Did you know that the average person spends roughly one-third of their life in their bedroom?
\r\n\r\nYour bedroom is one of the most-used rooms in your home—it should be a place you enjoy spending time.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nUpdating or remodeling your primary bedroom can create a personal oasis to enjoy, and it can also add value to your home.
\r\n
Taking on this type of project may seem intimidating, but we’re here to help!
\r\n\r\nThe best approach to home remodeling is to be organized, and our step-by-step guide will help keep you that way.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\nGiving your primary bedroom a fresh look makes the room more enjoyable and can give you a return on your investment (ROI) of 40-80% on average.
\r\n
Expanded closets or a new bathroom in your primary bedroom are highly desirable features and will increase your home's value.
\r\n\r\nEven aesthetic changes as simple as new furniture, bedding, lighting, window treatments, or built-in storage in your closets can add interest to your primary bedroom and increase the overall value of your home.
\r\n\r\nSimilar articles:
\r\n\r\nUpdating your bedroom doesn’t have to include a total renovation.
\r\n\r\nYou can oftentimes create a beautiful bedroom without intrusive construction or a big budget.
\r\n\r\nSometimes, all it takes is a few minor changes to completely transform a room.
\r\n\r\nCommon types of aesthetic changes:
\r\n\r\nAll of these options can create a completely different look and feel in a primary bedroom for much less money than a total remodel.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if you decide that small aesthetic changes are not enough, a total remodel may be the best option for you.
\r\n\r\nBedroom remodels do not always involve structural changes, though they certainly can.
\r\n\r\nIf you want to add space to your primary bedroom, there are a number of options (though your specific options will depend on your property and budget).
\r\n\r\nThe most common ways to increase the space in a primary bedroom:
\r\n\r\nWhich option works for you and your home will depend on various factors.
\r\n\r\nFor example, if you have the existing yard space and your local zoning laws allow it, you could create the space you need by knocking down an exterior wall and expanding your home onto your lot.
\r\n\r\nIf you are unable to expand your home outward, removing interior walls to create one large room out of two smaller rooms may be an option. Another option could be repurposing another space to be your new primary bedroom.
\r\n\r\nIf you decide to expand your home, be sure your contractor checks with zoning regulations and deed restrictions to guarantee your project complies with any and all rules where you live.
\r\nIf you are in your “forever home” and are planning an extensive bedroom remodel, be sure to consider your needs as you grow older and plan for all ages.
\r\n\r\nFor example, a new statement tub might be beautiful and enjoyable now, but as you age, will you be able to enjoy it?
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you are getting older, you may want to think about repurposing rooms on the lower level rather than the second floor. Having the primary bedroom on the first floor is convenient and good long-range planning. Or perhaps you should consider widening any narrow doors.
\r\n\r\nThese are all options worth taking into consideration when doing a primary bedroom remodel.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nMake a good demolition/remodeling plan before beginning your project to save yourself the time, money, and stress.
\r\n\r\nA solid plan can take months to get right, so be sure you don’t rush the process. (Isn’t planning half the fun anyway?)
\r\n\r\nThings to think about as you plan your bedroom remodel:
\r\n\r\nOnce you have a plan, determine what you need to make your remodel happen. This could be anything from paint to window treatments, new flooring, area rugs, etc.
\r\n\r\nThis will minimize any delays and allow your project to finish as quickly and smoothly as possible.
\r\n\r\nWhile you’re assembling materials, you or your contractor should check to see if you need to obtain permits for the work you’re going to be doing. Your local building department will be able to tell you what demolition permits you may need.
\r\n\r\nThen, make sure the rest of your home is ready for your remodel:
\r\n\r\n1. Determine alternative sleeping arrangements.
\r\n\r\n2. Clear a path leading from the bedroom outside.
\r\n\r\n3. Put down floor/wall protection to minimize damages.
\r\n\r\nDemolition day is when you tackle any demo work that needs to be done. Sometimes, it’s taking your bedroom down to the studs and floors. Other times, it may involve tearing out an interior wall.
