Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.The kitchen is one of the main areas that prospective buyers consider when looking at a house. How a kitchen looks can greatly affect its value, which makes a kitchen remodel one of the more important home improvement projects. A tile backsplash is one of those design elements that can significantly influence the overall look of a kitchen as the eye is naturally drawn to it when entering the room. When choosing a backsplash, the first thing to consider will be the style in which the rest of the kitchen is decorated. In particular, it is important to look at the cabinets and countertops near the sink. The homeowner should choose something that fits in with what they already have. Doing this allows a backsplash to enhance the kitchen’s décor while also narrowing down the vast number of options.

Here are some of the more popular and visually appealing backsplash ideas that can help to improve a kitchen’s look:

Subway Tile Backsplash
These tiles have been used in commercial kitchens for years and have recently become popular with homeowners. Their understated look makes them easy to pair with just about any kitchen décor. They are widely available can be purchased in a vast number of colors and textures. The materials used to make subway tiles range from ceramic to granite.

Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass backsplashes have the twin benefits of being easy to clean and relatively inexpensive (though not all types of glass tile will be budget-friendly). Glass is also easy to install by screwing or gluing it to the wall. Homeowners have wide range of options to choose from with glass tiles being available in various colors. Types of glass tile include those made from tempered glass, which is scratch resistant. They also have the option of getting tiles that are made from recycled glass.

Stainless Steel Backsplash
Stainless steel can help a kitchen to feel more like that or a restaurant. Stainless steel’s durability is well known and it is heat resistant as well. Unlike other materials, it can handle just about anything that a homeowner is likely to throw at it. Cleaning it is easy, requiring only a little disinfectant and a rag. Furthermore, stainless steel backsplash tiles are flexible in that they are a good fit for just about any kitchen style.

Stone Backsplash
Options with stone backsplashes include those made with crush quartz that has been mixed with a resin (engineered stone). This material makes for an extremely durable backsplash that is resistant to both scratches and heat. Homeowners should note that a professional must handle the installation of engineered stone; it is not a DIY task. Granite and marble are both popular stone backsplash materials with granite being the more traditional choice. Each slab of natural stone is unique, which means that homeowners have the option of giving their kitchen its own distinctive look.

Brick Backsplash
Brick can provide a kitchen with a historic look. Homeowners can opt for brick or brick veneer, which is easy to install and easier to clean than real brick. Additionally, there is no need to seal brick veneer.

Wise Ways to Maximize a Kitchen Remodel

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The home improvement project associated with the most return on investment is kitchen renovation. It can drastically improve the satisfaction current homeowners have for their home, and increase home value for those looking to sell, but these benefits don’t come cheap. Keeping the price tag down does not have to mean resorting to a fully do-it-yourself plan either – professional designers and contractors bring near-endless industry knowledge and expertise that saves homeowners from headaches and potentially expensive mistakes.

Appliances
Appliances, both large and small, are the number one element that contributes to overspending on kitchen remodeling. To keep costs reasonable, homeowners should give serious thought to what they actually need. The 8 burner, cast-iron stove with a grill and quadruple oven may be tempting but when the most homeowners may use these features only once or twice, the 5-digit price tag makes it obvious that ultra-high end appliances like this aren’t the best choice. The same goes for specialty items like pasta machines: a stand mixer with multi-function attachments will replace nearly all of these for far less cost. “Scratch and dent” appliance stores also offer excellent savings, especially when the item is discounted because of a minor blemish on the back that no one will see. Walls & TilingThe nearly endless options for tile make a beautiful kitchen possible without breaking the bank. Choosing materials wisely or tiling only the necessary areas will keep budgets reasonable while still creating a beautiful space, and professional designers will know exactly how to achieve this without looking “cheap.”

Cabinets
Cabinets are another area where it’s easy to overspend, but with careful planning costs can be kept reasonable. Hiring a professional designer to assist with layout will help maximize the available space while still achieving a cohesive and attractive look. Professionally installed, well-made cabinets are absolutely worth investing in so they will last for decades.

Countertops
Like cabinets, this is an area to give careful thought to and allow a little flexibility in the budget. Countertops are of utmost importance as without a good work area a kitchen is nearly useless. There are many options for all types of budgets that will also last for years and look great.

When planning a kitchen remodel, function should come before form but neither aspect need be ignored. A kitchen with carrera marble, a $40,000 refrigerator and a wine cellar may look nice but if the layout is poor and the materials are high maintenance it isn’t of much use to anyone, and an outdated kitchen is not living up to its full potential if its so unwelcoming that no one wants to use it. Discussing budget, family habits and needs with a designer will result in a kitchen that works smoothly and efficiently, and looks fantastic.

