Home Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Beautiful, Rugged & Rough Tile Flooring

Quick Summary

The ultimate guide to tile discusses everything involved in your decision to renovate a room in your house with tile flooring versus keeping the floor you already have. Perhaps you simply want a different look. Maybe you want to update your kitchen or bathroom with something more modern. Maybe your old flooring is wearing out and you want something that lasts a long time.

If you’re considering tile for your next home improvement project, look no further than this ultimate guide to tile to get you started.

Quick Links

INTRODUCTION - TILE: ROUGH, RUGGED AND BEAUTIFUL

FLOOR TILE TYPES

ADD SOME COLOR TO YOUR PALLETTE

WHEN YOU WANT SOME COLOR

NO COLOR DOESN’T MEAN LACK OF BEAUTY

TILE, TILE EVERYWHERE

MAINTAINING EVERY TYPE OF TILE

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR TILE

CONCLUSION - HOW RWC WORKS WELL WITH TILE

Introduction: Beautiful, Rugged and Rough Tile Flooring

Tile is a beautiful way to add a touch of class to your home. Tile can brighten a room, make it cozier and completely change the feel of your kitchen or bathroom. There’s no more drab paneling, no more splits in the linoleum, and no more hard scrubbing just to get up one stubborn spot. Modern tile can take years and years of wear without dulling its appearance. Rugged beauty aside, the reasons for a professional tile installation are endless.

Practical Reasons to Install Tile

There are many practical reasons to install tile flooring. Tile lasts for many years, and manufacturers usually have a warranty that lasts decades based on normal use. Tile is relatively low-maintenance compared to other floor types. Wood floors may need occasional coats of floor wax, plus you have to watch out for scratches, nicks and dings. Linoleum or thin vinyl rolls require floor cleaning at least once per week to maintain. That can get cumbersome if you have mobility issues or if you’re too busy in any given week.

Tile usually just needs vacuuming or dusting and that’s it. There are no waxes to prevent buildup or any special chemicals to enhance the shine of the floor. All you have is the beauty of the tile and a once-a-week vacuuming or sweeping for maintenance. You can literally stand back and admire the tile flooring without worrying about how to maintain it.

You have many practical, daily reasons to invest in high-quality tile for your kitchen or bathroom floor. However, tile can enhance your home in creative ways that you might not expect.

Other Reasons for Tile

Investing in beautiful tile increases the resale value of your home if you decide to sell, refinance or take out a second mortgage. Keep copious amounts of notes and official documents during the install so you know precisely how much it cost. If you decide to sell, a real estate agent can take into account your investment and raise the price of the home based on the money you spent, plus the appraised value of the improvement. Do the math to find out how floor tile can increase your home’s value depending on where you live.

Floor tile is nontoxic, so long as installers use nontoxic grout. You don’t have to worry about allergies you get from carpeting chemicals. Some types of tile are made from all-natural stone materials, so you have the beauty of Mother Nature right in your own home.

Where Do Tiles Go?

Tiles typically go on floors, but they can also go on the walls. Flooring tile works best in areas that may get wet, such as a kitchen, bathroom or even a patio. A few downsides are that tile can be cold because it has no insulating properties, and that tile reflects noise in a room rather than absorbing it. You might find yourself walking in house slippers on a cold day or talking softly so your voice doesn’t carry.

Tile patterns and colors on the floor may differ from that of the walls, depending on the effect you’re looking for in the room. Tile protects the floor underneath from water damage, especially in bathrooms. Tile creates gorgeous patterns in showers that look great and keep the wall behind the tiles waterproof and safe from mold, mildew and rotting.

On an outdoor patio, tile creates a sturdy surface over the layer of dirt or wood underneath. The grout forms a waterproof seal so water can run off of the exterior patio easily in the rain, thereby preventing any standing water and water damage that plagues outdoor areas made of wood. A simple sweep of a broom keeps dirt, debris and leaves off your tile patio.

How Much Does Tile Cost?

The cost of installed tile depends on two main factors: materials and size. Some materials may cost more than others, depending on how installers obtain the tile. A larger project that covers more square footage costs more than a project with less. A kitchen floor may cost less than an entire bathroom remodel. You also have to factor in the purchase of any new appliances, hardware or plumbing updates that go along with your tile installation.

No matter what you decide, there are many types of tile from which to choose.

Chapter 2: Types of Tile

Tile comes in many forms, shapes and sizes. Larger pieces of tile might be easier to install, and, therefore, your labor costs decrease. Smaller pieces might take longer to put down.

Popular types of tile include:

• Porcelain
• Mosaic
• Vinyl
• Travertine
• Natural Stone
• Slate
• Ceramic
• Marble

Take a look at each type and see which one may work best for your newly installed tile floor.

Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile. These usually come in squares between 2 and 6 inches wide. Porcelain is a very tough material, and it’s popular with homeowners because of the limitless color choices that come from manufacturers.

Mosaic

Mosaic tiles form patterns from smaller pieces. Mosaic tiles can be made from pebbles, small stones and colorful pieces of varying sizes. Because most pieces are less than 1 inch wide, mosaic patterns work best for smaller rooms and smaller projects. Mosaics can fit together as squares, rectangles, triangles, hexagons, octagons or any combination of those shapes. Mosaic tiles form a unique pattern found nowhere else, so this type of flooring makes your bathroom or kitchen one-of-a-kind.

Vinyl

Vinyl tiles are very heavy and work well in basements. Vinyl comes in all kinds of colors and patterns, including types that look like natural wood. Vinyl tiles might be easier to install because they are rectangular.

Travertine

Travertine is a natural stone type of tile floor that comes in huge squares. This style is popular in the American Southwest and Southeast, where the climate is warmer. This tile is very heavy, and it should only go on a ground-level floor. These tiles look great in a living room or hearth room. You might see these types of tiles in hotel lobbies or office buildings as you walk in the front entrance.

Natural Stone

Natural stone tiles are squares or rectangles made from cobbled-together stones and pebbles. Unlike mosaics, these tiles are larger and easier to install because they arrive from the manufacturer as bigger pieces.

Slate

Slate is a type of rock hardened by nature. The tiles look like they have natural edges, rifts and valleys along the top edge of each piece. Slate normally looks gray or black, and it comes in squares. Slate is fantastic for entryways and porches because the natural crevices resist slippage.

Ceramic

Ceramic comes in many decorative forms, and it’s very popular with homeowners for its durability, color choices and its cost. Ceramic tiles are usually square and several inches in length.

Marble

Just like countertops, all-natural marble floors can be very expensive and very heavy. Marble might be hard to match, but the beauty of the reflective, polished surface is unmatched in any other type of tile. Marble floors also have higher maintenance compared to other types. The marble must be sealed by a professional, and you have to clean up spills immediately because liquids may stain the porous material. The colors and patterns of marble can form a truly special floor that everyone notices.

Chapter 3: Add Some Color to Your Palette

Tile, whether it comes from natural sources or a kiln at a factory, comes in all kinds of vibrant colors. All-color tiles leave your entire design with a colored pattern and very little white. An entire floor might be shades of brown, blue, red, black, green or whatever colors you prefer. You can create a pattern all of one color, or you can have complementary colors as well.

Color Schemes

Why choose colors? They brighten a room. They change the feel of the decor. Yellow reminds you of sunshine, particularly if you’re in a bathroom without a large window. Blue might seem soothing and relaxing as the ocean. Green brings a touch of outdoors with the color of leaves and grass in the early summertime. The choices are endless, and you don’t have to go monochromatic thanks to how colors work together.

The Color Wheel

Decorators and designers use the color wheel to determine which colors go well together. When you look at a color wheel, hues on opposite sides complement each other. Similar hues, such as all of the greens, blues, browns or reds, tend to complement each other as well.

Analogous colors, or ones close to each other on the wheel, have similar shades. For example, yellow-green, yellow-orange and yellow all go with each other because yellow brightens those shades. On the other hand, complementary colors create differences at the opposite side of the wheel.

Complementary Colors

Complementary colors create contrast without clashing. Green and purple are on opposite ends of the color wheel. Light green might complement a dark shade of purple due to one common color: blue. Purple contains blue and red mixed together, whereas green has yellow and blue. Remember, every color of paint comes from just three primary colors: red, yellow and blue. Every other color comes from those shades.

The overall color scheme of your floor tiles can also take into account the decorating in the rest of your house, the furniture within a room, or the style of your house. If you have a Victorian house, you might choose an exotic mosaic or natural stone as opposed to slate or travertine. If you have wood-stained trim or dark wooden cabinets in your kitchen, then you might consider shades of brown, tan or white for your floor. Just because a room already has color, that doesn’t mean floor tiles have to include a particular color pattern.

Chapter 4: When You Want Some Color

All-color tiles contain shades or hues of one color. Partial-color tiles expand your decorating choices by subtracting color from the pattern within the tile.

What Is Partial Color?

Partial-color tiles balance a particular hue with white. A good example comes from marbled tiles that have white with brown. Although brown or earthy tones are popular choices for partial-color tiles, you can find these styles in just about any shade. The white in the tiles brightens the room while adding a little bit of color that’s pleasing to the eyes.

Designing a Partial-Color Floor

A partial-color floor has an extra design step. Rather than go with monochromatic tiles that can go anywhere on the floor or walls, partial-color floor tiles need to follow a certain pattern. Installers try to match the sides of each tile so the pattern looks aesthetically pleasing. This is especially true with natural stone, marble or slate tiles. Partial-color tiles usually have neutral tones that complement a wide range of decorating styles. You still have a third design choice that doesn’t use color at all.

Chapter 5: Lack of Color Doesn’t Mean a Lack of Beauty

Tiles can still be beautiful without any colors whatsoever. Minimal colors tend to rely on patterns to create gorgeous designs. Minimal colors in the tile can mean a few things.

What Does Minimal Color Mean?

Minimal color means you get very few, if any, color variations from one tile to the next. It could also mean you have all-white tiles, or shades of neutral tones throughout your room.

Neutral Tones

Neutral tones can be white, gray, ivory and black. These colors go with any other colors, hence the designation of “neutral.” Minimal colors and neutral colors serve as a blank slate for the rest of the room’s decorating scheme, whether you want to have a huge sink, cherry-colored cabinets or stainless steel kitchen appliances. When you have minimal colors, you might consider placing more tiles in more places.

Chapter 6: Tile, Tile Everywhere

Tile offers a great way to re-do a floor or even an entire room. Why would you want to tile your walls and your floors? You have a few reasons as to why tile looks good on more than just the floor.

Why Tile on Floors and Walls?

Tile has insulating properties. It keeps hot or cold in the room where the tile sets. Therefore, it prevents any heat or cold from seeping into the walls and getting into the room with the tile. If you take a hot, steaming shower, the tiles may stay a bit warmer afterward. Tiling the walls means you have easy maintenance, just like you do for the floor. All you need is to dust every once in a while.

When you run the heat, the floor near the vent stays warmer for a longer period of time, so you get a little bit of radiant heat. You can even save on your heating bills by purchasing an under-floor radiant heat unit that keeps your tiles warm in the winter. This type of heating system uses less energy than a furnace, and you can turn the heater off and on as needed.

Why Tile in Multiple Rooms?

Tiling multiple rooms in the house has several benefits. Rooms adjacent to the tiled walls remain quieter because tiles reflect sound. Not only does your tiled room have better sound quality, but it keeps sound out from other rooms as well.

Decorating Motifs

Tiling more than one room creates a decorating style for your home. The master bathroom might have flowery patterns, while the child’s bathroom could have green and blue for an ocean scene. You can have mosaics in every room with tile, and each mosaic can form a pattern that means something to your family. The design possibilities are endless when you add more tiles to more places.

Chapter 7: Maintaining Every Type of Tile

Maintaining your tile floor depends on the materials in your floor or wall. Regular, ordinary maintenance isn’t that big of a deal. Every once in awhile, you might consider going the extra mile to bring out the shine and beauty of your floor.

Types of Tile Maintenance

When you maintain your tile properly, you can keep the same-as-new look for decades. Because tile is made of hard, stone-like materials, it can last for 25 to 50 years. Some manufacturers even have warranties on the workmanship, but not if you drop something on the tile and crack it.

Basic tile maintenance for everyday floors and walls starts with cleaning the floors every week. Sweep or vacuum the floors so they don’t get dull from layers of dust, grit or lint. When your floor needs a little extra care, you can use liquids for cleaning, but be very careful with this.

