Exterior Upgrades for This Maple Glen Home

Have you ever had the feeling that your home needs a refresh and an upgrade? That’s just what our Maple Glen clients were thinking when they reached out to us. The homeowners shared with us their desire to create a new look for their all-stucco exterior to create a modern style.

What Is Stucco?

Stucco is a cement-type mixture made of Portland cement, lime, sand and water. It goes on the outermost layer of residential structures and is set to a thin finish coat. Stucco has been a popular exterior finish for many years, but it has its limitations. Due to its brittle nature, stucco will crack as a house’s foundation settles, which can be a pain point for homeowners.

A Stone and Siding Façade Gives Instant Curb Appeal

The exterior of the house had been entirely stucco, but the homeowners knew the problems stucco could cause to the home. Many homeowners, however, are unaware of the risks stucco poses to the structure and durability of a home. Stucco is known to cause water infiltration, encouraging the growth of mold and rot in the underlying structure. We always encourage clients to move away from stucco and replace it with more durable materials that will protect their family’s health and investment in the property.

As you can see from the before and after photos, the switch to stone and siding for their home wasn’t just practical, it also provided a major update and created a polished feel to the exterior. Our clients have found that upgrading to stone and vinyl siding has been a smart investment that not only improved the appearance of their home but also increased its value and reduced maintenance costs.

Since it’s common to have to undergo a stucco remediation process prior to selling a home, our clients were happy to get this upgrade taken care of. Once moisture gets into stucco exteriors, problems multiply. This is a complication any homeowner would want to avoid when they’re ready to sell their home for its full value.

Call Creative Contracting For Your Home’s Makeover, Inside and Out

If you’re worried about your home’s stucco, give us a call. We can help with stucco remediation, and exterior upgrades to prevent minor problems before they become major concerns.

master suite remodeling

How to Make Your Primary Bathroom Feel Bigger

If you love your home but are not crazy about your primary bathroom because it is too small, there are ways you can make your primary suite larger. According to Statista, about 33% of homeowners renovated their primary bathroom in 2021. Here’s how master suite remodeling can expand your bathroom space and customize it to your specific needs.

Meet Your Remodelers

Before you make any remodeling plans, you should get to know your contractors. Reinventing your space with the help of a trusted remodeling company should be a collaborative, enjoyable process. Communicating your needs to remodelers that will be there with you every step of the way, such as design build remodelers, will help them devise a design strategy that will transform your bathroom.

Move Things Around

You may look at your primary bathroom and not see how it would be possible to make the space larger. Your contractors of choice will be able to move items that you would not be able to on your own so that more square footage is made available. Also, a remodeling team that provides a group of expert designers, such as a design build company, can make recommendations on new decor that will broaden the dimensions of your primary suite.

Color Schemes and Upgrades Matter

An easy way to make any room look larger is to choose colors for the room that reflect light. Lighter colors can easily open up the space and make it look larger. Light wall colors, flooring, and trim work can trick the eye into thinking there is more room than there is.

Furthermore, asking your professional remodelers to upgrade your closet doors to something more modern can also make the space feel bigger. Maybe these upgrades take up less space than your previous doors; there are many small changes that can be made that have a large impact on making your room feel bigger.

With the help of a remodeling contractor, your primary bathroom can feel grander and bigger than ever. If you are looking for a design build remodeling company that is capable of all of your primary suite remodeling needs, call Creative Contracting today! We handle both the design and construction of projects in Lansdale, PA, and we’d love to discuss how we can assist you, too.

outdoor kitchen remodel

Kitchen Features You Should Remodel First

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, so it’s important to make sure it reflects your style and needs. Renovating your kitchen can be daunting, but making the right decisions can be rewarding. You can even liven things up by including an outdoor kitchen remodel for your patio. Here are some popular kitchen features to consider when remodeling your home in Lansdale, PA.

1. Countertops

According to ProLine, countertops are the most renovated kitchen feature, with 91% of homeowners opting to update them. It can range from replacing old countertops with new ones to adding custom design elements. Countertops come in granite, quartz, marble, laminate, and more. It’s essential to consider the style you’re trying to achieve when deciding on a material, as well as the maintenance that comes with it. All of these factors can help you find the right countertops for your family’s lifestyle.

2. Backsplashes

Coming in second place is backsplashes, with 86% of kitchen remodels including an update, according to ProLine. This feature adds a unique touch to your kitchen and can be used to incorporate color or texture. Backsplashes come in a range of materials, such as tile, stone, and glass. Consider adding a unique feature, such as an outdoor kitchen backsplash to give your outdoor space a special look.

