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Remodeling Your Kitchen – The Heart of Your Home
The kitchen is the heart of your home. Whether updating fixtures, preparing to sell, or just being ready for a change, a kitchen remodel is an excellent way to increase your home’s value and functionality.
Determine your goals for the project. Review kitchen designs, layouts, appliances, and building materials to find the features that fit your tastes and budget. Contact Kitchen Remodel Tacoma now!
The layout of your kitchen may not seem as exciting as choosing the style of cabinetry or picking out a paint color, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make during a remodel. Your kitchen is a busy, friendly space, and finding a layout that suits how you use the room is important. A fresh take on your kitchen layout could make all the difference in reducing chaos, optimizing workflow, and creating a comfortable space for your family to cook, dine, and socialize together.
If your kitchen is small and you have limited space, a galley kitchen is a great option. This efficient design creates a corridor with all your essential appliances like the sink, refrigerator, and stove. It’s important to leave ample counter space between each appliance and ensure that they are placed within easy reach of each other so you don’t have to move too far while cooking or cleaning.
Another way to maximize efficiency in a small space is with an L-shaped kitchen. This popular layout provides more storage than a single-wall kitchen and is ideal for open-plan spaces. If you have the luxury of an extra wall in your kitchen, this layout is also perfect for adding a home bar or breakfast nook.
For larger kitchens, a U-shaped layout is a spacious option that allows for plenty of cabinets and countertops along three walls. If your kitchen is big enough, you can even add an island for additional workspace and seating. This layout is a great choice for open-plan homes because it blurs the boundaries between kitchen and dining or living space.
Storage
The right kitchen storage options are essential to keeping the room clear and clutter-free. Look beyond basic shelving to add purposeful elements like pull-out pan racks and baskets for storing dishes and cooking utensils. Install hooks in a shallow cabinet that faces a mudroom or front entryway to keep keys, umbrellas and backpacks out of sight and easy to find. Drawers make better use of space in lower base cabinets than basic shelves, and you can even outfit an old orphan file holder to hold aluminum foil, parchment paper and plastic bags.
Don’t keep anything in the kitchen that isn’t used regularly; consider adding freestanding storage to a garage or basement for things like seasonal decorations and oversized cookware. That way, you can bring it out when needed without occupying precious kitchen real estate.
Countertops
The kitchen is the heart of your home and one of the most used rooms in your house. It is where food is prepared, meals are eaten, and families gather to spend time together. This busy space requires countertops that are durable enough to withstand the daily wear and tear of life in your kitchen while still looking beautiful. When it comes to choosing the right countertops for your kitchen remodel, there are many factors to consider including budget, durability, maintenance requirements, and resale value.
Countertops can be made from a variety of materials, but each option comes with advantages and disadvantages that should be considered carefully when making your decision. For example, quartz is an affordable choice that’s also durable and stain-resistant. It’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect countertop for your kitchen remodel.
Other popular choices include granite and marble, both of which offer elegance and beauty to your kitchen. Both are heat- and scratch-resistant, and they can be cleaned easily with water and mild soap. Marble is a more expensive option, but it’s a timeless look that can add a sense of luxury to your kitchen.
Recycled glass is another environmentally friendly option that’s becoming increasingly popular. It’s available in a range of color and texture options, and it’s easy to maintain. Just be sure to choose a material that will complement the color and finish of your new appliances.
Appliances
Appliances are the workhorses of any kitchen, and they play a critical role in everyday food preparation, storage, and cleaning routines. For this reason, appliances are one of the first areas to prioritize as you determine your kitchen remodel budget.
Set aside 15 to 20 percent of your overall remodeling budget for new kitchen appliances. Then, narrow down the options based on your household’s specific needs. For example, if you’re a foodie and spend a lot of time cooking, an upgraded range may be worth the investment.
In addition to improving your home’s kitchen aesthetics, modern appliances are typically more energy-efficient than older models and come equipped with smart features that can make mealtimes easier. For instance, many new refrigerators offer sensor cooking and temperature control that optimizes power and heat to the size of your food load. Additionally, built-in microwave ovens are designed to seamlessly fit into kitchen cabinetry for a streamlined aesthetic.
Upgrading the electrical fixtures in your kitchen also offers a number of benefits, including better energy efficiency, improved safety, and future-proofing. For example, upgrading to GFCI outlets helps prevent electrical fires and reduces the risk of shock injuries. Additionally, incorporating a surge protector helps absorb excess voltage and protects your devices against damaging power spikes.
Lastly, when choosing new appliances or electrical upgrades, it’s important to consider how they might impact your home’s resale value. Avoid over-customizing your kitchen with high-end options that might only appeal to a limited audience of potential homebuyers. Instead, opt for a more universal design style that can provide long-term functionality and enjoyment. Then, you can personalize the space with decorative accents and other accessories that will complement the upgraded appliances and fixtures.
