Spring Home Remodeling Projects to Consider

March 23, 2020
Basements, Bathrooms, Blog, Kitchens

Spring Home Remodeling Projects to Consider

Spring is one of the most popular times of the year that people start remodeling projects in their homes. It’s the perfect time of year to prepare your home for the sunny weather and give it a fresh look heading into the summer. The projects can be costly or inexpensive, depending on the size of the project that you want to undertake. Now is the time that many homeowners are beginning to plan these projects, so we wrote this blog to help homeowners find inspiration for their projects.

Kitchen Remodeling Project

Remodeling your home’s kitchen is one of the best projects to start during the spring. You can add windows to let more natural light into your kitchen and make it a more pleasant place to both cook and entertain. Plus, you’re likely to have guests over more often during the warm weather months, so it’s nice to have a beautiful space to enjoy. The kitchen is the heart of your home.

Bathroom Remodeling Project

Next to kitchens, remodeling your home’s bathroom is one the highest return on investment projects that you can do. You spend time every day in your bathroom, so it’s essential that it’s a space that you enjoy. Whether it be updating your entire bathroom or installing new bathroom cabinetry, you can hugely improve your bathroom with a few small changes, and that makes your home more pleasant overall.

Basement Remodeling Projects

A great way to increase the usable space in your home, remodeling basements is a hugely popular remodeling project. You can add an additional bedroom in your basement, storage, a man cave, or more. If you ever plan to sell your home, a finished basement is hugely attractive for prospective buyers. Finishing your basement can take it from unused space in your home to one of your family’s favorites.

Deck Installation Projects

One of the best remodeling projects for spring starts outdoors. A new deck makes your home’s outdoor space an extension of your home. You can use this space to entertain, create an outdoor kitchen, and just relax when you want to. Especially after a long winter, it’s nice to get out and enjoy the outdoors comfortably. Plus, with modern decking options, you can even get a low-maintenance deck that won’t require staining and extra care.

Replace Your Windows

As we mentioned with kitchens, spring is a great time of the year to add or replace windows in your home. The increased natural light from the outdoors will warm up your home and make waking up each morning nice and comfy.

Contact our team at Gehman Design Remodeling today if you’re interested in any of our home remodeling services.

How to Check For Mold Behind Stucco

March 12, 2020
Blog, Design, Remodeling

How to Check for Mold Behind Your Stucco

Stucco is an excellent siding material that you commonly see, but many homeowners who don’t have it themselves don’t know a lot about it. It’s actually made of a mix of sand, lime, and cement. It’s one of the oldest siding materials and is still being used today because it’s been proven generation after generation. Stucco will give you a unique look, rather than going with a generic looking vinyl siding option like all of the other homes in your neighborhood. If you live in an area that’s prone to rain, snow, and humidity, stucco can cause issues for you. Mold and rot issues can end up costing you a lot of money for repairs, so we’ve put together a blog to help you identify mold behind your stucco siding.

Inspecting Stucco

Usually, when you realize that there’s mold behind your stucco, it’s already too late. If you have a home with stucco siding that you’re trying to sell, some potential buyers may shy away from stucco because of the common issues that can arise with it. Mold can become an issue with stucco when it has a chance to grow from water getting behind your siding. Moisture usually gets behind your stucco around the windows, doors, and other structural joints, like where your roof joins with your house. Stucco is made of a mixture of materials that aren’t very breathable, so the product itself doesn’t breathe well. When water is trapped, it stays there and can cause stains, which are clear signs of damage and referred to as stucco tears. 

Over Time

 When you do begin to notice stucco tears on your home, you can be sure that some damage has occurred. It’s time to call a professional for a moisture inspection to learn the extent of the damage. This can make sure that you have your damaged stucco repaired before more damage can occur, costing you more money. Water that can’t escape from behind your siding will weaken your home’s wood framing, windows, and more if left unchecked.

This isn’t to say that stucco isn’t a great siding option. Stucco has a timeless look and has been proven to be durable in all climates throughout the United States. It’s an energy-efficient option as well because it forms a shell around your home that helps keep your heating and cooling costs low. 

Get Started Today

If you’re in need of stucco repair services, contact our team at Gehman Remodeling today! Our team is experienced in tackling mold and water damage in stucco and returning it to looking like new.

 

Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop for Your Home

January 13, 2020
Kitchens, Kitchens

Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop for Your Home

Kitchen Countertops

When selecting a new countertop for your home, it can be a challenge. You want something that looks amazing, but you also want high-quality performance and function from your countertops. 

There are a few main factors to keep in mind while shopping for new countertops:

  • How you’re going to use them
  • How much maintenance you’re willing to do
  • How much space you need
  • Your current kitchen’s style
  • Your budget

How You Use Your Countertops

You’ll want to think about how you’re going to be using your countertops. If you have kids or entertain often, you will probably want a more durable option that can handle wear and tear. Your cooking habits also impact your decision; some materials are more resistant to heat than others. 

How Much Maintenance You’re Willing to Do

When you’re making major changes to your home, it’s important to be honest with yourself. If you know you aren’t up to the task of maintaining your limestone or granite countertops, they may not be the best option for your home. 

