Ideas and Know-How From RWC: Incorporating Tile Into Bathroom Designs
The clean, sleek lines of a newly tiled bathroom are something to behold. But, the process to get there may be obscured by the outdated tile and stained grout staring you in the face every morning as you shuffle in to get your day started. It is indeed time for a change, but where to begin? Let’s consider three questions that may arise as you dream about this renovation.
What Are My Options?
Walk into any big box or tile store and the choices may just bury you in indecision. Material, color, shape, size and price swirl around your dazed expression. A bit of information might just help clarify things.
Material
A variety of tile materials gives remodelers plenty of room to customize their space. Some prefer the warmth of Travertine or the organic feel of slate. Each option has its unique look, feel and function.
Porcelain tile boasts a dense, hard surface that thrives in wet spaces due to its lack of absorbency. Glass tile offers a variety of colors and finishes, but brings shine for a polished look. On the other hand, stone gives a natural feel. Pebble and rock tiles add textural qualities to any space. Ceramic tile works well in wet environments. Plus, if your DIY itch takes effect after a few years, this tile receives paint well.
Color, Shape and Size
Today’s tile displays host a wide range of color choices from gleaming white to a nearly mirrored black, from natural, earthy tones to bold sea glass blues. And, the variety of shapes rivals the color palette. Octagonal, hexagonal, two-inch smaller mosaic, square and rectangular tiles offer something for everyone.
The size of the shapes extends from pebble and penny tile to 18 by 18-inch floor tiles. Add to this array the pattern options that flow from these choices, and the possibility of a one-of-a-kind bathroom design becomes reality.
Price
You guessed it. Cost varies widely as well. Glass tile promises to be a bit more costly than other options. Though, in a smaller bathroom space or as an accent, this shiny surface may just be affordable. Ceramic tile proves slightly less expensive than glass and porcelain tile reigns king of the price tag. However, it is difficult to argue this royalty’s noble qualities for the damp kingdom known as the bathroom.
Best for Bathrooms
Two tile qualities help assess which tiles do best in the bathroom: maintenance and traction. Porcelain and ceramic tiles work especially well in the wettest areas such as tubs and showers. Their easy-to-clean, stain resistant characteristics make them nearly maintenance free. And, they resist moisture.
Natural stone requires sealing and careful cleaning as its pores grab dirt. This tile fares best on floors or less wet areas. Finally, glass tile makes a beautiful statement as a border or edging, and wipes brilliantly clean. However, it is especially slippery when wet - definitely off-limits for the floor. But, using glass as an accent tile or on a wall produces the wow factor.
Other traction considerations exist as well. Be aware when shopping: Ceramic floor tiles are purposely designed with texture as opposed to their counterparts intended for walls. Grinding the surface flat rather than polishing makes honed natural stone a particularly good choice for slip resistance. Also, natural stones may be sandblasted for a similar effect.
Keeping you safely on your feet is the goal. Do not be deceived. Tile is slippery when wet. Choosing the right texture for flooring and shower tiles avoids accidents.
Where Would Tile Look Best in My Bathroom?
Where wouldn’t tile look good in your bathroom? With the variety of tiling options, there is no bathroom surface this mainstay has not touched. Floors, walls, showers or tub surrounds, countertops and backsplashes have all been graced with the beauty of tile.
How Do I Choose the Right Colors and Patterns?
Scour the Internet for inspiration. Or, talk with the designers at a local tile store. The mix and match of tile sizes, colors and patterns adds interest. Just limit your choices to three and include only one focal point. This action creates a timeless style. Also, combine subtle colors with elements of interest for a serene feel.
Fitting Your Scheme
Your current decorating scheme affects your choice of colors and pattern. When determining your style, take into account any existing features such as a vanity, sink or light fixtures. Choosing a design and color of the tiles that complement these features guards against a mismatched look. Be sure also to make choices that you will not tire of over time.
