Winter is on the Way (We’re Not Happy About it Either!) But Here are some Essential Tips for your Home

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Yes, winter is on the way and those warm summer Cape Cod days are just a memory for now… But that means it’s also time to get your house ready for the colder weather and fall is the perfect time to prepare.

From powerful nor’easters and blizzards to freezing temperatures ❄️ and coastal winds, New England winters can put you – and your home – to the test. But some preparation now can help prevent costly repairs and keep your family comfortable all season long.

Here are some important steps to take before winter weather arrives.

  1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Heavy snow, ice, and strong winds can expose weaknesses in your roof.

  1. Protect Your Pipes From Freezing

Cape Cod’s coldest nights can cause exposed pipes to freeze and burst.

  1. Seal Drafts and Improve Energy Efficiency

Cold coastal winds can make an otherwise comfortable home feel chilly. Inspect windows and doors for drafts, replace worn weatherstripping and seal gaps around openings.

  1. Prepare for Winter Storms

Keep walkways clear, secure outdoor furniture, trim potentially hazardous branches and have flashlights, batteries, blankets, and other emergency supplies ready.

  1. Think About Long-Term Home Improvements

Thoughtful improvements can enhance your home’s value and make it better suited to year-round living.

Ready to Make Your Home Even Better?

The Davenport Building Company has been helping homeowners since 1956. When you’re ready to move beyond seasonal maintenance and invest in a custom renovation, our experts are ready to help bring your vision to life.

Contact us here or call 508-760-9276 today.

Summer on Cape Cod: The Perfect Time to Refresh Your Home

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Have you been considering a Cape Cod home renovation for a while now? This is the perfect summer to get it started.

A summer refresh can make your home more comfortable, more functional, and more valuable for years to come. And it doesn’t matter if you live here year-round or are a summer visitor…

In fact, if Cape Cod is your summer retreat, this could be a great time to meet with our team, design and plan the renovation, and let us get it done this fall when you leave your Cape Cod summer home for the year. When you return in the spring, you’ll be walking into a whole new look!

The Davenport Building Company believes that even small remodeling projects can have a big impact. A light renovation—such as updating a kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, installing new flooring, refreshing trim and cabinetry, or creating a more open floor plan—can completely transform your living space.

The bottom line is that a Cape Cod home renovation is a smart investment.

How about that outdoor living space? Who doesn’t love a mild outdoor Cape Cod evening? Adding a custom deck, expanded patio, or outdoor entertaining area allows you to make the most of every sunny day and moonlit night.

One of the most popular home improvement projects is an enclosed porch featuring oversized screens and large windows. These versatile spaces let you enjoy Cape Cod ocean breezes while keeping insects out.

A well-planned renovation can also improve the way your home functions every day. Better storage solutions, improved lighting, modern finishes, and a more efficient layout can make routine tasks easier while creating inviting spaces for gathering with family and friends.

And don’t forget about adding energy-efficient windows, doors, insulation, and fixtures into your remodeling projects. These upgrades can improve year-round comfort while helping reduce long-term energy costs.

Another advantage of starting a renovation during the summer is having the opportunity to enjoy the results right away. Imagine hosting a backyard barbecue on a brand-new deck, sipping your morning coffee on a screened porch, or preparing meals in a beautifully updated kitchen while friends and family visit throughout the season.

For 70 years, the Davenport Building Company has developed a reputation for quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and personalized service. We work closely with homeowners to design renovations that complement the character of their home while meeting their family’s needs, vision, and budget. From the initial consultation through the final walkthrough, our goal is to deliver exceptional results that exceed expectations.

Ready to start your Cape Cod home renovation? Contact the Davenport Building Company today to discuss your next remodeling project and discover how a summer refresh can transform your home.

Ready to Renovate? Here’s Why it Makes “Cents”

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Outdoor living spaces continue to rank among the most desirable features that homeowners want to upgrade. And those renovations can also add some real value to your home.

Experts say a wood deck addition can return nearly 95% of its cost at resale, while composite decks can return close to 89%. Expanding usable living space with patios and outdoor gathering areas are also super attractive to homeowners.

People are really looking for functional, comfortable spaces these days that will improve everyday living. And that’s why renovations of decks, patios, porches, basements, and entertainment areas can make such a major impact on both your lifestyle and your home’s value.