Cleaning

Instead of a sponge mop for floors, use a rag or a chamois mop. Change the water every so often because dirty water dulls the shine of the tiles by leaving a film. Use mild dish soap rather than floor cleaners you find in the store. Tile floors generally don’t need waxes whatsoever.

For walls, especially in the bathroom, clean any stains you see as soon as possible. This is especially true in bathtubs or showers where soap scum can build up over time. Wipe down the walls of the shower and/or tub once a week to prevent any buildup in those areas.

Natural stone might be harder to clean compared to manufactured ceramic or porcelain tiles simply because natural materials absorb water. Clean marble, slate, pebbles and stone with extra care, and dry up any water as soon as possible so it doesn’t leave any stains or watermarks.

Stains

Stains are tricky to handle. Use a non-abrasive cleanser, such as a dish soap or a tub/tile cleaner, in a non-conspicuous area to make sure your floor maintains its color before you tackle a stain on the floor with a cloth. If you don’t want to use any cleansers at all, a baking soda paste works wonders, especially on white tiles. Try hydrogen peroxide for blood, coffee, tea or juice stains.

Just like cleaning, natural stone tiles are harder to keep stain-free because they absorb more liquids. No matter what kind of tile you have, clean stains as soon as possible.

Cracks

Cracks can form on any tile, usually because something has fallen on it. How you deal with cracks depends on what you have. Professionals can fix hairline cracks in tiles by trying to match the original color. If tiles have patterns in them, the cracks may be harder to match with the color scheme. Installers can replace chipped tiles by replacing the damaged one.

Consider felt feet on your bar stools, kitchen chairs or any other furniture that sits on the tile. This may prevent damage to the tile and to the furniture if a leg or a corner abruptly strikes the tile. You can always put a small throw rug down to protect the tile or cover up a crack. Despite the drawbacks and possible cracks, floor tiles are still the way to go for beautiful kitchens and bathrooms.

Chapter 8: Preparing Your Home for Tile

Before an installation happens, a contractor comes out to plan the layout and design of the floor. He will explain what goes on when he arrives with the materials, how long the project should take, and what homeowners should expect.

How a Contractor Prepares Your Floor

The first thing a contractor does is remove the old flooring to get to the subfloor. The subfloor is the support mechanism that holds the flooring in place. A subfloor can be plywood, boards or planks, depending on your type of floor.

Before he lays down the tile, the contractor secures backer board to the subfloor. Backer board creates an even surface for the ground and tiles. Otherwise, your floor may see some uneven areas as tiles dip up and down. Once the backerboard is sealed and ready to go, the installer places the tiles.

What You Can Do to Get Ready

As a homeowner, the installer may tell you what you must do before he comes to work on the project. Here are some things you should do ahead of time:

• Move any furniture out of the way
• In a bathroom, turn off the water supply to the sink and tub/shower before moving the sink
• In the kitchen, move the kitchen island, if you can.
• You shouldn’t have to move your kitchen cabinets
• Later on, if you get new cabinets, consider tiling underneath them
• Make sure the room is well-lit, or the contractor might bring some work lights

Now that you know what it takes to get some floor tiles installed in your home, it’s time to get the process started.

Chapter 9: Conclusion--How RWC Works Well with Tile

A licensed and experienced contractor or installer that knows how to install tile floors in the kitchen, bathroom and any other room you want is the way to go when you want the job done right the first time. If you have an idea of what you want, or you need help with every step of the process, RWC can help. Our experts point out the latest styles, pros and cons of various types of tile, color schemes, maintenance tips and what our techs do once they are in your home. We’ll know and recommend the best type of tile for your kitchen or bathroom floor after hearing your ideas and wants for your soon-to-be renovated space!

Just like any other large home improvement project, the first step is planning.

Design Consultation

The experts at RWC make an appointment with you to examine exactly what you want and how to accomplish it. We go over the look of the room and show you what it might look like once it’s done. Then we work up the details in our office before proceeding to the next step.

Proposal

RWC staffers come back to you with a proposal in hand that documents precisely what happens and how much it will cost. Every detail is included in the proposal, so read it over carefully and contact us with any questions. It’s your home and your investment, so we work for you. Tell us what you need and we’ll deliver on a high-quality project.

Comprehensive Services

RWC completes the entire project from start to finish, and all you have to do is prepare your room for the job. We take out the old flooring, prepare the subfloor and then install the tile. We give you tips on how to care for it and value service after the sale.

If you ever have any questions, talk to your project lead. They will guide you through every step of the way. We want you to be confident in your home improvement project, and it’s our job to instill trust with our customers.

Let us be your tile flooring company. We have more than 55 years of experience in home improvement, and we’re ready to serve you in the best possible way. Contact us today for a free consultation and a price quote.

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by RWC

The Ultimate Guide and How-To on the Importance of Prefinishing

Quick Summary

Prefinishing windows and doors before installation always proves to be a worthwhile investment. This article defines prefinishing and the process involved from sanding to delivery. Also, the reasons for choosing the prefinished option for your doors and windows are discussed in terms of environmental controls and adherence to state and local regulations.

For more understanding on why to buy prefinished, the problems of not prefinishing and the joys of doing so, read on. Also included are sections for those consumers who feel slightly overwhelmed by the idea of customizing in this way, your creative options with paint, stain and color, plus decorative tips near the end of the article with links for more inspiration. Finally, information on how to buy prefinished products concludes the article.

Introduction

Why Prefinish?

Problems of Not Prefinishing

Joys of Prefinishing

Getting Creative: Your Options

How to Buy Prefinished

Conclusion

Introduction: What is Prefinishing?

The meaning of prefinishing rests in its very composition. Prefinishing involves coating or treating wood, fiberglass, steel or other materials before they are sold or used. This process benefits architects, designers, interior decorators, home builders, contractors and homeowners.

 

The Art of Prefinishing

In the context of windows and doors, this process includes painting or staining the product in a controlled environment before delivery to the work site and before installation. A controlled environment in the context of pre-finishing consists of a booth or room specifically designed to control the elements surrounding the finishing process. Preparation of the paintable or stainable surfaces remains the first step as it would in the field. Sanding and cleaning the surfaces to be painted occurs before anything else.

In the factory, machines then flow-coat stain or paint onto window frames and doors with the use of brushes or sprayers. Continuous brushing on all sides smooths finishes in some systems. Regardless of the type of system, the goal is to produce a consistent application on each piece and for each item down the line.

Prefinishing often involves several coats. These include the color coat, a sealant and a topcoat - though each of these steps may include more than one layer. Translucent stains or color-rich paint provide the foundational finish base. The sealant protects the grain and bonds the topcoat once applied, and the topcoat itself offers weather and UV-resistance. Additional steps vary which include deep color achievement or special hardening agents.

Drying of the window or door in a controlled environment completes the process. Proper curing occurs between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and ideal humidity control falls below 80 percent. During this time, doors and windows must be open and unlocked to dry completely.

 

The Result

Completing each coat before assembly reduces blotchiness or unfinished spots in corners and other places where pieces meet. As a result of the prefinishing process, products exhibit no runs, drips, lap marks or shrink lines. A smooth, clear finish gleams as a result.

 

Why Prefinish?

Foundationally, there are reasons to choose prefinished windows and doors over their raw counterparts. The ability to control the environment and adherence to state and federal environmental standards speak to this foundation. Both of these factors increase the value of prefinished products to contractors and homeowners alike.

 

Controlled Environment

In a factory-controlled environment, many variables can be regulated for quality results. Humidity and temperature significantly impact the application and drying of finishes. In a factory booth or room, these elements remain constant to create ideal finishing conditions. Also, sun, rain or snow, children running through the area, and bugs landing in paint are avoided.

Furthermore, time stands still in the prefinishing booth or room. This feat is a more difficult task to accomplish in the field. Suspension of time allows for proper drying and curing of the final product, which is vital for producing a smooth-finished, durable window or door surface.

Even unseen, unfelt properties fall under the control of the prefinishing booth or room. For example, these areas guarantee dust-free production. While the effects of dust may not be as readily noted as bugs or rain, the absence of this substance produces a cleaner, smoother finish.

The characteristics and circumstances of proper curing are not replicable on-site. This controlled environment produces a quality finish on prefinished products that tops any field application. Even one coat of prefinish primer increases the quality, durability and longevity of window and door finishes. In fact, many quality coating companies extend their warranty options for prefinished products.

 

State and Federal Standards

In this day of environmental awareness, the impact of practices on the natural world makes a difference. Factories that prefinish respect this understanding. Held in state and federal standards, these companies provide excellent products with a decreased environmental impact. Also, working in a controlled environment completely eliminates the impact of fumes and spills on-site.

 

Problems of Not Prefinishing

The reality of not prefinishing does not always paint the lovely picture that cost savings promise. Often, the issues of finishing on-site prompt hassles and mess that cost time and money.

Take a moment to imagine this scenario:

Beautiful raw wood doors and windows arrive on-site. Unfortunately, today the weather brings rain, and as such the project is delayed. No finishing can be done the next day due to the lingering humidity. So, the doors and windows sit exposed to UV (yes, even amid the clouds) and moisture. Finally, the weather cooperates, and the finish is applied between temperature fluctuations.

A bit of dust and a few flying insects challenge the process, but the project looks good overall. Then, white spots and a milky finish slowly begin to appear. Fortunately, the door jamb will conceal the drip on the side and the missed spots on the window corners are touched up. This imperfection was not the hope and neither was the flaking and fading that appears years before expected.

 

Stop imagining.

This example is evidently an exaggeration (though not out of the realm of possibility) that illustrates the problems of not prefinishing. While many of the issues with purchasing raw products over prefinished ones populate this text, below they are listed for clarity.

 

Practical Issues

To finish a project on-site, several practical problems threaten to arise.

• Improper sanding proves a reality on-site.
• Inadequate drying due to worksite conditions or lack of time causes an inferior finish.
• UV exposure of raw products decreases topcoat longevity.
• Weather complications delay projects.
• Loss of time to more labor-intensive installation and finishing.
• Cost and mess of on-site finishing.

 

Adverse Effects

Not only do practical issues exist, but an inferior product is also the result. Possible adverse effects include:

• Lack of clarity in the finish.
• A milky look to stained surfaces.
• Whitening of the topcoat.
• Lack of color uniformity on a piece.
• Lack of color uniformity across a batch.
• Flaking of the finish.
• Fading of color.
• Cupping of the wood.
• Blotchy or unfinished corners.
• Drips, runs, lap marks and shrink lines.
• Delays in project completion.
• Less durability.

 

Joys of Prefinishing

Dollar savings may tempt a builder or homeowner to order windows and doors unfinished. However, the benefits of prefinishing must be calculated into the cost equation. The price tag of raw products may be attractive, but hidden costs add to that sticker. Considering the benefits of prefinishing adds to the value and savings associated with these items.

 

Time and Money Savings

Prefinishing saves contractors and homeowners the mess and hassle of finishing raw goods or the cost of hiring someone to do so. In fact, contractors estimate that buying prefinished saves up to four hours of time per window or door. Indeed, when you are hiring someone to have this work done, costs quickly accumulate. Doing the math yields a significant hidden cost in time and money.

On the other hand, many factory finishing companies offer installation and touch-ups for pre-finished doors and windows. This added service proves convenient and less stressful in the event that a door gets dinged during installation. Again, this enables cost and time savings for the homeowner or contractor.

 

Assembly and Installation

While a prefinished door may require a bit of care to install in order not to scratch the surface, installation remains easier. Typically, doors and windows arrive assembled with hardware - ready to pop into place and complete the project quickly. As stated, prefinishing removes the fuss and mess that come with dealing with stains, paints and topcoats.

 

Quality Performance

As noted above, no field application brings about the same superior finish/appearance, durability and longevity as prefinishing does. The even color and bright, smooth finishes provide beauty. Consistent color across the order improves the consistency and appearance of the entire batch of products. The layers of sealants and topcoats stand up to both weather and use with reduced peeling and flaking.

Paints and stains applied before exposure to moisture and UV rays guard the door and window material from cupping, premature topcoat breakdown and other related conditions. Factory-applied stains seal wood for protection and enhance its natural character and beauty.

