JFC Remodeling | Blog - Page 14 of 20 -

February 27, 2019February 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/

February 15, 2019February 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.

January 23, 2019January 23, 2019

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.

January 10, 2019January 10, 2019

Hiring A Professional Home Remodeler Saves Time, Money, and More

The most limiting factor in renovating your home is the cost. Many homeowners believe they can save thousands of dollars by renovating their own kitchens or bathrooms. Then face the overwhelming fact, months down the road that they are in over their heads. Everyone wants to save money when renovating without compromising quality. The team at JFC Remodeling understands that which is why we specialize in high quality kitchen and bathroom design and remodeling that work within our client’s budget.

Hiring a professional will not only save you time, money, and aggravation, it will also bring you the results you desire. Below are just a few of the many reasons you should hire professional kitchen and bathroom designers and contractors like JFC Remodeling for all of your home improvement needs.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Kitchen and Bath Designers/Contractors

Choosing a design, construction materials, and technology for remodeling projects takes a lot of time. This is time that doesn’t include execution. DIY homeowners often forget to take this into consideration when contemplating a large scaled renovation such as updating their kitchens. This can lead to major delays in completing renovations. Hiring a professional contractor will prevent delays.

Licensed and insured contractors renovate homes in a manner that is efficient. Professional contractors are knowledgeable about all of the latest and greatest technologies, construction methods, and best materials to use. They are also versed in current building codes and standards that are required to pass building inspections on the first attempt.

The goal of remodeling is to have a room that looks more appealing and functional then it previously had been. With the professional expertise of a designer/contractor you get this. The experts at JFC Remodeling work with homeowners to examine their current space, talk about their wants and needs, and create a design that perfectly reflects the overall vision. Once a kitchen design and the desired materials have been chosen the project can begin.

Accuracy is a key element in remodeling. Inexperience can often lead to costly mistakes. One of the most expensive mistakes DIY homeowners make is when it comes to measuring. Materials used in kitchen and bathroom remodeling can be quite expensive. From granite counter tops and exotic wood cabinets, materials add up quite fast. Professional contractors are used to being accurate and therefore measuring mistakes are not something that happens often.

Another major benefit that comes with hiring a professional contractor comes at the end when homeowners are presented with a finished project. Nothing is better than seeing your dream come to life from start to finish. You are making a huge investment in your home and it is important you get exactly what you want and pay for. The professionals at JFC Remodeling can make sure your kitchen and bathroom remodeling dreams come true.

December 20, 2018December 20, 2018

Common errors made on home renovation projects

Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. - 123RF — Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. – 123RF

Home improvement projects can turn a house into a home. Homeowners plan scores of renovations to transform living spaces into rooms that reflect their personal tastes and comforts.

But homeowners going it alone may find things do not always go as planned. In fact, a Harris Interactive study found that 85 per cent of homeowners say remodelling is a more stressful undertaking than buying a home.

But homeowners about to embark on home improvement projects can make the process go more smoothly by avoiding these common pitfalls.

Failing to understand the scope of the project

Some homeowners don’t realize just how big a commitment they have made until they get their hands dirty. But understanding the scope of the project, including how much demolition and reconstruction is involved, and how much time a project will take can help homeowners avoid some of the stress that comes with renovation projects.

For example, a bathroom renovation may require the removal of drywall, reinforcement of flooring to accommodate a new bathtub or shower enclosure and the installation of new plumbing and wiring behind walls. So such a renovation is far more detailed than simply replacing faucets.

Not establishing a budget

Homeowners must develop a project budget to ensure their projects do not drain their finances. If your budget is so inflexible that you can’t afford the materials you prefer, you may want to postpone the project and save more money so you can eventually afford to do it right.

Without a budget in place, it is easy to overspend, and that can put you in financial peril down the line. Worrying about coming up with money to pay for materials and labour also can induce stress. Avoid the anxiety by setting a firm budget.

Making trendy or personal improvements

Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long run have more free rein when it comes to renovating their homes. Such homeowners can create a billiards room or paint a room hot pink if they so prefer.

However, if the goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go, and improvements can be expensive.

If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers.

Forgetting to properly vet all workers

It is important to vet your contractor, but don’t forget to vet potential subcontractors as well. Failing to do so can prove a costly mistake. Contractors often look to subcontractors to perform certain parts of a job, and it is the responsibility of homeowners to vet these workers.

Expecting everything to go as planned

Optimism is great, but you also should be a realist. Knowing what potentially could go wrong puts you in a better position to handle any problems should they arise. The project might go off without a hitch, but plan for a few hiccups along the way.

Overestimating DIY abilities

Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. In the long run, leaving the work to a professional may save you money.

Home improvements can be stressful, but homeowners can lessen that stress by avoiding common renovation mistakes.

Original source: https://www.digbycourier.ca/living/homes/common-errors-made-on-home-renovation-projects-262104/

Original Date: Nov 23 2018

Original Author: Metro Creative