Saratoga Springs, New York, is a vibrant community where rich history beautifully intertwines with contemporary charm, creating an inspiring backdrop for every lifestyle. With its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and tree-lined streets, the city emanates an artistic, yet welcoming aura that captures the hearts of residents and visitors alike.
Located just 40 minutes north of Albany, Saratoga Springs is renowned for its lively arts scene and dynamic
cultural events. The city takes pride in its year-round entertainment options, from Broadway-caliber shows at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center to local galleries showcasing an array of artistic talents. The annual summer horse racing season at Saratoga Race Course adds an extra layer of excitement, drawing enthusiasts from across the nation.
For those who savor the great outdoors, Saratoga Springs offers scenic parks and mineral springs that invite exploration and
Discover the Charm of Saratoga Springs,
4 | HelloSaratoga Springs, New York • Winter Issue
Hello Saratoga Springs, New York • Winter Issue |5
relaxation. With vibrant outdoor farmers' markets and a flourishing culinary scene, residents enjoy locally-sourced menus that reflect the spirit of community and tradition.
In Saratoga Springs, life is an exquisite blend of lively urban experiences and tranquil natural beauty, offering a quality of life that's as rich and varied as the history it cherishes. Whether you're drawn by its cultural...
Discover the Charm of Saratoga Springs,
Discover the Charm of Saratoga Springs, New York
Saratoga Springs, New York, is a vibrant community where rich history beautifully intertwines with contemporary charm, creating an inspiring backdrop for every lifestyle. With its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and tree-lined streets, the city emanates an artistic, yet welcoming aura that captures the hearts of residents and visitors alike.
Located just 40 minutes north of Albany, Saratoga Springs is renowned for its lively arts scene and dynamic cultural events. The city takes pride in its year-round entertainment options, from Broadway-caliber shows at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center to local galleries showcasing an array of artistic talents. The annual summer horse racing season at Saratoga Race Course adds an extra layer of excitement, drawing enthusiasts from across the nation.
For those who savor the great outdoors, Saratoga Springs offers scenic parks and mineral springs that invite exploration and relaxation. With vibrant outdoor farmers' markets and a flourishing culinary scene, residents enjoy locally-sourced menus that reflect the spirit of community and tradition.
In Saratoga Springs, life is an exquisite blend of lively urban experiences and tranquil natural beauty, offering a quality of life that's as rich and varied as the history it cherishes. Whether you're drawn by its cultural offerings or its serene landscapes, Saratoga Springs invites you to carve out your own slice of heaven in this enchanting locale.
What to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom
For any building owner, the roof is one of the most essential parts of the structure. A well-installed roofing system protects everything inside from the elements, but without consistent care, even the strongest types of roof can fail earlier than expected. Much like any other investment, a roof
requires routine attention to extend its life, reduce costs, and preserve long-term value. A regular roof inspection is the most reliable way to extend the life of a roof while protecting the safety of the entire structure.When a roof is properly maintained, it can perform for decades before
6 | HelloSaratoga Springs, New York • Winter Issue
What to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom
For any building owner, the roof is one of the most essential parts of the structure. A well-installed roofing system protects everything inside from the elements, but without consistent care, even the strongest types of roof can fail earlier than expected. Much like any other investment, a roof requires routine attention to extend its life, reduce costs, and preserve long-term value. A regular roof inspection is the most reliable way to extend the life of a roof while protecting the safety of the entire structure.
When a roof is properly maintained, it can perform for decades before needing to be replaced. Neglect, however, leads to premature wear and tear. Small problems such as damaged shingles, roofing leaks, or mold growth may begin subtly but can quickly escalate into major structural concerns. For commercial properties, roof damage can disrupt operations and lead to expensive insurance claims. For homeowners, the impact goes beyond repair costs, affecting comfort, property value, and peace of mind.
