6 Things your Bathroom Remodel Plan Should Include

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Craftsmen Home Improvements, IncNo renovation should be tackled without lots of planning, but knowing where to start with any project, especially if you’ve never done one before, can be a challenge. While bathrooms are typically small rooms in the home, by comparison, that doesn’t equate to a small renovation project.

Before cabinets and walls are demoed, flooring is ripped up and the old toilet carted away, do some research to know what you need, what you don’t, what you love, and what you can live without.

Here are six considerations to take into account before you begin your bathroom remodel, whether it’s for a small powder room, large master bath, or something in between.

1.Build a budget: Every renovation project needs a target budget. With home improvement, the sky’s the limit when it comes to fancy fixtures and finishes or ideas you can dream up. The best way to hone in on your renovation specifics is to set a budget. Some experts recommend bathroom renovations cost no more than five-to-10 percent of your home’s value. No matter what budget you set, be sure to stay true to the value of your home, being careful not to overspend for your neighborhood.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc2.Address the layout: One way to keep costs in check is to keep the same footprint of your bathroom, meaning the toilet, sink, shower and tub stay in the same place, eliminating the cost of moving pipes. However, a renovation is the best time to dream. If you want to take square footage from an adjoining room to convert a powder room to an en suite master bath, changing the location of the plumbing might be the only way to achieve your goal. Either way, take time to evaluate the function of the space and design it to meet your needs.

3.Question the status quo: One vanity or two, shower and tub combo, separate shower and tub, no tub and only a shower – the options are endless. Many homeowners are choosing to eliminate the bathtub because it is used so infrequently, and create a beautiful shower surround instead. And when it comes to the shower, do you want one showerhead or two? A glass surround or a shower enclosure? A renovation is the time to question the current set-up and transform it into anything you want.

4.Challenge the lighting: Before you change anything in your current bathroom, use the room at night and determine if you have adequate lighting. There’s no better time to add lights to any space than when the walls are open. Do you want can lights through the space or a simple overhead light with fixtures above the vanity? Keep in mind overhead light will cast a shadow on your face, so vanity lights should always be mounted inline with the mirror.

5.Maximize the space: Notoriously small spaces with many functions, bathrooms require lots of storage. Do you want a stylish mirror or a vanity, and can that vanity be recessed into the wall? Do you want a double vanity with plenty of storage, or a sleek pedestal sink to create the illusion of more space? Is the room large enough for other cabinetry, in addition to the vanity, and can those cabinets be recessed as well?

If this is a home you will retire in, the bathroom renovation might be an opportunity to maximize the space for the future, too. Taller toilets and vanities can help with aging, reducing the distance required for bending for the knees and low back. A walk-in shower with grab bars also should be considered.

6.Add a little luxury: From radiant floor heating to towel warmers, add some luxury features during the renovation. Electric resistance heat panels under the floor can warm your bathroom tile with the flip of a switch. Towel warmers can be strategically placed, and waterfall faucets, elegant light fixtures, and other little fancy finishes can turn your renovation project into a masterpiece.

Don’t skip the planning step in a bathroom remodel. In fact, starting the planning earlier than you think and spending a little more time considering all the options is the best way to guarantee a successful renovation project. Include an experienced professional contractor in your process, then relax and enjoy your new spa-like bathroom.

6 ways to make a small bathroom feel larger

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Unless you’re living a lux life, your bathroom is probably small-to-average in size. Bathrooms are rooms that get frequent use by everyone in the family, not to mention where you might spend longer periods of time getting ready each morning. But small spaces can feel cramped and claustrophobic, and no one wants to start their day feeling like they’ve emerged from a dungeon.

Light, airy, refreshing spaces set a better tone for the start of anyone’s day. If your bathroom is ready for a makeover, here are ways you can make your small space feel bigger.

1. Lighten up: When you start with a blank slate, you can choose colors that are light and neutral. For everything, from the walls and floors to vanities, selecting white, light greys or greens or blues is a great way to keep your eye flowing inside a small space. With fewer visual breaks, you can be visually tricked into thinking the space is larger.

Lighter colors not only keep your eye moving throughout the room, creating the illusion of more space, but light colors also reflect light instead of absorbing it. Brighter, more airy spaces tend to feel larger.

