AK Complete Home Renovations, Atlanta - President's Blog

Winter Updates For Your Home

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 14 Dec 2017 15:13:00 +0000

The holidays are fun - merry and bright and all that... but we all know the long cold months of January and February loom ahead. Before you ring in the new year, consider planning some home improvement projects that will have you singing "there's no place like home" in 2018! There are many things you can do without a major renovation that will add value and beauty to your home.

Add The Splash To Your Backsplash
Pinterest

Many people think that adding a backsplash, or redoing a backsplash is a small part of a larger job. But if you have drywall or tile back there, changing it up may not be as big a project as you think! Talking to an AK pro you can get an idea of all the options you have to update and change the look and style of your kitchen with a relatively simple change!

Trim The Walls
Pinterest

After trimming the tree has passed, take a look around at your walls: Do you have crown molding everywhere you want it? Do you want higher baseboards? Maybe wainscotting in a bathroom or foyer? Even adding some faux beams to the ceiling for a more rustic look! Custom trim adds so much personality and style to a home. AK's team can assist with design, installation, painting and else you need. Most small trim projects don't take more than 1-2 days!

Swap Out Some Doors
Pinterest

Replacing interior doors is an affordable way to give your home an updated look. Builder grade doors get dirty, scratched and easily damaged. There are so many styles of doors that will suit the look and feel of your home and really add a custom, luxury, look. Most doors don't just fall into place so AK can help with hanging, trimming, hardware and much more. You'll be amazed by the change!

We are still booking appointments in December and January - so call or email us today so we can schedule your winter update today!

What Is A Spice Kitchen?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 Aug 2017 17:03:00 +0000

Pinterest Wok Kitchen

If you are an avid HGTV watcher, you may have heard the term "spice kitchen" and wondered what in the world it was! One might think of all the specialty spice drawers, hidden pullouts, herb storage and other items that design firms like AK use as places to store herbs and spices in a kitchen. But a spice kitchen is way more than storage! A spice kitchn is a second kitchen, typically it is built adjacent to the main kitchen, and it is used for cooking foods with strong odors (ex: curry, kimchi, etc) Spices may be aged, roasted and fried in this space.

In order for the spice kitchen to serve its intended purpose, or keeping spicy odors

This Spice Kitchen Was Built By Gary Tiwana

contained, it needs a high-volume exhaust hood over the oven and a door. Powerful vents like those by Broan, Vent-a-Hood and Cavaliere are some of the top of the line options. Further, the foods that are going to be prepared in the spice kitchen should also be stored in the spice kitchen, so there should be cabinetry, counter space and a sink.

You may hear a spice kitchen referred to as a Wok Kitchen, however the name is slowly transitioning.

Houzz has come great inspirations for Spice Kitchen designs and material recommendations. Do you love to cook spicy foods? Would you add a spice kitchen to your home? Tell us on Facebook!

Renovating An Old Home - The Biggest Challenges

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 18:03:00 +0000

From Pinterest: HGTV Fixer Upper

The older homes we have around Atlanta and Marietta are fantastic reminders of the rich history of our beautiful city. Older homes have great character, and with shows like Fixer Upper and Home Town topping the ratings on HGTV, renovating these homes is very hot right now. But tackling the challenges that come with remodeling an older home are not to be taken lightly.

Here are some of the things that HGTV shows tend to glaze over in 60 second montages that are actually a bit more work than they are made to appear:

Old Plumbing and Electrical Lines
Electrical wiring and plumbing problems are common in older homes. Before the 1960s, galvanized pipes were used both within the house and for sewer lines as well. The problem with galvanized pipes is they easily get clogged or corrode over time. Old electrical wiring can be a safety hazard and will need to be brought up to code. Consider the fact that homes in the 1920s didn’t have hair dryers, and even something as small as that can draw more power than old household electrical systems can handle. Old wiring is also just an inconvenience: If you’ve ever lost power when running the microwave and the coffeemaker at the same time, you know what we mean.
Materials & Sizes Used to Build Your Home Are No Longer Available
Older homes were constructed to different building standards and codes than today, and often with completely different materials. Bathtubs were smaller, doors narrower, and rooms were smaller too. If want to maintain your home’s old character, it can be tricky finding materials that will match the rest of your house for your renovation. Renovating an old Brownstone? You’ll need solid wood paneled doors and thin oak flooring—all of which are completely different from today’s standards and common materials used in homebuilding today.

Unsafe Materials Like Lead and Asbestos
If the house was built several decades ago - or more, there’s a good chance there is lead in the paint and asbestos in the flooring, ductwork, popcorn ceilings, roofing, and HVAC system. Left undisturbed, these aren’t harmful, but if the project calls for scraping or cutting these materials, the powder or dust can be very hazardous.

Outdated Layouts / No Open Floorplans
Watch an episode of HGTV’s House Hunters, and you’ll quickly learn that the features and
floorplans that today’s homebuyers are searching for differ significantly what you’ll find in many older homes. Master bedroom with walk-in closet and attached bath? Open floorplan layout between the kitchen, dining, and living room? Not in older homes. Back in the day, homeowners had live-in staffs who cleaned and cooked for them, and Victorian-style homes had a room for every. Single. Purpose. Common building plans in earlier decades also involved tenement housing, so large buildings were cut into small apartments. Possibly, no one then thought anyone would ever want to live in an “open layout.”
Tearing down walls can be both expensive and dangerous if it’s a load-bearing wall, and if you’re thinking about opening up a floor so you can see from the living room through the kitchen, odds are you’ll have structural issues to deal with.

Want to know more about remodeling or renovating an older home? Contact Us!

Tips Credit To Lifehacker, Melanie

Basement Remodeling - The Top Trends & Best Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 17:16:00 +0000

Requests for basement remodeling or basement finishing around Atlanta have gone up over 50% in 2017. For many homeowners, their basement space has been a location full of untapped potential. Often times just left and used for storage, now that home prices have rebounded and home equity is rising homeowners are ready to invest in this great space.

Long ago, basements were seen as a "hidden" place to create a kids playroom or an in-law suite. And while these are still popular options, most basements serve multiple purposes today. Have a look at some of the most popular design requests we're seeing for Atlanta basements!

Open Concept Basement On Pinterest

Open Concept Basements - Open may seem like a strange way to described an often underground room, however much like the rest of your home, open floor plans can be used to create a multi-purpose space!
Open TV Space - Home theaters had a ring of luxury a few years ago; having a private dedicated movie-theater like space seemed like the ultimate in basement desires. However most families are finding an open TV space is actually a more practical way to use their space - more open plans, less partitions, means more can gather together and the space feels larger!
Guest Suites - Adding a guest bedroom has always been a popular idea, but these days adding
Basement Bedroom On Pinterest
a whole guest suite is preferable. These can be for over-night or extended stay guests and offer their own kitchen space and bathroom. Imagine how enjoyable hosting the in-laws would be with a dedicated and well appointed suite in the basement?
Home Gyms - Busy homeowners who still find it hard to fit in their gym time and their family time often seek for a solution from a home gym. A private space to store equipment, play music and even have a steam room or shower are popular requests for those with space in their basement!

Want to find out all that your basement could add to your home? Talk to us today!

Elegant Navy Kitchens: 2017's Hot Color

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 20:57:00 +0000

Navy blue is an elegant, classic and even serious color. In it's truest form Navy blue appears almost black; so it's no wonder why Navy is the "new black" for 2017 home design. Interestingly, the color gets it's name from the British Royal Navy, who wore dark blue uniforms. This may be also why Navy has developed a masculine and powerful association over the years.

