Category: Home Improvement

Home Improvement

Bathroom Remodeling and Accessory Upgrades

siteadmin

For many homeowners, a bathroom remodel is only complete with a few upgrades to accessories. But these items add up quickly.

Ask contractors for proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance before hiring them. It’s important to protect your investment. Contact Bathroom Remodeling Lexington KY today!

Keep the existing layout and plumbing to avoid costly re-piping fees. Also, refinishing sinks and bathtubs is often less expensive than replacement.

A bathroom remodeling project requires a well-thought-out design. This is where our design team comes in to work with you to develop goals for the remodel and plan how that will be achieved. The design stage is also where plumbing changes, if needed, are determined and accounted for. For example, toilets and sinks require a certain amount of space to function properly (toilet bowls should be at least 30″ from the wall, sinks 20″). And any new fixtures must fit within existing pipe locations (or, at the very least, can not conflict with them).

Layout considerations will also be considered. Moving tubs and showers, changing the location of a sink or vanity, and rearranging shelving are common bathroom layout changes that can make your bathroom more functional. We take the time to consider your family’s needs and plans when determining layouts, as the right renovations can help you save time and money in the long run.

Another part of the design process involves choosing materials for your bathroom. This can include tile, counters, cabinets, and more. Choosing the best material for your bathroom can impact your budget and aesthetic in many ways. For example, natural stone is a great option for durability and beauty, while wood components can give your bathroom an organic feel.

Hardware choices for your cabinets and bathroom accessories are also a fun and easy way to customize your space. Whether you prefer gold or silver, chrome or antique brass, there is something to match your style and complement your home’s decor.

Lighting is another essential part of the design process for your bathroom. Recessed and decorative lights can provide a great ambiance and enhance the functionality of your bathroom. We also recommend incorporating dimmer switches for added flexibility.

The last aspect of the design process for your bathroom is considering what finishing touches you want to include. Adding custom elements like cabinetry, artwork, and decorative tiling can make your bathroom unique and personal. We can also incorporate smart technology into your bathroom with hands-free faucets and programmed shower systems that conserve water and energy.

Plumbing upgrades are the most expensive aspect of a bathroom remodel. This is because they involve tearing out walls, relocating fixtures, and installing new pipes. For this reason, it is best to hire a professional plumber to do the work. They have the training and tools to ensure your plumbing is safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. A plumber can also evaluate your current plumbing and advise maximizing your space.

A plumber will usually begin by checking the condition of existing pipes and ensuring they are up to code. This is important because if the pipes are not in good condition, they may leak or clog. Older pipes may also be less efficient than new ones, which could lead to high utility bills.

After evaluating the state of your existing plumbing, your contractor will determine where new plumbing lines should be run. This will depend on the design of your new bathroom and any changes you plan to make to the layout. For example, if you are moving the toilet or shower, you must install new water and drain lines. This job is best left to professionals, as it involves removing the floor and relocating water and waste lines.

Once the plumbing is in place, your contractor will install the shower or tub. This is often the largest sub-project within the larger bathroom remodeling project and can take several days or even a week to complete. It can be particularly time-consuming if tile is used, as it must cure in stages.

When the plumbing and flooring are finished, it is time to install the cabinets and vanity. The cabinetry should be made of moisture-resistant materials like wood or solid surface materials like marble or granite. This will help protect the cabinet from water damage and allow you to clean it easily.

The last major sub-project is to install the toilet and fixtures. This can be a relatively quick project, especially if you use a prefabricated toilet and hookups are already in place. Once this is done, the remaining tasks are painting and adding decorations. Because of the high moisture in bathrooms, using durable, low-moisture materials for the flooring and paint is critical. This will help prevent mold and mildew growth.

Homeowners can remodel their bathrooms with a wide range of electrical upgrades, but they must be careful to keep their budgets manageable. This is where it’s important to find a contractor who can help them assess their options and develop a plan for the project. It’s also wise to double-check that the contractor has experience in the kind of work they’re proposing to do and to make sure they’re licensed and insured for electrical and plumbing work.

Some homeowners are startled to learn that their bathroom wiring needs to be updated, which should not necessarily deter remodeling. The latest codes have requirements primarily aimed at new construction, and existing bathrooms are often allowed to add replacement switches and receptacles without going as far as adding additional circuits to bring the entire space up to code.

A common upgrade involves:

  • Changing the bathroom layout, such as moving the toilet or tub/shower.
  • Enlarging the shower or bathtub.
  • Increasing storage space.

