Tag: kitchen remodelling

Basement Remodeling
Home Improvement

Basement Remodeling: How to Turn a Cluttered, Dark Basement Into a Bright and Useful Room

Pearl Price

Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or have a contractor for the job, Basement Remodeling Lexington KY involves some serious planning. And don’t forget about getting the right permits.Basement Remodeling

Whether it’s the socializing room of your dreams or a cozy getaway, the basement can become a space that everyone in the family loves to use.

Cluttered, dark, and chilly basements are one of the most challenging spaces in a home to transform into a beautiful and useful space. However, basements offer the unique advantage of being a blank canvas that can be used as anything from an extra bedroom and home office to a media room and home gym. With the right design and a skilled contractor, basements can become the focal point of a home.

The first step of any remodeling project is the planning phase. This is where you determine the scope of your renovation. Will you be adding a bathroom, drywall, and framing? Changing existing surfaces like concrete walls and floors or simply moving around furnishings are all options for a finished basement.

Be sure to consider how your family will use the space before you go shopping for furniture, flooring, and other finishing touches. You may want to make the space as kid-friendly as possible with a large TV and seating area, or you might be more focused on entertaining guests with a bar and game room. You should also consider your family’s future needs to be sure that the finished space will meet your family’s lifestyle for years to come.

At this stage, you should also decide whether you will raise the ceiling to accommodate ductwork or other utilities. Raising the ceiling can cost significantly more than keeping it low, so it is important to think about this upfront. In many cases, a drop ceiling is the best option for basements, as it can hide electrical and plumbing lines without restricting access. This is especially true in older homes with basements that were never intended as living spaces.

Planning

The first step in any basement remodeling project is the planning process. This is where homeowners must decide what type of basement they want to create—will it be an office, living room, or bedroom? This decision will determine the layout of the space and whether it’s going to include a bathroom.

During this stage, it’s also important to examine the existing structure of the basement. This is the best time to spot problems like sagging ceilings, moisture, or water damage that may require repairs before moving on. It’s also an excellent opportunity to upgrade electrical wiring, HVAC ducting, and windows, which will save you money in the long run by not having to do these things later on.

Before making any decisions on how to use the space, sit down and talk with your family members. This is the only way to ensure that a remodeled basement will actually suit your lifestyle. Some homeowners choose to design a multi-functional basement, including a workout room and office. Others prefer a more traditional approach, such as adding a media room or guest suite.

The planning process is also the perfect time to consider the future resale value of your home. If you think that your finished basement will eventually become a rental unit, then it’s essential to plan rough-ins for plumbing and kitchen space.

The next step in the planning process is to frame walls and install insulation, which will protect your basement from moisture. Moisture problems in a basement can be very expensive to fix, so it’s important to address them early on. It’s a good idea to use moisture-resistant drywall in any rooms that will be exposed to excessive humidity, such as laundry and utility rooms.

Permits

When you’re ready to start your basement remodeling project, it’s best to find out the building codes that are in place in your area. They’ll be able to give you more information about the permits and inspections that are required for the project.

Permits will be required for most basement remodeling projects, particularly if you’re adding a new room or doing structural work. A permit is also necessary if you’re changing the use of an existing space, such as turning a laundry room into a bedroom. In this case, the basement will need to meet proper codes for a bedroom, such as having a separate means of escape.

If you’re going to do the basement remodel yourself or hire a contractor to do it for you, the process of getting the necessary permits will take a little time. However, it’s well worth the time in order to ensure that your basement remodel meets all of the building standards and requirements set by your local government.

For example, your local township will require that a certain number of smoke detectors be installed in any new rooms or spaces that are being remodeled. This is to ensure that people, in the event of a fire, can quickly locate and evacuate their family members. A local building inspector will check your work at various intervals throughout the project to make sure that everything is being done properly and up to code.

If you don’t get the necessary permits before beginning your basement remodeling project, it could end up costing you a lot of money in the long run. If the renovations you’re doing are found to be non-compliant with local regulations, your local building department may require you to remove the work and get it all inspected and approved again.

