Choosing the Optimum Shower for Your Virginia Bathroom Remodeling Project

Showers provide a cosy location to unwind or an efficient space to get ready for your day. Your Virginia bathroom remodeling project should include the ideal shower, tailored to your tastes, space and budget. But how do you find this vital bathroom fixture? Start by learning the ropes and browse until you come across a unit that fits your home renovation plans.

Measure Your Space

Jot down the details of your floor plan, including the available space (length and width of the room, as well as ceiling height) and location of other bathroom fixtures. Note any obstacles, such as windows, doorframes, floor vents and bulkheads, that cannot be easily moved. Your new shower should fit well into that space, although some models can incorporate obstacles.
Consider whether or not you’re willing to relocate plumbing or knock down walls. If this isn’t an option, be sure to note the measurements and take them along when shopping for the ideal model. Finding a shower that suits without any alterations is more challenging, but entirely possible with the proper information at hand.

Discover the Different Types of Shower Stalls

Think about the purpose of your new Virginia bathroom. Is it a secondary bathroom for guests or overflow, an updated family bath or a luxurious master ensuite? Nailing down the purpose helps you to choose the ideal types of shower stall.
The most common types include:

• One- or Two-Piece Poly Shower Stalls – much like a tub/shower combo, these units come with durable, low maintenance shower walls made of polyvinyl. They are mounted into wall framing and trimmed to create a built-in look. You can find one- or two-piece shower stalls in a wide range of sizes, some with molded benches and most with molded storage shelves and bars.
• Neo-angle Showers – these triangular showers fit well into a corner and sport glass walls in a strong aluminum frame. Some come with frosted glass; others are clear. All have an open top, molded shower tray and polyvinyl walls along the back.
• Glass Shower Enclosures – these modern shower stalls come in frameless or framed designs, with clear or frosted glass walls. They are often installed against a tiled wall and tiled shower floor and can easily incorporate benches, shelving and other shower features to make your Virginia bathroom remodeling project more valuable.

Choose the shower type that best suits your remodeling style and the room’s scale. A smaller one- or two-piece shower stall or neo-angle shower works well in a secondary bathroom with limited space, but a well designed glass shower enclosure completes your modern bathroom with flair.

Choose Your Showerhead

The right showerhead adds a layer of luxury and indulgence to your new shower. Will be opt for the standard fixed showerhead or install a dual system for better coverage? Perhaps a handheld showerhead will help you get kids and pets washed quickly without making a mess. Or maybe you prefer the natural feeling of a rainfall showerhead, mimicking the wide spray and heavy drops of rainfall.
Vertical shower spas provide the ultimate experience, with body jets, a high end fixed showerhead and a flexible handheld hose for those hard to reach spots. Opt for a model with programmable settings to make morning faster and more enjoyable.
Homeowners need to include the perfect shower in their Virginia bathroom remodeling project, making this space more comfortable and more practical. Take the time to find your ideal shower and consider it an investment—this is one bathroom fixture that you want to get right.

Should You Use Engineered Wood for Your Northern Virginia Siding Project?