Lighting
A kitchen remodel isn’t just about making a space more functional – it’s an opportunity to upgrade the aesthetic of this most used room in your home. And a well-thought-out lighting scheme can make a huge impact on the final design of the room.
The best lighting schemes have a mix of task, mood and feature lighting. Task lights focus on hardworking areas like countertops and the sink, mood lighting creates a soft overhead glow and feature lighting draws the eye to an interesting design element or adds a splash of color.
Pendants and chandeliers are popular choices for ambient kitchen lighting, but there’s a lot of other options too. Try recessed or track lighting for a clean, minimal look, or use uplights to wash surfaces with a soft diffused light. You can even use spot and track lighting to highlight art, plants or a collection of bottles on the shelf.
One of the most important things to remember when selecting a light fixture is that the light bulbs you select will affect the overall look of the fixture. Cool white light bulbs are better for task lighting, while warm bulbs are better for ambience. For example, exposed light bulbs, like the ones used in this deVOL real shaker kitchen, add a vintage vibe and can elevate a simple fixture.
When it comes to task lighting, under cabinet lights are great for illuminating work spaces and keeping countertops clear. But don’t forget to install dimmers so you can adjust the level of illumination based on how you use your kitchen. In addition to under-cabinet lights, add a few pendant or sconce fixtures to brighten up key areas in your kitchen and keep the whole room looking great.
How to Keep Your Bathroom Remodeling Costs in Check
Bathroom Remodeling Richmond VA is a popular home improvement project. It can improve a home’s value, functionality and style.
The first step is making sure your bathroom is watertight, or you will have issues with mildew, mold and structural damage. Then the plumbing and electrical must be brought up to code.
Choose the right materials to make your bathroom stand out and add luxury and comfort. Granite, marble, and travertine are all popular choices.
Bathroom remodeling is an exciting way to freshen up the look of your home and can increase its value when it comes time to sell. However, it can also be expensive, especially if you opt for premium upgrades. To help you keep your costs in check, it is important to make a firm plan and stick to it. Changing your mind midway through the project can disrupt your timeline and cause delays, which will add to your final cost.
Some of the biggest expenses in bathroom remodels are materials and labor. The cost of materials can vary significantly depending on the type and quality of products you choose. For example, low-cost vinyl flooring is less expensive than premium stone tile, which can run you up to $100 per square foot.
It is a good idea to get estimates from multiple contractors before making a decision. This will give you a better idea of the average price for your bathroom remodeling project. Additionally, you should always leave some room in your budget for unexpected challenges that may arise during the project.
While a bathroom remodel can be expensive, there are many ways to save money. For example, you can save on labor costs by doing some of the work yourself. You can also reduce costs by choosing lower-cost materials and sticking to your budget.
In addition to saving on labor costs, DIY bathroom remodels can also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Adding new low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads can help you conserve water and lower your utility bills. Additionally, upgrading your light fixtures to LEDs can also cut down on your electricity bill.
A bathroom is a small space, but it can be a high-traffic area. As such, it is prone to wear and tear and can become outdated quickly. It is important to update your bathroom regularly to maintain a clean and updated look. A bathroom remodel is an excellent opportunity to incorporate design elements that reflect your personality and style. It is also a great place to experiment with color and lighting.
Layout
One of the first steps in a bathroom remodel is to develop an effective layout for the new space. This step involves planning for the placement of essential services such as toilets, tubs and showers, sinks, vanities, mirrors, and cabinets. It is important to consider your family’s needs and lifestyle when deciding how best to lay out the space. It is also important to adhere to National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) design and planning guidelines to ensure a safe and functional layout.
There are several different layout options for a bathroom, but some may be more practical than others. For example, if you have limited floor space, a narrow layout might be more efficient. This layout places all the plumbing fixtures on one wall, which helps reduce construction costs. However, if you have plenty of room, a wide floor plan can be more spacious and inviting. This layout can accommodate a larger vanity and a bathtub in addition to a toilet and shower.
Choosing the right bathroom layout depends on your space, your family’s needs, and the type of bathroom you want. For example, do you want a luxurious spa-like bathroom, or do you need a more practical and functional space? Do you prefer a minimalist bathroom design or do you like the classic look of a white bathroom? Once you know what your goals are, you can start to explore different styles and ideas.
A bathroom renovation can be a simple makeover or a complete overhaul, with a few updates or the addition of new features. A full remodel requires major structural changes to the space, including removing and replacing walls, moving pipes, and changing electrical wiring. A remodel is typically more expensive than a renovation, but it is a good option if you want to change the overall style of your bathroom.
A bathroom remodel requires a significant amount of planning, but it is worth the investment if you want to create a more functional and attractive space. It is important to work with an experienced contractor and follow the necessary steps to ensure a smooth project.
