3 DIY Tasks That Should Be Done Before A Plumbing Service Call

October 8, 2016DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hintsmatt

Many homeowners incur high service charges due to poor planning and preparation before a service call. Typically, plumbers charge by the hour, which means that the plumber is paid for every hour he/she spends at the client’s home or premises. However, some of these chargeable hours are actually wasted on relatively mundane tasks that can be handled quite easily by the client before the plumber even arrives. These are simple DIY worksite preparation tasks that require common sense rather than expertise, but which can end up saving you a great deal of money on a service call. Before discussing these DIY tasks, it is important to review the buildup to a plumbing service call. Whether it’s an emergency service call like a backed up sewer system or water heater repair or a big project call like a bathroom renovation undertaking, there are things that should always be done before the plumber arrives. First of all, you should always inspect and assess the magnitude of the plumbing problem before calling in a professional plumber. In this way, you will be able to ascertain whether you really need the services of a professional plumber or if a simple DIY fix will resolve the issue. If the problem is serious enough to warrant a service call, such as a sewer line problem, you can then contact any expert plumber offering DC sewer services for assistance. However, you must do the following things before the plumber arrives — to save time and reduce the service charge.

Clear The Worksite

One of the most important things that should be done before the plumber arrives is to clear out the plumbing area to enable the plumber to work quickly and efficiently. Some plumbing areas are usually cluttered with various household items, such as utensils near and around the sink or home items by the water heater worksite. Although it’s normal to store or place various items near these areas on ordinary days, it is imperative that you remove any unnecessary items from a faulty plumbing section before the plumber comes. Otherwise you will waste precious moments, which could be used to handle the actual plumbing problem, clearing the plumbing site with the professional plumber(s). In order to reduce the billable hours, ensure that the plumber has ample room to work and to store plumbing tools and to place removed faulty parts and even replacement parts before they are installed.

Turn Off The Electricity

Some serious plumbing issues necessitate that the entire home electric system be shut off at the mains, such as a seriously malfunctioning water heater system. Other problems require that the electric connection to a particular area or appliance be shut off at the breaker box, such as a hot tub installation. Depending on the nature of the plumbing problem, you should always turn of the power source of an electric-powered device or system. Switching off the electricity in a faulty system will not only save the plumber time, it will also ensure safety at home.

Shut-Off The Water

Almost all plumbing problems are water-related. As such, the first thing that should be done before the plumber arrives is to turn off the water at the main shut-off valve. Typically, the main shut-off is usually located near the water meter. By turning off the water, you will mitigate the physical damage that might occur due to the plumbing fault, such as leaking pipes, and also save time for the plumber. If there are no leaks or floods occurring, at least locate and know where the shut-off valve is so if the plumber needs it turned off, you are prepared.

Pros And Cons Of Installing A Solar Water Heating System

October 7, 2016Energy Efficiencymatt

Solar energy is one of the most appealing fuel types in the world. In these times when global warming is a reality and human driven climate change is evident, all renewable energy sources are winning the hearts of all. From individual homeowners to environmentalists, solar is currently regarded among the topmost green solutions that can help realize environmental sustainability.

Solar energy or fuel is used to power solar water heaters. Basically, a typical solar water heater includes a storage tank and a collector. The collector traps sunshine and uses it to heat the water in a storage tank. Solar is clean, renewable and free — literally a godsend for everyone. Solar is available throughout the United Sates, but it’s mostly abundant in the Southwest. Solar water heating systems can be installed in any climatic region. If you wish to learn some basic operating facts about solar water heating systems and the benefits and limitations of adopting such systems in your home, just continue reading.

About Solar Water Heaters

There are two basic types of solar water heating systems: active and passive. Active solar water heating systems have circulating pumps and controls but passive systems have none of these things. Active solar water heating systems are further subdivided into two categories: direct and indirect circulation systems. In a direct circulation system, a pump circulates water through collectors into the household — it’s suitable for climatic regions that are not prone to freezing. In an indirect circulation system, a pump circulates an antifreeze heat-transfer fluid through the collectors and a heat exchanger; thereby heating the water and supplying it into the home — suitable for climatic regions prone to freezing.

