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renovation

7 Mistakes Homeowners Make During Home Renovation

November 14, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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Does your home require renovation? There are many reasons to renovate one’s house, like improving functionality or enhancing visual appeal. 

Renovation can be a hectic, time-consuming, and cost-expensive procedure. However, homeowners can make the whole process much simpler and easier if they avoid making some common renovation mistakes. This article explains seven mistakes homeowners make during renovation and how to avoid them.

Unrealistic Budget

It is easy to get carried away with your budget during renovation; you might keep it too constricted or elaborate, making the renovation process that much harder. The key to an effective budget is ensuring it is sufficient to provide all the required changes without compromising security while not adding extra pressure on your financial well-being. 

Furthermore, when renovating your house, it is important to first focus on necessities such as potential water damage or leaks. Once the cost is covered for important issues, you can move on to budgeting other factors that add to the appeal of the house, for example, repainting the walls or adding a bathtub to your washroom. 

Moreover, it is important to remember renovation expenses frequently exceed expectations. To be better prepared for potential shocks and have a smoother renovation experience, it is advised to add 20% more to your budget.

Not Preplanning

If you plan to renovate your house, you must first decide where you will put your furniture and belongings when your house is under renovation. You might find yourself stuck in a position with nowhere to go if you do not plan this before starting the renovation. However, if you live in Melbourne, we have good news; Careful Hands Movers provides moving and storage solutions. They are a full-service removalists Melbourne centered business that will tackle everything from packing and moving to store your belongings in their facility for safekeeping. 

There are many benefits to storing away your belongings. Not only does this prevent potential breakage or damage to belongings from dust, paint splashes, etc., but it also ensures smooth working as furniture does not come in the way of workers in high-traffic areas during renovation. 

Not Getting a Permit

There is a misconception that many homeowners believe; they think that since it’s their house, they don’t require a permit if they plan to make any changes to the property. However, this is far from true. Different states have different requirements for house improvement licenses, so it is necessary to check with the local authorities and get the required legal permit for renovation. 

Failure to secure a legal permit can result in the work being stopped or asked to be torn down by the authorities. This can cause delays and incur extra costs. In addition, it can also affect the value of the property. 

Not Finding the Right Contractor 

Not thoroughly vetting their remodeling crew is one of the top errors people make while renovating their homes. You should refrain from hiring the first contractor you come across right away. An ineffective screening process for your remodeling team might lead to a costly and unsatisfactory renovation. 

You need to interview several contractors when trying to find the right professional for the job. Before you interview them, prepare a list of questions you want to ask and plan for what exact changes you want in the house. This will ensure that the contractor you choose knows what you are looking for.  

A further step you can take is contacting previous clients of the contractors and getting feedback from them about the work. As in the start, contractors might make false promises to persuade you to hire them. However, by gaining insight from their past projects, you can find out how true they are to their words. 

Using Cheap Materials

A common mistake homeowners make is cutting down costs by using cheap materials. This might save cost initially at the time of construction; however, the cheap knock-off supplies will start to show effects once you start living in the house again. The cheap materials will wear-n-tear easily, and soon you will find yourself in need of renovation again. This will not only cost you time and money, but you will have to go through the entire process again. Furthermore, using cheap materials can compromise safety. 

Using cheaper construction materials is not a good idea; therefore, it is best not to consider economizing on the material. Purchase the greatest materials and components you can afford. In addition to lasting longer, they will appear finer and enhance the overall quality of your house. Moreover, this will also increase the value of your property. 

Doing too much

This is a psychological mistake, the inability to resist doing more than required. Once the work begins, it is easy to fall into the trap of making more changes than you planned. You might start the project with the only objective of making additional storage space; however, mid-way, you might realize that a new paint color for your wall would be nice. You need to be able to resist this urge and follow your initial plan. 

Concentrate on one project at a time and ensure that that project is finished on time, within budget, and according to your liking. Once one project is finished, you can start planning your next one. Furthermore, this is essential to make sure the renovation stays budget friendly. 

Unrealistic Expectations

Even in ideal situations, renovation and construction work can be chaotic and inconvenient. Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking that everything will go smoothly. As with almost every endeavor, renovation might not always go as planned. Therefore, be prepared to be flexible and make changes as they come along. The ability to adapt to challenges as you face them will make the whole process of remodeling much more effective and efficient. 