Replacing your Northern Virginia siding can be an expensive project. Many homeowners tackling this home improvement are looking for affordable options that deliver the same level of durability and visual appeal of traditional siding products. Engineered wood siding offers homeowners a familiar look and relatively good quality, but most people are initially attracted to the lower price.
Compared to traditional solid wood siding, engineered wood is more affordable. You’ll find many of the same patterns and styles across a wide range of manufacturers, including TruWood and SmartSide. But how does this man-made product stack up against the natural strength and durability found in traditional wood siding? Would you be better to make the switch to vinyl siding and enjoy a maintenance-free solution?
How Is Engineered Wood Siding Made?
Manufacturers combine wood by-products, such as sawdust, chips and flakes, with adhesive to make textured sheets of engineered wood siding in various styles. Both vertical and horizontal designs are available, and the appearance mimics wood species traditionally used for siding including cedar, pine and redwood.
Engineered wood siding goes up quickly, reducing the labor costs of your Northern Virginia siding project. It may or may not offer the same level of insulation that traditional wood does, but engineered wood can be easily installed over various insulation products.
Maintenance Specifications
Just like traditional wood, engineered wood siding will require a coat of paint or stain every five to ten years. It’s difficult to sand down and refinish, so be sure to choose a finish color and stick with that. Some brands come pre-finished from the factory, but that finish will fade and wear away with time. Repainting helps to extends the life of this product, as well as keeping the appearance fresh and clean.
The biggest issue with engineered wood siding is moisture. Because this product contains wood by-products that tend to absorb moisture, as well as adhesives that may breakdown in moisture, you may run into difficulty with excessive exposure. Paints and stains repel rain, snow and sleet, but if engineered wood siding is left in standing water it will deteriorate and create serious problems.
Proper installation remains the most important factor when choosing this type of siding. Ask your siding contractor whether they have dealt with engineered products before, and be sure their installation procedures follow the manufacturer’s direction. Hire a company that offers a solid warranty on the installation, as well as good warranty coverage on the product.
Engineered wood siding provides value for the money. Costs are similar to fiber cement board siding and vinyl siding products, but engineered wood offers a more rustic, traditional appeal. If you are longing for that look but cannot afford to invest in traditional wood, a high quality engineered siding product may be right for you. Be aware of the maintenance required and hire an experienced installer.
For a more solid product with a longer lifespan and less chance of damage, opt for solid wood siding or consider installing vinyl Northern Virginia siding. In any case, do your homework before making a final decision and you’re bound to be happier with the final product.

Why Homeowners Need Responsive Virginia General Contractors

Renovations include countless small tasks that come together to form a brand new space within your home. And any of those small jobs can get complicated. Responsive Virginia general contractors work hard to communicate with homeowners and tackle every problem efficiently with the customer’s satisfaction in mind.

Why is Responsiveness an Important Trait in a General Contractor?

Most people hire a general contracting firm to take care of major home renovations like kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovations, roofing, siding and deck construction. These projects must be handled carefully from the design stage to completion, including all of the many steps in between. General contractors have the skills and knowledge to manage these projects well.
Do you really need to be in constant communication with the contractor throughout your project? Maybe not, but it’s important to hire a contracting firm you can trust with your home.
Look for a contractor dedicated to customer service and willing to talk with and listen to their customers. Make sure they’re willing to take the time to meet with you regularly, going over the details of the project and answering any questions or concerns that you have.
Unresponsive contractors leave their clients guessing in terms of scheduling, pricing, and even warranty issues. You’re bound to find it frustrating when your phone calls and emails go unanswered. This is especially true if the contractor does not have an office or showroom you can visit.
Clients also want their contractor to maintain good communication with subtrades, suppliers and the local building department. This helps keep your project moving along quickly. If the company has a track record of responsiveness you can be confident that they’ll stay in touch with all of those involved in the job.

How Virginia General Contractors Should Communicate

Does your preferred contractor have a cell phone, and are they willing to provide you with that number? Can you contact them in the evenings or on the weekend with questions and issues? If not, can you rely on them to respond to phone messages or emails within a reasonable time frame?
Good communication skills also mean clear and consistent paperwork. Did your general contractor provide you with a detailed estimate of the project and/or an easy to read design? When the project is done experienced contractors will provide a thorough bill detailing any extras, deposits, and draws on the project. They should also offer documentation that spells out your warranty coverage.
You can gauge the responsiveness of a general contractor by following a few easy steps. Be sure to ask for references and give those past clients a call. Ask them whether the contractor stayed in touch and how often.
It’s a good idea to check with the local Better Business Bureau as well. This organization records customer disputes and the contractor’s response, allowing you to check their track record in just a few minutes. Find out whether the contractor is involved in any local construction associations as well.
Responsive Virginia general contractors will make your home improvement project run smoothly. You’ll still need to compare price, experience and relational skills, but the contractor’s level of responsiveness is important to your level of satisfaction with the renovation.