2. Go for glass: A glass shower surround will be more expensive than a traditional shower curtain, but allowing the full room to be visible, instead of closed off by a shower curtain, lets you feel the full amount of space every time you’re in the room. A glass enclosure can make using the shower a completely different experience, with light streaming in from every direction. If you don’t love the idea clear glass, you can always choose a frosted option.

3. Say vamoose to the vanity: Small bathrooms can struggle with storage, but adding a large bulky vanity to a small space makes it feel tight and cramped. Pedestal sinks are great options for smaller baths, providing open space around the sink area. If you can’t see yourself functioning without some storage around the sink, consider smaller, sleeker vanity options or a floating vanity for a more
spacious feeling.

Recess cabinets: While it might not be an option in every space, consider recessing your cabinets or creating small niches for storage, instead of having cabinets that extend out from the walls. This can create more space in your bathroom. If recessing cabinets won’t work in your bathroom, you might consider open, floating shelving as a way to provide storage without foregoing the floor space that cabinets take up.

5. Illuminate with light: If your bathroom has a window and plenty of natural light, your space will naturally feel bigger. Don’t obstruct your natural light with bulky window treatments. Opt for a frosted glass window or simple window treatments that may only cover the bottom part of the window, allowing light to come in from the top.

If you don’t have great natural light, and a lot of small bathrooms don’t, be sure to add plenty of lighting during your renovation. Options include overhead lighting, a light and fan comb in the shower (especially if you have a traditional tub with shower curtain), and brighter lighting around the vanity or mirror.

6. Reflect the beauty: Large mirrors are a perfect addition to any small space. Not only does a mirror reflect light and create the illusion of more space, but after you’ve invested time and money into the renovation of bathroom, taking it from boring to beautiful, you want to be able to see the fixtures and finishes from every angle.

Small bathrooms aren’t hopeless spaces. With the right contractor and an intentional plan, you can make simple changes that will enhance any small space, turning your “little bathroom” into a mini-spa experience.

Quartz: The hot trend in kitchen countertops

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Whether you’re a busy mom packing lunches, making dinner on-the-go and filling endless bellies with snacks, the empty nesters looking to upgrade, or single and living in style, quartz countertops have features for everyone, making them the hot trend in kitchen countertops.

From durability and maintenance, to trendy color options and high-end style, quartz should be number one on your list for countertop consideration when it comes time to renovate or upgrade your kitchen, and here’s why.

Man-made durability
Quartz is a manufactured countertop option made from ground quartz mixed with resins, polymers and pigments. This manufacturing process makes quartz more durable than other hard-top surfaces, even natural stone, which means it’s less prone to chips and not as fragile.

Some manufacturers of quartz also provide a warranty on the product, something that won’t come with natural surfaces.

Beautiful style
As part of the manufacturing quartz, pigments can be added to the natural quartz, giving it more color than natural stone. Subtle hints of greens, blues and yellows give quartz a more versatile color palate and can make matching any kitchen design a breeze.

In addition to color choices, patterns in the quartz can be made more intentional during manufacturing than those in natural stone. This can make hiding the seams much easier, giving the look of a single solid surface. There also are more finishing options for the edges of quartz countertops.

Low maintenance
The resins and polymers included in the manufacturing process for quartz not only make it durable, it means there is no need to seal the material as is the case with other surfaces. With quartz, you won’t have to worry about having a contractor in your home every five to seven years to reseal the tops.

Because quartz is non-porous and doesn’t require sealants, it also resists staining from oils, wine, sauces and spices more than other tops on the market. And maybe more important than staining, the non-porous surface means that it’s easier to keep quartz countertops free of germs, viruses and bacteria, because there’s no place for them to hide. Simply cleaning with soap and water will keep your countertops clean and safe for everyone in the family.

When it’s time to replace or purchase new kitchen countertops, use quartz as the gold standard and compare all your other choices to the durability, beauty and low maintenance benefits of quartz.

With so many decisions to make in a kitchen renovation, simplify the process ahead of time by doing your research and working with a professional contractor. A skilled and experienced contractor can help you determine which quartz products will provide the finishing touch you’re looking for in your kitchen and ensure that the installation is done right, so you can enjoy your new kitchen for years to come.

Finishing a basement: 5 important things to know

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When you think “basement,” you don’t have to imagine low ceilings, damp smelling, poorly lit, useless spaces (except for the perfunctory laundry hookups).