But don't let that history dissuade you from using it in a multitude of applications - from nurseries, to living rooms and kitchens - Navy can be a dramatic and timeless choice. Houzz contributor Samantha Schoech says "pair it with crisp white and you get a brisk maritime feel — think yachting with the Kennedys. Put it with bright colors — lime green, bright pink and sunny yellow look great with navy — and you get something modern and vivacious."

Here are some of our favorite ideas on using this color in the heart of the home, the kitchen.

Via Pinterest

A navy blue kitchen island creates a high-end, custom feel to an otherwise neutral space. Navy pairs so well with white as well as cream. Consider a Marakesh Cream Tile floor with this stunning cabinetry.

Via Pinterest

Contrasting cabinetry is another kitchen trend that is a great way to incorporate navy cabinets. Shaker style cabinets and white subway tile keep this look simple and classic while the Navy makes a bold statement.

Via Sabon Home Tumblr

A Navy blue pattern backsplash gives this rustic chic kitchen a designer feel. Light fixtures and fabrics would be more changeable ways to incorporate a bold accent color into a kitchen.

Step Out On A Better Deck

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 16:24:00 +0000

Homeowners know that a great outdoor living space not only maximizes their home value, but also their use of their whole home! During beautiful weather, which we're lucky to have a lot of in Atlanta, having a great deck or patio and yard to enjoy can make your home feel so much bigger. Here are some of the top deck trends and design requests that deck designers like AK have been getting during the past year:

Atlanta Custom Decks
In The Zone

Homeowners want their deck and outdoor living space to be personalized. This means using different areas of a deck for personalized purposes such as cooking, entertaining, sitting around a fire, relaxing in a hot tub, a children’s play area, and even meditation.

Focus On Railings

More and more attention is being paid to deck railings! More often than not in the past our clients would have considered deck shape, use, material and more - but not the railings. Today that is not the case. Railings are speaking volumes to a homeowner's style. From traditional and classic iron balusters to modern industrial cable rails to craftsman style, there are many options for decks, patios and stairs! Clean lines with less ornamentation is quickly becoming the top requested look.

Technology

Have you considered installing technology or automation - in to the outdoors? Remodelers like AK have been installing grills, TVs and entertainment systems that can emerge from water-resistant hulls under the deck space with the touch of a remote-control button.

Go Green

You might think of environmentally friendly decking as only using renewable resources or sustainably harvested wood, however there is another option - Composite Decking. Composite materials are typically a combination of recycled plastics and wood fibers, which are less susceptible to splintering, warping and cracking. Win. Win.

Bonus? You can pick from numerous color choices with composite decking - and even incorporate more than one color or material in to a custom deck design!

What If Madonna Was A Kitchen?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 18:36:00 +0000

We heard someone describing the iconic style of Audrey Hepburn the other day. Timeless. Strong Lines. Tailored. High End. Use Of Color. We immediately thought of what that style would look like...if it were a kitchen.

Now fashion and interior design are not very different animals. Popular style in one often translates in to the other; most recently the use of geometric prints and shades of gray. Therefore seeing similarities is a celebrity wardrobe and a trending kitchen is not that unusual. But we were wondering about the real icons - like Audrey Hepburn, Madonna, Grace Kelly, etc. - could their unique style translate into interior design? Can an expertly designed space add the je ne sais quoi to the materials and products?

We wanted to take a look, and see if we could match a kitchen to some celebrity icons. These spaces below are not the celebrities' actual kitchens, these are the ones that remind us of them. We'd love to get your opinion - Did we hit the nail on the head or miss the mark?

Madonna

Is this a "Madonna Kitchen?"

We see these as her style elements:

Grace Kelly

Is This A Grace Kelly Kitchen?

Or This?

We feel her style would appreciate the old stand-bys, antique pieces and the simple parts of life.

Sarah Jessica Parker

Does this kitchen ooze SJP's style?

Or this?

If your style was embodied in a kitchen, what would it look like?

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Small Bathroom Remodel In Tucker

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 16:16:00 +0000

Just because a bathroom is small, doesn't mean it can't suit your needs! What matters is that it has storage and function that is specifically designed for how you use the space.

These homeowners in Tucker, GA emailed AK Renovations to help them remodel a secondary bath that was not making the most of it's small space. Now every inch of the bathroom is utilized to it's full potential; and it looks clean and sophisticated to boot.

What could AK do for your bathroom?

East Cobb Window Renovation

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 14:41:00 +0000

There is a great appeal to a home with plenty of windows, even more so for large windows. Most of us would agree that a home with bigger windows tends to be more desirable than one with fewer and smaller windows. This beautiful family home in East Cobb is getting a facelift via it's windows! The new design calls for larger windows and new doors to give this home an updated look with more natural light and greater energy efficiency! Beautiful windows are pleasing to look at, make a room appear bigger and add value to a home in the event of resale.

Did you know that if designed properly, large well-positioned windows can help heat a home through passive solar gain in the winter when the sun is shining.

The new windows are about to go in. Can you tell what a dramatic difference this change will have on the look of the home?

Kitchens For Busy Families: Black Stainless Steel

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 17:40:00 +0000

KitchenAid recently introduced the first ever black stainless steel appliances! Black stainless steel makes a bold addition to any kitchen. The soft, brushed metal of the black stainless is offset by chrome details and satin-textured handles. The premium color of KitchenAid appliances is stated to be a softer, warmer alternative to traditional stainless steel. Designed to blend with other black and stainless appliances, it makes a bold statement and complements the kitchen design.

KitchenAid.com

KitchenAid offers a PrintShield™ Finish that resists fingerprints and smudges, your appliances will stay as stunning as ever. LG quickly followed suit and is offering a black stainless that is coated with a darker hue and topped with a protective coating, the LG Black Stainless Steel Series makes every appliance fingerprint and smudge resistant. A dry cloth is all it takes to bring back its original luster.


LG Black Stainles

Black stainless makes a great option for busy families who want a more contemporary look than black or white, with less maintenance than stainless steel.

Get More Information About Kitchen Remodeling & AK Complete Home Renovations

Is Now The Time To Refinance For Remodeling?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 16:00:00 +0000

World events rattled the markets last month and interest rates dropped noticeably. In the last few weeks, Zillow reported a 132% surge in refinance requests through its online mortgage marketplace, while the Mortgage Bankers Association’s weekly measure of application volume showed the highest level of refinance applications since January of 2015.

Refinancing can be a way to cut monthly payments, if rates fall considerably below a homeowner’s original mortgage rate. It can also help in other ways, enabling homeowners to pay down debt more quickly on a shorter-term loan or tap into equity for home improvements and other needs. And available equity has grown in recent years, thanks to rising home values.

Homeowners who have been dragging their feet about refinancing still have time to act. Zillow experts predict that rates will likely stay below 4 percent for the remainder of the year. And according to the most recent consumer credit access survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the rejection rate on refinance applications has dropped in the last year, indicating that credit is easier to get.

Could this be the right time for you to refinance and use some home equity to put towards renovations?

According to the New York Times recent article, Astrid Hanenkamp, 45, was pleasantly surprised to find that she could do significantly better than the 4 percent fixed-rate mortgage she carried on her two-bedroom co-op in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood of West Harlem. After making a casual inquiry with Jordan Roth, a vice president of Guardhill Financial Corporation in Manhattan, who helped with her purchase loan in 2012, Ms. Hanenkamp, a fashion designer, is planning to close on a refinancing next month with another 30-year mortgage, at a rate of 3.375 percent. Even after taking out a little cash from her equity for a bathroom remodel, she expects her monthly payment to drop from about $1,100 to around $980.

Talk to your preferred mortgage professional or have a look at AK's home improvement loan information to make your first step towards refreshing your home!

