6 Checkpoint List For A Smooth Bathroom Renovation

The idea of a bathroom renovation is a dreamy idea with endless options, and potential. If you are not prepared, it can be a nightmare. So before you take a trip to the local tile store or begin speaking with contractors, know where you stand before being told where to. Below you will find a 6 checkpoint list for a smooth bathroom renovation.

Budget

Don’t wait to be told how much a project would cost. Know what you have to spend, and this includes material as well as labor. This magic number is very important as it will help you in deciding where on the scale your budget falls. Don’t ever take on a project with smoky mirrors in compromising your budget. You may love the idea of having the ultimate bathroom, but will hate it over time if you are financially strapped because of it.

Time

No matter what you are told, whether it is days for a small project to be completed or weeks for a larger one, factor in worse case when it comes to “out of use”. Sometimes there are unforeseen things that happen to cause a delay. If your walls have never been exposed, you do not know what you may find. Hidden problems are expected, water damage as an example can be a hindrance depending on the severity and required repair. Allow more than enough time, and have alternative options ready. This is huge for a residence with only one bathroom, and a family.

Purpose

When the idea of a bathroom renovation calls to action you should know what direction you wish to go, and why. The idea of a “full gut” can be scary, but if you are mentally prepared for what needs to take place to achieve the result, you will not be quick to jump when you hear the old tile hit the floor. We have found that when a customer thinks a renovation through, it is not as overwhelming. There are many factors to consider like the style of tile, fixtures, lighting, pattern, design, color, type of tub, and sink. Are you rearranging the plumbing? When these factors are not taken into account they can add a lot of confusion to the vision of the result. Know what you wish the bathroom renovation to look like. Sometimes going for an upscale look without creating a hole in your wallet can be as easy as pairing different styles. Always consider functionality into the bathroom renovation equation, and whether it will serve everyone’s lifestyle.

Size

When it comes to bathroom renovations, size matters. Whether you are doing a one for one exchange in vanities, to tubs, moving electrical fixtures, know and be sensitive to measurements. In a small bathroom every inch counts, you will be surprised how much room a larger vanity and toilet can consume. Just because it looks great on the shelf, it does not mean it will work the same in your bathroom. Carefully monitor colors as well. Depending on your choice, a darker tone in tile can make a small bathroom appear a lot smaller.

Contractor

A handyman should never be confused with an experienced contractor. Your bathroom renovation can uncover hidden issues that your neighborhood handyman may not know how to address. The bargain can be great in the beginning, and surprise you in paying double in the end. The old saying stands “if you want something done right……”. Reliable contractors are licensed, insured and should be an expert in your area of choice in renovation.

Hardware and fixtures

Sometimes, just a coat of paint, a change in hardware and fixtures can immediately spruce a space. When you are considering a bathroom renovation, opt to start with small changes before you take on the larger one. You would be surprised what high-end fixtures like matching faucets, shower-body, and trim can do. It may buy you some time to save a little more money if the bathroom renovation is paramount.

Financing Options For Your Next Project

Whether you have decided on working with one of the Big Box Retail giants, like Lowes or Home Depot, a local contractor, a close friend who is a jack of all trades or a construction company on your future home renovation project, the undertaking of the decision to move forward with a home renovation may be one half of the battle, but paying for it is another. Regardless of what the condition is of your current project, and the pictures of what it could be, the final cost will sway you into 2 categories of “need vs. want”. For the sake of keeping this post simple, you have chosen to move forward regardless. With that said, you have options when it comes to getting what you want, even if it is your dream kitchen, your fantasy master bathroom, etc.

Do not immediately get discourage or concerned about wanting a home renovation that you feel is over your budget because of the dollar amount on contract. Yes, cash is King, but financing your home improvement project is Queen. A homeowner has options, and all those options should be considered. If you have the luxury of paying for a home renovation out of pocket, that is fantastic. Using your last cent in savings or a good chunk of it may not be. Before you pull that trigger, please consult with your financial advisor on the ramifications. In the meantime let us take a glance at 4 ways to finance your home improvement project. These 4 ways should help you in determining your purchasing power, and you can do this on your own without any assistance. Be your own financial advisor, and uncover the facts that best suits you in whichever direction you deem comfortable.

1.       Title 1 Home Improvement Loans: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, aka HUD provides private lenders with insurance to extend financing for up to $25,000.00 for home improvement for a term of 20 years. There are restrictions to what would be okay to finance, luxury items like a swimming pool or hot tub do not qualify. These loans are not equity driven, but they are credit, and a homeowner must show their ability to pay. Loans on single family homes may be used for alterations, repairs and for site improvements. Loans on multifamily structures may be used only for building alteration and repairs. A homeowner can inquire on their own with any bank, mortgage company, savings and loan association, and credit union, that is approved as a Title 1 Lender. Just walk into your bank as an example, and ask them if they are approved to issue Title 1 Loans.