Finding the Best Virginia Home Improvement Contractors

If you wouldn’t let just any doctor give you a check up, why would you let just any old Virginia home improvement contractor work on your home? This building is your family’s haven, a place that needs to feel comfortable and dependable at all times. Home improvements can take a good home and make it even better, but only if the company hired has the characteristics of the very best contractors this state has to offer.
Experience Goes a Long Way
Back on the doctor analogy, how do you feel when an intern is taking care of you? That’s similar to an apprentice or inexperienced handyman working at your home. You want someone who knows what they’re doing, a contractor that has worked in your neighborhood, seen many different conditions and successfully completed countless other projects.
That sort of experience is truly irreplaceable. Look for a company that is established and has a list of satisfied customers you can contact yourself for a reference. When the home improvements are substantial in scope and budget, be sure to actually check those references and make your decision about which Virginia contractor to use based on what you find out.
Communication is the Linch Pin
One of the most important characteristics about the best Virginia home improvement contractors is their ability to both listen and communicate. Let’s say you are remodeling the kitchen or bathroom and your contractor has not taken the time (or was not willing) to listen to the specific needs of your family. The result will be a substandard finish that doesn’t accurately reflect who you are and what you need in your home.
Be sure your home improvement contractor is available. Ask for their cell phone numbers and don’t be afraid to call them when a question or concerns arise. If the contractor is unwilling to give out their cell number or isn’t available for long stretches of time, you’re best to move on and go with someone else.
The idea of communicating with the contractor is really best for both parties – It allows the customer to get exactly what they want and lets the contractor eliminate the need to guess.
Word of Mouth
The easiest and most successful way of finding the best Virginia home improvement contractors is by word of mouth. Admiring your friend’s new siding replacement? Ask him who installed it and whether he was happy with the service provided. Is your neighbor boasting about the money she’s saving after replacing her windows? Find out who did the job and whether everything went smoothly. This type of research is generally easy and will help you find a contractor that will do the job right the first time.
No one is perfect and you may hear a negative report about the Virginia contractor you were considering hiring. Investigate the situation and if you feel comfortable about it, ask the contractor for their side the story. You may find out that the company did everything they could and that outside circumstances had more to do with the problem than anything else.
When you’re tackling a Virginia home improvement it’s essential that you find a quality contractor to help you out. Take advantage of experience and always work with some one you can talk to. A relationship of mutual respect is very important. Start with the names you can gather from word of mouth and go from there. You’re sure to come across a top-notch company and be able to get started on the project of your dreams.

Three Stages of Virginia Bathroom Remodeling Projects

Freshening up your bathroom involves a certain amount of work and investment, but not all Virginia bathroom remodeling projects require major chunks of time and money. Consider these three stages of bathroom renovations to pinpoint your goals and take off on the ideal course of action.

On the Surface

Many homeowners are happy with the general layout of their bathroom, including the location of major fixtures like tub, shower, toilet and sink. Is the size of your bathroom adequate for your family’s needs? Does traffic flow through the room smoothly? These conditions make surface alterations the most sensible choice.
Projects involved in this Virginia bathroom remodeling stage often cover or replace the existing elements. This type of reno tends to cost less and can be completed within a fairly short period of time, or spread out in stages without interrupting daily life. When you want to improve the look and feel of your bathroom, consider these surface renovation projects:

• repaint the walls, trim and door
• hang new mirrors and art work
• choose new light fixtures and window treatments
• change the shower curtain
• add storage units and shelves
• reface the existing vanity or change hardware and drawer pulls
• replace the existing countertop
• replace bath mats, towels and bathroom accessories

Layout Modifications

Perhaps the size of your bathroom works, and the structural framing and walls remain stable and in good condition. But when surface alterations do not address traffic flow issues and you’re dreaming of new bathroom fixtures, your home improvement project needs to move to the next level.
Any alterations or replacement of the existing bathroom fixtures will push the price of this renovation up. But you’ll end up with a more functional room and newer fixtures. When you need to update or move bathroom fixtures consider these layout modification projects:

