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Bathroom Remodeling Design and Safety Features are Key

With technology ever-changing and energy efficiency options always improving, consider a design build remodeling company for your bathroom remodel. Whether to modernize or add to the overall functionality, there are several updates you can do that will last well in to the future while increasing your home’s resale value. 

energy efficiency bathrooms

RELATED: Energy Efficient Options

Did you know? One in five new toilets and one in 10 new showers in renovated master bathrooms are equipped with at least one high-tech feature. ~Houzz

While considering options for a remodel, remember… Bathroom Remodeling Design and Safety Features are Key. Aging in Place is a consideration for aging homeowners to ensure safety and security are added. Aging in Place modifications don’t always have to be an eye sore. There are many functional and aesthetically pleasing options out there! 

Features to add into your bathroom for solid design purposes:

Did you know? The 7 Most Popular Bathroom Upgrades includes: statement vanity, home (ventilation systems), and more… https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/home-and-design/7-most-popular-bathroom-upgrades

Add these functional updates to your next bathroom remodeling project:

  • Larger shower space
  • Removing walls to enter shower (barrier-free)
  • Adding lighting
  • Self-cleaning and/or double-flush toilets
  • Adding in more storage and cabinetry
  • Shower seats and grad bars installed in the shower

Check out some recent bathroom remodeling projects that Wineteer has completed! 

Essential Permits for Your Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel

Usually, different states or cities require different types of permits and licenses for home renovation projects. In some places, you can do many big remodeling projects even without any permission from the local authority, but in others, you’ll need specific permits, even for a few changes in the kitchen, bathroom, or any other part of your house. You should even consider your neighborhood Homeowners Association, as there are specific requirements for remodeling or additions as well. 

RELATED: If you’re in the Kansas City area, check out the latest permit requirements here: https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/permits-division

If you’re in the Johnson County, Kansas area, here is information on the permit process: https://www.jocogov.org/department/building-codes/building-permits/residential-remodel-permit

kitchen remodeling floorplan

If you’re not working with a home remodeling contractor, you will be responsible for pulling the permits yourself. There are many advantages for working with a design build firm, such as Kansas City’s Wineteer Construction, because they are familiar with each municipality’s requirements and process.  Some people avoid getting the permits just to avoid the time and cost spent on getting them. However, not getting the permits will be more disastrous. Let’s learn more about it from this article.

Do You Really Need Licenses and Permits for Remodeling?

Continue to explore the Essential Permits for Your Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel, if you remodel a kitchen or bathroom that needs necessary permits or licenses, the result can be devastating both practically and legally. 

Also, licenses and permits are needed to make sure the remodeling works and results are safe for everyone during the remodeling and after the completion of the work. If you want to resell the property and the remodeling doesn’t have the required permits, it will lead to complications, and potential buyers will refuse to be involved with the problematic property.

Unpermitted works also won’t cover any insurance, so you’ll need to spend more on the repairs in the future. Moreover, future renovations, demolitions, and obtaining necessary future requirements will be more challenging as you’ll have illegal records. That’s why it’s really important to obtain licenses and permits for even small remodeling projects when necessary.

Licenses and Permits for Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling

In this section, we’ve categorized the types of licenses and permits you’ll need to renovate your bathrooms or kitchens with different issues.

Mechanical

Bathrooms and kitchens usually have many in-built and separate appliances, including HVAC systems. If your remodeling project needs to change the systems, like how much power they’ll use, or add more mechanical parts, you’ll need mechanical permits and licenses.

electrical for home remodel Electrical

Usually, most renovations need changes to electrical wiring, fixtures, or outlets for any lighting or appliances. And any change to electrical items requires electrical licenses and permits

Plumbing

Often, bathroom and kitchen renovations require altering the plumbing items like sinks, toilets, showers, new lines or faucets, etc. For these reasons, you’d need to get plumbing permits and licenses for most of your renovations. https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/electrical-plumbing-and-mechanical-permits

Building

You’ll need building or structural permits and licenses when the bathroom or kitchen renovation requires visual and structural changes in the building. For example, adding or removing windows, doors, walls, roofs, etc. kitchen and bathroom remodeling permits

Demolition

If the bathroom or kitchen renovation work needs to do demolition of any part of the building, you’ll need special permits for the demolition works, for possible noise, to park demolition trucks in the neighborhood, and many more depending on the place you’re living.

