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Home Remodeling Challenges: Tackling the 14 Big Concerns

When renovating your home, it’s important to make sure that it’s done properly. The renovation process itself is complex and costly, and if it’s not done properly, you are constantly in the “fixing” mode, which is expensive and exhausting. To ensure your home remodeling project is completed properly, you should be aware of common mistakes regarding the home renovation process to avoid any easily-avoided mistakes, and hopefully save from costly errors along the way. It’s important to know what the usual remodeling concerns are in order to make a proper plan, and to take necessary preventive measures. Let’s get to know the Home Remodeling Challenges: Tackling the 14 Big Concerns.

Local Building Codes

Building codes are a set of rules that you must follow when constructing or remodeling your house. These codes are there to ensure the safety and comfortability of everyone, including your neighborhood and environment. And if you break the codes, you will be punished, fined, or they can even demolish your house!

You can’t just randomly check some codes and plan accordingly, as the codes vary from palace to place and can change every year. That’s why it’s crucial to contact a local professional who has good knowledge about the current building codes. Wineteer Construction partners with Kansas City residents throughout each step of the home remodeling project. This begins with the right design and build concept, then of course logistically abiding by all codes and ordinances.  View the Kansas City codes here: https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/city-planning-development/codes-and-ordinances

Unrealistic Budget

Without proper budgeting, the final cost can be a lot higher than what you expected it to be. Specifically, when things go wrong or there are mistakes in the process, the cost can vary a lot. When you’re dealing with multiple parts in a home remodel, any mistake can be costly and timely. Even if you hire professionals for cost estimation, they can’t always identify all the potential problems beforehand. That’s why it’s necessary to plan a realistic budget adding at least 10% extra to the expected initial cost.

RELATED: Remodeling Strong, Despite Postponements, Houzz Finds

Vague or No Research

Sometimes people start remodeling without doing any research at all; they start the whole process with just a single random idea or some furniture they like that makes them want to renovate. But it’s important to do thorough research, as your expectations may not be feasible for you. When residents find the right partnership with a home design builder, the ambiguity fades because the contractor handles each step. As with Wineteer Construction, their team handles every single step of the way after the homeowner approves the design, products, timeline, and budget. 

Contractor or Manager-Related Concerns

Many of your construction or remodeling problems can arise because of contractors or managers. For example, if you don’t hire a contractor at all but manage everything by yourself to save costs, then it can be a big mess. They are experts in their work and know what should be done to fix everything.

However, you shouldn’t hire random, cheap contractors; make sure they have the necessary licenses and experience and provide insurance. Also, don’t be careless after hiring and leave everything to them; supervise them regularly.

Not Hiring Designer

If you think you already hired a contractor, so you don’t need to hire anyone else, then you’re so wrong. A contractor can’t design or plan your remodeling project; a designer can. And if you don’t hire a good designer, your remodeled house or apartment won’t look very appealing. So, what’s the point of remodeling if they aren’t attractive enough?

No Plan, Permit or Contract

Even if you hire a contractor and designer, the remodeling process isn’t secured yet. You need to make an agreement that describes the scope of work, materials used, procurement methods, work and payment schedule, and other important issues with the entities related to the work.

And before signing the agreement and contract, you must make a thorough plan for the renovation process, considering all the small details. Also, you may require permits from the local or government sectors.

DIY Everything

Many people try doing renovations all by themselves just because they get confident enough after seeing home improvement DIY shows. But in reality, everything needs experienced hands to get done perfectly. In most cases, trying out remodeling by yourself can make things worse, and you may need to hire professionals and spend more than the service amount if you do try it out first. There are so many factors that come into play when it comes to your home remodeling project. 

Buying Furniture Too Early

You need to buy any kind of furniture or home decor just before installation. When you do remodeling, often the plan changes more or less, as do the measurements of different areas. That’s why when you buy appliances, furniture, or any other materials before the final measurements, you may need to buy them again. 

Cheap Materials

Cheap materials and furnishings are tempting to consider purchasing, because you can buy a lot of them for an inexpensive amount, but they aren’t durable enough to last long. You may need to replace them soon as they break or their color fades.

