Yodle Local Articles » general contractor

Creating a Kitchen or Bathroom Project Budget

Paul DeFeis — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:56:31 +0000

Many homeowners today are considering putting in a new kitchen or bathroom, but a lot are unsure of what the possible cost could be. In fact, an estimated 40% don’t even know how much they want to spend, says Paul DeFeis, senior managing partner of Trade Mark Design & Build in Hawthorne, New Jersey, who has 15 years of extensive experience in Residential Design.

The remaining 60%, DeFeis says, come to a designer with a lot of renovation ideas, but no actual idea of what the cost will be to implement them. So where do you go to come up with a budget that best reflects both your needs and expectations?

The role of a good kitchen or bathroom remodeling service is to incorporate all your ideas into a realistic plan, then plan a project budget analysis based on that. That means assisting clients every step of the way with their choices, including finding objects that are aesthetically pleasing and function well in the given space once the actual construction is completed.

But how does a good design and build company help its clients get the most for their money while creating a realistic budget? Here are some of the steps Trade Mark Design & Build takes with clients to complete a kitchen or bathroom project budget analysis:

Examine the room size and construction, as well as the relocation of major appliances or bathroom furniture, especially if you plan on doing an impact budget. That means that when your current range, refrigerator and sink are on the wall – or your toilet, sink and bath are in certain positions and you want to move them – then the budget will feel the impact.
When it comes to kitchens, preferences in cabinet construction will also effect the budget, in particular whether the cabinets will be framed or frame-less. Countertop choices are another area that should be given a primary focus. The price can differentiate enormously as there can be swings as much as 25% depending on whether or not you go with a laminate countertop or a granite one, for example.
Choice of products, in both kitchens and bathrooms, will also have a tremendous impact. Keep in mind that over the long term, the performance of less expensive products does not give the same return that spending a little bit more upfront does. It’s worth investing more in the beginning to reap the benefits for years to come.

An expert remodeling company will strive to advise as best as they can, based on both current projects and past projects. They will compare the project the client has in mind to a similar space, and give them a project range of what would be necessary to achieve a similar look.

Trade Mark Design & Build has a reputation for establishing a budget and staying within it – something that all too often is a rarity in this profession, according to DeFeis. Customers are satisfied because the projects are approached from a design-build perspective, which allows them to adjust the contract as they see fit.

Tags: bath, bathroom, general contractor, home, home improvement, home remodeling, home renovations, kitchen

Having Your Contractor Get Your Building Permits

Paul DeFeis — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:44:13 +0000

Hiring a general contractor to manage a large home renovation project is something we always recommend, says Paul DeFeis, senior managing partner at Trade Mark Design & Build, based in Hawthorne, New Jersey. One reason is because a good and experienced contractors can obtain building permits for you.

The advantages of having a contractor get your permit is only partly to do with time-saving. There are a host of other benefits, including:

Efficiency, because usually the contractor will only have to make one trip to get the permit, as he knows what he’s doing and has done it countless times before.
Overall reduced cost as translates to little waste of time on behalf of the homeowners.
A good contractor will be aware of variance or zoning issues before even applying for the permit.
Even from a project planning standpoint it’s a good idea early on to have your contractor get permits for you. They know the town, they know how people in different organizations will react, they have a rapport with organizations in neighboring towns, and it comes as second nature. They do it day in and day out and they have the experience necessary to make things as streamlined and trouble-free as possible.
A good contractor often knows the people involved. To make an analogy, it’s if you like dealing with the same teller at the bank who is used to your transactions. That teller knows that you will come in on a Friday and do x, y and z, he also knows that you are frugal and enjoy a short chat before leaving. What could be better?
A good contractor also knows the system – not only the people. He will know what needs to be done and how to do it, saving you time, money and aggravation.

Getting the right building permit is a keystone to any renovation project. You wouldn’t attempt to install a new electrical system yourself and would get in a professional instead. The same should apply when attempting to obtain a residential building permit, to make the whole process as easy and cost-effective as possible.

