How to Pick Your Shower Door During a Bathroom Remodel – Different Styles of Shower Doors
The Shower is a focal point of a bathroom, and there are many ways to make it beautiful. Shower doors make the shower its own area that can serve as a sauna. Here are some ways to incorporate shower doors into any bathroom.
In modern houses, bathrooms have become much more spacious and multi-functional than in the past. Bathrooms are a place to escape to and relax. There are many important décor elements that should be incorporated into a bathroom to make it a private haven. The Shower is a focal point of a bathroom, and there are many ways to make it beautiful. Shower doors make the shower its own area that can serve as a sauna. Here are some ways to incorporate shower doors into any bathroom.
Choosing styles and layouts is the way to get started designing your shower enclosure. There are numerous ways glass shower doors and panels can be laid out to custom fit any bathroom. A small shower stall may have just one door hinged on one side. However, panels can be added to either side for larger shower stalls, and return panels are added to corner stall setups.
Large shower stalls can use 1 door, 2 panels, and 1 return panel depending on size and shape. Shower doors that are on a corner require a header system to support the shower door mechanics. Panels can be full length or shorter and attached to walls.
Steam Showers use this same concept of layout, but add swivel panels that allow or disallow steam to escape. The shower stall is completely enclosed by shower doors and walls. In one of the panels there is a swivel panel that operates of special hinges to be opened when desired.
All shower stall door layouts can be completely customized to include things like tile work, seating, special faucets and shower heads, and other decorative accents.
Get started on making your bathroom an escape haven today. A shower door not only enhances the look of your bathroom and the feeling of the shower, but it adds value to a home. It is an investment that is well worth the money.
Kitchen Renovations – Choosing the Right Design
Kitchen Renovations – Choosing the Right Design
A major kitchen renovation is about the change in basic design of the kitchen. There are many cost effective redesigns but it may be cost more cost effective to stay with your current layout in others. Below are designs that provide affordable treatments, and you do not need to worry about the exorbitant costs.
– The One Wall Kitchen Design:
When you have less space then you can think about this design .Every item (Fridge, Sink, Cooking range etc) is on one wall. This lessens the traffic in the kitchen and is inexpensive.
– Corridor Style:
You can arrange counter on both side of the wall. Doing this increases the functionality and working speed. Although, there is a chance of crowding, it is a highly affordable option.
– L Shaped Style Kitchen:
In this two walls in L shape are utilized for the counter. Most of the people opt for this style during kitchen renovation. This style does away with crowding problem and increase the mobility. Although, the items are little far away from reach, the space is fully used. Here, you can use two sinks and more counters can be added in this design.
– Double L Design:
This design is also popular for kitchen renovations. This style of design maximizes the space utility. Instead of one, now there are two workstations. Another workstation is also in the L shape but is not open. This increases the cooking efficiency as there are two workstations. The food preparation happens on the smaller “L”. The larger “L” can be used for the storing items.
– U Shaped Kitchen Design:
This design falls under the classic category. There is a closed end and two counters for extra people working at the same time. The sink is at the closed end which keeps water away from the food items.
You might be facing difficulties in basic design for kitchen renovation because your kitchen space may not allow you to experiment. You can consult professionals who are in the business of interior design. They have catalogs full of many different designs and even give you a custom plan.
A good contractor will deliver more information than you need. We specialize in kitchen home renovations and home remodeling throughout the Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Clearwater area.
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6 Tips to Stop Mold Growing in Your Home
It is normal to find mold spores in a homes indoor air and surfaces such as clothes, walls, and furniture. Most of the time mold spores found indoors are from outside sources. Regular housekeeping cleaning helps keep mold levels low. Cleaning small areas of visible mold, like the mold around your shower, is obligatory to maintain sanitary conditions.
When you should be more concerned is when your home has a large-scale of active mold growing. Such problems are most likely to happen when there’s been an on-going water leak, flood, or excessively high levels of humidity in the home. Indoor mold growth may lead to high levels of airborne mold spores, which, in turn, can trigger the spread of mold growth from the original source to additional areas of the home having high moisture levels.
Extensive mold growth will damage your home and furnishings, like carpets, sofas and cabinets. Over a period of time, uncontrolled mold growth can even instigate damage to structural elements of your home. While there is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment, keeping your home clean and dry can avert extensive mold growth and the ensuing damage.
Damage to your home and possessions is not the only reason to be concerned with mold. Although most people are exposed to small amounts of mold or their spores on a daily basis without apparent harm, mold is an unsanitary condition that may present potential health risks to certain individuals.
Possible adverse health effects produced by molds can include allergic, irritating, or toxigenic effects, and even infections, allergic reactions being the most common. Symptoms reported by affected people include: respiratory conditions, such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath, sneezing and/or nasal congestion, eye and/or throat irritation, headaches and fatigue.
Here are a few tips to keep moisture from becoming a breeding ground in your home for molds.
- Ensure that bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-creating sources are vented to the outside.
- Take care not to block any of your house’s air conditioning vents.
- Install de-humidifiers in basements and crawlspaces.
- Use your kitchen’s exhaust fans when cooking.
- Install insulation on cold surfaces like piping, air ducts or basement walls to lessen possibilities of condensation.
- Install moisture sensor alarms in potential water back-up and overflow areas to alert you when a leak occurs.
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Hiring Your Next Contractor
Finding the right contractor for your home improvement project
The first contractor to contact is someone who has been recommended by a trusted source. Relatives, friends or neighbors are a good starting point. It is natural to assume that these referrals can be trusted however be sure to check how long ago the work was done. Over years there is turnover in a crew or the actual owner may have done the work if he had just started in the business. It is always helpful to check a local contractor advertising directory for any clues.
Outside your immediate circle there are many places you can find a contractor so don’t pick one source. Check the local pages, BBB, licensing databases in your state, contractors own references and the internet offers information on local contractors in your area via niche sites. You can also check for websites offering local contractor syndication to deliver news straight to your desktop, phone or RSS reader. Finally the FREE estimate, since it is FREE contact at least three or four contractors for estimates. This will help you in making an educated decision. If it were a smaller project three should be suffice.
The initial meeting
All personal or business meeting rely on first impressions. If you don’t feel right about a contractor, then he’s probably not the right choice for you. Allow at least for one hour per interview and ask as many questions as you can. After you meet with the contractor, check to see if they have participated in any contractor search marketing over the web. Look for individual ratings or reviews.
Questions you should come away with an answer after the initial meeting:
- Is the contractor or salesman presentable in appearance?
- Is he the owner, if not does he sell for many different contractors?
- Was he willing to discuss other jobs with you?
- Did you feel any pressure to buy or sign on the proverbial dotted line?
A good contractor will deliver more information than you need. We specialize in home renovations and home remodeling throughout the Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Clearwater area.
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Should You Hire a Professional to Remodel Your Bathroom?
