Winter is here in Buffalo, NY and we all just want to curl up on our couches to stay warm. But, while you are drinking hot chocolate by the fire maybe it is time to think about your renovation projects for the spring. Although it may seem far away, it really isn’t. Right now is a perfect time to get ideas and look around. You are not under pressure to get the project done, so you can take your time looking around so you make the best decisions. We recommend that you do as much research as you can and look at many pictures. This way you can develop a sense of what you like. Renovations can be expensive, therefore you want to make sure it will last for years after. Check out some of our tips about iPhone/iPad applications to assist in the process. Also, be sure to read about the different surfaces. It is never to early to start planning for those projects happening 3 months down the road.
We would love to hear some of your recommendations when starting the remodeling/construction process.
Have you ever watched the show Million Dollar Room on HGTV? It is a great show to get ideas. Although many of us cannot afford all the wonderful things in these houses there are cheaper options. I have watched this show and gotten wonderful ideas.
Get ideas on how to design your bathrooms- jacuzzi or soaking tub, shower, dual vanities
Many times kitchens are featured on the show- I have seen Lava counters, granite, marble, and concrete counter tops
Patios- Although some of these patios are very elaborate you can get an idea if you would like yours to look something that it. Do you want a pool, bar, cabana
The color tones of different houses
Although some of these things may see far-fetched for most of us, I highly recommend watching the show. It will give you wonderful ideas for that next project you are doing.
Check out what happens when you hire the wrong granite contractor. These problems are preventable and buyers should be aware of problems such as these.
One thing to be aware of is the different colors and patterns in the granite. A good granite supplier/fabricator will show you how your granite will fit together.
Have you heard of the Houzz app/website? We love this website/app. The Houzz website/app is a home design and remodeling platform that assists people in finding products or ideas. By connecting designers, homeowners, and professionals from around the world individuals can become inspired about their next project.
How does is work:
Search a database of photos to get ideas, and then add them to an “ideabook” where you can store the ideas with notes.
Connect with professionals. Find a professional that you can relate to and connect with them to ask questions about their work.
“Increase your expose”- “Homewoners can turn their ideas into reality” by communicating them to professionals.
Helps with clients – Houzz helps to create an ideabook to show clients
There are an ever increasing amount of people trying to break into the granite industry, and they will all tell you they are the best. So how do you really know who is telling the truth? Here are some tips to looks for when deciding who should fabricate your counter tops.
Cheapest does not mean it is the best. Usually there is a reason why they are cheaper.
Do they explain the different characteristics of each stone to you. They should know which stones will work better outside, or will hold with less supports.
You should check out other jobs to see their joints.- a seam or joint should be less than 1/16 and should blend in with the counter top
Did they check for level-A good fabricator and installer will check your cabinets for levelness-if they are not level there is the ability for the granite to crack
Did they match the direction of the grain and did the kitchen come from the same slab and lot.-Some fabricators will not match the direction of the “pattern” therefore they may clash. Also if more than one slab of granite is needed make sure they match, because the next lot may be slightly different.
Is the bottom polished?-Many fabricators do not polish underneath the counter top, but they should because people could feel it.
Do they “man up” to their mistakes. -Sometimes mistakes happen, but the way a company handles them can say a lot.
Hopefully these tips will help you find a high quality fabricator.
Like many things planning needs to be done when you are getting granite, marble, or any other type of stone. So here is a list of things to keep in mind when getting your new counter tops
Bring in a layout of your kitchen, bathroom, etc so quotes are generated properly.
Make sure you are ready for your field measure- Cabinets should be installed and level. If this is a remodel make sure you have your previous is top taken off.
All plumbing fixtures should be ordered before the field measure. This is important because we cannot re-cut something once it is cut. So, everything has to be right the first time
