Concrete Countertops Are The New Craze

The conversations usually start like this:
“You’re kidding right?”

“Nope! Not kidding. Concrete countertops are the new craze.”

“But why would I want a driveway in my kitchen? Besides, I want granite! Everyone wants granite, and almost everyone I know has some type of granite countertop in their home, either in the kitchen or in the bathroom. I want granite.”

“Let me explain the advantages that you’ll have with a new concrete countertop.”

And so the conversation goes.

Although concrete is one of the oldest building material around concrete countertops are replacing granite, solid surface, and even laminate as the new material of choice. Concrete countertops look nothing like your driveway, and no one will recognize it as concrete. Only recently have contractors started working with concrete and they have created an entirely new look.

When customers realized the versatility of concrete, how it was molded, shaped, stained, and even glazed, but now they have to be convinced that is lighter than granite. They had to compare granite countertops with a concrete countertop before they were convinced that it had the same level of durability, color, and maintenance.

They still weren’t convinced. They usually come in 1½ to 2 inch thickness depending on the customer’s preferences. Color is also up to the customer, and you won’t have to go to a granite store to pick out your piece of granite that will stain, have to be resealed, and still have lines where the pieces come together. Remember granite is a natural rock and the developer has no control over the colors.

However concrete countertops are made by hand. They are sized to your specifications. They can have swirls and stamped areas of color or even have your name stamped in them.

To have a totally unique concrete countertop you’ll have to find a contractor that has created his own images into the concrete. Every single countertop will be a different and unusual project, and the customer will be the guide when they explain what they want.

Once you’ve had your concrete countertop installed, don’t stop there. They can do the same to your entryway, to a wall, your sidewalks and even your driveway. It’s an entirely new business and not every contractor that has installed a driveway will know how to go about creating a countertop. If they’re smart though, they’ll realize what is ahead and learn the process as the building industry takes off again, and it will.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County kitchen countertops.

Waterfall Faucets

You might agree that there are a lot of faucets out there and many don’t look alike, but almost all of them work the same way. To turn the water on, you either push or pull, and many have one handle while others have two, one for cold and one for hot water. If you haven’t seen the newly developed waterfall faucets, take a look. You’ll be amazed, and you can use them in the kitchen, bathroom sinks, and even your showers.

The old type faucets remain popular mainly because they’re cheaper and work well; even those that rise far above the sink. The waterfall faucets work the same way but they’ve modernized them. Most of the innovative waterfall faucets come in a glass-plate design that is an angled glass tray that hangs several inches above the sink by a long sloping cylinder. In the middle of the plate, a long metal rod sticks up into the air.

When you turn the metal level the water courses out across the plate and falls into the sink similar to a waterfall. They come in pewter, brass and plated nickel and you can now match the rest of the metal in your kitchen or bath. The waterfall faucets will gain a lot of attention from new users as they try to figure out how they work. As the water falls across their hands you’ll hear sounds of delight, and you’ll understand because you feel the same way every time you wash your hands or rinse a dish.

The waterfall faucets are available for the shower as well, and imagine how you will feel as you stand under the warm water those courses over your body from above. It is invigorating to say the least and may be the way you’d feel standing under a real waterfall.

The waterfall faucets bring a relaxing feeling in the shower, and you’ll tend to stay in longer than necessary. Whether you shower in the evening for relaxation or in the mornings to wake you up you may want to do both as you hoard your shower. However you really need to share the waterfall shower with the rest of your family and let them realize their own satisfaction.

When they enjoy it as much as you have, they’ll insist that you buy one for every faucet in the house. If you aren’t interested in installing the waterfall faucet yourself, hire a professional to install them for you. Be sure to watch him that he doesn’t try out your new waterfall shower, because he’ll still be on your dime.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County bathrooms.

Pergo Flooring

Pergo Flooring is a decorative laminate that has been used in countertops, paneling, and other intricate projects. Pergo was introduced in Sweden in the 80’s and gained in popularity all across Europe. Pergo Flooring came to the US in 1994 where it became the leading supplier. Pergo was out front in research and it paid off. It wasn’t long before Pergo Flooring made its way into kitchens because it proved to be more than 20 times stronger than the original laminate.

As you search for flooring, you’ll find that you’ll have endless options in Pergo Flooring including a number of wood appearances that will match your other décor. Price varies and the more pricey options you choose will cause the price to rise. However the price is still lower than many exotic wood installations.

