What Causes Your Foundation to Fail?

Your foundation is the most critical part of your home's structure. If it does not do its job, the whole house can be damaged or even become unsafe. Unfortunately, many homeowners experience this exact problem. There are many reasons why foundations fail, but these are some of the most common.

Soil Moisture

Your foundation and footer are only as good as the support under them. When the soil beneath them holds excess water, it will shift and settle. Soon the foundation has less support in certain areas and begins to settle, leading to cracks that cause the home's walls to move and twist as well. Improved drainage can often correct the underlying soil issues, but you'll still need to repair the foundation.

Poor Installation

If you had your home built, you probably paid close attention to who was doing the work and made sure good techniques were used. However, if you bought an existing home, you have no idea who might have constructed the foundation. Inadequate use of rebar, poor-quality concrete, and poor curing conditions could all contribute to a declining foundation decades later.

Tree Roots

Landscaping adds value to a home--unless it causes damage. The beautiful shade tree you enjoy all summer could eventually push roots into your foundation, causing it to crack or shift. If you've detected this problem, the first step is to have the tree removed by a qualified service, then to contact a foundation restoration company, one like Atlas Master Co, to repair the damage.

Bad Site Preparation

Foundations need a solid and consistent base of soil to support them. If your home's lot was filled and not properly compacted afterward, there has probably been some settling taking place. This process will lead to damage to the foundation as it settles unevenly, leading to cracking and shifting.

Undetected Water

Even with good drainage management, your home could have water issues that will threaten the foundation. Leaking swimming pools are a common culprit. There may also be city water lines allowing a slow trickle of water to soak toward your house. You may even have an old well on your property that affects drainage. These can contribute to settling and erosion that damage your foundation.

Your foundation is largely out of sight, but it should never be out of mind. If you see unexplained cracks in your walls or have trouble opening doors or windows, you could have a foundation issue. Don't wait to investigate a problem! With proper repairs, the damage can be stopped.

9 Great Ideas for Bathroom Upgrades on a Budget

Bathrooms are often left in the dust when it comes to home renovations, but they don't need to be. There are plenty of simple ways you can freshen up your bathroom without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we will discuss 9 great ideas for bathroom upgrades on a budget!

Where to Start

The first step to a successful bathroom makeover is to evaluate your bathing facilities. For example, do you need a new countertop or flooring? Do you need a bathtub refinishing and a new shower head? Once you've identified what needs attention, start searching for the best prices and quality.

If you're looking for a new countertop, it's important to consider the material. An easy way to stay within budget is by opting for a less expensive material like laminate or tile that offers many of the same benefits as more expensive materials like granite or marble.

The next step in remodeling your bathroom on a budget is deciding which elements will be DIY projects and which will require professional help. If you plan on tackling the job yourself, make sure you have all the necessary tools and skill sets before starting any work!

When it comes time to update your bathroom, don't assume that spending thousands of dollars is the only option available to you. Upgrading your space doesn't have to be as challenging as it may seem at first glance!

What You Need to Know About Updating Your Bathroom

When you update your bathroom on a budget, you'll be surprised at how much of a difference such small changes can make. You don't need to get rid of old bathroom furniture and purchase all new ones; there are many inexpensive options for updating your space.

If you're looking for cheap bathroom ideas for your bathroom remodel project, here are some suggestions:

Bathroom Wallpapers

Aside from painting your walls for a fresh coat, adding some new wallpaper to your bathroom walls can be a quick way to freshen up the space. One of the best things about wallpaper is that it can provide a more modern look while still being relatively affordable.

There are plenty of ways to find cheap, yet stylish bathroom wallpaper. You can find them at local retailers or online. The best part? You don't have to worry about paint coverage because you're just applying it to the wall.

If you're looking for some new ideas, Pinterest has plenty of DIY tutorials and pre-made wallpaper choices for you to browse through. Just make sure you consider your color scheme before you choose anyone in particular!

Bathroom Lights

Lighting is a crucial part of any bathroom. It can either make a bathroom look luxurious and inviting or dark and depressing.

If you're going to update your bathroom on a budget, think about installing a new light fixture. This is a simple way to update the look of your bathroom without spending money on expensive renovations.

There are various types of lights to choose from, so it's important to do some research. For example, recessed lights will give off more light, but they will also take up more space in the room. If you want more natural light in your bathroom, consider installing floor lamps or table lamps instead.

There are many ways that you can update your bath on a budget by adding decorative touches and installing high-quality features like new countertops and flooring. The benefits often outweigh the costs!

Bathroom Mirrors

A bathroom mirror is a necessity for many reasons. It allows you to take care of personal hygiene by brushing your teeth and washing your hands. A mirror also makes it easier to style hair and apply makeup.

Different types of bathroom mirror frames serve different purposes. A beveled edge mirror, for example, produces a wider view of the face when used in the bathroom. You may also want to install a magnifying mirror if you require additional details in your grooming routine.

