What To Consider Before Adding A Bathtub During Your San Diego Bathroom Remodel
A bathtub is a great addition to any bathroom. It adds style and class and it gives you the luxury and pleasure to soak up and rejuvenate whenever you want to pamper yourself a little. But is it possible for you to have one fitted during your bathroom renovation project? Remember, just because its great doesn’t mean it works for everyone.
Is it safe to install and operate a tub in your bathroom?
A bathtub needs to be installed on a floor that has joists strong enough to support it when full and in use. Larger tubs that can hold two or more people carry even more weight when in use and need even more support for them to be safe to operate. So before installing one, you need to have your contractor or engineer evaluate the structural integrity of your bathroom floor. There also needs to be good drainage provided. And in other cases, a bed of mortar is needed to support the tub and keep it from breaking with time.
Is there enough space?
Bathtubs take more space compared to standard bathroom shower cubicles. So you also need to see if there is enough space to add a tub and still remain with adequate space to move around without crashing into walls and fixtures. There are modern tubs that could work for tight spaces. However, other more luxurious tubs need plenty of space. In the case of the latter, you could explore the possibility of enlarging your bathroom to create additional space.
Is there access to get the bathtub to the bathroom?
Another crucial point to look into before ordering your bathtub is to check whether you have a way of getting it all the way from your driveway and into your bathroom space safely. Bathtubs are bulky and need delicate handling. So if you have tiny rickety stairs leading upstairs or tight corners leading up to the second floor master bathroom, you may want to think about how you’ll get the tub to its intended destination.
What type of bathtub fits your space and style best?
There are lots of bathtub designs on the market. These range in shape, size, design and even functionality as it is with the whirlpool and air bathtubs. And when it comes to installation, there are freestanding tubs as well as drop-in units, as well as bathtub and shower combos. And there are different brands to consider as well such as Sterling, Kohler, and more. If you want your bathtub to stand out, there are copper tubs, acrylic tubs, walk-in tubs, and massage tubs to consider. It is important, therefore, that you consider the tub style that best meets your needs, your style, as well as the style of your bathroom area.
Planning a bathroom remodeling San Diego County project? Look no further than Creative Design & Build. We are based in San Diego and bathroom remodeling is one of our top services. Let us help you install a tub, and maybe even pick one!
What to Consider Before Your Coronado Bathroom and Kitchen Remodel
Remodeling your bathroom or kitchen is usually a fun activity to look forward to. Apart from the intricate process, the final work is definitely worth the time and money put into your remodel project. As you consider what you would like to give a facelift to in your bathroom and kitchen, some questions you should ask yourself include:
- Why do I need a kitchen or bathroom remodel?
Before embarking on a time and money consuming activity such as a remodel of your bathroom and kitchen, consider why you need it. It could be that your space needs a face-lift or a more modern look. Whatever your reasons are, consider the services of a kitchen remodeling Coronado expert like our company. We have done exquisite kitchen remodels for various homes over the past 15 years that we have been in the business.
- How much will such a remodel cost?
Remodeling your bathroom or kitchen will definitely cost you some cash. It is a venture that you must plan and budget for carefully so that you do not scrimp on any of the additions you may want to include in your new kitchen or bathroom. At Creative Design and Build, we offer our clients a wide array of services to choose from as well as products which will suit your budget comfortably.
- What are the timelines for a remodel?
No one remodel is equal to another; they all vary in terms of budget and scope of work. For instance, for a bathroom remodel, we offer various services which include a full remodel of the master bathroom, taking out a tub and remodeling to a shower and so on. All these services will vary in timelines from start to finish. So you need to prepare yourself to relocate to another bathroom in the house for a bit of time.
- Will my tastes and preferences be taken into consideration?
A professional contractor knows that putting a customer’s needs first is what makes a job worthwhile. It is paramount that you source for a contractor who will take into consideration what you need and offer you advice accordingly without ignoring your considerations. Customer satisfaction drives our service delivery at Creative Design and Build because we understand that you will have to live with the remodel; so we make sure that you will love it and that it resonates with your personality.
- Where do I start if I need a remodel of my kitchen OR bathroom?