\r\n\r\nHowever extensive, interior demolition sometimes exposes problems that were hiding under the floors or behind the walls.
\r\n\r\nOnce the demolition is complete, any structural work, electrical work, painting, and flooring can be done (typically in that order).
\r\n\r\nThen, it’s simply a matter of finishing touches: hanging doors, replacing furniture, and installing window treatments.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nAs one of the most-used rooms in your house, your bedroom should be a place you can enjoy! Use our guide as a jumping-off point to help keep you organized during your bedroom remodel.
\r\n","changed":"2022-04-04T17:23:35+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"6263e6ad-6b27-51df-b57d-8f3d3da2550c","title":"What You Need to Know About Winter Concrete and Asphalt Damage","url":"/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-winter-concrete-and-asphalt-damage","image":{"path":"/static/7a24c1e233d3f818c339f663540dc95c/concrete-in-winter-covered-in-salt.jpg","alt":"close-up view of concrete covered in salt"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"83a83b08-7f01-5cea-bcb6-245481353692","name":"Concrete Removal","slug":"Concrete-Removal"},{"id":"0b3afd6b-34ed-5df1-88a3-0a0cfa77edfc","name":"Asphalt Removal","slug":"Asphalt-Removal"},{"id":"13301c69-f268-53a8-a2fb-57e9334df3e3","name":"Other Asphalt-Concrete Removal","slug":"Other-Asphalt-Concrete-Removal"}],"content":"Concrete and asphalt are both incredibly durable materials, but they're not indestructible. Pavement is not impervious to the elements, and winter can wreak havoc on it over time.
\r\n\r\nWhen freezing temperatures and snowstorms hit, concrete and asphalt can become cracked and increasingly unsightly over the years.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nUnattractive, cracked, and uneven driveways and walkways can negatively impact a home’s curb appeal and overall value, which should be a concern for any homeowner.
\r\n
Similarly, if you own a commercial property and you fail to adequately prepare your pavement for the winter elements, a parking lot full of cracks and potholes and walkways that are cracked and uneven can negatively impact your business.
\r\n\r\nIf your public property is unsafe in some way, you could face liability claims if customers, pedestrians, or employees trip and injure themselves or damage their car.
\r\n\r\nWhen cracking or damage is severe, you'll likely need to replace it, which can cause interruptions in operations if they don't cause them to halt altogether.
\r\n\r\nIf your pavement is in bad shape, don't put off your concrete or asphalt replacement any longer. Request free, no-obligation quotes from local concrete or asphalt removal contractors so you can schedule your project at your earliest convenience.
\r\nIf your pavement is still in decent shape, familiarize yourself with the freeze-thaw cycle as well as the best ways to prevent damage to your pavement in the future so it stays in good shape for as long as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"winter](\"/static/6af0839b6f7eb9a608adc254c84e3522/concrete-asphalt-winter-damage-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nThe freeze-thaw cycle occurs in concrete and asphalt during winter months.
\r\n\r\nBecause pavement is porous, when water comes in contact with it (if it's not properly sealed), the water is able to seep into the pavement's pores and any cracks present.
\r\n\r\nThis process of the water getting inside the pavement is called \"capillary absorption.\"
\r\n\r\nOnce the water is absorbed in the pavement, it poses a risk of freezing. After freezing, the water within the concrete or asphalt becomes roughly 9% bigger, taking up more volume than it did pre-freeze.
\r\n\r\nThis internal pressure leads to micro-cracks within the pavement, and once the temperatures rise and the ice melts, damage becomes more visible.
\r\n\r\nThis cycle of freezing and thawing increases the amount of micro-cracks within the pavement, which causes aging and damage to occur at a faster rate.
\r\n\r\nYou should also avoid salting your concrete. Salt turns ice to water, which eventually turns back into ice and perpetuates the freeze-thaw cycle even further.
\r\n\r\nThe freeze-thaw cycle is why moisture from rain, snow, ice, and water vapor can be so damaging to concrete and asphalt.
