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What are the steps in remodeling a kitchen?

In the real estate industry, there are two key sayings to keep in mind, the first one being: LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. The second – Kitchens Sell Houses! And beyond the real estate industry, the kitchen is the heart of every home. So, whether you’re considering remodeling the kitchen to get your home ready to sell or you simply want to update it for your own use, remodeling experts and professional kitchen remodeling services will recommend you take certain steps to make the process go as easily as possible. 

Step 1: Determine the “must-have” features and the “want to have” features.

The first step to take with a kitchen remodeling project is to determine what are the “musts” and “wants” so you can narrow down your options and set your budget.

Step 2: Set your budget.

Now that you know your “musts” and “wants”, you can set a realistic budget. After that, you need to take the precautions necessary to make sure you don’t go over that budget. 

Step 3: Hire the professionals. 

You know what you know, and you have to think about your skill levels versus what you want in your kitchen remodel. With your budget determined, hire the professionals for the kitchen remodeling services you need – the things you’re not experienced with and the things that require permits and licensing. 

Step 4: Demolition Time. 

With the first three steps completed, it is demo day! If you have professional kitchen remodeling services on the job, they’ll handle this part. If you’re looking to save some money, you can kick things off by doing your own demolition. Before you start knocking out walls, a few steps for preparation are needed: 

• Turn the electric, gas, and water off
• Remove the appliances and empty the cabinets
• Have a dumpster in place and ready for the trash
• Place drop cloths on the floor if they aren’t being replaced

Step 5: The plumbing update 

With the kitchen gutted, get the plumbing updated and upgraded. If you’ve had any of the following issues, now is the time to address them with a professional kitchen remodeling services contractor: 

• Low water pressure 
• Hard or soft water
• Leaking faucets or plumbing
• Clogged plumbing
• Adding or removing gas lines
• Replacing or updating shut-off valves

Step 6: Time to light it up and power it up. 

Any electrical changes and updates should be left to the professional kitchen remodeling services you’ve hired. This can include installing new lighting and dimmer switches, installing wiring for new appliances, and other services.

Step 7: Drywalls up. 

With your electrical, gas, and plumbing upgrades all in place, it’s time to get the walls up! 

Step 8: Bring in the colors. 

Now you can add in the colors you’ve envisioned. Professional kitchen remodeling services typically have professional designers on staff to help you choose the color that is right for you and your home and who can give you insight on current trends. 

Step 9: Time for the floors. 

With the drywall up and painted, it’s time to focus on the flooring. Choose the flooring material that best suits your family and your household activities. If you’re placing your house on the market soon, follow the recommendations of the kitchen remodeling services you’ve hired. Part of their job is knowing what trends home buyers want. 

Step 10, 11, and 12: Bringing it all together. 

The cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash, and appliances! Again, use professional kitchen remodeling services for these things to make sure they are installed correctly. Use their experience and knowledge of what the trends are in these areas for your own use and for prospective buyers. 

What do you pick out first when remodeling a kitchen?

Ask anyone what they recommend, and they’ll tell you to choose your appliances first.  Designing your cabinet layout and the countertops is fun, and it’s important. However, with the appliances selected, you can build the layout around the sizes of the appliances. 

The Full Kitchen Remodeling Process

Depending on where you live, there may be steps that need a city inspection before you go to the next step. Kitchen remodeling services know this and will add these times into the timeline they give. The basic steps will go something like the following: 

• Demolition and tear out
• Electrical, framing, and plumbing rough-in
• Professional Inspection
• Drywall install
• Doors and windows
• Cabinetry, electrical, and plumbing 
• Appliances
• New flooring
• Professional inspection and walk-thru 

What’s trending in kitchen remodeling?

We’ve mentioned referring to the kitchen remodeling services professionals for what’s trending, but what are the trends for 2022? Well, you can start with a subway tile backsplash, which is larger in size than normal and goes in different directions, from the counter to the ceiling. 

Stained wood cabinets in shaker style have been popular and this will continue into 2022. And where you don’t have cabinetry, floating shelves are popular. Where you have appliances, build it up as a workstation so that anything you need is in reach. Colors in the kitchen go from bright and colorful to matte black for a bold statement. Your kitchen vent-a-hood is the focal point these days. 

What should you not do when remodeling a kitchen?

A lot of effort, money, and time goes into kitchen remodeling. The following advice will help you avoid common mistakes that others have made along the way. 

