Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Renovation

Kitchen and bathroom renovations are the most popular for homeowners looking to update rooms in their homes.  The one issue that arises with many home improvements is that homeowners jump right into them without planning which just ends up dragging out the renovation process as issues arise. It is a good idea to start with a plan of action and enlist the assistance of a professional contractor to ensure your project becomes a reality.  Below is a list of common mistakes that are found to delay or even ruin your renovation.

Excess Bargaining

There are some areas in life where bargaining can ensure a great deal however updates in your home is not one of them.  It is true, you get what you pay for especially in the materials that you choose to use in your renovations.  If you are doing a full-on bathroom or kitchen renovation it is necessary to spend the money and invest in good quality products and contractors.  It is money that you won’t regret spending.

Forgetting About Your Budget

Create a budget and stick to it when planning out any renovation.  Bathroom and kitchen renovations can quickly run over budget.  It is important not to lose site of your budget.  It is easier to do this when you have determined a realistic budget to begin with.  Don’t start your renovation with just a sketch of what you hope to achieve instead get a solid visualization of what you desire, and the costs involved when deciding on a realistic budget. If you don’t have the funds set aside for the renovation and materials, you desire you will know this before your kitchen or bathroom is in shambles.

The Unexpected

There are a number of elements within a renovation.  There will be times in which the most experienced contractor runs into an issue that they didn’t previously see becoming a problem.  In a bathroom this could consist of rotting floor boards under the tub, in a kitchen it could be something such as the electrical needing updates to accommodate new appliances.  Whatever the issue it is important that you have the wiggle room in your budget to accommodate it.  It is extremely rare in any renovation let alone one with so many pieces working in conjunction with one another as is the case in bathroom and kitchens, that everything goes as predicted.

Getting Derailed 

We all want our renovations to turn out perfect however even though we have a design stuck in our heads it is important to realize that things will not always go as planned.  Sometimes renovations run into issues when materials are on order.  If the perfect tile becomes backordered and when they will become available is a mystery, it may be time to consider other avenues, so you don’t go an undermined time without use of the space.

Over Renovating

Yes, we want what we want but it is important that we don’t out price our home by over renovating.  This concept is simple, starter homes don’t often have kitchens designed for a professional chef.  These kitchens alone would cost the same as most starter homes.  Consider the average cost of homes within your area and make sure your renovations keep your home within the range.  Buyers won’t spend extra on a home that the area dictates should be at most $200,000 no matter how upgraded the spaces are within it.

JFC Remodeling is a full-service licensed contractor out of Howell, Michigan.  Specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring upgrades, and home remodeling services.  More information can be found online at https://jfcremodeling.com/

Friday, February 15, 2019

High-Tech, Low-Maintenance Bathroom and Kitchen Trends For 2019


Today’s kitchen and bathroom designs look much different than they once did.  Long gone are the days of bright colored kitchen accessories and appliances and utensils that serve only one purpose.  We have trades yellows, oranges, and greens in for white, gray, and stainless steel.  Now-a-days everything is about simplicity and function.  Homeowners are looking to create spaces that are organized, uncluttered, and tranquil.

There is nothing new to the white and gray color trend that is upon us.  In remodeling and new construction both, the peace and calm that comes with this color combination makes it attractive.  This isn’t the only trend that seems to be highly identifiable throughout the construction industry. 
Another trend that seems to be picking up speed is the ability to customize their homes and the spaces within them without dating them.  Flexibility in decorating has become important.  Homeowners want the ability to switch a few elements and create a completely different space without the expense of a complete room renovation.  This allows homeowners to keep up with the latest trends without the costs of remodeling year in and year out.

In 2019, trends, updates, and modifications in bathroom and kitchen designs come from innovations in technology and the desire for easy, low-maintenance living.  When working with your contractor on the design of your kitchen and/or bathroom renovation consider the following.

The Latest Luxuries to Consider in Bathroom Renovation Design

 

Smart Toilets:

Technology has improved lots of features in the home including the most basic feature, your toilet.  New toilet models have advanced features that make bathroom maintenance minimal.  Smart toilet models have built-in features including bidets, self-cleaning functions, and night lights.  How great is it to have a toilet that does not need to be deep cleaned on a regular basis?  Don’t be surprised when your contractor asks you if you want a toilet seat that is adjustable or one that will warm your bottom!

Barn Doors:

Rustic and industrial-chic features have been a part of remodeling for years now.  Using barn doors is an efficient way homeowner can gain access to a room or closet without having to make room for the door to swing open and closed.  Barn doors are used a lot in universal design because of the safety mechanisms that they can be fitted with to prevent locking from the outside.

Free- Standing Tubs:

Bathroom spaces are bigger than ever before.  With more floor space comes the ability to add luxury.  One of these luxuries is large, free-standing bathtubs.  Most stand-alone tubs are large enough that users can actually soak their entire bodies in them, including their knees.  This luxury is something that homeowners are embracing.  Not only are large bathtubs popular in remodeling but so are larger showers with an abundance of faucets and not just the one overhead.

Mixing Materials:

There is a lot of room for originality even when homeowners choose to stick with a neutral gray and white color scheme in the kitchen and bath.  The mixing of different tiles including porcelain, stone, ceramic, and glass tiles are being mixed to create appeal.  Different textures add charm even if they are in the same color palate.


Voice Controlled Technology: 

Homes are being renovated to include all types of smart technology.  Your toilet isn’t the only thing that can light up and clean it-self. Without ever touching a button, homeowners have the ability to adjust the lighting in their smart mirrors, increase the temperature of the water coming out of the faucet, increase the volume of the television and stereo as well as changing the lighting.  Imagine being able to control the radio station without leaving the shower.
JFC Remodeling is a full-service licensed contractor out of Howell, Michigan.  Specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring upgrades, and home remodeling services.  More information can be found online at https://jfcremodeling.com/.