How to get 4 house siding estimates in 10 minutes

Posted on October 5, 2011 by Brandon

Editor’s Note (11.2.2011) – This special is currently not available. If and when the opportunity is available again, I’ll make the links live again. Sorry!

Between work, kids, and tending to the house, most of us have forgotten what the phrase ‘free time’ means.  And when you do have some time to yourself, do you really want to spend it on the phone with oily, sneaky contractors?

I doubt it.

But your house still needs siding.  And it won’t side itself. If you rush in choosing a contractor, you might end up with some Fly-By-Nighter who takes your money and runs.  Or, just as bad, an incompetent that hacks the job and forces you to bring in somebody else to get it right.

Worst still, if you don’t spend the time to compare at least 3 estimates, chances are you’ll be overcharging.  The only way to keep contractors from inflating (or underestimating) their bid is to get multiple estimates.  It’s the only way to keep them honest.

And that’s the catch-22.  Getting multiple estimates from qualified contractors takes a lot of time.  But not getting those estimates will cost you in money and headache.  Is there a solution?

Simple. Visit this website – House Siding Estimates.

This is a simple, complementary website that helps you get 4 estimates in 10 minutes.  All it takes is a few pieces of information and the click of a button. Done.  This alone is a huge time and stress saver.

And the contractors you’ll hear from are primarily recognized brands – Home Depot, Sears, Champion, etc.  You’ll also get at least one bid from a local contractor. I personally prefer to keep my money in the local economy instead of feeding the big companies, so this appeals to me greatly.

You don’t have to deal with wading through the yellow pages, or talking with pushy salespeople. Request your estimates, receive your estimates and that’s it. No stress, no obligations, no sales calls and no fees.

Plus, the contractors you’ll get access to know they are bidding against 3 others.  This keeps their pricing honest.  And you can use it for any of the following projects:

  • Wood siding projects
  • Vinyl siding projects
  • Aluminum siding projects
  • Cement-board siding projects
  • Stucco siding projects
  • Insulated siding projects

My advice: if you have a siding project you need bids for, check out House Siding Estimates. It will save you time, effort and headache.  And did I mention it’s complementary?

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Where should I place my greenhouse?

Posted on July 6, 2011 by Brandon
Open Greenhouse

Greenhouses shield growing plants from cold, heat, pests and frigid air.

This is one of those questions that pop up over and over again.  Once the hammer starts swinging, it’s a pain and the arse to take back what’s already been done.  Better to place your greenhouse properly the first time than to go back and move it after you realize your Tiger Lillies aren’t growing.

For obvious reasons, you want to maximize the amount of sunlight pouring into the greenhouse.  Any areas prone to shadows should be avoided.  If there simply isn’t any location in your yard completely immune to shadows, opt for morning light over afternoon light. So favor the east side of any standing structures or tree groves.  Never put your greenhouse to the north of shadow casting structures; this area gets the least amount of sunlight.

Remember: plants “eat” sunlight.  The earlier in the day they are exposed it, the more fuel they’ll have to grow big and beautiful throughout the day.

Shading your greenhouse in the late afternoon is a valid idea if you’re worried about wilting. Any trees that lose their leaves in the fall (known as deciduous trees) are good for this because they shade in the summer but don’t impede in the winter.  Birch, elm and maple are three examples.

Drainage is something else to keep in mind.  You  don’t want your greenhouse to flood when those April showers  roll in.  If there is any high ground in your yard, that’s the place to use. I’ve even digging an irrigation ditch around your greenhouse is a valid alternative.

What other things need to be considered? Water sources, heat sources, electricity, and convenience.  However, access to sunlight and irrigation are the two factors you should keep in the front of your mind.

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Grants Available for Home Improvements

Posted on May 14, 2011 by Brandon

Did you know that there’s tons of grants available for home improvements?  Neither did I… that is, not until recently.

You see, I’ve been meaning to give this website – Cheap Home Improvement- an overhaul.  Most of our readers are here because they want to turn their house into a home.  And they don’t want to go broke in the process.

I’d like to believe we’ve done a good job of helping them do that.  We’ve made it our job to show you how to “hack” home improvement.  But the thing is, most of our posts are about actual construction.  Almost none of them are about funding that construction.

So, I reckon, it’s time for that to change.

As of late, I’ve been spending countless hours pouring over any resource I can find regarding home improvement grants.  Here’s just a couple I’ve learned about as of recently:

HUD Rehabilitation and Repair Home Loan

More commonly known as the 203k program, this is the most popular home improvement program around.  In case you’re unfamiliar, here’s a quick rundown…

The 203k is a type of loan, offered by banks but backed by the U.S. government.  You can use it to fix up any condominium or 1-4 family owner occupied residence.

What makes it different than most loans is that you can use it to fund both the purchase of the home AND the rehabilitation of that loan.  Most traditional loans don’t allow you to do this… forcing you to buy the home first and then get another (more expensive) repair loan after the fact.

And 203K loans are cheap.  They’re especially tailored towards low income homeowners. That means better interest rates and lower closing costs than you’re likely to find under any other program.

How do you get a 203K loan.  Check with your friendly neighborhood banker for details.

Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loan and Grant

This is one of few improvement loan programs that are funded directly by the government (as opposed to just being guaranteed), through the United States Department of Agriculture.  However the qualifications are tricky…

For one you have to be a very low income homeowner.  That means your income can’t exceed 50% of the average median income in your area.

Secondly, you have to be 62 or older.  If you’re a young buck, you can forget about qualifying for this program.

But if you do qualify, the program will cover all expenses related to removing health hazards from the property and/or making it accessible by those with disabilities.

How do you apply?  Contact the local rural development office in your area. You can yours here: USDA Service Center Locator.

Are there other programs?

Yes.  Many, many of them.  So many, in fact, that they won’t all fit into this introductory article.

In the coming months, I plan on discussing other grants available for home improvements.  To read the latest articles, click the “financing your improvements” link to the left.

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What You Need to Know about Pergola Construction

Posted on May 9, 2011 by Brandon

Pergola construction isn’t rocket science.  As long as you know how to use a level, can work a saw and usually drive nails (relatively) straight you’ll be able to build one.  All you really need is quality pergola plans and/or a pergola kit.

In fact, with the pergola kit you won’t even have to work a saw.  The materials come precut; all you have to do is follow the included plan.