\r\n\r\nHere are the main ways that winter moisture can deteriorate your concrete or asphalt...
\r\n\r\nSnowfall can be damaging when it's allowed to build up or remain undisturbed on the pavement for an extended period of time.
\r\n\r\nNot only does the accumulated snow lead to staining from dirt or salt buildup, but the expanding of the concrete itself can also cause discoloration.
\r\n\r\nThis may seem insignificant and isn't a major issue for most people, but this is the first sign of damage in most cases.
\r\n\r\nCracking is one of the most obvious signs of damage in concrete and asphalt, and the easiest for people to spot.
\r\n\r\nIf the pavement is poorly mixed or designed, it's at an even greater risk of cracking during the winter months.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, when water is able to enter the pavement and freeze, that tensile pressure leads to micro-cracks which lead to larger, more visible cracks.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Should You Repair or Replace Cracks in Your Concrete Driveway?
\r\n\r\nScaling happens when thin top layers of the concrete start to peel, which look like small, paper-thin flakes. Light scaling shows small patches of flakes on the flatwork slab.
\r\n\r\nWhen the problem becomes severe, the concrete peels more deeply, exposing the various fine and coarse concrete aggregates within.
\r\n\r\nJust like with cracks, scaling problems are worsened by the use of certain de-icing chemicals, like salt.
\r\n\r\nSpalling is another common yet lesser-known issue that occurs with pavement in winter.
\r\n\r\nSpalling is the delamanation, or separation, of the substrate from cracked areas of the flatwork slab.
\r\n\r\nRebar corrosion caused by extensive exposure to moisture and the freeze-thaw cycle is the main culprit for spalling.
\r\n\r\nIf you leave your concrete in this delaminated condition, the damage can spread, affecting your property's overall value more and more over time.
\r\n\r\nAnother common sign of winter damage in pavement is when waves, hills, or dimples appear. This is a sign that the pavement has lifted.
\r\n\r\nThis is especially common in newer asphalt driveways, parking lots, and other surfaces when they experience their first freeze-thaw cycle.
\r\n\r\nIf the surface of your sidewalk has waves, dimples, or small “hills,” this could be a sign that the ground under your driveway has “lifted” during a freeze-thaw cycle.
\r\n\r\nLuckily, the asphalt can be leveled again in most cases.
\r\n\r\nIn severe cases or in the case of older concrete or asphalt, it's likely the pavement needs to be replaced rather than leveled.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nCaring properly for your concrete or asphalt will help keep it strong, durable, and looking its best for years to come.
\r\n\r\nTo protect your concrete from the dangers of winter, your best bet is to ensure it is properly sealed.
\r\n\r\nThe right high-quality sealant will protect your pavement from freezing temperatures, water, ice, snow, de-icing chemicals, etc.
\r\n\r\nHowever, we understand that this is easier said than done, because oftentimes, we buy our home with the driveway in its current condition and can only work with what we've got.
\r\n\r\nThe next step to preventing winter damage is to avoid the use of damaging de-icing agents.
\r\n\r\nAs salt melts the snow and ice on your pavement, the freezing point of that water is lowered, attracting even more moisture and continuing the damaging freeze-thaw cycle.
\r\n\r\nThe longer the freeze-thaw cycle continues, the more damage done to your pavement.
\r\n\r\nInstead of using salt or other chemical agents to melt the snow and ice on your property, we recommend snow plowing or shoveling whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nAnd not with just any shovel or plow, but ideally with one that is plastic or non-metal to prevent additional exterior damage.
\r\n\r\nKeeping snow and slush off your concrete and asphalt as much as possible will help to minimize risk of snow and water damage from the freeze-thaw cycle.
\r\n\r\nConcrete and cold weather do not mix. Unfortunately, your pavement could become heavily damaged if you don’t correctly seal your concrete and prepare for freezing temperatures and snowstorms. If you believe that your concrete is damaged beyond repair, make sure you reach out to local concrete and asphalt repair and replacement experts.
\r\n
\r\nNo matter what shape your concrete is in, they'll help it to look new again.
