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Master Bathroom Renovation Ideas

October 15, 2022 | Design And Decor, DIY, Remodeling

When renovating a bathroom there are a lot of decisions to make and some are much easier to think of on your own than others. You are probably starting this project because there is something about your master bathroom that you don’t like. Maybe it is outdated tile floors or a shower that is too small. These aspects of the renovation are easy to decide on, but what about smaller details that can really make a difference in the experience of your bathroom? Here are some interesting, often overlooked details that you can add to your master bathroom renovation project that you will love.

Fan Timer

Do you ever turn the fan on to cool the room a bit then forget about it only to return hours and realize it has been running unnecessarily this whole time? If you want to save some electricity but can’t seem to remember to turn off the fan, installing fan timer switches is a game changer. This way, you can set the fan to be on for a half hour, an hour, and even an hour and a half. It will stay on while you’re using the bathroom, and after you have finished and forgotten about it, it’ll shut off automatically.

Lighting

The bathroom is one of the most important places in your home to have good lighting. Whether you need to apply makeup, pop pimples, or spy a gray hair that needs to be plucked out, you want to be able to see everything clearly. Installing extra lighting is always a good thing to include in your master bathroom renovation, and it’s also a great way to add character.

While you need to be able to see things clearly in your bathroom, it’s also a place people want to feel relaxed. You usually begin and end your day by spending some time in the bathroom, and sometimes you may not be in the mood for lighting you could perform surgery under. If you want the option of ambiance in your bathroom, a dimmer on your light switch can make all the difference for taking a relaxing bath or getting ready for bed.

Heated Toilet Seat

While this may seem a bit unnecessary or over the top, you would be surprised how inexpensive yet amazing this addition is. With a heated toilet seat you’ll have to plan a bit more ahead than with other additions because you need an outlet by the toilet, so you will have to hire an electrician to help make sure it is possible. If you live in an area that gets cold, sitting on an icy toilet seat can be really uncomfortable. A heated toilet seat doesn’t cost that much more than a regular one, in some cases the difference is less than $100, and it can make a huge difference in the comfort of your bathroom.

Heated Floors

Another more extravagant but amazing thing you can add to your bathroom is heated tile floors. Just like the toilet seat, the floors can get very cold in the winter and if you prefer to walk around your house without shoes or even socks, the tile can be quite a shock to your feet. One option is to have a custom mat made that fits your bathroom exactly. However, a cheaper alternative is to buy the mats in a standard size, which can work well if your bathroom floor plan is relatively simple. Either way, the price tag is not as high as you might think, and it could be worth it to add a bit of luxury to your master bathroom.

Tags: bathroom, bathroom remodeling, flooring, home improvement, lighting

Redesign: Which Major Home Projects Are Worth It?

March 2, 2022 | Design And Decor, DIY, Remodeling

A little sprucing up goes a long way in boosting your home’s value, but the money is not always there to do major renovations. You can always try to work on some projects yourself, but others are better left to the professionals. It is important to think about what you want for your home and what your home needs. In this article, we will discuss some major home improvement projects that may be worth your time.

1. Incorporate Energy-Saving Fixtures

Most consumers prefer home improvements that promote environmental sustainability because these improvements are also energy-efficient and help save more money. If you incorporate more of them into your home, you’ll be a step ahead not only for yourself but also towards building an eco-friendly environment. Consider doing these things:

Use sustainable building materials for your renovation
Develop more efficient waste recycling systems
Install solar panels
Rework your home’s caulk in the attic, windows, and doors
Replace plumbing fixtures with low-flow alternatives

2. Upgrade Your Outdoor Space

Your home’s exterior is the first impression your visitors get before entering your home. Therefore, you must spruce it up the best way you can. If there’s one thing that COVID-19 taught us is the freedom to enjoy the outdoors. Most people would instead buy a home or work with a custom home builder in Ocean City to create a space where they can rest outside on their own property without restrictions

These upgrades won’t cost you much but will certainly do the trick. Consider the following:

Powerwash any concrete surface like your front steps or patio
Add a firepit
Repaint your home’s exterior, including the door
Get a yard professional to reseed and tend to your lawn
Repave your driveway and pressure wash it

3. Expand the Living Area

A home is not complete without a sufficient living room space. It’s the main center for interaction, entertainment, and relaxation. If you have an underutilized space like the attic or basement, you can finish it to create a new living space. You can add a home theater, a library, or a playroom just by taking advantage of under-utilized spaces in your home. It’s typically a less expensive option than a home addition, and it’s a worthy consideration.

4. Modify the Kitchen

The kitchen is a central functional space in any home; therefore, an upgrade is worth the cost. There are tons of renovations that you can do to give your kitchen that stylish look and easier to maneuver while in it without looking crowded. Consider doing these things:

Modernize the storage places by using built-in cabinets with lighting beneath them or repaint
Replace the countertops
Upgrade the sink and faucet
Buy stainless steel appliances
Replace the lighting fixtures
Update the flooring with ceramic tiles in a pattern of your choice

5. Upgrade the Bathroom

Besides the kitchen, the bathroom is the next space you can focus your energy on when thinking of a remodel. It may be uncouth to discuss, but everyone needs to use the bathroom at some point. Here are upgrades to consider:

Install a new bathtub or replace it with a modern showerhead to get more space
Replace old plumbing fixtures
Install support bars
Update the lighting and floor
Setup storage spaces

6. Refresh Your Windows

More homeowners are opting for uncomplicated techniques of refreshing their home looks by taking advantage of the available modern window treatments, which are more energy-efficient. Depending on your choice of window treatment, the professionals can seamlessly fix blinds inside glass panes of your existing windows.

Over time, this has become a popular option since it doesn’t require a complicated fixing process. Windows with internal blinds can transform your home since you can get rid of the heavy curtains. Alternatively, if you have more wall space, you can add more windows or a skylight, especially in the darker rooms. The bottom line is to ensure that all rooms are well-lit.