With the right planning and execution, basements can be refinished into spaces that best suit your family’s needs: home gym, playroom, craft space, office, home theater, game room, bar and wine cellar, the list could go on.

When you’re refinishing a space, it can become uniquely yours. No matter how you decide to refinish your basement, there are some fundamental steps to take. Here are five of the most important things to know before finishing a basement.

1.Water is not welcome: Sometimes basements are synonymous with unwanted water. Whether you have leaks or damp spots, both need to be addressed the same and resolved before you can consider refinishing a basement.

Unwanted water can result from different reasons. Sometimes downspouts and gutters need to be cleaned, or reconfigured and replaced. Occasionally, foundation repairs are necessary, and landscaping changes often can have a dramatic impact. No matter what the cause of water in your basement, failure to take your water problem seriously can result in serious damage to your newly finished space.

2.Can’t forget the codes: Different municipalities have distinct regulations regarding home improvement and repair. Ensuring that your space meets code in all areas is not only a matter of safety; it can be a costly misstep to overlook this part of the process.

3.Keep noise and weather out: Insulating your basement is an important part of making the space comfortable and inviting. Keeping the basement warm in the cooler months can be difficult since heat rises. Proper insulation in the walls and the floor can help keep your basement temperature consistent. In addition to helping regulate temperature, insulation can filter noise, keeping the home theatre sounds from creeping into the upper living spaces, or preventing little footsteps above from disrupting work in the new home office.

4.Develop a plan: Having a professional draw up floor plans for the use of your new basement space is a step that cannot be overlooked. In addition to planning the right amount of space for the use you have in mind, floor plans can account for proper electric and plumbing needs and avoid costly mistakes.

Typically, basements are home to the utility components for the home. HVAC units, water heaters and softeners and laundry all typically reside in the basement. These important components must remain easy to access and cannot be blocked in by new walls in the basement configuration. Planning the space layout and how to access these important items must happen before construction can begin.

5.Lights, ceiling, action: Lighting and ceilings are critical elements to making a basement space feel like any other space in the house. Planning for the right lighting for your basement remodel will guarantee you’ll want to use your new space. Failure to address the lighting needs means you might have a great space, but if it feels dark and dingy, you won’t use it.

Basement ceilings also are important and must be finished properly. Having drywall ceilings makes the space seem less like a basement, but if you have pipes and other duct work in the ceiling that you may need to access, permanently sealing the ceiling might not be an option. Fortunately, drop ceilings have come a long way, and there are options that can give your basement warmth and style without it feeling like a dated office building.

When it comes time to think about finishing the basement, the most important thing you can do is hire a professional. Working with the right contractor will guarantee that all the items on this list are taken care of and done right.

A guide to bathroom remodeling for seniors

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If you’ve watched a parent age, you know nothing is more difficult than having to make sacrifices that erode one’s sense of independence, especially if it involves giving up their home.

So often, a parent’s home is filled with warmth from memories and evidence of love and laughter that have been years in the making – growth charts marked on the closet trim, family pets buried under the tree in the backyard, secret hiding places for hide-and-seek, and the rosebush planted for Mother’s Day.

Sometimes aging can happen in the comfort of home, with changes made here and there to accommodate special needs. In the case of bathrooms, there are plenty of ways to make them more accessible for an aging parent. Whether you’re trying to keep your parent in their own home, or they are joining you in yours, here are six changes you can make to the bathroom to help your loved one age with ease.

Key Takeaways:

  • Start with the shower entry, since stepping over a tub wall is the hardest daily move.
  • Place grab bars at the entry, along the wall, and beside the toilet.
  • A comfort-height toilet and a counter-height vanity reduce strain.
  • Plan the layout with a designer before choosing fixtures.
  • Expect a three to six week timeline for a bathroom remodel.

What makes a bathroom hard to use as you age? 

Falls are the most common cause of bathroom injuries. Older adults face the highest risk. According to a CDC study using 2008 data, falls accounted for 81.1% of bathroom injuries treated in emergency departments among people ages 15 and older. Injury rates increased with age, specifically among adults 75 and older.

Everyday bathroom routines can become more challenging the older we get. Small things like stepping over a bathtub wall require balance and leg strength, and wet tile floors can make it difficult to maintain steady footing. Simply sitting down on or standing up from a standard-height toilet can become uncomfortable for someone who has limited mobility.