Freezing temperatures and moisture during winter months can wreak havoc on concrete and asphalt. Familiarize yourself with the freeze-thaw cycle of pavement as well as the best ways to prevent damage to your pavement in the future so it stays in good shape for as long as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-23T19:07:02+00:00"},{"id":"f0a2035f-1233-54ab-9d2f-93db97139d98","title":"Demolition vs. Renovation: Making the Right Choice for Your Property","url":"/blog/demolition-vs-renovation-making-the-right-choice-for-your-property","image":{"path":"/static/f5e62d448758432e1035166df43fa46c/house-demolition.jpg","alt":"house demolition by excavator"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"83024f3f-4e30-5f78-a6e4-1d4b56777d2e","name":"House Demolition","slug":"House-Demolition"},{"id":"9632726e-b98c-5b87-9a5f-7b759e247260","name":"House Renovation","slug":"House-Renovation"}],"content":"When it comes to improving or upgrading your property, the decision between demolition and renovation is one of the most critical choices you'll have to make.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBoth options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision can significantly impact your property's value, aesthetics, and functionality.
\r\n
In this article, we'll explore the key factors to consider when deciding between demolition and renovation, helping you make the right choice for your property.
\r\n\r\nThe current condition of your property is one of the most crucial factors to consider. If your property is in a state of disrepair, with extensive structural damage or significant safety concerns, demolition might be the only viable option. Renovating a severely deteriorated building can be costly and is less likely to yield a structurally sound or safe result.
\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, if your property is in relatively good condition and the issues are mainly cosmetic or related to outdated features, a renovation might be a more cost-effective and sustainable choice.
\r\n\r\n![\"interior](\"/static/75527e15cebc3cfbfd612e82a066882d/interior-remodel.jpg\")
\r\nBudget constraints are a major factor in the decision-making process.
\r\n\r\nDemolition can often be more expensive than renovation because it involves tearing down an existing structure and starting from scratch. Renovation, on the other hand, can be more budget-friendly, especially if the structural components of the building are in good shape. Renovations allow you to preserve parts of the existing structure, potentially saving on construction costs.
\r\n\r\nHowever, it's essential to consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term financial implications. Renovating an older building may lead to higher ongoing maintenance costs, while a new construction might offer more energy-efficient options, potentially reducing utility expenses.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"adding](\"/static/f282e2f8eeecc982392983e42102456e/renovating-addition-to-house.jpg\")
\r\nConsider your goals for the property. Your or your family's long-term goals play a significant role in determining whether to demolish a home or renovate it.
\r\n\r\nIf you plan to stay in the home for an extended period, renovating might be a more appealing option as it allows you to tailor the property to your specific needs and preferences. It can also be a sentimental choice, preserving the memories and character of the existing home.
\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, if you and your family intend to maximize the property's resale value or develop it for a different purpose in the long run, such as selling or renting it out, demolition and new construction may be the better choice, as it can provide a modern, marketable property that potentially yields a higher return on investment. Long-term goals are a crucial factor in aligning the decision with you and your family's future plans and objectives for the property.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\n![\"modern](\"/static/44175047077c29fda2ee9f4eaf0da22f/newly-remodeled-house.jpg\")
\r\nDesired aesthetics and functionality are fundamental factors in the decision to demolish or renovate a home.
\r\n\r\nIf a person values the existing architectural style, historical features, or sentimental aspects of their home and wishes to maintain its character, a renovation is typically the preferred choice. Renovation allows for customization while preserving the property's unique charm.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if the desired aesthetics and functionality require extensive changes that are not feasible within the existing structure, or if the current layout severely limits functionality, demolition and new construction offer a clean slate to achieve the envisioned aesthetics and functionality, allowing for a more tailored and efficient result. The choice ultimately depends on the balance between preserving existing character and creating the desired space.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: 3 Remodeling Projects That Improve Your Home’s Accessibility and Boost Its Value
\r\n\r\n![\"old](\"/static/51fb7916de9d0ebde5b5d37580cf645c/old-craftsman-style-house.jpg\")
\r\nIf a property holds historical significance or features unique architectural elements, there may be a strong incentive to preserve and restore it.