Fitting Your Size
The size of the space you are remodeling also comes into play when making your tile decisions. Smaller bathrooms expand with light-colored tiles. For example, powder rooms prove inviting in soft pastels and neutrals. Larger spaces accommodate darker, saturated hues with more grace. Bright colors work well for bathrooms which receive a good deal of light.
Updating your bathroom tile proves to be an exciting project. With all of the options available today, you are sure to create a look that is unique to you.
RWC has relieved home improvement stress since 1959. Call us today or visit us on the web for your free consultation!
How to Keep the Bugs Out of Your Windows and Let the Sunshine In
Summer has arrived - along with plenty of unwanted visitors. You’ve tried to protect your home, you’ve sealed and sprayed your doors, windows and property, but haven’t had any luck evicting the bugs and insects who are invading your personal space.
From chemical treatments to all-natural remedies, there are plenty of New Jersey homeowners who have resorted to keeping their homes closed up for the summers in a last-ditch effort to keep the bugs and other creepy-crawly pests out.
While there are a wide variety of insects and bugs in the Garden State, there are some that are very common - especially in the summer.
- Wasps: A wasp sting can be extremely painful, causing severe redness and swelling, along with life-threatening adverse reactions for those with allergies.
- Japanese beetles: More than a nuisance, Japanese beetles can be deadly for trees, roses, and more than 300 other types of plants. They are recognized for their bright metallic-green bodies and copper-colored wings.
- Stink bugs: While the biggest threat they cause to individuals is the pungent smell they emit when captured or killed, stink bugs can cause significant damage to plant life.
- Bagworms: These perennial pests create nests that look like webs, causing serious damage to many fruit and flowering trees, as well as types of evergreen.
- Ants: From the odorous house ant and pavement ant, that are more of a bother than anything else, to the Pharaoh ant, which can carry and spread disease, ants are a common summer bug.
- Spiders: Most of the spiders in New Jersey are house spiders and wolf spiders, which are harmless to humans, but the state also has brown recluse and black widow spiders, which can cause painful, dangerous bites.
- Mosquitoes: These insects breed in standing water, and can carry many diseases and illnesses.
- Rodents and reptiles: Mice, rats, and snakes can find their way inside your house, even after you think you’ve closed up each possible entryway
When Should I Call for Help?
If you’ve seen any insects, bugs, or pests that you don’t want around your house, trying various options and remedies may have been your first step. If you’ve seen no relief, or have had new pests enter your home, it’s time to look at something more permanent.
Window Replacement
Replacing windows with new energy-efficient windows, they can help to improve your house, as well as work to prevent winged bugs or insects from getting into your home. It’s important to work with experienced installers who will seal the interior and exterior openings with high-grade caulk to ensure there are no openings. We'll help you keep bugs out of your windows and stop them from coming into your home. Contact us today and we'll show you how to stop bugs from coming through your windows.
Door replacement
A closed door doesn’t always guarantee that insects and pests won’t get inside your house. It’s important to regularly inspect your door and frame, which can help you decide when it’s time to call for professional support.
- Adding steel or aluminum thresholds or door sweeps, will add a more thorough level of protection to keep your house free from bugs.
- Screens should have a maximum of 20 mesh, which is too small for most pests to pass through.
- Fill all of the cracks. Using a high-quality silicone or acrylic latex caulk in small cracks can help keep out rodents, lizards, and insects. Larger gaps should be filled with materials like wood, cement, sheetrock or mortar.
- Self-closing doors can prevent doors from accidentally being left open and allowing easy entry for pests.
If you’ve tried these methods and have seen no change, a better option is door replacement. Because of the extreme climate changes, houses can shift, leading to doors that don’t always fit the frame exactly. Not only does this lower the efficiency of your house, but can leave spaces and gaps for these pests to get inside. Storm doors can also contribute to the problem. When the screens have torn or popped out, these doors can leave space open for mosquitos and other flying bugs to enter.
New doors are made of a variety of materials, including steel and fiberglass, and can provide greater durability and resistance to the weather. Professional installation will ensure that the fit and sizing are exact, which will help keep insects and bugs out.