Of course there is no such thing as an indestructible floor and you must be cautious when you move heavy objects across Pergo Flooring. Felt protectors work well when it becomes necessary to move appliances or furniture across it. When you install Pergo Flooring near entrances, they advise you to use mats, rugs or other floor coverings to reduce the risk of tracking in gravel that will scratch your floor.

You can easily accomplish general maintenance by using dust mops or hard surface attachments on your vacuum cleaners. You’ll never want to wax or refinish it, and if the floor gets damaged, a Pergo endorsed installer will be able to replace the individual planks or tiles.

You’ll find numerous tile and planking options and many customers with basic do-it-yourself skills can install their own flooring. The tongue and groove method of installation makes Pergo Flooring easier to install and that will reduce the cost significantly. However the edges, end moldings, and sawing takes more skill and you may need to hire a professional to complete the job.

Pergo Flooring provides installation training to service professionals specifically for their flooring. The pieces fit together similar to paneling and fencing installation and is not difficult to learn the technique.

The Pergo Flooring Company warranties their product, and sometimes when a DIY improperly installs the flooring, the warranties are affected. To be sure your floor has been installed correctly hire a Pergo Endorsed Installer and you will be guaranteed a flawless beautiful installation. An extended service warranty for your Pergo Flooring is also available that will add risk-free years to your Pergo Flooring.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County flooring.

Backsplash Tiles Work Wonders

If you’re limited in space in your kitchen, and most are, backsplash tile will work wonders in your kitchen and bring it to life. Today many decorators are looking for something to stand out in a drab kitchen where even the appliances match the granite top, and where walls are limited.

They also get away from matching backsplashes because of the expense when the countertops are granite or solid service; tile steps up to the plate with new designs that draw attention away from the drab. Tile backsplashes are as varied as kitchens and they have unusual designs that will be unique whether in your kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom. Don’t limit the areas because they’ve also been used in dining rooms to protect the wall from chair scrapes.

Once you’ve worked in a kitchen where the backsplash covers the wall behind the counter and stove, you’ll never want to be without one. Splashes of food and water are a thing of the past and will clean off with the touch of a damp cloth.

If your home has a color theme, you can extend the color into your kitchen with the backsplash. They come with patterns and a variety of available colors. The more intricate the pattern, the more it will cost. When you’re on a budget, be careful for the smaller pieces add up and it takes a professional to install them.

When you like the countertops in your kitchen or bathrooms, you can still install new backsplash tile, but again, it takes professionals to install them. They don’t have to cover the entire wall between the countertop and cupboards, and there are attractive border tiles installed right on your countertop. Or you can install them on top of the plain tile. The choices are yours.

The tile effect is not limited to your kitchen or bathrooms. Tile mosaics are popular when installed on a bare wall, and that skilled professional will help you with the exact effect you desire. There again, be cautious especially when on a budget. Tile can be very expensive especially when you choose a variety of colors and designs.

Don’t let the cost scare you away. Where there is a will, there is a way, and that works for tile also. If you find the cost is above your pay grade, there are many cheaper styles and designs that will fit in any budget, and once they’re installed no one will ever know that you cut corners.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County contractors.

Home Accents – a Language of their Own

Home accents actually speak the language of their owner and they shout out whether they work in a room or not. They can be one item or a series of items whether furniture, a fireplace, or a simple candleholder. The home accents show the decorative quality and functionality of the item.

A home without accents is plain in the eyes of the beholder and they may not even be aware of it, but something is definitely missing. Homeowners often turn to a professional interior decorator or a skilled artisan for help in decorating their rooms. The room shows the skill of the decorator and the room feels finished and complete.

Personal pictures are often displayed in attractive frames, and they tell the story of the occupants of the home. They can hang on the wall in groups or sit singularly on a table. However in a formal setting pictures are not normally displayed, but they will add interesting accents to a guestroom or bedroom.

Antique items, especially those passed down in families, will be an attractive addition to your rooms. Old ice boxes have been used as tables and are a pleasant mix of new and used accents. Pieces of furniture have the same effect whether a chair or table that create an atmosphere of quality from the past. Search for interesting furniture or accent pieces in used furniture or antique stores.

Items such as cedar chests can add distinction to a room, and also provide the needed storage space. Other items you may not have considered are chess tables, entryway benches, ottomans, chaise lounges or an armless chair. An assortment of wood or materials either matching or contrasting fit nicely as well.

The dining room is another room in need of home accents. Matching chairs are almost a thing from the past while contrasting colors can pick up the relaxed décor of the room. You can exchange elaborate chandeliers to ceiling fans with assorted lighting fixtures. Or the reverse is true also.
Whenever you find that your rooms remain drab and unattractive even after you’ve changed the window treatments, then it may be time to call in that professional.  

