HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TO DO THIS SUMMER

 

Spring arrives and you start dreaming of Summer trips to the beach and BBQs in the back yard. As you survey your Los Angeles outdoor space you start to make a mental list of all the projects that need to get done. The roof was a little leaky this winter and as a Los Angeles homeowner you may have been putting off these repairs. The deck is looking like it needs a refinish. Perhaps you’re thinking it would be a good time to call on a custom deck builders near me Los Angeles to help you repair those rickety steps. Your neighbor is siding his house and now and maybe you’ve notices that your home is now looking a little shabby. Have you been watching your favorite home remodeling shows all winter and while “sheltering in place” and now you’re dreaming of updating your space? Now is the time to work with a general contractor for kitchen remodel !!! Los Angeles is blessed with great weather year-round…. but there are some home renovation projects that are best reserved for summer.

Here are some of the top summer home improvement projects for Los Angeles homeowners.

Outside Projects:

Repair or replace your roof- Winter is the rainy season in L.A. The best time to replace or repair your roof is in the heat of the summer when it is nice and dry. Get it done now. Having a leaky roof could create mold issues in your home or cause further structural damage. This could add additional costs to your Roof Renovation if you wait.

Build an outdoor kitchen– We have all been spending more time at home. Cooking has become the new “it” hobby. Indulge your gourmet fantasies and build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Both practical for outdoor entertaining and a prudent investment in the value of your home. In Los Angeles, an outdoor kitchen renovation will provide many joyful opportunities year-round.

Replace Home Siding– Is your exterior paint no longer standing up? Is your house looking a little sad? It may be time to consider siding your home. There are so many new choices. Something for everyone’s taste. Most of these new materials are weatherproof and fireproof which is perfect for the challenges of living in Los Angeles. Make your neighbors jealous by renovating your exterior.

Build a New Deck/ Outdoor Living Space– A new deck design will add additional living space to your home and give you that resort lifestyle you have been craving. Add an option for shade. Maybe a fireplace or fire pit. How about a water feature or jacuzzi? When you hire a Professional L.A. Contractor, they will help you create an inspired space with whatever outdoor area you have to work with.

Summer Interior Renovation Projects:

New Kitchen– Have you been thinking it’s time for a new kitchen? Whether you invest in a full kitchen remodeling in Los Angeles or just focus on replacing the countertops and resurfacing the cabinets, summer is the perfect time to complete this home kitchen remodel. You can use your outdoor kitchen or set up a temporary outdoor space for your family. The kids are off from school. Life is more laid back. Choosing now as a time to remodel your kitchen will help the renovation project feel more like a camping adventure and less disruptive.

New Windows and Doors. – Add some drama and flair to your home with new windows and a new front door. This is a practical upgrade and will add a new dimension of beauty to your Los Angeles Home. New windows will save you time and money. They will keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Protect you and your furnishings from the sun and UV rays. You can even have windows installed that are made with earthquake-proof glass! A new front door not only provides an upgraded level of security but, also a wonderful opportunity to update your Los Angeles homes’ curb appeal. Your new door should be fireproof and break-In resistant. An easy way to upgrade the look of your home.

New Ceiling Fans– Are your ceiling fans from the 1970s and sound like they are limping along. New modern ceiling fans will keep you cool while lighting up your world. Important to have a ceiling fan in each room of the house for airflow and to help the air conditioning system on those steamy 100-degree Los Angeles Summer days. Replacing them will keep your family safe from any falling objects!!!

Some Simple Additional Hacks- Upgrade your curb appeal with a selection of Los Angeles Drought -Free Plants. Add a pop of color by including your favorite flowers. Your home will look amazing both inside and out. Add a vegetable garden and include your favorite herbs. Wrap some solar twinkle lights around your trees. Time to add a new fruit tree or exotic palm.

THE TOP REASONS WHY A RECESSION IS THE PERFECT TIME TO RENOVATE YOUR HOME

 

I know this might seem crazy but, a financial recession or downturn in the economy is the perfect time for you to start a home remodeling project in Los Angeles. This might sound counter intuitive. But, for so many people, this is the right time to act and invest in your homes’ future. …And here is why.