Ignoring Details

The remodeling process is huge; you need to change most things, and that’s why you usually focus on the bigger picture. But you need to consider every detail, as everything can cause potential damage.

Ignoring Curb Appeal

Curb appeal, or the visual attractiveness of your house as seen by others while standing in front of the property, is important when you’re remodeling. You may think the outside doesn’t matter much if you can remodel the interior so well. But it’s a big mistake to ignore the curb appeal, as even if the interior looks good, the curb appeal can affect potential buyers and decrease their budget.

Ignoring Safety Risks

Ignoring safety risks is a huge concern regarding remodeling your house. It will not only slow down the remodeling process, but it can also physically harm you or any other people and cause damage to the house or any furniture. Make sure to always wear protective gear while working, keep a first-aid kit by hand, and inspect frequently.

No Plan for Residents

If the remodeling process isn’t just a room or a small portion of the house, then it can be very disruptive for the occupants, as bigger renovation projects take a long time to finish. If you think about a kitchen remodel, your daily meal schedule is disrupted. So before you start the renewal process, make sure to arrange sleeping quarters, resting places, food preparation places and toilets for the people and pets in your house. It’s important to have open communication with your home remodeling company to have an understanding of the timeline. 

Project Changes

After your home renovation project begins, any change can cost more time and money, and sometimes the changes aren’t even possible. That’s why you should consider every aspect before planning and stick to the plan. 

The remodeling process can go smoothly if you hire a professional renovation team. Even if it seems costlier, the perfectly finished new look is worth it all. Moreover, it increases the property value, so you can easily get a profit from it, or any extra expenditure from mistakes can be saved.

Smart Kitchen Remodeling: Maximize Value on a Budget

We’ve all been caught in the constant scroll of “dream kitchen” posts. You know, the dreamy and gorgeous kitchens you see on Pinterest, DIY remodeling videos that make it all seem so easy, and even the before and after pictures that make your jaw drop. However, when we snap back to reality, we know that remodeling the whole kitchen can be expensive, time-consuming, and probably something you should leave to the professionals.

We want to provide some ideas for smart kitchen remodeling updates. This will allow the homeowner to maximize the resale value of your home when the real estate market is so competitive, all within your budget. Let’s get to know those ideas before you start planning for your kitchen remodeling. 

Upgrading Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets occupy most of the area of your kitchen. They can be utilized in many forms, including closed off and hidden, or without doors to showcase your minimalistic vibe.  As many kitchen remodels are now optimizing open-shelving, home remodeling companies still recommend updating your kitchen cabinets during the remodel to some capacity. To upgrade the cabinets, you can recolor them to a pleasing neutral color, or even add a pop of color. The soft colors are more popular to make the space feel more warm and inviting, but the pop of color is also fun and adds personality! 

Along with the color, there are different types of finishes that can change the vibe of the kitchen cabinets. You can also replace the cabinets or the handles with more beautiful ones. Many options to consider that will make a huge difference in the overall appearance of the kitchen. 

Upgrading Countertops

If you want a luxurious look to your kitchen, then you must update the countertops to something more aesthetic. There are many options, like using marbles, quartz, or other natural stones. These countertops are easy to clean and economical, yet they provide a lavish look to your kitchen. Countertops can certainly be the center-point of your kitchen remodel, as many of the residents prepare food, serve food, or relax around the countertops. Usually, people like white stones more as they look bright and make the space feel bigger. Check out this article on the 33 Best Types of Kitchen Countertops, which provides an option, look, and feel for all budgets and home styles. 

Upgrading Appliances

Outdated and poorly functioning appliances can make your kitchen feel out-dated, and is frankly inefficient. Among many reasons, it’s important to upgrade the kitchen appliances while remodeling to get the biggest bang for your buck. You can resell the old appliances and buy more cost-effective, eco-friendly appliances that can help you save money. You may need to spend more to upgrade those appliances at first, but in the long run, they’ll maximize the kitchen’s value. Aside from the aesthetics of new appliances, technology changes so quickly that homeowners want to have the “latest and greatest” so updating appliances is one way to stay in the game. 