These changes often happen gradually. You might notice a parent holding onto the towel rack for support or avoiding the bathtub altogether. For homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term, these are useful signs to consider when planning bathroom updates.

The good news is that bathroom remodeling for seniors can address many of these everyday challenges. Thoughtful changes to the shower entry, flooring, and fixtures can make the space much easier to live in and navigate while maintaining the comfort and style of home.

Should you choose a curbless shower or a walk-in tub?

A curbless shower eliminates the raised entry between the bathroom floor and shower. A low-threshold shower reduces the height you need to step over. Both are huge improvements for mobility in everyday life.

A walk-in tub offers another option for homeowners who enjoy soaking, with a built-in door that provides a lower entry than a traditional bathtub but still requires stepping over a threshold.

The right choice depends on how you or your loved one prefers to bathe and which movements are becoming increasingly difficult.

For many homeowners, the bathtub has become little more than wasted space. You might even hear a parent say, “I never use that tub anymore.” If showering is already part of their daily routine, a curbless or low-threshold shower could be the more practical choice. These designs can also accommodate features like built-in seating and handheld showerheads.

On the other hand, some others aren’t ready to give up a relaxing bath. A walk-in tub offers built-in seating and a door for easier entry compared to climbing over a standard tub wall. The key to this design is that you generally need to enter before filling the tub and remain seated while it drains.

If you’re planning an aging-in-place bathroom remodel, consider the homeowner’s current mobility, bathing preferences, and how those needs may change. Our team at Craftsmen Home Improvements can support you in comparing both options during a free in-home consultation and determine which design fits your bathroom.

 

Curbless shower entry

Replacing the bathtub with a walk-in shower is an excellent first step to make a bathroom more accessible. Walk-in showers eliminate the need for seniors to step into or out of the tub.

“If the aging parent really has a lack of mobility, you can do a curbless shower, where the shower floor is same height as bathroom floor, and there is nothing to step over,” said Doug Readnower, co-owner of Craftsman Home Improvements.

Even with a level entry, the shower floor needs a slight slope toward the drain to direct water away from the surrounding bathroom. Depending on the existing floor and plumbing, creating that slope may require adjustments beneath the shower during installation.

Add a shower seat

A seat in the shower is a must for the aging population. Some shower bases come built with a seat already molded into them. Other times, seats can be constructed out of tile, making the shower space both beautiful and functional. Shower seats also can be purchased from box stores to keep the cost of this necessity very reasonable.

A fold-down shower bench is another option, especially when space is limited. It provides a place to sit when needed and folds against the wall afterward, which leaves more room for others who use the shower.

Install a handheld or lift-off showerhead

Oftentimes seniors need assistance with showers, and if this is the case, a liftoff showerhead can help ensure all the soap is rinsed with ease. Liftoff showerheads can be a modest investment and make a big difference.

For seniors who prefer to shower independently, a handheld showerhead can make everyday routines more manageable. It allows them to direct the water while seated, without having to stand or reposition themselves as often.

Grab bar placement

Grab bars are essential in the shower area, as well. “We like to do an 18-inch vertical grab bar right at the entrance of shower, where the person would grab hold and step over the shower basin edge,” Readnower said. “We also place a 24-inch horizontal bar on the back wall, so they have something to hold onto and steady themselves, if they are standing to shower or to help them up from the shower seat.”

A grab bar beside the shower seat offers extra support when sitting down or standing up. The best placement depends on the homeowner’s height and reach. Each bar should be easy to grasp during everyday shower routines.

Remove slip and trip hazards

Any wet, smooth surface is a slip hazard, making bathrooms dangerous territory. Shower floors should be “non-skid.” Whether you are selecting a prefabricated polymer shower base or picking tile for the shower surround, work with a professional will ensure you identify the safest products for your bathroom remodel.

In addition, bathmats and throw rugs in a bathroom are potentially dangerous. If you’re living with an aging parent, removing these after each use is the best way to prevent falls.

Talk about the toilet

Toilets are the less-glamorous elements in bathroom remodels, but important changes to them can have a big impact for seniors. Comfort height-toilets are a must for the aging population. These commodes are higher off the ground, decreasing the strain on hips and knees.

Grab bars around the toilet are also a necessity, but when the toilet is nestled between the vanity and the tub, which is often the case, there was typically no place for a grab bar. However, fold-down grab bars are now on the market and can be installed to accommodate this need.