Another common unrealistic expectation that homeowners keep is in terms of time. Renovation is a time extensive procedure. You can contact local construction firms and gain knowledge about the timeline of your desired projects. This will help you be more prepared for what you are getting into. Furthermore, timing your project is also a vital part. In Australia, many contractors are booked all year round. Therefore, you need to plan and contact firms ahead of time to ensure your renovation project is finished in time. 

Conclusion

If you don’t prepare and prevent typical mistakes, you might have difficulties renovating your house. But renovation can be a smoother ride if you develop a solid strategy and assemble a top-notch team of experts to bring your idea from conception to reality. 

To be fully prepared for what to expect during and after renovation, carry out the necessary research.

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3 Ultimate Tips For Professional Kitchen Remodeling

October 24, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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The kitchen is the heart of your house; it is the one place where everyone likes to gather around you and help you cook a hearty meal. You share wonderful moments prepping meals and cooking them for your loved ones. So, when it comes to renovating the kitchen, you want the best results. When you have the best appliances, your cooking experience is enhanced. But, like any renovation project, kitchen remodeling requires careful planning. Continue reading this article to learn valuable tips about kitchen renovation. 

Create A Plan

 The first step of every renovation project is to create a suitable plan. It isn’t easy to bring that vision to life when you don’t have a clear vision. You are tired of the dingy floors, stuffy cabinets and old appliances, and you want a fresh start. But you cannot move forward with your plan unless you know what that first new look is. 

Make sure you create a budget for the project and stick to the same. At times, it is hard to stick to a predetermined budget as people often go overboard. Just because it is easier to give into temptations doesn’t mean you should. If you splurge on one aspect of the project, make sure to cut down on other sections. For example, if you purchase expensive fixtures and appliances for the kitchen, you might have to compromise on the selection of tiles. 

It is at the beginning of the project when you decide whether you want to take this renovation work as a DIY project or if you hire professionals. If you have what it takes to do such a massive project all by yourself, you will save a ton of money that you can further invest in beautifying the space. However, if you are not well acquainted with hammers and nails, it is better to hire experts who know what they are doing. 

Plumbing and Electrical

The workers must pay attention to the plumbing and electrical plugs while renovating. Make sure they do not block the plumbing area with new building blocks. It would be best if you had proper plumbing in your kitchen to work properly. You may think that the workers know where to put the plugin and how to manage the water piping solutions. But every house is unique. You cannot depend on the builders to know everything. Don’t hesitate to intervene and let them know how you plan to utilize the space. They can navigate the space better when you tell them where you wish to install the dishwasher and the fridge. 

Floor and Tiles

When it comes to kitchen floors, you want a flooring material that will withstand rough treatment. Wooden floors are definitely a big NO-NO for the kitchen. The wooden floors are hard to maintain when things get spilled on the floor. Marble flooring is a better option for the floor. The same goes for countertops, as most people opt for marble kitchen countertops. You must also select a backsplash material that complements your countertops. Adhesives Technology Corporation (ATC) has launched new lines of products that are perfect for your kitchen renovation work. These adhesives are strong and help you glue down the marble tops and tiles. Make sure the builders use the best materials for plastering the tiles to the walls.

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5 Tips for Managing a Successful Office Renovation

June 15, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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Renovating your office space can both be exciting and stressful. In order to avoid having too much stress and keep everything organized, you should have a detailed strategy in place. Before you even start renovating, you should have a list of things to do, a list of materials needed, and all the ideas and people around you to help you realize the goal. Here is a short guide on how you can manage an office renovation with success. 

Create the Right Team

It is a fact that you cannot do this alone, and that is why you should hire project specialists and contractors. Also, look for individuals and companies that have a good reputation and consult with them. This way, you will manage to stay on top of building codes and regulations and get the right assessment of things that need to be done, materials to be purchased, and what you are allowed to change and what you’re not. 

Additionally, you should have your own team with you that will help you. You can appoint internal members of your staff to be involved in the project. Make sure to appoint people with the right skills for this and let them communicate with the contractor and be present for any updates regarding renovation, so the rest of the teams can work without distractions. 

Set a Budget

Of course, you’re going to need a budget for this remodel. However, include at least a 5% contingency cost line in the budget in case you encounter any unforeseen costs. Also, you don’t have to remodel everything at once. It is perfectly okay and maybe even less messy and expensive if you do it in phases. You can appoint a flexible timeframe for the remodel and you may even save some money in the long run. 