THE TOP REASONS TO RENOVATE YOUR LOS ANGELES HOME DURING A RECESSION:

You might be thinking now is not the time to spend your cash or take on a home improvement line of credit. Whether you’ve been dreaming of renovating your kitchen or a bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles, history tells us that what goes down must come back up. We have witnessed this several times in our own lives. When the economy turns around the experts predict that real estate prices in Los Angeles will skyrocket.

We will come back from this current downturn. If you take on a Los Angeles Home Renovation you will be financially ahead of the game when it’s time to sell your home. Meanwhile, you get to enjoy living in your dream environment now.

·        A home renovation is a perfect investment in your future. Prices are low. Labor and materials are less expensive. Construction Workers, Plumbers, and Electricians are more willing to negotiate their prices. In some cases, like with our team at Structura Remodeling there are also financing options available. This can reduce the price of your home renovation by as much as 50%.

·        Five years from now you ready to upgrade to a larger home or downsize to your perfect retirement cottage. You will be thankful you invested in a home renovation when the price was right! That kitchen or bathroom remodel will add thousands of dollars to the value of your home. If you are in a starter house, even small fixes can make all the difference in your selling price.

·        With the world shut down, you have more time to manage and oversee a home remodeling project. Decisions get made quickly. The work will get done faster and that will save you money. When your home functions better for your family it will bring you joy… and save you time and money.

·        Because of the pause on commercial projects, there is a glut in materials and workers. Concrete, rebar, copper, and steel beams cost less. Even the oil to ship them costs less. Take advantage of these adjustments in price. Plumbers, Electricians, Designers, Builders are looking for projects now.

·        Companies need to clear inventory. You might be able to negotiate the price on those French doors you have been pinning for. How about an upgrade to a tech-savvy bathroom with all the bells and whistles?

·        Life is too short. Now is the time to enjoy these projects while working with a team of expert remodeling contractors in Los Angeles. How about refreshing the exterior paint for some new curb appeal? Committing to a new backyard deck. Add to your summer BBQs and outdoor picnics with friends and family

·        Take advantage of Los Angeles home remodeling grants that are available for Seniors, Veterans, and Low-Income Families. Home Depot has pledged more than One Million Dollars to renovate Veteran’s homes. The Federal Government and other organizations work with people to keep their homes safe and livable.

Bottom line…stop putting off those renovations. Remodeling your LA Home is a savvy investment for your future. Get years of pleasure from your new kitchen, bathroom, flooring, or granny flat. You are investing in your property and enjoying the outcome of your home renovation projects for all the days and years to come.

Unleashing Home Potential | The Comprehensive Guide to Garage Conversions

 

In a world where maximizing space is synonymous with a harmonious lifestyle, Structura Remodeling presents the ultimate guide to unlocking your home's potential through garage conversions. Discover the transformative journey that not only adds value to your property but also provides versatile living spaces without breaking the bank.

The Art and Advantages of Garage Conversions

Are you yearning for extra living space without the burden of a costly move or a large-scale home extension? Look no further. Structura Remodeling introduces you to the art and advantages of garage conversions—a strategic solution to elevate your home and lifestyle.

Cost-Effective Brilliance

One of the standout features of garage conversions lies in their cost-effectiveness. In comparison to alternatives like single-story extensions or loft conversions, converting your garage provides a budget-friendly yet impactful way to expand your living space. Structura Remodeling meticulously breaks down the economics, showcasing how this process not only saves you money but also enhances your property's overall value.

Elevate Your Property's Value

Garage conversions offer more than just extra space; they elevate your property's value. With the potential to add up to 10% to your home's overall worth, this transformation proves to be a wise investment. Structura Remodeling unveils the strategic brilliance behind garage conversions, demonstrating how additional bedrooms, expanded living areas, or even a self-contained annex can cater to the evolving needs of discerning homeowners.

Versatility Redefined

Step into a realm of versatility as Structura Remodeling guides you through the process of crafting functional living spaces within your garage. Beyond extra rooms, explore the possibilities of adding additional floors, seamlessly adapting your home to your lifestyle. Witness the transformative power that allows your living space to evolve effortlessly.

Preserving Natural Illumination

Say goodbye to dark, cramped spaces. Garage conversions, unlike some alternatives, preserve the natural light in your home. Structura Remodeling showcases the art of strategically incorporating windows and glass panels, ensuring your space is bathed in sunlight throughout the seasons. Experience the unique advantage of a bright, inviting, and visually appealing environment.