How Much Space You Need

Measuring and estimating the amount of counter space you need to cover will allow you to work with contractors to compare the cost of materials for the space you need. You can then make the decision of how much you’re going to spend. Note: kitchen islands are a highly-popular option for folks with limited or an uncoventional space.

Your Budget

There’s a huge range when it comes to the cost of countertops, but if you select a great material and maintain it well, it can last a lifetime. Luckily, with so many options out there, you can focus on the style and look of the countertop and then find a cheaper alternative if a material like marble doesn’t fit your budget. There are many alternative countertop materials that are extremely similar to the cost of granite or marble, so find a style you love for your kitchen, then worry about the actual material and cost later.

Which Materials & Colors Fit Your Home

The most important thing to consider when purchasing new countertops for your home is what will look great in YOUR kitchen. Complimenting the rest of your kitchen and home with beautiful cabinets can help give your home a cohesive design. Many other aspects of your home will likely change; new appliances, new paint, etc. but your countertops will remain, so choosing something with a versatile and timeless look is one of the best suggestions we can make. 

Contact Us

Why put your kitchen remodeling plans on hold? Contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation with our team; we can break down different countertop options for you and help make your home beautiful.

Why You Should Think Twice Before Doing a DIY Remodel Project

November 21, 2019
Blog, Remodeling

Why You Should Think Twice Before Doing a DIY Remodel Project

With the popularity of websites like Pinterest and HGTV shows on the rise, many homeowners are taking a DIY (do it yourself) approach to home remodeling projects. While internet tutorials can make DIY projects seem like a breeze to complete, the reality is often much different. 

Even a well-planned DIY project can result in headaches and frustrations, which is why we recommend that you think twice before you take on a remodeling project yourself. Here’s a closer look at how DIY can quickly turn into DI-Why.

DIY projects are time-consuming

Let’s say you have a thoughtful plan in place for your remodel. You’ve laid out a budget, meticulously planned a timeline, and you’re ready to get started. But, what happens when life gets in the way of your plans? An unexpected sickness, a busier than normal week at work, or any other curveball that’s thrown at you likely means your remodeling project will get pushed to the side. 

A project that was supposed to take a few weeks to finish can turn into months or even years if it ever even gets completed. By hiring a contractor instead of trying to do it yourself, you won’t have to worry or stress about unfinished tasks hanging over your head. You’ll also have a professional team working on your project that’s got years of experience completing projects on time and on budget. If you choose the right contractor, that is. 

DIY projects can end up costing you more money

Many homeowners decide to take on DIY remodeling projects in the hopes that they’ll save money, but more often than not, a DIY attempt can end up costing you more money in the long run. 

By taking on a large project that’s outside of your skill level, you face the risk of doing accidental damage to your home, which may leave you looking for a contractor to finish what you started. Additionally, some jobs are dangerous to attempt alone or may require permits. It’s better to leave projects like this to a professional to save you time – and headaches – in the future.

DIY projects often aren’t up to code

Like we briefly mentioned above, whether intentional or not, many DIY projects aren’t done in compliance with city permits and building codes. This could lead to serious issues if you try to sell your home in the future. 

These codes are in place to keep homeowners safe, so if you move forward with a DIY remodel without following building codes, you could run into possible structural, electrical, or plumbing problems down the road, leaving your family in potential danger. By hiring a professional contractor, you can have peace of mind that every aspect of your project is in compliance. 

A poorly done DIY project can hurt your home’s value, not improve it

We know that everyone starts a home improvement project with the intention of improving their home and making it look beautiful, but that’s often not the outcome. When it’s all said and done, a DIY project can actually hurt your home’s value. As a result, your project might end up costing you more than what you paid to complete it. 

However, when you hire a contractor to properly complete your remodeling project, you can increase your home’s value should you decide to sell. For example, a minor kitchen remodel, completed by a professional, can recoup an average of 81% of its cost. 

DIY remodels may lack a luxurious feel

Homeowners often decide to tackle remodeling projects themselves as a way to save on costs, which is totally understandable. However, they may use cheap materials, and even when the work is done well, the end result can lack the look and feel of a more luxurious remodel, which leaves them feeling disappointed that they spent time and effort on a result they ultimately don’t love. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious, custom remodeling project, your best bet is to hire a contractor who specializes in home improvement projects. While the initial cost upfront may be higher, you’ll be left with a result you can enjoy for years to come. 

Why choose Gehman Design Remodeling for your project?

Once you decide to hire a contractor for your project, look no further than the Gehman Design Remodeling team! We operate efficiently, in a way that makes the entire remodeling process easy on you. 

We’ll work with you to determine your style, needs, and home specifications to develop a plan for the perfect remodel for your home. Once we complete your project, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that we offer a 5-year warranty on our craftsmanship and a 10-year structural warranty so your investment is protected. 

Get started today

Why put your home remodeling plans on hold any longer? Contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation with our team. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, bathroom, deck, or basement, our team will get the job done right the first time, communicating openly with you throughout the project until you get the remodel of your dreams. 

We can’t wait to get started on your project!

