Residential remodeling in Cooper City, Florida

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Everything You Need to Know About Home Renovation Planning in Cooper City, Florida

Guide to Home Renovation Planning in Cooper City, Florida

Are you planning a home remodel in or near Cooper City, Florida? This renovation planning guide will explain the entire process from start to finish.

With home prices and interest rates on the rise, renovation is a popular choice to update a home. In 2017, more than 207,000 homes were flipped which was the largest number in a decade.

Florida falls in the top 10 states in America for house flipping. The average profit on a house flip in Florida is nearly $60,000 with a return on investment of over 80 percent.

Flipping houses is just one reason why homeowners choose to renovate. Other homeowners simply want a fresh look in their house or to increase resale value.

Either way, renovation planning is critical to get the most bang for your buck. Read on if you are considering a home remodel in Cooper City, Florida. Explore the ultimate renovation planning guide that explains the process from start to finish.

Establish a Renovation Budget

You cannot start a renovation project without setting a budget. This is a critical step so you can determine what specific upgrades you can afford.

Another factor in the budget step is where the money is coming from. Are you pulling the funds from your savings account or do you need to apply for a loan?

There are many different types of loans that people use for home renovations. Home equity loans and personal loans are popular choices. However, some people withdraw money from their 401(k) to fund the renovation.

Create a Renovation Wish List

Now is the time to brainstorm and write down all the renovation projects that you would like to undertake. Experts recommend prioritizing the projects that generate the greatest return on investment.

Every room in your house is not created equal. Remodeling the kitchen, for example, increases resale value more than updating a bedroom or living room.

Other projects that rank high in terms of return on investment are upgrading the bathroom, adding a deck, and finishing the basement. Of course, quality of life improvements should be considered if you will continue living in the home. However, it is always financially prudent to consider resale value as well.

Create a Detailed Renovation Estimate

The next step in renovation planning is to see how far you can stretch your budget. Your renovation wish list is now ready, but you need to price out each individual project to see what can be done.

You can estimate most projects with online research. If this is unsuccessful, you can reach out to contractors for a quotation.

The more detailed your estimate is, the more accurate it will be. Your estimate can separate material and labor if you are contemplating doing some projects yourself.

It is also recommended to estimate conservatively so you do not go over budget. Some people like to add 10 to 20 percent to their estimate to capture unforeseen costs.

Set a Timeline

This step is especially important for house flips. When flipping a house, the longer it takes the less profit you make. This is because you are likely making mortgage or property tax payments while retaining ownership of the house.

Even those who are staying in the home often have deadlines to meet. Some homeowners vacate the property while major renovations are being performed. If so, they can likely stay away for a limited period of time.

If contractors are used, they need to be aware of your timeline. The contractor may need to hire additional hands if the timeline is especially tight.

Shop Around for Contractors

Once the budget is established and the projects are selected, it is time to select contractors. This step requires thorough research in order to pick the best contractor.

The good news is that in the digital era there are numerous resources to shop for a reputable contractor. Start off by checking the Better Business Bureau and ensure there are no complaints made against the company.

In addition, check the contractor’s website and look for customer testimonials. You can also search for customer feedback on a company’s social media pages.

Another tip is to shop around and get competitive quotations from multiple companies. This way, you can be certain you received a good price on the work being performed.

Make sure that contractor has current licensing with the state of Florida and is adequately insured. Also, ask the contractor for professional references and make time to contact them.

Before signing a contract, hold an interview with the contractor. Ask any and all questions that you may have and see if a good working relationship can be formed.

Read the Fine Print

The terms and conditions of the contract are crucial for renovation planning. There are a number of important elements in the contract.

For starters, what percentage of the payment is due at contract signature? Many contractors require at least a 50% payment at this time so they can purchase materials for the renovation.

In addition, carefully read the sections that cover termination. There should be detailed instructions in the event that either party needs to walk away from the project. The termination section should cover any cancellation fees, the company’s policy on refunds and a timeline should cancellation move forward.

Another important area to read up on is how changes are made. If a part or color you wanted is unavailable, how do you want the contractor to handle it?

This section of the contract provides instructions on who authorizes changes to the scope of work. Do you want final say on all changes or give this authority to the contractor?

