Why It’s Easier for Professionals To Finish Projects

January 26, 2017 by Alison Windham ·

Why It’s Easier for Professionals To Finish Projects There are many reasons why DIY can turn into a nightmare. Your builder is prepared to deal with all kinds of bad situations. He has so many advantages it seems unfair, but that’s what you pay him for. What sort of advantages does a builder have over everyone else?

Knowledge

When you hire an experienced construction company, you know the work will be up to code and done correctly. He doesn’t have to keep checking the internet to see if he’s doing it right.

Experience

Your builder has likely seen a lot of strange problems come up over the years. Hiring an experienced builder means that your kitchen or bath renovation won’t cause any surprises he hasn’t seen before. It’s good to check on the qualifications of anyone before you hire them. A builder with a lot of experience is the safest choice.

Tools

The construction crew has the right tools for the job. That includes tools that they think they might need in case something comes up. Most homeowners start a project with some tools but find they might not be up to the challenge. Construction companies have better quality tools and more of them.

People

Some jobs require more hands. Trying to do them yourself could get you injured. A construction crew is qualified to do the work and do it safely. Even if you get people to help you do the work, it’s much more helpful to have people that know what they’re doing.

Connections

How many people do you know in the construction related industry in Bryan-College Station? If your builder has been working here for 20 years, he knows a lot of people. So, he can get the best professionals in Brazos Valley working on your kitchen remodel.

What kind of projects can I hire a construction company for?

Builders work on many types of home projects. Kitchen and bath renovations are very common, but they do full home renovations, too. They build decks, arbors, screened porches or sunrooms, and install new windows.

They can even work on smaller handyman projects.

Even if you only want to paint your home and not remodel it, you can still hire a construction company. The point of hiring a construction company is that the crew can do the work correctly and you don’t have to do it yourself.

There’s a reason why jobs done by construction companies look so professional and clean. They’re also safe and up to code. When you want a job done correctly, hire the people with the tools and skills to the job correctly.

If you have a home project in the Bryan-College Station area that needs to get done and you aren’t sure you can handle it on your own, contact an experienced builder in College Station. Leave the back-breaking work to a crew of professionals and spare yourself the doctor bills. The work will have a professional finish and you’ll know it was done right. You’ll rest easier knowing that experienced professionals are working on your project and it will add lasting value to your home.

Filed Under: Remodeling ·

Can You Build It Up To Code?

January 11, 2017 by Alison Windham ·

Can You Build It Up To Code? Imagine a friend can’t complete a renovation project so they give you a bunch of leftover 2x4s. You decide you can build that deck you’ve always wanted. You know you’ll need some bigger pieces of wood for posts but a deck seems like an easy enough thing to make. You’ve seen pictures of them, right? It should be ok.

You look at a couple of articles online, you learn not to walk on a couple of the iffier areas and it’s an ok deck. Then you want to sell your house. An inspector comes. He finds that your deck is not up to code. The whole thing needs to come down. Where did you go wrong?

Using unused wood from another project is fine. It’s environmentally friendly. Going into a DIY job unaware of ordinances and city codes is not ok. In some cases, you need to get a building permit.

What if you don’t get a permit when you need one?

Let’s say a young couple just watched a remodeling show on TV and feel inspired. They take down a wall with an electrical outlet in it without checking to see if it’s a load-bearing wall. Lucky them, it’s not. Still, they have that outlet. So, they buy a couple of little plastic things they saw someone on TV use (they can’t name the plastic things because they don’t know what they are) and use them to cover the ends of the wires. Then they just shove all of that nasty ugly wiring under the new floor they’re putting in.

Well, they didn’t cap the ends off properly and there is an electrical fire. They have insurance, but the insurance won’t pay because they did remodeling work without a permit. Maybe the fire wasn’t their fault. But the lack of a permit is enough for the denial of coverage.

Permits aren’t a scam

While permits are annoying to homeowners that want to do their own work, they do create a paper trail of blame. If something that could cause a lot of damage is done, they want to know who did it. Say you have a builder that gets a permit and does work on your kitchen and it is inspected and up to code. Now you know it’s done right and your insurance will pay if there were to be some sort of accidental grease fire.

