If you’re considering remodeling a small kitchen, there are a few things you will need to figure out before you get started.  You will want to establish a budget for your project.  You will probably want to decide on your budget first, so you can will have a better idea of how extensive of a remodel you will be able to do.  This will also let you start shopping for things like appliances, plumbing fixtures, cabinets, counter tops, flooring and lighting, just to name a few.

You will also need to come up with the design.  Hiring a kitchen designer to help you with this step could be a huge time saver and could make the process much smoother.  Another thing you’ll have to decide is will you do the work yourself, or will you hire a team of professionals to do the work for you.

One thing to keep in mind is how much time are you willing to spend doing the work yourself.  Remember that although you will be saving money if you do the work yourself, you’re time is valuable too and just because you’re remodeling a small kitchen, this will not be a small project.  Are you willing to give up your weekends and evenings for the next few weeks or months?

We recently came across this great blog post and video that give lots of great tips for the homeowner who’s considering remodeling a small kitchen

First of all, standard laminate countertops (Formica) are relatively inexpensive and easy to clean. Laminate counters resist stains and they come in a multitude of finishes, colors and styles and are easy to maintain. However, laminate countertops can be scorched easily by hot pots and pans and cannot be repaired if damaged. Also, you can easily cut through laminate with a sharp kitchen knife if you’re not being careful and if one corner of the countertop is ruined, the entire piece must be replaced. Laminate will also become porous over time, making it more susceptible to staining.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Home Remodelers>>

Ceramic tile countertops are also relatively inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and textures. Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. It’s heat resistant and cannot be easily cut through. One can easily get a custom look that will dress a room up or down with this versatile choice. However, ceramic tiles can crack and grout will inevitably stain and become dingy even after it’s been cleaned.

Granite and marble countertops are very popular today. They offer a high-end look and are very durable and come in a variety of colors and patterns. However, granite and marble countertops must be polished in order to keep their shine and they tend to be expensive. Also, marble countertops tend to stain a bit more easily than granite.

Metal countertops like copper, brass, and stainless steel are unique and can be aesthetically appealing; they also come in a variety of finishes. Metal countertops are not easily scorched but they can prove difficult to find (unless choosing stainless steel) and they are quite expensive. Metal countertops are easily scratched with knives and other utensils and abrasive cleaners are a definite no-no.

Wood countertops are warm and inviting and can be cleaned using abrasive cleaners. However, they can rot and are difficult to disinfect because they are so porous. Their porous nature also makes staining an issue. Wood countertops have to be oiled regularly.

Soapstone counters are durable and won’t stain, however, they too must be oiled regularly and soapstone scratches more easily than does granite. Soapstone counters are also fairly expensive.

Concrete countertops can be customized and come in a wide variety of colors and textures. Concrete countertops can be outfitted with certain inlays, like shells or stones and pebbles, and are very durable. Concrete countertops won’t scorch or scratch easily, but they are expensive and must be installed by a contractor. It’s unadvisable to install concrete countertops yourself.

No matter which countertop material you choose, you should always remember to make the selection based on your budget, your intentions for the room, and your long-term outlook. If the counter will face a lot of wear and tear, be sure to choose a material that will hold up accordingly. Shop around for the best prices and do some sample comparisons to be sure you get the color and style that most interest you.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Home Remodelers>>

Faux painting techniques are easy to do yourself. All you need is an idea and a minor knowledge of your chosen technique. Let’s look at some of the various faux techniques and get some basic information on each.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Painting Contractors>>

Sponging is a very popular faux paint choice wherein a dampened sea sponge is used to either add a second coat of paint in a different color or to take color away from an existing paintjob. Removing color using a sea sponge is advisable only if the surface has been freshly painted. Otherwise, your best bet will be to add a complimentary color to the existing paintjob.

Ragging is similar to sponging; only the tool of choice is a dampened rag. Here again, this process is used to either add paint to, or remove paint from and existing surface. Rag techniques offer a lacy and elegant appearance and is always popular for formal dining areas and master baths.