3. Sinks

More than 80% of homeowners choose to update their sinks during a renovation, according to ProLine. Sinks come in several materials, such as stainless steel, porcelain, and cast iron. It’s important to consider the size of the sink you’ll need based on your needs and kitchen layout. You may even consider adding a secondary sink for an outdoor kitchen remodel.

4. Cabinets

You can’t have a usable kitchen without enough cabinet space, so it’s essential to keep your cabinets in good condition. Replacing existing cabinets or adding new custom ones can give your kitchen a completely new look. You also want to consider the materials of your cabinets so they can withstand wear and tear over time.

No matter what kitchen features you choose to remodel, consider your needs and desired style. Updating popular features such as countertops, backsplashes, sinks, and cabinets can bring new life to your kitchen. Contact our local remodeling team in Lansdale, PA for a consultation.

Outdoor Kitchen Renovations You Should Get Done Before Summer

With an outdoor kitchen, you can make the most of the warm summer weather in North Wales, PA. An exterior kitchen is amazing for entertaining and can increase the living space in your home. If you’re planning outdoor kitchen renovations, then consider these improvements.

Expand Your Outdoor Kitchen

According to ProLine, approximately 24% of homeowners opt to expand their kitchen, making it up to 50% bigger. Why not take the same strategy when you remodel your outdoor kitchen? Adding a pergola or an awning near the dining area could increase your dining space, which will allow you to get more enjoyment out of your kitchen. You can accommodate more guests in the area and have more room to prepare meals outside.

Prioritize Lighting

Summer is known for its long days, but adding more lighting to your outdoor kitchen is still smart. Task lights can give you all the lighting you need to cook, even after dark. You may also want to look into ambient lighting that will improve the atmosphere of your dining area when entertaining. Options like pendant lighting can give your kitchen a gorgeous glow.

Add a Beverage Station

It can get hot when you’re cooking outdoors, especially in summer. With a beverage station, you’ll be able to stay hydrated and keep cool, even when the oven is on. Many outdoor beverage stations have other useful features, like a wet bar. This station is a simple addition that can make your kitchen more usable.

Consider a Fireplace

If you’re interested in outdoor kitchen renovations, then a fireplace or firepit is one of the best additions you can make. You’ll love gathering around the fire with your family and friends, especially on chilly nights. Outdoor fireplaces come in various styles, ranging from fire tables to striking stone fireplaces. Fireplaces are a functional feature that can elevate the look of your outdoor kitchen!

Upgrade Your Appliances

One of the best ways to update any kitchen is to install new appliances. With the right outdoor oven, you’ll be able to prepare delicious grilled dishes for your guests. A pizza oven is an especially great addition to a backyard dining space. You may also want to look into other appliances, like outdoor refrigerators and stoves.

If you can make outdoor kitchen renovations before summer arrives, then you’ll spend lots of time in the sun and have a place to host your friends and family all summer long. Outdoor living spaces are always helpful, but you can transform your backyard kitchen into a great entertaining space with a few improvements. Contact us if you’re ready to start your renovations in North Wales, PA today!

design build remodeling

5 Signs You Need to Remodel Your Kitchen

Design build remodeling can transform your outdated kitchen into a highly functional modern space and is an excellent solution when it’s not designed for your family’s lifestyle. Let’s take a look at a few signs it’s time to take advantage of these remodeling services in North Wales, PA.

1. You Are Out of Space

Older kitchens were designed only to house some of the gadgets and appliances for the original time period. If you don’t have the storage space to stay organized with all of your groceries and kitchen gadgets, then it’s time to remodel and upgrade your kitchen. The right design build remodeling company in the area can make the most of your square footage. You can have a space for everything with a few changes to the layout.

2. The Flow Is Off

If you have to turn sideways or navigate around things to work in your kitchen, then it’s a sign you need to make changes. Workflow in the kitchen should happen seamlessly, especially if you love to cook, bake, or host your loved ones. Older kitchens were built for earlier lifestyles when people didn’t give efficiency or function a lot of thought. Today, those are both important aspects any homeowner looks for when remodeling or buying a home.

3. The Size of Your Family Has Grown

Maybe your family has outgrown your kitchen. It may have been a great kitchen five years ago, but now your kitchen feels claustrophobic when everyone is home. If you have a growing family and your kitchen is still the same old one, then it’s time to remodel and bring it up to speed. Get the modern space you’ve been wanting with help from professionals.

4. You Don’t Have Enough Prep Space

If you struggle to find a place to prep when cooking your family dinner, then it’s a sign that your kitchen is not working for you. Well-thought-out counter space will improve how your kitchen functions and, more importantly, improve how you feel about working in the space. You’ll be able to cook for your family and host guests better with more counter space.

