HOMETECH M A G A Z I N E
SPRING/SUMMER 2020
REMODELING TIPS & TRICKS INSPIRING BEFORE & AFTERS Featured Articles: SIGNS IT’S TIME TO REMODEL REMODELING MYTHS DEBUNKED FLAWLESS BATHROOM MAKEOVERS
READY TO UPDATE YOUR HOME? LOOK INSIDE FOR USEFUL TIPS AND ALL THE INSPIRATION YOU’LL NEED.
Editor’s note: HomeTech is a boutique company of talented professional designers, architects and contractors, all under one roof. We are dedicated to providing clients with the highest quality full-service remodeling and design. Our skilled and capable team with decades of experience is what gives us this level of excellence. From architectural planning to permit pulling, HomeTech keeps your budget, needs and lifestyle in mind without sacrificing your personal taste and satisfaction. HomeTech specializes in creating and implementing top design ideas with the highest professional standards around. By utilizing the latest 3D design technology, we create imaging for your desired design, offering you a plethora of fiscal opportunities to stay within budget and find custom solutions. Š 2020 Hometech. All rights reserved.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Why HomeTech .................................................................................. 02 Your Kitchen Questions Answered ............................................ 04 Common Bathroom Questions Answered .............................. 07 Client Spotlight - Modern Santa Clara Ranch ....................... 08 The Benefits of 3D Design in Home Remodeling .............. 12 Why You Should Hire A Professional Contractor ............... 15 4 Tips for Livig in Your Home During Renovation .............. 16 7 Questions to Ask Before you Remodel ............................... 18 5 Signs It’s Time for a Remodel .................................................... 20 Two Flawless Bathroom Remodels ....................................... 22 Common Kitchen Remodeling Myths Debunked .............. 26 5 Musts When Hiring A Contractor ........................................... 29
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WHY HOMETECH?
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CREATING YOUR DREAM HOME WITH OUR DESIGN & BUILD TEAM HomeTech is dedicated to providing clients with high-quality full-service remodeling and design. We have a talented and experienced team of professional designers, architects and contractors, all under one roof. From start to finish, HomeTech takes care of all the details, keeping your budget, needs and lifestyle in mind without sacrificing your personal taste and satisfaction.
KITCHEN, BATHROOM, AND WHOLE HOUSE REMODELING Our Design & Build team offers creative solutions for updating and modernizing your kitchen, designing your dream bathroom, or even completing a whole-house renovation. No matter what your budget may be, we will work with you to be sure your wants and needs are never compromised.
CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON YOUR HOME REMODEL
(800) 861-7432 | HOMETECHCONSTRUCTION.COM
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YOUR KITCHEN QUESTIONS ANSWERED 1 Do open space kitchens and dining rooms need to have the same flooring? It depends on the layout and the look you’re trying to achieve. Using fewer floor material and transitions create a look of open space and flow. A clear separation of kitchen and dining area defines each space as its own room. What we love right now: Herringbone patterns have a European look and go well in both spaces.
2 How can I cheer up a white kitchen? Painting the vent hood, window trim or island in a bold hue will spice up an otherwise stark kitchen with minimal effort. What we love right now: Cobalt blue and olive green
3 How can I revive my kitchen cabinets? If your cabinets are in good shape, painting or refacing are great options. If you’re painting yourself, make sure you remove the doors and drawers first. Give them a light sanding and use a sprayer or roller instead of a brush. Want to reface? New laminates can be done by professionals and will elevate the look no matter which style you choose. They are durable and sleek and will make the cabinets look brand new Tip: Now’s your opportunity to bring it all together with chic new hardware.
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COMMON BATHROOM QUESTIONS ANSWERED 1 What’s the easiest way to update my bathroom? Installing a faucet in a new finish, such as bronze or black will add a crisp element to your bathroom. Take it another step further: Hang a new towel ring or paper holder in the same finish.
