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.
Posted on Thu, Dec 22, 2011 @ 03:47 PM
Shower Glass Safety
Tempered shower glass, otherwise know as safety glass, is the only type of glass permitted by law for bathroom shower installations. Tempered glass provides a safe design due to its pre-treatment using extreme heat and rapid cooling. When broken, tempered glass will never break into sharp, jagged edges, but rather shatters into small oval pebbles.
Tips:
- Extreme heat conditions such fire will cause your tempered glass to shatter.
- Never cut or drill your shower glass as it will shatter.
- Tempered glass does not protect glass clarity or prevent hard-water stains. After cleaning your shower, you can apply a surface sealer protectant (we offer and recommend BriteGuard). Additionally, upon installation, your shower glass can be treated with EnduroShieldTM to protect against soil adhesion and glass corrosion.
Keeping Your Shower Glass Clean
You may have purchased your home from a previous owner, and thus you've "inherited" some soap scum that just won't come off. Or, you may have purchased your home brand new, and you've watched your shower grime up over time. Either way, we want to show you a few simple proactive steps to maintaining a clean shower.
We've produced a Video entitled "Is Your Old, Dirty Shower Door Cutting It?" We'd like to invite you to check it out - as we offer two really easy tips for keeping your glass shower door sparkling clean.
EnduroShield Glass Protectant
EnduroShield is a permanent, ultra-thin, transparant coating which seals the glass surface, helping to protect against etching and staining from hard water, lime scaling and soap scum. Similar to the non-stick surface of a frying pan, a one time, permanent application of EnduroShield makes cleaning with water and a mild cleaner up to 90% easier and more effective. With regular and proper cleaning, glass maintains its "like new" appeal with less cleaning effort for many years. EnduroShield also helps promote amore hygienic, healthier shower environment by deterring the build-up of mold and harmful bacteria.
Self-Application Glass Product
Barefoot and Company recommends a self-application product - BriteGuard Surface Protection. BriteGuard Surface Sealer can be applied safely and as often as you please to both smooth and rough glass surfaces to protect against soil adhesion and glass corrosion. Application is achieved in three easy steps - using a spray bottle applicator or a cotton pad! To purchase BriteGuard Surface Sealer for your glass or ceramic glazed surfaces, please call at 704.821.7688 or email us at Contact@BarefootandCompany.com.
Posted on Thu, Dec 15, 2011 @ 09:27 AM
Have you taken a moment to consider all the potential hazards that could take place in your bathroom? Drowning, burns, falls, poisoning, electrical shock, and the list goes on. The bathroom, a room in our home we visit multiple times daily, need not be a risky place. One of the most obvious safety measures you can do is be proactive to prevent falls.
Preventing Falls
Falls often occur as people get in or out of the tub/shower or slip on standing water. Begin reducing your risk of frightening falls by being proactive with the simple things like keeping your bathroom floor clean and dry. Placing a non-skid latex-coated bath mat on the floor beside the tub/shower will provide firm footing. Additionally, non-slip suction cups or rubber silicon appliqués in the tub will help prevent falls.
One of the most important safety measures to have in place is professionally-installed bath accessory items such as grab bars and hand rails near the tub/shower and toilet. These should be institutional-grade and stainless steel; proper installation will ensure a 300 pound weight capacity.
Worry not, however, as there is no need to sacrifice your sense of style. Many brands offer a variety of products in attractive designs and trendy finishes. In fact, we have installed grab bars with integrated shelves, towel bars, and toilet paper holders. These professional-grade decorative bars can be installed anywhere on the wall using SecureMount Anchors (no stud needed), so they can be placed in ideal and aesthetically pleasing locations.
Tips:
-
Under no circumstances should you install or use towel rods in place of dedicated grab bars. In the case of a fall, towel rods will not support the weight and momentum.
- Never clutch or grab hold of your shower curtain or glass sliding door for stability or balance. This is extremely unsafe as neither of these items are designed for human weight.
For more information or to see photographs of our professional-grade secure AND decorative grab bars and hand rails, visit our Bath Accessories - Bath Safety Page.
Posted on Wed, Dec 07, 2011 @ 07:19 AM
Director of Operations, Barefoot and Company
Safety is key - privacy is key. And, it's all in the "key".
During the construction process for new homes, the builder and an army of trade contractors need access to enter your home for installations during the build out. To protect your family post-construction, Barefoot and Company (who provides
door hardware and locks to many builders in the area) "Construction Keys" your home.
We begin by making two sets of keys: A Builder set, and a Homeowner set. Upon installation of the lockset, the lock is installed to work on a Builder Key Code.
- Builder Key Code – This key code gives access to your builder, so he or she may continue working on your home after the locks are installed.
Your Homeowner keys were never given to anyone during the construction process.
- Home Owner Key Code - This is your personal key code that will only be given to a homeowner upon closing on their home. Once the homeowner keys are inserted into the locks, the locks will then trip and only work on the homeowner keys. Builder keys will no longer work for that home. **It is important for a new homeowner to insert his/her Homeowner key into every lock upon moving in. Until this is done, the Builder Key will still work.
Builders do not have access to Homeowner keys; they only have access to the builder keys. Therefore the locks will not trip until the homeowner inserts the Homeowner keys into each lock post-construction. This is another way Barefoot and Company is proactive about the safety of its customers.
Posted on Tue, Nov 15, 2011 @ 10:43 AM
By Bill Green
Barefoot and Company
Director of Operations
What is the difference between composite windows, hollow vinyl windows, aluminum and vinyl clad windows?
The primary difference in cellular and hollow vinyl is the appearance. The Monarch cellular product we carry has much of the same visual characteristics as our wood and clad products. Hollow vinyl typically has narrower site lines, and more glass area. The corners of hollow vinyl products are typically fusion welded, whereas our composite, wood, and clad products are of traditional stile and rail design with mortise and tenon joinery. Simply put, the Monarch M-Cell window typically meets any historical or traditional look you may require. A hollow vinyl window is not approved in most strict architecturally approved communities. Composite windows are durable and some can require no paint of maintenance.
Clad windows are the most expensive windows, and typically consist of wood interiors. These are an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a traditional wood window, with the lower maintenance of an exterior cladding. Cladding has two very distinctive camps on this.
You have vinyl often called permashield cladding and aluminum clad. In our experience cladding has been decided by what color you want to use. If you want the dark colors such as black, bronze or the darker reds, Aluminum Clad is the direction you should go. Vinyl and dark colors do not mix. It is simple: dark colors attract heat and vinyl does not like extreme heat.
In summary here are the thoughts you should consider when choosing what window you want to use on your next home or project.
- Vinyl = low cost, low maintenance, little interest in architectural detail or correctness, no painting required
- Wood = slightly higher cost, annual maintenance (minimum), traditional architectural details, can paint any color
- Composite or MCELL = slightly higher cost, very low maintenance, traditional architectural appearance, safe to paint using colors within L56-L100. Do not assume you know what color this is. Always check your paint.
- Aluminum Clad = slightly more expensive, low maintenance, traditional architectural details, colors are typically whatever you can create. Downfalls are typically in the joints and seams. I personally like Extruded Aluminum vs. Roll formed.
- Vinyl Clad (aka Permashield) Cladding- This to me is the best cladding method. It will always be maintenance free. There are no joints or seams for water or moisture to get into the wood frame of the window. Typically any architectural detail needed can be accomplished.
I hope this helps when you are making your decision on what window to use. Stay informed and choose your window based on what you need.
What are your window preferences? We'd like to know what you think about the various architectural styles and functionality! Leave a comment below.