Home Improvement

Kitchen Remodeling – The First Steps

Your kitchen should work for your family. If it doesn’t, a remodel may be in order.

Kitchen Remodeling

A major remodel changes the entire layout and features new cabinets, countertops, flooring and appliances. It also includes any structural changes and plumbing or electrical upgrades. Contact Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY for professional help.

A minor remodel improves aesthetics but doesn’t change the layout or add new features. It usually doesn’t require permits, and it typically costs less.

Removing old cabinets, countertops, and flooring sets the stage for your kitchen remodel. This first step can range in scale from swapping out faucets to rerouting plumbing or electrical systems. To ensure a successful renovation, it’s important to consult experts who can navigate local building codes and design a layout that optimizes functionality and aesthetics.

Demolition can be dangerous work, especially when working around utilities. It’s critical to shut off the water supply and locate gas or electrical breaker panels before beginning any work. Demolition may also release hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead paint, and rotted wood. While it is possible to do this portion of the remodel on your own, it’s generally best left to professionals who understand how to safely and efficiently take down walls and reroute plumbing and electrical.

Once the walls pass inspection, it’s time to finish them as per your project plan. Hanging, taping, and finishing drywall takes time and requires proper tools to avoid compromising structural integrity. It’s also a good opportunity to set aside any salvageable materials that you can recycle or sell to help cut costs.

Rough-In

Rough-in is a major stage of kitchen remodeling that creates the skeleton for all other segments. It involves laying out the pipework, electrical wiring, and HVAC ductwork, all following the plans laid out during the design phase. Plumbers, electricians, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals work together during this step to install the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems in your new kitchen.

During this stage, your plumber will mark the locations for sinks, tubs, toilets, and appliances and ensure that they align with the floor plan. They’ll also lay out the piping for water supply lines and drainage systems, and install venting and sewer pipes. Your contractor will use laser tools to ensure accurate drain and supply line heights, which saves you time and money in the long run.

The mechanical rough-in process typically includes installing safety features such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, and emergency shut-off valves. In commercial buildings, this includes putting in plumbing for restrooms and cafeterias, electrical wiring for office workstations, and HVAC ductwork for climate control.

Once the plumbing and electrical rough-in is complete, your professional contractor will schedule an inspection. This is a required step that will ensure your remodel is up to code and can proceed. This process is relatively quick, and there may be a small fee involved in some locations. The inspector will evaluate your completed rough-in work and make recommendations for any changes or repairs.

Cabinets

Cabinets are the building blocks of your kitchen and determine the overall look of the room. Whether they are simple slabs of wood nailed together or expertly designed to fit your home layout, cabinets add style, function and value to your house.

Many homeowners choose custom cabinets to meet their specific needs and preferences. They can be made to accommodate specialty storage solutions like spice organizers or pull-out pantries; crafted from durable materials like hardwood and solid-core plywood; or enhanced with detailed trim, molding and hardware options.

The right cabinets can help create a smoother workflow in your kitchen. Drawers that keep your cooking utensils and pots within reach of the stove save you from having to bend down and dig through layers to find what you’re looking for. In-cabinet accessories can help organize everything from plastic-ware to pot lids.

A customized cabinet can even be a great way to make meal prep easier, which encourages healthy eating habits. Having a place to store cleaning supplies keeps items out of reach from children or pets and can be secured so they aren’t misplaced.

Budget-friendly stock or builder-grade cabinets are available in industry-standard sizes and designs. However, they are less expensive than custom cabinets and don’t promise the durability that a professional-grade solution provides. Consider refinishing your existing cabinets to update the look and extend their lifespan. Refinishing is a relatively inexpensive process that involves sanding and/or stripping the old paint and stains to reveal fresh wood and new hardware.

Countertops

Countertops are one of the most integral components in kitchen remodeling. They provide a platform for food prep, act as the base of your cabinetry, and can make or break the overall design of your kitchen. Because of this, it’s important to choose a material that checks off as many boxes as possible when it comes to functionality, durability, and style.

A variety of materials are available for countertops, ranging from the budget-friendly laminate to marble and granite. Your choice will be based on factors like how often you cook and entertain, how much space you have, your preferred color palette, and whether you want to create a sleek, contemporary look or a warm, rustic feel.

Another factor to consider is the amount of wear and tear you’re expecting on your countertops. If you plan to cook a lot or have a busy household, you’ll likely need a surface that is heat- and stain-resistant.

