Add a Two-Tier Island in your Kitchen

We are always looking for the next big thing at M&M Construction Specialist. We scour design books, keep up with the latest trends and always use our imaginations to make our customer's dreams become reality.

A simple two-tiered island with a stove-top.

Today we are focusing on multi-level islands and peninsulas in kitchens. They add work and dining space to kitchens. Dual counter heights create a food prep zone ideal for baking. One of the latest trends to create more usable kitchen space is to add a table height area to an island for eating, working or planning. Add an over-hang to an island or peninsula counter for informal eating.

Instead of stools, consider a bench for seating. Geometric shapes are replacing the traditional rectangular form to maximize function of island and peninsula counter space and add style. It's very important to keep the amount of items on your island minimal. That way it does not look cluttered and close in the space.

This kitchen peninsula allows the once dead-space in the kitchen to be utilized.

This above peninsula allows the food prep area to be separate from the higher tiered eating area. It also fills in dead space in the center of the room that would have otherwise been wasted. Seating can be placed around the outside to help the rest of the house flow into the kitchen smoothly.

This island adds much needed storage and prep space to this kitchen.

The above kitchen island fits well into this rustic kitchen with exposed beams. Offering plenty of food prep space with a built-in butcher block, wine storage, and space to socialize, this kitchen island represents one of the best uses of a kitchen island if you have the appropriate space for it.

For more great kitchen ideas, visit http://mmbuilds.com/kitchens.html.

To learn more about what M&M Construction Specialist can do for your next home improvement project in New Jersey, visit www.mmbuilds.com.

Roofing ● Siding ● Windows ● Doors ● Basements ● Framing ● Masonry

Residential ● Commercial ● Custom Homes ● Additions ● Historic Restoration
Water/Flood Damage

Serving Central and Northern NJ
Middlesex, Union, Somerset, Sussex, Morris, Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties
Licensed and Insured

Why is it raining inside? Signs you may need a new roof...

Replacing a roof can be a daunting experience on both the homeowner and their wallet. Many of our New Jersey customers often ask us what the tell-tale signs are that their roof needs to be replaced.

Just so everyone has a clear understanding, today we are going to list all of the problems which indicate that it may be time to look at getting a new roof installed.


1. Ceiling spots caused by a leak. Do you have unsightly water marks in your ceilings? That is a sign that moisture is somehow getting inside your home.

2. Missing shingles. Exposure to high winds and even improper fastening can cause this. Also, as a roof ages, the shingles become more brittle, possibly causing shingles to crack off during high winds.

3. Curling. Caused by water absorption.

4. Algae growth. Caused by growth of airborne algae.

5. Blistering. Caused by moisture in the shingle. Occurs when ventilation is inadequate.

6. Missing granules. Normally a number of granules will be loose after installation. On aging shingles, this indicates the need for replacement.

7. Buckling. Caused by improperly felt or movement of the deck.

8. Rotting. Caused by absorption of moisture by the mat.

So if you think you are experiencing any of these problems, it may be time to give M&M Construction Specialist a call for a free evaluation of your roof. For more on roofing products that M&M offers, visit http://mmbuilds.com/roofing.html.

We offer Timberline/GAF roofing products that now come with a Lifetime Guarantee! These shingles are durable, beautiful, and your roof will be the talk of the neighborhood once it is installed.

To learn more about what else M&M Construction Specialist can do for you, visit www.mmbuilds.com.

Roofing ● Siding ● Windows ● Doors ● Basements ● Framing ● Masonry

Residential ● Commercial ● Custom Homes ● Additions ● Historic Restoration
Water/Flood Damage

Serving Central and Northern NJ
Middlesex, Union, Somerset, Morris, Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties
Licensed and Insured

Think Summer - Think Azek Decking!

Summer is just around the corner. Barbecues, pool parties, and hot weather! Spending time outside is a must in New Jersey during the summer season. Having the right deck for these events makes the difference. M&M Construction Specialist can construct decks using Azek Decking. 

 Azek Decks are:

• Stain resistant
• Scratch resistant
• Split resistant
• Mold and mildew resistant
• Durable and long lasting
• Include a limited lifetime warranty
• Impervious to moisture and insects

Refining and redefining what decking means, AZEK Deck has been engineered to withstand the everyday things that happen on a deck. Even spilled wine, fruit punch, and hamburger grease are no match for AZEK Deck’s stain resistance. And, since AZEK Deck is scratch resistant, you won’t have to worry about marks from patio furniture or even pets. Azek Decks can be customized with custom railings and lights to add elegance to any project. 

Our customers have been very satisfied with their decks all across central and northern New Jersey. Even if you don't have the space for a large deck, keep in mind, you can also just add a small porch or landing with Azek.

To learn more about how M&M can help you install the deck of your dreams, visit http://mmbuilds.com/decks.html.