Passive solar water heater systems are relatively cheap as compared to active models. Also, they are usually considered more reliable and long lasting. There are two main types of passive solar heaters: integral collector-storage passive systems for warmer climates and thermosyphon systems for colder areas. Depending on your location and financial resources, you can choose the most suitable solar water heating system from these options. If you need assistance, consult any professional plumbing company in DC for reliable advice on these choices.

Pros

The first and most important advantage of installing solar water heating systems is that they are highly energy efficient. Solar heaters are considered to be about 50% more energy efficient than gas and electric-powered water heaters. As such, solar models require lower operating costs and hence offer more energy savings.

Also, solar heaters can be installed anywhere, in any climatic region. Unlike some of the other energy sources, solar energy or sunshine is available throughout the United States; it’s also free, clean and renewable.

Cons

The main disadvantage of solar water heating systems is their high initial costs. Solar systems require collectors and specially designed storage tanks, both of these installations cost a lot of money. As such solar water heating systems are quite expensive to purchase and install. However, solar models have significantly lower operating and maintenance costs. The subsequent annual energy savings will offset the initial costs and leave the homeowner with substantial earnings. Also, in a bid to encourage solar adoption, the federal and state governments offer various financial incentives on solar purchases. The second disadvantage of using solar water heating systems is that they may not sustain your household’s hot water needs on cloudy days or during peak usage times — you may need a backup system in such cases.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using Tankless Water Heaters

October 7, 2016Energy Efficiency, Plumbing Advicematt

Tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters, provide hot water according to household needs. As the name suggests, tankless water heaters do not have a reservoir or storage tank for holding hot water. As such, these heaters are rated highly in terms of energy efficiency because they have no standby heat loss problems. They are usually electric or gas powered and they provide a constant supply of hot water because you do not have to wait for the reservoir to fill up before usage. In addition to the conventional household usage, tankless heaters are also recommended for remote bathrooms or hot tubs, as boosters for appliances, and as backups for solar water heating systems. Like all the other types of water heater systems, tankless models also have their own advantages and disadvantages. Read on and learn more details about how they work and their pros and cons.

Design And Operation

Tankless water heaters do not have a storage tank for hot water. Instead, cold water flows into the heating unit once the hot water tap is turned on. The water is heated instantaneously by a gas or electric element and then produced at the tap for usage. Because of the absence of a reservoir, the flow rate in these models depends on the water heater’s output. Typically, electric-powered heaters have lower flow rates than gas models. Before buying a tankless water heater, consider the size relative to your household’s hot water needs, initial purchase and installation costs, fuel type and availability, and energy efficiency.

Advantages

The most significant advantage of using tankless water heaters is that they are quite energy efficient. As compared to conventional storage models, tankless water heaters are more energy efficient because they have no standby heat loss. Although they have higher initial purchase and installation costs than storage heaters, tankless models have lower operating costs and usually last longer — their spare parts are also hardy and durable. Therefore, the cumulative energy savings and the extended lifespan could potentially offset the initial costs and leave some long-term earnings for the owner. However, some gas-fired models can incur additional standby energy losses due to the presence of a pilot light. Modern models feature various modifications to mitigate energy loss in this manner. Contact any professional plumber, who provides the following services, DC plumbing repairs and installations, and confirm all the aforementioned qualities before opting for either of the two models.

Another advantage of tankless water heaters is that they are relatively small and can be placed on the wall; thereby freeing up floor space. The last pro of this model is that it maintains a constant flow of hot water without running out.

Disadvantages

Tankless water heaters require significant initial purchase costs; thus you need adequate funds to finance the project. Secondly, even the largest models cannot supply enough hot water to sustain simultaneous, multiple uses in large households. As such, you might be required to install two or more tankless water heaters, either in parallel or separately, to furnish all your household’s hot water needs. Considering the initial cost of one water heater, this can be quite costly. Tankless water heaters usually take a brief lag time to fire up the burners and heat the water to the required temperature. Finally, these water heaters require special maintenance activities to remove scale and enhance energy efficiency.