Tags: building codes, building permit, contractor, general contractor, home, home remodeling, home renovation, remodeler

Designing a New Bathroom

Paul DeFeis — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:37:34 +0000

Remodeling your bathroom is a big step – and one that is vitally important to get right. Finding a contractor that you trust is perhaps the most important step you can take to ensure you get the bathroom you want, as well as the budget you require. Unfortunately, it’s a recognized fact that many firms offer only substandard work – and then overcharge you when the final bill is handed over.

Whether you’re looking for a sleek contemporary look or a more traditional feel for your bathroom, you need to find a contractor who will carry out your wishes using quality tools, craftsmanship, products and expertise, says Paul DeFeis, senior managing partner of Trade Mark Design & Build in Hawthorne, New Jersey, who has 15 years of extensive experience in Residential Design, including bathrooms.

The first thing is to define the bathroom’s purpose. Will it be used as a guest bath, a children’s bath or an adult bath? All have separate functions, separate expectations of durability, and individual styles. They include:

Guest bath: More decorative an not as heavily used, material choices would reflect that. If it is used only rarely, you would not have to buy a bathtub or shower that is incredibly durable, although skimping on quality might be something you’ll regret later.
Children’s bath: Take into consideration the age they are, the appropriate height for the vanity, how long they will stay in the home. Remember that younger children will make the bathroom wet on a regular basis, so painted furniture is not recommended – not ideal for any bathroom at all, in fact, due to height and moisture. As children’s tastes can change quickly, you might also opt for something that is easily transformed at little cost – in 10 years’ time your three-year-old might not want those cute little Sesame Street characters above his bathtub any longer!
Adult bath: A variety of myriad issues could reflect the choices that are made. Does the missus want a make-up area, does she require a lounging or spa area, does she demand a special atmosphere to accommodate her pampering needs? Do you want to install a deep bath or a Jacuzzi, or a steam or dry sauna? Do you want double his-and-her furniture? Marble is a good choice for adults as it can be maintained better than it would be in a children’s bathroom.

A bath renovation or remodeling project doesn’t have to be frustrating. If you want the project carried out professionally and completed in a timely manner within the agreed budget, call in the professionals.

Tags: bath, bathroom, Bathroom Remodeling, general contractor, home, home remodeling, home renovation

Fire Pits 101

Stephanie Miles — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:23:23 +0000

Nothing may more relaxing than spending an evening outdoors sitting in front of a roaring fire with a group of friends and family.

Whether it’s located on an extended patio of an open back yard, installing a fire pit with the help of a general contractor can be one way to add visual interest and value to your home.

According to the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association, the addition of hearths and fire pits into the backyards of Americans have helped turn outdoor living into a $6.2 billion industry, with one-third of all the money spent on home remodeling going towards outdoor living projects.

What many homeowners still aren’t clear about, however, is the best way to go about installing a hearth or fire pit. After all, with so many styles to choose from, and safety issues to consider, the installation of a pit can seem daunting for many.

With proper guidance from a qualified general contractor, however, the process of installing an outdoor fire pit can be made easy.

Location

Safety should be the biggest consideration when selecting an outdoor fire pit. Because of this, homeowners must select a location for their pit that is free from dangerous contaminants and flammable objects.

Although the easiest option may seem to be simply digging a hole in your lawn, adding lining and starting a fire, this practice is actually against the fire code in many cities across the country. Before moving forward with the project, homeowners are encouraged to clear the intended fire pit area of anything hanging overhead—such as tree branches—and call the utility company, who should be able to send a representative to ensure no buried lines or cables are underneath the potential fire pit location.

Once you have gotten the go-ahead from the utility company and verified with local officials that it is acceptable to build a fire pit in your location, you are ready to move on to the next step.

Uses

The type of fire pit that a general contractor installs will be largely based on what the homeowner plans to use it for. For example, some families hope to build an outdoor fire pit to roast marshmallows, while others yearn to cook pizza outdoors. Most commonly, families simply seek to have an outdoor gathering spot for relaxation and conversation.

Usually, a contractor can help guide you in the right direction in terms of fire pit products once he understands the pit’s intended uses. For example, homeowners hoping to cook pizzas in an outdoor oven will likely need a bricklayer to make that happen. Meanwhile, a family who simply wants to put their feet up and relax next to the fire will have the widest available options since nearly any in-ground pit will do.