Colorwashing is a technique wherein three colors are mixed together to create a hazy, dreamlike blend that gives any surface a look of subtle texture.

Frottage is a technique whereby plastic is pressed against a freshly painted, wet wall to create the look of aged leather. This technique can be done in any color and no special plastic is required. Most people simply use plastic shopping bags or regular kitchen trash bags.

Dragging is the process of dragging a dry brush down a freshly painted, wet wall to create the appearance of textured fabric.

Some people elect to use a crackle technique on their walls. This technique is only available with the purchase of special paint that cracks when it dries. When this paint is layered over an existing color, the crackle creates a two-tone, antique look.

Another great idea is to alternate paint textures themselves. Because flat paint dries with no sheen, combining flat and gloss paints can create a classic, custom look. A good example of this would be the implementation of a technique whereby a flat base coat is painted on a chosen surface and allowed to dry. After the base coat has dried completely, a pattern is outlined on the wall using painter’s tape. Next, a coat of semi or high gloss paint in the same color is painted over the tape. After the tape is removed, you are left with alternating paint textures in flat and gloss.
This technique makes for an elegant and sophisticated look with little effort. It can also add to the durability of your current paintjob because gloss paints are easier to clean.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Painting Contractors>>

Unfortunately, when it comes to finding the ‘pros’ to a flat roof, they are few and far between. The only beneficial factors to a flat roof are the fact that nobody will really see it, so the esthetics of the material you choose are obsolete, and the cost of construction for a flat roof is less than the cost of a sloped roof. However, the list of ‘cons’ for the flat roof is far more numerous.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Roofing Contractors>>

Flat roofs are prone to leakage. Because water, snow, and ice sit longer on a flat roof, and do not run off efficiently, flat roofs are far more susceptible to leakage than their sloped counterparts. Also, flat roofing is subject to extra weight, this is especially true in areas where snow and ice are common. This added weight will guarantee structural weakness over time. Flat roofs also lose stability as square footage increases; the larger the structure, the weaker the roof. Flat roof surfaces catch leaves and other debris easily; so regular cleaning is required, especially in deciduous areas. Flat roofs are often used for modern architecture, and should you choose to go this route, be prepared to increase your maintenance schedule.

Sloped roofing tends to be more popular and comes with its own list of pros and cons. A sloped roof will allow for adequate run off and can be more thoroughly insulated. Sloped roofs almost always improve home appraisal and require less maintenance than do flat roof styles. However, sloped roofs are not without their own issues. Sloped roofs can be more costly than flat styles and homeowners are faced with the selection of the most esthetic material and style. Depending on your location, sloped roofs can run from relatively inexpensive to completely outrageous. Because sloped roofs are visible, style and color of material is of vital importance. Balancing the aesthetics of your roof to that of the comparables in your neighborhood and the current style of the rest of your home is imperative for maintaining property value. For these reasons, sloped roofing is a major investment that should not be entered into without thought.

All in all, sloped roofs get a better consumer rating than their flat counterparts. But, if you’re still leaning toward the flat style, be sure you’re located in an area that is flat-roof-friendly. For example, heavily wooded areas are unadvisable for the flat roof because of debris accumulation.

Remember, either style you choose should be selected based on your individual needs and your personal preferences. If you’re planning to resale, you should probably choose the roofing style that’s most popular in your area. But if you’re building your dream home, and you love a flat roof – go for it! The choice is really up to you.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Roofing Contractors>>

You should request proof of licensing, and proof of permanent business structure. Both these requirements will ensure that your job is completed to specifications and in a timely manner. It’s also wise to select a contractor who carries insurance. Request to see documentation as proof (i.e. insurance certificates or cards).

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Roofing Contractors>>

Obtain the roofing contractor’s warranty options and all the information that goes therewith. Roofing is a major investment and it’s imperative that you protect your investment to the fullest.

Choose a roofing contractor who is also a good communicator. It’s a smart choice to pick someone who is willing to provide you with all the details you require concerning your project. Openness often indicates honesty. Honesty indicates a contractor who will not cut corners at your expense.

