Remodeling by Replacing Door Hardware without a Handyman

Time to Replace This Doorknob!

Remodeling can be as easy as sprucing up the look of your interior doors, and you can be your own handyman in this update to your house.  There are several remodeling ways, varying in cost, to update your interior doors.

Do the hardware, doorknobs and hinges, look worn? Sometimes through the years, in remodeling and painting  houses, hinges and doorknobs end up with paint or dents on them, the finishes can dull over the years, or maybe the finish on the hardware is just not what works with the rest of your decor.  

New doorknobs and hinges will cost around $20 per door depending on what style you choose. They are easy to change out, so the cost of a handyman does not need to be figured in.  Most new doorknobs have an adjustable set-back. If not, you need to measure the set-back, which is the length from the edge of the door where the latch will be, to the center of the doorknob hole in order to choose the correct new doorknob.

Look also at the latch.  There are three possibilities, there is no latch plate, the latch plate has square corners, or the corners are rounded. Try to find the same style in your replacement doorknob. If you don’t, it okay, you will just need to chisel the appropriate area out of your door. The same goes for the hinges, you are will have much less work to do in chiselling, fitting, and other handyman work, if you find new hinges the exact shape and size of your old hinges.

Installing new doorknobs and hinges takes very little time.

• Take the door you are remodeling off the hinges by removing the hinge pin.
• Lay the door on a pair of sawhorses. Remove the hinges from the door frame and the door.
• Install the new hinges.
• Re-hang the door.
• Adjust the screw tension of the hinge against the door frame to change how the door swings and hangs. For example, if the door slants inward at the top, tighten the screws in the top hinge.
• It is important to replace the hinges first in case the door hangs slightly differently.
• Now remove the old doorknob and follow the instructions that came with your new one to intall it in the door.
• You may need to adjust the strike plate so that the latch hits it in the right place.

There, no need for a handyman for remodeling your door hardware.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/hjmadigan/1459049200/)

Kitchen Remodeling: Replacing Kitchen Cabinets as Part of Home Remodeling

Professionally Designed Kitchen

Replacing your kitchen cabinets during kitchen remodeling is about as drastic and expensive as you can get for a home remoding project.  Hopefully the following information will help you to spend your money wisely and get the most from your home remodeling budget.

If you are adding cabinets or changing the layout of your kitchen, remodeling services of a professional to plan a functional kitchen will be worth it.  Many of your choices are going to be driven by your home remodeling budget, but there are ways to make sure that your are getting the best quality for the money.

Some kitchen remodeling cabinet expenses are related to asthetics and some are related to how the cabinets are built.  Either way, the first decision to make is whether you want to use stock cabinets or custom cabinets.  Custom cabinets are generally of higher quality, but not necessarily.  Be sure to check references and ask to see samples.  The benefit to custom cabinets is that they are built to fit your space.  If you want uniquely sized cabinets or special design features in your kitchen remoding, custom cabinets will be your best choice.  One negative is that if you ever need to replace a door or panel, you will have to go back to the custom cabinetry shop since materials and sizes are, well…custom.

Stock cabinets are made in standard sizes.  All levels of quality and varities of finishes are still available, but if the standard sizes leave a gap when they are laid out in your kitchen, a filler strip is used to close the gap.  This is generally not noticeable, but it is different from custom cabinets.

There are several things to look for in determining the quality of kitchen cabinets:

• Look at the quality of the hardware that comes with the cabinets.  Is it durable as well as beautiful?
• Will accessories, such as trays and baskets, work with your cabinets?
• Corner blocks made of plastic indicate lower quality cabinets.
• Look at the quality of the finish on the materials.
• Joints that are glued and nailed are lower quality than those that are dovetailed or use dowels.

After you’ve finished kitchen remodeling, enjoy your new cabinets and know that you have added value to your home.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flikr.com/photos/architectural-rendering-models/3871670220/)

Kitchen Remodeling: Reface the Cabinets if You Plan to Sell Your Home Soon

In the Process of Refacing

Refacing kitchen cabinets is most often done as a kitchen remodeling project if you are planning to sell your home in the next 5 years.  The look and feel of the kitchen is one of the most important features buyers consider, and therefore should be high on your list when you want to sell your home.

Refacing your kitchen cabinets can make the cabinets appear new and the kitchen will feel updated, without the cost and time required for installation of new cabinets as part of a larger kitchen remodeling effort.

Before deciding on refacing over replacing, ask yourself whether your existing kitchen layout works and if you have enough storage and counter space.  If the answers are yes, and if your cabinets are in good structural shape, then refacing may be the answer to this kitchen remodeling question.

Refacing means that you will cover the existing cabinet surfaces with new laminate.  Door and drawer fronts are also replaced to match the new laminate.  Side panels of end cabinets are also refaced.

When you reface your cabinets, you can completely change the style and feel of your kitchen, which is at the core of kitchen remodeling.  You can go from a dark walnut wood to light oak with glass doors, for example.  Adding new hinges will put a spring back into those cabinet doors and new handles and drawer pulls can be chosen to finish off the desired look.