• install new soaker tub and shower enclosure to replace existing tub/shower combo
• move toilet
• install bidet or low-flow toilet
• install double sink or move the existing sink
• replace the vanity
• upgrade to frameless shower enclosure
• upgrade to a countertop vessel sink

Complete Bathroom Remodel

Rotten framing, moldy drywall and water-damaged flooring need to be removed before any other renovations can begin. Bathroom expansions also require major demolition and framing work, including installation of new doors and windows. Gutting your bathroom is a major undertaking and requires careful planning, a big budget and the help of an experienced contractor.
Make sure you have access to another bathroom during complete renovations, as this work takes time. Fixtures need to be removed entirely while the flooring, framing and walls are replaced or repaired. Tiling is another time-consuming part of the project.
When moisture problems arise or your bathroom needs to be expanded complete renovations are the wisest course of action. Think about planning for these elements of a major bathroom renovation:

• enlarge the bathroom to include a separate shower & tub or double sink
• add another window or skylight
• transform the bathroom into a cheater ensuite with a new door
• replace rotted flooring, framing, ceiling and drywall
• retile the existing shower

What level of bathroom renovations are you dreaming about? Budget, timeline and construction options depend on what stage of Virginia bathroom remodeling you’re planning. Consider your vision and get moving on this home improvement adventure.

How Northern Virginia Additions Affordably Expand Your Living Space

You love your home, but maybe those cramped spaces are becoming a problem and you’ve been considering a move. Perhaps your growing family requires more space or your home business is taking up too much room. Think beyond the current state of the housing market and consider how Northern Virginia additions can help expand your living space affordably and efficiently.

Home Additions Cost Much Less Than a New Home

Compare the time and expenses of moving with the time and expenses of a home addition project. Assuming you’re happy with your neighborhood and the structure of your home, adding to your home costs much less than constructing a new one.
Moving incurs many costs, including legal fees, taxes, real estate agent fees and other miscellaneous expenses. Hidden costs and super-tight budgets create serious stress during a move. Although home improvements come with a significant amount of costs and stresses as well, you’re likely to find a better level of control with an experienced contractor on your side.
Planning for Northern Virginia additions means working with familiar factors. You’ve probably lived in your house for some time, and know what to expect from the soil, neighborhood and structure. Pull out the maintenance history for clues to would-be issues and talk to contractors that have worked at your home in the past. These measures help you to reduce the likelihood of unpleasant surprises and additional costs creeping up during the process.

Dealing With Market Volatility

You may be able to nab a great deal on property in the current real estate market, but those conditions also affect the asking price of your current home. Will you realistically be able to recoup all of the investments you’ve made in your property? Or will you need to take a loss to make the move?
Professional real estate agents can help you to find the right sized home within your preferred area, but prices are dictated by market demand and you may end up paying out more than you have realized from your existing home. Although the cost of building materials and contractors does fluctuate with time, there is more certainty. The industry is somewhat predictable and much steadier than the housing market, making accurate home addition budgets possible to prepare, even months beforehand.

Daily Life Carries On

In most cases homeowners can continue on with daily life during a home addition project. Depending on the rooms affected by demolition and construction, you may need to relocate certain furniture or handle your day-to-day tasks differently, but for the most part life goes on. Careful planning helps reduce relocation costs.
Some home addition projects may be tax deductible, such as building a home office or commercially equipped kitchen. This helps to defray costs even further, putting more money back into your pocket while expanding your living space.
Assess the condition of your current home. Is it structurally sound with a basic layout that suits your family? Do your appreciate the view from your yard and the benefits of your neighborhood? Is the commute to and from work manageable, with schools, shopping and professional services close enough for your convenience?
If the main issue with your current home has more to do with space and less to do with structure and location, home additions present an affordable option. Be sure to investigate the possibility of Northern Virginia additions before contacting your real estate agent. You may be surprised at how affordable this option can be.