Having work done up to code by a professional is good for the value of your home, your safety, and for insurance reasons.

Trouble finishing a remodel up to code

There are projects you can do yourself. You can even take on big projects and get the permits yourself. If you ever get in too deep, it’s never too late to call in a little help. In fact, if you already have your kitchen torn up, that’s less work for your builder.

Located in the Bryan-College Station area, Windham Construction can help you with more than kitchen and bath remodels. If you have an unfinished remodel or if you’re afraid your remodel isn’t going to be up to code, give us a call and we can help you out. We are a full-service home company. We help from building to painting to handyman jobs.

Filed Under: DIY, Remodeling ·

Is It Time For A Home Renovation?

December 27, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

Have you been considering home renovation in College Station, TX? How do you know when it’s time to call a local home renovation company? Many people think that home remodeling is only done for cosmetic purposes or to upgrade an old or outdated item in a home. In reality, home remodeling can be done for a variety of reasons and there are things to watch out for that can clue you in that it’s time for some renovation work.

It’s important to remember that most homeowners will undergo several renovation projects during the time that they live in a particular home. While some homes may need more work than others, it’s very common for homeowners to desire some changes around their property. Here are some things to look for in your own home to let you know that it’s time to upgrade your living space.

Signs of Wear And Tear

All homes will eventually experience some basic wear and tear, no matter how recently or how well they were constructed. This is simply part of the home ownership experience. If you start to notice that some items around your home are showing signs of age or use, it might be time for home remodeling in College Station, TX.

For example, you can go on a walk -through of your home to check for these signs of use. If you notice that carpet in the living room is worn and loose, it could be the right time for a replacement. Also, if you notice floorboards or tiles that are warped, misshapen or out of place, you might need to replace the floor. If the appliances or fixtures in your bathroom or kitchen are starting to rust, break or malfunction, now is the time to call a local home remodeling company.

Running Out Of Space

When the holidays come around, do you find yourself worrying about where to entertain and feed your guests? Perhaps you like to invite friends and family over for Sunday dinner but find that you just don’t have enough room at the dining room table. This is a sign that you might need a sunroom or a screened porch to add extra space.

If you have a backyard, you can transform into an ideal location for communal meals and relaxation with friends and family. A sunroom or a screened porch can add the extra space that you need to have parties or large gatherings without worrying about finding enough room inside the house. These additions are also great for relaxing by yourself or with your spouse and kids, especially during the hot summer months in Texas.

Upcoming Home Sale

When you list your home on the market, you want to get the best price that you can manage. This is one of the most important times for home remodeling. Potential buyers are less likely to make bids at your listed price if you have rusted fixtures, cracked floors or peeling paint in your home. Investing in home repairs and renovations costs some money initially, but you stand a good chance to make that money back when you get a great offer on your home.

If you have noticed these things around your home, it’s the perfect time for home renovation in College Station, TX.

Filed Under: Remodeling ·

Should You Hire A Renovation Professional Or DIY?

December 13, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

If you are planning to renovate your home, you may be unsure of the best way to accomplish this process. For example, should you tackle the project by yourself to save money or hire a professional for home renovation in College Station, TX? The answer may depend on what you want to accomplish and how much time you have to spend.

Knowing how to take on a home remodeling project is crucial if you want to have a successful outcome. Before you make a decision, think carefully about what you want to change in your home and when you want it to be completed. Check out the following tips to find out what the best course of action is for you and your home renovation project.

DIY Projects

Many people may be able to perform a few small touch-ups around their home to make it look brand new. In many cases, these can be considered DIY projects because they require no special training, licensing or experience.

For example, many homes can benefit from a fresh coat of paint inside and out. You may want to simply repaint one room, such as your kitchen, or you may want to apply an entirely new color scheme to your entire home. If you have a few spare weekends or evenings, you can probably tackle this home improvement project on your own. All the supplies that you will need, from paint to brushes and ladders, can be found at your local home improvement store for a reasonable price.

Likewise, some small amounts of landscaping can be accomplished with a DIY strategy as well. For example, planting trees, bushes and flowers is easy and simple to accomplish in your free time.