Smart Kitchen Remodeling Maximize Value on a Budget

Upgrading Flooring

Flooring isn’t typically the main focus area of your kitchen, but it’s not less important when remodeling. The flooring can also be used to accent the countertops, island, or color palette. The floor used during a kitchen remodel should be durable, easy to clean, and natural looking. The flooring should be installed properly so the appliances are balanced, floor won’t squeak, and there are no uneven spots. 

Upgrading the HVAC system

It’s a good cost-saving idea to upgrade your HVAC system, specifically the kitchen system, to an eco-friendly system. You can resell the old HVAC system at a good price and get an energy-efficient HVAC system. HVAC systems not only cost less than the fuel system, but they also save a lot of money while operating.

Lightings

Lighting is very important for a kitchen renovation, because it will affect the colors and overall vibe. From can lighting to chandeliers, some lighting can be both functional and stylish; so it’s important to select the best option for your space. In addition, there are many lighting options to choose from on a budget, so look around before jumping into a purchase.

Backsplash

Many older kitchens don’t have any backsplash or sometimes have cheap contact paper that doesn’t look so good. But backsplashes can actually increase the value of your kitchen if you install a quality backsplash. A quality backsplash doesn’t have to be an extremely expensive purchase, so a kitchen remodeling project shouldn’t allocate a large portion of the budget on this. A new backsplash can make the kitchen look complete and full, and anyone visiting the kitchen will sense that the kitchen is well-maintained. 

RELATED: Where to start and stop your backsplash

kitchen island remodel Adding a Kitchen Island

A kitchen island is a popular feature because it comes with so many benefits, along with upgrading the look of the whole kitchen. It’s a kind of space that brings people’s attention while making the kitchen look bigger. Though you shouldn’t add an island to a small kitchen.

However, the island can be good storage for appliances and other products. You can hide power outlets inside the island. And you can do food prep and serving on the island counter.

Adding a Multipurpose Work Area

There is another way to maximize kitchen value while remodeling on a tight budget. You can make a multipurpose work area in the kitchen by adding a desk area where you can utilize the space for your work from home responsibilities. You can then flip it to food prep.  Also, another great use of the space is having kids use the space to do their homework while their parents can cook and supervise them. 

Additional Storage

The kitchen is a space that can always use more storage. There’s never enough room for your cutlery, Tupperware, bowls, cookware, and appliances, however the goal is always to remove the clutter from your countertop. That’s why you need to make some additional storage during your kitchen remodel. Some ideas are storage under the island, blind corners, shelving, etc. These storage units can add more value to your kitchen, and tidy up the clutter.

Declutter

Speaking of clutter, if you like watching DIY home improvement videos, then you must’ve seen how those people get rid of old materials by destroying them with hammers. Don’t just follow everything they do! You can certainly declutter and donate. 

You can carefully remove the old cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, or any other materials and list them for resale. It will bring you some good money that you can use to improve your kitchen more without spending raw money. So, it’s a good way to maximize the kitchen renovation value on a budget.

Other Ways to Save Costs

  • Avoid changing the structural system and layout of the kitchen if you want to save money.
  • Don’t buy kitchen renovation products online; it’s best if you see and buy them in person.
  • If you’re unable to pay for the remodeling process but it’s an emergency to finish the project soon, you can consider getting home renovation loans or a second mortgage and repaying them over time.
  • Don’t do midway changes while remodeling the kitchen.

Kitchen remodeling doesn’t have to be a complex job if you can plan out the renovation process and budget beforehand. Some people may advise that you can save a lot by DIYing everything. But unless you’re an expert on DIY, you shouldn’t try doing everything; otherwise, it’ll be a mess and cost you a fortune. If you’re in the Kansas City area and want to consult with a design and build company, reach out to Wineteer for a free estimate. Not all home remodeling projects fit within the DIY scope, so knowing and trusting a top kitchen remodeling company can save you money in the long run. 

11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays

On holidays, family members gather and celebrate time shared together. Usually it is tight quarters, which is part of the holiday fun! However, it’s also a reason why many homeowners consider remodeling their kitchen before the holidays for positive changes like more seating, energy efficiency, convenience, and functionality. 

