclosure available in different thicknesses?
Barefoot and Company supplies and installs 3/8” thick glass in our frameless showers.
Click here to Contact us for a Free Estimate or In-Home Consultation regarding your Shower Glass Enclosure.
Posted on Wed, Jan 11, 2012 @ 07:56 AM
Friends and Business Partners,
With each passing year, we at Barefoot and Company
continue to realize how blessed we are and how fortunate we are to live in America and not want for anything. We are fortunate to be able to be entrepreneurs and follow in the footsteps of Bob Barefoot who began this company 40 years ago with a pickup truck and a toolbox. Bob Barefoot began something - something he likely didn't realize at the time would be a legacy for his family. We wake up each morning blessed beyond measure and come to work ready to help solve problems for others, and to make their home life a little more special, a little more fun, a little more safe and a little more enjoyable.
We recently took part in a very unique opportunity right here in Charlotte, NC - where we became part of a larger Charlotte community of people coming together to make a BIG difference for a family and their home. Just a few weeks ago, we joined our peers (industry trade partners) and worked together to build a new home for a deserving family as part of the Extreme Makeover Home Edition - Charlotte.
Within a week and in 170,000 man hours, ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition, partnering with Bellamy Homes and many local trade partners, tore down the Friday family's existing brick home and replaced it with a two-story home doubled in size; the family dwelling now has eight bedrooms, and was much needed to give room to the five children who were adopted in April of this year. Throughout the years, the Friday family has raised 30 children.
We are very fortunate in times like these to have the Bob Barefoot Foundation and fantastic suppliers making things happen. Barefoot and Company was able to donate and install the shower doors, shelving in the closets, and door locks and hardware in the home. It took the entire Barefoot and Company Family pulling together to make this work in the short amount of time, and I want to personally thank every Barefoot employee who worked with resolve and determination to make a difference in our community!
Again I want to say Thank You - to everyone involved and for the opportunity to be part of the EMHE in Charlotte!
Sincerely,
Bill Green
Director of Operations
Barefoot and Company
Note: This edition of ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition will air on December 2012 as a Christmas special and as one of the last airings of the episode.
Posted on Mon, Jan 09, 2012 @ 07:09 AM
What is a semi-frameless glass shower enclosure?
A semi-frameless shower enclosure consists of tempered safety glass with a header on top of the unit for increased stability. Unlike the door of the framed enclosure, the semi-frameless door has no channel at the top or bottom, or on the handle side. It is a smart choice if you want the elegance of a frameless glass shower enclosure but have design or budget constraints.
How is it installed?
Our experienced installation experts install your semi-frameless glass shower enclosure perfectly the first time, usually in only a few hours.
Does it leak?
No. You do not have to worry about any leakage issues when Barefoot & Company’s professionals install your semi-frameless shower enclosure. Our experts ensure a smoothly operating leak-free enclosure for many years to come.
What are the benefits?
The semi-frameless shower enclosure provides space-saving design and can be installed in situations where other enclosures would not fit. It gives your bathroom the open, sophisticated look of a frameless shower at a more affordable price point. Not just good looking, it is practical because it is water tight and easily cleaned. This enclosure complements any design style.
Is it available in custom sizes and shapes?
Yes and no. You can design a semi-framless shower glass enclosure in virtually any height, width and shape within the limitations of your current space. For example, the shower width and shape is really determined by how the actual shower unit is laid out. It is not feasible to put a new semi-frameless shower in a space where there are no angles greater than 90 degrees. Also, you cannot put a corner shower in a space that is between two walls.
Custom shaped showers are possible, but you need to make sure it is accounted for in the design and build. We can show you the various options during an on-site design consultation which, along with our estimate, is free.
What types of finishes are available to choose from?
We have an array of lustrous metal finishes for you to choose from, including aged pewter, oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, gold, chrome, platinum, black and bone. We have numerous styles of clear or tinted glass in various patterns and levels of privacy.
Is the semi-frameless glass shower enclosure available in different thicknesses?
Standard thicknesses for semi-frameless glass enclosures are ¼ inch.
Do you have additional questions you would like to have answered?
We would love to hear your questions or comments about Semi-Frameless Shower glass enclosures. Please leave us a note below, and we will happily answer any additional questions you may have.
Posted on Tue, Dec 27, 2011 @ 07:58 AM
What is a framed glass shower enclosure?
When referring to glass shower enclosures, the word "framed" is used to distinguish this type of shower enclosure from semi-frameless and frameless enclosures. In a framed enclosure, the glass door panel is supported by a metal frame that provides stability and structure. The metal frames are available in an assortment of finishes, and the glass itself is available in a variety of styles.
How is it installed?
Your new framed glass shower enclosure is expertly installed by Barefoot & Company’s professionals who have a wealth of experience in this type of installation. Our professionals verify measurements and check for and prevent gaps that can cause destructive water damage. They seal relevant areas as necessary with precision application.
Does it leak?
No. When properly installed by our experts, a framed glass shower enclosure does not leak and can be expected to last for years with little or no maintenance. Since correct measuring and proper installation are critical to the performance of the shower enclosure, this is not a job for the do-it-yourselfer.
What are the benefits?
Apart from their aesthetic appeal, shower enclosures – whether framed, semi-frameless or frameless – serve the very practical need of acting as effective water shields to keep water off the bathroom floor. An advantage of the framed enclosures in particular is that the initial cost is often less than semi-frameless and frameless models. Homeowners who want to highlight and accentuate metal finishes in the bath often choose framed enclosures so that they can coordinate and complement all the bathroom hardware for a unified look.
Is it available in custom sizes and shapes?
Yes and no. You can design a framed shower glass enclosure in virtually any height, width and shape within the limitations of your current space. For example, the shower width and shape is really determined by how the actual shower unit is laid out. It is not feasible to put a new framed shower in a space where there are no angles greater than 90 degrees. Also, you cannot put a corner shower in a space that is between two walls.
Custom shaped showers are possible, but you need to make sure it is accounted for in the design and build. We can show you the various options during an on-site design consultation which, along with our estimate, is free.
What finishes are available to choose from?
There is an attractive assortment of stylish metal finishes available for your framed shower enclosure. These include chrome, aged pewter, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, gold, platinum, bone and black. The glass you choose can be clear or obscure with a number of tints, patterns and textures.
Is the framed glass shower enclosure available in different thicknesses?
Our framed shower glass is installed with 1/4 inch glass.
Do you have additional questions you would like to have answered?
We would love to hear your questions or comments about Framed Shower glass enclosures. Please leave us a note below, and we will happily answer any additional questions you may have.