7. Add Automated Systems

In a modern world, it would be ignorant not to acknowledge the effectiveness of modern gadgets even in our homes. Smart devices can make your home’s life easier, especially security, convenient operation from anywhere, and energy management. Consider adding automated systems for:

Security-house alarms, door locks
Garden Irrigation by a sprinkler system
Lighting and appliance control through voice commands
Thermostat for temperature control

8. Replace Old Flooring

Tile floors can easily stain, they’re hard to clean, and they can get freezing over the cold season. In the cold season, these tile floors are also hard to heat up, and they may increase your utility bills exponentially. For this reason, vinyl floors have risen in popularity since they’re easy to install, and you can easily coexist with them across all seasons.

At least with these, you will not need many rugs, which makes the floor look crowded. For your bathroom, however, the best option remains porcelain non-slip tiles. However, if you need wooden flooring for your bathroom, you must ensure that it’s well refinished to prevent water from sipping into it.

9. Do an Entire Interior Paint Job

Just like you did that exterior repaint, a complete interior repaint will undoubtedly refresh your home’s look. Avoid mixing unusual colors and stick to colors that easily blend in with almost everything. The most common colors are; beige, white, and grey. Use durable high gloss paint with a non-porous finish that’s also easy to clean.

10. Think About Renovation Your Closets

Storage is a crucial factor for many homeowners with large families. No matter how neat you are, your bedroom’s storage choice will always let you down if it doesn’t hide away everything in your bedroom in place. It’s also exciting to wake up to a neat bedroom, rather than one with a crowded look.

A closet redesign ensures that your bedroom is always tidy and livable and enhances organization. Depending on your space, look for the best closet system to use for your bedroom.

If you’ve wanted to revamp your home, then those upgrades will do just that. Please don’t shy away from doing your research to ensure that you get it right and hire the right professionals to do it.

Tags: bathroom remodeling, contemporary, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, flooring, home improvement, home organization, kitchen, landscaping, paint, windows

Some of the Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

January 11, 2021 | DIY, Uncategorized

As a smart homeowner, you need to know about some of the most common plumbing breakdowns that create emergencies around the house. It will help you be mentally and technically prepared to face the situation and not panic if you suspect a particular plumbing issue.

Let us look at the most common ones:

1. Faucet Leaks

The dripping sound of the faucet can be irritating and can take away your sleep. Faucet leaks are the most common plumbing problems, especially once the plumbing system or the fixtures age. Though they may not seem like an emergency at first, however, a leaky faucet can waste gallons of precious water as well as damage your home.

2. A Clogged Sink or Shower Drain

Clogged drains in the bathroom or kitchen can be distressing when the water collects or floods the rooms. It can be a big emergency for the family. As soon as you notice the water is draining slowly, take it as a warning sign not to be ignored if clogged drains are to be avoided by all means.

3. Clogged Toilets

Toilet clogs can create serious issues around the homes and are again a very common problem. Since the toilet fixtures are used more than the other plumbing fixtures, they often wear out. You can handle minor clogs with a plunger but if the problem recurs often, or refuses to settle, call for professional help.

4. Water Heater Issues

Another problem that comes up often is the shock of cold water when you turn on the shower expecting hot water. The problem can occur mainly due to some electrical fault, heater issue, or cracks or pipe burst. You will need to get in touch with your utility company at the earliest and resolve the hot water issue.

Water heater leak is another most common plumbing emergency that occurs, especially after years of use. The drips from the heater or the pipe joints can be seen as a puddle below the leaking point on the pipe. The water heater leaks, apart from creating a messy and wet floor, also unnecessarily increase your water bills due to the wasted water. So before the problem increases, it is smart to get the same inspected and repaired. It may range from replacing a valve, pipe to the entire heater.

5. Frozen or Burst Pipes

Frozen pipes are very frequent problems during winter. If your water supply stops suddenly during winters, the issue likely is that of frozen pipes. You will need to locate the section and try to resolve it by applying a hot towel or with the help of the hairdryer. You must remember that you do not use any flame for heating the frozen section since the pipes can burst. Pipes can also develop cracks or burst due to when the water expands or freezes rapidly. A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency that needs to be handled immediately by a denver plumbing contractor.

6. Faulty Toilet Flush

The valve of the flush button can stop functioning, creating constant running water in your toilet. It can waste a large amount of water as well as increase your water bills manifold. It ]needs to be inspected and repaired soon, to stop the dripping noise and the water wastage.

7. Washing Machine Hose Leaks

It is again a common problem that can arise at any time as the washing machine hose tends to crack or develop leaks over the years. You should inspect it for mold and dust too.

8. Garbage Disposal Block

The device helps to keep the kitchen sink unclogged. However, it can get clogged and stop functioning and will need to be repaired asap.

9. Sewer System Malfunctioning

Sewer malfunctioning can be quite a nightmare as the system can throw the sewer back into the home and will need to be repaired immediately to stop your home from turning into a garbage dump.

10. Gas Pipe Leak

This also is a common household problem that needs immediate attention as it can be very dangerous if not resolved at the earliest. You should call for professional help without losing any time and get the gas pipe repaired.

Tags: bathroom, bathroom remodeling, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, home improvement, leaking faucet, plumbing, repair

Temperature & Humidity vs. Paint

March 13, 2020 | Design And Decor, DIY, Remodeling

Rain and wind are not the only environmental factors that affect ideal painting conditions. Homeowners, contractors and handymen must contend with different humidity and temperature levels, too, during exterior projects. Painting under the right conditions can make the difference between a job well done and a redo. Read on to learn about the ideal circumstances for painting to avoid any unwanted issues.