In this article, we’ll discuss 11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays that can help you remodel your kitchen perfectly to enjoy the holidays over the next years. Let’s dig in.

11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays

How Do You Remodel An Old Kitchen Before The Holidays?

When the holidays are approaching, here’s 11 Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: Elevate Your Home for the Holidays that you may want to consider as a change of atmosphere. There are several ways to complete a remodel, from whole home remodeling to paint updates to full kitchen renovations. Here are a few ideas:

Declutter

The first and foremost thing you should do when remodeling your kitchen is to declutter and sort out everything big and small in that area. This is a free revamp that can truly make a big impact! This will help you assess what kind of remodeling you should do and plan the process faster. Also, your whole kitchen will look fresh when you finish removing all the unnecessary things. A good rule of thumb to go by is if you haven’t used the appliance, dishes, bowl, etc in more than two years, it may be time to get rid of it. 

Renovate Cabinets

Cabinets occupy most of the space in a kitchen. That’s why if you renovate the cabinets, it will drastically change the look of your kitchen. Even a simple cabinet makeover is enough to surprise the guests on holidays. However, if you want to replace all the cabinets, it can be quite expensive. Still, you can try different methods of cabinet renovation, such as painting, applying coatings, adding vinyl or wallpaper, etc. Sometimes, people remove all the cabinets and try open shelving for a fresher and decluttered look. Also, for more storage, you can try adding more drawers and cabinets if there is free space. This may be the time to add in the soft close cabinets and drawers. 

RELATED: 10 Remodeling Projects To Do Before the Holidays

Upgrade Knobs and Pulls

When you finish renovating the cabinets, the old pulls and knobs won’t always look refreshing. You can color them or replace them with a better-looking set of knobs and pulls. It’s better if your new pull set has the same center-to-center dimension, as you won’t need to worry about drilling new holes and fixing the old ones.

Upgrade Appliances

All the appliances in your kitchen, such as the refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and all other small devices, act as the focus of the cooking area. When you’re remodeling the whole area, you should consider changing the appliances to match the surrounding. Not just for looks, but energy efficiency, safety, and functionality all play a part in upgrading kitchen appliances. And the holiday seasons are best for getting new appliances, as most companies offer holiday specials discounts. You can also save money by selling the old appliances.

Upgrade Sinks and Faucets

The kitchen sink is the part that we need to use all the time. That’s why this place gets messy most often. You can replace the sink with a smart or digital sink that will keep the dishwashing area looking tidy and new. However, replacing the sink can be a costly project. But you can always replace the faucets with new, elegant sets with very small expenses, and the dishwasher surrounding will look better.

Upgrade Countertops

The countertops get messy often since we prepare the dishes there. You can try upgrading them by applying a new protective coating. For a brand-new look, you can try changing the material of the countertops with granite, quartz, marble, concrete, and so on. After you completed the decluttering on the countertops, you’ll have a better visual at the shape of your countertops. 

Upgrade Outlet Covers

The switch plates and outlets in your old kitchen become dirty and hideous over time. If your whole kitchen looks great after remodeling but the outlets look old and discolored, it can be an eye sore. Consider changing the outlets or painting them. 

Upgrade the Dining Area

To remodel your kitchen, you can also try upgrading the dining area, as by transforming this area, you can make the whole kitchen more functional and aesthetically pleasing. You can renovate the area by selecting the right furniture, selecting the proper lighting and color scheme, and investing in an updated set of tableware. 

Upgrade Flooring

If your budget allows, you should upgrade the flooring to bring out the best in all of the other renovations. However, you can also make the floor better and more comfortable by adding extra rugs. There are many options for flooring, so be sure you consider the best option for your family’s needs. 

New Lighting

Lighting can change the look of your kitchen, no matter how much you upgrade other areas. If there are unnecessary shadows and glares, people will feel uncomfortable just by being there for a few minutes. That’s why it’s necessary to properly plan the lighting style and upgrade if necessary. Also, you can add some decorative lighting like chandeliers, globes, or dangling pendants.