Also, make sure that the budget you set is realistic. You don’t have to spend a fortune especially if you don’t have it. If that’s the case, you should focus only on the things that are urgent to fix, remove, replace and remodel, and you can deal with the details later. 

Sustainability and Health

When planning to remodel, you should have sustainability and the health of your employees in mind, too. Think about keeping a holistic approach to this, and encourage physical, mental, and emotional health. For sustainability, you can look into natural materials, less plastic, more plants in the office, and so on. For example, you can consider replacing flooring if it’s old and not sustainable. You can easily find hardwood floor installation in Greensboro, NC, for example, and provide your office with some sustainable and durable materials. 

Also, you can encourage physical health through adjustable sit-to-stand desks, water bottle refill stations, ergonomic equipment, etc. Additionally, you can provide nice and soothing scents, designate a zen area in the office where people can relax, and overall provide a relaxing and stress-free environment.

Limit Distractions

Remodeling projects take time and can be noisy. That is why you should focus on limiting distractions to the rest of your employees. You can appoint them to work from home or another building while you’re remodeling. Also, you can set up additional temporary networks to keep things running smoothly. 

Make sure to be intentional when communicating timelines, and make sure to minimize any interruptions for your teams. Your business still has to continue running while you’re remodeling, so limiting distractions and stress is a must for your employees. 

Contain the Mess

Sounds easier than it is, but you have to do your best to contain all the dust and mess that will occur. Especially if you still have employees in other rooms working. To limit the dust from going everywhere, you should include barriers like heavy plastic sheeting or temporary walls. As for the rest of the mess, make sure to organize the proper disposal of waste and instruct the contractors on how to handle it. Lastly, don’t forget to hire someone to thoroughly clean up after. 

Any kind of remodel can be stressful and messy. That is why you have to make a plan on how you will manage and handle your office remodeling. You have to set a realistic budget, even pick a proper date to do it, and make sure your business can still run smoothly. No distractions or messes should disturb your employees, so make sure to have everything covered and allow people to simply work from home, if possible. And if you get all of that organized, there is no doubt that your office renovation will be successful and stress-free.

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10 Tips for Hiring a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

February 18, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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“Wash away your troubles with some bubbles.” 

Have you recently purchased a new living space for yourself and are setting it up? Do you love taking long hot showers in the winters while you ponder over how your day went? Bathroom space is one of those places where you can escape from your family members for a few minutes so you can have some peace. 

Bathroom remodeling might sound like a difficult or hectic task at first if you don’t have prior experience. You should know that a lot of effort and energy goes behind the bathroom remodeling process, and you have to take care of the tiny details as well. 

So, when you are looking forward to a bathroom remodeling, it is natural to wonder if you will be opting for a DIY solution or hiring a professional contractor. If you don’t have the time or energy to work on the bathroom remodel yourself, then hiring a bathroom remodeling contractor is the best shot you have. 

Why Should You Get a Bathroom Remodeling? 

If you are looking for bathroom remodel contractors near me, you should know that bathroom remodels impacts quality of life and provides you with good home value. Also, once you get a remodel done, it will save you money in the long run, and you won’t have to invest in unwanted or expensive repairs later on. This way, you will also be able to curb electricity bills and water usage. 

Make a clear plan of your own 

Did you know that in 2021, 33 percent of homeowners renovated their master bathroom because they could no longer stand their bathroom? This study shows that many people are concerned about their bathroom space and pay proper attention to it. 

Before reaching out to a bathroom remodeling contractor, make sure that you make a clear plan of your own. Spend time gathering your ideas write down any goals that you might want to achieve with your bathroom or any specific changes that you would like to see. Also, look for some ideas and inspiration on Google or Pinterest, so you know would you want the final result to be like. 

Research on remodeling contractors 

If you don’t have prior experience with remodeling contractors, it is important that you do your research on them. Look for remodeling contractors around you, such as in your local area, so you know what kind of work they do. 

Once you research remodeling contractors, you will know about the rates they charge as well as the kind of services they offer. Moreover, during your research, you can also ask close friends and family members about their experience with remodeling contractors. If they have a good experience with someone, you can also approach the same contractor. 

