Category: Home Improvement

Home Improvement

Home Remodel Contractors

Junior Mcgrath

Before choosing a home remodel contractor, homeowners should narrow down the candidates and examine their portfolios of previous projects. The best contractors will include photos of spaces before the remodel, during the remodeling process and after the project is completed.

Home Remodel

Homeowners can also ask a prospective contractor to provide their references from past clients. These references can be helpful for determining whether a contractor is reliable and trustworthy. Contact Home Remodel Contractors Tacoma for professional help.

For example, the firm recently remodeled a home that included two additions and a full basement. They used smart storage solutions, like a custom-built coffee nook/microwave, and repainted the cabinets using on-trend colors for a fresh look. They also removed the fireplace arches and added a linear fire feature to create a modern space.

Construction Services works on traditional, craftsman, and modern farmhouse homes. Their projects feature massive exterior pillars, wood ceiling beams, and wooden kitchen counters. They also use neutral color schemes with pop art accents and modern fireplace masonry to create a lively, yet calm interior.

The company has been in business for over fifteen years and is an accredited BBB member. They are also affiliated with the NARI, and have received numerous awards for their outstanding work. In addition, they have obtained the Douglas County Health LEAD certification in accordance with the company’s commitment to build and remodel safe and healthy homes. The company also offers home improvement loans and is a certified green builder.

The company is committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. It provides services for residential and commercial remodeling projects. Its portfolio includes basement finishes, whole-house remodels, custom kitchens and bathrooms, and outdoor living spaces. It also handles new home and commercial office construction. Its employees are trained to handle a variety of building tasks, including painting and carpentry.

Its team is experienced in all areas of the home and can handle a wide range of remodeling projects. Its team has extensive experience with historic restorations, custom homes, and outdoor living spaces.

The firm’s staff has more than 40 years of professional experience. Its clients benefit from the firm’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and its commitment to communication. Its process ensures that all aspects of the project are reviewed and understood by both the client and the firm. This is one of the reasons why the firm prioritizes weekly meetings between its team and clients.

This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. BBB encourages potential customers to check with the appropriate agency to be certain any requirements are currently being met. This firm is committed to delivering remarkable residential and commercial remodels at reasonable prices. Its team of experts is dedicated to maintaining high standards of professionalism and service. The firm has a strong track record of meeting deadlines and budgets. It is also familiar with government-funded grant programs, including the Veterans Administration Specially Adapted Housing program. The firm offers free online consultations. The firm’s website is updated regularly with the latest information about the firm and its projects.

The Omaha firm specializes in custom residential remodels and carries out kitchen, bathroom, and home addition projects. Its services include drywall installation and finishing, painting, custom wall textures, granite countertops, bathtubs and showers, and basement finishing solutions. The company has been in business since 1973 and is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Its owner, Roger Schuller, has conducted general contracting and carpentry work for over 40 years.

The Remodeling Contractors is committed to delivering remarkable home and commercial remodels at reasonable prices. Its team of experts has a track record of exceeding customer expectations and completing jobs on time and within budget. They also maintain high standards of professionalism and service, working with subcontractors and clients alike to uphold professional standards. In addition to a wide range of remodeling services, the company has extensive experience with ADA and aging-in-place modifications.

This business is in an industry that requires professional licensing, bonding or registration. BBB encourages potential customers to check with the appropriate agency to be certain that all requirements are current.

Remodeling is a one-stop home improvement and renovation service that provides bathroom and kitchen remodeling, decks, and additions. Its design and construction specialists can create new bathrooms, decks, and rooms, as well as install granite and marble countertops. The company’s services also include drywall installation and finishing, painting, and lighting design.

Remodeling Contractors is a construction firm that serves clients. They specialize in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, garage building, basement finishes, and commercial renovations. They also install exterior video monitoring and home theater systems. The company is licensed and insured in the state.

The company’s founder, Todd Sanwick, is a master craftsman who is committed to excellence and reliability. He and his team use a strong ethical philosophy to deal with their customers, and they believe that this approach makes the remodeling process less stressful for their clients.

