home remodeling Archives - Page 9 of 12 - Bruzzese Home Improvements

Six Things To Consider Before Starting Your Home Remodel

January 24, 2016adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelingDIY projects, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Whether a family is doing a home remodel by themselves or calling in the experts, several important considerations must be made first. This way, homeowners can effectively consider costs and come up with solutions for possible problems that may occur. However, in many cases, a remodel is a great choice if undertaken carefully because it can transform the way a family uses a home.

Determine Budget

Remodeling can get out of hand without a thorough budget in place. The number and quality of selections at home improvement stores is nearly endless. A budget will help families set their priorities.

Determine Extra Costs

Families also must consider any extra costs that may creep in quickly. Hidden costs can include permits, inspections, contractors, delivery fees and rented power tools. To save money on things like waste removal, get the help of professionals like those at Ware Disposal. Remodels come with a lot of waste, and making trips to the dump yourself can cost you a lot of time and money. Hidden costs like these can be reduced my working with professionals.

Determine Priorities

Remodeling priorities will be different for every family. Some will be going for an updated look while others will want to undertake a larger remodel to improve home space and flow.

Determine Current and Future Value

Families should consider how long they will be living in the home to determine what type of remodel is right for them. Those planning to stay many years will want to make choices that appeal to their tastes while those hoping to sell will want to appeal to the majority of home buyers.

Determine a Timeline

In order to work around vacation and work schedules, families should come up with a proposed schedule before starting. They can then determine if they need help with childcare or if they will need to find another place to sleep, cook or bathe for a time.

Determine Contingency Plans

Almost every remodel has something that does not go according to plan. It could be the budget, the timeline or even a problem found during demolition. Homeowners should set aside extra money and time to cover these potential problems to decrease futures stress and frustration.

A remodel is often preferred to moving because it allows a family to enjoy the same home, neighbors and community while improving their space to work best for their needs. Many remodels can even add value to the home if they are done with the desire to sell in mind. By starting a remodel with careful considerations of the costs, timeline and overall plans, families can avoid many of the costly problems and irritating stressors that come with a home remodel.

Guest Post By:
Anita Ginsburg / Freelance Writer
anitaginsburg@gmail.com

A Clean-Up Checklist: What to do after Renovation?

January 20, 2016adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelinghome improvement, home organization, home remodeling, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Whether you are doing some major renovation work in your home like tearing down a wall or something simple like upgrading your light fixtures, you are likely to make a mess that involves some plaster, paint and plenty of dust. We give you a checklist for cleaning after renovation so you can minimize the amount of time you have to spend in a messy home.

1. Clean the walls first

The walls will have gathered up a lot of dust, and even though they will look the least dirty, you should start with the walls. The best way to do it is to dampen a towel with water and wrap it around a broom, securing it with wire or tape. Wipe the walls down, including the corners. If you have wallpaper covered walls, you can vacuum them with the brush attachment. You can even dry dust them, just like you would if your walls are newly painted.

2. Clean the ceiling and light fixtures

We want the dust from the top layers of the room to fall down before we get to cleaning the floor, so the next step is cleaning the ceiling. You can apply the same technique as for the walls. However, you should be careful with ceiling fans and light fixtures. Make sure the lights are off, use a ladder or a chair and clean all the light fixtures carefully with a duster and a cloth.

3. Clean the floor

If there is considerable mess on the floor, start with the broom to remove big pieces of plaster for example. You want to avoid using your steam vacuum cleaner for these as it might get damaged. You can use the vacuum cleaner after the broom, and finish the cleaning with a mop. Make sure you follow this order: broom – vacuum cleaner – mop.

4. Clean other big surfaces

There will be a lot of dust on tops of cupboards, shelves, window ledges, doors and so on. You want to clean all of these with a duster and a wet cloth. While you are already at it, you might add wood polish to freshen them up.

