News

Colorado contractor Chris Hock of Earth Saving Solutions shares insights on panic room construction trends in this comprehensive Investopedia guide to shelter costs. From basic $3,600 safe rooms to $400,000+ underground bunkers, learn what factors influence pricing and what Colorado homeowners should consider before building. “Solar systems with backup batteries have been particularly relevant in Colorado,” notes Hock, as more Americans invest in emergency preparedness solutions.

Discover the top four kitchen cabinet mistakes homeowners make during renovations and learn how to avoid them. Industry experts share practical advice on choosing functional, high-quality cabinets, staying timeless rather than trendy, and not overlooking small yet critical details like hardware and hinges.

Avoid costly mistakes and safety hazards with expert advice on protecting your home’s electrical system. Learn what not to do and discover tips for maintaining safe, efficient wiring and outlets.

Weighing your options between stock and custom kitchen cabinets? This article breaks down the pros and cons of each style to help homeowners choose the best fit for their space, budget, and lifestyle needs.

Construction is now underway to transform disabled veteran Tyler Wilson’s Arvada home, with Chris Hock of Earth Saving Solutions leading the renovation. Walls are being removed in the living room and master bathroom, hardwood floors are replacing carpet, and an elevator installation is nearly complete. This life-changing project, funded by Homes for Veterans, Houses for Warriors, and the VA, will eliminate the need for Tyler’s wife Crystal to carry him upstairs. “It feels good. It feels really good to help the people that help us. Any way we can, we want to help all of the time,” says Hock of this meaningful collaboration.

Insulating a crawl space is essential for preventing dampness, mold, and higher heating bills in your home. Jamin Katzer, Senior Construction Manager at Earth Saving Solutions, recommends specific R-values for different regions, noting “In Colorado we are required to use R-11 or more for walls and R-13 for ceilings.” He suggests practical installation techniques including using a ram-set gun for concrete walls and adding twine or straps to secure ceiling insulation. For optimal results, Katzer advises keeping wall insulation 4 inches above grade level and considering moisture barriers where possible, though these can be challenging to install around existing plumbing, electrical, and venting systems.

Earth Saving Solutions is proud to be recognized by This Old House as one of the “Best Bathroom Remodelers in Westminster, CO” in their February 2024 guide. Our team earned a stellar 4.7/5 rating based on 73 verified customer reviews, highlighting our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We’re honored to be included among Westminster’s top-rated bathroom remodeling contractors and remain committed to delivering exceptional renovation experiences for homeowners throughout the Denver metro area.

Ready to take on a DIY tile project? This detailed guide walks you through every step of installing a tile countertop and backsplash—from prep and layout to cutting, grouting, and sealing—complete with expert tips for a polished, professional finish.

Earth Saving Solutions owner Chris Hock is now available for podcast interviews through his expert profile on Matchmaker.fm. With 24+ years of construction experience and expertise in real estate, house flipping, and entrepreneurship, Hock is positioned as a valuable resource for media seeking industry insights. His recent appearance on NTD News discussing mortgage strategies showcases his media readiness and industry knowledge.

Vietnam veteran Pat Smith’s home was devastated when a 54-foot tree crashed through his roof during April windstorms. Earth Saving Solutions contractor Chris Hock stepped in, rallying nearly three dozen agencies to completely renovate Smith’s 4,000-square-foot home at no cost. “The good Lord put Chris in my way and I’m just so thankful,” said Smith, who has spent 31 years helping fellow veterans.

Thinking about converting your garage into a livable space? This article breaks down the typical costs, factors that influence pricing, and what homeowners should consider before starting a garage conversion project.

Are kitchen islands a must-have or a fading trend? Top designers weigh in on when an island makes sense and when it may hinder your space. Learn how layout, lifestyle, and budget all play a role in the decision.

ESS owner Chris Hock recommends choosing your drywall lift based on panel size and weight—offering practical advice for both DIYers and pros.

Earth Saving Solutions founder Chris Hock featured in The Spruce as home maintenance expert, debunking HVAC myths and providing energy-saving tips for Denver homeowners. Licensed contractor shares professional insights on proper HVAC system operation.

Curious about the cost of remodeling a standard 10×10 kitchen? This article outlines average price ranges, key cost factors, and budget-friendly tips to help you plan a successful kitchen renovation.

After falling victim to a kitchen remodeling scam, a Denver grandmother gets much-needed support from a local contractor stepping in to help. This uplifting story highlights the power of community and doing the right thing when others fall short.

Don’t let a wobbly outlet become a fire hazard. This expert-backed guide walks you through five simple steps to safely fix loose electrical outlets, featuring pro advice from Earth Saving Solutions.