New doors should be leveled and squared. Insulation between the voids between the frame and wall, as well as sealing each side of the interior and exterior with non-drying, quality caulk, can help to solve any bug or insect problems you might be experiencing.
RWC has been a leader in helping homeowners with their home improvement projects since 1959. Call or visit us on the web today for a free consultation.
Fix or Update Windows in the Summer to Improve Overall Home Appearance
Summer is the ideal time of year to take a close look at your windows to see if there is anything you need to repair. You can start by cleaning the exterior of your windows with a bucket of warm water, mild soap or window cleaner and a sponge. Work your way around the outside of your home, scrubbing each window to remove the winter grime and spring pollen. Once the windows are clean, it is time to inspect each one with a fine tooth comb as you work to identify areas of damage, repair or windows that need total replacement.
What to Inspect
As you begin inspecting your windows, slowly raise each window, paying careful attention as to whether or not the window is hard to open. A key indicator of old windows in need of replacement is difficulty in opening or a window that won’t close all the way. As you close the window, hold your hand over the area where the window meets the window sill. See if you can feel any kind of a draft coming through that area. Drafts are another sign that a window needs replacing or repair.
There are additional areas of your window structures that can help you determine the condition of your windows. Here are the key items you need to look for during your inspection:
1. Rubber Seal Weakness
There is a rubber seal between the window and the window frame. As it wears down, outside water begins to leak through the window. As warm water meets a cold window, the window takes on a foggy appearance. Take the window frame to a glass repair shop to replace the seal.
2. Cracked Glass
Cracks in the glass allow outside air to come through the window and inside air to escape. It results in higher electricity bills for you each month. Contact a glass repair shop to schedule an on-site repair of the glass.
3. Moisture
A moisture problem is present in double-pane windows when you see condensation between the window panes. The protective seal between the windows is no longer stable, so you will need to have a window restoration company repair the problem.
4. Weather Stripping Deterioration
Weather stripping works to keep air and water outside of your window. As the stripping begins to deteriorate, you may notice wetness on your windowsill when it rains outside. A draft may be present as well. A visit to your local hardware supply store for new stripping can repair this issue.
5. Casing
Inspect the casing that runs along the window for any noticeable gaps or holes in the material. You can fill these gaps with a paintable latex caulk from your local hardware supply store.
You should also keep an eye out for worn pieces of wooden window trim that may need replacing. A fresh coat of paint to the trim and shutters can be a great summertime improvement project as well.
The Importance of Window Inspections
Window inspections are an important part of your home maintenance responsibilities. These inspections help you maintain the structural stability of your home, and add value to it at the same time. By pinpointing the windows that are in need of repair or replacement, you work to preserve the natural exterior design appearance of your home.
Curbside appearance is the first thing others notice about your home. Having cracked glass pieces, window panels with discoloration, missing pieces of wood trim or other visible damage around your windows detract from the overall value of your home. Taking the time to make the necessary repairs or replacements can give your a home a more modern feel as well.
Energy Efficiency
The summer months typically produce some of the hottest temperatures of the year. This requires your air conditioning unit to work twice as hard to keep your home at a comfortable level of coolness. Tiny cracks in window frames allow drafts of cool air to escape outside, which results in a higher electric bill for you each month. You may want to consider adding a light shade of tint to the windows that receive the longest amount of exposure to the sun each day.
Replace old, worn-out windows with newer design to reduce the amount of your monthly electric bill. The new windows will open and close more easily, which alleviates the amount of pressure on each window structure. This alleviation of pressure extends the life of the window, the glass panel and the other elements of a window structure. That works to create a level of energy efficiency in your home.
Any repair or replacement you make to the windows in your home automatically increase the property value of your home. New or updated windows are at the top of nearly every potential home buyer’s wish list. Modern windows help you keep up with architectural trends that emerge onto the housing market each year. It’s a small investment that will produce great financial results for the most important asset that you own.
RWC has been helping homeowners with home improvements since 1959. Call us or visit us online today to learn how we can help you.