3 Eco-Friendly Elements Of A Green Kitchen

October 7, 2016Energy Efficiencymatt

As the world continues to largely ignore the costly repercussions of environmental pollution, all homeowners should take it upon themselves to promote environmental conservation. In this scary era of indiscriminately melting glaciers and unpredictable climatic conditions, all people are responsible for the health of this planet. Even as we continue to watch and listen disgustedly as unscrupulous corporate polluters peddle selfish lies and deny unquestionable facts regarding the horrors of reckless pollution, improvident resource wastage and the never-ending environmental encroachment, hope in the conscientious individual is still rife and sublime. As such, you should always ensure that all your plumbing endeavors and home remodeling projects feature progressive words like “sustainable home makeovers,” “green plumbing solutions/ideas,” “eco-friendly plumbing practices,” “home energy efficiency” and “recycled plumbing materials” among others. This is just the first step towards creating a healthier home and a sustainable planet. You can start experiencing this sustainable ideology by implementing the following green ideas into your DC kitchen remodeling project.

Energy Efficient Appliances

In addition to providing cooking space for your family, the kitchen is also responsible for “roasting” your wallet by contributing a huge chunk of your energy bill. Kitchen appliances, especially refrigerators and other energy consumers like ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers account for the second highest energy needs in a typical household, losing out to heating and cooling equipment only. You can decrease energy use in your kitchen by buying energy efficient appliances. Choose appliances that have been approved under the Energy Star program of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Such appliances use less energy and water than standard models; and hence ensure significant energy savings for you.

Recycled Materials

Although not entirely untrue, the prevailing notion that eco-friendly products and materials are drab, costly and hard to source is very off-putting and has undermined sustainable efforts for a long time. For starters, although some green materials have high initial costs, the subsequent savings on energy efficiency can potentially offset the upfront margin and leave you substantial “gains” in the long run. Also, nowadays there are many different types of eco-friendly materials and products. They come in many fascinating styles and are offered at varying price ranges to suit all budget sizes. In a kitchen makeover project, you can use stylish recycled or rapidly renewable materials to enhance the green philosophy. For instance, you can use recycled glass tiles for your kitchen walls’ backsplash. These tiles are unique, elegant, easy to get, durable and easy to clean.

Eco-Friendly Installations

In addition to enhancing energy efficiency and using renewable remodeling materials, you can also buy installations with low environmental impact for your kitchen. Use eco-friendly countertops, cabinets, flooring and finishes to enhance environmental conservation and to curb pollution. You can also focus on improving the kitchen’s insulation by installing thermally efficient doors and windows to prevent heat and energy loss from the kitchen. In addition to cutting down on your energy bill and promoting a healthier planet, these installations will offer you and your household significant health benefits. Apparently, the kitchen produces a sizable share of indoor air pollution. From cooking fumes to poisonous gases from flooring, paints, cabinets and countertops, the kitchen is as hazardous as they come. For instance, chemical-based wood preservatives, paints and finishes produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are responsible for various short-term and long-term health problems including ear, nose, and throat (ENT) irritations and even cancer. Use environmentally safe paints, cabinets, countertops and flooring that are VOC-free to keep your kitchen safe and your household healthy.

Benefits And Limitations Of Using Heat Pump Water Heaters

October 6, 2016Plumbing Advicematt

Nowadays there are so many different types and models of water heaters in the market. Therefore, choosing a good water heater for your situation and requirements can be quite taxing and tedious, especially if you do not have the necessary know-how about the features and functionality of each type. Basically, water heaters are classified according to their make and energy source. The most common types include conventional storage, tankless or demand-type, heat pump, solar, and tankless coil and indirect water heaters. Depending on your hot water needs, you can reap various benefits and suffer various limitations from each of these models. In this instance, you will learn about the pros and cons of using heat pump water heaters. However, it is important to understand the working mechanism of this type of water heater.

Working Mechanism

Heat pump water heaters use electricity to suck heat from their surroundings and dump it into a water tank. Essentially, they work like refrigerators in reverse — without directly generating any heat. Typically, heat pumps are used to provide heat and cool homes. As such, you can either buy a stand-alone water heating system or use a combination water heating and home AC system. You can get a stand-alone heat pump water heating system featuring a built-in water storage tank and back-up resistance heating elements or you can retrofit a heat pump to work with an existing conventional storage water heater. Consult any local professional plumber offering relevant services, such as DC bathroom remodeling and water heater installation and repair services on advice regarding your home pump. Remember that heat pump water heaters work more efficiently in warm climates.