Enough Already! Alternatives To "Spa" Bathroom Remodels

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 19 May 2016 16:24:00 +0000

We have a really deep, dark secret we've been holding in for a long time...

We're sick of "spa" bathrooms! Whew. Feels good to get that one of our chests.

Now let us explain... It's not that we don't appreciate the minimalist beauty and simplicity that spa bathrooms aim to provide. We love clean lines. We love muted tones, calming colors, natural textures and tones... But there are also SO many other looks we love! Modern, Earthy, rustic, transitional, vintage, glam, Victorian, contemporary and more. Here are a few ideas that appeared recently in the Washingtonian that we think show many options for all your bathroom has to offer!

The closet doors that once hung in the Old Executive Office Building were originally all wood-paneled. But DC native Darryl Carter replaced some panels with glass so he could reference his wardrobe more easily. Photos of Carter's home by Christopher Shane.

Vintage Showpiece

The entire second floor consists of a master suite- bedroom, sitting room, and bathroom- that ends in this airy soaking room overlooking Rock Creek Park.

Carter built the niche in his shower hoping to find the right sculpture. He already owned the marble horse—one day, it dawned on him that it was perfect for this pedestal.

Bringing a piece of furniture, like this secretary desk and chair, into a bathroom warms up the space. Photo by Christopher Shane.

Carter’s gas fireplace keeps bath time toasty and the setting regal.

Feminine, Not Fussy

Shine on: The antiqued-gold mirrors are by Uttermost, the sconces by Hudson Valley Lighting. Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg/Case Design Remodeling.

Soak it up: The freestanding bathtub is “Amiata” by the British manufacturer Victoria & Albert. Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg/Case Design Remodeling.

Clean Living

Pianura’s minimalist wall-mounted bathroom systems, such as the one in this Reston bathroom, feature built-in lighting as well as cabinet doors that revolve 180 degrees to maximize storage space. Photo by Angie Seckinger/Boffi Georgetown.

Are you dreaming of a remodeled bathroom like these? From classical to modern, Mediterranean to rustic - when selecting the feel of your new bathroom the options are endless. Even if you think your update is a simple one, a design professional from AK with 20 years of experience can help you plan and complete your project most effectively. In conjunction with our vendors and partners your bathroom remodel can be addressed in a turn-key fashion. AK Atlanta Bathroom Design

Images: May 2016 issue of Washingtonian.

TAGGED IN: Boffi, CASE Design, Darryl Carter, Home Design, Master Bathrooms, Washingtonian Instagram

Atlanta Remodeling Trends: Paradigm Shifters

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 May 2016 17:47:00 +0000

"Trends" is a common keyword searched online; when it comes to remodeling and home design, many trends come and go. There are also new ideas and advancements in home design that are called a trend when they first emerge, but in reality, they are ideas or materials that shift the industry as a whole! These so-called trends are so much more lasting and significant. These can impact your quality of life, comfort and health. These are trends we want to look at today...

Trend No. 1: Technology Integration And Automation

You’re probably seeing this trend almost everywhere in your life right now. Your phone syncs


There are many home automation options on the market now

automatically with your car to play music through its speakers and take calls hand-free. You scan your energy bar’s wrapper into your fitness app to add its calories, protein and carbs to your daily counts. You watch TV on your tablet while riding in an Uber car that you summoned with it, too.

It’s not surprising that this digital integration and automation trend has extended into the remodeling realm. There are ovens that are controlled remotely from your phone, outlets that include USB ports along with standard electrical receptacles, countertops and medicine cabinets with built-in chargers, home security systems and much more Jetsonian excitement to come.

Some of this isn’t really new. Home automation has been around for a while, but it is now becoming far more mainstream and user friendly. Image courtesy of myenergymonster.com

Trend No. 2: Healthy Home Living

How many times in the last 24 hours have you heard the term "Clean Living?" Beyond just the food

Alpharetta Master Bath Remodel

we eat, healthy living is ranked as one of the major remodeling goals of millennial parents in a recent survey. This has spurred the growth of products like hands-free faucets and toilet flushing, steam ovens and steam showers.

All of these innovations are aimed at taking the best care possible of yourself and your family. Stress management is part of that equation for many, and the reason why amenities like steam showers are experiencing double-digit growth. And there's nothing like a functional, organized home to reduce it's owners' stress; this is one of the major reasons we hear from our Atlanta remodeling clients as to why they want to renovate!

The focus extends beyond products into space planning and design. There has been growth in home fitness rooms, wellness centers to accommodate medicine and vitamins in the kitchen or bath, a major emphasis on spa-style master baths and an overall focus on using materials that are less toxic for humans and pets alike. Healthy living trends are likely to expand as more millennials become homeowners.

Trend No. 3: Sustainability

Here's another word we hear a lot these days! There is a strong connection between the healthy living and sustainability trends. There are also overlapping benefits. If, for example, the paint you use is healthier to breathe, it’s also healthier for the planet. Hands-free faucets reduce the spread of germs in your kitchen and bathrooms.

AK offers a line of FSC Certified cabinetry, we've used sustainable materials like concrete and recycled glass on kitchen countertops and we help our clients design kitchens that make recycling and even composting easier!

Trend No. 4: User-Centric Design

Perhaps it’s our smart phones and tablets spoiling us into wanting every area of our life to be personalized and user-friendly. This has certainly been the approach to home technology. Just about every control pad you operate today — whether it’s cooking or showering — has been influenced by Silicon Valley to be friendly and customizable.

User-focused design extends into many other trends as well. For example, aging in place and accessibility are becoming must-haves for many.

The user-focused trend also shows up in the growth of low-maintenance materials. Engineered stone tops that are easy to clean and never need to be sealed have become the most popular in the industry, surpassing granite in designer surveys. There are faucets with spot-resistant finishes, upholstery fabrics and carpets with ever-stronger stain resistance and self-cleaning toilets. User-focused equals convenience for time-challenged homeowners.

Trend No. 5: Contemporary And Minimal
Alpharetta Family Room Remodel

Low maintenance carries into unfussy styles that not only look cleaner but are actually easier to keep clean. Sleek cabinet fronts without elaborate molding or heavy hardware look more contemporary and fit better into modern multitasking lives. Contemporary is the dominant style being uploaded by designers online.

What’s really most important in remodeling your Atlanta area home is not incorporating the latest trends; it’s choosing those that fit how you and your household live. This is why AK takes the time to learn about your goals for your renovations! The best investments are those that fit with your lifestyle, home, neighborhood and budget. The good news is that there are so many more great options to choose from today.

Get More Information About Kitchen Remodeling And AK Complete Home Renovations

Ready To Remodel Your Bathroom?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 26 Apr 2016 18:39:00 +0000

When you're ready to remodel your bathroom consider these tips from Consumer Reports: seven bathroom design upgrades that'll make you happy, and seven you may regret.

An expertly remodeled master bathroom will provide years of pleasure and comfort. But do an amateur job and you’ll be reminded of the fact every day. It’s a tricky space, unfortunately, with lots of moving parts crammed into a tight footprint, not to mention the volumes of water ready to exploit any and all leaks. Setting a budget and planning ahead are two ways to keep your project on track. (See Bathroom remodeling trends and costs.) And also take care to choose the best sink, countertop and toilet for your space. The following list of dos and don’ts will help you master the remodel, whether you do the work yourself or a hire it out.

Seven good ideas

When you’re investing in a home remodeling project, you want to make sure that the results not only please you but add value to your home and save you money on energy and water as well. These seven steps will help you take advantage of the latest design trends, technologies and products.

