Orren Pickell is a remodeler. He's a custom builder. He's a businessman. But perhaps most importantly, he's a brand. Talk to high-end homeowners in Illinois, Michigan or southern Wisconsin and they'll know the name Orren Pickell. Whether it's remodeling or custom homes, the name Orren Pickell carries a meaning beyond what most contractors ever achieve.

While 2007 had its rough moments, 2008 seems to be the year that the housing downturn really hit remodeling. Fundamentally, the remodeling industry follows the trends of homebuilding. While the troughs are not as deep and the peaks not as high, new construction is a good predictor of remodeling activity.

A focal point wet bar, distinctive coffered ceilings and safari-themed finishes incorporated into the design for the remodeled basement in this Centennial, Colo. residence provide the family with an adventurous entertaining area.

After putting up with a leaky deck for 10 years, Mick Roberts wanted the problem to end. Permanently. He hired Emerald Contractors, a remodeler in Tarpon Springs, Fla., to do the job.

Do your customers always get what they want? Are they delighted with the finished project? Are they happy to recommend you? If they're not, this is a must read that will help you manage those expectations.

New products for remodelers and the remodeling industry.

Information for building a better remodeling Web site with SEO; marketing with financing; and going green by reducing, reusing and recycling.

New lead paint regulations are set to take effect in 2010, and remodelers who work in pre-1978 buildings will face some major changes in the way they remodel some homes and businesses. Professional Remodeler talked to Matt Watkins, an environmental policy analyst with NAHB, about the new rule.

What happens to botched jobs? Who comes in to clean up someone else's mistakes? How do you charge for a job that's already been paid for? These are some of the questions that will be answered in this discussion.

New products for the remodeling industry