5. Clean other furniture

If you had a big renovation project, we hope you had all your furniture out of the way, or at least put away in one pile and covered with plastic or blankets. Either way, you will want to use the upholstery attachment to vacuum your upholstered furniture and accessories. Then wipe or wash all ornaments, decorations and smaller pieces.

6. Repeat the floor cleaning

As experts at Sutherland Shire cleaning services say, you will be surprised at how much dust settles down in just a few days after renovation, so you are well advised to repeat the vacuuming and mopping of the floors at least one more time.

7. Check the air filters

The air filters can spread more dust into your rooms if they are not clean, so you should check and replace them if needed.

It might take a few days up to a week for your home to be fresh and clean again, but keep checking back and cleaning top-down.

Organized Repairs: 6 Things You Need to Know Before Starting a Project

January 7, 2016adminHome Improvement Tips, home remodelingDIY projects, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

After listening to pleas for months, you’re finally going to make those changes to the house that your spouse wants. Before you dive into the project, however, make sure you are ready for the responsibility that comes along with it.

Children and Pets

Whether you’re a parent to humans or furry creatures, you want to ensure their safety during the project. You may need to bring them to a babysitter or pet sitter for the day or block off that part of the house during the renovations.

Overall Safety

Not only do you need to make sure your little ones are accounted for, but you also need to ensure that you know what you’re doing. Failure to follow proper safety protocols could lead to an injury or even death. If you have never tackled a project before, do some research on it. You may even want to enroll in a couple of classes to get a head start on this knowledge.

Time and Money

The goal here is probably for you to save some money by taking on the project yourself. Keep in mind, however, that you need to account for the supplies, and errors you make, in the costs. Set a reasonable time frame for yourself. If you start by thinking that a project will take only a few weeks and it ends up extending into several months of work, you may feel yourself growing frustrated.

Organization

No matter what project you are undertaking, you need to get organized. Purchasing small bins, like those available at Quantum Storage, can help keep your project more organized. Don’t just lump everything into one, however. Put things like paint brushes in their own container and other items like nails in another. Keeping your materials organized will allow you to work more efficiently.

Ask for Help

Undertaking a project all by yourself may seem overwhelming, and you don’t need to fear asking for help. Find out if a relative or friend could stop by one of the days that you’re planning to work just to give you a much needed boost.

Plan Breaks

While you probably want to get the work done as quickly as possible, you need to plan breaks for yourself to avoid overdoing it. This tip is a wise one for both your body and your mind, so schedule in some relaxation time before you even begin.

Keeping these tips in mind as you start a project will create a smoother overall vibe while you work.

Cabin in the Suburbs: How to Give Your Home a Rustic Theme

December 29, 2015adminHome Decor, Home Improvement Tips, home remodeling, Interior DesignDIY projects, home decor, home remodeling, home trends, remodeling tips1 Comment

Rustic-themed homes have quickly become popular as homeowners want the benefits of a relaxed country lifestyle without giving up the benefits of living in the suburbs. Unless you have a country cabin already, there are fun and even inexpensive ways to create the peaceful, rustic look in any home, even one nestled in a suburban neighborhood. These ideas range from big to small and can be used in part or in whole.

Remodeling Options

Homeowners starting a major home remodel have the most leeway when it comes to choosing a design theme for the home. According to Zillow, rustic homes are generally open concept with soaring ceilings, such as those found in a barn and use very little or no drywall. Instead, homes can use bare, stained or painted plank walls or even brick or stone accent walls, particularly surrounding fireplaces. Other design ideas include using salvaged metal for walls, having stained open beams in ceilings and choosing large farmhouse sinks with apron fronts.

Natural Colors

Rustic homes make use of natural colors, particularly browns and grays. However, to avoid a home that is entirely brown, homeowners can bring in other tones found in nature, such as soft blues and greens as well as creams and soft whites. Colors to stay away from are bright, glaring ones.

Furniture from Nature

Homeowners can choose from numerous pieces of furniture that are designed with the country in mind. For example, farmhouse tables with bench seating have become popular, especially for large families. Other options to look for include end tables made from tree trunks, log bed frames, plank headboards and tables or mantelpieces with roughhewn edges.

