48 THE COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE • Winter 2018-19 TheCoastalBend.com but due to similar reasons have been extremely delayed. The Hardie siding has presented its own problem. The color match caulking used to seal the nail heads and cuts is very visible and will require a fix. The only solution is to go back over the af- fected areas and paint over the caulking. Again, Ernest did not hesitate to offer this solution. I will update our readers when touch ups are completed and will share the final results (before/after) upon completion. In my opinion one of the biggest pieces of advice I can give to anyone looking at Color Plus Hardie siding is to NOT use this product. As you can see in the exterior photos, the exterior transforma- tion is almost complete. We are anxious to see the final product and cannot wait till are home is finally secure and dry from the outside elements. WHAT’S NEXT Fernando’s Woodworks—We have initiated the design process for all the cabinetry in the home. Fernando Jr. has completed a rough design to our satisfaction and soon will begin manufacturing our brand-new cabi- nets. They make everything in Corpus Christi, and we have been able to visit their shop several times about our project. Once complete the finished product will be delivered and installed by their experts. B & D Trim and More—After walking through my home with several trim work contractors, the choice was clear to go with this company. They have a long track record in the Coastal Bend and several examples and customer testimonials to back up their work. This is truly a family business doing honest work for the neighbors in their community. They have been able to measure and estimate the job and is awaiting comple- tion of drywall. American Drywall—This company has been with me from the start of my project. A father/son company with over 47 years of experience. They were the only company referred to us in this area. They have come several times and worked through many design chang- es in order to estimate this job. Again, the vast knowl- edge and experience is the main reason I have chosen American Drywall for this project, as well as many others remaining in our home. They can do almost anything inside of your home and I highly recommend them to my neighbors and friends. As soon as the foam insulation is installed and open wall inspections are completed, we will be ready to install/float/texture/ paint all the drywall in the home. Orders for materials are currently awaiting delivery.