Conduct your interviews 

Conducting interviews of different bathroom contractors will help you compare the contractors and choose the best one among them. It is advised that you interview at least two or three contractors and choose the one who best meets your needs.

When conducting interviews, you may also ask them fundamental questions such as their level of expertise, the number of individuals on the team, and if they are appropriately licenced and insured. Moreover, you can also ask for a list of references, so you are sure about their authenticity and know whether they have worked on some good projects or not. 

Review their previous work 

When you have a look at the previous work that they did for their clients, you will know if they are efficient and productive with their work. Ideally, your remodeling contractor should come with a few photos of their best work for you to view. If they don’t have pictures with them, then you might also be able to view them on their website or social media pages. 

While all bathroom remodeling contractors do a good job, you should see which contractor suits your requirements and works in a similar style. Also, if you don’t find good images or feel that something isn’t right with their work, then don’t ignore that thought. Simply leave that contractor and move on towards the next option that you have. 

Ask for reliable references 

After you have reviewed their previous work and all seems fine, ask them to provide reliable references to confirm and re-check everything yourself. Contact the authorities in your state to confirm and verify their license. Also, reach out to their references provided and go and see the work yourself. 

Furthermore, make sure that the references that they have provided are honest with you and tell you all the right details about the bathroom remodeling contractor. If the references hesitate to provide you with the truth, you should know that something is fishy. Look out for certain red flags such as inconsistent work, multiple bad reviews, and high costs. 

Get the estimates for the job 

Do you want your interiors to be the best and will not compromise on anything? If that is what you are after, you will easily get the best work done at the most reasonable prices. Once you have finalized a remodeling contractor, then you should ask them to provide you with estimates. 

Confirm what kind of work you need to get done, and then ask them to give you a written estimate. At times people might mishear or misunderstand the quotes, so it is better if you have them in writing for the future. Also, getting a verbal estimate isn’t a good idea because you or the contractor might forget later on. When you get a written estimate, all parties will stick to it, and it will be binding for everyone. 

Work on the schedule 

If you have a job or a busy work schedule, it might be a little difficult for you to deal with a bathroom remodel contractor. Depending on your requirements, a contractor who works at your place might take a few days to complete the project. 

Most homeowners don’t realize the importance of working on time which is why delays occur. If you create a schedule for yourself, then it will be easy to deal with the contractors. Discuss any timing issues that you might have so the contractor can see if it will be easy for them to take up the job or not. 

Clarify the contractor’s job 

Many times different contractors deal with different matters, or some contractors even refuse to do some things. Before you draw up the contract, speak with the bathroom contractor about the details as to what you want to be accomplished during the project. 

For example, you could prepare a list of the important things that need to be done. These could include changing the tiles getting new taps or drainage pipes installed. Also, have a chat with them about the materials that should be used and if they charge separately for the materials or they will be included in the final charges. 

Discuss options in details 

Once you have clarified what work you are looking forward to, discuss your options. Suppose you have one bathroom in your house and 2 or 3 people living together. Think about how you will manage this situation. Talk to the contractor about figuring out alternate options for using the bathroom. The contractor might also give you some advice or else come up with a plan that includes the arrival and exit time of the contractor. This way, it will be easier for you to use the bathroom at your convenience. 

Verify the licensing 

Despite the fact that everything might be going well, it is important that you verify the license and credentials of the bathroom contractor for peace of mind. Bathroom contractors are licensed and registered most of the time, so there is nothing to worry about. If you are still concerned, you may visit their website or contact appropriate authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Parting Note 

Your final choice of selecting a bathroom remodeling contractor will not depend on one but several different things. Most of the time, people tend to fixate on only one factor, which causes trouble for them. When you meet the contractor, see if your vibe matches with them or if you will be able to work with them in a civilized manner. Also, see if their ongoing projects leave them with enough time so that they can easily work with you as well. If all the factors go well, then you should have your ideal bathroom remodeling contractor in less than no time.

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How Much Does It Cost To Remodel Or Renovate A House?

September 29, 2021
Chloe Taylor
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Doing renovations or a remodeling job in a home is something that millions of homeowners do every year. While the average home renovation or remodel can cost tens of thousands of dollars, each job is different. Of course, there are a variety of things that can influence the overall cost.