2.       Contractor Loans: Some construction companies do offer financing options, they are state, and county specific with their own restrictions. The financing partners are lenders, and not the contractor’s own funds. There are several programs available, like a no interest loan for a fixed period or a very low rate for a promotional period, the terms vary, as do the rates. Whether a no interest loan or a competitive promotion term, get the facts on what the rate will be at expiration. Perhaps you are planning on selling the property, and need to lowest payment or no payment while you get your home ready. Regardless of what your plan is be informed, and do not sign anything that is not in fine print.

3.       Personal Loans: A better alternative to using your credit card. The rate will be a lot more competitive than what the credit card issuers will offer you, and they are fixed (not variable). The only drawback is finding an institution that still offers these unsecured loans. They are not equity driven, and the lenders that offer them have a higher standard in credit qualifying in-lieu of the risks. Again, be informed and read the fine print. Take into account the monthly payment, and all your other expenses.

4.       Home Equity Line of Credit: Considered the best option in financing due to the lowest rate available. These loans are offered by most lenders, they are variable and equity driven. In taking out a HELOC you are borrowing against the equity of your home. Most lenders who offer these loans have reduced their Loan to Value limits, so qualifying can be a challenge when it comes to market conditions in your community. These loans are considered the best alternative in comparison to most financing options. When inquiring about these loans, a licensed loan officer at a local branch will be able to tell you if you qualify. Most lenders have automated access to valuation of properties, so even if you are not sure about the value in your area, the lender may have the tools to assist you.

Granite Countertop Alternatives

Granite countertops are a class on its own. Whether you have decided to go with granite in your kitchen or bathroom, there are other alternatives to consider as well. We tend to follow trends, because that is what we hear, and see. Granite has always been very popular, but others may surprise you with a different look, and feel.

Glass Tile: Aside from the obvious appearance, and how this material pairs with natural light, this choice will get you a scratch and fade free surface. Its finish is mildew and mold free, and the colors are endless giving you many options in style, design, and overall look.

Richlite: This 100% eco-friendly paper composite is made of recycled material that is non-toxic. It is heat, stain, and scratch resistance. Richlite also comes in many colors, and the color is throughout. Due to the make of the material, its temperature is warm in-comparison to marble or granite. Richlite is fabricated on the spot, and is very durable.

Quartz: Very durable, man-made, stain, and crack resistance. Quartz comes in a wide range of colors, though expensive, and not heat tolerant.

Soapstone: A natural stone that has quite a bit of quartz in it. Very durable with a smooth matte finish. Requires some maintenance (oiling and buffing), color darkens with age.   

Concrete: Heat resistant, and if properly sealed; very durable. This look is not for everyone. It gives off an industrial appearance, and can be very expensive with person customization.

Lava Stone: A new, but very expensive volcanic stone material. This product is heat resistant, scratch, and stain free. It is extremely durable, and is available in a wide range of colors.

Stainless Steel: This is 100% recyclable, and very durable, impervious to any stains and heat, can be cut to size. Unfortunately, this material is prone to dents and scratches.

Top 5 Air Conditioning Tips

If you live in New York, you are no stranger to its brutal heat wave in the summer. We loathe the painful cold winter months, and wish heavily for warmer days. We often forget how hot our summers can get

until we step outside into nature's oven in the middle of August.

Homeowners will be spending an average of almost 20% of their annual energy bill on cooling this year. Though this may be 20% well spent for comfort, it can increase if you are not sensitive to your air conditioner's regular, and required maintenance. If you want your air conditioner to run accordingly during its peak usage, and without any unexpected repair costs, you will want to keep these 5 tips in mind for optimal results.

1. Clean and replace (when needed) the air condition's filter.

Sounds simple enough, and if you read other blogs on tips and maintenance you will see this as a top priority. Guess what? No one ever does it, or if they do, the percentage is below average. The filter collects dust and allergens as they circulate throughout the home. When your filters are neglected they become clogged, forcing your air conditioner to work double the amount of time to give you the same results you. Golden rule is to have your filters changed every 2 to 3 months. 

2. Annual checkup.

If you are lucky enough to have central air, just the same way you have your heating unit inspected annually (so we hope), the same applies to your air conditioning system. Annual maintenance checks for leaks, worn out coils, filters, freon levels, and any inconsistencies with performance goes a long way. Addressing any potential issues can minimize your unit's failure.

3. Thermostat adjustment.

Consider a programmable thermostat to adjust your settings for set times throughout the day. When used efficiently, this is a huge money saver.

4. Sealing cooling ducts.

Air travels from room to room through your ducts. Proper sealing will improve your unit's performance by as much as 20%. Duct sealant, like mastic or foil tape to seal your seams and duct's connectors will prevent any loss of air.

5. Think Energy Star.

Nothing beats the savings of an Energy Star central air system or individual unit. These units deliver less energy consumption and are a much better value.

Always keep your unit protected in a heavy plastic sheeting when it is time to store it, and before doing any kind of work to the air conditioner, be sure the unit is unplugged. Room air conditioners have one or two capacitors, which can be found behind the control panel and by the fan. Capacitors store electricity, and you can receive a severe shock even when the air conditioner is off.