Sliding Glass Door Installation in NJ: Patio, Exterior & Interior Options
Large sliding glass doors are always useful, but it takes the proper sizing and placement to ensure that they are also safe. It's also important to consider the structural requirements of the home when you're planning on installing a sliding glass door. This way, you'll be sure to enhance your home and enjoy years of trouble-free use of the doors. Learn more about the key steps involved:
Choose Potential Sites for Your New Sliding Glass Doors
While it's possible to open up beautiful views with large-sized sliding glass doors, they should also be placed so that they will offer convenient egress to an area you're likely to frequent. Doors facing backyards, decks, or patios are all popular, but if these areas aren't of that much interest to you, feel free to choose another destination.
Consider the impact of the elements on these doors when choosing a location. These doors should be somewhat sheltered to avoid excessive sun, snow or wind to increase energy efficiency. While the EPA notes that efficiency-minded improvements such as multi-layered glazing have been made, it's still a good idea to choose a fairly sheltered spot for these doors.
Are Sliding Glass Doors Only for the Exterior?
Most people put these doors facing outside the home, but there are several options that are styled for interior use. Interior sliding glass doors are excellent partitions between rooms with wide openings, such as between kitchens and family rooms. Closing them when the rooms aren't in use will help save on energy usage.
Steps for Installation
It is recommended to hire professionals to install sliding glass doors, especially when exterior doors and existing walls are involved. It's important to have professionals who are very knowledgeable about structural requirements to complete the work.
The exterior walls of a home contain load-bearing timbers, which are what keep the house from falling down. Therefore, when a large door or window is installed, a frame has to be constructed to distribute the load to other areas.
Once that is done, a separate frame is made to hold the new door. This is built into the house and provides a place for the visible part of the door frame to be seated. It's important that this is done right so that water, drafts, and insects can't get into the wall and cause problems.
Finally, the door and its attached frame are installed. Since these doors slide, tracks will be put on the top and bottom to allow for easy motion.
Keeping Your New Sliding Doors in Good Condition
Maintenance of these doors is quite simple. Most of the time, they only need to be cleaned with window spray and a cloth to keep them looking their best.
Under some conditions, the doors may stick in their tracks. This typically happens due to grit from outside getting into the lower track. To restore motion, just use a whisk broom to remove the grit and then put down a layer of WD-40 or another lubricant. There is usually no need to replace sliding glass door hardware.
Takeaways
- Keep convenience in mind when choosing a location for sliding glass doors
- Trust professionals instead of worrying about how to install sliding glass doors yourself
- Avoid locations that would increase energy usage too much
- Interior sliding glass doors create beautiful partitions between rooms
- Structural adjustments are often needed to account for alterations to load-bearing areas
- It's important to get a tight seal between the door frame and structural framework
- Metal frames ensure that the doors will continue to slide well
- Caring for sliding glass doors is easy – washing is usually all that is needed
- Clean grit from the track and lubricate it if the doors become sticky
We are professional remodelers with plenty of experience installing sliding glass doors and other upgrades. To get a quote, just contact us here at RWC in West Caldwell, New Jersey.
Exceptional Finishes Found in the Best Bathrooms
The bathroom might seem like an unlikely place for design and decor trends, but this area has seen a surge in innovation over the last few years. Many new ideas in finishes have arrived, as well as an upsurge in the popularity of natural stone tiles. Topping this off is a change in how tubs and showers are built. Let’s explore some of the latest trends.
Paint
Even the best bathrooms have some areas that are painted instead of tiled. In some cases, the only paint is on the ceiling; but in others, it covers at least one wall and usually more.
The latest trend in paint is the eggshell finish. It is described by Rodda Paint, a paint manufacturer, as being halfway between satin and semi-gloss. Uniquely, it looks flat when viewed straight-on, but slightly glossy if it is seen from a sharp or low angle. Its main benefit is practical; an eggshell finish in bathroom environments is easy to wash and releases dirt far better than matte options.