However, if you are aiming for a more ambitious project, it might be time to call a professional for home remodeling in College Station, TX.

Professional Projects

If you want to undergo a more serious home renovation, it’s best to call an experienced local professional. For example, if you need new appliances or fixtures, it’s best to rely on a trusted renovation expert.

Also, if you are going to be replacing major items such as carpets, flooring, ceiling tiles or insulation, make sure to call a licensed professional to stay safe and make sure that all of your improvements are up to building codes.

Installing a sunroom or screened porch is a job for a professional, as an amateur attempt might result in an unsafe structure. Also, attempting big projects on your own can take up more time and money than you might expend if you had called a professional in the first place.

To put it simply, if you are unsure of how to accomplish a remodeling project or how to get the supplies you need, it’s best to make a call to a local remodeling expert.

If you need to find out how to tackle your next project for home renovation in College Station, TX, your local professional remodeling company can help you find the answers.

Filed Under: DIY, Remodeling ·

Where To Find Home Renovation Ideas

November 23, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

For many people, their home is more than simply the place where they live. It is the place where they raise their families, celebrate special occasions and get through difficult times. Renovation can be the perfect way to make your home the right place for any occasion.

Home renovations in College Station, TX can take many forms. Some people may simply want to repaint a room or two while other families may want to completely redesign their bedroom, bathrooms and kitchen. No matter what type of project you have in mind, the remodelling options are limitless. How can you decide which renovation idea is right for you when there are so many choices available? If you are feeling a lack of inspiration, here are some resources that you can use to find fresh, new ideas for your home renovation goals.

Neighbors, Friends and Families

The people in your life are one of your most valuable resources. Chances are that you have friends or family members who have undergone a renovation project in their home. If you like some of the changes that they have made, take the time to ask them some questions about their experiences with home renovation projects.

Their projects may give you some ideas and inspiration for remodelling concepts that you can incorporate into your own home. Even if their renovations follow a different style or layout than your own living space, you can still ask them some questions to gain valuable insights into the remodeling process. If you know some of your neighbors, ask them if they would like to share some of their renovation tips and ideas with you. The more ideas you have, the more inspiration you can find!

Websites And Forums

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of websites and home remodelling forums available to you to provide inspiration and ideas. Simply navigate to your preferred search engine and enter search terms like “home renovation projects” or “renovation ideas” to get links to websites with pictures and additional info.

The amount of information that you can find is simply amazing. You’ll be able to find out about different design choices, tips and advice and even price estimates for all kinds of projects. You can search for more specific ideas for kitchen remodelling, bathroom fixture replacements and even comparisons of different types of floor tiles. You may be able to find all of the information that you need without ever leaving your home.

Local Professionals

To find in-depth, personalized information about remodelling projects in your area, there’s just no substitute for getting a quote from home renovation professionals in College Station, TX. Calling the professionals out to your home is the best way to find out about all of the renovation options available to you. Local professionals can take a look at your living space to give you ideas and price quotes on the type of work that you would like to have done in your home.

In just a few minutes, you’ll be able to find out about the types of fixtures, appliances and materials that you can use to turn your home into the perfect living space that you have been dreaming of.

When you make the decision to remodel your home, there’s no limit to the changes you can make so don’t be afraid to seek out information on the projects you have in mind.

Filed Under: Home Remodel College Station TX, Remodeling ·

To DIY Or Not To DIY

November 9, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

If you’ve been thinking about home renovations in College Station, TX, you may be considering taking on a remodeling project by yourself. DIY projects are a great way to use your skills and your spare time to give your home a new look while saving some money. At least, that’s the idea that many of us have when we envision a renovation project.

How do you know which projects are best suited for a DIY approach and which projects should be handled by a skilled local professional? The answer may be different depending on the scale of the project and the abilities of the homeowner. While do-it-yourself projects can be cost-efficient and very educational, they may not be the right choice for everyone. Here are some things to think about when you are considering home remodeling in Bryan, TX.

Do You Have The Time To DIY?

