Bathroom

Christmas season is upon us, and many people are focusing on the latest and greatest gadgets to stuff under the tree. That line of thinking is also true for people thinking of remodeling!

Technology can be incorporated into both the construction and the planning process of remodeling.

First up is the way smart features are starring in many remodels, according to Kitchen & Bath Design News.

The article, citing a recent Houzz survey, says nearly half (45%) or people in the process of or finished remodeling are looking to add or have added smart technology to their homes.

The decisions aren’t limited to one area of the home either, the article says. People are looking into smart technology for entertainment, climate control, security, and lighting. Comfort and style is the name of the game.

Technology is helping the remodeling planning stage too.

From SFGate, a startup in San Francisco has developed an iPad app that works in conjunction with a Structure Sensor that allows users to scan a room and instantly take measurements from it.

The efficiency isn’t without cost though. The sensor costs $379, and requires a wide-angle lens at an additional cost.

I think it’s safe to say what MK Remodeling & Design is asking Santa for this Christmas!

Have a great week!

While Election Day has come and gone, remodeling advice is still in season, so here are a few tips we hope you, uh, elect to do. (Sorry for the reach.)

Today’s hot link arrives from the Chicago Tribune and features some quirky remodeling tips you might not have thought of.

The article’s first tip is a reminder to order a port-a-potty for any worksite. Now, depending on the scope of your job, that might not be necessary. However, thinking ahead is always a good idea.

Remember to always keep a bathroom functioning during a job, otherwise you are you-know-what out of luck. And if you are uncomfortable with a worker using your bathroom, consider ordering a portable toilet. There will be no judgment! Everyone will understand your concern for privacy or cleanliness, given that even the most careful construction worker can accidentally bring in dirt or mess.

The second tip also involves thinking ahead. Remember to plan for your curb appeal. In the article, the remodeler bought lots of plants on discount in the fall, put them in temporary digs over the winter, then planned to feature them prominently after construction was completed. Great idea.

The final tip is to be brave. Don’t be afraid to take a risk. While some jobs won’t totally recoup their value, seeing a project you are emotionally invested in come to fruiting is payment in itself.

Have a great week!

Saving money during remodeling goes hand in hand with staying on schedule. Adding more work days to a project adds more money to your bottom line. While not every event can be foreseen, having a plan in place is the best way to the best job possible.

With that in mind, we are loving these tips from Popular Mechanics on staying on time and on budget.

The article outlines six, but we are spotlighting our favorites.

First, don’t force anything. This goes for both planning and execution. Remodeling takes lots of paperwork, both in securing permits and signing contracts. Honor that process. Take your time and understand what you are committing to. All of those things absolutely must be handled before demolition begins.

Then, once construction begins, don’t get so focused on the end result that you lose sight of the process. There will be delays. Unforeseen problems could arise. That’s OK. As long as you build in a little wiggle room to both your timeline and budget you will come out on top.

Next, resist the urge to turn your house into something it is not. Unless you have limitless funds, you are going to have to stay within the “bones” of your house if you want to stay within your budget. You might be able to realign appliances in your kitchen at modest expense, but you won’t be able to realign your electric or plumbing system without significant cost.

Lastly, stay in touch. Keep in communication with your contractor. They are working hard for you, so it pays to get along. Stay receptive to ideas and open to suggestion. Realize that leaning on the expertise of your contractor is the most efficient route to success.

Have a great week!