The Best Flooring for a Bathroom Remodel

The “cold feet” syndrome occurs for many when bathing or showering. This feels worse in the winter months, of course.

Bathroom flooring is unique as it is subjected to the most humidity and moisture. It does need to be more waterproof, durable, and, of course, comfortable. And, of course, most homeowners also want style!

Here’s a breakdown of the best choices in flooring for a bathroom:

• Tiles: both ceramic and porcelain

Tiles are water-resistant and durable. They are versatile and come in many shades to fit any aesthetic of any bathroom, from light to dark hues. They are patterned as well and withstand heavy foot traffic with ease of maintenance. Simply put, “mop and go” can be said of tiles.

One of the most popular choices, the homeowner does need to keep in mind that textured tiles are best, as tiles can be “slippery when wet” when non-textured. Tiles can be cold underfoot, so installing under-floor heating can eliminate the colder feel of tiles.

• Vinyl flooring

This is an older type of bathroom flooring, but it is now much more appealing aesthetically than it was decades prior. The quality is also better as it is now not prone as much to cracking, which was a problem previously.

Sold in sheets, easy to install, durable, and waterproof, It is softer under the feet than tiles, and this is a plus. Best of all, budget-conscious homeowners will find this the most affordable type of bathroom flooring.

• Stone flooring

If you are searching for the best luxury type of flooring, stone is a great choice. It is, of course, durable and waterproof and just squeaks “luxury.” However, it is costly and can be more difficult to install.

 

There are many types of stone flooring, including granite, marble, slate, travertine, limestone, sandstone, and quartzite. The best type of stone flooring for you depends on your needs and tastes. However, it is slippery, so using bathmats, especially with stone, is recommended for the shower and tub area.

• Carpeting in bathrooms

Yes, this does exist, especially in older homes, and some homeowners still want carpeting in their bathrooms for the simple reason that it is WARM!

However, it is prone to mold and mildew in the carpeting and underlayers and is not easy to keep dry. It is generally not recommended by today’s bathroom remodelers.

Choices in bathroom flooring are numerous, and a good remodeler will take into account the foot traffic, budget, and aesthetic that will suit each and every homeowner who is looking to replace the flooring in their bathroom.

The Real Facts on ROI of a Kitchen Remodel

While a kitchen remodel does return an ROI when a home is sold, it is not the primary reason individuals do this type of remodel.

There is generally a price increase when selling a home with a newer kitchen rather than an outdated and rather ugly old-fashioned one, but it is not as great as most homeowners think.

The ROI results from the functionality and improved look, which drives the ROI. A kitchen that is only remodeled by repainting and/or cabinet replacement will return less than one that is fully remodeled.

To put it simply, the more a homeowner puts into a kitchen remodel, the greater the ROI. Buyers generally look at a kitchen and bathroom first when making decisions on purchases, as these spaces are the hubs of all homes.

Total remodeling, of course, will be more costly, but the fact remains that a great-looking and spacious kitchen space returns the investment not just by increasing the sales price but by making a home sell more quickly when put on the market.

Time IS money when selling! Buyers also look for newer upgrades to enhance energy savings and conserve water. Proper lighting does this, as does newer plumbing and electrical work.

Safety is assessed as older wiring, which can especially cause buyers to be suspicious of the safety of cooking in a kitchen. Needless to say, sufficient storage is more convenient and safety-oriented.

Natural light is always sought for the energy efficiency of a kitchen as well as the aesthetic, and newer lighting enhances this aspect as well, so windows and overhead energy-efficient lighting should be addressed.

Overcrowding of old cabinetry that lends itself to clumsy encounters in the kitchen can turn buyers off rather quickly when assessing a home to purchase.

Overall, a homeowner who remodels a kitchen will see the ROI returned when the home is sold, but enjoy the home more while living there.

The golden rule usually is to do as much within a given budget as possible, without going over budget and regretting unnecessary upgrades.

A pro with decades of experience can assist homeowners in choosing the best upgrades that will fit their budget, make the kitchen a better place to cook and congregate, and yet return the best ROI on the kitchen remodeling monies spent!