Top Northern Virginia Basement Remodeling Designs for Families

Finished basements add valuable living space for a reasonable cost, a combination that appeals to growing families in a big way. Are you looking to create more room without breaking the bank? These Northern Virginia basement remodeling designs for families make a little below-grade space go a long way.

Move the Play Room Downstairs

Kids have toys, and throughout the course of each day those toys inevitably end up on the floor. Why not create a more comfortable main floor by moving toys to a dedicated spot downstairs?
This basement remodeling project includes a wide open space finished with durable walls, carpeting and plenty of storage. Think drywall covered with semi-gloss paint, easily cleaned and simple to paint over later. Build closet space into the room to give those toys a home, or simply use shelves and toy boxes to keep the area tidy.
Install berber carpet or something with similar levels of durability. Stain resistant brands are well worth any extra cost, and be sure to ask about closed cell underlayment. This product provides sound and heat insulation, as well as providing a moisture barrier to reduce mold and mildew in the basement.

Games for the Whole Family

No matter the age of your children, families love playing games together. And having an area dedicated to this type of family time makes it convenient to have fun together, even at a moment’s notice.
Install engineered wood flooring over a level subfloor, perfect for the pool table and air hockey table. Include room for seating and storage of the billiard equipment, as well as bright lighting to make game play easier. Natural lighting is important as well; you might consider enlarging the windows or installing a sliding patio door to create a brighter atmosphere in the basement.
If video games are your family’s favorite, make room for a flat screen television and an entertainment console with the latest gaming systems tucked inside. If board games are up your alley, set up large tables with plenty of extra seating and shelving to store your preferred games.

Create a Teen Hangout

While your teens may be happy hanging out just about anywhere, why not create a comfortable, inviting place with your Northern Virginia basement remodeling project? This area should include an entertainment center, complete with computer station, telephones and plenty of durable seating for a crowd.
Think about creating bedrooms downstairs as well, to allow your teens the privacy they crave. Always be sure the windows are large enough to be considered a fire escape and take pains to make the basement dry and odor-free. Your teen will appreciate having their own space, and if their bedrooms are close to an all-purpose hang out area complete with TV and computer, you may have to food or car keys to coax them upstairs.
For some families multiple rooms might suit this layout better. Leave the main area open to the upstairs, allowing minimal supervision and a more inviting atmosphere. And a bathroom with another shower is a must with teens living in the space.
However you design this Northern Virginia basement remodeling project, be sure to cater to your family’s lifestyle. Basement renovations are a fantastic value and can be easily and affordably altered as family dynamics change. Right now, make the most of your space with a finished basement custom made for your family.

Why Hire Virginia Deck Builders When You Can DIY?

Warmer weather draws us into the backyard, and a beautiful new deck would provide the perfect space for relaxation and outdoor entertainment. Many homeowners wonder whether they need to hire professional Virginia deck builders when DIY deck building is so popular.
Are you considering building a deck this summer? Find out why it may be wiser (and cheaper) to hire the pros for this particular backyard project.

The Importance of Posts and Framing

Setting solid deck posts and constructing a stable deck frame are essential for durable, safe decks. Although the big box building supply store may offer deck blocks – floating piers made to hold 4×4 deck posts – these products won’t always offer the support your deck requires.
Concrete deck piers set well below the frost line provide adequate support for any size deck. Are you prepared to dig several footings that deep – as much as 48-inches down?
Mixing the concrete is a chore as well. Many DIY enthusiasts are surprised by the difficulty of setting deck posts. Virginia deck builders have the equipment and skills to make short work of your deck posts. Efficient and affordable, you can always be sure that deck posts installed by the pros are deep and solid.
Constructing a stable frame involves precise measuring and assembly. All the weight of your deck will sit on this frame, and strong fasteners must be used to ensure safety and durability. Beams are mounted to the posts, and a series of joists are nailed or screwed together to sit on top of those joists.
Blocking and hardware connect the deck frame together, and all local building codes must be taken into account. This stage tends to be the most complicated, and can mean the difference between a steady deck and an unstable surface. Professionals have the experience to design and construct a solid deck frame on any property.