\r\n\r\nRenovation is often the preferred choice in such cases, as it allows for the retention of these valuable attributes, contributing to the cultural and historical heritage of the property and the surrounding area. Additionally, there may be legal or financial incentives in place, such as tax credits or grants, to encourage the preservation of historically significant buildings.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if the historical or architectural value is limited or can be replicated in a new structure, the decision may lean more toward demolition and new construction, especially if the existing structure is in poor condition or doesn't align with the desired functionality. Ultimately, the determination balances the value of preservation against the practicality of renovation.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: To Demolish or Not to Demolish: Historic Properties
\r\n\r\n![\"pile](\"/static/b2d674e9cb103002df3fea86c7f0c816/pile-of-demo-debris.jpg\")
\r\nEnvironmental concerns are increasingly important in decision-making regarding property improvements. Demolition typically generates a significant amount of waste and can have a negative impact on the environment. Deconstruction is a sustainable option, especially if there are a lot of salvageable materials in the home, but costs go up with deconstruction due to the additional labor.
\r\n\r\nRenovation, especially if done with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, can be a more environmentally responsible choice.
\r\n\r\nRenovating an existing structure can often be faster than demolishing and building anew, reducing the environmental impact associated with construction activities, too.
\r\n\r\nThe environmental impact plays a crucial role in the decision to demolish or renovate a home. Demolishing a structure generates a significant amount of waste and can have adverse environmental effects, including increased landfill use and resource consumption. Renovation, when approached with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, can be a more environmentally responsible choice. It often results in less waste and reduced carbon footprint, especially if the existing structure can be adapted to meet modern energy and resource efficiency standards.
\r\n\r\nMaking an informed choice between renovation and demolition involves considering the environmental impact and the opportunity to minimize the carbon footprint of the project while achieving the desired improvements to the property.
\r\n\r\nFind out more: Eco-Friendly House Demolition: Sustainability in Deconstruction and Recycling
\r\n\r\nZoning and building regulations have a significant impact on the decision to demolish or renovate a home. Local zoning laws can restrict or prohibit certain types of construction, and building regulations dictate the permissible modifications to existing structures. Some areas have strict zoning laws that might make it difficult to demolish and rebuild, while others may have incentives or more lenient regulations for renovations.
\r\n\r\nIf the existing home doesn't conform to current zoning or doesn't allow for the desired renovations within the regulations, demolition and new construction may be the only viable option. On the other hand, if the existing structure complies with zoning and regulations and the renovations align with these requirements, renovation is often a more straightforward and cost-effective choice, as it avoids potential legal hurdles and permitting complications. Compliance with these rules is a critical factor in determining the feasibility and legality of the project.
\r\n\r\nBefore making your decision, it's essential to consult with local authorities and understand the legal implications of your choice.
\r\n\r\nThe decision between demolition and renovation is a complex one that depends on various factors, including the condition of the existing structure, budget, historical significance, environmental considerations, zoning regulations, long-term goals, and aesthetic preferences. It's crucial to carefully assess these factors and consult with professionals, like contractors and architects, to make an informed decision.
\r\n
\r\nThe right choice for your property will ultimately depend on your unique circumstances and objectives, so take your time to weigh the pros and cons before moving forward with your project, and be sure to obtain multiple quotes from local contractors to be sure you hire the best person for the job. Hometown streamlines this process by making it easy to request multiple free quotes with the click of a button, get answers to common demolition questions, and read verified customer reviews.
Explore the key factors to consider when deciding whether to demolish or renovate a home or business so you can be sure you make the right choice for your property.
