Lenny | Colony Home Improvement

Adding Value and Space to Your Home with a Dormer Addition

September 11, 20140

Add more functional space to a room with dormer additions.

When many homeowners look at the possibility of a home addition, they may realize they don’t have the space to complete an outward addition. Many homes have attics that could be transformed into livable space, but the ceilings are sloped and aren’t always conducive to creating a usable room in this space. In these situations, dormer additions can be the perfect way to add space and value to your home.

What Is a Dormer Addition?

A dormer addition typically installs into the attic of a home and extends the roof out horizontally to lift the roof space without adding an entire second story. This type of addition can be any size. In some situations, the dormer will only accommodate a single window. Larger dormers can extend the entire length or width of the home. Your home remodeling contractor will talk to you about your requirements to determine which dormer additions would work best to suit your needs.

A dormer addition can increase the space in a room.

Raise the roof with a dormer addition.

A Low-Cost Renovation

A home addition can be a costly endeavor. However, different projects have varying prices depending on the work involved. For instance, a full second-story addition and an external addition requiring a foundation are the most expensive options. Dormer additions, on the other hand, are one of the least expensive choices for homeowners who need a little extra space. Whether you already have a room in this area of your home and you want to raise the roof a little or you are transforming the space completely, talk to your contractor about the various options to ensure you choose one that fits your budget and your needs.

Choosing the Right Style

As you consider the options for a dormer addition, you need to think about the style of your home and how it will change with this type of home addition. This will help you choose the right style to complement the rest of your home. One of the considerations you must make is the height of your roof. The dormer can’t exceed the current height of your roof. You will also need to select the slope of the roof over the dormer. Some people choose a gabled roof that slopes down on both sides from a peak, similar to your original roof. Others prefer a shed roof, which slopes from the joint with the existing roof toward the front of the dormer.

Choosing a home addition adds more space to your home, as well as increases its value. If you are considering an addition in your attic space, dormer additions can be the ideal option. These additions often cost less than many other projects and allow you to create more space with fewer disturbances to your existing home. With the right choices, you will match the overall style of your home and create a beautiful and functional living space.

If you are considering dormer additions for your MA home, contact us. Our experienced contractors can help you make the best decisions for your home.

Expert Tips and Ideas for Remodeling the Master Suite

September 9, 20140

Ask a home improvement contractor to help transform your master suite.

Your master suite can become a relaxing environment with the help of a home improvement contractor.

The master suite can be one of the most valuable rooms in your home. In fact, upgrading master bedroom suites can have a dramatic impact on the resale value of your home. Therefore, this type of project can be one of the first options for those who only have the budget to complete one project at a time. Your home improvement contractor can provide tips and ideas to make this project go more smoothly.

A Personal Getaway

Many people treat their master suite as a personal getaway to relax for the evening after the kids have gone to bed. To make your bedroom the ideal place to unwind, consider creating a special nook for a table and a couple of chairs or a comfortable couch for relaxing on the weekends or in the evenings. Another option is to install a bay window with a window seat so you can enjoy the view outside. Anything that creates a comfortable environment to spend some alone time or private time together works well for this type of space.

Master bedroom suites can be a great place to relax.

Create a relaxing atmosphere in master bedroom suites.

Renovate the Bathroom

Home improvement contractors are full of ideas for renovating bathrooms to create ideal master bedroom suites. For instance, installing a large shower with dual showerheads can be a great way to share the space. Likewise, many homeowners enjoy creating his and hers sinks so both can get ready for a date or a special event without having to wait for the bathroom to open up. A Jacuzzi tub can also be a great addition to any master bedroom suite, giving you another way to relax and eliminate the stresses of daily life.

The Ideal Atmosphere

The master bedroom is often seen as a romantic getaway right within the home. One great way to improve this ambience of romance is to install a double-sided fireplace into the wall separating the bedroom and bathroom. This allows you to enjoy a fire from within your bedroom, as well as take a nice bath with candlelight and the light from the fire. This is a feature you will find in many newer homes. Another way to change the atmosphere of the room is to add a balcony with French doors or a patio door. This solution works best if you have an amazing view outside your bedroom.

Transforming master bedroom suites is one of the best ways to improve your quality of life and the resale value of your home. However, many people aren’t sure where to start on this type of project. Hiring a home improvement contractorwill help you make the right choices for your new bedroom, creating a romantic atmosphere and enhancing the functionality of this important room in your home.

If you are thinking about remodeling your master bedroom suite, contact us. Our experienced Massachusetts home improvement contractors have plenty of ideas to help you create a plan that suits your lifestyle.

Bathroom Remodeling Can Be Done on a Budget

September 4, 20140

Bathroom remodeling can create a functional space.

Bathroom remodeling on a budget can still create a charming room.

Does your bathroom need a fresh look? Whether you’re trying to sell your home or you’re sick of looking at your 1950s water closet, taking on something likebathroom remodeling can seem overwhelming and costly. Fortunately, there are ways to tackle your next home improvement project on a budget.

Cheaper Ways to Update Your Bathroom

The simplest option for a bathroom upgrade on a budget is to spruce up the look without a full-scale remodeling project. First, try a fresh coat of paint. This is probably the cheapest way to change the look of your bathroom, and there are so many colors to choose from. Try patterns like polka dots, stripes or an accent wall for something different.

From there, you can try out new lighting. While Hollywood lighting may seem cool backstage, it is no longer ideal in modern bathrooms. Try a unique light fixture for a more luxurious or modern look. Some other simple ideas include replacing your shower curtain and doorknobs and painting your cabinets.

Many bathroom remodeling ideas can be done on a budget.