Benefits

Heat pump water heaters have some of the lowest operating costs because they are very energy efficient. Actually, they can be 2-3 times more energy efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters; and are hence some of the cheapest-to-operate electric water heaters in the market today. Secondly, heat pump water heaters are capable of satisfying huge hot water needs at no extra cost, especially if installed in warm climates. Hybrid systems are usually preferred because they ensure convenient functionality during cold seasons and significant energy bill savings during summer.

Limitations

Heat pump water heaters have many limitations due to their unique operating mechanism and special operating conditions. For starters, they usually cost more to buy and install than conventional electric heaters. Secondly, they require special climatic conditions to operate efficiently — warm climates. Thirdly, they are usually taller and wider than conventional electric heaters and require more air space around them to function properly. As such, heat pump water heaters take up more space than other electric heaters. Fourthly, heat pump water heaters increase the load on AC appliances during the cold season. This is because they have to share the limited indoor space heat with other space conditioning appliances. They also require special maintenance, which can be tedious and expensive if not done carefully and regularly. For instance, their air filters requires regular cleaning to ensure operating efficiency. Finally, some heat pump water heaters feature side pipes to protect the heater from damage from leaking pipes. To install such models, you need to reconfigure the pipes.

4 Effective Ways To Reduce Your Home Hot Water Costs

October 6, 2016Energy Efficiency, Plumbing Advicematt

One of the most effective cost cutting measures in any American home today is a reduction in the use of hot water. Apparently, water heating is ranked as the second largest energy consumer, right after HVAC systems, in a typical U.S. household. If you wish to lower your home energy bill by almost a fifth, you need to implement some effective measures to reduce hot water usage and wastage. In addition to lowering your energy bill, you will also be doing your home and the environment a big favor — promoting sustainability and resource conservation. There are several proven strategies that can help you reduce your home energy usage significantly. The following are some of the most applicable tips that can help you reduce your home hot water costs.

Fix Leaks Immediately

This is the simplest and perhaps the most ignored method of reducing, not only hot water usage, but all home water usage and wastage. However, it is even more effectual in reducing utility costs by curbing hot water usage in the home. Leaking pipes and fixtures like showerheads and faucets can cause a lot of water loss in the long run. Fixing a leak as soon as possible is a very effective strategy towards the admirable objective of promoting a greener home and planet. If you have a leaking water heater, get a replacement. Consult any reliable plumber, who offers water heater repair in DC, for advice on the most energy efficient water heater options available in your locality and according to your hot water needs.

Buy Low-Flow Fixtures

Fixtures are some of the most wasteful installations in any plumbing system. Luckily, their functional excesses can be fixed through simple modifications and by making insightful choices when buying them. For starters, showerheads should be selected according to climatic regions. There are two main types of showerheads: laminar-flow, which is suitable for humid climates and aerating showerhead, which is suitable for dry regions. In either case, choose a low-flow model to ensure optimal water efficiency. Similarly, choose faucets with low-flow aerators to minimize water loss. If you already installed some inefficient faucets, you can just replace the aerators to control hot water usage — you can even install shutoff valves on the faucets to stop water flow without affecting the temperature.

Insulate Your Water Heater Tank And Pipes

Insulating the hot water reservoir in conventional storage water heaters can ensure significant savings on energy consumption. Reduce standby heat loss by insulating both the storage tank and the pipes. Modern storage water heaters have insulated tanks and piping systems to minimize heat loss. If your water heater is “naked,” consult a professional plumber for insulation solutions.

Install Energy-Efficient Appliances

One of the most cost-effective strategies to reduce home energy usage is by purchasing energy efficient appliances. Washing dishes and clothes by hand leads to massive energy losses due to the frequent water heating activities. In order to mitigate this effect, you should install an energy efficient dishwasher and then operate it properly with full loads. Modern dishwashers feature amazing energy saving elements, such as booster heaters and cycle selections. Inefficient clothes washers are very expensive to operate. Install an efficient clothes washer and try to use cold and warm water as much as possible; unless it’s absolutely necessary. Like dishwashers, modern clothes machines have fancy features to ensure energy efficiency, such as spin-drying and front-loading clothes washers.

