Tag: contracting projects
Four Steps for the Perfect Fresh Coat of Paint
Staring at the same colored walls can become boring very quickly. Painting is a fast process to add a new light to a room in need. Finding the perfect color is often a difficult process, but the painting job is simple! Here’s what you need to know about painting your walls in order to adda smooth and beautiful look to your home:
Step One: Deciding Which Paint to Use
Paint comes in a variety of sheens. When picking the perfect gloss, it’s important to understand how each may affect the final product. Paints with a higher gloss often result in obvious imperfections and blemishes. By contrast,a glossy trim will add a beautiful touch to flatter your walls. Semi-gloss is a perfect choice for rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms to help ensure the walls are easy to wipe clean. Matte paints are typically used for ceilings and won’t require as many coats to cover the blemishes that may have appeared.
Step Two: Paint Preparations
After picking your new color, we recommend removing all furniture from the room before prepping the walls. Painters must be careful to cover every inch of the room before they begin the project. Drop cloths will be used to cover any remaining furniture and flooring, while painter’s tape is often used to perfect the cuts and creases of the room. Nails and other marks on the walls should be cared for before beginning the paint job, along with cleaning the walls of both dirt and dust.
Step Three: The Perfect Primer
Paint primer is designed to provide a surface that subsequent paint layers will lock onto. It is usually applied to a fresh, clean surface that has not been painted. The paint applied on top of the primer will be more durable and bright in color for a longer period of time. Primer is not only the safest route, but also allows the color coat to do its job of providing a fresh feel to a room and showing the truest color.
Step Four: Get Painting!
After what may seem like a long period of prepping for your new beginning, now comes the easiest part: painting! With a good primer, the painting job will typically need one to two coats to leave your room without any splotches. With the perfect color to compliment the beauty of your home, you are bound to be satisfied with this fresh look. To ensure color clarity and durable finishes, it is imperative to follow each step listed above.
At Rossi Construction, our team is here to provide you with the support you need to for a fresh start in your home. Our team of professional painters in St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay will make sure that your painting job is a job well-done. We are determined to paint your idea of perfection. For more information and questions, feel free to contact us: 813.436.0177
Five Signs It’s Time to Remodel Your Bathroom
When you first buy a home, your focus is typically not on the bathroom. No matter how many times you’ve claimed you were going to fix it, you never did. But, as time goes on and the more time you spend in there, the more you begin to see all of its imperfections. How do you know when it’s time to remodel your bathroom? Below are five signs your bathroom may need a makeover:
1. A New Lifestyle
Your bathroom will always be going through a cycle of changes. Many times it will need to be renovated to accommodate new members to a family, or to make it just right for a new married couple. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to remodel your bathroom to fit your individual needs. Many times this will include adding a bathtub, two sinks, double vanities, etc.
2. Old Décor
Often you’ll buy a house and plan on making changes later down the line. When it comes to a bathroom, it may take longer to become outdated. If you find yourself in a position where you aren’t in love with the décor of your bathroom, its time to design one that matches your taste. No matter the room, when you start to dislike the way it looks, you won’t want to spend much more time there!
3. Damage
Plumbing is the most important part of your bathroom. When it starts to deteriorate, it will become more and more obvious as the days go on. When there is damage to fixtures, tiles, or other miscellaneous materials in your bathroom, it is most definitely time to give it the new look you’ve been dreaming of.
4. Not Enough Space
Families grow, and items begin to pile. Your once “beautiful” and “cozy” bathroom becomes a pig pen that is in desperate need of a cleaning. The more people you add, the less storage is available, and more clutter forms. A knowledgeable designer will work hard to ensure there is enough space for a family of any number, so that you can minimize clutter and keep the countertops clean.
5. You Aren’t Energy Efficient
As technology is constantly changing, there are numerous ways to have your home be more energy efficient. Updating your bathroom with new lighting will not only make your space brighter but it will also help the environment and many times lower your utility costs.
From master bathroom remodeling to guest bath remodeling,Rossi Construction is the unparalleled leader in bathroom remodeling throughout the Tampa Bay area. Our team of professionals will make sure that your bathroom remodeling experience is an enjoyable one. For more information about your bathroom remodel, feel free to contact us: (813) 436-0177
A Customer Letter of Appreciation
Customer satisfaction is our number one goal. We strive to provide our clients with quality and craftsmanship that can’t be beat.
