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.

THE TOP 5 BATHROOM REMODELING IDEAS FOR 2023

THE TOP 5 BATHROOM REMODELING IDEAS FOR 2023

Are you planning for a bathroom remodel in 2023? Look for the most up-to-date, on-point, and upscale bathroom remodeling ideas.  Reaching out to the top design teams in Los Angeles, browsing the magazines, spending time on the popular home remodel and design websites, and watching the home remodeling shows are fun ways to collect creative and innovative bathroom remodeling ideas.

Before you start working with your contractor, it is essential to understand what design ideas are “must-haves” for you and how they will impact your budget.  Some of the design choices we share with you add great contemporary style and functionality and will not blow up your budget. Choosing innovative technology and green products may cost more upfront but save you money in the long run.

By 2023 we continue to see even more diversity in materials.  Reclaimed wood, stone, and natural features are even more popular this year.  You can create that outdoor spa feeling by bringing more nature and light into the bathroom. Some designers are creating a Japanese contemporary hybrid design focusing on nature and simplicity.

The contemporary industrial metal design esthetic focuses on updated bathroom technology while offering a high-end design and a simplified uncluttered space.

Have you thought of using a “wet room” approach?   In a wet room, you do not have to compartmentalize the wet areas. The tub, sink, and shower can all be within the same space, so you don’t have to build a separate shower area.  This style of the bathroom has a very open feel and is very easy to keep clean.

Another trend for 2023 is intricate tile designs.  They can be nostalgic and bring back the past’s color palette like baby blue and pink or all white. White is always in style. Using a variety of textures and tile designs can level up the wow factor.  If you get bored, then change your accessories and have an entirely new look.

HERE ARE OUR TOP 2023-BATHROOM REMODELING IDEAS.

• Oversized tiles- Oversized tiles have overtaken the tiny mosaic tile frenzy this season. The selection of colors, textures, and designs is phenomenal. There are tile selections that even look like wood.  You can also go with a monochromatic look, creating a very edgy and modern feel for your bathroom remodel—the bonus of using larger tiles and less grout to keep clean.

 

• Smart toilets– When the Covid Pandemic hit, there was a run on toilet paper. When people couldn’t find toilet paper, they started buying up all the bidets in stock.  This winter, the forecast is the same. Stores are already limiting the amount of toilet paper you can purchase.As part of your bathroom remodeling ideas, skip the bidet and go right to the Smart Toilet. Have all the benefits in one unit. Besides the  bidet feature, your smart toilets can have a self-closing lid, touch-free flushing, heated seat, and be self-cleaning. Now that is a smart idea!!!!

 

• Dramatic stone countertops- most people, when undergoing a bathroom remodel, choose quartz for their countertops. And there are several great reasons why. Quartz is very durable, scratchproof, and creates an elegant finish .If you are looking for high drama and a unique finish, there are several other options. For high-end bathrooms, you can’t go wrong with Carrera Marble.  Just stunning, If you don’t mind a bit more maintenance, then Onyx is another attractive choice.  Elegant and timeless. Soapstone is also a popular choice that requires regular maintenance.

 

• Modern Sinks and Taps– We have been seeing them in restaurants for years. More and more, they are showing up in home bathroom remodeling ideas. These basins, with their unique shapes, can be made from a variety of materials. Created from Metals, Ceramics, Stone, or Glass, many look like works of art.   The taps are part of the sink design.  You can choose wall-mounted faucets or traditional ones. Now there are automatic faucets for home use as well.

 

• Floating vanities- To go along with the contemporary design of your new Floating vanities are fixtures that appear to “float” because they are mounted to the wall and do not sit on the floor at all. This modern design will make any bathroom feel more open and lighter.   Floating vanities come in various lengths and materials, including wood finishes or a modern gloss design. The design provides maximum counter space in either single or double sink options.  If you are considering a floating vanity, remember to find out the weight limit and be sure to get it professionally installed.

As you continue to explore your options, spend some time investigating the bathroom fixture showrooms for inspiration. Also, speak to neighbors and local realtors about what’s hot in bathroom remodeling ideas and what’s selling in your area. A bathroom renovation is also an investment in your home.  When it’s time to sell, your bathroom renovation will be a key selling feature and make your home highly desirable. Buyers expect an updated bathroom and  you will appreciate the return on investment.

Next, you need to identify the professional design team and general contractor to make your vision a reality. Structura was nominated as the top bathroom remodeling and design firm in your Los Angeles neighborhood for over sixteen years.

