Author: Bryan Gordon

5 Tips for a Successful Bathroom Remodel

Bryan Gordon

Bathroom Remodel Jacksonville involves changing the look and feel of the space. This is usually achieved with a variety of changes to materials and fixtures.

Dry rot, mold and mildew can all be addressed as part of this process. It’s also a great opportunity to upgrade your bathroom to include safety features like grab bars and chair-height toilets.

Bathroom Remodel

1. New Plumbing

The plumbing is what makes your bathroom functional, so it’s essential that any changes made are done properly. That’s why it’s best to leave any major upgrades to professionals who can ensure the new systems are installed correctly and will work well together. This can include things like ensuring that the new layout is configured to accommodate proper drainage and that the shower or tub has adequate slope to avoid clogs. It’s also a good idea to upgrade to water-efficient fixtures to help lower your utility bills.

The first step in any remodel is to plan out the project and budget. This will help you stay on track and ensure that all your goals are met. It’s also important to determine whether you want to make a simple refresh or a complete redesign. Consider your resale goals and lifestyle needs to determine what type of remodel is right for you. For example, if you’re planning to sell soon, you may want to limit the renovation to cosmetic updates that will boost your home’s value.

If you’re planning to keep your house for the long haul, a comprehensive bathroom remodel is a great way to add luxury and value. This may include a ‘rip and replace’ of the vanity, toilet, and bathtub as well as a fully tiled shower enclosure. You may also want to add universal design features to help the space be more comfortable and accessible as you age.

Framing is a crucial part of any bathroom remodel, as it sets the stage for everything that comes after it. This can be a complex task that requires precision and patience. Depending on the scope of your remodel, it may require hiring an experienced contractor to handle this step for you. In addition, it’s likely that you’ll need to acquire a permit and obtain co-op or condo board approval before beginning any construction work.

2. New Flooring

Choosing the right flooring for your bathroom is one of the most important decisions you will make during a renovation. It should blend beauty and functionality to elevate the look of your room and add resale value. There are many options available, from hardwood to natural stone and everything in between. Choose a material that fits your style and budget.

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are popular flooring choices because they are water-resistant, easy to maintain, and come in a variety of colors and textures. These durable materials will stand up to high foot traffic and a range of temperatures, making them a great choice for a family bathroom.

For a more rustic feel, natural wood is an attractive option, but it requires frequent refinishing and can swell or buckle in a damp environment. To avoid these issues, opt for engineered hardwood, which places a thin layer of real wood over plywood for durability. In this elegant bathroom, designers paired natural wood flooring with timeless finishes like a marble shower and soaking tub for a sophisticated aesthetic.

Rubber is another practical and eco-friendly choice. Made from the renewable bark of cork oak trees, it has a soft surface that provides comfort underfoot and is naturally slip-resistant. It is also a great choice for those who prefer a modern minimalist style.

Concrete is another durable and versatile option that can be stained, polished, or stamped for a custom look. It is a good choice for those who want to achieve an industrial or contemporary look. Concrete can be cold underfoot, however, so it is essential to warm up your bathroom with a thick area rug.

Once you’ve settled on your new flooring, complete your remodel with decor that coordinates with the style of your space. Consider soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, wastebaskets, and other accessories in matching or complementary colors and finishes to create a cohesive aesthetic.

3. New Lighting

Lighting is a crucial part of any bathroom remodel, elevating it beyond a utilitarian space to a true oasis of comfort and relaxation. It’s also an important design element, bringing out the colors, textures, and finishes to create a sense of visual depth.

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, lighting is one of the most overlooked but powerful changes you can make. The right lighting can elevate your entire aesthetic, from a relaxing sanctuary to a vibrant energizing space. There are a variety of lighting choices available, including dimmers, which allow you to adjust the mood depending on your needs at any given time.

Additionally, incorporating natural light is another great way to enhance the ambiance of your bathroom while also helping to maintain your circadian rhythm and reducing dependency on artificial lights. If you are looking to add a touch of flair to your bathroom, consider decorative lighting designs like pendants or sconces. They offer an interesting look to the bathroom and can also provide additional storage space for small items.

