How Bathroom Remodels Can Add Value to Your Home

Bathroom Remodeling No Comments

Adding a new bathroom can make sense if you want to add value to your home or make it easier to age in place. But these projects can cost a bundle.

The key is to stick with aesthetic changes that don’t require changing plumbing lines or removing walls. Otherwise, you’ll be looking at a gut remodel. Visit Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY for more information.

A bathroom remodel should focus on improving the function of the space to fit the homeowner’s lifestyle and needs. This includes making it accessible for family members with disabilities. In addition, it should match the homeowner’s desired aesthetic and style while ensuring that the project can be completed within their budget.

A remodel’s timeline can be impacted by several factors, including the project’s scope, material availability, permit processing, contractor scheduling, and unexpected issues that require attention. Having a realistic schedule helps mitigate these challenges and avoid costly delays.

The first step in determining how long your remodel will take is to set a firm timeline with your professional contractor and stick to it. This will help ensure the renovation is completed on time and prevent delays or frustration.

Bathroom layout changes fall into one of two categories – cosmetic or structural. Cosmetic modifications involve removing and replacing the existing cabinet, toilet, flooring, mirror, and fixtures. This can also include applying a new coat of paint.

Structural changes are more extensive. This includes altering the bathroom’s footprint by moving a wall, expanding or shrinking the size of the room, adding a walk-in shower, changing the location of the sink and toilet, converting a tub to a shower, and modifying the floor plan. These types of changes also typically require rewiring and new plumbing.

Increasing storage in your bathroom is a popular upgrade. Clever storage solutions can make the room feel larger and improve functionality by eliminating clutter. Another way to improve bathroom storage is by adding additional cabinets.

While most homeowners are satisfied with the size of their bathrooms, they often choose to upgrade their showers or change the layout. The most common major change is adding a larger shower, then increasing the vanity’s size or adding a second sink.

More and more homeowners also incorporate home system upgrades during their remodels, such as ventilation upgrades or radiant floor heating. This can help save energy and money while enhancing the bathroom’s comfort.

Changing the footprint of your bathroom goes beyond shifting or replacing fixtures. It also involves altering the space by adding or removing walls. Adding a window or door to the bathroom, expanding the room size by moving or removing an exterior wall, and raising or lowering the ceiling are all examples of changing the footprint of your bathroom.

This level of remodeling is cumbersome, invasive, messy, and costly. It requires the expertise of a professional general contractor who can coordinate the many trades involved in such a large project. It also includes wiring alterations, plumbing changes, and full fixture replacement.

Surface-level updates include:

  • Painting.
  • New flooring.
  • A fresh coat of paint on the walls or vanity.
  • A change in cabinet doors and drawers.
  • Even a new shower curtain.

While these changes are less expensive than a full remodel, they can significantly affect the look and feel of your bathroom and should be noticed.

Another common surface-level update is installing new light fixtures, such as recessed lights above the tub or shower and sconces around the mirror. Lighting adds a great deal of mood and can dramatically enhance the aesthetic of your bathroom.

When you remodel your bathroom, hire a professional with the proper credentials, a strong reputation, a portfolio of past projects, and references from clients that indicate they met or exceeded expectations. A reputable contractor will also have the right licensing and insurance, including workers’ compensation.

Once your remodel’s demolition phase is complete and your bathroom’s frame is constructed, it’s time to install fixtures. This includes the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink. Ensuring these are properly installed is important because incorrect installation can lead to leaky plumbing, mold and mildew, and water damage.

It’s a good idea to replace old fixtures with energy-efficient models during this remodel stage. This helps to reduce your electricity usage and saves you money on your utility bills in the long run. Installing new low-flow toilets, faucets, showerheads, and light fixtures will also help cut back on your water usage.

For many homeowners, bathroom remodeling is an opportunity to upgrade to more efficient fixtures that will lower utility bills and improve comfort. For others, an updated bathroom adds value to the home when it comes time to sell. These upgrades may include new flooring, a remodeled shower and tub, or the addition of a double vanity. For the most substantial remodels, it’s best to hire a professional.