First and foremost, look for a professional contractor who will work with you from the beginning of this process to the end in a professional manner. A professional contractor will answer any questions you have (such as this one) clearly. You also need to get an estimate of your full remodel job before you can decide when to start as this will be based on the availability of funds on your end.
Looking for a professional bathroom remodeling Coronado, CA expert? Consider the services of Creative Design and Build Ltd. Our company has over 15 years experience in bathroom and kitchen remodels and we are fully licensed. Contact us today for a free estimate of your anticipated remodel.
Tips On How To Handle Your San Diego Kitchen Or Bathroom Remodel During Coronavirus
Even though the coronavirus pandemic is still raging on across the country, we understand that homeowners still need to develop the spaces they live in for various reasons. Here at Creative Design & Build San Diego, we are still offering our clients the very same services we have always provided – but this time with a lot of precaution involved due to prevailing reasons.
Need a kitchen or bathroom remodeling San Diego? Read on for some advice on how to handle your project at this time while staying safe.
Should you proceed with your kitchen or bath remodeling at this time?
It is perfectly okay to feel conflicted about whether you should proceed with your remodel at this time given all the things going on with this pandemic. You will most likely question yourself every step of the way, especially in the lead-up to giving your contractor a call and hiring them for the job you have in mind.
So what’s the answer to the big question? The answer is yes. If you take the right steps to protect yourself and those around you then by all means proceed with your remodel. Also, we understand that in some cases a remodel is an urgent matter. That applies in cases such as when:
- Your home needs urgent repairs.
- Your home needs to go on sale.
- You just bought a property and need to work on it before moving your family in.
Choosing and hiring a remodeling contractor during coronavirus
Under normal circumstances, hiring a remodeling contractor entails looking at their experience, their reputation (especially with past clients), the projects they have completed before, and seeing if they can tackle a project similar to yours, among other things.
With the coronavirus now, you also have to go another extra mile and look at factors pertaining to health and safety. You should only hire a contractor if they are taking active measures to ensure that they keep themselves safe while keeping their clients safe as well. To this end, you can:
- Hire contractors with active counter-corona measures.
- Hire contractors that live near you to reduce contact exposure.
- Have your contractor retain only a small workforce.
Ask your SD contractor what measures they will take to keep you safe
Taking precautions when choosing who remodels your bathroom or kitchen is not enough. You also need to ensure that the contractor will be helping you with that mission. Ask them what they are doing to protect their clients against coronavirus.
Some of the things they could be doing include:
- Wearing protective gear when working.
- Giving online quotes and consults.
- Regularly checking their staff for infections.
How to keep yourself safe during a remodel at this time
Apply the same measures that health professionals and the government have advised. Practice social distancing, wear a mask when interacting with your remodeling team, wash your hands regularly, and sanitize your spaces (especially those being worked on).
Creative Design & Build is ready to provide you with a safe and spectacular bathroom or kitchen remodeling San Diego. We have superb measures in place to keep our customers safe so feel free to work with us even during this challenging time.
How To Remodel Your San Diego Bathroom Or Kitchen And Stay Safe During The Coronavirus Pandemic
Tired of your boring kitchen or worn bathroom? Despite how much of a damper and how much worry coronavirus has put on your plans, we understand that you may still want to carry out your remodel in San Diego. And you can still get it done. However, that brings with it quite some risk considering you may be required to move about and interact with more people than you usually would. But luckily for you, we have great ideas on how you can manage your kitchen or bathroom remodeling San Diego without putting yourself in grave risk. Read on to find out more.
Seek quotes and consultations online
Want to go out knocking on office doors looking to talk to kitchen and bathroom designers or seek quotes? That exposes you to too much risk as you travel and walk about the streets. You can get the same (if not more) done by simply going the online way. Just hop onto your PC and do it all online. At Creative Build & Design we offer quick and free estimates via our easy to fill forms on our websites. You can also call us and get a free quote over the phone. And once you consider using us for your kitchen remodeling San Diego, we can schedule online consults via video chat where you can talk to our builders and designers and get all your questions answered. And you can do all this safely from the comfort of your living room.