Which Bathroom Upgrades Can Increase Your Home’s Value the Most?

September 19, 2019
Bathrooms 2

Which Bathroom Upgrades Can Increase Your Home’s Value the Most?

There are a lot of thoughts that run through the minds of homeowners who are considering a bathroom remodeling project.

“How much does a bathroom remodel cost?”

“How long will a bathroom remodel take to complete?”

“Which contractor should I hire?”

“Will a bathroom remodel increase my home’s value?”

Often, they share these same thoughts with our team when we sit down to talk about the logistics of their project. While the answer to each question varies, let’s focus today on the last question: 

“Will a bathroom remodel increase my home’s value?”

The Importance of Upgrading Your Bathroom

Did you know that a bathroom remodel can benefit your home’s value more than other remodeling projects? It’s true! A midrange (or average) bathroom remodel has a national average return on investment (ROI) of 72.7%.

Unfortunately, the opposite is true as well. A badly done bathroom remodel can ruin your whole house in the eyes of prospective buyers. Investing in your bathroom may not only increase your home’s value but it could also be the final selling point that sets your home apart from others. 

But, don’t just take our word for it. 

According to Zillow, an online real estate database, “Zillow data shows that bathroom remodels yield the biggest returns in terms of boosting your home’s resale value. For minor cosmetic changes, you’ll see a $1.71 increase in home value for every $1 you spend. This includes things like painting and refinishing cabinets, swapping out the mirror or upgrading hardware.”

Bathroom Upgrades That Have a High ROI

While many bathroom renovations can boost your home’s value, there are some upgrades you should consider a high priority and others that you may want to skip altogether. Here’s a closer look at the projects that are most worth your investment. 

Flooring

Is your grout looking dirty? Does your tile look like it’s straight out of the ’80s? Time to update it! We recommend changing out your flooring with porcelain or ceramic tile, which is waterproof, durable, and inexpensive. 

You might also consider installing heated floors, which are perfect for cold winters and may appeal to buyers more. 

Vanity

The vanity area is often overlooked in favor of “bigger” renovations, but don’t underestimate the impact of updating it. Consider upgrading your countertops, faucet, and sink for maximum impact. 

You also might want to extend your vanity to include double sinks, particularly in a master bathroom. And, if you’re looking for the highest ROI, opt for granite countertops with a modern sink and faucet design. 

Cabinets

Take a closer look at your cabinets and try to see in from the perspective of a buyer. Do they need to be upgraded? Buyers are looking for modern, clean cabinetry. Refacing your cabinets can help make your space look more enticing. 

And don’t overlook the details! Replacing the hardware on your cabinets and drawers can be an easy and relatively cheap way to freshen up the look of your cabinets.

Shower and tub

The focal point of any bathroom is the shower and/or tub, so it should come as no surprise that remodeling them offers the highest ROI. If you’re upgrading your master bathroom, replacing your tub with a large walk-in shower can raise your home’s value. 

However, make sure at least one bathroom in your home has a bathtub, as buyers with small children will consider that a “must-have” feature. 

Adding glass doors to your tub or shower is a high-impact upgrade that will also appeal to most buyers. 

Bathroom Upgrades With a Low ROI

The most important thing to remember during a remodeling project is that your home should first and foremost serve the needs of you and your family. So, if there’s a feature you’d love to add, you should do so! 

However, if your primary goal is to increase your home’s value and be more competitive on the market, you might want to skip these upgrades. 

Jet tubs

Sure, the idea of soaking in a whirlpool tub in the comfort of your own home sounds great, but the reality is that they’re expensive, hard to maintain, and they break down frequently. Except in rare cases, installing a jet tub won’t bring a good ROI. 

Steam showers and custom spas

Again, while a steam shower or custom spa sounds like an undoubtedly cool feature, they don’t provide a great ROI. Skip them unless you want to add them for your own enjoyment. 

Easy and Cheap DIY Projects to Increase Your Home’s Value

Keep in mind that bathroom upgrades can impact your home’s value without putting a large dent in your wallet. There are several easy, low-cost projects you can do yourself to make your home more appealing. 

Paint

Paint can be powerful. After all, you can transform the whole look and feel of a space with a simple coat of paint. Check out the selection at your local hardware store and get to work. You might be surprised by the impact it makes!

Lighting

Do you still have the original light fixtures in your house? If your home is more than 10 years old, chances are that your fixtures look outdated. Swap out your bathroom’s main lighting with a chic new option to refresh the whole space. 

Shelving

Try adding vertical shelves to your bathroom, which take up less room than other shelving options, while still adding a good amount of storage space. All you need is a hammer, a few nails, and a level to make a significant impact in your bathroom. 

Mirror

Consider replacing your old mirror with a new one to instantly update your bathroom. There are even options available now that include built-in lighting to give your space an updated, luxurious feel. 

Talk to Gehman Design Remodeling About Your Bathroom Remodel

Ready to take the next step toward a new bathroom and increase your home’s value as a result? The team at Gehman Design Remodeling is here to help! We’ll work with you to determine which upgrades make the most sense for your family and your needs, develop a budget and timeline, and get to work. 

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’d love to hear from you!

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