For example, improving your credit score can make borrowing money to cover the renovations much more affordable (due to lower interest rates), and thus make the entire project cheaper. Be sure to use the right strategies for improving your credit score, of course.

But what else can dictate how much you need to spend when remodeling your home? Without any further ado, let’s take a closer look at some of the factors that influence just how much it costs to remodel and/or renovate a home.

How Much Work is Being Done

Of course, the amount of work being done in and around the home will directly factor into how much it all costs. Someone who is only replacing the tile in their bathroom will only pay a fraction of the price that someone who is remodeling their entire kitchen will.

The longer it takes contractors to complete the work, and the more there is to handle, the higher the costs will be. Sometimes, the complexity of the work can also come into play. Just because a job is large and requires heavy materials doesn’t always mean it will be the most expensive.

For example, electrical work only requires some wire and a bit of drilling in most cases, but it can be some of the more expensive work to do in a home due to how complex it is. Always do your research on jobs similar to yours and gain an understanding of what you could be looking at in terms of price.

The Company or Professional You Hire


In most cases, people will need to hire a professional contractor or company to help them with a major remodel or renovation. Each company will have different pricing, so the one you go with can be a major influence on what it ends up costing you. Always speak with multiple options to ensure you are getting a good deal, and not getting taken advantage of.

But while cost is important, you never want to make your choice solely on that. There are many things to consider when choosing a contractor. You should think about the quality of their work, how much experience they have and even when they are available to help you with your renovation.

The Materials You Use

Making renovations often features the use of a ton of different materials. Concrete, wood, metals, vinyl and many others are all often used and can have different costs. Not only that, but different types of each of these can have vastly different costs. Some types of wood are affordable and readily available, while others might need to be imported and can cost an arm and a leg.

Also, things like different fixtures and features can also come with different prices depending on how they look or how well-built they were. One bathroom renovation might only cost a few hundred dollars if more affordable materials are used, while others can cost thousands.

How Much You Do Yourself

The amount that you help out can also have an impact on how much you spend. In most remodeling jobs, there is a lot to be done before and after the actual “work” gets done. For example, before you can rebuild a brand new bathroom or living room, you need to tear down what exists there. Also, when the work is done, you can’t forget about the cleanup.

While many companies will handle these for you, it will cost you. Instead, you can consider doing the demolition and cleanup yourself, if you are physically able. This can take some time and effort but has the potential to save you a lot of money.

Of course, be sure to only stick to doing things you are comfortable with. If you try and do too much, you might end up doing more harm than good, and have to pay the actual contractors more to fix your mistakes.

In conclusion, the cost of remodeling or renovating your home can differ depending on a number of factors and the overall scope of the job.

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Home Renovation Checklist: Everything You Need to Know

July 21, 2020
EmmaJ
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Many homeowners do a home renovation when they’re trying to boost the value of their home before selling it, but there’s no need to wait for an opportunity like that. Instead, find some projects that will boost the quality of your life in your living space and try to make it as functional as you can. Whether you want to do a complete renovation or simply add something new to the design, there are many projects that can help you do a great job. The biggest decision you’ll have to make is when to actually start the renovation process and, after that, you’ll only have to make decisions based on your style and budget. With a little help from this checklist, that shouldn’t be hard at all.

Determine a budget

The first thing you need to do is to determine the budget for your renovation, including the unpredictable things and repairs you didn’t count on. The major part of the budget needs to be set for everything you plan on doing and always make sure you’ve left something aside for some additional repairs. 

You can search online for some of the most unpredictable costs and try to predict what you might have to deal with. This step will be crucial if you plan on including contractors and architects because sometimes homeowners have some additional demands in the middle of the project, and these will require some modifications when it comes to the budget. Try to get a precise estimate of every project you plan on doing just to get the idea of the budget breakdown.

 

Create a list of priorities

You need to be realistic with your renovation list and your budget because sometimes homeowners don’t have a realistic idea of how much a certain renovation costs. That’s why you need to create a list of priorities and see what you will and won’t be able to do, as well as what’s going to require only a few minor changes. If you’re spending most of your time outside, think about changing your outdoor space. There are some amazing porch ceiling ideas that can upgrade your exterior space and make it visually appealing and comfortable.

Talk to your contractor and see where you stand on the amount of work, and try to find some compromises. That will allow you to do more projects and still be able to finance all of them. Prioritize everything that needs to be fixed or replaced, because if you don’t do that now, it could create a much bigger problem in the future. Once that’s done, you can move onto other projects that will help you with some interior and design changes.