Recently, the company completed a project that involved expanding an existing two-story house by adding an addition and completely remodeling the interior. This included adding custom wood shelving to the kitchen, a tiled linear fireplace to the living room, and a full bath, walk-in closet, and laundry in the master suite.

The team at Sanwick Remodeling is on the forefront of education and expertise, and they regularly attend international builders shows and remodeling shows to stay current with the latest design trends and products. In addition to their educational efforts, the company’s owner, enabling them to safely adapt homes for age-related concerns and universal accessibility.

A home remodel is a significant project that can affect your daily routine and budget. It is important to choose the right contractor for the job. It is a good idea to ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. You can also find contractors through online reviews and testimonials. When choosing a contractor, be sure to look for certifications and memberships in industry organizations. These indicate that the contractor is invested in their profession and upholds high standards for professionalism.

You should also consider the type of remodel you want to do. Some projects have a better return on investment than others. For example, adding a new kitchen or bathroom can increase the value of your house by up to 85%. Other projects include replacing the roof, windows, and siding.

The best home remodel contractors will have extensive experience and a track record of success. They will be able to work with you to create the home you’ve always wanted. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have. Lastly, they will provide a free estimate and consultation. They will then complete the project on time and within your budget.

Home Improvement

Why It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

Joy Garcia

If your windows are starting to look a bit worn and drafty, it’s time to consider replacing them. New windows do more than brighten up a home—they can also provide improved energy efficiency, increased comfort and heightened curb appeal.

replacement windows

Insert replacement windows install into an existing frame, preserving the original trim and siding. They are available in a wide variety of styles and materials. For more information, visit https://yourhomeexteriors.com/.

Replacing old single-pane windows with Energy Star double-pane windows and new frames can significantly lower monthly energy costs, experts say. That’s because the frames in older windows are often made of aluminum, which is an excellent conductor of hot and cold air. Newer replacement windows use vinyl and fiberglass frames, which are poor conductors of heat and offer superior insulation.

In addition, the Energy Star label on new replacement windows helps homeowners compare models and make the most informed purchase. Consumers can also look for ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to help them find windows with a high level of energy efficiency.

Replacement windows are available in a wide variety of operational styles and shapes to fit almost any space, so homeowners can get just the right look. In addition, a number of custom options are available to enhance the beauty and functionality of any window. These include upgrading handles and locks, incorporating between-the-glass grilles for blinds or shades and adding screens to keep insects out.

There are two types of replacement windows: full-frame and insert. In full-frame replacement, the entire existing frame and trim are removed and replaced with the new window. In insert replacement, the new window is fitted into the existing frame opening, keeping the interior and exterior trim intact.

Regardless of the type of replacement windows you choose, it is important that they are installed properly to realize the benefits. Professional installation is typically recommended, although some homeowners are able to install their replacement windows themselves with the proper tools and materials. A power drill, pry bar, utility knife, putty knife, hammer and scraper are the main items you’ll need for the job, along with caulk, duct tape and primer.

The best replacement windows will be designed to fit into your existing window opening and will work well with the style of your home. In most cases, you can expect to see lower monthly energy bills, improved comfort and a more attractive exterior appearance. If you’re ready to make the switch, schedule a consultation with a local installer and begin shopping for the perfect windows for your home.

Better Comfort

When it comes to home improvement projects, homeowners typically have two questions: “What am I trying to improve,” and “Is the cost worth it?” With replacement windows, these inquiries can be answered with a resounding yes.

Modern replacement windows are packed with cutting-edge features that serve the homeowner and their family better than traditional windows ever could. These features aren’t gimmicks or luxury options, either. Rather, the best new windows deliver significant advantages at every point of the window’s lifespan.

The first way these features benefit the homeowner is with improved comfort. The new windows create a tight seal that prevents air leakage. This allows climate-controlled air to remain in the home and keeps the indoor temperature consistent, reducing utility costs.