 

Don’t Allow Your Sink to “Sink” Your Kitchen

The truth is that a sink, or the type of sink, is a much-overlooked component of kitchen enjoyment. Most homeowners will put up with an outdated sink or one that is old and worn while focusing on the other aspects of a kitchen remodel.

A proper sink that serves each homeowner’s needs, and the aesthetic is crucial in making a remodel a great success. There are many styles of sinks and just as many uses and preferences by homeowners. We will dive in here and explain types and uses to educate about this much-used component of a kitchen.

Especially during the winter months, with a lot of individuals spending more time at home, kitchen sinks take a “workout.”

Types of sinks in a nutshell:

1. Single bowl sinks

These speak for themselves as they are one deep bowl. The advantages are that a great deal of washing of dishes and storing dirty dishes can be done with this type. However, there is no divider, so a dish drainer or other storage area for washed dishes is necessary.

Farmhouse sinks are generally one bowl, but some are two bowls. They can be built in such a way that they meld into the cabinetry. These are great for individuals who use large pots and pans while cooking and want an aesthetic that is more cozy looking.

2. Double bowl sinks

These are a top choice for families who are seeking to save space and time, as one side is used for the dirty dishes, and the other side can be used for storage of rinsed dishes before these are put into the dishwasher or dried. This is a quick and easy solution to quickly wash dishes without having another spot to stack the washed dishes.

3. Drainboard sinks

These are catching on in popularity as they combine the capacity of single-bowl sinks with the drainage capacity and storage of double-bowl ones. The name speaks for itself as the drainboard is built into the sink rather than having to purchase one. Functionality here is the paramount feature of this type and can be matched to any aesthetic.

4. Island or prep sinks

Serious cooks love these and hence also are rising in popularity. Just as a kitchen island is used for eating and socializing, these “island/prep” sinks are standalone, and add prep space, storage, and are eye-catching as well. Of course, an island must be constructed, and plumbing may need to be extended during installation.

No matter what the choice of sink, size matters, as does usage and aesthetics.

A consultation with a kitchen remodeling expert is necessary as ALL sinks must address the existing plumbing as well as the capacity to address the installation of new plumbing.

Quick Yet Luxurious Shower Installations

The holiday season has begun with winter weather nipping at us even indoors. We discussed luxury spa bathtubs/jacuzzis in a previous post, but this is not doable for everyone without sufficient space, time, or money.

 

This does not mean that a homeowner must do without the luxury of a spa feeling as showers themselves can be remodeled quickly, even sometimes within one day, and be made to feel luxurious.

 

The possibilities are actually boundless, and many homeowners in the past two years have relinquished bathtubs altogether in favor of shower-only bathrooms. 

 

This saves space and adds to accessibility for older adults. Showers save money on water as well and are used frequently by many homeowners who do not feel the need to soak to relax.

 

Low-flow showers are especially eco-friendly and can include water purification systems, as well as digitally created controls, which make them easy to adjust and control. With technology on the rise, voice-controlled showers are now possible, and of course, recyclable materials are used.

 

Swivel heads with long arms make showering easier than ever, as bodily nooks and crannies can be reached without straining and stretching. Shelving inside the showers cuts back on bodily movements, too, and relieves the need to keep reaching outside the shower for toiletries.

 

Most showers now come enclosed, keeping the water inside sans shower curtains, and there are easy-access door-style showers now that are quick and affordable to install.

 

Preparation is key to quick installation, as the old shower is removed, plumbing is checked, and any cracks or crevices in adjacent walls must be assessed and sealed. The base, walls of the shower, and doors must be measured so that the new shower fits correctly.

 

After installation, everything is checked again by a professional shower installer/remodeler, and the digital aspects or additional technology must be tested and taught to a homeowner.

 

While one-day installations in showers can exist, this does not mean they should be done sloppily or in too big of a hurry.