Be careful when purchasing things

The tendency of impulsive shopping and buying too many unnecessary items is probably the most common mistake every homeowner makes. Before you start buying new things for your home, try to create a room-by-room plan: see what you really need and what you want simply because it’s trending at the moment. 

If you start planning on time, you can search for furniture online, which will allow you to find the best deals and keep creating different layouts until you find the perfect one. Even if you’re dealing with a small budget, you can do a lot by buying just a few items for every room. If you plan everything carefully, you can make your home feel brand new by a few simple tweaks and increase your home’s aesthetics appeal. Explore different trends and see how to incorporate them into your home, trying to find a balance between design and practicality.

Find the right contractor

If you search for a contractor online, you’ll get many results but you need to be sure the one you’ve hired is reliable and knows what to do. Don’t sign any contracts before you interview a few contractors in order to see who has the best ideas and can help you achieve everything from your list. 

Ask your contractors to find solutions for your home, give them your list of priorities and ask them to walk you through the process. You need to be able to understand everything they’re planning on doing because you want to avoid some unpleasant surprises during the renovation process. An experienced contractor will be able to assess your home and tell you whether you have realistic ideas of a final outcome, or you need to make some changes in your new design. 

 

No matter how big or small your renovation project is, it will require time and patience, so you need to do everything in your power to make it as smooth as it can be. Make sure you’re on track with everything going on in order to prevent something from going in the wrong way. 

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Home Repairs You Should Never Cheap Out On When Renovating Your Home

March 11, 2019
Tracey Clayton
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People are always trying to make ends meet, and when it comes to home remodeling, it can become so expensive (the average price is $39.957) that you need to do your best to save every dollar you can. The majority does that by opting for low-end materials or taking matters into their own hands instead of leaving them to professionals. And sure, there are some projects you can take on yourself, or use a more affordable material, but sometimes these decisions come back to haunt you when you least expect, and you end up spending more money than you would initially have to. If you are planning on remodeling, we’ll help you out by telling you where you shouldn’t cheap out.

Electrical panel repair

Leaving the electrical repairs to professionals is common sense, but there is no harm in saying it yet again. Besides the risk of getting yourself electrocuted, there is also the chance it would be more difficult to sell your property one day. Modifying the electrical panel requires getting a permit. If you don’t do that, you won’t be able to get an ESA (Electrical Safety Association) Certificate, which is a common thing for agents and buyers to ask.

Major plumbing works

Sure, you can unplug your toilet, but any major plumbing work should be left to the plumbers. It is vital to avoid complicated jobs that include the main supply line or the main stack.

Skylight installation

Skylights are great solutions for dark rooms where there is no place for a window. With all the fuss about the natural light being a sought-after feature among the home buyers, they are also a pretty good investment. However, the roof is a tricky place to install a window, and if you don’t do it properly, it can deteriorate over time and allow water into your home.

Window replacement

Similar goes for window replacement. For this task, you need specialized tools and skills. You can’t just improvise when it comes to removing and installing windows. Also, the windows are very pricey and important for energy-efficiency, so saving money on this could actually cost you more than you thought it would in the first place.

Appliances repair

Regardless whether we are talking about gas or electrical appliances, this is the area you should definitely avoid. Both of these power sources can be dangerous to tackle, and even if everything seems fine when you’re done with the fixing, there can be leaks or small malfunctions which can cause serious backfire. In some cases, it is better to buy the new ones. Nevertheless, with good quality units, paying a handyman and getting spare parts is a good investment, too.

Basement renovation

A finished basement not only adds space to your property but also value. Many homeowners decide to take on this project because they don’t consider it to be the main part of the house, and they think the flaws won’t be that obvious. However, some basement projects can result in major structural issues, so it is better to take your enthusiasm elsewhere.

Asbestos removal

Asbestos is the plague of many houses built before the 1980s, and during a renovation, the particles of this toxin can get into the air and cause health problems. If you suspect your house could host this dangerous guest, turn to the professionals.

Roof repairs or replacements

There are many cases when people get injured by falling from the roof. Even if you do know what you are doing, it is not worth the risk.