New windows are also designed to reduce the amount of outdoor noise that enters the house. This helps the occupants relax and unwind at home, as well as sleep peacefully during the night.

Finally, new replacement windows are easier to open and close than older windows. Older windows may become hard to open or even get stuck in the open position, which is a safety concern. These problems aren’t present with replacement windows, which are easier to open, close, and clean.

Another way these windows help with comfort is by lowering humidity levels in the home. High humidity can cause the air to feel stale, sticky, and uncomfortable. New replacement windows keep the humidity levels in the home at a comfortable level, helping occupants stay healthy and comfortable.

Replacement windows are available in a wide range of styles, making it easy for the homeowner to find one that suits the house and its décor. The style choices include double-hung, casement, slider, awning, bay, and bow windows. In addition, the best replacement windows come in a variety of colors and finishes, which adds to the visual appeal of the home.

Improved Appearance

One of the main reasons homeowners seek replacement windows is to add value and curb appeal to their homes. Newer windows are not only more energy-efficient and comfortable, but they also come in a variety of styles to complement any home’s architecture.

Newer replacement windows also typically have double or triple panes filled with argon gas for added UV protection. This helps to prevent fading of your walls, furniture and carpeting. If you are looking to sell your home, replacing old windows with more efficient ones can help increase its resale value.

Another benefit to consider is the reduced maintenance needed for your windows. A quality set of replacement windows will no longer need storm windows, and they are much easier to clean than older wood windows that may have been painted over many times throughout the years.

In addition, newer replacement windows often have tilt-in features that allow them to be easily washed from inside your home. This can save you the hassle and expense of hiring a professional window washer.

If your current windows are extremely leaky or you notice rot around the frames, it is probably time to replace them. Left unchecked, rotting wood can spread and cause structural damage to your house. This can also lead to mold and mildew problems.

Replacement windows are available in a variety of styles and opening options, including double-hung, casement, sliding, awning, bay, bow and bay/bow combinations. You can also choose from different trim finishes, window shapes and glazing options to create a look that is unique to your property. In addition, you can choose from a wide range of colors to match your existing building materials.

Noise Reduction

In addition to making your home energy efficient, replacement windows are also highly effective at reducing outside noise. The combination of insulation and double panes create a barrier that blocks out sound transmission, making your house a quiet retreat. This is especially beneficial for homeowners who live near highways, train tracks, airports, or other noisy areas. You can finally get a good night’s sleep without the annoying noise of garbage trucks or street traffic keeping you awake!

New construction windows are the best option for reducing outside noise because they attach to the studs in your wall, creating a solid seal around the window. They can be installed on both existing homes and new construction projects, and they can be custom sized to fit the specific space.

If your existing windows need to be replaced, you may want to consider insert replacements, which fit into the current window opening. This option doesn’t require any major alterations to your walls, trim, or siding, which is important for people who have carefully curated their exterior design.

Another way to reduce outside noise is by replacing old caulking and weather stripping. These small improvements can help to keep outside noise out, and they’re relatively inexpensive. It’s worth mentioning that, even with these improvements, it is possible that outside noise will still enter your home through air gaps in the frames or between the glass.

If you live near a busy road, noisy school, or a concert venue, replacing your windows is the best way to reduce outside noise. Compared to single-pane windows, double-pane windows are significantly more effective at blocking out outside noise, and the extra insulation helps prevent heat transfer as well. The insulated glass and airtight frames create an effective sound barrier, which is further reduced by the argon gas fills and low-E coatings. These energy-efficient features are also a great investment for boosting your home’s resale value!

Home Improvement

Epoxy Flooring

Shawn Duval

Epoxy is a floor coating that can be applied to any concrete surface. It is resistant to chemicals, scratches, and other wear and tear.

Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy floors are easy to sanitize and can be used in hospitals, veterinary clinics, manufacturing plants, and other areas that require a durable flooring system. These floors are also attractive and add value to any property. Read on Epoxy Flooring WV to learn more.