Bathroom Remodeling on a Budget

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Remodeling a bathroom does not have to be as expensive many homeowners may think. For many people, the idea of remodeling a bathroom brings to mind images of gut jobs costing thousands of dollars; however, it is possible make dramatic changes to a bathroom without spending a lot of money. Bathrooms are usually not very large, which means that even small changes can have a major effect on their look and feel. Below are a few bathroom makeover tips that can help homeowners to transform their space on a small budget:

Hire a Professional
While there are some home improvement projects that an experienced DIYer may be able to handle successfully, others do require professional expertise. Taking on a major bathroom remodel without the help of professionals may seem like the cheaper way to go in the short term, but may turn out to be far more expensive in the long run. For example, consider the fact that small tub or toilet leaks can cause serious damage that may go unnoticed until discovered during a remodel. When this happens, it is important to repair the damage immediately. Repairs will have to be performed before continuing with the rest of the project.

Cut Down on the Use of Tile
Tile can be expensive. To cut down on the cost, homeowners can tile only the high-impact areas and ask their contractor to use paint everywhere else. Other options include looking for clearance lots at their local tile shop and going with cheaper white tile instead of more expensive artistic tiles. If they absolutely have to use artistic tiles, they can use it to accent their cheaper tile. When used as an accent, the more expensive tile will stand out more while taking less out of the budget.

Paint
A good paint job can help a bathroom to feel larger and brighter. Homeowners should note that while painting a bathroom may seem like a simple DIY project, it is a good idea to hire a professional. Aside from the painstaking and time-consuming work of painting around fixtures, it is important to choose the right type of paint. It will be necessary to use paint that can handle a humid environment and regular temperature changes.

Update Fixtures
New fixtures can make a big difference. Homeowners should consider updating their light fixtures, towel racks and drawer pulls. These require relatively little money and are easy to install. When it comes to major fixtures like bathtubs and sinks, they can save money by having a professional reglaze them instead of replacing them. Reglazing can cost less than half of what a new tub and sink would cost.

Choose Used Instead of New
For a cheap bathroom remodel, homeowners should shop for less expensive used items instead of buying new. They can search for used showers, toilets and other fixtures on eBay and Craigslist or they can check out the inventory at local thrift stores.

Tile Countertops
Granite is the popular choice for countertops and while the small slabs used for bathroom counter tops may be less expensive, it is possible to save even more by going with tile instead. Tile is just as water resistant and is far less expensive.

Pick the Perfect Kitchen Countertop

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Countertop trends are constantly changing in the kitchen. A counter that was popular a few years ago might be old news today. Countertops are expensive and not easily replaced. That’s why it’s important to put a lot of consideration into your countertop selection. Our professionals at Craftsmen Home Improvements offer our expert advice to ensure satisfaction with a wide selection of countertops that are durable and affordable.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

#1 Quartz Countertops

We only work with top-of-the-line products and manufacturers like Cambria. Their quartz countertops are second to none when it comes to durability, beauty and ease of maintenance. Quartz is the most abundant mineral on earth and also one of the toughest. Unlike some types of stone, quartz is nonporous and doesn’t need to be sealed to guard against staining and bacteria. Though pure quartz is colorless, it often comes with inclusions that give it a rainbow of colors and patterns. These colors range from white and cream, beige and gold, blue, purple, tan, brown or black. They can also come with veins and clouds that mimic luxurious marble.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

#2 Granite Countertops

When it comes to strength and sheer toughness, nothing beats granite. Granite was formed millions of years ago in the depths of volcanoes. Granite is tough and beautiful. Like quartz, it comes in various colors so you can choose a shade that fits your style. It has the strength to resist staining, scratching and etching. In addition, Craftsmen Home Improvements can assure a long life by sealing the stone for extra protection. We can adjust the granite countertop to meet your style. An unfinished surface can give your kitchen a rustic flare or a polished look for modern spaces.

#3 Marble & Other Countertop Options

Besides granite and quartz, Craftsmen Home Improvements offers countertops made of marble, solid surface, maple and stainless steel. Marble is known for its luminosity and beauty but it is a soft stone that needs to be sealed. We find that marble is best used for inserts in tough stone or mineral like granite or quartz. In addition, marble has a cool feel which makes it a great surface for preparing pastries and rolling dough.

Our Corian solid surface counters are made with acrylic and can come in one piece. This means it can be fashioned into unusual shapes and paired with integral sinks. Solid surfaces also come in an array of colors and patterns that mimics the look of marble or granite. Corian is also very easy to clean.

At Craftsmen Home Improvements, we are proud to offer our customers a five-year installation warranty and free in-home estimate for all of our home remodeling services.

