Sponsors

construction and building

January 21, 2011

Kitchen Remodeling in Virginia - Make your Green Kitchen work for Your

It can always be said that the heart of the home is in the kitchen, and that’s why so many people work diligently to create the ideal setting in their kitchen. It’s also the reason why so many people focus on this area of the home when it comes time to renovate - Kitchen remodeling in Virginia is a big deal. It’s also an expensive one. There are a number of ways you can reduce your cost and go for the “Green” kitchen - it always saves you money in the end.

Use Renewable Resources - Bamboo is one of the most popular woods for home improvement because it can grow as high as 19 feet in just a few short months. It’s sturdy, durable and it looks beautiful when used around the home. Floors and other materials made from this renewable material are less taxing on the environment, can cost less if you find the right supplier, and are just as durable as slow=growing hardwoods.

Shop Local - There’s no real benefit other than convenience for shopping at the big box retailers. You can save a lot of money by shopping locally through neighborhood suppliers and vendors. Instead of buying stone countertops that came from halfway around the world using thousands of dollars in fuel, why not buy that granite around the corner - you’re definitely going to pay less.

Feel Healthier - when you buy local, natural materials for your home you can skip out on the big name products that are put together or manufactured using chemical additives and other toxic substances. Consider Low or no- VOC paints from a local supplier when you get ready to paint your new kitchen. In the end, you’re saving the environment, contributing locally and you’ll sleep better at night with clear lungs.

Better Appliances - Just by being plugged into the wall your appliances are sucking electricity around the clock. If you plan on replacing your appliances during your kitchen remodeling in Virginia then consider pickup up new appliances with an energy star logo. When you shave money off your monthly utilities you’re paying yourself back on your investment and remodel - over the years it will pay for itself.

Lastly, don’t neglect the lighting while doing your kitchen remodeling in Virginia. Energy efficient lighting throughout your kitchen is a great way to save money, conserve energy and improve the environment. Whether you have ceiling-hung lights or recessed lighting throughout your kitchen there are bulbs available in a variety of styles that are energy-saver bulbs designed to make your home more efficient.

If you are contemplating Kitchen Remodeling Virginia based Paragon Remodeling can help. To be considered for a $1000 discount from Northern Virginia Patio professionals Paragon Remodeling simply request a totally free no obligation estimate from our website today. Paragon Remodeling….Promises Delivered.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

January 17, 2011

Virginia Decks - Tips for Improved Deck Building

Putting a Virginia deck together for your home is a pretty big undertaking, even if you like to handle your own projects like a DIY pro. There’s a lot of planning and design engineering that goes into a deck. If it’s not done properly you could run into issues down the road. When you’re preparing to build a deck, consider these design elements.

Invest in Fasteners - When an old deck starts to get rickety and sway, it’s generally because of failing fasteners. It has very little to do with the quality of the wood that’s used. Poor quality screws tend to corrode. This shortens the life of the deck and stains the wood. Use fasteners that are stainless-steel and built to resist corrosion

Conceal Supports - You can use hidden fasteners to conceal the heads of the screams in and around your deck. Not only does this make your deck look far more clean and pleasant on the eyes but it protects your feet from any potential hazards if you want to walk around barefoot.

Know your Wood - Wood is a popular choice for decks, and some prefer a more exotic style of deck however there are other options when you’re planning on building your deck. Hardwoods such as ipe and jarrah are excellent options due to their durability and strength against intense weather. Likewise composite is an excellent choice because of the long lifespan of the material.

Enjoying Multiplicity - If you have a home that’s limited by the amount of backyard space then you may want to consider building a multi-level deck on your property. This can free up some of the yard space that a sprawling deck would consume and yet still give you multiple areas where you can entertain friends and family.

Beautiful Surroundings - Deck railing do indeed provide a lot of safety but they can also play a big part in keeping your deck beautiful. Consider a more ornate deck surround, one that is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. Innovative railings can turn an average deck into an extraordinary structure on the outside of your home.

