Category: remodeling

Your Complete Bathroom Renovation Guide
Starting a bathroom renovation can be a exciting, but it has it’s fair share of challenges. Here is a complete bathroom renovation guide with step-by-step instruction to help your project go as smoothly as possible:

First Phase Steps
- First, Define Your Goals and Budget:
  - Determine why you want to renovate. Are you looking to update the style, increase functionality, or fix specific issues?
  - Set a realistic budget based on your goals. Consider materials, labor costs, and any unexpected expenses.
- Research and Inspiration:
  - Browse home improvement magazines, websites, and social media for bathroom design ideas.
  - Create a mood board or a file with pictures of bathrooms you like to help guide your design decisions.
  - Consider looking into common mistakes, like reading posts like the 6 Mistakes to Avoid When Remodeling Your Bathroom
Used with permission from Kara Miller Interiors
- Next, begin Assessment and Planning:
  - Inspect your current bathroom’s layout and identify any structural issues or plumbing concerns.
  - Measure the space accurately and determine if you want to keep the existing layout or make changes.
- Hire Professionals:
  - Decide whether you need professional help. For complex renovations, it’s advisable to hire a contractor, plumber, and electrician.
  - Obtain quotes from multiple professionals and check their references.
Used with permission from Kara Miller Interiors
- Design and Layout:
  - Create a detailed design plan, including the placement of fixtures, cabinets, and other elements.
  - Consider the flow of the space and how different elements will work together.
- Select Materials and Fixtures:
  - Choose materials for flooring, walls, countertops, and fixtures. Consider durability, maintenance, and your design preferences.
  - Shop for plumbing fixtures, lighting, and hardware. Make sure they complement the overall design.
Middle Phase Steps
- Obtain Necessary Permits:
  - Check with your local building department to determine if permits are required for your renovation.
  - Obtain the necessary permits before starting any work.
Used with permission from Massucco Warner
- Demolition:
  - Carefully remove existing fixtures, tiles, and other elements. Take precautions to protect areas of the house not being renovated.
  - Dispose of debris responsibly or arrange for a waste removal service.
- Installation:
  - Begin with any necessary plumbing and electrical work. This may involve moving or adding outlets, rerouting plumbing, or installing new fixtures.
  - Install new flooring, walls, and any other structural components.
Final Steps
- Finishing Touches:
  - Install cabinetry, countertops, and other fixtures.
  - Paint or wallpaper the walls.
  - Install mirrors, lighting, and other decorative elements.
Used with permission from Timothy Godbold
- Clean Up:
  - Thoroughly clean the renovated space, removing any construction debris or dust.
  - Ensure that all fixtures are functioning properly.
- Lastly, Final Inspection:
  - Check the completed renovation against your initial goals and design plan.
  - If applicable, schedule a final inspection with your local building department to ensure compliance with codes.
Remember, communication is key throughout the process. Keep open lines with your contractors and be prepared for unexpected challenges. Renovations can be disruptive, so plan accordingly, and be patient with the process.
January 8, 2024
Ideas for Expanding Your Home

There is nothing quite like having your own home. Your house is your castle and you are free to make whatever changes you see fit. This allows for all sorts of customizations which add value to the house, but mostly make it more livable. Most people will remodel the kitchen or knock down walls, but why stop there? Adding new rooms or additions to the house will help give it a unique charm, expand interior floor space, and offer new customization options. Here are just a few ideas for ways you can expand your home.

First: Consider Your Property Lines

Obviously, when thinking about making an addition to your home, you have to keep the property lines in mind. You do not want to completely obliterate the back yard, and even if that is your goal, taking up too much space can mean no more room to grow in the future. You will want to keep some space between property lines and your home regardless, as this provides room for contractors to work in. Not just builders, but any future contractors you may need to bring in for whatever reason.

Second: Consult with a Professional

When considering an addition to your house, consult with a professional architect. They can take a look at the layout of your existing home and make recommendations to keep your addition aesthetically pleasing while delivering what you are after. Note that we cannot guarantee that everything you want is possible with your existing home, but if it is – a professional will figure it out.

Start from the Back

The most common starting point for additions is to look into the back yard. Patios, pavilions, or a simple entryway in the back can help connect your home to the yard. In fact, depending on how you structure and organize the addition, you may even be able to create the sensation of your home spilling out into the yard. This can be an excellent addition for a kitchen – creating an outdoorsy space to enjoy your meal.

Consider Building Up

This depends on your foundation and local building codes, but other than those there is nothing stopping you from building up. This idea can be especially good if you are running out of room to expand. You have a number of design choices available if you choose to add a second floor to your building. Balconies are popular additions once you have some living areas constructed. It can also be a way to feel on top of the world when working from a home office.

Keep Function in Mind

When making any additions to your house, keep the function of these additions in mind. Having an idea of what you want that you do not have will inform your architectural decisions. Let your mind go wild when thinking of these additions, and only take the time to temper them down when it comes time to plan out the addition.

