pedestal sink bathroom remodel delaware

7 Beautiful Bathroom Remodel Trends to Try in Your Home

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Chances are, if you’ve just moved into an elderly abode, the bathroom is top of your wish list for a makeover.

While most bathrooms should last several lifetimes, they do develop all kinds of problems over the years. Apart from leaky plumbing and stained porcelain, one of the main reasons to refurbish your bathroom is because it’s old-fashioned and ugly. 

So, if you’re going to take the plunge, you can do worse than take a look at some of the latest bathroom trends for inspiration. 

1. Rectangular Mirrors With Rounded Edges

These new-look mirrors fit right into the happy place between the circle mirror trend of the last few years and the boring rectangular mirror.

Add some bling metallic frames and you’ll want one for every sink in the house. 

2. Floating Vanities

Floating vanities aren’t exactly a brand new bathroom idea, they’re just back better than ever before. The vanities of 2019 are sleeker and more seamless than ever before.  

You can also get them in an attractive range of finishes nowadays, which add depth and takes the edge off this ultra-modern design.

3. Wall-Mounted Toilets

Vanities aren’t the only thing that’s afloat this year. Wall-mounted toilets are another one of the hottest new bathroom trends 2019 has brought to light. 

The wall-mounted toilet is sleeker and more hygienic than it’s 2018 counterparts, thanks to fewer nooks and crannies for collecting dust and mold. This smooth design means it’s super easy to clean too.  

4. Modern Bathroom Trends for Showers

Streamlined showers are all the rage for this year too. Shower dams are out and wall-to-ceiling glass is in. 

A word of caution though, this style works best with large showers. A smaller shower could still overflow, no matter how carefully you slope the floor.

5. Unusual Tiles

Tall, skinny tiles burst onto the scene at the end of last year and it looks like they’re here for the long haul.

Another interesting development is the use of odd-shaped tiles for emphasis. Arabesque, hexagon, diamond, chevron shapes, and even Moroccan fish scales are some of the more interesting options coming to light. 

6. Metal Accents

Metals are still a favorite among current bathroom trends, with gunmetal grey and pewter joining the ranks of brass and nickel for 2019.

Use metal finishes for your faucets, towel rails, and hooks to give your bathroom a quick pick-me-up and bring it in line with this year’s fashions.

7. Plush Touches

Marble is back again and looks great when offset by the metallic faucets and finishes that are so in right now.

Whether you want to tile a whole wall or invest in a marble sink, a little bit of this classic stone goes a long way towards adding old-world elegance to new bathroom trends.  

Embrace the Latest Bathroom Trends

Not only will a new bathroom design impress your friends, but it can also add value to your house. 

Are you ready to get on board with the latest kitchen and bathroom trends? We’re ready to help, contact us for a free estimate today.

replace soffits

5 Signs You Need To Replace Your Soffits and Fascias

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In the excitement of buying a new home, many people neglect to budget for regular maintenance and repairs. It’s suggested to have around 1% of the home’s purchase price available each year for repairs.

Trimming trees, replacing windows, and replacing indoor carpeting are just a few examples of things you may need to do.

It’s also crucial to pay attention to your roof. Soffits and fascia are key structural elements that keep water, debris, and animals out. While sturdy, these features sometimes need to be replaced.

Wondering if it’s time to replace soffits or fascias? Keep reading for five signs you should keep an eye out for.

1. Signs of Uninvited Guests

Especially in colder seasons, your home shines like a beacon to pests looking for shelter. If you begin to hear noises above your head or find signs of nests or droppings in your attic, you may have an issue with your fascias and soffits.

Keep an eye out for any bite marks too.

It’s important to catch this issue early on as left unattended, pests can cause expensive damage to your roof.

2. Your Paint Is Cracking and Flaking

Curb appeal matters when buying and selling a home, but certain things go beyond just looking pretty. If you start to notice flaking or cracked paint on your soffits or fascia, it may be time for a replacement.

These issues, along with bubbles in the paint can cause water to leak into your home. This will cause damage and could lead to health implications of mold.

3. Questionable Ventilation

Soffits help provide ventilation for your home, especially the attic. They limit heat, moisture, and the build-up of condensation. These features reduce the risk of rotting wood and improve air conditioner efficiency.

Impaired or no ventilation suddenly may signal your soffits and/or fascia are blocked or damaged. If they are significantly damaged, consider doing your research for a company with plenty of roofing experience.