Factory prefinishing of wood products significantly improves their longevity. In fact, many wood associations recommend the process, including the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association (WRCLA) and the US Forest Service's Forest Products Laboratory. Studies indicate that coating life runs proportional to UV exposure before the surfaces are painted.

In other words, when raw windows and doors are installed in the field to be finished later, the UV exposure received in the interim causes premature coating breakdown and peeling later in the life of the product. Also, any moisture absorption via rainwater or excess humidity by raw wood results in cupping and movement – which is not an attractive look for a front door.

 

Environmental Controls

To reiterate what the discussion above states, purchasing prefinished products evades environmental threats for a smooth, beautiful surface. Temperature, precipitation and humidity cannot interfere, and bugs and dust cannot mar the finish. Additionally, children and workers moving cannot accidentally cause the process to restart.

Furthermore, the effects on the environment remain contained and controlled as well. Prefinishing leaves harmful overspray, fumes and spills off-site, in an area prepared to handle them according to federal and state standards. These safeguards bode well for families and communities surrounding construction and remodel sites.

 

Reduced Delays

Work conditions and weather threats wreak havoc on construction and remodel timelines. With prefinishing, the elimination of weather and other conditions as variables is made for more streamlined projects. Painting and staining can occur any time of the year in factory-controlled environments.

For the contractor or homeowner, this means no more waiting for the ideal temperature and humidity to complete the finishing process. There’s no need to wait on windows and doors for hardware installation. In fact, curb appeal is instantaneous after installation, with a neat and complete job site.

 

Getting Creative: Your Options

Today’s prefinished doors and windows allow for creativity beyond that previously known. In a time of mass home improvement and HGTV inspiration, there became a drive for customizing one’s doors and windows. In years past, this may have drawn homeowners and specialists to the raw canvas of unfinished pieces. However, the enlarged selection of styles, colors and finish choices make prefinished doors and windows a convenient, mess-free and durable solution.

 

Paint or Stain?

Whether to paint or stain remains (in part) an answered question often dictated by the material of the window or door a customer chooses. For instance, a smooth-skinned fiberglass door does not lend itself to stain, nor would there be any reason to apply this finish. Paint is thus the application of choice for this material.

On the other hand, natural wood-grain or textured fiberglass doors accept grain-enhancing stain or paint. Indeed, the choice becomes the customer’s preference. If the beauty of the grain draws the homeowner, then stain offers the best option. For those seeking bright pops of color, paint answers their call.

Paint provides color and a solid finish to windows and doors. In essence, this choice hides the surface qualities. A homeowner’s design sense engages as color choice adds fun and whimsy, class or tradition, goes bold or soft through vibrant accent colors, or sleek black or gleaming white finishes.

Stain, as mentioned, retains the natural character of textured fiberglass or wood surfaces. Enhancing the grain and beauty of the material it coats remains to be stain’s claim to fame. Today’s fiberglass options will mimic natural woods. Mahogany, oak and knotty alder find their mirror images among fiberglass doors.

 

The Color Wheel

Gone are the days of two to three color options when a consumer seeks to customize windows and doors. The choices go far beyond black, white or neutral. Many pre-finishing companies now offer a wide range of colors. For example, RWC Windows, Doors & More allows customers to choose any paint selection from the Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore color palette. This design freedom enables contractors and homeowners to explore complementary or contrasting color themes in home construction or improvement projects.

Stain options also span beyond the standard choices. Companies sensitive to design issues for contractors and homeowners work with consumers to complement a home’s existing interior or create a fresh color scheme. Some professionals, such as RWC, offer the unique ability to stain doors and windows according to a customer’s color and tone preferences. This service increases the match between a new product and existing flooring and trim.

 

Decorative Tips

Choosing a design and color for prefinished doors and windows can be overwhelming for homeowners. The tips below may help to ease the stress.

• The style of the home or a customer's budget may dictate the type of windows and doors that are chosen.
•  Door and window color provide a complement to the home’s color palette. For example, a front door hue choice can match your home’s trim, coordinate with a roof, deck or walkway features, or draw from the dominant exterior color.
•  Natural surroundings also inspire hues. Warm, earthy colors prove popular among homeowners and play well with home features and the landscape.
• A color that expresses the homeowner’s personality holds long-lasting adoration. For example, black doors represent classic, finer tastes, with a love of order. Red reveals passionate and hospitable characteristics. Meanwhile, green signifies traditional values and community involvement.
• The Internet and HGTV pour out inspiration. Identifying styles of windows and doors that stand out to a homeowner, or seeking photos that mimic a current color palette, allows them to visualize the end result.

 

How to Buy Prefinished

If you are intrigued and desire to purchase prefinished doors and windows rather than their raw counterparts, it is time to take action. With a bit of research, help, and answers to a few questions, you will be well on your way to enhanced curb appeal. Consider the following tips.

 

Research

When looking to purchase prefinished doors and windows, the quality of the base product is important. The range of prefinishing options does a consumer no good if the windows and doors are not well made. Research products from several companies.

Ask friends, acquaintances and colleagues for references. Local lumber stores or contractors can provide useful insight as well. Be sure to check with referrals both for the product and prefinishing work.

Finally, be sure to contact references from the company as well. If hiring a professional to install windows, look for certification from InstallationMasters or the American Window and Door Institute. Many prefinishing companies will provide installation services. Just be sure to check their work experience and references.

 

Seek help

Design choice and color selection may overwhelm the average homeowner. If this is your case, do not hesitate to seek help. Of course, friends and family may offer their opinions, and even some valuable thoughts, but it is far more likely that the staff working where you are considering purchasing the windows and doors are available to walk you through the most ideal options. Consult with their designers to find the look that best fits your home.

 

Request

Get multiple quotes from reputable companies. Quotes should include the window or door brand, the number of products, size and type, plus added features. Installation labor and material costs should be detailed too. Also, make sure that each company clearly explains timelines and warranties to be expected. In other words, know what your dollar is buying.

In addition to quotes, request samples. The material should be the same if not similar to the one you are interested in using. Stains and even paints take on different appearances depending on the material beneath. Rather than tiny color swatches, some companies offer larger sample pieces.

 

Order

When you make the decision to prefinish your windows and doors, and have chosen a product and color, simply ask the staff to write up the order. Working with a quality company earns some freedom in trust. In other words, the professionals should be able to walk you through the process. Check to be sure the order holds consistent with the quote. Ask about discrepancies. And again, confirm timelines for completion and delivery options.

Once finished, your doors and windows are ready for pickup or delivery (depending on your arrangement). If hiring to install the product, schedule that opportunity if you have not already done so. After installation, simply sit in the yard and enjoy the beauty of your newfound curb appeal thanks to the prefinished doors and windows.

 

Conclusion

Prefinishing offers contractors, homeowners and a variety of home improvement specialists superior quality and durability, resulting in beautiful and long-lasting windows and doors. The additional cost decreases when factors such as longevity, durability, cost and time savings, ease of installation, reduced project delays and a smooth, clear finish come into play.

With the freedom to customize according to the style and color in ways unknown before, prefinishing offers consumers the perfect doors and windows made to fit the style of their home and the personality of those living within its walls. Professionals are trained and will make the process of design, selection and ordering easier than you could ever have imagined.

RWC Windows, Doors & More provides pre-finishing services. Contact them today to get a picture of what they have to offer.

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by RWC

Home Selling Tips to Get You Moving

Selling a home produces angst in many. The mere thought of the to-do list and the seemingly endless waiting sends even the strongest to nestle back into an existing home. No need to be frightened. Tackle the challenge with the following tips for selling your home.

Step Up Your First Impression

Experience in life proves that first impressions matter. Selling your home is no exception. Pulling up the drive, walking up the walkway, and approaching the entry door sets an expectation for buyers. No second chances are given to make a first impression. Simple projects improve your home’s curb appeal. Upgrade the front door. Install a new mailbox. Spruce up trim. Position brightly colored flowers by the front door and revitalize the landscape. Arrange outdoor furniture for a home-like feel in the yard.

Repair the Quirks

Some of those nicks and scratches may remind you of days-gone-by. However, home-seekers want to accumulate their own quirks and dents, not live with yours. A home in good condition attracts buyers. Consider asking a friend to walk the layout of your home with open eyes and honest words to notice repairs that you have become accustomed to over time. Repair time worn damage on walls, floors and other surfaces. Replace the tricky door knob that awkwardly turns.

Not So Extreme Makeover

A fresh look for the interior of your home provides buyers with a fresh start. Look for simple updates to create a modern style, such as replacing lighting fixtures or sink faucets. And, if nothing else, paint. Neutral, clean wall colors empower potential buyers to work from a blank canvas, writing themselves into the story of the home. Your favorite Caribbean Dream color may drum up ill feelings for others. Subtle colors over those evoking strong emotion sell better. When updating, keep current styles in mind, but be cautious to avoid what is trendy.

Selling Your Kitchen

Experts say that you are not selling your house, but your kitchen. Families gather here, and much of life revolves around the kitchen. Wisely spent focus on the kitchen reaps rewards in the sale. In fact, you are likely to return 85 percent of your kitchen renovation money. Do heed the caution to avoid over-upgrading. Paint and cabinet hardware replacement prove the quickest and least expensive changes. One high-end stainless steel appliance boosts buyer interest.

De-clutter

Clutter leaves us feeling weighed down and gives the illusion of smaller, cramped spaces. This impression will not attract buyers. Now is the time to purge every area of your home. Give away, throw away and pack away all that is not an immediate need. Clear, flat surfaces bode well for selling potential. Removing knickknacks and excess furniture creates clean, open spaces. Emptying closets, at least by half, highlights storage. This process also greatly assists in keeping the house ready to show and prepares you for the move when you sell quickly.

Spring Clean

There is no experience quite like walking into a freshly cleaned, immaculate house. No buyer wants to think about the list of cleaning to-dos before move-in day. Give your house a deep clean or hire a cleaning service to do so. Get out that proverbial toothbrush and scrub every nook and cranny, including grout and cabinet interiors. Wash or inexpensively replace curtains. Put on fresh bedding and place new towels in bathrooms. A good full-out scrub could even make you want to stay.

Let the Sun Shine In

Oh, how the sun’s rays can energize us! Use this fact to energize your house for a successful sale. Buyers have noted plentiful light as a feature they look for in a home. So, make way for the light to enter. Brighten rooms by removing or minimizing curtains. Be sure that your windows sparkle clean. Cut or replace outdoor landscaping that blocks light from entering the home. And, consider replacing lamp shades and upping light bulb wattage for added interior light. Bright and cheery is a feeling that sells.

Remove Yourself

While photos and family heirlooms create the home you adore, these personal items mark the house for you, not the buyer. There is no need to mark your territory when you desire for it to be someone else’s. Try this exercise: Imagine you are moving out. Remove all things that you want to take with you to your new home. If buyers see photos of your family and memories of your trip to Cancun around every corner, they will not picture themselves in this house – no matter how beautiful it is.

Since its beginning, RWC Windows, Doors & More has provided customers a unique home improvement experience. Our family-owned and operated business believes in customer education, product selection and unparalleled service. RWC works to match your thoughts and desires with our knowledge and experience within every project. Offering services from small upgrades or renovations to large-scale structural changes, RWC produces satisfied customers.

RWC has been relieving home improvement stress since 1959. Call us today or visit us on the web for your free consultation!

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by RWC

How to Get Inspired for Your Next NJ Kitchen or Bathroom Renovation

Quick Summary

Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can be a stressful process.  One way to make it less stressful for everyone involved is to do your research before getting started.  Your contractor will thank you, and you will be pleased.  Know what you need and want from your remodel, talk with your contractor, be flexible, and be ready for an amazing process that can be fun and frustrating at different stops along the way.  In the beginning you may need to put in some effort to determine what you want your new kitchen or bathroom to look like, but the end results will make it well worth the time you spent on it.

 

SECTION I: Introduction to Remodeling Inspiration

SECTION II: Go Into Your Remodel with Open Eyes

SECTION III: Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel Idea Sources

SECTION IV: Mistakes to Avoid

SECTION V: Talk with Your Contractor

SECTION VI: Conclusion

SECTION I: Introduction to Remodeling Inspiration

You’ve been looking around your home for a while now and have decided that you need to do a little kitchen or bathroom remodeling.  They are pretty outdated or just no longer fit your current needs, but you’re not really sure what you want.  This guide will help you to get prepared for the remodeling process by helping you to start getting some ideas, and give you the information that you need to be aware of when getting involved in a remodel.  This information is vital, especially if this happens to be your first remodeling project.