• Wasting Space and Steps: Design the kitchen so you aren’t walking a mile while cooking and avoid any dead space. 
• Tight Aisles and Walkways: Kitchen aisles and walkways should be wide enough for all that goes on in your kitchen – multiple cooks, kids in and out while cooking, and even pets. 
• Think in 3-D: Creating a kitchen that is functional is important. Take into consideration the direction of how things open as you plan the space. How much clearance do the fridge and oven need, how far out does the dishwasher door open, and other small things that can affect the aisle and walkways should all be considered.
• Overload and Oversize Islands: Instead of one huge island, go with a few smaller ones. More than 4’ deep or 10’ long is too big. 
• Small Space Overwhelmed: If you have a small kitchen, forget the kitchen island, and go with a peninsula. Every step in designing your kitchen remodeling; think about the space you have to work with. 
• Avoid Making Changes: Once the kitchen remodeling services begin the work, or if you’re doing it yourself, try not to make changes in the plans. This can take more money you don’t have budgeted and can take longer to get the job done. 
• Not Enough Storage: This is where professional kitchen remodeling services can be a great help – planning your storage needs. Once the job is done, you don’t want to realize you don’t have enough or the right storage. 
• Forgetting Family and Friends: As we said earlier, the kitchen is the heart of the home. You want to make sure your kitchen remodeling services account for the number of family and friends that are in your home. 
• Impulsive Decisions on Design: How a material looks on a showroom floor may not be the same as it will look in your home. Consider the artificial and natural lighting, the positioning, and more when choosing materials and items.

What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?

Cabinetry will be the biggest part of your budget – up to 40% of the budget in fact. A minor kitchen remodeling can spend as much as $15,000 on cabinetry. If you’re doing a total upscale remodeling job, you can expect to spend $30,000 on the cabinetry.

What is the cheapest way to renovate a kitchen?

Well, the first thing that kitchen remodeling services professionals will tell you for saving money is don’t replace the cabinetry. Instead, update them with fresh paint. Other money-saving tips for kitchen remodeling are: 

1. Budget countertops. 
2. Add roll-out kitchen shelves. 
3. Choose good lighting pieces that are bright and wide.
4. New paint and new curtains can do a lot for a little cash. 
5. Choose a good kitchen faucet; it’ll be worth the money.

What is the cost of a typical kitchen remodel?

Expert kitchen remodeling services will tell you that the cost is going to depend on how detailed and lavish you’re going to get. You can spend as little as $4,000 on average for a small kitchen and as much as $34,000 for a large, full blown kitchen remodel. The average is around $12,000. 

Does your daily staff clean the commercial flooring in your business, typical for restaurants? Or do you have them professionally cleaned, as is typical of businesses and retail stores? Either way, chances are they may not be getting cleaned right. There is a right way to clean commercial vinyl floors, and commercial floor cleaning chemicals are different from what you might be buying at a big box store or online.

The type of products you use for cleaning commercial flooring will depend on the type of flooring material you have and the type of business you’re running. For instance, the tile flooring in an office building lobby and your restrooms is different from the vinyl flooring in the break room or kitchen. And that is all going to be different than the flooring in a retail store with foot traffic all day, every day. 

Then there is the commercial kitchen flooring with not only foot traffic, but food and grease spills. So, let’s start with the commercial kitchens. What is the best floor for a commercial kitchen? Commercial flooring for kitchens must meet a lot of different demands when compared to the flooring in a bank or retail store. 

Two of the most popular choices for commercial flooring in kitchen areas are ceramic tile and vinyl flooring. However, in some environments, brick or natural stone are popular choices too. All four of these can withstand constant spills and high temperatures along with heavy equipment. They’re also water-resistant.  

When you think of your home kitchen flooring and all the abuse it can take, remember that commercial flooring in kitchens takes a thousand times more punishment. The commercial flooring for restaurants must meet all the following criteria, and in some instances, there may be other important factors to consider: 

• Safety First — Slip-resistant commercial flooring is a non-negotiable must have in kitchens. It must have good enough traction to help limit slips and falls.
• Sanitation — A kitchen floor needs to be clean – this is another non-negotiable must have for a commercial kitchen and commercial flooring. Daily cleaning requires heavy-duty chemicals that the flooring must withstand. And it must be easy to clean, too.
• Infection Control — Eliminating bacteria and viruses is a high priority for any commercial kitchen. This is why commercial flooring for a kitchen must be pre-treated to limit microbial growth and infection.
• Comfort — The staff in a commercial kitchen is on their feet for hours, so comfortable commercial flooring is a must
• Aesthetics — It may be a commercial kitchen, but commercial flooring needs to look good too and blend in with the restaurant’s interior design theme. 

What is the best commercial flooring for high traffic areas? 

Not all flooring materials are the same, and that includes the different types of commercial flooring. All flooring materials are made differently, look different, and perform differently in different situations. So, does this mean are we telling you commercial flooring is different from the flooring you have in your kitchen at home?

Absolutely! If you are designing and preparing a commercial building, there are several factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right commercial flooring. Things you should consider are: 

• How heavy will the foot traffic on this commercial flooring be? 
• Will heavy objects be sitting on this commercial flooring? 
• Could heavy objects be dropped or fall on this commercial flooring? 
• Will this commercial flooring be subjected to chemicals or other liquid spills?