While the deck is something that you can tackle if you have enough experience, time and tools, it’s often better to go with a screened professional contractor. The Virginia deck can provide a wonderful outdoor experience when it’s built properly - in a way that will last you for years to come.

Based in Virginia Kitchen Remodeling is one of the countless home improvement products that Paragon can offer you. With many years knowledge as a top innovative contractor, Northern Virginia Deck professionals Paragon are offering restricted time rebates of up to $1000.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

January 14, 2011

The Kitchen Remodel in Virginia - Tips for your Next Remodel

Every designer and general contractor will tell you that here is no specific way that you have to design your kitchen and you shouldn’t try to mimic another kitchen to begin with. History has taught us that trends and style choices are ever changing as people’s preferences evolve. Home remodeling and kitchen remodeling Virginia offers you an opportunity to change with the growing styles and trends without mimicking others. Here are some of the top trends in kitchen remodeling for ideas on how you can make your kitchen your own.

One of the most popular trends is the curving shape. This can be applied in a multitude of ways throughout your kitchen from bowed cabinet faces to countertops and corners that jut out in a retro style similar to the 60’s and 70’s. This curvature is also turning up in round sinks and long curving faucet necks.

In order to truly customize their kitchens during a complete renovation, many homeowners are taking the brave route by mixing numerous materials to create a very eclectic kitchen experience. Brick, stainless steel, wood, tile and other materials are being combined to create a very folk but modern style.

One of the ways you can embrace an old world style flair within your kitchen during your next remodel is work more ornate and elegant designs into your kitchen. Old furniture styles are commonly used as supports beneath cabinets to create a curved, enchanting design that eliminates the boxy feel of common cabinets. Furniture-style feet can even give your cabinets the look of unfitted workspace.

Next on the want list for many is the gourmet kitchen that offers up the luxury and style often seen on television with the top chefs. A kitchen like this may seem like a dream for many but it doesn’t have to be so - a few accessories and updates can make your kitchen far more functional, such as a pot-filling faucet near the stove or an additional prep sink for your workspace.

Lastly, even with the desire to expand and remodel the home many people are looking for scaled down budget friendly versions of their favorite dcor and appliances. Small but mighty is the best way to describe newer trendy appliances in the kitchen. Many are designed to become a part of the kitchen rather than break the flow of the countertop and reduce surface space. Drawer style dishwashers that sit high as well as small fridges are a great option for small space and little kitchens where counter space is hard to come by.

If you are contemplating Kitchen Remodeling Virginia based Paragon Remodeling can assist. To qualify for a $1000 rebate from Northern Virginia Patio professionals Paragon Remodeling simply ask for a free no obligation estimation from our website today. Paragon Remodeling….Promises Delivered.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

December 17, 2010

The Virginia Deck - Get your Deck Ready for Winter

Winter is here again, and unfortunately the weather screams in while the year goes by far to quickly. With the changing of the seasons we’re forced to adjust our lives and prep our homes for the coming cold months. That means heading out to prep your Virginia deck. If you neglect this outdoor space then you’ll be paying for it in the end.

When you don’t provide the proper care for a deck in Virginia you’ll find that the material fades faster and begins to age at a premature rate. Regular inspections and maintenance can help stave the cost of a costly remodel or ‘heaven forbid’ a new replacement deck. There’s a short window to do this in the fall and early winter before the weather gets harsh, don’t miss your opportunity.

The first thing you have to do for your Virginia deck is to clear all the common household items and furniture off your deck. This makes it easier to clear the deck and walk on it during the winter months. Likewise, removing these items and keeping the deck clear makes it more difficult for debris to become trapped such as leaves. Decaying organic material is hell on the surface of any deck.

Use a power washer or deck scrubber to clear away any stuck dirt, mold or other foreign things that aren’t a part of your beautiful outdoor living space. Use a mild cleanser that won’t damage the wood or the finish and get your deck as clean as possible from one corner to another. To ensure it’s completely clean it might be a good idea to do this twice.