Chapter 1: Research!

Research is a vital part of this process from determining what you want to be done to finding a contractor.  You have to research your upcoming remodel with ideas before talking with your contractor to get a better idea of what you are looking for and want to accomplish with your remodel.  That being said, you should also talk with your contractor to make sure that your thoughts and design ideas are feasible for your space and budget.  A great contractor will be able to take your vision and see ways to improve it based on their previous experience to help it better fit with your thoughts on the process.  You may be tempted to try your hand at a DIY project, but this is just something that can create more mess and problems then it will fix.  Some may find that their project is more expensive because they need a contractor to come in and fix what they did themselves.

SECTION II: Go Into Your Remodel with Open Eyes

You should go into your remodel with open eyes.  This means that you know you want a remodel, but you should do your research before speaking with your contractor about what you want.  A good contractor can work with your ideas, but they need something to work with, and if you don’t know what you want, they may not even know where to start to help you get the new kitchen or bathroom you’ve always wanted.

Chapter 1: Brainstorm What You Want

One of the first things that you need to do is brainstorm what you want to have in your new kitchen or your new bathroom.  This can get you started on ideas that are possible for your remodel.

Chapter 2: Create a Diagram for Ideas

There are tools online that will help you start the planning process on your own to start playing around to see what will fit where in your new space.  These tools will allow you to create a diagram of what your room looks like empty, and you can start placing objects into it, such as adding an island to your kitchen or putting in a shower stall into your bathroom.  Your contractor can take this information and put it into their own tools to come up with your final plan.

Chapter 3: Determine Lists with Wants and Needs

You need to create a list that separates out your wants from your needs.  It is one thing to have a dream idea of what you want your new space to have it in, but reality must also be kept in mind.  You may not be able to have everything that you want in your remodel due to budget, space, or other issues.  Creating this list will help your contractor come up with the best remodel possible for what you need the room to have, and what you want it to have in it.

Chapter 4: Set a Realistic Budget

You may think that you should wait to see your contractor before thinking about cost, but that is not a great idea.  You need to start thinking about what a realistic budget will be for your purposes.  You may want to think about how much you will be able to afford with your remodel.  Everyone wants the biggest and the best remodel he or she can possibly have, but you have to think about what you can afford.  You should be realistic when starting this process.  You can set your budget lower than you expect it to be to allow yourself to grow this figure as features and ideas are incorporated.  You should also have a firm idea of how much is too much, especially if you have to borrow the money to pay for the remodel.  A remodel will not help anyone if you can no longer afford your mortgage payments.  Starting lower will allow you to be more flexible in your budget.  

Chapter 5: Be Flexible

You will need to not only be flexible in your budget when it comes to adding up all the different things you want in your new kitchen or bathroom but also with the process itself.  You may not want to hear from your contractor that all of your ideas will not work in your new space, but it is possible that something you’ve got your heart set on will not come out exactly as you want it.  The timeline may not work out as you thought it would or other issues may crop up.  Be prepared to be flexible.

SECTION III: Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel Idea Sources

You may not realize it, but there are plenty of sources of ideas for your kitchen and bathroom remodel available to you all around you that you can tap into to start getting ideas on your remodel.  It may not work exactly the same in your space, but it will help to get the creative juices flowing for the remodel process.

Chapter 1: Talk to Friends and Family

Your family and friends are excellent sources for information on kitchen and bathroom remodels as they may have been through the process themselves or know someone that has been through it.  They can give you ideas on what worked great, and what did not.  You can even visit their remodels to get an idea of the space.  Be sure to ask if they have before and after pictures to get the full effect of what was accomplished in the room for them.

Chapter 2: Watch HGTV and Shows about Remodels

Take advantage of the television programming that you know and love.  HGTV and other channels have quality shows about remodels and remodeling that can help you get ideas about what you are looking for in your space.  This is also a great source of information for understanding the whole undertaking of the remodeling process, but of course, keep in mind that some of the drama may be more from the fact that it’s reality television than the actual remodeling itself.

Chapter 3: Online Sources

The Internet is a massive source of ideas that you can use for your upcoming remodeling process.  You can check out social media sites, like Pinterest or Instagram, to see what other people are doing in their homes.  You may even luck out with getting more before and after pictures.  Houzz is a website that is dedicated to helping people with their home improvements.  Explore blogs on kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, and other ideas about what to do with all of your space.

Chapter 4: Local Real Estate

Don’t forget to check out your local real estate.  First, you can talk with local real estate agents about what things are selling well in your neighborhood, and what remodels are not doing as well in adding value to your home.  Secondly, just because you are not thinking of purchasing a home doesn’t mean that you can’t visit open houses.  Open houses can be a good way to gauge what is possible in your neighborhood, and get plenty of ideas for what you like and what you don’t like.

Chapter 5: Window Shopping

Go window shopping to stores that offer interior design and other products.  You may not be doing the work on your remodel yourself, but these stores are still a great source of information for what you may like or dislike in your newly redone room.

Chapter 6: Home Improvement Shows

Checking out your local home improvement shows are a great idea when you are looking for remodeling ideas.  You’ve got a concentrated group of companies that are looking to tell you about their services and products.  Often, there are model homes or set-ups that can give you some great ideas about what you’d like to see in your home.

SECTION IV: Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes getting involved in a remodel isn’t just knowing about what you should do, but also how to avoid mistakes in your remodel.  DIY projects are something that can seem really exciting when you first get started, but they can often end up the complete opposite.  Often, home remodels that started out as a DIY project turn into a disaster for the homeowners that were so excited to get started, and becomes a very expensive project to fix once they turn to a professional to help.  Often, these costs can be kept much lower if you just enlist the help of a professional from the start.  Trying to tackle intricate remodeling projects yourself because you saw online that anyone can do it may be setting yourself up for a big fall and your home may not be as you wanted it to be.

Chapter 1: Expect Your Contractor to Know What You Want

As much as they might wish otherwise, your contractor is not a mind reader and is unable to know what you want.  When you are meeting with your contractor, you should be able to give them something to work with for your project.  This does not mean that your plans are going to be set in stone when you get to the meeting, but that you have some clues as to what you are looking for with this new space to have and things you may want to see in the remodel.

Chapter 2: Get In Over Your Head

You do not want to get in over your head when it comes to your remodel.    This means that you should not think that just because there was a website offering instructions on doing it yourself, that you will be capable of handling this project alone from start to finish.  You may find that you’ve bitten off more than you can chew or made big mistakes that will cost a great deal more to fix.  A kitchen and bathroom remodel can be dangerous because of that fact that you are dealing with electricity, water, and gas lines.  A poor remodel can also damage your house’s value in the eye of potential buyers, so rather than giving more value, it takes it away.

This also means that you should go into the process with a budget, a realistic idea of what will be happening with your remodel, and ditching the idea of the perfect kitchen or bathroom based on your original dream ideal.

Chapter 3: Budget Problems

Money can sometimes be a problem, and can cause mistakes in the remodeling process.  Some people have a hard time talking about money.  Some people try to cut as many corners as possible to save money.  Some people set unrealistic budgets that are not going to work for their remodel.  They may want a luxury bathroom that evokes a spa or master chef kitchen but finds that their budget is way below that level.  This is all okay as long as you prepare in advance.

You should prepare yourself to talk about money.  You will need to be open with your spouse or roommate about the money that should be budgeted for this remodel.  You should also be prepared to discuss where this money is going to come from, such as if you have savings or will need to take out some type of loan to pay for the remodel.

You may think that you should choose the cheapest option for everything going into a remodel, but this may not be the best plan, either.  You should evaluate each option not only based on the cost, but on the durability of the item, the difference in price, and other factors.  Choosing only the cheapest items because of cost may mean that your remodel does not hold up for as long as you wanted it to or look as good as you imagined leaving you unhappy with the process.

Setting an unrealistic budget can be a killer for a remodel.  You should take how much you’d like to spend, and then increase it by about 20% to get to a more realistic figure.  You never know what may be found when the remodel starts that could impact your final price tag.  There may be bad plumbing in your bathroom or mold in your kitchen cabinet under the sink.  This cushion can help to absorb these costs that you were not thinking about when you were getting started with your contractor.

Chapter 4: Rush Into the Remodel

The final mistake that you shouldn’t make when getting ready for your remodel is to rush into it.  This can be very detrimental to the process and the end product that you are looking to get out of it.  Some things that you may do that are rushing the process faster than it should be are not doing your research, planning as you go along, and skipping the beginning conversations with your contractor.

Ignoring the research phase of this process can mean that you end up with a space that doesn’t truly fit your needs or that you grow tired of rather quickly.  You should take the time to research the different trends and what you like before getting started.

Planning your remodel as you go along may mean that you are missing vital parts of your remodel or that the perfect plan that could’ve been had with a little prior planning is now gone forever because you already started moving forward.  You should have all your ducks in a row before beginning this process.

This is a major undertaking for your family and your home.  Skipping the important conversations with your contractor might cause problems down the road.  You should carefully go over the research that you’ve already done, and what they believe can be done with your space along with how this process will be accomplished.  This is the perfect time period to get some feedback on how the remodel is scheduled to progress, such as a timeline and so forth.

SECTION V: Talk with Your Contractor

Of course, your contractor will need all of this input to help you get the best remodel possible within your budget.  Meeting with your contractor at various stages of this process is an excellent idea to make sure that all parties are on the same page with your remodel.  The beginning meetings with your contractor might be the most important conversations that you can have with them, and will help to set the tone for the upcoming project.

Chapter 1: Meet with your Contractor

The time has come to meet with your contractor, and you need to be ready.  One of the first things that you should do to prepare for this meeting is to gather up all of your inspiration and ideas to bring along with you.  You should also be sure to bring along your realistic budget, want and needs lists, questions, concerns, and any other thoughts you had during the research and brainstorming portions of your remodeling project.  Not having this information may mean that something gets missed in the meeting, and you might have to go back to the drawing board, so to speak.

This is also a great time to learn more about the contractor.  Ask questions to find out more about them and their business.  You may want to see how long they have been doing business in your area to see if they are well established, and may be able to offer some references from people that had similar projects done.  You can ask about whom they use as their supplier to learn where the materials are going to come from for your home.  Talk to them about their employees, and see if you are able to meet the foreperson and anyone that might be coming to your home to work on it.  Ask them about their portfolio to get an idea of the projects that they have done previously.

Chapter 2: Get Their Input

While you don’t want to go into your meeting with your contractor without any ideas, this initial meeting is a great time to get their input on your project.  They can go over your ideas, your needs, your wants, and other things that they see in your project to help you come up with even better ideas and thoughts on it.  Trust that they are able to put their prior experience to work for you when it comes to creating the perfect design that balances everything you want with what is possible.  Your contractor will have a good idea of what is going to work out well, and what will not.  Ask them their opinion if you are not certain on an aspect of your design to see what they have seen with past clients.  Put their knowledge and expertise to work for you in the initial project phase.

Chapter 3: Talk Budget

As mentioned previously, a budget is always a difficult topic for some people to discuss as money is almost a taboo topic for some families.  Setting a realistic budget by doing your research may help you to be better prepared for the bid that the contractor is going to give you on the project with the details that you have come to them with for the meeting.  Don’t be shy during this portion of the meeting.

Be sure to ask questions.  Find out if you are able to get an itemized bid that helps you to determine what things can be axed or what can just be changed to better fit your needs.  Also, it is important to ask at this phase whether or not the bid that is given to you is an estimate or if it is a fixed price.  If it is an estimate, you can expect that this final bill may be higher than what has been quoted to you during this meeting.

Chapter 4: Discuss What Is and Isn’t Possible Between Budget and Need/Want Lists

This is the perfect time to start discussing what can be done and what cannot be done based on your budget and your need/want list.  This may help you and your contractor come to a better agreement on a budget that will work for you both.  Be prepared to give up some of the things on your lists if your realistic budget amount and the bid amount are not close enough together at first.  You may even have to dig somewhat into your list of needs, depending on what is able to be done with your budget.  The good news is that your contractor might have ideas for ways that you can save money, such as tweaking the design to fit better or ideas on using reclaimed materials.