There’s no getting around it: home remodeling takes time. In fact, it’s almost guaranteed that a DIY project will take longer than you expect. By the time you purchase supplies, lay out a plan, perform the work and clean up the area, you may be surprised at just how long a typical remodeling project can take.

Remember that time is one of your most important resources. If you are working a full-time job, raising a family and keeping up with all of your obligations, you simply may not have the time necessary to complete a remodeling project. Of course, if you are willing to make some sacrifices, you may be able to use your nights and weekends to transform your home with a DIY remodeling project. Before you begin, make sure to carefully study your schedule to find out if you have enough time to tackle the project on your own.

Do You Have The Resources?

One of the primary reasons that people choose to take on a DIY renovation project is the prospect of significant financial savings. Hiring a contractor or handyman services in College Station requires an investment but this is also true of DIY projects.

Some projects may allow you to save a good bit of money if you complete the work yourself but this is not always the case. In some circumstances, you may actually be spending more to finish a project on your own. You should take the time to sit down and add up the total cost of a DIY project before you begin working. You can compare this figure with a quote from a local renovation professional to find out if you are saving a good deal of money. If you won’t be saving very much, it might be better to hire a professional.

Do You Have The Skills?

If you use tools and building equipment on a regular basis, then a home renovation DIY project may be a great choice for you. However, if you haven’t picked up hammer, a measuring tape or a stud finder in years, it might be time to brush up on your skills.

One of the major benefits of hiring a professional is the ability to let a trained expert handle the project. Of course, you may be able to figure out a home renovation project on your own but you can’t guarantee your own work if you don’t perform renovations as your profession. Another benefit of hiring a professional is their satisfaction guarantee. If they make a mistake, a reputable renovation service will correct it for no extra charge. You won’t have this option if you go it alone.

A DIY renovation project can be a rewarding and affordable way to improve your home. Make sure you take the time to carefully consider your options to determine if this is the right choice for your next project.

Filed Under: DIY ·

Most Popular Remodeling Trends of 2016

October 26, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

2016 isn’t over just yet but it has already been a big year for new design and remodeling trends. As the new generation of millenials reaches the age where many of them are buying homes, an explosion of new ideas have hit the market. From minor design elements to big ideas for kitchen appliances, this generation is changing our ideas of what is possible in the home.

Many homebuilders are already incorporating these features into new homes. However, not everyone has the budget or the desire to purchase a brand new house. If you’re in that group, then you’ll love these popular trends for home remodeling in College Station, TX. Incorporating just a few of these new trends is a low-cost way to transform the look and feel of your personal living space.

Restaurant Quality, Right At Home

It’s clear that the millennial generation is obsessed with food in a big way. The rise of the foodie movement and the exploding popularity of new culinary techniques and the farm-to-market trend shows that this generation is really concerned about the quality of their food. This trend is reflected in many homes by remodeling projects that focus on restaurant-quality appliances.

Restaurant-quality ovens and pizza ovens are some of the most popular items. If you’ve ever wished that you could cook up the perfect pizza at home, now is a great time to start kitchen remodeling in Bryan, TX.

Another popular remodeling project is the installation of a quartz-topped kitchen island. A kitchen island can turn an ordinary kitchen into a professional space and quartz is easier to maintain than granite or marble.

Bringing The Office Home

It’s true that the Internet and digital technology are moving into every corner of our lives. As a result, more and more homeowners are transitioning into a work-from-home lifestyle. High-speed WiFi makes telecommuting easier than ever before. This means that you can turn a spare bedroom, a study or that outdated media room into a high-tech home office.

Must-have items for a home office include sleek, large desks with plenty of space for multiple monitors and accessories. You won’t need to worry about large bookshelves and you won’t have to fight for space. Wireless connections mean that you don’t need to worry about tripping over cords and cables and even a small room can become a professional home office with only a few changes.

Low Maintenance

These days, people are very interested in appliances, fixtures and furniture that perform well with minimal maintenance. The millennial generation isn’t lazy, they’re just too busy with other things to worry about upkeep and maintenance.