 

Experiencing luxury and convenience with a shower alone is a great way to update a bathroom, but can also be done by updating the bathtub and providing a total spa experience.

 

Find that great bathroom remodeler and see how even a shower can relax and bring enjoyment each day without costing an arm and a leg! 

 

 

                                    Spa Getaway Bathroom Remodels

The winter is upon homeowners in Southeastern PA and the greater Delaware area. Homes become chillier, and of course, holiday stress can occur.

 

Individuals still work and look forward to relaxing after a long day of employment and holiday planning. What better way to combat that than with a “spa-type” bathroom remodeling?

Getting comfy in a tub with Jacuzzi features and shelving is the perfect way to relax and forget the day’s stresses.

 

Of course, enough space is needed for a spa-type bathtub installation, and the size of the bathroom will determine how significant this addition can be or IF it can be done.

 

The type of plumbing must also be considered, and there are many styles to choose from aesthetically in this sought-after type of “mini-spa” inside a home now. These also add a great deal of market value to a home.

 

The plumbing is crucial, especially in older homes, as many have what resembles “snake-like” intertwined plumbing or plumbing that is hard to access.

 

There are many styles to choose from aesthetically in this sought-after type of “mini-spa” inside a home, now from claw foot to ultra-modern.  Spa-like tubs also add a great deal of market value to a home.

 

The plumbing assessment will include pressure inclusion, as whirlpool jets are generally powerful and are used in jacuzzi or Whirlpool tubs.

 

If a bathroom is not large enough or cannot support a full Jacuzzi or Whirlpool tub, there are options such as Air Baths, which only provide bubbles for relaxation.

 

Clawfoot tubs and deeper tubs can mimic the spa experience by enlarging the tub’s depth and using aromatherapy built in to enhance the mood in the bathroom.

 

If you are older or chilly when taking a bath, there are built-in heaters that can be used to produce extra warmth. For folks with mobility issues, there are gated tubs that allow easy in and out access.

 

If owning a very small bathroom, a simple deeper style tub, known as a Soaking Tub will do the trick of making each bath feel luxurious and relaxing.

 

During cold weather and the holiday season, changing the bathtub alone in a bathroom can lift the spirit of all homeowners, as well as contribute to feeling warm and comfortable each time anyone in a household bathes.

 

Not to mention the pleasure your “stay over” guests will experience!

 

Efficiency Tips for Smaller Kitchen Remodels

Most people enjoy as much space as they can have in their homes. However, some living spaces, such as condos and duplexes, can have limited space. Individuals are also now trending towards “tiny homes” for the efficiency of the upkeep these provide.

This does not mean that individuals who have small kitchens do not like to cook or entertain, but they do need to optimize the space with the right type of remodeling. Cabinetry and appliances make a huge difference in smaller kitchens, adding to the enjoyment of cooking and entertaining.

• Cabinet Ideas for Smaller Kitchens

Exploring cabinet styles, such as the Shaker style, have a recessed design adding to the open workspace. “Lazy Susans,” which are carousel types of cabinets, were popular in each kitchen decades ago and are making a comeback as many items can be stored on this type of revolving cabinetry addition.

Pull-out cabinets save space as well and allow homeowners to reach small appliances and other stored items without kneeling or bending to access them. Open shelves can be placed anywhere in a kitchen, and cabinets are indeed open, allowing for more space than if a door-style cabinet is installed.

Vertical types of cabinetry rather than horizontal styles can miraculously free up more space than one might expect and are installed in a “step-ladder” effect.

Of course, as a previous blog post mentioned, “appliance garages” make a huge difference in reducing countertop clutter. These “appliance garages” are built-in spaces where appliances are “parked” and are a nifty idea, especially for smaller kitchens.

• Appliance Ideas for Smaller Kitchens

Appliances take up a great deal of space in a kitchen and with a smaller kitchen space, the choice of appliances makes a big difference in workspace within a kitchen. Enter the “built-ins.”

Popular over a decade or two ago, these are making a huge comeback as homeowners switch to smaller residences, whether to downsize or simply have less work to do on a property.