5. Your Kitchen Makes You Unhappy

There are many reasons why your kitchen may make you dread cooking a meal. This room is supposed to be the “heart of the home,” so if you avoid your kitchen, then a remodel may be due. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, 95% of people that remodel their kitchen report they eat better and have no regrets.

Change your kitchen with the help of a design build remodeling team in North Wales, PA, which will change how you feel about your kitchen. Learn more today by giving us a call!

How This Couple Went From Chaos to Calm With a Newly Redesigned Laundry Room

Do you love your laundry room? That was the question we asked our Lower Gwynedd clients when we began their first-floor renovation. Sara and Craig put extreme effort into designing a beautiful and functional laundry room when updating their home. The room has a simple, yet dramatic black-and-white color scheme, wainscoting for architectural detail, heavy black hooks for outerwear and bags, and a full-view back door that provides natural light and easy access to the backyard.

When Style and Functionality Meet

When style and functionality meet, it creates a balance between aesthetic and practicality, resulting in a finished product that looks amazing and serves its intended purpose effectively. And since the laundry room is often considered the hardest working room in the home, the design must be durable and timeless. 

Puppy Approved

This laundry room is equipped with storage, folding space and a hanging rod. It features a no-fuss stainless steel sink and leathered granite for easy cleaning. The room has black fixtures and hardware that contrast the white cabinetry and soft gray walls. The ceramic tile floors and stock cabinetry are cost-effective selections without compromising a gorgeous farm-style design. Additionally, the sink in the room is used to wash off the couple’s Cavachon puppy after muddy playtime in the backyard.

Redesign Your Laundry Room With the Help of Creative Contracting

The laundry room is often subjugated to “closed door” status. Don’t let that be the case in your home. Contact Creative Contracting today to get started on a stylish and functional space you’ll love to show off.

aging in place renovations

What Aspects Should You Add to Your Aging in Place Renovation?

Planning an age-in-place renovation is a great way to make your home more comfortable and accessible as you get older. Here are some of the key aspects you should consider when planning your remodeling project in North Wales, PA.

Consider Your Stairs

According to Comfy Living, baby boomers and Gen-Xers make up more than 80% of all homeowners who are renovating. Many of these homeowners are embarking on aging in place renovations since they are looking to stay in their homes and make them more accessible. Those who live in multi-story homes should consider adding features to their stairs such as stairlifts, ramps, and handrails. These features will make climbing the stairs easier for those who have difficulty with mobility as they age.

Choose the Right Flooring

It’s important to choose the right type of flooring for any renovation, especially when you’re getting older. While carpet is a popular choice, it can be difficult to navigate with mobility aids such as wheelchairs and walkers. Hardwood floors are generally easier to navigate and won’t create an obstacle for those who use helpful tools. Additionally, non-slip tile floors are also a great option since they provide extra traction to reduce the risk of falls.

Add Essential Safety Features

When renovating your home, you should also consider adding grab bars in the bathroom and shower, which will help prevent slips and falls. You may also want to add rails or handrails on stairways and ramps. Finally, you should also consider adding motion-sensing lighting in hallways and stairwells to make it easier to see when navigating your North Wales home at night.

Make Sure the Renovation Is Accessible

It’s important that any aging-in-place renovations made to a home are accessible for everyone in the household. Doors, pathways, and other areas of your home should be wide enough to easily accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. Additionally, doorknobs should be replaced with lever handles since they’re much easier to use for those with limited mobility.

Consider Home Automation

Finally, you may want to consider home automation as part of your renovation. Automation will allow for the control of various items in your home, such as lights and temperature, from a single remote or smartphone app. This addition can be especially useful for those with limited mobility who may not be able to get up and adjust settings manually.

By considering these aspects when planning an aging-in-place renovation, you can ensure that the renovations are tailored to meet the needs of everyone living in the home. Get in touch with our team today to start planning your next home remodeling project in North Wales, PA.

basement remodeling contractor

Basement Remodeling Ideas You Should Try This Year

Getting help from a basement remodeling contractor can help spruce up and add value to your home. Working with a design build remodeling service can help you bring your new basement ideas to life, so here are some concepts you should consider trying this year.

Add Modern Amenities

According to Comfy Living, most houses in the U.S. need remodeling and improvement because around 80% of them are more than two decades old. If your basement is included in this statistic, you should consider modernizing it with some of the latest amenities. This could include adding a wet bar, installing stainless steel appliances in a kitchenette, and improving your current lighting fixtures.

