Resources
Bath Remodeling
Bathroom remodelling ranks with kitchen remodelling as one of the most popular major home improvements, perhaps because the return on investment when you sell your home is so high.
Bathroom remodeling can cost you as much or as little as you choose to put into it.
Start your project right with the following bathroom remodeling and design tips:
1. Determine your exact bathroom needs.
Do you want to enlarge your bathroom? Do you need another sink? Does the bathroom tile need to be replaced? Think about what your ideal bathroom will look like and then prioritize your needs before your wants.
2. Gather bathroom design ideas.
A set of architectural plans will really help you and your remodeling professionals visualize the finished project, but any design preparations can be helpful.
3. Establish a realistic bathroom remodeling budget.
When establishing your budget keep in mind the design ideas you would like and whether they fall on the pricier side. Also, it will always be less expensive if you don't need to relocate plumbing fixtures, such as toilets or sinks, so if you are on a smaller budget it is more economical to incorporate your current bathroom layout into the new design.
4. Consider popular bathroom design trends.
Second sinks have become very popular in bathroom remodels as they allow two people to use the bathroom at the same time.
If you only have a shower, consider replacing this with a bathtub which can serve double duty as both a bath and a shower. Nearly everyone elects to include a bathroom exhaust fan, often incorporating a heater on a timer.
Kitchen Remodeling
The average homeowners spend over 19 hours a week in their kitchen. Our kitchens are no longer just the place for preparing and eating family meals, kitchens have evolved into multi tasking environments used for paying bills, doing homework, working on hobbies and family gatherings. The function of a kitchen and its size dictate which materials, furniture should be used.
Detailed plan is a must for any kitchen project. Whether you design the kitchen yourself, work with a cabinet distributor or home centre, or go to a kitchen designer, formulating a plan is the first step.
Questions to answer before remodelling your Kitchen:
1. What is my primary objective?
Such as - Do I want a new look, more storage, more counter space, upgrade for resale, etc.?
2. What do I like about my present kitchen?
This is very important! You may want to keep certain features in your new kitchen. Don't give up what works !
3. What features of my present kitchen do I most want to change?
Such as - I don't like my current cabinet style, countertops, appliances, floor, lighting, etc.
4. What is my budget for this project?
You need to "qualify" yourself and what you can reasonably expect to complete. Kitchen remodelling is one of the best investments you can make in your home! It is possible to get nearly 100 % return on your kitchen remodelling investment.
5. What are the most important functions of my kitchen?
It may simply be such things as cooking, family dining, etc. But it may also include homework, budget planning, entertaining, watching TV.
6. When do I want to have my remodelling project completed?
7. What kinds of things will I need to make room for in my new design?
You might include a toaster, food processor, blender, coffee maker, everyday dishes, china, bulk groceries, cookbooks, trays, etc.
8. What other special accommodations might I want in the new kitchen?
Things such as a desk/computer/printer space, eating bar, washer/dryer, baking centre, hobby or craft area, etc.
9. Will I need to upgrade existing electrical or plumbing?
The answer here may depend on whether you change the layout of your sink, worktop or oven.
Answering these questions are an important first step in remodelling your kitchen. Don't overlook them! The more detailed you can be with your answers, the easier it will be to develop a design that will make you happy and will serve your family for many years to come.
Doors and Windows
Did you know?
Up to 40% of heating and cooling needs in the home are due to air exchange. In the winter, heat losses occur when heated air leaks out of the house. Energy must then be spent warming the cool air that replaces it. In the summer, heat gains occur when warm air leaks into the house; thus, more money is spent on cooling costs.
One area of the house that may allow up to 17% of this unwanted air infiltration is around windows and doors. Energy waste and cost can be cut by proper installation of quality windows and doors.