Colors have been more predictable this year, with a preference for relaxing hues. Good Housekeeping's list of the 12 best colors for bathrooms includes several shades of light blue along with many beiges. It does note, however, that not all people want the "relaxing, spa-like experience." For those contrary to light colors, it mentions the bold option of black offset by white or neutral tiles for a dramatic look.
Bathroom Tile
Natural looks have taken the floor – and the walls, and the shower enclosures by storm! In the most upscale bathrooms, large-format, natural stone tiles are ruling supreme. Typically, the tiles are tan or brown stone, bringing a neutral and calm feeling to the room. It's also a big improvement over the garishly-colored and patterned looks of the past. Matte bathroom tile finishes are often used for the walls and other areas that do not need to be completely waterproof, though even these are almost surely treated to resist moisture penetration.
Showers and Tubs
While guest bathrooms still tend to use the old-fashioned tub/shower combo, the same is not true of master baths. There, the current fashion is to have two separate units, both of which have been enlarged to bring a luxurious experience to users. Stand alone soaking tubs have become better in design too. The tubs have gone from the narrow lie-down type to spa-like sit-in versions.
For showers, frameless glass enclosures have taken center stage in the upscale market, and waterproofed natural stone tile typically lines at least one wall. The appearance is very stunning, but it takes meticulous cleaning of the glass after every shower to maintain the crystal-clarity of clear glass elements.
Bathroom Sinks and Vanities
Custom cabinetry, square sinks and double sinks are among the most popular sink trends, however, there too many options to identify a solid trend. This is not the case for bathroom fixture finishes! The once-ubiquitous chrome finish has finally been recognized as boring, and the trend is to replace that look with one that is more sophisticated and creative.
Burnished and/or brushed brass, burnished bronze, and other warm-toned options have taken the fore for metal bathroom elements. They add an aesthetic appeal to the bathroom at any price point, but of course, it takes a bit of an investment to get the top quality versions.
Takeaways
- Eggshell has become a very popular paint finish
- Calming paint colors are in fashion
- Large-format stone tile is hitting the scene in a big way
- The tub/shower combo is out for master bathrooms. Instead, large separate units have taken over.
- Burnished and/or brushed metal finishes are in vogue for bathroom sink fixtures and other metal accessories.
For your bathroom renovation, contact us here at RWC in West Caldwell, New Jersey. We have over 50 years of experience in home remodeling, and will provide the results you seek.
From Ceiling to Floor: How to Make Your Windows Picture Perfect
There's little that can match the stunning visual effect of floor-to-ceiling windows. In fact, just looking at them gives the impression that there are no downsides – but is it true? Here are some of the benefits of these windows, along with a couple of hidden drawbacks that you should be aware of:
The Pros of Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
The biggest pro of these windows is also the most obvious; they look great. They provide excellent, panoramic views of the outdoors, bringing natural elements into the home. Their size makes the room look bigger from inside and out and they make your home appear more expensive.
Floor-to-ceiling windows also create spaces with an abundance of natural light. Combined with the great view of the outdoors they provide, this creates a relaxing space. Studies cited by the University of Minnesota have shown that views of the outdoors lower blood pressure and speed healing. This is a benefit that will make you feel better physically and mentally.
With these windows, you eliminate the need to repaint the walls in order to get a fresh view. The outdoors is constantly changing, with minor differences every day and major ones with each season. You'll be happy to put down the paintbrush once and for all, both indoors and out – and best of all, the scenery will always be more interesting than any paint color!
Adding these windows also increases the perceived value of the home. They look very opulent, and it goes without saying that would-be home buyers will expect to pay more to get a house that includes them. To maximize this effect, be sure the windows are placed so that they overlook the best possible view.