Utilize Wall Space

Another great idea for your basement remodeling project is to make use of the wall space that’s available. Having shelves or wall-mounted cabinets installed can really open up a room while creating extra storage options. You can also get your walls painted in different colors or hang artwork to give the space more character.

Transform It Into A Home Theater

If you’re looking for something unique, why not consider turning your basement into a home theater? This is an excellent way to enjoy movies and shows with the whole family while also creating a cool atmosphere. You can add comfortable seating, dim lighting, and even a snack bar if you want.

Create A Multi-Purpose Room

Many homeowners are now opting for multi-purpose rooms in their basements. A multi-purpose room can encompass combining a studio and an art space, or a bedroom with a home office. Feel free to explore re-fashioning an older space into an entertainment room where you can host parties or a home office where you can get work done. With this type of remodeling project, the possibilities are endless!

Consider Finishes

When it comes to adding finishing touches, it’s important to think about flooring, as this can make a big difference to the functionality and aesthetic of your space. You can choose from carpets, tiles, or vinyl depending on your preferences. You can conceptualize further and opt for decorative tiles, wallpapers, or even wood paneling to give your basement a unique and cozy look.

These are just a few of the many basement remodeling ideas you can try this year. If you’re looking for an experienced, high-end basement remodeling contractor in North Wales, PA, get in touch with us today!

A Montgomery County Kitchen Gets a Light and Airy Remodel 

When our clients began their kitchen remodel journey with us, they knew they wanted a light and airy welcoming space with room for their family to gather. What they didn’t realize was that once they decided on the design, finalized the budget and agreed upon a timeline, they thought they’d gotten over the biggest hurdles. But then reality set in and decisions needed to be made on cabinets, hardware, and appliances —and the possibilities seemed endless and overwhelming. 

Decisions, Decisions

The homeowners painstakingly weighed every decision to create a beautifully designed kitchen. Refreshing traditional red oak floors were lightened to remove golden undertones, creating a lighter shade that coordinates beautifully with the neutral white oak island. We were able to expand the white oak through the space with custom shelving, an accent file folder and charging storage cabinet, and a new mantle in the adjoining family room.

A light wood table, chairs and bar seating continue the feeling of soft neutrality. Namibian white quartzite and white glossy tile with a handcrafted look, add a subtle, soft texture to the space. This neutral backdrop allows the beautiful Brizo luxe gold faucets to pop. The cabinet hardware echoes the intricate knurling of the faucet design. In this case, thinking of hardware as a jewelry accessory for the kitchen makes perfect sense.

Gold Highlights Create a Vibrant Kitchen

Light fixtures add vibrancy to the gold highlights and paned glass doors in the upper cabinetry supply ambient light, creating a soft glow. All lighting is on dimmers, so it’s easy to create the desired atmosphere at any time of the day. This gorgeous, subtly neutral kitchen is easy to accessorize with pops of color and natural greenery.

The additional set of windows flanking the original French doors to the backyard change the entire feel of the space and offer a beautiful view of the lovely patio and provide more natural light.

Creative Contracting Can Transform Your Kitchen

We love working with clients who are completely involved in their projects. Working closely to create a successful and satisfying kitchen design is extremely important and rewarding. Ready to lighten up your kitchen? Get started today.

aging in place remodel

How a Bathroom Remodel Can Help You Age in Place

Aging in place is a major concern of members of the Baby Boom generation in or approaching retirement, as well as older Generation X members who are beginning to approach their retirement years as their 60th birthday comes closer. Many have started plans for an aging in place remodel of their homes by adding features that will become useful as their aging continues and mobility declines. Better yet, according to a 2018 cost vs value report by Remodeling, bathroom remodels typically return 70% on their investment when you sell your home. Let’s take a look at how making this investment will help you age in place in North Wales, PA.

Why Age-Proof Your Bathroom?

Bathrooms can be among the most dangerous spaces in the home for seniors. Bathrooms by nature have floors that become slippery when wet. The curb of the bathtub may present a barrier for people with limited lower-body mobility. Planning these remodels doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be done before you need the features for aging.

Widening Doors and Spaces

An underestimated need in age-proofing bathrooms is making the doors and spaces in the bathroom wider. This feature is a critical need for an aging in place remodel as older adults will often need to add pieces like walkers and wheelchairs as mobility declines in older years, or injuries require mobility assistance.

Widening doors by even as little as a few inches can improve the mobility of a walker or wheelchair user inside the bathroom, giving them space to maneuver without risking a fall by picking up and turning the device.