Traditional or Gas

Some outdoor fire pits that come pre-made start with the help of natural gas rather than logs. Whether a homeowner chooses to go with a traditional outdoor fire pit or one that uses gas is a matter of personal choice, although anyone who enjoys roasting marshmallows or cooking food over an open flame will likely be more satisfied with a traditional fire over gas. Still, families who don’t want to worry about the hassle of cleaning up may enjoy a gas pit since it involves much less work and cleanup. In addition, fire pits using natural gas do not require wood to burn, lessening the need to keep a stockpile of logs available at all times.

Landscaping

The installation of an outdoor fire pit is not complete until the area around it looks inviting and ready for company. One of the quickest ways to do this is by getting new landscaping, accent lighting, and outdoor living furniture. For optimal effect, homeowners should choose plants and trees that change in color with the season (and smell inviting), lighting that provides safety without being obtrusive, and patio furniture that feels comfortable enough for people to sit for long periods of time.

More than anything else, however, the outdoor fire pit—and the space around it—should reflect the entire family as a whole, since these are the people whose enjoyment of the area is the most important.

Tags: fire pit, fire pits, general contractor

Closet Remodel

Stephanie Miles — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 20:52:05 +0000

It’s every girl’s fantasy—a walk-in closet that looks so organized and stylish it could be mistaken for the inside of a designer boutique. Unfortunately, that ideal is far from reality when it comes to the overstuffed sliding door closets most people put up with.

For those willing to put forth the effort, however, a dream closet may not be entirely out of reach. With the help of a general contractor, remodeling an existing closet can be done in as little as a weekend. And thanks to the rapidly expanding market of readymade closet organization systems, turning a fantasy closet into reality has never been easier or more cost effective.

Before moving ahead with any closet remodeling project, however, consider a few factors.

Pick a Style

Working with a general contractor gives homeowners the chance to make their wildest closet fantasies come true. From specialty made dressers to glass-top jewelry cases, no dream is out of reach when a professional contractor is involved.

Before a homeowner can get to this step, however, he has to know what their overall aesthetic is, and what the desired look of the closet should be. For some people, this inspiration doesn’t come intrinsically, which is why spending time researching available options by looking at remodeling books and trade publications—Closets magazine is an especially well regarded choice—is often the best place to start.

Assess the Situation

To get the clearest picture of what should happen in your closet remodel, the Association of Closet and Storage Professionals advises first taking everything out of your closet. Once the things that don’t belong there—such as torn clothing or sports equipment—have been taken away, you may find that more space is available than you thought.

Whatever the assessment may be, it is best to figure out just how much your closet needs to hold before moving forward in the process, since that will determine the types of shelving, hanger rods, and storage containers that will need to be purchased for the space.

Consider Size

One of the biggest factors in determining how much can be done with a closet is the space’s size. Few homeowners are willing to break down walls into spare bedrooms to make room for a bigger closet, which is why it is generally preferable to work within the area that is already there. In fact, by maximizing space with a new closet storage system, homeowners can get the feel of a much larger room without adding any additional square footage.

Knowing the exact size of the closet will also be an important tool when consulting general contractor and shelving makers, since they will both need to know the dimensions of the space before making or ordering any custom products.

Get the Right Products

When it comes to remodeling a closet, not just any storage product will do. For the best outcome—especially when working within a tight space—check out multipurpose storage solutions that can double as—for example—winter clothing storage and extra seating.

Lighting is another element to consider since the lightness or darkness of a closet can greatly impact the overall feel of spaciousness. Although everyone has different tastes, it is generally advised that homeowners go with brighter lighting in the closet than they would in other areas of the house, since it can be difficult to see everything with only a few dim sconces.

Hire a Pro

Not all general contractors know what they are doing when it comes to remodeling a closet. While bathrooms and kitchens are heavily remodeled, it is rare that a contractor gets a closet remodeling job. Because of this, many contractors may have little or no experience working in such tight spaces.

For the best chances of success, the Association of Closet and Storage Professionals recommends only hiring a contractor who is licensed and insured. Although it is not absolutely necessary that the contractor be familiar with closet installation techniques, it is preferable. However, contractors with experience installing cabinetry generally have enough skills to take on a closet remodel in the majority of cases.