Give Us A Call Request An Estimate

Spice Things Up with Tile

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Tile is one of the most popular choices among flooring options. It is a common choice for homeowners because it’s easy to maintain and comes in limitless colors and styles. Bathrooms are one of the most common places for tile because carpet just doesn’t make sense, and hardwood floors don’t do well with water. Tile is a great option for bathrooms because it can handle water, cleans easily and has solid surfaces that prevent rapid bacteria growth.

Typically, bathrooms are small areas so design options are limited. The best way to make a bathroom beautiful is to focus on small details and make the most of what you have. Picking the right sink can go a long way, paired with a pretty color for the walls. However, the best way to get that one-of-a-kind look for your bathroom is to pick a tile that is as unique as you. A tile that pops out paired with a neutral, can create a dramatic and unforgettable look. As you explore bathroom tile ideas, you’ll discover their potential to transform a room. Three-dimensional tiles can add old world charm, while matte and honed tiles give a sophisticated edge.

After a unique tile is chosen, the real fun begins. Rectangular tiles can be placed vertically on a wall to create an illusion of height or set in a herring bone pattern to simulate a parquet floor. Careful positioning of color can create design borders on floors and walls. While splashes of tints can boost drama, a monochromatic palette can achieve a polished elegance. Let your inner designer out and utilize tile to highlight the best features of a room. Keep in mind, tile isn’t only for floors! Tiling the entire bathroom, including, the ceiling and floors, can create a bold statement. However, a tiled back splash or accent wall can be just as powerful.

Tiles are perfect for bathrooms, but find the tile that’s perfect for YOUR bathroom. Take advantage of the limitless options and create a unique look for your bathroom. The right choice can spice up your bathroom, and will make it a room you never want to leave!

Get Creative with Kitchen Cabinetry

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Kitchens are one of the most frequently used rooms in a home. It’s a place for cooking, cleaning and even family time. Eventually, this constant use will take a toll and updates will be necessary. Renovating the kitchen can be a great way to increase home value, and can give it the tender loving care that it needs after years of wear and tear.

Renovating a kitchen is expensive and for those of us on a budget, it’s important to get the most bang for your buck. One of the best ways to give a kitchen that brand new look is with new cabinets. The latest trends in cabinets are always changing so even if your cabinets aren’t old they still might need an update. Update your kitchen by choosing a cabinet that enhances design trends, such as, modern, traditional and even rustic.

Choosing to have new kitchen cabinetry installed is an important decision. Several factors should go into your cabinet selection, including, storage space, color and material. Keep in mind food storage cabinets can be very different than the cabinets used for dishware. It might be necessary to have your cabinets customized if extra space is needed. Be sure to do efficient research before making any decisions so you can feel confident and happy about your cabinets once they are in.

The location of the cabinets is almost as important as the style. The location of the cabinets can create depth or height to a kitchen. They can be arranged to create openness, or they can be used to separate space. It is important to place the new cabinets in a way that optimizes that space you are working in. The location of the cabinets should enhance the productivity and flow in the kitchen.

If you want to update your kitchen because you are looking to sell or you just want to make your family more comfortable, new cabinets can make it look brand new. Cabinets can transform the look and feel of a kitchen without touching anything else. However, make sure you do your research before making any permanent decisions because cabinets are expensive and are not easily replaced. Choose a style that fits with your home and personality, and your cabinets will keep you or a potential buyer happy for a long time.

Unfinished Basement 101

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.The large size of basements make it a great feature to have in a home. Unfinished basements waste a great deal of space and are useless for anything except for storage and a game of hide and seek. Homeowners should think seriously about finishing their basement if they have not already done so, for several reasons. The space can be used for an entertainment spot, a home gym or even a movie theater. Another reason to think about updating is for the potential value it can add to a home. Homes with finished basements are more appealing to potential buyers and sell more often.

Have we convinced you that it’s time to take the leap and finish that dingy basement? If so, take a look at these issues to prepare for your remodeling process.

  • Check with your home insurance agent. It is important to take note of what is covered under the homeowner’s policy in case damages occur.
  • Basements have a bad habit of flooding. Prepare in case this happens by using floor covering that won’t warp or become waterlogged overtime. Get a floor drain installed and make sure it’s the type that pours into a pit with a sump pump.
  • Finishing a basement often requires the installation of several light fixtures. Brief yourself on this delicate process to ensure safety and that your electrician is doing the job right.
  • Plumbing is important, especially, if you decide you’d like a bathroom in your basement.  Hire a trusted plumber and/or  contractor that will take this job seriously. This step could save you from trouble with drain fields, septic tank placements or sewer systems in the future.

Increase the Size of a Small Bathroom

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Everyone wants that perfect bathroom, that spa-like place where one can go to be alone, relax and pamper themselves. Unfortunately, the reality for most people is a cramped little room with just enough room for a toilet, sink and shower, if you’re lucky. However, there are certain techniques you can do to make a small space look larger, almost like an optical illusion.