“People we have done the [fold-down grab bars] for have really appreciated them because they thought they were in a position where they couldn’t have one installed,” Readnower added.

For high-end remodels, electricity and water hookups can give the toilet bidet-style functions and can be excellent solutions when flexibility makes routine cleanliness more difficult. Some toilets also come with heated seats.

Don’t forget the vanity

Installing bathroom vanities that are taller, usually the height of a standard kitchen counter, is an outstanding solution to decrease the bending and straining on the lower back.

“In fact, today when we remodel, that’s the vanity height of choice for most homeowners,” Readnower said. “Even middle-aged homeowners want them. When you’re out working in the yard and straining, just having a little less stress on your back is one of life’s little pleasures.”

How much does a senior bathroom remodel cost?

The total cost of a senior bathroom remodel varies based on the size of the bathroom and the changes involved. Replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower may be a smaller project than a full renovation that includes new flooring, a toilet, and a vanity.

Materials affect the final price as well. Shower surrounds, tile, fixtures, and seating options come in different styles and price points. If your plans include moving plumbing or changing the layout, you can expect additional labor and installation costs.

It’s also worth thinking about which updates matter most right now. Some homeowners may need just a few changes to make daily routines easier. Others prefer to remodel the entire bathroom at once rather than tackle separate projects over time.

Craftsmen Home Improvements offers free in-home consultations to review your space and discuss your top priorities. The team can help you understand the scope of work before moving forward.

If you’re considering a larger renovation, financing options are available. You can request a quote to get started with your bathroom plans.

How long does a senior bathroom remodel take? 

Typically, a bathroom remodel takes 3 to 6 weeks. Again, this depends on the project’s size and complexity. A straightforward shower replacement requires less work than a complete renovation with plumbing changes and new flooring.

Before installation begins, Craftsmen Home Improvements works through the design and material selection process. Materials are ordered and inspected before construction starts to help reduce avoidable delays.

During the actual remodel, you may need to make other bathing arrangements while the bathroom is out of use. This is especially important if it’s the only full bathroom in the home.

Your project schedule will be specific to the work involved and any unexpected conditions discovered during installation.

How a Craftsmen remodel runs from start to finish

Craftsmen Home Improvements handles bathroom renovations for seniors from the first consultation through the final walkthrough. You’ll work with an in-house design team and a dedicated lead installer who oversees the work in your home.

Here’s what to expect from the nine-step remodeling process:

  1. In-home consultation: A design consultant visits your home to see the bathroom and learn what you’d like to change.
  2. Design: The team creates a 3D plan so you can review the layout before construction.
  3. Material selection: Visit a local showroom to choose your shower materials, fixtures, flooring, and finishes under your designer’s guidance.
  4. Product ordering: Craftsmen Home Improvements orders and inspects the materials. Work won’t begin until everything arrives.
  5. Pre-construction meeting: Your designer and lead installer review measurements and confirm the installation schedule.
  6. Installation: A dedicated lead installer stays with your project throughout construction and manages the work each day.
  7. Installation inspection: Your installer reviews the work with you and coordinates any required inspections or adjustments.
  8. Final walkthrough: You’ll review the finished bathroom with the team and receive instructions for caring for your new materials.
  9. Five-year labor warranty: Craftsmen Home Improvements backs its remodeling work with an exclusive five-year labor warranty.

This process gives you one team to work with throughout the remodel. From choosing materials to reviewing the finished space, you’ll know who to contact with questions.

Plan the next 10 years now, not after the first fall. Fill out an online contact form here anytime or call our team at Craftsmen Home Improvements during business hours to start a free consultation for your bathroom remodel today!

FAQs

What does a bathroom remodel for seniors include?

Common bathroom updates include walk-in showers, grab bars, shower seating, and comfort-height toilets. Some homeowners also choose slip-resistant flooring or a more accessible vanity. The right combination depends on the bathroom’s layout and the homeowner’s daily needs.

How much does a senior bathroom remodel cost in Dayton or Cincinnati?

Pricing varies based on the size of the bathroom, materials, and extent of the renovation. Craftsmen Home Improvements offers free in-home consultations in the Dayton and Greater Cincinnati areas to review your plans and provide a project quote.

How long does a senior bathroom remodel take?

Most bathroom remodels take 3 to 6 weeks once construction begins. Projects involving major layout or plumbing changes may take longer. Our team orders materials before scheduling installation to help avoid unnecessary delays.