The reduced cost of refacing cabinets makes it easier for you to see a return on your investment when you sell your home, but it is also a substantial enough kitchen remodeling project for you to enjoy in the meantime.

If you aren’t planning to sell your home soon and want to invest in new cabinets, an upcoming blog will give you some ideas.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/donabelandewen/4105718749/)

Kitchen Remodeling and Home Improvement: Refinish the Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling is the most expensive home improvement project that most people undertake.  In order to manage the cost of kitchen remodeling, some people choose to refinish their kitchen cabinets instead of replacing them.  Refinishing kitchen cabinets can save a lot of money and can also cut a lot of time off the kitchen remodeling schedule.  Wood or plywood cabinets are the most easily refinished. Refinishing not only refers to sanding, staining, and sealing.  Metal, laminate, and melamine cabinets can also be refinished with paint, but beware that special paints need to be used on those materials.

Before deciding the refinishing your cabinets is the optimal solution to your kitchen remodeling ideas, be sure that the cabinets are in good condition to begin with.  Refinishing does not remove knicks, warping, or other damage to the cabinets.

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of this home improvement project:

• remove doors and drawer fronts from the cabinets
• remove all hardware from doors and drawer fronts
• clean the cabinets thoroughly, paying special attention to any grease spots
• prepare the surface according to recommendations for the particular material
• if painting, spray on the paint for the most uniform coverage
• refinish the inside of the cabinets at the same time
• use gloss or semi-gloss paint or polyurethane

If you follow these tips and remain patient, your cabinets and your kitchen should have a renewed look and you can cross one more home improvement project off your list.

If refinishing your cabinets is not going to get you the results you are looking for, stay tuned to this home improvement blog for information about refacing kitchen cabinets.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/hazeldog/3815828729/)

Cabinets Refinished with Paint

Kitchen Remodeling: What to do about the Cabinets?

Old Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling and your cabinets:  to reface, refinish, or replace?  To find the answer, consideration needs to be given to other factors than just your wallet.

What are the goals of your kitchen remodeling project?  Are you looking to sell your house, update your house, or make your house more functional? 

Refinishing:  How old, ugly, and worn out are your cabinets?  Older cabinets in an older home may add just the character your house needs, which means your kitchen remodeling project shouldn’t change your cabinets too much.  You could get by with replacing the hardware and having the cabinets refinished.  You may also opt for refinishing cabinets if you don’t absolutely hate what you have, you don’t have the cash to do more, and you’re not going to sell your house in the near future.  Remember, most of the flaws and damage will still be visible after refinishing your cabinets.  These are all things to consider as you decide how much kitchen remodeling you want to pursue.

Refacing:  Cabinets that are in good condition, in the layout that you want, but just not the wood or look that you like, may be able to be refaced.  Refaced cabinets can update a kitchen without the expense or hassle of completely replacing your cabinets as part of a larger kitchen remodeling project.  New hinges and other hardware can also add new life to older cabinets.  Refacing is an excellent choice if you’re planning to sell your house in the next few years since you are more likely to recoup your investment.

Replacing:  The most radical solution to outdated kitchen cabinets, is to replace them all.  This kitchen remodeling decision is an expensive one and can lead to additional expenses if you also decide to replace the countertop, sink, and other built-ins.  The advantages of completely replacing cabinets include being able to move things around and remodel the space as well as update the cabinets.  You also will have the choice of many new conveniences such as built-in spice racks.  This project is expensive and in many markets will not get a large enough return on investment if you sell your house in the next few years.

The next three blog entries will explore your kitchen remodeling options further:  refinishing, refacing, or replacing kitchen cabinets.

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lesliepepple/430651819/)

Remodeling with Drop Ceilings: Basement Remodeling

New Drop Ceiling

There are several reasons to consider drop ceilings for your basement remodeling project.  Drop ceilings, also called false ceilings or suspended ceilings, have sound dampening characteristics that vary by the style of ceiling tile that you use when remodeling.  They also provide access to the plenum space for future remodeling.  The plenum space is the area between the ceiling tiles and the upstairs floor.  Individual tiles can also be replaced if they become damaged.  Most people choose this type of ceiling for a basement remodeling project.

Basement remodeling exposes ceilings that generally have a myriad of plumbing and electrical work running through the joists.  Some of the plumbing and especially heating ductwork, even hangs below the floor joists, which makes a standard sheetrock ceiling difficult, ugly, or impossible.

When installing a drop ceiling, you have the flexibility to work around existing plumbing or ductwork.  Most importantly of all, you can easily access electrical, plumbing, and heating lines when you need to without tearing out the entire ceiling.  Instead of remodeling again, just remove a few tiles to find what you need and place them back when you’re done.

The most important thing to remember when you get ready to install your drop ceiling, as in all remodeling work, is to plan ahead.  Measure your area carefully and order the right amount of materials.  Plan your ceiling grid on paper, including any light fixtures that you want.  When you are installing the grid system, be sure to use a level and measure over and over again to ensure that you don’t end up with a sloping ceiling.  Then get creative with your light fixtures and enjoy your finished basement remodeling project.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/22723308@N07/3302025496/)

Bathroom Remodeling with Glass Blocks

Glass blocks offer a variety of remodeling possibilities for use in your bathroom and elsewhere to add style and value to your home.  Glass blocks can be used to create a shower wall, as a bathroom window, or even a basement window.