Layered lighting is a popular bathroom remodeling idea, providing an overall ambiance with ambient and task lighting. This helps to illuminate all corners of the room and gives a spacious feel to the space. Additionally, a well-lit bathroom is more functional, making grooming tasks easier and ensuring safety.

When it comes to remodeling your bathroom, the best place to start is with a budget and a clear vision of what you want from the remodel. This will help you stay on track and ensure the project stays within your desired scope. Additionally, be sure to include a little extra in the budget for unexpected costs.

4. New Fixtures

When it comes to bathroom fixtures and fittings, swapping them out for stylish new options can instantly elevate the look. Consider installing decorative lighting like chandeliers and wall sconces, as well as dimmable lights for easy mood adjustments. Adding more storage to your space can also improve functionality and style, so look for innovative solutions such as double vanities with built-in linen closets or recessed shelving.

Choosing the right wallpaper is a great way to introduce color and pattern to your space. JAM cofounder Megan Prime used a tree motif in this bath to add visual interest to the space, which was feeling sterile with its white palette and stock cabinetry. Prime also replaced the single sink over an oversized medicine cabinet with a double vanity to create more counter space and storage.

A doorless shower can increase your floor-to-ceiling space, making it feel more open and airy. You can further enhance your space by introducing luxurious elements such as a rainfall shower head or built-in bench.

Swapping out your faucets and showerheads for sleek new ones can update the look of your bathroom and boost efficiency. You can also update your toilet and bathtub to increase comfort and convenience with features such as a bidet, integrated technology, and heated floors.

Whether you’re considering a complete remodel or just cosmetic upgrades, it’s important to set a budget with a buffer for unforeseen expenses. A well-planned remodel that includes universal design features can help you enjoy your home for years to come, while increasing its value at sale time.

5. New Paint

A fresh coat of paint can have a huge impact on the look of any room, and this is especially true in bathrooms. From soothing neutral shades to rich jewel tones, new paint can breathe life into an old bathroom and instantly transform the space. Neutral hues like creamy white and parchment offer a warm glow that evokes relaxation, while bright yellow shades invigorate and uplift. Whatever your preference, there’s a color to match your style and budget.

Repainting tiles, countertops, walls, and cabinets is a great way to transform the look of your bathroom without spending an arm and a leg on new features. Just be sure to select mold- and mildew-resistant paint to protect the surfaces from moisture. Many home improvement stores carry a selection of specialty bathroom paint that is easy to clean and will last in a humid, wet environment.

Another simple but effective way to revamp a bathroom is to add decor elements that complement the design. From handcrafted wall art to framed family photos, adding small decorative touches can make your bathroom feel like a personal spa.

A well-designed bathroom remodel can improve the aesthetics of your home and boost its resale value. While it’s important to weigh the benefits against the cost, a well-planned and executed renovation will result in a bathroom that feels fresh and uplifting.

Why You Should Invest in Replacement Windows

Bryan Gordon

Are you tired of struggling to open old windows? Are they causing drafts or leaking moisture?

Replacement Windows

New replacement windows are easier to open and shut, look better, block out noise pollution like lawn mowers, and increase your home’s value. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles that match your home’s design. Contact Replacement Windows Cedar Park TX for professional help.

One of the primary reasons homeowners invest in replacement windows is to increase their home’s value. According to several real estate reports, new windows can recoup around 70% of their cost at the time of sale. Furthermore, homeowners that choose energy-efficient windows can enjoy the added benefit of substantial energy savings, which can be an attractive selling point for potential buyers.

If you are planning to sell your property in the near future, it may be worth investing in energy-efficient Replacement Windows that will boost your home’s curb appeal and create a fresh, inviting atmosphere for visitors. In addition, you can reap significant energy-saving benefits and minimize your maintenance costs over the years.

Replacement windows come in a variety of styles, designs and materials to suit your preferences. However, the most common type of window is vinyl, which costs between $400 and $1,400 to install in your house. Wood frames are another popular choice, but they are typically more expensive than vinyl. They also require regular upkeep to maintain their appearance.