Can I stay in my home during a bathroom remodel?

Yes, many homeowners remain in their homes during construction. However, the bathroom being remodeled will be temporarily unavailable. Having another working bathroom makes daily routines easier while the work is underway.

Do you offer financing for a bathroom remodel?

Yes. Craftsmen Home Improvements offers financing options for qualifying homeowners. You can review available plans and payment options before deciding how to move forward.

Where can I see bathroom materials in person near Cincinnati?

Visit the Craftsmen Home Improvements showroom in West Chester Township on Muhlhauser Road, about half a mile west of IKEA. You can explore bathroom materials and finishes in person and speak with the design team about your project.

What makes Craftsmen Home Improvements different

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Your Home Deserves a Contractor Who Will Still Be Here Tomorrow

For most people, owning a home is about more than property. It’s where you raise your family, host the holidays, and build a life. After the work it took to get there, you want the company you hire to treat it with the same care you do.

That matters more now than it used to. With mortgage rates still high, more homeowners across Southwest Ohio are choosing to stay put and invest in the home they already love: a kitchen that finally works for the way they live, a bathroom that’s safe and comfortable for the long haul, or a basement that becomes real living space. These are big projects, and who you hire matters.

A track record you can check

Craftsmen Home Improvements has been caring for homes in the Miami Valley for more than 25 years, and today we serve Dayton, Springfield, Cincinnati, and Northern Kentucky. That’s a meaningful distinction in an industry where only about a third of construction companies are still operating after five years. A contractor who has been around this long has seen your type of house, your type of problem, and your type of project many times over.

More than 10,000 completed jobs and a long run among the nation’s top 500 remodelers in Qualified Remodeler magazine reflect that experience. So does our referral rate: 97 percent of our customers recommend us, compared with an industry average closer to 68 percent. Most of our business comes from neighbors, friends, and families who’ve already been through the process with us.

The right crew for the right job

Remodeling isn’t one skill. The team that’s great at roofing isn’t necessarily the one you want finishing your basement, and a crew that installs windows all day may not be the best fit for a bathroom gut. Our crews specialize in the work they do, and every project follows a detailed contractor’s manual with specifications for each type of remodel. The result is consistent, quality work, no matter which crew shows up at your door.

Planning that’s easy to start

Every project begins with a free, in-home consultation. If you’d like to see materials and ideas in person first, our showrooms let you compare cabinets, tile, fixtures, and finishes and talk through design options before you commit to anything.

A warranty that outlasts the job

We stand behind our work with a five-year warranty, well beyond the one-year commitment many contractors offer. If something isn’t right, we make it right.

Ready when you are

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, a bathroom update, an accessible space that lets you stay in your home for years to come, or a finished basement, Craftsmen has the experience to take care of your home and deliver a result you’ll enjoy for years. Schedule your free in-home consultation today.

New counters? Here’s why the cabinets have to be replaced first

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If you didn’t build your home, or pay top dollar for the one you’re in, chances are you don’t love your kitchen, or it needs updates. Desirable kitchens are not only highly functional, but they also reflect the homeowner’s personal style. If you didn’t design yours, you probably can think of something you wish were different every day.

Often called the heart of the home, kitchens are where families prepare and share meals, and guests congregate, so if you’re not happy with your kitchen, it might be time to consider a remodel.

Kitchen remodels can be designed for almost any budget, but no matter what finances have been set aside for the update, renovations happen best with a plan.

If you’re looking to make some significant changes to your kitchen, but your budget is tight, keeping existing items can save on costs. Appliances, flooring and cabinets are all high-cost items. Another possibility is to do your renovation in phases. If you’re considering this option, it’s important that your cabinets are replaced before selecting and installing new countertops.

Here are four reasons why replacing the cabinets before the countertops is a must in any kitchen renovation.

1. Solid foundation: Cabinets provide the foundation for your countertops. If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, odds are you’re considering a solid surface or stone counter, like quartz or granite. Stone and manmade countertops are very heavy. If your existing cabinets aren’t structurally sound or level, mounting new counters on top will be problematic. If you’re hoping to resurface or paint your existing cabinets for a cost-effective solution in your kitchen upgrade, be sure to have the integrity of the cabinets confirmed before proceeding with this option.

