Remodeling Your Home During the Holidays

The year has flown by and you may find yourself panicking to invite friends and family over to your home for the holidays knowing that all the home projects you were trying to get done haven’t even been started. It may be best to wait until the new year to tackle larger renovations, but the good news is that there is still plenty of time to accomplish some of the remodels before their arrival and make your home guest-ready. Before starting any home project big or small during the holiday season, it is wise to ask yourself how much holiday stress are you ready to encounter? Beginning any home project will sure to make a mess and adding on the tasks of holiday decorations, shopping, etc. might be too much for some to handle. Hiring a professional home contractor will most definitely make home remodels much less stressful and make deadlines easier to coordinate. Perhaps the dust doesn’t deter your home remodel desires, and this may be a opportune time for a few projects with having extra time off work or having some extra help home for the holidays to help as well.

Flooring Upgrades

One project that can be completed quickly is to install new carpeting, hardwood, or laminate flooring to give your guests a new wow factor for your home. This project is one that can be handled by a standard DIY homeowner but if wanting to be done even faster, a professional home remodeler can achieve this new look within only a few days depending on the square footage needed to be replaced.

Bathroom Remodels

Bathroom remodels can be from one extreme to another and if wanting to spruce up your current bathroom without having to rip out walls and having to move plumbing lines, a simple bathroom remodel can be done on a tight timeline as well. Consult with a professional home remodeler to discuss timeline needs that will depend on the size of fixtures that are being replaced. There are several factors to keep in might that can add on additional time that is out of a person’s control such as getting proper permits or inspections. Choosing certain materials can also change timelines due to special orders for custom made items so if wanting to complete the project quickly, your options could be more limited.

Updating the Kitchen

The kitchen can be a much more time-consuming area of the home when it comes to home remodeling and the larger renovations may be best to hold off until the hustle and bustle are all gone however there are a few things that can be checked off your to-do list. A few simple updates such as a new kitchen faucet, updated light fixtures, a new backsplash, and new paint can really spruce the room up. Also, if Santa decides to come early, purchasing new appliances as long as the new dishwasher doesn’t need a different location or stove need gas to be installed can also all be easy upgrades that can be done within a week or so from purchase.

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

Benefits of Open Concept Kitchen

People often say the kitchen is the most important room of the house. Homeowners tend to spend much time in a kitchen because you’re in full control of what happens there. It’s the meeting space for families, even more so than the family room itself. You eat there, you create there, and it’s the epicenter of the smell of breakfast in the morning. It’s a very important room of the house indeed, and the design is a key reason for this. From layout to color scheme, the kitchen is also one of the most customizable rooms of the house, but how do you know which design is right for you? As time goes on the idea of an open-concept kitchen grows more and more popular, but not everybody knows exactly what that entails. Open-concept kitchens have both pros and cons, like all designs, and knowing those are key to understand whether the design is right for you.

Space           

Open-concept kitchen design is exactly what it sounds like: a design that is more open rather than constrained. Sometimes the design disrupts the idea of a “room” itself. An open-concept kitchen can often be considered an extension rather than a room, an arm of the family or living room that brings in a more inviting atmosphere to it and because of this, an open-concept kitchen can naturally make a small space feel larger. This can also add to the volume of natural light coming in through windows in other rooms. Where some kitchens can be cramped in their own rooms, open-concept kitchens flow from another room and can inherit certain traits from those rooms. Conversely, an open-concept kitchen can sometimes make a room seem too big, with a messy kitchen being far more visible to guests.

Social Aspect

As mentioned, kitchens can often be the social hub for gatherings and entertaining guests. It can feel cramped when many guests are all in one room in a closed-kitchen design, whereas an open-concept gives more breathability for a large guest list. If you have guests outside on a deck or patio being able to see the kitchen from anywhere around the house is helpful and more inviting than having a closed kitchen design in a room of the house. However, noise can be an issue with an open-concept kitchen. For those quiet dinner parties having the kitchen in its own room can let the chefs of the family do their cooking without bothering the quiet guests outside in another room. With open-concept kitchens, the noise can either be better or worse depending on the setting, with a rowdier crowd being less bothered when the kitchen is essentially in the same room.
An open-concept kitchen can be a wonderfully modern design for your home, but how you plan on using it makes a difference. Keep in mind the kind of social setting your house will be and whether you want to use your kitchen as a space to hide away and cook or an inviting extension of another room for people in which to mingle.
JFC Remodeling is a full-service licensed contractor out of Howell, Michigan.  Specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring upgrades, and home remodelingservices.  More information can be found online at https://jfcremodeling.com/.

