Tag: Tampa Remodel
Kitchen Remodeling Trends to Avoid
A granite countertop here, new cabinets there. Anyone who has ever undertaken a kitchen renovation project will know that these costs can add quickly. The national average cost for a high-end kitchen makeover is now priced at nearly $60,000.
Because a kitchen remodeling project is such a large investment, most homeowners hope to end with a kitchen that looks good for as long as possible. What is hot today may be out of fashion in a year, making the room look outdated before you have had much chance to enjoy it.
Even before the first sledgehammer strike, you must answer one important question: Who is this remodel for?
Is this something you are doing for yourself, for your own enjoyment? Or, do you need to update to be able to sell the house? The answers to these questions will drive design choices for the kitchen.
While no one can say which kitchen features will stand the test of time, here are seven trends you want to avoid to keep the remodel relevant for years.
- Keeping small appliances behind closed doors.
- Kitchen nooks for storing things like the phone or plastic wrap.
- Large farmhouse sinks in place of the stainless steel workhorse.
- Stink 70s and 80s era trash compactors.
- A microwave on the counter.
- A pot rack focal point.
- White or blue appliances in place of stainless.
Keep in mind these seven outdated trends are something you wish to avoid in order to keep your kitchen looking its best for years to come! If you would like a little help avoiding hot-button trend faux pas issues, call the team from Rossi Construction, Inc. at 813.436.0177 to schedule a free kitchen remodeling consultation.
Tampa Bathroom Remodeling Checklist
A bathroom remodeling project can be an exciting task. But, before making the jump to choosing the latest tile or shower design, there are some less exciting things to contemplate so your project turns out just the way you want. Because bathroom remodeling can be overwhelming, time-consuming and expensive, we prepared a checklist to make sure that your project stays on track and the remodel runs smoothly.
- Budget.
- Time.
- Work sequence.
- Hidden problems.
- Design style.
- Functionality.
- Measurements.
- Contractor.
- Plumbing fixtures.
- Cabinets and storage.
- Walls.
- Flooring.
- Lighting.
- Accessories.
- Ventilation.
- Going green.
- Final clean after the project.
A bathroom renovation project can be the project of a lifetime! If you have completed all of these tasks, call the team from Rossi Construction, Inc. at 813.436.0177 to schedule an appointment for a free bathroom remodeling consultation.
Tampa Kitchen Remodeling Return on Investment
Many homeowners are currently waiting to list their home, opting for remodeling while they wait for decisions to be made regarding expensive flood insurance. For each remodel, the hope is that the investment will yield a high return on investment when it comes time to finally sell the home. Here is a highlight list of a few home remodeling projects that will have the highest return on investment.
The Kitchen:
It is a great idea to give your kitchen a fresh face but the investment should never have a budget of more than 20% of the total value of your home. Think of potentially mixing and matching countertops because you can present an interesting kitchen using something like wood for one countertop preparation area and granite, in a color that will look good, on another area.
The Bathroom:
Use your cash to update old or out of date bathrooms. Trends are leaning toward stand-up showers with rails, if they are necessary, rather than the traditional bathtub and shower combination that many of us lived with in our childhood.
Window Replacement:
Most home buyers love energy efficient homes and until you are ready to part with your home, you will find that your budget will be thankful too! Replacing old windows with higher efficiency and safer windows will update the exterior appearance of your home and it will lower your electric bills.
The remodeling projects discussed can return up to 85% of your invested cash but the trick is knowing the smart project from one best left for a new homeowner. In order to gain a better perspective of what you should and should not attempt, please call our office at 813.436.0177 to schedule a free consultation with our remodeling team. We look forward to meeting with you and transforming your home.
Tampa Residential Remodeling Specialists and VA Modifications
Making a bathroom easily accessible to people with a disability can significantly improve their quality of life within the home. The bathroom has specific challenges for those who use wheelchairs or walkers, as well as people with mobility issues. Solving these problems with a remodel can help make the bathroom user-friendly and accessible for elderly or otherwise-abled members of the household.
Turning radius:
If you choose to modify the bathroom for a person who is using a wheelchair or a walker, make sure the doorway to your bathroom is large enough to comfortably allow a wheelchair to access. This means expanding the door to 36” wide to accommodate enough space to turn the wheelchair around completely. Remember that the turning radius for a wheelchair is typically 60” of clear space in the dead center of the bathroom.