Let your deck dry for at least 48 hours to ensure that the wood is completely dry. Once this is done, you can apply a sealant to help refinish the surface of your deck and keep it protected. Make sure you’re keen on the weather patterns, as you’ll want a few days of clear skies to get things finished up with your deck. Once the seal is done however, you’re set and ready for winter.

It doesn’t take a great deal of work to treat your deck and keep it fresh. It does take some measure of dedication to ensure that your home looks beautiful inside and out. The last thing that any homeowner wants to deal with is replacing a deck that’s only lived half of its expected lifespan before breaking down from improper care. It’s an extension of your home, and you need to treat it like one.

Based in Virginia Kitchen Remodeling is one of the various home improvement solutions that Paragon can offer you. With numerous years experience as a leading innovative contractor, Northern Virginia Deck experts Paragon are offering restricted time rebates of up to $1000.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

December 15, 2010

Add Years to the Life of Your Virginia Deck

If you?ve been looking over your Virginia Deck thinking about how sorry it looks, and that it?s time to replace the wood all together, hold fast because you may have another option. Not all dilapidated decks need to be torn down. You may be able to refinish the deck to refresh its look thus saving you thousands of dollars in remodel costs.

Time isn?t friendly to wood, nor are the elements. Your deck has to endure some serious hardships from the various weather including rain, debris and ice as well as harsh sunshine. All of these things can harm the finish and health of the wood.

Weather aside, animals, insects of every day foot track can stress the wood of your Virginia deck, pushing the limits of the structural integrity that diminishes evermore as the finish fades. Because of this your deck needs immediate attention in order to keep it in commission.

The investment is minimal, it just takes some time to tackle the project and keep your deck alive. With the right power washer and cleaning agents you?ll have your deck back to normal in nor time. The main factor is that you have to be methodical when cleaning and finishing the deck.

With the right finish your deck can last another 2-4 years before it needs attention again. This depends primarily on the local climate and how much sun your Virginia deck receives, as well as the weather patterns. Harsh winters and severe traffic can diminish the life of the new finish.

The first step is cleaning the deck with a power washer, just keep in mind that when you?re washing the deck you can gouge wood, break glass and even damage your home if you?re not careful. Once it?s clean you?ll want to replace or repair and damaged areas. If you don?t feel comfortable power washing then just use a stiff-bristled deck brush.

Next let the deck dry for at least 2 to 3 days. Once it?s finished drying to can apply the new stain to the deck, just make sure you have clear weather once you?re ready to apply it. You can use a 2 gallon pump sprayer to apply the finish quickly or use a foam applicator if you choose.

When you?re done cleaning it, you might think the Virginia deck looks pretty sharp but it won?t stay that way for long until you get the new finish on. Refinishing your deck is a simple job that can add years to the life of your deck and keep the rest of your home looking great ? it also lets you put more money toward remodeling that kitchen you?ve been wanting to tackle.

Based in Virginia Kitchen Remodeling is one of the countless home improvement products that Paragon can offer you. With numerous years expertise as a foremost innovative contractor, Northern Virginia Deck specialists Paragon are offering limited time discounts of up to $1000.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

December 9, 2010

Kitchen Remodeling in Virginia ? Gutting and Starting Fresh

Because every kitchen and every home is unique, there?s a lot that can go into a kitchen remodel in Virginia. In order to avoid costly mistakes it can help to take the time to consider some of the primary aspects of kitchen remodeling. With these in mind, the planning and remodel of the kitchen will go much smoother.

One of the most difficult parts of a kitchen remodel in Virginia ? or anywhere else really ? is to have the entire project planned out accordingly. As with any remodel or renovation, the last thing you want to do is dive into your kitchen remodel and just kind of wing it.