Depending on your preferences, DIY countertop solutions like peel-and-stick makeovers and contact paper transformations may be an excellent option for you. They’re easy to apply and remove without causing damage to the underlying surface, and they offer an array of designs that complement every design style. If you want something more permanent, however, tiling is a cost-effective and beautiful solution. It’s essential to note that tiling requires meticulous skill and experience, so it’s typically best left to a professional.

Appliances

The choice of appliances is one of the most significant decisions in kitchen remodeling. Whether you choose to invest in new energy-efficient models that promise long-term savings on utility bills, or classic designs that blend seamlessly with your design style, you will be living with these kitchen fixtures for many years. As a result, it’s important to make this decision early in the process so you have the time to shop around and find the best deal.

Luxury kitchen appliances are designed to enhance your cooking experience with smart functionality and superior performance. From a dual-fuel range that offers gas precision and electric baking to a dishwasher that uses condensation drying technology to eliminate the need for rinsing, these premium features help you achieve professional results at home.

A variety of color options are available for your refrigerator, oven, stove, and dishwasher. Bold hues create a statement that elevates the aesthetic of your kitchen. Classic finishes, such as stainless steel and black, can be combined with other colors to create a balanced and unique look. For a more whimsical feel, consider retro-style appliances that evoke the charm of bygone eras. These are an excellent option for adding personality and character to your kitchen without overspending. Also consider custom appliance organization options like pull-out shelves and lower drawers with dividers to reduce clutter and streamline cleaning and cooking routines.

Finishing Touches

A kitchen remodel transforms a functional workspace into a modern and beautiful centerpiece of your home. A professional contractor can help you create a customized design that suits your lifestyle and tastes. By carefully planning the layout, choosing high-quality materials, and adding storage solutions that maximize space, you can have a kitchen renovation that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

The final touches are what set your new kitchen apart from the rest. Backsplashes and cabinet hardware are small but important decisions that add texture and color to the space. You’ll want to choose colors that complement your countertops and cabinets but also reflect your style. For example, subway tiles work well in most kitchens, but you could also opt for a patterned tile or a glass backsplash to make a bold statement.

While you’re choosing finishing touches, remember to plan for how you’ll store your cooking utensils, pots, pans, and other supplies. The more organized your kitchen is, the easier it will be to find what you need when you’re in a hurry. Consider a pantry, a corner solution (like Lazy Susans), or a pull-out trays for cabinet doors to keep your items neatly organized and easy to access. Then you’ll have more room to entertain guests, cook dinners, and enjoy the space you love!

Home Improvement

How a Bathroom Remodel Can Increase Your Home’s Value

bathroom

A sleek, updated bathroom instantly increases your home’s value. But beyond a financial return, this renovation can improve the way you feel about your space and the way your family uses it.

A licensed contractor will be able to help you understand the details of complex tasks such as plumbing and rewiring. They also offer warranties for materials and workmanship.

Upgrades

There are many upgrades you can make to your bathroom that will increase its value and make it more enjoyable to use. Some of the best ones are small and affordable, like installing a new vanity that has ample storage and sturdy materials, and updating lighting fixtures to a modern design with a brighter bulb. You can also add ventilation to your bathroom to help prevent odors and mildew, and upgrade the flooring with a tile or vinyl that’s easy to clean and durable.

Some more significant improvements, such as upgrading the toilet with a low-flow model that’s elongated at comfort height and has a seat cover to keep water off the floor and a new showerhead and a curtain or door that are both more efficient and attractive, can significantly increase your home’s resale value. However, large-scale changes to your bathroom, such as changing the layout or moving plumbing and sewer pipes, will be much more expensive and require a professional’s touch.

Replacing outdated hardware, such as towel bars and hooks, cabinet knobs, and even the shower curtain rod, can give your bathroom a fresher look without requiring any major work or cost. Replacing a bathtub surround with a new, more modern design is another quick and inexpensive bathroom remodel that can add significant resale value.

Other small but worthwhile updates include:

  • Adding recessed shelves for stylish storage that doesn’t clutter surfaces.
  • Replacing a plain shower curtain with one that has an interesting pattern or a window-inspired design.
  • Laying radiant flooring in your bathroom to make it warm and comfortable to stand on.

Depending on the area, radiant flooring can return up to 93% of its initial investment when it’s installed properly by a licensed professional.

You can also add luxury amenities that are desirable to most homeowners, such as a soaking tub, dual or even a rainfall showerhead, and a broad bench to sit on while you enjoy your bath. However, it’s important to remember that style fads can come and go, so it may be better to stick with more traditional, classic, or neutral options when selecting your fixtures, vanity, and other large components.