Budget for the unexpected
Hidden water damage is a common problem in bathrooms, whether from a leaky shower pan or Mother Hubbard's Custom Cabinetry in Mechanicsburg, Pa. Other issues are truly hidden, for example a vent stack inside a wall that you thought you were going to knock down.

An experienced contractor will do exploratory work early in the project to sniff out as many issues as possible. “In the case of the vent stack, we’ll investigate above the bathroom to see the pipe coming up through the house,” says Petrie. But contractors can’t see through walls, so don’t expect them to catch every possible pitfall. That’s why it’s important to build a 10 to 15 percent cushion into your budget. If nothing goes wrong, you’ll have a nice little windfall.

Atlanta Bath Remodel

running toilet. “If the floor feels spongy, that’s a sign of serious water damage,” says John Petrie, owner of

Hide the toilet
A master bath that’s stylish and functional can also be discreet. That’s why it’s nice to hide this fixture away, either in its own “room-within-the-room” or behind a half wall. A piece of furniture—an armoire or dresser, say—can create the necessary barrier without the expense of a framed wall.

Do choose appropriate surfaces
Your master bathroom’s surfaces do more than just contribute to the overall aesthetic. They also take lots of abuse. Porcelain tile is a favorite among designers, for use on the floors and walls alike. “You can find some versions in the $5 per square foot range that look like natural stone,” says Petrie. He recommends larger tile sizes to minimize grout lines, easing the upkeep. That might mean 18-by-18-inch tile on the floors and 12-by-12-inch on some or all of the walls, perhaps transitioning to 6-by-6 tiles on the diagonal with a glass mosaic transition strip.

Porcelain is also a popular option for bathroom sinks, though it proved prone to chipping in our tests. Enamel-on-steel sinks were especially durable and stain-resistant, as were stainless steel sinks, which are becoming more popular for use in bathrooms. Solid-surface sinks are another durable option that allows the sink to be integrated with the vanity countertop and, if you like, the adjoining cove or backsplash.

When it comes to the countertop, granite and quartz have migrated from the kitchen into the bathroom, where they deliver the same durability and visual interest. Laminate and solid surface are still popular as well, and can be cost-effective options, though both scratch easily.

Splurge on the shower
The empire of the Roman tub is officially over. “People started to realize that they could count on one hand how many times they actually used the tub,” says Petrie. “We’re now using that space to create larger showers, often with his and her showerheads, body sprays, and even steam generators.”

To create this sensual experience, you’ll need a shower stall that measures at least 4-by-6-feet, larger than the 3-by-3-feet box that used to be standard. If you can take the stall up to 5-by-7-feet, you may also be able to do away with the door, since the showerhead(s) can be directed in a way that the spray doesn’t reach beyond the shower area (an L-shaped design is helpful). This will eliminate a sizable expense, especially if you were planning on a frameless door, which can be pricey. One caveat: Don’t eliminate the bathtub if there aren’t any other bathrooms in the house with a tub.

Consider water efficiency
Showerheads, toilets, and faucets have all become more water-efficient in recent years, thanks to the Environmental Protection Agency’s voluntary WaterSense program, which labels products that are 20 percent more efficient than federal standards. Our tests have found many WaterSense winners, including low-flow showerheads that deliver a satisfying pulse while meeting the flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute. “You can even have a rain showerhead these days that’s low-flow,” says Petrie.

As for toilets, several WaterSense-qualified models that use just 1.28 gallons per flush make the recommended list of our latest toilet Ratings. That could save the average family of four 16,000 gallons of water and more than $100 per year if they’re replacing older, inefficient toilets, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Choosing a faucet with an aerator can reduce the water flow in your bathroom sink by 30 percent or more.

Make room on the vanity
Since grooming is the main task at the vanity, it’s important to have plenty of surface area to put things down. While the his-and-her double sink configuration has been popular in the past, it often makes sense to have a single sink and more counter space. “Couples I work with usually realize that the second source of water is less important than the additional countertop,” says Carolyn Cheetham, president of Design Works by Cheetham in Alberta, Canada. Besides maximizing the counter space, opting for a single sink vanity saves you the expense of the second sink and faucet. And eliminating a set of plumbing expands the available storage space inside the vanity.

Provide adequate ventilation and light
Moisture not only breeds mold and mildew, it can take a toll on finishes and painted surfaces. A bathroom fan is the best defense. Guidelines from the National Kitchen and Bath Association call for a ducted system that’s at least 50 cubic feet per minute, though you may need twice as much ventilation if the space is larger than 100 square feet or if you plan to install a steam shower. Consider a humidity-sensing unit that will automatically turn on and off depending on the amount of moisture in the air.

As for lighting, the goal is to bring different layers of illumination into the room. A ceiling fixture is suitable for general lighting, but it will cast shadows on your face when you’re seated at the vanity. That’s why you’ll also want sconces or other vertical fixtures mounted on either side of the vanity. Some medicine cabinets are available with vertical lighting strips.

The shower and toilet should also have a dedicated task light, such as a recessed canister light. Consider fixtures that use LED bulbs. Many provided bright, even illumination in our lightbulb tests with the promise of 50,000 hours, though they do cost more. Remember to put the fixtures on dimmer switches so that light levels can be adjusted depending on the mood and task at hand.

Seven costly mistakes

Avoiding these seven common goofs could save you thousands of dollars on the project, especially if you’re planning an upscale remodel. You’re also likely to enhance the comfort, style, and efficiency of the finished project.

Don’t rush the process
Now that you’re committed to the idea of a new bathroom, you probably want it done tomorrow. But Design by Orion in Kansas City. Depending on the size and scope of your bath project, you should spend several weeks to a few months on the planning process. If you don’t have a Pinterest account yet, consider one. This website lets you keep a digital ideas file of inspiring images you find on the Internet, say for tile styles, favorite fixtures, and clever designs.

As you plan the space, try to come up with a design that keeps the major plumbing lines in place. Moving the toilet from one wall to another will mean relocating a 3-inch drain line in a home, which can cost thousands. “If you can keep the toilet, shower, and sink where they are, you’ll save significantly on the project,” says Petrie.

poor planning is the leading cause of cost overruns on these projects. “Nothing is more expensive than doing things twice,” says Elizabeth Goltz, owner of
Don’t skimp on skilled labor
The do-it-yourself approach can be an effective way to trim costs, but it’s best to focus on the front and back ends of the project, say, ripping out the old tub during demolition and handling the finish painting. Leave the more complicated installations to professionals, ensuring they’re highly skilled. “A good tile setter can make a low-cost tile look expensive,” says Goltz. “On the flipside, you could spend a fortune on tile, and a bad tile layer will make it look cheap.”

Given how many trades are required for a typical bathroom remodel—plumbers, electricians, tile setters, cabinet installers, and more—it pays to find a top-notch general contractor to manage operations. Meet with at least three contractors, preferably those you find through word of mouth. Make sure the person you settle on has an up-to-date license and insurance, including workers’ compensation. And scrutinize the contract; it should list every product down to the model number and finish. And don’t automatically go with the lowest bid.

Don’t cut corners on key materials
Another common mistake is cheaping out on those items that get the most use. Lifetime warranties that cover leaks and stains have become more common on all but the cheapest faucets. PVD (physical vapor deposition) finishes resisted our best attempts at scratching them, but drain cleaners can stain them slightly. Chrome was also pretty durable in our tests, but can be scratched if you rub it with a heavy-duty scouring pad.

Tile is another material that you touch and feel each day. While you can find quality options for $5 per square foot, super cut-rate tiles may have slight size inconsistencies. The results will be crooked lines that make a bathroom look shoddy.