How Temperature Affects Drying

Why does temperature matter? When it comes to painting a house, temperature is a huge factor in the way a fresh coat of paint will dry. Drying paint in temperatures that are too low or high could result in cracking and peeling. For example, extremely low temperatures can prevent fresh coats of paint from correctly drying because moisture within the formulation can actually freeze solid before it dries completely. On the other end of the spectrum, extremely hot temperatures can evaporate the moisture from within the paint faster than normal. This can cause the top layer to skin over before the layers underneath dry, which can produce cracking, blisters and other imperfections.

There are some rules of thumb to follow when it comes to different types of paint. Temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended when using solvent or oil-based paints. Latex and acrylic paints dry much better in temperatures that exceed 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures dip, dew can form on surfaces and cause the water in the paint to evaporate too slowly. Some paints are now formulated to dry at lower temperatures, such as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s vital to follow the instructions on paint containers, since each paint formula is designed to be used within specific temperature and humidity parameters.

How Humidity Affects Drying

When high-humidity conditions are combined with low temperatures, the protective qualities of paint may be compromised. Condensation can occur on the paint’s surface, which creates issues with the paint’s drying and adhesion. In some cases, high humidity can cause unsightly streaks or surfactant leaching, which is a brown or white discoloration on the top layer of the paint. Additionally, excess moisture in the air can be absorbed into wood surfaces and affect paint adhesion. This can result in bubbling or peeling paint.

Avoiding Problems

Be sure to check the weather forecast before starting any outdoor painting project. It’s also a good idea to monitor the temperature and humidity levels during painting projects. The best time to paint, depending on geography, would likely be early summer or fall. These seasons usually offer the best weather conditions, with minimal rain and fluctuations in temperature from day to night. This can ensure that the paint adheres smoothly and has a chance to dry and cure properly. Summer also tends to be the perfect time for painting since it is typically dry and warm. Aim to paint when you have a clear, low humidity day with the ideal temperatures falling around 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sticking to these guidelines can help you end up with a flawless finish. Before you get started on your next painting project, take a look at the accompanying infographic to review how temperature and humidity can affect a fresh coat of paint.

Temperature & Humidity vs Paint from Raider Painting

Tags: bathroom remodeling, contemporary, home decor, home design, home improvement, paint, repair

Bathroom Renovation with Custom Shower Doors

January 29, 2020 | Design And Decor, DIY, Remodeling

There are plenty of reasons that could make you want to renovate your bathroom. Maybe you are moving into a new house and the bathroom isn’t up to par. Maybe you just want a change of scenario for your bathroom and want it to look more modernistic. Usually, the first and foremost step to changing the look and feel of your bathroom involves looking up custom shower doors online.

If you search for ‘custom shower doors near me’, you will find Fab Glass and Mirror as one of the top results which are also one of the best options. However, let’s focus on that later. Currently you must be wondering what exact kind of custom glass shower doors will be suitable for your bathroom. Should you look for custom frameless shower doors or semi-frameless one? You might also be wondering how much do custom glass shower doors cost. In general, shower doors do tend to cost a lot. However, it’s utility and long-time use easily makes up for the cost. Let’s focus on different types of custom made shower door ideas that will be perfectly suitable for your bathroom.

Frameless Shower Door

If you keep popularity in mind, frameless shower doors are in high demand among homeowners. To explain a frameless shower door, let’s just say it’s a kind of tempered glass door that’s on the sturdy side, with about ⅜ or ½ thickness properties. Unlike other shower doors, there is no need for a metal frame to surround the exterior of this one. As such, the bathroom enclosure looks clean and modern and the bathroom looks bigger. One of the reasons frameless shower doors have become popular is that they offer no obstruction to the beautiful stonework or other such artistic details that one’s bathroom has. However, you must keep in mind that the cost of a frameless shower door is usually double the cost of a framed door.

Semi-Frameless Shower Door

You can opt for a semi-frameless shower door if you want to maintain your budget. While it will have some of the characteristics of the frameless door, such as better visibility, the top edges of the door and some parts of the sides might be framed. Make sure the glass is ⅜ tempered and the hinges are permanently bonded. Do check that the handles are solid. Also, it is better if you choose the ones which are taller than the standard height, as it gives a sleek look.

Framed Shower Doors

Framed shower doors might be cheaper than their counterparts. However, if you are smart with your choices, they look and are just as good for your interior design. You can order custom made models that are sturdy yet have a chic feeling to it. This is mainly due to the aluminum framing, which if done right, makes the bathroom look classy. What’s more? This type of shower door looks just as good in a contemporary bathroom as it does in a traditional one.

Glass Tub Enclosures

Do shower curtains bore you now? Well, you can opt for a thicker ⅜ treated enclosure that makes the tub and the surrounding area of your bathroom look sleeker. It’s best to go frameless in this situation and you can even have a steel track bar at the top of the enclosure. The door glides back and forth over the stainless steel wheels, making it effortless for you to get inside and outside of the tub. Now that we have discussed different shower doors, did you know that you can choose different styles and mechanisms for opening your shower door?

Let’s take a look at some of them.

Sliding Doors for Small Space

The kind of door style you should have depended mainly on your bathroom. For your tub enclosure, sliding shower enclosures are the best choice. They are also quite the perfect fit for bathrooms that are too small where the walls are a bit too close. A sliding door will be able to show off the bathroom without having you accidentally collide with the glass shower door.

Pivoting Door for Traditional Setting

Pivoting doors are also known as swinging or hinge doors. They are like the day to day doors we have in our home, pivoting inward or outward depending on the mechanism you choose. They look best at home in a traditional setting, giving the bathroom a more sophisticated look.

In case of pivoting doors, you will have to ask the company you are ordering the glass shower door from to take a measurement of the bathroom and the surrounding area of the door and its frame. You should also make sure that you have enough space so that the door doesn’t collide with the bathroom fixtures after you install it.