While simple improvements like replacing a toilet or installing a new shower might not require a permit, any work that changes the layout of your bathroom should be reviewed by the local code enforcement agency. This is particularly important if your remodel includes dropping walls, rerouting plumbing lines, or rewiring electrical.

When a full bathroom buildout is called for, a general contractor will be needed to handle the plumbing and electrical. This team will strip the bathroom down to the studs and subfloor to install all-new materials. This type of remodeling project is typically referred to as a “gut renovation.”

After the drywall is hung, it’s time to add the finishing touches. For example, you’ll want to paint the room with a semi-gloss wall paint that is moisture-resistant and easy to clean. It’s also a good idea to paint the ceiling, which will help protect against water damage.

The next step will be to install the bath or shower. If the bathtub or shower is prefabricated, it’s a straightforward installation that can be completed in a few days. If you’re working with custom-built materials, the process will take longer.

Once the shower is in place, you must install the vanity, sink cabinet, and flooring. Using tile, use a mason’s chalk line to mark reference lines perpendicular to the longest continuous line on the wall. This will ensure that your tiles are straight even as you place them.

At this point, the bathroom will begin to resemble a functional room again. The final step is to replace the toilet if needed. Consult a plumber or home improvement store specialist if you need help determining what toilet to purchase. Ultimately, your goal should be a functional and easy bathroom to keep clean while being safe for individuals of all ages.

A bathroom remodel is a great opportunity to upgrade your plumbing. This may include changing the faucets and shower heads for a fresh look, improving functionality, replacing old leaking pipes, and improving overall water usage. Older bathrooms tend to have less efficient plumbing systems that lead to clogged drains and low water pressure, so upgrading these components can make a big difference in your home’s comfort.

Upgrading your fixtures can also add a touch of luxury to the space and boost your property value. Luxury features like granite countertops and spa-like showers are popular and can transform your bath into a beautiful, relaxing oasis. While doing cosmetic upgrades as a DIY project is possible, you should consider hiring a professional. This is especially important if you’re doing work that changes the layout or electrical wiring, needs permits or board approvals, or involves ordering custom items.

During remodeling, contractors will pee into all sorts of nooks and crannies you don’t normally see – especially under sinks and behind toilets. This is when issues such as rotting wood, rusted metal, or mold might pop up. It’s best to address these problems immediately rather than ignore them or hope they disappear independently. Leaving them unattended can cause even more costly (and potentially dangerous) damage.

If it’s been a while since your bathroom was last remodeled, consider integrating some eco-friendly fixtures. These are becoming increasingly popular and can help you save money on your utility bills while helping the environment. For example, replacing your showerhead with a more consumption-conscious model can greatly reduce your monthly water usage. Newer toilets with vacuum technology also use much less water than traditional models.

Finally, a bathroom remodel can be an excellent time to increase storage space in the room. Adding shelving above doorways or using corner cabinets can free up floor space and keep towels and toiletries within reach for multiple family members.

How to Prepare for Residential Roofing Installation

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When deciding what kind of residential roof to purchase, homeowners should consider durability, appearance, and price. They should also find out if there are HOA rules regarding roofing materials. Before the project starts, homeowners should request a contract from their roofing contractor. They should also get a building permit, and a letter from the contractor’s insurance company confirming their project is covered.

Materials

There are a lot of different roofing materials to choose from, so homeowners need to think about what looks and functionality they want in their roofs before making a decision. Some roofing materials are better suited to certain climates, while others can add more visual appeal to the home or be more energy efficient. It’s also important to consider the weight of the roofing material since this can affect the framing and support required for a roof, especially in older homes. Contact Round Rock Roofer for more information.

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Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States and come in various colors and styles that pair well with most house styles. They’re cost-effective, easy to install and work well in most climates. They can be purchased in 3-tab (the most affordable), dimensional or architectural (thicker than 3-tab shingles) or luxury varieties designed to look like slate tiles.

Wood shingle roofs are an attractive and classic option for traditional and historic-style houses. They’re available in cedar, redwood and pine. Basic shingles are sawmilled for consistency, while shakes are split into wedge-shaped pieces with a rougher texture. Wood shingles and shakes must be treated with fire retardants and preservatives to last longer and can be damaged by hail and heavy winds. They’re not a good choice in areas that get lots of moisture or where wildfires are a concern.