Railings and Stairs

Assembling and installing deck railing takes a fair bit of time. Wood railing posts must be mounted to the deck frame, while aluminum railing posts are available with surface mounting brackets. Composite railing products often come with post sleeves that fit carefully over an existing wood railing post.
Professional deck builders know exactly how to assemble and construct deck railings for optimum safety. Maintain a clear view with tempered glass railing and make the deck secure with railing gates at the top of your stairs and across any entrances. Post spacing and picket spacing need to be properly calculated, and sleepers under the bottom rails will prevent sagging. Dress up your deck with a well designed railing installed by the pros.
Longer sets of deck stairs are built using traditional stair stringers made from wood or metal. Small box steps (one step down) are simple to construct, but can’t be used on decks more than 1-foot off the ground. Professional deck contractors know all building codes governing the height of stair rises and width of the run, ensuring your new deck stairs are safe and comfortable. DIY enthusiasts have access to that information, but deciphering, calculating and constructing properly built stairs takes time and practice.
If you want to invest in a beautiful deck that adds value to your home and lifestyle, call your local Virginia deck builders for a quotation. Create the ideal backyard living space with the help of the pros, and let your DIY passions loose on another project.

Top Five Questions to Ask When Hiring a Deck Builder

Expand your living space with an outdoor family room, kitchen or dining area expertly designed and built by an experienced contractor. Virginia homeowners need to hire the right deck builder to maximize their investment and these five questions will help to narrow down the competition, making the hiring process easier.
For quick side-by-side comparisons, write down each contractor’s answers to the following questions:

# 1 – How Long Have You Been In Business?

Experienced Virginia deck builders have the construction knowledge and design expertise your project deserves. Why spend your hard earned money to provide training for a new contractor? Invest in a deck builder that has worked in the local area for years.
Experienced companies can also supply a list of current references. Check those references, and pay careful attention to recent customers as well as past clients. This range allows you to form an accurate overall picture of the contractor’s experience.

# 2 – Will You Send Qualified and Trained Workers to Build My Deck?

Even the most established companies need to hire new staff, but try to arrange for an experienced employee to supervise your project. This ensures that complications and unforeseen circumstances are handled efficiently and with professionalism.
Ask for the lead hand’s name, if possible, and introduce yourself when the crew arrives. This establishes a good working relationship and sets a pattern for polite, upfront communication throughout your project.

# 3 – What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Materials and Workmanship?

Many decking contractors have warranties, but you’ll need the details of this coverage to properly compare one deck builder to another. Does their warranty cover faulty workmanship and inferior materials? What type of quality controls are in place? And how long does the warranty last?
Find out the procedure for warranty claims, and check with the local Better Business Bureau to uncover the company’s history and customer service record. You want to hire an experienced deck builder that will provide professional designs, top quality materials and skilled installation, but stay away from companies with poor service records. Hiring a reliable contractor is a wise investment.

# 4 – What Design Ideas Do You Have For My Yard?

Even if you have a clear deck design in mind, ask for advice and recommendations. An experienced, skilled contractor can offer insight and point out problems you may have overlooked. For those who need direction on design and/or material selection, this question helps to uncover the contractor with a similar vision and taste.
Consider how each deck builder presents their vision. Some will leave you with a detailed sketch, while others opt for computer designs. Hire a contractor that provides a professional presentation, since the initial design and quotation act as a fair representation of the finished product.

# 5 – What Kind of Pricing Can You Offer?

This question often comes up first. But remember that your deck will be an extension of the family’s living space. It’s worthwhile to invest in an experience professional offering a solid warranty, helpful insights and a winning design. Price should only be considered once you’ve established the above criteria.
Be sure to arrange for at least three quotes on your new deck, and compare the answers that each contractor provides. Hire the ideal deck builder to ensure your outdoor living space is well designed, expertly built and reasonably priced. And then get ready to enjoy the warm weather on your new deck.