2 Should I get rid of my bath tub? A tub takes up about 13 square-feet of floor space in a typical 40-square-foot bathroom. If you aren’t using your bathtub, and the room is feeling cramped, replace it with a large shower. It will feel just as luxurious while feeling more spacious and modern.
3 What are some current bathroom trends? Big impression in small places, black, bold bathrooms, exposed shower plumbing, and vanities in front of windows are some current trends in bathroom remodeling.
Before & After:
MODERN SANTA CLARA RANCH
T
his quaint Santa Clara ranch
To start, the team collaborated with
living space that created a natural,
needed more than a bit of
the clients to completely update
seamless flow for the most used
opening up to transform it
the floor plan – upgrading their
part of the home. The talented team
from dark and dreary to the bright,
traditionally boxy ranch to a much
even managed to add an additional
airy, modern oasis the client dreamed
more open floor plan that served
bedroom
of. After meeting with HomeTech lead
the client’s purposes much better. In
creating even more usable living
contractor Moses, designer Allen, and
addition to opening up the kitchen,
areas for the clients.
the architect to define their vision,
they added a much larger dining area
the team got to work.
with an adjacent family room and
FLOORPLAN BEFORE
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and
FLOORPLAN AFTER
third
bathroom,
The kitchen before was typical of a standard California ranch – dark wood cabinets, tile countertops, a little eating nook. The HomeTech team masterfully transformed it into a fresh, airy, gourmet
BEFORE
kitchen with loads more cabinet space and high quality details that would make any home chef jealous. Just look at that
AFTER
counter space and the gorgeous aqua backsplash, which shamelessly radiates in the new under counter lighting. The home’s main bathroom needed an upgrade, but this wasn’t in the original plan. After meeting with the team the client decided to go for it, and the results do not disappoint. The incredibly sleek new design gives the bathroom the feel
BEFORE
of a luxury hotel but with all the comforts of home. Not only did they increase the counter space and storage in their double vanity, but they added a spa-like
AFTER
walk-in shower – just look at those tile and hardware details. What a peaceful, luxurious space! Despite the massive undertaking that is a home renovation of this level, the HomeTech
team
took
every
effort
to minimize the client’s trouble and maximize their satisfaction. The clients were more than pleased with the new look of their home.
Here’s what they had to say:
“
We decided go with HomeTech because of their was attention to the details and their suggestions and patience which we weren’t getting from other companies. It was very easy to work with Moses and the whole crew, they were responsive and always answered our concerns and questions. I appreciated that during the 7-month project period the HomeTech construction crew were always the same people working in our house which made us feel safer because they knew what was going on and we didn’t have strangers coming and going. The crew consistently left the house clean and they were cautious with moving things around. We had a very good experience with HomeTech, we appreciated all the care to details. The crew helped us create our dream home in real life.
”
SEE MORE BEFORE & AFTERS ON HOMETECHCONSTRUCTION.COM HOMETECH I 09
100% FINANCING FOR YOUR REMODEL
Dreaming of remodeling your old bathroom or modernizing your kitchen but unable to make a lump sum payment? Here at HomeTech, we know that budget is one of the most important factors when doing a home remodel. This is why we offer our clients both secured and unsecured financing. We are proud to offer 100% financing (OAC) with no interest*, low interest rates*, no payment promotions, and low payment options for all your home remodeling projects. It’s never been easier or more affordable to create the home of your dreams. Contact us today so one of our Finance Specialists can find the best program for you!
✓ INTEREST-FREE FOR 12 MONTHS!*
✓
✓
LONG TERM
LOW INTEREST
PROGRAMS
RATES*
CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON YOUR HOME REMODEL
(800) 861-7432 | HOMETECHCONSTRUCTION.COM
* CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. Hometech, Inc. is neither a broker nor a lender. Financing is provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Hometech, Inc. under the terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender, all subject to credit requirements and satisfactory completion of finance documents. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only. Hometech, Inc. does not assist with, counsel or negotiate financing, other than providing customers an introduction to lenders interested in financing Hometech, Inc. customers.