You should also keep in mind that some things may need to be knocked off your need/want list, not because of the budget, but due to other restrictions.  For instance, you may have it in your mind that you want to knock down a wall to make your kitchen or bathroom bigger, but based on your home plans, the wall may be a load bearing wall.  This is another instance where your contractor may be able to help you salvage your idea to make it work for your space.

Chapter 5: Discuss Timeline

You should work on discussing a timeline at this portion of the meeting.  This is where you should start setting a schedule.  You should be able to determine a start date, an estimated finish date, and other milestone dates that should be completed at certain stages.  You can also start creating a clear schedule, such as what time they will start working, what days of the week they will be working, and other timing details.

SECTION VI: Conclusion

Your remodel is something that you should be excited about, but you need to go into it with a better plan than just trying to wing it.  Try to avoid the mistakes that other have made in the past to ensure that you get the best remodel possible for your space.  This is not an easy task, but following these steps may help you stay away from the pitfalls.

Chapter 1: Do Your Research, Brainstorm What You Want and Talk with Professionals

Your remodel process will be whatever you put into it.  You will want to take the time and effort to do everything that you can to get the best remodel with the budget that you have available to you.  Start this process by doing your research.  Look into what is popular and trending.  Look into what styles you like.  Research what remodels will help your property value and what will be detrimental to your property value.  Take this information and brainstorm the ideal remodel that you are looking to have in your home.  Your brainstorming can help you to discover what you want this new space to do for you, what you are able to pay for it, and what things you would like to have in it and what you need for it to have in it.  Then follow this up by taking all your information to a contractor that can take what you imagine and help you turn it into a realistic reality for you to enjoy on a daily basis.

Contact us today to get started on the remodel of your dreams.  We're here for you.

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by RWC

The Ultimate Guide to New Jersey Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations

PROLOGUE – The Introduction

A lot is to be expected from a home. After all, it’s where you spend the majority of your time, and you’re going to want to make sure it meets your own personal criteria.

Your home is where you raise your family, build memories, host parties and come to kick back and relax. When it comes down to your overall happiness: is your home up to par? Are you proud of your kitchen or bathroom? These wants and expectations can play a huge role in your satisfaction both inside and outside the confines of your house.

Reasons to renovate your kitchen, bathroom or other rooms in your house might include safety, age or need. Is your kitchen safe? Safety goes hand-in-hand with the age of the members of your household. Also, how old is your kitchen?  Age goes hand-in-hand with need. The older your kitchen is, the more likely it is that your kitchen no longer fits your needs.

America has changed. It wasn’t all too long ago that the kitchen wasn’t considered the heart of the home. In fact, the kitchen wasn’t supposed to be seen at all. It was a room designated for the homemaker, kept behind closed doors. People preferred to see the results of the kitchen rather than the kitchen itself. From a Christmas turkey to a perfectly made summer’s pie, people have been making things in the kitchen for…well, forever.

So, you’ve decided on a new kitchen or bathroom. For that reason, we’ve put together this guide to help you get the most from your renovation. Most homeowners, especially new ones, don’t know how to get from where they are now to where they want to be. Some aren’t aware of the work that is involved, the cost or the amount of planning that goes into a kitchen or bathroom overhaul. The last thing you want to do is to spend thousands of dollars on a new room only to find that the quality went down the drain somewhere along the way.

Fortunately for you, there is now a handbook on the entire process, and you’re reading it. Everything you need to know about New Jersey Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations can be found here. If you follow this guide, we can almost guarantee that you will love your new home.

SECTION ONE – What to Expect: Planning Your Renovation

Know What You Want

Contrary to popular belief, it pays to avoid getting all sledgehammer and demolition crazy (however strong the temptation). In fact, leave the messy, dusty, dangerous sledgehammer out of it. The first several steps are planning steps – no use for the sledgehammer here!

You may have done a good deal of planning already. Even if you have, let’s start over and do things the in a more careful and intentional way. Your home is too precious to gamble with. Don’t take chances with your renovation. It is important to make sure that you have thought through almost every decision before you even begin hiring a contractor.

A great place to start is with your inspiration. What do you want to see in your kitchen? If you are unsure of where you want to go with this renovation, go online to websites like HGTV, Remodelaholic, Dot & Bo, and even Wayfair. Do your research, discover what you want, and get ideas. Let yourself be inspired and excited about all the possibilities.

Thinking of the result can be enormously rewarding. Here’s how to decide on a desired result and work backwards. Let’s start by saying that you found a picture of a kitchen you want to see in your home.  Although your kitchen is probably laid out differently, all kitchens come with the same basic elements like a sink, stove and refrigerator, just to name a few.  So, realistically, the picture you found is for design purposes only.

Isolate just one of those elements—the cabinets.  Let’s say you like the image because you want those cabinets in your kitchen. What do you need to do to get those cabinets?  Are they custom or factory made? Once you find out, you can order them, but they are just going to sit on the floor somewhere in your home until your kitchen is at the point where you can install them.  How do you get your kitchen ready for cabinet installation?  Your old cabinets need to come out.  Cabinets don’t just pull off the wall (although, that would be nice), so you have to plan how you will remove them. Another step further backward would be emptying the cabinets so that you can pull them down. It is important to think if every detail before you begin your remodel. Even the simplest of mistakes can cause substantial delays.

If you haven’t had any luck with online sources for inspiration, you can also explore print media.  Southern Living is a classic magazine that is overflowing with ideas. Pottery Barn is another one. Until you find what you are looking for, don’t stop looking. Once you decide what you want, write it down. Collect photos from online interior design sources or cut out pictures from a magazine.  Make a collage out it, if you’d like. The bottom line is that it is important to know what you want before you do anything else. Make sure you make up your mind long before you go on to the next step. A concrete decision is crucial. Your contractor will take this information and use it to plan the next part of your renovation.  Once you get the general contractor involved, and the project started, it will be too late to change your mind.  Well, technically, it won’t be too late, but it will be very costly and expensive—both in time and materials. This post is a guide, a road map, to the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams.  If you want to have a smooth reno, you can’t be changing your mind in the middle of a project.

Planning Your Renovation: Consider House Size

Don’t get your contractor involved yet. Just because you’ve made the design decisions doesn’t mean you’re ready. This next section is laid out to prepare you to meet your contractor.

This guide is for you, not your contractor.  If your contractor is worth his salt, then he’ll be thorough gathering information from you and your house long before he begins any job.  If he doesn’t gather the following information, it’s a red flag and a sure sign to choose another contractor.

Your contractor will help you plan the layout of your design, which may or may not match your current layout.  In fact, several things might change depending on your design decision.  Let’s talk about your choices for each room.

Bathroom

In the bathroom, you have several decisions to make, and many of them may have already been dictated by the dimensions of your space.  For example, if your bathroom isn’t large enough, you may not have the luxury of being able to move pipes. Therefore, your fixtures may need to stay in their current location.  However, the one thing that he space cannot dictate is the style.

The following are things you may need to ask yourself as you prepare to create your plan. Do you want a stand-up shower or an over-sized garden tub? Do you have the physical room for such a tub? If you only have one sink, do you want another?  Will your house accommodate another sink?  How about counter space?  You will need room for the basics at a bare minimum—soap, toothbrush, razor, perhaps a cotton ball container, Q-tip container, hair brushes, combs, lotions, etc. You need counter space.  Do you like the idea of under-the-sink cabinets? What about medicine cabinets?  It might be a prudent and wise decision to add a medicine cabinet for every sink—perhaps even one more than the number of sinks you have. Do you have room for a linen closet?  Towel storage inside the bathroom provides an invaluable convenience when you need a fresh towel, and it’s in the bathroom rather than somewhere down the hall in the linen closet.

You need to hire the right one.  How can you tell?  Shop around and follow your gut.  There are websites like Annie’s List or FastContractorLeads.com that can point you in the direction of reputable contractors.

Essentially, you will need to put the job in front of several contractors and gather estimates, often by way of appointment.  Before you do, however, you need to have a job for them.  The job needs to have precise specifications—something you can obtain with the help of your interior designer.

While you do need to place a level of trust with your general contractor, remember that this is your property.  Don’t be afraid to meet and greet every single subcontractor that works on your property.  If a general contractor attempts to forbid you from doing this, then you might want to consider another alternative in the way of general contractors.  That is an immediate red flag.  It is your responsibility to know who is in your house and what they are doing.  This includes:

• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Carpenters
• Tile Work
• Flooring
• Drywall

Know who is on your property and why they are there.  Let them know that you come by often and that someone is watching them.

Expect to make a payment in advance.  Some contractors require 30% of the job estimation up front to cover materials while others expect closer to 50% to make sure subcontractors get paid promptly and correctly.  Subcontractors—or the skilled laborers working on your house—won’t work unless there is a clear expectation of compensation.  This is usually a fixed cost, but you will still find those who are hourly workers.  Subcontractors will not wait until the end of a project to get paid while general contractors will.  The only person you pay is the general contractor.  The fee he or she charges goes to cover all the charges subcontractors might charge for their work.

Plan your materials.  Once again, this can be completed with the help of your interior designer.  If you want to ensure that your project goes smoothly and quickly, you will need to order your materials well ahead of time. It is recommended to order your materials in the required quantity plus 10% for errors or possible damage.  Make sure all materials are delivered before work begins.  The best contractors in the world can do nothing without materials. So, make sure that you have your materials long before subcontractors set
foot on your property.  Finally, painstakingly inspect each and every brick, tile, piece of wood, fixture—you get the idea.  Make sure everything is in good working condition before work begins.  Furthermore, inspect it with the general contractor and have him sign an affidavit acknowledging that all materials placed under his stewardship are not damaged.  This prevents future claims that you supplied broken materials.  If you provide damaged materials, you will pay the penalty of supplying more.  However, if it can be proven that the fault lies with the subcontractor, then he is in charge of securing and ordering more materials.

If your goal is to save money, then the best way you can do this is to not order any new appliances.  The appliances you had before are most likely in good condition and, therefore, are reusable.  Remember, you can always upgrade later.  However, if you do plan on upgrading later, let your contractor know that you have plans for upgrading to that new 36” gas stove over your current 30” electrical one.  The last thing you want to do is find out you can’t get your new stove later because you didn’t plan on it—or that you need to replace your kitchen cabinets and counters to accommodate.  At that point, you may as well be planning on a whole new renovation and the end cost of two renovations will be much more expensive than if you had purchased that new stove to begin with.

When you have your designs in place, stick with them.  Set clear goals and take responsibility for them.  You will have one frustrated general contractor on your hands if you are in the habit of always changing your mind in the middle.  Make your decisions and stick with them.

Don’t ignore what you see.  If the contractor finds rotted wood underneath the floor, he may come to you and tell that your new stove can’t be installed unless a new subflooring is installed to support the weight.  Listen to your contractor but, more importantly, listen to your gut.  If you feel you need a second opinion, get one.  You may have issues behind your walls that need fixing before you can continue with your renovation.  While your house does need to be in good condition, you don’t need to break the bank with a remodel.

Finally, don’t skimp on cheap materials.  In the construction world, you get what you pay for.  You need to find that perfect balance of aesthetics, price, and quality.  When these three merge, you have value.

SECTION THREE – Planning & Communication

People who have completed renovations on their own have a much better idea of the time that it takes to complete a full room renovation.  Unlike what you see on television shows, it does not take a single weekend.  It takes months.  Patience is key.  Rest easy and relax knowing that you have all the help you need between the interior designer and your general contractor.  Trust them because they know what they’re doing.

The average time it takes for a renovation is six months.  That’s four months of planning and two months for the execution.  I can’t emphasize this point enough; know what you want before the demolition starts.  Once it begins, your plans need to be completely solidified.  Materials need to be ordered, delivered and inspected for quality and quantity months before demolition begins.  Talk to your local utility company about what it might take to get a water line to the freezer for your new refrigerator’s ice cube maker.  If you’re getting a new gas stove, but don’t have a gas line, you’re stuck until you talk to your utility company and can get one installed.

The contractor can do anything if you throw enough money at the project.  Know your budget and stick to it.  If, for whatever reason, the contractor is going over budget, you need to know why and it is smart to ask immediately.

Consider keeping the sink in the same place, the stove in the same place, and so on and so forth.  Adding services adds to your cost, and you may find that some upgrades are completely unnecessary.