Common Summer Projects For Your Home

Summers are a great time in Michigan.  It is the perfect time to enjoy the beach, BBQ’s, and flip flops.  It is also the perfect time for homeowners to tackle home improvement projects.  The weather is finally perfect – no snow, ice, or excessive wind.  The summer months are the perfect time to assess your home, make general repairs, perform maintenance, and take on larger scaled projects like the installation of a new roof, kitchen remodels (YEAH FOR BBQ’S), porch upgrades, upgraded decking, and more.  Depending on your budget and the renovations you choose, you can increase the overall value of your home by updating the space.

The Most Common Summer Projects

• Pressure Washing – Nothing speaks louder than a well-maintained home.  Power washing your homes siding and decking is an inexpensive way to clean your home.  Removing mold, algae, and mildew can result in increasing the longevity of your sidings lifespan.  Pressure washing costs about $500 for a professional to complete or for the DIY a power washer can be rented for about $50 for four hours.
• Landscaping – Any home improvement that increases your homes curb appeal will add value to your home.  Landscaping doesn’t have to be complex, simple lawn care and maintenance with a few flower beds to enhance the space can really transform a home.  If you are not interested in hiring a professional landscaper, it is important to have a plan in place before diving into landscaping. 
• Kitchen Renovations – When it comes to kitchens it is best for homeowners to work with a reliable contractor as kitchen remodeling can take a quick turn in the wrong direction.  You don’t need every one of the latest gadgets, top line appliances, and exotic materials to create a kitchen that is the envy of the neighborhood. The most important aspect is the layout and flow of your space. 

A small kitchen can function better than a large kitchen with the right layout design.  An important aspect in renovating, especially in kitchens is lighting.  Modern lighting overhead and underneath cabinetry can transform the overall feel of the space.  Including a backsplash is always an inexpensive way to add to the look of the space.  Believe it or not, it is possible to completely redo the look and feel of a kitchen can cost as little as $4,000 when you hire a professional kitchen contractor.

• Deck Additions – Summer is all about creating an environment outdoor that is both functional and comfortable.  Adding to your deck is a great way to make the space usable.  Outdoor kitchen spaces, comfy lounge spaces, sitting nooks, fire pits, high top bars, the list of outdoor decking renovations that add value to your space are endless.   Renovate your deck into a space that feels like you are on a constant vacation. 

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

Kitchen Organization When Remodeling Is Not An Option Provides Optimum Flow

As we are cleaning our homes this spring many of us will be looking for ways to increase functionality in our spaces, especially in our kitchens.  If a kitchen remodel isn’t in your future, organizing the existing space to optimize the flow is your next best bet for enhancing the purpose of the space.  Optimal flow comes from creating usable space.  It can be a little overwhelming at first, but the results will create a kitchen that is flows at peak capacity.

Don’t think you need to empty out your entire kitchen and start from scratch.  All that will do is make the process seem impossible.  Small changes overtime will create a kitchen space that is optimal for day to day life and family gatherings.

Tips to Improve the Flow of Your Kitchen 

• Incorporate Baskets and Wire Holders

Any type of basket or holder that keeps things in one space make a space more organized.  Labeled baskets for fruits and vegetables that don’t have to live in the refrigerator are practical and stylish.  Kitchens are often the central gathering location for kids and homework.  Having a basket labeled for each of your children stored under a kitchen island are not only aesthetically pleasing they are practical for keeping homework centrally located.  Baskets are fun and functional.

• Charging Stations

Creating a single spot where electronics can be charged prevents counter clutter.  Charging stations can be installed inside a drawer with the installation of a smart drawer.  Ports are now sold specifically for this purpose however a simple power strip with USB ports can be used as well.  Using a drill, you will want to put a hole in the back of the drawer.  Thread the electrical end of the power strip out the back and plug it into your electrical outlet.  Using Velcro attach the back of the power strip to the back of the drawer.  It’s really that simple to remove the clutter of charging electronics from your counter. 

• Spice Rack

It is no longer optimal to use valuable counter space to house a bulky spice rack.  Organizing spices can be done in a number of ways.  If you have unlimited kitchen drawers, creating a spice drawer using tightly sealed spice containers creates easy access to spices.  Another popular option is to install a hanging wire racks attached to an upper cabinet door to neatly store spices.  Adding magnets to the back of spice containers allows for simple storage of spices on the side of a refrigerator.  There are a number of ways that homeowners can replace those bulky spice racks for smaller space savers. 

• Baking Cabinet

For bakers having a space dedicated to baking supplies is super helpful to increasing the function of your space.  These items are used frequently and thus should be organized and accessible. Turning a cabinet into a space that houses everything you needs is made easy with the installation of key hooks.  These hooks store measuring cups and spoons without taking up valuable “floor” space in the cabinet.  Mixing accessories can also be hung on hooks to keep them up off the base of the counter.  Stack mixing bowls so that smaller bowls nestle into larger ones.  Standing mixers can be accommodated by moving the shelf upward.  This space will be a favorite for the bakers in your house.