Fiberglass windows are another option that is affordable and durable, but they can be costly to install in your home. Aluminum is another inexpensive option, but it rusts and can be damaged by the elements. Composite frames are an excellent choice if you want a lightweight frame that can resist warping and sagging. They are also a great option for energy-efficient homes, as they have superior insulation.

You can further reduce the cost of Replacement Windows by choosing ENERGY STAR certified options, which are available through many local utilities and government programs. These energy-efficient windows use advanced technology and design features to reduce the amount of heat that is transferred through your windows, reducing your reliance on heating and cooling systems.

In addition, you can make your energy-efficient Replacement Windows even more cost-effective by taking advantage of rebates and tax credits. You can also maximize your energy-saving potential by selecting a double-hung window with Low-E glass coatings. These coatings minimize ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, which prevents valuable thermal energy from escaping your home during hot summer months.

Energy Efficiency

Modern replacement windows boast superior insulation capabilities, providing a significant boost to your home’s energy efficiency. As a result, you can enjoy lower utility bills and enhanced indoor comfort while also adding to your property’s resale value.

To determine the potential energy savings you can expect from your new windows, check their NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) label to look for a U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). You can also consult with window experts or use online calculators to estimate your expected annual savings. Depending on your specific climate and existing insulation, energy-efficient windows can save you hundreds of dollars each year, which will add up quickly over the lifetime of the windows.

In addition to saving money on your energy bills, your new windows will provide a more comfortable living environment by regulating indoor temperature and minimizing drafts throughout the year. This will reduce your reliance on heating and cooling systems, further reducing your monthly utility costs.

Another benefit of modern replacement windows is that they offer increased weather resistance, which can help you avoid costly moisture damage to your home’s structure and contents. These windows are made of durable materials like vinyl and fiberglass, which create a barrier against water infiltration during storms or heavy rains. This helps to prevent water-related issues, such as rotting and warping, from developing inside your home.

In addition to saving money on your energy costs, you may be eligible for federal and local tax credits when you purchase ENERGY STAR-certified windows. This can offset the initial investment, making your windows even more cost-effective. To find out more about available incentives in your area, visit DSIRE’s database of state incentives for renewables and efficiency.

Maintenance

Investing in replacement windows offers long-term cost savings. The durable materials used to make them resist weather-related damage and rust, which can reduce maintenance costs for homeowners over the lifetime of the window. In addition, the improved energy efficiency of new windows can result in a significant reduction in utility bills for home owners.

Proper window maintenance is important to extend the lifespan of these valuable investments. Performing routine cleanings with non-abrasive cleaners, such as mild detergent and water, will help to keep them looking great for years to come. It is also a good idea to regularly inspect them for damage and wear, such as wood rot or insect infestation, and replace any damaged components promptly. This can prevent air and moisture infiltration, which will affect both comfort and energy efficiency.

A well-maintained set of replacement windows can add to the overall value of a property, especially when they are properly matched to the style and aesthetics of the home. Choosing the right window and frame combination is crucial to achieve this goal.

Replacement windows are available in a variety of styles, frames, and finishes to match any design and architectural style. Some types, such as flush flange windows, are installed into the existing frame and do not require any structural modifications, making them ideal for older homes that have unique framing or siding. Other options, like sliding or double-hung windows, are designed to be easily manipulated with the touch of a finger, and can be sized to fit the space perfectly.

When it comes to choosing replacement windows for your home, the best way to decide what is right for you is to consult with a qualified contractor that specializes in installing these improvements. They can walk you through the different product offerings, and help to find the window and frame combination that works best with your home.

Whether you want to enjoy the beauty of natural light, or simply increase the amount of light that your home receives, a pair of well-maintained replacement windows can greatly improve your daily living experience. The benefits of a brighter, more open space will leave you and your family feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Appearance

There are a number of things to think about when you’re choosing replacement windows. Obviously, you want efficiency and other functional elements to be a consideration, but how the windows look on your home is just as important. You don’t want to choose replacement windows that don’t match the rest of your house or that have a look that doesn’t work well with your architectural style.