With high-traffic commercial flooring, you also want the material to offer things like: 

• Durability – Withstanding heavy wear and tear for long periods of time, typically from foot traffic, but also equipment moving, objects dropping, liquids being spilled, and other issues that arise in commercial areas. 
• Easy Maintenance – Commercial flooring should always be simple to maintain so that cleaning doesn’t interrupt business and operations, even if you need emergency cleaning. Knowing how to clean commercial tile floors is important so you get long-lasting flooring for a high ROI.
• Cost Effective – The initial upfront cost, cost to maintain commercial flooring, and how often it will need to be replaced should all be take into consideration. 
• Aesthetics and Design – Depending on the purpose of the space, commercial flooring may need to be a priority to fit the rest of the décor. Hotel lobbies, reception areas, and retail areas must look pleasing and welcoming. However, for some areas like kitchens, functionality is more important than the way it looks.

With all these factors taken into consideration, 12 of the best commercial flooring materials and options we recommend include: 

• Porcelain Tile: Clay minerals and water are used to make these tiles; they are similar to ceramic tiles though created with a different process, including being baked at a higher temperature, making them denser and stronger.

• Quarry Tiles: Made along the same process as ceramic or porcelain but thicker; these tiles typically come unglazed.

• Natural Stone: This commercial flooring is durable, elegant, and has a hard surface that can last for a lifetime with proper maintenance. It’s also easy to clean and maintain. 

• Vinyl: This PVC material is hard but flexible, waterproof, stain-resistant, and resilient to heavy foot traffic and impact. 

• Engineered Bamboo: This has the aesthetic appeal of hardwood flooring and feels like hardwood flooring, but is denser, harder, and more resistant to scratches. 

• Laminate Flooring: Melamine resin and a plywood core make this look like stone or wood, but it is easy on the budget and durable.

• Commercial Broadloom Carpeting: This is a strong, high-quality choice, typically found in residential rentals for wall-to-wall flooring. It is soft but durable for heavy wear and tear.

• Carpet Tile: Similar to commercial broadloom carpets, this option is easier to repair by replacing a tile. 

• Rubber Floor: Durable, absorbs the high impact of heavy objects being dropped, this is resilient and absorbs sound, while still being a comfortable flooring option.  

• Terrazzo Flooring: This is a composite material that consists of granite, marble, or quartz stone chips mixed with a cement binder that is poured on site and sometimes installed in tiles. A durable and hard-wearing flooring that lasts. 

• Sealed Concrete: Offering high resistance to impacts and scratches, this is a hard-wearing flooring that is chemical and stain-resistant, too. 

• Epoxy Floor Coating: Ideal for concrete flooring, this is a chemical coating that forms a durable, hard, but smooth surface.

What is the most durable commercial flooring?

Terrazzo is the best thing on the commercial flooring market for large areas with heavy traffic like airports and showrooms. It’s durable but still provides a chic, upscale look while also being LEED-friendly. It is made from a mixture of a cement matrix or an epoxy resin mixture with marble, recycled granite glass, or other aggregates.

• A Midrange Bathroom Renovation will cost between $40,000  and $70,000.
• An Upscale Bathroom Remodel will cost between $70,000 and $90,000.

Notice one is “renovation” an the other is “remodel”. What is the differences? Keep reading! 

The cost for a midrange 5×7 bathroom update, keeping with standard selections and no change to the layout will cost approximately $40,000 to $70,000. You can expect a 50% ROI should you sell your home. 

Renovating a bathroom will typically include electrical and plumbing upgrades, upgrade to designer style toilet and a quality cast iron bathtub with ceramic tile surround. 

A vanity top made of marble or other type of solid-surface with quality cabinetry with quality hardware. Shower control and fitting upgraded to all brass. New paint using a premium quality paint, or wallpaper, new flooring with ceramic or a vitreous tile material. 

An Upscale Bathroom Remodel services will include expanding a small bathroom or creating an owner’s suite to a luxurious environment. For a cost of $70,000 to $90,000, with a 56% ROI, it could include relocating plumbing fixtures, install a walk-in shower, frameless glass enclosure, and tiled walls that include a recessed shower storage with spa-styling water fixtures.

A compartmentalized commode could be created to give the toilet area more privacy and make the bathroom more comfortable. Custom cabinetry with  stone countertops with a stand-alone bathtub would be included with accent lighting and high-end flooring. In the Pennsylvania area where winters are cold, an upgrade of an electric in-floor heating to give you more coziness would be included for that price range of bathroom remodel services.

How do I plan a bathroom remodeling project? 