4. Leaky and Wobbly Gutters

Are you gutters leaking? Have they started to droop? If so, it may be time to invest in new soffits and fascia. Fascia provides structural support for gutters so if it becomes damaged, the gutters will no longer perform as expected.

5. Chance of Asbestos

One final reason you should consider replacing fascia and soffits is Asbestos. It is a very dangerous material and should be handled by a professional if suspected in your home.

Experts will be able to examine your home and tell if it was used in your soffits and fascia. If confirmed, they will work with you for a safe removal plan.

Replace Soffits and Keep Your Home a Happy Home

With this guide, it should be clear when you need to replace soffits and fascia. While it may seem like a big undertaking, when you work with the right people, it will be a stress-free experience.

Have some additional questions or want to discuss your specific situation? Please contact us and we would love to help you out!

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Gutter Replacement: The Top Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Gutters

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Gutters are one of the pieces of our home that often go overlooked. That said, when things go wrong with your gutters, you could be in for a wealth of other problems as a result.

We’re going to look into a few of the warning signs that your gutters may be giving you. No matter what climate you live in, you should still be keeping an eye on your gutters and making sure they’re up to snuff. 

Here’s what you should look out for when considering whether you need a gutter replacement.

Signs You Need a Gutter Replacement

The signs below will tell you it’s time to make a replacement. If you don’t have any of the warning signs, though, you should still perform basic maintenance to avoid getting into trouble later. 

Things like ice buildup, excessive leaves before winter, and more are all things that should be addressed. It may seem like a hassle to clear snow and ice from your roof in the winter, but it’s nothing compared dealing with damage to your siding, windows, and doors.

Here are some signs to look for before those things happen:

1. Cracks in the Material

Over time, your gutter will begin to have cracks and splits, no matter the material. While little cracks can be put off for a week or two, you don’t want to let them slip your mind for too long. 

These little cracks can turn into big ones, leading to subsequent issues as a result of the faulty gutter. 

2. Peels or Orange Pieces in the Paint

The paint on your gutter will also begin to deteriorate over time. There are some instances, however, when the paint begins to go long before it should. This signifies that there is some sort of issue with the structure of your gutter. 

Paint chipping early typically means that there are interior cracks in the gutter that are holding water, or that your gutter isn’t functioning properly, resulting in a lot of standing water. 

Standing water will lead to rust which damages your gutter. Another sign of rust is the presence of orange flecks in the paint or at the spout. 

3. Sagging Gutters

Your gutters should never pull away from your house. If you’re noticing that parts of your gutter are sagging away at any point of the structure, it means that the gutter system isn’t appropriate for your house or climate. 

Gutters typically sag due to excess weight, typically from standing water or excessive use. These sags can lead to further water buildup and potential damage to your home. 

In Need of Home Repair?

From gutter replacement to windows and doors, homes are always in need of regular repair. That is if you want your home to be in good shape!

One repair leads to another, and another, and another. Cutting off that process by making the initial fixes can save you a lot of time and money. Contact us if there are any home repairs that you may not be able to take care of yourself.  

Quartz vs Granite Countertops

Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Which is Better for Your Kitchen?

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A minor kitchen remodel can get you an 80% ROI if you decide to sell your home.

Even if you don’t sell your home, updating your kitchen can give your home a brand new feel. That’s because the kitchen is where all the action happens. In the kitchen, you cook breakfast in the morning, sit around the table for dinner every night, and you bake cookies there during the holidays.

If you’re looking to update your countertops, you might have trouble deciding between quartz or granite. Check out this article to learn which is the best option between quartz vs granite countertops.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are made up of mostly natural quartz but may contain additional minerals. Manufacturers grind up the minerals to form slabs of quartz. The slabs are fashioned into countertops.

Benefits

One benefit to quartz is that they come in different colors. If you’re looking for a certain aesthetic for your kitchen, you have more options to choose from. Quartz also has no striations so it’s less likely to crack.

What’s more, some companies that manufacture quartz countertops add an anti-bacterial agent. Quartz is also less likely to stain because its non-porous.

Also, quartz doesn’t need additional maintenance in the form of resealing.

Drawbacks

Quartz doesn’t have the natural stone look that granite has. Quartz also has obvious seams. This can be especially obvious if you choose a lighter color or one with various patterns.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are made of pure granite stone. The stone is cut into slabs and shaped into kitchen countertops.

Benefits

Each slab of granite has a unique look and pattern. If you want your kitchen to have its own unique look, granite countertops are a stunning choice.

Another benefit is that you can avoid seams on your countertops because granite can be cut into large sizes. Granite can also be used outdoors because it’s weather and fade-resistant.