Ways to Save on a Full Bathroom Remodel

What if your bathroom needs a more drastic change? There are plenty of bathroom remodeling ideas that can save you a few bucks as you embark on your renovations. One of the most expensive parts of bathroom remodeling is replacing the counter tops. Most people automatically opt for granite. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can use to bring the cost down.

Look for granite in more unique colors; the less popular the color, the less it will cost. Also, look for granite with imperfections to save some money. It may sound like a sacrifice, but if the imperfection is where the sink basins will go, it won’t make a difference in the long run. Think of it as a unique style choice. You’ll have the most distinctive bathroom on the block!

If your fixtures need to be replaced, consider purchasing them used. Websites like Craigslist and eBay have some legitimate deals. You can also try websites like Etsy for bathroom accessories that have already had a makeover. These pieces can allow you to use your imagination to create a unique and custom bathroom with a low price tag.

Where to Spend Your Money Wisely

Another way to stick to a budget while renovating your bathroom is to put aside a certain amount of money toward each area of the bathroom. The most money should be reserved for plumbing essentials that are needed for functionality. Count on about 20 percent. Then, worry about the cabinetry, flooring and shower tiles. These will make the biggest style impact. The least amount should be spent on details, such as wall color, especially since these items cost little to begin with.

If you are in need of bathroom remodeling in Boston, contact us. We are the home improvement experts, ready to help you start planning today!

How to Transform Your Basement into a Space the Whole Family Can Enjoy

September 2, 20140

Basement finishing transforms the entire space.

Transform your space with a basement finishing project.

For many, the basement feels like wasted space only suitable for storage and your laundry room, if you don’t have one on the first floor. With the help of a basement remodeling company, you can complete a basement finishing project to create a space your whole family will love. The basement can be the ideal place to expand the usable space in your home.

Consider Your Needs

Some homeowners want finished basements so they can use the space any way they’d like. If you have specific needs your current home doesn’t meet, such as extra space for a playroom, weight room or even a guest bedroom, the basement can be the ideal location for creating this space to avoid adding onto your home or moving to a bigger one. Basement remodeling is one of the most affordable remodeling options for many homeowners. Once you know what you want from your basement, you will be able to move forward with your project.

Work on a Design

Finding the perfect layout for your basement finishing is important to maximize your use of the space and its functionality. Hiring a remodeling company to help with this process can produce the best results. They will send someone to your home to evaluate the current layout of your basement and how much space you have to work with. Once they know the dimensions and where everything, such as your staircase, is located, they will make recommendations based on your desired uses for your basement. For instance, adding a bathroom to your basement will work best in a different location than a playroom or office.

Create a place to spend time with basement finishing.

A basement finishing project can create a comfortable living space.

Add Popular Features

There are plenty of extra features you may want to add to your basement remodeling project. For instance, it is important to choose mold- and mildew-resistant materials to combat the moisture problems many basements experience. You also need to consider whether you want to construct walls to separate certain areas, or if furniture is suitable for creating separate spaces. Accent lighting, heating and cooling and a wet bar are all popular features many people want in their basements. Talk to your contractor to find out what options they recommend to meet your needs.

Transforming your basement into a livable, usable space for your whole family can maximize the potential uses of your home. It can also reduce the amount of clutter by restricting certain activities to your basement, instead of the rooms on your main floors. An experienced contractor can help with your basement finishing project to create the ideal space to meet your every need. With their recommendations, your basement will become the favorite place in your home.

If you are looking for an experienced contractor in MA, contact us. We can help you design and carry out your basement remodeling project to create functional space.

Custom Cabinets Can Add Character to Your Kitchen

August 28, 20140

Custom cabinets are an easy way to change the look of your kitchen.

Add style with custom cabinets for your kitchen remodeling.

It’s true, the kitchen is the heart of your home. You might be thinking about remodeling so your kitchen better matches the warmth and love your family represents. If you can’t afford full kitchen remodeling, it’s amazing what change something like new kitchen cabinets can make to your space. Whether it’s the color, material or positioning, custom cabinets can be an easy way to improve your kitchen and the value of your home. There are a few things to think about if you’re debating between custom and semi-custom cabinets to add character to your kitchen.

Freedom of Choice

You may be wondering whether it’s worth the cost of custom cabinets over stock cabinets you could pick from a catalog. Included in the higher cost is the ability to customize cabinets to fit your ideal dimensions and storage purposes. With custom cabinets, you are able to select:

the finish
the crown molding
the colors
the trim

If you opt for lighter woods, your kitchen will appear brighter and more cheerful. If you prefer bolder colors, choose darker woods. For a particular color you want in your kitchen, you have the option to choose custom paints or stains for your cabinets. All of the unique characteristics you prefer can be included in made-to-order cabinets, crafted with your creative ideas in mind. You can also easily change a traditional kitchen into a modern one with the help of your custom cabinet choices or visa versa.

Change the look of your kitchen with kitchen remodeling.

Choose the right custom cabinets to suit your kitchen’s new style.

Quality Matters

The kitchen is a valuable part of your home, so why not update it with the best quality material? With custom cabinets, you can have the quality you desire because your options are limitless. The purpose of your cabinet upgrade is not only to change the atmosphere in your kitchen, but to create a user-friendly addition that allows for comfort and fits your family’s style. And don’t forget about the wear your cabinets experience from heat in the kitchen, water droplets from the dishes or the occasional food transfer from a spill or a dirty hand. Purchasing custom cabinets that withstand everyday wear can make the difference in the durability you wish to maintain with your customized cabinets.

Although there is a lot that goes into the kitchen remodeling process, planning for, purchasing and installing your custom cabinets doesn’t have to be a headache. When you finally decide to go with custom cabinets, bank on Colony Home Improvement in MA for the complicated installation process. With more than 40 years of experience under our belts, you can tell us what you want and rest assured your vision will come to fruition. Contact us when you’re ready to get started.

Author: Lenny