Know Your Building Code

Talk to your general contractor, or look into your local building code to find out more about egress requirements. Essentially, bedrooms need a window large enough for a person to crawl through to get out of the house in an emergency. The building code will specify minimum dimensions for windows. Small basement windows don’t necessarily rule out putting in a bedroom; ask your contractor if it would be possible to put in larger replacement windows to meet egress requirements.

What You Can’t See Can Hurt You

Radon is an odorless, invisible gas that can seep into homes through basement floors and crawl spaces. In time, it can cause severe lung damage and is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking. According to the CDC, “having your home tested is the only effective way to determine whether you or your family is at risk of high radon exposure.”  Radon testing is quite simple and inexpensive, and if this dangerous gas is detected in your home, radon mitigation is fairly straightforward when done by a trained professional.

Don’t Take Chances with Mold

Mold thrives in cool, damp places, meaning that many basements are prime locations for mold growth. Since mold can cause respiratory problems, skin irritations, headaches, and many other health conditions, it is important to have your basement tested if you suspect its presence. You’ll also want to ensure that any sources of humidity in the basement have been repaired or addressed by your general contractor before basement finishing begins.

By following these tips and working with professional contractors, you can turn your unfinished basement into a perfect living space, complete with comfortable, healthy bedrooms. In Madison, WI, contact Tucker Family Construction at (608) 862-3641 to request a consultation and quote.

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1. Change out cabinet hardware.

It’s amazing how changing out old knobs can instantly change the look of your kitchen. This update is both easy and affordable.

2. Pick a neutral paint color.

You want to pick a color that’s inviting. Neutrals tend to be welcoming and calming; plus, they generally stand the test of time.

3. Add a backsplash.

A custom tile backsplash is a great way to boost your kitchen design while also adding a functional feature.

4. Maximize your storage.

You can find a ton of organizers for hard-to-store items like pots, pans, lids, spices, garbage bags, and much more. Consider purchasing some space-saving storage solutions and having your general contractor install them for you.

5. Choose durable, classic flooring.

Tile flooring and hardwood flooring tend to be desirable options for a kitchen. They look great and age well (provided you choose the right one).

6. Paint kitchen cabinets a light color.

If you don’t want to replace cabinets, consider painting them. White or a light gray (or a combination of the two) tend to be good options.

7. Install quality appliances.

Choose energy-efficient appliances that can help save you money over time, and be sure to select a brand name you can trust. We definitely recommend that you do your research.

8. Upgrade your countertops.

A kitchen counter takes a beating. You want to choose a quality material that can look great over time and many, many years of meal prep. Granite or other stone products are often great options.

9. Update lighting.

A dim, dark kitchen is anything but inviting. Maximize the natural light you already have, and consider installing a skylight. You can also add recessed lighting.

10. Customize your workspace.

If you ever wanted to change the flow of your kitchen, now is the time to do it. Whether you want to change the position of your dishwasher or add an island, find a custom solution that works for you.

To get started on these and other kitchen-remodeling ideas, contact Tucker Family Construction at (608) 862-3641 for a consultation and quote. Our team takes pride in helping Madison, WI, families make their houses into homes, beginning with the kitchen.

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1. Select a light, neutral wall color.

A light shade of gray, tan, or white can make a smaller space seem bigger than it is. Plus, these neutral colors are classic and can stand the test of time and design changes. Make sure your bathroom vanity and other bathroom features also don’t go too dark.

2. Maximize natural light.

Natural light in a bathroom is great not only for putting on makeup, but also for giving the illusion of a larger space. A well-placed window can make a big difference. You may even want to consider whether a skylight can enhance the space.

3. Choose a frameless glass shower door.

A shower curtain or opaque sliding door can appear to cut a few feet off your bathroom. Your best solution for this tiny bathroom problem is to get a frameless glass shower door or wall. That way, when you walk in, you can see every corner of the space. Plus, this update will really make your bathroom appear more modern.

4. Maximize storage space.

From towels to toiletries, you have to fit several necessities in your bathroom without making it seem too cramped. When planning out your storage, make the most of the space and consider creative ways to store items. You may even want some of your essentials—like towels, cotton ball jars, or candles—to become part of your bathroom decoration.

5. Upgrade to an oversized mirror.

Most people think a small bathroom requires a small vanity mirror. However, a larger mirror can be a unique decorative detail that also gives the appearance of more space.

Even without adding on, you can remodel your bathroom to bring it into the current decade while also giving the appearance of more space.

If you need a general contractor for your bathroom remodel, then contact Tucker Family Construction at (608) 862-3641. We specialize not only in bathroom remodeling, but also kitchen remodeling, basement finishing, and other custom home improvements.

photo credit: Smallest Bathroom! via photopin (license)

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Here are just a few questions we recommend:

1. What are your credentials?

Make sure the general contractor is licensed and insured for home remodeling in your state. While there are plenty of good handymen out there, you want to make sure your property improvements are done up to code. So check the contractor’s credentials!