Part of the planning of your kitchen remodel is going to involve examining the space you have in order to make it work for your new remodel. Unlike new home construction where a general contractor and architect can design the kitchen in any way they like, you?ll be limited by the existing walls. Depending on how those walls are established and where the plumbing is, it may be a little difficult to change the size of the kitchen.

To get the most out of your space you may find that it works best to completely gut the kitchen. Removing all the old cabinets will give you access to walls and, if you choose to redo the overall layout, the plumbing. Older homes may have suffered damage to the walls so a complete strip of the kitchen gives you the opportunity to replace wallboard in any areas that may need it.

Part of every kitchen is the cabinets, and you?ll want to start thinking about how you want to replace your old cabinets and cupboards. Storage is important in every kitchen, especially if you plan to be in the home for a while and you are the type to accumulate gourmet kitchen goods for cooking. This is a good time to consider the addition of a pantry or other items you may have wanted for some time such as towel racks or plate shelves.

If you?re certain that you?re going to spend a number of years in your home, then you may be able to work your d?cor into the actual design and kitchen remodel. This is a little more risky as it makes it difficult to change at a later date but it?s also a sound way to have your kitchen show off your tastes as well as your personality once the kitchen remodeling is completed.

The last thing to focus on when planning and designing your space should be the appliances. Their size, style, design, color, method of use, etc. will all determine where they go and what kind of floor plan you?ll need in order to make your kitchen work properly. If you?ve ever wanted a new appliance that you didn?t have, the planning phase is when you can make it happen.

Once the planning stage is underway, you?ll be able to work closely with the general contractor to take your ideas from paper and put it to practical use. From this point, the entire kitchen remodel in Virginia will go much more smoothly. Planning can be chaotic, but it?s necessary to ensure that you get the kitchen you want.

If you’re considering Kitchen Remodeling Virginia based Paragon Remodeling can assist. To qualify for a $1000 rebate from Northern Virginia Patio professionals Paragon Remodeling simply ask for a free no obligation estimate from our web site these days. Paragon Remodeling….Promises Delivered.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

December 5, 2010

The Kitchen Remodel in Virginia - Planning a Kitchen Fiesta

Too many homeowners leap right into a kitchen remodel in Virginia without putting serious thought or planning into what they want to do. In many cases they avoid a remodel all together because they feel it would just be too costly. Truth be told there are a number of things you can do update your kitchen and when planned properly it can be done on a budget tackling small items individually.

As you enter the kitchen in any home your eyes typically coast right to the cupboard and cabinets in the kitchen. Most eyes gravitate to these areas. It’s a popular item to remodel, and by changing the cabinet layout in the kitchen you can virtually redesign your kitchen from scratch to update your current look or reinvent the way your kitchen functions.

Either way, it’s important to keep the durability of materials in mind. It’s appealing to go for the cheaper stuff to save on cost but when you use cheaper material your cabinets just won’t last as long. It’s beneficial to opt for true hard wood cabinets and save in the long run, as you won’t have to replace your cabinets or doors anytime soon.

Kitchen flooring options are quite vast and include: Ceramic Tile, Stone, Split Brick, Hardwood and Vinyl. Carpeting was popular for some time, but is impractical and far from waterproof, so it isn’t recommended. When setting your tile pattern, a diagonal look is more visually interesting, but adds to the labor costs of installation. Another way to spice up the look of you floor is by adding a contrasting border.

Remodels don’t necessarily need to include the hard physical aspects of your home either. Your kitchen remodel should also include the concept of changing and updating your appliances. If you choose to go with a new appliance (or replace everything across the board) you’ll want to shoot for models that are energy star compliant. Most new models are and can save you a lot in energy efficiency. Likewise, replacing old models with new efficient models can provide a tax break at the end of the year.

Part of the eye candy of the kitchen is getting that new countertop in as well. If you’re budget-minded you may want to lean on the synthetic material or laminate. If you want long lasting durability and beauty then go for the more expensive natural stone countertops.