Their clients say that the Structura team of contractors are true artisans and deliver on every detail.   They deliver on what they promise and are so easy to communicate with. They finished on time and budget. They can order everything you need to complete your bathroom renovation through their many industry relationships while passing their wholesales discounts along to you.   Structura saves you time and money.

HOW TO HIRE A KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR IN LOS ANGELES?

 

OK, it’s time to take that next step from dreaming about a new kitchen to making the project a reality. Have you been stalling on declaring “go time “because hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor in Los Angeles seems like a more extensive project than living through the renovation????

I know we have all heard many crazy stories about all the things that could go wrong if you don’t hire the right contractor.  Don’t stress.  I’m writing this blog today to make sure that doesn’t happen.  If you follow the guidelines and do your homework, you most likely will end up with a beautiful kitchen and a new friendship with your contractor.

The kitchen is the heart of your home. So, whether you are looking to update your floors and cabinets or build your ultimate kitchen dream, you need a top professional for this project.

HOW TO HIRE A LOS ANGELES KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR

It seems like a daunting task, but if you take the time to check qualifications, experience in kitchen remodeling, and references, you will be able to move forward with confidence.

DO I NEED A GENERAL CONTRACTOR OR KITCHEN REMODELING SPECIALIST?

A general contractor has experience with most aspects of home remodeling. A Kitchen Remodeling Contractor specializes in every part of kitchen remodeling, renovation, and additions.

Suppose your kitchen remodeling project is a new addition to the house that will include foundation work, exterior work, and kitchen interior. In that case, you might need to look for a general contractor with experience in all aspects of a renovation.  They should have significant kitchen remodeling experience.

Suppose you can find a contractor with a staff that includes the skillsets of electrical, plumbing, masonry, roofing, and the skills to complete the kitchen- flooring, tiling, custom counters, and cabinetry. In that case, they will have more control or the project’s timeline, quality, and costs.    Whether you hire a general contractor or a kitchen remodeling specialist, having the skillsets in-house is a plus to the project.

Kitchen remodeling specialists usually offer design services to help with the design aspects of your kitchen. This can save you from having to hire a separate kitchen designer.

CREDENTIAL

It is critical to ensure that you are hiring a licensed and insured contractor. Make sure they have a state license. That guarantees that they have undergone rigorous testing and have the required skills to complete the job professionally.

Ask the contractor for their license number and certificate of insurance (COI). Follow up to verify that they are in good standing. Reach out to your state’s licensing board to confirm their license is active and up to date. Contact the insurance policy carrier to verify that the coverage is current.

Active professional association memberships add another layer of legitimacy to the contractor’s resume. Most members of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), or National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) will promote these affiliations.

HOW TO HIRE A LOS ANGELES KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Start your research for a local contractor online. Check out Facebook, Yelp, and even community websites.  Services like Angie’s List, Houzz, HomeAdvisor.  Remember, some of these are paid advertising or have paid for positive reviews. Do your research as well.

Ask your realtor, neighbors, friends, family, and coworkers for referrals. See if they have someone that they are thrilled to recommend. Look for people in your community who recently have done a kitchen remodel and ask their opinion.

Remember to ask what made it a positive experience, how the contractor handled problems, and whether they would use the same contractor again?

Don’t forget to check the company’s ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Narrow your pool of candidates to the top three.

Prioritize your shortlist and reach out starting with your top candidate. Provide an overview of the project and any added services you’ll need, like architecture or design. Request their license and insurance credentials so that you can verify them before an in-home appointment.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR POTENTIAL LOS ANGELES KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Have you or your employees been certified in remodeling or had special training or education.
• Who will be working on the project? Are they employees or subcontractors?
• Do you have references from past projects that I can talk to?
• How are the payment terms structured?
• Do you provide guaranteed pricing or estimate?
• How much should we put aside for contingency planning?

“One of the most important things to look for when shopping for a  kitchen design contractor  and designer  is somebody who listens  well and understands your porject needs.

Chemistry also weighs heavily into the selection of a contractor. You have to be able to trust the person you’re working with.

CHECK REFERENCES.

Once a rapport has been established, ask to see some of the contractor’s projects. If they meet with approval, request references, and then call to verify them.

GET IT IN WRITING.