So where can you save? Light fixtures tend to perform the same across most price points—it’s the high design that costs more. You might also find that opting for a basic finish on faucets and fixtures saves you hundreds of dollars without compromising quality. And you definitely don’t need to blow your budget on a luxury toilet, like Kohler's $6,390 Numi, with its motion-activated lid and built-in bidet. Those are cool features, but toilets costing as little as $300 delivered the best flush in our tests.

Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow
You may be the picture of good health today, but you can’t predict the future. What you can do, however, is ensure that your bathroom will serve you and your loved ones regardless of your abilities by following the basics of Universal Design (i.e. aging in place). “It is absolutely coming onto people’s radar, even younger clients,” says Alan Zielinksi, president of the NKBA.

And you don’t have to worry about ending up with an institutional look. Many universal design features are now part of mainstream bathroom design. For example, the larger shower stall that’s in favor today offers easy access and universal use, provided it has a zero-threshold and a built-in seating platform. “The bench is also a nice place for an able-bodied women to sit and shave her legs,” says Cheetham. Regarding toilets, so-called comfort-height models that are easier to get on and off of are now just as common as standard-height models. Even grab bars have enjoyed a design upgrade; many now match towel bars and other accessories. And they’re not just for the elderly. Grab bars make it easier for pregnant women or young children to get in and out of the bathtub.

Even if you don’t incorporate every element of universal degisn into the bathroom now, it’s worth putting in the structural framework, such as blocking in the walls for future support bars. Make sure your contractor makes a drawing of the wall so that you can find the blocking if, and when, the time comes.

Don’t forget to factor in water use
Bathroom fixtures have become more water-efficient, especially if you choose WaterSense-qualified models. But the trend toward tricked-out showers, often with his-and-her “shower towers” that might include multiple showerheads and body sprays, will likely result in your water and energy use going up. It also means your bathroom’s existing drain and plumbing lines might require an upgrade. “You may need to resize your water lines from half-inch to three-quarters,” says Petrie, an upgrade that can add hundreds, if not thousands, to your project.

Thirsty fixtures may require you to upgrade your water heater as well, say, from a unit that holds 50 gallons a day to one that holds 80 gallons. That could cost you another $1,000 or so—figure on roughly $2,000 if you choose one of the energy-efficient hybrid water heaters that Consumer Reports' test have found to be good long-term investments.

Don’t buy products online without seeing them in person
Going online is great for researching products and design ideas. But materials and finishes aren’t always as they appear on your computer screen. That blue-gray quartz vanity top might be more blue than gray in real life, or the light fixtures that look understated online could overwhelm your actual space. That’s why we always recommend visiting a showroom or design center before you buy. While you’re there, you may even get the showroom to meet or even beat the online price.

Don’t forget about storage
Running from the shower to grab a towel from the hallway linen closet gets old—and cold—fast. A closet inside the bathroom is ideal, though an armoire or even just a simple chest can handle the essentials. And a medicine cabinet is still the best place for your various health-care and first-aid essentials.

Houzz: Top Atlanta Remodeling Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 15:06:00 +0000

•Farmhouse entryways. Stripping away the need for fancy flourishes or decor for decor’s sake, farmhouse style gets at the root of function. That’s why the style makes sense for mudrooms, where simplicity in storage and durability in materials are paramount.

•Fireplaces and fire features. New advances mean you can have all the ambiance without the smell or hassle of traditional wood-burning fireplaces. Plus, fireplaces are making a comeback as living room focal points in lieu of the dark void of a TV screen.

•Mixing modern materials in the kitchen. Looking for something a little more lively than white cabinets and granite countertops in your kitchen? Consider mixing several modern materials, finishes and colors. Butcher block countertops get broken up with soapstone near the stove and Carrara marble on a nearby baking station. These mix with olive-green cabinets and stainless steel appliances for an eclectic, sophisticated look. See more Atlanta kitchen trends here

•Punched-up white kitchens. White kitchen walls and cabinets — and even countertops in many cases — is a trend that will continue for years to come. To avoid a too-sterile look, however, many designers and homeowners are learning to punch up an all-white space with smart, colorful details through tile, floor-to-ceiling bookcases, raw materials and more. See a beautiful white kitchen in Alpharetta here

•Sunrooms. A sunroom is a top dream space for many homeowners. Even those who don’t have the luxury of having — or adding — one, are finding ways to carve out a special sun-drenched corner in their homes.

•Surprising backsplash and countertop pairings. You could play it safe with white subway tile and granite countertops, but sometimes safe is so boring. Instead, consider a different combination, such as a brick backsplash with concrete countertops or yellow ceramic tile with butcher block.

•Workhorse islands. Kitchen islands provide additional workspace, but they’ve taken on so much more than that. With deep storage, prep sinks, room for seating and more, workhorse islands are becoming the central feature in modern kitchens. Want to see some inspiring AK kitchen islands?

•Niche appliances. Looking for a little added luxury in the kitchen? Steam ovens promise to cook food more thoroughly and healthily than microwaves; warming drawers give cooks a little wiggle room to deliver hot meals to family and guests; induction cooktops save space and are safer for homes with young kids; and kimchi refrigerators offer fans of the popular Korean condiment a chance to make their own at home.

•Deep kitchen drawers. Houzz data shows that ease of storage is the top kitchen priority during a

remodel. And while deep drawers have been creeping up to replace lower kitchen cabinets for a while now, they’re only getting better — and more affordable. Dividers and inserts let you organize any shape or size of dish, pan or utensil under the sun, and there are even clever options for deep corner drawers, and drawers under range tops and kitchen sinks.

•Bidets. The separate bidet unit in bathrooms never really took off in America. But since manufacturers began creating combination bidet and toilet units. They’ve been catching on. According to Houzz data, 5 percent of renovated master bathrooms now include bidets.

•Extra-large-format tile. Large-format tiles (such as 12 by 24 inches) have been making an appearance in kitchens and bathrooms for some time now, but be on the lookout for extra-large-format ones. Just how extra? Try 31 by 71 inches.

•Colored stainless steel appliances. Black stainless steel is making a buzz on Houzz. In a poll, nearly two-thirds of Houzzers say they would consider the dark alternative to shiny silver metal. Not into the darkness? Head to the light with Whirlpool’s Sunset Bronze finish.

Compiled By Bernice Karnop, For the Tribune

7 Designer Secrets For Small Kitchens

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 19:23:00 +0000

Having a large kitchen space could be a luxury for many homeowners because most kitchens are cramped and tiny. However, you can do some changes to your small kitchen by incorporating some of these designer tricks:

1) Keep it all white.
AK Classical Kitchen

White reflects light best, making the kitchen space look bigger. Paint the countertops and cabinetry in white so that it will look seamless with the walls and ceilings. For some depth and shadows, use recessed-panel cabinets with crown moldings.

2) Keep color contrasts in the same color value.

If you do have to add some color, maintain similar hues of the color scheme. This way, the sudden "pop" of color won't let the eyes see the shifts and breaks in the room. Like white, using similar hues can bring an expansive effect.

3) Go for a mirrored backsplash.
houzz.com

Using mirrors is an old designer's trick that can help open up the space and add more light. "Mirrors are especially useful when there is no, or minimal, natural light in a kitchen," said New York designer Jenny Wolf, according to Architectural Digest

4) Use glass doors for your cabinets.

Glass cabinet doors gives the room depth, as the walls can be seen through it. The challenge is to make sure to keep the cabinets orderly and, if possible, color-coordinated.

5) Have an open shelf.
AK Marietta Kitchen Facelift

If glass cabinets aren't your thing, perhaps having open shelves is better. Aside from creating an illusion of space, it also feels warmer and more welcoming. "Open shelves invite visitors to feel at home and help themselves to whatever they need. They don't have to ask where things are, or go rummaging through cabinets because it's all in plain view," said homeowner Jamie, according to Good Housekeeping.