The Drawbacks
As with anything else, there are a few drawbacks to these windows. The cost of floor to ceiling windows can be quite high - from $700 to $1,600 according to Modernize.com - not only because of the amount of glass involved, but due to the amount of engineering and carpentry needed to install them. Since they can take up most or all of a wall, new beams and frames will need to be installed to take the weight of the house. This can make the price prohibitive for some homeowners. That said, home improvement financing can eliminate funding delays.
The lack of privacy offered by the bare windows can be a problem if they are facing in a direction that allows passers-by or neighbors to see in from outdoors. However, this is just a minor issue. Drapes, curtains, blinds, and other standard window coverings are available in large sizes and will provide plenty of privacy when they're closed. For privacy even while the coverings are open, consider tinted or mirrored glass. The drawback with this sort of glass is that it can block too much light if the windows are facing a shady side of the house.
Takeaways:
- Floor-to-ceiling windows look expensive, and this can raise the value of a house
- These windows let in plenty of light
- Natural views reduce stress and can even lower blood pressure
- Large windows don't just look expensive. They actually are, so financing is often needed.
- Privacy can be a concern in some locations.
- Use window coverings or tinted glass to increase indoor privacy
When you decide to go ahead with a home renovation that includes floor-to-ceiling windows, call RWC or fill out the quick form on our site. We serve customers in northern New Jersey and can handle all of your renovations and upgrades. We'll not only install your windows, but take care of any structural updates that are required for these large openings.
New to Kitchen Finishes? Here’s What You Need to Know
Kitchen finishes are unique because they need to protect their associated items from grease, spills, wet cleaning, and more. This means they must be durable but also look great. Here are some of the current overall trends to give you some ideas for your kitchen remodeling projects:
Appliances
Shiny enamel has been a favorite for appliances for decades if not longer, but that doesn't mean that it has stayed looking the same. Basic white, while very common, has not been seen as an "in" color for many years. Instead, bold colors are once again making an appearance, and black remains a favorite as well.
Stainless steel appliances are still going strong, and thanks to its normally-higher price, it has been able to avoid becoming too common. That said, it's not the best-choice option for many kitchens. Its industrial feel works best in modern designs.
Cabinetry
Stained or even simply polished wood is the far-and-away favorite of today's designers, as can be seen from how often it is used in new homes. It looks great in all but the most modern of designs. Clean these cabinets frequently, especially if they're only protected by a light coat of polish.
Paint, whether standard or enamel, is a strong second to polished wood. The most popular color is white thanks to its clean, fresh look. That said, other colors are great for creating themes. HGTV mentions using blues, yellows, and pops of red, among other options.
Getting cabinets pre-finished before they arrive at your home results in a good, even finish thanks to the controlled conditions of the finishing facility. This service ensures the new kitchen cabinetry will be finished perfectly before it is delivered and installed.
Countertops
Kitchen countertop finishes depend heavily on what the underlying surface is made from. Granite, other stone surfaces, and concrete are all best coated in a water-resistant sealant and then polished to a deep shine. This creates a stunningly beautiful surface, but the original point was more practical: a thick layer of shiny sealant keeps liquid from getting into the pores of the stone and causing stains.
Countertops laminated with materials such as Formica can be glossy too, but they often use a semi-gloss finish instead. In laminate, semi-gloss versions are less likely to show damage like scratches.
Backsplashes are often made of the same material as the countertop itself. However, contrast can be gained by using backsplash tile for kitchen countertops. Tile is waterproof and durable, so it works very well for this purpose.
Flooring
Kitchen floors must look beautiful, yet also be waterproof and easy to clean. That creates a conundrum because one of today's biggest trends in general flooring is hardwood. According to TheFlooringGirl.com, flooring manufacturers are bridging this gap with waterproof wood-look kitchen alternatives made of vinyl planks, porcelain planks, and other materials. This means that browns and tans are currently ruling to get the look of hardwood. Floors are almost always finished to a shine, especially in kitchens. While matte can look great, shiny floors are more resistant to stains resulting from spills.
Takeaways
- Stainless steel appliances are popular, but they have not become commonplace.
