Bathroom Remodel Archives - Page 28 of 33

Is Granite Gone from the Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Scene?

Granite has been a foundational finish in kitchen and bathroom remodeling since the late 1980’s. Once considered a must have material in any upscale project, not only has it gone mainstream; it’s heyday may be over. Nobody will argue that marble isn’t beautiful. But as many homeowners have learned over the years, it is maintenance intensive. Marble has also been proven to emit radon gas. That’s just a few of the reasons that materials that provide the same clean look are taking the place of marble.

Engineered Stone

When you hear the term “engineered stone” you may think of cultured marble or Corian. Those while those are both are engineered stone surfaces (“Corian” is actually a registered trademark of DuPont, not a real stone) they are not the only engineered stone materials made. The “quartz” countertops that are gaining popularity are actually engineered stone. Engineered quartz to be exact.

Engineered quartz is manufactured in a variety of colors and finishes. It is made by mixing ground quartz with polymers, resins and pigments. The resulting material is as strong as stone, but much easier to maintain. Because it is man made, the pigments are mixed equally making for a more consistent product.

You can use engineered quartz or any engineered stone product in your kitchen and bathroom remodeling project without worrying about matching slabs of stone. The look is consistent and seams are almost invisible.

It provides a hygienic surface because it is not porous. That’s important in a kitchen where food is prepared and bathrooms that are exposed to bodily fluids. Engineered stones are tough, stain and scratch resistant and available in a dizzying array of finishes.

Concrete Countertops

Just as stained concrete is gaining in popularity as a floor finish, stained concrete is a rising star for kitchen and bathroom counters. Concrete can be surfaced in any color or pattern you can imagine. There are concrete overlays that are indistinguishable from tile. All without the hassle of cleaning the grout.

Just look as this countertop.

Does this look like concrete to you? Of course not, but it is. The surface has been highly polished to give that shine. Pigments were added to the concrete so the color and finish is now an integral part of the construction.

Because it is concrete, it was easily formed into the circular shape. That’s not a design that is easy to bring to life working with granite or stone, but because concrete is poured and shaped, anything is possible.

Inspired Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling from Inspired Remodels

Whether you want granite, engineered stone, concrete, tile or wood in your next project, Inspired Remodels can make it happen. We make your dream kitchen or bathroom a reality. Call (949) 625- 6820 today and schedule your consultation.

Why Work with a Design Build Remodeling Contractor

By Inspired Remodels / Bathroom Remodel, Home Improvement, Kitchen Remodel / Comments Off

If you are remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or any other room in your house it pays to work with a design-build remodeling contractor. It is much more efficient, reduces the chances of communication errors, and makes for a smoother experience. Here’s why.

Traditional Model

With the traditional model, you would hire a designer to create your design. This person would work with you to come up with the floor plan, layout, finishes, and fixtures associated with the remodel. They would come up with specifications and turn the job over to you. The designer or planner may or may not be able to make recommendations for a contractor to do the work. They may or may not be willing to manage the work. Commonly, you take the architectural plans, find your contractor, and supervise the job. If there is any question about materials or the plan, the contractor lets you know, you check with the designer and then get back with the contractor.

This isn’t the easiest or most efficient way to do the job. But it does give you the benefit of the services of an experienced designer.

Design Build Model

With a design-build model, the contractor provides design services. The contractor has a person on staff who works with you to create your design. You sit down with your idea book and the designer listens to how you want to use the space as well as your wants and needs. The designer then works with you to create a plan that incorporates what you want out of the space with the budget you have established.

Once the designer is finished the plans are turned over to the build portion of the company. The general contractor brings in the necessary materials and subcontractors to do the work. If there is a question about the plan, communication is easy because the contractor and designer are not only on the same team, they work for the same company.

This model reduces homeowner stress. It also improves communication. Design-build increases the probability that the job will be completed on time and budget.

Sample of Work by Inspired Remodels – Orange County’s Design Build Remodeling Contractor

Work with a Professional Remodeling Contractor

No matter which approach you take, work with a professional remodeling contractor. A professional remodeling contractor knows what permits must be pulled, has relationships with professional tradesmen, carries liability insurance, and is licensed by the State of California.