Metal roofing is a durable, long-lasting option. It’s available in galvanized, copper and zinc. It’s great for colder climates because it can withstand large amounts of snow. It can be more expensive than other roofing types, but the upfront investment may pay off in the long run with lower maintenance costs and improved energy efficiency.

Slate is another durable roofing option that can last up to 100 years. It’s an attractive and luxurious option for high-end houses, but it can be very heavy and require specialized framing to support the weight. It can also be more difficult to install and requires a professional.

Solar shingles are an eco-friendly alternative to conventional shingle roofs. They convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic technology. They’re becoming increasingly popular as the cost of fossil fuels rises. However, they’re still an expensive addition to a home and should only be installed by a qualified installer who specializes in building-integrated photovoltaics.

Permits

Many home improvement projects require homeowners to obtain permits before beginning work. For roofing projects, this is especially important to ensure that the roof replacement is completed properly and complies with local and state standards. If a mistake is made that causes lasting damage, homeowners may face fines or even have their homeowner’s insurance policy cancelled. For this reason, Modernize recommends that homeowners use a vetted and licensed contractor to pull the permit on their behalf.

Permit requirements vary by city, but homeowners should be aware that it’s typically illegal to perform roofing work without a permit in most cities. A permit is required if the roofing project will involve more than one layer of shingles or if 50 percent or more of the sheathing or deck must be replaced. The person responsible for obtaining the permit is usually the general contractor, although if the homeowner plans to do the work themselves, they should consider getting a license themselves.

A permit is also necessary for re-roofing and roof repairs, although there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, a permit is not needed if the repairs are limited to a small area of the roof or if the existing sheathing and roof deck will remain in place. Permits are also not always required for reroofing if the existing shingles are being removed and replaced with another type of material.

Homeowners should ask their contractors about licensing and permitting requirements, as these will be specific to the region. In addition, a local building department can provide information on when a permit is required. In most cases, calling or visiting the building department will help homeowners understand what work requires a permit and what work does not.

Lastly, homeowners should be aware of their contractor’s insurance coverage and whether it is limited or unlimited. In New York, for example, a residential roofing contractor must hold either an unlimited or limited general liability insurance to perform roofing work on homes. If the contractor is not insured, the homeowner should be concerned and may want to reconsider hiring them.

Safety

Residential roofers face an array of hazards while working on rooftops. As a result, workers must follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for working at heights. Failure to do so can lead to serious injuries and even death for the workers involved.

For many residential roofers, implementing and adhering to safety protocols can feel inconvenient. They may see wearing harnesses, setting up guardrails and other safety measures as a disruption to the flow of the work. In addition, they can also perceive these measures as a hindrance to productivity because they must stop their work to ascend or descend the ladder to fasten the harness or install the guardrail.

These erroneous perceptions can lead to unsafe work practices, which is why it’s important for roofing companies to educate their workers on proper workplace procedures. This can be done through onsite training sessions or online learning modules. In addition, a company should have in place a system to track workers’ compliance with safety protocols. This can be done by using an app like SafetyCulture, which provides accessible learning modules on-demand and allows supervisors to view worker progress and compliance.

Before workers set foot on the roof, they should ensure that the area surrounding the worksite is blocked off from people, pets and children. It’s also a good idea to remove any materials that might cause falls, such as loose debris or snow and ice. In addition, they should wear footwear with good traction and be sure to avoid walking near power lines.

Lastly, roofers should ensure that they’re working with a fully-charged battery and have access to the tools and supplies they need. It’s also a good idea for them to keep their phones off and to communicate with colleagues on the ground via walkie talkies if possible.

Lastly, it’s a good idea for workers to take regular breaks on the roof. These breaks can help them stay hydrated and energized, which will make them more productive and prevent injuries. In addition, they should make sure that their workspace is free of debris and any materials that could hinder their visibility. For example, they should avoid putting metal brackets or ladders too close to the power lines. They should also use bungee cords to secure any power tools when they’re not in use and make sure that all hand tools are stored in buckets hung from the roof brackets.