Ceiling Options for Your Virginia Basement Remodeling Project

You have a long list of decisions to make when planning your Virginia basement remodel, including important room elements like flooring, wall finishes and layout. Ceiling options may be a low priority in terms of design, but the right basement ceiling can create a more comfortable space, reduce noise and make future repairs much easier. Find out what type of ceiling is best for your finished basement.

Option # 1 – Drywall Ceiling

The most affordable and fast option for your basement ceiling is drywall. Finish the ceiling while you’re mudding, sanding and painting the walls for a smooth, uniform look. Drywall costs less per square foot than other basement ceiling options, and goes up quickly with a skilled professional on the job.
Drywall also provides the flexibility most renovators need in a finished basement. Want to cover over that ductwork? Build a bulkhead using wood framing and drywall to create an attractive finish that can be easily painted out. Drywall allows you to create rounded corners, archways and oddly shaped walls as well – with a bucket of drywall mud and some patience, almost any area of your basement can be nicely finished in drywall.

Option # 2 – Drop Ceiling

Although drywall is affordable and adaptable, it’s also permanent. Once the drywall is up you won’t be able to access the areas behind to tackle repairs, run wiring or add any mechanical elements. Drop ceilings provide you with a smooth finish and allow for fast, easy access at any time.
Most drop ceiling systems consist of steel channels and fiberglass panels. Mount the channels to the wood framing to create a grid pattern that matches your panel selection. Once the grid is up, panels simply drop into place to finish the ceiling in your Virginia basement remodel.
Drop ceiling panels come in a wide range of patterns, sizes and colors. You can also invest in insulated panels for a soundproof area, perfect for home theaters and kid’s playrooms. Lighting is mounted to the wood framing above the grid, and panel cut outs are used to direct fixtures into the finished basement space.

Option # 3 – Wood Paneling

A favorite option for budget-conscious renovators, wood paneling can be attached directly to ceiling joists for an architecturally interesting, inexpensive finish. You’ll find that noise and heat pass easily through this type of basement ceiling, although fiberglass batting can be added to the joists above for slightly better insulation.
This type of ceiling must be trimmed around the edges for an attractive finish, and seams can warp over time, exposing an unsightly gap. Consider brad nailing flat trim along the seams and putting up crown molding around the room for a more finished appearance. Trim must also be installed around light fixtures and any hooks or ceiling-mounted items.
You have several ceiling options to consider when designing your Virginia basement remodel. From fast and affordable drywall to easily accessible drop ceilings and budget-friendly wood paneling, your choice depends on needs, cost and desired appearance. Talk to your contractor about the best ceiling design and research your options carefully before making the final decision.

Top Questions on Home Additions Virginia Residents Need to Ask

Building a home addition creates extra space, improved comfort and enhanced lifestyle. But well built projects require planning and careful design. Check out these top questions on home additions Virginia residents need to ask to ensure quality construction and top-notch finish.

# 1 – Where Can You Build?

Several restrictions may limit the location of your home addition. Local bylaws present limitations to the setback and height of the structure. Setback restrictions state how much the addition can encroach on your property lines, while height restrictions dictate the overall height allowed, including all roof peaks and chimneys.
Talk to the officials at your local municipality. You’ll need to establish a good relationship with these folks, since all building permits and inspections will flow through the local municipality office. Using the information provided regarding setbacks and height restrictions, figure out where you can build the proposed addition.

# 2 – What Features Do You Want to Add to Your Current Living Space?

Experts advise Virginia residents to make a “wish list” containing a vision for their home once the addition is complete. This should include things like:

• fourth bedroom
• extra space for the kids to play
• home office
• larger kitchen
• ensuite bathroom or additional bathroom
• family room extension
• sunroom

Write down the features you’re hoping to end up with, and make notes on how you want the space to feel. Looking for “bright and airy” rooms? Make sure the addition includes large windows and well-ventilated areas with high ceilings. Want the new space to feel cozy and quaint? Consider a fireplace, hardwood floors and built in bookshelves for storage.

