As we head into the holiday season, many people are evaluating what they spend and when. If you’re weighing which remodeling projects to move forward on, look at those that will provide the most payback to you.
While resale is one thing, you’re comfort and enjoyment are another. Look for projects that will make your house warmer – such as replacement windows or insulation – or add style to a few areas.
Kitchen Remodeling Tips
If your kitchen is dated, but you’re not ready to take the plunge on a full scale kitchen remodeling, consider new wall tile, a sink and faucet or new flooring. read more »
Energy efficiency has become a big buzz word in these times of rising energy costs. How can you reduce energy loss and add products such as replacement windows to ensure maximum efficiency?
The way to start is by evaluating your house, whether you do this yourself or with the help of a contractor. Check out the main structural components, such as doors, windows, your roof and the insulation. Is it up to par? If not, consider the cost of replacement windows, new doors, etc. The payback in dollars can take several years, but the payback in comfort is almost instantaneous.
We added insulation to our attic this summer and read more »
Who says all the good contractors are taken? In this economy, it’s getting easier to find the good ones and book them for projects. Good news/ bad news there, but it can work to your favor.
I’m hearing stories of people who were used to waiting four to six weeks for a contractor to be available. Now they are getting to their remodeling projects in a few weeks. This doesn’t mean you should jump at the first contractor who answers the phone, however. You do have to temper your enthusiasm and put in the time to check references.
Finding Contractors For Small Remodeling Projects
Another shift I’ve seen is that contractor who normally would only do big projects are willing to take on smaller ones, such a minor kitchen design or updating work. Maybe all the big jobs are on hold or it’s just not the season for big jobs, but this also can work to your advantage. read more »
Tempted to refinish your wood floors? You’re not alone. Many people look at their old, worn floor and think, “Why can’t I do this myself?”
Refinishing a wood floor may sound easy, but it actually is more challenging than it looks. That’s why I always recommend hiring a contractor for wood floors. Otherwise you’ll have to rent the sanding equipment (that is not as good as what the contractors’ have!), do all the repairs, and on and on!
Wood Floor Contractor
When looking for a wood floor contractor, ask around for recommendations. Chances are someone in your office has hired a remodeling contractor they liked. There also are online remodeling sites that will match you with a contractor. read more »
If you’ve got that closed in feeling in your house, it’s time to take action. There are many ways to open up spaces for ease of movement and to add natural light.
Contractors get these questions all the time – How can I make my house seem more open? How can I add more natural light?
Remodeling to Open Space
The answer is to take a close look at your floor plan. Are there places where a few new windows could enhance the view? If you added larger replacement windows would your den turn into a mini-sunroom? read more »
We’ve all heard negative stories about contractors who do poor work, don’t show up or take off with a customer’s money. While most contractors are honest, how can you avoid hiring the “wrong” one? What are the warning signs of a bad contractor?
Ask anyone who has gone through an experience with a bad contractor and you’ll hear plenty of advice. The biggest warning sign is the absence of a permanent address. If a remodeling contractor can’t tell you where his office is and how long he’s been in business, then run the other way. Chances are you’ve found a contractor who moves from town to town, leaving unsatisfied customers along the way.
Checking Contractor References
Another warning sign is a lack of references. If a remodeling contractor avoids giving you names of previous customers, run the other way. A good contractor should have plenty of experience and names to prove it. read more »
Cabinet refacing can make a big difference in your kitchen, particularly if you focus on the door styles. These important cabinet element can help set the tone for your new kitchen design.
There are many ways to use cabinet door styles to change from a traditional to contemporary kitchen design, for example. This involves removing those old raised panel doors and replacing them with sleek, flat panel doors. Or, if you’ve always wanted a shaker look, try doors with recessed panels.
Cabinet Refacing Primer
Cabinet refacing involves removing your existing cabinet doors and drawers and replacing them with new materials. This allows you to move from an outdated kitchen design to something that is more stylish. The work is fairly quick when working with an established cabinet refacing contractor. He or she will know how to measure, design and install in a few quick days. read more »
Curb appeal is important, whether you are selling your house or just trying to spruce up the outside. The best way to improve your curb appeal is to walk around the outside and take note of every little detail. Then develop a plan for adding those replacement windows, repainting the porch or other fixes.
As you walk around, look at the house from top to bottom. What is the condition of the roofing? Are there any broken windows or places where paint is peeling? Those are the types of issues that potential home buyers will notice. Or, they may stand out to you or your neighbors. read more »
Looking for a few quick fix remodeling projects for your kitchen? Here are some of my favorite ones, which can be accomplished with a good contractor, handyman or some old fashioned sweat equity.
Changing your kitchen countertop is a fairly easy remodeling project that will make a big bang. If you have an old countertop that is laminate or tile, for example, it probably is showing some wear and tear. There are many granite, solid surface or quartz countertops that can dramatically change a kitchen.
Finding a Remodeling Contractor
Look for a contractor with good carpentry skills. With the right measurements, you can have a nice fitting countertop that is easier to work on and clean. read more »
If you’re in the market for a roofing contractor, don’t make the mistake some home owners make. They’ll see a roofing truck in the neighborhood, call the company and hire them on the spot.
While that company may be reputable, you really don’t know until you use them. By then, it might be too late to avoid shoddy workmanship or unreasonable prices. That’s why it pays to shop around. As with any remodeling work, it’s always good to call several roofing contractors and get estimates. read more »