In the wake of the devastating Marshall Fire, affected homeowners are now preparing to rebuild. This article shares their stories of resilience, challenges faced during recovery, and the next steps toward restoring their homes and communities.

Several companies and nonprofits have donated time and services, including the Colorado Building Construction Trades Council, Bradley Plumbing, and Earth Saving Solutions Construction.

In an article examining the most expensive U.S. cities for home remodeling, Chris Hock of Earth Saving Solutions identifies a critical factor driving costs nationwide: “One of the reasons is the need for more quality contractors in the construction industry, the lack of interest in today’s youth in pursuing construction careers is at an all-time low, and the impending retirement of many experienced contractors at an all-time high, resulting in an aging workforce.” Hock explains that this combination of increasing demand and decreasing supply of skilled labor is creating a market where “subcontractors [are] charging more than ever,” while noting this trend presents significant opportunity for those who do enter the construction trades.

Army veteran Tyler Wilson, paralyzed from waist down after being wounded in Afghanistan, currently relies on his firefighter wife Crystal to carry him upstairs in their home. Thanks to Homes for Veterans’ $60,000 donation and coordination by Houses for Warriors, they’ll receive comprehensive renovations including an elevator, new kitchen, and bathroom. Colorado Homes & Design will be among the local contractors transforming the Wilson family’s home, finally giving Tyler the independence he deserves.

Earth Saving Solutions’ leadership was recently featured in USA TODAY, sharing expert insights on home drainage solutions. President Chris Hock discussed when gutters are necessary versus when alternatives might work: “I would recommend gutters, depending on circumstances, to anyone who gets three inches of rain or more.” Chris also highlighted the importance of French drains for protecting foundations, noting that “erosion is the number-one cause of severe damage to the foundation of a house, which is the most costly expense a home can incur.” Senior Construction Manager Jamin Katzer provided cost guidance, stating that professional French drain installation typically ranges from $500 to $4,500. The article, published on September 11, 2024, explores five different gutter alternatives for homeowners considering drainage options beyond traditional gutters.

When Purple Heart recipient Eddie Lake passed away from cancer in 2016, he left behind several unfinished home improvement projects that his widow Bonnie lived with for years. Through the efforts of local VFW members, veteran groups, and Denver7 viewers’ donations, multiple contractors came together to complete these projects. Chris Hock of Earth Saving Solutions installed a new countertop and hardwood flooring, while teams from Avedano Installations, Jude Electric, and others contributed their expertise. “I never knew there were so many people out there that would help somebody that they don’t know,” said Bonnie, whose home was transformed in just one day through this remarkable community effort.

Chris Hock, owner of Earth Saving Solutions, was recently featured in a comprehensive Bob Vila article discussing the cost and considerations of garage conversions. With garage conversions ranging from $6,012 to $27,090 nationally, the article highlighted Hock’s insights on space utilization, plumbing challenges, and safety considerations. His expert commentary solidifies ESS’s reputation as a knowledgeable leader in full-service residential and commercial construction throughout Colorado.

Gas furnaces are the most common and most effective way of heating your home. Electric heating is used in an environment where not much heating will be required,” said Jamin Katzer, senior construction manager at Earth Saving Solutions, a contracting company located in Denver.

Thinking about upgrading to wood windows? This in-depth guide explores the average costs, material options, and expert tips to help you understand what impacts pricing—and whether wood is worth the investment for your home.

Chris Hock of Earth Saving Solutions shares insights on how winter brings less competition and more negotiation power for buyers—and strategic pricing opportunities for sellers.

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate is now around eight percent! Making people unwilling to get into new homes, but lenders say it’s perfectly fine to buy now, and then refinance later. NTD’s Jack Bradley and the experts Chris Hock, Lisa Simonsen, and Jeff Ostrowski explored whether this is a good idea.

Pete Stockwell of Earth Saving Solutions shares essential tips to prevent storm damage, from clearing gutters to anchoring outdoor structures before winter hits.

Ready to refresh your kitchen? This step-by-step backsplash tiling guide makes it easy, even for first-timers. Learn essential tools, pro tips, and how to get clean, lasting results—straight from Earth Saving Solutions.

Earth Saving Solutions’ owner Chris Hock was featured in a recent Realtor.com article discussing how 2025 tariffs are affecting construction material prices and changing the real estate negotiation landscape. Hock highlighted specific price increases, including a 70% jump in nail prices and a 5% rise in roofing materials, while advising homeowners to complete necessary repairs now, before potential further price escalations. “Right now is the time to get these things done,” Hock advised in the nationally published piece.

Wondering what you’ll pay for new gutters? This guide breaks down installation costs by material and style—featuring insights from Chris Hock of Earth Saving Solutions—to help you plan smarter and protect your home from water damage.