We’re thrilled to share our latest testimonial from a living room project we recently finished:
“With our project completed, we wanted to let you know how extremely happy we are with the whole experience. From the initial meeting with you where you genuinely understood, and added value to our vision, through the execution by Brian and Matt,Rossi Construction delivered on all we had hoped for. As you may recall, we were a bit uncomfortable doing this renovation while living out of the area. We quickly discovered that our home was in excellent hands and we need not worry. Brian and Matt’s commitment to excellence was unmatched with any experience we have ever had with other home projects. They brought our vision to life, while also adding details that we had not thought of. They showed unwavering attention to detail and set very high standards for themselves and others who worked on the project. Also, if something wasn’t working the way they knew we would have wanted, Brian would contact us so we could reconsider. He was always right. Brian and Matt are not only excellent at their craft, but they are also genuinely good people. They are honest, have integrity and a desire to do their very best. Could not ask for better individuals to entrust our home to.Thank you for our beautifully renovated home. We would be happy to provide references.”
-Wendy and Victor Peters
Thank you, Wendy and Victor, for sharing your experience. We’re so glad to hear that you had a positive outcome and are enjoying our work!
If you’d like help on your next home project, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’d be happy to schedule time to discuss your goals and how we can help you meet them.
How To Plan A Successful Building Project
A home renovation can be stressful because it requires a lot of time and planning. At Rossi Construction, we’ve been in business for almost 20 years. Our experienced teamknowsthe ins and outs and what it takes to flawlessly execute a home project.
Follow our tips for a successful home remodel or renovation:
Step 1: Have a Plan
Before you meet with contractors, it’s good to have an idea of what you want as well as your budget. Understanding how you want your layout to look or what design elements you want to include will help us to create our plan and ultimately meet your goals.
Step 2: Get the Proper Permits
Often time permits end up slowing down a home project. Make the initiative to start early so that you can get your home remodel done within your expectations. Look into what laws and environmental restrictions are in place where your project is to avoid surprises later!
Step 3: Go Shopping
It’s essential to choose important design elements sooner rather than later. Items like appliances, furniture,flooring and paint options are a necessity for our team to begin our processes. Some items may take weeks or even months to be shipped to the job site,so planning these items ahead of time will help keep your project on time and moving smoothly.
Step 4: Allow Us to Do Our Job
While it’s tempting to want to know every detail of what’s happening each day, try to relax and let us do our job. We will always communicate with you, especially if we have questions or need clarification. As professionals, we know the task at hand and want to make sure we execute it properly without distractions.
If you’re ready to take the next steps and get started on your next home project, we’re here to help! We offer a free consultation and would be happy to review your plans. Reach out today and learn how we can make your dream renovation project a reality!
Easy and Effective Ways to Make Your Home Energy Efficient
Making “green” decisions are important in our everyday lives in order to help create a sustainable earth.These days, technology has advanced so much that we can modify and create energy efficient homes. Now more than ever it’s important to think of our environment during the building or remodeling process.
Solar Panels
Utilizing solar panels is typically the first thing that comes to mind as an option to make your home energy efficient. While they are an investment up front, the long-term savings and benefits are worth it. Solar power systems create clean, pure energy from the sun. While it helps to have abundant sunshine to power the system, solar panels can still draw energy on cloudy days. Solar power will work during a drought or heat wave too. Solar panels save you money from day one. Not only will they reduce your monthly costs, there are also tax incentives to installing them on your home. Most importantly, the environment and our earth will benefit too. Solar power won’t pollute water resources or put strain on the world’s water supply. Overall a win-win all around!
Update Windows
Did you know heat gain and heat loss through windows accounts for nearly 30% of residential heating and cooling costs? By updating your windows,you can reduce energy loss, keep your home comfortable and save money on energy bills.Energy efficient windows are designed to prevent your heated or cooled air from escaping from your home.Look for the Energy Star logo when choosing windows and be sure to speak with us about the most efficient frame to use with your window for the most savings.
Energy Efficient Appliances
Home appliances accounts for nearly 20% of your home’s electric bill. With rates going up each year, why not choose Energy Star appliances? Energy Star appliances are certified by the U.S. Department of Energy and use 10 to 50% less energy each year than standard appliances.
Replace your refrigerator alone with an Energy Star model could prevent more than 5,000 pounds of carbon pollution over five years.Imagine if we all did this how much that would greatly help the environment?Also,don’t forget to recycle your old appliances too. By recycling, you’ll prevent thousands of pounds of carbon emissions.