Bi-Fold Shower Doors

In case you don’t want a sliding door, and your bathroom does not have enough space to fit in a pivoting door, you can look for bi-fold shower doors. You can choose one with a frameless design and install it over a tub or shower stall. Bi fold doors are nothing but glass shower doors with two doors instead of one. They divide the space that the pivoting shower door will take, into two halves. As space is divided, the length of each door is smaller, which takes up much less room when opening the door.

Partial Tub Enclosure

A partial tub enclosure is quite new in the glass shower door scene. This European style glass silhouette covers only half of the space of the bathtub that is protecting the area where the water will hit while saving up on precious space at the same time. There is also no need of a door for a design like this. Another thing you might have wondered while looking for a glass shower door is the type of finish that you should buy. In total, it can be broadly categorized into two. Let’s check them out.

Simply Use Clear Glass

Clear glass door finishes are glass shower doors with crystal clear and transparent glass that has an overall modernistic feel to it. However, the chances of scratches are greater with this one. As they are transparent, the dust and dirt collected over time are visible easily. If you want clear glass finish, be prepared to wash or at least wipe it daily.

Textured Glass

Tempered glass is different from clear glass in the sense that it is not as transparent and has a foggier or frosted texture. You won’t be able to look through the glass and see what’s happening on the other side easily. As such, it offers you more privacy if you aren’t comfortable with the idea of a lack of barrier, even if you live alone. The textured finish also makes the scratches less visible to the naked eye, so you can be a little more careless with cleaning. Now you have all the information you could possibly need to order your own custom glass shower door. The only thing you might be a bit hazy about would be the price of the door, but that’s something you are better off discussing with the company you are ordering from.

At Fab Glass and Mirror, custom shower doors are a part of the company’s specialty. Especially, if you are looking for frameless shower door, you will find yourself surrounded with a variety of options ranging from Neo Angle shower to corner showers. If you want more information, you can consult a shower door expert on the site who is always available for a live chat. Don’t hesitate to order from this wonderful company that has all your glass related needs taken care of.

Tags: bath, bathroom, bathroom remodeling, contemporary, enclosures, glass, home improvement, plumbing, shower

12 Tips for Choosing the Right Plumbing Service

September 17, 2019 | Design And Decor, Remodeling

When a plumbing crisis strikes, it’s easy to go into panic mode and call the first plumbing company you find, but this isn’t always the best course of action. Hiring a plumber is often a costly ordeal on its own, so the last thing you want to deal with is an unexpected issue in the future due to a poor repair job.

This is why it’s important to choose the right plumber. Not only will you benefit from a faster and more affordable job, but also one that will prevent further plumbing issues from happening a few months down the line. Another concern is the wellbeing and security of your family, which is something you can’t put a price on.

So, the next time your dog is swimming in the bathroom or your sink is spurting like a spring, here are 12 tips that’ll help you choose the right plumbing service.

Experience

Naturally, a plumbing company that has been around for a few years will be able to provide a much higher quality service than one that was only recently established. While it’s true that every company has to start somewhere, a more established plumber has already learned from the mistakes that an inexperienced plumber might make on your home.

Plumbing License

Confirm that the plumber you choose has valid licenses. This is required by all local authorities and states, so no plumbing service worth your money should be without one. If they don’t have a license, chances are there’s a good reason for it and you should look elsewhere.

Insurance

In a similar light, a good plumber is wise enough to take the necessary precautions in their work and insure themselves for general liability. This can also include workman’s compensation insurance, which protects the workers handling your plumbing. A good plumbing service will be able to provide evidence of their insurance or bonding upon request.

Website

These days, a website serves as the most common point of contact between a business and its potential customers. Therefore, a good plumbing service will have a well-designed website that adequately details their services. Their website should include information about their hours, areas of service, and contact details.

Additionally, a good plumbing service might be one that goes the extra mile and offers additional content on their website. This can include a blog where they provide advice on plumbing issues or a live support center that you can contact in emergencies. These elements serve as indicators of how much a company cares for its customers.

Warranties

Reputable plumbing companies trust their workers to provide good service and their suppliers to provide high-quality products and tools. Therefore, a good plumbing company should have a warranty on the labor and products they offer. Be sure to also check whether they have a satisfaction guarantee with respect to customer service.

Customer Treatment

The way a company handles their calls and inquiries is telling of their workplace culture and how they treat their customers. A good plumbing company will answer your call in a warm, friendly manner and provide a helpful service throughout the conversation. Their behavior will extend to when they visit your home, so be sure to keep it in mind.

Transparency

Nobody likes a company that sneaks in additional fees and charges that you weren’t informed about. A reliable plumber will be transparent about exactly how much you’ll pay for their services. Avoid working with a company that isn’t willing to provide an upfront quote for fixing your plumbing problems.

Online Reviews

In this day and age, any company that is proud of its services will have a position on review websites such as Yelp and Google My Business. They should also have social media accounts where they interact with customers and follow up on reviews. A plumbing service with a load of unhappy customers and one-star reviews should probably be avoided.

References

In addition to online reviews, a good plumbing company should be able to provide a list of references. You can follow up on these references to firstly, see if they’re legitimate and secondly, to get an idea of what it’s like to work with the plumbing service in question. If they refuse to provide any references at all, look elsewhere.

Location

While not necessarily telling of the quality of their service, it would be easier to deal with a company that is located in your local area. This way, you can visit their office and get an idea of how they operate. It also makes it easier to receive a fast response in the event of a plumbing emergency in the future.

Credentials

There are three main types of credentials that a plumber can have. This includes the following:

Apprentice: An apprentice is a plumber who works alongside journeymen or master plumbers to obtain the necessary knowledge and skills required to become a qualified plumber. They usually participate in classroom instruction and paid practical work.

Journeyman: After passing training, an apprentice graduates to a journeyman and earns a license from their local state. Most don’t have established companies but can handle the majority of plumbing work.