AK Contemporary Kitchen Remodel

6) Flood the space with lights.

Use little window treatments so that natural light is not blocked off. Add additional lighting fixtures on walls, backsplashes and countertops to open up the space.

7) Use slender furnishing.

Pick counter or bar chairs that have slim legs, or if you have a working table to use as an island, it should be long and narrow with clean lines. Ditch furnishings with thick bases, as they will make the room visually bulky.

Get More Information About Kitchen Remodeling & AK Complete Home Renovations

Text By Rachel Cruz

2016 Kitchen Design Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 17:47:00 +0000

It's another year, and with that comes a huge number of new home design trends. These 2016 trends are based upon what AK designers are seeing from our clients and additionally the interest from metro Atlanta homeowners.

These are remodeling and design trends that you can bet on seeing in the crop of 2016 kitchen remodels around Atlanta!

Warm Metals Design Crush: Amy Meier

• Warm Metals Are On The Rise- Step aside silver tones, hotter gold completions are en route
in. Following quite a while of brushed nickel, chrome and cleaned nickel being the most well known completions for apparatuses, hotter brilliant tones are making a colossal rebound.

Cool Tone Kitchens

Splash!
www.hgtv.com

• Simplified Styles Are Best - This is the year we keep our kitchens spotless and uncomplicated. A couple of things you can hope to see are straightforward profiles and level section entryways. Plans will likewise fare thee well not to present an excess of materials or hues.

• Cooler Tones Are Still Cool - Cooler shades are the shade of decision this year. Known for
being quiet and relieving, they are connected with water, sky and cooler temperatures. Samples on this shading range incorporate dim, blue and white. You can hope to see these hues consolidated in an assortment of ways, including cupboards, backsplashes or accent hues.

• Backsplashes Are Making A Splash - Backsplashes will keep on being smooth and lovely, yet with limited grout lines. You can hope to see glass tile backsplash, vibrant patters, color and geometric designs.

• Smart Storage - Design ideas keep on enhancing, prompting a plenty of custom inserts, dividers, coordinators and pull-outs. These add another level of comfort and effectiveness to your space, whether putting away plates, utensils or flavors.

• Steam Ovens Are Hot - Convection steam oven are grabbing hold. This new machine utilizes
steam to defrost, heat, moderate cook and warm sustenance things. Advantages incorporate offering your sustenance some assistance with retaining a greater amount of its vital vitamins and supplements. On the other hand, this new appliance isn't going to take up precious space in your kitchen or change the look and feel. Rather, it will supplant or show up nearby the microwave.

Peekaboo!

• TV - It appears that TVs may be viewed as a standard 'kitchen appliance' in 2016. Whether it is to take after alongside your most loved cooking appears or find the news while making breakfast, TVs are getting to be ordinary in the kitchen. With such a variety of choices for customization, creators can flawlessly include a corner, retire or set of pocket entryways that consolidate this media part consistently into the design.

Get More Information About Kitchen Desgin and AK Complete Home Renovations

Six Step Guide to Moving Versus Remodeling

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 16:35:00 +0000

From our friends at Design/Build Pros

http://www.akatlanta.com/Marietta-Contemporary-Kitchen-Remodel

Moving vs. Remodeling is an age old question that is very much alive today, now that the economy has somewhat bounced back and homeowners are spending more of their discretionary income on their homes.

Rather than agonize over whether to move or improve, we recommend gathering as much information as possible, considering all of your options, and making an educated decision that puts you and your family in the best possible position.

Moving or remodeling is a life decision, and most people can gain more clarity when they understand the reasons behind their desire for change. Are you considering moving because…

You want to live in a more desirable neighborhood?
You want to shorten your commute?
You want better access to a downtown area?
You want a larger or smaller yard?
Your at-home family is growing or shrinking?
You want to be closer (or further) from family?
You want a better interior layout or floor plan?
Your home is old and just needs too much work?

Your answers to questions like this will be a great starting point. You might find out that, based on your answers, remodeling is really not an option for you. Or you may surprise yourself and have a realization that you can transform your existing home to make it what you really want.

You can definitely do a lot of good research online (such as reading this article!), but we also recommend gathering some professional opinions about your specific situation.

http://www.designbuildpros.com/

Ask a contractor friend to come over and give you some ideas on what you can do with your home. When homeowners ask us for our opinion, we always discuss the Three D’s of the Remodeling Project Budget.

Ask a local real estate agent to give you a basic market analysis so you can get an idea of what your home is worth, what it might be worth after a remodel, and what homes in the area are selling for. Or if you don’t know a real estate agent to ask, you can do your own research on sites like Realtor, Zillow, and Trulia.

There are so many variables in making a decision like this that you want to assume as little as possible. The more information you can gather, the better.

Evaluate Costs

We like to say that there are two categories of costs involved in remodeling or moving – Obvious Costs and Hidden Costs.

The obvious costs may include:

Cost of remodeling – contractors, architects, materials, etc.
Cost of purchasing a house

To help homeowners evaluate costs of various remodeling projects, we have compiled a comprehensive Estimated Remodeling Project Investment Costs Guide. However, there are many additional costs to either moving or improving that are often overlooked by homeowners, but they’re very real:

If you’re selling your house and moving, hidden costs may include:

Making small repairs to your existing home so it shows nice
Staging your home
Real estate commissions
Moving company
Improvements to the home you are buying
Closing costs
Possible increase (or decrease) in mortgage interest rate
Possible increase (or decrease) in property taxes

If you’re remodeling, hidden costs may include:

Interior design
Furniture
Possibly staying in a hotel while work is being done
Eating at restaurants or take-out meals
Change orders for the remodeling project

This is where your trusted professionals, such as remodeling contractors and real estate agents, can really help. These may be seemingly insignificant “hidden” costs, but they can definitely add up and influence your decision-making process.

Personal Planning Before Bathroom Remodeling

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 16:40:00 +0000

We enjoy hearing what the average homeowner has in mind when they decide the want to redo their bathroom. We really chuckled at this personal account from Prentiss Gray, an NJ columnist ready to plan his bathroom remodel. Gray says "Bathrooms can be pretty boring. It’s amazing that we can take so little thought when putting in or refurbishing a bathroom. Most bathrooms are a major investment and we not only use them every day, but also spend a good deal of time in the process.

It should be a nice room but so many of us try desperately to get them to be as inexpensive as possible. Unfortunately, it can’t always be both.

Instead, why not start from what we’d like to have? How do you imagine your favorite bathroom?

I once had a contractor tell me, with a very dour look, that bathrooms shouldn’t ever be bigger than a

Marietta Bathroom Remodel

jail cell, otherwise it was very wasteful and people would spend too long in there. Maybe that’s what accounts for how a lot of them feel. What do you really want? A deep comfortable tub, with massaging streams of warm waters? A wide open double sink with acres of counter space and voluminous mirrors? A grand throne of a toilet with a heated seat and plenty of legroom? Maybe one big enough for two people to use at the same time without intricately dancing around each other?

Most bathrooms have three major fixtures — the sink, the toilet and the bath/shower. In our latest bathroom, we are forgoing the bath entirely, just going “shower only” so we can really get the shower of our dreams. Bathtubs have never really been big enough anyway. Remember swimming around in warm soapy water, what happened to that? Sitting all scrunched up in a cramped tub is just not the same, no matter how many candles or bubbles there are. Give me a shower with a comfortable seat any day.