Get a San Diego contractor that will source supplies for you
It is not safe for you to go into crowded big-box stores and hardware stores to purchase building supplies. You can limit that exposure by working with a San Diego contractor such as Creative Design & Build who will go out and procure your bathroom and kitchen supplies for you. This includes:
- Countertops and faucets
- Lights and lighting features
- Flooring materials
- Mirrors and vanities
- Bar stools for your kitchen island
- Paint and wallpaper
Seek secondary accommodation during the remodel if possible
If the remodel at your property will take a few days, you can cleverly limit the exposure to other people by temporarily relocating your family to a secondary dwelling space. You could put up at a hotel. Or maybe you prefer a short term rental space on Airbnb? This will shield you from coming into contact with all the people who will be coming to your site daily. Nevertheless, we will endeavor to work fast so that you can have your new space all to yourself as soon as possible.
Decontaminate your San Diego space after the remodel just to be safe
Last, but not in any way the least, another serious measure you could (and should) take at this time is to decontaminate your newly-remodeled space to limit chances of coronavirus cross-infection. This will give you utmost peace of mind as you enjoy your new swanky kitchen or bathroom. Although all our staff at Creative Design & Build will be wearing protective gear and sanitizing frequently, there is always a risk that there is Covid-19 particulate matter in the air or on your surfaces. Hire a 3rd party cleaning service to do it for you. Or maybe you want to decontaminate your house by yourself?
Need Space For A Rental Unit On Your San Diego Property? Check Out These Ideas
The real estate market in San Diego has been on the rise in recent times. While this may mean higher buying prices, it also means more demand and lucrative rental prices for those already owning a piece of property in this section of Southern California. With the help of a company such as Creative Design & Build, you can easily turn some of your space into a fully functioning rental unit and start earning some decent passive income. Interested?
Below, see some of our ideas on some of the areas you can convert into a rental unit in your home.
- Garage ADU
Got a garage that you no longer actively use? This could be a perfect rental space if it is big enough, e.g. a double garage space. This space is already connected to the main house and is insulated. All that is needed is an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) remodel to get this space ready and habitable. It could act as a bedroom or small studio for a single adult. And they can have their own independent entrance door so you still get to enjoy your privacy.
- Basement remodel
Have a basement that you have no idea what to do with? Not everyone has their basement functioning as a man cave, home theatre or children’s play room. Quite a lot of basements are empty and neglected. With a bit of investment these large spaces can be turned into guest wings that can then be rented out. Most often have a bathroom so a kitchen is then added via a kitchen remodeling San Diego installation. After working on the flooring, lighting, walls, and adding furniture, the space is usually good to go.
- Pool house installation/remodel
If you have a pool house on your San Diego home that too can easily be flipped into an awesome rental unit. It can even work as a short term rental unit that you could list online for visiting tourists. A pool house is likely to fetch very good rental rates if done well because it has the potential to carry that leisurely high-end look and feel. If you don’t have a pool house but have adequate outdoor space and a pool, we could install one for you. And when you’re not renting it out you could use it as a guest wing or as an actual pool house.
- Room addition/ house extension
If your outdoor space is not that abundant, a good alternative is a room addition process. This is where we add a new room somewhere adjacent to your existing house. We can even add a new living suite complete with a kitchenette and a bathroom thanks to our bathroom remodeling San Diego experts. We often do this for families who have outgrown their house. But the same also works very well for shrewd homeowners who don’t mind becoming landlords as well.
Feeling like a landlord yet? For any of the above projects Creative Design & Build can handle the entire project management including application for permits, drawing up designs, and even installing furniture.
Here’s How You Can Add More Storage Space To Your Kitchen
Storage is often a big factor when it comes to designing, constructing or remodeling kitchens. Without sufficient storage, a kitchen can quickly lose its functionality and allure. Are you struggling with storage issues in your kitchen? Below are some great ideas on how to carve out more storage space from your kitchen, besides the normal cabinets and drawers, of course.
Pantries
If you need a lot of storage in your kitchen then a pantry is a must-have for you. A pantry allows you to carve out an entire section dedicated solely to storing pots, pans, and food supplies. And although it only takes up a small amount of your floor space, a pantry can hold a lot. They are especially ideal for storing supplies or utilities that you don’t necessarily use every day, such as blenders or long term storage food such as cans and jars. And you don’t need to worry about a pantry ruining the style of your kitchen. Modern pantry designs can complement your kitchen space or even camouflage it.