Communication at all stages is absolutely necessary. Consider collaborating online using services like Trello or BaseCamp to give the contractor a way to communicate with you wherever you may be.  If the renovation requires you to move temporarily out of the house, make sure you visit the home often to stay informed about its progress.  We’ve said this before, but it bears saying again:  Have all materials on handbefore demolition.  The lack of materials, especially custom materials like special tile for your backsplash or floor, can cost you months of waiting time.  If the contractors are working on your kitchen, you may find that you don’t have a kitchen in the meantime.  Many people decide to move temporarily to give the contractors the room they may need to work efficiently.  If you don’t plan your materials right, you may run out well past your welcome date.

When you order materials, plan on ordering an extra 10% minimum to prepare for damages.  Materials can get damaged while in transit or by laborers during the project’s execution.  Once again, if you can’t finish a project you started because you don’t have the materials, you may have just extended the planned end date by months.  Furthermore, and possibly the most important, know your limits.  Your renovation can be a pleasant and exciting experience if you do it right.  Don’t break your budget or otherwise place your finances in jeopardy because you didn’t plan correctly. Overspending can put your renovation at risk, and leave you with facing the possibility of being left with a half-finished renovation.

Local permits may be required, so ask your general contractor.  It is a red flag if your general contractor isn’t completely knowledgeable about local law, permits and safety codes.  The beautiful thing about excellent, legitimate contractors who earn their money by doing a good job is this: They don’t do anythingwithout a reason for doing it.  If you ask them why they did something, they will always stand by their work and provide a good, reliable answer.

SECTION FOUR – Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake Number One: Don’t Buy Cheap Materials.

This is your house, the protection you offer yourself and your family. Everything about it should define who you are. Keep in mind throughout the renovation process that your home is an investment. Don’t buy the cheapest materials you find, try to buy the nicest materials that you can afford.  Remember that cost doesn’t always equate to quality.  If you want tile countertops, then get the most beautiful tile you can find with the design you want on it.  Just because it might be cheaper than marble countertops doesn’t mean that it is of a lower quality.  Find out what you want.  Then, get the highest quality materials you can afford.

Some people renovate because they want to raise the value of their homes due to the fact that they plan on selling their house.  If you use cheap materials, you won’t get a decent return on your investment.  In fact, you may find out that the renovation lowered the value of the home.  Don’t let that be the case after you spend thousands of dollars on a remodel.

Mistake Number Two: Don’t Hire the Wrong Contractor

There are ways to discover if you have a reputable contractor or not.  If they say they are licensed and bonded, request to see the paperwork.  It should be easy to produce if they are honest.

Sign written contracts.  This is where it can get sticky.  Don’t hire any contractor who downplays the importance of the written record.  Free, legally-binding contracts can be found online.  They protect the homeowner from dishonest contractors.  They safeguard the contractors from deceiving homeowners.  It is a communication tool.  Both sides—the contractor and the homeowner—will write down the scope of the job.  Both sides will know what is expected and what is not expected. This way, the homeowner and the contractor will know when the contractor will get paid and how much.

It is very important to understand that if it’s not in the contract, it’s not fair game. I know of someone who installed a new front door for a homeowner.  Since neither party signed a contract, the contractor got swindled. The homeowner wanted him to paint and caulk the trim, fill in gaps in the flooring around the door, and any other work he could get from the contractor.  Had they signed contracts, the contractor would have received payment for the work that was outside his scope.  His job was to replace the trim after installation, but not paint or caulk the baseboards next to the door.  Contracts protect everyone.  It is legally enforceable in court if one party doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain.

Mistake Number Three: Don’t Set an Unrealistic Budget

Your home renovation will cost you money.  It is an investment, and everything that is done to your home will belong to you.  As the owner, you must take complete responsibility for the project.  Do not attempt to do any home renovation unless you’re completely confident that you can afford it.

With the debt that America is in, there is a new, refreshing ‘Get Out Of Debt’ plan I’d like to present to you.  It’s very straightforward.  It’s called, “If you cannot afford it, do not buy it.”  Your finances are important.  No kitchen or bath remodel is worth putting your finances in jeopardy. It is more common than not that those who set a budget change it at least once or twice before the project is over. Decide how much you want to spend and how much you are willing to spend. Write these numbers down and stick to them.

 SECTION FIVE – How It Helps Your Home Value

Your homeowner’s insurance company needs to know about this renovation if you expect them to protect it.  As such, this is one more professional whose advice you will want accept freely.  Insurance adjusters and real estate agents can estimate your ROI or return on your investment.

If you don’t plan on selling your house, then take your time with your renovations.  Many people who are well past retirement age are renovating their homes ever so slowly.  I walked into one particularly impressive house that was maintained very well by its homeowners.  When I asked them their secret, they said they’ve been working on the house for 20 years and still weren’t done.  They don’t have plans to stop, and they took their time to do it right.

If you don’t plan on staying in your house for the rest of your life, you need to keep something else in mind entirely.  While it may be a difficult pill to swallow, you’ll get a much better return on your investment if you do.

When you’re ready to sell your house, people will come by to take a look at it.  After all, would you buy a house you’ve never seen before?  If the house is personalized too much, it could turn potential buyers away.  When a potential buyer comes to look at your house, you want them to see a blank slate—something they can personalize once they buy it.  Therefore, it is vital that you choose gender-neutral designs and colors.  Leave the walls blank, the hallways and aisles clear and the house clean.  Anything that is personalized too much may cause a buyer to think, “This isn’t the house for me.”  As a seller, you don’t want that.  You want the buyer to be impressed enough to spend a couple hundred thousand dollars purchasing your home.

EPILOG – Appliance Considerations

As you choose appliances for your renovation, go through the following checklist.  This checklist applies to any appliance from the air conditioner to the stove.  Remember that cheaper appliances aren’t always as they seem. Inexpensive appliances often end up costing you money in the long run.

For stoves and furnaces, consider the BTU output.  BTU is an acronym for British Thermal Unit. Although its name seems to suggest otherwise, it is no longer commonly used in the United Kingdom. BTU is a unit of measurement for energy. One BTU is equal to the amount of energy used to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit.  Case in point, the higher the BTU output, the more energy the appliance will output.

Do you need that $18,000, six-burner gas stove?  It is a luxury item that will certainly look good in your kitchen, but there’s a reason most stoves have four burners.  Most people want six but only need four.  Consider your needs over wants.

Study the energy efficiency of the appliances.  A higher efficiency leads to a higher upfront cost, but a lower operational cost that might save you money in the long run.  For example, an air conditioning unit that is a 16 SEER minimum will save you money over cheaper, less efficient models.  It will cost less to operate because it will do a better job keeping your air at a desired temperature, thereby causing the unit to not have to work as hard.

Consider the ease of operation.  Is it easy to operate or do you need a two-inch thick instruction manual to make a few adjustments? What safety features does it have?  Consider the case of a water heater.  Many water heaters require you to use a screwdriver to remove the cover that gives you access to the dial that allows you to change the water temperature.  Even then, the water temperature must be adjusted with a screwdriver.  This procedure prevents accidental water temperature changes and prevents unexpected water burns.

How easy is it to clean the appliance?  Some appliances, like the fins of the outside air conditioning unit, work better when they are cleaned professionally.  Choose something easy to clean and maintain, like a glass-top stove.  A glass-top stove is surely easier to clean and is safer for children than a six-burner gas stove.

In The End

Home ownership is not a luxury afforded to everyone.  Equal opportunity also means equal responsibility.  Your house is an investment - care for it!  Enjoy your home.  Love your home.   Take care of your house, and your house will take care of you for years to come.  Do things right the first time and call RWC for your remodeling needs.

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by RWC

A Comprehensive Guide to Building Home Equity in New Jersey

Since the housing crisis of 2008, the real estate industry has been in a slow, steady state of recovery. One of the benefits of homeownership is the value of owning property in order to build equity. As the housing market improves, it’s important for homeowners to take advantage of any and all advice to increase the value of their home. This is not only for those looking to sell, but for anyone who wants to increase their credit rating and borrowing power. A valuable property can pay out dividends in a variety of ways, so the more value you can add to your home, the better. We’ll take a look at everything from simple upgrades and repairs to major renovations and remodeling. Any steps you can take to increase equity are steps in the right direction.

If you want to work with talented and knowledgeable professionals in the New Jersey area, look no further than RWC Windows, Doors & More. We will work with you to determine what products and work schedules will best serve your needs and we are always trying to find the ideal match for your remodeling dreams. Our headquarters are filled with products from leading industries that will help you locate the right game plan for your home’s renovation.

With more than 54 years of experience in the home improvement and contracting industry, we are dedicated to educating our customers in what tasks will best serve their home improvement needs.

Chapter 1: What is Equity? How can you build it?

The definition of Home Equity is what the house is worth if it were to be put on the market today. Your share of this equity is equal to how much you owe on the house. Typically, in order to purchase a home, many people have to take out a loan. Thus, until you have paid the house off completely, your equity will not be 100%. The best way to figure out your share is to subtract the amount you owe from the value of the home. This is called separating the amortization, or how much you’ve paid, from the home’s appraisal, or estimated value.

For example, if you still owe $100,000 on a home appraised at a value of $240,000, then your equity balance is $140,000, or roughly 58% of the total value of the home. The greater this percentage, the better, as it allows you to borrow more and increases your total net worth.

The best part about increasing equity is that the amount owed is generally a fixed number, while the value of the home can increase. Thus, if you still owed $100,000 on your home, but it’s value increased to $300,000, you now have 67% of your home’s equity, without paying off any more of the principal. It is for this reason that adding value to your home is one of the best investments you can do, and can pay hugely in the long run.

While there are many factors in determining the value of a home, some of which being out of your control (i.e. the value of other properties in your area), there are plenty of ways that you can increase your home equity on your own. From simple home repairs to new additions to the house, there is always something you can do to add value to your property.

There are three main areas that you should focus your attention on when deciding what to upgrade and fix. These are the kitchen, bathroom(s), and front entrance. These are the main sections from which appraisers and home buyers look at and draw value. If you can turn these into visually striking and valuable areas, then you will add tremendous value to your equity.

Some factors to consider, in general, are the following: creating space, adding light, upgrading old fixtures, and creating a sense of homogeneity throughout the house. If your kitchen is ultra-modern, but your bedrooms and living room are 19th century, then this coordination can ultimately leave a wrong impression and reduce the overall value of the home. This also applies to color schemes; mismatched rooms and colors can further decrease the perceived value of the home.

There are other aspects of your home that can increase its value. One particularly useful way to do this is by increasing your storage space. More storage space provides both add-on to the square footage of your property and gives various living spaces within the home more depth. If your property was built more than 30 years ago it is likely that it is lacking in proper storage and closet space compared to more modern homes. Keeping that old fashioned flair without sacrificing the ability to store more is sure to increase the overall attractiveness, and thus value, of your property.

For the purposes of this article, we’ll go from the smallest and easiest repairs to the most intensive and costly remodels. According to the annual "Remodeling" Cost vs. Value report, the biggest returns on investments within the Mid-Atlantic region are some pretty straightforward fixes. These include replacing your front door with a steel door (94% ROI), upgrading your garage door (84% ROI), and adding a backup generator (77% ROI). We’ll start with upgrading your appliances, and then move on to painting, flooring, landscaping and finally remodeling.

Our professional team at RWC Windows, Doors & More has perfected the art of raising your home equity. No other renovating and remodeling service in the greater New Jersey tri-state area will serve you better. We consider our customers family and we ensure that you will receive the most bang for your buck when contacting our team.

Chapter 2: Upgrading/Fixing Appliances

Plumbing

While certainly not the sexiest of home upgrades, plumbing is one of the most important. The functionality of your home is tied directly to both the plumbing and electrical system. Keeping them in working order and up to safety standards will be necessary when approaching any remodeling or renovation job. By ensuring that both of these systems are working in pristine order, you can make sure that appraisers and home buyers have a good impression of the value of your home.

Two projects that should be your primary focus are the water heater system and the bathroom. However, before tackling any major plumbing upgrades, it will be important to get a professional to come and inspect your system. They can let you know what needs fixing, what takes priority, and give you an estimate of the total cost. It’s important to get a professional opinion before diving into any home upgrade.