• Pantry

Pantry shelves are often cluttered and there is not a lot of organization going on, but it doesn’t have to be.  With the addition of a few lazy susans, labeled wicker baskets, wire baskets, and clear containers, your pantry can be transformed.  Salad toppings, snacks, and more can all be grouped together and placed in a labeled wicker basket.  If you are preparing a salad you can simply remove the basket with salad toppings.  If the kids are looking for a snack instead of rummaging through granola boxes the snacks are all in one spot.  Wire baskets allow for easy can storage and allow you to see what is in each basket.  Lazy susans allow you to make use of the corner space in a pantry where you can organize oils, syrup, peanut butter, and items that need to stand. 
Small appliances can also easily be stored in the pantry now because you have space now that the clutter is eliminated.  Don’t forget the floor also has purpose.  Using plastic show mats is a great way to protect your floor.  By putting small felt pads on the bottom mats can easily be moved about as well. 

• Under the Sink Organization

Small plastic baskets, hooks, and a tension rod can transform the space under your sink.  If you are like so many of us, finding the spray you need is like wading through a trench.  The spray you need is always in the back and is only able to be accessed by removing everything else.  Installing a tension rod allows you to hang sprays for easy access.  Kitchen brushes can be hung by installing small hooks and baskets can be used to separate and organize extra sponges, plastic gloves, and additional cleaning supplies.  Baskets are easy to remove so there is never a need to remove everything to get the one chemical you need.

Even without remodeling your kitchen you can create a flow that is practical and improves the functionality of the space.  Simple changes to the way we use the space can completely transform any kitchen.

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/.

What Homeowners Need to Do Before Renovations Begin

Remodeling a home can be quite an adventure if homeowners don’t properly prepare.  There are a number of wrong turns that can be made so it is essential to have a full understanding before you jump into renovations of any kind.

Below are a list of things to consider in order to avoid heartache and regret.

 

It is Important to Fully Understand What You Like 

Seems simple, right?  I mean what is so hard to understand about wanting a new kitchen or bathroom?  It, however, isn’t that simple.  Homeowners need to narrow down what a kitchen renovation means to them.  Some homeowners want to completely change the layout while others are interested in keeping the layout but installing new cupboards, fixtures, flooring, and more. 
It is important for homeowners to work with the designer showing them in detail what they like, important features to them, items on their wish list, and so on.  This allows the kitchen contractor/designer to get on the same page with the homeowners.  Often times it allows the clients to see how vastly different their visions are as well.  This process gets them thinking along the same lines as well.

Run the Numbers, Is the Renovation You Want Within Your Budget?

It’s true that our dream kitchens and bathrooms aren’t always within our means.  When this is the case there are a few options: we can wait on your renovation until your budget increases or we can choose to use different materials in the remodel to keep the costs within your budget.  A granite counter top might be the dream but engineered stone (quartz) may be a close second in looks and affordability.

Ask Yourself If the Renovation Is Feasible

Some homeowners need a reality check when planning renovations.  Some projects seem simple however because of complicated electrical or plumbing are not.  Adding a bathroom to a second-floor bedroom sounds pretty easy but not only do you need the space to install a bathroom you need access to plumbing as well as making sure the structure can withstand the renovation.  Sometimes the renovation make seem easy but in reality, be harder and more expensive then they are actually worth.  These projects often get abandoned before they even begin.

Is This A DIY Renovation or One Left to The Professionals?

For all renovations except for those that are so obviously simple should be overseen by a professional contractor. Most homeowners just do not have the skills or patience to complete a room renovation on their own.  Also, lets face it, not everyone has the kind of time it takes to gut and redo renovations to their home.

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/.

Trends in Kitchen Remodeling That Are Here to Stay

Just like avocado colored appliances the popularity of stainless steel will fade.  It’s true, most kitchen and bathroom remodeling trends eventually fade out of existence as quickly as they found their way in. There are however a few trends that will withstand the test of time in your kitchen and bath.

Kitchen Cleanliness

When it comes to cleanliness in the kitchen we are not talking about germs but instead the design of the space.  Kitchen design trends that stand the test of time work with clean lines.  Open shelving, cabinetry with glass doors or flat fronts, and overall simplicity is what keeps a kitchen from looking cluttered.  Kitchen designs should offer enough storage for unsightly, infrequently used appliances.  Counters should be clear of as much “stuff” as possible to promote this trend.

Neutral Color

Neutral kitchen spaces are something that never gets old.  What gets old is brightly painted cabinetry and colored appliances.  To create a kitchen that doesn’t show its age it is important to keep the colors simple.  White and black appliances are always in style and are easy to enhance as trends cycle in and out.