Lastly, the contract should lay out the project schedule. Most importantly, make sure that the project completion date meets your expectations.

Renovation Planning – Wrapping It Up

Renovation planning requires extensive research and hard work to make sure your project goes smoothly. Steps like creating a detailed renovation estimate take time and effort.

Selecting the contractor is an important milestone in renovation planning. This choice dictates whether high-quality, efficient work is performed on your house. If you want to learn more about renovation planning in Cooper City, Florida, please contact us today to set up a consultation.

Rapid Construction Logo

Why Rapid Construction?

-We have many years of experience in the office space renovations and remodeling business

-We are a Licensed and Fully Insured General Contractor

-We perform the job right the first time- there is no room for mistakes

-We offer a wide range of services and will manage your renovation project from start to finish

-Our rates are competitive- We will give you an estimation of the expected cost of the project- no hidden charges or overcharging

-We are available 24/7- We are just one call away

-We offer exceptional customer service

Hopefully, these office renovation ideas will help you transform your office into the most beautiful and inspiring working space. Don’t hesitate to call us today for the best office space renovation services in town.

Call Rapid Construction for a free consultation, 954-324-2390

Rapid Construction
12240 SW 53 Street, Suite 502
Cooper City, Fl 33330

Commercial Renovations | Rapid Construction

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Office remodeling

A Recent Commercial Renovation | Weston, Fl

Recently, Rapid Construction completed an office renovation in the City of Weston, Florida.  This project involved a complete rebuild of the interior space and went through demolition and renovation to the client specifications.

We have prepared a video that gives an example of the type of projects that Rapid Construction can offer clients in South Florida.

 

This project consisted of creating a central open space and floor to ceiling glass walls throughout the core offices.  In addition, we increased the size of the bathroom, making it ADA compliant (American’s with Disability Act).

We love to handle all aspects of commercial construction projects in South Florida and are conveniently located in Broward County.

Rapid Construction is your residential and commercial South Florida General Contractor.

Call us for a free consultation and let us build your dream business office space.

Level 3 Residential Renovation | Rapid Construction

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Residential Renovations

Rapid Construction recently completed a Level 3 Residential Renovation. This home was located in Cooper City, Florida.  The property was completely destroyed by a structure fire.  The homeowners contacted Rapid Construction to re-build their home to the current South Florida building code standards.  This also provided an opportunity for the homeowners to upgrade many aspects of their home.

 

Watch our video that shows many of the before and after pictures and the process involved in rebuilding a residential home from basically the ground up. This particular house only had the exterior walls as the result of the fire.

Rapid Construction performed a Level 3 Renovation consisting of the following:

  • Demolition of the damaged structural components of the existing home
  • Installation of upgraded Impact Windows (Important especially in South Florida)
  • New Roof (South Florida Building Code approved)
  • Interior framing that allowed for an additional room
  • New electrical throughout the home
  • New appliances for the Kitchen and Laundry room
  • Modern Kitchen Renovation
  • New flooring system throughout the house consisting of tile and wood
  • Drywall rough and finish
  • Insulation throughout the structure to maximize energy efficiency
  • New efficient Air Conditioner
  • and much more…

As demonstrated in the video, Rapid Construction can handle all aspects of residential renovations.  The home in the video was completely rebuilt and required all the essential components as if you were building a new home.  Give Rapid Construction a call for a free consultation.

Footnote: For residents of South Florida; Rapid Constructions has always been the entity to rely on for home and residential remodeling. Rapid Construction brings years of experience, excellent client communication skills, an extensive portfolio, ethical business practices and stellar workmanship to the table for any variation of home or commercial space remodeling.

 

Selecting a Remodeling Contractor | South Florida

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Selecting a Remodeling Contractor

Your home or your place of business is bound to be a space that you are possessive about; especially so, when the remodelers and builders move in. It is at this point that you are most anxious about the construction work being carried out at your place of business or your home.
It is quite possible that your anxiety stems from the unknown; questions pertaining to your remodeling or renovation vision for your home or place of business and your remodeling contractor’s ability to deliver on your vision are bound to crop up. However; you can put these concerns to rest when you hire a seasoned and skilled remodeling contractor to work on your home or your place of business.
Selecting a remodeling contractor that can deliver bang for your buck is easier said than done; taking into consideration that remodeling contractors are a dime a dozen. So how does one pick out the best from among the rest; read further for answers.