Replacing Doors During Your Home Renovation
Are you currently working on a home renovation? If so, you're probably thinking about a million things right now. The paint colors, the flooring, the new countertops... There's so much to do! And, there's something that you can't overlook - replacing your doors.
The Importance of Doors
Replacing Doors
Replacing your doors is just as much a part of the renovation process as anything else. Your doors are the welcoming aspects of your home. They are elements that your guests look at when they come to visit. You, as the home owner, will also immensely appreciate new doors, because they're something you will notice every time you enter and leave your home.
The doors in your home add an essential design element to each room. You may not realize how important they are, as the doors you have now probably blend right in because you're so used to them. Replacing those old doors with new ones that will draw your eye to them and make you appreciate the style and elegance of new doors.
Renovations
Renovating your home is a huge deal, and a large part of it is making sure that everything coordinates with the whole look that you're going for. The color scheme has to be a main theme throughout the whole renovation, and you have to make sure that every room blends carefully into the next.
If you're going to replace the doors in your home, it is important that they match the rest of your renovations. The doors have to go along with the overall theme that you're aiming for. The color has to be perfect and the design of the door has to be perfect. There's so many aspects to replacing your doors. Take your time. Things might get a little tricky.
Choosing your new doors
There are so many different kinds of doors to choose from. This is why things might get a little tricky. You might not know what kind of doors to choose! There are so many different styles, such as:
- French doors - These doors are really popular for their ability to open up a space to create a bright entry or exit. They do vary in size though, depending on the materials they're constructed from.
- Dutch/stable doors - These doors will be convenient in many different scenarios. For example, if you're controlling pets or small children, these doors will be perfect, because they have the ability to open on just the top or just the bottom.
- Stacker doors - These doors will allow for openings in your home, and will let you open up an entire wall onto either a different part of the house or onto a yard area.
- Sliding doors - These doors allow larger entryways that make great use of your space. Pocketed sliding doors will also allow you to conceal doors inside wall cavities.
- Tilt doors - Hinged tilt doors are usually used for garages and sheds, and offer a great accessible opening.
- Roller doors - These doors take up less space because of the way they operate. They are often automated when installed in garages.
- Security screen doors - These doors offer a way to add a great layer of security to the front door of your home, and will also provide more sunlight when needed.
- Classic doors - These doors are the ones you probably have in your home right now. They have different designs, but remain to be the "classic" look.
Time to match things up!
Matching your doors to your overall look will be fun! The colors are what will make the doors in your home pop.
How should you match?
Choose a color for your front door that goes well with your shutters and the other exterior features of your home. Choose a color for your back door that's going to make your porch or deck area stand out. Sometimes picking glass doors is the classiest look!
Picking new doors for your home can be a little tricky, but after some time to think and plan, you'll get the hang of it! Each room in your home has a purpose, so think about that purpose when you're choosing your doors. If you have a sunroom or some other kind of open room, you should probably pick sliding doors or French doors to complete the look. If you're choosing a door for your shed or garage, then tilt doors are probably the way to go. And, if you're getting a new front door, then getting a classic door is probably the best move. It's all about the purpose!
Get some help from the professionals!
RWC has been relieving home improvement stress since 1959. Call us today or visit us on the web for your free consultation!
The Ultimate Guide to Your Kitchen Remodel
Quick Summary
This guide will walk you through what you need to know when you choose a contractor, set your budget and decide to remodel your kitchen. We will show you how to pick the right ingredients for your kitchen from countertops and sinks to backsplashes and appliances. We’ll look at the materials and styles to put together your dream kitchen. This guide will also assist you as you pick a theme or color for your remodel. Choosing your colors can be a difficult choice, but we can show you where to start for inspiration. Lastly, this guide will show you what you can expect when you hire RWC Windows, Doors and More to remodel your kitchen.
Chapter 2: Kitchen Remodeling 101
Chapter 3: The Right Ingredients for Your Kitchen
Chapter 4: Color Me Happy - Picking Your Colors
Chapter 1: Introduction
Making the right decisions when it comes to remodeling your kitchen can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve pulled from our decades of experience to break down some of the toughest decisions you’ll face when you choose to remodel your kitchen.