Add Backsplash

Introducing backsplash tile or wallpaper can add another dimension to your kitchen. The whole area can even look wider and larger with a specific color of backsplash. Moreover, recently, many 3D tiles and prints have become available that can make your guests drop their jaws. And you can get all the benefits without spending much since the backsplashes aren’t that expensive.

Since there are major and minor renovations you can do to remodel the kitchen, you may think about doing the minor changes yourself to save money. But in case you want to make major changes without hiring anyone, we recommend you not do things all by yourself. Leave the remodeling to the contractor or professionals; otherwise, the new kitchen may turn out worse.

If you’re ready to explore your home for a kitchen, bathroom, whole home, or basement remodel, reach out today for a free design consultation

9 Advantages of Hiring a Design Builder for Your Home Renovation

If you want to remodel your home, many people will suggest you hire a design-builder. One may ask… what exactly is a design-builder? According to wikipedia, it is a method to deliver a project in which the design and construction services are contracted by a single entity known as the design–builder or design–build contractor. It can be subdivided into architect-led design–build (ALDB, sometimes known as designer-led design–build) and contractor-led design–build. A homeowner may explore the design-build contractor options and determine they are the most qualified for home renovation projects,  as they will save you money over the years. So, let’s get to know more about them.

What Is Design-Build?

Again, when designers, builders, and other specialists work as a team under one single contract with the project client or owner to provide construction services, this method is called ‘design-build.’ In brief, in a design-build project, there is only one contract, one organization, and one coordinated flow of work. Wineteer is continually reminded by our clients how important their seamless process is for a stress-free home remodel. With Wineteer, you will have a dedicated team of professionals that will walk you along each step of the remodel.  This isn’t always the case with home remodeling companies, so be sure you ask questions and understand the contractual and design/build side. 

9 Advantages of Hiring a Design Builder for Your Home Renovation

Reasons to Hire A Design Builder for Your Home Remodeling Project

There are many reasons why you should consider hiring a design-builder for your bathroom, kitchen, whole home, and aging in place remodeling project. Here are the main reasons:

1. Single Point of Contact

In traditional remodeling projects, homeowners dealt with designers, contractors, subcontractors, architects, retailers, workers, and other people depending on the home remodeling scope of work. This makes the work slow, adds additional stress, causes budgeting nightmares if not monitored correctly, increases disruptions to daily life, and has more chances for miscommunication.

But when you hire a design-builder for the project, the company combines all of the activities under a single umbrella, and thus the homeowners will work with the same team from the first meeting to the completion of the project. As Wineteer explains it… once you partner with us, you will become family. The  homeowner will see the same crew each day during the remodeling project. In this way, everyone will function more effectively, and challenging problems can be handled more efficiently.

RELATED: The benefits of hiring a design-build contractor for your home remodel

2. Fixed-Price Contract

If you don’t hire a design-builder, you will naturally spend extra because of inaccurate or unanticipated problems, or change orders as they arise. However, a design-builder can give you an accurate cost-analysis before starting the work and prevent unexpected expenditures during or after your project is done.

However, you can always decide to add more to your project or make changes throughout the process, which can easily be adjusted in the design-builder billing. It’s a much easier and more seamless way to make the changes compared to tracking down a contractor to implement the changes, pay them, then get back on track. 

3. Efficient Communication

Since the work is centralized and team members are connected to each other through the central hub, communication becomes easier, faster, and more efficient. Many local home remodeling companies have extensive experience and relationships with vendors that will allow for superior customer service and finishes. 

4. Faster Project Completion

In most cases, it’s crucial for you to get the remodeling project done within the agreed-upon schedule. Also, knowing when the project will end will help you save money and get started with other finishing projects. When you work with a design-build company, they always finish their work on time, sometimes even faster than the estimated time.

5. High-Quality Craftsmanship

Understanding functionality and needs is crucial for any remodeling project; it’s much more than just being appealing. When skilled designers remodel a house, they first make it a high-functioning area with minimal disruption, and bring a vision to life. 

Moreover, with a design-builder, you can get the combined expertise they’ve gathered by working on many different projects over the years. They won’t take any shortcuts; rather, they will combine all their knowledge and information to make your project the best one.