Pergola Construction – Choosing Lumber

But when you aren’t using a kit, you’ll have to do more research before settling on building materials.  This is a delicate give and take between price, durability and aesthetic.

For instance, redwood is an oft recommended lumber.  But it aint cheap.  Cedar is a cheaper softwood and it’s great at resisting rot and bugs.  Just make sure the ‘cedar’ the materials shop has on offer is actual cedar and not pine.

Pressure treated lumber is even cheaper than the two, but it’s hideous until painted/stained/shellacked.  But  you do want to use PT for any section that’s touching concrete.

Pergola Construction – Choosing Design

Simple shapes are easier to build. So, if you’ve never erected a structure before, stick to the square or rectangular plans.  This minimizes the amount of cuts needed… reducing the potential for mistakes in the process.  It’s no fun having to buy lumber twice due to an overly complex design layout.

And while we’re on the topic of cuts, I might as well restate the carpenter’s motto: always measure twice and cut once.  It’s best to make good use of your measuring tape and pencil than to waste lumber.

Make sure to keep the size of your yard in mind when choosing a design.  Remember, you want the pergola to add character to your hard, not to overpower it.

Likewise, how you’ll use the pergola should be considered consideration.  If you’ll be using it as a sitting area during barbeques, it should be large enough to cater to at least a handful of people.

Pergola Construction – Other Considerations

Is your septic tank below where you plan on building?  What about water lines, telephone lines, or electrical lines?  If you need to sink posts, this is information you need to know… and can usually find out by calling your local building department.

Are you uncomfortable sourcing your own building materials?  If so, you might want to go with a pergola kit.  They come prepackaged with all necessary materials, and some are even sold under warranty.

Are you building on a budget?  Most folks are.  If that be the case, it’ll be cheaper to build from plan instead of buying a kit.  Just remember not to skimp on the plans; some free pergola plans are solid but others are absolute garbage.  Be careful when choosing which to use.

Is pergola construction for you?  Well, since you’re reading this article I’m pretty sure you have a DIY mentality.  That’s the most important thing.  All you need now are time, effort and a plan…  and your pergola is as good as built.

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Choosing the Right Pergola Plans

Posted on May 9, 2011 by Brandon

Every pergola is like a fingerprint… giving you an easy way to express your individuality and differentiate your yard.

But the Internet is chock full of plans, differing in building materials and overall design. Which one to choose?  This article will help you decide.

Pergola Plan Consideration – Available Space

The first thing to decide is what size of pergola to build.  This is largely determined by how much space you have available.

The most common pergola size is 9 feet by 12 feet.  Don’t ask me why.  Of course, if you have more or less space you can alter the plans to cater.  Just keep in mind, the larger you choose to build it, the more support work you’ll have to do and the more materials you’ll have to buy.

I’m not a big fan of an overbearing pergola, instead opting for one that accents the yard instead of crowds it.  Let your personal taste be your guide.

Pergola Plan Consideration – Underlying Surface

Building on a concrete slab will have different considerations (i.e. – using pressure treated wood at the base) than building on top of an existing wood patio.

And if you’re building direct on soil, that brings its own bag of considerations with it.  You don’t want your pergola toppling over if the soil shifts, and you don’t want insects chewing away the sturdiness.

So, to avoid any issues in the future, make sure your plan addresses the surface you’re building on.

Pergola Plan Consideration – Building Materials

There’s a glut of materials you can build with.  I’ve heard of pergolas that make use of everything from cedar, to fiberglass, to vinyl, to PVC.

Each material has its own pros and cons… a topic beyond the scope of this article.  The most important properties to keep in mind are material durability, what surfaces the material can/ can’t touch, level of weather-resistance and how easy it is to drill/cut/maneuver.

I’d recommend always asking your friendly DIY home improvement store employee for guidance before stocking up on materials that might rot out in a week.

And don’t forget about the aesthetic quality, as well.  You’re building this thing because you want to beautify your yard… not build an eye sore out of PVC piping and rough fir.

Some vendors offer pergola kits that come “pre-packed” with materials.  This might be helpful if you’re not sure about material choices.

Pergola Plan Consideration – Design

Pergola designs are as varied as a hippy convention is colored. You can find plans for everything from modern to Doric.  There are two directions you can go when choosing a design…

The first is to pick one that complements (or matches) your house design.  This is the safest option; it’s hard to go wrong if your pergola feels like an extension to your house’s theme.

A second option is to pick a unique design specific for your pergola.  I prefer this.  See, I view a pergola as a ‘getaway’ within your yard and – in that vein – it should be more majestic than utilitarian.

Make the sight of pergola ‘feel’ like a waking dream… an oasis in the desert of daily stress… and a walking into your yard will seem like a vacation.

Pergola Plan Consideration – Plan Source

Not all plans are equal in quality.  Some are made by folks that have never swung a hammer in their life, plotting structures behind a computer screen.

My advice: source your plan from a reputable source. Somebody that has real-world building experience and has built a pergola before. That, or a reputable DIY store that has plans on offer.

But what about free pergola plans?  Well, some of them are good… and others, not so much. My mentality when it comes to building plans is this: you end up paying for it, one way or another.

Better to go with plans you know are top-quality (even at a price) than to build a sloppy, ugly, maybe-it-will-stand pergola (even if the plans are free).

 

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How to build a pergola

Posted on May 8, 2011 by Brandon

It isn’t hard to learn how to build a pergola.  But like most practical skills, you need solid instruction to do it right.  Otherwise, you’ll end up with a structure that’s ugly, slanted, and unappealing.

So, consider this article the first step in getting “solid instruction”.

In this article, I’ll cover the very basics of building your own pergola.  More importantly, I’ll discuss tips (and warnings) that will make the whole process easier, faster and cheaper.

Step #1 – Planning

Pergola plans consist of two key sections: building materials and instructions.  Both are equally important.

When it comes to the materials list, ask the folks working at your material shop to look them over before buying anything.  Some plans (especially the free kind) are made by people that have never actually built a pergola before… and they give bunk information.

For instance, I’ve seen plans online that recommend using galvanized nails with cedar.  An experienced builder will advise against this because it might cause streaking.  Stainless steel fasteners are a much better bet. And only an experience builder could tell you that.

As far as the plans themselves, you can find plenty of free ones scattered around the internet.  Many DIY home improvement stores offer them if you just ask.  I found one on the Home Depot website that you can find here.