If you're looking for bathroom remodel ideas, consider changing out your old mirror with a brand new one to give it an update. New bathroom vanity mirrors can make a dramatic difference in the appearance and function of your space especially if you put them in the perfect spot!

Bathroom Floor

If the flooring in your bathroom is looking a little worn, which mostly happens to wooden floors, it can be a quick and inexpensive project to update that area. There are many options from which to choose, from vinyl or linoleum tiles to vinyl or carpet squares.

Linoleum tiles are an attractive option because they're durable and easy to clean. They're also easily found at your local home improvement store for a reasonable price.

Carpet squares offer another way to create an updated look for your bathroom flooring. These soft, cushy carpet squares will add warmth and comfort to your space while providing a natural look and feel. The best part? You can move them around as you please, so you will always have the perfect flooring configuration!

Add Wall Decorations.

A few simple wall decorations can make a big difference in the appearance of your bathroom. It's easy to find decor ideas online and inexpensive items from your local dollar store to cover those blank spaces on the walls.

Add a little spice to your wall decor with a framed inspirational quote or a set of beautiful art prints. You can also add a towel rack or decorative hooks to the side of your sink, for added storage space and to provide more storage for toiletries.

Use tile stickers.

One way to spruce up a bathroom space is with tile stickers. Tile stickers can be a fun and affordable way to give your bathroom's existing tiles a makeover without the hassle of tearing down the walls or updating plumbing fixtures.

It's easy to find great tile stickers that will fit your decorating style and budget. As an example, you can find gorgeous stone wall tile stickers that will transform your white tiles into beautiful brick patterns for just $14.

Another option is fabric wallpaper stickers, which come in many different colors and patterns, such as this $16 patterned design with bright colors and gold accents:

To create the best effect, place these wall decals on top of old paint or worn out tiles so they appear seamless with the grout lines. This will allow you to change your look without having to spend a lot of time or money!

Accessorize your bathroom.

One of the easiest ways to spruce up a bathroom without breaking the bank is by updating accessories.

Accessories and adding new hardware play a big role in how a room feels and looks. It gives it personality and warmth. With a little bit of effort, you can transform your bathroom from tired to trendy in no time!

Start off by snagging some affordable bathroom accessories, like toothbrush holders, from budget-friendly stores like Target or Walmart.

For example, add some color with towels, add a few picture frames to hang above the toilet, add a few decorative plants, or add some scented candles for that spa-like feel when guests visit.

These additions will not only make your bathroom feel more comfortable for you and your guests, they'll also help perk up the look of your space!

Tidy up by decluttering.

If you want to make your bathroom look more spacious, take a moment and declutter. You'll find it's one of the most effective ways to make your bathroom feel fresh and new. We recommend looking through your items and deciding what you can live without.

Start by removing anything that is broken or doesn't work anymore — like old light fixtures or leaky faucets. You should also get rid of any personal items that don't belong in the bathroom, like shoes and dirty clothes. And finally, think about making space for things like family photos and extra towels!

Decluttering and cleaning your bathroom will help you free up essential space, so it looks less cluttered. Cleaning up will also help you maintain a cleaner home since the clutter was causing an illusion of messiness!

Change your shower curtains

If you're looking to spruce up your bathroom, but don't want to completely redo the space, consider changing out your shower curtain with a new one.

A new shower curtain is a quick and easy way to add a personal touch to your bathroom. Shower curtains come in all kinds of patterns and colors, so it's easy to find something that matches your style.

Changing out your old curtain with a new one is an easy way to update the look of your bathroom and make it feel new again. You might even find that you'll start feeling refreshed every time you take a shower!

Conclusion

The benefits of a bathroom renovation often outweigh the costs. You'll soon find that many upgrades will actually save you money in the next few years by decreasing running time and heating costs. For example, installing a water-efficient toilet will help to save water and energy, which is good for the planet and your wallet!

Whether you are on a tight budget or just need some quick fixes, there are plenty of ways to upgrade your bathroom on a budget. Follow these 9 easy ideas to get your bathroom looking fresh and on-trend without breaking the bank.

Renovation Ideas for a More Luxurious Master Bathroom

You deserve a relaxing space in your home for you to unwind after a hard day or simply when you need some peace and quiet. While everyone has a favorite room in their home, upgrading your master bathroom can give you a spa-like experience from the comfort of your own home. Below are a few renovation ideas to make your master bathroom more luxurious.

Dressing Area

You might have to add on some extra square footage for this idea, but a dressing area off the master bathroom is both luxurious and convenient. Not only does this allow you to dress in the (possibly still warm and humid) bathroom after a hot bath, but you won’t disturb other people in the house when you come home while they sleep.