4 Most Popular Types Of Water Heaters

October 6, 2016Plumbing Advicematt

Together with HVAC systems, water heaters enhance the existential comfort of the household by providing the much needed warmth and heat. As such, water heaters are some of the most important plumbing installations in any home. Luckily, technological evolution has led to the creation of numerous types and models of water heaters; enough to suit everyone’s hot water needs and preferences. Water heaters are categorized according to their construction design, such as conventional storage, tankless and heat pump water heaters, and sometimes according to their energy sources like solar, gas or electricity powered water heaters. To make a prudent purchase decision, it is advisable that you consult a professional plumber like any company that offers DC water heater repair and installation services, for advice. Some of the most popular water heaters are discussed below.

Conventional Storage

Arguably, conventional storage water heaters are the most popular models in the market today. Ranked as the most affordable models in the market today, these water heaters feature a hot water reservoir or tank. Although they are easy to install and very affordable to purchase, conventional storage water heaters have one downside, they are very inefficient. Storage water heaters are undermined by their standby heat loss problem, which translates into significant energy wastage. This is because they always have hot water stored in a reservoir even when the hot water tap is shut-off. This inefficiency causes these models to have very high operating and maintenance costs, potentially offsetting the low initial purchase cost. To mitigate this problem, some modern models have insulated storage tanks and pipes and motorized dampers.

Tankless

Tankless, also called demand-type or instantaneous water heaters do not have a reservoir for storing hot water. As the other names suggest, they heat water directly on demand. Because they do not store hot water like conventional storage models, tankless water heaters are not affected by the standby heat loss problem. Therefore, they are some of the most efficient types of water heaters in the market today; and hence require very little operating costs. Also, tankless heaters never run out of hot water although they require a little lag time to get the burners going before they can heat the water to the required temperature. One major setback of using this model is that it requires very high initial purchase and installation costs. The good news is that the initial price is easily offset by the subsequent energy cost savings.

Heat Pump

Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one space to another instead of generating heat directly to produce hot water. These models work like reverse refrigerators in that they take heat from the surrounding space and use it to heat water in a storage tank. They are suitable for warm climate regions and they can be 2-3 times more energy efficient than conventional storage electric resistance water heaters. You can either get a stand-alone air-source water heating system or use a combination water heating and AC system.

Solar

Solar water heating systems use the sun’s energy to heat water. Solar water heaters feature solar collectors and hot water reservoirs. They come in two types: passive and active heaters, which include circulating controls and pumps. Considering that they are powered by a free and renewable resource, sunlight, solar heaters are ranked among the most efficient models — they can also be used in any climate. Solar water heaters require substantial initial costs, which can be offset by the relatively low operating costs.

3 Most Recommendable Alternative Kitchen Floor Ideas

September 21, 2016Helpful Hintsmatt

Despite the inherent budgetary constraints in a low-end or “on a budget” kitchen remodeling project, you can still come up with an amazing design style that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. You only need to be think “outside-the-box” — be creative, innovative and daring. This means that you have to embrace the idea of experimenting with bold, unique design options. One of the most dynamic design sections during a kitchen remodeling project is the floor. There are four conventional/traditional kitchen floor types: hardwood, vinyl, ceramic tiles, and laminate. Additionally, there are several green/eco-friendly materials like linoleum, bamboo and cork flooring that might be considered by environmental conservation enthusiasts. For the most imaginative kitchen renovators, there are three alternative kitchen floor ideas that might be more appealing to you than any of the aforementioned choices: rubber, carpet tiles and concrete.

Carpet Tiles

Available in many different colors, styles and patterns to match any desired look, carpet tiles offer an exciting and functional addition to the kitchen décor. They can be used as customized rugs to mark eating spaces or to create soft floor workspace zones. Carpet tiles feature a reinforced backing that inhibits mold or bacterial growth. They can be removed, rearranged and replaced easily — making them easy to clean and maintain.