Should You Hire a Professional to Remodel Your Bathroom?
Are you unhappy with the way that your bathroom looks or the way that you feel while inside of it? If so, you may want to think about having your bathroom remodeled. You will find that there are an unlimited number of benefit to remodeling.
Once you have decided to have your bathroom remodeled, you will need to make a number of decisions. One of those decisions is how who would you like to do your bathroom remodel. Your two choices are doing it yourself or hiring the services of a professional contractor. If you are like many other homeowners, you may want to have your bathroom professionally remodeled, but you may also be wondering if it is a good idea. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of a professional remodel.
Perhaps, the biggest advantage to having your bathroom professionally remodeled is the end result. It is known fact that most professional contractors produce better work than most people that do it themselves. If you are looking to have the best looking bathroom on your block, it may be a good idea to hire the services of a professional contractor. In addition the better the results, the higher the potential for the the overall increase in the value of your home.
Another reason why you may want to have your bathroom professionally remodeled is time. In addition to producing quality work, most professional contractors are able to get their work done in a fairly quick time frame. This is when previous experience comes in handy. If your remodeling needs to be completed by a certain time, a deadline, you may want to hire the services of a professional contractor.
In addition to saving time, you may also want to hire the services of a professional contractor if you do not want to have the responsibility of remodeling your own bathroom. A bathroom remodeling project is a large amount of work, especially if you are looking to have every inch of your bathroom remodeled. Your responsibilities will not only include deciding what you want remodeled, but the fixtures that you would like to have replaced and every other aspect of the design and installation. For example, if you are looking to replace your bathroom toilet, you will need to buy a new bathroom toilet and then install it. For someone who is inexperienced in home improvement, this can be a lot of work and responsibility.
Although there are a number of advantages to having a professional contractor remodel your bathroom, there are also a number of disadvantages. The biggest disadvantage is the cost. As previously mentioned, professional contractors are more likely to produce quality work. If you are looking for the best, you should be prepared to pay for it. That is why it can be expensive to have your bathroom professionally remodeled. The overall costs of remodeling will depend on how much remodeling you need to have done, as well as who you hire to do the remodeling.
Another disadvantage to having a professional contractor perform your bathroom remodeling is the lack of freedom that you may have. When a contractor first starts their work, they will do as they are told; however, you may encounter problems. Whether you decide to add on extra work or eliminate work, you may find that changing your mind costs extra money, in the form of labor and materials. If you are unsure as to exactly what you would like your bathroom remodeling project to entail, it may be a good idea to make up your mind first and put everything in writing with the contractor.
Since there are a number of advantages and disadvantages to having your bathroom professionally remodeled, you may find it difficult to make a decision. Perhaps, the best way to make that decision is to determine what your wants and needs are. Taking the time to thoroughly examine all of your options, instead of rushing to make a decision, is the best way to ensure that you get exactly what you want, as well as what you need.
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Be Comfortable With Your Kitchen Renovation
Being realistic with your budget is the first rule of renovation. In renovation, budget is key. It will hopefully keep you from making lots of wrong decision and choices before you are well into your renovation.
Do research before setting a budget so you will have an idea what contractors, appliances and materials you will need for your kitchen renovation. Once you have all your information for every aspect of the design, then you will be able to work out a workable budget. It is wise too to have a little bit of a cushion for the unexpected. Even the best-planned budgets can get thrown off track if something unexpected pops in during the installation or final renovation stages of your kitchen. It is always good to source at least three quotes from contractors to make sure you’re not paying too much. Never automatically go for the lowest bid because it certainly worth your money to spend a little extra to get quality work.
In reference to your appliances for your kitchen, it’s best to shop around and not buy the first thing you see. Price ranges vary from store to store so take your time. It is definitely worth the time to wait on a sale. Also you can use as a bargaining tool too by buying all the kitchen appliances from one store. Anyway you can safe money is the name of the game in kitchen renovations. Keeping your kitchen renovation on a budget is to be disciplined. When the urge comes “I just have to have that” syndrome, you will have to exercise discipline. Buying things that you had not planned on will send your budget through the roof.
When it comes to kitchen remodeling, there are several things you need to think about even before acquiring the services of a professional contractor, or making appliance selections. More than any other room of the house, the kitchen is the most versatile. It is used to prepare meals, feed the family, store foods, and clean and store service ware and other household items.
The kitchen is also the family gathering place. Everyone undoubtedly migrates to the kitchen because it is the main focus of the home. Therefore, it is important that every kitchen remodeling idea be taken into consideration. Search through home decorating magazines and catch some great ideas on TV. Whether you decide to design the kitchen yourself, work with a kitchen remodeling contractor or home center, formulating a plan will be the first step. In other words, write the vision and make it clear.
The first kitchen remodeling tip is to consider the three basic kitchen functions: storage, food preparation, and clean-up. A well thought out kitchen design will accommodate each of these three functions. The layout of the kitchen design should be defined with convenient layout and ease of movement. The classic “work triangle” should be the basis of the floor plan. The kitchen sink, refrigerator and stove, as the three kitchen features used most often, should be arranged in a triangular pattern. This work triangle saves unnecessary steps when cooking and has proven to be the most convenient layout.
The work triangle concept saves unnecessary steps when preparing foods, and proves the most convenient layout design.
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How to Get Rid of Mold in Your Home
Some Facts About Mold
Most of us have heard of mold, but don’t really know much about it. Until it makes it sick, or we notice that something in our refrigerator or cabinets has grown a layer of green fuzz. The fact is mold is a living fungus that exists all around us. It grows in our houses, often unseen, and we should really have a good mold disinfectant on hand.
Mold spreads easily because it sends out tiny spores that the air carries everywhere. The spores are invisible and their goal in life is to be warm, damp, and find food. The trouble is many common materials in our homes are what give them life. Things we take for granted as part of our daily lives such as clothing, carpet, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, dust, and books, when existing in the right temperature and humidity cause mold to flourish and spread unless treated by a mold disinfectant.
Not everyone experiences symptoms when exposed to mold, just as not everyone reacts to pollen in the air during the spring and summer, or cat dander all of the time. Even if this is true in your case, it doesn’t mean that it’s healthy to be breathing mold. Some possible ill-effects are runny nose, itching or burning eyes, cough, asthma, or other respiratory problems.
Taking Action
Since you usually can’t see mold, your first clue that you may have it is a damp, musty, or mildew like odor in a room or particular area of your home. Mold often grows after you’ve had some sort of water problem. Even something like an overflowing toilet or leaky washing machine can attract mold spores. Since mold grows fast and can invade at anytime, you should have a mold disinfectant available. This is especially true if you live in a damp or humid climate, use a humidifier, and daily temperatures range between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
There are definite steps you should take when you find mold, as you don’t’ want it to be a permanent house guest. It’s important that you eradicate every sign of mold as it will just keep spreading if you don’t.
