Home Improvement Blog

The Heat Is On! An Outdoor Kitchen Addition Adds Style and Value To Your Home

July 31, 20140

An outdoor kitchen addition can create a beautiful functional kitchen you can use to entertain.

When it comes to cooking, most people think of using the typical kitchen to create their favorite dishes. However, if you are considering home remodeling ideas, an outdoor kitchen addition can be a great option. Kitchen remodeling contractors can offer a number of ideas that add both style and value to your home and make it easier for you to entertain your guests.

More than a Grill

Many people love to grill outside during the warmer months of the year. For some people, this is all they have that could be considered an outdoor kitchen. However, when you are talking about a true outdoor kitchen, there’s so much more to it than just a grill. An outdoor kitchen addition can consist of a number of appliances you are used to seeing inside the home, such as a stove top, an oven and a refrigerator, as well as preparation areas so you can create anything you could make in your typical kitchen. There is even storage space for your pots, pans and utensils.

Put up Walls

Your kitchen remodeling contractors may recommend putting up walls around your outdoor kitchen. However, these walls are different than those you would otherwise find in your home. These walls can be shorter or may only cover three sides of the area, creating the illusion of a separate space from the rest of your backyard. Most people would find it unappealing to place an outdoor kitchen in the middle of the yard with no separation. Creating a special place for this new feature is the preferred method for this home remodeling project.

Start Small and Grow

For some people, an outdoor kitchen addition is an expense they can’t handle all at once. Many kitchen remodeling contractors are able to work on your new outdoor kitchen in small pieces so you can install the necessary elements and add to them as your budget allows. As you consider your home remodeling needs, think about whether you can afford the entire outdoor kitchen at once or if it is best to break it up into several smaller projects.

Proper Installation

Some homeowners think they can create their own outdoor kitchen. After all, how difficult can it be to add a few appliances and cabinets to your deck? Unfortunately, it can be quite difficult, especially when you consider the need to run plumbing, electrical wiring and gas lines from inside your home to your outdoor kitchen. These parts of the project require experienced kitchen remodeling contractors.

Home remodeling for your kitchen doesn’t always refer to your traditional kitchen. For some people, an outdoor kitchen addition can be a great way to add style, functionality and value to your home. These kitchens offer much more than a simple grill and offer the chance to cook outside instead of restricting yourself to the inside, especially when the weather is nice.

If you are considering an outdoor kitchen addition for your home, contact us. Our experienced Connecticut contractors can create a fun space for outdoor cooking.

Together We Stand, Divided We Groom: His-And-Hers Spaces Are Trending In Bathroom Remodeling

July 29, 20140

His and hers bathrooms are one of the most popular bathroom remodeling ideas today.

Men and women handle their grooming tasks in different ways. In general, men require little room and time for their grooming needs, while women have a lot of products to use and store and often require more time. This can often lead to arguments about using the bathroom. These bathroom remodeling ideas can help you complete a master bathroom remodel that helps you both get your grooming tasks done without invading each other’s space and time.

Add Dual Sinks

Dual sinks are a great option when you are trying to get ready at the same time in the morning or for a night out on the town. Many grooming tasks require running water to perform, such as shaving, brushing teeth and sometimes even fixing your hair. Having more than one sink in your bathroom is a great way to avoid the common problem of fighting over access to the sink. When completing a master bathroom remodel, this is one of the first things many couples ask for.

A Larger Bathroom Space

If you currently have a small bathroom, you may wish to enlarge it so you can both spend time in the bathroom without getting in each other’s way. When it comes to bathroom remodeling ideas, couples are opting for much larger master bathrooms than ever before. With more space, you can accommodate a larger shower or tub, as well as dual sinks and any other features you feel would be the right choice for your bathroom needs.

More Storage

Even though many women need far more grooming products than men, both parties often want more storage space in the bathroom. No one wants to see cluttered countertops when they go into this room of the home. With bathroom remodeling, you can add more storage space so no one has to go without the products they need.

Is This a Good Investment?

If you are thinking of completing a master bathroom remodel to create the ideal his and hers space, you may wonder if it is the best use of your remodeling budget. Bathroom remodeling can be a costly venture. However, many homeowners must consider the return on their investment. In many cases, a kitchen remodel can offer the best return for the cost of the project. However, more couples are looking for his and hers bathrooms when they shop for a home, which means this option can still provide the balance between cost and value you expect from your remodeling projects.

While couples have shared the master bathroom for many years, opting for a master bathroom remodel can create his and hers space to make sharing this room much easier. Talking to your contractor about bathroom remodeling ideas to create this shared space will help you make the right decisions to maximize your return on your investment.

If you are considering a his and hers master bathroom remodel, contact us. We can help you make the right decisions to create the ideal shared space.

Why Vinyl Siding Has Become So Popular For America’s Homes

July 24, 20140

Vinyl siding is a durable option that can enhance the beauty of your home.

The materials homes are made of have changed dramatically over the years. If you look at a home that was built 100 years ago versus one that was built last month or last year, one of the biggest differences you will notice is the vinyl siding. Vinyl siding installation has become one of the most popular options for today’s homes. Before you hire a vinyl siding contractor to help you side your home, it can be helpful to learn about the benefits.

Durable

One of the biggest reasons homeowners turn to a vinyl siding contractor to meet their needs is the material’s durability. Vinyl siding holds up to the elements, as well as the regular wear and tear your home encounters. For instance, if your child accidentally throws a baseball against your house, it isn’t as likely to leave behind damage like it can with other materials. Vinyl siding installation also often comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you even greater peace of mind.

Sustainable

In today’s world, more people are choosing environmentally-friendly options, particularly in their building materials. For the most part, vinyl is a green material, allowing homeowners to feel more confident in their choice. In addition, this type of siding can be insulated, which cuts back on energy costs, helping the environment.