That sinking feeling

Sinks haven’t changed much since we used bowls and pitchers, in fact the bowl is back. Some of the nicest bathroom sinks today are effectively bowls placed on top of the counter. The nice thing about this above-cabinet style is that the sink can show off its styling, with many color and patterns available and we don’t have to lean over as far to use them, making it much easier on the back. It also means that just about any cabinet can be a stand for the sink, because plumbing has become so modular. For that matter, any bowl can become a sink basin just by drilling a hole for the drain and stopper. Imagine the possibilities for creating your own signature piece.

Le toilet

Although Consumer Reports says the best-rated toilets are the standard ones — big tanks on the back

Atlanta Custom Shower

with cold plastic seats and old flush levers on the tank — we don’t have to go that way if we don’t want to. On a recent trip to Europe, I was pleased to notice that the toilets were far and away above our own toilets. Water savings has been the style in Europe for a long time, so that fits our needs beautifully. Most toilets flush using less than 1.7 gallons of water these days, some as little as 0.85 gallons. Minimal water usage has become a requirement in most building codes. But the Europeans also have a lot of models that are wall-mounted. The tanks are either hidden in the wall behind the toilet or don’t exist because the flush is assisted by design, pumps or both. There are huge benefits to wall-mounted toilets. Not only do they save a lot of space while providing more seating room and variable height, since they don’t touch the floor it makes it easy to clean under and around them. Not to mention it makes it much simpler to add options like rugs or other floor coverings to the bathroom.

Bathing beauty

There are a lot of options for baths, but most are designed to fit in the standard 5-foot opening. For something bigger, it pays to take a look at the Japanese style Ofuros that have become available lately. The traditional soaking tub, long used by the Japanese, provides for a relatively compact but totally immersive experience. Beyond that, much the same experience can be had with walk-in tubs or sliding wall tubs like the Kohler Elevance. Sealed by inflatable gaskets and/or the pressure of the water in the tub, walk-in tubs are very handy for seniors, the disabled, or anyone who likes the feel of a really deep tub with a seat. All of these soaking tubs require good water flow as well as fast drainage. That’s because most walk-in tubs are filled after you get in and drained before you get out. Who wants to sit there for 15 minutes waiting for the tub to fill or drain?

Options and accessories

What about steam showers or heated towel racks? How about task lighting alternatives or warmed floors and all the entertainment options? I’m pretty sure we can come up with a bathroom that we’d never want to leave." Ready to customize your bathroom? See what AK can do: Atlanta Bathroom Remodel

Thanks To http://www.dailyrecord.com/story/life/good-life/homes/2015/10/29/tips-remodeling-bathroom/74799578/

Proper Basement Renovating To Add Square Footage

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 15:42:00 +0000

Would you like to add square footage to your house for a home office, extra bedroom or perhaps that deluxe new entertainment center you’ve been dreaming of? Remodeling the basement is an excellent way to expand your usable space without the hassle and expense of extending your home’s footprint. What’s more, it will reap about a 78 percent return on your investment when you sell your property. Don’t forget the essential first step of any basement remodel, though: getting rid of moisture and keeping the space dry.

pasellaconstruction

Moisture due to condensation

Unfinished basements are often humid due to insufficient ventilation. Open the windows and run fans in the area for several days before starting your remodel. To avoid long-term humidity problems, install an exhaust fan. If your laundry facilities are in the basement, make sure that your dryer is properly vented to the outdoors, and never hang wet clothes inside to dry.

Reduce condensation in the air by insulating your cold water pipes to avoid “sweating” in the summer (theirs, not yours). To deal with a serious condensation problem, operate a dehumidifier and apply a waterproof coating to the walls.

Moisture that enters via the foundation

Water can seep into your home through the foundation in a variety of ways, and if it does, the
Moisture Leads To Mold
basement is where it will end up … unless you take proactive measures to keep it out.

Clear out your gutters to prevent overflow. Make sure you have enough downspouts -- one for every 600-800 square feet of roof. Inspect the downspouts for leaky seams and check that they are safely channeling runoff from rain or melted snow a minimum of 5 feet (or even better, 10 feet) away from your home’s foundation. If not, protect your foundation by installing downspout extensions.

Grade the soil of the surrounding yard so that it directs moisture away from the foundation. The ground should slope downward 1 inch per linear foot.

Plant bushes and flowers at least 1-3 feet away from your house, depending on their size. Their roots tend to trap water (particularly if they rot) and you don’t want that close to the foundation. Decorative garden edgings, such as brick flowerbed borders, should be placed a similar distance away from the building.

Any cracks in the foundation or in your concrete driveway and walkways can also permit water to accumulate below grade. You can attempt to fix these yourself, using one of the kits on the market, but be warned: concrete cracks are both tricky to repair and potentially very hazardous to your foundation. For the most reliable work, consult a professional concrete contractor.

Anti-moisture installations
Vapor Barrier

If you happen to live in a locale with an especially high water table (the natural level of water under the ground), you may need to have a sump pump (be sure to get a battery backup system!) or perimeter drains installed to control moisture below the surface of the soil.

While simply painting the basement’s concrete floor is often suggested as a very affordable finish, it will not be a viable solution when you have an undersurface dampness problem. Instead, seal off moisture with a layer of dimpled polyethylene atop the concrete. Then go ahead and install new flooring. Ceramic tile or vinyl is a good water-resistant choice.

When the remodeling project begins, have a vapor barrier installed on both the walls and the floor. Use metal or wood furring strips to offset the framing from your exterior walls. Add insulation, which should include vapor protection to make sure that you stay warm and dry.

By Laura Firszt

Networx

Why We Love To Remodel Marietta Homes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 15:34:00 +0000

For those poor souls who don't live in or around Marietta, Georgia...let us tell you a little bit about this wonderful city. Marietta is the largest city in Cobb County with about 59,000 residents. The first city plat was laid out in 1833, depicting a quaint town built around a city square that still exists today! Though many places in Marietta were set on fire during the first strike of General Sherman's "March To The Sea" in 1864, many historic homes and sites still stand. The Oakton House in Marietta has

been continuously occupied since 1838 and the original barn, milk house, smoke house and well still stand on the remaining five acre property.

Homeowners in Historic Marietta enjoy close proximity to the Marietta Square with restaurants, antique shops, specialty shops, museums, theaters, and turn of the century architecture. With a variety of home sizes and styles Historic Marietta is also convenient to Kennestone Hospital, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield, and concerts in the park. Every year Marietta hosts the popular Marietta Pilgrimage Home Tour which features 6 private historic homes all restored and decorated for the season!

You can see why we think Marietta is a pretty fantastic place, and why so much rich history has led to the growth of a community that lives in the past, present and future. And that is why we love to remodel Marietta homes...

The History

Even newer homes or homes that are not officially deemed historic hold within them a heritage of the city it stands on. The new homes are beautiful and luxurious family-centric spaces while the older ones are being renovated and restored with such care. The homes in Marietta show the great pride their owners have!

The Hagood-Sheeler-Musolf House, c. 1929

The People

We might be a little biased, but we have the best clients on the planet. Our Marietta remodeling clients have been some of the most wonderful, fun and kind people we have met. We have been able to explore all styles and trends in homes around Marietta and it is the variety of people and styles that really adds interest and spice to the city!

The Style

Marietta grew as one of the first "suburbs" in the country. After the civil war this city would help invent a distinctly American form of house. The American Craftsman style and the Arts and Crafts movement created some incredibly interesting bungalows around Marietta that now flow seamlessly into the eclectic revival homes of the later 20th century.

Get More Information About Marietta Remodeling And AK Complete Home Renovations

5 Truths About Our Homes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 15:31:00 +0000

AK Atlanta Kitchen Remodel

When we work in a home, we are often times making significant changes that the homeowner has been thinking about, and wanting for a long time. The best part of our job is giving a family a beautiful space that improves their life at home. But it doesn't always take a renovation to fall in love with your home again, sometimes it just means remembering (or realizing) some basic truths about the place we call home.