Before you attack the mold and handle any chemicals, be sure to protect yourself from breathing in the spores or making skin contact. You should wear eye goggles, a mask over your nose and mouth, and rubber or latex gloves. Your clothing should be made from a washable fabric, as you’ll need to put them through the washer and dryer as soon as you’ve finished your mold disinfectant project.
If your home has many of the conditions that make it extra susceptible to mold, vacuum carpets and clean hard surfaced floors regularly. Be especially vigilant in damp areas. Any time you have a leak, repair the problem that caused it right away. Use your mold disinfectant since the spores are so difficult to detect.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms attract mold because they are damp, in the ideal temperature range, and there are lots of materials in there for mold to feast on. You should regularly use a mold disinfectant when you do your routine cleaning. In fact it’s a great idea to create a bathroom cleaning check sheet to ensure that you don’t miss any possible mold growing hot spots. Include such things as:
· Scrub the shower curtain with mold disinfectant
· Frequently wash all towels, bath mats, and area rugs
· Thoroughly clean sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets If your bathroom is carpeted, vacuum (they are best with hard surfaced flooring)
· Wash uncarpeted flooring
When you work with your bathroom cleaning check sheet each time, you won’t accidentally forget to do one of these critical tasks.
If you have mold on your deck, sidings, or roof, use a pressure washing product.
Mold is something you definitely don’t want to live with. A little diligence and good cleaning habits will help you avoid this annoying problem. Also, don’t forget to make up your bathroom cleaning check sheet.
Reduce Remodeling Stress in Tampa, Florida
Reduce Remodeling Stress in Tampa, Florida
Aside from the monetary burdens of remodeling, there are also several other factors when you choose to redo an area of your home that can lead to a significant amount of stress. Depending on the area you are redoing and the amount of work involved, remodeling can be an experience that throws the entire family for a loop and may take a long time to finish.
One of the areas in which stress can factor in is the presence of workers who are doing the remodeling in your home. Many homeowners attempt their own remodeling, but the there are some projects, such as installing ceramic tile floors and even painting that require a professional to do the job right. Many people do not have the time to try do-it-yourself remodeling.
For most of us, our home is our sanctuary, where we can get away from the pressures of work and can relax among the people who love us. Having workers in the home takes away a sense of privacy critical to the enjoyment of our homes and the relaxation of the day. It is important that when you hire people to do your remodeling job that you make them aware of the ground rules in your house. Remember, they are your employees and you have the right to tell them some basic rules about the usage of your house. If you do not like the workers using areas of the house that they are not working in, make sure to tell them. Also provide them with the ideal path in terms of exiting and entering the work area. You might also consider getting to know the workers. A degree of familiarity can take away stress that may come with the belief that a total stranger is in your home.
Another area in which remodeling may add considerable stress is the access to your home in certain areas. If you are planning on remodeling your entryway, you will want to make sure that you have an alternative entry point and that it is easily accessible to the whole family.
There are several ways to totally reduce the stress that comes with remodeling. One way is to make plans to be out of the house when the remodeling is taking place. Plan your vacation around the schedule. If you take this route, make sure that there is someone such as a neighbor who can check on the work being done and ensure the schedule is being adhered to. You could also consider staying with family or friends in town.
Finally, make sure the remodeling is set to a precise schedule. Day after day of sawing and hammering will inevitably begin to grate nerves but studies have shown that humans have a greater tolerance when there is a definite end pointing sight.
We specialize in home renovations and home remodeling throughout the Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Clearwater area.
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How To Prevent Home Repair Scams and Disputes
Anytime is prime time for home repairs — and that makes it prime time for outright scams or frustrating disputes. You can take action to avoid both problems.
Home repair scams by traveling con-artists work like this: Con-artists stop at your door, give you a hard sell, and offer sensational low prices. It might be for roofing or painting, tree-trimming, or asphalting your driveway with material supposedly “left over” from a job nearby. The con-artists insist that you pay in advance — but they do little or no work and never return. Remember, legitimate contractors very rarely solicit door-to-door. Be skeptical. The main rules are to check out a contractor, and never pay large sums in advance to a contractor you don’t know. Help older neighbors who might be pressured or intimidated into paying traveling con-artists.
A few ‘bad-apple’ local contractors also take large advance payments but fail to do the work, or do just part of a job or very shoddy work. This is hard to prove as fraud, but it’s costly and frustrating. Follow these tips to protect yourself when you hire a contractor:
Beware of high-pressure sales tactics such as “today-only” discounts, offers to use your home as a “display home” for replacement siding or windows, and “lifetime warranty” offers that only last for the life of the company. Always get several written estimates — shop around for the best deal before making such a large investment.
Check out a contractor before you sign a contract or pay any money. Request local references — and check them out. Contact the Attorney General’s Office to see if it has complaints or contact the Better Business Bureau. You can also contact your county clerk of court and ask how to check if a contractor has been sued by unsatisfied customers.
Get it in writing. Before any work begins, agree on a written contract detailing work to be done, responsibility for permits, costs, and any other promises. Ask for a copy of the contractor’s liability insurance certificate. Put start and completion dates in writing, and consequences if the contractor fails to meet them. (Example: the contract could be nullified if the contractor doesn’t start on time.) If you sign a contract at your home, in most cases you have three business days to cancel.
Avoid paying large sums in advance if you don’t know the contractor. If you have to make a partial advance payment for materials, make your check out to the supplier and the contractor. Insist on a “mechanic’s lien waiver” in case the contractor fails to pay others for materials or labor.
Be very cautious of credit or financing arranged by a contractor. This is an area of serious abuse by a few contractors in Iowa who arrange credit with high-cost lenders. Such loans may have high interest rates, steep up-front fees, hidden costs, and even costly brokers’ fees. Be wary of offers to incorporate credit-card debt or other debt into a second mortgage. Check first with your attorney or a local lender you can trust.
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Thank You Total Restoration Services Group from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay’s call for help coming from Hands Across the Bay
HUGE THANK YOU TO Total Restoration Services Group, Jim Bova and his awesome team!!! Watch this video to see how they quickly answered Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay’s call for help coming from Hands Across the Bay. They volunteered an entire weekend with 16 people to paint 9,000 sq feet including over 15 offices for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America NEW Administration Building! This wasn’t the first time #TotalRestorationServicesGroup General Manager Jim Bova has selflessly volunteered his time, talent, business, and heart to help families and organizations in our community. Jim recently BUILT beautiful wooden stairs, ramp and a porch needed to help us help a young girl with cerebral palsy enter into her home using her wheelchair. He once again donated his time & services…we are blown away and so thankful for his generous support!! If you are in need of fire, wind, water, mold 24/7 emergency restoration services, please Call Today Toll Free (844) 689 -9709 🙂
How To Achieve a High Home Improvement Value
How To Achieve a High Home Improvement Value
People purchase houses for many different reasons. Some people buy houses to improve the property and get a good return on investment. Other people buy property to sell. For whatever reason a person buy a house or property, they would like to see their home improvement value.