Dark Cabinetry

If you have ever had white cabinets or any light-colored cabinetry you will understand that it is difficult to keep them clean.  Unless you have hours on end to spend cleaning your kitchen it is best to stick with the ever-stylish look of dark cabinetry.  The use of exotic dark woods is another option that we find never seem to become outdated.

Appliances That Blend

It is important, especially in open kitchens that the appliances used blend into the entire space.  A home that flows from room to room never ages.  The more “hidden” appliances are, the more likely they will blend right in as another piece of furniture within the space.  No longer are large scaled ranges and huge steel refrigerators necessary.  Instead opt for long lasting pieces that conceal themselves within the design.

Ageless Designs

Once upon a time there was this fascination with moving from one home to another.  People didn’t want to live in the same home for more than five to seven years.   Today however, homeowners are looking into ways to keep their homes ageless.  They want to live in the same space forever, more commonly known as ageless design, universal design, or age in place renovations.   This means making sure your kitchen design is universal.  Layered lighting, counters of multiple heights, drawers that pull out, and kitchen cabinets hardware that is easily opened are all design options that will withstand the test of time.

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/.

5 Questions You Want to Ask Your Kitchen Contractor Before Your Kitchen Renovation

When it comes to renovations the kitchen is a complex home improvement projects you can get involved in.  As a homeowner you must make all decisions throughout the renovation project.  The kitchen has changed from a place of simple food preparation to an open area, multi-functional space that is the soul of your home.

No matter what size, the kitchen is a big part of every modern household.  Kitchen design contractors consider several elements including the size of the space, the desired style, trends, and the best use of space when preparing for each unique kitchen renovation.  This installment will help offer you suggestions on the working with your contractor on planning for your new kitchen.  Your contractor will go over elements such as appliances, cabinetry, surfaces, and finishes as well as material to use and extras that you desire.

Soon your dream kitchen visions will become a reality.  Before you sign on the dotted line and hire a contractor there are a few questions to ask that will help you make sure you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.  These questions will help ensure you stay within your given budget, your home is secured while contractors are working on the home and that you get your kitchen put back together in a timely manner.

1. How will you itemize your bid breakdown?

Tell the contractor to itemize the bid by breaking down the bid into stages, this will give you a better understanding of what you are been charged. Some contractors will supply you with an overall quote, but that’s not the best way to go if you want to make sure your contractor isn’t overcharging.

2. What are the extra costs outside the original quote?

Before your final deal signed with the contractor, make sure he or she isn’t going to add on extra fees without asking you first. This you make clear to him/her during the process of deal negotiations, that you will not bear or accommodate addition fees which are outside the real deal. Some contractors charge for things such as demolition, junk removal, painting, and other tasks. In some cases, you may be able to handle these things yourself to avoid extra charges.

3. Who are the members of your team that will be working on the renovation?

Security of your home matters, and it is foremost in a situation like this. Depending on the size of the contracting company, there might be few or many workers deployed to your home on daily basis during the period of the renovation, if you have children, pets or other valuable, it’s important that you get to know your contracting team before allowing them to enter your home. Once hired, you want to secure a plan with the team to make sure they’re properly locking doors, securing pets and keeping materials out of harm’s way.

4. What is the time frame on our kitchen remodeling?

Naturally, the duration of the project should be well spelled out; this will enable you to have proper time planning during the project execution having known the start and end date. It’s only natural to want a detailed timeline of your cabinet installation. Time contractors take in your home is time spent away from your kitchen, and it can be hard to spend several weeks eating out. You may even consider setting parameters for your contractor and asking for discounts and other incentives if work isn’t completed in the time frame you’ve agreed upon, and this will also propel the contractor to work hard to enable him to meet the time frame.

5. Can you provide references? Do you offer a warranty on your work?

You might meet contractors that will play down on you with the pretense of giving you the best of renovation job, as such you need more assurance that you are dealing with the right contractor, and you do this by looking for contractors that will guarantee their work with written warranties. If they don’t offer one at the outset, make sure you request one to protect your kitchen from sub-par workmanship or low-quality materials.

Also, if the potential contractor wasn’t recommended to you by someone you trust, or even if they were, it’s perfectly acceptable to do a little reference work yourself. If your contractor is happy to supply references, give past clients a call and gauge their overall feelings on the completed work he has done for them before now.

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/.

Dark or Light Cabinetry in Kitchen- Which Is Better

You have finally decided that it is time for those kitchen renovations you have been thinking about for so long and now you are faced with the 101 important decisions that goes into every kitchen remodeling task. One of the most important decisions is in regard to kitchen cabinetry since they take up a great deal of space in your kitchen and are the first things most people notice when entering the room.

