For the Burgins that usually means we will have loads of hard-boiled eggs to use up over the next few weeks. From deviled eggs to spinach and egg salad, we think you’ll find one or two of these egg-stra special recipes from Martha Stewart worth trying- check them out here.

We hope you have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

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It’s no secret that most of the homes in Southern California were built in the 1950’s and 60’s. That generally means that homes here have old, small, and inefficient bathrooms. It’s also the main reason that, according to the Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, bathrooms get up to a 90% return on investment when you sell your home.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some top reasons for remodeling the bathroom(s) in your Orange County home.

5 Reasons to Remodel Your Bathroom

More Space

One of the main reasons to remodel a bathroom is to add space. In the 50’s and 60’s bathrooms weren’t a focus when building homes. They were created to be functional and practical, but were never a space that homeowners wanted to spend much time in.

Over the last few decades self-care and relaxation have become more and more important and that often begins in the bathroom. This means a necessity for larger space that helps you feel relaxed and allows for the amenities that provide the feeling of being in a spa.

Updated Bathroom Fixtures and Amenities

Gone are the days of a simple tub and tiny box shower with a single drippy shower head. With high stress lives, everyone seems to be looking for that oasis where they can wash away the day and feel like they are at a spa. They want a getaway in their home where they can forget work, busy schedules, and all the other things that swirl in your head after a long day.

What were once considered luxury items like jetted tubs, multi-head showers, heated floors, and bidets, are now commonplace and many of these fixtures can be found in newly renovated bathrooms.

Adding a Bathroom

Another design flaw of older homes? Only one or two bathrooms. We know that bathrooms were considered a space to simply do your business and get out, but really? One bathroom?

Adding a bathroom is one of the most popular home renovations in the Orange County area. Whether it’s creating a master suite or a new space for guests, kids, or parents who are moving in for help with their care, it’s become a necessity to have at least two bathrooms in your home and more is always better in this department.

Aging In Place

Whether you are looking to create the perfect place for yourself to “grow old gracefully” or for an elderly parent or relative who you will be caring for, the bathroom is a crucial part of the equation. Having an accessible space with a wide doorway, safety bars, shower seat, walk-in tub, and more provides a way for you or your relative to be more self-sufficient.

Cosmetic Changes

It’s not vanity to want a new vanity! Most Southern California homes have old and outdated cabinetry and countertops with tiny sinks and leaky faucets. One of the top reasons we see for a bathroom remodel is to update the look of the space.

A cosmetic remodel can be small and simple or big and audacious, it’s all up to you. The options for fixtures, flooring and shower materials, countertops, and even lighting are seemingly endless and provide an opportunity to truly make the space your own.

Whatever your reason for a bathroom remodel, it’s important to work with a team of professionals who can help you every step of the way from idea and design to final walkthrough and completion. You want to make sure that nothing’s missed when it comes to creating an amazing new space to relax and let go of your worries.

If you’d like some help with planning your Orange County bathroom remodel, contact us at 714-558-1094 to schedule a consultation.

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Your countertops are going to be one of the most used surfaces in your entire home, after the floors, so you want to make sure that it meets all of your expectations. It should look beautiful, last a very long time and be easy to maintain so that you don’t have to live with the daily fear of someone staining or scratching it. It needs to be strong and durable while continuing to look it’s best day in and day out.

Often when we begin a project homeowners think they know exactly what they want for a countertop. They’ve seen something they like in a friend’s home, heard from someone else how much they love theirs, or seen it on a home renovation show on television and fell in love at first sight. Whatever the reason, many change their minds during the materials selection process once they learn more about each type of countertop material. Since it’s always a hot topic of conversation with lots of questions, we wanted to put together a list for you to better understand the types of materials and their pros and cons. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and have questions about countertops, this is where to begin.

Picking the Best Countertop for Your Orange County Kitchen Remodel

Quartz (AKA Engineered Stone) – Currently the most popular and market trending option, Quartz is always the best bang for your buck. Brands such as Arizona, Pental, MSI, and others are constantly adding new options and updated products.

Pros:
– Extremely consistent material and readily available in a broad range of color pattern options to suit practically any project
– Antibacterial (non-porous), unlike natural stone, bacteria can’t hide and breed in the pores of the material which makes cleanup much easier and daily use safer
– Practical and durable as it is heat, scratch and stain resistant

Cons: 
– Price has a broad range depending on pattern and brand and can rival even the highest end natural stone

Natural Stone – The second most popular option, Natural Stone represents a broad variety of material from Quartzite and Granite to Marble and even the softer Soapstone or Limestone. The price fluctuates significantly based on the material and durability is also a concern.