THE BENEFITS OF
DESIGN
IN HOME REMODELING Remodeling your home into your dream home can be an exciting time. It can also be a scary time – what if it doesn’t turn out the way you envision? What if the finishes you choose don’t look right, after all? What if the measurements are off? For homeowners, these are just a few of the many “what if’s” you run into when remodeling. Fortunately, HomeTech has innovative solutions to help our clients avoid many of these common concerns. Most projects we complete come with complimentary 3D design services. No matter how large or small your project may be, these remarkable 3D renderings provide clients with a stronger, more precise visualization of the finished space. 3D design also allows the design & build team to fine tune measurements and catch any potential issues before construction begins. This incredible tool makes the entire home remodeling process easier, smoother, and much more efficient. Here are a few of the biggest advantages to utilizing 3D design in home remodeling.
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WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT USING 3D DESIGN FOR YOUR REMODEL INCREASED ACCURACY IN SPACIAL PLANNING
CLARIFICATION OF YOUR ULTIMATE VISION
When you’re planning a home remodel, you want to know your final product will accurately meet all your space and layout specifications. Your build team needs a reliable model that will allow them to formulate a plan. Rather than relying on pages and pages of cumbersome 2D plans, as was the standard for years, 3D design allows for greater detail and precision when it comes to ensuring what needs to be done. This results in fewer mistakes and a more clear and efficient plan for construction.
The early stages of planning a home remodel are full of ideas, vision boards, paint swatches, and more. As fun and exciting as this can be, it can be difficult to truly realize the final product in your head or on paper. 3D design technology allows us to translate these ideas into a detailed, precise rendering of your finished project. HomeTech will sit down with you early in the process, take your ideas and turn them into a 3D rendering that will allow you to clearly see what your finished project will look like. This step is essential for seeing how your choices in colors, materials, and shapes will play out in real life – before any construction begins. These 3D renderings allow you to nix ideas that won’t work, and finalize design choices for your beautiful new space.
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IMPROVED COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR DESIGNER
ELIMINATION OF COMMON REMODELING MISTAKES
As anyone who has ever completed a remodel knows, good communication between client-contractor is key to a successful project. As a valued HomeTech client, your needs are our priority. We will sit down with you to visualize your project using 3D models, working together to try out different design ideas, vet any potential problems, and come up with even better design solutions. This efficient process allows us to all stay on the same page about your goals and what needs to happen to bring your dream home to life.
When you’re dealing with a home remodel, both you and your build team are aiming for as few mistakes as possible. 3D design helps us catch any possible mishaps long before they happen, saving you time and money in the long run. These 3D renderings are extremely detailed and developed from extremely precise measurements. The entire process will run smoother and more efficiently, reducing the possibility of mistakes and ultimately, helping you stay in budget.
As crucial as 3D design/renderings can be in the remodeling process, there is still no substitute for working with an experienced design & build team. A skilled contractor can bring perspective and interpret these renderings into the finished space of your dreams. The combination of this cutting edge technology with a talented team of professionals will ensure your design vision is brought to life, beautifully and efficiently. â–
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5 musts when hiring a contractor Deciding to remodel your home can be a big undertaking. Each decision you make requires careful thought and consideration, none more so than hiring a contractor. With dozens (or more!) of options in your region, how do you decide which contractor to hire? It’s tempting to go with the first option you find with decent reviews, but there are many important steps to take when vetting potential contractors.
HERE ARE 5 THINGS TO PRIORITIZE WHEN HIRING A CONTRACTOR: VERIFY YOUR CONTRACTOR IS LICENSED AND INSURED
DON’T HIRE THE CONTRACTOR WITH THE LOWEST BID
First things first, make sure whichever contractor you hire has their licenses and insurance sorted. This might seem like an obvious step, but it’s alarmingly common for contractors to let these things lapse and should not be overlooked. The last thing you want is to wind up with a messy or unfinished project and few options for making things right. Any reputable professional contractor should have at the bare minimum a current contractor’s license, business license, general liability insurance, and workers compensation.