Drawbacks

Granite is porous–so it’s more likely to stain compared to quartz. If you spill drinks or food on your countertops, you will have to wipe them up right away.

A professional has to seal granite countertops when they’re installed in your kitchen. This helps make them stain-resistant and resistant to cracks and chips.

In addition, you have to reseal your granite countertops regularly in order to maintain them.

Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Which Is Best?

The choice between quartz vs granite countertops is a matter of personal preference. It also depends on your lifestyle choice. If you have small children that spill often, you might want to choose quartz because there is less maintenance involved.

If you value the appearance of a natural, unique look, granite is a good choice as well. As for cost, the cost of both materials is about the same.

Want to learn more about kitchen remodeling and countertop choices? Contact us today for a free estimate.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

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If you’re remodeling your kitchen, the last thing you want is to find you wasted your money by simply using the wrong kitchen cabinet hardware.

Get a better idea of what you want (and need) for your kitchen cabinets by reading our short guide below. 

Consider Your Space When Thinking About Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

The first thing you want to consider when it comes to finding the best kitchen cabinet hardware for your home is the size of your kitchen. Remember, one of the primary functions of your kitchen cabinets is to help you save space and decrease clutter, so you want to use hardware that supports this goal.

For example, if your kitchen doesn’t have ample space, having cabinets that stick too far out may be a problem. In this case, you’ll need hardware that allows for floating cabinets to help save space.

Notice the Flow of Traffic

Even kitchens that are larger in size tend to run into some traffic. Depending on the size of your family, “peak hours” and the layout of your kitchen, it may be difficult at times to prepare a meal or even reach an item in the fridge.

Know if a cabinet in a certain spot will help ease traffic in the kitchen or will make things more cluttered. If you need to put a cabinet in a corner as well or need lower cabinets that role out instead of open, you will need the hardware to support that.

Be Aware of Small Hands

If you have small children at home, their safety is a top priority. Unfortunately, children tend to get into cabinets and drawers where poisonous items and chemicals are often present. Try choosing handles for your cabinets, and even interior door magnets that make it more difficult for small children to get into them.

If your kids are older but still not tall enough, you may need equipment that supports rolling or low hanging cabinets.

Know How You Want to Use Your Space

A kitchen can be the central heartbeat of the entire home. This space can be used for entertaining, checking emails, helping with homework, and of course cooking. Try to choose your cabinets and your cabinet hardware based upon what you would like to use your kitchen for.

For example, if you do a lot of extra cooking, you may want a built-in cutting board or an extra sink installed into your cabinet. You may also choose to set up a small nook where homework can be done. The options are endless.

Check the Budget

Home renovations can be pricey, especially when it comes to your kitchen cabinets. Before investing in specific cabinet hardware, be sure that your budget supports the overall project. Even if it doesn’t include a certain aspect of your cabinets, you may find a more affordable alternative to create the same look and feel. 

Creating the Kitchen of Your Dreams

When remodeling the kitchen of your dreams, the right kitchen cabinet hardware can be the difference between a kitchen that works with you and one that works against you.

If you need assistance planning the rest of your kitchen remodel, contact us today to learn more about how we can help. 

kitchen island styles

5 Super-Trendy Kitchen Island Styles to Consider for Your Next Remodel

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Open kitchens are a trend that has taken a stronghold in home design with no sign of going away. The problem with an open kitchen is that you lose storage and workspace. 

To fix this, you should look at a variety of kitchen island styles. The right island can take your kitchen from just ok, to wow! 

Consider one of these 5 kitchen island shapes for your home. This is the first step in a well-done kitchen remodel. 

1. The U Shape

Exactly like the name says, a U shaped island is going to give you a workspace that almost completely surrounds you. On top of that, under all of that counter real estate are cabinets galore. 

You’ll need a large kitchen space to accommodate this style island. If you have the space though, it is going to give you increased efficiency. 

Keep in mind that you will have double corners with this style. So you’ll want to address this potential loss of storage space with a lazy susan or pull out design. 

2. The L Shape

The L shaped island is exactly what it sounds like. There are two legs of the island going in two directions at a 90-degree angle. 

This style of island is going to give you a ton of counter space and storage space. If there are a lot of people in your household or you like to host parties where people hang out in the kitchen, this is a great option. 

3. Round

A round island is going to give your home a unique and somewhat quirky feel. You can commit to a full circle or do more of a half circle shape. 