Landscaping

You’ll need landscaping permits and licenses if you want to do any renovation work that can change the landscape on your property. For example, if you have a separate kitchen or washroom in your backyard and want to cut down any trees for it or add fences or decks for them, you’ll need permission for these changes. Check out this article, 10 Landscaping Trends to Watch in 2024, for ways to maximize your home’s curb appeal. 

Environmental

Sometimes the changes in your bathroom and kitchen can relate to environmental concerns, that’s why you’ll need permits to use different materials or appliances or change anything. Many materials, like asbestos, paints, boards, etc., can contain harsh chemicals that can lead to potential hazards. That’s why it’s really important to get environmental permits.

Accessibility

In some cases, you’ll need permits to improve the accessibility feature in your house, specifically in bathrooms, to make things easier for toddlers, the elderly, and disabled people. For accessibility features, there are specific codes, licenses, and permits, so ensure they get one, especially if the kitchen and bathrooms are open to the public. 

How to Get Remodeling Permits and Licenses

Continuing on the Essential Permits for Your Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel insight, this process can seem a bit complex and time-consuming if you’re new to this. However, if you follow these general steps, things will be easier:

  • Contact the professionals and local permit office to become familiar with the required rules, regulations, and renovation licenses for that area. If you have a design build remodeling company, similar to Kansas City’s Wineteer Construction, they will help you along the process. 
  • Create a detailed final plan on what type of work you’ll do with the help of the contractor to enlist and finalize what type of licenses and permits are needed to finish the renovation project successfully.
  • Get the necessary application, papers, and forms to obtain the permits from the local authority and submit them with accurate and necessary information. Also, make sure to provide all the documents and fees properly to avoid future complications. You can consider keeping copies of the documents for future reference.
  • You’ll need some time for the documentation to get reviewed and approved. Don’t just wait; plan for the next steps and prepare the site as the authority may want to inspect the area.
  • In case the permissions for the renovation project need essential reports on engineering tests, do the tests and provide authority with reports. You can also ask them for a representative to see the test result firsthand for quick decisions.
  • Negotiating and navigating through this process can be a bit complex, so you can get a contractor that offers to do this tedious work of gathering essential permits for your remodeling projects. You can just inspect the process when you’ve got time.

If you contact a reputed and experienced local contractor, they’ll inform you about all the licenses and permits required for your specific projects. It’ll be better if you hire a bathroom or kitchen specialist, as they usually have specific licenses and permits ready for many projects. However, to avoid more complexity, ensure the contractor you’re hiring has real licenses, not fakes.  If you’re in the Kansas City area, reach out to Wineteer for a kitchen, bathroom, whole home, or aging in place remodel. 

Remodel a Space to Make a Huge Impact

Houzz.com recently published its 2023 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends, which revealed that many homeowners are remodeling for the long run, intending to stay in their homes for 11+ years. Nearly 3 in 5 homeowners remodeled or decorated in 2022 (58% and 57%, respectively),and nearly half made repairs (48%). The top locations for interior residential renovations are the kitchen and bathroom. Also, another increasingly popular renovation is aging in place modifications to make the home safe for the aging homeowners.

The below chart shows the frequency of renovations from 2020, 2021, and 2022. If you notice, the trend is increasing each year for interior room remodels, home system upgrades (plumbing, electricity, HVAC, etc), home exterior upgrades, outdoor upgrades (patio, porches, pool areas, outdoor kitchen, deck, etc), and home additions. 
Frequency of Renovation Activity and Number of Projects Among Homeowners Who Renovated

Hiring Home Remodeling Professionals

Not all home remodeling companies offer in-house design services. However, companies like Wineteer offer in-house design services from the company owner. The design element of the process is critical for the homeowner to visualize the remodel. 

While homeowners hired specialty service providers most frequently in 2022 (46%), construction professionals —such as general contractors and kitchen or bathroom remodelers — came in a close second (44%). The share of homeowners who relied on construction pros grew by 6 percentage points (from 38% in 2021), as did the share relying on design-related pros (growing from 20% in 2021 to 26% in 2022). – https://www.houzz.com/magazine/2023-u-s-houzz-and-home-study-renovation-trends-stsetivw-vs~166887998 

If you’re trying to explore a new home remodeling project, let’s talk. Contact us for a free consultation.