When hiring a contractor, be wary of anyone who provides a bid that is substantially lower than the rest. Take the time to thoroughly review the estimate, going over each item and be sure everything is accounted for. Be up front in asking where the price difference comes in – is it quality of materials? The workmanship? Everyone likes to save money, but when it comes to remodeling your home, you truly get what you pay for.
CHECK REFERENCES AND REVIEWS
You’ll be spending a lot of time working with your contractor, so it is essential that you are able to communicate. Having a contractor that is approachable, respectable, listens to your concerns, and remains calm under pressure can be helpful. And while these personality traits are extremely important, it’s arguably even more important that your contractor has a proven track record of quality, experience, and credentials. You’ll be enjoying your home long after your contractor is gone, so prioritize their workmanship over how much you like them as a person.
Don’t skip the important step of seeking references and reviews. Ask potential contractors for their last three clients with similar projects, instead of asking for general references. This will give you a solid idea of their current work product and shed light on those recent working relationships. When speaking with past clients, ask specific questions. Examples could include: How long did the job take? Were the costs were out of budget (if so, why)? Were they happy with the results? And of course, would they work with that contractor again?
VALUE EXPERIENCE AS MUCH AS PERSONALITY
GET AN ESTIMATE IN-PERSON Regardless of how experienced or knowledgable a contractor may be, it is impossible to provide an accurate estimate for a job without seeing the conditions inperson. Even the smallest jobs require an in-person visit to assess the job site and give an accurate quote for services provided. Committing to a job with a ballpark estimate will increase your likelihood of running into surprise expenses as the job progresses – something no client wants.
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4 TIPS FOR LIVING IN YOUR HOME DURING RENOVATION Truth be told, a home renovation takes time. It might require you to make adjustments in your everyday routine in order to transform your house into your dream home. If you don’t want to pay the extra dollar for a temporary living space, you will have to find ways to acclimate to the renovation situation at your home. With that being said, there is a common question that homeowners ask before beginning construction work on their home – to stay or not to stay? Staying at home often seems like the cheaper option. A benefit of staying put is the daily communication with the construction crew and oversight of the project. However, if you leave, you avoid a dusty, dirty, and noisy environment. Moreover, there are many factors to consider before making this decision. Depending on whether you will be having your bathroom, kitchen, or entire home remodeled determines what solutions can be taken to avoid unnecessary stress. We are going to break it down for you so that hopefully we can make this decision a little simpler. Here are 4 Tips for Living in Your Home During Renovation:
1 THINK AHEAD If you are having your kitchen renovated, you might want to consider the fact that you won’t be able to cook how you normally do. In case you don’t want to go out to eat so often, you could always meal prep. In the event you are getting your bathroom fixed up, ask your contractor to provide a portable restroom for the time of the remodel. Although, the best case scenario is to have access to at least one other bathroom in the house, while it’s under construction.
2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS If you are having your kitchen renovated, you might want to consider the fact that you won’t be able to cook how you normally do. In case you don’t want to go out to eat so often, you could always meal prep. In the event you are getting your bathroom fixed up, ask your contractor to provide a portable restroom for the time of the remodel. Although, the best case scenario is to have access to at least one other bathroom in the house, while it’s under construction.
3 SET BOUNDARIES Make sure to discuss with the construction crew ahead of time what time will they be working, and the access routes that are being used. After all, who wants to be disrupted by unanticipated guests?
4 MAINTAIN CLEANLINESS You will want an idea of the type of mess you will be dealing with from the get-go. Keep in mind that any dust, debris, and fumes can enter your living space, even the areas that are not under construction. To control the spreading of the debris, be consistent about controlling the airflow in the home by keeping your ventilation system turned off. Also, be sure the remodeler puts plastic surface shields on the ground in areas of your home that are not being renovated so that your floors stay clean.