Often the interior decorator will come to your home for a one-time consultation. They will give you ideas that you’ve never considered and will advise you how to use your own accents or ones they suggest.

Regardless the directions that you take as you prepare your home accents, you can always change them as time wears on, but the choice is yours.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and San Diego home improvement.

What Will You Do When the Job Goes Wrong?

In almost every single remodeling project something is bound to go wrong. What will you do when that happens? Will you call the contractor and cuss and yell at him or will you calmly tell the contractor what the problem is and then listen to him explain what can be done about it?

If you take the first course, then expect a reaction from your contractor. Many things can go wrong and many times the contractor is not at fault. So when you put the blame on your contractor and not let him explain you are being unfair and the reaction you expect may not happen.

It is a two way street, and it is the responsibility of the contractor to fix or at least explain delays. When he fails to do that, the customer then gets annoyed. However many customers expect too much from their contractors, and don’t give them the respect they deserve.

The best way to avoid problems from the very beginning is to interview more than one contractor. Find a contractor that is willing to do his part to do what his customer wants. Does he seem to only want your money? Does he show up on time for the first interview? If not did he call to tell you that he’d be late? Does he have a place of business or does he work out of his garage? Does he have a printed contract and is he licensed, insured and has Workers Compensation? Does he hire subs? Does he pay them when they finish their work and does he have paperwork stating so?

Finally does he have references? Go check out his work and talk to his customers. Do your homework. When a contractor has answered all of those questions to your satisfaction and given you a good price, then it is up to you, the customer. You’re part of the equation as well. Do you expect more than what was promised?

There will always be delays, whether weather, sickness, or sometimes when a contractor runs into problems unseen in the original contract, the contractor has no control over those things. For instance suppose you want a wall in your home removed and the contractor discovers it is a weight-bearing wall when you said it wasn’t. Whose fault is that? Yes, the contractor should have checked, but you weren’t accurate either. So be fair and hire a reputable contractor and you’ll both be satisfied with the job.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and San Diego home improvement.

You’ll Want to Use Your Garage For More than Storage When You Prepare it with Epoxy Based Paint

Your garage could be used for more than storage, but if the flooring is a mess, you’ll have to start at the bottom and work your way up. Think of it – a place where your kids can play; or a place for your pool table; or a place to entertain; or just an additional room. If you’re outgrowing your house, and you’ve used the garage as a place to store junk, you’re missing a wide-open space by not using your garage.

The first thing after the junk is all gone is to clean your garage floor. Then splash some water on it and if it puddles it probably has been treated with a sealer. If the water is still there after a few minutes, you’ll need to prepare the concrete before continuing. You can break down the sealer or etch it before you apply the coating.

It isn’t really hard to do but if you take the time by applying a concrete etching solution, your floor will be ready for a thorough cleaning. The next step is by installing the garage floor covering. Your garage floor will be protected and look good at the same time, and when any area of your home looks good, you’ll likely want the rest to follow.

There are many garage floor coverings and one of the most popular is the epoxy-based paint. They come in a variety of colors and when you add flaking materials that are normally stone; it gives more traction to your flooring and protects it as well.

The high-grade epoxy repels water, oil and many other materials and it also resists the contaminants that destroy garage floors, and they’re easier to clean than concrete. Read the directions on the epoxy based paint and after you’ve applied it allow it to dry.

When you see how attractive your garage floor looks, you’ll want to continue to make the room energy efficient. Weather strip around all windows and doors so when winter hits, your garage will stay warm and comfortable even if you’re using the area as a workshop.

Make the garage your first project around your home, and start with the garage flooring. The vast improvement from the epoxy-based paint encourages you to continue throughout your home. Not only will you increase the curb appeal and value of your home, it gives you pride of ownership that converges to the entire neighborhood.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County garages makeovers.

Building a Deck

The type of deck you want will be the deciding factor between hiring the job out and doing the job yourself. Do you want to start with a cement deck? Or are you looking for an elevated wood decking with rails and stairs leading up to it. Do you want to have it covered, or will a simple umbrella do the job for you?

You need to answer these questions and a few more before you even begin. If you still want to do the job, write down a few measurements in order to calculate the costs. What will you use the deck for?

Will it be for an area where the kids play? Will you want your barbecue there as well? Will you have a picnic table under that umbrella or will the deck be at the edge of a swimming pool? The materials you prefer should be your next quest.