Pros:
– Timeless quality and unique opulent look
– Durability is a pro of some natural stones such as Quartzite and Granite

Cons:
– Requires sealing and frequent maintenance to keep most natural stones looking and performing their best.
– Unique and varied, therefore it requires special selection
– For the more durable and longest lasting natural stones the cost can be two to three times more than other stone options
– Choice like Marble are in vogue but the porous nature leaves it vulnerable to staining, etching, and discoloration from daily use

Butcher Block – While this material seems to be on the rise in other areas with the popularity of the Farmhouse Kitchen type of design, it isn’t currently a strong trend here in the Orange County area. The cost is about the same as Quartz and Stone options and it’s definitely a viable option offering a timeless look for any kitchen remodel.

Pros:
– It is warm and neutral so fits with virtually any design
– It is a renewable and repairable material for the most part
– Available with some slight variations such as end grain/edge grain wood species

Cons:
– Softer so more prone to nicks, stains, and scratches, however these can potentially be addressed through sanding and repair
– Butcher Block can be vulnerable to water damage so this is a definite concern in the kitchen

Honorable Mentions – 

Concrete countertops also seem to be trendy however they are not very durable and require frequent waxing and sealing to maintain. They are also prone to staining and damage and the cost is generally prohibitive.

Laminates and tile are a real blast from the past and generally are what we’re removing when we do demo for a kitchen remodel. While they are low-cost options, they can be vulnerable to water and heat damage, are hard to maintain and clean (remember scrubbing grout with an old toothbrush?), and the lifespan of these products is short so you’ll likely be planning another remodel in the near future.

Fabricated metal counters such as stainless steel and copper are pretty to look at but come at a very hefty price. In some ways they are durable but they are susceptible to scratches, dents, etc. They also aren’t easy to come by and will add some time to your remodeling project if not ordered well in advance.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of all countertop materials, but we hope it helps you better understand the options and provides you with some insight to help with how to pick the perfect countertop for your orange county kitchen remodel.

To learn more about material options or to schedule a consultation for your own Kitchen Remodel in the Orange County area, contact us at 714-558-1094

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Although you should check the batteries in your smoke detector regularly, make a habit of replacing the battery when the time changes.

If Spring cleaning is on your mind, here are some helpful tips to help you get started:

• Schedule a family garage clean-out. Create efficient storage for sporting goods, camping equipment, recreational vehicles, and garden tools.

• Inspect, clean and repair outdoor furniture.

• Inspect the house exterior and grounds. Make a list of any needed seasonal maintenance. Make sure to check the roof for winter damage: leaks, missing or broken shingles or tiles. Arrange for any needed repairs early; roofing contractors can be hard to find during summer’s construction season.

• Consider getting a professional to scrape, prime and paint peeling spots on trim or woodwork. You’ll protect wood against Summer’s heat and moisture.

• Clear away any remaining dead foliage and weeds from beds and lawn.

• Hold a garage sale! De-clutter house and garage to turn trash into cash. Build your yard sale savvy here.

• Wash windows inside and out.

• Move furniture and vacuum beneath it.

• Arrange for a spring inspection of cooling systems. Don’t wait for the first hot day!

If you find that you have some projects that need a professional’s touch, or if you’re dreaming of  a Kitchen  or Bathroom remodel – Let’s start the conversation! Give us a call at (714) 558-1094 or Click Here to get started!

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1. Add big, bold house numbers. It’s so easy to swap out house numbers, and this one thing can make a huge impact. Echo your house style in the numbers you choose — a clean sans serif font for a modern house, hand-painted tiles for a cottage, aged copper for a Prairie-style home etc.

2. Paint the front door. A front door that pops can be hugely cheering. Read up on all of the options in Houzz’s series on choosing a front-door color.

4. Swap out porch lighting. Try replacing tiny sconces with a big, statement-making pendant light, add recessed lighting beneath the eaves or install solar lights along the front walk.

5. Add a hot-red accent. Red has such vibrancy; a little goes a very long way. Try a bright red bench, planter or mailbox to add zing that can be seen from across the street.

6. Do some hardscaping. Built-in concrete planters, a low stone wall or new paths are all great ways to add structure to your front yard that will last for many years to come.