Preparation

Replacing your roof is a major home improvement project that will disrupt your normal daily routine. During the project, your family will be living in a construction zone that is surrounded by tools and materials that could harm children or pets. Therefore, it is important to make preparations in advance so that everyone will be safe during the project. For instance, it’s a good idea to have your kids and pets stay with relatives or friends during the roofing process. This will keep them safe and also ensure that they won’t get in the way of the workers. Additionally, it’s a good idea to tidy up your yard and remove items that could be damaged by rain, dust, or debris. This includes outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, and lawn decorations.

It is also a good idea to trim any trees or large limbs close to the roofline before the project begins. This will help the contractor to work safely and protect your landscaping from falling debris during the roof installation. Additionally, it’s a good time to cut the grass and clean the gutters so that water can flow away from your house during the roofing process.

Besides trimming any trees or shrubs, you’ll also want to clear the attic of items that are stored in the area. Even conscientious roofers will kick up a lot of dust during the replacement, and it’s best to relocate items that are in the attic. You can store them in the garage or another location that is far from the workspace.

Residential roofers need access to electrical outlets to complete their work, and it’s best if these are located outside of your house. If there are no exterior outlets available, you should place an extension cord in a spot where it will not come into contact with contractors or anyone else.

Whether you’re replacing your roof or building a new house, the right contractor can make all the difference. Look for a company that is licensed and insured, and has a solid reputation. Additionally, it’s a good to hire someone who has experience working with your type of roof. For example, a roofer who has worked with metal roofing will have a better understanding of how to install this type of roof.

Asbestos Handling and Disposal

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Asbestos is a dangerous carcinogen that needs to be handled by licensed Asbestos Perth professionals. It is regulated as hazardous waste and must be taken, transported, and disposed of by state and federal laws.

All asbestos waste must be wetted down before being placed into a leak-proof container and sealed securely. This process is known as “presenting for storage.”

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The EPA’s asbestos rules require anyone who wishes to handle or transport waste containing friable asbestos to do so under a permit. This includes building owners, construction companies, and asbestos abatement contractors. Before commencing work that could disturb asbestos materials, such as a home renovation or demolition project, it is important to consult an experienced asbestos consultant to determine whether any regulated activities are required. Disturbing materials made with asbestos can release asbestos fibers into the air and may lead to health complications such as mesothelioma.

The permit requirements include:

  • A written asbestos management plan.
  • Air monitoring and clearance.
  • Disposal at an approved waste facility.

The asbestos management plan must include the name of the owner and the licensed contractor and the location where the work will take place. The plan must also detail the types of work that will be performed. The hazard level for the waste must also be identified.

Depending on the type of project, the asbestos disposal costs can vary considerably. However, proper asbestos disposal is vital to protect the environment and the health of workers, residents, and visitors.

Anyone who wishes to transport or dispose of special waste, including asbestos, must file an ARTS E-File notification to obtain a permit. A notification must be submitted for each asbestos-related activity, regardless of the number of jobs performed under the same permit.

Any person wishing to conduct Class I asbestos activities, such as removal of ACM or encapsulation, must also have an onsite inspection performed by a certified industrial hygienist. The inspector must verify the asbestos abatement is being completed by a qualified individual and that air monitoring results are clear of asbestos.

Any non-friable asbestos that is not being removed from a structure must be placed in a container that is sealed with plastic six mils or thicker or a metal can with a liner. The liners or containers must be leak-proof and tightly closed. The encapsulated asbestos must also be labeled with “Asbestos Waste Material” or other warning labels authorized by state law or regulation.

Anyone working on asbestos projects must abide by strict safety measures. This includes ensuring that any waste that comes into contact with asbestos is double-bagged and placed in a skip for immediate disposal. This is especially important for overalls, overshoes, and sampling wastes that can carry traces of dangerous material. In addition, any pipes that have been broken and contaminated must be dealt with as hazardous/special waste.

All waste materials containing asbestos must be wetted before double-bagged and sealed in leak-proof containers. These must be plastic bags of a minimum 6-millimeter thickness or cartons, drums, or cans. All containers must also be marked with the word “Asbestos” and have a warning label that states “Breathing Asbestos Hazardous to Your Health.”