You might find it beneficial to choose a contractor who will obtain all the permits without your assistance. This is what we call a ‘full service’ contractor, a service that is a must have for busy households.

It will also be important that the roofing contractor has a cleanup schedule and a clean yard guarantee. Don’t choose a roofer who requires you to haul off old materials yourself, or one who will leave your lawn in a mess at the end of every day. Debris is one thing, but soda cans, cigarettes, napkins, and other garbage is quite another. Contractors with impeccable cleanup standards also tend to do impeccable work.

Do your homework. Ask your roofing contractor to provide you with at least three previous jobs and follow up with each one if possible. Ask them as many questions as you can think of concerning customer service, quality, and work ethic pertaining to the roofing crew. Because your roofing project is such a huge investment, it’s not smart to choose a novice contractor. If you choose to go with the ‘new guy’, your warranty package will become that much more important.

Lastly, go with your gut. Most of us will get a sixth sense or a gut feeling about impending projects and the people we elect to do them. If you don’t ‘feel right’ about any given individual, move on to the next option. It may seem hokey, but gut instinct can make or break many situations. If you are uncomfortable with someone, chances are there IS a reason. Don’t ignore what your body tells you.

If you’ve experienced a roofing horror story in the past, or you know someone who has, use that experience as a learning tool and don’t fall victim to the same mistakes. Take your time deciding and don’t forget to enjoy the process – and the outcome. You are in the driver’s seat!

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Roofing Contractors>>

The first consideration before you update your shower or tub is your budget. If you’re strapped for cash, but are badly in need, you can elect to update your shower or bath with inserts that will overlay your existing shower or bathtub. This type of upgrade will not require new plumbing and will not disrupt your existing tile work. A trained professional can complete this process in as little as 24 hours and will leave your bathroom with a fresh new look! These tub inlays are resistant to mildew and staining and are easy to clean and maintain. Measurements are imperative for this project, so if you’re in doubt, bring in a professional to make sure the job is done properly.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Bathroom Remodelers>>

If you’re electing to go with a more major remodel, and your budget can handle it, you might want to consider upgrading to a larger tub or shower. But remember, the new model has to fit through your doorway! There are countless horror stories about people who have purchased new showers and baths, only to find they won’t fit through the doorway when they get home. Our advice is to measure, measure, measure…everything. It’s easy to get excited about your new bathroom and forget some of the most important considerations, like room dimension.

Choosing a bigger tub might also mean the need for plumbing work. Large tubs and showers require large pipes. It’s also important to consider the size of your water heater. Make sure it carries enough capacity to fill your new tub before the water gets cold!

You should also inspect the underlying structure of your bathroom prior to installing a larger tub or shower. It’s imperative to ensure that the floor in your bathroom will support the added weight (including the weight of the water and the person bathing) prior to installation. This is especially important if the bathroom is on the second floor. Your pleasant bathing experience will come to a sudden halt if you end up falling through to the floor below! Besides being dangerous, this mistake can be costly in home repair. You may need to do some structure reinforcement prior to installing your new tub or shower.

And last, but certainly not least, you should ensure that your local government will not require a building permit for shower and tub installation. Laws can vary greatly from one location to another and it’s always best to know the guidelines and follow proper procedure for any project. If you don’t, you could end up paying fines, or having to cease work long enough to obtain the proper permits.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Bathroom Remodelers>>

Some roofing materials require less maintenance than others, but it’s a good idea to have you roof inspected at least once a year no matter what material you’ve elected. In fact, some contractors recommend having your roof inspected quarterly or after each passing season. Why, because neglecting your roof can end up costing you a fortune in the long run and prove to be way more trouble than necessary.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Roofing Contractors>>

Your roof will take a beating from the elements and suffer more harsh circumstances than any other part of your home. If you live in an open area, it’s subject to direct daily sunlight, wind, rain, hail, snow, ice, and everything in between. If you live in a wooded area, your roof is subject to all these and then some. Algae and mold are common problems for people living in heavily wooded areas. For these reasons preventative maintenance is key. Think of it like a ‘check up’ for your home. If you catch an ‘illness’ early, chances are you will afford fewer long term problems.