Most homes have an older, outdated water heater, which can lead to expensive water bills and, in the case of some families, a severe lack of hot water when needed. Upgrading the water heater is a simple and effective way to add value. Many heaters sold today are vastly more energy efficient than ones produced even a decade ago, so replacing it can both save on utility costs as well as bring peace of mind. If possible, you should look into tankless water heaters, as they are the biggest trend right now and will ultimately pay back much more than you invest. Without relying on a bulky tank, you can get hot water faster and more efficiently with a tankless heater, which will save you money. In addition, potential home buyers will love the added benefit of never running out of hot water.

In the bathroom, there are simple fixes you can do to upgrade the space. Replacing showerheads, faucets, sinks, and toilets can go a long way to building value in this high traffic area. Bathrooms are one of the most valuable assets a home can have, so the more you can upgrade it, the better off you’ll be.

Making sure all of your plumbing maintenance is up-to-date will help you in many other renovation areas in the long run. When looking to update or renovate your bathrooms you should always consult the plumbing needs first. Let the professionals at RWC Windows, Doors & More help you with this step, as a professional outlook on these areas will help you avoid costly and time-consuming mistakes. We offer only the best service and guarantee we will help you locate your exact plumbing needs, that way you can avoid paying for updates and fixes that you do not really need.

Electrical

Along with plumbing, updating and modernizing your home’s electrical system can go a long way towards building equity. Again, this isn’t going to be the most dazzling way to add value to your house, but it is one of the most important and cost-conscious. The areas of focus should be outlets, lighting, and appliances. Making sure that all three of these are up to date and as energy efficient as possible will go a long way towards adding value. Always seek professional help when accessing and installing your home’s electrical system, as it requires a safe and knowledgeable approach.

Like with plumbing, it’s best to consult a professional before starting any major electrical upgrades; not only for your safety, but to make sure that you’re updating the right things. One of the biggest issues is making sure that your system is up to code. Many older homes don’t have modern outlets or switches, and this can lead to problems. Make sure that your outlets have ground fault interrupters. These prevent a power surge and make sure that the breaker is switched off in the case of one. Additionally, you want to make sure that you have sufficient outlets for your power needs. Older homes are built with a reduced power supply in mind. However, with today’s modern electronics and home entertainment systems, it’s important to make sure that your house can handle the influx of energy. For example, while older houses generally needed a standard 60 amps of power capabilities, most modern homes need up to 200 amps of power in order to run high-end air conditioners, computer equipment, high-definition televisions, and other luxury items.  While upgrading your entire home wiring system can be expensive, it will be a better investment, in the long run, as it will be one less thing to worry about for potential buyers.

Once you make sure that your system is up to date, the next step will be to upgrade both your light fixtures and appliances. As stated before, adding lighting to your home, either artificially or naturally, is one of the key items that will increase your properties worth. Designing your lighting so that it evokes the time period or style of the property can be particularly appealing to those appraising your property’s worth. Even something as simple as updating your light bulbs can not only save you money on utilities, but also create a better lit and thus more valuable, space. Thankfully, power saving light bulbs can be adapted for almost any light fixture, modern or classical.

As far as lighting goes, you want to make sure that you have enough light, and that you showcase it in a proper way. Once again, if you have modern appliances but an old, dingy chandelier, it will create disharmony in the space. Ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and modern fixtures work together to create a functional and well-lit home, which is attractive to homebuyers. Additionally, having dimmer switches can create perceived value, as it allows you to adjust the lighting to meet your needs.

Heating and Cooling

While heating and air are not necessarily the top features that buyers look for, having a central heating and cooling system can increase the value of your home, especially in the Jersey area. Anybody living in New Jersey is familiar with the patterns of weather going from one extreme to the next. Having proper climate control in your home is something that many people on the East Coast will find both valuable and enticing.

Generally speaking, you want your HVAC system to be no more than 10 years old. If your system is older than this you will want to consider installing a newer unit. Always consider the cost versus value of a new system when looking for potential replacements for an older unit. Energy efficiency is the key aspect you will want to consider. There are many affordable systems available and our team will help you determine which one will best suit your individual needs.

Before you update or install an HVAC system, it’s imperative that you make sure your home is as well insulated and sealed as possible. If you install central air but have a drafty house, then you are wasting money as it escapes through the cracks and openings. Replacing your siding, roof repair, and window replacement are essential to make sure that any heating or cooling system will work with maximum efficiency. In addition to saving you money on utility bills, it will add value to the home. One of the biggest ways to enhance the equity in your home is to make sure that maintenance and upkeep are kept to a minimum. A leaky roof will negate the benefits of a brand new bathroom.

Once you have made sure that your home is well sealed, there are certain things to consider with an HVAC system. If your home doesn’t already have one installed, then it will be a significant addition, which can mean major cost. While it will certainly add value, in the long run, you need to take into account the layout of your home and decide whether a central system will be worth the expense. For smaller homes, furnaces and air conditioners can be enough to add comfort without breaking the bank. Additionally, ceiling fans and windows can be properly utilized to allow for better air flow, thus reducing the need for a full A/C unit.

One of the more important factors in considering an HVAC system is the inclusion of an air purification system. Allergies and pollutants are a major concern for many people and will be something a potential homebuyer will consider. Adding a purification system can not only make sure that you have a healthier home, but will automatically add value in the long run.

Adapting your units to run off of green energy can be a trendy and cost-effective route to increasing your home’s value. With many unexplored energy sources to tap into, such as geothermal heating, the sun, and wind power, there are a variety of options to consider. This quality will be seen as a particularly special aspect that your home holds over other properties, and will be a good qualification to increasing your home’s overall equity.

Overall, if you do nothing else to your home but upgrade and modernize its mechanical and plumbing systems, it will not only reduce your maintenance costs, but it will make your home far more valuable. Many prospective home buyers purchase with certain remodels and renovations in mind beforehand. Thus, you want to make sure that they won’t have to worry about expensive repairs or upgrades, ensuring that you can get the maximum value of your home.

Chapter 3: Painting

While it’s true that you can’t judge a book by its cover, something can be said about judging a house by its appearance. Homes with outdated decor or colors can turn buyers off and reduce the overall value of the home, even if it has modern conveniences. One of the easiest and best ways to change the aesthetic of a home is painting it. This home equity increasing option is one of the most affordable and accessible ones available. Homes that have dirty, cracked and peeling paint are perceived as unkempt and potential risks. Adding a fresh coat, even just on the trim, can go a long way towards enhancing the appeal of your home.

Your doors, especially the front door, are one of the main areas you should attend to when painting. Keeping the front entrance to your home fresh and beautiful will significantly increase your home’s worth. Always consider the overall design structure of your house when deciding on a color. Considering the color choices of other homes in your neighborhood can provide a good reference point as well. Currently, there is a large trend toward brightly colored doors, as they appear both inviting and charming. Many design blogs currently obsess over such doors, so in many cases this provides a smart design choice.

While it’s important to stick to neutral colors, you don’t want to have a drab and boring look to your house. It’s also imperative that you choose colors that match or complement each other; you want to avoid clashing as much as possible, as disharmony can negate the benefits of a new paint job. Additionally, with neutral colors it can be easier for a person moving in to repaint if they wish too. This color scheme allows for a sort of “blank canvas” for new home owners. The combination of being both visually appealing and flexible is what makes the neutral color scheme such a great investment.

In addition to the obvious aesthetic appeal, painting has several other benefits. Outside, it can help protect against the elements (a major factor in the Jersey area) as well as boost curb appeal. Inside, it can help prevent mold and dust, as well as cover up any stains, nicks and scrapes that have built up over the years.

Before painting, like with any other remodel, you need to know what you’re getting into, and preparation is crucial. Once you have decided your color scheme, you need to make sure that you are getting the proper type of paint. Nowadays, there is a critical difference between outdoor and indoor paint. Even if you are using the same color on both surfaces, you can’t use outdoor paint inside as it contains harsher chemicals and pollutants, called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Conversely, you can’t use indoor paint outside as it will not be able to stand up to the harsher weather and abuse.

Use of low or non VOC paints also increases the green, eco-friendly quality of your home. This will help increase home value in areas that are more environmentally conscious and friendly. Buyers with young children, allergies, or just general chemical sensitivities will also see this as a major positive. With this option you will both help sustain the environment and your health. If your property is in a more eco-friendly area of New Jersey this will provide even more potential value-increasing capabilities.

In addition to finding the proper type of paint, you need to plan ahead and make sure that you are fully prepared. The most important thing you can do before a major paint job is making sure that your surfaces are clean and smooth. If you are using different colors on adjacent walls, tape is imperative to ensure that you have clean, crisp lines. A messy paint job is almost worse than no paint job.

Whether you do it yourself or hire professionals, it’s also important that you clear the area being painted, and patience is key. Make sure that you have drop cloths and plastic so the paint doesn’t ruin your floor, and ideally you need to use a coat of primer to ensure a full bodied coat of paint. This also requires that you wait between coats, and you need to keep in mind that the paint will dry a lighter shade than what is applied.

When painting outside, it is almost always easier and better to hire professionals, as they can get the job done a lot faster. They are also prepared with the proper equipment and tools to get it done effectively. However, if you do decide to paint the exterior yourself, in addition to the basic prep, you will want to add some type of paint sealer on top of the coat. While exterior paint is already formulated to handle the elements, adding a sealant will ensure that you won’t have to touch up or repaint for years to come.

Chapter 4: Flooring 

Like painting, changing and upgrading your floors is a great way to increase value while adding aesthetic appeal. Before you get started, however, you will want to take the time to decide what type of flooring will work best for you, as well as what will add the best value to your home. Flooring is the first thing your toes touch in the morning and you want to ensure that your day starts pleasantly.

The biggest debate when it comes to floors is hardwood vs carpet. While both have their benefits and downsides, what it ultimately comes down to is the feel of the space. Obviously in the kitchen and bathroom laminate or tile is required, but when it comes to living spaces; the living room, bedrooms, basements, it can come down to personal preference. Hardwood has a bit more of a sleek and sterile feel to it whereas carpet can have a warm, homey feel that may be better suited to your needs.

The benefits of hardwood floors are numerous. They are easier to clean, they are more durable and last longer, and they add more value to your home. Additionally, you have more options as far as design, as it’s easier to move furniture on, and you can change the look with area rugs to get some of the benefits of carpeting. With these benefits in mind, however, it’s also important to note that there are some downsides. It’s a hard, cold surface that is prone to scratches and dents. However, when investing in hardwood flooring it is an intelligent move to seek out scratch-resistant material. This will make the already smart investment even more useful. Additionally it is louder and reflects noise, rather than absorbing it, although some of that can be alleviated with area rugs. Finally, it requires more frequent cleaning, as dust and hair can collect pretty fast, especially in homes with pets.

If you want a soft, inexpensive surface, carpeting can be the way to go. It’s cheaper to install and replace than hardwood, and it can add a warm, inviting feel to a room. It’s quieter and helps insulate the house, which can be necessary for winter. However, it is prone to stains and requires deeper cleaning, even if less frequently. They also don’t last quite as long as hardwood, so they will need to be replaced more often.

While there is no right answer when it comes to flooring, it most likely will come down to how you use the space. A dining room would be best suited for a hardwood floor, but a living room or family room may be better with a carpet, especially if you have small children.

Most likely the answer is that you won’t have just one type of flooring for your entire house, but a mix of both that meet your needs. Floors are a huge part of your home’s appeal, so make sure that they are well maintained and kept clean, and they can add tremendous value to your property.

Chapter 5: Landscaping

The severity of your landscaping needs will naturally be tied to how big your property is, but regardless of size, maintaining and upgrading your yard can be a huge step towards increasing your value. From basic lawn maintenance to adding walkways and a deck, it’s important that you put as much care into the exterior of your home as you do the interior.

First and foremost, your attention to the landscape should be in proper care and maintenance of your lawn and foliage. Considering that this is what prospective buyers look at first, it’s imperative that you present a good impression with a well-trimmed and maintained lawn. If you have bushes and shrubs, it’s important to prune and manicure them so that they don’t overwhelm your property, and that they don’t look out of place

Another important step to adding value through landscaping is the use and implementation of trees. Trees not only can help you save money, but they can add real value to the overall price of your home. A single tree can be worth several thousand dollars in the long run. The benefits of trees are numerous: they add significant curb appeal, they provide shade in the summer and windbreaks in the winter, and they absorb runoff and sewage waste, keeping it from the storm drain.

In addition to the savings on utilities and increased market value, trees help clean the air around your home as well as provide stress relief. According to a study by Texas A&M University, being around a tree for mere minutes a day can significantly reduce stress levels.