7. Spruce up the side yard. Camouflage an eyesore with attractive fencing, clear out weeds and lay out a neat path to the backyard.

8. Add depth with a fence. A low fence around a property not only adds a welcome boundary between a hectic street and a private space, but it also makes the front yard seem larger.

9. Replace a lawn with flowers. Dig up part or all of your front lawn and plant perennials instead for a lush landscape that sets your house apart.

10. Repair the driveway and paths. Cement, stone and pavement all can split and crack over time. Repairing or replacing damaged areas can do wonders to freshen up your home’s street view.

11. Paint the garage door. The garage takes up a lot of visual space, so it pays to make sure it looks its best.

12. Refinish the porch floor. If your porch floor has seen better days, renew it by stripping off old layers of paint, and brushing on stain or paint.

13. Add a shiny new door knocker. Gorgeous hardware (plus a glossy paint) can make the plainest door look very classy.

14. Try a unique front door. A really eye-catching front door can be just the thing to give a plain exterior a big dose of personality. Whether it’s supersleek and modern steel or a beautifully detailed Craftsman-style door, it can set the tone for the entire house.

15. Match plantings to your house style. Let the plants and pots you choose reflect the style of your house for a cohesive look. Accent a modern home with succulents and spiky-leafed plants in simple round pots, or surround your cottage with lush beds of flowers.

16. Echo the architecture with paths. Another way to accent the style of your home is by repeating the lines of the architecture in the paths and landscaping surrounding it. Wide, angular paths echo the geometry of the modern home here.

17. Create curb appeal even in the city. When you live in the city, it can be hard to personalize your home’s exterior. Work with what you have by adding neat window planters, glossy black shutters, good lighting and clearly visible house numbers.

Tips courtesy of Houzz.com.

Looking for more than just a facelift? Contact us today at 714-558-1094 to schedule a consultation today.

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Here are the top 5 trends we think are on the rise in 2018:

Dream Kitchens – Gone are the days of tiny little kitchens with barely enough space to turn around. More and more we see homeowners, both new and long-time alike, investing in their dream kitchen. It really is the heart of the home so it’s no surprise that it is the focal point for so many. Current trends center around simple and streamlined design, effective storage solutions, multipurpose islands and beautiful Quartz countertops.

Updated Appliances – Everybody wants the latest and greatest in gadgets and home appliances are no exception. The Smart Home is definitely in with more and more items connecting to one another and homeowner devices to track everything from what’s low in the fridge to when maintenance or repairs are needed. Another area that’s increased in popularity recently is the addition of specialty appliances such as induction cooktops, steam ovens and more.

All Things Rustic – This is a trend that’s been around for a little bit but it’s not going away anytime soon. With the popularity of shows like Fixer Upper at an all-time high, so is the demand for a more rustic look, especially in the kitchen. A few hot items in this category include open shelving, vintage lighting, and farm and trough sinks in rustic finishes such as concrete, copper, stone, etc.

Special Treatment Wall Finishes – Decorative backsplash is in, in a big way. Available in a wide variety of looks like wood finish, concrete, resin, fabric, artisan patterns and even wallpaper (especially with 3D shapes and textures), this trend is quickly taking over the top spot from subway and hexagon tiles.

Efficiency Upgrades – It’s never been cooler to “go green”. Double pane / low-e windows, whole house fans, improved insulation, smart lighting, and tankless water heaters are a great way to save on energy costs. Plumbing is also a big savings area with more efficient toilets, shower heads and more.

Ready to take on one of these trends yourself? Give us a call at 714-558-1094 to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help.

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Every homeowner has a list of things they need to update, upgrade, remodel or improve but, all too often small project success can lead to an overconfidence and really biting off more than you can chew.

Here are some projects that are ideal for a DIY’er and some that are best left to the professionals.

DIY Do – New Light Fixtures

If you’re looking for a great way to update a room in your house, this is one of the simplest and most effective. Trendy and contemporary is always a plus and can shine a new “light” on a drab, dark room.

DIY Don’t – New Cabinetry

That “we ordered too many” deal from the local cabinet store really is too good to be true. Unless you are or have a great carpenter on hand, getting everything to fit just right and ensuring all cabinets are level and placement is perfect is practically impossible. This is a project best left to the professionals so you don’t have unsightly gaps, uneven countertops or upper cabinetry that is not properly secured in place.