Estimating your home improvement value is fairly easy. Raising that value is just as easy if you know what to do, and how to do it. The basic rule of thumb is: the more money you put into your house, the more you can expect to get out of it. It doesn’t matter how big the house is, where it is located, or what condition it is in, there are always ways to increase your home improvement value.
It doesn’t have to be painstaking work to increase your home improvement value. All that is needed is planning, time, and money. To figure out where your house can improve, write items down on paper. On one side of the paper write what your house has, and on the other side write down what your house doesn’t have. For example, on the “house has” side of the paper, you can write: Two Bedrooms, One Bath, and Basement. You can fill in what your house doesn’t have, and what you would like your house to have in the “house doesn’t have” side. Realistically, you will not be able to complete all of the things on your list.
In today’s society people expect a certain level of living. Some people won’t even consider looking at a house if it didn’t meet their standards. Things you can add that will increase your home improvement value area a master bathroom bathroom, additional full bathrooms, or half baths. Making a master bathroom may be as simple as adding a door between the bathroom and the room. Just adding a door can increase your property value tremendously.
Adding another bathroom can be just as easy and you don’t have to take out another mortgage to get it done. If you have a closet or pantry that is big enough to hold a toilet and sink, then you may be able to add the additional bath.
Adding an extra bed room or garage can also increase your home value. If all of this is a little out of your price range, a new coat of paint, new flooring, or new cabinets can also increase your home improvement value. If you stick to white or neutral colors in the bathrooms and kitchen it will keep them feeling fresh and bigger. White is a contemporary color and will appeal to most buyers.
Remember the basic rule, that investing a small amount into your home now could increase your home improvement value by a considerable amount in the future. Keep things contemporary and fresh. Start those home improvements and watch your home improvement value climb!
We specialize in home renovations and home remodeling throughout the Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Clearwater area.
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Remodeling Choices in Tampa, Florida
You have some money set aside and you have decided to remodel a section of your house, the only problem is deciding where to put the money. There are several criteria people use when determining where to put their money when it comes to remodeling. Equity considerations, have-to projects, beautification and budget all come under consideration when deciding where you should remodel.
A lot of homeowners will place equity at the top of their list when they find they have some money to put towards remodeling. You can greatly increase the value of your home simply by touching up some areas of your house that people will tend to look at in the buying process. Most residential realtors will tell you that there are some very specific areas that buyers look for when they enter a home and are considering purchasing it; these areas can make or break a deal, or even justify a greater cost to the tune of thousands of dollars.
The specific areas are:
- the main bathroom
- the entrance
- the kitchen
- the master bedroom
If you have some extra money and are looking to add value to your home by remodeling, these are the areas to start. If you have just purchased or are in the process of purchasing a new home, you will want to look at these areas for the negotiating process. If you think they need some remodeling, then you have a couple of opportunities. The first is to bring down the asking price of the buyer. Many mortgage brokers will offer a loan that can be incorporated into the mortgage to apply to remodeling costs, so the best time to remodel will be when you first purchase that new house.
Perhaps the most important consideration of remodeling is the budget you are operating on. Once you get started on the project, it is very easy to get carried away and send a lot of money down the drain. You should price your whole project ahead of time, taking into consideration the fixtures you will need, any labor you will have to employ in specific areas, and costs of other materials. This will all be contingent upon the room or rooms that you will be working on. Kitchens and bathrooms will be at the top of the list in terms of expense, with bedrooms and living rooms not costing quite as much.
Finally, take into account any emergency projects that need to be done. These projects may not seem as glamorous as others- for instance, a roof should be replaced every twenty years or so. You certainly will not notice the aesthetic qualities of a roof remodeling in the way you would if you had redone the kitchen, but ensuring that functional elements of your home remain intact is vital to every other room in the house.
A good contractor will deliver more information than you need. We specialize in home renovations and home remodeling throughout the Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Clearwater area.
Call Now for Your Estimate Inspection: (844) 689-9709
Choosing the Proper Flooring for Your Room
Choosing The Proper Flooring For Your Room
When it comes to deciding on a flooring purchase the choices are staggering. There are carpets, hardwoods, vinyl, laminate and ceramic. The choice of flooring should be decided by room and use.
Carpet
A lot of homes are carpeted. Carpeting eludes a warmth and softness that other floors don’t. Some like the feel of carpeting underfoot. One of the first things to consider when purchasing a carpet is how much traffic will it receive? If you have a high traffic area, then nylon would be a good choice due to it’s durability. A carpet made of Olefin would also be a good choice for heavy traffic areas as it is strong and easy to clean. Polyester is also excellent in high traffic areas as it is easy to clean and resists water based stains. Another consideration would be the density of the carpet. You want a high number of fibers per square inch. The next consideration would be color and/or pattern of carpeting. Light carpeting colors create a spacious effect, making a room seem larger. Light color carpets of course show soil much more easily than dark. However, most stain and soil treatments put on carpeting today do help to prevent this problem. Dark or dull carpet colors will absorb light giving the room what some call a “cozy” feeling. Rugs with patterns will make a space seem smaller.
Hardwood Floors
When choosing hardwood for your home price may be a factor. Generally hardwood floors come pre-finished, this is when the manufacturer applies a finish at the factory. This finish is generally at least four coats of ultraviolet cured urethane resin. Hardwood floors are generally easy to clean with a simple sweep of a dust mop or vacuuming. A manufacturer finish on a hardwood floor will, with proper care, last up to fifteen years. You will want to choose a color that will accent your home and home furnishings. As a rule lighter colors go with country, contemporary and casual settings. Darker colored wood floors are for formal or traditional interiors. Lighter wood would be a white ash, sugar maple or southern yellow pine. Darker colors are beech, birch, red oak, heart pine and mesquite.
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring has come a long way and remains the most popular choice for kitchens and foyers. Vinyl is very durable and water resistant. It comes in a wide range of colors and patterns and is very easy to install for a do-it-yourselfer and vinyl floors are very easy to maintain.
Total Restoration
Total Restoration Services Group LLC has a state-of-the-art showroom at:
13000 Automobile Blvd.
Clearwater, FL 33762
(View a Map & Get Directions)
We Carry:
- Carpet
- Tile
- Hardwood
- and more
Call Us Today: (844) 689-9709
Black Mold Removal – Can You Do It Yourself?
Black mold is nasty stuff, and you need to treat it with care. Can you do black mold removal yourself or do you need to get the professionals in?
Black mold removal is something that you have to be careful with because black mold is toxic. You really do need to have good information about what black mold looks like and how it forms. It only takes a short period of time to do the required testing and inspection of your home to make sure that it is a safe place for your family. You should be particularly aware of any allergies that someone in your household has. This could be your first hint that you need to look at black mold removal.