Do Not Neglect the Basics

When you are planning an addition to the home, it can be easy to forget the basics. Remember that you want any comforts available now to remain available throughout the home. This means remembering the electrical systems, cable systems, and of course climate control. Speak with your service providers to get recommendations about how to make sure these services remain available with any addition to your home. This is especially the case with climate control – consider a mini-split system so you do not have go through the trouble of installing potentially expensive ductwork. Cable lines should be run to the new room if it is closed in, along with electrical outlets. Though obviously, an outdoor room might do better without if it is not water-tight – consult with your local contractors when thinking about your addition to make sure your new room is as comfortable as the rest of the house!

this post in consideration with adamsairconditioning.net

December 8, 2017
5 Tips for Buying Home Renovation Materials

Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibility. If something happens or there’s a disaster, it falls squarely on the homeowner to take care of it. On the other hand, being a homeowner means you get to decide if you want to do renovations, which can be a really exciting experience.

Obviously, some renovations are strictly aesthetic but others (such as roof repair, security system installations, etc.) can improve your residence and low the cost of your homeowners insurance. Whether this is the first of your renovations or you’ve done this a hundred times before, here are some helpful tips for buying renovation materials and getting your home project done within budget.

Avoid trendy styles to get cheaper materials. If there’s a style that seems to be everywhere when you’re making plans for renovations, you might start thinking it looks amazing. Until you see some of the price tags. Of course, the hottest options are going to be a bit pricier, not to mention you might end up with a new kitchen or bathroom that looks dated in five years. Staying away from styles seen as trendy is not only a good way to save money, it can keep your renovation project looking classic.

Shop small, buy big. Smaller stores can offer discounts that larger corporate stores can’t. It pays to shop around and see what’s out there instead of just going to the closest ‘big box’ store. If you’re going to buy a lot of material at an independently owned store, you may be able to build a relationship with the owner and receive a discount. Buying in bulk also keeps your costs low and is an easy way to get a few dollars shaved off an order.

Look for materials at various suppliers. This doesn’t mean just looking through Lowes then going to Home Depot. There are a lot of different places to find discounted or gently used materials for your home renovation projects. Sites like PlanetReuse or The Habitat for Humanity Restore are great resources for wood, fixtures, even furniture. Make sure you’re still buying from a reputable source and know what to look for in regards to damage or use.

Ask any question you can. Doing your own renovations can be really exciting but you want to make sure you know you’re doing it correctly. A mistake during renovations can lead to a bigger problem down the line and before you know it, you’re troubleshooting a problem that didn’t need to happen. If you’re unsure about something, ask a pro. If you’re still unsure after that, hire a pro. Using a contractor for jobs that might be riskier or have the potential to be a disaster if gone wrong can save you money in the long run. You might need a contractor for every little thing but if you don’t feel absolutely positive about what you’re doing, ask questions and hire help.

Get packaged deals. Buying a lot or most of what you need from one vendor can help cut costs too. Getting most of your materials in a large order often results in discounts being offered, especially at independent retailers. Independent retailers like to retain customers with exceptional service and if you’re a customer who is spending a lot of money and doing a big project, a store owner can offer you a discount to help you out and keep you happy.

Projects of any size can be a challenging and rewarding experience. Saving money on supplies or by doing your own labor keeps some cash in your pocket for the next project because you know there’s always going to be a next project. Just remember to ask questions, look for deals, and to buy quality material that will last. Make your home yours and do it right!

November 14, 2017
Considering the Open Concept Layout

An oldie but a goodie for you on this Thursday!

Now that hubby and I are not longer spending every spare moment wedding planning, we are finally thinking about improvements that we’d like to make to our home. Our house it a 50s rambler, and while it doesn’t have the bones these amazing spaces do, we are still thinking about knocking down some walls to create a more open and modern space.

Has anyone here remodeled for a more open layout? Were you happy with the results?

March 16, 2017
Help choosing and finding mini pendant lights (and kitchen eye candy!)

So, we’ve recently had some demo work done in our house (pics coming soon!). And as exciting as it is, picking things out for the revamped space is a bit daunting. We are starting with looking for 3 mini pendant lights to go over our new breakfast bar, which is small at just 6′ x 18.” The issue is that we would ideally like to spend no more than $70 per fixture, and hubby and I don’t really agree on what style we like.

I want something transitional – I really had my heart set on clear glass, and he was frosted or art glass, which I just don’t want. We will ultimately have to choose a chandelier to go over the dining table, which is about 6′ from the breakfast bar. I don’t want anything to be from a matching set, but I also want the chandelier and pendants to work together.

Here are some options I like:

Love these, but hubby thinks if we get these we might as well just have exposed naked bulbs hanging from the ceiling. I also like these because I feel like regardless of the chandelier we go with they will work together.

via Decoist

These could potentially work, but I wouldn’t know what finish to go with.
via Decoist

I like this style, but I can’t find any in our price range.

via Home Decorators Collection

Maybe these?

via Home Decorators Collection

Traditional Kitchen by Narberth Architects & Building Designers Philip Ivory Architects

These are basic enough to work as well.

I like these vintage railroad pole pendants from Etsy. They could be sophisticated in the right setting and have a story behind them.