Grab Bars, Curbless and Nonslip Showers

Much more commonly understood than doors and spaces is the need for grab bars and handles around fixtures like toilets and showers. These critical fixtures help make life much easier for people with limited mobility in their legs to get on and off their toilets and avoid slips and falls in the shower.

In addition to grab bars, many adults lose the ability to lift their legs high enough to enter and exit conventional showers as they get older and can lose their balance on slippery flooring. Nonslip flooring and curbless shower stalls can make it much easier to maneuver.

The value of an aging in place remodel on the bathroom is not just monetary. It’s a crucial investment in your ability to remain in your home. To get started with your renovation, don’t wait to get in touch with our experienced team in North Wales, PA today.

4 Signs Your Bathroom Needs a Remodel

Home remodeling is a great way to add value to your home and make your time living there more comfortable. There’s no better way to make your home more comfortable than with a bathroom remodel! Below are some signs you should consider remodeling your bathroom for an aesthetic upgrade and improved functionality.

1. The Toilet Has Cracks

According to the World Toilet Organization, the average person uses the toilet around 2,500 times every year! Unfortunately, toilet seats, and any parts that come in contact with water, are prone to cracking and degrading over time. Cracks can cause bacteria to accumulate more easily and make it difficult for your toilet to function properly. If you notice cracks in your toilet seat or base, a bathroom remodel can be a great way to get a durable, hygienic replacement.

2. You Have Changing Needs

Our lives are always changing. As our needs change, the layout of our homes should also adjust accordingly. If you’ve been living in your home for a while and find yourself wishing for different bathroom fixtures or storage solutions, it may be time to remodel your bathroom. It can be as simple as swapping out an old bathtub for a new walk-in shower or adding extra storage space with shelves and cabinets.

3. It Has an Outdated Design

Technology is constantly advancing, so why should your bathroom stay the same? Outdated designs are often inefficient and lack modern amenities. Updating the design of your bathroom can bring it into the 21st century with cutting-edge features like heated floors, energy-efficient lighting, and luxurious bathtubs. Home remodeling that focuses on technology will also give you the opportunity to choose from an array of colors, textures, and materials for a completely unique look.

4. There Are Damaged Fixtures

Bathrooms tend to get a lot of use and abuse. Over time, fixtures can become damaged or worn out from regular use. A bathroom remodel is a great way to upgrade your fixtures for better performance and aesthetics. You can choose from a variety of modern faucets, showers, and toilets that are designed to be both beautiful and functional.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it may be time to consider remodeling your bathroom for a more efficient and comfortable living space. You’ll find that the time and effort invested in a bathroom remodel will pay off in the long run, as your home’s value and convenience are improved. Give us a call at Creative Contracting to get started on your home remodeling project in North Wales, PA.

A Montgomery County Home Gets New Luxury Vinyl Flooring

At Creative Contracting, we enjoyed bringing our client’s dreams to reality by helping her see the potential in her downsized home. This once-outdated 1970s-era sunroom has been brought back to life with just a few simple upgrades.

Painting the beautiful original exposed wood beams in a fresh coat of white created a much-needed open and airy feel to the space. The windows and trim were painted white to match, while the deep gray color on the walls added a modern contrast. To complete this room, we installed LVF or Luxury Vinyl Flooring, which is a very popular material for high-traffic areas. This floor has so many great qualities that homeowners love.

Here are four features of LVF flooring that we believe every client should consider as a part of their home remodel:

Durable

LVF or Luxury Vinyl Flooring is an extremely popular choice for busy family living. Both scratch resistant and waterproof, it can be used in virtually any living area and is practically impervious to pets and children, wear and tear.

Beautiful

This material is almost indistinguishable from real hardwood floors. The next generation of graphic design and printers allow LVF to be manufactured to showcase the amazing realistic textures and designs of natural wood or stone through advanced technology.

Affordable

This is not a vinyl sheet product. It consists of planks in varying lengths or tiles that can be installed with ease. It is often a floating surface, meaning the pieces fit together without being nailed or glued to a sub floor. The labor savings on installation is a huge cost reduction over traditional hardwood or tile.

Comfortable

In addition to LVF being super durable, it has other added benefits depending on its construction. Some LVFs are made with a core that can lessen noise. Some have a core with more resilience that helps reduce joint stress when standing for extended periods. LVF also provides a level of insulation and warmth.

Creative Contracting Will Guide You Through Your LVF Choices

We were excited to help our Montgomery County client choose the right flooring throughout her home, especially for this wonderful sunroom addition. Choose a Luxury Vinyl Floor option that is right for your remodel by contacting Creative Contracting today.