Vetting

Your home and/or place of business are among the most important assets that you own. As such; you do not hand over your assets to just about anyone. When hiring remodeling contractors to recreate your home or place of business according to your vision; insist on a thorough vetting process. Without a doubt; you should be able to insist on working with remodelling contractors that have a track record for client satisfaction, understand the importance of communication with the client, have no record of unethical business practices and have a portfolio to indicate that they are the service providers to deliver the remodelled home or place of business that you are paying for.

Experience

There is no dearth of flash in the pan remodeling contractors that are here today and gone tomorrow; all the while promising outstanding remodeling services. This is exactly why you cannot afford to undervalue experience when selecting a remodeling contractor to work on your home or commercial space.

An efficient remodeling contractor will have a track record of efficiency over the course of multiple years. The very same contractor will have a reputation that attracts clients, unlike others that get by on aggressive self-promotion. Experience in providing remodeling services over a course of multiple years is indicative of consistently good performances that help a company stay afloat in a very competitive market. When vetting a remodeling contractor to take care of your residential or commercial space remodeling needs; insist on hiring remodeling contractors with a reasonable amount of experience.

Client Communication

While communicating with your remodeling contractor should be a priority from the beginning to the end of a remodeling project; your remodeling contractor should prioritize communicating with you on the same level.

A common cliché in marketing states that; ‘the client is God’ and while it may not be literally so; your remodeling contractor should understand the importance of keeping channels of communication open at all times to be able to understand and deliver your vision for your newly remodeled home or place of business.

A Portfolio

A true understanding of the skill sets and capabilities of the remodeling contractor you choose to hire; is within the pages of a portfolio. A professional portfolio is one of the most effective ways to gauge the nature of services remodeling contractors provide. A portfolio enables you to make a choice based on the ability of a remodeling contractor to deliver the aesthetics, functionality and safety requirements that you expect from your remodeled residence or place of business.

Additional points to bear in mind while selecting a remodeling contractor are…

• Work only with seasoned contractors who have built up positive working relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure that your remodeling project is brought to fruition without interruption to construction work.

• Deal only with remodeling contractors that have a clean slate without a prior record of unethical business practices.

• Ensure that your remodeling contractor fully comprehends your vision for your remodeled home or commercial space before taking up the project.

• If available; study client reviews for an in-depth understanding of the quality of services provided by remodeling contractors that you have shortlisted for your home or commercial space remodeling project.

• It is always a good thing to have multiple options to choose from before you make the final choice from among the many remodeling contractors at your disposal.

 

Footnotes: For residents of South Florida; Rapid Constructions has always been the entity to rely on for home and residential remodeling. Rapid Construction brings years of experience, excellent client communication skills, an extensive portfolio, ethical business practices and stellar workmanship to the table for any variation of home or commercial space remodeling.

Benefits of PGT impact windows | Rapid Construction of South Florida

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Benefits of impact windows in South Florida

 

PGT does a fantastic job, they’ve been in Florida  for a very long time.

The windows that they offer in the hurricane series, they make two different lines  of impact windows, the one I’m showing here today  is an aluminum frame that’s called  “The WinGuard Aluminum”  and they also make a vinyl window, the vinyl windows they’re offered  with a lifetime warranty  completely cover the glass, the frame  and all the mechanisms  for the lifetime of the window.

Different type of impact windows – Impact and Impact insulated windows

The aluminum series window  come with two different variations of warranty, they come with a simple  – a standard impact window comes with  a one year warranty  covers the mechanisms and the glass  and this window that I’m showing you today  is actually an insulated glass window, this window comes with a ten year warranty.

The reason they give you  a longer warranty on these windows, this window is very popular up north, it’s a duo pane style window, what that means is  it has an impact piece of glass, in front of that impact piece of glass  is a space filled with argon, argon displaces oxygen and also moisture  and argon is a poor transmitter of heat  and they sandwich that in between  an additional piece of glass on the outside.

