KJ also does a lot of business in providing retractable screens for any type of door opening where a screen is desired; these offer the same sturdy construction and pet-friendly reinforced mesh, plus an important distinguishing benefit of adjustable spring tension that assures smooth closing as opposed to slamming of the doors. The availability of solar screens silk-screened with logos has also opened up commercial market opportunities for KJ Custom Designs. Also in the response to customer request, KJ offers shutters and window shades from Hunter Douglas, a brand they chose because Realtors recognize and note it when reselling homes.
Where small lots limit yard space, Mirage screens have become a popular way to turn the garage area into an outdoor party room.
Marketed and warranted by Mirage, each screen is measured and specified (up to 25' wide x 16' tall when motorized) and then custom made in Florida by Progressive Screen Systems. If we think the natural elements in Texas are a good test of durability, Florida has us beat. The fact that the screens are proven to withstand salt water, high winds and extended periods of heat and humidity adds some extra assurance that they will withstand whatever Mother Nature may dole out in Texas. With many of the higher end homes in our area also being built around water, we have also simulated a lot more similarities with the Floridians. Here at home, mud-dobbers are another factor driving many to make the decision to add screens.
“Clients appreciate the increased reliability and the opportunity to save some steps when they can work with one person to accomplish multiple tasks. Our on-staff motorization specialist is fully versed in Somfy, BTX, Lutron and Hunter Douglas products and capable of hooking up multiple automated components so that a homeowners can raise the screens on the back windows, lower the patio screens, adjust the lighting, etc., using the latest technology such as an I-Pad,” said Teresa.
But it's not just the best screening products on the market with a vast ability to customize it to the customer's need that sets KJ Custom Designs apart. It's the “can-do” attitude and determination to please the customer of this family-owned business that has built its loyal client base. Teresa
and Joe remain owners in the company and Justin remains on as a consultant. Between the office and showroom in Lewisville and displays across the Metroplex at several pool companies, they make it easy for builders and remodelers to send their clients to see and select products. They are right on top of incoming calls for sales, acting quickly with an appointment to measure followed by a quote in 24 hours. Though repair requests are few, response is equally prompt and professional. In addition to the motorization specialist, KJ also has a master carpenter on staff to add the special woodwork often required when installing screens on patio doors.
Among a wide variety of screen and shading options, KJ's most popular option is the 80 percent mesh screen which offers solar protection while still allows enough wind to blow through to provide a breeze. “With a bit less resistance to the wind gusts, the 80 percent also pulls less against the tracks, making it the most practical solution. But given that people are using indoor-like furniture and furnishing including rugs and artwork, some people opt for the 90 percent screen for more protection from rain,” said Teresa, adding that any of the screen options provide essential UV protection to protect furniture and furnishings.
The Super Screen is yet another option. Completely rip-proof, even a toddler ramming it with a tricycle isn't likely to punch a hole in it. This brings up another benefit that the screens provide. “Having the heaviest weight bar in the industry, not only provides stability against wind. There is also no worry about a child or a pet that you want to contain on the patio being able to slip under the screen. Conversely, the dog that you don't want jumping on the patio furniture can't push his way in,”Teresa explained.
“Most of our clients have a lot invested in their doors and would naturally have concern that anything added to them blend seamlessly or be made to look like part of the original door design. Our master is so excellent at what he does that he often gets requests to do other types of wood trimming, and we encourage him to help them. It's all about the customer and answering to their need. Making money in business is secondary to serving the customer,” said Teresa.
Even with the best of the best installers that can be relied upon to be as meticulous to detail as they are, Teresa and Joe still feel that their clients deserve to see them, as the business owners, make the final inspection of every installation. Getting to see the installations and how satisfied their customers are is also their greatest reward.
Great people with the determination to provide extraordinary service and representing the best brand name products are the reason behind the success story of KJ Custom Designs.
Vol 3 2011
GREATER DFW METROPLEX BUILDING SAVVY MAGAZINE
17
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24