At Rossi Construction, we are committed to excellence. If you’re in the process of building or remodeling your home, let our team help guide you in making energy efficient decisions for your home. From the design process through the build, we can help you help the environment while also helping you save money. Contact us today to learn more 813-436-0177.
How to Choose The Best Flooring For Your Kitchen
At first thought, you may not think much of your kitchen floor. But the reality is, your kitchen is the heart of your home. The floor needs to be practical and durable while also fitting the design of your kitchen.
There are a variety of flooring options available on the market today. We’re sharing a few of our favorites:
- Stone and tile: a great choice for heavy traffic. Stone and tile are highly durable and are available in many different colors and decorative styles.This is the perfect choice if you have children and expect to entertain often.
- Wood: a classic choice. Wood floors can withstand heavy traffic and water stains. Laminate is an alternative choice that provides the same look for less money.If you’re looking to create a warm look in your kitchen, wood or laminate would be a nice choice.
- Cork: a durable and versatile material available in many different colors. While it may not be a popular choice, it’s unique qualities like being water resistant and offering reduced impact noise make it an option worth considering.
- Limestone: while it requires maintenance every year, limestone gives an old world look that some people love.
- Vinyl: If you’re on a budget, vinyl flooring is the best option. It is available in many different colors or styles and can spruce up your kitchen floor for very little money.
We always recommend our clients do some of your own research before the project begins. Check different interior design sites so you can get a feel of what you like or don’t like. We always welcome our clients to bring examples of what they are looking to achieve. Our number one goal is to make sure we design and build the kitchen of your dreams!
Kitchen remodels are one of our most popular services. We have been performing kitchen remodeling in the Tampa Bay area since 2000. Our services can take you from a basic cosmetic kitchen remodel to an extensive change in floor plans and locations of products. If you have questions or would like to get started on your kitchen remodel, give us a call 813-436-0177.
How Much Should You Spend on a Home Remodel?
There is a saying often coined on home remodeling tv shows like HGTV’s Fixer Upper– “buy the cheapest house in the best neighborhood.” The reasoning for this is simple and proven time and time again. The cheapest house in a desirable neighborhood has the largest opportunity for growth or “expansion potential”. Simply put, the remodeling investment made in homes that fall into this category tend to see the greatest ROI and resell faster when the time comes!
Maximizing Your Home’s ROI
Even if you are not on the hunt for a fixer-upper, spending the right amount on a remodel can be the difference between a highly sought-after home when on the market, and a home that is overpriced for the neighborhood. You tend to see the best return on a medium remodel project that will in turn appeal to the widest range of potential buyers in the future. You might have heard hard and fast numbers like $10,000 remodel for a bathroom and $25,000 for the kitchen. However, these numbers are meaningless if the value of the home is not taken into consideration. To account for this, the best method is to consider your remodeling budget as a percentage of the cost of your home overall.
As an example, let’s imagine you are considering your kitchen. Should you remove the countertops, cabinets, and floors and completely remodel? Is anything salvageable? What should you spend? One website uses the following as a detailed example.
“Let’s say you bought the house for $1,000,000. It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, 1,800 square feet of living space, and a 5,000 square foot lot. A property’s value is made up of land value and building value. In your case, the split is 50/50. If you include the kitchen, living room, and laundry room, the house has a total of eight rooms. The value of each room is therefore around $62,500 ($500,000 building value divided by 8 rooms). You can consider $62,500 as the max you would ever spend doing anything to a room.” (Financial Samurai)
While this is useful information, not all rooms are equally worthy of the investment. Generally, the kitchen is the first place people look to remodel, and this is because there are costly appliances, plumbing, and materials used within this space. Further, many home buyers regard a remodeled kitchen as the #1 must-have when on the market for a home. The master and guest bathroom in addition to the master bedroom are other rooms that rank highly on the list of home buyers when deciding which house they will purchase.
It is also worth mentioning that the kitchen and bathrooms do generally cost the most to remodel and other rooms like family rooms and bedrooms can appeal widely to buyers simply with a fresh coat of paint, updated flooring, and light fixtures! Be sure to consider, as mentioned, the percentages involved in your remodel to ensure your remodeling projects best align with the value of your home.