Chapter 2: Kitchen Remodeling 101
Why Now is the Time to Remodel Your Kitchen
Whether you are planning on staying in your house for another 30 years, are scouring the marketing and Internet for properties, or recently moved to your — slightly outdated — dream house, there’s no better time to remodel your kitchen than now.
Many people find that the kitchen is the hub of their home, where everyone gathers to start and end their days together, for late-night coffee chats with friends and family, weekend game nights, and more. While you’d think that more people would want to make this the most comfortable room in their house, homeowners tend to find reasons to postpone the project, from the time to the cost.
However, families looking to sell their properties may find that an investment in remodeling their kitchen will pay off when it comes time to close. Others may find that the deterioration is unsightly, or may even be unsafe. One of the biggest reasons to remodel your kitchen now may be the government rebates on your taxes that are being offered for homeowners installing energy-efficient appliances and taking measures to make their homes more eco-friendly. With the upcoming governmental changes, anyone interested in taking advantage of the rebates should move quickly.
The 5 Things You Need to Consider Before Beginning a Kitchen Remodel
When you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, there are few things to keep in mind.
1. How Long Will it Take?
With the kitchen typically being the most-used room in the house, some families find that being without access can be a challenge. Some contractors may try and under-project the length of time it will take to complete the remodel; getting an experienced, trustworthy contractor can help cut down on the pain of the kitchen closure.
2. How Much Will it Cost?
One of the biggest issues facing homeowners who want to remodel their kitchens is the overall cost. A kitchen remodel is one of the largest expenses that many homeowners will experience. It’s important to do research into the materials and brands you want to use for the remodel so you can get a better picture of what the remodel may cost overall; once you’ve done your calculations and set a budget, don’t budge. It’s important to be prepared for issues that may arise unexpectedly.
You can save on costs by visiting local showrooms — we offer more than 20,000 square feet of products that you can see and touch — to learn more and see the options in-person. Another way to save is by keeping the layout the same. If contractors don’t need to move plumbing, gas and electrical lines, you could save thousands.
3. Why Do You Want to Remodel?
What is your end goal of the remodel? If you are looking to sell your property and merely want to upgrade and add value, it’s more important to stick with neutral colors and pieces that don’t carry emotional attachments. However, if you are planning on making this your forever home, find the pieces, colors and designs that you love and that will grow with your family.
4. Should You Update Some Pieces or Replace Everything?
This goes back to the real reason you are remodeling. If you are planning on moving, a complete kitchen overhaul may not be necessary. If you will be staying, though, starting from scratch might prove to be the better option. Kitchens that have structural, water, plumbing or electrical damage may need to be gutted; otherwise, check the structural integrity of the kitchen components and consult with an experienced contractor.
5. Which Pieces Add Value?
There are certain components that bring a higher return on investment, like cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Look for well-constructed, long-living pieces that come with warranties and guarantees.
Of course, if you are experiencing problems with certain parts of the kitchen, like wiring, plumbing, chipping floor tiles or structural issues, those should be repaired as part of the remodeling project.
What Should You Look For When Hiring a Contractor
1. What Licenses Do They Hold?
Licensing requirements vary in each state. In New Jersey, contractors may be required to obtain a home repair contractor license, depending on how they accept payments. All home repair contractors should be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.
Home improvement contractors and general contractors in New Jersey must be licensed with the Department of Labor as part of the New Jersey Contractors’ Registration Act. This requires that contractors have liability insurance, show proof of their business type, and file a disclosure statement that lists possible violations.
It’s also a good idea to look for a contractor who has been bonded, which protects the consumer from a contractor who doesn’t complete the job, pay for permits, or fulfill other financial obligations associated with the project.
2. What is Their Experience?
Experience can be a wonderful quality for home contractors. When you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, a good place to start is by asking for referrals from friends and family. Once you’ve done that, narrow it down to the top three. Doing research to see the contractor’s speciality areas can make a difference. Just because they did great tile work doesn’t mean they will be the perfect contractor for your kitchen remodel project.