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7 QUESTIONS TO ASK
BEFORE YOU REMODEL You’ve grown tired of your current home and are ready to invest in a remodel. Before you begin, taking the time to fully explore the details of your project will save you money, time and stress. It’s tempting to dive right in, but clearly defining the budget and scope of your project ahead of time are essential to ensuring a successful remodel. Carefully considering your options and communicating your preferences will also create a seamless roadmap for your contractor. Here are seven important questions you need to ask before you begin your remodel.
1. WHAT IS YOUR GOAL?
2. WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET?
Defining a vision for your project is an obvious but essential step to accomplishing a successful remodel. Factoring in the needs of family members and creating a plan together will allow for a functional space that can be enjoyed for years to come. Articulating these goals to your design and build team will keep everyone on the same page and minimize confusion. Some specific questions to ask might include: What would you like to change about current space? Which design elements would make your space more functional (more storage, new appliances, etc.)?
Knowing your cost limitations will allow you to comfortably make decisions during the design process. Communicating with your contractor about the scope of the project is important to avoid unforeseen expenses down the road. One of the benefits of working with a Design & Build firm is the total transparency about cost details upfront. Together, you can decide where to save and where to splurge. No matter what your budget, HomeTech will work with you to make sure your needs are never compromised.
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3. HOW WILL YOU USE THE SPACE? This is an important question that will allow your designer to provide creative solutions that will work for the whole family. Do you desire an open space for everyone to gather freely, or are private spaces more of a priority? What is your living room primarily used for? How many people are using the home? Does your kitchen get heavy cooking use or are you more of a take-out family? The answers to questions such as these are vital to help your designer create a space is both comfortable and functional.
4. WHAT IS YOUR STYLE? Is a modern, streamlined look what you’re going for, or do you really love the charm of traditional style? Taking some time to determine your desired aesthetic will assist your designer in creating a space that is cohesive and meets your standards. Being as detailed as possible is key in ensuring your finished remodel exceeds your expectations.
5. WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU PREFER? Related to your overall style, considering the materials you want to incorporate is another important step. Are you aiming to use mostly sustainable materials? Do you prefer natural aesthetic with lots of wood and stone? Is carpet an option or do you prefer tile or wood floors? The answers to these questions will not only help determine your overall budget, but it will aid your designer in creating a plan that works with the rest of the home without compromising your needs or taste.
6. HOW LONG WILL THE REMODEL TAKE? The timeframe for a remodel depends on project size, design plan details, and of course, any surprises uncovered during demo. There are numerous building regulations that need to be factored in with any construction project. Completing plans and obtaining permits can be time consuming. Larger construction projects can be a very long process from start to finish, but for a general remodel of something simpler like a kitchen or bathroom, you’re looking at a shorter completion time. Working with a trusted company like HomeTech that is transparent about timeframe and can handle all the moving parts will make the process that much easier.
7. WHO IS YOUR TEAM? Home remodeling can be a long process, so you want a team that can take care of all the details. HomeTech Construction & Design is comprised of a talented team of professional designers, architects and contractors, all under one roof. Our skilled and capable team will break down the process to save you money and reduce stress. From architectural planning to permit pulling, HomeTech keeps your budget, needs and lifestyle in mind without sacrificing your personal taste and satisfaction. From day one, clients can expect streamlined communication and transparency, beginning with determining your goals and vision, right down to creating a logical timeframe and thorough plan. After our designers and architects draw up a customized plan, our production team gathers materials and creates a plan for construction. During the process, you can expect the highest level of courtesy and professionalism; all of our partners have extensive experience and are trained to treat your home with respect.
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5 Signs It’s Time For A Remodel Have you been dreaming about the idea of a kitchen or bathroom remodel? Committing to a remodel is a big decision. If you’re feeling stuck and wondering if your home is in need of a remodel, here are five sure signs that will make you schedule that consultation.