From compact built-in dishwashers, which do the same job as full-sized ones, to mini-built-in refrigerators, a good kitchen remodeler will take into consideration the space and functionality.

Convection ovens, which oftentimes are included in full-sized stoves and the love of the culinary field, can be used alone without a full-sized stove and built into a cabinet or on a shelf on a countertop. Combine these with an air fryer on cabinet shelving and an actual full-sized stove may not be necessary!

Combination microwave/convection ovens are also gaining popularity for space-saving, and washer/dryer stackable combos are taking over the need for large washers and dryers.

All the above not only save space but also save energy and the environment, and many homeowners now, even with larger spaces, are jumping onto the smaller kitchen space money-saving type of remodel that is gaining traction!

 

Dropping or Raising a Kitchen or Bathroom Ceiling

There are many reasons individuals redo certain portions of their homes, but the kitchen and bathroom can be the most redone over the years, and it’s not because individuals love to spend money!

This is generally a practical choice. New homeowners who are younger yet want a more spacious look in their homes tend to want higher ceilings, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, where most of their time is spent.

If younger individuals fall in love with an older home, however, the ceilings may be lower and they will see a good kitchen and bathroom remodeler to raise these.

They might eventually raise the ceilings in the entire home, but the kitchen and bathroom being focal points for gatherings of friends and families can be a prevalent concern if they are not filled with light and space. It’s an aesthetic choice for younger home buyers.

 Raising a ceiling is more expensive than dropping one, although both projects depend upon the structure of a property and need a highly skilled bathroom and kitchen remodeller.

On the opposite end of the spectrum can be homeowners who are aging and find that the ceilings and the ceiling lights are now too high to reach safely. This can lead to falls, and therefore, for safety reasons, a “dropped ceiling” is requested.

The dropping of a ceiling, on the other hand, is usually for safety’s sake, as older homeowners prefer now to “age in place,” and dropping a kitchen or bathroom ceiling may make that more plausible.

In either case, all homeowners must remember that raising or dropping a ceiling will result in the cabinets, ceiling tiles, and any other installed spaces within the kitchen or bathroom needing to be replaced or repositioned as well.

Ceiling raising or dropping is not without its pitfalls, and a licensed and insured remodeller with the utmost skills should always be called for a consultation before deciding to progress with this type of project.

Damages can occur if done incorrectly, and an honest, conscientious contractor might suggest other improvements instead, such as side lighting or replacing the light fixtures and cabinets with more aesthetically pleasing or safety-related types without having to raise or lower the ceiling. This big decision takes knowledge!

         Ingenious and Unique Additions to a Kitchen Remodel

While kitchen islands and great countertops and tile are must-haves in a show-stopping renovation of a kitchen, not all kitchens have a lot of space.

In addition, some cooks have “special needs,” as the focus of great cooks might not be on keeping a kitchen clean during preparation.

There are ways to deal with smaller kitchens and messy cooks, using the two suggestions below, which can be installed rather easily by a professional renovation firm.

• Standalone counters

Especially useful in smaller kitchens, these can also be used in larger kitchens for extra cooking and storage space. They are counters, and the countertop materials are the same as built-in countertops, according to the taste of each homeowner.

They can be known as “carts” but are moveable as they have legs and even seating around them if a homeowner chooses. 

Cheap standalone can be purchased at home goods stores, but in reality, a well-built custom one will be more functional, match a home’s aesthetic, and stand the test of time more so than a purchased cheap one.

The ones that can be purchased do indeed look like “carts” and are not functional enough to gather around or prepare food on. The custom ones are small kitchen islands that serve the same purpose but can only be moved about, making them a great addition to a great renovation!

• Garbage chutes

These really are not what comes to mind for many homeowners, but if a person in a home is a serious cook, then this addition is a great time saver and makes cleanup a snap!

Prominent in professional kitchens, there is no need to keep emptying a waste basket during cooking and preparation when a garbage chute is installed. Usually installed underneath the countertops, waste is simply scraped into the chute and into a bin.