Leak-proof containers are essential because asbestos can release deadly fibers into the air when disturbed. Once the waste is packaged, it can be transported from its generation site to a waste storage area. Once the waste is present for transport away from the site of generation, it must be placed in a vehicle and transported to a landfill that is authorized to accept asbestos waste.

The Environmental Protection Agency strictly regulates the disposal of asbestos. Asbestos companies must be EPA-licensed and work only with approved contractors to ensure the proper removal and disposal of the dangerous material. In addition, those who attempt to remove asbestos alone can face serious fines and legal action.

In some instances, asbestos can be recycled. This process converts the material into non-toxic materials such as ceramic and porcelain stoneware tiles, porous single-fired wall tile, silicate glass, and road aggregate. It can also be decomposed through high-temperature incineration and plasma melting techniques. However, the most common method for destroying asbestos is through thermal decomposition. It is then ground down and disposed of as nonhazardous inert minerals. This process needs to be foolproof and requires extensive laboratory testing. However, it is a viable alternative to landfills.

Many local, state, and federal agencies are responsible for establishing regulations involving the handling and disposal of asbestos waste. In general, federal regulations are set by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the county and state Department of Environmental Quality.

During the removal process, a contractor must properly bag and contain asbestos waste to prevent airborne contamination. The contractor must also properly label all containers. Generally, the containers transporting asbestos waste should be 55-gallon metal drums. A contractor must also contact the intended landfill to make sure it can receive the waste and is aware that the waste will be transported there.

The Environmental Protection Agency must approve waste disposal sites to accept asbestos waste. In general, the site must be at least one mile away from a residence or commercial building, be isolated from water sources, have no visible emissions of asbestos dust in the air, and have no industrial uses of chrysotile asbestos (which are limited to manufacturing and fabricating operations).

Before a site will accept asbestos waste, it must verify that the waste is wetted and contained in leak-proof containers. The site must also require the completion of a chain-of-custody form by the waste generator.

Once the waste is at a designated disposal site, it must be contained in a trench that allows soil cover over the waste without disturbing the containers. The site must be ramped to enable a vehicle to back into the area. It must be aligned perpendicular to prevailing winds to reduce wind-driven fiber release during cover placement. A decontamination enclosure system must be installed to permit the removal of contaminated clothing, shoes, and tools. Wet rags must be used to remove protective equipment and damp clothing after each use.

Once the site is prepared to receive asbestos waste, it should be checked by the Environmental Protection Agency regional NESHAPs contact to ensure that the waste contains asbestos and meets all other disposal requirements. The site should also verify that the load has been wetted, double-bagged, and sealed in plastic leak-tight containers.

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause deadly diseases like mesothelioma. It is a toxic waste and is normally disposed of in hazardous landfills that are authorized to receive it. However, recycling options have been proposed to save landfill space and prevent further exposure to asbestos in workers handling the waste.

When asbestos is recycled, it becomes a nonhazardous material that can be reused for various purposes. The most common way of doing this involves thermal decomposition. This involves heating the ACM to temperatures above 1,250 degrees Celsius, which destroys the fibrous structure of the asbestos. This makes various products, including silicate glass, porous single-fired wall tiles, and ceramic bricks. It can also be used as aggregate in roadways (asbestos asphalt) and concrete construction.

Aside from thermal decomposition, other methods of transforming asbestos into nonhazardous materials include microwave thermal treatment and plasma melting. These processes heat the asbestos in a high-temperature environment to break down its fibers and reduce their toxicity. These techniques are more expensive than the traditional method of disposing of asbestos, but they can be more cost-effective on a life-cycle basis.

It is important to remember that when asbestos is recycled, it must still be handled and transported safely. Any asbestos-containing materials not being sent to a landfill must be properly stored and sealed. This is a necessary step to ensure that the waste doesn’t spread or release its fibers into the air. Asbestos must be wet before being stored, and the container should be examined for any leaks that could create a dust cloud.

Storage holds asbestos waste temporarily at the site of generation or another place where it is being stored. It can start immediately after the waste is presented for storage and does not end until it is transported to its final destination.

Disposal refers to the dumping, depositing, or spilling waste containing asbestos onto land or water. This includes any disposal activity that could expose the public to hazardous wastes, and it may involve a contaminated site or any other area of the environment.

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