Demolition

If hitting the walls with a sledgehammer sounds fun to you, think again. What if you hit the load bearing the wall? Or damage the pipes and wiring? Not so fun, after all. For such massive projects, you need to know exactly where to hit, so it is better to call the pros.

Faux finishes

And for the finish line? Don’t do your own faux finishes. The effects of stone or wood on the walls can be beautiful, but if done clumsily, they can look like a hot mess. These projects that rely on aesthetics should be done by people with trained eyes and hands.

There is nothing wrong with saving money where you can, but usually you get exactly what you’ve paid for, and in these cases, that could be – a disaster. These were the tasks that should always be left to the professionals with the right skills and tools.

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Kitchen Renovation Guide: 4 Essential Tips to Follow

June 16, 2017
Emma K Loftus
1 Comment

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the most challenging home improvement tasks. Being one of the focal points of your home, the kitchen deserves your full attention and maximum effort. Moreover, kitchens are usually packed with tons of things and include more appliances and utensils than other rooms, so you must make sure your newly redecorated kitchen has enough space for all these items. The best way to conduct a successful remodeling job is by making a detailed list of all the things that need to be taken care of – from the choice of materials and colors to the overall look you’re trying to achieve. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind.

kitchen

Define the purpose

Not all families use their kitchens the same way – some just cook there, others use it for a quick snack as well, while there are also those who organize a complete meal right next to their fridge! Because of this, not all kitchens can look the same. So, before you start remodeling, define what you’ll be using your kitchen for.

For instance, kitchens used only for cooking and not serving food are much easier to remodel – they only need some maneuvering space between the sink and the stove and can therefore accommodate more appliances and cupboards. However, with big kitchens that include an island as well, you need to think about circulation paths and how you’ll get from the stove to the island or the dining table.

kitchen remodeling

Keep the heat up

Even though kitchens are usually small spaces packed with appliances that warm up the space, that’s not enough; therefore, choose and design your heating first. Whether you prefer radiators or underfloor heating, ensure you know how to incorporate them into the final design. Think about the position of your fridge, freezer, stove, cupboards or cabinets, and decide which areas of the kitchen need heating and which don’t.

If you choose underfloor heating, you’ll need to come up with a detailed layout as soon as possible because this part of the remodeling job is done before everything else. Remember that you don’t need to install underfloor heating beneath the fridge or the dishwasher since this might negatively affect their efficiency.

kitchen remodel

A harmonious design

Once you take care of bigger issues, you can move onto the smaller and more interesting ones – which materials to choose, which colors to pick, how to find the perfect pattern, etc. It’s also quite important to match the kitchen with the rest of your home. For example, modern apartments can’t have an old-school kitchen from the 1930s and adding a high-tech kitchen to a mid-twentieth century house is a big no-no. Just consider the whole picture and don’t go overboard.

If you decide to remodel on your own, you’ll be the one making all of these choices, which gives you full control over the design. Even if you make a mistake or two, don’t worry – as long as you’re handy and equipped with a set of trustworthy woodworking tools, you’ll be able to fix any problem. If you have any problems or just need some advice, you can always contact an interior designer for help.

kitchen renovation

Choose colors and materials

Picking the color of your walls and cabinets might be the hardest part of kitchen remodeling, but it’s also quite vital. Pick the wall color according to the type of your kitchen, the amount of direct sunlight and the color of the cabinets. Combining earthy tones with darker wood will produce a nice contrast and make your kitchen more exciting.

When it comes to the materials you can use, it’s essential to find a perfect countertop – this will definitely be the most noticeable part of your new kitchen. More importantly, you’ll be using it day after day, so it has to be up to the highest standards.Some of the materials you can use are quartz, polished granite, marble, wood and laminate, but check their prices and quality before deciding which one to purchase.

Other considerations

Other things you have to keep in mind are lighting, appliances, space for all your utensils and, of course, your budget – spending a small fortune on a kitchen is easy, but it’s also completely unnecessary.

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Wood Looking Tile Versus Hardwood Flooring

October 21, 2016
Chloe Taylor
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For homeowners planning to install hardwood flooring, the high price tag involved can be quite off-putting. The total cost for the average home can easily reach $5,000 or even more. But did you know that you can enjoy the look and style of hardwood flooring without paying the high cost of one? Faux wood tile is a type of tile that is designed to resemble real wood in almost every way.