 

Now, I wanted to briefly mention the tools you’ll need.  I’ve seldom come across a pergola design that needs more than hammer, level, jigsaw, drill, measuring tape, maybe a ratchet and a couple of strong backs.  Simple designs rarely need more than the simplest tools.

If you don’t have those tools in the shed, you can get the whole caboodle for less than $200. Of course, the drill and jigsaw will cost the most. I’d recommend buying the highest quality tools you can afford, instead of skimping on tools that will only last one summer.

One last note about pergola plans: do yourself a favor and find illustrated plans.  A picture speaks a thousand words, as you’ll quickly remember when you’re trying to figure out what joist goes where.

Step #2 – Design

Design is a matter of personal taste… if you have the building chops to make alterations.  Otherwise, it’s smarter to stick to the plans.

It’s easier to express individuality when choosing materials than in the construction.  Choosing the wood, in particular, is an easy way to customize the ‘feel’ of your pergola.  Again, as at your material shop for suggestions that match the aesthetic goals you have in mind.

You probably want your pergola design to compliment your home.  If you’re house has a rustic feel then building a modernistic pergola might not be the best idea, and vice verse.

If you do have building experience and just want to use standard pergola plans as a starting point, design programs are great for conceptualizing the finished product.

Step #3 – Building

This is when things get fun.  You have the material, the tools and the plan.  Now we can start swinging hammers.

The actual process should be straight forward (you do have the plans, correct?) so I’ll just touch on a couple of tips to keep in mind:

  • Make sure to have your level handy… unless you’re recreating the leaning tower of Pisa in your backyard.
  • Never forget the motto ‘measure twice and cut once’.  It’ll save you a bucket of money.
  • Before you start framing, have all of your tools handy.  This saves time scurrying
  • If you mess up something in the plan, don’t get discouraged.  We all had to learn sometime.  Just fix it and keep going.
  • Where you build your pergola is important. Building it on a concrete slab will require different materials and considerations than building it on top of an existing deck.

Step #4 – Enjoy

Should go without explanation.  When the construction is done, I’d love to see how your pergola came out.  Drop me some pictures if you’re up to it; you can find my email on the contact us page.

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(Video) DIY Greenhouse Construction in 5 Minutes Flat

Posted on May 8, 2011 by Brandon

This is an inspirational video for anybody thinking about taking the DIY greenhouse building route. The entire clip runs about 5 minutes long.

Granted, as far as construction-type videos go, this isn’t the most informational. It doesn’t go into any details, explain the greenhouse plan or show you the design.

However, it’s a great help for those (like me) that are visual learners. He takes you by the hand and walks you through the entire process, from start to finish. By the end of it, you’ll be better prepared to visualize your greenhouse before you pull out the hammer.

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November 2010 Home Depot Coupons and Rebates for Appliances

Posted on November 1, 2010 by Brandon

Hey Guys…

This is a new section I’m going to be testing over the next couple of weeks.  If you find this information useful, drop me a comment to let me know.  FYI, I’ll be sourcing most of the coupons I tell you about by rummaging through the Home Depot Website.

Most will not have a coupon code, but are discounted against specific purchases.  Some are strictly available for online purchase (which I have marked as such) while others are in store only.  Happy Shopping:

Coupons for Online and In-Store Purchases

Buy a Waring Waffle Maker, Get a Pancakes & Waffles Recipe Book (Expires 12/31/2010)

Waring Waffle Maker

Only valid for the Waring Pro WMK300A (pictured above). You have to mail in the rebate form after purchase to get your cook book.  The cook book is written by Lou Seibert Pappas, author of 50+ recipe books.

Here’s the Rebate Form: Waring Waffle Maker Recipe Book Rebate Form

Get $1000-$2000 For Buying 2+ GE Profile™ Kitchen Appliances (Expires 11/29/2010)

GE Profile Refridgerator

Pretty straightforward promotion.  You gotta by 2 GE Profile™ Kitchen appliances (only certain models qualify) and Home Depot will give you a Visa® prepaid card valued up to $2000. The rebate form says which models earn cash back, so give it a read.

Here’s the Rebate Form: Cash Back with GE Profile™ Appliances Rebate Form

Instant Coupon Discounts – YEAH! (Expires 11/29/2010)

Pick up at least two of the following products and get $50 knocked off instantly.  Get three products and deduct $100.  Get four and the number is $200.  Not a boatload, but every penny counts.  This works both online and instore.  here’s the eligible products.

  • Maytag  24.8 cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator (MFF2558VEW or MFF2558VEB)
  • Maytag 25 cu. Ft. French Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator (MFF2558VEM)
  • LG 24.7-Cubic Foot Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator (LMX25964ST)
  • Amana 25.1 cu. ft. Side by Side Refrigerator (ASD2522WRW, ASD2522WRB, ASD2522WRS or ASD2522WRD)
  • LG Fully Integrated Dishwasher with 5 Wash Cycles (LDF6920ST)
  • LG 24″ Tall Tub Built-In Fully Integrated Dishwasher(LDF7932ST)
  • Amana Full Console Dishwasher(ADB1000AWW, ADB1000AWB, ADB1000AWQ or ADB1000AWD)
  • Amana Full Console Dishwasher w/ 3 Wash Cycles (ADB1400AWW,ADB1400AWB, ADB1400AWQ, ADB1400AWD or ADB1400AWS)
  • Maytag JetClean Plus Built-In Tall Tub Dishwasher (MDBH969AWW, MDBH969AWB, MDBH969AWQ or MDBH969AWS)
  • Amana 30″ Freestanding Electric Range (AER5830VAW, AER5830VAB, AER5830VAD or AER5830VAS)
  • Amana 30″ Freestanding Gas Range w/4 Sealed Burners (AGR5844VDW, AGR5844VDB, AGR5844VDD or AGR5844VDS)
  • Maytag 24.8 cu. ft. French Door Refrigerator (MER7662WW, MER7662WB, MER7662WQ or MER7662WS)
  • LG 30″ Freestanding Electric Range (LRE30453ST or LRG3095ST)
  • Maytag 2.0 Cu ft 1100W OTR Microwave (MMV5208WS,MMV5208WW, MMV5208WB or MMV5208WQ)
  • LG Over The Range Microwave in Stainless Steel (LMV1813ST)

Coupons for In-Store Purchases ONLY

Get 200 to 1,000 Bucks for Buying 2+ GE Appliances (Expires 11/29/2010)

Another promo with a catch.  You have to buy 2 or more and they have to be  GE Café™ Kitchen appliances. They’ll mail you a gift card for $1,000 when you mail the rebate form below.