Stainless steel fits into this category perfectly. Stainless steel kitchen appliances are easy to clean and are very durable. Pergolas with aluminum construction and stainless steel hardware can turn an ordinary backyard into a modern spot for entertaining and relaxing.

If these ideas sound good to you, then it’s time for home renovation in College Station, TX. It’s a surprisingly affordable way to totally transform your entire living space.

Filed Under: Blog, Remodeling ·

5 Ways Installing New Windows Can Transform Your Home

October 12, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

Windows are one of the most important elements of your home but they are also one of the most overlooked. We certainly appreciate having natural light in our homes but we seldom stop to think about the importance of properly installed windows. Having the right kind of windows can not only improve the look of every room in your house, it can also make your home more efficient.

If you’re thinking about starting home renovation in College Station, TX, then your remodeling project should definitely include your home windows. While you might think that the windows in your home are fine the way they are, you should consider how great of a change new windows can make. Here are five ways that new windows can totally transform the look and feel of your home.

#1. Light Filtration

If your house is several years old, you might not be getting adequate light filtration from your windows. Light filtration is key to getting the right quality of natural, pure sunlight in your home. The right kind of windows can filter out harmful UV ways while allowing plenty of natural light to pass through. The result is clean light that fills your home with atmosphere and ambience.

You can opt for tinted windows if you prefer less light to pass through or go for full transparency for optimal lighting. This option can even save you money on utility bills, as you won’t need to use electric light in your house during the day.

#2. Energy Efficiency and Utility Costs

Improperly installed windows could be costing you extra each month on your utility bills. When windows aren’t installed correctly, they could be bypassing the insulation in your house. This means that they can let cool air escape in the summer and release warmth during the winter. As a result, your HVAC will have to work overtime to make up the difference in keeping your house comfortable.

New windows properly installed by home remodelers in College Station, TX can correct this issue, saving you money in the process.

#3. New Look, New Atmosphere

When it comes to creating the right atmosphere in your home, it’s all about the details. Many people may think that they need to buy brand new furniture, fixtures and appliances in order to get the interior look that they want. While these changes can have a great result, sometimes installing new windows is what’s really needed.

The subtle touch of new windows with the right window shades, blinds or drapes can be the finishing touch on a remodeled room. Don’t forget about the small details when renovating your home.

#4. Improved Property Value

If you want to sell your home at some point in the future, improving your property value is a smart move. When people tour your home looking to make a purchase, they can be put off by small details that are out of place. Remember, when someone sees something that they don’t like about a property, they calculate the cost of changing it once they move in. Installing new windows now can make a sale much easier in the future.

#5. Complete A Theme

Choosing the right theme and décor for your home can be difficult but it’s always worth it. In many cases, the highlights and details will be the final step that ties together your home so that it finally looks perfect. The addition of carefully selected windows with the right color and texture of drapes and blinds can be the finishing touch on your personal theme.

If you’re considering home remodeling in Bryan, TX, then the options are endless. Consider installing new windows for a brand new look that is all your own.

Filed Under: Blog, Windows ·

How Remodeling Your Kitchen Can Improve Your Whole House

September 28, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

When you’re looking for a place to live, the kitchen is one of the most important considerations in your decision. The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in any household. It is often the one room where a family can gather on a regular basis. Besides being the place where food is prepared, a kitchen is also a place to greet your loved ones, share a snack or even help with homework.

It could be said that the kitchen is the heart of any home. Making just a few changes to your kitchen can really improve your the rest of your house. If you’ve thought about remodeling your kitchen or if it has a few elements that you’d like to improve, it’s a good time to start thinking about home renovation in College Station, TX.

Here’s why you should make the remodeling choices you’ve been considering.

More Comfort, More Happiness

As one of the most frequently used rooms in your home, your kitchen needs to be comfortable. A cramped or poorly designed kitchen can quickly take the joy out of cooking or make relaxing conversations impossible. Anyone who has tried to cook a delicious meal in a small kitchen with dated appliances understands how frustrating this can be.

Imagine the difference it would make for your kitchen to have plenty of room to move, cook and chat. Installing a new kitchen island and larger counter tops can make cooking a breeze. New cabinets and state-of-the-art appliances will have everything that you need to cook world-class meals right at hand.