Put the wood-looking tile and actual hardwood side by side and you cannot tell the difference. The tile has been engineered to resemble hardwood flooring in color, patterns and even texture. If you really wanted hardwood flooring but the cost puts you off, wood looking tile is a great alternative.

Durable

flooring

The biggest advantage of choosing faux wood tile over actual wood flooring during your home remodel is the added durability. Tile flooring is hard and can resist most types of damage, whether from moisture, pets or traffic. This means that it lasts longer without requiring frequent maintenance. Essentially, you enjoy the warmth of hardwood flooring and the durability of tile.

This type of tile can be especially beneficial for high-moisture areas like the bathroom and kitchen and high-traffic areas such as the entryway and hallways.

Cost Effective

While the cost difference between faux wood tile and real hardwood is not that big (some high-end tiles are even more expensive than hardwood), tile proves to be far more cost effective. It does not require expensive or frequent maintenance, making it a lesser financial burden on the homeowner.

Variety

floor

There is no shortage of variety when it comes to choosing wood looking tile. Whether you are going for a chic urban look, a more formal contemporary style or a cozy countryside décor, you will find the perfect tile for your needs. The process used to manufacture faux wood tiles allows the makers to create virtually any pattern they want.

What About Real Hardwood

hardwood flooring

Real hardwood of course has its advantages. Before you make a decision on which one to go with, we recommend that you compare the pros and cons of each. For example, real hardwood has a certain warmth that just cannot be matched by tile. There is also the fact that wood is not has hard as tile. If you stand too long on tile, your feet and ankles will complain. Wood is much friendlier towards your legs, especially for people with feet problems.

On the downside, hardwood requires a little more work in maintenance. After sometime, you need to polish it to get rid of any wear and tear. Over several years, the maintenance costs can add up.

Making a Decision

wood looking tile VS hardwood

None of the options is the best and none is the worst. The best choice depends on your needs, preferences and budget. Talk to your contractor for advice on the best choice for your home. For example, you may find that tile is better if you have pets that tend to scratch a lot.

For a more comprehensive comparison, take a look at this article from Sebring Services, “Tile That Looks Like Wood vs Hardwood Flooring.

This article was written by Bryan Sebring, the owner of Sebring Services, which is located in Chicago’s western suburbs.  Bryan is very passionate about educating homeowner’s.  From design ideas to hiring contractors, his goal is to help homeowner’s in the process of remodelling their homes.

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Greening Your Home when Renovating

September 2, 2016
Lana Hawkins
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Given the market price on homes a lot of first time buyers look for fixer uppers to save on the purchase price or do up and flip. No matter what your reason for doing up your home, this is a great way to take stock and see what improvements you can do to make your home more energy efficient.

Follow the list

  • Ensuring the shell of your home is prepared for whatever the season will throw at you would be the first step. Check and see if your walls and roof are insulated, this is the first step to trapping in that warm or cool air.
  • Next check your windows and doors, if you can feel air coming through the gap your warm/cool air is leaking out. Air leakage can account for up to 10% of your heating and cooling bills. You don’t always have to replace the windows and doors in your home, simply sealing up these gaps and cracks will prevent the air escaping. It can be as simple as getting the right sealant from your local DIY store and applying it yourself. Ensure you do your research and use the correct sealant for the material you are working with. If your applying it outside ensure that the sealant you are using is water proof.
  • Once your walls and windows are taken care of look through your home and ensure any loft hatches or fireplaces are correctly sealed up. Fire places are great in winter but can end up costing you during the warmer moths when all the cool air is being sucked out.
  • If you don’t have them already, install celling fans and ensure they have a reverse function so you can use them to circulate cool air in summer and push warm air down in winter. While you’re on the renovating journey get all or your appliances serviced annually to ensure they are working efficiently.
  • Any appliances you find haven’t aged well should be replaced for a more energy efficient model. Save Energy, Save Money (SESM) allows you to not only compare prices on thousands of electrical appliances, you can also compare the energy consumption at the same time. If you’re in doubt you can use the SESM website to compare the annual running cost of your old appliance and the new appliance you wish to buy.

Seek help from experts

If you’re luck enough to be building your own home you should consult a sustainable builder who can talk you through your options for passive cooling and other great design attributes you can incorporate into your new build.

Good Luck renovating and reducing those energy bills!

Julie Moore director of Save Energy Save Money

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