Epoxy floors are extremely durable and hold up well to heavy traffic, but they are not indestructible. Like any surface, they can be damaged by liquid spills, dirt, and dust. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help prevent damage and keep your floors looking new for years to come.

Sweeping and mopping are vital parts of maintaining your epoxy floors. You should sweep your floors on a daily basis, or even twice a day in high-traffic areas. You should also vacuum your floor often with a soft brush attachment to collect any dirt or grit that has accumulated on the surface. Dirt and grit can scratch your epoxy floors, so it’s important to remove them as often as possible.

Using a commercial floor cleaner with water will keep your floors clean and free from residue. You should avoid using vinegar or any other acidic cleaners, as they can etch the surface of your epoxy and cause it to become dull and discolored over time.

While epoxy floors are resistant to most chemicals, it’s important to always wipe up any chemical spills as soon as they occur. This will not only prevent stains, but it will also protect the environment and people in your workspace. For small stains, you can use a paper towel or sponge to soak up the liquid. For more stubborn stains, you can try using a kitchen scrubbing sponge or a soft deck brush and warm water to scrub the spot.

If your floors experience a lot of wear and tear, you may need to scrub them on a weekly or biweekly basis. This will depend on the amount of dirt and debris that accumulates on the surface. You should use a commercial floor scrubber with a soft brush attachment for the best results. To help your floors last longer, you can place a walk-off mat at the entrance of your workspace to catch all the dust and dirt before it makes its way onto the epoxy floor coating. You can also place cardboard or carpet under motorcycle and bicycle kickstands to prevent them from dragging on the floor and damaging the epoxy.

Durable

Whether you’re looking for flooring that’s attractive and slip-resistant or durable enough to stand up to heavy equipment, chemicals, and oil spills, epoxy floors are the answer. They are also extremely cost-effective and require little maintenance compared to other options.

Epoxy floors are made from a tough resin and hardener, which are combined together for a chemical reaction that forms the hardened material. These floors are strong and able to stand up to the elements, making them ideal for garages, industrial spaces, or even residential living rooms. They can be customized to fit your specific needs, with various colors and patterns available for an aesthetic appeal that’s as unique as you are.

The durability of epoxy floors is often a concern for customers, but it’s important to remember that the quality of the application is just as crucial as the material itself. When a floor is not applied correctly, it can be susceptible to moisture damage, environmental harm, and microbial infestation. It’s essential to hire a team of specialists who have the experience necessary to complete your project properly.

Once your floors are installed, they will last for years to come as long as they receive proper care and maintenance. A thorough cleaning on a regular basis will go a long way in extending the life of your floor as well as keeping it looking like new.

If you use your garage as a workshop, you’ll want a floor that can accommodate the heavy machinery and harsh materials used in car upkeep without causing damage to the flooring or causing accidents. With an epoxy garage floor, you’ll be able to keep your vehicle in the garage all year without having to worry about the temperature or weather affecting its performance.

If you have a gym, your floor will need to be able to withstand the heavy weights and vibrations of large pieces of equipment. A dingy floor is a trip or slip waiting to happen, but with a smooth epoxy finish, your employees will be less likely to sustain injuries.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Aside from their practical uses, epoxy floors are aesthetically pleasing and can be used in a variety of settings. They can add value to homes and are an attractive choice for commercial and industrial areas. In addition, they are resistant to stains and chemicals. This makes them an excellent option for garages, basements, and other areas that are susceptible to spills. Moreover, epoxy is easy to maintain, so it will keep its attractive appearance for years to come.

One of the best things about epoxy flooring is that it can be installed in a very short period of time. If you hire a professional, the entire process can be completed in two days or less. The first step is to prepare the floor for the installation, which can be done by removing any furniture and either mechanical grinding or chemical etching. It is important that the surface is clean and smooth to ensure good adhesion. You should also make sure to remove any stains that are present on the floor.

Once the floor has been prepped, a resin and hardening agent are mixed and then applied to the concrete. It takes a few days for the coating to cure and harden, but it is a much quicker solution than other types of flooring. Additionally, it is less expensive than other types of floor coverings.