# 3 – How Will You Contend With the Existing Grade?

Some Virginia properties include steep grades, and building a home addition on this area requires the proper support. You may be able to install retaining walls to change the grade or design stacking additions that take advantage of your existing foundation.
Think about how contrasting angles can create an attractive layout and avoid or lessen potential grading issues. Virginia home additions that jut out from the main façade can improve visual appeal, especially on traditional colonial homes popular in this region.

# 4 – Should You Match the Existing Exterior Finish?

Older homes present beautiful wood siding or stunning brickwork facades. These exterior finishes may be difficult to match exactly, while contrasting or complementing finishes often fit better into the budget and schedule. Think about installing stonework veneer on the addition to your sided home, or use low maintenance vinyl siding in the same tones as your brickwork for an affordable home addition.

# 5 – Should You Match the Existing Roofline?

Although installing contrasting exterior finishes works well, you need to match the existing roofline for continuity and visual appeal. Ask your contractor or architect to mimic the roofline, using angles, dormers and gables that fit into the existing structure. No matter what your addition includes, create a flowing roofline to ensure the overall design works well.
You’ll more than likely be faced with a long list of questions on home additions Virginia contractors need to ask for a successful project. But these questions help you to formulate the design well before signing any contracts. With this information on hand you can confidently move forward with your home additions dream.

Tips on Virginia Bathroom Remodeling in Tight Spaces

Homeowners often want to add bathrooms in tight spaces, altering the master bedroom closet or converting a corner of the foyer, laundry room or main hallway to include a powder room. But creating a comfortable, functional room captures the full value of your Virginia bathroom remodeling project.
Find out how to optimize space and maximize design with these helpful tips.

Choose Fixtures Carefully

Out of scale bathroom fixtures, such as those that are too large for the room, create a crowded, unbalanced space. Shop for the ideal fixtures to design a small bathroom that feels spacious.

• Toilets – this essential element of your bathroom remodel should be sleek and compact, with a narrow bowl and high tank. Look for adaptable waste outlets that give you options for location and drainage. It’s most efficient to have the waste drain vertically, although some styles opt for horizontal or sideways outlets.
• Sinks and Vanities – powder rooms work well with pedestal sinks, but vanities provide much needed storage space. Look for wall-mounted models with half-cabinet vanities, or opt for a compact pedestal sink and separate storage unit.
• Showers or Baths – most small bathrooms provide limited floor space, making it difficult to squeeze in a shower or tub. Check out narrow shower stalls or consider stealing a few feet from an adjoining room to accommodate a modest tub combo, making your new room a more functional three-piece bath.

Consider Design and Flow

Start by choosing fixtures made to optimize space, such as space saving sinks, vanities, toilets and shower enclosures. The next step involves creating a floor plan that utilizes available space and maximizes flow.
Consider how the door and windows open, and adjust if necessary. You can gain more space with a pocket door or by swinging the door out into the adjoining room. This renovation eliminates the need for excessive open floor space in your small bathroom. Fit privacy glass into your windows to maintain a bright atmosphere without worrying about the neighbors.
Utilize available space in creative ways. Hang towel racks from the vanity and install tall and narrow storage units flush against the ceiling. Over-the-toilet shelving units are popular in small bathrooms as well, making use of a space traditionally left empty.

Modern Makes Sense

Even if your tastes lean toward traditional and decorative features, it makes sense to design your Virginia bathroom remodeling project with a more modern appeal. Contemporary bathroom fixtures and furniture tend to be sleek and compact. Wall-mounted vanities and toilets create a sense of openness, and minimalist styling helps to make the most of limited space.
Dress up modern rooms with traditional or classic artwork and accessories, if you like. But take advantage of today’s styles to create a functional, attractive bathroom in a relatively small area.
Add another bathroom or renovate an existing bath, even with limited space, using these tips and ideas. Choose fixtures wisely, think about design and flow and opt for modern styles for your Virginia bathroom remodeling project. Improve your lifestyle and property value with a beautiful, functional bathroom that takes advantage of a small area.