- Wood cabinetry is always a hit.
- Painted cabinets allow homeowners to move away from the browns of wood.
- Countertop finishes depend on the construction material.
- Wood-look vinyl and porcelain materials are trending in kitchen flooring.
- Kitchen flooring typically has a glossy finish to resist stains
To get your kitchen redone in all of the latest colors and finishes, just contact us here at RWC. We're northern New Jersey's experts at home remodeling projects, with over 54 years in business.
6 Easy Ways to Spruce Up Your Home's Exterior [Infographic]
When you want to make your home look great, it's time to focus on curb appeal. With a variety of ways, you can update the look of your home on a modest or limited budget. Whether you are selling your home and want to make it more attractive to buyers, or you simply want to improve the look of your property, focus on curb appeal. With the right doors, lighting, and shrubbery, learn how you can change the look of your home with the right improvements.
1. Change the Front Door
A new front door is going to give your home a fresh look and improve your overall curb appeal. Take the time to research the style of front door that will work best for your home and find a front door that will work for you.
2. Replace Old Windows
Old, tired looking windows can make your home look disheveled. When you want to improve your curb appeal, invest in new windows for your entry way and the front of your home. In addition, you will make your home more energy efficient once new windows are installed.
3. Renew Your Lighting Scheme
Good lighting makes a big difference in the curb appeal of your home. Look at your home at night with the current lighting turned on. If your entryway doesn’t have a clear, lit path up to your front door, it's time to make changes to your lighting scheme. Replace porch lighting or any other old lighting fixtures to make your home brighter at night.
4. Invest in New Garage Doors
Your garage doors make a bigger overall impact on the look of your home than you may realize. If you have faded garage doors that are difficult to open, your home may appear run down or dated. Keeping your garage doors up to date tells potential home buyers you take care of your home.
5. Install New House Numbers and a Mailbox
Make your home your own by installing new house numbers and a new mailbox on your home. These are two small changes that will give your home a polished look. Check out some of the new LED lit house numbers so that you can see the number of your house, even in the dark. Small accessories will provide the finished look you want when you are focused on the curb appeal of your home.
6. Focus on Landscaping
The final way to make the front of your home look great is to focus on the landscaping. Pull out any tired or weak looking shrubbery and invest in new plantings. Get any trees that are diseased or out of shape pruned appropriately. Focus on perennial gardens to give the front of your home some color during the warm weather months. Keep the front of your home neat and trimmed to boost the curb appeal of your house.
When you want to make the outside of your home look great, it's time to call the professionals at RWC Windows, Doors & More at 973-227-7123 to see how we can help. Our talented staff are ready to talk with you about your home renovation needs. Whether you want to boost the value of your home, or you are trying to prepare your home for sale, we are ready to help you make your home look amazing. For ideas, suggestions, and planning for the exterior of your home, it's time to contact RWC and see how we can help you make your home look great.
Custom Closet Door Guide: Find The Best Closet Doors For Your Wardrobe
Custom Wardrobe Closet Doors
When you have wardrobes in your home that need new doors, what you choose can make a big difference in the decor and functionality of your home. Whether you want pocket doors that slide easily into a hidden compartment, or you are looking for fresh new frosted glass doors for your wardrobe, you have options. Consider the various styles and alternatives of wardrobe doors available, and learn about the pros and cons of the types of custom closet doors you can choose from.
Types Of Closet Doors
Bi Fold Doors for Your Wardrobe
Bi fold doors are a great addition to any room. New trends in custom wardrobe closet design are using bi fold doors that are more intricate, even made with frosted glass to give your closet an entirely new look. Bi fold doors are generally easy to open, and an affordable option for many situations. One of the problems homeowners have with bi fold doors is that they can detach from the hardware if mishandled, causing the door to struggle to open or close. With proper installation done by a professional, bi fold doors are a great choice.