Comparing your home to someone else's takes away from authentically creating yours

There's certainly something to be said about absorbing inspiration from as many sources as you can find. But comparing your home to others in a jealous, why-can't-I-have that sort of way just takes away from the energy of discovering what it is that you love. What it is that makes a home a home to you. Comparing yourself to others can lead to buying things that you'd never normally buy. You've got to step away from scrolling through people's Instagram accounts and focus more on creating spaces you'd want to Instagram.

You really probably don't need all that stuff

Clutter is a happiness killer. We're not talking about collecting things — if you're someone who loves a home full of fun finds that you've picked up throughout the year, fill that space up to your heart's delight (just maybe dust pretty often). We're talking about homes that are filled with unneeded things. Items bought out of boredom, because you wanted to impress someone else. Bought impulsively and without thinking. That kind of stuff? That's clutter. And you don't need it. It'll only physically and mentally bog you down. Learn that lesson as soon as you can — and be open to relearning it in every new home you live in (as it's easily forgotten).

Home is who you share it with

So learn to get along with whoever shares your home, whether it's a roommate or a spouse. Communicate with roommates calmly (and don't leave passive aggressive notes — even if they're funny). Work with your spouse to come up with designs that make everyone comfortable. Consider your pets' needs so that they don't get bored or restless and tear the joint up. Celebrate your home by inviting people over, even if it's just for tea and packaged snacks. And learn to be alone if you live alone. Don't always be seeking out distractions. Use quiet time at home to listen to your surroundings and get to know yourself.

You don't have to learn how to fix everything, but knowing what's "off" makes life easier
AK Home Maintenance

Creating a nice home means paying attention to what's going on within — how the appliances are working, noticing if the toilet's constantly running. You don't have to be an expert at fixing everything, but you should know when something's not quite right. Just being attentive to your home's normal state means you'll catch when things aren't quite right, and it might save you time and money on repairs later on.

Even the smallest studio will seem like a mansion when you learn that "home" actually extends beyond your walls

We've really encouraged you to explore your neighborhoods this summer. Though your home is your sanctuary — the place that recharges you and you find peace and solitude in, really delving into your neighborhood could be another way to find joy in where you live. Even if you don't live in your dream location, there might be a restaurant that could become your favorite Friday night hang out. There could be a small hardware store that makes buying home supplies a more pleasant experience. There could be a nice few streets that you can take walks on to clear your mind.

Excerpts from an Apartment Therapy post originally published 8.3.2014 - CM

Elements For A Glamorous Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 19:58:00 +0000

It sounds almost like a oxymoron, doesn't it. A glamorous kitchen? For those who are serious about their cooking, or have little ones running around, a kitchen isn’t a place for glamour. It’s for making a mess, feeding the masses and wreaking havoc in. Despite how strange it may seem, making your kitchen a glamorous space will actually make you want to spend MORE time in the kitchen - gathering with family, friends, cooking, creating even doing homework.

Wallpaper can have the same effect- a bold, feminine design that will instantly draw the eye and excite the senses. If you don't like wallpapering all walls, consider using panels, or an accent wall.

Glamour is a quality that makes a person or a thing appealing or special. Imagine feeling drawn to and happy in your kitchen space. Sound nice? We think so too.

A chandelier will inject instant glamour into any room, whether it’s a fuchsia pink plastic one or a glittering cut glass one. A charming light fixture helps to create a more ambient area as opposed to the harsh brightness of the central light. Consider adding some over the breakfast area, island or peninsulas.

Add drama to the room with a splash of color. A passionate red or a regal purple, or if you’re feeling brave, something darker will make the room feel warm and sumptuous, as opposed to clean and clinical. Alternatively, go for a classic white, glossy kitchen with pastel accessories for a 50’s Hollywood glamour feel.

Whether it’s through the reflective, glossy surface of your cabinets, or glittering glass mosaic tiles or simply through some sparkly accessories, sparkle is essential for a glamorous kitchen.

The Death Of The Chevron & 5 Other Home Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 28 May 2015 18:00:00 +0000

Judging by how often these images, and ones like them, are flooding our Pinterest feeds - we're going to go ahead and call these the 6 home trends hitting homes near you by fall 2015! From paint trends to predicting the imminent death of the chevron, these "In" and "Out" predictions are very specific....And very controversial!
You can see below there is one that we just DO NOT agree with. What do you think? Will be you be an early adapter of these latest home design trends?

In: Oversize Art

Out: Gallery Walls

Just as we were starting to perfect the Tetris-like picture placement of gallery walls, oversize art has become the wall statement du jour. Supersized paintings, blowup photographs, and gargantuan art of every sort are dominating huge swaths of walls to stunning effect.

Source: Nicole LaMotte via One Kings Lane

In: Sleek Modern TubsOut: Vintage Claw-Foot Tubs
The freestanding tub still reigns supreme, but the romantic claw-foot look is being usurped by clean, single-slab models.
Source: Signature Hardware

In: Open Kitchen Shelving

Out: Kitchen Cabinets

Good news for those needing extra kitchen storage: open kitchen shelving is now a fashionable (and affordable) way to stash your dishes.

**AK Is Calling A Quick Death On This One: Cabinets Are Not Out, They Can Never Be "Out"! While Open Shelving Has It's Place, And May Be A Trendy Look Now... We NEED Cabinets To Store Our Not So Pretty Stuff, And Keep Our Kitchens From Feel Crazy Cluttered!**

Source HouseBeautiful Pin

In: Matte Brass HardwareOut: Polished Brass Hardware
This It material is starting to look more contemporary in kitchens and bathrooms in brushed and antique finishes. Source: Lesley Unruh via One Kings Lane

In: ShiboriOut: Chevron
Just as you were starting to OD on chevron stripes, artistic shibori prints entered the picture. The popularity of this tie-dye-esque look is growing rapidly, jumping from pillows and bedspreads to curtains and rugs.Source: West Elm

In: Accent TrimOut: Accent Walls
The accent wall feels passé next to its trendy cousin, accent trim. Paint that white crown molding glossy black or whatever statement-making hue suits your fancy.Source: Brittany Ambridge for Domino

AK Awarded For Exceptional Customer Service

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 May 2015 14:53:00 +0000

AK Complete Home Renovations Recognized among North America’s Best

Customer Service Leaders within the Residential Construction Industry

GuildQuality’s2015 Guildmaster Award Honors AK Complete Home Renovations

Marietta, Georgia, May 19 2015- AK Complete Home Renovations, has been awarded a 2015 Guildmaster Award for exceptional customer service. GuildQuality, an independent customer satisfaction surveying company, has powered the Guildmaster Award since 2005 to celebrate service excellence in the building, remodeling, contracting, and home services professions.

AK was selected as one of the over 300 North American builders, remodelers, developers, and contractors recognized by GuildQuality for their superior delivery of customer care.

Over the past few months, GuildQuality reviewed numerous survey responses submitted by customers of Guildmaster candidates. In granting awards, GuildQuality considers two primary metrics for each candidate: the percentage of customers who would recommend and the percentage of customers who responded. AK Complete Home Renovations achieved a recommendation rate of greater than 90% from their customers, who were surveyed through GuildQuality.

“We are very proud to have been awarded with this great distinction for the fourth year! Great service is at the core of what we do for our clients; we're thrilled they feel we have fulfilled this goal and would recommend us to their friends and family.” Ed Cholfin, AK President

For more on the 2015 Guildmaster Award and qualifications, visit www.guildquality.com/guildmaster/.