Basements and bathrooms are the prime places for black mold testing and inspection in homes. This is because these are the places in the house most known for being damp and having a lot of moisture. Black mold can form on any surface – cement, tiles, or even the countertop if you don’t take special care to keep it clean and dry. There are testing kits for black mold that you can use yourself, so testing and inspection of your home is not a costly proposition. There are also excellent products on the market for black mold removal.
Once you do the black mold testing and inspection and find some places where there is black mold, before you start black mold removal, make sure the area is well-ventilated. If the black mold is concentrated in a small space, you can easily clean it with bleach and water, for difficult jobs you will need to use a commercial black mold removal product. You do have to make sure that you dry the area completely because any excess moisture will only be a new breeding ground for the black mold to return.
Testing for black mold firstly requires looking to see if there is any visible mold on the walls or floors of your basement. However, mold is not always visible because it can form in cracks and really small spaces. With black mold testing and inspection, you are really testing the air quality in your home because once mold spores are present they will be air-borne. Simple testing using a petrie dish containing a disc will let you know within two days if you have to consider black mold removal.
When you get ready to start black mold removal, wear a face mask and rubber gloves so that you don’t breathe in the black mold spores or let them touch your skin. This could cause serious respiratory problems. There are removal products on the market that kill the black mold. But make sure you always read the label and make sure that you follow all safety procedures for use of the product. Black mold removal is something that you may have to do several times to make sure you kill all the mold spores.
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How to Start Fixing Your Tampa Bay Area Home or Business Location After Wind or Storm Damage
If you have been a victim of a storm with any hail, wind or storm related damage, taking the following actions can get you started to fixing your home or office as quickly as possible:
Ensure Your Family’s Safety
Wind, hail, and weather related damage can create extremely dangerous conditions in and around your home or office. Keep family, employees, and pets out of affected areas until they are inspected and determined to be safe. When venturing outdoors after a storm, be especially careful to check for downed power lines, broken glass, and fallen debris and tree branches. Never let children or pets near flood waters that may contain sewage and pollutants. Standing water may also hide downed power lines. Always contact your local power company if you have any questions regarding possible downed power lines.
Seek Professional Assistance to Determine the Extent of the Damage and Safety of Your Home or Office
The immense force of storm driven rain, hail, and winds can cause serious damage to the structure of your home or office building. Roofs and floors may be damaged and collapse. Electric, gas, and water lines may present hidden hazards. Let a damage restoration professional inspect the structure first and do not enter the building until they let you know it is safe to enter.
Act to Preserve and Protect Your Property
Most insurance companies require that you take action to preserve and protect your residential or commercial property. Depending on the severity of the storm damage, you may need to perform temporary repairs to secure and protect your property and prevent further damage. Your Total Restoration Services damage repair professional is familiar with insurance company requirements and will assist you in complying with any requirements for your insurance policy.
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Home Repairs for Home Improvement in Tampa Florida
Sometimes we all get leaky faucets that cause annoying sounds during the night as the water drips down into the sink. Usually when faucets leak, it is caused by the wearing of the washers or O-rings. These leaks are relatively easy to fix in some instances, since homeowners can either replace the washers or O-rings or merely tighten the screws to repair the leak.
Other times the leaky faucets may need repairing. There are many different styles of faucets and parts may differ widely; but they all have parts that can be replaced. To replace the faucet you might have to make the purchase of a new faucet kit. The kits are easier to install than buying pieces one at a time.
- When installing the faucet kit you must shutoff the water supply which is usually below the sink or else in the basement area.
- After disconnecting the water, locate and unscrew the nuts found at the top of the faucet of the old faucets to loosen the nuts, and then pull up the faucet. When taking apart the faucet, it might benefit you to pay attention to the arrangement of the parts.
- Once the old faucet is removed, you are ready to install the new faucet. Make sure the nuts are securely tightened on the faucet before reconnecting the water lines. At this time you reconnect the water lines and turn on the water.
- Check for leaks before using the sink.
Improving your home is relatively easy in some areas. The repairs are part of improving the home and for the most part the process is easy. If the person performing the improvements can follow a few instructions, repairs are never hard. Therefore, you must make sure to follow instructions carefully before repairing your home.
If you need to install a new shower, it is possible to do so without the skill of a contractor. Shower kits come with systematic instructions for installation. You can use prefabricated shower panels and a plastic shower base to build an inexpensive easy-to-install shower stall. If you want an elegant look, try a custom-tiled shower stall. Other kits are also available that come with systematic instructions for repairs and installations.
It is essential to follow instructions if you are not hiring someone to handle the task. If you follow the instructions carefully, you should not have a problem finishing the tasks.
Home improvement does many things. When you improve your home, you are making a statement while increasing the equity of your home. Equity is important when you own a home. The equity of the home determines how much you can sell the home or how much a bank will loan you against your home. Equity is enhancing the home. At what time a person applies home improvement it may lead to increases of taxes but for the most part, the value of the home is increased as well. This means if you choose to sell your home, again you will have more advantages.
Repairing or installing a new faucet will not cost much, but it will increase the value of your home. Thus, the equity adding value is more than the price you will pay for a new faucet.
If you are installing a new faucet in the bathroom, or in the kitchen the kits are often the same price and you will follow the same procedures.
Anytime you purchase kits for improving the home, make sure you read the instructions to avoid problems. Reading the instructions will help you achieve accuracy. Again, do not forget to check for leaks before completing the procedure. Most times if you follow instructions however, there will be no problems.
Repairing plumbing in the home is not complex, but if you are repairing plumbing that is more complicated you may want to get quotes before taking on the job yourself. Remember that water leaks can cause damage to your home if left unattended for a period of time.
On the contrary, if you are installing a new shower, purchasing a kit will cost less than hiring a plumber. The kits include materials, such as shower flooring, doors, walls and/or curtains, shower head and faucet. Sometimes when you have a leaky shower, it is easier to repair by merely replacing the faucet, but if the shower is old, it may be wise to increase the value of your home by replacing the entire shower.
If you are installing a new shower verses the faucet make sure you have all the tools you need, including 3/8 inch PVC pipes, or half-inch PVC pipe. You will also need Purple Primier, CPVC Cement, Philips, cutters, liquid nails, and silicon sealant. Proceed with caution. If you feel uncomfortable installing a shower, by all means, look into hiring a professional. It will cost you a little more but will save you in the long run.
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How to Increase the Value of Your Home Today in the Tampabay Area
Selling your home can often be a stressful occasion. Everyone wants to make sure that they can sell their house for at least as much as they paid for it. Sometimes, people go to great trouble to fix up their homes to make sure they sell for a good price. People replace windows, roofs, furnaces, even plumbing. These are all costly renovations, and are often unnecessary. There are many small and inexpensive changes you can make to your home that will raise its resale value. Consider these ideas:
Paint
Paint every space in your house that you think could use freshening up. If you want a space to look bigger, such as a living room or closet, use a light color, or white. Although painting is time-consuming, it is quite inexpensive, and helps to make a house look new again.