Hidden storage compartments
If you need extra storage and would still like to maintain a clean or minimalistic look on your kitchen then hidden storage is right for you. The same applies to homeowners with tiny kitchens. Hidden storage is very functional because you can cram a lot of items within a very small space. And because the compartment stays hidden 95% of the time, you don’t have to worry that it may look cluttered. Simple pull-out storage compartments, for example, are clever and make great use of spaces that might otherwise go underutilized.
Kitchen island storage
Do you have a kitchen island? Are you planning on installing one during your kitchen remodeling Poway project? Approximately half of all kitchen islands have no storage compartments built into them. This is unfortunate considering that islands provide great storage potential. Not only is it a lot of space, you can effectively utilize all of it. You could install an entire pantry under a kitchen island, for example. This would greatly allow you to declutter your space. And with use of clever cabinet doors, you could easily make it hidden storage
Countertop storage
If you are desperate for storage space in your kitchen you could compromise and go for countertop storage. The free space on and above countertops can be cleverly used to hold a lot of items. The best way to go about it is to install open shelves on the countertops. That way you can maximize on both the lateral and the vertical space. You can then load them up with storage jars, spice containers, canned foods, cutlery, and more. With this approach you don’t even have to use up much of your countertop space. A few racks or shelves might be all you need.
We hope this helps with your kitchen storage challenges. If you need help installing storage solutions in your Poway kitchen let us know and we’ll discuss all the viable options and designs with you.
Does Your Bathroom Need A Remodel?
Bathrooms are some of the most ‘delicate’ spaces in any home. Unlike other rooms that can be allowed to age a little bit, bathrooms have to be in good shape all year round because they are the hygiene headquarters of any given house. The kitchen holds the same position too. However, let’s focus on the bathroom for now. How do you tell that your bathroom needs some work? Here are a few pointers.
Mold infestation
Bathrooms are highly susceptible to mold due to the water and moisture that is constantly circulating and flowing around its surfaces. The walls and ceilings are especially affected. And because most bathrooms are light in color, the mold stands out like a sore thumb creating an eyesore for all that visit. If this is the case with your bathroom, a fresh coat of paint is past due. Not only that, you may also need to improve air circulation/ventilation in there by maybe installing a larger window.
Cracked, dirty or stained tiles
Most bathrooms are covered in tiles. There are tiles on the floor and there are tiles on the walls. Over time, tiles will show signs of age (or neglect). And it does get to a point where the only solution is to replace them. If your tiles are broken, cracked, or stained, you most probably need to retile the bathroom. The same applies if the grouting on your tiles is chipped, stained or missing in whole. Retiling your bathroom not only gives it a facelift, it also helps prevent water damage behind the walls and underneath the floor.
Poor lighting
No one enjoys taking a shower or a bath in a poorly-lit space. For one, everyone needs good visibility when taking a bath. Secondly, lighting is very important if the bathroom is to be kept clean. And third, great lighting simply makes a bathroom look elegant and chic. If your bathroom has just a single lonely dim bulb or no natural light whatsoever then consider installing modern lighting, improving the flow of natural light, and probably changing the wall décor to allow better light reflection.
Leaky faucets, pipes, shower or shower base
Plumbing is critical for a bathroom. The moment pipes and faucets start to fail the bathroom starts to get dysfunctional. And you don’t want your bathroom getting dysfunctional, whether it’s the toilet, the faucet, or the shower system. Not only can it get unhygienic, messy, and wasteful on water, it can also lead to water damage, rot, mold, algae, termites, and other related issues.
Outdated features
Last but not least, your bathroom needs a remodeling if it has outdated features. It’s very important to keep your décor updated with the times. And in 2019 some features are just too drab to have anymore. For example, if your bathroom still has glass bathroom tiles or that 1960’s green wall paint then it’s time to change it. A bright contemporary theme will immediately transform your space and make you want to spend more time in there.
Say no more when it comes to bathroom remodeling San Diego. Creative Design and Build has got you covered. We will help you choose the right style, source materials, and we’ll manage the entire project from A to Z!
The 5 Most Important Questions When Choosing A Designer For Your Kitchen Or Bathroom Remodel
Today, kitchen and bathroom remodels are a dime a dozen. Choosing to remodel your space is not the difficult part, clearly. The most difficult part of a remodel today is finding the right designer to work with; someone who will execute your vision as you see it. So how then can you find such a person, what do you need to look out for, what questions do you need to ask?