How Rossi Construction Can Help
We have years of experience in construction, from crafting blueprints, sourcing quality materials to helping establish budgets to maximize the resell value of your home. Reach out to us today to learn more about what we can do for you and your home!
What Your Contractor Isn’t Telling You
When looking for a contractor to work on your home or business, it’s important to take your time, do your research and ask the right questions. Being in the industry for nearly two decades, we’re here to help you navigate the process.
Here are four things you should know that your contractor isn’t telling you:
You get what you pay for.
When it comes to construction, cheaper isn’t always best. You want the best quality for your home and business and your contractor wants to be able to provide you with just that. Contractors have relationships with vendors that will help save you money on big ticket items, so while the initial quote may seem high, you’ll see the difference in the work compared to others at lower price points.
I might not want to work with your tradesmen.
When you hire a contractor for a full-scale remodel or renovation, they will need to hire experts to tackle specific projects like plumbing and electric. Even though your Uncle Johnny, a licensed plumber, is a great guy – contractors have relationships with sub-contractors who they know the quality of their work, what to expect and how to best execute the task at hand. In the end, it works out in your favor.
I know how to get the job done.
While contractors won’t ask you to leave your home or business, please know it’s best if you stay out of the way and let them do their job. Even if you just want to take a peek and help where you can, it’s best to speak with the contractor as it can be considered a safety issue. Don’t worry, if you’re needed – they will reach out to you.
You should check my work history.
If you haven’t already checked out the contractor’s reviews you should. Keep in mind some people will complain about anything, but you’ll be able to get a feel for the type of business the contractor has and the quality of work based on the majority of reviews.
Also, it wouldn’t hurt to ask to visit other job sites to take a look around and see how things are. Is there trash everywhere? Are employees smoking on the job? These are things you’ll want to know before they get started at your home or business.
If you’re in the process of hiring a contractor to work on your home or business, keep these things in mind. At Rossi Construction, we’re honest, trustworthy and happy to answer any questions you may have – schedule a free consultation with our team to learn more.
Top Kitchen Remodeling Trends of 2019
Essential Things to Consider Before Hiring Your Contractor
If you are looking to remodel your home in Tampa Bay or St. Petersburg, finding a reliable and experienced contractor can be the difference between peace of mind and sleepless nights. Our team at Rossi Construction have put together a list of the top things to consider and look for when hiring a contractor.
Have a Solid Vision for Your Space
Spend time researching trends and timeless touches you would like to incorporate into the remodel. Explore what kinds of looks and architectural elements you might be interested in adding as well. By have a solid grasp on what you are looking for in your remodel, you can then compare the work of the contractors you will meet with later.
Compare Rates as Well as Quality
A general number is to compare at least three local contractors before deciding on one to renovate your home. Your goal with this tip is to determine how they stack up against one another. This will give you a clearer idea of the costs and budget required, as well as the caliber of work each contractor can produce. As an example, one contractor might bid a low rate that might equate to low quality work, while a higher bid usually suggests top notch quality. Use this information and your research to determine where you fall on the spectrum, and what will meet your project’s needs as well as your standards.
Do Your Research to Determine if the Contractor is a Good Fit
While contractors of all specializations use the title of contractor, there are subcategories within the industry. Some are considered specialists and some generalists. So, seek to ensure their experience and abilities align with what your goals are for your renovation. The top things to look for when reading reviews and looking over their business website are: Do you see a similarity in their past projects and what you are looking for in yours? Do they exhibit quality workmanship and use quality materials? Do their reviews reflect consistent high levels of client satisfaction?
Be Sure to Read the Fine Print
From establishing a start and completion date, detailing information about building fees and required permits, an explanation for what services are covered (demolition, labor, equipment, etc.) and the consequences of a default by their business – the fine print holds the details. Noting the fine print is especially important for the terms of default as it can include things such as the unexpected departure of a subcontractor or an array of other unforeseen challenges. Be sure you are clearly excluded from liability in these instances and look for contractors who have their terms laid out in a fair and easy to understand manner.
How We Can Help
Rossi Construction has proudly served Florida’s Tampa Bay area for almost two decades. We have helped homeowners create or re-invent their space into one they are proud to come home to. Feel free to reach out and request a consultation to discuss the topics mentioned above! If you are interested in more home remodeling inspiration, head over to our gallery to check out some of our recent work. We look forward to speaking with you and seeing how we can make your home remodeling dream a reality.