Here offer 10 steps that professional bathroom remodel services consider to be crucial in planning a bathroom remodel or renovation: 

1. Measure the dimensions of the bathroom
2. Sketch a plan of the bathroom design you have in mind
3. Decide the colors and theme
4. Source the new bathroom appliances, furniture, plumbing, taps, tiles, etc. 
5. Keep a running ledger with the cost of each item and where you purchased it. Keep the receipts with this ledger for quick retrieval. 
6. Determine what professional trades you’ll need to hire, i.e. the electrician, plumber, tile person, etc. Get 2 to 3 quotes on each. 
7. Make provision for use of another bathroom during the remodel or renovating time. 
8. Make provision how and where to dispose of old materials. 
9. Confirm your budget to meet the quotes and incidentals. 
10. Measure again. Measure twice, buy or cut once. 

What do you pick out first when remodeling a bathroom?

Your colors and theme, then the vanity, countertop, and cabinetry. This is why you need to measure and measure again so you know exactly what size you need. If you need customized cabinetry allow time, up to 10 or 12 weeks in most places. Then you want to choose your flooring and appliances, meaning the bathtub, shower, sink, toilet, etc. 

Then choose the contractors you’re going to work with, get the quotes and estimates in writing, a start date and timeline of the work to be completed. Some contractors may ask for money upfront. Most people will tell you not to pay anything, but many contactors won’t start without some good faith funds put up first. 

What are the steps in remodeling a bathroom?

The following are basic steps in how a bathroom remodel or renovation will go. Professional bathroom remodel services will have different procedures, it doesn’t mean one is right or wrong. Things can vary from house to house. 

1. Out With  the Old Bathroom Fixtures

This is considered gutting the bathroom. If you are partially or totally renovating, most or everything will need to be removed or demolished. You need to have a dumpster on hand or other plans in place for this stuff.  A bathroom remodel services company will have a dumpster usually delivered the day before they start work. You’ll need to check with your local city or government office if a permit is needed. 

How do you gut a bathroom for remodeling?

1. Drain the toilet and use a shop vac to complete empty it then remove it.
2. If the bathtub is being removed, cover it up and remove all the tile around it down to the bare studs. 
3. Remove the insulation with reciprocating saw and gloves, eyewear, and masks. 
4. Remove the cabinets, mirrors, vanities, floor tiles, baseboards, etc. Save what you can re-use, trash the rest.  

2. Install the New Shower and/or Tub 

After the bathroom, is gutter, you can being installing the new fixtures. If there is any wood rot or water damage under the old shower or tup, you need repair and replace that before you install your new appliances. 

3. Install the New Fixtures & Features

With all the old stuff out, configure the electrical fixtures, install your new lighting, including the GFCIs. 

4. Lay the New Floor Tiles

Use a chalk line to mark the perpendicular reference lines at a ninety-degree angle to the wall with the longest continuous line so that you keep the tiles straight as you lay them down. 

5. Hang New Drywall and Paint or Paper

While you have empty walls, now is the time to install any new drywall needed then paint or paper it. This can take time with the drywall having to be cut around things like the vanity, but one you’ve got it all measured & cut, it will go up fast. 

 6. Install The New Cabinetry and Vanity 

The first thing you want to install is the vanity, including the sink and faucet. Once you have the drain hooked up to the faucet, you can move on to the other essentials such as the mirror, cabinets and the trim around the shower or tub.

7. Connect the Plumbing

You’re starting to recognize a bathroom by now, except for the toilet. Install that crucial part of the bathroom now. 

8. The Finishing Touches and Wrap It Up! 

Install the finishing trim around the mirrors, crown molding, etc. This is time for all the final touches that will make this room your oasis. 

What should I ask a contractor when remodeling a bathroom?

If you decide to hire a professional that does bathroom remodel services, it is important to hire one that you’re comfortable with. You want experienced and trustworthy as much as you want budget minded. Some questions to ask as you comb through 2 or 3 of them before deciding: 

• How long have you been provided professional bathroom remodel services?
• Do you have formal training?
• If not formal trained, where did you get your experience?
• What professional associations are you a member?
• Is your license registered with the city, state?
• Do you have a copy of your insurance?
• Cam you give me recent references to check?

There are two types of gutter systems available: The standard gutter system and the seamless gutter system. Let’s review the differences of the two gutter installation types: 

• The standard gutters are the ‘old school’ that comes in pre-cut sections that must be joined together during the gutter installation. While they are easy to install, often a DIY project for the handy homeowner, they have joints and seams that require being sealed. Without being sealed, they leak, losing the intended purpose of keeping water away from the foundation. 

• The seamless gutter system are manufactured as one long piece. This gutter installation is done by professional contractor as one long piece that wraps around your home. There are no joints or seams for possible leaking issues. 

Why seamless gutters?