The more comfortable you are in your kitchen, the happier you, your family and your guests will be.

Reduce Your Stress

There is nothing more stress-inducing than trying to cook a meal or put away the groceries in a kitchen with old appliances and limited cabinet space. Trying to light a stove that doesn’t work or trying to use a microwave that barely powers on can make your kitchen a storm of stress.

Home remodeling in College Station can cut your stress in half. A brand new refrigerator with double doors and sliding storage compartments can give you plenty of room for all of your groceries. A new stove with infrared elements will never need lighting and cook your food more efficiently. Update cabinets can store all of your dry goods neatly so you never have to hunt for that missing ingredient.

When you reduce your stress in the kitchen, you can enjoy meals and family time more easily, making everyone in your house feel better.

Increased Property Value

There’s a reason that a well-designed kitchen can improve the value of an entire house. This room is crucial to the happiness of the homeowners and property developers know that many home buyers will insist on a great kitchen.

If the kitchen in your home is in need of some work, you’ll be glad to know that a remodeled kitchen can improve your property value. When people are shopping for a new home, the kitchen is one of the first places that they’ll look.

Home remodeling in Bryan, TX can make one of the most important rooms in your house into a stress-free, exciting place to be.

Filed Under: Kitchen Remodeling ·

4 Reasons to Remodel Your Bathroom

September 16, 2016 by Alison Windham ·

If you’re getting tired of living with the same bathroom that you’ve had for years, you might be thinking about remodeling. A remodeling project is a great way to breathe new life into a room that hasn’t been updated recently. If you could choose one room in your home to remodel first, the bathroom might be your best choice.

Home remodeling in College Station, TX can turn your bathroom into a room that you’re proud of. Let’s face it, it’s one of the most used rooms in your home and you want it to look great for your family as well as your guests. Changing just this one room can make your entire house more comfortable. Here are the top four reasons that you should consider remodeling your bathroom.

#1 – Extra Space

Of all the rooms in your house, the bathrooms always seem to attract the most clutter. Finding storage space for towels, laundry, cosmetics and cleaning supplies can be challenging in a small space, especially in a shared bathroom.

Adding extra cabinets or replacing bulky fixtures can really free up some space in your bathroom. Installing a new shower or bathtub can make a huge difference in terms of comfort and cleanliness. After all, it’s the one room we spend time in every day so it’s important to make sure that it looks great, functions well and provides space for all your essential items.

#2 – A Better Design

Some bathrooms are not very visually exciting. If you live in an older house, dated fixtures and color schemes can make you feel like part of your house is from another decade. If you find yourself cringing every time a guest needs to use your bathroom, it’s time to make a change.

Jutting countertops with sharp angles can be replaced with modern, sleek fixtures that allow easier movement while creating a uniform look. Even the cleanest bathroom tile can look faded after years of use. Making the switch to wood flooring can give your bathroom an elegant appearance.

It only takes a few changes to give your bathroom an updated, functional design.

#3 – Lower Utility Costs

You may not realize it but your outdated bathroom could actually be costing you money. Older toilets, shower fixtures and faucets use water inefficiently, driving up the cost of your water bill. You can actually experience a more enjoyable and more cost-efficient shower by replacing old fixtures with newer versions.

The same applies to toilets and faucets. Old faucets can leak, wasting gallons of water. Newer models of toilets can provide the same performance with much less water usage compared to older models. Home renovation in College Station, TX can make your bathroom a more enjoyable place to be while also taking a slice out of your utility bills.

#4 – More Relaxation

Some of us are so busy that the only time we get to ourselves is when showering or bathing. All other things aside, this alone is a good reason to consider remodeling your bathroom. Adding a new shower with stone floors and sliding glass doors is an investment in your relaxation.

Soaking in the bath is one of the most relaxing things you can do in your home. That experience can be even better with a deeper tub or a Jacuzzi. A bathroom remodeling project can give you so many ways to relax and enjoy your private time at home.

Home remodel professionals in Bryan, TX can help you find the perfect solution for your updated bathroom.

Filed Under: Bathroom Remodel, Blog ·