What that does is, it actually increases the insulating value of your impact windows, so you’re getting your round benefits  when you upgrade to not only an impact window  but an insulated glass impact window.

Generally, when we order these windows  what we’ll do is we’ll have them  coat the outside of the window  with Low-E coating, it’s maybe hard to tell on camera  but if you’d look at this window from the outside, it actually has a slight green tint to it.

Energy Efficiency in impact insulated windows

PGT offers this coating, it’s their highest level of Low-E coating, it’s called Solar Pane 70, that offers ultraviolet reflectivity, so very popular, your home in south Florida, we weren’t thinking about  not only upgrading for hurricane purposes  but you also want to consider  the daily benefits of impact windows.

So what are those daily benefits? Again with a standard impact window, you’re getting security, you’re getting sound reduction, you’re getting a slight thermal value  which means you don’t get the heat transferred  through the glass as you would  a standard non-impact window.

You’re also getting a higher strength  wind resistance which is how impact windows, one of the ways impact windows are rated.

So you may ask, so what does that all boil down to? Well, we all understand impact windows  but I think a large majority of people  don’t understand the benefits  that they offer every day.

If you have a standard window  and a burglar wants to break in, it’s very simple, they crack the glass, stick their hand and open the lock and in they are.

With our impact glass window, not the case, they may be able to  break the window but the likelihood  of them getting in is significantly reduced, the way the glass attached to the frame, it’s not going to separate, they’re not going to be able to  simply push it in because of the lamination  of the impact window.

However, like I said, one of the biggest benefits to go into  an impact window with insulated glass  which is what this window is, is it offers you an insulation value.

So up north they were very popular, people that are from up north  know that they have duo pane windows, what that does is when it’s cold outside, it keeps the cold from coming in  through the window and in to your house  and increasing your energy bill, the heating bill while works exactly  the opposite in south Florida, we have such a high level of heat  and ultraviolet rays from the sun  being so close to the Equator  that we actually get ultraviolet rays  that penetrate the window  and heat up the inside of your house.

When you upgrade your window  to an impact window, that’s an insulated glass  and has this additional coating  of Low-E on the outside, those ultraviolet rays reflect  so you don’t get the heating  of the material inside your house, the heat doesn’t transmit  through the window as well, it actually has an R value  for people that are up on what R value is, that’s an insulation value, like we put insulation in your attic, they’re rated R-9, R-19, R-30.

This window is so good at reducing heat, it actually equivalents to an R-value.

One of the biggest benefits , fringe benefits, I like to say, is the amount it reduces inside your house.

When you put these windows in, the sound just like the ultraviolet light  is often reflected, it doesn’t transmit, reverberate through the piece of glass, through the dead space of the argon  and then through the impact glass  on the inside into your house, make sure home much much quitter.

So you get all those benefits, security, temperature,  hurricane resistance impact, there is no need to  cover these windows with shutters, with accordions, with panels, with wood, they meet the same standard  that all of those products do, that’s how they’re tested, they shoot a 2 × 4 at this window, very similarly the way they shoot it  at a standard accordion awning  or at aluminum panel shutter  that goes over your window, they meet the same test, that’s what qualifies them.

So they’re great products, well worth the investment in your home, if you’re planning on being their a long time, I would not only recommend  upgrading to an impact window  but also an insulated glass window with a Low-E, get the highest efficiency, make your home as efficient as you can.

They do qualify for tax rebates  based on their energy efficiency rating, they’re a great product, PGT happens to be the brand that I like the most, I’ve had a lot of experience with them, the quality, the warranty, the reputation all hold through with the product.

But there are other brands out there, some people prefer different lines  and that’s okay as well, sometimes that boils down to price  and we all understand price is important  but sometimes you get what you pay for  and the quality, the craftsmanship of this product  is one of my favorites  that I’ve seen on the market.

The do like I want to show you, they do make the windows in two different qualities, this is an aluminum frame window, the other available style is a vinyl frame window, the vinyl frame window will actually  also increase your energy efficiency rating  because the vinyl doesn’t transmit heat  quite as much as the aluminum.

 

Impact windows that match every style of home and decor.

They’re beautiful for whatever  décor matches your home.