Recycled carpet tiles, which are made by grinding up used vinyl and nylon carpeting, are a popular alternative floor type. In some cases, both the carpet surface and backing are made from recycled materials. Recycled carpet tiles offer a myriad of benefits as kitchen floors. First of all, unlike traditional carpet tiles, which produce poisonous gas in the house, recycled carpet tiles are made from recycled materials without any toxic, petroleum-based chemicals. Secondly, they are very strong and durable. Thirdly, they allow enhanced design flexibility and versatility — you can mix and match various tiles to create any desired carpeting pattern or style. Also, their modularity allows easy installation and pattern manipulation; as desired any the designer. Finally, they are environmentally friendly ensuring a healthier home and planet.

Concrete

Concrete is perhaps the most advantageous alternative kitchen floor in use today. Although it looks like stone, concrete can be customized through dying, texturing, stamping and scoring to achieve any desired look or appearance. To complement your kitchen décor, consult an experienced kitchen remodeler and discuss the best options for your project. For instance, consult any reputable company, which engages in DC plumbing renovations, if you live in the Washington city region. Concrete is far much cheaper than stone and it absorbs heat; thereby reducing energy bills.

Because it inhibits mold, mildew, and odors, concrete improves air quality in the home; it can also be finished with zero-VOC sealers. Suitable for an urban-chic kitchen style, concrete is durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean and maintain — best option for households with kids and pets. Concrete slabs are also becoming popular finished kitchen flooring options.

Rubber

Rubber is available as either sheet or tiles and it comes in a vast array of colors, patterns and textures. Recommended for contemporary kitchen remodeling styles, rubber is strong, affordable, durable and easy to clean. It is nonporous, does not burn easily, and requires easy DIY installation. It is warm, soft and springy, and noiseless to walk on. There are also eco-friendly rubber floors made from recycled rubber and rubber-cork blends.

5 Amazing Tips To Maximize Bathroom Space

September 21, 2016Bathroom Remodeling, Helpful Hintsmatt

One of the main reasons for doing bathroom renovations or makeovers is to create extra space. With an emphasis on the creation of an idyllic bathroom space, all modern-day bathroom remodeling designs aim at maximizing the available space to ensure a cozy, spa-like bath experience. In most cases, it is not possible to extend the physical space of the bathroom in terms of square footage. Luckily, home remodelers have discovered some clever interior design techniques that can be implemented to create an expansive feel/tone in a relatively small space. Consider the following ingenious space optimization ideas to create a “big” comfortable room in the existing tiny bathroom space.

Glass And Reflective Surfaces

Glass and reflective surfaces help to make the bathroom space appear larger than it really is. Use a lot of glass in the most experiential sections of the bathroom, such as the entrance to the shower space, to create an expansive spa-like environment. Include a lot of reflective surfaces including the countertops, cabinets, vanities, fixtures and shelves to enhance the expansive feel in the bathroom. Installing large mirrors to reflect the soft wall colors will also optimize the “big space” illusion. You can also use the common technique of installing two mirrors (or more in a tiered design) on opposite walls to create multiple reflections at each other and create an illusion of continuing space where there is none.

Lighting (Natural And Artificial)

Create an open, airy feel by directing natural/sun light into the bathroom using various window installations. If the bathroom layout permits it, place a bay window in your small bathroom. Otherwise, install either a small operable or glass-block window outside, or in the shower, to allow as much sunlight as possible into the shower area. You can also consider installing regular/tubular skylights to trap as much sunlight as possible.

Use recessed lighting techniques to enhance the brilliance of the bathroom space without appearing too obtrusive. Install recessed lighting fixtures in any part of the ceiling and focus them on any area to make it more open and expansive in appearance. To ensure energy efficiency and avoid heat-related discomfort, choose the number and type of artificial lighting fixtures carefully.

Floor Space

Implement functional space substitution tactics to create “extra” floor space in your bathroom. For instance, if you have alternative storage space, consider replacing your vanity cabinet with an “economically sized” fixture like a wall-mount sink or a pedestal. Although the freed up space is not functional, it creates the illusion of a larger bathroom. Consult your residential plumber on insightful space maximization tips such as these. For instance, contact any professional plumbing company specializing in DC bathroom renovations if you live in the Washington DC city area. Discuss any other productive space usage tips with these plumbing experts, such as installing wall-mount toilets or replacing larger toilets with smaller ones to enhance the “large space” effect.