2. Too fragile to move: Some homeowners assume you can purchase fancy new countertops to make a big impact, and then have the cabinets replaced at a later date. This isn’t an option. Natural stone and man-made countertops are very fragile, and once they are set in place, very few fabricators would be willing to move them at a later date because the chance of damaging them is too high. If you attempt to have the countertops moved at a later date, in most cases, you also will void your warranty.

3. Locks layout in place: Once the countertops are ordered, your kitchen layout is locked in place. While you might think your work triangle – sink, range, fridge – is highly functional (and you might be right), kitchen designers can make subtle changes to your cabinets. Adding a spice rack or hidden trash can, or extending the counter to create a peninsula, when they design the new cabinet configuration might not be possible if the countertops are already in place.

4. Finishing touches: Beautiful new countertops deserve to be accented with a custom backsplash, and backsplashes can only be installed after the countertops are securely in place. Once the backsplash is installed, moving the countertops to replace cabinets would not be possible without damaging the backsplash.

When it comes time to update your kitchen, the first step is calling a professional contractor. Kitchen renovations are full of critical decisions to ensure you will be happy with your investment far into the future. Don’t risk a costly mistake or renovation fiasco by attempting a kitchen upgrade DIY style. No matter what your budget is, starting with a solid plan is the only way to guarantee success and satisfaction with a kitchen renovation.

4 energy efficiency upgrades for your home

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You work hard to keep and maintain your home, and now it’s time to let your home work for you. With the financial demands homeownership entails, making energy efficiency upgrades where and when you can just makes good “cents.”

Upgrades that are energy-efficient are a must, especially when it comes time to replace worn out and outdated fixtures in your home. Here some key items in your home to consider swapping out for greener options.

Replace Windows
If you’re trying to save money on your energy bills, replacing your worn-out windows is a great first step. New windows not only decrease drafts, they also have the added benefit of eliminating the maintenance of scraping and painting that’s necessary every few years for old windows. New windows are also a great way to increase your home’s curb appeal.

Replacing your windows can be a big investment, so it’s important to work with a professional. Some people choose to replace all of the windows at once, while others opt to do one side or level of a home at a time.

Add a Storm Door
Storm doors add an extra layer of protection between the inside air and the outside air in your home. When winter temperatures strike, a storm door prevents your cozy warm indoor air from escaping, and in these dog days of summer you can keep the thick, hot air from finding its way inside.

Upgrade Appliances
The kitchen is the heart of the home and where friends and family gather – it’s also where the majority of major home appliances are located. Refrigerators, dishwashers and stoves all take energy to operate. These machines account for about 13 percent of a household’s energy costs, according to energy.gov.

If your appliances are outdated, replacing them with some that have an Energy Star label not only saves you money, but these appliances can be a practical and stylish upgrade for your kitchen. Don’t forget about your washer, dryer, and water heater, as well, as they are large energy-using appliances that might need an upgrade.

Improve Lighting
An average household dedicates 11 percent of its energy budget to lighting. Using new lighting technologies can reduce lighting energy use in your home by 50 to 75 percent.

Changing a few light bulbs and switching to updated lighting fixtures are simple solutions to bring your energy bills down. Traditional bulbs use a lot of energy and produce heat. Changing your traditional bulbs out for CFL or LED bulbs is a simple, fast solution to saving money. Installing motion detectors for outdoor lighting, and adding dimmer switches to control the amount of light you use in particular rooms also help improve energy efficiency.

With any upgrade in your home, it’s important to work with a professional. A professional can ensure the products you’re replacing are installed correctly, working properly, and providing the best return on your investment for years to come.

Storage upgrades for a small kitchen

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Kitchen remodels are usually thought of as synonymous with luxury: spacious kitchens with room for a large island, plenty of counter space to incorporate a separate prep sink, double ovens, lavish lighting, and lots of fancy fixtures and finishes. But sometimes practical, useful solutions for storage can bring their own element of luxury. If you’ve got a kitchen on the smaller side, don’t put off upgrading because of size.

Just because your kitchen isn’t big on space, doesn’t mean it can’t be packed with useful upgrades that turn your small, so-so kitchen into a dreamy space. Here are some kitchen upgrades that can pack a powerful punch when it comes to storage solutions.

Sign-up for spice solutions

Pull-out spice drawers are an upgrade that can be added to any kitchen. These tall, slender drawers fit between standard base cabinets. They don’t require a lot of space to incorporate and can accommodate the variety of spices used by gourmet cooks.