DIY Do – Organizing and Decluttering

While there are definitely professionals who can help if this type of project overwhelms you, it’s also one that you can easily do on your own. Begin with one room and go through everything in it getting rid of old and outdated decor, packing away sentimental keepsakes that you want to keep but not display, and maybe even change the layout. Having a place for everything can open up new decorating or furniture ideas you hadn’t even thought of.

DIY Don’t – Additions and Expansions

Everybody needs a little more space, but this type of project should always be reserved for a contractor. Issues inevitably arise when homeowners attempt to take on or manage these projects themselves including permitting (or lack thereof), inadequate materials, improper construction, inability to pass inspections, and more. In the long run it can decrease rather than improve the resale value of your home and hurt your ability to sell it.

Not every project in your home should be a DIY. In fact, a 2015 study by Zillow Digs showed that one third (nearly 40%) of all homeowners surveyed, regretted their DIY projects. Adding or expanding a room was at the top of the list at 53%, followed closely by refacing or refinishing cabinets (49%), replacing carpet (43%), refinishing or replacing hardwood (42%), and installing new cabinets (41%). The study also found that many of these DIY projects went over budget at a higher rate than projects done with a professional.

Have a new project in mind that you need a hand with? Contact us at 714-558-1094 today to schedule a consultation.

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In each and every project we undertake the very first thing we build is trust between our team and our clients. In this industry it is hard to build that trust and even harder to maintain it throughout the stresses and challenges of a home remodel. We take great pride in knowing that this is our greatest accomplishment and want to express our gratitude to each and every Burgin Construction customer.

By providing reviews on industry leading websites such as Houzz, sharing about your experience with friends and family, and inviting us back into your home for future projects, you have all had a hand in the growth and success of our design-build remodeling company here in the Orange County area. We appreciate your trust, your loyalty and your business.

Thank YOU for making us an award winning remodeling company again!

Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish – online or from a mobile device. From decorating a small room to building a custom home and everything in between, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community empowered by technology, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Houzz also has international offices in London, Berlin, Sydney, Moscow, Tel Aviv and Tokyo. Houzz  and the Houzz  logo are registered trademarks of Houzz Inc. worldwide.

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When comparing the cost of a remodeling project to the value of that project there are hundreds of things to take into account. Fortunately, you don’t have to do the guessing game and go through every little detail because the 2018 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) provides all the information you need to see what the impact of your remodel can be on the value of your home.

According to the report, here in the Orange County area, you could see a return of up to 113% on a minor kitchen remodel, up to 79% on a major kitchen remodel, and up to 90% return on a bathroom remodel. Window replacements also provide a very high value, as do Universal Design Bathrooms to assist aging in place and disabled.

At Burgin Construction Inc. we work hand-in-hand with you to ensure that your remodel suits your specific needs. If you have been thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bath, why wait? Click here to get started.

Complete data from the Remodeling 2018 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com © 2018 Hanley Wood Media Inc.

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QuickDrive

FlexWash + FlexDry.

As usual, the new and more integrated smart home technology from Samsung stole the show. The new Front Load Washer with QuickDrive cuts washing time by up to 35% and in a more compact machine. It is being praised for its speed and efficiency and is expected to be a revolutionary product now that it is available in the US.

The new FlexWash + FlexDry machines from Samsung were the talk of the floor with their flexibility and innovation. They are essentially two machines in one with the FlexWash providing the ability to wash up to 5 cubic feet of laundry in the lower washer and 1 cubic foot in the upper washer. It’s the perfect solution to do darks and whites or even regular clothes and delicates at the same time! Its companion machine, the FlexDry provides normal drying and steaming options with two dryers in one so you can dry daily wear clothes and delicates at the same time.

This year’s “Best Booth” title however wasn’t bestowed upon Samsung. LG Electronics in partnership with Signature Kitchen Suite blew away the nearly 80,000 attendees with their jaw-dropping complete home booth. With 10 different areas it featured both indoor and outdoor spaces that made you feel right at home and, of course, each area featured the latest in technology from LG.

While there was much to see, the biggest take away from this year’s show was once again that technology is still on the rise in everyday homes and the ability to do more with less time and space is still the most important trend. Or in other words, everyone loves the gadgets and we all want more!

So, tell me…what’s your favorite kitchen gadget? Do you have an awesome coffee maker? Are you an Instant Pot fanatic? How about a sous vide chef? Share in the comments.

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