1. Not Enough Space
3. Missing Functionality
Maybe your family is growing or you just find yourself constantly feeling cramped. Whatever the reason may be, remodeling your current home is an excellent solution for optimizing space and creating a more comfortable, spacious living area. A qualified design & build team can explore creative options for opening up your home, no matter the size.
Whether it’s a room you just can’t figure out a use for, or some other function that is consistently lacking. If your current space is not meeting your primary needs, a home renovation will help. An experienced design and build team can help you identify and tackle those missing components.
2. Wear & Tear Your kitchen and bathroom have seen better days. The floors look dingy, the counters are chipping, some of your cabinets or drawers don’t even work properly anymore. At some point, all homes begin to deteriorate and need some refreshing. If you can’t look at your home without noticing all the areas that need improvement, that’s a sure sign it’s time to remodel.
4. Home Feels Outdated Perhaps you’ve been in your older home for years, or just bought a new home that isn’t quite your taste. Either way, if you’re living in a home that doesn’t suit your style, remodeling is a decision you won’t regret.
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5. You Plan on Staying in Your Home Taking good care of your home is one of the soundest investments you can make, but it is an investment. If you’re planning on moving or downsizing in the near future, this will impact the
extent of which you remodel. Your design & build expert will be able to go over the details of your budget and specific returns on investment.
Now that you have a better idea of whether a home remodel is the right choice for you, it’s time to stop feeling stuck and start making that dream home a reality!
Ready to begin your home’s transformation? Schedule a free in-home consultation with the HomeTech team by calling (800) 861-7432. We offer 100% financing (OAC). Project development, planning and budget analysis by HomeTech Construction & Design.
Feature Gallery
flawless
TWO BATHROOM REMODELS This particular HomeTech client had a couple of outdated, dark bathrooms that were in need of a complete overhaul to bring them into modern times.
Our experienced Design & Build team worked with the client to execute a budget-friendly space that not only meets their unique needs in regard to function and utility, but also looks breathtakingly beautiful. The finished result is sleek, serene, and honestly quite swanky. One word of warning, though. These photos may leave you itching to give your own space a makeover!
FIRST UP, THE MASTER BATHROOM Both bathrooms were essentially gutted to replace outdated elements with modern, top-of-theline fixtures and features. There is no shortage of glamorous details here. From that luxurious soaker tub, to the vanity with gobs of counter space and storage, the beautiful new flooring, right down to the expertly designed lighting.
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One of our favorite features of the new master bath is the gorgeous and spacious open shower. The custom glass door from CB Showers provides a seamless, open visual that makes the space look even larger than it is. The built-in shelves incorporate useful storage while adding some design flair.
As anyone who has remodeled a bathroom knows, attention to detail is everything. Inconsistent, cheap, or rushed work means your remodeled bathroom will need to be updating again, and sooner than you’d like. As you can see, the HomeTech team is masterfully precise and thorough. With a highly experienced team, you can trust the work will be done right the first time and will be built to last for years to come. hese close-up shots demonstrate the high level of attention to detail. Seriously beautiful, impeccable workmanship. Just look at that precision. Flawless!
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NEXT UP, THE SECOND BATHROOM The smaller of the two bathrooms was also in need of some major upgrades. When you hire an experienced Design & Build team, small does not need to mean cramped. Despite the small footprint, the HomeTech team was able to produce an extraordinarily sleek, fresh bathroom that is open, luxurious and functional.
To create a cohesive vibe throughout the whole home, the team utilized similar or even identical finishes to the master bath – such as the modern cabinetry, tile choices, fixture finishes, and more. Another custom glass half-door from CB Showers adds to the openness of the bathroom, simultaneously allowing that gorgeous light to shine through (and showing off that beautiful tile work).
As you can see, every inch of this space was designed for utility. A spacious tub, a highly functional vanity – even the beautiful lighting adds to the beauty and increases the warmth of this small space.