A pocket door is more than a door, it's a design element for your room. When you use a pocket door for your closet, the door opens completely by sliding into the adjacent wall. This is a great type of door to use in confined spaces, and allows you to have a door on your wardrobe without needing any space to open up the door into the room. Sometimes a pocket door will slide off the tracks, but in general these are great doors for your closet when you use them properly.
A Barn Door for a Great Look
A barn door for your wardrobe will give you a unique look for bedrooms, living rooms or other spaces where you have a large closet. Barn doors are hung on a ride, and slide over to open. A barn door for your wardrobe can give your room a warm appearance if you choose dark wood, or you can opt for a lighter shade of painted barn door for your room. If you have small children, you may not want a barn door for a common room as the door can slip off of the rod if it's opened too hard.
Frosted glass doors add an element to your wardrobe that gives it a modern, sleek look. Frosted glass doors are a beautiful way to brighten up a room, as they will reflect light that enters the room beautifully. When you choose glass for your wardrobe doors, you'll want to be sure that you are mindful when you open and close them. While they aren't going to break during normal use, a hard shove closed can cause problems.
Flush doors for your wardrobe are a great trend that allows your wardrobe to blend into the wall. It can be hard to tell how the doors are even opened, making it possible to have your wardrobe look like a wall instead of a bulky closet. Flush doors are a great option when you are looking for a modern style and you have a small space you are trying to decorate.
Your wardrobe closet door types include:
- pocket doors that slide into the wall
- frosted glass doors that brighten a room
- a wooden barn door that offers a unique look
- bi fold doors that are affordable and easy to install
At RWC Windows, Doors and More, finding the perfect custom wardrobe closet doors is just a phone call away. Give RWC a call today at 973-435-4230 to generate design ideas for your own closet door installation for your home in Caldwell, NJ and the surrounding area. Get a quote from RWC today.
How to Accent Your Dream Kitchen With The Perfect Countertop
Stand back and take a look at your kitchen. What features stand out to you the most? If you are like many homeowners, one of the first things you mention will be the countertops. The fact is, the countertop takes up a lot of visual space in this room in the house. Therefore, it must be carefully considered when you decide you want to make some upgrades and changes to achieve your dream kitchen. Take a look at the most commonly sought after countertop types and the pros and cons of each so you can make the best choice to accent your kitchen.
Granite
Pros
- Granite countertops offer a timeless, classic beauty that is still one of the most popular choices.
- Granite is fairly resilient to heat and incredibly durable when well maintained.
- There are an amazing number of shade variations of granite to choose from.
Cons
- Granite does have to be resealed every so often so it can remain resilient.
- Acidic foods and cleaners can stain granite if not wiped away promptly, according to Tom Silva from This Old House.
- Granite can be more costly than laminate or concrete because it is a natural stone, with prices ranging from $50 to $100 per square foot.
Marble
Pros
- Offers a lighter, brighter color hue than most other natural stone countertops.
- Marble can actually be less expensive than granite and other natural stone countertops, especially Carrara (also called Carrera).
- Marble can be a little more easy to find than some other natural stone countertop types, such as quartz.
Cons
- Marble is more porous than some other types of stone, which means it can be easier to scratch.
- Stains can be a problem on lightly colored marble, so spills must be tended to quickly.
- Even with proper maintenance, marble can develop a patina with years of use that is somewhat duller than some homeowners prefer.
Laminate
Pros
- Laminate is well-known as being the least expensive countertop material, which makes it ideal if you are remodeling on a slim budget.
- Laminate can be installed over an existing countertop.
- Laminate is readily available and goes in place quickly.
Cons
- Laminate does not really add any value to the home during resale, unlike some of the more expensive natural stone types.
- Laminate is not resilient to heat and some types will melt when exposed to the bottom of a hot pan.
- Laminate does not have as long of a lifespan and will probably have to be replaced within a few years.
Butcher Block
Pros
- Can be an endless array of wooden color hues to match your kitchen.