6. Minimize Risks

We all need to keep in mind that unforeseen problems can occur while remodeling and renovating a home. However, the risk can be reduced if you work with a design-build company. They can minimize risks as their team has the skills and knowledge to address any issues and fix them in the best way possible. The communication will go directly between the homeowner and the design-builder, and won’t be a game of telephone to figure out what’s happening. 

They can also take preventive measures beforehand to eliminate the possibility of risks. In this way, the cost of emergency risk management will also decrease.

7. Stress-free Environment

Handling the remodeling of your home can be very stressful from time to time. You may get confused about how you should start the project, whom you should contact, when invoices are due, or what you are responsible for during the process.

However, with the design-builder to guide you through each and every step with their knowledgeable assistance, you will feel relaxed throughout the remodeling process.

8. Flexibility

Design-build firm members can always handle unexpected and challenging situations better. Also, they can provide you with a quick solution if you want to add or remove anything from the planned project. Their flexibility makes the homeowner satisfied in any kind of situation.

9. Fewer Disputes

When work is not properly organized and there are miscommunications, disputes among the parties and workers arise. But when a centralized design-build firm handles the remodeling project, everything is properly organized and there are fewer disputes.

Is a Design-build Firm Right for Your Project?

Depending on your project’s unique requirements, you may want to explore the consideration of a design-build company.  You should have an open and honest question with potential home remodeling design-builders and discuss your budget, timeline, goals, vision, etc. You can determine quickly if the project will be a match for the said contractor. 

Advantages of Hiring a Design-Build Firm

  • Promotes continuity in the project’s goal with streamlined communication. 
  • Legal and safety risks are reduced.
  • Quick response to handle unexpected challenges and changes.
  • Quality-control of the project is monitored. 
  • Accountability is mandated. 
  • More efficient project management can be achieved.

Hiring a design-builder is definitely a good idea for homeowners who want to partner with a company who cares about their reputation and the project itself. If you think about it, the design-builder has so much more on the line than a single contractor who comes in for a day, does their job, and leaves. If you’re considering a home remodeling project in the Kansas City area, reach out to Wineteer to see if we can answer your questions. We are there to help you bring your vision to life! 

Why Consider Heated Floors in Your Bathroom Remodel

Heated bathroom floors are becoming more and more popular when homeowners consider upgrades for their bathroom remodel. With several competitive advantages, heated flooring is a very good alternative to the conventional heating system requirement in the bathroom.Bathroom remodel with heated floors

In this case, electric in-floor mats or hot water pipes are installed underneath the bathroom flooring. This special arrangement dissipates heat and keeps the flooring surface dry and warm.

In this article, Why Consider Heated Floors in Your Bathroom Remodel, you will learn all about heated floors in the bathroom, including the installation process, associated costs, advantages, disadvantages, etc.

Are Heated Floors in the Bathroom Worth It?

The heated floor in the bathroom offers many advantages. Some must-mentions are that this type of floor circulates a sense of luxury, reduces energy costs, offers health benefits, increases property value, and more. Companies like Wineteer Construction in Kansas City offer many heated flooring solutions when completing bathroom remodels. Below outlines some benefits and considerations with heated floors. 

Luxury

The heated bathroom floor creates a sense of luxury, and high end comfortability. It symbolizes your taste for exclusivity. Stepping on the respective fully dry and warm bathroom covering is a satisfying experience. Many homeowners who are considering a higher-end bathroom remodeling project budget for heated floors. 

Saving Energy Costs

In cold regions, house heating cost minimization is always a challenge. The same goes for the winter seasons in almost all climates across the United States. In this case, keeping the bathroom warm consumes enormous energy due to the unavoidable watery context.

Heated flooring restricts the need for conventional heating arrangements in bathrooms, saving considerable money. We must mention that the costs associated with operating the heated floor are far less than those associated with the traditional heating arrangement. The surface area for a heated floor is much less than the area of the entire bathroom. 