The foundation of roof damage prevention is the annual roof inspection. A professional inspection evaluates the roof structure, roof deck, flashing, and roof surfaces to identify early warning signs of trouble. Water stains on ceilings, clogged drainage systems, and cracks in the roof deck may appear minor, but they indicate issues that can spread quickly if left unaddressed. Commercial roofs are especially vulnerable, since their large, flat surfaces collect debris that can trap water, form ice dams in winter, and weaken the roofing system over time. Documenting each inspection also provides proof of proper care, which is valuable if an insurance claim becomes necessary.
Beyond inspections, roof maintenance plans are essential. These plans schedule repairs, debris removal, and follow-up inspections throughout the year. By addressing problems like damaged shingles or roofing leaks right away, building owners prevent them from growing into larger issues that force the roof to be replaced prematurely. Routine roof debris removal also keeps drainage systems clear, reducing the risk of ponding water and mold growth inside the building. Each small step adds years to the life of the roof installed, ensuring that it performs as intended.
The issues uncovered during a regular roof inspection often go unnoticed from the ground. Ice dams along roof edges, water stains on the roof deck, and worn flashing around vents or chimneys are frequent findings. Left unchecked, these conditions compromise the roof structure and lead to costly repairs. By catching problems early, building owners maintain control over expenses and avoid sudden emergencies.
Neglecting roof care, on the other hand, comes with a steep price. Water stains inside the building may reveal widespread roofing leaks. Ice dams can damage gutters and interior walls. Over time, wear and tear erodes the roof surfaces and forces a roof replacement long before it should be necessary. Insurance companies may also deny claims if they determine the damage resulted from poor maintenance, leaving the building owner responsible for all costs.
The benefits of consistent care extend well beyond immediate protection. A well-maintained roofing system lasts longer, costs less to repair, and preserves the value of the property. By following an annual roof inspection schedule and addressing issues quickly, building owners gain both financial savings and long-term security. Most importantly, they gain peace of mind knowing the roof structure is strong enough to protect everything beneath it.
Ultimately, a roof is more than just a covering. It is the first line of defense against the elements, and its performance depends on the attention it receives. Through annual inspections, preventive repairs, and routine maintenance, building owners extend the life of their roofing system, reduce the likelihood of premature roof replacement, and ensure lasting protection for their property. Investing in maintenance may seem routine, but over the long term it is the most effective way to protect both a building and the people who rely on it.
Jeff McDonald
claims. For homeowners, the impact goes beyond repair costs, affecting comfort, property value, and peace of mind.The foundation of roof damage prevention is the annual roof inspection. A professional inspection evaluates the roof structure, roof deck, flashing, and roof surfaces to identify early warning signs of trouble. Water stains on ceilings, clogged drainage systems, and cracks in the roof deck may appear minor, but they indicate issues that can spread quickly if left unaddressed. Commercial roofs are especially vulnerable, since their large, flat surfaces collect debris that can trap water, form ice dams in winter, and...
needing to be replaced. Neglect, however, leads to premature wear and tear. Small problems such as damaged shingles, roofing leaks, or mold growth may begin subtly but can quickly escalate into major structural concerns. For commercial properties, roof damage can disrupt operations and lead to expensive insurance
A regular roof inspection is the most reliable way to extend the life of a roof while protecting the safety of the entire structure.
About the Author
Jeff McDonald, owner of McDonald Construction & Design, has proudly served the community for the past 14 years, built on a foundation of over 20 years of industry expertise.
HelloSaratoga Springs, New York • Winter Issue |7
FEATURED STORY
Planning a Bathroom Remodel that Lasts
by Jeff McDonald
A bathroom remodel can be one of the most rewarding projects in a home, but it also comes with challenges that require careful planning. Many remodels look beautiful at first, only to develop problems later because of overlooked details. The difference between a bathroom that simply looks new and one that performs well for decades comes down to layout, protection against water, and the durability of finishes.A successful bathroom remodel begins with thoughtful planning that protects against water damage and supports everyday use.The layout of a bathroom sets the tone
8 | HelloSaratoga Springs, New York • Winter Issue
Jeff McDonald
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jeff McDonald, owner of McDonald Construction & Design, has proudly served the community for the past 14 years, built on a foundation of over 20 years of industry expertise.