After zeroing in on one contractor who seems right for the job, please look at the documents they have prepared for you. Do they look professional? Scrutinize the contract. Does it seem fair and balanced? Ensure that the written agreement includes a bid price and payment schedule, the scope of work, and a  site plan. There needs to be a list of crucial construction tasks, a change-order clause, a written procedural list for close-out. Also, look for an express limited warranty, a clause about dispute resolution, and a waiver of lien, which would prevent subcontractors and suppliers from putting a lien on a house should their invoices go unpaid by the contractor.

GO TIME –   IF YOU ARE SATISFIED WITH THE:

• The contracting process including the payment terms, contingency plans, and guarantees.
• All the credentials checked out, and the references were strong.
• Contractor and their team’s level of experience.
• The contractor understands your vision, expectations, and you feel confident that you are on the same page to work together.

Then it’s Go Time. Great job!!! You chose your Los Angeles kitchen remodeling contractor like a pro.  Now it’s time to let the work begin and get ready for the fun stuff like shopping for your new appliances and fixtures.

When shopping for your Los Angeles kitchen remodeling contractor make reach out to Structura Remodeling company.  The top Kitchen Remodeling company in Los Angeles with more than sixteen years of experience.

Their Kitchen Design Team will meet with you for a Free In-Home Estimate to assess your project and collaborate with you on all aspects of the design. When your 3-D Computer Design is complete, you will be able to see exactly how your kitchen will turn out.

Whether you want a complete remodel including new flooring, electrical, plumbing, windows, and the best professional cookstove on the market, or are looking to refresh and modernize your kitchen, call Structura Kitchen Remodeling and design.  We deliver top-quality artistry on time and within budget—no Hidden Surprises.

BATHTUB TO SHOWER CONVERSION: 5 INSPIRED IDEAS FOR YOUR BATHROOM REMODEL

 

A bathtub to shower conversion has the power to transform your bathroom. Offering a space-saving aspect, both real and perceived, it can open up even the smallest of bathrooms. Not to mention a seamless look with safety and maintenance features to boot, it’s a game changer. So if you’re thinking of making the switch and need some inspiration for the final product, you’re in the right place!

WHY MAKE THE BATHTUB TO SHOWER CONVERSION?

You may be wondering if a bathtub to shower conversion is worth it. After all, it’s no small undertaking, especially when most homeowners opt to do a complete renovation alongside a tub to shower conversion. Even so, more than enough reasons make this project a worthy investment. Check out the five significant advantages below that are sure to prove that bath to shower conversions are worthwhile.

·         Safety: For starters, showers are generally safer than bathtubs. They’re also easier to get in and out of, especially for the elderly. The ability to make a short step in and out causes fewer accidental falls than stepping over the lip of a tub. Also, the addition of safety bars, shower seats, and wheelchair accessibility make them an option that grows with you. 

 

·            Conservation: It’s no secret that tubs take a large amount of water to fill. Along with the amount is the fill time. Between the water, energy, and time to fill the tub, you’ve left quite a footprint. That quickly makes the bathtub to shower conversion the more environmentally friendly choice. 

 

·         Space: Tubs take up more of the bathroom while offering less usable bathing space. Showers can create more expansive walking space, a more open feel, and a far larger bathing area. You’ll be shocked at how much more space a conversion provides, even with a bigger shower install. 

 

·         Health: While it’s true baths have some excellent health benefits, and it’s not the best option for overall skin health. Baths can strip your skin of the natural, protective oils it produces. With light pressure, showers provide necessary hygiene without soaking off essential skin nutrients. 

 

·         Style: Last but not least, removing a tub gives a bathroom an attractive, modern feel. Gone are the days of garden tubs and shower, tub combinations. A sizable shower is most desirable and stylish. 

All things considered, showers have some serious advantages over the traditional bathtub. Still not convinced? Maybe these tub to shower conversion before and after photos will do the trick! Ready to take your builder-grade bathroom to a customized oasis? Check out our finished projects to help get you started with tub to shower conversion ideas. Let’s jump right in!

 

1.   Tub to Rolling Frameless Shower

 

A rolling frameless door is an excellent solution for making an update in a small space. The door’s ability to roll on a mounted track above means no swinging door taking up valuable space. Not only is it functional, but it’s also a modern touch with plenty of styles. For example, in the bathtub to shower conversion above, the elimination of the tub created more space around the commode and a larger bathing area altogether. 

This bathroom remodel to shower shows the beauty of a frameless door system. The beautiful patterned tile work can shine without a curtain or frame getting in its way. A rich, earthy color scheme incorporated throughout makes for a warm and cohesive finished product.