The bin generally holds more than the usual kitchen waste can, and there is no need to carry the waste to a can. It, therefore, makes cooking more hygienic.

Homeowners can use the collected materials for composting at a later date, too, and the chutes keep the smells of any deteriorating materials down as they are more airtight than garbage cans.

The doors are installed sturdily and provide homeowners with more pest control from bugs as well as the reduction of smells and cluttered waste materials.

Small changes like this add to the enjoyment of any kitchen and should be considered during any remodel or renovation as they are very affordable yet add such a layer of fun and functionality that is unsurpassed.

 

Contact us at bb4contracting@gmail.com, or 302-998-7907. For more information visit our website at bb4contracting.com.

A Little-Known Efficient Kitchen Renovation Addition

So many times, homeowners get stuck in a bit of a rut. It is straightforward to get used to a kitchen the way it is and not explore new options that now exist in remodeling and renovations.

Time constraints can also play a factor in putting off kitchen upgrades. However, some simple fixes can and do make life easier when cooking or using a kitchen.

Some are quite affordable, and we are going to dive into what will enhance your kitchen simply and affordably using a newer technique that designers are implementing for clients.  

• Kitchen garages

Yes, you read that correctly. Home designers are now recommending a “kitchen garage” for storing appliances when they are not in use.

While, of course, you cannot drive the appliances into a kitchen garage, this is a space where you can store the appliances and free up counter space.

No matter how small or large your countertops are, these tend to clutter up quickly. We put our toasters, our air fryers, our coffee makers, and other small appliances on the counter.

Pushing one small appliance out of the way to make room to use another becomes a routine too many homeowners fall into. The kitchen becomes more difficult to use, with cluttering appliances and messier looks.

Also called kitchen appliance garages, there are many styles. These range from full cabinet construction to simple cutouts in existing spaces where the appliances are sheltered in between usage.

Single large drawers that pull in and out are also an option for smaller kitchens, while larger ones can have double and triple-doored pullout shelving with different appliances on each shelf.

Contact us at bb4contracting@gmail.com, or 302-998-7907. For more information visit our website at bb4contracting.com.

Refreshing a Kitchen or Bathroom with New Tile

Tile adds dimension and a pleasing aesthetic to any kitchen or bathroom. Used on countertops, floors, and even backsplashes, replacing worn and outdated tile immediately breathes new life into these spaces.

Lasting quite a while, the tile does need to be updated periodically as chips, cracks, and loose seams do eventually appear.

Although a great immediate improvement in look and, of course, functionality, replacing tile is not easy work. In fact, it is challenging for any remodeler, as it must be exact. It is definitely not a DIY project, as even one inexact tile can cause damage to the whole installation.

First and foremost, any tile replacement must be “snug as a bug in a rug.” Meaning that all tiles and seams are grouted and seamless. Moisture can creep into any tile work, no matter how big or how small, and loosen it.

Tile can be used on walls even if seeking a spectacular look, and some tile work resembles a mosaic. You need to take into account the usage, however, and where the tile will be installed.

A sturdier type of tile, such as stone or ceramic, needs to be used on floors and countertops. Glass tiles might suffice for backsplashes, but common sense dictates you would not walk on this type.

If you are working with a healthier budget, stone tile will really lift a space into an aesthetic dream. Glamour rules in this choice. However, a meager budget can do well with vinyl, which is easier to install and stands up well with regular wear and tear.

There really is no limit except your imagination and your budget when it comes to tile. Mixing and matching different types is indeed acceptable, and a great kitchen and bathroom remodeling expert can and should be consulted before deciding how and where to install any type of tile.

Replacing or installing tile takes a great eye for detail as well as superior craftsmanship. Before ripping out any tile for replacement or initial installation, make sure you consult an expert kitchen and bathroom remodeler for a free evaluation.

Knowledge of tile and the intricacies of installation will lead to a successful project and protect your wallet!

Contact us at bb4contracting@gmail.com, or 302-998-7907. For more information visit our website at bb4contracting.com.