Rustic Touches

To complete the rustic look, individuals can add some quaint touches to make their homes inviting and comfortable. Many stores, such as MyBarnwoodFrames.com, specialize in these accent pieces and make it easy to pull the look together. One can look for bare wood picture frames, vintage metal signs and chunky cable-knit blankets to create a cohesive rustic look.

Country-themed homes are the perfect antidote to a long winter with their cozy wood accents and cable-knit blankets. However, the rustic style is equally suited to summertime when the natural colors inside blend with the beauty of nature outside the home. Whether a homeowner is remodeling with the help of a designer or making some do-it-yourself changes, these ideas are sure to create a country oasis in the midst of the suburbs.

Guest Post By:
Anica Oaks

Freelance writer and web enthusiast
Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.

Home Renovation? Six Ideas To Give Your Kitchen More Space

December 10, 2015adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodeling, Kitchen Remodelinghome improvement, home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, kitchens, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Updating your kitchen is not only a fun way to give your home an updated look, but it also will likely increase your property value. When planning your kitchen renovation, the following tips may help to optimize your investment of time and money.

Adjust the lighting

Replace hanging light fixtures with recessed lighting or wall sconces. Use efficient lighting that brightens the kitchen so it doesn’t appear gloomy and dim. Eliminate table lamps or countertop lighting that gets in the way, as well as candles or decorative lamps.

Install stacked appliances

Use an open cooking range over a dishwasher, or mount the microwave over a traditional stove. Look for ways to stack appliances that will free up vertical space in the room. Built-in appliances often take up less space as well, and you can double the area by installing one above another. Move large appliances that aren’t used very often, like a freezer, to the basement or another low-traffic area.

Replace the table with a counter

Replace the kitchen table or seating with a countertop eating area and stools. This will open the entire room to give a spacious impression.

Consult renovation experts

Contact renovation specialists for help in evaluating your kitchen. They have experience working with many kinds of homes, and they can offer creative suggestions and practical insight that will help you make the best of your kitchen’s available space while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Add a storage area

Convert a nearby closet to a pantry or a basement nook to a food storage area. Even adding wall shelves or a stand-alone cupboard in the basement or in an extra room could be the perfect place to store long-lasting foods like potatoes, flour, and canned goods. Eliminating extra food from the kitchen, especially the kind that sits on counters or in corners, will free up space to make it feel roomier.

Clear the clutter

Put away knickknacks, figurines, radios, computers, and other non-essentials to add more workspace to your kitchen. You may just enjoy the open feel to your renovated room as you enjoy the newfound space. This is a great opportunity to get rid of unwanted things you’ve had for years to give your kitchen a brand-new look and feel.

You will love the way your renovated kitchen looks after making changes like those indicated above. Work with professionals like those at Callier Thompson Kitchen & Bath to make smart decisions that will bring out the best in your kitchen.

Give Your Kitchen a Sophisticated Upgrade with These 7 Tricks

November 26, 2015adminHome Improvement Tips, home remodeling, Kitchen Remodelinghome improvement, home trends, kitchen remodeling, kitchens, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Some people consider their kitchen to be the soul and the heart of their home. That’s why it is of great importance for it to look sophisticated, cozy and yet still be functional. In order to accomplish this, the best way is to try to make some changes and renovate your kitchen. Here we will offer you 7 tricks from which you can draw inspiration for upgrading your kitchen.

Extension

If you are willing to make some bigger changes to your kitchen space, you should consider hiring Bruzzese Home Improvements to expand and broaden this room. People are mostly drawn to this option if they have a smaller kitchen and feel like everything is clustered in a really small area. You could also try making some simple upgrades such as adding another counter space or even creating an open-kitchen concept by removing a wall.

Floors

When it comes to the floors, it is a good idea to step out of your comfort zone and do something different. You can never go wrong with choosing hardwood floors, as they provide the feeling of warmth and comfort. Other than this, you may consider some tiles with different patterns. Also, some people have accepted a new trend by placing a rug in the kitchen area; and the best thing is that is looks amazing!