Exterior
Check out the exterior of your house, including the yard; are there changes you could make here to improve its curb appeal? Paint trim and any steps or railings that look worn out, replace or repaint house numbers and light fixtures, and trim any hedges or bushes in your yard. Keep your grass cut and, even if you don’t have a flower garden, consider buying a pot or hanging basket of flowers to add color to your home’s entrance. You might even want to buy a welcome mat!
Kitchen & Bathrooms
The kitchen and bathroom are two rooms you will want to pay special attention to. Make sure they are spotless. Are all of your lights and electrical outlets working? Do you need to add more to make the rooms brighter and more accessible? If you are unable to do these jobs on your own, ask an electrician to do it for you. Although it will cost more, you will know that everything works; also, extra lighting and outlets really do increase the value of a room in the eyes of potential home buyers.
Flooring
Take a look at the flooring in your home. Are there rips or stains in linoleum or carpet? Are hardwood floors looking dull? Have all of your carpets cleaned. You can rent a carpet cleaner for a good price from a local home hardware or grocery store. If your carpet is damaged, you may be able to patch it if the spot is small. Linoleum is quite inexpensive, and easy to install. Clean and polish all hardwood floors.
Finishing Touches
Before potential home buyers arrive to look through your house, add the finishing touches. Put fresh towels in the bathrooms and kitchen. Tidy closets, and make sure no newspapers or bills are lying out. Wipe down counters. Light a candle or two and put on some quiet music. Make sure all pets are out of the way. By following these tips, your home will be sold before you know it, and the selling price will put a smile on your face!
Water Damage Prevention Tips for Tampabay Area Residential and Commercial Property
Water Damage Prevention for Tampa, Clearwater & St Petersburg Business & Home Owners
37% of U.S. homeowners claim to have suffered losses from water damage!
Water Damage Prevention Tips:
- Have a plumber inspect & maintain your water heater on a regular basis.
- Replace hoses on appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, & ice makers at the earliest signs of wear – before the manufacturer’s suggested timetable – they’re a lot cheaper than the water damage costs!
- Get your toilets inspected regularly by a plumber.
- When supply leaks occur, turn your water off fast! Make sure your kids know how to do this, too!
- Pay attention to your plumbing system – look for signs of wear – including noisy pipes, signs of moisture, or rust-stained water.
Don’t let this happen to you! Call Total Restoration Services for water damage prevention as well as water damage restoration in Clearwater, Tampa or St Petersburg FL!
Steps To Prevent Water Damage
Water damage happens when the leak continues for an extended amount of time. It is very important that you act as quickly as possible to fix the problem and limit the amount of Water damage. Water damage restoration is a serious undertaking and not to be taken lightly. Documentation of damage is only done by identifying the source of the water damage and accurate estimates are needed for a proper water damage cleanup. If it is taken lightly and not done properly by the appropriate skilled and experienced team of professionals then you could cause greater damage to the affected property and suffer a greater loss.
Water Damage:
You definitely need to hire a service professional like Total restoration services group, if you want to minimize the amount of damage done to your home. The type of water damage cleanup services required from experts of a water restoration company depends on the type of water involved in water damage. Some damage originated from grey water, which is a type of water damage which contains various harmful bacteria and large amount of chemicals, as containment that may even cause sickness to affected humans. The last type of water damage is black water, that contains harmful bacteria like E coli and other unsanitary agents like fungi. This type of harmful water damage originally caused by black water is specifically associated with unwanted sewage water contaminated with dirt and harmful components coming into the house will surely result in sickness.
Steps To Prevent Water Damage Are:
•Exterior Check: The exterior of your home or buildings can be a common entry way for water. Water finds its way into the house if there are cracks exposed on your exterior walls or roof. You first need to ensure that all the cracks are completely fixed and covered.
•Pipeline Check: The pipe leaks and bursts are among the most responsible factors for creating water damage in the residence or building. If you notice any moisture forming in your walls or ceiling, then it may be the perfect time to invite a water damage professional in order to inspect the area on your behalf. There are very less chances that you will have to invite back a similar professional to complete what is likely to be a costly water damage restoration only by taking preventive measures now.
Smoke and Soot Cleanup – Tampa FL
Fire Damage Restoration Tampa, Clearwater and St Petersburg FL
Smoke and Soot Cleanup
Experiencing a fire in your home or office can be a devastating ordeal. Fire damage restoration and smoke/soot removal is a complex task that should only be performed by professionals in the fire restoration industry. When construction materials such as adhesives and solvent based products burn, there are toxic gases released in the home or office. These can be extremely dangerous and should be handled with extreme caution and care. At Total Restoration Services Group LLC, our team of trained industry professionals will act quickly to help minimize damage and/or prevent damage and destruction caused by the effects of smoke and water. Total Restoration Services Group LLC can help you recover from any fire related disaster and get your home or office on the road to recovery. Please call with questions about the process. We are here to help you through the ordeal from beginning to end.
Total Restoration Services will work directly with your insurance company to break through the red tape and speed up the process.
The most important thing to remember is try not to worry. As professionals, we are skilled at identifying structure damage and eliminating the smoky odor that lingers after a fire.
No job is too small or too large for our trained team of fire and smoke damage experts.
Time is always of the essence in smoke and soot cleanup. Don’t delay the cleanup process.
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Do You Need a Professional to Remodel Your Kitchen?
Are you a homeowner who is looking to have your kitchen remodeled? If you are, you likely already know that you, literally, have an unlimited number of options.
In addition to what you would like remodeled and how you would like everything to look, you can also choose how your remodeling gets done. While a large number of homeowners make the decision to do their own kitchen remodeling, there are others who choose to use the assistance of a professional. That professional is often commonly referred to as a contractor. One of the best ways to determine whether you not you should use a professional contractor is to examine the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.
As you may have already assumed, there are an unlimited number of benefits to having your kitchen remodeled by a professional. Perhaps, the greatest benefit of a professional kitchen remodeling job is the end result. In almost all cases, you will find that a professional remodeling job is better than one that is performed by someone without experience. Although it may sound easy to replace the lighting in your kitchen or your kitchen countertops, you will find that it isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Instead of taking the time to learn, a large number of homeowner automatically turn to a professional contractor.
Speaking of time, you will also find that time is another advantage to using a professional contractor to remodel your kitchen. Since professional contractors are experienced at what they do, they will not only produce quality work, but they will also produce it in a relativity short period of time. Since the average homeowner is unfamiliar with the ins and outs of remodeling, in general, it often takes them longer to complete any home improvement projects. While this may not necessarily be a problem, it can be if you are pressed for time or if you are on a deadline. If you are, you may be able to benefit immensely from using the services of a professional contractor.