Fixtures fall into two categories: Plumbing and electrical. Electrical fixtures in your kitchen are most likely all going to be lights and it is vital that the entire area of the kitchen is lit very well. For light sensitive individuals, it would be beneficial to add dimmer switches so that they can work in the kitchen as well.

Your plumbing fixtures are mostly going to be the sink and faucet. 99% of kitchen sinks are stainless steel, but you may able to dress up the edges a little bit with some trim work. Your real style choice comes with the faucet and handles, where you can let your creative side shine in your Virginia kitchen.

If you’re contemplating Kitchen Remodeling Virginia based Paragon Remodeling can help. To qualify for a $1000 discount from Northern Virginia Patio professionals Paragon Remodeling simply ask for a free no obligation estimate from our web site these days. Paragon Remodeling….Promises Delivered.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

October 16, 2010

Virginia Kitchen Style Guide - Start Out With Countertops

Trying to come up with a new home improvement project that you can do around your Virginia kitchen? We all end up with a lot of “Wants” but they usually involve gutting the whole place and starting from scratch. If you want to update the look, consider new kitchen countertops.

This is one of the best updates you can make to your kitchen that comes in at a fraction of the cost for other more large-scale kitchen remodels and it’s a great way to breathe new life into an old kitchen that’s just become dismal and unappealing.

The best thing about kitchen remodeling is that you don’t need to gut the entire space. Most people think this is necessary but there’s a lot you can do to spice up your cabinets without replacing them. Countertops make it easy to add and refine the character of your kitchen work space.

Those countertops should get the most attention from you because you use them more than anything else in your kitchen. They catch everything from bags, to butts, to knives. Because they take such daily abuse you want to make sure that you’ve got some kind of countertop that can take that abuse.

One of the most common materials for a kitchen remodel of the countertops is granite. Next to that in popularity comes stone, butcher block, laminate and stainless steel. These are all great options that can add luster and charisma to your kitchen space - even on a limited budget. For those who are looking to create a mix up of visual appeal and reduced costs, consider Ceramic.

Like stone, a ceramic countertop is extremely durable but far less expensive that granite or other forms of stone. It is highly tolerant of heat such as having a hot pan set on the surface and can handle the daily abuse of food prep, knives, dishes, water and more.

Aiming for something not quite so “old school”? That’s fine, some people don’t like conventional. If that’s your position then you’re probably more of a stainless steel type of homeowner, looking for a way to spark inspiration in your own gourmet kitchen surrounded by the gleam of metal. It’s clean, affordable and sturdy.

Not sure which route to take on the countertop material for your Virginia kitchen remodel? That’s ok, you can always install multiple surfaces so that all of your needs are met. It might be a little scattered, but the important thing is that you’re comfortable in your kitchen and you’ve got a new countertop surface that you can live with.

Based in Virginia Kitchen Remodeling is one the countless home improvement products that Paragon Remodeling can offer you. Moreover if you are thinking about a Basement Remodeling Northern Virginia based Paragon should be your initial port of call. Request a Free estimation and qualify for a $1000 discount today.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

October 15, 2010

Northern Virginia Deck Building - Recycling Life To Lose The Rustic Garbage

While many homeowners don’t realize it, there’s a vast difference between owning a house and owning a home. To define it simply, a house is a structure for the common man but a home is a place where we grow and thrive based on our accomplishments, relationships and environments. It’s built on a foundation of love and laughter, and environment plays a special part in that - right down to the accessories on your Virginia deck (or having a deck at all.)

Many people associate material goods in a home, like furniture, with comfort and enjoyable living. This kind of association makes perfect sense because those items are a part of your home as well as your identity. Everything within your home and around your property including your Northern Virginia deck establish the air and ambiance when you come home. Those familiar sites you witness day in and day out are the things that make it easy for you to settle in after a long day.

The best part is that you don’t need to empty your wallet and drain your bank accounts just to make your home a comfortable place to grow. Sometimes all you need to do is beef up a little bit of your home at a time. No one knows what you like better than you anyhow, so it’s best to choose those things that you want the most. In that line of thought… who wouldn’t want a spruced up outdoor recreation area on the Virginia deck?