So something to consider  if you’re a south Florida resident, you’ve been through any of the recent storms, you know what a hassle it is, if you don’t have impact windows, putting up shutters and putting up panels  and climbing on ladders and screws  and all the problems that come along with that, this is priceless protection right here  and you have nothing to worry about  and you don’t have a dark home, during the storm you can see what’s going on  and know that you and your family  are going to be safe once these are installed.

Rapid Construction
12240 SW 53st, Suite 502
Cooper City, Fl 33330
954-324-2390

Non-Impact vs Impact Rated sliding doors | Rapid Construction of Fl

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Non-Impact Sliding Doors

Sliding doors were once the main type of doors that led outside to many South Florida homes. Non-impact sliding glass doors were especially the type of door that were installed in many Floridian style homes and if you had a wooden or metal pole in the track of your sliding glass door you felt secured and protected.  These older type of residential doors are still in many homes and are frequently the weakest door in your house from both a security and storm resistance point of view. There are many reasons why you should consider replacing these doors and now is great time to upgrade your home because the price of impact doors and windows has decreased over the years and there are many benefits that will further reduce the expense.  These benefits range from better interior climate control to reduction in homeowners insurance and less potential damage in the event of a tropical depression or hurricane in South Florida.

New Impact Rated Doors

A lot has changed over the years and while sliding glass doors have gone in and out of style, the need for storm windows and doors have become more apparent in recent years.  Rapid Construction is a South Florida based company that knows first-hand the power of hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and tropical depressions that sweep though Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties.   Fortunately, programs such as Ygrene now provide an affordable method of acquiring hurricane rated doors and windows to many South Floridians. 

Benefits of Impact Doors

The impact doors you decide on can be customized to your exact requirements. There are now many styles of impact doors that you can choose from.  Many of the newer styles have esthetic accents that will blend perfectly with your home décor.  One of the first things you may notice after an impact door or window is installed is how much quieter your house becomes.  The insulation and thickness of the glass also significantly reduces noises from outside. In addition to dampening the noise you immediately get the feel of additional security. Simply tapping on the glass of an impact door or window will reveal a distinct sound difference as compared to a non-impact door or window.

Hurricane Protection for your South Florida Home

When it comes to protected your house from hurricane force winds, we suggest you view some videos on YouTube that demonstrate the ability to stop flying projectiles from breaking your windows and causing a devasting change in pressure which may actually lift your roof from house.  When you have impact doors and windows you are preventing this potential change in pressure and also preventing the elements from causing water damage.  Some examples of the roofs being lifted are shown below and were the primary cause of many changes to the South Florida Building Code. The current South Florida Building code now requires what is commonly referred to as “hurricane strapping your trusses” to essentially anchor the structural roof truss to the tie beam of your home. 

Rapid Construction of Cooper City

The doors that Rapid Construction recommends give the finest quality, and are supplied by only the most reputable companies that are fast and dependable. You can also select an impact rated French door, that will have all the same benefits and be just as energy efficient. 

Give Rapid Construction a call when you are ready to upgrade your home or if you have any questions about our partnership with Ygrene.  We offer a free consultation and are ready to get you prepared for another hurricane season. Make sure to check out our other article about preparing your house for the 2018 Florida Hurricane season.

 

Rapid Construction
12240 SW 53 Street, Suite 502
Cooper City, Fl 33330

954-324-2390

Cooper City Licensed Contractor | Rapid Construction in Cooper City

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Rapid Construction is your Cooper City Licensed General Contractor

From custom homes to complete home renovations and additions, Rapid Construction of Cooper City can do it all.  Our company specializes in providing your home or business with construction, remodeling and repair services for your property.

Is this going to be the year you invest in hurricane rated impact doors and windows for your home?  Are you tired of having to find space to store your hurricane shutters or having to install heavy and sometimes dangerous shutters? Rapid Construction has partnered with Ygrene and can now offer financial solutions to make replacing your old non-impact doors and windows with modern impact rated doors and windows at an affordable price.

Rapid Construction has helped residents of Cooper City and surrounding communities in the past by offering to assist with shutter installation at a reduced price.  However, the best way to protect your home is by upgrading to impact rated doors and windows. This eliminates the need to install shutters often times in hazardous conditions and also protects you from those unexpected storms that we frequently get in Florida.