Epoxy floors are also customizable to meet a variety of design and color requirements. They can be mixed with various additives to create different finishes. For example, they can be colored to match the rest of the room or have a shimmering effect. They can even be made to resemble concrete or marble. The options are endless.

Another great benefit of epoxy is that it can be refinished when it starts to show signs of wear. This means that you can continue to use your floor for a long time without having to spend money on replacements. However, if you decide to refinish your epoxy floor yourself, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for mixing and application. Otherwise, you may damage the coating and make it sticky or dull.

Versatile

Epoxy is very versatile and can be used in a wide variety of settings. It is also very affordable, making it a great choice for many commercial and residential spaces. This type of flooring is available in a range of colors and textures and can be used to create unique designs that will enhance the appearance of any room. It is easy to clean and sanitize and is resistant to staining and other damage. This type of flooring is also ideal for garages, basements, and workshops because it can withstand heavy equipment and vehicles without becoming damaged or cracked.

One of the most important factors in ensuring that an epoxy floor is successful is proper surface preparation. The concrete must be free of cracks, chips, and other debris before the application of the epoxy coating can begin. This is because the concrete underneath will not be able to bond with the epoxy properly if any of these problems are present.

To ensure that the floor is prepared correctly, professionals will use various methods, including diamond grinding and media blasting. They will also remove any contaminated materials from the area and degrease the slab, if necessary. This is because it is important to ensure that the epoxy has a strong and secure bond to the substrate and that any oils or other chemicals will not be able to seep through and cause problems down the line.

Another advantage of epoxy is that it is easy to maintain. It is much easier to sweep and mop than a typical concrete floor, which can save you money on cleaning supplies over time. It is also abrasion and impact resistant, so it will not be damaged by heavy machinery or dropped tools.

This versatility makes epoxy flooring the perfect option for any home or business, whether it is a garage, basement, or workshop. It is easy to keep clean and sanitized, and it can be adorned with unique patterns and swirls for a stunning visual effect. Unlike other types of flooring, it is very durable and can last for decades with little to no wear.

Home Improvement

Is Laminate Flooring Right For Your Home?

Vicki Adams
Laminate Flooring

If you want the look of traditional hardwood, stone, or tile flooring without the hassle and high maintenance, laminate may be right for you. Laminate floors are easy to clean, durable, and come in a variety of styles to suit any decor.

The best laminate flooring is crafted from three to four protective layers and includes a backing layer that helps balance and prevent bowing. It also comes with a quality click-lock system for fast and easy floating floor installation.

The cost of laminate flooring depends on a number of factors. The type of wood grain you see on the planks, their thickness and texturing, as well as the design can all affect the cost. Generally, it costs between $3 and $6 per square foot for material.

Besides materials, you will also need to factor in installation. Although laminate flooring can be installed on your own, it may be more cost-effective to hire a professional. You can expect to pay between $1,440 and $4,310 for a single room.

Laminate flooring is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and it’s easy to customize the look with stencils and borders. It’s also very easy to install, making it a great choice for do-it-yourselfers.

You can choose from a range of wood-look laminates, including acacia, cherry, beech, and hickory. They’re all very realistic, and you can find different shades and grain patterns for each type.

Most laminates are click-lock floors that can be glued or nailed down, but you should check with your local flooring store to ensure your subfloor is level. If it’s not, you can still use laminate, but it will likely be more expensive and harder to install.

Another option is to use a vinyl floor. These come in a variety of designs and are more durable than laminates. They’re softer and more environmentally friendly, too.

However, the cost of vinyl flooring is significantly higher than laminates, and you may have to replace it more often. You should also be aware that most vinyl is not waterproof.

A more reliable and durable way to go is to install a hard-wearing version of laminate called high-pressure laminate (HPL). This uses 1000 pounds of pressure in the manufacturing process to make it more resistant to heavy traffic.