This is what you need to ask yourself before picking a designer for your kitchen remodel or bathroom remodel.
Have they done similar work before?
Contractors dabble in lots of fields. Most have their fingers in every type of work you can think of. And that may not necessarily be a bad thing. However, do not assume that any contractor you across automatically qualifies for the specific type of work you need done. Perhaps they have only worked on roofs and exterior works and have never built a kitchen or bathroom. So always find out if they have done similar work before. And if possible they should show you some examples for comparison.
Do they have a clear work schedule?
Still on some contractors having their fingers in various jobs, you don’t want to work with someone whose attention is split between various projects. You want a contractor that has all their focus on your kitchen or bathroom remodel. So always ask prospective candidates if they have a clear work schedule. And if they are slated to start on a certain project in the near future, make sure that they have enough time to complete your work between now and then; you don’t want them rushing your work just so they can jump onto the next job when the time comes.
Do they understand and love the idea behind your remodel?
A remodel is personal for you as the client. You are heavily invested in the process and you know exactly what you want to do to your spaces. It is important, therefore, that the remodel designer you choose to work with understands your idea and loves it just as much. That way they will be invested as well and will do whatever is needed to give you the results you want without compromising. Think about it, if your designer does not love the idea or understand it, how then can they actualize it?
Do they have great ideas to chip into the project?
It is not enough that your designer understands and loves your idea, can they add value to it as well? Can they contribute ideas to make your kitchen or bathroom even better and more durable or functional? It’s only right that they do because they are the experts and you’re paying them to add their value, skills, and experience to your project.
Are they licensed, insured, and bonded?
Last, but not least, ask your designer if they have the requisite documents to operate. These requirements will allow you to establish that you’re working with an authentic contractor and that your work is protected should anything go wrong. A state license tells you that they are allowed to do the work, insurance tells you that you will be compensated should something go wrong, and a bond assures you that your work will get completed should your contractor be unable to.
Creative Design & Build is your ideal partner for your kitchen remodeling in San Diego or your bathroom remodeling in San Diego. Talk to us today and let us help you achieve your dream space!
9 Tips for Selling Your Home During Coronavirus
The coronavirus has affected so many aspects of our lives – from how we work to how we exercise, communicate, and so much more. It has also affected the housing market and how we now buy and sell homes. If you’re thinking about listing your home you may be wondering what you can do to attract homebuyers during this unprecedented time? While executing on curb appeal ideas and implementing strategic home staging are all still worthy endeavors in appealing to homebuyers, an ideal home office or an entertainment-worthy backyard may have found renewed interest for today’s homebuyers. Here are 9 tips to help you sell your home during coronavirus.
Start by prepping your home to sell in a virtual world
Due to coronavirus, developments in virtual home tours, 3D walkthroughs, and the ability to close remotely with online notaries have made homebuying and selling process easier than ever. Along with these advancements in real estate technology, services such as virtual staging, virtual home inspections, and even virtual interior design have grown in popularity.
1. Make your home shine online with virtual staging
Whether you’re listing a single-family home for sale in Atlanta, GA or a duplex for sale in Sacramento, CA, staging your home is one of the most integral parts of the process. It gives potential buyers an opportunity to visualize themselves living in your space, which can make or break a deal. So, unless you have experience staging homes, consider consulting with a professional home stager.
Given the current climate, however, not everyone necessarily wants a professional stager to enter their house. That’s why virtual staging services have become such a popular alternative. The advent of virtual staging has allowed stagers to create comfortable and aesthetically pleasing atmospheres for potential buyers to view a home without ever setting foot inside. While in-person staging will likely return post-coronavirus, virtual staging will remain a convenient and favorable option that should be considered when getting your house ready to sell.
2. Organize your interior with a virtual organizing and decluttering service
As with virtual staging, many have found virtual organizing services to be an affordable and convenient way to receive advice on how to organize and declutter their space. Some organizers even claim that working virtually allows them to have longer organizing sessions with their clients, resulting in more in-depth appointments. However, one of the most compelling reasons to try a virtual organizing session is that you get to work hands-on with your space. By allowing a professional organizer to virtually guide you through the organization process, you can practice and integrate your new skills long after your session has ended, and having a functional space will give your home a leg-up when it’s time to sell.