Sink accessibility:
The sink in an accessible bathroom may mean a few different things. In a bathroom used by a wheelchair user, the sink needs to open underneath to allow the wheelchair user to wheel straight up to it. For someone using a walker for mobility, it may be necessary to raise the sink to 34” instead of 31”, so there is no need for the user to slump at the sink. You will also want to have a general contractor install lever handles on the faucet, rather than the type of handle which require the additional leverage grasping requires.
Tub accessibility:
An accessible tub contains:
- A door that is vacuum sealed when shut.
- The door is opened to allow the user to enter and sealed before filling.
- The tub must be fitted with grab bars to help the user to enter and exit safely.
- The shower head should be handheld and moveable to allow for greater control.
Shower accessibility:
An accessible shower contains:
- The shower must be roll-in, without a curb.
- If there is a small curb, it should be fitted with a seat.
- The shower must be fitted with grab bars to help with safe entrance and exit.
- The shower head must be handheld and easily moved to allow for greater control.
No matter if you have a tub or shower, you will want to have a lever or touch-operated valve system to operate the water. Levers will allow for greater control!
If it is time to assess your bathroom for handicap accessibility, please call Rossi Construction at 813.436.0177 to set an appointment for a free consultation.
Tampa Residential Remodeling Specialist Offers Remodeling Tips
Tampa residential remodeling specialists Rossi Construction, Inc. issued a guide to homeowners considering the remodel or expansion of an existing kitchen.
Keeping in mind that scores of articles and checklists already exist regarding evaluation tips and tricks, owner Jason Rossi focused his attention on the concept of safety. Rossi feels that too many Tampa homeowners make a review superficial, looking no further than the ugly old appliances or out of date cabinets. “There really are bigger ideas a homeowner needs to consider,” explained Rossi. In order to get it all across in fewer than 500 words, he broke the topic into three distinct sections all of which are tied to safety.
Rossi began by explaining that the amount space that is available on countertops, in cabinets and on the floors will matter. The position of appliances in the home, or the shape of countertop frontage, may eat space and establish a dangerous path between work stations. All remodeling should try to accommodate all possible uses for a kitchen countertop.
Children are not a question all homeowners will immediately take into account but their role in a household really matters when a kitchen remodel is being considered. Rossi explained that a lot of kitchen remodels will depend on if a homeowner is raising children, the ages of the kids and if they plan to add to their family in the near future. If a family is being built, it may make sense to have a kitchen geared toward cooking larger meals and lower cabinets that are safer for kids. This may include the installation of some appliances, like the microwave, in a manner that makes it accessible to all.
Rossi closed with the discussion of evaluating a kitchen to determine whether it is easily accessible to someone with disabilities or if the home kitchen will work as the homeowner ages. Considering both of these issues now ensures that there will be no need for adaptation in the future.
It is suggested that a Tampa homeowner make a checklist of any problems or problem areas in a kitchen and keep notes of which features they prefer to lose in a remodel. A list will make it easier when it comes time to sit down with a representative from a top Tampa residential remodeling firm.
Rossi Construction, Inc. is a general contractor based in Tampa, Florida. Rossi Construction, Inc. specializes in all types of local residential and commercial construction. Rossi Construction, Inc. works in both Tampa, Florida and St. Petersburg, Florida. Rossi Construction, Inc. has been building excellence by design since 1979 and can be found online by visiting http://www.jrossiconstruction.com.
Tampa Residential Remodeling – Rossi Construction, Inc.
It can be difficult to decide whether a move is the best option for a family, or if it is in their best interest to stay in their current home and rely on the services of a Residential Remodeling Specialist. Jason Rossi of Tampa, Florida headquartered Rossi Construction, Inc. believes that the decision can be made by realistically answering a series of pointed questions. The answers will tell a home owner whether they are best suited talking to someone regarding ways to make the current home a more livable and desirable hearth and home for the family.
Rossi explained that the debate between Tampa remodel and outright move needs to begin with a question like, “How do I feel about the neighborhood and neighbors?” If the neighborhood is one you like, the neighbors really are friendly and the schools are fantastic, it is probably a good idea to consider a remodeling job to improve the current home.