Let Your Dream Home Spring Forward

Daylight Savings is a great reminder for us all to begin planning ahead for spring and summer activities and projects. As you prepare to host more gatherings inside and outside the home, why not get a head start on your to-do list and let your ideas of a dream home spring forward with the Right remodeling projects?

Consider the following areas of your home:

  • Decks and Patios
  • Open Floor Plans
  • Entryways
  • Bathroom Remodels
  • Kitchen Remodels
  • Walk-In Closet
  • Wine Cellar
  • And more »

Could any of these areas use updates in your home? Are you interested in putting your remodeling ideas together? Follow our Houzz page and save the projects you like to your ideaboards. Start planning ahead for your spring and summer projects with Wineteer Construction. Planned Right. Priced Right. Done Right.

Schedule your free consultation today.

Best of 2017

2017 was a great year for Wineteer Construction, as we were able to assist clients in updating their homes into trendy and functional living spaces in a number of ways! Here are just a few of our favorite projects from last year:

A Beautiful Mission

We love the look and feel of this beautiful kitchen, complete with granite countertops, custom cabinetry and a few stainless steel appliances. Remodeled with functionality in mind, this kitchen allows for plenty of natural light with walls of windows and plenty of counter space for storage and cooking preparation.

   

View more photos of this project on Houzz »

 

Fairway Dream

This kitchen remodel has ample lighting and a great island for easy dining and cooking preparation. The traditional white cabinetry allows other details in the kitchen to pop, including the lighting fixtures, dark brown wood in the island and tile above the stove. This remodel also showcases a refrigerator designed to match the custom cabinets for a beautiful finish in the kitchen.

    

View more photos of this project on Houzz »

 

Ease of Living

This bathroom was remodeled to improve ease of living at home while maintaining a very modern and trendy gray and white theme. Complete with a barrier-free shower, flip-down shower seat, raised toilet, grab bars and more, this bathroom has everything you need to maximize safety at home.

   

View more photos of this project on Houzz »

Interested in updating your home in 2018 to model any of these projects? Looking to remodel your home with the latest trends? Follow Wineteer Construction on Houzz and add the projects you like to your ideabooks.

Then, schedule a free consultation with our team to discuss your remodeling ideas.

Organization is Key to a Happy Holiday

Kitchen pantry area

Hosting holiday gatherings should be a time of joy and celebration, focused on spending quality time with your guests and not on cleaning, organizing or worrying about meal preparations. Remodeling your kitchen with a walk-in pantry is a great way to ensure your gatherings focus on the important things this holiday season.

According to a recent U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, pantries are a popular feature to focus on in the kitchen, from built-in cabinetry (with 41 percent adding this item to their remodels), reach-in pantry closets (17 percent) and creating walk-in pantries (10 percent).

Source: U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study

A recent article on Decorated Life detailed this growing trend of smart, easy-access, functional kitchen pantries that are being added to existing spaces, expanded or custom built. When deciding the design of a walk-in pantry, features to consider include: function and storage, appliance and electronic storage, prep areas, sinks, refrigerators and overall style to maintain consistency with the rest of the kitchen layout.

Walk-in pantries are back…in a big way! Not only do they assist in storing and organizing food, china and glassware, but many homeowners are also finding them to be a more convenient place to store small appliances and beverage refrigerators. Some trending large pantries even have sinks installed. Add a toaster and a few other small appliances, and you can also create the perfect spot for a morning coffee-tea-bagel station.

When it comes to hosting festivities, walk-in pantries keep your countertops clean and clear as everyone gathers in the kitchen (as they always do). Enjoy the organization and the time spent with your guests this holiday season.

Need some ideas for your walk-in pantry? View this photo flip on Houzz »

Then, schedule a free consultation with our team to start your kitchen remodel in time for the holidays.

Your Dream Home is Within Reach

We hope you are enjoying the holiday season in your home with friends, family and other guests! December will bring even more traffic through your home with multiple occasions to gather and celebrate. Are there projects you have in mind that would help you obtain your dream home during these festivities? What does your dream home look like?

A 2017 Houzz & Home study found that the living/family room is the go-to remodel with the most time and resources allocated toward the project with the master bedroom following after.

The study also shared the top renovation triggers for first-time home buyers, repeat home buyers and long-term owners. First-time home buyers and repeat home buyers – an astounding 86 percent on average – both wanted to customize their new home, while the majority of long-term owners waited to have the time and/or finances to complete the remodel.