3. Invest in professional photography to help your home stand out
Nowadays, with the ability to buy and sell almost entirely online, it’s more important than ever to make sure your home’s online appearance is top-notch. While it may be tempting to forego the expense of professional real estate photos and do it yourself, it’s important to note that your house will likely sell faster and for more money, if you go with a professional. Investing in a real estate photographer will ensure that your home is presented in its best light when you list.
In the case that your home is located on a large plot of land or has a spectacular view you want to show off, consider having aerial photos taken of your home. With advancements in drone photography, this service is more affordable than ever and is able to capture your home’s most prominent features from a whole new perspective.
Make sure your home addresses all the needs of today’s buyers
4. Turn unused space into a home gym or office
For many people, things like working and exercising from home have been a completely new experience that they weren’t entirely prepared for. Prior to coronavirus, many hadn’t considered the importance of having a dedicated workspace that promotes productivity while remaining separate from their day-to-day lives. However, now people have begun to recognize the value of additional space.
If you have an unfinished basement, a spare bedroom, or an insulated garage, take the time to transform it into a usable and desirable space. Whether it functions as a home office, gym, indoor garden, or something else, having a bonus area that buyers can customize to their individual needs will certainly provide value to your home in the eyes of today’s homebuyers.
5. Make your backyard a horticulturist’s dream
As many may have noticed, when the coronavirus initially struck, produce and even proteins were in short supply at the local grocery store. This shortage ultimately gave people a greater appreciation for being able to grow their own food from the comfort of home. Taking the time to build a garden bed in a previously unused part of your backyard will bring life to your outdoor space and be an added bonus in the eyes of the buyer.
6. Create a space to grow food indoors
Why limit your gardening to the outdoors? Indoor gardening has also seen a rise in popularity since the beginning of the pandemic. Having a proper place for an indoor garden within your home can be a bonus from a buyer’s perspective. Not to mention, building an indoor garden can be a fun, rewarding, and educational project for the whole family to be a part of. Start by finding the right space in your home. Keep in mind that the ideal location for an indoor garden receives a lot of natural light and has an average temperature of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. After that, choose vegetables and herbs that thrive indoors such as lettuces, carrots, tomatoes, arugula, etc.. For more in-depth instruction, refer to these expert tips on how to create the ultimate DIY indoor garden.
Turn your backyard into a personal getaway
With all the time that’s been spent at home, a beautiful space for outdoor entertainment has taken on a whole new level of importance. Investing a little time and money into your outdoor space will provide a range of benefits to you as a homeowner while adding value to your home when it comes time to sell. Create the ultimate gathering space in your backyard by incorporating elements like a wooden porch swing, lawn games, outdoor lighting, or even a DIY firepit.
7. Build a deck for relaxing, entertainment, and more
Adding a deck to your exterior for entertainment, barbecues, or even just relaxing is a great way to boost your outdoor living experience. Not to mention, decks add living space at a fraction of the price of a fully enclosed living area. You can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $35 per square foot versus an enclosed addition which can run you anywhere from $100 to $150 per square foot. Deck space also adds to the overall value of your home and will be an asset when it’s time to sell.
8. Put up a fence for added privacy
Having a fence that provides privacy without being an eyesore is another great way to improve your outdoor living area and appeal to buyers. There are a variety of aesthetic fencing materials such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, wrought iron and composite all of which can range in price and require varying degrees of maintenance. So before you run to the hardware store and start building a fence yourself, we suggest consulting with professionals to determine what material is best for you and your home.
9. Give your exterior the facelift it deserves
Investing in an outdoor space that acts as a getaway can be one of the best ways to relieve stress and provide entertainment, while simultaneously adding to your homes curb appeal and overall value. Whether it’s sprucing up your lawn, adding exterior features like a fountain or a pool, or giving your walkway some love, investing in your homes curb appeal will make buyers eager to picture themselves living there. If you’re short on ideas, give your local landscaper, hardscaper, or exterior design expert a call – they can work with you to develop a personalized plan that will make your home the star of the cul-de-sac.
Originally posted at https://www.redfin.com/blog/tips-for-selling-your-home-during-coronavirus/