Home improvement, also known as home renovation or remodeling, involves the construction of additions and upgrades to your property. These improvements can be made for a variety of reasons, including:
When hiring a contractor for home improvement work, always get multiple estimates and a written contract. Some states have specific requirements for contractors such as payment schedules and detailed descriptions of work to be performed.
Additions
Home additions are one of the best ways to increase the value of your property. They also provide luxury and convenience.
Additions can be large, like a second story or sun room. But they can also be small, like a bump out, to create a more spacious interior.
Before starting a home addition project, check with your city or county to see if you need a building permit. Also, interview contractors to find out how they work with clients, if they kept the job site clean and how much their previous projects cost.
A growing family in Silver Spring, Maryland needed a second story to accommodate their needs. Tabor Design Build took on the challenge.
Full Renovations
A full home renovation or remodel is a large project that encompasses remodeling or renovating all areas of the house. This is different from a partial renovation, which typically includes cosmetic work.
Renovating is often less expensive than building a new home. It also allows homeowners to avoid the costs of laying a foundation, framing the building, and installing new materials and utilities.
The initial work contract should include a timeline, detailed drawings, and payment schedules. It should also clearly state how change orders will be handled to help prevent surprises down the road. This will prevent delays and keep the project on track to meet its projected finish date.
Kitchens
The kitchen is the hub of a home, and it’s essential that this space has plenty of storage, easy movement and an open layout. Removing walls or adding an extension can increase space and improve the flow of your kitchen.
Avoid safety hazards such as flammable window treatments above a stove and countertop edges that aren’t clipped or rounded. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and easily accessible and test it regularly.
Make sure any new materials are low maintenance, such as water- and stain-resistant flooring and cabinets with smooth slab fronts instead of textured surfaces. These options will help reduce cleaning time, saving you energy and money.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are important parts of any home. They’re used for both personal hygiene and utility, and the number and types of bathrooms in a house can affect the value of a home. Whether you’re buying, selling, building, or renovating, it’s important to consider the different types of bathrooms and their features. The bathroom may also be called a washroom, restroom, water closet, bath or lavatory block. It typically includes a toilet, sink and tub or shower. You’ll need to select quality plumbing fixtures that match your taste and provide the functionality you need. Bathrooms also require durable flooring and heating options.
Living Spaces
Living spaces are the areas of a house or apartment that are meant for relaxing and socializing. They include the living room, dining room, and other spaces where family members and friends spend most of their time together.
When building or constructing a home, it is important to understand the differences between living space and usable floor space. The terms are often used interchangeably, but they are actually quite different.
The term “living space” refers to the actual livable area within a dwelling unit, excluding garages, basements, and attics. The “usable space” is the total of all rooms excluding hallways and other circulation spaces.
Exteriors
If you’re planning a home remodel, it’s important to find the right contractor for your project. Whether you’re looking to do a complete renovation or need help with one specific task, Schneps can match you with top-rated pros.
Exterior wall materials are rated for strength (both structural and resistance to damage), weather resistance, insulating value and maintenance requirements. Options include masonry (brick or stone), stucco, wood (shingles, shakes and planks) or cement fiber. The contractor should provide a contract with an estimated timeline, payment schedule and as many specifics about the work as possible. This will prevent surprises down the line. A good contractor should also provide an insurance certificate and proper licensing.