Affordable

Another factor that attracts homeowners to vinyl siding installation is its cost. When compared to other siding options, vinyl siding is one of the most affordable choices. Because of the reduced costs, even individuals who aren’t building a new home often choose vinyl for siding replacement.

Low Maintenance

Owning a home comes with great responsibility. There are many maintenance tasks that need to be handled to ensure your home stays in great shape. When homeowners opt for vinyl siding, they are choosing a low-maintenance option. This siding doesn’t need to be painted and only requires washing every once in a while. You also don’t have to worry about rotting or insect infestations.

Safety

In addition to being a low-cost option with low maintenance, this type of siding actually makes your home safer. Vinyl siding complies with the regulations set forth by the National Fire Protection Association, helping to protect your home from fire hazards. This siding offers insulating protection for electrical and data transmission cables.

When you are thinking about which type of siding to choose for your home, vinyl siding contractors will help you realize all the advantages of this material. Vinyl offers a large number of benefits, including affordability, low maintenance, safety, durability and sustainability, giving you a beautiful home. Vinyl siding installation is ideal for both siding replacement and new construction.

If you are thinking about vinyl siding for your home, contact us. Our vinyl siding contractors can install your beautiful new siding so you can enjoy all the benefits.

You’re Ready to Add Your 2nd Story Addition: What to Know before You Grow

July 22, 20140

A 2nd floor addition can add value and space to your home.

Many homeowners don’t realize one of their options for adding on to a house is to add a 2nd story addition. This allows you to double your living space without taking up more of your property. With the right addition plans, you can add value to your home and create the rooms you always wanted. Before you start your project, you must consider the following.

Structural Requirements

Unfortunately, not all homes are structurally able to support a 2nd story addition. Before you consider adding another floor, talk to an experienced contractor. He should visit your home and inspect the structure to determine if your home is a good candidate for this type of addition. In some cases, adding structural support can allow you to move forward with your project.

The Addition of Stairs

Adding on to a house with another floor means you need to consider space for a new staircase. This means you will likely have to change the floor plan on your main floor. However, keep in mind your addition plans will still add square footage, even if you are losing usable space on your first floor. Talk to your remodeling contractor about the best location for your new staircase for functionality and practicality.

Necessary Upgrades

One of the last things most homeowners consider when thinking about adding a floor to their home is the upgrades they have to make. Your current heating and air conditioning system, as well as your electrical and plumbing, are designed to accommodate your one-story home. Adding another story requires you to upgrade some or all of these systems to provide the services you need for your entire home. In addition to wiring, plumbing and ductwork, you may need a larger air conditioner or furnace as well.

A Matching Exterior

Depending on the age of your home, matching the exterior can be difficult. As you make your addition plans, consider whether the siding and windows currently on your home are still available. If not, your project will cost more to make your 2nd story addition match the existing parts of your home. However, in some cases, your remodeling contractor may be able to recommend other materials that are similar and will blend well together to create a fluid look for the exterior of your home.

Adding on to a house is a great way to expand your living space and can often be cheaper than buying a new, larger home. In either case, a 2nd story addition allows you to add the extra space without taking up space on your property. If you are thinking of adding on, consider the option of building up instead of out. Meeting with an experienced remodeling contractor will help you determine if this option is the right choice.

If you are considering a 2nd story addition for your home, contact us. Our Connecticut remodelers can help you create your addition plans and carry them out.

How Lighting Can Affect the Personality of Your Kitchen

July 17, 20140

Lighting is important for kitchen remodeling.

Improve your kitchen remodeling with the use of the right lighting.

Good lighting is a necessity when it comes to cooking. It helps you see your recipes and the food you are working with, as well as what you are eating. When it comes to kitchen remodeling, especially kitchen remodels on a budget, focusing on the lighting can help improve the look and feel of your kitchen. The extra lighting is also useful in small kitchen remodels, giving you the results you want.

An Inviting Atmosphere

Because your kitchen often becomes a gathering place to enjoy family meals or entertain, it is important to create an inviting atmosphere with your kitchen remodeling. Increasing the size of the windows in a kitchen or adding plenty of lighting, particularly above a table or island, can be useful in making your kitchen a place in which people want to gather. Natural light is the preferred option, but if you can’t increase natural light, your remodeling contractor can help you make the right lighting decisions.

Create a Focal Point

The eye is naturally drawn to lighter areas in a room. This means you should consider what you want people to see when they first enter your kitchen. With small kitchen remodels, you won’t have a lot of choices for your focal point. However, it should still be a priority. For instance, under cabinet lighting can attract attention to your kitchen counter decor or small appliances. Some people choose accent lighting in the ceiling to showcase a favorite piece of art. The options are endless. Talk to your kitchen remodeler to find out what he suggests for your focal point and how to draw attention to it.

Types of Lighting

The type of lighting you choose can play a significant role in the personality of your kitchen. Kitchen remodels on a budget may not have as many options, but lighting doesn’t have to be expensive. Natural light is often preferred in the kitchen, but even with the best windows, you will need lighting for evenings spent in this room of the home. Recessed cans can be a great option under cabinets or above counters. A chandelier can provide a touch of elegance when hung above your table. You can even add more casual pendant lighting over your kitchen island.

The lighting you choose for your kitchen can play a significant role in the personality of this room in the home. Because your kitchen is used often, you need plenty of light to function. However, it can also create a unique sense of style for your kitchen. Before you get started on your kitchen remodeling, work with your contractor to determine which lighting options will give you the exact look and functionality you want.

If you are ready to start your kitchen remodeling project, contact us. At Colony Home Improvement in MA, we can update your kitchen personality, including the right lighting options.