for the entire project. Clear pathways and proper spacing between fixtures make a bathroom comfortable and safe to use. It is best to leave major plumbing in place. Moving drains and supply lines can become expensive and disruptive, so working with the existing layout often keeps the project on schedule and within budget. At this stage, it is also wise to reserve part of the budget for surprises. Once walls and floors are opened, issues like old pipes, hidden leaks, or structural problems may be discovered. A remodel that lasts should address these issues rather than cover them up.Bathrooms face more moisture
Hello Saratoga Springs, New York • Winter Issue |9
Planning a Bathroom Remodel that Lasts
A bathroom remodel can be one of the most rewarding projects in a home, but it also comes with challenges that require careful planning. Many remodels look beautiful at first, only to develop problems later because of overlooked details. The difference between a bathroom that simply looks new and one that performs well for decades comes down to layout, protection against water, and the durability of finishes.
A successful bathroom remodel begins with thoughtful planning that protects against water damage and supports everyday use. The layout of a bathroom sets the tone for the entire project. Clear pathways and proper spacing between fixtures make a bathroom comfortable and safe to use. It is best to leave major plumbing in place. Moving drains and supply lines can become expensive and disruptive, so working with the existing layout often keeps the project on schedule and within budget. At this stage, it is also wise to reserve part of the budget for surprises. Once walls and floors are opened, issues like old pipes, hidden leaks, or structural problems may be discovered. A remodel that lasts should address these issues rather than cover them up.
Bathrooms face more moisture than any other room in the house. Protecting against water damage is critical. This begins with pulling permits and following local building codes, which help ensure that the work meets safety and quality standards. A complete waterproofing system is essential. This includes sealing the shower pan, walls, and joints, and performing a flood test before tile installation. Without this step, even a small leak can cause significant damage over time. Proper ventilation is another safeguard. A quiet exhaust fan sized for the room will remove moisture before it can settle into walls or ceilings.
Durability matters when selecting finishes. Porcelain tile is one of the best choices for bathrooms because it resists moisture and wear. For tile to last, the walls must be flat and the grout properly sealed. Pressure-balanced shower valves are another detail that add comfort and safety, keeping water temperature steady even when other fixtures are used. Layered lighting also improves function. Overhead lights paired with task lighting near the mirror reduce shadows and make daily routines easier. Combined with proper ventilation, these features support both comfort and longevity.
Many homeowners now choose features that improve both safety and accessibility. Curbless showers reduce tripping hazards and create a clean, modern look. Blocking installed inside walls provides a strong anchor point for future grab bars, which can be added later without tearing out finishes. Radiant heat under tile floors is another upgrade that adds comfort and energy efficiency while increasing long-term value.
Remodeling follows a sequence, and skipping steps can cause problems later. Waterproofing must be tested before the tile is set. Inspections should be passed before finishes are installed. Each step supports the next, and careful sequencing ensures that the remodel holds up over time.
Even the best bathroom remodel needs regular care to stay in top condition. Simple habits like using the exhaust fan during showers and wiping down glass with a squeegee help reduce moisture buildup. Sealed grout and proper ventilation go a long way toward keeping the space fresh and mold-free.
A bathroom remodel is more than new tile or fixtures. It is a system of materials and details working together to handle daily use and constant exposure to water. When layout, waterproofing, ventilation, and durable finishes are given proper attention, the result is a bathroom that not only looks new but also performs reliably for years to come.
A successful bathroomremodel begins with thoughtfulplanning thatprotects against waterdamage andsupports everyday use.
than any other room in the house. Protecting against water damage is critical. This begins with pulling permits and following local building codes, which help ensure that the work meets safety and quality standards. A complete waterproofing system is essential. This includes sealing the shower pan, walls, and joints, and performing a flood test before tile installation. Without this step, even a small leak can cause significant damage over time. Proper ventilation is anoth...
