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Home Renovation – An Affordable Transformation Kitchen Remodel

May 21, 2022 Comments Off

If you are looking to transform your kitchen on a budget there are several areas you can concentrate on that will bring a modern look to your kitchen. Focus on a few key areas of your kitchen and stay away from too many kitchen projects at once.
Countertops are the area in the kitchen that most eyes are drawn to. Installing a top quality countertop will update a kitchen by decades. Granite is one of the most durable materials on the market and the end results are stunning. The benefits of granite include: natural beauty, increased home value, variety of colors to choose from, and the simple maintenance. Granite can also be very affordable too. Here are a few parameters to work within when selecting granite and installation prices.
Most importantly, go with a top quality company that is licensed and bonded and don’t be afraid to ask for references. Ask to see before and after remodel pictures from former clients. Also, the more color patters that are within the color of granite the more expensive it becomes square footage wise. So, stick with a simple color as that can offer significant savings.
Everything is a negotiation and even though you are given a quote, you can always bring down the price by $100 to $200 if you’re willing to negotiate. It is strongly advised to get three quotes too. This will assure you are paying fair market value for your granite and installation. Also, make sure to ask about seams when the granite is cut. Some companies try to cut corners and add unnecessary seams to your granite, and this is something that can be avoided by asking the simple question when receiving quotes.
Other affordable updates you can make to your kitchen includes; modernizing your sink with an under-mount sink and replacing the sink faucet. After your new granite is installed, updating the hardware on your cabinets is great way to bring your new remodel to a complete finish.

10 Affordable Home Remodeling Trends

February 10, 2022 Comments Off

It’s possible to do a home remodeling project on a budget. You can even save money on future energy costs with the right design.

Use Imitation Materials: Hardwood floors and granite countertops are pricey, but you can get imitations – such as laminate floors – that are so close to the real thing most people can’t tell.

Freshen up the Exterior: After you remodel, invest in new shutters, a new coat of paint, a new front door or some landscaping. This can yield big dividends for a small price.

Re-use Space: Instead of a big home addition, maybe you can get what you want by re-using a room for a new purpose or by taking down some walls to create one large area. For instance, you can combine two small rooms to make one big one, or you can take out the wall between the kitchen and dining room to open up the space.

Do It Yourself: Figure out which parts of the job really require professionals. You might not be up to installing plumbing pipes, but you can add insulation or paint walls.

Do Your Own Demolition: Demolition doesn’t require the same skills as construction. You need to take precautions, however, especially if you’re taking out an interior wall.

Avoid Moving Plumbing: You can save on the plumber’s charges.

Don’t Make Changes: Once you’ve started the home remodeling project, try not to change your mind. Those will be costly decisions.

Shop Around: Get bids from several contractors. Look around for materials – and don’t forget to try the Internet.

Be Energy Efficient: While you’re remodeling, take advantage of the opportunity to add insulation to existing walls and attics. Any windows you add should be energy efficient. Installing windows and skylights will bring in natural light and save on electricity costs. Do you wish to reduce your monthly energy costs? Direct Energy Rates may be able to help, they are a company that offers competitive energy rates in many parts of the United States. By shopping around for the best energy rates, you can use Direct Energy Rates to save money on your energy bills.

Install New HVAC: Evaluate your heating and air conditioning needs. You may need new HVAC equipment for your additional space, or you may want to take this opportunity to get a more energy efficient furnace or air conditioner. For a lot of savings, consider solar panels or a geothermal heat pump.