Too many homeowners neglect their outdoor living space. That Virginia deck needs as much attention as the interior of your home when it comes to renovation and remodeling for the sake of comfort. Who wants to have a truly comfortable home only to step out into the backyard and have the lack of inspirational design and comfort just sap their mental energy away? That’s not appealing at all.

If you have no deck or patio space, or the current deck on your Virginia home leaves a lot to be desired then you’re staring down the barrel of a massive buzz kill. Think about it - it can get extremely tiring staring at the same old rustic wood, fading color and rusty grill stacked with a bunch of old furniture. Does that sound like an ideal environment to relax? Not at all; your Virginia deck deserves better and so do you.

Far too many people spend a great deal of time and money perfecting the interior of their home but spend so little time on landscaping and the outdoor living space on the deck. If you want your home to look perfect and give that beautiful curb appeal you imagined when you bought the home, then you need to upgrade your deck or patio space.

Whether you opt for a jungle theme with a lot of plants, a garden surround, an overhang or awning with lattice enclosure all wrapped together with some form of patio table set and comfortable seating you need to own your deck space.

A Northern Virginia deck is just a Virginia deck is you let it stay that way, just like a house will remain a house without some kind of love and warmth being injected into it. All you need to do is apply a little creativity mixed with some time and dedication in order to make your outdoor living space less of a pile of organized lumber and more of an escape from reality right in your own backyard.

Based in Virginia Kitchen Remodeling is one of the countless home improvement solutions that Paragon can offer you. With many years knowledge as a leading innovative service provider, Northern Virginia Deck professionals Paragon are providing restricted time discounts of up to $1000.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print

August 26, 2010

The Main Difference That A Virginia Kitchen Island Can Make

It’s okay to become a little afraid of starting a Virginia kitchen remodel project. Expensive trouble seems to loom close to every corner, and it could be really stressful on relationships. There is a basic location you are able to begin, though. A kitchen island can add all kinds of room without shutting down the whole room for months.

Ever heard of the kitchen triangle? It is a highly efficient style where the sink/dishwasher, refrigerator, and stove all form a triangle. A much more effective kitchen lets you spend much less time cooking, and much more time having fun!

The kitchen triangle needs an island to make the triangle equal, but you need to know the measurements of all your spaces. A 36″ walkway is almost usually required by local codes, and it is essential to ensure that all of the cabinet and appliance doors open and close completely.

Islands are created with the exact same finishing materials as the kitchen cabinets so that you can blend in perfectly. However, they could be metal, wood, or stone to make them really stand out in the room. The top of your island can also be made of the same material as your other counters, but many individuals prefer to use a butcher-block top or tile or even solid stone.

A qualified electrician can bring power in for any appliances or receptacles you want to add to the island. Electricians will probably suggest 20 amp 120-volt circuits and GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) plugs for daily use.

Of course, you may require lighting over your island to brighten up your new cooking space, but there are alternatives. You may wish to install upper cabinets, a hood vent and exhaust chute or pots and pan hangers.

You will find all sorts of different racks available for hanging pots and pans above your island. They arrive in many shapes, sizes, and finishes. Be certain to measure for clearance if people is going to be seated anywhere round the isle.

The real storage treasure may be the room under the island counter. Whether you want to add stacks of drawers or rows of cabinets, you win either way. It might even be a great location to have an area for the trash can. Whatever your needs and wants for a kitchen island are, you are able to make them all happen with a good plan and a great contractor.

Based in Virginia Kitchen Remodeling is one the many home improvement solutions that Paragon Remodeling can offer you. In addition if you are thinking about a Basement Remodeling Northern Virginia based Paragon should be your initial port of call. Obtain a Free estimation and qualify for a $1000 discount today.

Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by Steve Kayhill

Permalink Print