Walls

Another thing that may help you with creating that luxurious ambiance in your kitchen is by painting your walls a new color. Do not be afraid to experiment with different shades. Some unconventional colors can drastically contribute to the elegance of the space. Even though most people opt for softer and lighter shades, you can also accomplish a great look with deeper colors such as maroon or teal.

Pipes

Of course, if you wish to achieve that sophisticated look, you must try your best to hide or cover-up some household eyesores. This especially goes for uncovered pipes, which can really take away the marvel of a nice kitchen space. Just as plumbers from Sydney suggest you could easily do this by installing steel pipes. This is because steel pipes can also serve as a decorative detail and can be paired with almost any style.

Furnishing

If you wish to upgrade your kitchen and change the way it looks, the best way to this is by refurbishing. Experiment with style and colors or make a mixture of old and new. There is no need to limit your choices on only one style. Add some vintage cabinets, some steel and copper fixtures and supplement that look by adding a new counter and a row of modern bar stools. A huge wooden table can make a wonderful addition to a kitchen space.

Lighting

An appropriate amount of lighting can greatly contribute to the complete atmosphere of the room. Because of this, it is important to invest in some adequate lighting fixtures. If you are striving for a more luxurious look, there is no reason why you should not add an elegant chandelier on the ceiling. Other than that, it is a really good idea to introduce as much natural light as you can, so consider even installing ceiling to floor windows and removing the blinds and curtains.

Details

Details are a crucial part of any space as they can create almost any kind of ambient. If you want to make simple renovations to your kitchen, consider simpler things like adding a little plant life, photographs or any kind of art actually.

The kitchen is not only a space for preparing food but a place for the whole family. Because of this, consider decorating and renovating your kitchen space together, so you would create a lovely haven for all of you.

5 Home Renovations for Winter 2015

November 1, 2015adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelingbathroom remodeling, DIY projects, home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, remodeling tips, winterLeave a comment

By tackling a few home renovation tasks during the winter, you can increase your property’s value and lower your utility bills. The biggest benefit is that most projects can be completed on a budget.

Redecorate the Walls

If your walls are dull, a fresh coat of paint, crown molding, and a new trim can instantly change the look of the space.

Painting on a cold day while the windows are closed is totally safe if the paint is water-based and environmentally friendly. Eco-friendly paints dry fairly quickly and do not emit any harsh fumes. Using painter’s tape and a bold paint color is highly recommended because dramatic patterns or stripes will give your walls visual flair.

Redesign the Kitchen

For about $100 dollars, you can customize your kitchen by adding a backsplash. Over 400 sizes and styles are available at most home improvement stores. If you prefer a classic design, tile or metal is a great choice.

Because the process of installing a backsplash is time-consuming, you should begin this project during the weekend. To avoid costly errors, set aside time so that you can prepare and test a design template. If this step is skipped, you will have problems installing the materials in irregular spaces.

Update the Bathroom

You can transform your regular bathroom into a spa by installing new faucets, fixtures, and tiles. Because a bathroom renovation project is ambitious, professional help will be needed. To achieve the best results, choose a BBB-Accredited business, such as Bruzzese Home Improvements.

Install New Lighting

A ceiling fan that has multiple lights can lighten up your home on dark winter nights. If you choose a modern fixture, you can update the style of the space as well.

Fixtures that use LED lighting should be considered since LED bulbs use less electricity. In the family room, install dimmers because they can help you save even more energy.

Do not install any lighting fixture without professional assistance. If you hire an electrician, the best installation procedures will be implemented to prevent future electrical issues.

Replace Old Doors

When doors age, they usually develop cracks and scratches. By replacing your outdated doors, you can give a dull space an updated look at a low cost.

Although sliding doors are popular, double doors are more stylish and functional. However, if your home needs more natural light, a French-style door is a better option.

By completing any of these home renovation projects, you can impress your guests this winter.