2.   Tub to Hinged Frameless Shower 

Though the hinged system forces the door to swing into the bathroom, it’s well worth the conversion. While a frameless transformation is featured in the bathroom above, there’s also a framed option for hinged systems. Likewise, hinged doors can function as a single door, as seen in the bathtub to shower conversion above, or a dual system with hinges on both sides. No matter your choice, hinged systems are far easier to move in and out than a tub setup. 

In this bathtub converted to walk in shower, the black fixtures bring the bathroom up to speed, flowing with the other dark touches in the shower’s tile work. An even split of light and dark, the walls, countertops, and wood additions even out the palette leaving a fresh and sleek design.

3.   Tub to Semi-Frameless Shower 

Semi-frameless enclosures are the best of both worlds. You can rest assured of its integrity by providing extra stability on the framed edges. Simultaneously, leaving other edges with the much-desired clean glass corners gives your shower a seamless finish. The semi-frameless shower stall above makes use of the space more efficiently, offering double the bathing space without the clunky tub.

In terms of style, this bathtub remodel to shower takes a significant turn from basic to luxurious. Dark neutrals are traded for cool tones coupled with varied wood grains that, combined, make for an unbelievable overhaul. 

4.   Tub to Pivot Frameless Shower 

Often confused with hinged doors, pivot doors have their unique advantage. Pivot doors can swing both in and out, providing options based on your bathroom configuration. In addition, the replacement of the tub with a step-up shower creates a much safer bathing environment as well. Given that the tub above posed even more dangers as it included an enclosure, this bathtub to shower conversion has dramatically reduced the risk of accidents. 

Proof that you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety, this bathtub converted to walk in shower boasts beautiful marble shower walls and flooring. Accompanied by upgraded fixtures like the rain shower head and built-in storage, it’s a significant step up from the tub it once was. 

5.   Tub Enclosure to Swinging Frameless Tub

While this bathtub to shower remodel above doesn’t eliminate the tub completely, it converts it into a much more user-friendly space. This is a viable option if you’re not ready to part ways with your tub but still want a modern, updated look. The frameless hinged door eliminates the hazards of an old enclosure while still giving its users whichever bathing method they prefer. 

Though this wasn’t a complete bathtub to shower conversion as the tub wasn’t fully converted, it was swapped out for a deeper, more contemporary model. Adding a colorful, full wall tile paired with solid neutrals offers a welcomed contrast with a balanced simplicity.

Finally, we need to know how much the cost of conversion of bathtub to shower, as well as small bathroom remodeling costs in California.

8 DISTINCT SHOWER CEILING IDEAS FOR YOUR BATHROOM THAT WON’T GO UNNOTICED

 

Shower ceilings usually don’t make it on the shortlist of priorities when you’re renovating a bathroom. With so many different accents that draw focus from flooring to fixtures, it makes sense that most people wouldn’t give the ceiling a second thought. In the end though, it’d be a lost opportunity to ignore the power of this blank canvas. 

A pattern, color, or texture can add character to your bathroom ceiling that once seen, can’t go unnoticed. With no shortage of materials and designs to choose from, there’s something to match every personal aesthetic. If you’re still not convinced, the shower ceiling ideas below are likely to change your mind! Take a look and see how a simple ceiling change can transform your shower into something truly special.

1. WOOD PANELS

 

It’s no secret that the modern farmhouse style has taken over the interior design world in recent years. With that, it’s brought back wood paneling throughout homes, ceilings being no exception. Offering a natural and warm feel, wood is one of the best shower ceiling ideas for a rustic style. The fact that you can choose from a plethora of wood species also makes way for color and texture choices; Along with a range of pricing to fit different project budgets. 

It’s important to remember that natural wood is susceptible to certain risks, water damage being one of them. Rot and warping are key damages to look out for. Proper sealing of materials will mitigate long term damage but upkeep is something to consider. Damaged pieces of natural wood are also harder to repair, unlike other options that allow you to trade out a piece that will have the exact same color and texture. 

 

2. STONE

 

Stone shower ceilings are where beauty and durability collide! Stone comes in plenty of colors and textures, each with an ease of cleaning that’s a major draw to many. Coming in larger sheets and cuts, the amount of grouting is generally much less than that of a tile job. If all of that wasn’t enough, the increase in home value puts stone over the top. Due to its value alone, a stone shower ceiling stands to hike up that resale price. 

Unfortunately for some, this level of durability comes at a cost. Stone isn’t cheap and while it does come in different grades of cost, it’s not in everyone’s price range. Even though its daily maintenance is easy, the same can’t be said for overall maintenance. Depending upon your stone selection, you’ll have to be on top of resealing it as well. 

3. STYROFOAM

A cheaper alternative on the rise, styrofoam shower ceilings (tiles in specific) have some surprisingly enticing qualities. They act as a great insulator which is particularly helpful in the hottest and coldest months. Not only do they look authentic, they come in any style you could imagine, colors too. They’re also very easy to replace should one become damaged. Even though it’s not made to be waterproof, you can waterproof it via a sealant or resin for long lasting protection.

The number one issue you’ll find with this material is its fragility. Styrofoam isn’t known to be durable but this may not be as much of a concern as the shower ceiling isn’t a surface that’s physically used. It does also tend to stain more easily than other materials available. Again, it might not be as much of a concern since it’s on the ceiling but it’s a consideration nonetheless. 

 

4. PAINT

If you’re on a tight budget but still looking for that wow factor for your shower ceiling, paint is the best choice for you. Bold color selections like that above create an unmatched contrast for a designer look at a price anyone can afford. Paint doesn’t just limit you to color though; You can also have patterns via stencils that produce the illusion of other materials. 

Paint is also a low maintenance option that’s extremely easy to touch up when need be. Your main concern with paint is going to be building up enough of a barrier to keep moisture out. It never hurts to start with a primer as it stops the peeling process and helps the paint to bond to the surface. A higher sheen will also prevent water intrusion, though it may be a shinier finish than many prefer. 

5. BEAMS

 

Shower ceiling beams are an excellent addition to your bathroom’s architecture, often used to put a spotlight on high ceilings; They can also make a smaller room appear larger. You’re not bound by style or price with beam ceiling accents either! They come in different materials like wood, metal, faux wood and more, offering limitless style options. It’s because of this that the price ranges, sometimes at a lower cost than many think.

Depending on the material chosen, you can run into some issues. As with wood panels, genuine wood beams can become damaged if they’re not sealed and maintained correctly. For wood and metal beams, weight is also a concern, especially as it relates to installation. Since these beams are usually decorative, they offer little to no support to the home’s structure; This makes that extra weight something to consider. 

6. TILE

Lately, it’s become far more common to see tile used on the shower ceiling. It makes sense when the rest of the shower is tile too, creating a cohesive end result like the one pictured above. Tile does a great job at repelling moisture and its overall durability is one of its most desirable characteristics. It’s available in many colors and is often used to construct a custom appearance with patterns like herringbone, chevron, and the like.

The main complaint with tile is keeping the grout clean. Depending on the design, you could end up with lots of grout lines that are known to harbor mildew. Also, while tile isn’t the most expensive option on this list, it’s also not the cheapest. Tiling materials add up quickly when you’re covering the entire shower top to bottom. It can also be hard to install tile at the angle required of a shower ceiling project. 

7. METAL

 

Naturally impervious to water intrusion and mold, the use of metal for shower ceilings is an extremely functional option. They’re also fire and warp resistant, needing very little maintenance, perfect for the busy homeowner. You can use corrugated metal sheets as pictured above or even decorative metal ceiling tiles that come in different patterns and types like tin, copper and more. From rustic to modern, metal can fit the bill!

You’d be hard pressed to find many cons when it comes to metal shower ceilings. There are a few to note though. First, while they’re very durable, if you happen to dent certain types of metals it may not be an easy replacement; Especially for materials used in sheet form like the picture seen above. Metal can also be a pricey choice depending on which variety you like. 

 

8. SKYLIGHT

Hands down the most luxurious of shower ceiling ideas, a shower skylight ceiling. There’s nothing quite like taking in the blue sky and sunlight directly from above in your very own shower. Not to mention, it takes care of the ventilation issue many bathrooms have. A functional shower skylight allows its user to open the hatch before, during or after; Properly ventilating the space and mitigating excess moisture causing damage. 

All good things have their drawbacks though, roof leaks being a main one for shower skylights. With so many gaps and crevices in the mechanism itself, it’s easy to see why. Heat loss in the cooler months can also make the shower space too brisk. Plastic encasements may become more brittle over time as well, also taking on more sun damage than that of a metal framed one.

CONCLUSION

While unique shower ceiling ideas might not be the first thing you think of when you remodel, it’d be an amazing focal point to polish off any bathroom. From more simple shower ceiling ideas like a bold color to a detailed install like tile, there’s a range of options each with their own eye-catching attributes. We also need to know cost of small bathroom remodeling in California.