- Wood of a butcher block countertop can be naturally heat resistant.
- Works well in both modern and traditional kitchen spaces.
Cons
- You will have to be mindful of moisture exposure to prevent mildew and rot over the years.
- May have to be treated a few times a year to maintain its resiliency.
Quartz
Pros
- Quartz does not chip or crack easily, which can be a problem with some other natural stone.
- Resists staining better than granite, marble, or other synthetic stone types.
- Will not harbor bacteria because it is non-porous.
Cons
- Quartz can be harder to obtain than some natural stone countertops, which can also mean it can be more expensive.
- Quartz can have a more contemporary appearance and seams may be more visible.
Concrete
Pros
- Concrete can be pigmented or stained to provide an array of colors and designs.
- Concrete countertops of the basic designs can be less expensive than natural stone countertops.
- Concrete countertops do not scratch easily and are resistant to heat and moisture.
Cons
- Concrete counters do require ongoing sealing, which is not something some homeowners want to deal with.
- A specially designed concrete countertop can be a little expensive, with prices comparable to natural stone.
Important Things to Remember About Accenting Your Dream Kitchen with the Best Countertops
- Every type of countertop material has its advantages and disadvantages. It is crucial to consider all points when making your decision.
- There are always lesser expensive options available, but these may not get you the longest-living accent for your kitchen.
- Natural stone is great for use as countertops, but does usually come with maintenance requirements.
The countertops in your kitchen can easily change the look of the space for the better or worse, so picking the right type is incredibly important. For more information about how to choose the right countertop styles for your kitchen, reach out to RWC for expert advice and guidance.
The 5 Bathroom Trends Through the Years That Will Make You Cringe
While a variety of bathroom trends that have come and gone, few have stood the test of time. Unlike the sleek, white subway tiles popular today, bathroom tiles were once brightly colored squares of sea foam green, orange and pink. If you've purchased a home that hasn't seen any updates in the last forty years, it's time to rethink that retro bathroom. Take a trip down memory lane and look back at some of the worst bathroom designs and how to update them for today.
Pink Sinks and Toilets
The trend: Used in mid century America, pink was a popular bathroom color throughout the United States. First Lady, Mamie Eisenhower was partially responsible for the popularity of pink, as she redecorated most of the private quarters of the White House in shades of pink. Reporters even started calling the White House the “Pink Palace!” When you see a bubble-gum pink shower surround or toilet in your home, you can be sure that the bathroom probably hasn't been renovated since the 1950s.
The update: The modern update for bathrooms today are clean looking hues, generally shades of white and cream. Replace the toilet and tub with new white models to give the bathroom a fresh look. Or, replace the tub altogether and build a large shower stall with a bench and shower niche.
Carpeted Floors
The trend: Wall to wall carpeting is reminiscent of the post WWII era. From the living room, to bathroom, carpeted floors were everywhere. While carpeting in bedrooms is a great idea, carpeted bathrooms often lead to issues. The threat of mold and mildew in the carpet is a concern due to the elevated water and moisture levels in the bathroom. Post shower, the carpet is absorbing most of the water spilled onto the floor, causing it to get trapped and promote the growth of mold. While carpeting is a non slip option, there are other alternatives to consider.
The update: A modern solution for carpeted flooring is to remove the carpeting and replace it with tiles or laminate flooring. Tile or laminate flooring offered today are made to look like more expensive materials and textured non slip options are available. Once the carpet is gone, use a washable bathmat to collect water when you step out of the shower to avoid mold and mildew growth.
Laminate Countertops
The trend: In the 1970s, Formica countertops were available in almost every color you could imagine. Due to their range of colors and low price point, these were used in bathrooms everywhere. If you have an aqua colored counter in your bathroom or a scalloped sink, you can rest assured that the bathroom hasn't been updated since disco ruled the radio.
The update: Give your countertops a more modern look by choosing vanity tops in neutral, subdued hues. Consider spending a little more to update the cheap laminate to granite, marble or quartz countertops.