Anywhere that light is needed, privacy is valued, and additional ventilation (from opening a window) is not required, could be a place for glass block use.  In the bathroom, remodeling could include removing a shower wall and installing a wall of glass block instead.  Any window that doesn’t need to open can be replaced with glass block, but bathroom windows are especially appropriate as natural light and privacy are both desirable in bathrooms.

If you are remodeling a basement window, glass blocks could also be used there.  First, make sure that building codes don’t require that the window be able to be opened.  Glass blocks will allow more light into your basement, provide excellent insulation, and depending on your tastes, eliminate the need for window treatments.

Glass block windows or shower walls can be ordered and installed as a preassembled unit for this remodeling project.  They also can be ordered in a kit that will come with assembly spacers, strips, and instructions.  You can also just buy the glass blocks, spacers, and mortor and assemble the window or wall yourself.

After remodeling with glass blocks, your bathroom or basement will have more natural light and you’ll retain valued privacy.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/anikarenina/2888619376/)

Fireplaces are Great Home Improvement and Remodeling Projects

Installing a fireplace is a common dream home improvement or remodeling project.  If you are thinking about adding a fireplace during remodeling, there are many choices and options to be considered.

Pellet Stoves

Fireplaces that use wood or pellets as fuel sources provide the unique wood-burning smell that some people desire.  In many parts of the country wood or pellets are an economical fuel choice as well.  The downsides to this type of fireplace are that getting and storing the wood or pellets takes a lot of work and the heat tends to be uneven.  It takes a lot of practice to know how much fuel will produce the desired amount of heat.  Then maintaining that heat level also requires attention.  These types of fireplaces also require more cleaning and maintenance than gas fireplaces.

Gas Fireplaces

Many people have turned to gas fireplaces due to their minimal maintenance requirements and reliable heat output.  While remodeling, you can pipe the fuel directly to the fireplace. Most come with a remote control to start or turn off the flame, and built-in thermostats control the heat output to help maintain a comfortable level. Talk about convenience!

If you are adding a fireplace as part of a home improvement project and your house has more than one floor, think about placement of the fireplace and the possibility that you can use one chimney for a fireplace on each level.  Less remodeling will be required if you can “stack” the fireplaces, and you will stretch your home improvement dollar. With any fuel type, fireplaces should have fans in order to distribute the heat throughout the house.  A humidifier may also be needed if your fireplace becomes your main source of heat.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flikr.com/photos/regencyfire/3369268420/)

Green Remodeling by Adding Ceiling Fans to Your Next Home Remodeling Project

Installing a ceiling fan is a quick green remodeling project.  When you are thinking about home remodeling, the projects don’t all have to be expensive and drastic to make a big impact.  A ceiling fan can add a dramatic feel to a room, but it also will add some green to your wallet.

A ceiling fan can reduce your energy bills year-round.  Most people understand that adding a small breeze to your living space in the summer will reduce your cooling needs.  In the winter, moving your heated air that sits near the ceiling through your living space will also decrease your heating needs.  That energy savings throughout the year makes this small improvement a great green remodeling project.

Ceiling fans come with or without light fixtures.  Most come with an extension arm so that they can be hung in rooms with vaulted ceilings.  There are many different styles available.  Newer ones even come with a remote, so that you do not need to wire the fan down through a wall to a switch.  This is a convenient way to ensure that your small home remodeling project doesn’t turn into something bigger.

Green remodeling is always a good goal in any home remodeling project.  Adding a ceiling fan to your bedroom or living room during home remodeling will help you achieve the goal of green remodeling.

(Photo Credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/simplycute/129749167/)

Green Remodeling and Home Improvement Using Bamboo Flooring

If your home improvement plans call for new wood floors, think about using bamboo and green remodeling.  Bamboo flooring is becoming more widely used as green remodeling ideas take hold.  Traditional hardwoods, such as oak, can take up to 120 years to mature.  Bamboo is actually a quick-growing grass, and it can be used in as little as three to five years.  It also regenerates from the roots, so it does not need to be replanted and requires very few fertilizers.  For green remodeling, the choice to use bamboo is very conscientious.

Bamboo flooring is as beautiful as any hardwood and will certainly add value to your home.  Bamboo flooring is available in different shades and colors.  You can also choose a bamboo that shows more growth rings and knots.  In general, the darker the color, the softer the bamboo wood.  Some claim that bamboo is more durable than other wood flooring, but remember that any wood flooring can scratch and all require gentle cleaning.

Installation of bamboo flooring is similar to installation of other wood flooring products in your home.  Bamboo can be installed as a floating floor, tongue and groove, or as click together flooring.  As for any home improvement project, you’ll need to assess your abilities to install the flooring yourself.

Home improvement using green remodeling techniques and materials will continue to be a trend for the forseeable future.  Bamboo flooring will increase the value of your home and showcase your concern for the environment as well as your flair for home improvement.

(Photo Credit:   http://www.flickr.com/photos/43162676@N07/4054180883/)