Archives

May 19, 2010

ProVia Platinum Club Awards 2010

In the music industry “platinum artists” are those whose record sales top one million. This accomplishment signifies that the artist’s hard work and dedication has achieved mainstream acceptance and appeal. In April, Long Doors received the ProVia Platinum Award for 2010. Similar to the music industry, this feat is based on the sales of their custom state-of-the-art door products. The award is given to contractors who sell over 250,000 of their products annually. That’s a lot of doors! Also, similar to recording artists, this award indicates hard work and dedication while demonstrating a high level of client satisfaction with a brand they can trust. Long Doors isn’t only in the business of providing home improvement solutions, but we are also in the business of creating sustainable relationships with our clients.

Jill and John DePaola (Executive and Chief Executive Officer) were on hand to receive the award on behalf of Long Doors. Hosted in St. Augustine, Florida, the ProVia Platinum Club 2010 was not only an awards ceremony, but also a venue to gauge the concerns of consumers and contractors. Improving their products and services allows us to do the same for our clients. We would like to thank our clients, as without their support and recommendations none of this would be possible.

May 18, 2010

Federal Employee And Military Discounts

Long Fence and Home has provided home improvement solutions to the Mid Atlantic region since 1945.  Working exclusively with clients in Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia has given us a strong sense of community.  Like any responsible company, we continue to find ways to give back to the community which has helped us become the premiere name in home improvement.

Talking with John DePaola, our CEO and President, about Long Fence and Home’s Federal Employee and Military Discount, I learned about how and why our company started this program.  When approached by The Recreation and Welfare Association, Long Fence and Home seized the opportunity to show our gratitude to these citizens.  We chose to participate not only because we feel this is a great program that reflects our admiration for both federal and military personnel, but also because these are the people who make up our communities and service areas.  This discount presents an opportunity to enrich our relationship with the residents of the Mid Atlantic region, while providing some form of relief to the men and women who make this country great.

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May 15, 2010

Home Improvement Ideas to Help Sell

If headlines are any indication, Americans are starting to put money back in their homes.  This points towards an improving economy and more stable ground for the housing and home improvement industries.  It may have been quite some time since your last home improvement endeavor.  Figuring out what project you should begin is a little bit more complicated than it used to be.  Selling your house and seeing a return on your investment means you have to carefully plan what projects you put money into.  Fortunately, there are a multitude of resources at your disposal so you don’t have to take on this assignment alone.  Whether you are planning on adding an addition or simply power washing the exterior, the costs involved may not always be worth the investment.  If you are selling a home then you may find the following ideas especially helpful.

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May 14, 2010

Gutters: Savior Of Roofs Or Necessary Nuisance?

I remember when my parents had to clean the gutters in our home.  It was one of the few home improvement projects they actually shared.  It was funny how my dad refrained from picking on my mom while she held the ladder…smart man.

How often do you think about your home’s gutters?  Are they kept clean and clear? Or do you wait until they are brimming over with leaves, twigs and who knows what else?  Despite how often they are neglected, gutters provide a vital service to your home.  Without them, rain and snow could eventually find their way through your roof and into your home.  This creates dampness, mold and eventually destruction.  However, many people are prone to forget to clean their gutters regularly.  Most home improvement professionals suggest you clean them in the spring and fall.  There are also several gutter protections systems on the market that significantly reduce the amount of debris contributing to clogs and misdirected water.

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May 13, 2010

Client Services Spotlight

“One of the missions of this organization is to make sure that all of our clients know our products – know our company and know that  our intent is to keep them as clients for life” – Anna Johnson

What companies come to mind when you think about excellent client service?  Whole Foods, Direct TV and Papa John’s?  How about for your larger investments?  When putting money back into your home, knowing the company you hire is there for support before, during and after your project is a paramount concern.

As the first Social Media Manger for Long Fence and Home, I have embarked on a mission to find out more about the company and the home improvement industry.  My first interview is with Anna Johnson, Client Services Manager.  Anna’s passion for constantly seeking to improve Long Fence and Home is undeniable.  One can tell she truly knows her company and what it takes to develop lasting relationships with its clients.  Over the course of the interview she outlines what separates Long Fence and Home from others in regards to making sure clients have no issues or complaints with the products or services; noting that many of our products are backed by lifetime warranties and a support staff second to none.  If a problem should arise with an installed product, rest assured that the Client Services Team is there to help you with any concerns.

When I think about good client service, I think about the attitude and personality of the person on the other end of the phone or email.  I’ve always believed good client service is rooted in being a good person.  Therefore, it would serve companies well to focus on employing people who know how to listen and treat others as they wish to be treated.  When a client has a concern they are the face and voice of the brand; the truest extension of the company. 

Thank goodness Anna is on our side!