This type of project can require a lot of drywall and other demolition, so it’s important to be clear with your contractor from the outset about what changes you want to make.

Smaller upgrades include:

  • Relocating or replacing light fixtures.
  • Removing or installing a skylight.
  • Modifying a window.
  • Adding recessed lighting.
  • Changing the door.

These typically do not require a permit and can be completed without a change to the bathroom footprint.

Other significant upgrades include installing a washer/dryer, a steam shower, or a bidet. Depending on your building’s laundry room rules and whether you have a closet, this might mean knocking down a wall or taking over an adjacent storage closet to create space for the units. It also requires a dedicated water line and 50A electrical circuit, so this project should be left to the professionals.

Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to obtain permits and board approvals from your building management before beginning work. The Sweeten team can assist you with the process by finding vetted contractors, getting estimates, and hiring the right one for your bathroom remodeling job. This can be done in as little as 2-3 weeks, making Sweeten a great option for apartment dwellers who need to get their bathroom remodel started sooner rather than later.

The lighting in your bathroom is an opportunity to add a design element and set a mood. While adding recessed lighting around the mirror is a practical touch, consider other options such as backlighting a vanity or shelving, sconces in a powder room, pendant lights over a tub, or a chandelier in a master bath. Also, don’t forget to consider a dimmer switch for your ambient lighting – it allows you to adjust the light levels depending on the mood or task.

The ventilation of a bathroom is another area that should be addressed during a remodel. A great ventilation fan that properly vents outdoors is essential to reduce moisture, mold, and mildew. Oftentimes, this needs to be done, and the resulting moisture can damage walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture. A qualified professional will help you select the right exhaust fan based on size, noise level, and airflow capacity.

When installing new fixtures, look for those that use LED bulbs, which performed well in our recent lightbulb tests. They last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and provide bright, even illumination. Consider also a dimmer switch for your ambient and decorative lighting to allow you to set the mood.

A dimmer switch will also make taking leisurely baths or enjoying the view from your window much more enjoyable. A dimmer switch is also an easy way to improve the lighting in a powder room or guest bathroom.

Changing the color of the wall tiles can completely change the feel and look of your bathroom. While this project is simple for many homeowners, it can be not easy without professional expertise. It would be best to work with an experienced contractor who can help you choose the best tile for your space and install it properly.

The last step in completing a bathroom renovation is to trim the room. Adding the final touches will make your bathroom feel complete and ready to use. Whether you add window treatments, decorative storage containers, or pictures on the wall, the final touches will personalize your bathroom and make it feel like home.

Home Improvement

Choosing an Outdoor Kitchen Contractor

siteadmin

Outdoor Kitchen Contractor Near Me is a high-end project that requires a contractor with professional experience and knowledge. Choosing the right one is important for getting the finished product you want and deserve.

One way to gauge a contractor’s reputation is whether they have a backlog of projects in progress. A good contractor will always have a project in the works and update you about progress.

A quality outdoor kitchen requires durable building materials that withstand high temperatures, rain, and sun exposure. Some options include wood, concrete, brick, and steel. A contractor may construct the entire kitchen from these materials or use a prefabricated frame with cabinets. In either case, the materials used will make a difference in the long-term durability of your kitchen.

If your outdoor kitchen will be built with a wooden frame, it will require a backer board to protect the wood from water and heat. Typically, the backer board is constructed with cement. The frame can then be faced with decorative concrete panels, stucco, stone, tile, or brick veneers. Wood-frame construction allows for a wide range of customization to match your style and preferences.

Whether planning a wood or concrete block structure, you must consult your local permitting department about zoning and building codes. Most municipalities require a permit to install any structure that will house an electric appliance, and some will also require permits to run gas, water, and drain lines. You will also need to check your home title for easements that might restrict where you can build.

Once the base is constructed, you must hire an electrician to run GFCI-protected outlets and install any permanent lighting. If your project includes a grill, it will be necessary to have a plumbing contractor complete the gas, water, and drain lines.

At Watson Supply, we offer a selection of fire pits, grills, and accessories from leading brands like Firegear Outdoors, Breeo, Round Grove, Warming Trends, and Unilock. We also provide the raw materials needed to construct a custom outdoor kitchen.

There are several different frame options when it comes to an outdoor kitchen. Some homeowners use a wood frame, while others choose metal or concrete. The choice of frame material can make a big difference in the final look and cost of the project.

A wood frame can be less expensive and work better for a DIY project. It is also easy to install the necessary backer board and add decorative concrete panels, stucco, or stone veneers for a customized look. However, the wood must be treated or sealed with a water-resistant coating, and repeated wetting and drying cycles can cause the wooden structure to crack and eventually need replacement.