The first thing you should do is empty out the space, and get rid of any clutter. If there is makeup or toiletries that need to stay, add a sleek drawer or container to put them in. This storage can go under the sink or if it is stylish enough, it can become the room’s centerpiece or main decoration.  You can also go ahead and get rid of any big decor in the room, these things only take up space and make the room look smaller. Instead, opt for one main decoration that is cohesive with the colors and atmosphere of the room.

One of the best ways to increase your space is with paint. The right color can create an openness which can impact a small bathroom, dramatically. Now you have to decide which color to use. Stay away from darker colors. Light does not reflect off these colors well and it will darken the room and make a small space look even smaller. Light shades are your friend! These colors brighten up a room and feel more free. If you have windows in your bathroom that is great! Avoid large curtain that might cover up the windows and the natural light coming through. Natural light will make the space seem wider and light up the bright colors.

The next thing you can do to expand the look of your room is by adding mirrors, or getting one big mirror. Mirrors give the impression of a larger space by reflecting the room. Adding a mirror that is the length of an entire wall will make the room look a lot bigger and this is a cheap option compared to an actual addition.

It’s hard to find enjoyment and relaxation in a tiny bathroom, but before you pull out that check book and start smashing down walls, try a few of these tricks. The tips listed above will make your bathroom look bigger and you won’t have to make any expensive additions. Instead, go spend the extra money on that pool you’ve always wanted!

Kitchen Accessories

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.So you’ve renovated your kitchen, and now you need some accessories to give it that final touch. There are tons of useful things that can go in a kitchen, but you don’t want to over do it. Here are five accessories that we think are essential for a great kitchen.

Microwave Ovens: Counter-top or over-the-range microwave ovens are a great option for any kitchen. Especially, if you’re not big on using the oven. Although, these won’t replace the quickness of a microwave, they’re indispensable for fast heating purposes. Microwave ovens come in a wide range of vibrant colors and finishes.

Crock Pot: This one-pot cooking appliance is a “must have” in any kitchen. These helpful little pots offer the convenience of being able to cook unattended for several hours. The give a special flavor to every meal, and they are perfect for busy cooks on the go.

Knife Sharpener: Although a kitchen with a full display of knives in a knife holder is attractive, one without a knife sharpener is incomplete. Neatly tucked away in a drawer, it is one accessory that will not only benefit your kitchen but also your cooking. This little tool will make cutting food a bit easier and will extend the life of your knives.

Food Processor/Blenders: Whether it’s a full-blown food processor big enough for a restaurant or a mini-onion chopper, this is a tool that every kitchen needs. It will save you a lot of time, and can perform a number of jobs.

One-Touch Can Openers: One-touch can openers can effortlessly open cans of any size–with one simple push of a button. This battery operated device comes in a line of colors, designs and styles. It’s also the safest, easiest and cleanest way to open a can.

Benefits of Recycled Glass Countertops

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Recycled glass countertops are manufactured in a variety of ways. The process to create theses, typically, includes intense tumbling or vibrations to smooth out rough edges and vacuum compaction. These products can contain a mix of glass, ceramics and porcelain, and other organic materials. Here are five benefits of having recycled glass countertops installed in your home.

1. Closing the Circle

Although many consumers are diligent in their efforts to recycle glass items, few people are investing in the recycled glass products that these efforts produce. This is known as closing the circle, and it is an essential step for ensuring that recycling efforts are effective. Investing in recycled glass countertops is not only a great way to make use of recycled materials, but it will also limit your reliance upon less sustainable design materials.

2. Mold and Mildew Resistant

Given the fact that glass is non-porous, keeping populations of harmful microorganisms in check won’t be a problem. This makes these countertops ideal in high traffic environments. In addition, you won’t have to worry about mildew or mold spore development.

3. Scorch Resistant

Although, there are a number of cooking gadgets that you can use to avoid burning or scorching counters, accidents can and do occur. Recycled glass countertops are both heat and scorch-resistant and will save you from worry.

4. Scratch Resistant

These durable, non-porous surfaces are also impervious to scratches. You won’t have to invest in repairs over the years of use. These countertops will maintain aesthetic value over time, even with routine and rough use.

5. Unlimited Design Options

There are unlimited design options to choose from. Glass countertops are flexible materials that are great for homeowners who have very specific ideas for their kitchen designs. Buyers can take advantage of a vast color pallet and a variety of glass textures and sizes.

Glass countertops are versatile, durable and very beautiful. Buyers can get lasting value from these surfaces while doing something good for the environment. Products like these help consumers close the loop in the recycling path and reduce the use of materials that are not naturally renewing or sustainable.