Seamless Integration of Utilities

Concerns about adding bathrooms and kitchens to your converted garage? Structura Remodeling dispels the worries, assuring homeowners that the integration of gas and drainage pipes is not only feasible but also affordable. Learn how seamlessly these essential utilities can be added, enhancing the functionality of your newly transformed space.

Simplify, Transform, Evolve

Bid farewell to the complexities of property transactions and construction woes. Structura Remodeling invites you to simplify, transform, and evolve your living space through garage conversions. Let this comprehensive guide be your roadmap to a home that seamlessly adapts to your lifestyle, providing a harmonious sanctuary for years to come.

Transform your garage into a bright, airy sanctuary with Structura Remodeling's premier garage conversion services in Los Angeles. Say farewell to dim, cramped spaces as we expertly integrate windows and glass panels, preserving natural light for an inviting, visually stunning environment. Elevate your home with our unparalleled expertise today!

HOW TO BUDGET FOR A COMPLETE HOME RENOVATION IN LOS ANGELES

This is one of those big life decisions, do you renovate, or do you sell? Some things are hard to replace. If you have fantastic neighbors and a community of friends that you have cultivated over many years, that is hard to give up and maybe irreplaceable. The garden you have tenderly nurtured with its heirloom plants and prize-winning blooms is not something you can easily pack up and take with you. And then there are the memories, the good times and the not-so-good time, all the moments that add up to the sum total of your life to date.

Can you, in good conscience, walk away? Would your kids and or grandkids even tolerate the idea? Now I know that we have become a culture of nomads in this country. We do not live our lives in our communities as much as we exist online. I’m not sure that is a good thing. Time will tell. After losing many friends and neighbors this year, I am partial to the idea that home, family, and community are essential to our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

SO HERE IS MY CASE FOR STAYING PUT AND GOING FOR A FULL HOME RENOVATION.

1.    It is a sellers’ market. You can get full price for your home, and then you are on the other side of the equation. Now is not the best time to buy. Do you want to go through a stressful bidding process where it’s you and twenty other families in an obscene bidding war for the same house?

2.    No matter what home you purchase, you will end up with a few renovation projects to make the house your new home. So, no matter what you do, you can’t avoid a construction project or two unless you are buying new construction. Either way, you are managing a build.

3.    It’s your house, so it is your choice about the renovation process. You can choose to do it in stages or pull the band-aid off and go for the complete house renovation. Living in Los Angeles, where the weather is excellent all year round, makes this prospect much simpler. No chance of snow, frost, and winter weather interfering with your project. You can set up an outdoor kitchen and live in your camper in the backyard. Think of it as a nature vacation.

4.    You decide your home renovation budget, so you control how and where the money is invested. Look for home renovation ideas on a budget. You will be on your own timeline so you can investigate budget kitchen remodels, budget bathroom remodels, and budget backyard renovations. Watch the home remodeling shows, read the home design magazines, go to the bath and kitchen showrooms. Go to open houses in your neighborhood and take the best design ideas you find.

Then you can start to assemble a working budget. You will know what things cost and how you want to invest your dollars. Here are some things to guide you on your journey to compiling your home remodel budget.

BREAKDOWN OF TYPICAL STARTING COSTS:

GUT RENOVATION VS. NON- GUT RENOVATION

In creating a budget, the first decision that impacts cost is deciding on a gut renovation vs. a non-gut renovation. A gut renovation is exactly as it sounds. You gut the house, removing everything down to the foundation. In a gut renovation, all visible surfaces are replaced. Interior walls are stripped down to the studs, and the framing is knocked out entirely.

A non- gut renovation may also involve a new kitchen, bathroom, new flooring, etc., but you will be using the existing structure and walls. A gut renovation will start at $100-$200 per square foot. A non- gut renovation will begin at about $75-$100 per square foot.

GENERAL GUIDELINE FOR A LOS ANGELES HOME RENOVATION BUDGET

·        Full-home renovation $100—$200 per square foot

·        Dry spaces- bedrooms and family rooms start at $50 per square foot.

·        Baths start at $400 per square foot.

·        Kitchens start at $300 per square foot.