Master Plumber: If you find a master plumber, chances are they’re the best in your area. Master plumbers have associates degrees and have tons of experience.

Additional Services

Some companies offer additional services to their customers for added value. For instance, this company offers a Home Service Back Office, which allows plumbing and home service businesses to outsource their customer support operations. If you’re interested in starting your own plumbing or home service business, this will serve as a great addition to your company.

Look out for plumbers that offer additional services like these, as it shows that they’re willing to go the extra mile to stand out from their competitors.

Conclusion

By factoring in their experience, reputation, transparency, customer service and credentials, you’ll be able to find the right plumber for your needs and have a reliable company to call in emergencies. Taking the time to do your research will inevitably pay off in the future, making it a worthwhile endeavor.

Tags: bathroom, bathroom remodeling, contemporary, faucet, home improvement, leaking faucet, plumbing

5 Tips to a Greener Home

July 8, 2019 | Design And Decor, DIY, Remodeling

Every homeowner wants the best for their family. From cozy living rooms to serene bathrooms, we all want to improve the way we live by considering home improvement projects that help us achieve a more appealing home.

But when it comes to making a home that’s safe and healthy, we will have to look for green solutions. After all, this is the first step to achieving a healthier home.

Let’s check out a few important tips to a greener home.

Ditch commercial materials

Whether you’re mopping up the living room floor or repainting the exterior walls of your home, the materials you use may contain chemicals that not only pollute the air but also cause a wide range of health conditions on your family. You may need to update your shopping list and get rid of brands that are known to contain high traces of cancer-causing chemicals such as glycol and benzene.

If you’re making a change for the better, you might as well look online for shops selling organic materials for your next home improvement project.

Think of a redesign

Often the best way to build a green home is to start from scratch. Fortunately, if you’re planning to settle in a home that’s both functional and eco-friendly, there are local builders who can help you along those lines.

If you live in Baltimore, you’ll find Maryland home builders who can provide custom designs that help reduce your carbon footprint. But if you already have a home, you can always opt for a redesign by using proper insulation, as well as materials and concepts that allow for better cooling and heating.

Upgrade your lighting

If there’s anything that passes as an eco-friendly solution, changing your light bulbs will do the trick. Especially if it has been a while since you last upgraded your lighting, swapping your bulbs with LEDs will really keep your energy consumption low along with your power bills.

Prepare a compost pit

Managing a garden is tough work, but choosing a safe alternative to commercial fertilizers has to be tougher. Sure enough, familiar fertilizer brands could be more acidic and, in effect, harmful to your plants.

Commercial fertilizer might give your garden the lushness it needs, but when it comes to keeping the soil healthy, preparing your own compost using kitchen scraps has to be the better option. It’s organic and it won’t pollute the ground much as synthetic fertilizers do.

Improve your insulation

Whether there’s a blizzard or a heatwave, the thermostat has to be your best bet in keeping your home’s temperature well-regulated. Then again, you will have to pay a price for keeping your home well heated or cooled during extreme weather. By keeping your home well-insulated, you won’t have to set the thermostat high or low.

A greener home is possible, so long as you use the right approach. That way, you won’t have to worry about putting your family’s health and safety at risk.

Tags: backyard, bathroom, bathroom remodeling, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, home improvement

Four Big-Ticket Home Remodeling Upgrades with Resale Value

March 18, 2014 | Remodeling

Few homeowners are completely satisfied with the layout, décor or overall appearance of their homes. This often leads to big home renovation projects, many of which cost thousands of dollars to complete. As these homeowners spend their savings or take out additional mortgages to finance these improvements, they often begin to wonder whether the renovations will really increase the value of their homes or will simply take all their money.

While the average costs associated with remodeling have dropped 10-15 percent in the past few years, the overall selling prices for most homes has also decreased. This makes choosing renovations that will provide the most resale value even more important.

While small remodeling projects, such as replacing a worn front door or updating to energy efficient windows, still bring the highest returns, there are opportunities for larger renovations to improve a home’s value. These are the top four big-ticket home remodeling upgrades that retain the most resale value:

1. Kitchen Remodeling Projects
While gutting and completely rebuilding a kitchen is an expense that generally will not pay off for homeowners, a fairly minor kitchen re-do can add up to 83 percent to the home’s value. By simply updating a kitchen with new cabinet doors, newer appliances and high-quality countertops, sinks and hardware, homeowners can provide a new look to their kitchen for under 20,000 dollars. Potential buyers walk into these partially renovated spaces and assume that these changes cost between 40,000-50,000, and they are willing to pay more for the homes.

A good rule of thumb for kitchen remodeling projects is to budget and spend approximately 25 percent of the home’s value. Spending more than this will be putting too much capital into a home that will not be recouped at resale. Additionally, homeowners should be cautious about building ultramodern spaces in traditional homes. Potential buyers like to see updated fixtures, but they also want kitchens that match the style of the home’s architecture.

2. Bathroom Remodeling Projects
When potential buyers view a home, quality bathrooms are often their second-highest priority. Like renovated kitchens, remodeled bathrooms can look especially high-end, clean and luxurious. These qualities can entice many buyers to pay top-dollar for homes.

Remodeling a bathroom does not have to cost a lot either. Putting just 5,000-10,000 dollars into repainting, tiling and adding high-quality fixtures can truly transform a bathroom into a home oasis that will reap a 60 percent return on investment. Homeowners with multiple bathrooms should choose their remodeling projects carefully. Buyers like the idea of spa-like master suites, and updating guest powder rooms can also impress.

3. Basement Renovations
Completing an unfinished basement or renovating an out-of-date basement can add significant living space to a home that will be reflected in value at sale time. Because homeowners are simply utilizing space that already exists in their homes to create additional living quarters, remodeling a basement is a surefire way to increase the value of their homes. Unfinished basements that are renovated into fully functional living rooms, extra bedrooms or even man caves can bring a 70 percent financial return at resale time. Of course this dollar amount depends on the square footage of the basement, but even small spaces that are made livable will see financial gain.