Some laminates are also backed with antimicrobial resin to keep the floor hygienic. This makes them more attractive to families with children or pets, and it helps protect the floor from bacterial growth.

The best way to find out which laminate flooring is right for you is to visit a home improvement store or online retailer and look at the samples. These will give you a sense of what the finished product will look like and how it will fit into your budget. You can also use an online flooring visualizer, which will help you decide which colors and pattern combinations would work best in your space.

Durability is one of the most important features to consider when deciding whether laminate flooring is the right choice for your home. It’s not only a factor in determining how much you’ll spend on the floor, but it can also affect your resale value and how easy it is to maintain and repair over time.

The most durable laminate floors feature a tough top layer and high-density fiberboard core that can handle heavy traffic. This means that they are more resilient to scratches and dents than many other types of flooring.

Laminate flooring’s durability is rated by the AC Rating, which ranges from cheap residential grades of 1 to heavy commercial-grade floors of 5. The higher the rating, the more resistant the laminate floor is to wear and tear.

This means that it’s more likely to last for a long time, which will save you money in the long run when it comes to maintenance. It’s also a great choice for homeowners who want a flooring material that’s antibacterial and resistant to stains, which is ideal for families with young children or pets.

Home Improvement

How to Do Drywall Installation Right

Roberta Ledbetter
Drywall

Drywall installation is an important part of a building, but it’s also one of the most complicated things to do. Luckily, there are plenty of resources out there to help you learn how to do it right. 

A drywall installation can be a complex process. It involves many different aspects, from deciding on the types of drywall and finishes to hiring a contractor. These factors can have an impact on the cost of drywall installation.

The size of the room can affect the overall cost of the project. Larger rooms will require more labor and materials. If the drywall installation is in a high-ceilinged area, it may require scaffolding.

You can also reduce the cost of your drywall installation by doing it yourself. This can save you hundreds of dollars. Alternatively, you can hire a professional to do the work for you. But before you do this, make sure to do your research.

One of the most time-consuming parts of drywall installation is the preparation. During this stage, the drywall is smoothed. A joint compound is also applied to the surface to cover the joints. There is a 24-hour drying period before sanding.

Finally, painting is the finishing element of drywall installation. The cost of a drywall finish can range from $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot.

For a typical 12 x 12 room, you will need about 18 panels. The price of a sheet of drywall can range from $10 to $20.

When it comes to drywall installation, the thickness of the sheet can have an effect on the cost. Thinner drywall is cheaper than thicker drywall. Also, if the drywall is fire-rated, it will cost more.

Some companies charge a flat fee per square foot. Others take into consideration the size of your job. Regardless, the total cost of a drywall installation will depend on the number of sheets of drywall, the type of drywall, and the complexity of the work.

In addition to deciding on the type of drywall and finishes, you can get a better idea of how much drywall installation costs by getting a quote. Having an accurate idea of what the average cost of a drywall installation is will help you decide which contractors to hire.

If you are unsure about whether or not a drywall installation is right for you, you can ask your drywall installer about the most effective ways to do the work. Depending on the results, you might be able to install the drywall yourself and save money. Alternatively, you can hire a drywall expert.

If you’re planning to do a home improvement project, you’ll want to make sure that you’re installing drywall that is the right size. Having the right amount of drywall will make the installation process go much smoother.

Depending on the type of drywall you’re using, there are different sizes to choose from. The thickness of the drywall is another important factor to consider. This will determine the size of the screws you’ll need to use. For example, if you’re installing drywall over metal studs, you’ll probably need a screw with a larger diameter.

Choosing the right drywall size for your project will also help you minimize the number of joints you have to create. The thicker the drywall, the fewer joints you’ll need to create. Also, the thinner the drywall, the less work you’ll have to do to pull it into position.

When installing drywall, you can use a power drill with a drill bit that matches the size of your screws. This will allow you to drive the screws into the studs without stripping the threads. You can also use a cordless drill with adjustable speeds to avoid ripping the drywall off of the studs.