2. Do you have a remodeling specialty?

Some general contractors have a broad range of remodeling experience that includes kitchen remodeling, basement finishing, and room additions. But for your home improvement project, you may want someone who has specific experience with that type of home remodeling. If your contractor doesn’t necessarily specialize in one area, that doesn’t mean he/she isn’t good, but it may help you in making your hiring decision.

3. Does your estimate include all possible costs?

Remodeling companies each have their own system for billing clients. Read the general contractor’s quote carefully. One thing you may want to pay special attention to is how the company charges for labor. Some home-improvement professionals charge a flat fee for property upgrades while others may charge hourly (or some combination of the two). Make sure you understand the fine print and what this means for your remodeling budget.

4. What is your projected timeline?

If you’re in a time crunch to get your remodeling completed (no one wants to live without a kitchen or bathroom for long!), be sure to ask how much time the general contractor needs to finish the project. Granted, unexpected things often pop up during construction, but you want to have a general idea of what to expect.

These questions are just a few examples of what you should be asking a general contractor during the hiring process. If that home remodeling expert is able to answer your questions fully, you can feel confident hiring him or her for your home-improvement project. For any further questions, contact us at (608) 862-3641.

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If you’re a homeowner in the Madison, WI area, consider choosing Tucker Family Construction, LLC for your kitchen-remodeling project. Tucker Family Construction, LLC is a family-owned business with over 20 years of remodeling experience. Our team prioritizes giving our customers the best remodeling experience at affordable rates.

Our kitchen remodeling team can help you from beginning to end in the remodeling process. From countertops to plumbing, our team can handle all the details of your kitchen remodel. We take pride in every aspect of your kitchen transformation. Just check out our kitchen remodeling gallery or our customer reviews for examples of our past work.

To get a free estimate on your kitchen-remodeling project, contact us today at (608) 862-3641. Let Tucker Family Construction, LLC help you make all your kitchen remodeling dreams come true without breaking the bank.

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Just picture it: A plush, leather coach with built-in cup holders that faces a large, flat-screen TV that is surrounded by built-in cabinetry and bookshelves. There is a space for your BluRay player, gaming console, as well as your collection of movies, games, and board games. The walls are a neutral color that promotes relaxation and only enhances the lighting for your viewing pleasure. During basement finishing, the general contractor even wired your home for optimal surround sound.

Not far from the TV area, you have a wet bar and small refrigerator stocked with snacks and beverages. You even have a microwave to make the popcorn for family movie night! The space includes a sink for cleaning up messes and helping you avoid trips up and down the steps to the main-floor kitchen.

Does this media space sound like an ideal use for your finished basement? Then stop dreaming, and schedule a free, basement finishing consultation and estimate with Tucker Family Construction, LLC. Our team can help turn your basement finishing dreams into reality. We provide quality home remodeling and customer service to the residents in the Madison, WI area. For your free quote or to find out about our current specials, contact us today at (608) 862-3641.

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Just how do you decide which flooring option is best for your kitchen remodel? We at Tucker Family Construction want to help you with every detail of your kitchen remodeling plans and process. So before you close your eyes, make a wish, and throw a dart at all the potential flooring options, consider the benefits of these types of kitchen flooring.

Tile

Many homeowners choose ceramic tile for its durability, cost effectiveness, and array of options. You can find many different types, sizes, and colors of tile that can enhance your kitchen remodel. However, tile flooring can be susceptible to cracking due to house settling or major spills. Some homeowners also complain that tile flooring can be both cold and hard on your feet—especially during those cold Wisconsin nights!

Hardwood

Solid wood flooring is an unbeatable home improvement when it comes to design aesthetics and visual appeal. Hardwood floors tend not to go out of style, and if you’re planning on selling your home, you know that homebuyers will take notice. However, protecting hardwood floors in the kitchen can be difficult. Kitchens get a lot of foot traffic, and kitchen floors are prone to catching spills. Liquids can easily damage wood floors, so you may find yourself having to clean up spills regularly and quickly in order to avoid damage.

Laminate

Many homeowners choose laminate flooring because they can get the wood look but at a lower price point and with less maintenance. Many people with small children, pets, or who just don’t want to worry about scratching wood floors choose laminate flooring. The downside to laminate flooring in the kitchen is that when it begins to show signs of wear and tear, you cannot refinish it. You’ll have to replace your flooring completely.

Vinyl

Thinking about your Grandma’s kitchen? Don’t turn up your nose at vinyl just yet. Today, you can find a wide range of vinyl styles and qualities that are modern, affordable, and appealing to your kitchen design sensibilities. Vinyl flooring is also very durable in the kitchen, easy to install and replace, and one of the least expensive kitchen flooring options. However, vinyl does have a shorter “shelf life” than other flooring materials, so you may have to replace all or part of it within 5 to 10 years.

Making the Decision

If you’re still a bit baffled by which flooring to choose for your kitchen remodel, just contact our team at Tucker Family Construction. We’ll walk you through each of your options (including some we didn’t even mention here!) and help you determine the best flooring to make your kitchen remodel both beautiful and durable. Just give us a call at (608) 862-3641 to schedule a free kitchen remodeling consultation and estimate.

photo credit: SA7F34~1.jpg via photopin (license)

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1. Plan ahead.