A professional won’t burn you on your kitchen remodel or leave you underwater with a bathroom do-over. Most of the horror stories you hear are the result of working with unlicensed contractors, so hire a pro.

Inspired Remodels is Orange County’s Design Build Remodeling Contractor

Get Inspired from Floor to Ceiling

Want the best for your next bathroom or kitchen remodel? Hire the best. Hire Inspired Remodels. Joe and Jason Mueller will sit down with you to discuss your project. They turn your dream into reality. They craft kitchens that function as well as they look, bathrooms and bedrooms that provide a retreat, custom cabinets, and fabulous fireplaces. Whether you need one room or a whole house, Inspired Remodels is up to the task. Just check out what their clients have to say on Yelp. Then call (949) 716-1938 and schedule your appointment today.

Tips for Picking the Right Bathtub from Expert Bathroom Remodeler

By Inspired Remodels / Bathroom Remodel / Comments Off

Do your dreams of a new bathroom include a new bathtub? Or are you just looking to put a new tub in an existing space. Whether you dream of soaking after a long day or giving the kids a quick bath before bed, the Orange County’s expert bathroom remodeler shares some things to consider.

Installation

How will your tub be installed? This is determined by the amount of space you have and the type of tub you want. Often, it is the amount of space that will determine the type of tub. In addition, will you need new plumbing or can the existing plumbing be used? Adding or moving plumbing will add to the cost of the install. You should discuss installation options with your bathroom remodeler early in the design process. A bathroom remodel is only as good as the original design.

Tub Styles

Freestanding. As the name implies, these tubs stand alone. Freestanding tubs the old-style claw-foot tubs or the new-style Japanese soaking tubs. This style tub doe not attach to the walls. Freestanding tubs are finished on all sides. They are generally plumbed from underneath. The old cast iron tubs are heavy and when you add in the weight of water (a little over 8 lbs per gallon) make sure the floor and subfloor can hold the weight. This is particularly true for 2^nd floor bathrooms.

Soaker tubs are deeper than conventional tubs. You want one that is insulated enough to hold the heat of the water on a chilly night. This style tub is great for soaking, but difficult to bend over for giving the kids a bath. This style is best reserved for the master bath.

Recessed Tubs. Recessed Tubs can take different forms. A recessed tub has three sides mounted to the walls. This is the common tub/shower combination. A recessed tub will have one skirted (or finished) side. Tile the surrounding walls in almost any configuration and give your bathroom a personal touch.

Corner Tub. A corner tub attaches to two walls in the corner of the bathroom. These large tubs occupy valuable real estate in the bathroom but if you have the space they are stunning. Corner tubs are commonly jetted, but non-jetted corner tubs are available.

Drop In Tub. These tubs look like mini spas. The tub itself has no finished sides. When installed, it is surrounded by a platform that is finished in stone or tile. Make sure to use non-slick surfaces for the steps. But you won’t need to remind an expert bathroom remodeler to do this, they already know. That’s why they are experts.

Occupants

Want to accommodate multiple bathers or soakers? Make sure your soaking tub will fit the number and size of your bathers. For two bathers, you will want to consider a corner tub, a whirlpool tub, or a custom drop in tub.

Size of Hot Water Heater

That fabulous soaker tub won’t be so fabulous if you can’t fill it with hot water. Many homeowners shop for more tub than they have hot water heater. This is another one of those times when working with an expert bathroom remodeler pays off. They will always make sure that your hot water heater has the capacity to serve your tub.

The Right Bathroom Starts with the Right Bathroom Remodeler

Pick your bathroom remodeler with care. A new bathtub can require new plumbing. You want a remodeler that can handle all trades, plumbing, electrical, flooring and drywall. Working with a contractor that provides design services will remove some of the stress and improve communication and workflow during construction.

Inspired Remodels can take your ideas and turn them into the bathroom of your dreams. Call (949) 716-1938 or Contact Us to schedule a free consultation today. That dream tub may only be