4. Attic Conversions
Constructing an addition or expanding the roof or foundation is a costly renovation project that typically does not offer much in resale returns. However, homeowners that can fully renovate an interior space, such as an attic, spend less money and therefore make more profit when they sell. Because attics are typically used for storage and are then considered wasted space, renovating them to become usable living area can add significant value to homes. Most often these attics are converted into additional bedrooms, sometimes returning as much as 84 percent of the cost in resale value. Older homes are particularly appropriate for attic renovations since many of them have high rooflines that yield larger spaces under the eaves. These areas can become cozy bedrooms, libraries and bonus rooms.

While big-ticket renovations see the highest yields at resale, there are a number of smaller investments that often bring an even greater investment. Remodeling projects such as swapping out an entry door, adding a wood deck or updating a home’s siding typically cost even less than these projects but see more than 90 percent in resale returns. Homeowners who want to see value when it comes time to resell their homes need to carefully pick and choose their renovation projects.

Tags: attic conversion, attic remodeling, basement remodeling, bathroom, bathroom remodeling, home improvement, kitchen, resale value

Local Looks – Custom Bathroom Floor Coating in Minnesota

September 28, 2013 | Remodeling

We received a submission from Minnesota. A reader, Sammy Jo, submitted a project that appears to have turned out quite nicely. They wanted to replace the flooring in their bathroom. After examining a few options, they wanted to save money, but had a goal of giving themselves a modern / contemporary look. Once the options were weighed, they ended up deciding to go with a floor coating, similar to what you would sometimes see in garages across America. Here is the bathroom flooring before they started.

Before – Old Tile Floor

The homeowner did the demolition on the floor by themselves, which saved them money. They then told us that they began to investigate how to install the new floor coating on their own. It turned out that this wasn’t a great idea. So, after some deliberation, they decided to call a contractor. They decided to contract Garage Floor Coating of Minnesota, a local company to them, to come in and finish the project professionally. They told us that going with the professionals was the best solution, especially after seeing the finished product.

We have to agree, the floor looks great! I hope you enjoy them for a long time Sammy Jo from Minnesota!

After – Custom Bathroom Floor Coating

Tags: bathroom, bathroom remodeling, contemporary, floor coating, flooring, home improvement

Essential Elements That Make for a Great Greenhouse

August 6, 2013 | DIY

Gardeners love to dream of having a greenhouse that will extend the growing season. Seedlings can be started when the spring weather is unpredictable and temperature swings prevent soil from warming sufficiently in the garden plot. Basic greenhouse models offer an affordable starting point for the at-home gardener. There are many “How-To Guides for Greenhouses” available online, but here are some must haves when it comes to building your own!

STANDARD GREENHOUSE ATTRIBUTES
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Every greenhouse requires the shopper to make some choices that are appropriate for the use and location of the garden greenhouse. Following these initial selections, the gardener can enhance the greenhouse with each passing year.

• Wall material – Double, or triple, thickness of various materials will offer the necessary insulation against heat loss. Gardeners are happiest when the best possible wall composition is selected for the climate. Saving money on this feature could be expensive later.

• Floor composition – Every greenhouse expert has a different opinion about whether the floor should remain dirt, be a poured concrete slab or consist of wood planks, which would allow moisture to run through the boards.

• Size – Advice from current greenhouse owners includes the admonition to “buy large.” An estimate based on current needs will require replacement of the greenhouse in the next two years. During the first spring, the gardener might have unused space inside the greenhouse.

• Location – Gardeners know where the greenhouse will fit within the yard space. Deciduous trees must be considered since the shade in the yard will change as the weather warms in the spring. Observation of the light patterns will provide important information for the gardener’s final placement decision.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS FOR THE GREENHOUSE
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Living conditions inside the greenhouse must be maintained at all times, regardless of the weather events outside. Advanced greenhouse features can be added to make the gardener look like a master gardener through the magic of technology.

• Fans for separate purposes – The air-circulating fan will run constantly to ensure that the air inside the greenhouse will not become stale, or stagnant. A heat-saver fan pulls the warmest air from the top of the greenhouse toward the plants to create an even temperature throughout the living space.
• Solar vent opener – Moderating the temperature is achieved with solar-powered openers on every vent around the greenhouse. As the temperature rises, the vents will open until the fans are able to cool the greenhouse. The setting sun triggers the vents to close and preserve heat through the night.
• Humidity dial – The amount of moisture in the air inside the greenhouse is an important factor in the health of the plants. Monitoring this level is essential for tropical plants inside the greenhouse.
• Soil analyzer – Probes are inserted in the plant soil to provide important information concerning the levels of light, pH content, moisture and soil nutrients. Readings from this analyzer tells the gardener how to adjust light, fertilizer and water.
• Light meter – No batteries are needed for the photovoltaic cell in this sensor. Light intensity throughout the greenhouse can be measured to determine if a plant needs more shade or sun.
• Thermostat – In combination with a moisture resistant heater, the greenhouse thermostat will maintain the optimal climate to support plant life. Vents will be opened, or the heater will run to adjust the temperature if it leaves the set range.
• Start trays and heat mats – Soil temperature inside the greenhouse can be maintained while seeds are germinating. Moisture is held close to the soil by clear lids on each flat to allow the tender shoots to break through the surface. A probe inserted in the soil ensures that the soil is warm, but not too hot.
• Misting system – Automated misting at the proper time throughout the day provides sufficient moisture for young plants. Any gardener who is away all day will have better results when the misting system is available to help the plants in the greenhouse make it through warm spring days.
• Monitoring station – A wireless electronic monitor can be mounted inside the house when the greenhouse is within 300 feet. The radio-controlled clock will maintain perfect time against the U.S. atomic clock. Temperature and humidity readings are received from the sensors inside the greenhouse. Frequent checks of the greenhouse conditions provide peace of mind for the gardener.