Work with your general contractor to figure out dates when your bathroom will be unusable. Depending on the level of remodeling, you may lose functionality only minimally or not at all if updates are minor. From there, make plans on how you can function without that space. If you have other bathrooms in the house, you should be just fine. However, if you need to pack a bag and visit a nearby friend for a couple of days, do that.

2. Get creative.

Functioning without a bathroom can be more than a challenge, so you may need to think about some creative alternatives. Do you have a neighbor who wouldn’t mind you taking a quick morning shower at his home? If you work out at a local gym, clean up before returning home.

3. Book a “staycation.”

Pack yourself and anyone else in your home, and book a few nights at the local Marriott. You can enjoy the pool, the cable TV, and even visit some nearby attractions while your bathroom remodel is underway. You’ll be close enough to check in on the progress, but you’ll be away from the chaos and able to use the hotel bathroom at will.

4. Communicate regularly with your general contractor.

At Tucker Family Construction, LLC, we want to minimize the impact that bathroom remodeling has on you and your family. The best way for us to help you minimize remodeling stress is to communicate regularly. We will do our best to work quickly and efficiently so you can get back to life as normal.

Bathroom remodeling doesn’t have to be a burden, especially when you work with a capable, family-minded home improvement company like Tucker Family Construction, LLC of Wisconsin. To get a quote on bathroom remodeling, contact us today at (608) 862-3641.

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1. Construct a media wall.

Dedicate one wall or area of your finished basement to all things entertainment media. Our home improvement team can help you design custom cabinetry and shelving options for your TV, Blu-ray player, and game console, while also hiding unsightly cables and wiring. Be sure to also consider specialty lighting in your media area, so you can dim lights as needed when you’re wanting to turn your basement into your own at-home theatre.

2. Install a wet bar.

Before basement finishing, consider the benefits of having a mini kitchen in your entertaining space. You can keep beverages and snacks stocked for all parties—both planned and impromptu. Plus, you won’t have to run up and down the stairs to make food available, allowing you to worry less about being the host and spending more time with your guests.

3. Create space to play.

Whether your friends are 4 or 40, everyone enjoys a good game! Consider whether you want to set aside space in your finished basement for a billiards table, ping-pong table, dartboard, or even an old-school arcade game!

4. Provide comfortable seating.

Depending on the type of entertaining space you envision, make sure you plan appropriate furniture so your friends can sit and stay awhile. Choose comfy couches or lounge chairs for the media space or high-back bar stools for the wet bar. You may also want to invest in a few folding tables and chairs in case your party grows unexpectedly.

For more ideas, check out our basement photo gallery. To discuss basement finishing and design ideas with one of our home-improvement specialists, contact Tucker Family Construction, LLC at (608) 862-3641. We are ready to answer your questions and get you a free quote on basement finishing. Let us help you transform your unused basement into the place to be.

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1. Create your own artisan tile wall.

Tile isn’t meant for the kitchen floor or backsplash alone! Many people are incorporating tile as a decorative or design feature during a kitchen remodel. You can choose from many different artisan tile designs—from mosaic to block patterns to paisley print.

2. Don’t hide behind cabinets!

It’s nice to have some kitchen cabinet space or a pantry to stockpile your canned goods or small appliances you don’t want strewn on the countertops. However, you may want to consider floating shelves on at least one wall or area in your kitchen. Floating shelves is a great home improvement that adds design interest; plus, you have a place to feature your cool dish sets, wine glasses, and vases that might otherwise be hidden by cabinet doors.

3. Make a splash with color.

If an all-white or neutral kitchen isn’t you, find ways to insert some color—maybe even in some unexpected places. While remodeling your kitchen, you may want to pick some unique and colorful tiles for the backsplash. These days, you can even special order kitchen appliances or the kitchen sink in all kinds of colors and designs. So, don’t be afraid to dream in color!

4. Don’t forget your feet.

Kitchen flooring can also be a way to add a unique look while kitchen remodeling. While many people choose from traditional tile floors or hardwood floors, ask your general contractor about other flooring options that are easy to clean, but offer some design interest and make your guests say, “What IS this?” (in a good way).

5. Choose oversized or eclectic art.

To finish off your kitchen remodel, find or create larger-than-life art pieces that infuse warmth, color, and your design personality into the space. Many people find that by choosing many pieces that they love (even if they aren’t “packaged” together), the decorations tend to just fall together because the artwork reflects the many sides of you.

As you consider your home improvement options and kitchen-remodeling ideas, contact Tucker Family Construction, LLC at (608) 862-3641. Our team proudly serves the Madison, WI area with everything from kitchen remodeling and basement finishing to bathroom remodeling and radon testing. We can help answer your kitchen remodeling questions and provide you with a free estimate on any of our services.

photo credit: MyWallArt – 3d Wallpanel via photopin cc
photo credit: njhomepictures via photopin cc

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