Here’s the Rebate Form: Cash Back with Café™ Kitchen Appliances Rebate Form

Let’s Take a Breather! (The BEST is Yet to Come)

Well, this post is swelling in size so I’ll have to split this coupon/rebate list up into sections.  Consider this part 1. Part 2 coming soon.. hopefully within the next couple of days.

Posted in Home Improvement | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Are There Home Improvement Grants?

Posted on June 29, 2010 by Brandon

By Kate Ross

Most of these loans and grants are offered to those going through underprivileged situations. Thus, qualification will depend on the needs of the applicant rather than on credit or income variables. These loans and grants are awarded by governments or non profit private institutions.

Actually, most of these financial products are offered only to those families with low income and with credit difficulties. If you can access a regular home improvement loan, chances are that you will not be approved for one of these.

Homes In Need Of Repair

If the property needs urgent repairs to keep it habitable and the occupants are a very low income family, there are home repair loans and home repair grants offered for renovations. These loans and grants are provided by the state or community governments and qualification will be determined by specialists that will ponder the needs and income of the families to select the neediest ones.

The uses are varied but always imply urgent or necessary expenses like fixing pipes, repair leaks on roofs or walls, eliminating gas, fire or electricity hazards, adding pipes for potable water, adding a bathroom if there is none present, garbage disposal, etc. All these repairs or improvements will be either paid by the agency or government in full or financed in several payments with little or no interest.

Accessibility Funds for People with Disabilities and Senior Citizens

People with disabilities can get funds for making the necessary adjustments to the property in order to provide comfort and accessibility. For instance, someone who needs to move with the aid of a wheelchair can request funds to construct a front door ramp or internal ramps. Even the funds to install an elevator in a property that does not have one can be provided by government agencies or private non profit institutions.

Of course, the requirements to get approval for these funds are very strict. You will need to provide all the documentation to show proof of the disability and also the lack of a suitable income to afford the necessary repairs and improvements by your own means.

People of age 62 and above (the age varies from state to state and from community to community) can obtain subsidized loans and grants too for home improvements and repairs. Whether the applicant is eligible for a grant or for a loan will depend on the income and financial situation.

However, subsidized loans offered for home repairs and improvements feature a significantly low interest rate that can start at 1% and usually does not reach further than 5%. Thus, even people with the most complex budget situations can afford these loans as they also provide long repayment programs to keep the monthly payments as low as possible.

Kate Ross has a Master in Finance and specializes in helping people to get approved for home improvement loans, personal loans, bad credit auto loans, guarantee credit cards, poor credit loans among many other financial products. For further information, please visit http://www.speedybadcreditloans.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Ross
http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-There-Home-Improvement-Grants?&id=658863

—— Editor’s Note ——

We are planning on releasing a series on Home Improvement grants in the near future… if there is interest amongst our readers (that means YOU).  We plan on letting you know everything about the grants, how to qualify, where to look for the best ones, how to get the most money, etc.

If there are specific topics you would like covered, I would love to know which ones.  It would be great if you could leave us a comment so the articles are exactly what you want to read about!

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VA Home Improvement Loans

Posted on June 29, 2010 by Brandon

By Quin Linich

Did you know that aside from buying or building a new home, veterans can actually use VA loans for home improvements? Everybody knows that updating a home can cost a lot of money but if you’re a veteran who is eligible for a VA loan can borrow as much as 90% of your home equity and use it for home improvements. This is something a veteran should take advantage of because of the VA loan’s advantages. But just like a typical VA loan application, one has to submit the necessary requirements and prove eligibility.

So why should you consider a home improvement?

For one, it increases your home equity. Of course it also adds comfort and value to your home. Now what types of home improvement projects can you work on? Here’s a quick checklist of what you can do.

o Roof Repairs – This is probably one of the best ways to use your VA loan since large improvements like roof repairs cost a lot of money. Installation of shingles or replacement of old ones cost somewhere from $2-$4 per square foot while flashing around the chimney costs about $300-$500.

o Flooring repairs – Another great way to spend your VA home improvement loan is by installing or repairing your home’s flooring. With your loan you can have your floors sanded and finished or you can install a ceramic or vinyl floor or install a wall-to-wall carpet. The costs usually range from $1.50 to as much as $22 per square foot for the services mentioned above.

o Heating and Air Conditioning installations – Replacing the heating and air conditioning system costs somewhere from $1,500 to $4000 but if you are only going to install a humidifier or an air cleaner, it’s priced at $300-$700.

o Bathroom remodeling – Statistics show that bathroom remodeling adds more value to a home. A typical bathroom remodeling ranges from $7,000 to as much as $16,000. Why is it so expensive? Though the bathroom is not the biggest room in the house, when it comes to renovation you have to call different people to remodel it – plumbers, electricians, tile contractors, sheet rock contractors, etc.

o Kitchen remodeling – Based on annual realtor group polls, it was found that kitchen remodeling adds the most value to your home. (Yes, it beats the bathroom remodeling numbers.) This type of remodeling starts from $8,000. You can update your countertops, the sink, cabinets, range, oven, the dishwasher, fridge, and microwave.

It is still more cost-efficient to repair and update your home than move into a new one. Better get started and apply for a VA home loan so you can enjoy the benefits of a newly improved home.

http://nobsvaloans.com/2009/08/va-home-improvement-loans/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Quin_Linich
http://EzineArticles.com/?VA-Home-Improvement-Loans&id=2826926

—— Editor’s Note ——–

If you’re interested in specific information about finding cheap VA home improvements, how to qualify for the best rates and pitfalls to avoid in the application process leave us a message in the comment section below.

Posted in Home Improvement | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

Home Improvement Tips – Flooring Ideas

Posted on June 28, 2010 by Brandon

Okay…. So more times that not we throw money into improvements with the goal of boosting the market value.  Sure, some of our alterations are purely to derive more enjoyment out of our property. But even then if we can boost the value at the same time, all the better.

One of the most overlooked places to begin a value boosting improvement is the floors and walls.  There is no single way to shift the look of your property at a very “cheap” price point.

Now, before you get going, put together a market valuation to make sure you don’t overbuild your neighborhood.  Your buddy with the real estate license can do this for you or, alternatively, pull up sales data on Zillow.com.