You will gain a ton of work or seating space as you aren’t limited by corners with a round island. The only downside is that storage space is not the most efficient with this style. 

4. Create a Galley

This style of island may not be as creative or stylish as the other ones we have spoken about so far. That’s ok though, its straight-line style is a no-frills functional design. 

Think of this island as the workhorse of the kitchen islands. You get more work and storage space without sacrificing floor square footage. 

The best part is that it is the most customizable. You can make them as wide or as long as you want to suit your home. 

5. Get Mobile 

Is your kitchen not big enough to accommodate a built-in island? That’s ok! How about a smaller one that is on wheels? 

A mobile island will give you the greatest amount of versatility. You can move the island out while working in the kitchen and then roll it out of the way while not in use. 

Their one downside is that you will get limited storage gain with this type of island. 

Kitchen Island Styles

So which one of these kitchen island styles will work in your home? You’ll want to start by analyzing your home. How much space do you have and how do you use your kitchen? 

Depending on how you answer these questions will dictate which island will work best for your home and family. If you are still unsure, you can always consult a professional. 

They will be able to advise you on all of your options and which is best for you. Contact us today for a free estimate for your kitchen island. 

Kitchen Remodeling 101: 4 Tips for Choosing Countertops to Suit Your Style

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When remodeling your kitchen, there are so many items to work on that it can get difficult to figure out where to focus your attention. Working on choosing the right countertops for your new kitchen will make a huge design impact.

You want to choose the right countertops the now first time to prevent you from having to spend more money and time fixing the mistake in the future.

Here are 4 tips for choosing countertops to best suit your style.

1. When Choosing Countertops, Match Your New Kitchen’s Style

If you’re looking to create a modern oasis in your kitchen, many people are leaning towards materials like stainless steel, quartz, and concrete. These materials create a minimal style look because they stick to using one or two colors.

A more traditional kitchen uses materials like granite, butcher block, and marble. These materials tend to use warmer tones throughout while providing many different kinds of colors and designs.

2. Think About Durability

Your new countertops need to be durable to keep up with the next era of cooking in your household. Consider going with materials that can last a long time, and that can hold up to things like knife marks and splashes.

Concrete is quickly becoming more popular because it’s not only stylish but extremely durable. The material is resistant to chipping and cracking.

Natural stone like granite and quartz are also durable countertop materials. Marble, however, is prone to staining.

While cheaper materials like laminate are stain resistant, they are also very likely to take damage from exposure to high heat or kitchen knives.

3. Consider Your Budget

Luckily, there are so many different countertop material options for you to choose from. That means there’s a perfect material for every budget.

Natural stone materials like marble and granite will often be some of the most expensive materials to use. They can cost you around $45-$125 per square foot to purchase.

Concrete is also fairly expensive costing you around $65-$125 per square foot.

Solid Surface Corian is a man-made material that starts usually runs a little cheaper at an average of $35 per square foot.

If you have a tight budget, consider using laminate. It’ll be your least expensive option starting at around $20 per square foot, and it’s easy to clean.

4. There Will Be Some Maintenance

Depending on the material you choose, there will be some maintenance that you need to do periodically. This will make sure that your kitchen countertops stay looking as good as they did at installation.

If you go with a wood option like butcher block, it’s best to oil them around twice a year.

Some materials are porous like limestone, granite, and marble. For the best results, you should consider sealing these at least once a year.

Make sure you know what maintenance goes along with your countertops before you purchase. This way you can decide whether or not that works best for you.

Set the Tone for Your Kitchen

Choosing countertops that are right for your kitchen will really set the tone for the design. Because you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, it’s important you have a space that’s durable and easy to work on.

For over a decade, the general construction company American Craftsmen have been providing quality service to clients in the northern Delaware area. We specialize in bathrooms, kitchens, doors, windows, and decks.

Continue looking through our site and blog for more construction and remodeling tips, ideas, and information.

Kitchen Trends for 2019

New Year, New Digs: Kitchen Trends for 2019

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Kitchen remodels tend to get an approximate 93% ROI, while also making your home a more livable and functional.

You will enjoy your kitchen to the fullest by making just a few important changes. If you’re looking into upgrades and don’t quite know where to start, there are several kitchen trends for 2019 that might be worthwhile.

Take time to follow these points so that you get the return on your investment that will make a difference.

Use Colors and Tones to Create a Vibe

When you are looking into kitchen trends 2019, there are many winning color schemes that you can look into. People are taking a break from tradition and are looking into playful and exuberant colors that really bring the kitchen to life.