Health Benefits

Heated floors eliminate cold-related discomfort. Suppose you or your family members have health issues like allergies, inhalation problems, arthritis, etc. Heated flooring can be a solution that will help with many of these ailments. The heat not only removes the wet feel of the bathroom, but it also eliminates the chance of dust circulation. As there are no forced-air heating systems, there is no dust circulation.

Moisture Control

Obviously we use a lot of water in the bathroom. The associated wetness eventually hosts mold and mildew growth. Heated floors in the bathroom restrict such happenings and ensure a more hygienic environment. The reduction of moisture in the bathroom will reduce the potential mold/mildew growth, so the house will circulate healthier air. 

Increased Property Value

In the real estate market, installing heated flooring in the bathroom is considered a valuable addition. It provides you with a bargaining point in the case of selling or renting the house. To cut a long story short, a bathroom remodel that included heated floors will increase the property’s overall value.

RELATED: What to Ask When Considering Heated Floors

How to Install Heated Floor in the Bathroom

OK, you’re sold on integrating heated floors in your upcoming bathroom remodeling project. But, how does this work? One way to ensure the heated floors are done properly is to work with your design and builder during your bathroom remodel. If you’re considering DIY, below are guidelines for installing in-floor electric mats to heat your bathroom floor. 

Step 1: Identifying Electricity Source

First, locate the suitable electricity output unit to power the electric mat. We also suggest you get a programmable thermostat to restrict the wastage of electricity. This thermostat will deactivate the electricity supply at night and at non-use times.

Step 2: Formation of Cement Slab

On the main surface of the bathroom, you have to create a 0.15-inch thick cement floor. Just purchase an appropriate amount of cement and mix it with water (proportion 1:3). And lay the mixture on the main surface. Let the layer dry properly. We suggest you follow a proper curing process. Now, on top of this thin cement layer, install factory-made cement boards with associated screws.

Step 3: Preparation of Power Inlet

Place a wooden plank (10 inches X 6 inches X 3 inches) on the newly created subfloor. It should be near the power outlet unit. Now, install power conduits with connectors and create notches to lay the power cables nicely.

Step 4: Installation of an In-Floor Electric Mat

In this step, install two-way adhesive tape on the floor at a 1-foot interval. Now, install the mat. We suggest you keep a 1-inch gap between the corner of the mat and eternities like bathtubs, showers, wash basins, etc.

Step 5: Fixing the Wires

Use glue to fix the mat’s loosened parts and the wire’s extended portion. Now, connect the wire with the power conduits’ connectors.

Step 6: Final Work

Again, form a mortar layer on the mat. The thickness should be 0.5–1.0 inches. On top of this layer, place the final covering, like tiles, etc. You have successfully installed heated floors in the bathroom.

Seem a bit too advanced for your DIY abilities? Reach out to your local bathroom remodeling company for design and pricing suggestions. Residents in the Kansas City area find Wineteer as their go-to for all elite bathroom remodeling projects. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Heated Floors

The table below elaborates on the pros and cons of heated floors in the bathroom.

Advantages Disadvantages
Facilitates greater comfort Installation requires specialized knowledge and expertise
More room space as there is no need for radiators Some may find the additional cost is pricy
No wetness For larger bathrooms, the cost matters
Facilitates hygiene and health benefits Faulty in-floor materials replacement is critical
Cost-effective Not compatible with every type of floor finish

Should You Consider Heated Floors in Your Bathroom Remodel?

When thinking about the question presented in this article, Why Consider Heated Floors in Your Bathroom Remodel, we would like to highlight three particular points. 

  1. Installing heated floors in the bathroom won’t break the bank.
  2. The heated floor installation takes a small amount of time.
  3. It offers advantages like energy cost reduction, property value increment, etc.

If you’re in the Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Parkville, or Lee’s Summit area, and considering a bathroom remodel contractor, reach out to the Wineteer team today!

Timeless Fallbrook Multi-Project Updates: Fireplaces

blue vases featured on fireplace mantle with jagged edges Our final project for this couple was to remodel three different fireplaces. We wanted to work with the wood, which we determined was from the 80’s and 90’s eras, but we wanted to give the tile work a much-needed update.