Color Schemes

Create the illusion of a much larger space by painting the bathroom floors and walls with pale, soft colors. Deep/dark, rich/strong colors are unsuitable for small bathroom spaces. If you wish to brighten the décor with bright colors, buy radiant accessories, towels, and decorations.

Embellishments

Go for “space expanding” decorations like crown moldings to maximize tiny ceiling space. Choose and install a crown molding of the right size and type to expose the space itself and ensure longevity. Tiles can also be used to create a contemporary and visually appealing bathroom scene. Combine one or two of the above mentioned techniques for optimal space results.

3 Most Popular Kitchen Remodeling Designs

September 21, 2016Helpful Hintsmatt

Picking your favorite kitchen design is one of the most important activities during the planning stage of your kitchen remodeling project. Depending on your functional and aesthetic needs and preferences, you might opt for a conventional or a hybrid kitchen design style. Needless to say, your budget will play a huge role in determining the most appropriate design style for your kitchen. Depending on the kitchen layout and features, there are three main/conventional types of kitchen designs: gourmet, family-friendly and entertaining. If you wish, you can implement an altered/hybrid version of any of these styles by combining some features from each or all of them. To choose rationally, consult a reliable kitchen remodeler in your locality. For instance, search for any professional plumbing company offering DC kitchen renovations in its service bouquet if you live in Washington. Outline your project features to these experts and request their advice on the most appropriate design for your kitchen.

Gourmet Kitchen

Regarded as the best option for a foodie, this bon vivant kitchen design focuses on functional performance as opposed to aesthetic appeal. A gourmet kitchen features professional appliances and fixtures, ample facilities for specialty storage, and durable and easy-to-maintain countertops and surfaces. Appliances and fixtures are chosen for performance and the layout focuses on functional zones for food preparation and cookery, meal service, and after-meals cleanup.

They usually feature multiple sinks, lowered countertops for baking, wood butcher-block counters for food chopping, open shelving storage cabinets, and large tile, rubber or wooden floors that are easier on the feet. Quartz is usually the surface of choice because it is strong, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, nonporous, and durable. They usually have task lighting fixtures like under-cabinet lighting and pendants to focus light on specific workspace zones. Some of the most common gourmet kitchen appliances and features include professional-grade gas ranges, double ovens, warming drawers, dishwasher drawers, convectional microwaves and stand-alone refrigerators.

Entertaining Kitchen

Regardless of the space size, entertaining kitchens are designed to host house guests — whether for casual or formal parties, buffets or sit-downs among other events. They feature specialty features that are meant to ease the service of food and beverages in the kitchen area. Although space is not a key factor, you should consider the floor space in relation to the expected number of guests per session.

To underline the functional nature of this design, entertaining kitchens merit sleek appliances for entertainment, such as flat screen TVs, glass cabinets to display beautiful dishware, and point-of-service refrigeration, instead of professional-grade kitchen equipment. Mostly, these kitchens are adorned with stainless steel features including warming drawers, double dishwashers and wine coolers. In some cases, raised countertops are used as cooking spaces and to hide dishes, while in other cases they serve as party dining surfaces (snack bars, dining tables or support surfaces for guests).

Family-Centered Kitchen

As the name suggests, family-centered kitchen designs include features and a layout that aims at optimizing the functional value of the kitchen in relation to household needs. Basically, this design style must cater for individual cooking and nutrition needs for each and every member of the family including the kids, pets and even the parents as they prepare household meals. Although gourmet and entertaining kitchens include family-friendly features, family-centered designs focus only on creating functional household kitchen spaces. To enhance the functionality of the kitchen as demanded by the household, family-centered kitchen designs empathize space planning and cabinet storage features.

Family-centered kitchens feature easy-to-clean and durable countertop surfaces and floors like quartz or laminate, accessible pantry cabinets for storage of foodstuffs, snack bars, refrigerator drawers, and convectional microwaves. These kitchen designs usually feature an open plan layout that blends the kitchen and the living room together.