Heated Floors

When we get out of bed and go to the bathroom, it’s quite a shock on our feet when we encounter cold bathroom flooring. To combat this discomfort and add a touch of luxury, invest in underfloor radiant heating. Not only does it provide a consistent temperature for the whole room, but it’s quiet and highly efficient.

Heated Towel Rack

Have you ever curled up with a heated blanket or put on clothes fresh from the dryer? You can have that relaxing, comforting warmth with your towels after a bath or a shower. A heated towel rack keeps your towels warm and dries them after use. Another benefit is that your towels last longer as the heating reduces allergens and mildew.

Soaker Tub

Soaker tubs are deeper than average bathtubs, allowing you to fully submerge under the water. This provides you with the ultimate relaxation experience, especially if you add aromatic oils and salts to your bath.

These do take up a little more space than other tubs, so you may need to move some things to make room, including other plumbing fixtures. Remember that when you’re making changes to the layout of the plumbing, you need to consult a plumbing professional, like those at Spartan Plumbing and Services. They can give you advice about where you should put different fixtures when you’re designing the layout of your home.

Terrazzo Tiles

If you want to add some color and texture to your bathroom, terrazzo is the way to go. Terrazzo uses chips of glass, granite, marble, and quartz to cause the bathroom to glisten as the light hits the chips. They give the room an elegant feel and come in a variety of styles.

Touchless Bathroom Faucet

What’s more luxurious than not having to touch something to turn it on? In addition to luxury, a touchless faucet is a great way to avoid spreading germs. They also rarely leak.

Whether you invest in heated toilet seats or add a walk-through shower, there are many ways to add luxury to your master bathroom. If you wish to add features such as a soaker tub or features that affect your plumbing, it's wise to seek out a knowledgeable, reliable plumber. The most important thing is to add ideas to truly make your bathroom your own.

Guest Post - Qualities People Should Look for in a General Contractor

When building your dream house (or taking on a renovation project), you will need the help and expertise of a general contractor to help ensure everything is done accordingly. 

General contractors will not only work with the property owners during the construction process, they will also directly manage the construction project.

If you are wondering why contractors should have insurance, it's because they have subcontractors and specialists that work for them and handle a vast array of tasks, including heating, plumbing, painting, and roofing. 

In addition, if the construction work done does not match the building plans, it is the general contractor's responsibility to make the necessary corrections and changes.

General Contractors: Top Qualities to Look For

Before you sign on the dotted line, getting the right people to work for you is crucial. When looking for the best general contractor, below are some of the important traits you should look for:

Experience

The best general contractors are tradesmen with substantial experience in every facet of construction—from designing, building, and even basic repairs. While many general contractors hire subcontractors, it is considered ideal that they have a clear idea of how to do the jobs themselves.

Aside from skills, experience can also play a key role as they are the ones tasked to schedule any work that needs to be done. They need to also ensure that every subcontractor will be able to complete their tasks on time and to the highest level of quality.

Integrity

When you work with a general contractor who values integrity, you can rest assured they won't overcharge you. They will also do what you agreed upon and stand behind every aspect of the project they oversee. Understandably, this is no guarantee everything will be done perfectly.

However, with a general contractor with integrity, you can expect any mistakes to be rectified as soon as possible. You can also trust that they would act responsibly when disposing trash and keeping the work site clean and organized.

Reputation

When you experience great service, you will likely tell your relatives, friends, family, and anyone else that asks about it. The reputation of a general contractor (or any professional for that matter) is directly proportionate to the quality of the service and work they offer.

One of the best ways to find out about a prospective general contractor's reputation would be to read reviews and talk to previous clients. It would also be a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau and the local Chamber of Commerce.

Listening Skills

Since it is your home that is being renovated or built, your voice should be the loudest. In line with this, you should discuss what you want with your chosen general contractor and why you want it. It is also important to keep in mind that their job is not to convince you to do things their way; it's to do things as you wish.

Understandably, there will be times when what you want is either cost-prohibitive or structurally impossible. In similar scenarios, it is the general contractor's job to explain why certain things cannot be done as you wish. It is also ideal that the general contractor provides other alternatives to help you achieve your objectives.

Flexibility

Flexibility refers to your general contractor's skill set and ability to change schedules to ensure work is completed on time. Construction projects can involve painting, plumbing, window installation, and roofing, among other things. 

That said, you will need a general contractor who is willing and able to take on all the aspects of the project within the agreed timeframe. This can mean working extra hours, evenings, and even weekends—the true essence of flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Apart from the traits listed above, you need to ensure that your selected general contractor is licensed. While this is not exactly a trait, this is one of the most important aspects a general contractor needs to have. 

In some states, general contractors that alter or construct a building are required to have a license. A license can help ensure a contractor has the right skills and training to provide the highest quality of work.

Author : 

Rachel Porter is the content specialist for Custom Contractors Insurance, LLC, an Arizona roofing and contractors insurance company. When not writing, she enjoys reading and mountain biking with her friends.