Ask for a list of references that includes past and current clients, who have the most recent experience working with the contractor.
From Consultation to Completion: The Importance of an Involved Contractor
When interviewing the potential contractors, find out how much of the work they will complete, and how much will be subcontracted. It’s also important to spell out who will be expected to acquire which materials, the hours and details regarding the work being done in the kitchen, and the dates by which the contractor will apply for the required permits.
A good contractor will be able to talk to you frequently about the project’s progress.
Allocating Your Budget: What Should Come First
When you set the budget for your kitchen remodel, it’s important to factor in all of the possible components. On average, labor costs between 20 and 35 percent of your budget, and it’s important to save 10 to 20 percent of your budget for the unplanned situations that may arise throughout the duration of the project.
Rank the rest of the typical kitchen remodeling costs, like cabinets, appliances, windows, flooring, fixtures and fittings, in order of importance. Together, cabinets and appliances usually take up about half of a kitchen remodeling budget.
Add in the indirect costs. Consider the costs of staying in a hotel (if you’ll be living elsewhere for the duration of the project), the cost of take-out dinners or the costs of storage units. Once you’ve set your budget, stick to each line item.
Chapter 3: The Right Ingredients for Your Kitchen
Catchy Countertops: Where Function and Beauty Meet
Countertops are usually the main focal point of your kitchen, and also one of the most important parts as you prepare and serve food from this spot, as well. Choosing the right material is a matter of combining the look you want with the purpose you need, at your perfect price point.
Top Countertop Materials
- Granite: Once a high-end item found in pricier kitchen remodels, an increasing number of homeowners are finding that this natural stone meets all of their countertop needs. With a variety of colors and options for cutting that eliminates seams, granite’s popularity has actually brought the prices down over the past few years. To care for a granite countertop, use a non-abrasive stone cleaner that maintains the treatment for its full ten or more years.
- Solid Surfacing: These solid acrylic, solid polyester, or combination countertops have been popular, affordable options for more than 40 years. They are typically stain- and scratch-resistant, repairable, and customizable, with hundreds of colors and patterns. Newer options include materials that look similar to natural stone.
- Tile: Ceramic tile has fallen from popularity as a primary countertop material because it requires slightly more maintenance and upkeep. It’s more often seen on backsplashes, islands, counters or other surfaces. When choosing tile, pick out pieces rated for floors or countertops, rather than the thinner, more delicate wall tiles that are more likely to crack.
- Quartz: These non-porous countertops are resistant to scratches, heat, staining, acids, and impacts. They are often engineered as a quartz composite, and are a very low-maintenance option.
- Laminate: Once rejected because it looked too dated and cheap, laminate countertops are making a resurgence. They are a budget-friendly option; due to the hundreds of colors and designs, laminate offers retro and modern cuts and colors.
- Marble: Another high-end natural stone option, marble’s innate design is a great way to balance functionality and finances. However, these beautiful countertops are porous, and can be prone to staining or damage.
- Butcher Block: Made with a variety of different types of wood, butcher block countertops are both beautiful and functional. They are heat-resistant and, when treated correctly, sanitary.
The Best Countertops
If you want a more contemporary feel, we recommend looking into quartz. When the crushed stone is mixed with resin, it creates a durable surface with a high heat resistance. Otherwise, granite is still a top choice for homeowners.
Super Sinks: Selecting Your Ideal Sink
From stainless steel and copper undermount sinks that can give your kitchen a sleek, seamless appearance to white ceramic farmhouse sinks that remind you of days gone by, there are a wide variety of styles that match the feel you want for your kitchen.
Top Sink Materials
- Stainless Steel: The heat and stain resistance of stainless steel makes it one of the most popular choices for many homeowners. It comes in nearly every style, size and shape imaginable. Mirror is one finish type, but brushed or satin finishes tend to be better at hiding scratches and marks from the water. There are also stainless steel sinks with sound-absorbing pads.