The good news is that modern replacement windows offer so much more than a refreshed appearance. They can block out outside noise, reduce the amount of UV light entering your home, and help you save money on energy bills. Plus, they can be customized to fit your specific needs and the unique aesthetic of your home.

Whether you’re interested in double-hung windows for a traditional look, sliding windows to add convenience and unobstructed views, casement windows for increased ventilation, or bay or bow windows to enhance your home’s architecture, the right choice can make a world of difference. And when you work with a window company that offers a wide selection of styles and configurations, you’ll be sure to find the perfect fit.

Another reason to choose new replacement windows is that they’re built to last. And that means they won’t warp, stick shut or hinder your ability to escape during an emergency, such as a fire. And unlike older windows, new replacement windows don’t require lubrication to open.

Lastly, modern replacement windows are designed to minimize harmful UV rays that can fade furniture, carpets, and other household items. Older windows allow the sun’s rays to penetrate into the home, but modern replacement windows have argon or krypton gas between multiple panes and low-E coatings that minimize damaging UV rays while still allowing natural light to enter your home.

Why Siding Repair Is Important

Bryan Gordon

When siding is damaged, moisture can get into your home. This leads to rot, mold, and other serious problems.

Siding Repair

Charleston Siding Repair saves money and keeps your home looking good. It also helps prevent small problems from snowballing into bigger ones. If you notice a problem with your cladding, don’t delay repairs.

Sagging siding can lead to wood rot, mold and mildew, and water leaks. A few simple repairs will prevent costly damage.

Inspect your vinyl siding frequently for damage. Look for cracked, chipped or missing pieces. Look also for warped or bubbling panels that are a sign of extreme heat or weather damage. Gaps in the vinyl are another problem that can leave your home exposed to rainwater and other elements.

Cracks and holes in the siding can allow opportunistic insects, such as termites and carpenter ants, to get inside your home. If they do, it’s only a matter of time before they chew through the insulation and cause structural problems.

Loose or cracked siding should be repaired right away. The gaps created will allow rainwater to seep in and may lead to dry rot and structural damage to the house’s structure. If you have insurance, a contractor can help you navigate the process to maximize your compensation for necessary repair or replacement.

Depending on the severity of the damaged area, you may need to replace the entire panel. This is generally easier to do than repairing a small area. Start by using a flat pry bar to slide behind the panel and between the locking tab and wall. The nails used to hold the panel are usually roofing tacks, which can be removed with a hammer or nail set. Carefully cut a piece of replacement vinyl siding that is four inches wider on each side than the panel you’re removing, so there are two-inch overlaps to prevent moisture from getting into the space between the new and existing panels.

The caulk that seals the gap between the siding and the wall is also important. If it’s cracked, shrinking or discolored, that’s a good sign that the caulk is starting to fail and that you need to do some repairs. Water that gets in between the caulk and the siding can cause rotting, water damage, and mold or mildew.

A rise in your heating and cooling bills is an indication that your siding needs some repair work. If your cladding is damaged, it will no longer provide the insulation that it once did, resulting in higher energy costs to maintain your home’s temperature.

Repairing Ditches and Holes

These holes and divots may seem minor, but if left unchecked they can lead to moisture, bugs and other issues. Whether it’s from rain, melting gas grills that are too close to your house or burrowing insects, it’s important to address them promptly to safeguard the integrity of your siding.

Luckily, small dings and holes that are less than an inch in size are pretty easy to fix. Load a caulking gun with waterproof caulk and apply a bead to the affected area, then use a putty knife to smooth it. Let it dry and paint it a color that matches your siding.

When it comes to bigger divots and holes, the best way to go about them is to simply replace the damaged piece of siding. First, use a utility knife to cut out the old piece, being careful not to damage the building paper underneath. Use a zip tool to unlock the bottom lip of the new piece and then slide it in place, leaving only the nailed top portion in place (if applicable). If there are nails holding the old section in place, remove them with a pry bar.