When considering which type of gutter installation to get, most homeowners prefer to get the best one for the money and the purpose. So, between regular gutter installation or the seamless gutter installation, why is the seamless decidedly the best choice? Or is it? 

This will depend on your budget and your home. The seamless gutter installation will cost more at installation, but the maintenance and upkeep is little to none. A seamless gutter installation will last longer, again, because there is little to no maintenance and upkeep. 

A regular gutter system installation comes in sections that are connected together as they are installed. This creates joints and seams that can potentially have leaks, especially when maintenance and upkeep aren’t performed as recommended. 

How seamless gutters are made?

Seamless gutters are manufactured on-site using a gutter forming machine that rolls sheet metal out, forming the gutter run as the it comes through. The gutter installation is done by securing the formed gutter to the house in the same manner as sectional gutter installations are secured. 

Which gutter material is best?

Seamless gutters are available I aluminum or copper and customized to each home onsite. The conventional standard gutter installation is in sections that are pieced together and snap-in-place with connectors, creating joints and seams. It is those joints and seams that can begin to leak over time, which makes the seamless gutter installation advantages stand out even more.  What are those advantages that make a seamless gutter installation so appealing?

• Possibility of leaks are greatly reduced.
• The seams that can be unsightly are eliminated. 
• The aluminum seamless gutters have baked on enamel that doesn’t require painting. 
• They are custom made with exact measurements onsite.
• Seamless gutter installation jobs are completed in a single day.
• Seamless gutter installation creates a protection for your home. 
• Seamless gutters are available in several baked on enamel colors.

If you aren’t sure where welding is used or how welding works, read on as we tell you about the 4 different types of welding and where welding can be done:  

• MIG Welding: MIG welding is a form of arc welding, using a continuous electrode wire with shielding gas traveling through the welding gun which is protecting against contamination. This type of welding is common in the auto industry to repair exhaust, and in the construction industry for homes and other structures. 
• TIG WELDING: TIG welding is also a form of ARC welding, using an electric arc made of tungsten, a tough metal that doesn’t burn off or dissolve.  This type of welding is also referred to as fusion with or without a filler metal. TIG welding requires an argon or helium external gas supply and is found in the aerospace and auto industry as well as other industries. Farmers and ranchers use TIG welding for the equipment repairs. 
• STICK WELDING: Stick welding is excellent for portability and found in the construction and maintenance industries for fabrication and repair, including underwater pipelines.  Using a consumable, protected electrode, it softens and combines different types of metals by heating with an arc. As the stick melts, a protective cover melts and shields the welded area from oxygen and gases in the air.
• FLUX-CORED WELDING: This type of arc welding, similar to MIG welding in the fact it also uses a continuous wire. It combines a that continuous hollow electrode wire with a base metal and the flux inside the electrode wire is fed through the weld gun to the weld pool. Flux cored welding is used on thicker metals found in the machining industry.

Okay, so where is welding services at home?  

We’ve mentioned welding in different industries, from auto to industrial machinery, aerospace, and waterlines, but where does welding appear in your home? Do you have HVAC in your home? Most of, probably 99% of that system has some type of welding. 

Look the cover you lift off to change the filter, and examine the casing the HVAC system is housed in. Those are all parts that were manufactured separately then welded together. The water heater in your home has welded parts as does the water lines running through your home. The electrical breaker box or fuse box in your home has welded parts they are made from as does your metal garage door and the screen doors on the back and front of your home. 

The ceiling fans throughout your home have welded parts put together with other parts that make these fans. Your dishwasher, refrigerator, stove/oven all have welded parts. Your lawn mower, weed eater, and other gardening and lawn tools have been welded. Each time you open, pick up, or use any metal item in your home, look for the welding. What you may see as a blue collar job is actually an important part of your everyday life. 

Some of those other options include brazing, which is like welding. It includes taking 2 pieces of metal and using heat to connect them but is using a torch with a filler rod or flux. It does require the use of certain rods with certain metals and may require acetylene and oxygen.There is also soldering, sort of like brazing, but is typically used on circuit boards and electronics, like your HVAC thermostat, your cell phone, computer, television, etc. You can also use riveting to connect two metal pieces together. Riveting is using a cylindrical post and insert it in a hole where the head of that post goes all the way through. This is usually used on in a temporary situation. Call 267-622-7158 today for your welding needs in Philadelphia, PA.

With that information, you now know that there are metal coatings that will give you optimal performance and results, like a fluid-applied commercial roof coating system. It can prolong a commercial metal roof’s longevity and when the roof coatings are done with any necessary repairs, it will make your commercial metal roofing resistant to almost every element. 

