Not only will we be highlighting new building materials, fixtures, and accessories, but we also hope to touch on different topics of interest, to help guide you through your remodeling experience. You will also be able to get design tips, learn how to remodel when deciding to go “green,” and much more.

Our goal is for you the consumer to feel more confident and informed as you move through your remodel or addition. So be sure to come back often, so you don’t miss anything! Also make sure to check out our FAQ section to find answers to common remodeling questions, and our newsletter for even more great information on what’s happening in the remodeling and housing industry.

Remodeling can be intimidating to a lot of clients; such questions arise as to what is most important for that individual; space, function, design? Do you remodel one room at a time, or take on the whole enchilada? Depending on the clients needs, whether it be to update materials only, or completely revamp the space, it is important to have a good contractor on your side to guide you through the processes of bidding, selection, and purchasing. Also important is thinking ahead, and having a clear idea of your expectations, the quality of workmanship, what products you would like to use based on your budget, and ask yourself how much you’re willing to pay to improve your lifestyle.

Something as simple as new paint, accessories, texture, or lighting can transform a space alone. In today’s economy, Kitchens and Master Bath remodels tend to add the most value to your home. However, additions are also in high demand with growing families deciding to stay in their existing home.

If you do decide to remodel, make sure that the improvements you make offer the best bang for your buck. Also, you want the products chosen to accommodate you both safely and comfortably, possibly for years to come. For those remodeling to sell your home, it’s best to stick to the bare minimum. If the potential buyer doesn’t like, they may not be willing to buy. Another consideration is the new EPA lead regulations, and how they may come into play with your remodel. So make sure that you have an expert on your side that can make sure your remodel goes not only smoothly, but safely.

Kitchens remain a top priority when consumers are considering remodeling; not only can it add value to your home, but also allows you to create the haven you desire. Kitchens continue to reign as the most lived in room of a home. In fact, most families today even consider it the “new family room.” Small touches such as new paint, adding a backsplash, updating the kitchen sink faucet, and adding, or updating lighting fixtures, can all make a drastic change in the look of your Kitchen.

Of course, if you’re looking to completely redo your Kitchen, it’s good to know that you can still have quality on a budget. More Kitchens are installing islands that accommodate, not only storage, but also double as the kitchen table. By lowering all, or just a portion of an island, you can achieve maximum space, and function.

If your budget allows replacing cabinets and countertops, cabinet manufactures, such as Brandom, have value lines that fit just about any budget. Replacing cabinets, however, may conflict with existing appliances, and flooring. This, in turn, may lead to replacing those items as well. Countertops have come a long way as far as options go; ceramic tile is your most cost effective option, outside of laminate, and the aesthetic possibilities are endless. Solid surface is middle of the road, in both appearance and price. It also stands up well to the heavy Kitchen user. Yet, if you’re adamant about having stone (granite, marble, or concrete) counters, ask your contractor to work with you on finding ways use stone counters, while still balancing your budget.

Small touches such as adding new hardware and hinges to your cabinets can also make an amazing transformation. Adding a backsplash is a fun, and cost effective way to add personality and update a Kitchen without spending a ton of money.

Flooring is another way you can update your kitchen without breaking the bank. Tile, stone, and wood are the most popular types of flooring for the kitchen. It’s important to think about whether this will be a high traffic area, if you cook a lot, and the ease of cleaning and maintenance required. It’s also important, if you’re leaving cabinets in tact, that you consider the existing foot print and that installation costs may be higher to accommodate this. Tile is available in ceramic and natural stone; ceramic tiles are easier to maintain, cost less than natural stone, and have styles that mimic natural stone. Wood flooring has come a long way in the past few years. Real wood, or engineered wood are both cost effective options that are also eco friendly, and easy to maintain for years to come.

Whatever you decide, when remodeling your Kitchen on a budget, just keep in mind that there are lots of ways to update your space, while increasing value to your home. Also consider, will what you do now still be “hot” in the future? As mentioned before, start with a fresh coat of paint, or replace that old Kitchen faucet. This alone can make your Kitchen feel like new. And who knows where that might lead….