Along with the style of your kitchen cabinets you also must decide whether to go with dark or light cabinetry. The decision to have either light or dark cabinets will depend on many things including your own personal preference and even the reason for your kitchen renovations. Here is a look at the benefits and drawbacks of both light and dark cabinetry.

Light Cabinets

Choosing light cabinetry can make a small kitchen look larger and if they are the same color as the walls and back splash they can also make your kitchen appear more spacious. In addition, light cabinets especially those that are white gives your kitchen a more sanitary feel. In addition, light cabinetry is suitable for any wall and counter top color.
However, you do keep in mind that light cabinets show dirt far more easily than dark cabinets so may not be a good choice for families with small children. Light cabinets also show wear and tear more such as cracks more easily dark cabinets.

However, if your kitchen remodeling is being done in order for you to sell your home for a higher price the recommendation is that light cabinets may help the overall price of your home more than dark cabinetry.

Dark Cabinetry

Dark cabinetry on the other hand can work well in larger kitchens especially against a light-colored background such as your walls and back splash as well as a kitchen with good lighting. Dark cabinets add a warmth and richness to your kitchen you don't get with light cabinets. They also can look quite sophisticated depending on the style of cabinets you choose. For example, dark gray kitchen cabinets can look stunning against light walls and light marbled counter tops.

Dark cabinets are less likely to show dirt so may work better if you have small children in the house. They are also less likely to show wear and tear such as cracks.

Other Considerations

There are other considerations that go into choosing light or dark cabinetry when doing a kitchen remodeling. One of the most important considerations is your own taste and the style of the rest of your home. If all of the furniture throughout your home is dark, then light cabinets may look out of the place with the rest of your home. The reverse also is true, dark cabinets may look out of place in a home that is mostly light neutral colors.
As you can see when it comes to light or dark cabinets one is not clearly better than other it just depends on your own personal style and taste and the reason for your kitchen renovation project.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

Most Popular Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Trends of 2018

More and more people are looking to stay in their current homes longer and not having to go through the hassle of selling their home and buying a new one in order to get something new that they don't currently have. This makes contractors and interior designers really happy because it gives them more opportunities to help people figure out how to breathe new life into their old house.
It seems every year there are new trends and new ideas in the remodeling world and two of the more popular spaces in the home to remodel is the kitchen and bathrooms. This article will be looking into new trends for 2018 in order to help give you some ideas for your own home.

The Top 5 Trends in the Bathroom and Kitchen in 2018

For the Bathroom

Smaller, more efficient size - Smaller sometimes is better and in the case of today's bathrooms smaller has become better. Fitting more into a small space is definitely the in thing.

High tech toilet - Features like heated seats, automatic opener/closers, air drying and even some with built-in automatic deodorizers.

The revival of the brass and gold fixtures - The use of gray tones in bathrooms now are beckoning to the return of the brass or gold tone fixtures to add a much less chrome look.

New style vanity lighting - Lighting in today's bathroom is much more a much more integral part of the bathroom designs. There are much more options in lighting with pendants and lighting bars to go along with the sconces.

Underfloor heating - In the colder climates, having the floor warmed under your feet in the winter adds that extra touch of luxury.

For the Kitchen

The smart kitchen - Smart kitchens today have gone beyond the smart appliances to include motion sensing faucets and lighting that can be controlled by your smartphone. We are almost to the point of the nearly automated kitchen.

Cabinet colors - White cabinets are still number one for cabinet colors with a light gray a distant second. However, when there is an island there should be darker colors to contrast all of the white or light grays.

New textures and material - The trend has been reducing the number of upper cabinets to give the kitchen a more open look and feel. Having open shelving where storage is needed and more textures to the backsplash for the necessary focal points.

Quartz countertops - Quartz countertops are still all the rage since there is such a wide range of colors you can choose, and they look fabulous all the time.

In cabinet storage systems - With kitchens almost never having enough room or a pantry is not always an option, in cabinet storage is a simple solution that would work in almost all situations.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

The Ultimate Guide for Kitchen Remodeling

Home remodeling takes a lot of your time, energy, focus, and money. Whether you are renovating your bedroom, bathroom, lounge, kitchen, or even the entire house, you must plan everything from your budget to the color schemes and how to make it all work together.
In home improvement, kitchen remodeling is the most lucrative as well as painstaking.  It is the center of every function in your house. It is especially difficult when you must live in the house as it is being renovated. Contractors do their best to work with families throughout this stressful time to ensure that homeowners can still use parts of their kitchens.
To simplify the predicament, we have made a list of top 5 tips to help while you are having your kitchen space remodeled.