Using the right type of wood for the frame is also important. It should be pressure-treated pine, if possible, and not pallet wood. Pallet wood is often sprayed with chemicals that aren’t safe to eat and is not resistant to the variations in weather that an outdoor kitchen will experience.

Another disadvantage of a wood frame is that it can be difficult to run electrical wires through it. This may be an issue if you plan to install a grill, pizza oven, or smoker in the frame. It will also be a concern if you plan to use an outdoor lighting system in the kitchen area.

The good news is that a qualified professional can handle all of these challenges for you. A contractor specializing in outdoor living projects will be familiar with the construction methods and materials used to create a beautiful, functional, and durable frame for your outdoor kitchen. The best way to find a great contractor is by checking reviews online and asking for references from past clients.

Concrete blocks, also known as concrete masonry units or CMU, are a durable and versatile building material used in many structures. They are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes and can be customized to suit specific projects.

There are two primary concrete block categories: hollow and solid. Hollow blocks, sometimes called “knock-out blocks” because of the holes they have in them, are lighter and allow for more flexibility when installing wiring, piping, or other materials in your outdoor kitchen design. Solid blocks are typically more durable but less versatile in shape and size than hollow concrete blocks.

A concrete block has a variety of finishes that can be used to create a custom look on a building facade or interior wall. For example, an antique finish exposes the aggregate to provide a weathered look. Other finishes, such as ground-face and shot blast finish, leave the aggregate exposed but smooth, giving the block a polished look suitable for interior and exterior walls.

The first step to building a cinder block outdoor kitchen is clearing the site for the structure. Clearing the area removes debris interfering with the structure’s strength or longevity. Then, the soil must be leveled so that appliances like grills and sinks are installed at an even height.

Before cement is poured, the cinder block construction must be waterproofed. This can be done using an epoxy coating designed to withstand moisture. Choosing a high-quality coating that will not chip or peel is important, especially in high-traffic areas. The waterproofing must also meet any local building codes.

Whether you want to grill and entertain or enjoy a quiet evening in your backyard, an outdoor kitchen can add value to your home. Adding an outdoor kitchen to your yard can be an investment, so hiring a contractor with experience and knowledge of the different materials available and the building codes required for local areas is important. A mason with the proper training and equipment is necessary, but other contractors may be needed to assist with plumbing, electrical, gas line installation, granite countertop fabrication, and more.

Choosing the right brick materials for your outdoor kitchen will determine how long it can be expected to last. Many people use brick for their outdoor kitchen because it is durable, easy to maintain, and has a timeless appeal. However, it is important to consider the size of your patio and other factors, such as weather conditions and the amount of sunlight your area receives, before deciding on the type of brick for your project.

The construction process for a brick outdoor kitchen begins with a foundation and utility lines being run. Once the site has been prepped, a concrete footing should be poured to support the weight of your new kitchen. Make sure the footing is at least an inch below ground level and should be twice as wide as your BBQ island.

Once the foundation is laid, a dry course of bricks should be constructed. This first course will form the outline of your kitchen and must be carefully measured and marked for accuracy. As you build the remaining courses, apply mortar between each brick and on the head of each brick to ensure a sturdy and strong structure. When all the classes have been built, double-check your kitchen layout for accuracy and ensure the base is plumb and level.

Choosing the material for an outdoor kitchen frame is one of the first decisions. This will greatly impact construction speed, cost, and longevity. Wood, steel, and concrete are all common choices. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

For example, a steel frame is more expensive than wood but can last up to twice as long. It also provides more structural support. This is especially important if the frame will hold heavy appliances and countertops. The frame must withstand the weight and force of these items without flexing or cracking.

A steel frame is typically welded together. This makes it easier to build an outdoor kitchen and provides more structural integrity. Welded frames are also cheaper than wooden or concrete frames because they do not need to be treated with chemicals. However, they can be difficult to work with and require specialized tools.

Another option is to use a concrete slab as the foundation for an outdoor kitchen. It is cost-effective and visually appealing, but it will require regular maintenance to prevent cracking or sinking into the ground. Concrete also needs to be resealed annually.

A wood-frame kitchen can be built on a concrete slab. It is more cost-effective than a brick structure and can be topped with an outdoor-rated cladding material, such as stucco, tile, or stone veneer. This type of construction allows for greater customization and can be constructed in various shapes. It is also resistant to insects and can withstand the elements. However, it is less durable than a concrete block or steel frame construction.