- Granite Composite: These sinks come in a wide array of natural colors, but many people prefer dark browns, grays, and blacks for the ability hide dirt stains, water marks, and scratches. They have a high durability and low maintenance requirement to keep the sink functioning and looking nice.
- Porcelain: While porcelain is becoming less popular in kitchens, it is still an option that many people appreciate for their sinks. It can have a tendency to chip with pointed or heavy objects, and may also discolor. However, it is less expensive than fireclay, which has a similar appearance. Porcelain is available in many colors.
- Stone: Natural stone sinks are a beautiful compliment to natural stone countertops. For example, if you choose a soapstone countertop, consider a soapstone sink. While it’s a soft stone that may need extra care, it’s also got a higher level of stain resistance. Marble, slate, swanstone and sandstone are other natural stone options.
- Other materials include enameled cast iron and fireclay, two solid, durable options for anyone who wants a white sink. Copper sinks are antimicrobial and rust-resistant.
The Best Sinks
Manufacturers are typically less important than size and material. Quartz and granite are two extremely durable materials that provide low maintenance requirements, but also also pricier.
For a budget-friendly, low-maintenance sink option, we recommend stainless steel.
Beautiful Backsplashes: Getting the Design of Your Dreams
Your backsplash is a way to add personality and color to your house. Whether you choose the simplicity of subway tiles, pops of color, rimmed in white, or an intricate design, your backsplash offers unlimited possibilities.
Top Backsplash Materials
- Tile: Backsplashes made of tile remain one of the top-rated choices. Available in a variety of shapes and colors, you can evoke a number of feelings and atmospheres with the tile you choose. Some people like the clean lines of subway tiles, others prefer textured tiles. Round penny tiles, square tiles, or custom shapes and more bring you infinite options.
- Glass: Etched or smooth panels, colorful tiles, and backlit pieces give you a clean, modern feel that can open up a room.
- Wood: There are many ways to incorporate wood as a backsplash, from reclaimed and recycled wood to wood from your property. Some homeowners have used antique boat wood, which is already moisture-resistant and can be sanded down and refinished in any number of ways.
- Tin: Formerly a popular option for ceilings, some homeowners have found they prefer tin backsplashes for their durability, beauty and reflective qualities that can make a small kitchen feel airy and open.
- Stone: Natural stone, like limestone, river rock, sandstone, agate, caesarstone and marble, makes a great compliment to natural elements like stone countertops and wood cabinets.
- Metals: Bronze and stainless steel can give kitchens a more modern vibe. Copper makes a beautiful patina when it coats ceramic tiles.
- Other options: Mirrors tend to make small kitchens feel larger, and are available in many different finishes. Embossed concrete can create beautiful formal designs. Chalkboard paint can give a fun atmosphere to a family kitchen
The Best Backsplashes
This is a highly subjective choice — you’ll know which you prefer, but we love the versatility of tile. Tile is colorful, durable and affordable.
Amazing Appliances: Modernize Your Kitchen
Plug In the Perfect Appliance
What would a kitchen be without the appliances? Stainless steel remains a favored choice, but new finishes like slate and glass are taking off as hardy, trendy options.
- Refrigerator/Freezer: There are many different sizes and shape. Some units are side-by-side; others have the freezer at the top or the bottom of the unit. It’s important to know exactly how much space you have available, since units come in many sizes, from counter-depth and full-depth to narrow or column-sized units.
- Stovetop and Oven: Traditional, freestanding ovens and ranges are still popular options, but there are many homeowners who choose new options like electric, gas or induction cooktops with built-in single or double ovens.
- Microwave: Microwaves typically come in three different options: countertop, over-the-range and built-in units. While countertop units are typically less expensive, they offer less in the way of being hidden by cabinetry, and may take up more counter space.
- Garbage Disposal: A newer mainstay in kitchen remodels, continuous- and batch-feed garbage disposals are both eco-friendly options for non-compostable food scraps.