Another way of saving costs without sacrificing the integrity of the closet is by selecting and purchasing a closet system on your own and hiring a general contractor to handle the installation only. For this to work, homeowners need to know the exact dimensions of the closet space, in addition to which products they’ll need to buy for the project.

Not only does hiring a contractor to handle the installation save money on construction costs, but it can also save you money on the closet storage system itself since it is almost always possibly to buy cabinetry at a discount from big box retailers or through outlets online.

Tags: closet, closet remodel, general contractor, home improvement

Walk in Closets

Maurie Backman — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:52:47 +0000

One benefit of a walk-in closet is that it gives you plenty of space to store your stuff.

Anyone who’s ever had to spend hours digging through the depths of a cramped wall closet to find that perfect outfit will tell you that dealing with limited closet space is no easy task. These days, men and women alike are putting walk-in closets on their house or apartment “must have” list. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed clotheshorse or someone who simply likes to stay organized, walk-in closets are an easy solution to one of life’s greatest questions: Where am I going to put all of my clothing?

What are walk-in closets?

Walk-in closets are closets that are large enough for you to walk inside to store and access your clothing and belongings. A walk-in closet will usually offer you multiple storage options, as most walk-in closets have shelving or hanging areas on two or three sides. Many walk-in closets also have enough room for a mirror, thereby allowing you to choose your clothing, get dressed, and view your appearance before emerging from your closet.

By giving you enough room to walk inside, walk-in closets offer easy, convenient access to your clothing in addition to generous storage space. Since walk-in closets allow you to stand right next to your various shelves and are usually spacious enough that they do not restrict arm movement, you can easily reach all of the items in your closest, including those on the higher shelves or back end of the closet.

While many modern houses come with walk-in closets already built in, many houses instead have smaller wall closets. If your home is not equipped with at least one walk-in closet, then you might want to consider hiring a general contractor who specializes in the installation of walk-in closets. You can work with the contractor to design a walk-in closet to suit your particular needs. For example, if you require more shelving and less hanging space, then your contractor will design a walk-in closet that meets your needs. Many contractors can offer custom-built storage solutions, such as double clothing racks and shoe and purse storage areas within the walk-in closet, which will allow even the biggest shopaholics to stay neat and organized.

Who needs walk-in closets?

These days, almost everybody needs a walk-in closet for the storage and convenience that come along with it. Homeowners should also think of walk-in closets as investments in their property; this is especially true of walk-in closets found in the master bedroom. These days, most buyers will want and expect at least one walk-in closet in the home’s master bedroom. By having a walk-in closet installed, you will keep up with the trend and also get to reap the benefits of ample closet space.

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Choosing Tub and Tile Refinishing

Kelly Brown — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 20:45:26 +0000

The tub or shower can be used the same day, and if your original refinishing wears away over the years, subsequent refinishings can be done.

Anyone considering a bathroom remodel may want to consider a tub and tile refinishing instead of removing and installing a new system. Having your existing tub and tile surround refinished can save you money, time, and inconvenience. In no time at all, you will be showering in a new, fresh environment, free to move on to other home improvement projects.

What Is It?

Tub and tile refinishing is a process designed to restore your bathroom tub and tile. It takes approximately 4 to 5 hours and the shower is usually ready for use 4 to 5 hours after the process is finished. It is sometimes called re-glazing or resurfacing. Typically, tile is regrouted during the process as well as re-glazed. Some believe that re-glazing is an inaccurate term. In order to glaze, the tile must be fired, and this is not the case with a bathroom refinishing.

The refinishing includes the application of a thin, durable coating over the existing surface. If your tub is porcelain or ceramic, the surface will be covered in a stabilized etching solution designed to maximize the ability of the primer to bond to the original substrate. Fiberglass and acrylic tubs are also treated to maximize adhesion.

Who Needs It?

Those who are remodeling their bathroom should consider a tub and tile refinishing. A bathroom remodel that includes fresh paint, a new sink or toilet, and new flooring should not end there. No one wants to shower or bathe in an old tub, surrounded by upgrades in the rest of their bathroom. However, installing a new tub and surround or tiling can be expensive. An efficient option is having the area refinished.