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AND FINALLY, PROGRESS PHOTOS These progress photos are helpful in illustrating the full renovation story. They aren’t as beautiful as the finished results, but they are just as important in showing the extreme care that goes into the entire remodel. What’s happening behind the walls of a remodel is crucial to ensuring the finished project is a built to last. Sloppy work means a sloppy finished product, which is a waste of everyone’s time and money.
One of the benefits of hiring a Design & Build firm is knowing you are getting experienced, trustworthy designers, architects, and contractors – on ONE team – with expertise about every aspect of the construction process, from start to finish. IF YOU’RE READY TO TACKLE YOUR OWN HOME REMODELING PROJECT AND WANT TO GIVE YOUR HOME THE RESPECT IT DESERVES, CALL 800-861-7432 TO BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION WITH HOMETECH. OUR EXPERT TEAM WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS WITH EASE AND HELP MAKE YOUR DREAM HOME A REALITY.
COMMON KITCHEN REMODELING
MYTHS DEBUNKED
The kitchen is the heart of your home, so it’s no wonder a kitchen remodel is a top priority for many clients. Planning a kitchen renovation can be thrilling, but if not properly planned, can also be overwhelming. When planning your project, it’s important to separate myth from fact so you can make your decisions based on sound information. Here are five common kitchen remodeling myths to be aware of.
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MYTH 1: YOU CAN DIY YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL It’s fun to look at the DIY Before & After images online and dream about tackling your kitchen remodel yourself. But the truth is, many people don’t realize what a large undertaking a kitchen remodel can be. While many projects can be done DIY, it’s extremely important to complete a kitchen remodel correctly. Not just for safety reasons, but so it can harmonize with the rest of your home and ultimately, add value. Remodeling an entire kitchen is a lot more complicated than just installing a new floor or resurfacing some cabinets. Yes, hiring an experienced contractor costs more than doing it DIY, but it will save you money in the end when you don’t have to redo your work or pay for accidental damage. More on why you should hire a professional contractor here.
MYTH 2: DON’T SPEND MORE THAN X% ON YOUR KITCHEN There are many degrees of remodeling. Your overall goals will determine your overall budget. If you’re only updating a few components, like lighting and wall coverings for example, you won’t need as large a budget as if you’re ripping out cabinets, installing new appliances, and so on. It’s safe to assume a kitchen remodeling budget of anywhere between 5-15% of your overall home value, once you determine the items you’d like to update. A good contractor can do anything from a cosmetic remodel to a complete rebuild – it’s up to you to decide what to spend.
MYTH 3: YOUR KITCHEN SHOULD REFLECT LATEST TRENDS To get the most mileage out of your kitchen remodel, think about how you’ll be using your kitchen for the next decade, rather than scoping out the latest trends. Don’t waste money on something that is beautiful but doesn’t suit your family’s needs. If you plan on selling your home soon, consult with your contractor about the best bang for your buck to increase property value and make it appealing to a buyer. Trends are fun, but risky – something that is completely on trend now could be outdated in just a few short years. HOMETECH I 27
MYTH 4: THE LIGHTING PLAN CAN COME LATER A great lighting plan can make all the difference in the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Spend some time discussing lighting with your contractor early on in the planning process, so you can be sure it will be lit properly and all the electrical elements are in place before finalizing cosmetic finishes. A good contractor will be able to help you understand how your kitchen should be lit and will be a be a great resource in selecting lighting selections.
MYTH 5: CHEAP FLOORS WILL SAVE YOU MONEY Of all the elements in a kitchen, the floor often gets the most use, so cutting corners with cheap flooring is a recipe for disaster. It also ties your whole kitchen together, so skimping on this element in favor of splurging elsewhere will never be a good idea. Cheap flooring will often need replacing in a couple of years anyway, so you won’t be saving much in the end. Just like good lighting, choosing high quality flooring is essential to creating a functional, welcoming space that will last for years to come. An experienced contractor will work with you to find a flooring solution early on in the planning process.