·        Gut remodel with customization: $200—$300 per square foot.

·        Non-gut, remodel with customization: $200 per square foot.

·        Structural factors like staircases and second-floor additions- extensive customization: $300 per square foot+

·        Plumbing permits: from under $2,000 up to $5,000

·        Electrical permits: $900

·        Electrical permits: $900

Moving walls, adding staircases, shifting gas and plumbing, and electrical rewiring all contribute to a higher per-square-foot cost, plus add to the behind-the-scenes expenditures.

Since pricing for kitchens and baths runs higher than other rooms, more of those equal a higher price per square foot.

You can expect to see more extensive customization, fine finishes, and luxurious materials at this level and beyond. You will have access to handmade tiles, exotic wood grains, natural stone, and fine architectural details at this price point.

You might also see custom door casements and extensive lighting details at this level. There won’t be much in the way of off-the-shelf materials, and the artistry should be top-notch. Renovations that hit all of these notes can quickly run over $500 per square foot.

TIPS TO STAY ON TOP OF YOUR RENOVATION BUDGET:

·        Include an additional 10 to 15 percent in the budget for project overruns, unforeseen structural, plumbing, or heating problems.

·        Spend for high price custom materials only where it counts. Work with your designer to choose materials for maximum effect. Spend for the handmade tiles for your kitchen backsplash. They will create a standout design focus for your home. You can use standard material for the second bathroom to balance the budget.

·        Fix the plumbing and electrical infrastructure. Spend it now while you are under renovation or face more costly problems down the road.

·        Focus on kitchens and baths. Spend your money where it counts. Renovated kitchens and bathrooms add the most resale value to your home.

·        Consult experts upfront. If you plan to hire an architect or designer for a major home renovation, get them on board early. This can help save money by mapping out a clear plan to avoid costly changes mid-stream. Set aside 15 to 20 percent of your budget for your design team. Hire your licensed professionals early, a cost-effective way to prevent headaches later.

After planning your home renovation budget, it’s time to call in the experts. Structura Home Remodeling is the top company in the Los Angeles Area for a total home renovation.

GARAGE MAN CAVE IDEAS: UNIQUE DESIGNS FOR EVERY PERSONAL STYLE

 It’s no wonder man caves have become a common remodel request in recent years. After all, who wouldn’t want some extra space to display their favourite things? Man caves aren’t just a commodity for guys looking for display space or a place for their hobbies though; They make a great entertaining area too!

Often enhanced by TVs, pool tables, bars, and the like, they’re the go-to spot for any event. Sounds good, right? Unfortunately, not every home has the space but that doesn’t mean the man cave of your dream is out of the question. This is where garage man cave ideas come into play. 

Curious how you can take your builder grade garage to an entertainment hub? Maybe looking for the garage man cave ideas that’ll fit even the most unique of hobbies? Stick around and you’ll quickly see why the garage man cave is a remodel on the rise. 

 

WHY IS A GARAGE THE BEST CHOICE FOR A MAN CAVE?

Garages are the best option for man caves for many reasons, the first being cost. An addition to the home is far more expensive than transforming an existing space like the garage. Likewise, it’s a larger space than you’d likely have with an interior room.

Also, a garage conversion is an especially good option for those with extracurricular that fall on the messy or loud side. Confined to the garage, it’s less likely to affect others in the home than that of using a room inside the home. 

 

MAN CAVE REMODEL CONSIDERATIONS

Since the garage isn’t an interior room, it may lack some of the luxuries you want in a man cave. While you can transform a garage into a man cave without all of these, consider the following garage man cave ideas before getting started with your remodel.

•        Plumbing: A critical step if you plan to add a bathroom, sink etc.
•        Electrical: Additional access may need to be added for custom lighting.
•        Air Conditioning and Heating: Rerouting through the existing central AC unit. 
•        Refrigeration and/or Bar: Combination of custom water, drainage and electrical.

 

GARAGE MAN CAVE IDEAS 

 

There’s no shortage of garage man cave ideas as these spaces can accommodate nearly any type of interest or hobby; That said, it would be impossible to cover everything here. We’ve narrowed it down to the designs so special you’d want to be sure they’re done right with the help of a professional. Each with their own unique remodel needs, the final result is well worth the extra time and money.