If you have carpet laid down, whatever type of flooring there is underneath it will determine the best way to proceed.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood is expensive, and it scratches easily.  Alas, it is beautiful and always pushes the home value north.  If this is the base below the carpeting, consider yourself lucky.  With some sanding and polishing you can do wonders.  Alternatively, you can install hardwood relatively inexpensively.  The type of wood you get will determine the pricing, with natural hardwoods being one of the most expensive and bamboo or laminates being more affordable.

Carpeting

If you like the soft feel of carpeting, you don’t have to get rid of it.  However, if you want to boost the value it makes sense to update your carpeting and getting rid of any dingy carpet you might have.  Some designers advise sticking to neutral colors (like beige) to leave space for any type of décor.  Personally, I would consult with a knowledgeable real estate agent for the best colors for your given area.

Linoleum

Linoleum is durable, cheap and has an ambience all its own.  Don’t expect to see huge jumps in value by using it, but its sure to be a step up if your current flooring is ragged or outdated.

Ceramic Flooring

Ceramic tiles are the norm in the bathroom and kitchen.  Word to the wise – chipped tiling is a no no when it comes to value.  So replace any and every broken tile. If you’re having a hard time finding the same type of tile, you can either replace all of them or put together a pattern using alternating styles of tile.

Just some ideas to play with.  Until the next time, happy improving!

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The Most Exciting Home Decorating Idea I’ve Read All Morning

Posted on June 27, 2010 by Brandon

So, I was reading an article by Mary Carol Garrity this morning and she really set my brain ablaze with some new decoration ideas I never considered before.

Get this:

A while back, she was involved with a luncheon organized by Colin Cowie, a designer and party planner.  The challenge was coming up with tasteful table centerpieces… for 60 tables.  The answer?  Garden statues.

What began as a quick-fix showed itself for what it is; a stroke of decorating genius.  I mean, think about it.  The right garden statue is caulk-full of mood.  They give a flair you don’t normally find indoors, so if you can intelligently weave them into your decoration scheme you’re onto something special.

But finding that proper mesh, of course, is the hard part.  Mary does give a few ideas in the article, such as:

  1. Use them as table centerpieces.
  2. Adorn them in fruits… wines… pumpkins… you name it.
  3. Thin, tall birdbaths are winners.
  4. Make sure the garden statue isn’t too heavy.  Buckling the table under the weight isn’t a good thing.
  5. Accents round out the decoration.  Think candlesticks or urns.
  6. Busts and full-figure statues can be fun and are easy to get a hold of.
  7. Figurines are versatile enough to sit on pretty much any flat surface.  Don’t limit yourself to the table; you can place them on the kitchen island, countertop, etc.
  8. Iron garden urns are great for holding fallen branches and flowers, or even to drape vines around your centerpiece.

Can you see the potential in this approach.  Don’t stop the brain juices at garden statues; there are other items you don”t normally find indoors that will add flair if used tastefully. For instance, using plastic-lined urns as ice holders or appetizer bowls (think chilled shrimp).  You can even brew up ways of using bird houses or landscape lighting indoors – my own mental gears are steady spinning.

But more than anything, the idea shows the most important part of home decoration: creativity.  Just like luxury isn’t gaudiness, you don’t need big bucks to give your home a true statement to make.  Don’t think outside of the box, realize that there is no box to being with!

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Leslie Segrete Speaks About Outdoor Decorating On The Cheap

Posted on June 27, 2010 by Brandon

Since most of North America still have a solid 2 months left of sunny weather, it makes sense to let our decorating prowess spill out from the living room into the outdoors.  To be specific, any outdoor area that falls on your property.  A major perk of outdoor decorating is that you’ll see a major difference without spending a ton… if you know what you’re doing.

And Leslie Segrete (of Trading Spaces fame) knows what she’s doing. In a recent article for The Stir website, she outlines a few tips for making your outdoor space something special.  Here’s the basic gist:

Specific areas – Patio, Deck, Backyard or Terrace

“…the easiest way to modernize your outdoor space is to update your furniture. It’s essential to look for items that can withstand the weather. Today’s marketplace features everything from rugs, lighting, fabrics, and decorative accessories all made to be used outdoors.”

About decorating on a budget

“Outdoor lighting is a wonderful way to brighten up your outdoor space so you can enjoy it day and night. Outdoor lighting doesn’t have to cost you a bundle…”

“A fire pit is a fun and comforting focal piece to add to your outdoor living space — and best of all it won’t break the bank. A fire pit can create a central point for a seating area perfect for after sunset conversation and the occasional ghost story.”

“a barefoot and weather-friendly outdoor rug can add a sophisticated yet comfortable look to make your deck or patio more unique. An outdoor rug can also help to create a seating or dining area in an open yard if you don’t have a deck or patio.”

“Something as simple as planting a garden or colorful flowering plants around your patio’s perimeter can create a dramatic effect and serve as a visual boundary from the rest of the yard, creating an intimate space that evokes an actual room.”

“treat yourself to comfortable seating with plush cushions. The best part is that it is actually affordable.”

Final Notes

Personally, I find the ideas about flowering and the fire pit to give you a lot of bang for your buck.  And, like Mz. Segrete says, they are just flat out great for social events.  More charm than a grill, and you never have to invest in propane.

That’s it for today.  This home decorating section is new for us here at Cheap Home Improvement, but expect to see more info on this topic in the future.

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Family Room Decorating Tips

Posted on June 26, 2010 by Brandon

Right next to the bedroom and the kitchen, my guess is you’ll be spending most of your time in the family room. At least when you’re home. I mean, we all hop over to the living room watch American Idol… shoot the breeze with the old lady…. and (if you’re like me) to eat a meal or two. Since it’s such a big part of our home lives, it only makes sense to give it the proper ambiance.

Enter Stage Right – Budget Decorating

So, here’s the skinny. Since most of us use the room to entertain ourselves it makes sense to rearrange things to cater to that desire. First things first, set up a basic storage area for all of those DVDs and video games. You can pick up a cheap entertainment center from Wal-Mart or get a DIY package from Lowes. The best ones let you tuck everything away either above or below the T.V. stand.

For those big spenders among us with a wall-mounted flat screen, look into the very cool frames they’ve been coming out with recently. It really adds some character to the room and might actually get some attention when the baseball game isn’t on.

In this case a T.V. stand/entertainment center won’t make much sense so you can throw a few bucks into a DVD rack for convenience. I find the spiral rack particularly sleek, but to each is own. You may even consider mounting a shelf, but this eats up space you may not want to sacrifice.