Putting money aside for a moment – these renovation projects also increase homeowner enjoyment. A recent report from the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry found that homeowners consistently report high satisfaction and “joy scores” after completing remodeling projects that improve comfort and entertainment space.

Covered porches, fire pit areas, and renovated lower levels have become especially popular as more homeowners look to maximize every part of their property. And who doesn’t want an amazing outdoor kitchen! You’ll be the toast of the neighborhood with one of those beautiful stone grills and elaborate eating areas.

But if you don’t want to go all in on a project like that – think about smaller renovations like improved lighting, built-in seating, updated flooring, and weather-resistant materials. They can all dramatically improve both appearance and functionality.

How about the ever-popular man-cave or she-shed? Both spaces can be a smart investment. Create a space for a home theater, sports lounge, game room, crafting room, or family entertainment space. You can really add functionality without requiring new construction.

According to opendoor.com, basement remodels can recoup roughly 70% of their cost while also increasing buyer interest in competitive markets. Experts in home renovation trends continue to say that buyers are prioritizing homes with flexible gathering spaces for family and friends.

When you’re ready to transform your home with a custom renovation project, chat with our experts at the Davenport Building Company. We have 70 years of experience building Cape Cod — from outdoor living upgrades to basement remodels and complete home improvements. Let us bring your vision to life while adding long-term value to your property.

Spring Has Sprung! Let’s Talk About Creating That Perfect Outdoor Space

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May has arrived and hopefully some of the nicer weather will actually stick around! Here on Cape Cod, we can finally start thinking about getting back to some outdoor living – cookouts, beach strolling, golf and comfortable days and evenings with friends.

This is the PERECT time to start planning a new deck, screened porch, pergola, or outdoor living structure. And our experts can design and build your Cape Cod oasis. Maybe you have an old deck that has seen better days or you’re ready to finally enclose it and make a three-season room.

Remember, Memorial Day through Labor Day is just 14 or so weekends. If you spend June and July still waiting on a contractor, you’ve lost half the season before your first cookout. So, think about getting started right now!

We’re experts in wraparound decks, a waterfront porch with composite decking, or a shaded pergola for afternoon entertaining.

Here are some options to consider:

  • A composite deck gives you a low-maintenance, high-beauty platform that stands up to salt air and sea spray for decades
  • A screened-in porch extends your usable season from early spring through late fall
  • A pergola or shade structure creates a defined outdoor room perfect for dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing
  • An outdoor kitchen or built-in bar area transforms your backyard into the ultimate summer gathering spot
  • Multi-level decking takes advantage of Cape Cod’s varied topography and water views to create stunning outdoor environments

Composite Decking has become the gold standard for many as the material is engineered to resist moisture, fading, and mold — all major concerns in a coastal environment. Composite decking requires minimal maintenance (no staining or sealing), looks beautiful year after year, and comes in a wide range of colors and textures.

Pressure-Treated Lumber remains a solid, cost-effective choice for deck framing and, in some cases, decking surfaces. When properly sealed and maintained, PT lumber performs well in the Cape Cod environment.

New Deck Construction

From simple ground-level platform decks to sweeping multi-level structures with built-in seating, stairs, and railing systems, we design and build decks that match your home’s architecture and your family’s lifestyle.

Screened Porches & Three-Season Rooms

A screened porch dramatically extends the time you can enjoy the outdoors comfortably.

Pergolas & Shade Structures

A well-designed pergola creates an outdoor room with character — defining your space, providing shade, and adding architectural interest to your yard.

 

Why Choose Davenport Building Company for Your Cape Cod Deck and Outside Living Project?

Davenport Building Company has been serving Cape Cod homeowners for 70 years. We’re not a national franchise or a fly-by-night crew. We live here and we treat every project like we’re building it for our own homes.

 

Easy DIY and Outdoor Tips to Help Your Property Look its Best This Summer

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Well…that was quite the winter.

Yes, we know it was NOT fun and all that snow and wind has left many of our yards in a state of chaos! Not to mention the impact to your house ranging from blown off shingles to damage from fallen trees and lawns that look like mine fields of tree limbs…

So here at the Davenport Building Company, we’ve got some quick DIY and outdoor tips to help your property look its best this summer.