Roof maintenance should include regular cleaning of debris and other foreign material. But don’t make the mistake of pressure washing your roof. This can damage roof materials and create weak spots that are susceptible to leaks. Roof maintenance should also include the replacement of missing shingles and cutting back any overhanging branches or tree limbs. Nothing will ruin your day like a giant limb falling through your bedroom ceiling! You should also make sure to inspect caulking and sealants around vents, chimneys, and skylights to prevent leaking.

If you fail to keep up with your roof maintenance, you could be facing a world of hurt later down the road. Many people are taken by surprise when they finally notice dripping from overhead. By the time your carpet or flooring is wet, your ceiling is completely saturated and the wood structures above it may be compromised. The cost of replacing a missing shingle or two will be far less than having to replace roof beams and water damaged sheetrock. If you neglect your roof maintenance and you let things go, you could end up with a major repair on your hands. It’s common for people to end up forking over cash for structural damage, sheetrock replacement, and ceiling finishes and paints. When you consider all the damage neglect can cause, regular roofing maintenance becomes a complete no-brainer.

If you care about your home, and your family, you will do your best to make sure that you keep a solid and safe ‘roof over their heads’ and regular roof maintenance is the best way to complete that task. Wise homeowners will tell you that, whether you it yourself or hire it out, it’s well worth the time and the money!

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Roofing Contractors>>

The first thing you should consider before painting your home’s exterior is the necessary surface preparation. Be sure to clean the entire surface thoroughly using a pressure washer or a good ole bucket and brush. If you paint over dirt, your finish will not last as long or look as smooth as will painting on a clean surface. If your existing paint is peeling, it’s important to scrape off the excess to ensure your new paint will adhere properly and look polished. Be sure the surface of the house is completely dry before you paint. If it has rained, or you pressure washed, wait a day or two before you paint.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Painting Contractors>>

Your next consideration should be the type of paint you choose. When shopping for paint, be sure to purchase paint that’s specially formulated for use on the exterior of a home. Exterior paints are typically more durable than their interior counterparts and will withstand harsh weather, and direct sunlight more effectively. Some paints are equipped for use on certain surfaces. For example, paint for metal siding is a different formulation than paint used on wood.

You should also choose a paint color that will compliment your home and surrounding comparables. You certainly don’t want to choose a color that will get you reported to the neighborhood council. So, it’s wise to spend some time making this decision. Drive around and look for color combinations that appeal to you. Also remember that the color of your roof will have an impact on the exterior paint color you choose. It’s imperative to choose a color that compliments, and does not compete or clash with your existing roof color.

You will also need a good roller with several heads, a quality trim brush and surface brush, as well as painter’s tape for taping out windows. You will need sturdy ladders and possibly scaffolding. You should also make sure to purchase paint stirrers, rags, and plastic drop cloths if you’re over a porch or deck. You will also need tools to remove shutters and window boxes before the job.

Because of the massive work involved, most homeowners elect to choose a painting contractor to complete this project. If this is the route you prefer, consider consulting the contractor before making decisions on color and paint brand. Painting contractors can usually provide a wealth of information on what will work best for which material and offer prices that will give you the most bang for your buck. Most professional painting contractors offer free estimates for buildings up to a certain square footage.

Painting the exterior of your home is a project that should be undertaken every few years at the least. This, of course, is dependant on the climate and weather in your area, your lot location, and the quality of the products and paintjob you use with each application. Exterior paint can improve your home’s market value and will greatly increase your chance of resale in a volatile market.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Painting Contractors>>

First of all, set a budget. Once you’ve determined what you’re willing to spend, you can start getting estimates. Most painting contractors offer free estimates with a quick phone call. Be sure to keep track of each estimate so you can systematically eliminate the contractors that completely blow your budget.