Now That the T.V. is Out of the Way…

Hanging paintings or photographs is cliche but they’re cool. They make the room feel like home and, if the walls are eggshell, they add much needed color to the area. You may even consider hanging a cool mirror or mounting candle scones for extra style points.

Your furniture also has something to say in the grand scheme of things. IKEA is heaven for this if you’re into modernist designs like I am. Keep the theme constant between the furniture and the blinds BUT don’t fall into a boring state of mind here. Unique color schemes are your friend here.

Speaking of Color Schemes

Pull out the paint brush and get busy. I like to look through the home decorating magazines like Better Homes and Gardens for ideas that push the boundaries. Don’t go too crazy but crazy enough. Think Salvatore Dali on meds and you’ll be in the right frame of mind here.

Stains Will Happen – Expect Them and Prepare

It’s inevitable. Trust me on this. So don’t worry about plastic-ing the furniture but white carpeting is a bad idea. Ditto for the grizzly bear throw rug, unless your socializing days are over… or if you hang out with the “reserved”(read: boring) type of crowd.

You can pick up sprays that make your furniture more stain resistant. My preference is to go with furniture that naturally hides the stains and to spend the money on party platters. But that might just be me. (Life is to be lived, folks!)

Goodies for the Floor

Bean bags are great too. Throws and afgans fit into the same category here. They’re great for when you have a full house. They are colorful to add character to the living room. Plus they are great if your old lady gets cold feet and likes to snuggle them somewhere. All big wins in my book.

Here’s another idea: set up a mini-library in the family room. Books are natural conversation starters and make you look more intelligent, even if you’ve never opened the cover. You can get a similar response by putting out some interesting reads on the coffee table… right next to the notebook, felt-tip pen and fruit bowl.

For the in-front-of-T.V. eaters like me, invest in a handful of food trays. They come in all kinds of designs, from floral patterns to football teams. Find the happy medium between trays you like and what the misses will accept. Don’t feel bad if “happy medium” means you end up with only floral patterned trays… not that I have any experience with that. Just consider yourself lucky that the family room hasn’t been turned into a no-food zone, yeah?

These are just a few ideas that came to mind. Stay tuned in, I’ll have more to share in the future. I’m also considering putting up some guest posts in the near future. In the mean time, If you have some personal decorating tips you want to share drop them in the comments.

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Decorating on a Budget-A Spattering of Ideas for the Family Room

Posted on June 25, 2010 by Brandon

Money is always a consideration when it comes to something as expensive (and rewarding) as decorating your home. This is especially true as it relates to the family room. Done right, it can become the most gorgeous room in your house. Sadly, doing it right costs big duckets so most of us normal folks need a way to get the effect without a big bill to pay at the end of the project. But the question remains: how to you get the most for your money, capturing the proper style on a limited “decorating dollar”?

Some good ole’ paint

Cheap and effective…. And so obvious that it is often overlooked. Do yourself a favor and leave the overlooking to those that don’t want to breathe new life into their living room. Something a simple as a new color scheme will do wonders. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries; get creative and be daring when choosing color schemes. Make a statement!

I’ve even seen homes with colors that alternate from wall to wall. Think beige/maroon. Or burgundy/orange peel. You get the idea. This is your abode; feel free to make it a real head turner.

While you’re at it, pull out the caulking and fill in those pesky cracks and nail holes. A smooth wall, like a smooth complexion, goes a long way. Just don’t forget to sand it down before applying the base paint.

Another painting pointer that often goes overlooked; always, always, ALWAYS use masking when your painting. There is nothing worse than getting “hiccup marks” on the trim… or that shiny hardwood flooring.

Brighten up – Light Fixtures, Anybody?

Here’s a rule of thumb: unless we’re talking about a secret alcove or the basement NO room in your house should be dark. Putting in new light fixtures eliminate the shadows and the depressing feeling they bring in tow. Plus, you can get really creative when choosing a light fixture to add some character.

Try a mix of ambient lighting, task lighting and accent lighting. A smorgasbord of lighting styles goes a long way to giving new energy to the space. Start off choosing an ambient lighting fixture to “fill out” the room. Keep some congruence in your fixture choices; otherwise the room will subconsciously feel messy no matter how neat it is.

Bring in some life

I’m talking fruit bowls, fruit vases, small plants, etc. Not only do they keep the air clean, they add a feeling of vitality to the space. Plus the aroma is delectable. You can even pick your own flowers (if you’re outside the city) to keep your prices rock-bottom.

An added bonus is the fact that you can ALWAYS add some variety. New flowers, new vases, new fruits, new colors, new feeling as often as you want. Every day will feel new and energized; don’t be surprised if you want to spend more and more time in the family room!

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What to consider before remodeling your attic (and some killer attic remodeling ideas)

Posted on April 16, 2010 by Brandon

A remodeled attic at it's finestRemodeling the attic has one primary goal: to use the space that would otherwise be wasted to rolls of Christmas wrapping paper and boxes of dusty clothes.  For the goal to make sense, you’ll need some head clearance in the attic; with that said, even if you can’t stand up completely the attic need not go to waste.

You still may have the space to make a kid’s playroom; getting them out of your hair and giving you the living room back.

In this article, we’ll explore a handful of attic renovation ideas that may work for you.  The only limit to what’s possible is your creativity, budget specifications and available space.

So, let’s get started…

About inspection

Before you layout any cash, you should seriously consider getting a home inspector to come in and give the attic a look.  Things like rot or mold in the attic can quickly turn a renovation into a nightmare.  For a few hundred dollars, you can save yourself the heartache.

You may also need an electrician to give a look to the electrical system.  Older houses are notorious for not having the power requirements necessary to power an addition (such as an attic renovation).  Check up on this before you start building; there’s nothing worse than finding out you have to cough up $XX,XXX more before you can even use your new attic.

To pass final permitting inspection, you may need a secondary egress (exit).  Check the requirements for your locality; the permitting requirements always vary.

Also, keep in mind an area isn’t considered living area unless it’s insulated.  If you plan on boosting your living area (for appraisal purposes) you’ll want to insulate making sure not to stifle natural circulation.

Some things you may want to include

Bathrooms are usually a good addition, assuming an existing bathroom is located on the floor below the attic.  Running pipe can get very expensive fast, if there isn’t existing infrastructure already in place.