Materials
The materials that you use in your bathroom remodel will have the biggest impact on the final look and feel of the room. They must be able to hold up to daily wear and tear, but they also need to fit with the overall design theme of your home. A professional can help you choose the best materials to fit your style, budget and lifestyle.
A good bathroom remodel can significantly increase your home’s resale value. Potential buyers will be impressed by the fresh, updated fixtures and amenities and may be willing to pay more for your house than they would if your bathroom was outdated.
During your bathroom remodeling, consider using bold patterns and textures to add visual interest. From geometric tiling to floral wallpaper, these elements can instantly brighten and transform the space. In addition, if you’re considering installing new flooring, try something unique like terrazzo. This composite material made from chips of marble, quartz, granite and glass poured with a cementitious binder or polymeric is making a comeback due to its durability and timeless elegance.
If you’re looking to replace your bathtub with a shower during your bathroom remodeling project, you’ll need to decide whether to opt for tile, fiberglass or acrylic. Tile is an attractive, durable option that can withstand constant moisture and stands up to the test of time. Acrylic and fiberglass are less expensive but can yellow, crack or stain over time.
You can also install a walk-in shower during your bathroom remodeling project for an instant space-saving upgrade. This can be particularly helpful for senior citizens who want to age gracefully at home. By eradicating obstacles and adding user-friendly enhancements, a safety-focused bathroom remodel can improve their quality of life by fostering independence and allowing them to enjoy their favorite place—home.
You should also update your toilet and sink hardware to complement your new design. Choose fixtures and accessories with finishes that match your vanity and add an elegant touch by matching or coordinating soap dispensers, toothbrush holders and wastebaskets. Lastly, you can add some decor items to spruce up your space without breaking the bank.
Contractors
A high-quality bathroom remodel adds value to a home and improves its resale potential. It’s also one of the most satisfying projects homeowners can undertake. But to get the best results, it’s important to hire a qualified contractor who can provide design advice, project management, quality construction and adhere to building codes and safety standards.
There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a remodeling company, including the scope of work, budget and timeline. It’s also important to check the contractors’ credentials and insurance coverage before signing a contract. For example, it’s a good idea to ask the contractor about their experience with a specific type of bathroom project, such as a tub-to-shower conversion.
When selecting a professional bathroom remodeler, be sure to look for one with a strong reputation in the industry. Some sites like Houzz facilitate a match between homeowner expectations and company expertise by providing a platform to explore portfolios and customer reviews. It’s a great resource to use when choosing a company for a bathroom renovation project in New York City.
Before a bathroom remodel begins, the contractor will shut off water service and remove existing fixtures. This includes toilets, vanities, bathtubs and showers, mirrors, cabinets, and flooring. Next, plumbing and electrical lines are exposed for rough-in, a construction term that refers to the installation of wiring, ductwork, and wall framing.
Some contractors may offer a free consultation, and it’s always a good idea to interview several candidates before making a decision. The consultation will help you understand how the project will be completed and what it will cost. It will also allow you to discuss any questions or concerns that you might have.
Licensed contractors should be able to present you with a written estimate of the cost of your project before beginning any work. They should also be able to provide you with a detailed schedule of when they will be at your house and a list of all materials that will be used. In addition to a written contract, it’s a good idea to obtain the contractor’s business license and proof of insurance.
How Garage Doors Can Add Curb Appeal and Value to Your Home
There are some factors to consider when choosing the perfect garage door. These include cost, maintenance, durability, and aesthetics.
Garage doors are often made of metal, which makes them highly resistant to wear and tear. They also provide security against burglars and intruders. However, these doors are also a pinch hazard for children and should be kept away from them. Contact New Garage Doors Yukon OK now!
As a large, visible feature on the home’s exterior, garage doors draw attention and are a major part of the curb appeal. A well-crafted, modern door that’s a good match for the house can elevate the overall look and feel of the property. However, a worn or old-looking garage door can detract from the property’s appearance and lower its value.
A new garage door can improve your home’s energy efficiency by reducing air infiltration and noise, which lowers monthly utility costs. Newer garage doors are also built to withstand severe weather impacts and other hazards. Adding insulation can help your garage space stay comfortable and reduce heating and cooling costs in the summer and winter.
Modern garage doors are available in various designs and styles, making it easy to find one that complements your home’s architecture. Some are designed to mimic the look of a traditional wood door, while others have the profile of a carriage-style door. You can even get a customized door to add a unique, eye-catching feature that makes your home stand out.
If your garage is used as a living space, you’ll want to invest in a garage door with an R-value of at least 16. This will help preserve the temperature in this space and cut heating and cooling costs. In addition, a properly insulated door will make the garage less vulnerable to the elements and reduce energy losses through leaky windows or doors.