Energy Efficiency

Modern energy efficient appliances, fixtures and lighting help reduce your water and electricity usage. That’s good for the environment and your wallet. Replacing outdated bathroom items with new, eco friendly versions during a remodel is a great way to go green without sacrificing comfort or cost. Items like low-flow toilets and water-saving showerheads conserve precious resources while saving you money on your utility bills.

Increasing storage space is another common element of a bathroom remodel. This eliminates clutter, which creates an unsightly mess and can also pose health risks by trapping dust and other allergens. Removing cabinets or adding built-in shelving can provide a great amount of extra storage space for towels, toiletries and other household items.

New lighting fixtures can set the mood for your bathroom, whether you want soft and relaxing for a bath or bright and stimulating for morning routines. Repainting your bathroom in a crisp white color or adding new sconces can brighten the room and make it feel open and inviting.

A remodel can increase the value of your home, which can help if you plan to sell it in the future or use it as collateral for other loans. Upgrading bathroom features and adding functional storage can also improve your home’s resale appeal.

In addition, a remodel can accommodate changing family needs. For example, an older family member may need a wheelchair-friendly bathtub or walk-in shower. Adding these accommodations during a remodel is more convenient than having to modify your house at a later date and can help you stay in your home longer.

A bathroom remodel can improve your quality of life by enhancing daily routines. It can also increase your home’s resale value and help you save on utility costs. By choosing a professional and experienced remodeling company, you can be sure to get the results you want while avoiding costly mistakes. With the right project scope and goals, a remodel can be an affordable and effective way to upgrade your bathroom. For more information about how a remodel can benefit you, contact us today!

Functionality

A bathroom remodel can make your home more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable to live in. It can also increase the value of your home if you decide to sell it in the future.

A professional contractor can help you plan a functional upgrade that molds your bathroom to fit your needs, whether it’s adding more storage space, improving the layout, or increasing square footage. If you have limited storage options in your bathroom, a remodel can increase the number of cabinets or shelving to provide adequate space for towels, toiletries, and other supplies.

Another way to improve the functionality of your bathroom is by upgrading its plumbing systems. Outdated pipes and fixtures often result in clogs, leaks, and other problems. A remodel gives you the opportunity to replace these old components with newer models that are designed for better performance and less maintenance.

Replacing older showerheads and toilets with more energy efficient versions can reduce your home’s water consumption without sacrificing comfort. These improvements may also result in lower water bills.

In addition to making your bathroom more comfortable and convenient, upgrades can make it easier for people with disabilities or mobility issues to use the room safely. For example, installing grab bars or a handheld showerhead can allow individuals with limited mobility to bathe without assistance. Changing out old tubs for walk-in showers or a newer model with an elongated bowl can also offer increased comfort and accessibility.

If you have an older home, a bathroom renovation can be the perfect opportunity to address any lead paint concerns in your home. This is an important health and safety issue for pregnant women and children who may come into contact with it. By removing all the existing paint in your bathroom and replacing it with fresh, lead-safe drywall, you can avoid any potential exposure and protect your family from harmful lead chemicals.

Aesthetics

Bathroom remodels provide an opportunity to improve your home’s aesthetic. Your bathroom is one of the most important rooms in your house, and it should be a place where you feel comfortable, happy and calm. If your bathroom is in disrepair and outdated, it can make you feel like your home is unfinished. With a simple remodel, you can transform your bathroom into an elegant oasis.

Adding cabinets is one of the most effective ways to add storage space and create a more streamlined look in your bathroom. You can also take advantage of existing spaces in your bathroom to increase storage space, such as unused corners or the area under your sink. Increasing storage space in your bathroom will not only improve the overall appearance of your bathroom, but it will also help reduce clutter and keep your home organized.

If you want to make your bathroom more modern, consider removing the tub and replacing it with a large shower. Shower fixtures can be designed to spray multiple directions, giving you the feeling of being in a spa while you shower. You can also find shower heads that offer a variety of spray settings, including pulsing jets for massaging your body.

Another way to improve the look of your bathroom is to add natural lighting. Natural light can help brighten up your space and make it feel more open and inviting. If you don’t have access to natural light, you can try installing light fixtures that mimic the appearance of natural light.

When you’re remodeling your bathroom, it’s also a great opportunity to upgrade your fixtures and hardware. Newer faucets and sinks will look more stylish and modern than old, outdated ones. You can choose from a wide range of different finishes and styles to match your personal taste.

Whether you decide to renovate your bathroom or remodel it completely, it’s always best to seek professional advice. A renovation expert will be able to point out any issues that you might have overlooked and help you come up with solutions that are both functional and beautiful. They can also walk you through the approval process, which varies depending on your property type and management company.