Skylights are a fast way to let natural light bring the attic to life.  They also can help with ventilation, which is a common stumbling block for attic and basement remodeling projects.  For an additional investment, dormers accomplish the same thing with the added benefit of being a secondary egress.

Hardwood flooring or carpet will make your attic feel like an extension of the home… not a cold, isolated dungeon. I prefer carpet to add comfort, but build to your taste.  Just remember to bolt down hardwood if you’re using it; nothing is as much of a drag as squeaky floors.

Cool things you can build up there

Kids Playroom –

I like these for attics with less head clearance than a full grown adult needs.  Throw up some walls, add an egress (if needed), put in hardwood flooring (to avoid stains to carpet) and let the kids run wild.  Move all of the toys up here, like that new drum set, and watch the noise level drop down to pre-pregnancy days.

Home Office –

More of us are working from home.  That means more of us are finding out how hard it is to work when the phone is ringing, the dog is barking, the bed needs to be made and the T.V. is right there.  Having a designated office is an easy way to boost productivity… and a renovated attic is the perfect location.  Don’t forget the natural light; a skylight or dormer is the way to go here.

Bedroom –

You can set up a guest or primary bedroom without much difficulty.  Use light and “sleepy” colors (think blues) and keep a dehumidifier up there.

Adult Getaway –

Drop in a pool table and a T.V. and you have your own little oasis away from the hustle and bustle downstairs.  Throw in a minibar and a dart board and you may never want to leave.

There you have it; a handful of attic remodeling ideas.  Do you have any ideas or tips for renovations? Feel free to share them in the comments below.

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Basic attic remodeling and renovation principles

Posted on April 15, 2010 by Brandon

Attic Remodeling PictureThere’s no easier way to increase the living area of your home than by remodeling the attic.  By getting rid of all the stuff you’ve been saving up there but will never use, and then following a few renovation principles, you’ll have a useable (and beautiful) attic in no time.

Your upstairs real estate doesn’t have to be the dark and scary section of your home, used only when the kids play hide and seek.  With a bit of elbow grease, you can give your attic a contemporary and modernistic feel. Let’s take it from the top:

The biggest hurdle you’re going to face are low ceilings due to the rafters that frame the top of the house.  Unless you have, say, a Dutch layout, this is unavoidable… but it doesn’t have to hamstring you.  There are still specific design principles and remodeling strategies you can use to maximize the headroom you do have.

First, consider adding in shelves or nooks to be used as storage.  This will get the junk off the floor and out of the way.  The BEST way to maximize your space is to convert the trusses into storage space.  The truss is the generally unused area between the interior wall framing and the end of the rafters.

Our next concern is where to lay out our furniture.  This isn’t rocket science, but the take time to consider what space would generally be unusable (due to head clearance) and plan accordingly.  For instance, it makes sense to put dressers and the head of the bed in the lowest section of the ceiling.  Likewise, any sitting furniture (coaches, love seats, etc.) can be positioned closer to low lying areas than, say, a pool table.

After considering furniture layout, you might want to install a dormer or two.  Installing a dormer requires ripping the roof off, adding some head area and possibly installing a skylight.  Now, to be certain, these are not cheap things to install.  But the touch of warm light and extra useable area they add can justify the expense.

ON the topic of skylights, I personally favor adding as many as possible.  Natural light is very important in a section like the attic, and skylights aren’t incredibly expensive to install.  They’re also fun to have on starry nights if you’re area isn’t blotted out with smog.  Beyond that, skylights tend to give the illusion of more space than there is; usually a good thing given the generally small area we have as an attic.

You might also consider adding good, old fashion windows.  They help with air circulation, and make the attic feel like and actual room.

With all this natural light we’re adding to our attic, you should give thought to the color scheme of the walls. Certain colors (like white) reflect light while others (darker colors) absorb them.  Ditto for the flooring; carpet absorbs while hardwood flooring reflects.  Reflection is a good thing since it gives a more open feel to the area… but absorption can be good if you want the tone of the attic to be more “relaxed”.

One final note: Don’t forget about adding insulation when putting in the walls. If you want the attic included as part of the livable area when you get re-appraised, they only include insulated areas.  Something to keep in mind.

We’ll be digging into attic renovations deeper in the future; I just wanted to give you a little taste of the frame of mind that goes behind a successful remodel in the land above the living room.  If you have specific topics you want covered in future posts, drop them in the comments below.

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Kitchen remodeling ideas nobody knows about (but needs to)

Posted on April 14, 2010 by Brandon
kitchen remodeling ideas nobody knows about

Kitchen remodeling ideas

Kitchen remodel ideas are a prerequisite of any renovation you might have in mind.  I mean, everybody and their mother know what the traditional kitchen is all about: hardwood cabinetry, linoleum flooring, maybe some marble countertops for good measure.  Or the stainless steel kitchen – what I call the “robochop room” – decked from head to toe in the latest shiny appliances.

But neither one of them is very new, inspiring or exciting.

Why not push the boundaries a little bit?  Things like outdoor kitchens, new lighting techniques and other breaking trends can turn your kitchen from *yawn* to *OMG* in no time.  Here are a few emerging trends in kitchen design and remodeling to get you started:

Breaking the Cage (Extreme remodeling idea)

Having a small kitchen doesn’t have to be confining; on the contraire, with some creativity you can break the cage.  How? Push out the walls and expand outdoors!

You’re going to need to check your neighborhoods zoning to get in on this trend.  However, if you have the blessing of the town hall, there are few things that make a statement as loud as an outdoor kitchen set up.

Outdoor living rooms and patios are a common feature; outdoor kitchens are just starting to make their way onto the fashion radar.  Now, you’re obviously going to want to consider the climate in your area.  And you’re going to need appliances that can survive living outside.  You’re also going to need to work out the heating and electrical situation, being a bit more difficult too lassoes in an outdoor set up.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the setup doesn’t have to be open-air.  I’ve heard of homeowners making a glass enclosure that they wrap around the kitchen, or only having a section actually exposed to the elements. You may want to consider the same.  Price bracket for an outdoor kitchen redesign: $1,500 – $30,000 (dependant on extravagance).

Green Kitchens – Save the environment and cook with a conscious

A green kitchen is another great remodeling idea.  Simply put, a green kitchen uses the latest in technological advances to make the room as environmentally friendly as possible.  Everything from faucets to electric appliances can be made more efficient without breaking the bank.  This expands to the actual building materials themselves; many are made from recycled and repositioned materials.