Say goodbye to scattered silverware

Tired of your plastic silverware drawer insert? This crumb-collecting solution to keeping silverware organized can receive quite the upgrade. Silverware drawers with beautiful, built-in wooden trays are a vast improvement over the standard plastic tray and can be stacked two-deep, so that the top organizer slides out of the way to reveal a second level for additional silverware or knives.

Tuck away garbage and recycling

Trashcans are an eyesore and take up useful space for moving around in the small kitchen. If you’re sick of trying to hide your trashcan under the kitchen sink and have no place to even consider putting a recycling bin, adding a pull-out trash and recycling station is ideal. A standard cabinet front door actually functions like a large drawer and slides out to reveal an area big enough for two decent-sized trash bins. Use both bins for trash, or save one for recyclables.

Hide unsightly sponges

Make use of the “fake” drawer under most kitchen sinks by adding a small tip-out tray just big enough for the scour pad, sponge and bottlebrush.

Turn things on their side

Stacking baking trays, muffin tins cooling racks and other large kitchen items takes up valuable kitchen real estate. Plus, when it comes time to remove the cookie sheet on the bottom, everything on top has to come out first, which is less than ideal. Including dividers in one of your cabinets allows you to turn baking sheets and other essentials on their side, sliding them vertically into and out of the cabinet with ease.

Stop stacking pots and pans

Including a pullout organizer for pots and pans eliminates the strategic stacking-and-nesting game that takes place in most kitchens. These pull-out organizers come in a few different designs and styles — some allow pans and lids to hang from the top of the cabinet and pull out, while others use a shelving system that stacks pots without having to nestle them inside one another.

Don’t put off a kitchen remodel because you don’t think you have the space to create a dream kitchen. Incorporate some smart storage solutions, add some fancy finishes, and you’ll be amazed at how easily you can upgrade your small kitchen.

How to select the right flooring for your bathroom

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Each day we are inundated with choices – whether or not to hit snooze, which route to take to the bank, what to make for dinner, and on it goes.

If you’ve ever been through a home renovation, you know the number of choices that need to be made can be daunting. From big ones like room layout, costly fixtures and furniture, to paint colors and outlet placement — the list is endless.

Doing your research long before the renovation process begins can help decrease the overwhelming feelings that come with renovations. If a bathroom renovation is in your future, flooring choice will be a big decision.

Considering flooring options in advance can help you know what product is right for you and your home.

Always avoid carpet
Flooring that is resistant to water is your best bet for a bathroom makeover, so you’ll want to be sure to steer clear of carpeting. Carpet harbors moisture, and in a space with repeated water exposure, mold and damage are inevitable. Water permeates the carpet, where it can cause the carpet padding to deteriorate and result in damage to the subfloor.

Water-resistant options
Porcelain or ceramic tile, vinyl sheets and natural stone are the options you’ll see in most high-end renovations, and all are excellent water-resistant options for bathrooms.

1. Tile: Tile is ideal for a bathroom where frequent water exposure is likely. Most tile is stain-resistant and is considered a low-maintenance flooring option. Tile can come in a variety of colors, shapes and textures, with finishes that can look like natural stone without the high price tag. Wood-look tile is also an option for homeowners who love the look of wood but want the durability of tile for a bathroom. The durability and water impermeability of tile means it can last a lifetime.

2. Vinyl sheets: Vinyl might not be on your list of flooring options to consider, but don’t rule it out. While it’s often used in commercial settings and might conjure up images of apartment bathrooms from your youth, the benefits of vinyl have it making its way into stylish homes across America. Vinyl is soft, pliable and warm, making it comfortable to feet. It comes in a variety of colors and is sold in tiles and sheets, allowing for plenty of design options.

3. Natural stone: Marble, granite, slate, limestone, travertine, sandstone – there are a variety of natural stone options for bathrooms floors, and each is exquisite. Stone is unique and provides added drama in your bathroom. While stone surfaces can require extra care to maintain, they are beautiful and can last for generations.

Consider radiant floor heating
If you’re looking to add a little bit of luxury with the flip of a switch, cold floors can be programed to warm your toes through electric resistance heat panels under the floor. Radiant floor heating can be added to ceramic or porcelain tile and most natural stone options. Depending on the manufacturer, it can be used with vinyl sheet flooring, as well.