If your tub and shower area is old and moldy, it may be necessary to have it updated. If you are unwilling to make the time commitment to having a new tub and shower installed, a refinishing may be the best option. The growth of mold can be a dangerous toxin in the home. You may find after completing the updates your family will breathe easier and suffer from fewer allergies. The area will also smell fresher once the mold and mildew have been removed. Keep in mind that for a serious mold problem, you may need a specialist to complete the mold removal before the tub refinishing. Speak with your general contractor to determine your specific needs.

Benefits

Some believe that tub and tile refinishing offers the durability of brand new materials. With refinishing, you can double the life of the original tub and tile. Refinishing may also save you money. A new tub may cost $300 to 500, but when you include the removal and disposal fees, installation and plumbing of the new tub, and replacement tile work, you are looking at a sizeable bill. You may find that your $300 tub costs you over $2,000. Refinishing is a cheaper process than replacement once you have added the additional costs.

Refinishing companies claim that the refinishing will neither look nor smell like paint. The tub or shower can be used the same day, and if your original refinishing wears away over the years, subsequent refinishings can be done. The material comes in a wide variety of colors and the procedure is able to fix chips, scratches, and cracks. If your original tiling job was less than desirable, a refinisher can level and sand uneven work.

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Top Three Reasons to Replace Your Outdated Countertops with Granite

Kelly Drill — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:19:41 +0000

Why Granite Is Simply the Best Choice For Countertops

A granite countertop makes working in the kitchen a snap. Because granite is extremely difficult to scratch, you can cut and chop directly on your counter’s surface. Hot frying pans and pots can be placed directly on the granite straight from the stove and won’t leave burn marks or stains. The cool, smooth granite surface is also perfect for rolling out pie crusts, kneading dough, or making candy. Furthermore, granite is extremely easy to clean and doesn’t harbor harmful bacteria.
Your granite countertop will be extremely durable and will last a lifetime. Exceptionally strong and difficult to chip, scratch or crack, this natural stone shows virtually no wear and tear, even after many years of heavy use. The smooth polished finish of your granite countertop is extremely difficult to wear off, and will be shining brightly for a long time to come.
The beauty of natural granite is unparalleled, making it a popular choice for home interiors. Each and every slab is unique, and a variety of colors and patterns are available—veins, swirls, speckles, or a blend. The light-reflecting crystals inside the granite make it sparkle when the sun hits it, adding an extra shimmer to your kitchen or bathroom.

If you think granite might be the right choice for your counter tops, use the links below to get a free estimate from a local contractor today!

Tags: bathroom, Bathroom Remodeling, counter repair, counter top, counter top replacement, countertop, general contractor, granite, granite bathroom, Granite Counter Top Contractor, interior design, kitchen contractor, kitchen remodeling, kitchen repair

Three Reasons to Consider a Custom Home Remodel

Kelly Drill — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:15:27 +0000

Why a Custom Home Remodeling Might Be Right for Your House

A custom home remodel can transform the home you have into your dream house. With some imagination and some help from an architect, you can make your home work perfectly for you and your family. If your family is expanding, add space or transform a currently unusable space into an extra bedroom or bathroom. If you are concerned about energy efficiency, consider replacing doors and windows, repairing or replacing siding, or adding insulation.
Adding updates and enhancements to your home will add value. Even small improvements in the right areas can increase the resale price of your home by thousands of dollars. Some of the best ways to add value to your home are to add usable living space or update your kitchen and bathrooms.
A custom remodel often costs about the same amount or less than selling your home and moving. If you are dissatisfied with your current home, but you like the neighborhood, your school district, and your general location, remodeling can be a great option. And because new construction materials are generally far more energy efficient than those used in the past, a custom remodel is likely to reduce your energy bills. Using high quality materials in your remodel will also reduce your home maintenance costs over time.

If you think a custom home remodeling might be for you, use the links below to get a free estimate from a general contractor near you!

Tags: architect, Basement remodeling, change basement into bedroom, contractor, custom home, Custom Home Remodeling, dream house, general contractor, kitchen contractor, remodeling

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