Construction

Once you’ve gotten your permits and your design squared away, the real work begins. Clear out the space by removing anything that isn’t going to be part of the finished basement and tearing down old walls (although you should never tear down load-bearing wall structures without consulting a professional first). Once the basement is clean, start framing the walls.

At this point, you’ll also want to install any plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC ducting that you’re adding. Depending on how much skill you have, this might be something you can tackle yourself or hire a professional to do for you.

Next comes drywall installation. Whether you go with a traditional drop ceiling or plan to leave the concrete floor exposed, make sure you get any cracks filled before installing any new materials. This is especially important if you’re planning on installing a new floor because water in the concrete can cause it to warp or even dissolve over time.

Another big decision is what type of flooring to install. Some options are better for certain types of basements than others, so be sure to choose carefully. Wood flooring isn’t usually recommended for basements because it can easily be damaged by moisture, so consider vinyl or laminate instead.

Once the drywall is in place, you can finish off the room by putting up any trim or molding and painting the walls and ceilings. Then it’s just a matter of installing any furniture and decorations you want to add. Don’t forget to decorate with mirrors and other reflective surfaces to brighten up the space, and make sure your furniture is moisture-resistant to avoid mold or mildew.

Finishing

It’s a good idea to do your research before starting any basement remodeling project. Visit home design shows, attend open houses, and browse through home improvement magazines to find ideas that will work for your space. If you can narrow down your choices to one or two designs that meet your needs, it will be easier to stick to a budget.

Depending on your add-ons, you may need to install plumbing or electrical wiring, which is an additional cost. If you are creating a full kitchen, for example, you’ll need to tap into the main house plumbing system, which may require a sump pump and a new drainage line for liquid waste. You’ll also need to consider what type of gas, if any, you want in your kitchen and whether or not you’d like to have a dishwasher or refrigerator in your basement.

A basement remodel is a great way to make the most of your living space and add value to your home. If you’re considering selling your house in the future, a finished basement is an attractive feature that could make your home stand out from the competition. It’s important to do your research before hiring a contractor, though, to ensure you are getting what you need at a price that you can afford. Lastly, make sure to follow all safety precautions during the construction process. You’ll need to wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator mask designed for basement work. You’ll also need to make sure you have first-aid kits and fire extinguishers nearby. If you’re planning to use a contractor for the job, make sure they are licensed and insured.

Flooring
Flooring

Hardwood Flooring Refinishing

Howard Nauman

Hardwood floor refinishing is restoring the appearance and functionality of an existing hardwood floor by sanding off the old finish, stain, or topcoat and applying a new layer of finish, stain, or topcoat. Chicago Hardwood Flooring Refinishing can help to remove surface damage, scratches, discoloration, and wear and tear, giving the floor a fresh and new look.

FlooringThe refinishing process typically involves several steps, including sanding down the surface of the floor to remove any previous finish, staining or topcoat, applying a new stain or topcoat, and then applying a final layer of protective finish. The type of finish used can vary, and different finishes may be more suitable for different types of hardwood flooring.

Professional hardwood floor refinishing services are available and recommended for those who are not experienced in DIY refinishing. A professional service will have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure that the refinishing process is completed correctly and to a high standard, resulting in a beautiful and long-lasting hardwood floor.

Hardwood floors are popular in many homes because they look beautiful and add value to your home. But, over time they can start to lose their luster. Refinishing your hardwood floors can revitalize them and make them look like new again. But, before you get started, be sure you know what to expect.

Sanding is a process that sands away the top layer of old hardwood flooring, and prepares it for a new finish. It is the first step in the refinishing process, and it can be time consuming.

Start with coarse-grit sandpaper, sufficient to remove the old finish and most surface scratches. Avoid using grits coarser than 60; this can damage the wood.

Next, use medium-grade sandpaper to smooth out any areas that remain. It is important to work the wood carefully, as a mistake will result in unsightly deep scratches.

Once all of the sanding has been completed, you can apply the final coat of stain or polyurethane. This is done to create a smooth, shiny surface that protects the wood from wear and tear.