Terrible Tile Patterns
The trend: Tile is a great option for the bathroom because it is water-resistant. Unfortunately, many of the colors and designs used in the past included pea green or ugly brown tiles in patterns that were less than desirable. The most popular tile trend in the bathrooms stacked colored squares placed in a gridded pattern halfway up the wall and complemented with an accent border.
The update: Tiles are still trendy! However, the colors and patterns have changed. Update your bathroom using white subway tiles in a brick, herringbone, or vertical patterns. Choosing a different grout color such as gray makes your tiles stand out and gives the bathroom a modern look that will be suitable for years to come.
Bold Floral Patterns
The trend: In the 1960s, wallpaper in large floral patterns became popular in bathrooms. In the 1980s, bright floral valances and accessories were made popular, extending the floral trend for decades. Like carpeting, wallpaper also has its issues in regards to moisture. The extra humidity and moisture in the bathroom can cause the wallpaper to peel.
To update: For an updated look, exchange the big florals and wallpaper for touches of natural materials. Replace the wallpaper with a new coat of paint and use natural accessories. For a natural, Zen feel, choose materials made of bamboo, cotton, or other organic materials. Image 38744609
Bathroom design changes can include:
- Replacing pink toilets with white ones
- Switching carpet for tile
- Bright colored countertops to more subdued countertops
- Choosing different colored tiles and patterns
- Removal of floral patterns in exchange for organic materials
To learn more about how you can remodel your outdated bathroom, call RWC Windows, Doors & More at 973-435-4230 and talk with one of our representatives today.
7 Home Renovation Mistakes & How to Avoid Them [Infographic]
When done correctly, remodeling projects can transform your home into a beautiful, usable space for your family. However, when home renovations are done wrong, disasters can be the result. Luckily, RWC can teach you everything to know before renovating a house. Use our tips to avoid common home renovation mistakes homeowners make when embarking on a home improvement project. By following our advice, your project will run smoothly and the result will be what you envisioned instead of just an expensive mistake. Scroll down to check out our home renovation infographic with the top 7 common mistakes made!
Planning Mistakes
- Choosing the cheapest contractor. Obtain quotes from three different contractors. Quotes should be given in writing and include specific information about products, sizes, permit fees, warranties and the change order process.
- Not expecting the unexpected. Plan to spend 15 or 20 percent more than you think the project will cost. Doing so will allow your budget to absorb unforeseen expenses that always arise during home improvement projects.
- Lack of usable space. Make sure a kitchen or bath renovation has adequate storage and counter space.
- Failing to anticipate a mess. Renovations are chaotic and time-consuming, so expect a mess from the get-go.
- Home renovation timeline is not provided or is inaccurate. Some contractors may overestimate or underestimate their work schedule, causing delays or overcharging.
- Doing 'want to's' instead of 'have to's.' Know the difference between items you must do and items you would like to do.
Construction Mistakes
- Skimping on unseen elements. Moisture barriers, energy efficient windows and other items you may not see will have a big impact on your home's long-term safety and function.
- Failing to get permits. If you don't get a permit, you could incur a fine and your homeowner's insurance may not cover a claim if something happens.
- Neglecting the electric system. Walk through the project with an electrician to ensure outlets are in the right spaces and everything is up to code.
- Ignoring long-term needs. Think about how you might use your home several years in the future instead of in the present.
- Overbuilding for your neighborhood. Your home renovations shouldn't make your home cost substantially more than others in the neighborhood.
Design Mistakes
- Measuring wrong. Make sure measurements are exact to avoid problems with installation.
- Insisting on hardwood. Hardwood may not be the best option for your family. Single-board laminate may be the best choice if you have pets and kids.
- Sticking to trends. Trends are temporary, so look for options that will stand the test of time instead of a short-term fad.
- Buy extra flooring. Having extra materials will allow for mistakes that can happen during installation and accidents that occur down the road.