Safety is another advantage to using a professional contractor to get your kitchen remodeled. Whether you are interested in remodeling your whole kitchen or just focusing on a particular part of it, such as your kitchen cabinets, you will find that it is quite dangerous to remodel your own kitchen, especially if you do not know what you are doing. Depending on the particular remodeling project in question, you may need to use sharp tools, such as box cutters and saws. One little slip and instead of working on your kitchen, you could be spending the rest of your day in the emergency room. While professional contractors do make mistakes that can result in injury, those injuries rarely occur.
Although it may seem as if you can only benefit from using a professional contractor to remodel your kitchen, there are also disadvantages to hiring the services of one. One of those disadvantages is the cost. Since professional contractors are good at what they do, they often charge for it. The amount of money that you are charged will all depend on what type of remodeling you want done and the individual or company that you are looking to work with. The good news is that you may be able to develop a payment plan or arrange for financing, as long as you have a positive credit score.
Another disadvantage to having a professional remodel your kitchen for you was also mentioned above as an advantage. That is the end result. Unfortunately, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether or not an individual or company that claims to be professional really is. Before agreeing to work with a particular contractor, either an individual or a company, you are advised to ask for pictures of their previous work and you may also want to speak with past customers. This will help to ensure that your professional kitchen remodeling project turns out the way that it is supposed to be, professional.
As you can see, there are a number of advantages and disadvantages to using a professional contractor to remodel your kitchen. Perhaps, the best way to decide what you should do is keep the above mentioned points in mind and then think about your needs. If a professional contractor can offer you what you are looking for then it may be a good idea to use one.
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The Pros to Remodeling Your Bathroom
Are you a homeowner who is thinking about having your bathroom remodeled? If so, there is a good chance that you will thoroughly examine your decision to do so, before taking any action. When examining bathroom remodeling, you will find that there are a number of advantages and disadvantages to doing so. These advantages and disadvantages, when used to compare something, are often referred to as pros and cons. If you are like many other homeowners in your situation, you may be wondering what the upside to remodeling your bathroom is, in other words, you may be wondering what the pros are.
When it comes to bathroom remodeling, you will find that are a number of different pros. In fact, that is why so many homeowners end up making the decision to remodel their bathrooms. One of the biggest pros to remodeling your bathroom is how your bathroom will look. Two of the most common reasons for bathroom remodeling include unhappiness and unsafe bathrooms. If you are unhappy with the current state of your bathroom, a remodeling project may help to change that. Whether you only choose to remodel a portion of your bathroom or if you make the decision to remodel every inch of it, you will likely be pleased with your decision to do so.
The choices that you have are another one of the pros to remodeling your bathroom. As a homeowner, you have complete control of your home, as well as a bathroom remodeling project. For instance, if you were looking to remodel your home, but you were on a limited budget, you could decide which particular parts of your bathroom that you would like remodeled, such as the bathroom tub. If money is not an issue, you may even make the decision to remodel your whole bathroom. In addition to deciding what parts of your bathroom you would like remodeled, you will also have complete control over the products and materials used. For instance, if you wish to replace your bathroom toilet, you would be able to choose your own replacement; thus likely resulting in the bathroom of your dreams.
Another one of the many pros to bathroom remodeling is that it is relatively easy to do. This also has something to do with the above mentioned choices. If you have prior home improvement experience, you may prefer to remodel your own bathroom. Doing so will not only ensure that your bathroom turns out exactly the way that you wanted it to, but you may also save yourself money. Although you can save yourself money by doing your own remodeling, you may not want to or you may be unable to do so. If that is the case, you still have a choice. That choice is seeking assistance from a professional contractor. Despite costing a fairly decent amount of money, your bathroom will be remodeled professionally and often in less time. Therefore, not matter what you want or need to do, you have a option, when it comes to having your bathroom remodeled.
It is also important to mention that bathroom remodeling projects can help to increase a home’s value. That is one of the biggest pros to having your bathroom remodeled. The increase in value, if there is one, will depend on a number of different factors. Those factors include what type of remodeling is done, as well as how it is done. Whether you choose to hire the services of a professional bathroom remodeling expert or if you have prior home improvement experience, the decision to remodel your bathroom could increase the value of your home.
Although there are a number of pros to bathroom remodeling, there are also a number of cons. Those cons mainly include the cost of doing so. When it comes to deciding whether or not you want to remodel your bathroom, you will have to make up your own mind; however, when doing so you may want to keep the above mentioned points in mind.
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Choosing New Kitchen Cabinets If You Are Kitchen Remodeling
Are you tired of opening up the same kitchen cabinets, every single day? Although many homeowners love their kitchens, including their kitchen cabinets, there are some who are looking for a change. If you are one of those homeowners, the ones who are looking for a change, you may want to think about remodeling your kitchen, particularly your kitchen cabinets.
When it comes to kitchen remodeling, there is a common misconception that is mistakenly believed by many. That misconception is exactly what kitchen remodeling is. Many assume that to remodel a kitchen you need to change everything, from the light fixtures all the way down to the floor tiles. While a large number of homeowners do choose to remodel their whole kitchen, there are others who only choose to remodel small portions of it. Whether you are looking to remodel your whole kitchen, all at once, or you if are only looking to remodel a part of it, there is a good chance that you may be in the market for new kitchen cabinets; they are one of the most commonly remodeled parts of a kitchen.
Although choosing a new set of kitchen cabinets may seem like a fairly easy task, it is one that you shouldn’t make on an impulse. Since you will be stuck with these new kitchen cabinets, at least until you move or decide to remodel again, you will want to make sure that you get your first choice. There are a number of different ways that you can do this. For the best results, you may want to visit your local home improvement store. When visiting one of your local home improvement stores, you should find a collection of kitchen cabinets on display; in fact, you may find a fairly large number of them on display. Viewing each of these kitchen cabinets is a great way to decide which cabinets would look great installed in your kitchen.
In addition to visiting your local home improvement store, you may also want to examine kitchen cabinets online. Although the shipping for kitchen cabinets is often considered quite high, you may be able to find exactly what you were looking for online. It is advised that you find either an online home improvement retailer or an individual who specializes in making their own kitchen cabinets. In fact, if you are looking for a unique set of kitchen cabinets, a set that you cannot find anywhere else, you may be able to order a custom set of kitchen cabinets. The cost may be more than what you intended on paying, but, as previously mentioned, it is important to get what you want, especially when remodeling your kitchen.
When searching for the perfect set of kitchen cabinets, for your next kitchen remodeling project, it is important to keep a number of things in mind. One of those things is what you will be using your kitchen cabinets for. What you are using your kitchen cabinets for may have an impact on what you can and cannot have. For instance, if you will be using your kitchen cabinets to store your food or your dishes, you will need to make sure that you purchase cabinets that can offer you the most space. While decorative kitchen cabinets are nice, they are sometimes limited on the storage space that they have.
