As we approach Father’s Day this year, we are typically racking our brains to think of another t-shirt, hat, coffee mug, or tool to give the dad in our lives. However, what if we really moved the needle and invested in a home remodeling project? As a culture, the first areas of our homes to be remodeled are naturally the kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor space. These are fantastic opportunities to increase your home’s value. But… what about an outdoor man cave? About 64% of home improvements are now happening in the exterior of the home, according to mensjournal.com. Although the exterior projects can include roofing, windows, exterior painting, downspouts, and exterior doors/windows, it can also include an outdoor man cave or grilling space. Wineteer Construction has completed many outdoor projects for families across the Kansas and Missouri Kansas City metro areas. Let us walk you through some options!
Backyard barbecuing (mixing sizzle and sun) has always been an American tradition. According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), 80 percent of North American households own a grill or smoker, and 60 percent of grill owners using their grills year round. Why not provide a sanctuary for the special man of the household to grill meals and take the load off of the others in the household?
The 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study launched revealing the momentum behind new homeowner and industry trends, including their financing and motivations behind big home projects. Are homeowners willing to spend more on major home improvement projects? Data suggests yes.
“As consumer interest in the outdoor room continues to grow, hearth, patio and barbecue manufacturers are developing stylish, full-featured products to enhance the comfort, convenience and pleasure of entertaining or relaxing outside, no matter the climate or season,” states HPBA’s article, How to Create an Outdoor Room.
So think outside the box on this Father’s Day and consider designing an outdoor space. A transformed backyard space will easily become a family’s favorite place to entertain. At Wineteer Construction, we focus on the upfront design and function, so your investment will add to the value of your home and add value to your quality of life.
A backyard makeover can be accomplished in stages—starting with conceptual designs, clearing a space or building a covered, open-air structure with luxury light fixtures, ceiling fans and a surround-sound speaker system. Then, it’s time to install that first new piece of equipment (grill, smoker, rotisserie or even a brick oven). Next year, you can expand with customized countertops, sinks, wine coolers, a bar, lounge area or upscale, outdoor dining furniture.
Contact us to discuss your backyard makeover plans!
When starting new home renovation projects, it’s essential to understand the permit and license requirements in your area. These requirements can vary significantly between different states and cities. While some areas may allow substantial remodeling without needing permission from local authorities, others may require specific permits even for minor changes in your kitchen, bathroom, or any other part of your home. Additionally, factoring in your neighborhood’s Homeowners Association is crucial, as they often have their own guidelines for renovations and additions.
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
If you’re not working with a home remodeling contractor, you will be responsible for pulling the permits yourself. There are many advantages to working with a design build firm, such as Wineteer Construction, because they are familiar with each municipality’s permit requirements and process. While some people may skip obtaining permits to avoid the associated time and costs, neglecting this crucial step can lead to far more significant problems down the line. Let’s explore this topic further in the article.
Determining whether you need licenses and permits for your remodeling project is crucial. Generally, if your kitchen or bathroom remodel involves structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or significant alterations, you will likely need the necessary permits.
To assess your specific situation, start by checking local building codes and regulations, which outline what requires permits in your area. Consulting with a local contractor or a building inspector can also provide clarity on what is necessary for your project.
Obtaining the right licenses and permits ensures that the work is safe and compliant, protecting you from future complications. Without them, you risk facing legal issues, complications when reselling the property, and denial of insurance coverage for unpermitted work. Therefore, always verify the requirements before starting any remodeling project, even if it seems small.
In this section, we’ll explore the possible licenses and permits required for renovating your bathrooms or kitchens, along with the reasons these could be essential for your project.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Getting remodeling permits and licenses can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the process. However, by following these simple steps, you can make it easier:
When you reach out to a reputable and experienced local contractor, they will guide you through the necessary licenses and permits required for your specific projects. It’s often best to hire a specialist in bathroom or kitchen renovations, as they typically possess the appropriate licenses and permits related to these tasks.
To avoid complications, make sure the contractor you select holds genuine licenses, not counterfeit ones. If you’re in the Kansas City area, consider contacting Wineteer for your kitchen, bathroom, whole home, or aging-in-place remodeling needs.
When I founded Wineteer Construction in 1988, I pictured a business that would bring together the closeness and care of our family and the talent and expertise of our team into a successful company. This vision is exactly what I see today, and the success and reach we have had over the years would not be possible without the support and dedication of every single member of our team.
As a company and family, we are stronger and closer than ever. By embracing the idea of home, functionality and style, we are able to bring to life our clients’ visions into spaces that are transformative, memorable and, most importantly, functional. It has always been our goal to listen to our clients’ needs to provide them the best solutions possible, and we are grateful for the trust and continued relationships we have built over the years.
Now that 2021 is coming to an end, I get to reflect on the hard work, dedication and talent that our team has brought every single day. I am so proud of what we have accomplished together and am looking forward to bigger and brighter changes.
Moving into 2022, Nick McIntyre and Craig Crook will be taking over the reins of Wineteer Construction as the new owners, and I can only share how excited and hopeful I am for this transition. Nick and Craig have been part of the Wineteer family for a very long time. Their expertise and passion for the job have no comparison, which is why I know the company is in the right hands.
I will remain a part of the in-house team, providing support to our incredible team of experts and witnessing the extraordinary work the company will produce as it builds on and builds up.