The most important aspect of your kitchen remodel is working with a contractor you trust. The right contractor will help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams while staying in budget and experiencing minimal hiccups. HomeTech is here to make your kitchen remodel as seamless and successful as possible. Call 800-861-7432 to schedule your free consultation. HOMETECH I 28
Why You Should Hire A Professional Contractor
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At some point in your journey as a homeowner, the need to renovate will arise. The idea of DIYing your remodel often comes up as an option. While the DIY route can work for some homeowners, hiring a professional contractor is often the best choice. Here are a few of the biggest reasons why you and your home may be better off in the hands of a professional.
EXPERIENCE WITH REMODELING PROJECTS Who knows your house better than you? This is true, but an experienced professional contractor that has worked with a variety of home systems and a plethora of materials has a unique advantage. This contractor has years of experience and knows what will work and why. This saves you the trouble of trying to figure it out on your own, or worse, wasting your precious time and money on something that won’t work. RELATIONSHIPS WITH VENDORS Every home remodeling project comes with a list of materials and supplies. Depending on the project, this list can be lengthy, and often gets longer as time goes on and new needs arise. The materials account for a huge chunk of your remodeling budget. While you may find the occasional deal on materials, a professional contractor will have relationships with vendors that come with professional discounts – this savings is passed onto you in the end, meaning you can get more for your budget. SKILLED IN MANY AREAS OF HOME IMPROVEMENT With experience comes expertise, and a professional contractor has been working in the home improvement industry for years. This experienced contractor knows how to frame a wall, install a subfloor, mount cabinets, navigate electrical issues, and much more. No matter what your need, they will know how to get the job done. Equally as important, they know what issues to watch out for, which tools and materials will work best, and the best method for tackling whatever project you have in mind. EXPERIENCE WITH COMPLICATED PROJECTS The world of home remodeling can be complicated, and surprises are uncovered all the time. When you’re doing your own renovations, these surprises can cause frustration, stress, and of course, lost money. For an experienced contractor who has the resources and know-how to handle even the most complicated road blocks, this is nothing they haven’t seen before. This confidence and experience will save you time and money in the end. SAFETY AS A TOP PRIORITY No matter how big or small your remodeling project is, safety is a priority for all professional contractors. A job done right and in compliance with local and international codes will prevent injuries and damage. A professional contractor not only knows these codes well, but they know how to obtain the correct permits for the job. This means that you, the homeowner, can trust your home will be code compliant. Contractors are also well-versed in OSHA regulations, so your home will be well protected by a safe work environment that doesn’t cause damage your home or injuries to anyone working in or around it.
UTMOST RESPECT FOR YOUR HOME Remodeling can be a very messy business, and the leftover mess is one of the main complaints from homeowners. No one enjoys finding a pile of sawdust, lunch wrappers, stray nails, or mess laying around at the end of a job. Not only is this annoying, but it can be a hazard for you and your family. When you hire a professional contractor, you ensure your home is treated with respect while the job is in progress, and you won’t have a mess to clean up when it’s finished. SAVING YOU MONEY OVERALL In addition to saving money on materials and supplies as we mentioned before, there are many more ways hiring an experienced contractor can stretch your budget. A job done right the first time is a job that will only have to be done once. When you enlist the help of someone inexperienced, you run the risk of work performed poorly, a job left half-done, or a job that takes much longer to complete than it should. Not only does this leave you frustrated, but it often costs you more money as you pay for work to be redone. A professional contractor will get the job done right the first time, and they won’t stop until you are happy. If there is an issue with their work, you won’t be left dealing with the consequences (or footing the bill to fix it). Taking on a home remodel is a big commitment, and one that should be taken seriously. This is your home, and your money, after all! Unless you have a good amount of experience with home renovations, hiring an experienced contractor will save you time, stress, and money.
In the hands of a professional, you’re left with a beautiful home that you can be proud of and trust is built to last and is in compliance with safety standards. You may come to regret taking on a DIY renovation, but you’ll never regret hiring a professional contractor.
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