Start with a cleanup. Clear out garden beds, edge your lawn, and remove any buildup that could prevent healthy growth. Rinsing down walkways, siding, and outdoor furniture is also a good idea to wash away salt residue that can cause long-term wear.

Early spring is also the perfect time to plan upgrades like a new patio, fire pit, or expanded deck so you can enjoy it all summer long.

Then, check your wood structures. Decks, fences, and stairs take a beating in coastal climates. Look for loose boards, rusted nails, or signs of rot. A quick power wash and a fresh seal or stain can go a long way in protecting your investment and extending its life.

If you’re replacing damaged shrubbery, consider hardy, salt-tolerant varieties like hydrangeas, beach grass, and lavender. They thrive here but also keep your yard looking natural and low maintenance.

And don’t forget about drainage. Coastal properties often deal with sandy soil and heavy rains, so make sure gutters and downspouts are clear and directing water away from your home. Adding simple solutions like gravel borders or dry wells can help prevent pooling and erosion.

If your project becomes bigger than a DIY, Davenport Building Company is always here to help bring your vision to life! Happy Spring. 🌹🌻🌼

 

Time to Consider (Hopefully!) Getting Ready for Better Weather

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We’re all hoping that winter may be over…but this is New England, so you never know (who remembers the April 1, 1997 blizzard?)!

After two major storms did a number on Cape Cod and left us stuck inside, it’s getting closer to when we can get outside for those spring projects. But in the meantime, the downtime can actually be the perfect opportunity to start preparing your home for the upcoming season.

Start with a Seasonal Declutter
Probably one of the best places to start is decluttering. Winter naturally leads to accumulation — extra blankets, boots, coats, holiday décor, and everyday items that seem to multiply while we spend more time inside (we know people who still have some holiday decorations up in their living room!). The weekend is ideal for decluttering closets, mudrooms, and storage spaces. Pack away heavy winter gear you won’t need daily and create donation piles for items no longer used.

Inspect Windows and Doors
Those winds and blizzard conditions may have done a number on your windows and doors… Heavy winds can expose drafts or problem areas. Take time to check for air leaks, worn weatherstripping, or condensation buildup. Addressing these issues now improves energy efficiency while preventing moisture problems that can worsen when spring rains arrive.

Deep Clean High-Traffic Areas
Is your carpet full of salt pellets and sand? Winter means salt, sand, and moisture constantly being tracked indoors. Focus on entryways, flooring, and carpets that have taken the biggest hit this season. Shampoo rugs, wipe down baseboards, and clean vents where dust accumulates during months of closed windows and constant heating.

Test and Maintain Home Systems
Don’t get a rude surprise when you finally need the air conditioning in a couple of months and it decides to revolt on you! Replace HVAC filters, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and inspect sump pumps if your home has one. Melting snow combined with spring rain can stress drainage systems, so confirming everything works properly now can help prevent costly surprises later.

Refresh Interior Spaces
You don’t need warm weather to give your home a fresh feel. Swap out heavy winter textiles for lighter throws, reorganize furniture layouts, or add brighter décor elements to reflect the coming season. Even small updates can make your home feel renewed after months of gray skies and cold temperatures.

Winter certainly slows our daily routines, but it also provides the perfect excuse to focus on your home. By completing these indoor projects now, you’ll be better prepared, more organized, and ready to fully enjoy the arrival of spring the moment warmer weather returns.

Stuck Inside This Winter? How About Some Easy DIY Projects to Stay Busy?

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Winter certainly has an icy grip on Cape Cod this year, with snow-covered yards, nasty winds, and plenty of time spent indoors.

But on the flip side, it’s a great time to tackle a DIY project that makes your home feel warmer, cozier, and more functional.

One of the easier options is to create a refreshed, organized living space by upgrading an interior room. That can happen with built-ins, shelving, a feature wall or even a new paint scheme.

Consider starting in whatever room your family spends most of its time in during the colder months. You can install some custom shelving or beadboard without tearing the entire room apart – and the project doesn’t rely on good weather: you can get it down inside while the snow is flying outside.

Here’s another thought: how about built-in bench with storage to handle winter gear, blankets, and games?