For years, Wineteer Construction has brought to life some of the most wonderful remodeling and construction projects imagined. For years to come, it will continue to do the same.
I would like to wish our wonderful team, clients and partners a wonderful holiday season and an amazing new year. Thank you for your trust.
-Mike Dodd
The Heart of the Home…2017 Kitchen Trends
In January, Nick discussed kitchen trends that would be taking over in 2017, from whites and greys, to window walls, stainless steel appliances and marble countertops.
Bathroom Remodeling Tips to Improve Mobility
Mike shared in February functional updates to make in your bathroom, including installing shower seats, grab bars and barrier-free showers.
Choose Wisely
Choosing the right contractor for a remodeling project is crucial, so in March, Mike offered five considerations to take into account before you decide.
Did You Watch Home Remodeling: Cost vs. Value?
Based on the findings in Hanley Wood’s annual Cost vs. Value Report, Mike shared in April how homeowners can know the true costs of their remodeling projects.
Home Remodeling is not One Size Fits All
Mike continued the conversation on the true costs of mid-range remodeling vs. upscale remodeling with Joel in May.
Planned Right. Priced Right. Done Right.
In June, Mike discussed how to ensure home remodeling projects are “Planned Right. Priced Right. Done Right.”
Bathroom Remodeling Process + Products!
Nick came back on KC Live in July to share insight into what homeowners should expect in bathroom remodels, from the process to the products.
Barrier-Free is Now Trending
With the trend of barrier-free showers on the rise, Mike detailed in August the features and benefits to installing this type of shower in your bathroom.
Five Ways to Reduce Stress During Holiday Remodels
Nick started preparing homeowners in September on tips to reduce stress while remodeling during the holidays.
The Right Way to Remodel
In October, Mike addressed the idea that with the proper planning, changes in remodeling projects can be reduced and taken care of well.
Make Your Dream Kitchen a Reality
Mike invited us into his home in November as he discussed remodeling goals, the process of selecting appliances and cabinetry and updates to appliance design and technology.
Remodeling Ideas for Empty Nesters
And in December, we visited the home of a Wineteer Construction client as Mike shared ideas for empty nesters to remodel their homes as they undergo a number of lifestyle changes.
Thanks for following us on KC Live in 2017! If you are interested in learning more or are ready to start your next remodeling project, we’d love to help!
Contact us for more information.
Recently on KC Live, President and CEO Mike Dodd discussed the current trend of barrier-free showers. Read his insights below, or watch the full segment here »
Barrier-free showers are becoming more popular in home remodels, and can benefit essentially any age group and any resident of the home. Not only does it assist older residents with independence to remain at home longer, but you can also incorporate the universal design techniques to keep with the current bathroom design trends.
This means that it’s in the design to ensure our barrier-free showers don’t look institutional. We want you to feel comfortable at home as long as possible, matching your desired look and feel, too.
Any equipment that assists with mobility (i.e. walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) is able to maneuver into and around these showers, as there is no curb or threshold that would hinder the entrance. The main focus to barrier-free showers is safety; other accessories such as flip up and down shower seats and grab bars can offer additional ease and safety.
The bottom line: barrier-free showers allow for easy entry and accessibility. Anyone can benefit from these universal designs and safety techniques.
Join the barrier-free trend! Contact us for more information, and schedule a consultation today!
Wineteer Construction’s last appearance on KC Live contained Senior Vice President Nick McIntyre discussing how to choose the right remodeler and the right options for a bathroom remodel.
Watch the full segment here »
On Wednesday, August 23, 2017, President and CEO Mike Dodd will appear on KC Live, will focus on barrier-free showers and their benefits. Be sure to tune in at 10 a.m. CT this Wednesday for an in-depth conversation with Mike!
Contact us for more information.
Last week on KC Live, President and CEO Mike Dodd shared how to know the true costs of home remodeling projects and how to know if you were using reputable resources to discover the costs. In case you missed it, watch it here. >
Ready to start your next remodeling project? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
How much research do you put into who you want to remodel your home? Probably quite a bit, considering the many resources used during the process. We believe in bringing the best quality, customer service and experience to the table.
But those are just words – you want to see the proof. Right about now, you’re asking yourself the following:
There’s nothing to hide! You can see our reviews on houzz, Google, and Facebook.
Check out our results on our Projects page.
And as far as experience and certifications go, we’ve got you covered!
Michael Dodd, President and CEO of Wineteer Construction, holds three NARI certifications: Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler (CKBR), Green Certified Professional (GCP) and Master Certified Remodeler (MCR), the last distinction of which only two other people in the Kansas City area hold. And with nearly three decades of experience and unparalleled home remodeling expertise, Michael Dodd is the right choice for your renovation needs.
Have any more questions, or interested in learning more about our services?
We’d love to connect with you!
Check out Mike Dodd in his newest commercial showing on KSHB- Channel 41, as part of their home modification network. In this segment, he highlights the fact that kitchen and bathroom remodeling improves the function and value of your home. View the segment:
Mike Dodd holds three NARI certifications: Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler (CKBR) and Green Certified Professional (GCP) and Master Certified Remodeler (MCR)–one of only three people with this distinction who are serving the Kansas City area.
With nearly three decades of experience and unsurpassed home remodeling craftsmanship, Wineteer Construction is focused on making your vision a reality.
Ready to learn more? Let’s connect to discuss your next remodeling project!