About the Author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her 3-year-old husky Snowball. The information in this article is credited to A P Plumbing.

How To Get Creative With Your Kitchen

October 29, 2015adminHome Improvement Tips, home remodeling, Interior Design, Kitchen Remodelingdecorating, home improvement, home remodeling, home trends, kitchensLeave a comment

A cottage style kitchen is one of the most elegant and ideal choice when thinking of adding creativity to it. The following post describes some unique ways of adding creativity and charm to your kitchen.

The following are a few ways to create a unique yet so simple and fulfilling kitchen for your home.

Add Glass Paneled Cabinet Doors

A shift from wood framed cabinetry to tempered glass inserts can altogether give a different look to your kitchen. You can choose from a variety of glass style from frosted to ribbed. You can use glass paneled cabinets to store dishes, glassware, pitchers, and trinkets. The glass door cabinetry is not just a way to expand storage but also add style and charm to the kitchen.

Tip! You can even paint the edges of shelves similar to the color of kitchen walls or in contrast to create a more vibrant look.

Install Open Shelves

Mounting shelves will add to the storage space and also add to the charisma of your kitchen. You can mount open shelves in the vertical spaces near the windows, between upper cabinets, next to major appliances and wherever it is practically possible to fit in. these open shelves can be used to display multi-purpose items such as old metal pitchers, crockery, plants, and charming woven baskets.

Tip! For making it visually more appealing, you can paint the shelves with the same color as that of cabinet trim.

Replace Modern Hardware with Vintage

Vintage varieties have a class of their own. You can install porcelain knobs and handles, floral accents for metal varieties. This is a less tricky job as you will find endless styles and designs for handles and knobs.

Tip! New hardware is an easy way to add a new look to the cabinetry instead of replacing the cabinets.

Decorate With A Vintage Wooden Sideboard

A vintage wooden sideboard is an excellent choice while decorating a cottage style kitchen. It is the best way to keep stacks of plates, other dishes, knickknacks, and the most treasured cottage style crockery. Moreover, this fulfills the need for extra space during a buffet meal and will not consume extra counter space needed for food preparation.

Tip! In all, adding this sideboard will avoid the chaos during the dine time and will help you in managing things better.

Wall Decor Ideas

Even if you have the world-class kitchen accessories, expensive kitchen shelves and cabinets, your kitchen is still incomplete without a wall décor.

You can choose any decorating theme to glorify your kitchen which reflects your presence in the kitchen. Choose a wall art considering the theme and color of the kitchen. Floral canvas wall art and elegant wrought iron wall decor are classy choices which are available in all sizes, colors, and varieties that would fit to your budget.

Tip! A beautiful wall art can make your kitchen vivacious.

Author Bio: – Dan Kogan is owner of NY handyman NYC, one of the leading handyman in New York City, with more than 20 years of experience. He is passionate about all things related to home improvement.

Putting Off A Bathroom Remodel Is A Big Mistake: Six Tips To Get Started

October 12, 2015adminBathroom Remodeling, DIY Projects, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelingbathroom remodeling, DIY projects, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

If you’ve been postponing a bathroom remodel for any reason, consider that bathrooms and kitchens are the most used areas in the home and deserve an upgrade to contemporary sensibilities. Bathrooms are often neglected when it comes to home renovations, but it can increase the comfort in your home and make your home more valuable.

Advanced Methods And Materials

Take into consideration the advances in materials and techniques that have occurred over the past ten years. The most savvy renovation specialists know all the recent upgrades. For instance, durable surfaces made from crushed glass and cement make a superb sink counter top. The material is constructed from recycled bottles that would otherwise be discarded to add to the landfill, and it comes in attractive colors. New shower heads can save you water. There are many small upgrades to consider that can make a big difference.