Before beginning the sanding process, move all furniture out of the room and cover any vents with plastic sheeting to keep dust from spreading throughout the home. It is also important to wear a respirator and protective gloves while sanding the floors.

Staining can be a great way to add color and depth to your hardwood floors. However, it’s also important to make sure you select the right stain for your home and floors.

Darker stains are more difficult to maintain and keep looking clean, so it’s best to choose one that is compatible with your furniture and interior design style. For instance, if you have rustic farmhouse style decor, you wouldn’t want to stain your hardwood floors in rich red hues or ebony shades because they would clash with the rest of your home’s furnishings.

Another issue with staining is that different wood species can only absorb a certain amount of colorant. Once this limit is reached, stain can rise back up to the surface and create a messy look called “bleedback.”

Hardwood flooring refinishing is the process of applying a new coat of finish to restore your floors’ original look. Typically, this is done with a polyurethane (water-based or oil-based) finish.

The type of sealer you use depends on the wood, its grain pattern, and color. It also affects the overall look of your finished floor.

A professional hardwood floor installer can help you determine the best option for your floors. They can advise you on the right water-based or oil-based polyurethane.

After sanding, you’ll want to apply the sealer as soon as possible. This prevents moisture from absorbing into the open grain and discoloring the wood.

Keeping your hardwood floors clean and free of moisture is one of the best ways to prevent damage and prolong the life of your floors. This includes vacuuming regularly and dusting on a regular basis with a dust mop or broom.

If you spill something on your wood floors, wipe up the liquid right away. It is important to avoid letting spills sit and dry out for too long, as this can lead to mold or mildew growth.

Always use cleaning products that do not contain oil, which can degrade the polyurethane coating on your hardwood floors. Examples of cleaners that you should avoid are Murphy’s Oil Soap and oil-based waxes.

You should also consider using mats and pads at doorways to discourage tracking in dirt and debris. This can also help you avoid dragging furniture across the floor, which can cause fine scratches in the finish.

Flooring Services
Flooring Services

Flooring Sanding, and Refinishing Can Save You Hundreds of Dollars

Pearl Price

Whether you’re a DIYer or want to save a few bucks, sanding and refinishing your wood floors is simple. If you do it right, you can save yourself hundreds of dollars. Hardwood Floor Refinishing Bergen County NJ is an effective way to restore the appearance of an older or damaged wooden floor. It can also help prolong the flooring material’s life.

Flooring ServicesFlooring sanding is smoothing and refining a wooden floor’s surface through specialized sanding equipment. The process typically involves removing the top layer of the floor’s finish, including stains, scratches, or other surface imperfections. Once the surface is smoothed, the flooring can be stained, sealed, or refinished to give it a refreshed appearance.

Ideally, it would be best to sand your floors with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove previous layers of varnish. This prevents stains and dirt from moving across the paper, which will make it easier to remove them later on.

A pristinely clean floor is essential to the success of any professional floor sanding job. Remove all furniture from the sanded rooms, vacuum and dust mop the floor. Before sanding begins, protect your baseboards and joints of walls with painter’s tape. This prevents damage to your walls, and makes the sanding process easier.

Sanding can cause a lot of dust and particles to be released into the air, so wear proper breathing protection while sanding. You can use a small paper mask or even a respirator.

When sanding hardwood floors, you need to ensure that the surface is perfectly smooth and free of any irregularities. This can be a difficult task to achieve on your own, so it’s best to hire a sanding company to do the work for you.

Sanding a hardwood floor is not only physically difficult but can also be extremely time-consuming. It takes a bit of commitment and a good dose of determination but it is well worth it in the end.

First, thoroughly empty the room and remove any furniture or other items from the floor. You don’t want a dust or debris buildup in the room because this will make the job much harder.

You’ll also need to protect your eyes, ears and nose with a suitable face mask or a pair of gloves as all the sanders will generate lots of dust.

Use a drum sander with the wood grain and grits of 60, 80 or 100-grit sandpaper in a series of long passes, overlapping each pass by an inch or two to avoid gouging the floors. Work in small sections, one at a time, and change the sandpaper often to ensure that you are using the correct grit.