Now is the time to start planning for Hurricane season and to start hurricane proofing your home or business.  Cooper City and surrounding areas have dodged a direct path of recent major hurricanes and experts are predicting once again a higher than normal season.  You have seen what damage the hurricanes that have missed Cooper City and surrounding areas have caused.

Our Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30. In the Eastern Caribbean and along the U.S. East Coast, the season tends to be busiest between mid-August and mid-September.

Whether you live in Cooper City, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Miramar, Southwest Ranches or the surrounding South Florida region, we are ready to help you prepare and to hurricane proof your home.

We have training, knowledge and ability to handle any home or commercial project. We offer free quotes and consultation. Rapid Construction sets itself apart by its guarantee of client satisfaction. Allow us to make your dreams a reality! Make sure you visit our website and learn more about our Ygrene program.

Rapid Construction
12240 SW 53rd St, Suite 502
Cooper City, Fl 33330
954-228-2300

We are Ygrene Certified Contractors | Rapid Construction South Florida

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Rapid Construction is now your Ygrene Certified Contractor

What is Ygrene:

Ygrene’s award-winning PACE program provides 100 percent, no money down PACE financing to help property owners make cost-effective energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, safety and storm protection improvements to residential, multifamily buildings. Eligibility is based on equity and your ability to pay, among other factors. No minimum FICO score is required. Payments can be spread out up to 30 years in some states, and your first annual payment may be deferred for up to one year or longer, subject to underwriting guidelines, approvals and date of funding.

South Florida General Contractors

Customer of Rapid Construction should expect quality service, and peace of mind.  All of our work include permits and billing will be done through us. We provide our customers with the peace of mind that the job is getting done, in a timely manner and through a State Certified and Licensed Contractor.

More information about the Y Grene program:

The Y grene site has the following bullet points:
• 100% Financing, No Money Down
• No Payments For Up To 12+ Months
• Based On Home Equity
• No Minimum FICO Required
• Get Prequalified In Minutes
Call Rapid Construction for more information about the Ygrene program and how we can start your next home improvement/addition project using Ygrene. For more information about our services, you can explore our Rapid Construction South Florida page.
Rapid Construction
12240 SW 53rd St #502,
Cooper City FL 33330

House Renovations | Add Value to Your House

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House Renovations Can Add Value to Your House When Planning to Sell

Certain home renovations and additions will also increase your home value significantly if you are planning to sell it in future. If you have lived in South Florida for as long as we have, you know how competitive the real estate market is.  A newly renovated home sells much quicker than one that is stuck in the past.  For instance, any renovations made to your kitchen will bring a higher returns. Upgrading your driveway and making your home energy-efficient will also help you sell your Florida home faster when the right time comes.

Today, most of the South Florida homebuyers are interested in the minor renovations and additions that you make to keep your home in top shape. Working with an expert like Rapid Construction, will help you understand the kind of South Florida home renovations and additions that matter most to potential homebuyers. A complete home renovation may be less expensive than you think, especially when compared to building a new home.

Home Additions Add Longevity to Your House

All homeowners require more space in their rooms, especially in bathrooms. Whenever you think about renovating your home, think about remodeling your bathrooms. Such renovations and home additions always add longevity and value to your home. Carefully thought-out home renovations and additions can also offer you additional space for storage, closets and maybe even that additional bathroom that you have always dreamt of. 

Energy and Money Saving by choosing to renovate your home

Are you tired of paying high electric bills and wish to save more money? Then consider upgrading your home to become energy-efficient. You can start by replacing your bulbs and we can help by upgrading your kitchen and bathroom. You can also renovate your walls by insulting them to keep your home warmer in winter and cool during summer. You should also consider changing your home doors and windows to let more sunlight in your house or add impact doors and windows for maximum insulation and protection during hurricane season. All of this additions and changes can save you a lot of money when it comes to paying your energy bill. Contact Rapid Construction, we are located in Cooper City and provide service throughout Broward County and the entire South Florida area. Additional information regarding home construction can be viewed on our Residential Construction page.

 

Rapid Construction
12240 SW 53rd St #502,
Cooper City FL 33330