1. Budget

Before you start remodeling, you must determine that how much money you are willing to spend on home remodeling. In the case of remodeling a kitchen, you must decide that you want a low-end, medium-end or high-end kitchen. For that purpose, you can scan the market and your residential area that what type of kitchen designs are being adapted there. From that you can decide for the optimum choice that you want to consider for your kitchen.  Kitchen remodeling contractors will often help homeowners with this process.

2. Changing or Keeping the Existing Floor Plan

If you are on a budget, home improvement plans can be a tricky situation and in kitchen remodeling changing your plumbing and/or your kitchen layout can be even trickier. As a rule of thumb, if you change one section of your plumbing or move the position of your appliances, it adds an extra $5000 to your budget. It looks very easy to change your plumbing and floor plan, but in fact it is not easy at all. Whatever you decide to do, you should always keep in mind the triangle shape between your stove, refrigerator and sink for the optimum use of the workspace and traffic flow in your kitchen.

3. Bring Focus to Your Cabinets

New cabinets, new flooring, and new appliances are not the only solutions to consider when having your kitchen remodeled. Refacing existing cabinets, adding splashes of color, updated hardware and accessories can make a lot of difference.

4. Incorporating Color

You can add a new life and buzz into your kitchen by incorporating contrasting colors in it. It will give a visual interest to your kitchen. It is important in all home improvement projects that you choose a  color pallet that accentuates all the good features within your home. Similarly, in your kitchen you can make a contrast of a bold and a neutral color or if you are going for a monochromatic look, you can choose contrasting tones.

5. Small Changes Make Big Impacts

There are many ways to renovate your home and kitchen.  When deciding what and how you want each space done consider why you are remodeling.  Are you remodeling spaces to add functionality or mainly for aesthetic purposes?  If it is for functional purposes?  If yes, then many times your renovations will be a bit costlier as they may require moving walls, electrical outlets, lighting, and plumbing.  If you are remodeling mainly for aesthetic purposes and a change in the look of your space is desired then changing the color of paint, updating accessories, and some modified lighting may be more than enough.

We hope that the tips that we have mentioned above will give you the idea on tips and tricks required while remodeling your kitchen. JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

Professional Kitchen Renovations Can Increase Your Home’s Value

A kitchen renovation is one of the smartest ways to add value to your home and you can achieve this by hiring a licensed contractor. Real estate experts agree that a well-designed and updated kitchen attracts buyers. Whether you are doing a complete kitchen remodeling or simply making a few updates, homeowners can improve the appeal of their home and increase the value with a professional kitchen renovation.

According to the industry, a homeowner can expect to recoup about 95% of the cost of a major kitchen remodel. This makes it one of the best remodeling choices for homeowners looking to increase their home value. A modern kitchen makes your home more valuable and more attractive to buyers when the time comes to sell.

The kitchen is the heart of a home. It is a place to gather as a family, visit with friends, and share meals. Because it is one of the most popular rooms in the house, kitchens tend to suffer a lot of wear and tear over time. Countertops, appliances, and flooring can get worn and damaged, decreasing the style and appeal of the room. Below are some common areas of interest that are addressed in remodeling.

• Kitchen renovations may include knocking down walls to add space or redesigning the layout to improve functionality. Homeowners have the chance to design the room they have always wanted. Make the most of it by increasing storage space and improving traffic flow.
• Consider upgrading your appliances to high-efficiency models. Not only can they save you money in energy costs, you may be eligible for tax rebates. Be sure that your electrical wiring and plumbing are properly installed by a licensed contractor to prevent damage and ensure that your appliances will work correctly.
• Your existing cabinets can be re-surfaced, or you may decide to replace them entirely with new ones. A licensed contractor will help choose a countertop surface that will blend well with your cabinets. Stone, especially granite, used by a licensed contractor when doing your kitchen remodeling gives your kitchen an up-scale and classic look that will last the lifetime of your home.
• Hardwoods and ceramic tiles are the most popular choices for kitchen flooring. Both materials are attractive to buyers and need very little maintenance to look good.
• Lighting is extremely important in the kitchen. Ambient lighting will keep the room bright. Task lighting illuminates the food prep and cooking area. Under cabinet lighting can accentuate the beauty of your room.
• A wall color that will accentuate your new cabinets, flooring, appliances, and countertops. Consider the addition of a colorful backsplash or accent wall to create a focal point in the room.