Floor refinishing involves sanding down an old finish, staining the wood and coating it with a new coating. It’s often a cheaper alternative to replacing the floor, but it also takes time and effort.

It’s also not a job for the amateur DIYer; it requires several types of sanders and other equipment, including an orbital sander or drum sander. Unless you’re experienced in carpentry, it’s best to leave this project to a professional.

Using a sanding pad and a random-orbital sander, you’ll make numerous passes over your floor to smooth it out and remove any remaining blemishes or scratches. Start with a coarse sanding paper like 36-grit.

When working with engineered hardwood, you need to be sure the veneer is thick enough that you can sand down without reaching the plywood. Trying to sand through the veneer can cause serious damage to the plywood layer. It may not be worth it to risk the expense of replacing the plywood.

Keeping your floors clean and well-maintained can help extend their lifespan, reduce the likelihood of needing costly repairs or replacement, and improve indoor air quality. Regular maintenance can also benefit the environment by using eco-friendly products and methods.

The best way to keep your floors looking new for as long as possible is to sand and refinish them regularly. This can be done using the right products and techniques, and can be an excellent investment in your home or business.

The sanding and refinishing process can be complicated and require the right equipment, training, and knowledge of floor care products. This is why it’s often a good idea to have professional flooring contractors handle your task. Besides the fact that these professionals can do a better job, they will also be able to help you save money in the long run by preventing damage and prolonging the lifespan of your floors.

Home Remodeling

Costs of Bathroom Remodeling

Wilson Bowen

Bathroom remodeling is a great way to add value to your home. However, it can be a costly endeavor. Before you begin, be sure to have a clear idea of your project goals and how much you want to spend. By doing so, you can prioritize the work and make better decisions about what changes to make.

Cost of Materials

The cost of materials used for Bathroom Remodeling Jacksonville FL is an important factor to consider. The size of the room, floor plan, number of fixtures, and material quality all affect the final price.

Bathroom Remodeling

For example, tile and paint should make up about 15% of your total budget each. Those on a tighter budget can opt for linoleum flooring instead of ceramic or porcelain tile, saving up to $45 on the project.

Plumbing hardware is another affordable way to update your bathroom. Stainless steel, brass, or copper finishes are popular choices.

Cost of Labor

Bathroom remodeling costs vary, depending on the size and scope of the project. Small projects like a new tub or shower cost much less than major renovations.

A full remodel includes demolishing the existing space and replacing everything from walls to fixtures. This type of remodel is more expensive because new plumbing lines are run and the room’s floor plan changes.

Labor is the most expensive part of any bathroom remodel and typically accounts for 40% to 60% of your total budget. Expect to pay $50 to $75 per hour, though prices vary by location.

The choice of materials and finishes also ramp up the cost of your bathroom remodeling project. Luxury options like granite, soapstone and quartz are more expensive than solid surface and porcelain tile but can last for centuries when maintained properly.

Cost of Permits

Many remodeling projects require permits to comply with local laws. This includes bathroom renovations, which often include changes to plumbing and electrical components.

Depending on the city, permit costs range from $406 to $2,500.

Permits are required for any work that involves plumbing or electrical, such as moving the sink or removing a shower wall. They also need to be obtained if you want to make structural changes, like adding a dividing wall or building a new shower structure.

Getting a permit before the work begins will save you time and money in the long run, because you won’t have to go through the hassle of re-applying for permits after the work is completed. In addition, it will telegraph to potential home buyers that you’re doing things right and won’t try shortcuts that could cost you later on.

Cost of Demolition

The cost of ripping out the tub, toilet, vanity and cabinetry in a single pass can be substantial. On the other hand, resurfacing the same surfaces using modern materials may be more budget friendly and less disruptive. One of the most entertaining parts of any bathroom renovation is the process of putting it all back together. Taking into account the cost of materials, the labor, and the requisite permits, one could easily see how an average bathroom remodel can cost well into six figures or more. Fortunately, there are many financial options to help make the task of remodeling a breeze. For example, a personal loan can be used to fund all or part of the project with fixed interest rates and no collateral required.