Once you know what you want, then go to the local hardware store. They will have someone who can measure the costs and that may be the determining factor. They will possibly have pictures where you can choose what you like. Another option for you, will you ever want the deck enclosed? You may want the one where heavy draperies that are open and attached to the side poles or pulled together for privacy and convenience.

How will you want the deck finished? Will you want it painted to match or contrast the paint on your home? Will it be an attachment to your house and actually be an extended room? There are as many options as there are homes with backyard decks, and you the owner will be the decision maker here.

If you’re already stymied, then possibly you should call a contractor who will do all of that after he finds out what you want. He’ll map it all out for you, and may even give you several suggestions even how you can save money by going one way as opposed to another.

Check out several local contractors and ask for a price estimate. Just one of the advantages in hiring a dedicated contractor to do the job, it will be done much faster than if you’re trying to complete it by working on weekends.

Make that call today, and call more than one before you ask a contractor to come to your home. You want a reliable, honest qualified contractor who has built many decks so you can be assured that you’ve made the right choice.    
 
Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County decks.

Options for Wood Fences

Many people love the look of wood and actually prefer a wood fence to surround a smaller area of their property. One used as a play area for children for instance that will give safety and privacy. Wood fencing comes in precut pieces that you can attach to the posts and cross rails of the fence. You must treat any part of the wood that touches the ground to prevent rot and/or insects.

The types of wood fencing depend a great deal on how much you want to spend. Pine is probably the cheapest and when weather treated would last a long time. You should weather seal any wood fence annually.

The options for wood fences vary greatly. Redwood is popular and may not be available in all areas. Cedar is another wood and contains oil that makes it resistant to rot and insects. You’ll find cedar in many outdoor articles. Spruce is another popular wood used in fencing and prefabricated picket and stockade sections. You can find many of these woods at your local hardware store.

Imported exotic tropical hardwoods are very expensive. They are very dense and last longer in outdoor settings without the necessity of the harsh chemicals that they use to treat pine.

Another option you may not be aware of is the grade of wood. They judge where the wood comes from within the tree itself. Heartwood grows deep within the tree with more strength and fewer knots. The outer area of the tree is sapwood and less expensive while heartwood is prime wood.

Regardless of the options and the choices you make while purchasing wood fencing you will need to weather seal the fence. If the wood absorbs water quickly, it will be ready to seal. If it doesn’t absorb water let it dry for several weeks before trying to seal it. Many wood fencing products have been pressure treated that will make the fencing last longer.

The wiser way to go as you study your options for your wood fence is to choose the better grades for the posts and rails and the lower costs for the fence panels. While building your wood fence, purchase a few extra panels so you can replace them as needed.

There is no prettier fence than the wood fence, and your options vary greatly. But when you take the time to treat the fence, replace the damaged panels and maintain the fence, the original beauty will shine through.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County fences.

Interviewing Your Contractor

Before you even consider calling a contractor, you need to know exactly what you want him to do. First of all, go online and see what is available in your area. You will want a contractor that is easy to reach, and if you have to leave a message, how long will it take him to return your call.

Then make a list of the projects that you’ll want the contractor to tackle. If the list is long, try to narrow it down to the essentials. Then pick four or five local contractors and give them a call. Ask each one similar questions so you can judge the one that seems the most honest, qualified, and reliable.

On your list write the contractor’s license number, workers compensation number, and bond number. Don’t hire a contractor until you have those numbers in hand and contact the agency to see if his licenses are still valid or have they expired? Does the contractor have a printed contract with his name, address, phone, and license numbers?

Is the contractor qualified and has he done a job like yours before? Does he have references, and can you contact them? How long does he estimate that the job will take to complete and when can he start? Keep definite dates in mind, but allow for a bit of leeway.

Now that you’ve narrowed the list down to two or three, contact the contractor again and ask for an interview and a price quote. Make a note if the contractor arrives on time, or if he runs late, does he call you to let you know he is running late. If a contractor fails to do that, forget about him, and go on to the next one.

How and when does the contractor expect payment? There are laws that state how much a contractor can collect as a down payment. Make sure you know the law and hold the contractor to it. For instance the law forbids a company from taking over 10% or $1,000 as down payment.

Before you sign on that proverbial dotted line have the due dates written on the contract. For instance, the second payment may be due when they deliver the material. There may be additional payments with the final due when the project is completed to your satisfaction.

Does the contractor hire sub-contractors? If so make sure they get paid. Otherwise if the contractor does not pay the sub, they can come back to you and demand payment or put a lien on your home.

Be cautious, but not demanding, and when they start the job stay out of their way and let them do their job.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County contractors.