The second question must always deal with the house itself and any unique attributes it may have over any other options in the Tampa market. Not all houses have a significance beyond a roof and four walls, but other homes do have some type of “wow” factor. It may be design, a great architect or history that nobody really expected. If the home is special, try to spare it being knocked-down by someone looking to build another small mansion.
Rossi went on to explain that all home owners should consider finances when determining if a Tampa remodeling project will make sense. A home owner needs to consider the cost of the project, potential additional costs and even the possibility that a home owner will need to rent alternative housing if the work is extensive.
The final factor any home owner needs to consider when reviewing his or her options for a remodeling project versus a move is the house itself. Does the home have good bones? If the home is under ten years old but the foundation is falling apart, it is most likely time to consider a move.
Rossi finished by explaining that patience is the key personality trait any home owner needs when he or she is determining the best options for their family. Patience will allow a home owner to determine the best place to begin.
Rossi Construction, Inc. is a general contractor based in Tampa, Florida. Rossi Construction, Inc. specializes in all types of local residential and commercial construction. Rossi Construction, Inc. works in both Tampa, Florida and St. Petersburg, Florida. Rossi Construction, Inc. has been building excellence by design since 1979 and can be found online by visiting http://www.jrossiconstruction.com.
Maximizing Cabinet Space and Storage
Even if you have a clear picture of your kitchen in your mind, planning cabinetry can be quite a feat for either an old pro or a brand new home owner. How much storage is enough storage? How much cabinetry can be added without making your remodeled kitchen feel smaller than it was at the start? What should you plan on storing in the kitchen? Whether you are planning a full remodel or just a structured reorganization, you can eliminate all of the guesswork with a few simple tips!
Determine the intended functions of your kitchen:
Take advantage of every inch your kitchen has to offer by working as much detail as possible into your kitchen plan from the beginning. A spare nine inches may be just the right thing for a bottle of wine, a cookie sheet or a special cookbook.
Deciding the function of a cabinet depends on its relative location to other appliances and its size. Once you have decided where major plumbing fixtures and appliances will be located and know exactly how much space is open for use, you can determine which cabinet would be best for dishes and which should hold your fancy wine glasses.
Just keep in mind that everyone will use their kitchen differently. Try standing at each major area in the kitchen, and seeing what you feel should be within arm’s reach. Cabinet vs. drawer, the great debate:
While cabinets often come in at a significantly lower price than drawers, many architects agree that deep and wide drawers tend to be more useful to a family. They allow a home owner to use the entire depth of space and overall are easier to use than lower shelving behind doors.
In some kitchen remodels, the decision between cabinet and drawer may also be determine by the available width in the kitchen. If space allows, go for a wide and deep drawer. If the space is smaller, a cabinet is usually going to be the best option. Remember to ask your contractor about narrow banks of drawers too, they can be great for storage of smaller items like silverware and linens.
Maximizing storage space in your kitchen:
While eliminating storage tends to be the most employed way to visually open a kitchen, it is possible to have the storage you NEED and the open feel you want. In general, maximizing storage can often make a kitchen feel free and open because there will be less clutter on the countertops. Consider devoting one wall just to a full-height storage area, opening space for a counter and removing the need for upper cabinetry through the rest of your kitchen.
No matter if you are planning a full kitchen remodel or you just want things to make more sense in your existing kitchen, you will be able to eliminate all of the confusion by working with Rossi Construction, Inc. Call us at 813.436.0177 to schedule an appointment today!
How to Choose the Right Cabinets for your Kitchen
Kitchen cabinets are a major investment for anyone, and definitely one that is not likely to be made again in the immediate future. That is why you need to understand options before you start spending a large chuck of your remodeling budget on cabinet choices. Here is how to choose the best cabinets for your kitchen.
Freshen up your existing cabinets!
If your cabinets are still in reasonably good shape and the layout works for your family, then you can opt to go the restoration option. There are companies out there that can help sand, stain and repaint your existing cabinets for a relatively small investment, when compare to buying brand new cabinets. Another option is to replace fronts for drawers and doors and then installs a new decorative outer layer to the exterior of the cabinet box. This is a little more expensive than just refinishing, but still a considerably smaller investment than new cabinets.
I want brand new cabinets in my Tampa kitchen!