You should next consider the time limit each painting contractor provides. The duration of the project should be consideration for many reasons, not the least of which is the fact that the painting crew will be strangers in your home, and you will have to plan your life accordingly. Many painting contractors will start off with a bang only to slow down mid way through…do your best to get a contract stipulation that will fine the contractor for every day he’s impermissibly over due for project completion. In some areas this fine is as high as 200 hundred dollars per day.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Painting Contractors>>

Find out what kind of systems your painting contractor of choice uses for painting. Will he spray? Will he brush and roll? If the contractor cannot advise you on acceptable paint systems for your home, he’s likely inexperienced.

You should select a painting contractor that will provide you with a warranty for the job. Peeling, bubbling, fading, and other factors should be taking into account when devising a warranty. Remember, warranties will vary between interior and exterior work, so read the fine print and be sure your contractor is honest.

Payment schedule should also be a determining factor when choosing a contractor. If you’re hiring out a small job, most legitimate painting contractors will require payment upon project completion. Some require a fifty-fifty arrangement for large jobs, wherein you pay fifty percent when the job is half done, and fifty percent on completion. It is unwise to pay up front because you may be throwing money away. Even if you’re paying a percentage up front you run the risk of absentee contractors. It’s always smart to pay for work after you’ve seen it, and not the other way around.

Lastly, obtain references from your contractor. He or she should be able to supply you with at least three verifiable references. Contact each reference individually and ask as many questions as possible. If you are the contractor’s very first client, you may be in for a rude awakening. Hiring a ‘newbie’ should be done at your discretion and not without a lot of thought.

Take your time with this selection and be sure to cover all your bases. Take before and after pictures as documentation of a job well done, or for evidential purposes should the worst happen! While you’re not likely to need them, it’s a good idea of obtain photographic evidence of work progression – just in case. Good luck, and happy painting!

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Painting Contractors>>

First things first, measure the space where your new appliance will go. There’s nothing worse than bringing home a new appliance only to find that it won’t fit into the opening in your counter. Measure first and buy later.

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Kitchen Remodelers>>

After that, you should set your budget and stick to it. While going into debt for a new stove might sound appealing, it’s not the smartest choice. Budget should the one of the main considerations for every home remodeling project.

You should then take into consideration your preference for gas or electric. These days, electric cook tops are most popular and prove to be a bit safer than their counterparts because there is no open flame to avoid. Your sales person will be able to provide you with information and the pros and cons of each option. You should also take into account your preference and the availability of flat ceramic cook tops versus traditional stove eyes. These cook tops are popular, but if one eye tears up, repair can be costly. In some cases, repair is impossible and the entire unit must be replaced.

If your new stove will also have a built in oven, this should be factored into your decision making process as well. There are lots of variations in stove and oven selection and features will prove to be very important, especially if your appliance will get lots of use. For example, people who cook often, may find self cleaning options to be important. Bakers may desire a convection oven over a conventional oven, and so on.

The double oven feature is also an option for the gourmet. This choice is not always practical but may be ideal for people who do a lot of cooking or for large family homes.

New stoves offer a wide variety of features, and these features vary by brand. If you have a specific brand preference, you can easily choose features that fall within that category. Some examples of stove features are delayed cooking and ‘warmer’ options that will keep food at a certain temperature without overcooking or drying it out.

Lastly, but certainly not least, is color selection. Ovens and stoves come in a wide range of colors, and also offer the option of stainless steel. It’s wise to match your new stove to your existing appliances. If your fridge and dishwasher are white, your stove should probably be white as well. And while stainless steel is a high-end option, it’s more important that your stove compliment your existing décor. Stainless steel is also more expensive than its counterparts and shows fingerprints easily, a detriment to people who cook often. Don’t feel obligated to purchase your new stove based on trends, it’s best to buy an appliance that offers practicality and durability all while preserving the aesthetics of your kitchen!

Let Home Remodeling Professionals .com Match You to Kitchen Remodelers>>