And while you’re stuck inside thanks to the latest cold front, think about focusing on organization. Closets, mudrooms, and pantries often take a beating during the busy summer and fall seasons on the Cape. A few days of focused DIY work – adding shelving, hooks, or storage systems – can make your daily routine smoother and help your home feel less cluttered during the long winter stretch.

When you’re done with the DIY projects and start thinking about a more extensive renovation, consider reaching out to our experts at the Davenport Building Company.

For 70 years we’ve been the leading company for new home construction, renovated kitchens, expanded living spaces, and beautiful spa-like bathrooms.

Since 1956, Davenport Building Company has been the region’s leading renovation and home building firm. With decades of experience, a reputation for quality craftsmanship, and deep local knowledge, we’re the trusted choice for everything from major renovations to custom homes.

Ready to chat? Contact us online, see more of our work on Facebook or Instagram, or call us at 508-760-9276.

 

Common-sense Steps to Make Sure Your Home is Prepared for a Major Snowstorm

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Snow falling on a small town street with snow-covered road and storefronts at midday.”

Well…it is winter in New England, after all! ❄️❄️☃️☃️

With attention building on the possibility of a significant snowstorm hitting Cape Cod and the Islands, you may want to take some common-sense steps to make sure your home is prepared. Our experts at The Davenport Building Company have a few ideas for you:

Is Your Heating System Ready?

The absolute last thing you need is to have problems with your heating system. Get it looked at by a professional for a quick tune-up to reduce the possibility of breakdowns when the demand for it will be highest during cold and snowy weather.

Quick improvements include replacing air filters if you have forced hot air. For oil and propane, check your fuel levels and refill BEFORE the storm. And it’s critical to make sure you clear the snow from exterior vents and exhaust pipes. If you have a standby generator, keep the exhaust away from the windows during operation.

What About the Exterior?

Before the snow and wind pick up, take a walk around your property and look for loose or missing shingles. Heavy snow can create leaks and ice dams. Also take a quick look at your downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris.

Don’t want half your lawn torn up by the plow or snowblower? Make sure you stake the driveway and the lawn along your street. This will help guide those doing the snow removal.

If you still have any outdoor furniture or patio items on the deck,  get them inside now.

Worried About Power Outages?

Big snowstorms often bring power outages, especially on Cape Cod. If you have a generator, test it ahead of time and keep it safely ventilated. And before using the fireplace and other backup heating sources, make sure chimneys and flues are clean and operational. Keep a good supply of batteries on hand for those flashlights as well!

Protect Pipes and Outdoor Systems

Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and astronomical repair costs. Always disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior water lines if possible. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated spaces like garages, basements, and crawlspaces. If you have outdoor showers or irrigation systems, make sure they’re properly winterized well before the storm hits.

Don’t Worry, You’ll Make it Through the Storm

Remember – it’s only eight weeks to spring! So just take some easy, common-sense precautions and you’ll make it through the storm just fine (and don’t buy too much bread and milk: the storm is usually gone within 24 hours)!

And if you’re thinking about a home improvement project or renovation, check out our local experts at Davenport Building.

Stay warm and safe!

With a Few Smart Moves, Cape Cod Residents Can Stay Cozy All Winter

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Been Getting a Little Chilly During This Winter on Cape Cod?

Cape Cod in the winter: they (not sure who they are!) always say, “It’s mild on Cape Cod in the winter – we don’t get snow!”

I guess the winter of 2025/2026 didn’t get the memo! We’ve been greeted with a much colder and snowier start to the season than we’ve been used to around here in recent years. And when that wind starts whipping off Nantucket Sound or Cape Cod Bay, keeping your home warm and comfortable becomes a top priority.

A lot of our older homes have a lot of heat loss – but with a few smart moves, Cape Cod residents can stay cozy all winter long while keeping energy costs under control.

Step 1: Insulation

Proper insulation is essential, especially in older Cape-style homes. Attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls are common areas where insulation may be lacking or outdated. And with a lot of homes heated by forced hot water, it’s important to keep those outside walls from becoming a place for pockets of cold air to settle and harm heating pipes.

Step 2: Seal up the Leaks!