When choosing the screws, you’ll need to decide whether to use coarse or fine threads. Coarse-thread drywall screws are typically used for attaching drywall to wood studs. However, you can use fine-thread drywall screws in some applications. Fine-thread drywall screws create a tighter grip on metal.

Once you’ve determined the appropriate drywall size for your project, you can begin your installation. Be sure to attach drywall to the joists in the framed area with drywall glue or adhesive. The drywall will need to be wiped off once it’s installed to remove any excess adhesive.

Next, it’s time to set up your anchors. Using your stud finder, you should locate the studs in your drywall. In many cases, you’ll need to predrill your drywall screws to prevent the drywall from splitting.

After your drywall is installed, you’ll need to do a walkthrough to ensure that the walls are plumb and that any lights are in the correct places. A walkthrough will also ensure that no patches or rips are missed.

Home Improvement

Personal Loans For Home Improvement

Doris Bradley
Home Improvement

When you’re in the market to improve your home, there are a number of options to consider. You can upgrade your kitchen, add an apartment to your home, or even convert your basement into a one-bedroom dwelling.

When it comes to home improvement, the bathroom and kitchen are on the front lines. Considering the fact that many households operate on a tight budget, it’s no surprise that these spaces are where it’s at. Fortunately, a well-planned and executed renovation can pay dividends. Despite the challenges, there are plenty of pros who can help you get the job done. Contact Lawrenceville Home Improvement for professional expertise.

The newest trend in bathrooms is to replace whirlpool tubs with walk-in showers. While the upgrade is not cheap, it is the most cost-effective way to get the most out of your budget. Among other benefits, you’ll be able to enjoy more room for relaxing and recharging your batteries.

As you plan out your next big upgrade, make sure you keep an eye on the local real estate market. You might be surprised at what’s available on the market. With a little planning and forethought, you can find a good fit for you and your family. If you’re not ready to commit to a remodel, consider purchasing a fixer-upper to renovate yourself.

Although the best bathroom and kitchen upgrades will cost a fair bit of money, it’s worth the effort to make the most of your space. For instance, a kitchen with outdoor access is a plus for a lot of families. Likewise, a more open floor plan can allow for more light and better ventilation, which can reduce utility costs in the long run. Whether you’re looking for a full-fledged kitchen overhaul or just a few spruced-up cabinetry, there are a handful of professionals who can help you. Make sure to check out their websites for more information. They are all listed in the House & Home Directory. Hopefully, these tips will save you time and money. Lastly, keep in mind the old adage: “Always leave your home in good shape.” Regardless of how often you change out your locks or do the laundry, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place.

Converting your basement into a one-bedroom apartment can add housing to your neighborhood and provide a new source of rental income. Basement apartments are a critical supplement to the housing stock, offering financial stability to underserved families. But it can be a complicated process.

One of the first steps is obtaining a building permit. Then you need to meet certain requirements to get a certificate of occupancy. There are several legal factors that will influence the cost of converting your basement into an apartment. Some of these include insulation, ventilation, wiring, and the number of bathrooms and bedrooms.

You may also want to consider converting your basement into an in-law suite. An in-law unit will be very spacious. This can be accomplished through a retaining wall, excavation, and a foundation amendment.

You will need to decide on the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and closet space you need for your basement apartment. The best way to determine this is to take a look at local apartment listings. Once you have this information, you can start figuring out a layout. A layout should include a living room, kitchen, and dining area. It should also have a separate exterior entrance.

To make your basement apartment more livable, you will need to consider lighting and sound-buffering materials. In addition, you should consider adding windows and enlarging a walk-out door. If possible, install an outdoor sitting area.

A basement is also a great place for a nanny or au pair. However, you will need to ensure that your home meets all the code requirements for a basement. Also, you will need to work with a contractor to do the drywall installation, electrical, and plumbing. They can provide technical assistance and a no-interest loan if you are in need of additional funds.

Another option is to rent out your unfinished basement. However, this may not be the best idea for all homeowners. Not only does this require the proper permits, but it can be very costly to do so.