- Buying cheap materials. You get what you pay for. Consider that when purchasing renovation materials.
- Oversized fixtures. Pick fixtures and features to complement the size of the room.
- Straying from style. Stay true to your home's architectural style to ensure a seamless result.
- Using the wrong paint. Look beyond color and select the right type of paint for your project. Flat paint is best for ceilings while glossy paint works well on trim.
Avoiding these mistakes will help your home renovation project get done quickly, correctly and within your budget. Do your research and plan ahead of time in order to avoid costly errors you'll regret down the road.
NJ Home Remodeling
Unsure where to start? For the best outcome, hire home renovation contractors with decades of experience helping homeowners with kitchen and bath renovations. With nearly 60 years’ experience, RWC is the trusted expert for home improvements. We know all of the home renovation mistakes to avoid and can help you achieve your dream home. Visit our showroom in West Caldwell, NJ, call us at (973) 435-4230 or contact us using our online form for home remodeling quotes and to start planning your renovation today!
How to Increase Natural Light in Your Home
Does your home feel a little dark, grim, and dreary? If so, there's a good chance that it is suffering from lack of natural sunlight. While controlling the level of light in the house is important, it is just as important that you nurture and encourage light to spread throughout the house. Doing so can work wonders for your interior design and even make your home look cleaner, more modern, and larger. The secret lies in knowing the tips and tricks to bring more light indoors. In this article, we will go over how to increase natural light in your home.
6 Easy Ways to Increase Natural Light Indoors
Utilize the Power of Strategically Placed Mirrors
Mirrors are an incredibly valuable thing if you need more sunlight in a space in your home. You can place a mirror opposite of a window and see double the natural light because the mirrored surface will reflect that light back out into the space. Mirrors can also be useful in hallways to pull illumination from another section of the house down the darkened corridor where there may be no natural light at all.
Use Lighter Paint Colors
If you have a room in your home that has little naturally available light, you want to support and reflect the small amount of light as much as you can. This is easy to accomplish by picking lighter hues over darker ones where paint color are concerned. Lighter paint colors naturally reflect more light, which can help evenly distribute the brightness available.
Opt for Window Covers That Allow Light In
The type of window covers you choose make a huge difference in how light is allowed into the space. Instead of heavy drapes and solid shades, stick with light filtering blinds that can be opened or closed and sheer curtain panels that allow a certain level of natural sunlight to seep through.
Make Use of Mirrored Tiles
In low-light areas, such as in the space between the upper cabinets and the countertop in your kitchen, you can add mirrored tiles to naturally lighten up the dim space. Likewise, mirrored tiles are an excellent addition to a dimly lit bathroom if you need a lighter, brighter appearance.
Install New Doors
Solid wooden doors may be the most popular doors, but if you are trying to achieve more natural light in your home, other types can be much more logical. For example, double French doors have windowed centers that allow the sunlight inside and sliding glass doors offer a full double-dose of sunlight almost from the floor to the ceiling.
Consider New Windows
It is not uncommon for older homes especially to have fewer windows, which can mean you have to deal with very little sunshine inside the house. Thankfully, RWC can help you install new windows where there is wall space to do so. Likewise, switching from one type of window to another can change light levels. For example, a bay window offers an incredible amount of light compared to a basic double-hung window.
Key Points to Remember
- Mirrors are an easy way to spread light through the home.
- Changing the windows and doors can totally enhance the level of light inside your home.
- Stick with lighter paint colors that reflect light.
- Use mirrored tiles in dim-lit areas, such as the backsplash in the kitchen.
- be careful with window treatment selections so you don't block too much light.
Spaces with natural light offer an array of advantages, from designer and architectural appeal to benefits for your health. Therefore, working to incorporate natural light into your home can completely change how your home appears, functions, and even how it affects your body. If you're looking for some inspiration, check out our design ideas. If you want help with implementing more natural illumination in your home, reach out to RWC for help.