Check around windows, doors, attic hatches, and baseboards for drafts. Simple fixes like weatherstripping, caulking, and door sweeps can make a noticeable difference. If you’re sitting in the living room at night and feel a draft coming under the front door – it’s time to take action! Even small gaps can let cold air in and warm air out, forcing your heating system to work overtime.

Step 3: Keep that Heating System in Good Shape

Don’t get cheap and think you don’t need that furnace serviced every year. When it drops to ten degrees outside and that old basement beast refuses to fire up, you’ll be sorry! Schedule a professional tune-up for your heating system. Clean filters, serviced components, and efficient operation ensure your system runs reliably when you need it most. If your system is aging, it may be worth exploring modern, energy-efficient options that perform better in harsh New England winters.

Step 4: Upgrade Windows and Doors

Old or single-pane windows can be a major source of heat loss. If replacement isn’t immediately possible, consider interior storm windows or window insulation kits as a temporary solution. Long-term, energy-efficient windows and properly installed doors can dramatically improve comfort and reduce drafts (we’re experts in that field, by the way).

Maximize Natural Heat

Let that sunshine in! Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home. At night, close them to help retain that heat. Heavy curtains or thermal drapes can provide an extra layer of insulation against cold windows.

The Floors Matter, Too

Cold floors can make an entire home feel chilly. Area rugs add warmth and comfort while helping insulate floors, especially over crawl spaces or unheated basements. Sealing gaps where floors meet walls also helps prevent cold air infiltration.

And when you’re thinking about a home renovation or addition this winter— or planning ahead for spring—be sure to call the experts at The Davenport Building Company. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of building and renovating on Cape Cod. To learn more or to get started, call 508-760-9276.

Love Where You Live – Without the Cost of Moving

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Have you been thinking about moving to a home that better suits your current needs? Maybe you want a larger space for gatherings and a growing multi-generational family or are interested in having more first-floor living.

One challenge may be what the experts call the “golden handcuffs.” That’s when you have a low interest mortgage that keeps you “locked in” from upgrading to a new home.

The Solution?

At the Davenport Building Company – we invite you to “renovate” and not “relocate.” In fact, renovating can be more affordable than taking on a new mortgage with today’s rates.

We specialize in aging-in-place renovations — barrier-free bathrooms, first-floor suites, wider hallways, safer entries, and more. Let us transform the house you already know to the home that will make you happy for years to come while keeping your low mortgage rate in place.

The experts at the Davenport Building Company aren’t just builders – they are partners in the project from concept to completion.

Lifestyle upgrades ranging from spa-like bathrooms to open kitchens and smarter layouts are specialties at the Davenport Building Company. We know the type of improvements Cape Cod homeowners desire that also add great value.

Why Renovation Makes Sense on Cape Cod Right Now

Homeowners on Cape Cod are facing a difficult combination of market forces that make staying in your current home and upgrading what you already have the smartest move.

With median home prices approaching $925,000 and construction costs for new homes ranging from $300–$600+ per square foot, building or buying or building something new has become out of reach for many.

Add into that equation the fact that many homeowners have low-interest mortgages between 2.5% and 3.5%, making the cost of moving dramatically higher.

Across Massachusetts, remodelers have been seeing significant growth in project size and scope, and national remodeling spending is projected to hit $524 billion in 2026.

The bottom line – it may make more sense to invest in improvements and create that “forever home” you’ve have thought about for years.

Aging-in-Place and Multigenerational Living Considerations

By 2030, nearly 48% of Barnstable County residents will be over 60, and 91% of seniors say they want to remain in their current homes.

That means aging in place could be a great option – with first-floor primary suites, barrier-free showers, improved lighting, and wider hallways.

And aging in place may be part of a larger multigenerational living concept with more flexible spaces, upgraded kitchens, and improved layouts that help families to live together comfortably while preserving privacy and independence.

Think About Transforming the Home You Have Into the Home You Need

If you’re thinking about a gourmet kitchen, first floor suite, or spa-inspired bathroom – it’s time to RENOVATE and not RELOCATE…for many reasons. Create long-term value without giving up that really low mortgage rate.

The experts at the Davenport Building Company can you guide through every step – from concept to completion – we’re ready to make your forever home dream a reality.

Schedule a free consultation or home assessment today, or call us at 508-760-9276.