Remodeling Blog

Finishes can make up as much as 20% of the cost of a home remodel. Saving money on finishes is tempting, but is it worth it? It can be, but saving money on a home remodel should always be done strategically. Cutting corners on the wrong things can lead to problems down the road. Remember that quality and durability are often linked. Investing in quality finishes can make your remodel an investment that pays off for years to come. Buying lower-tier finishes to save money can prompt you to remodel faster than you might otherwise, which could ultimately cost you more money than if you had invested in quality materials from the start. Hiring the right contractor for the job and selecting lasting materials and finishes for renovations can make your project a success. If you're a homeowner trying to plan an upcoming remodel, this is what you should know about selecting materials and finishes for renovations.

Enhancing your home's curb appeal can improve its value and make your home easier to sell. Revitalizing your Connecticut home's exterior starts with inspiration and a plan. In this article, we'll go over some home improvement projects that can make your house the talk of the block. With a good idea and the right contractor, you can make your home a truly stunning place to live.

If you live in a historic home, you know that renovating your house can be a delicate process. The materials can be fragile, hard to come by, and in some cases, impossible to obtain. Even small changes to your home can impact its character and thus its value, and yet all historic homes need regular maintenance and updates in order to remain functional and comfortable places to live. Ultimately, renovating a historic home comes down to doing your homework and hiring the right professional for the job. Litchfield Builders has completed renovations on historic homes and buildings all around Connecticut. During our time in the field, we've learned a few things about renovating historic homes. Below are some of the things we think homeowners aught to know before performing a renovation of their historic property.

When you're hiring a contractor to complete a remodel or a home improvement, you have many choices to pick from. One available option are the big department store contractors, usually offering installation performed by a series of subcontractors. These stores are ubiquitous, but often impersonal. Another option includes the local home remodeling contractors. These comparatively small businesses provide a different remodeling experience for homeowners. Offering personalized service and an investment in the local community, local home renovation companies have benefits that rise above and beyond the competition. They perform thoughtful renovations while taking the time to make each job a success. They contribute to the local economy, and they help keep our houses beautiful. Here's what to consider as you're trying to choose a home renovation contractor for your upcoming remodel, renovation or home improvement.

What's one thing you can do to your outdoor space that will increase your home's value and enhance your ability to enjoy time at home? Add a deck or patio. While many modern homes are built with a deck or patio in the backyard, many older homes don't have this feature. Installing functional outdoor space can do wonders for the way you enjoy your property, while also delivering a high ROI. The trick to installation, regardless of the type of structure you're installing, is to find a reputable Connecticut contractor and plan your home remodel in advance. By making a plan and hiring the right professional, you can create a structure that will last for a long time. If you're one of the many homeowners in Connecticut who would like to install a deck or patio this coming summer, this is what to know about deck installation on your property.

Years ago, rooms in homes were compartmentalized. Often, the kitchen, dining room, and living room were separate spaces, with walls and doors between all of them. Gradually over time, those spaces opened up and became the free-flowing open floor plans you often see in new construction homes today. Open floor plans have many benefits, and if your home is an older, traditionally built home, you may have good reason to want a change. A remodel to remove walls can create a continuous space between your kitchen, dining room and family room. Before making a decision about open floor plans in home renovation, know the benefits. Consider the effects of this type of remodel to decide whether it's the right decision for your home.

Budgeting and planning for your Connecticut home improvement project can make your project a success. Many homeowners get stuck on how to create a budget for their project. How can you create a budget if you don't know what your project will cost? How can you hire a contractor if you don't have a budget? How can you find out how much your project will cost if you don't have a contractor? Homeowners can go around and around with these questions. Knowing your goals and meeting with contractors are steps on the path to creating a successful budget and plan. Ultimately, if you're able to find a capable home improvement contractor, they can lead you through the process.

Summer is coming quickly and before you know it, home improvement peak season will be half over. Are you planning a home remodel for this summer? If you haven't given it thought yet, this is your opportunity to consider what kind of improvements your house really needs right now. The three most popular home renovation projects that homeowners conduct in Connecticut are home additions, kitchen renovations, and bathroom remodels. If you're feeling at a loss for what type of home improvement project would be best for your home, consider one of these high-value projects. Performing any one of these remodels can raise the value of your home and improve life in your house at the same time.

Colors go a long way to tie together your home's aesthetic, while materials can affect your home's functionality and the way you interact with your home. Your priorities and even your personality show through in your choices of colors and materials for a home renovation, so selecting the right colors and materials for a home renovation project is important. During the planning portion of your home renovation, you'll work with your contractor to approve designs and explore materials and colors you like best. You'll look at drawings, see materials and samples in person, and probably go back and forth on several options before making your final selection. Finding a process that works for you is important because, in the end, the selections you make could affect you for years to come.

Flooring comes in many styles, types, colors and materials. No flooring is more popular than hardwood, which remains a favorite of homeowners year after year. Hardwood flooring is popular for many reasons including its durability, long service life and natural beauty. Nothing compares to hardwood, and no other flooring material is more desirable in homes. Installing hardwood can raise your home's value while also making it more attractive and functional. One of the great features of hardwood is its reasonable cost. Although it's not the cheapest flooring type, many homeowners are able to fit it in their home improvement budget. Working with a reputable Connecticut contractor is an essential part of installing hardwood flooring in your home. To find out how much your hardwood installation will cost, vet a few reputable contractors in your area. Every contractor has their own rates, but by vetting multiple contractors, you'll be able to get a sense of what is a reasonable rate to pay for hardwood flooring. Below, we'll go over the factors to consider when shopping for hardwood flooring, including standard pricing.