ASSEMBLE THE BEST COMBINATION
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Gardeners are dreamers of the highest order. Visions of row after row of healthy vegetables and flowers begin each year on the darkest winter days. Plans are drafted for spring projects before the gift wrap is stored away in January. Technology is advancing to support the dreams of perfect greenhouse conditions regardless of spring temperature swings. More information allows the gardener to make adjustments early to prevent loss of plants because certain areas of the greenhouse might be unnoticed through casual observation. A custom combination of these features can be assembled to address the highest priority challenges the gardener faces.

Download the Greenhouse Guide Here!!

Tags: backyard, bathroom remodeling, garden, gardening, greenhouse, home improvement

The Pros and Cons of Bathtub and Shower Liners

June 4, 2013 | Remodeling

What is a bathtub and shower liner? They’re liners that are made of the same material that your existing shower is made of, without the additional fiberglass backing. In most cases, they’re custom molded to the exact contours of your existing fixture, and slide right on top of the old one without having to demolish part of your home.

Bathtub and shower liners have been around since at least the 1980s, but are now enjoying an increase in popularity in the home remodeling industry. This is because of new advances in technology that have allowed them to become a more viable option by reducing many of the problems that plagued the days of their inception. This does not leave them without their faults, however. Let’s look at some of the reasons to install a bathtub or shower liner as opposed to undergoing a full-scale remodel.

Quick Installation – In most cases, you can call a company that specializes in liners and they can have a technician sent out to gather measurements within a week. After the technician gathers the required measurements, he submits them to the factory that he represents, and they will begin molding your liner as their workload permits. Once it’s ready, the installation crew will come out to your house and install it in a matter of a single day. You can use your shower or tub the same day they install it.

Cheaper Than a Remodel – Electing to install a liner is much cheaper than a remodel. Depending on your choices, the difference can be as little as a few hundred dollars for a liner, or a few thousand dollars for a remodel. Most of your costs will always revolve around your own personal choice in design, texture, material, and how drastically you want to change your bathroom. If you just want to cover a few scratches or chips, a process called refinishing may be right for you.

No Wrecking Ball Required – Most remodeling jobs require no small amount of demolition in order to replace your fixtures. Depending on the size of your doorways, you may have to demolish part of your wall in order to remove your existing tub or shower. This may be as simple as one doorway before you’re lucky enough to squeeze it out of those French doors. Unfortunately, it could be as bad as having to demolish an exterior wall on the second floor in order to remove and replace it with a crane. With a liner, virtually none of this messy business is required.

Cover Stained Walls – Now you’ve installed this lovely new liner, but that wall behind it looks like something straight out of a horror movie. Never fear. The same companies that handle your bathtub and shower liners, also handle convenient wall liners that are made out of the same material. They won’t just cover up all of that mold or mildew, either. Most companies these days will actually use a special industrial cleaner that’s specifically designed to be antimicrobial and prevent the growth of any future mold or mildew before they install the wall liners.

Even with all of the new advances, bathtub and shower liners still have their issues. Nothing is perfect, of course. Here are a few imperfections to consider before making your final decision on your bathroom overhaul.

Water Leakage – Even with all of the tape and caulking that your installation technician will use, there is still a chance that the seal they place on your liner will not be 100% waterproof. If this is the case, water can seep in between the liner and the tub and cause the growth of mold and mildew. Left unchecked, this can actually rot holes in the structure of your tub, causing it to collapse or form holes. All of this takes years to happen, but it’s still worth knowing and being aware of.

That “Spongey” Feeling – If your liner isn’t molded precisely to the contours of your existing bathtub or shower, you may become aware of areas that seem to sink in when you sit or stand on them. When you have these areas, they can easily lead to cracks and breakage in your seals. This can cause, you guessed it, water leakage as described above.

Still Somewhat Pricey – Ultimately, bathtub and shower liners still cost a few hundred dollars or more in order to install. Refinishing costs much less than this, and can more easily cover your cracks and chips.

Ultimately, the choice is entirely up to you. While there are good and bad points to liners, it all depends on how much you want to spend for that look you’re going for.

Tags: bathroom, bathroom remodeling, bathtub liners, home improvement, shower liners

Think Outside the Box for an Affordable Bathroom Remodel

April 10, 2013 | Remodeling

No one is going to dispute that avocado colored wallpaper and orange linoleum tile floors from the 1970’s are less than desirable. If you ever wanted to have a home spa day in your own bathroom, you would have to leave the cucumber slices over your eyes the entire time because seeing your Partridge Family bathroom would never let you relax. If you’re tired of your bathroom, but not sure you can afford to remodel it, here are some tips to help you reconsider.

A bathroom remodel is one of the smartest things a homeowner can do for their house. Along with the kitchen, remodeling the bathroom is incredibly effective for increasing the value of the home and a well done one can even boost your selling price. These kinds of remodels tend to pay for themselves when the house is sold. If you have no intention of selling, then an affordable bathroom remodel is a nice treat for you and makes your home that much more pleasant for you and your family. Of course, you don’t want to skimp on the quality of the remodel, so be sure to hire the best contractor you can find for the job.

Consider Creative Options for Saving Money on Your Bathroom Remodel

Affordable bathroom remodeling is all about being willing to think outside the box. While the easiest option for a remodel would be to simply gut the room and start from scratch. However, it isn’t the most affordable option. You’ll want to consider doing a “surface” remodel in which you only replace or refurbish certain parts of your current bathroom. A surface remodel could include repainting the room, adding new light fixtures, refinishing the vanity, or adding new countertops or floors.

