NOT FOUND: contractorscorner.jpg.jpgNew flooring was recently installed in my home and the change it made to the rooms was amazing. We removed the family room carpet and the vinyl floor of the attached kitchen and replaced it with floating laminate. Not realizing that it would have such big change to the feel of these rooms, my wife was pleasantly surprised. It is amazing how much bigger the kitchen and family room appear.
Another unexpected surprise was the addition of the white baseboards. The color of the walls is an off white and the new baseboards are painted white. The contrast makes it look like we just painted the rooms. Because my brother was the installing contractor, we felt confident enough to go away on vacation during the project, which turned out to be a very good decision, especially since we have a very curious and active toddler who always wants to “help”.
I like to mention that if you have a good relationship with your contractor or are having a trustworthy friend do the work of your project, schedule a vacation or take a day trip during the time the work is being done. It prevents you from seeing the mess involved in tearing something down before rebuilding or installing the new stuff. Being a contractor myself, it also helps us concentrate on the work and completion of the project, rather than keeping an eye on curious children who try to get into tools or materials or having a conversation with the homeowner, which can be distracting to the project.
You may not be in a place to spend the $1,000 on material and $1,000 on labor on your home. so I have compiled a list of less expensive things that can make a similar impact to your homes appearance inside or out. Here are a few examples:
Paint – A coat of paint on the garage door, front door, or a wall in a bedroom can make a huge difference and, if you dare, this is a project you can take on yourself.
Landscaping – Instead of trimming overgrown bushes or shrubs, we suggest you remove them and replace them with simple flowers or a small plant. It can make a huge difference and change the curb appeal of your home as well.
Faucets – Changing the faucets in your aging bathroom or kitchen can bring a fresh feel. The same can be said of your shower head.
Pressure Washing – Cleaning the driveway, walkways, as well as the entire house can brighten the look of your home and is a less expensive alternative to repainting your home, or resurfacing your concrete.