A review of commercial metal roofing coating finds several definitive options, like an acrylic metal roof coating, in different colors. The most common though is a white reflective metal roof coating, especially in areas where the summers are hot. Some of those roof coatings used are:  

• Sta-Kool 805 Metal-X: A durable elastomeric roof coating that is  formulated for outstanding bonding strength to commercial metal roofing.  
• Rust-oleum Metal Roof Coating: A popular choice for commercial metal roofing. 
• Henry Elastomeric Metal Roof Coating: Provides a Dura-Bright finish.
• Liquid Rubber Waterproof Metal Roof Coating.

It is important to have a professional commercial roofing contractor that is experienced, reputable, and trustworthy. One that knows commercial metal roofing and the different coatings available. Yes, you’re thinking to yourself, “I want a contractor that does commercial metal roofing near me and commercial metal roofing supplies near me for convenience.”, and that is important, but not as important as experience and reputation. 

Is it recommended to insulate under metal roof?

While commercial metal roofing is a durable way to roof your commercial structure, it does have a high thermal conductivity. What can be done about that? Insulate it and there are several options for commercial metal roofing insulation. Your choices in insulation are: 

Fiberglass Batting

A popular choice for all types of roofing because it is inexpensive with a range of various R-values, the thermal resistance measurement. Remember, the higher the R-value number, the better the insulating results.

However, fiberglass batting has its challenges, starting with the installation difficulties. Chapping it around corner, over rafters and wires can be difficult. Fiberglass batting insulation doesn’t offer a good vapor barrier either. Therefore, moisture doesn’t dissipate,  and it loses its R-value. Also, realizing that fiberglass batting consists of miniscule bits of glass shards that can be breathed in if it isn’t installed correctly. 

Rigid Foam Board

The more expensive choice compared to batt insulation because of higher R-values. Provide soundproofing as well as weather insulation but has its challenges as well. Like batt insulation, it doesn’t form well around corners or other tight situations.  Your commercial metal roofing must be vented and have a vapor barrier installed when using rigid foam board insulation because this is not a moisture proof insulation material. 

Spray Foam

Another option that costs more than the fiberglass batt insulation, but unlike the rigid foam board, the R-value is lower. The upside is that it will get into every corner and crack needed, providing a better coverage than the other two options. There are two forms of spray foam insulation: 

• Closed-cell – the expensive of the two because it has better insulation powers. 
• Open-Cell the less expensive of the two and has less R-value. 

Keep in mind whichever type of commercial metal roofing insulation you choose it will do more than minimize or stop the transfer of heat. It is also going to be somewhat soundproofing your ceiling against hail, hard rains, and high winds. As to which type of insulation is the best is all dependent on the type of structure you have and the climate it is located. 

Can I put a metal roof on top of a metal roof?

Yes, if the existing commercial metal roofing panels are not severely deteriorated. Obviously, there is a reason you’re having a new commercial metal roofing installed, or you wouldn’t be concerned about installing new over existing. However, you don’t want it so deteriorated that it can’t provide any type of support for the new commercial metal roofing. 

Can a metal roof be repaired?

Absolutely, but if commercial metal roofing repairs are not done correctly, it can cause more problems.  Like any type of roofing system, a commercial metal roofing system requires regular maintenance, upkeep, and repairs. When those repairs are done properly by a professional metal roofing contractor, they can last as long as the rest of roof. However, when they aren’t done correctly, the repair can break and fail, leaving you more problems than you had before. 

Cement is a durable product, but not with the same strength of concrete. Cement is made from calcium and silica-rich materials, which is prone to crack under pressure. It is an ideal material for decorative, smaller concrete projects but not for projects like driveways, foundations, or roadways where there is heavy foot or vehicle traffic, nor is good for supporting a structure like a house.  

In some cases, rebar is used for strengthening concrete projects that are more than five inches deep, like buildings, driveways, and roads. For a non-commercial or public use, rebar may not be required but if you want to give your concrete project. More reinforcement, there is a wire mesh available. 

What are some good projects to do?

 The sky is the limit when it comes to different concrete projects home ideas. You can create industrial and modern designs or go with a rustic and timeless look. Some cement or concrete projects and ideas to consider: 

• Pathways and walkways around your home, through the gardens and from the house to the she-shed, garage, or pool house.
• Create a unique pool deck.
• Planters for the garden, the front porch, and back deck.
• Edging for the garden and walkways.
• Volitive candle holders for the deck using red plastic cups for the mold.
• iPad holder on the deck or by the pool using a movie popcorn box for the mold.
• Pendant lighting using two-liter soda bottles for the mold.

Is it easy to make concrete? and How do you make concrete by hand?