For instance, you can add splashes of turquoise and pink, add metallic copper and gold bricks and plating, and create warmth in your kitchen with darker tones.

You can create any kind of vibe that entices you when you take the time get creative with your color schemes and choices. When you are looking into kitchen remodeling help, make sure that you look through several swatches and color palettes.

Get in touch with an interior designer that can also show you 3D renderings of what your brand new kitchen will look like when you decide to explore these color options.

Get Playful and Creative With Your Utilities and Appliances

You also have lots of options in 2019 when it comes to your utilities and appliances.

Imagine a sink that has dual faucets, multiple bowls, garbage disposals, food storage compartments, and built-in cutting boards. You can prepare dinner on your terms and won’t have to worry about mess or clutter.

These upgrades will also make your kitchen look restaurant quality chic, which is something you’ll be proud of.

Switch out your old lighting for some well-designed overhead LED lights as well. This can brighten up the kitchen without it being an encumbrance on your utility bills.

You can also upgrade the kitchen with smart appliances that let you know when repairs are needed, use a fraction of the energy, and even order groceries for you. Expect these sorts of kitchen appliance advancements to be the norm in 2019 and beyond.

Glass is In

If you are looking to make your kitchen look beautiful and decorative, you can’t go wrong with the addition of some quality glass.

For instance, you can install some beautiful stained windows that give you lots of sunlight, along with an elegant style.

You can also incorporate a glass ceiling, shelving, chandeliers and beautiful decorative pieces. Install a hanging rack or fine cabinet for your fancy drinking glasses and you’ll always have them on display.

Explore These Kitchen Trends for 2019 and Make Them Come to Life

When you want to get the best from these kitchen trends for 2019, you’ll need the assistance of kitchen contractors that can serve you.

We can offer you any home improvements, including kitchens, bathrooms, and so much more. If you’d like a free estimate, contact us today.

kitchen island styles

Ready to Get Cooking? Modern Kitchen Design Ideas for Your Remodel

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Ever notice that the kitchen is the place where everyone gathers at a party?

Or that it is referred to as the “Heart of the Home”

Don’t let an outdated kitchen drain your inspiration. Remodel and renovate to get the sleek, bold space you desire. Do you decide on a color palette first? Work up your workflow, then choose your fixtures and cabinetry? Do you take your appliances and let your dream kitchen flow from there?

How do you decide?

Let us light a little hearth fire to warm up your inspiration. Read on to learn some modern kitchen design tips and trends.

Clean, Bright and Light

Being a grown-up means tackling chores we’d rather not do. According to a survey by the American Cleaning Institute, over 23% of Americans rank cleaning the kitchen as most dreaded out of all of them. However, Americans also report that clean countertops and shiny floors make them happy.

Modern kitchen trends appeal to these tendencies. Simple lines, well-thought-out task lighting, and clutterless storage make timeless sense. Start by considering the size of the kitchen and the way that you cook.

Choose a long-wearing, neutral colored countertop in an easy to clean finish. Polished quartz and recycled crushed glass are on trend. Granite is still popular, but some colors are growing dated. Try to avoid brown-toned stones with green or black accents. These darker countertops make spaces look fussy.

Thoughtful Modern Kitchen Design

Simple cabinet designs are classic. The trend for open shelves and glass-front cabinets is now restrained for dust and clutterless living. In fact, many designs are unbroken lines, even by hardware. Lighter wood or even laminate finishes provide an easy clean solution.

Painted cabinets are trending towards a two-tone look, with darker shades below the counter and light reflecting above. These are paired with practical wall and backsplash treatment. Extra appliance outlets and under-cabinet task lights continue in their popularity.

What is different is the size and scale of the kitchen island. The oversized island with giant hanging lights dominating the kitchen is less popular. While a large island still makes sense, islands that require a full-size 600 crystal chandelier overhead to maintain proper scale are thankfully passe.

More is focused on the work triangle of sink, refrigerator, and cooking surfaces. The stainless steel finishes popular the last decade continue, but the look is warmed up with pops of color. Opposite to the brushed stainless look are the custom retro color finishes coming out from major appliance manufacturers.

Get the Kitchen You Love

Modern kitchen design doesn’t have to be intimidating. Take your inspiration from the looks you love and the people you cook for. Trends in cabinets, counters, and islands all point to clean and clutterless lines.

We can help you look at backsplashes, cabinets, countertops and more. We have design experts available to assist you in bringing your ideas to life. A new kitchen is not an impossible task. Call us today!