Where to Find Color Inspiration
Picking out the colors is like the icing on the cake. You’ve already chosen the flavor of your kitchen — modern, farm and shabby-chic are popular options. You’ve selected the filling, or the cabinets, appliances, countertops and more. Now, make the outside as beautifully delicious as the inside by picking your paint and accent colors.
With a nearly infinite number of colors, though, it can be difficult figuring out where to start.
Pantone Colors of the Year
Since 2000, the company has pulled together a committee to scour the globe for colors that were showing up frequently, in fashion, street art, cars, cinema and more. Each December, the Pantone Color Institute releases its color choice for the next year, the Pantone color of the year; for the first time, the 2016 color of the year is actually two colors: serenity, a shade of pastel sky blue, and rose quartz, a pale pink.
Yes, we know, picking such a trendy color doesn’t always lead to longevity, but if you love the color combination, it might be something you’d consider putting on your walls. Otherwise, the Pantone color of the year also makes an outstanding accent color.
Consult a Color Guide
Our on-staff designers can help you pick colors right up your alley. Whether you want a bright and airy yellow, a relaxing blue, or an intense marsala — last year’s Pantone color of the year — we can help you select the best colors for the mood and the environment you want to create in your kitchen.
One great resource is the Adobe color wheel, which lets you see hundreds of pre-designed color sets, and lets you play around to see how up to five different colors will look together.
Your Personal Taste
Trust your instincts. You’ll be using this kitchen every day, multiple times. If you absolutely love a specific color, let us know and we will give you ideas about incorporating that color into your budget and products.
Chapter 5: Get Started Today
The Initial Consultation — What You Should Expect
When you meet with a contractor, it’s important to select one from the beginning who understands that this is your kitchen, and needs to be functional for your needs. Some contractors may have the habit of coming in with preconceived ideas of what your kitchen should be, and are much better at talking than listening.
Select a contractor who wants to work with you to give you the best value. The first meeting should include crucial details that will set the tone for the rest of the process.
- Your dream kitchen. A good contractor will want to hear about what you have in mind for your kitchen, including materials used, layout and what you’re looking for.
- Your dream budget. Rather than pushing certain products and prices, find a contractor who will keep your budget in mind, and will work with you to maximize your investment.
- Your space: The contractor should, from the beginning, take measurements and inspect the plumbing, electric or structure in your kitchen.
Following the initial consultation, it’s important that the contractor joins you to select the ideal components for your kitchen. Preparation of a suggested layout can help you make your final decision.
RWC Windows, Doors and More
Since 1959, RWC Windows, Doors and More has been family-owned and operated, and focused on bringing customers the best possible service. Our focus has always been on three areas of service.
- Education: We want to make sure that you’ve got the knowledge to make the best possible decisions for your project. With more than 54 years serving New Jersey customers, we have a wealth of knowledge — and want to share it with you.
- Products: Our 20,000-square-foot showroom and design center brings the best from the country’s leading suppliers, offering products to fit all sizes of spaces and budgets. Contractors and homeowners have found that the life-sized samples allow them to find exactly the right piece for their project.
- Service: Our professionals put your project at the top of their priority list. The contractor and designer assigned to your kitchen remodel will be there every step of the way to explain the process and make sure everyone is satisfied.
Cooking Up the Perfect Kitchen — We’re Here to Help
When you’re ready to move your kitchen remodeling project to the front burner, we are here to help. Like a top chef, we prepare everything precisely to your standards, starting with an initial design consultation when our design and project management staff members schedule an appointment at your home. We’ll sit down and learn about your wish list, a basic budget, and will tell you about the construction process and timeline. After our consultation, we’ll also take measurements and pictures, and will look at structural, plumbing or electrical issues that might play into the final design and layout.
We’ll then meet up at our in-house design center, where you’ll choose your products. Your designer will walk you through the process to help you make sound decisions for both the construction process and your overall budget. Your designer will then give you a three-dimensional color drawing of your kitchen, we review and sign the product contract, and then serve you up the kitchen of your dreams.
If you’ve been cooking up plans for a new kitchen for a while, call RWC Windows, Doors and More today. We’re excited to work with you to bring your vision to life.