If you need some ideas for inexpensive fixtures for your new bathroom there are several TV shows dedicated to the subject and home improvement magazines are another resource you shouldn’t overlook. Many larger cities also have home improvement stores that specialize in used and refurbished construction items. If you have one in your area, be sure to see what they have in stock. You never know, you might find that claw foot tub you have always wanted at an amazing price.

You might also find that there are some inventive programs from your city that will help your remodeling budget bottom line. For example, if you are replacing your toilet with a newer, water saving model, you could receive a rebate from the city by recycling your old one and showing proof of purchase and installation of the newer model. You don’t need a lot of money to change parts of your bathroom you don’t like, however you will need to do your research to make sure you are making smart decisions. A bathroom contractor will also be able to use his experience to help you make your dream room a reality within your budget.

Get free bathroom remodeling estimates using the form on the upper right of this page!

Tags: bathroom, bathroom remodeling, countertops, flooring

The Average Cost of a Bathroom Remodeling Project

April 4, 2013 | Remodeling

Homeowners who undertake remodeling projects are typically altering either their kitchens or their bathrooms. As one of the most frequently occupied rooms in the house, bathrooms see a lot of wear and tear in a short amount of time. Toilets begin to leak, tiles loosen around bathtubs and showers, and mold forms in the flooring grout. Even with cost-reducing quick fixes over the years, these issues pile up until nothing will resolve them except a complete bathroom makeover.

The difficulty with bathroom remodeling projects is that the room is one of the most complex and compact spaces in the entire house. With all that water in one small room, there are many opportunities to make costly choices and mistakes. The best way to keep the costs of a bathroom remodeling project in check is to start the process with a set budget and to make design choices based on needs that fit within those specifications.

How much does a bathroom remodel cost?
The average cost for a bathroom remodel varies greatly depending on the type of bathroom. Master bathrooms are generally more expensive, averaging approximately $16,000 nationwide, while non-master full bathrooms average closer to $11,000. This difference in cost is based largely on the upgrades added in a master bathroom.

Because a master bathroom is still considered a luxury, building or remodeling these spaces is generally more costly. Homeowners working on their master suites are more apt to include more expensive accessories that are frequently nonessential. For example, master bathrooms often feature larger-than-normal soaker tubs or separate spaces for bathtubs and showers. These features are not essential to the functionality of the bathroom space, but they are luxuries that many homeowners wish to include in their master suites. These types of add-ons will greatly increase the cost of a bathroom remodeling project.

Another variant in determining the average cost of a bathroom remodel is the location of the home. Homeowners across the nation spend varying amounts of money on very similar remodeling projects. Pacific coast homeowners tend to spend the greatest amount of money, averaging nearly $1,000 more per project than anyone else in the country. Residents of the Mid-Atlantic and New England states spend the second most on their remodels, while the South Atlantic states are third on the list. The least expensive remodeling projects seem to be located in the Mountain region where the average remodeling project is nearly $6,000 less than those on the Pacific coast.

Despite with these regional disparities in remodeling costs, even greater differences exist between urban and rural projects. Homeowners in major cities, such as New York and San Francisco, frequently spend more than $20,000 on non-master full bathroom remodels. Similar projects in smaller metropolitan areas, such as Oklahoma City and Dallas, average closer to $7,000. These regional and location differences are based on the availability of materials and more importantly on the cost of labor.

What factors most influence the cost of a bathroom remodel?
The largest single cost in a bathroom remodeling project is labor for the contractor and crew that will be handling the project. The cost of labor usually amounts to around one-third of the entire budget of the remodel. This fee is nearly non-negotiable unless the homeowner does some of the work himself to cut costs. Therefore, if the budget of the remodeling project needs to be trimmed, the savings most likely will need to come from some of the luxuries and not from the labor budget.

Another costly factor in bathroom remodeling projects is the plumbing itself. If the bathroom project is mainly cosmetic, this may not be a large factor in the remodeling, but many bathrooms are altered because of leaking faucets or bathtubs. Correcting leaks and replacing bad pipes can be very time-consuming for the construction crew and plumber which will drive up the labor costs in addition to the fees for the new pipes. This can be especially true if the leaking pipe is difficult to find or if the house is older and features non-compliant types of pipes. These hidden costs can become budget-busting very quickly.

Beyond the cost of labor and plumbing, the other major expenses in a bathroom remodeling project mainly involve cosmetic choices. While it is necessary to place a floor, walls, and ceiling in the bathroom, the types of materials and their costs can vary widely to fit within any remodeling budget. For example, although radiant (heated) flooring that will keep feet warm on cold mornings is exceptionally comfortable and luxurious, it is not a necessary feature for a bathroom remodeling project. Therefore, radiant flooring is an added expense that will drive up the cost of the project rather than keep it within budget.

What are some common luxury features used in bathroom remodeling projects?
In addition to radiant flooring, there are several common luxury features that can take any bathroom remodeling project to another luxurious level. Many interior bathrooms that do not have windows are being given natural light through the addition of skylights. These features can flood a room with natural light during the day while also giving a romantic view of the moon and stars during the night.

Deep soaking bathtubs and rain-inspired shower heads are luxurious additions to many master bathroom remodeling projects. These powerful yet calming additions to cleanliness help to create an at-home spa atmosphere for any bathroom. In addition, many tubs and showers are surrounded by elaborately designed bathroom tile designs with stain-resistant grout that withstand the threat of mold while looking stylish and modern.

No matter the budget of a bathroom remodeling project, there are many options and variables to help keep the costs reasonable while creating a functional and attractive space. We hope you enjoyed this post on the average cost of bathroom remodeling projects!

Tags: average cost, bathroom, bathroom remodeling, ceramic tile, contemporary, cost of labor, countertops, faucet, flooring, grout, heated flooring, luxury, master bathroom, pipes, plumbing, rain shower, soaker tub, tile