For the client’s entertainment center we removed the upper cabinets and replaced them with 12 x 24 large format tile in slate gray. We also replaced the countertops with a gray-black granite slab, titled Saratoga Silver, choosing colors that would help to modernize the look of it overall. The countertop is unique as we selected one fireplace with 80's style wood and updated gray, jagged-edge tile that has white streaks throughout the granite. We also chose to add a secondary TV near the kitchen to provide entertainment in multiple points in the home.

For the basement fireplace work, we again focused on the tile-work and left the wood as-is. The new tile has a chipped, sawtooth look to it with white veining throughout. This is definitely a unique and different tile to include! While all of the design selections are influenced by our owner and designer, Nick McIntyre, this tile was a special recommendation. fireplace with updated tilework

While these fireplace updates were simple, they certainly made the fireplace look more modern and elegant, while keeping the integrity of the original woodwork. This was a fun set of updates for us to include in the work for this customer’s portfolio!

Traditional or Modern? The Latest Kitchen Trends Allow for Both

The newest design trends found in renovated kitchens finally answer the age-old question: traditional or modern? The answer…why pick just one, when a customized plan can incorporate both, with a unique, fun and sophisticated style.

The days of minimalistic, sleek, dark wood kitchens has passed, and given way to a new combination of both shabby and chic, with the use of whites, creams and light grays. Kitchen renovations around the country are contrasting stainless steel appliances with one-of-a-kind vintage decorations or restored, rustic antiques. You only need subtle hints of these more classic elements to pop against the modern, clean lines of newly installed, monochromatic cabinets.

Another key is to experiment with oversized islands, tables or chairs. Pick pieces with ornate legs or use crown molding to contrast with a brightly painted wall or backsplash. Finish the look by adding vintage pieces to glass-framed cabinets and hanging modern metal or glass lighting fixtures with geometric shapes.

modern traditional

A traditional remodeling company, with a modern twist.
No matter the latest trends, a perfect remodel should fit your individual style. The right mix of traditional and modern allows for both beauty and comfort—high-end luxury and the warm, inviting feeling of home.

Wineteer Construction offers comprehensive architectural solutions from design concept to finished product. Contact us for a free consultation.

CNBC.com Turns to the Aging-In-Place Experts at LifeWise Renovations

When Kelli B. Grant, consumer reporter for CNBC.com, needed some inside perspectives on the benefits and challenges of popular aging-in-place renovation projects (like walk-in showers and lowered kitchen countertops), she sought the wisdom of LifeWise Renovations®.

 

The online slide presentation, “Six home modifications to help you age in place,” highlights certified aging-in-place specialist Katy Dodd, vice president of business development for LifeWise Renovations. The focus of the national article was on cost ranges and integrating technology.

In the detailed piece, Katy Dodd discusses:

  • The hidden costs for knocking down a wall.
  • The accessibility of modern kitchen appliances and universally designed cabinets.
  • The increasing popularity of installing a pricy bathroom option—a smart toilet.

For even more insights from Katy Dodd, and the rest of the LifeWise Renovations and Wineteer Construction teams, read Baby Boomers Remodel Now for Future Health Concerns and U.S. Homeowners Tackle Remodeling Challenges, with Professional Help.

Final Week: Wineteer Makes L’Cove the Spot to See and Be Seen

After nearly three months of renovations—stripping a 1,200-square-foot space down to the basics and building it back to a stunning addition—Wineteer Construction is proud of our completed work with L’Cove.

Wineteer was selected as the construction partner for Avenues Bistro, located in the heart of Brookside in Kansas City. At the end of November, Avenues Bistro opened L’Cove, a lounge located directly next door to the current space, serving cocktails, desserts and other sumptuous dining options.

 

Our team was honored to be part of making L’Cove’s presence known as a premiere space for intimate dining and group gatherings. The open floor plan includes a long, wrap-around bar. The inviting warm and cool colors in L’Cove mix with natural light from a row of windows, which at night offers a trendy, hotspot peek to people passing by.

 

The project has already been featured in Feast Magazine. Read about the owner’s vision, from the expansion to the refreshed menu.

Wineteer has been showcasing our progress at L’Cove. Review the Avenues Bistro project from the beginning:

 

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