To learn what M&M Construction Specialist can do for your home, visit our web site.

Roofing ● Siding ● Windows ● Doors ● Basements ● Framing ● Masonry

Residential ● Commercial ● Custom Homes ● Additions ● Historic Restoration

Water/Flood Damage

Serving Central and Northern NJ

Middlesex, Union, Somerset, Morris, Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties

Licensed and Insured

Sunrise Windows - WOW what a view!

Every window company tells you that they have the best windows, they are the most energy efficient, and you'll save lots of money on your heating and cooling bill if you replace those old, drafty windows. Well, they are only partially true. Most new windows will save you money on heating and cooling costs, but they aren't the most energy efficient. 

That's where Sunrise Windows come in. These windows have been tested time and time again and have been rated as the absolute best when compared to Anderson and Pella. Air Infiltration rates on a Sunrise double-hung window are .03 whereas Pella and Anderson come in at .30! Unbelievable! 

When it comes to U-factor ratings, Sunrise again comes in lowest at .29. The lower the U-factor, the less heat and energy is lost through your windows. The next closest is Renewal by Anderson at .34.

So how does Sunrise do it and why haven't I heard of them yet? Very good questions. First, Sunrise Windows do it in a variety of ways. Sunrise's triple-weather-strip barrier provides 50% more weather-stripping than other windows. In addition, all Sunrise Windows feature fusion-welded frames and sashes that last longer and perform better. Fusion welding creates an impenetrable barrier that eliminates air and water infiltration and provides added strength where it is needed most. And finally, Sunrise Windows do not cut costs by slimming down the overall thickness of the insulated glass unit like many other companies. In fact, all Sunrise units are a full 7/8” in overall thickness to maximize the insulation power. In New Jersey with our wide range of temperatures, we need to make sure we have the best insulation our windows can provide.

Sunrise Windows are available but only a few companies are certified to install them. M&M Construction Specialist is a certified Sunrise Window installer, which means you receive the company's Lifetime Non-Prorated Transferable Window and Patio Door Warranty. That means if any part of your Sunrise Window does not perform, Sunrise will replace it for free. Now that's service!

And for all those who don't believe the statistics listed above: Sunrise Windows are tested and certified to National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) standards. These are the numbers Energy Star uses to determine how fenestration products comply with their standards, and to categorize the products for the appropriate climate zones.

To learn more about Sunrise Windows, watch an informational video about their products, and how you can schedule your trusted NJ Window Contractor, M&M Construction Specialist, for a free in-home estimate.

Roofing ● Siding ● Windows ● Doors ● Basements ● Framing ● Masonry

Residential ● Commercial ● Custom Homes ● Additions ● Historic Restoration

Water/Flood Damage

Serving Central and Northern NJ

Middlesex, Union, Somerset, Morris, Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties

Licensed and Insured

GreenFiber Insulation - This is the best insulation we've seen!

M&M Construction Specialist is always looking for the most innovative and newest ways to save our northern and central New Jersey homeowners money and cut energy costs. We found this great product called GreenFiber. GreenFiber is a state-of-the-art insulation that is 85% recycled and can be applied over any existing insulation - meaning we do not have to remove anything - just add to what you already have! The insulation itself is blown in, meaning no heavy bags of insulation to lug up to your attic. Plus there is no cutting or fitting required. The insulation itself is made up of loose particles of recycled newspapers - the same thing your newsboy drops off every morning. Since it is recycled newspapers, there is no itch like fiberglass insulation.




With no cutting or fitting required, that means it will fill gaps and voids to reduce air infiltration. It saves our customers hundreds of dollars each month in heating and cooling costs. It works great in attics and can even be placed in between existing walls.

GreenFiber is also safe for your home. There are no harmful chemicals added to the insulation. Even when the job is completed, there is no waste left behind as every bit is either used or recycled. Talk about cutting down on waste!

Here are two other added benefits (Really? There's more?):

• Sound proofing: The density of GreenFiber Insulation is two to three times greater than that of other inulation products. Unwanted noise is absorbed!

• Fire protection: A structure insulated with GreenFiber Insulation stood more than 57% longer when tested against a similar structure insulated with fiberglass insulation. This test was conducted at Maryland's Fire and Rescue Institute.

GreenFiber is naturally smart, naturally safe and naturally green. We've installed it in a number of homes already with great success.

Find out more about GreenFiber insulation.

Learn about M&M Construction Specialist, central and northern New Jersey's home improvement expert.

Roofing ● Siding ● Windows ● Doors ● Basements ● Framing ● Masonry

Residential ● Commercial ● Custom Homes ● Additions ● Historic Restoration

Water/Flood Damage

Serving Central and Northern NJ

Middlesex, Union, Somerset, Morris, Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson Counties

Licensed and Insured