Kitchen remodeling is a large project and can take months to fully complete. Discuss a timeline and a specific budget for your project with a licensed contractor so you will know what to expect.  Not every homeowner is willing or able to complete a large-scale kitchen remodeling. Even minor improvements can change the entire look of your kitchen and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Whether you are selling your home or simply want to improve the room's appearance, small projects like painting or replacing outdated appliances with a licensed contractor can make a big difference to the value of your home.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

Eye-Catching Kitchen Cabinet Details You Will Want to Use In Your Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen and bathroom renovations are the in-thing and for good reasons. There are stunning kitchen cabinet designs that you will love to have for your kitchen’s new facelift. If your kitchen’s layout works for you, you do not need to spend thousands of dollars for a complete kitchen remodeling. Instead, work with a licensed contractor to design your kitchen improvements to keep some of what you have and replace the cabinet doors or fronts depending on your budget.

Glass Kitchen Doors

Glass is very versatile and can be used in almost any part of the house to create a luxurious feel. You want the help of a licensed contractor to help you chose a high-quality glass so that it remains flush with the cabinets for its entire lifetime. Instead of leaving the doors bare, your contractor can add an X-design on the front to give it a sophisticated look and finish.

Copper, Brass, and Bronze Cabinet Handles and Faucets

Warm, soft shades of brass, burnished copper and hammered bronze are all the rage right now and has recently appealed to designers as a modern interior trend. These elements are a fantastic alternative to traditional fittings. The good thing brass matches with any color, making it ideal for a kitchen, and because it is reflective, it will make your kitchen look bigger. Brass and copper add an earthy feel to a kitchen when used on the kitchen islands, cupboards or stovetops, plus cleaning is a breeze.

Metallic Screen Doors

The metallic screen door pattern can either be of chrome, aluminum, bronze, or brass and can be used on the doors to add a touch of luxury and to let the cabinets breathe while at it.

Cabinets with Exposed Hinges

If they are not too busy looking for your space, exposed hinges give a period feeling to any kitchen. Imagine white or brown wooden cabinetry with rustic, or black exposed hinges.

Modern Minimalist

Think clean lines, muted monochrome colors, and minimal embellishments.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

Installing lights inside your cabinets is not only functional, but it also enhances the décor, saves energy, and brings about a soothing ambiance.

Backsplash

A kitchen is not complete without a modern backsplash that will fit in with your cabinets and transform your entire cooking space. Backsplashes come in a wide variety of colors, styles and materials such tile, stone, glass, ceramic, that extend from the countertop to the ceiling to lend a contemporary look and warm up a sleek, contemporary space.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

Clever Kitchen and Bathroom Storage Ideas

Both kitchens and bathrooms are filled to the brim with a number of different accessories.  In fact, it would not be a stretch to call them the busiest rooms in the entire house because of how many valuable accessory objects that they hold. Therefore, it is essential to effectively utilize as much space as possible and use every single inch in a useful manner. It is imperative for you to know how to use your space while undertaking kitchen and bathroom remodel. A licensed contractor can bring the most out of the two rooms and their renovations.

Here are some very clever kitchen and bathroom storage ideas to use during kitchen and bathroom remodeling:

Kitchen Storage Options

The kitchen is the room where most of the hard work takes place. Therefore, it is important to make sure that there is less clutter all around it. A clean and tidy kitchen ensures greater productivity.
Following are some clever ideas to tell your licensed contractor for kitchen storage:

Plastic Bag Holder
Place this holder inside the door of a cabinet to make sure it is just as usable but does not interfere with anything. It saves a lot of space.

Racked for Cans
Placing cans all around the kitchen can cause a huge clutter and interfere in many kitchen tasks. Placing all the cans on a designated rack ensures less of a clutter and more organization.

Knife and Measuring Cups Hanger
Much like a plastic cup holder, you can make a holder for knives for measuring cups inside cabinet doors. This ensures usability while also saving a lot of space.

Wine Glass Molding
To save space while also not letting go of your glasses, you can always add a wine glass molding to your kitchen and hang all appropriate glasses from it.

Cookware Organizer
Instead of using standard cabinets for cookware and utensils, it is better to install cabinets that act as cookware organizers. This helps to organize your cookware while making it ready to use.

Bathroom Storage Options

Bathrooms are one of the most used rooms in the entire house. Having a number of accessories in them, such as towels, mats, lotions, body sprays, and such need a lot of care when organizing bathrooms. Here are some clever bathroom storage options:

Wall Cabinet
The most simple of them all, the wall cabinet helps you keep most of your bathroom accessories in the wall and not have them lying around. While making everything neat, it also makes the accessories more accessible.

Vintage Storage
Having small straw storage closets beneath your sink is a great way to keep your things at hand and secure.

Storage Tower
Storage towers are a great way of keeping your things right in the middle, while keeping them all in one place. This is a great way to store toilet paper, towel, and such.

Storage Ladder
Much like the storage tower, the storage ladder keeps your accessories in one place. Preferably the corner.  These ladders are also perfect for hanging towels.