The garage needs to be rebuilt as well. This entails making space in a small area to produce a unique design according to your wishes. You need a professional to make it happen, or you may hunt for garage remodelling services in Los Angeles that make it reality for you.

 

SHARED/FUNCTIONAL SPACE

 

 

If you’re into garage man cave ideas but can’t fully commit, this shared space concept is the perfect fit. Splitting it right down the middle, the garage can still accommodate a car and the usual garage odds and ends; Still providing half the space for an impressive man cave given the space. 

Extra storage added on the walls and in the headspace above free up much needed square footage for both sides. Cabinetry and countertop space allow for ample man cave storage while also offering electrical access for anything you may need. 

 

BARE BONES WITH STYLE

Another great example of doing a lot with a little, garage man cave ideas such as this scream luxury without the price tag. Unfinished walls and ceilings painted bold colors give it a much more polished look. They opted to redo the flooring with a black, glossy coated finish making it feel a lot less like a garage and more like an intentional space. 

The addition of dark wood and leather furnishings not only give the space style but also comfort. Of course, who could forget the man cave staples too? The foosball table, poker set up and TV make for an entertaining space you’ll never want to leave.

MINIMALISTIC

 It’s easy to see garage man cave ideas and think they require extravagance or a large budget, but that’s not entirely true. The minimalist garage man cave above is proof! Finished floors and walls give the space an interior feel while added wood accents and lighting embellish. 

The minimalist look allows the space to be used for many purposes from guy’s night to meeting space. A one size fits all at an affordable price, a simple look goes a long way. 

 

SCREENING ROOM

 

You wouldn’t think the garage is the best seat in the house for a movie, but garage man cave ideas like this show otherwise. Appearing as just another room in the house, you’d never know this space was once your average garage. A backlit tray ceiling accompanied by custom overhead lighting takes the space to the next level. 

Carpeting, sconces and wall panelling reminiscent of a true cinema truly immerse you in the experience. The final touch, oversized leather loungers, make this screen room every movie lover’s dream. 

 

PRIVATE BAR

The bar garage man cave is a more meticulous remodel, requiring specialty work with plumbing, refrigeration and the like. The addition of beer and soda taps creating further detailed installation. Regardless, it’s not without some serious rewards as shown in the picture above. 

A lengthy bar accompanies plenty of counter space for creating your favorite drinks. Specially made shelving adorns a planked wall with display space and a chalk bar menu for personalization. Unique hanging lights and the extension of central AC into the space make for optimal comfort year round. 

MUSIC AND/OR RECORDING ROOM

 

Music and recording rooms are fairly common in garage man cave ideas, even more so in the garage man cave. Reason being that noise like this in an interior room might not be welcomed by everyone. Making or playing music in the garage, allows the noise to escape the interior of the home with extra precautions to boot. 

As you can see above, this garage man cave features a recording studio with custom panelling for sound absorption; Allowing less noise pollution outward. Panelling aside, the installation of wood flooring, track lighting and fixed AC give the area an indoor vibe with all the benefits of a garage man cave. 

 

MECHANIC’S QUARTERS

 

A car enthusiast’s dream, garage man cave ideas like the one above take the art of mechanics up a notch. With several bays to work in, the space also provides a sleek and inconspicuous place for tools in the wall lockers. Likewise, there’s storage space for motorcycle apparel on the wall. As if the work space wasn’t impressive enough, the aesthetics are a head-turner.

Black tiled flooring in the work space collides with warm wood as you enter a furnished area to kick up your feet and admire your work. Touches of wood beams and industrial, black track lighting give the room a balance in both style and function. 

 

NATURALIST AND/OR TROPHY SPACE

Whether you just like the wood look or you want an aesthetic that highlights your hunting trophies, this rustic style is sure to please. Wood panelling surrounds this garage man cave with a warm and raw feel, bringing the outdoors inside. 

Wooden beams not only add to the rustic nature of the design but also act as an architectural highlight, accentuating the height of the ceilings. 

GAMING HIDEOUT

 

Garage man cave ideas are a common request among avid gamers. Here, they chose not just to include a space for video games but other physical games as well. The added touch of a cork wall for darts is a particularly unique idea. 

Neutral flooring and walls add a bright and welcoming contrast to the wood elements making the space naturally pleasing to the eye.