Cost of New Fixtures

Bathroom fixtures are often the most expensive element of a remodel. Whether you want to upgrade your vanity, sink or tub, the cost will vary depending on your tastes and budget.

To save money, try resurfacing materials like tile, counters and cabinets instead of buying new ones. This will make your bathroom look new without breaking the bank.

Plumbing and electrical updates are also necessary, but these can be a bit pricey. In addition to the cost of relocating your existing pipes, you’ll have to pay for wiring for new lights and water features.

Before starting your bathroom remodel, it’s a good idea to do your research on what you need to buy and install. This will save you a lot of money later on down the road.

Drywall
Home Improvement

The Many Uses of Drywall

James Wells

Drywall or gypsum, is a construction material that can be applied over wood laths. Its surface is rock-hard, and it can be used to make walls, floors, ceilings, and other structures. The use of gypsum is rising in many applications, including sterile environments, which require a clean, smooth finish.Drywall

Gypsum is a construction material that dates back thousands of years. It is found in abundant deposits around the world. In addition to its use as a building material, gypsum is also used to make plaster.

Typically, drywall is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between a thick paper called face paper. The face paper is wrapped around each edge of the drywall. This makes a receptive surface for most wall-finishing materials.

Historically, gypsum was mixed with sand to form construction mortar. During the late 19th century, a compressed gypsum plaster board was developed to replace wood or metal lath. This was a more economical alternative to using a wet plaster method.

After World War II, advances in gypsum products were introduced. These include gypsum board, which is commonly used for interior walls and partitions.

Despite its common use in the construction industry, there is no uniform method of identifying gypsum products. Some manufacturers use color to make products easily identifiable.

In addition to its use in drywall, gypsum is also used in a wide variety of applications. Some of these include the gypsum board, which serves as a base for external soffits in sheltered positions. Other applications of gypsum board include flooring, ceilings, and partitions.

Aside from its widespread usage, gypsum is also known for its fire-resistant properties. It can withstand temperatures of 212 deg Fahrenheit, and it remains this temperature when exposed to a fire. Additionally, a thin coating of clay is added to some fire-resistant grades of gypsum board.

As a building material, gypsum has been used in ancient structures. Similarly, it is a component of plaster, which was used in the Egyptian pyramids. Among its other benefits, gypsum is a source of essential plant vitamins.

Moreover, gypsum is an environmentally friendly material. About 20% of the gypsum used for the production of drywall can be recycled from the waste generated during the manufacturing process. Also, a pulverized form of gypsum is used in soil treatment. Research has begun on ways to recycle gypsum waste.

Drywall is a widely used construction material. It is usually made of calcium sulfoam or gypsum.

Many homes built in the last few decades have drywall and plaster walls. In some cases, the entire home is built with this construction method. However, some rooms are left without insulation.

The walls of most houses that were constructed before 1940 are made of lath and plaster. This type of wall is made up of several layers of plaster and wood lath. Compared to drywall, plaster is harder, more durable, and offers a better sound-deadening effect.

The process of creating a plaster wall is fairly simple. You’ll need several layers of plaster, rock-hard lath, and a few screws. Plaster is applied to the lath and then smoothed with a trowel. A final layer is painted. It can be textured, similar to stucco, for a more upscale appearance.

Although lath and plaster are a lot of work to install, it’s much less work to repair. Even if the nail falls out, it’s easy to put in a new one.

If you’re renovating a house, you’ll need to determine whether your walls are made of drywall or plaster. Both are effective at the deadening sound, but they’re not the same. While drywall is easy to hang, it is rigid and may not allow for tight radii.

One of the most important steps in a plastering job is mixing the correct plaster compound. Getting the mix right is a big factor in whether or not your wall will look good. Using the wrong mixture can result in chunks of plaster falling from the framework, making it more likely to collapse.

Lath and plaster was the preferred method of interior wall construction for the first half of the 20th century. But by the 1940s, the use of this material had declined. 

Depending on your building’s style and construction, you may get a combination of lath and plaster, and drywall. Typically, a plaster wall is thicker than a drywall wall. Also, a plaster wall will be a bit more expensive to construct.