When choosing a tree for your home, there are several things you need to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure that you choose a species that is native to the Jersey area. These are much easier to maintain and will ensure that your property blends in with the local flavor. Additionally, this will help protect it from invasive vines and other plants. Speaking of which, it’s also important to consider the appearance of the neighborhood foliage. While it has been shown that trees can increase the value of homes adjacent to them, if you stand out too much, then it could have an adverse effect on your property value.

Keeping the symmetry of your foliage in mind is very important. Creating a space that is visually stimulating through its symmetry can add a lot of value to your property, but one that is off-center or awkward can decrease it. In those cases uprooting or fixing plants to correct mistakes is a hassle. Save yourself time by planning out the growth and end goal of your foliage with knowledgeable individuals.

In addition to trees, there are other landscaping projects that you can do to increase value. Outdoor lighting is another item that can have a tremendous impact on the look of your home. Even something as simple as porch lighting can create a positive, inviting effect on your property, which is something that potential buyers really look for. According to the North American Housing Board’s Annual report, 41% of homebuyers listed outdoor lighting as an essential need.  It also adds security, illuminating slick walkways and wards off potential burglars.

Another addition to your yard can be walkways and trimmed pathways. If you do not currently have a walkway from the sidewalk to the house, adding a simple stone path can go a long way towards making your home more inviting, thus adding value to prospective buyers. Additionally, adding stone pathways and constructs in the backyard can increase the appeal, as long as they fit the overall theme of your yard. Too many structures and decorations can diminish the value of a yard. The key is maximizing your space and your utilization of that space. You want your yard to feel open, but you also want to ensure that it holds a practical option as well.

Fences are one area that many people neglect when laying out their yards. Your choice of fence style is of utmost importance because it frames the artwork you have created in your living space. Installing or replacing fencing can be an expensive and time-staking task, so you should always plan your fencing to compliment any current or future yard design plans. Finding the fence style that works for your tastes will bring out the details you have put so much time and effort into creating.

Finally, adding well thought out terrains and walkways to your property can add a sense of variety. Areas that include gravel, bodies of water, sand or otherwise can provide many different uses. Those with children or pets will particularly benefit from such terrains. Additionally, a well paved driveway can be a useful investment. Avoid concrete and go with black top if at all possible, as it is the most popular choice and the easiest to maintain.

While landscaping can increase value, you don’t want to go too far in the opposite direction. It’s important to utilize your space effectively and efficiently. One of the most common mistakes is the addition of a pool. For moderate climates like California, a pool could be a welcome addition. However, in the Jersey area, pools are less likely to add value, as they can quickly become a money sink, requiring a lot of maintenance in the offseason. Decks, however, can be a substantial investment, as in the mid-Atlantic area a deck addition can have upwards of an 80% return on investment.

Chapter 6: Remodeling

If you are truly serious about creating value for your home, and you can secure the funds to do so, home remodeling can be one of the best ways to get a higher price when it comes time to sell. From knocking down a wall to adding a whole extra floor, remodeling can transform your home into something spectacular. With the endless range of possibilities available it can be helpful to get an outside perspective. Here at RWC Windows, Doors & More we pride ourselves on our ability to suggest the most aesthetically pleasing and worthwhile remodeling investments for customers both new and old.

As always, it will be crucial to consult a professional before getting started with any remodeling projects. Because there are usually wires and insulation hiding behind walls, you want to make sure that you know what you’re getting yourself into before you commit to any project. At RWC Windows, Doors & More, we have remodeled hundreds of homes and will work with you to ensure you get the highest return possible on your investment.

When it comes to remodeling, there are several projects that have a high rate of return on investment. Remodeling the kitchen (reasonably), adding a bedroom, and adding a bathroom will always prove to be smart and valuable remodels. These are the focal points of a house, and they will resonate with potential buyers. An investment in remodeling will not only increase your property’s worth, but also make your living space a more pleasant and comfy place to live.

Kitchen

While the kitchen is the main thing that prospective buyers look at, you don’t want to go too heavy on remodeling this. A house that has an ultra-modern kitchen that doesn’t fit with the rest of the house will be valued less than one with a modest kitchen. Homeowners can expect to recoup between 55-70% of the costs. For homes that are in desperate need of an upgrade, that amount could be higher.

Things that potential home buyers are looking for are: upgraded and energy efficient appliances, storage, sturdy and long lasting countertops, lighting and flooring. If you can focus your remodel on these areas, you can easily create a kitchen that will add lasting value.

With kitchens it is all about effectiveness and energy-efficiency. You can keep the appropriate look of your home, whether it is modern or retro, without sacrificing these qualities. Keeping appliances and fixtures eco-friendly and energy-conscious will save money, increasing the home’s overall value. There are many resources available to help you find the right style appliance, which is also efficient and fits your needs.

Some tips before you remodel:

• Keep appliances and lights close to existing wiring to avoid complications or increased costs. Laminate countertops are cheaper, but they can diminish value over time.
• Add lights that fit with the overall feel of the kitchen. Color balance and harmony are more important than ultra-modern technology.
• Adding simple storage solutions, such as hooks for pots and pans, can go a long way.

Bedroom

Adding a bedroom is one of the most surefire ways to increase your home’s value, as it increases your pool of potential buyers with each room you add. However, be sure to not overextend the amount of bedrooms with regard to the number of bathrooms. A four bedroom house with only one bathroom could be a potential turn off for buyers.

While it may be necessary to expand the floorplan of the house in order to accommodate a new bedroom or bathroom, it will not always be the case. In order for a room to qualify as a bedroom, there needs to be a closet. If you have a den or extra room that isn’t serving any purpose, adding a closet could turn it into a living space, thus increasing your home’s potential. As long as you have the space for the closet and reasonable space for a bed, then you can turn a den or laundry room into a bedroom easily and more cost effectively than creating an addition to the house.

Re-inventing bedrooms to fit an overall “house theme” can also provide a good investment. Giving your house a harmony and overall aesthetic appeal helps to increase the wow-factor of your living space. Additionally, the more versatile a room is, the better. If a bedroom can function as both a sleeping/living space and an office, for example, it will add value to your home. First impressions are extremely important when both appraisers and potential buyers are checking out your property, presenting them with a property that will stick in their mind helps to insure its worth.

Bathroom

No homeowner or potential buyer will lament the over-abundance of bathrooms. Unless your house has more bathrooms than bedrooms, adding a bath can always add value to a home. While it may not always be cost effective to create a whole new bathroom, even just creating a half bath or three-quarter bath can increase value. Adding a half bath to a bedroom can instantly add value to a home, at a fraction of the cost of adding a full bath somewhere else in the house.

The difference between sizes is a half bath has a sink and toilet only, three-quarters has a stand-up shower, and a full bath has a bathtub or full-size shower. As far as return on investment, a half bath typically yields about 60%, while a full bath is typically around 50%

Attics/Basements

These are the great untapped renovation spaces. With a tendency to be both spacious and “blank canvases,” these areas beg to be remodeled into more functional spaces. Basements can be great for providing a second living room, game room or additional tenant space. Attic spaces work in a similar way, but due to their high ceiling space they can also be a great area for artistic intentions. Whether you are looking to display or make art, attics provide an often ideal space for doing so. Additionally, both spaces can be great for creating “guest areas” for the homeowners who love to host.

What to avoid

While many remodeling investments will pay for themselves, there are quite a few common ones that simply are not worth your time or money. When renovating, it is of the utmost importance that you stay educated about such investments and the professionals at RWC Windows, Doors & More can assist you in making the right decision.

There are four specific home remodeling investments that simply do not bring back the investment intended in most cases: home office remodeling, sunroom additions, master suite additions and garage expansions. While all of these can increase the comfort of your home, they are not necessarily selling points in many areas, particularly in the New Jersey area. Expansions are often too costly to justify the price, as you could simply add on areas or renovate more important ones for similar price ranges. In the case of sunrooms, you can instead add light to existing rooms, as you want the entire house to be full of light, not just one specific room. Finally, home offices can be irrelevant to some buyers. An investment in a home office installation or renovation will rarely add value to a house.

Chapter 7: Selling Your Home

Once you have reinvigorated your property into a beautiful dream home you will be ready to put it on the market. When it does become time to sell your home, you can either consider selling it yourself, called For Sale By Owner (FSBO) or you can use a realtor. Both options have pros and cons and it is important that you research thoroughly before coming to a conclusion. When selling yourself you save the cost of realtor services, but you may take much longer to actually sell your property. Ultimately, it comes down to finances when making this crucial choice.

For Sale By Owner

The benefits of this option are that you can save money on the cost of a realtor, which usually comes in the form of a commission based on the price of the house. For people who are industrious enough and who are motivated to sell their home, selling it themselves can be a simple and rewarding solution. However, there are several drawbacks: first it requires a lot of time and effort; selling your home can be a full-time job. Second, it requires intimate knowledge of real estate law and securing the proper documentation. In New Jersey, you are not required to use a real estate agent, but you are required to use a real estate attorney in order to make sure your sale is legal and binding. Third, you are limited to your selling options, as Realtors typically have a network of sellers and clients that could potentially be interested in purchasing your home.

Because of the intense workload, the amount of FSBO sellers has been trending downwards to roughly 13%, since its peak of 19% in 1997, according to a study by forsalebyowner.com. However, if you have the patience and wherewithal to sell your own home, this could be a viable and lucrative option.

Understanding the state of your neighborhood and the demand to live there can be an important factor in the decision to sale your property yourself. If you live in an area that is not currently at the height of its popularity it can often be a mistake to try and sell the property by yourself.

Realtors

If you don’t mind paying a 6% commission on your home, trusting the sale of your house to a realtor has a slew of benefits, with the only real downside being the price. Realtors are there to take the time and effort required to sell a home and have a network of lenders and legal advice to make sure that all offers are valid and legal. Additionally, they can even be better salesman, leading to a slight bump in price when it comes time to close.

In addition to this realtors offer a variety of services that are hard to handle without the proper experience. They know the exact pricing that will help you sell your home for an ideal amount. Realtors often advertise your home through well-known and successful sources. Sketchy offers are frequent when wheeling and dealing on the home market and realtors know the exact signs to look for in order to avoid any illegitimate offers. Finally, they can let you know of any additional renovations or housework that needs to be done before putting the house on the market.

By securing a realtor, you are ensuring that your home will be sold as quickly and efficiently as possible by someone who is trained and dedicated to doing so. If the thought of putting up a commission is undesirable, it’s not only important to take into account the amount of hours you’d have to spend doing everything yourself, but also that a realtor may have tricks or strategies that can ultimately increase the closing price of the home, meaning you can make more money regardless. Simply put, realtors will often save you time and money. Unless you are able to sell your house quickly you may lose money by not going with a realtor who will be able to find a buyer in a time efficient manner.

Conclusion

No matter what you choose to do, building home equity is one of the most important and financially responsible things anyone can do. It offers you financial stability and increased net worth, and it can ultimately be one of the most rewarding investments you make in your life. Additionally, the projects you will undertake when preparing your home for the market will increase the comfort of your living space, making for a more satisfying day to day existence for you and your family.

With the economy rebounding, and property values increasing, it is becoming a much more stable and lucrative time to add value to your home. Whether you make simple upgrades or major renovations, investing in a property will be a great way to secure your financial future. In today’s housing market it is imperative that properties look their best, so take the first step toward a more beautiful home today.

If you are ready to start increasing your home’s value, this is an ideal time to invest. At RWC Windows, Doors & More you will experience a “unique” home improvement experience that simply cannot be found anywhere else. Come down to our showroom to view hundreds of products from nationally leading brands. It is the perfect place to gain a thorough understanding of the possible services we provide. This also provides an excellent space to educate yourself about home improvement tasks; our professional and courteous team will be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns!

Creating a dream home that will increase the value of your property is a personal undertaking and we understand that every individual will want a different approach. No matter what you are thinking about in regards to your living space we can help. Dedicated and impassioned, our team loves talking with new and old customers in order to help them reach their final decision.

We have served the tri-state area around New Jersey since 1959 and we take pride in our assignments. Allow us to relieve you of the time-intensive and stressful tasks of home improvement. Embrace the difference that RWC Windows, Doors & More can provide and join our “Family of Customers” today!

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by RWC