They Make Your Home More Accessible
Many people who live with a physical disability require assistance navigating their homes and garages. A standard residential garage door, for example, often requires a high amount of manual effort to raise and lower, creating a barrier that can be challenging for disabled individuals. However, a few easy modifications can make a garage more accessible for people with mobility limitations.
For instance, eliminating the need to lift and lower a heavy garage door is crucial for people who use wheelchairs or scooters. This can be accomplished by installing a garage door opener that allows you to open and close the door with a simple push of a button. Another option is incorporating motion-activated lights and alarm systems that serve to deter intruders and provide proof of a breach, giving homeowners peace of mind when they are away from home.
Aside from installing a new door, incorporating accessibility features like ramps, level entry and wider doorways can also be helpful. Additionally, removing pesky thresholds that can pose as tripping hazards and blocking access to stored items can significantly improve usability for those using wheelchairs or walkers.
For those seeking a visually appealing alternative to canopy doors, consider opting for a sectional garage door, which is made up of panel sections connected with hinges. These panels roll up inside a vertical track found above the garage door opening, where they bend over a horizontal cylinder to sit parallel with the ceiling of your garage when opened. Sectional garage doors are relatively cost-effective, safe to operate, and come in a range of visual styles. They are also highly durable, making them a smart choice for frequent use.
They Increase Your Home’s Value
New garage doors can add value to your home by making it more attractive. This is because the garage door is one of the first things prospective buyers see when they drive up. Therefore, if yours is old, damaged, or doesn’t match the style of your home, it may turn them off.
However, a new, customized garage door that perfectly matches the style of your house can increase your home’s curb appeal and help it stand out in the neighborhood. Additionally, many new garage doors are made with windows to allow natural light into the space and create a welcoming feel.
Another way in which new garage doors can improve your home’s value is by improving its energy efficiency. If you use your garage as an additional living space, such as a home gym or office, it’s important to install a door with enough insulation to preserve the temperature in that area.
Insulated garage doors can reduce your home’s energy costs by preventing cold air from entering the space and hot air from exiting it. This can result in significant savings on your energy bills each year.
Moreover, if you live in an area prone to high winds, a quality garage door can significantly reduce the risk of damage and help protect your valuables. In fact, a well-built door is a must-have for any house in a storm-prone region. For instance, a door with reinforced metal and steel reinforcements can hold up against high winds and extreme weather conditions. It can even reduce the likelihood of your house being ripped off by a falling tree or other debris.
They Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
A new garage door can increase your home’s energy efficiency. It can prevent heat loss in winter and excessive heat gain in summer. It can also reduce your heating and cooling costs. This can help you save money and contribute to a green environment.
There are a variety of insulated garage doors to choose from. Some are made with polystyrene or polyurethane insulation for better thermal resistance. Others are equipped with Intellicore or WINDCODE treatments for enhanced performance in windy areas. The best garage doors will be marked with an R-value and U-value rating. The higher the R-value, the more efficient the door is.
Insulated garage doors are also durable and low maintenance. They can withstand a range of weather conditions, including rain, snow, and sleet. They can also provide sound reduction and privacy. Insulated garage doors are available in a variety of styles and materials to suit any aesthetic.
You can also install a radiant barrier to reduce heat gain and control cooling costs in warmer climates. This is an effective way to keep your garage cool without compromising on the comfort of people and pets who spend a lot of time there.
An insulated garage door can help protect your car and anything stored in it from the elements. It can also prevent theft by discouraging burglars from targeting your property through the garage. A new garage door can also enhance security by preventing unwanted intruders from entering your home through the garage.
A garage door is an important entry point to your home, so it’s vital that you choose one that can withstand the weather and keep intruders out. A new insulated garage door can improve your home’s energy efficiency, which in turn can cut down on your utility bills and make you more comfortable at home.
They Make Your Home More Affordable
The garage door is one of the biggest features on a home’s exterior, so it needs to look good. A dingy garage door can make a bad impression on potential buyers and deter them from buying the property. However, upgrading the garage door can be a cost-effective way to boost curb appeal and add value.
A new door consists of durable material that lasts many years and is less susceptible to damage from dents than older doors. It also comes with better insulation, helping you save on energy costs. Furthermore, a new garage door may feature upgraded safety features that help prevent intruders from entering your home or business.
In terms of pricing, a steel garage door is usually the most affordable option. This type of garage door has moderate resistance to dents and is able to withstand heavy weather conditions. If you want a higher level of durability, choose a thicker gauge steel.
Another popular choice is a roll-up garage door, which operates similar to a sectional door. It has wheels at the edge of each panel section that roll inside vertical tracks on each side of the door opening. This design requires more headroom than a canopy door, and it can be operated with either an electric opener or manual pulleys. It is available in wood, fiberglass and reinforced aluminum.