If you have made the decision to install new cabinets, then you need to give thought to whether you prefer stock or custom cabinet options. Custom cabinets will always make you the happiest in your remodeled Tampa kitchen, but they are also a real investment. However, a reliable general contractor should be able to connect you with a contractor who builds custom cabinets. You will be able to request an estimate from the contractor, and may find yourself surprised that custom cabinets can cost roughly the same as some stock cabinet options. The trick is that you will want to work with a reliable general contractor, like the team at Rossi Construction, Inc. to find a reliable cabinet maker.
Call 813.436.0177 to talk to Rossi Construction, Inc. about kitchen cabinet options for your kitchen remodel today!
Tampa Kitchen Remodeling with a Plan!
Remodeling any kitchen can be an expensive, demanding process. Before undertaking the overhaul, it is a good idea to make a list of all the things you want to change and upgrade during the kitchen remodeling project. If you are going to completely remodel your kitchen, you do not want to find out when it is over that you skipped over a detail you desperately wanted to include. Minor changes can vary based upon the individual doing a remodeling project, but there are a couple of major factors that everyone must consider!
Did I plan for enough cabinet and counter space?
One of the biggest complaints about any kitchen is a lack of storage space and counter preparation space. When you are cooking for yourself and your family or entertaining guests, you want a lot of room to prepare your meal. You also need plenty of space to store dishes, pots, pans and cooking supplies. If space allows, try to extend your current counter and cabinets along the wall. If you do not have any available wall space, add an island with some cabinet space underneath.
You can also use the remodeling opportunity to switch the countertops to granite or marble, or to refinish your cabinets. If you hate the look of your cabinets, this is the time to take the old ones down and put up a brand new set.
Do I like the hardware on my cabinets?
Hardware in the form of door handles and hinges are small compared to most of your kitchen modifications, but they can have a major impact on the look of your kitchen. In a typical kitchen, there are usually around fifteen handles and forty hinges. The number of handles and hinges will increase if you are remodeling and upgrading your current kitchen. The hardware you pick is the finishing touch to your remodeling efforts because of the touch of style they add to the room.
Have a question? Contact us today at 814.436.0177 to schedule a time to discuss your remodeling project!
Finding the Right Tampa General Contractor
It is the Tampa general contractor you pick that will make or break a remodeling project. Finding the correct general contractor for the job will determine the quality and the expedience of the work completed, and the amount of emotional and financial stress your family will have to deal with.
To make sure you are getting the best work from a Tampa general contractor, here are a few questions to ask potential candidates!
Always listen prospective contractors answer your questions. Difficulty talking with you now means they will continue to have a difficult job communicating.
Can you provide me with an itemized bid?
Many Tampa general contractors prefer to give you one bottom-line price for your Tampa remodeling project. The only problem with a single price for your project is that it leaves you in the dark about what they intend to charge for each aspect of the job.
If you receive an itemized bid, it will show the costs for all of the elements of the job, including:
- Demolition and hauling.
- Framing and finish carpentry.
- Plumbing.
- Electrical.
- HVAC.
- Tiling and other floor installation.
- Lighting fixtures.
- Drywall installation.
The itemized bid makes it easier for you to compare the bids from each Tampa general contractor. If you need to cut project expenses, it will also provide you an easy overview of your options.
If a Tampa general contractor resist providing an itemized bid, it is most likely a gigantic red flag!
Can you tell me more about your suppliers?
Tampa general contractors are networked with specific suppliers. You can learn more about a general contractor’s reliability and level of quality by researching more with the proprietors of:
- Tampa tile shops.
- Tampa kitchen and bath showrooms.
- Lumber yards.
Always try to learn more about a general contractor’s reputation, whether he has left a trail of unhappy customers and suppliers in his wake, if he is paying his bills and whether he is someone you will want to hire. If the contractor has qualms about providing the information, think twice before hiring this remodeling firm.
How long have you been working as a general contractor in Tampa?
A Tampa general contractor who has been working successfully for at least five years has an established network of subcontractors and suppliers. He also has a reputation to uphold. That makes him the safe bet compared to a contractor who is either new or not from the immediate area.
Try to get:
- Proof of the contractor’s physical address.
- References from one or two of his earliest clients.
The Tampa general contractor you choose will either make or break your Tampa remodeling project. Choosing the right contractor for your job will determine the ultimate satisfaction you feel with your new addition or remodeled room. Contact Rossi Construction, Inc. at 813.436.0177 to set a time for a consultation with our remodeling team! We look forward to answering your questions!