If you’re concerned about making your own concrete,  there is pre-mix bags available at any home improvement store but making your own can add to the sense of accomplishment. With the following steps, you’re on your way to home DIY projects that will be with you for years to come: 

• Crush the limestone into 3-inch pieces or you can purchase it already crushed. 
• Pour the crushed limestone in a kiln and heat to 2,700°F. 
• Remove limestone from kiln and after it cools, with rubber gloves on, crumble up the heated limestone. 
• With a shovel, mix cement and all-purpose sand in even parts in a wheelbarrow.
• Add 4 parts crushed brick or gravel to the mixture.
• Add water slowly to the dry ingredients in a 5-gallon bucket. 
• Using your shovel, mix the ingredients thoroughly. 
• Wash your mixing tools and wheelbarrow with water house. 

Regardless of which type of concrete you choose, making your own or mixing it together, the process is easy when you have the proper materials and tools.

Fortunately, products are available on the market that lessens the porousness of the concrete. Some are mixed while the concrete is pouring, and some are applied to the surface. There are specialty concrete coatings that protect the surface from staining and make it UV resistant. 

For those outdoor concrete projects that will be exposed to elements, there are waterproof products. These concrete projects such as sidewalks or exteriors of building to keep them and the curb appeal looking good. If your concrete projects are below the ground surface, it is recommended to hire a professional to waterproof. Call 267-622-7158 today for your concrete project needs in Philadelphia, PA.

What are the benefits of a slate roof?

Slate is not a roofing material that most people think to have quoted for their home. Why? Because of the cost. Why pay so much for a slate roof when you can have an asphalt roof for a fraction of the price?  Because it is the only roof you’ll ever need!  Other benefits of  slate roofs are: 

• Aesthetics: The beauty of a slate roof will draw a homeowner’s attention. It is a gorgeous material and the perfect touch for many architectural style homes. It comes in gray, green and red  with different thicknesses, and widths.
• Durability: Slate is a natural occurring stone, so a slate roof is going to be exceptionally durable and unaffected by weather events and extremes, including high temperatures, high winds,  or even hail. It is a fire-resistant material too, a big bonus for homeowner’s insurance. 
• Long Lifespan: A slate roof will last up to 75 years with professional slate roof installation and maintained properly.  When you have an excellent corresponding lengthy warranty, a slate roof is a perfect long-term investment for a home that you’ll spend years enjoying.  
• Minimal Maintenance: With the superior durability and longevity that a slate roof offers, it also offers a low maintenance level.  Since it isn’t typically damaged like other roofing materials, repairs and replacements are few and far between, if every! Mildew and mold resistant is a big plus. 
• Home Value Increase: Even if the house you install a slate roof isn’t in your forever plan, a slate roof is a great value add to any house. Prospective buyers will appreciate the longevity of the slate roof knowing they won’t have to replace the roof in 10-15 years. 

How do you maintain a slate roof?

 There isn’t much to slate roof details for regular maintenance.  Keeping the gutter system cleaned twice a year is the most prominent thing you need to follow, but that is with any roofing material. Should a slate tile become damaged, replace it immediately and every 5 years, have it professionally inspected.

A slate roof structure requires minimal care and maintenance, one of the selling points of a slate roof. So, you buy a house with a slate roof, then you notice some issues. Can you patch a slate roof? First, we want to advise you against doing any repair to a slate roof as a DIY project.  Repairing a slate roof is not easy and without having the experience and knowledge, you could do more damage than good, not to mention the risks involved. 

If possible, have the same roofing contractor that installed the slate roof do the repairs.  Getting the matching type of slate is important for appearance and fitting purposes. Even better, if the slate repair material is from the same quarry as the original slate due to color and durability. While the repairs may be costly, know that this is a beautiful investment to your home and the ROI is great for your enjoyment and knowing that your home has that unique beauty is worth the expense. Looking for slate roofing in Philadelphia, PA? Call 267-622-7158 today!

When remodeling your kitchen do you do the floors first?

Generally, installing the hardwood floors first is the basic rule if you do a complete kitchen remodeling that includes replacing the cabinets. You need to think through the entire process and discuss your pans with a cabinet specialist and a flooring specialist. If you find one person that specializes in both, awesome! Why is it better to install the flooring first? 

1. Heights: Standard cabinet height is thirty-six inches above the floor, the same height as the appliances.    
2. Flexibility:  The cabinetry style won’t last as long as the hardwood flooring style, and they will need to be repaired or replaced over the years. With hardwood throughout, you have the flexibility to change the cabinetry footprint or move the appliances.  
3. Clean:  You’ll have a cleaner look when you install the hardwood floors first because quarter round won’t be needed as the hardwood flooring flows smoothly under the cabinets.
4. Safer:  With the flooring done first, you’ll avoid accidentally nicking or staining the cabinetry while installing the flooring and other kitchen remodeling activity.  

What is the cheapest way to update a kitchen?      