Look Down For Inspiration

A floor taken for granted is a floor neglected. Look down at the existing floor. Most likely, it shows sign of heavy wear along with some stains. Tile that was fresh years ago now is cracked or even has missing chunks. A popular alternative to tile is salvage wood, because reclaimed wood that has aged well may have the tight grain which makes the flooring more dent-resistant. A thick coat of Varathane in your favorite color that has been topped with clear Varathane makes a durable, waterproof floor that will have guests admiring your innovation and the craftsmanship of your hired professionals.

Paint Is The Quickest Renovation

An old saying goes that paint is the fastest renovation, and it’s true. By selecting your choice of color in a paint, your new bathroom can shine in fresh color. Opt for brighter neutral colors in the bathroom, since dark colors can make a small space feel even more cramped.

Windows Are Not Just For Computers

Responsible renovation dictates double-pane insulated glass windows with a low E-coating. Professional decorators will declare that light enters the bathroom via a bathroom window frosted for privacy, yet heat entering is thwarted by both the special glass and a shade or shutter. The ambiance of a cool, gently lit bathroom makes for a very pleasant room.

Accommodating Commodes

Low-flush toilets are basic to any renovation. The standard 1.6 gallon flush saves water and money. Take a moment to choose the perfect style and height for your home’s residents. Elders may be accommodated by high-rise toilets that any young visitors may access via a small step stool. A plumber in Katy, TX can help with choosing the right toilet and plumbing options for your bathroom.

Mirror Magic

A new, larger wall mirror maximizes any size bathroom. It can also make the bathroom feel bigger, especially if there are no windows,or they are small.

Door Choices

The bathroom door is most likely wood, but a specialist will suggest other materials, too. Wood warps or swells due to moisture changes in the bathroom, but a metal or fiberglass door avoids this problem. Color the new door that blends with decor, and your new bathroom is ready for admiration.

Renovating a bathroom can increase the return on investment to the home, and this is welcome news to any homeowner. Start planning today for an elegant bathroom, and don’t put off a renovation any longer.

4 Window Types to Match Your Personal Aesthetic

October 5, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, home improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelingenergy efficient, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tips, replacement windows, windowsLeave a comment

The windows are essentially the eyes of your home. They serve an extremely important function but can also have a dramatic effect on enhancing the outward appearance if you choose the appropriate style and the right dressings. When you are planning on installing new replacement windows, you need to consider efficiency, cost, your home’s architecture and also your personal aesthetic. While the standard window does serve its purpose, here are four different types that will say a lot about your taste.

The Bay Window for the Artist at Heart

The bay window is highly sought after because it has such an artistic effect. Originating from the German word meaning ‘the ledge in the wall’, it contributes to the home’s exterior appeal while giving homeowners a unique panoramic view of their surroundings from inside their living space. Generally, bay windows have three openings that vary in sizes. The center ‘picture’ window is unobstructed and the surrounding windows on either side are smaller set a mood and will become a real focus in the design of your home interior.

The Bow Window for Another Kind of Beautiful

A bow window is another type of window that acts as a focal point inside of the home and transforms the exterior as well. While bow windows may appear to be bay windows at first glance, they are actually designed for homeowners who want an open space that feels fresh and open. Bow windows have a semi-circular outer structure that is best suited for homes that need more natural light and that have more room for additional panes. They are also unique in the sense that they can wrap around the corner of a home, so you can have views from two different angles.

The Wood Window for a Practical and Classical Design

The wood window is a beautiful and long-lasting option for homeowners who want a classical design and who want to benefit from the practicality of the material. With a variety of wood choices that range from pine and oak to mahogany and maple, the color and finishes that you choose can compliment any type of space that you would like to look timeless, inviting and charming.

Casement Windows for Clean Lines and Function

If you want a more modern appearance where the space is designed solely on clean lines, casement windows from companies like Five Star Windows Inc. are a great accent that will let natural light in. In addition to allowing homeowners to compliment the sleek lines in their interior design, the window will allow more air to blow through the home while they are open and provide a more open view of nature.

Everyone has their own personal aesthetic. You may like a refined and modern look or a classical application that will never go out of style. Be sure to compare several styles and only then can you decide on a replacement window and a professional installer.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks