Residential Remodeling in Omaha, NE 2017

Are you a homeowner who is thinking about doing some projects around the house yet this summer or into the fall? It might be major renovations or a minor improvement, but odds are that many will answer “yes” to this question. Well, no time better than the present to get going, and for those who are looking for inspiration, direction, motivation, resources, or all of the above, here are a few tips and suggestions from the pros!

Design Elements

Thanks to design, any space in your home or aspect of your property can be elevated, aesthetically and functionally. Most often remodeling projects are done when both need to be updated, but as a rule of thumb, both should always be taken into consideration regardless of one or the other being the reason for the project.

Anything that gets a lot of use in the home or places where a lot of time is spent are generally the most common areas of focus when it comes to home renovations. In this particular setting, a lot of enjoyment is derived from one’s surroundings for a variety of reasons–relaxing, entertaining, specific use of space, etc.

Kitchen and bath remodels are atop the list of popular remodeling projects, with benefits such as return on investment, additional square footage, better use of space and function, becoming more updated, and selection of enhanced design features specific to the homeowner. Although master bedrooms tend to fall further down the list, when working on a master bath it’s a natural progression to give that bedroom a makeover as well. The entire suite then becomes a sanctuary and place of peace and solitude, which is quite nice.

With any area of your home that gets the most use or is highly-trafficked, it’s important that the design is functional, and that you’re investing in quality materials that are just as durable as they are attractive.

“Quality of materials is really important, as is the proper installation of those materials,” emphasizes Danny Reynolds of Modern Concepts Tile. “Oftentimes what you’d buy at the big box stores to get a deal is just the opposite, because it will end up costing you more to replace sooner. Alternatively, with quality-checked materials that come directly from experienced suppliers and distributors combined with professional installation, you can be confident that the job will be done to the highest standards, without any headaches to deal with during or afterward.

Home remodeling is very much about the personal touches, so just about every project is different. With tile, so much can be done with design. Ultimately the goal is that with extended use, whatever improvement to your home that you’ve invested in stays looking and working just as nice as it does on day one. While with some aspects of a home wear and tear is unavoidable, there are many great products on the market that are engineered to hold up quite well, with tile being one that truly can stand the test of time even with frequent use. An experienced professional with working knowledge of materials and techniques will be able to advise you on the best options for your project in terms of design, durability, care and maintenance required, or any other variables that the average person might not take into account. It is worth paying an extra dollar or two per square foot for something that will look much better and for a much longer period of time. I can’t stress enough that proper installation and materials are both critical to longevity.”

In agreement, Jason Tidblom of Ceramic Tileworks Center adds, “Place your trust in a reputable company; let them know what your preferences are and exactly what you have in mind, and they’ll be able to tell you about all of the options you’ll have. Everyone takes advice from friends and family, which is great, but it is even better to seek advice from knowledgeable suppliers and professionals. Also, do not always believe what you read on the internet about these projects. Not every method applies to every product.”

Indeed, oftentimes in the excitement of exploring the possibilities, homeowners do not always look at the big picture in many ways. For that exact reason, enlisting the services of a professional designer can be immensely helpful, and bringing on the professionals who will be performing the work as early on as possible is also advised. At the completion of a remodel you do not want there to be a disconnect with existing elements. Work done in one area affects the rest of the home and a long-range plan is something one must keep in mind. With a keen eye for noticing and introducing things to you that others will not, why not take advantage?

As a prime example, while it’s easy to get caught up in all of the pretty materials and finishes, you might forget about the lighting, which will showcase them nicely and can really transform the space. (Since we’re on the topic, if you’re doing anything remotely related to the electrical system or that is powered by electricity, have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical panel to ensure it can safely handle any and all upgrades. Also, when selecting your fixtures, it’s wise to choose a quality fixture over the bargain-priced option – again, you get what you pay for with lighting just as is commonly cautioned with your other big ticket items.)

Furthermore, keep in mind that while the world of HGTV has brought much attention to home remodels and is a source of inspiration for many, it has also given way to certain false expectations. When what is perhaps a months-long process from start to completion is made to look like mere weeks, that’s not likely to be congruent with reality. And, if it indeed does take that length of time, quality and craftsmanship may be compromised.

High-Tech Home Improvements

Given all of the amazing home technology that’s on the market today, chances are it’s on your radar for future upgrades.

Specifically regarding possibilities for controlling your home’s systems, Pat Killeen of Engineered Controls and Control Depot advises, “Every residential remodel project starts with a dream. Homeowners may enjoy their homes, but over time they would like things to be different. The home no longer reflects the owner’s taste or lifestyle. Maybe the family’s dynamics have changed or making the home more environmentally friendly is a priority. In order to turn those dreams into reality, detailed planning is required. Would you like to use the current space differently, or are you looking to add innovation and technology to your home? We offer a whole host of Honeywell products that will improve your home’s comfort and help you operate your home more efficiently. From the most state-of-the-art thermostats and zoning systems to whole-house air cleaning systems, whole-house humidification and dehumidification systems, security and video systems; everything is geared to make homes more energy-efficient and secure.

An option like Total Connect by Honeywell’s innovative home control technology is an investment to your home that’s well worth considering. Total Connect allows homeowners to remotely monitor and control their homes at any time, from anywhere in the world. Through a personalized web portal with mobile apps, the homeowner can stay connected to their home’s heating and air conditioning system and security system from their smartphone, tablet or personal computer. Homeowners can receive alerts via emails, view live video and control and access their security system, control lighting, lock/unlock doors remotely, and more. Plus the simplicity and comfort that Honeywell’s wireless Prestige IAQ HVAC system provides offers a full-suite of wireless-enabled accessories that help you meet homeowners comfort and security needs. Items such as universal diagnostics, water sensor alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and ventilation filtration alarms are just a few of the added benefits of owning such a home automation system. The system also provides customizable reminders for replacing the humidifier pad or UV lamp replacement reminders.

When starting a home remodeling project, think about how your lifestyle has changed and what you would like different. Are you simply looking to expand your kitchen or add new windows, or maybe replace your home’s central heating and cooling system? When planning to remodel your home, don’t overlook the importance of improving your home’s environmental control system. It will improve the air you are breathing, increase your HVAC equipment’s energy efficiency, increase your home’s comfort and offer peace-of-mind by increasing your home’s safety and security.”

He also notes, “Although most of today’s cutting-edge technology is wireless, there are going to be times when your remodeling contractor may need to add new equipment above ceilings or in the basement and run additional wiring that requires disrupting the existing walls and ceilings. When a contractor installs upgraded controls, the goal is usually for everything to be out of sight. By taking advantage of a home remodel project to upgrade your home’s technology infrastructure, adding new equipment at the same time is much easier.”

Exterior Features

Whether it’s elements of your landscape or the exterior of the home itself that you’ve got your eye on improving, there are many different aspects of the property that could be the focus of a renovation project. With the addition or enhancement of outdoor living and entertaining areas continuing to be popular, there are so many options one could consider within just that area alone. Then there are the timeless items that will need replacement at some point, such as windows, doors, siding/gutters, roofing, walkways and driveway, garage, patio, etc. All told, there are many things to consider outside just as with the inside of the home, and some that will have a positive impact on both!

If you’re looking for a company that does it all in terms of the first four exterior features that were just listed plus decks on occasion, Hawkeye/Nebraska Siding, Window & Door, Inc. considers those its specialty areas. Offering the best exterior home improvement products, along with superior craftsmanship, the professionals at Hawkeye will perform a quality job at a reasonable price. They will also stand by their work with a warranty on anything installed, and are happy to provide references upon request, which is recommended to those researching residential contractors for an upcoming project. The locally-owned company is fully licensed, registered, bonded, accredited, certified, insured, and well-established, serving clients in Omaha, Council Bluffs, and the surrounding areas since 1990.

Whether you know what you want or are looking for suggestions, consulting the professionals is a great place to start your home remodeling project. For those who plan to focus on the exterior of their homes, and/or hope to improve their home’s energy efficiency, Jason Olberding of J-Tech Construction and J-Tech Solar offers the following recommendations:

“Upgrading your home’s windows is an excellent remodeling project that will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of your home but also your home’s energy efficiency. When you replace your windows, you are not just making a purchase, you are making an investment. It’s entirely possible to enjoy a beautiful new exterior look, and from the interior viewpoints as well, without breaking the bank. It’s not uncommon to see a 50% improvement in your home’s energy efficiency, or oftentimes more!

If you are searching for a project to compliment your new windows, I would recommend Seamless Metal Alloy siding. Just like replacing your windows, brand new siding can cut back on your energy costs as well as provide a beautiful new look to your home. Our Seamless Metal Alloy siding comes in a variety of colors and is manufactured on-site, so it’s custom fit your home. It’s a great way to give your home a ‘face-lift.’

Speaking of energy costs, although solar energy is not necessarily a new concept, it has definitely seen a spike in popularity in recent years. Due to a competitive manufacturing market and advancements in technology, the price for a homeowner to have solar installed has decreased substantially. If you were previously interested in solar energy but wrote it off as too high of an expense, I definitely recommend getting a new estimate. You will more than likely be very pleasantly surprised at how much the investment price has decreased.”

Olberding concludes with the following advice: “When you are ready to take on a new project, I suggest these three steps:

1. Make a list of what is most important to you. Maybe you have a specific siding color in mind, or maybe you have a specific brand of shingles you want to use—whatever it might be, make sure your list is unique to your taste and vision.

2. Before you get your estimates, plan your budget. What can you afford right now? Maybe you have a budget that allows you to replace a few windows a year. This will keep you from feeling overwhelmed when getting your estimates.

3. After you get your estimates, make sure you do some homework on each of the companies that provided you with an estimate. Are they local? What is their rating with the Better Business Bureau? How about their rating on Google or Home Advisor? Getting answers to questions such as these can help you weed out any bad contractors.

Remodeling doesn’t always happen by choice; it can also come about out of necessity. Either way, we’re happy to help.”

Do-It-Yourself Projects

There will be projects around the house that you’ll feel comfortable with tackling on your own, or are OK with taking your chances on learning by doing yourself. If you find that you need a piece of equipment or special tool to complete the job that you don’t have on-hand or access to borrow, check with Honeyman Rent-All and you might be able to avoid the expense of purchasing something you may not use again. They have an extensive inventory and a team of professionals who can educate you on how to use anything they have to offer, which is really nice!

The possibilities of what you can do to improve your home are exciting to think about, particularly when there’s so much out there to consider. They’re even more satisfying when completed and able to be fully enjoyed. While there are plenty of capable Do-It-Yourselfers out there, other instances call for a professional, whether it’s a necessity or you’d prefer to have someone else perform the task. For the latter, make sure you get on the books sooner than later, as the demand is particularly high this time of year. Otherwise, to keep things on track, a little guidance from the professionals never hurts, and they’re just a quick drop in or phone call away!