If you’re not totally in love with your kitchen, but your shoe-string budget can’t afford a total kitchen remodeling, we have a few ideas to share with you that are easy and, best of all, kitchen remodel for cheap! Mix and match the following, or do them all: 

1. Get Artsy: Fill that blank wall, the empty space above cabinets, or empty counter space, a piece of random art will give your kitchen a new look in a subtle way. 
2. Rug It: Even with good flooring in place, a rug will add color and give your feet a little cushion.
3. Paint It: No, not the whole kitchen, just a little something. Maybe there is that weird little bump out in the wall, or the wall behind the vent-a-hood. 
4. Paper It: Same with the paint feature, wallpaper can do the same thing and with the peel-and-stick options in wallpaper today, it is so much easier than it used to be. 
5. Light It Up: No need to worry with hardwiring, a unique table lamp on the cabinets can give a kitchen that warm glow. 
6. Bar Stool Swap: Swap out the bar stools around your kitchen island or recover the cushions on the current bar stools.
7. Add Colorful Appliance: Coffee makers, toasters, mixers, all come in bright colors today are equivalent to throw pillows on the sofa, even a brightly colored tea kettle.
8. Window Treatments: Maybe it is time to update your kitchen curtains? 
9. Splash with New Backsplash: Thanks to the peel-and-stick process, you can add backsplash easily and fast with no grout! 
10. Shelf It: Maybe open shelving in the kitchen isn’t your thing, but what kitchen couldn’t use more shelving for storage?! 

How can I update my kitchen without replacing cabinets?

The kitchen is the focal of the home today, so it is used a lot. It can get dated and worn after a few years, but kitchen remodeling isn’t in everyone’s budget. What can you do to update your kitchen without a fortune? 

• Paint the cabinets and/or walls
• Replace the appliances
• Replace the cabinet hardware, countertop, faucet or sink
• Add pendant lighting

Can a kitchen remodel be a tax write off?

Yes and no. In general, repairs are not tax-deductible, like repairing plumbing under a leaking sink. If the property is your personal residence, then kitchen remodeling is not tax-deductible. 

Here are tax deductions you take on kitchen remodeling: 

• If a part of home is used for business, it may be a qualified for a home office deduction. However, unless that business is kitchen related, a kitchen remodeling is not going to be deductible. 
• Home improvements are tax deductible if you’re making them to sell your home and they add value to the property. 

Is it worth doing a kitchen renovation?

The rule of thumb is to spend no more than two percent of the property value for kitchen remodeling or other big-ticket rooms like the bathrooms. However, it would help if you spent enough to get the max in results. Instead of a high-end renovation, average kitchen remodeling will pay off. Call 267-622-7158 today for kitchen renovation in Philadelphia, PA.

In comparison of a new roof, roof flashing is comparatively the inexpensive part of this project and will have the largest ROI when it comes to the roof’s integrity. If your current roof is missing any flashing, or the roof flashing is bent or loose, it is worth  the minimal expense of having a professional contractor repair or replace it as soon as possible. Yes – roof flashing is that important and necessary. 

What does roof flashing look like?

For all the protection that roof flashing provides your roof, it is the simplest material: A  thin metal strip that comes on a roll. It is moisture resistant, mold resistant, and can be made from any type of metal so that it blends with any type of roofing material like aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, or lead.

What are the different types of roof flashing?

Water is the biggest enemy of roofs and roof flashing is the defender. It works with the shingles in preventing roof leaks. However, not all roof flashing is the same, but each one has a critical role in preventing water penetration. The four most common roof flashing types are: 

• The Drip Edge Roof Flashing – this is installed along the roof’s edge to keep the water from overfilling the gutter system and pushing up under the shingles. Without this roof flashing, your fascia board will mold and rot, then the roof decking will be next.
• The Valley Roof Flashing – the roof decking then the underlayment are installed, this roof flashing is next and then the asphalt shingles. Valleys are where two sections of different angle roofing meets.  Without this roof flashing, the shingle will rot quickly in the valleys and if not installed correctly, nailed along the edges followed by roof cement, then it won’t do the job it is meant to do. 
• Vent Pipe Roof Flashing – this is special roof flashing that fits over pipes and vents that protrude the roof. It has a flange on the bottom, allowing the cylindrical shape to fit flat with the roof. Pipes and vents that protrude the roof surface are a critical weak point and when left unprotected, you can expect leaks around these areas. 
• Step Roof Flashing – a chimney and skylights need this roof flashing around the base of it to keep water flowing past.  

Depending on a house shape and features, all of these roof flashing types may be needed. 

Does flashing go over or under shingles?

Knowing how to install roof flashing is critical in it performing as needed to protect the roof. It is a uncomplicated process to install on roof edges, however, the counter flashing or step-type roof flashing have different techniques. 

Step roof flashing is layered with the shingles, allowing the water to pour down each step as it goes down the roof. Counter-flashing involves two pieces of roof flashing with one being the base piece around the base of the chimney. Then the second piece is embedded into the chimney’s masonry.