Ask Your Contractor For More Ideas

Give your licensed contractor all these great ideas when you are having your kitchen or bathroom remodeled.  Most contractors will have some tricks of their own when it comes to extra storage in kitchen and bathroom renovations.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

Suggestions In Small Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchen remodeling is one of the few home renovations that can take your home from drab to fab.  To Smaller kitchens can be not only renovated to add a facelift to your space but to add efficiency as well.  Renovating a smaller space often requires more planning than larger kitchen remodels.  With a small kitchen it is important to find ways that the space can be used in more than one way.  Multi-purposing each and every space to provide a big kitchen feel to a small kitchen space.  Below you will find multiple tips on turning your small kitchen into something grand during the renovation process.

Multi-Purpose Wherever Possible        

Utilizing every nook and cranny is so important in a small kitchen renovation.  When you renovate a small kitchen it is important to make space where there isn’t any.  Seem impossible?  This can be achieved in several ways.  Adding cupboards up to the ceiling leaves you room to utilize the space under them.  Consider an in wall stove instead of one that utilizes valuable floor space.  This one small renovation adds a lot of extra space that can be utilized for storage which is always a shortage of in small kitchen spaces.

Select Smaller Versions of Home Appliances

This one simple concept can save you a bundle of space.  Choosing a slimmer refrigerator and a compact dishwasher can save a tone of space.  Make it so that your cupboards all have sliding shelves so that you can use all of the space in them.  Another item that you can choose a smaller version of is the sink.  Choose sink that is smaller in length and width but deeper so that you are still able to adequately use the sink.  If you have dishes and appliances that are not used that often install a lazy susan on both the top and bottom shelves.  This takes valuable corner space that is usually wasted and utilizes it for storage.  Lazy susan’s can have multiple shelves and therefore can hold a lot of kitchen necessity’s out of the way.

Add Natural and Artificial Light

More light naturally brightens a space.  If there is a small window in the kitchen already consider making it larger.  If that is not possible use the existing space and add a bay window or a larger window sill.  Consider adding recessed lighting and lights under cabinetry.  For smaller kitchen areas it is important that the lighting does not invade the livable space.

It can be a bit more complex to remodel a smaller kitchen.  It is important that every detail is planned and accounted for.  Keep the space uncluttered and utilize even the smallest of spaces in big ways.

Jason Foldenauer Construction, out of Howell and Brighton Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to home additions and storage sheds.  Contact http://www.jfcremodeling.com today for your entire home renovating needs. 

Spring Home Improvements

When the winter season is upon us most of us are already in full swing thinking about spring.  We are looking forward to brighter days where the sun is full when we can begin all of the home improvement projects we have been meaning to get to.  Consider the projects you are seeing that need to get accomplished and create a spring check list.  Then in the spring create to do lists for each project to help you get on your way without the intimidation the checklist as a whole.New

Start with your homes roof.  Shingle and metal roofs here in the north really take a beating throughout the winter months.  When spring arrives it is important to hire a roofing contractor to inspect the roof.  They will evaluate the issues that arise during the winter season.  This doesn’t necessarily mean the roof needs to be replaced in full however could determine minor roof repairs that are needed to maintain the function of your shingle roof.

Roofing contractors look for blistering.  This can be a result of poor workmanship or inadequate roofing ventilation.  Shingles may need to be replaced because they are cracking and brittle or the shingles could curl in extreme weather.  All of this needs to be evaluated by a professional.  Roof repairs and general maintenance will lead to your roofs longevity.

Your homes deck may need maintenance after a rough winter.  If it has been a few years since you have done maintenance on your deck consider applying a fresh coat of stain and sealer.  This will help to maintain your deck and prevent the need for replacing decking boards later.  In order to properly care for your deck you may need to hire a general contractor to assist you.  They will pressure wash the deck, removing all of the built up dirt and then scrape off any stain that is chipping or pealing that does not come up with power washing.  Decking is then sanded down, a primer is applied if needed and a new coat of stain seals the deck.  It is then ready for spring, summer and fall celebrations and barbeques.

Another spring tip is to check the plumbing within your kitchen and bathroom.  This does not mean you need to do a complete kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation but check the plumbing including faucets, drains, hoses, toilets and any unusual smells that have crept up over the winter.  Smells could mean that a leak has occurred and gone unnoticed.  It is important that the plumbing in your home is mold free, leak free, thoroughly cleaned, inspected and updated on an as needed basis.

The spring is the perfect time for home renovations.  Doing updates in the spring leaves time open and available for all the fun that summer weekends provide.  Checklists in the winter and maintenance in the spring leave for adventures in the summer and fall.

Jason Foldenauer Construction, out of Howell and Brighton Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom and kitchen remodeling to home additions and storage sheds.  Contact http://www.jfcremodeling.com today for your entire home renovating needs.