Live in Kitchens – So American, but in a cool way

As far as kitchen remodeling ideas go, a “live in kitchen” is one of the most aggressive.  This is a new style of kitchen, driven by society’s constant march towards doing more with less… and doing everything at once.

A live in kitchen is simply a larger kitchen, furnished with the typical things you’d find in the living room (T.V., sofa, coffee table, computer section, etc.).  The goal is to make the kitchen a main pillar in daily life, instead of an isolated room used only 2 or 3 times a day.

Lighting Ideas – Because shadows suck

Lighting techniques is one of those things that are underrated, but have immense value.  The lighting in your kitchen tells a story.  Natural light says one thing, while track lighting says another.

Recessed ceiling lighting isn’t just limited to living areas any longer.  These days, they’re becoming more prevalent in the kitchen because of their natural warmth.  There’s also a swell of interest in under-cabinet lighting, which gives a unique and stunning touch to even the most boring kitchens.  When it comes to lighting, you’re going to want to bring in a professional.  Whenever you’re running new electric lines and dropping in fixtures, you don’t want your Uncle Moe messing around behind the walls.

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Kitchen remodeling ideas for every American and European

Posted on April 14, 2010 by Brandon
Kitchen Remodeling Ideas for Every American

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas for Every American

Remodeling is for those of us that realized moving right now isn’t an option.  Which means, pretty much everybody that lives in the United States and most of Western Europe.  Outside of the bathroom, the kitchen is the best room to remodel.

Why?  Well, because you’ll notice it.  After all, if you’re like me, when you’re not sleeping you probably like to eat.

Beyond that, guests usually see the kitchen more than any other room.  Throw the right kitchen remodeling ideas into action, and you’re friends will be at least a bit jealous.  Guaranteed.  Not that I know from personal experience…

And one more benefit, if you’re not sold already, is this: in terms of dollar-for-dollar equity creation no remodeling project gives you a better ROI than the kitchen.  When we can start selling our houses again, you’ll be glad you renovated the kitchen instead of, say, the attic.

So, where do you start?  Well, swapping out the appliances is usually a safe bet.  Your appliances add life and color to the kitchen.  It’s also one of the most noticeable changes you can make outside of a brand new layout.

Keep in mind that appliances can be expensive.  But we’re here to make a home, right?  Tally up how much the dream kitchen is worth to you, and then set aside a realistic budget just for new appliances.

Next up comes the countertops.  These are the workhorses of the kitchen, and since you’ll be spending the bulk of your time in the kitchen behind one of these you shouldn’t skimp on them.

The options for countertop materials are endless: stainless steel, ceramic tiles, marble and marble imitations, granite and granite imitations… the list goes wide as the day is long.

The trick is to find a material that fits your budget, but won’t need to be replaced by this time next year.  Concrete marble imitations are usually a safe bet, along with higher quality stainless steel.

Third on our list are our cabinets. Personally, I prefer cabinets to be durable and I let the countertops carry the “style” of the kitchen.  With that said, leaving up dingy cabinets from 1818 simply because they’re durable isn’t the way to go.  At the very least, switch out the cabinet knobs to give the space new life. Obviously, if you got the cash completely switching out the cabinets can do wonders.

We’ll conclude this article by discussing the flooring.  I highly suggest ceramic tile, even though there’s been a trend towards hardwood in the kitchen.  But that’s just because me and my family are sloppy chefs and drop all kinds of liquids on the floor.  Hardwood is our archenemy.  Plus, you have more color and styling flexibility with ceramic tiles.

But it might just be me.

That’s it for now.  We’ll be discussing other, more advanced kitchen remodeling ideas in the near future.  If you have a topic in specific you want to read about, drop me a comment below.

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8 Quick and Easy Bathroom Renovation Ideas

Posted on April 13, 2010 by Brandon
8 Bathroom Renovation Ideas

8 Bathroom Renovation Ideas

Renovating your bathroom doesn’t have to be difficult.  Like most things in life, it can be hard it you want it to be… or it can be easy if you let it.

There are tons of options out there, regardless of whether you decide to do your own bathroom renovations or you opt to pay a professional to do them for you.  What’s important is that you don’t overlook the quick and easy fixes that have just as much impact as bigger projects.

For example:

Adding new tile to the floor and/or walls – Small change, big results.  This is an easy way to modernize your bathroom with about 8 hours of labor.

Installing a glass shower enclosure – Again, a cheap and quick option that reaps big rewards.  A nifty sidbonus of enclosures is that they make your bathroom feel bigger. A major plus if your bathroom leaves one in want of more leg room.

Change up the lighting – Bathroom light fixtures play a bigger part than most realize.  They set the mood of the room, and can either make the bathroom feel bigger or smaller.  Make the bathroom light and bright; nothing screams small bath like shadows in the corners

Drop in a new bathtub – More of a true renovation project, replacing your tub with a newer design wins major brownie points in the equity department.  Jacuzzis are a huge value builder, and they’re just flat out great to have.  Especially if you have a significant other… or a stressful job.

Put in a new sink – Stone and metal sinks are growing in popularity faster than sunshine moves.  Your sink makes a definite statement on behalf of your bathroom; renovating this area is a fast way to change the entire look of the room.

About showers – As mentioned earlier, glass enclosures go a long way in making the bathroom feel bigger.  Updating the shower itself and changing out the decorative tiles gives the enclosure something worth showing off through those glass doors. Not a cheap thing to do, for sure… but worth it.

Towel Warmers – For a long time, I would warm up my towel in the dryer as I showered. There’s no feeling in the world like a warm towel.

These days, you can buy a towel warmer which is made specifically for what most of us used the dryer for.  They aren’t expensive (about $100 – $250) and they get guests excited.  Don’t be surprised when folks start asking to use your shower… even when they aren’t spending the night.

Faucet upgrade – This plays into the sink upgrade recommendation I mentioned earlier.  There are all kinds of cool faucets on the market these days, especially those released by B2 and Bath and Arts.  Match your faucet to the bathroom’s “mood”, and you’ll be a step closer to a winning renovation.

The sky really is the limit when it comes time to renovate or change your bathroom for the better.  Just be creative, and don’t be boxed into thinking you have to mortgage your big toe to get a project done.  Start with smaller things, and see if the change is enough.  Then, slowly start considering bigger projects.

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