At Wineteer Construction, we listen to our clients and provide constructive feedback based off years of experience. We make the whole process as seamless as possible through proper planning, budgeting and scheduling. 

The same Houzz study discussed the top challenges for homeowners going through remodels, from staying on budget to planning for the unexpected and more.

Clients who work with Wineteer Construction will receive superb customer service and constant communication. Our online portal allows clients to see every step of the project and manage any change orders for when the unexpected occurs.

If you have ideas for a remodel in mind and want assistance in putting your ideas to paper, connect with us! Wineteer Construction offers free consultations to discuss remodeling ideas.
Schedule your consultation »

See why people have been choosing Wineteer Construction to remodel their homes in the Kansas City area for the past 30 years. Contact us today and obtain your dream home.

 

Thanksgiving Starts with the Heart

Thanksgiving is a time to surround yourself with loved ones while sharing your appreciation for the many blessings and opportunities that have come from the past year. To ensure your Thanksgiving starts with the heart and offers a warm, welcoming holiday gathering for friends, family and others, take these tips into account:

Focus on the big picture.

Let go of all the little details in creating the Thanksgiving feast and ensuring every corner of the house is pristine. Don’t focus on perfection, but focus on the people. The last thing that should enter your home on Thanksgiving is stress. Instead, look at the big picture and enjoy the reason for the holiday with the people you love. A couple dirty dishes and mismatched place settings are not going to end the festivities.

Prepare in advance.

Typically, Thanksgiving consists of many delectable dishes that can be prepared a day or two before the holiday. Even if this isn’t the case for your upcoming menu, think about washing, cutting and prepping the fruits, vegetables, etc. to save you a lot of time in the kitchen on Thanksgiving Day. The less attention you need to put to cooking, the more attention you can put to your loved ones.

Redirect guests from the kitchen.

Place appetizers in the living room, and create a drink station near the butler’s pantry or just outside of the kitchen for easy access for guests. The kitchen is the heart of the home where people typically gather, and the less people need to access certain areas – like the fridge, pantry or freezer – the more space and freedom you’ll have in your kitchen while cooking.

Have your kitchen laid out for you.

You should be able to have your kitchen laid out the exact way that works best for you. Remodels that focus on customization are currently trending, with about 86 percent of first-time home buyers and repeat home buyers reporting this as their reason to renovate (Houzz). Imagine what your ideal kitchen would look like.
Check out our gallery for kitchen ideas.

Wineteer Construction is a family-owned business that focuses on beautiful design, high-quality products and skilled craftsmanship. When you decide to update your home with Wineteer Construction, we will ensure your satisfaction by communicating efficiently, keeping you in your home and in the rooms being remodeled, and always guaranteeing your projects are “Planned Right. Priced Right. Done Right.”

Schedule your free consultation.

Contact us for more information.

Thank You Wineteer Construction Customers!

We have been fortunate enough to work with great clients over the nearly three decades Wineteer Construction has been in business, and it is because of your great reviews and referrals that we are where we are today. Thank you for your continued business, word of mouth recommendations and online reviews!

Did you know?

78 percent of homeowners choose contractors based on reviews and recommendations (Houzz).

In fact, this 2017 Houzz study found that the top hiring criteria in 2016 was as follows:

When writing reviews for Wineteer Construction, please detail your experience in the following categories:

  • Communication/organization
  • Recommendations for materials and design
  • Team personality
  • Sticking to schedules and budgets

The following are just a few of the great reviews we have recently received:

“…They were efficient, came in on budget, answered all my questions and it resulted in a beautiful home.”

~ Barbara Wyand

“I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis some time ago and approached Wineteer about construction of an accessible bathroom in a newly purchased urban loft space…In many ways, they knew more about what I needed than I did and were great at giving advice on changes to be considered…I was thrilled with the results. The finish was outstanding and exceeded my expectations. It met my current and future needs.”

~ Bob Carpenter

Read the full reviews as well as others on Houzz »

Thank you in advance for strengthening Wineteer Construction and letting us know how we can better serve you on Get to Know Your Customers Day by reviewing us on these sites:

   Houzz

   Facebook

   Google

Interested in another remodeling project, or want to start your first? Schedule a free consultation.

 

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