Liking these globes too but I would want them a lot smaller and I doubt they exist in my price range…
via Pinterest via BHG

Any ideas for us or places for us to look?!?!?

January 29, 2015
Open Concept Love

Yesterday 3 walls in our house were taken down. Our kitchen, living, and dining room will not all be one great room. I haven’t seen it yet, but I can’t wait to start setting up our new space.

In the meantime, I’ve been gathering all the inspiration I can for open concept layouts. Here are some of my favorites.

via Pinterest via BHG

via Pinterest via BHG

Love this palette!

via Pinterest

via Pinterest via Young House Love

via Pinterest via Hi Ya Papaya

via Pinterest via Decor Pad

January 14, 2015
Considering the Open Concept Layout

Now that hubby and I are not longer spending every spare moment wedding planning, we are finally thinking about improvements that we’d like to make to our home. Our house it a 50s rambler, and while it doesn’t have the bones these amazing spaces do, we are still thinking about knocking down some walls to create a more open and modern space.

Has anyone here remodeled for a more open layout? Were you happy with the results?

August 26, 2014
Inspiring ways to use moulding

We all probably know it it the details – the icing – that makes a place feel really special. Unfortunately a lot of details can be costly undertakings for the average homeowner. It was the photo below that got me thinking about different ways you can use crown moulding to fake otherwise expensive architectural elements or details…

Can you believe the window above started off as this…

Learn how at Funky Junk Interiors
via Pinterest via Funky Junk Interiors

You could make a chalkboard or frame that matches the look of the rest of your home…
via Pinterest

A very thorough DIY on how to fake cabinets that go to the ceiling with moulding. This is probably more involved than most projects but what an impact it makes.
via I Heart Organizing

Framing an everyday contractor grade mirror with moulding is easy and looks like a custom piece! Remodelaholic has a great DIY (also the source of this image)

I don’t have hollow core doors like the ones above, mine are the standard white contractor doors, and I’d love to come up with a way to make them look as nice as Pretty Handy Girl did…
via Pretty Handy Girl

Have you ever used moulding in an unconventional way?

July 9, 2014
Important steps to take before remodeling and redecorating

Decorating has never been more popular. The plethora of magazines, television programmes and websites dedicated to DIY stand testament to that.

Visit your local hardware store any day of the week and you will see people browsing the aisles and seeking inspiration for that big decorating project. But before you go ahead and pick up that paintbrush, just give a little extra thought and consideration to what you are going to do and how you are going to do it. Planning is probably the most important part of the job. This is also involves planning against anything that could go wrong and cost you extra money.

Avoiding Problems
There are perhaps two reasons for choosing to undertake your own decorating job. You derive great pleasure from something which is all your own work or you simply cannot afford to employ a professional to do it for you. My boyfriend and I personally LOVE building and creating things for our home. We take a lot of pride in it, but it does tend to take us awhile to finish it up.

This is also where your forward planning is important. Before you start to consider decorating your home yourself, check that your home insurance is up to date and that your buildings and contents insurance cover you adequately. This means that you have a policy that will pay for rebuilding your home and for the replacement of all your clothing, furniture, white goods, trinkets and treasures. In short, your home and everything you have in it. Failure to do this could result in your being seriously out of pocket, so it is of paramount importance to check the figures. We never take on projects of that scope, as we just rent right now, but if you are planning on taking your kitchen down to the studs, for example, you really want to make sure you are protected should something go wrong.

Of course, if you do choose to hire a professional, they will be covered by public liability insurance, so if anything goes wrong you and your home are covered. But to avoid having to make a claim after redecorating, ensure that you are careful and remove all items of value which could get broken or damaged. Cover carpets and furniture which cannot be moved with thick dustsheets. Plastic-backed ones are a good choice as any spillages do not go through them. I am guilty of using only an old sheet to cover things when painting, but I’ve learned the hard way that paint goes right through a sheet.

Be particularly careful about using blowtorches to burn off paint from wood, especially in confined spaces. Keep a wet rag and bucket of water near to hand to cool down any hotspots. Smouldering wood can ignite and, ultimately, your house could burn down. If you are working in the bathroom or anywhere where there is water present take great care in using electrical appliances. Water and electricity definitely do not mix! Aside from blowing every fuse in the house, your life could be at risk, so keep them apart.

Your insurance company is there to help and advise you. Check the paperwork and ensure you are covered so that any disasters are paid for. If you follow these simple tips you can enjoy giving your home a stunning makeover. Just a little planning can avert financial disaster should the worst happen.

Below is some inspiration if you need a little nudge to start planning that redecorating/remodeling project…

Decorative trim, moldings, and a sophisticated paint job can make a huge impact.

via BHG

If remodeling makes you nervous, start small. Some easy to install shelves can make greatly improve a space in much need of storage.

via BHG

Outdoor improvement projects include just as much planning, thought, and protection as indoor projects.

via BHG

Built-ins can be a worthwhile investment when carefully planned out.

via BHG

A custom kitchen is probably the most rewarding home improvement project you can undertake.

via Traditional Home

*disclosure: This post is brought to you in partnership with Churchill

July 11, 2012