\r\n","changed":"2023-11-03T12:14:22+00:00"},{"id":"4622b40d-c067-5272-a0fa-b8de79044ebd","title":"5 Ideas for Small Bathroom Remodels","url":"/blog/5-ideas-for-small-bathroom-remodels","image":{"path":"/static/1bb593f6e320d49e197b70b8ac0d6cc7/small-bathroom-remodel.png","alt":"newly remodeled small bathroom"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"3007a8c6-f2be-5af5-8d94-7453437fd623","name":"Bathroom Remodeling","slug":"Bathroom-Remodeling"},{"id":"779dd327-3faf-5e04-87cb-8d3b5ba1ed23","name":"Home Remodeling","slug":"Home-Remodeling"}],"content":"If you're hoping to open up your small bathroom space, you've come to the right place.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSmall bathrooms can really cramp the style of those who live there, which is why creating a more open and organized bathroom space is a high priority for millions of people.
\r\n
In this guide, we'll go over our 5 favorite ideas for small bathroom remodel projects that make the space feel more spacious.
\r\n\r\nTurning your bathtub and/or traditional shower into a wet room instantly makes your bathroom feel bigger, even if the footprint itself stays the same.
\r\n\r\nWith a glass partition (or none at all), light flows more easily and the eye is able to freely move around the room without any obstructions, making it appear bigger.
\r\n\r\nThey also make the room more universally accessible for people of all abilities, which is a major plus.
\r\n\r\nThe seamless nature of wet rooms also allows you to create the exact look you're going for while blending it into the aesthetics of the surrounding room.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWalk-in wet-room style showers are far from your only option when trying to achieve a more spacious feel in your bathroom.
\r\n\r\nCloth shower curtains are easy to install and allow you to choose a color, pattern, and texture that suits your bathroom's aesthetic.
\r\n\r\nAnd by using an extra-tall curtain and raising your curtain rod, your walls will appear elongated and your room more elegant.
\r\n\r\nGlass doors are another fantastic option, and they don't have to be boring.
\r\n\r\nA barely-there glass enclosure or a French-inspired paned shower door are popular options.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"painting](\"/static/c71096dad9227222c6f8438c2a85ff98/painting-with-light-colors.png\")
\r\nChoosing paint in lighter shades within a single color family will help a small room feel larger.
\r\n\r\nMatching the floor tile to the wall will further elongate the room and give the sense of more space.
\r\n\r\nFill your bathroom with as much natural light as you can and utilize timeless neutral hues to maximize the space and future resale value potential.
\r\n\r\nOn the flip side: You could opt for a bold, dark hue throughout the room. Some experts swear it has the same illusion as lighter colors.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo help with filling your space with natural light, it's not always easy to expand or install a new window or add a sunlight.
\r\n\r\nA quick fix is to add a larger mirror (or multiple mirrors) to the space to give the illusion of a bigger room.
\r\n\r\nFloor-to-ceiling mirrors are beautiful and can really make a small bathroom pop.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMoving around in a tight bathroom is a pain, and protruding cabinet hardware can cause even more of an obstacle in an already cramped space.
\r\n\r\nA quick way to \"open things up\" is using cabinet drawers that spring open or have a subtle lip or pull.
\r\n\r\nIf you want to stick with your existing cabinets, just swap out the hardware for something that is sleek and minimal.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"mixed](\"/static/1acf5155605df339474eb7c29afa6c6c/mixed-materials-in-bathroom.png\")
\r\nAs previously mentioned, a neutral, lighter color palette tends to open up a bathroom space the most, but that doesn't mean everything has to be stark white and boring.
\r\n\r\nMix up the classic white, cream, grays, and blacks with different materials, shapes, and textures that give the bathroom more depth and interest.
\r\n\r\nGlossy subway tiles paired with matte fixtures and eggshell walls really creates dimension in an otherwise small space.
\r\n\r\nAdd a jute rug, wood accents, and fresh linens to bring natural elements into the space that complement one another nicely.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nCreating a more open and organized bathroom space is a high priority for millions of people. In this guide, we'll go over our 5 favorite ideas for small bathroom remodel projects that make the space feel more spacious.
\r\n","changed":"2022-08-11T17:14:40+00:00"}],"code":"demolition","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndemolitioncontractors.com","site":"demolition","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"blogPages"}}}, "staticQueryHashes": []}