Next, sand the edges of the new panel with 120-grit sandpaper to knock down any splinters and create a good surface for filler. Mix epoxy wood filler according to the directions on the container. Once it’s mixed, apply a thin coat of filler with a plastic putty knife, then smooth and let it dry. If you’re able to find a matching color, it’s easy enough to cover the repair with a coat of paint that blends in.

For siding that has been exposed to rot due to being too close to concrete or a foundation wall, you may need to replace the rotting rows of siding with new material. In that case, it’s a good idea to call in a pro for the job as it is usually a lot more involved than just repairing or replacing one or two panels.

Another sign that it’s time to call in a professional is when you see any signs of mold on your vinyl siding. Mold requires moisture to thrive, which means that it can cause serious structural problems if not addressed immediately. The cost of mold remediation can also be expensive, but a siding specialist will likely want to take a closer look at the area before quoting a price for the work.

Replacing Damaged Areas

If a section of siding becomes severely damaged, it may need to be replaced. Depending on the size and extent of the damage, this is often best done by a professional, but it can be an affordable DIY project.

In addition to making a house look less appealing, damaged siding also allows water and other outside elements inside, which can lead to mildew growth, mold, and rot in the wood and other parts of the home’s structure. It also decreases a home’s energy efficiency, which can result in high utility bills.

Small divots and holes under an inch in diameter are usually easy to repair and can be completed in a matter of minutes. Use a caulking gun to load a bead of waterproof caulk and fill the hole, smoothing it out carefully before allowing it to dry. For larger dents, use foil tape and a piece of new siding to cover the gap. Cut the patch so that it extends a few inches past the existing siding to create a seamless edge, and then slide it into place to cover the damaged area.

It’s important to make sure that the area is clean and free of debris before beginning any work on siding repair or replacement. It’s also a good idea to put on gloves and eye protection, and clear away any obstacles such as fallen branches or leaves that could become tangled in the ladder.

Replacing a small area of cladding will be less expensive than repairing or replacing an entire wall, but if it’s rotten or otherwise damaged, the whole panel will need to be removed and replaced. Professional help is best if you have major siding issues that require significant repair or replacement, such as a large section of deteriorated siding after a storm.

If your siding is aging, it may need to be replaced entirely rather than repaired and painted. However, this isn’t always necessary, and it will depend on the condition of the rest of your siding, your budget, and how attractive you want your home to be. A reputable local contractor can give you an estimate and recommendations for the best type of siding for your home.

Repainting

Over time, wood dries out and becomes vulnerable to moisture. Cracks may develop in the surface of the board and create long thin spaces for water or insects to infiltrate. These areas need to be repaired and, in most cases, repainted to maintain the integrity of your home’s barriers.

Your contractor will take a close look at the cracks and determine the best method for repair. Sometimes a simple patch of caulk is enough; other times it may require replacing the damaged siding piece along with the building paper and flashing that hold it in place. This is often a good opportunity to examine what’s beneath the old siding, as well. Moisture damage underneath your siding often means there’s an underlying problem with the framing of your house. This is also when your contractor will examine the area for signs of mold and mildew.

Small holes and dents in your siding can be repaired by using wood filler or epoxy putty that is colored to match the unpainted area of your home’s boards. Use a putty knife to apply the compound, smoothing it as you go, and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it’s fully cured, you can paint over it with exterior paint that matches your siding shade.

For larger holes, your siding contractor will cut a piece of new siding to be a patch. They will then attach it to the existing siding by applying foil tape to the back of the new board, locking it in place, and then filling in the gap with caulk that matches your home’s siding shade. This method is often less expensive than replacing entire pieces of siding, and it ensures that your home’s barrier against moisture stays intact.

If you’re concerned about the state of your siding, contact a local cladding contractor for a free estimate. They will be able to tell you how much the job is likely to cost, and they can provide a detailed timeline that breaks down when the work will happen. In the meantime, you can prepare your property by clearing a path, mowing the lawn, trimming bushes and hedges, and removing pictures or other decorations from exterior walls to prevent them from falling during the process.