In addition to the size of the storage space, it is also important to examine the size of the kitchen cabinet itself. In the United States, most home improvement stores sell kitchen cabinets that are not fully put together, but they are often precut to size. It may be possible to change the measurements, but you may find it to be difficult and costly to do so. Although you may be more concerned about the color or design of a kitchen cabinet set, it is important to remember the basics. Even the most beautiful kitchen cabinet set will not do you any good if it cannot be installed in your kitchen.
By keeping the above mentioned points in mind, you should be able to go out and find the kitchen cabinet set that you were looking for. Once you have found the kitchen cabinet set of your dreams, the remodeling can begin. Whether you choose to install your own kitchen cabinets or you let a professional do it for you, your cabinets could be installed in as little as a day or two.
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The 5 Worst Remodeling Mistakes You Can Make
Just about everybody dreams of turning an okay-but-not-perfect home into a dream home. That’s why home improvement stores and do-it-yourself television programs have become so popular in recent years. And there’s no reason you shouldn’t remodel… as long as you know what you’re getting yourself into, so you can avoid the pitfalls that often snag unsuspecting homeowners.
So, how do you fix up your home correctly? Keep the following “worst” remodeling mistakes in mind when you’re planning and carrying out your project.
1. Be careful about over-expanding with additions.
Adding an addition can be a mistake. If you love your neighborhood and your location, and you’re planning on staying in your home for the rest of your life, an addition can make sense. If, however, you see yourself moving someday, think about the ramifications adding a lot of square footage onto your house could have.
You’d think that any increase in size would automatically add value, but if the other houses in the neighborhood are one-level, one-garage ranchers, your decision to add a second story and a bunch of fancy bump outs might just look out of place. This can make it difficult to sell. People want a big upscale home in a neighborhood with other big upscale homes, not a big home that dwarfs everything else in a modest neighborhood.
2. Watch out for under-budgeting problems.
Home improvements are always more expensive than you originally estimate. They usually take a lot longer to finish than estimated too. This means homeowners regularly go 20-30% over their budgets, which can leave them in a world of financial hurt.
To protect yourself, be very conservative when figuring out how much of a remodeling job you can afford. Assume costs will go over estimates and make sure you can handle that additional financial burden.
3. Don’t turn your home into something it isn’t.
Make sure to take the style and design of your house into consideration when you plan remodeling projects. An ultra-modern bathroom with concrete counter tops and stainless steel cabinets is going to look a little odd in a Victorian house.
Changes that don’t match the style of the home will be a big turnoff to potential buyers down the road. This is particularly true with historical homes; people want the original details. They’re a big part of what gives those older homes their appeal and value.
4. Don’t do it yourself if you’re not qualified.
There are plenty of projects that do-it-yourselfers can handle, but when it comes to big remodeling jobs, you’re better off letting a pro take care of it unless you’re experienced at both design and construction. Due to inexperience, amateurs end up doing sloppy jobs, and that’s something that devalues the house when it’s time to sell. Even worse, you may find out half way through the job that you’ve screwed something up big time and you need to hire a pro to fix it. Then you’ll not only have to pay the cost of the job, but you’ll have to pay extra for your own mistakes.
5. Don’t take on unnecessary renovations.
If you’re remodeling at least in part to increase the value of your home for when you sell it, don’t bother with projects that won’t recoup their cost (and there aren’t many major remodels that do). If you’re selling your home, fix anything that’s broken and do simple (and economical) cosmetic jobs. Let the future homeowner spend the big money.
Of course, if you’re remodeling to turn your home into your dream home and you want to live there for a long time to come, then you can make any changes that make sense to you. Just don’t think of remodeling as a financial investment; think of it as an investment in improving your lifestyle.
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Make Homes More Energy Efficient While Remodeling
According to the National Association of Homebuilders, Americans spend approximately $215 billion remodeling their homes every year. So if you’re planning to renovate, you may want to remember one point: It can pay to make your home more energy efficient while you remodel.
“Homeowners are putting extra emphasis on energy cost savings when remodeling their homes,” explains Danny Lipford, homebuilding expert and host of the television show “Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford.” “Projects that provide more energy efficiency have proven to help reduce heating and cooling costs, in some cases by up to 15 percent.”
Lipford says that homeowners would be wise to seek every possible way to keep their homes energy efficient and resistant to moisture. He recommends that early in the remodeling process you should ask the contractor plenty of questions. Find out where he thinks you can maximize energy savings, where energy can be lost during a renovation, how to protect against potential weather damage and if he plans to use innovative products that can help save energy while protecting your home.
The three key zones to focus on to cut energy costs are:
ZONE #1: The Attic
Attic insulation can result in significant energy savings, reducing heating and cooling costs by using innovative building materials.. “Some of the most effective solutions that help make homes more efficient are the ones you can’t see and are important to focus on early in the remodeling process.
ZONE #2: The Walls
During construction, contractors can use a house wrap, which meets ENERGY STAR standards-under the siding. The wrap protects the house like a windbreaker, forming a protective skin around the walls, doors and windows. Installing house wrap can help lower heating and cooling costs by keeping outside air and water out while allowing moisture to escape. Without a quality house wrap, homes are more vulnerable to exterior deterioration, air and water infiltration and possibly mold.
ZONE #3: The Windows
Vinyl windows have become one of the most popular choices for superior energy efficiency and moisture management, especially when flashed correctly and installed with insulated glass panels.
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An Essential Guide to Planning and Maintaining Your Bathroom
Cleaning:
There are many so called suitable bathroom cleaners on the market today. In our experience the best by far is good old soap and water. Simply wash down your various fittings after use with warm soapy water, and polish dry with a soft dry cloth where applicable. Naturally vitreous china is totally impervious to bleaches and other acidic based cleaners and can be safely cleansed accordingly, but more care and attention must be taken when cleaning Cast Iron Baths, Gold or Chrome plated items such as taps and accessories.
Future Access:
Part of your planning process for your new bathroom should encompass sensible thought and allowance for future access to the various plumbing fittings. It is advisable to always allow a suitable access point to make exchange of a plumbing fitting a fairly straight forward process in the future if necessary.
The Power Shower:
Always make sure that the cubicle or over bath screen that you are purchasing is suitable for use with your shower. The effect created by a shower supported by a pump, can in some instances be pushed open by the force of a power shower. Of course if you are purchasing both items you can be assured that you shall be advise if your choice is a suitable compliment.
Wooden Bathroom Products:
All wooden bathroom products must be treated with the utmost of care within the bathroom. While wooden products are coated with a specially finished lacquer which is specifically designed to withstand splashes and condensation, it is important to ensure that water is not in prolonged contact with these surfaces as this will over time lead to surface damage.
Bathroom Mirrors:
Always ensure that a mirror to be used within your bathroom is suitable for such use. Proper bathroom mirrors are specifically coated on the rear to withstand continually subjection to steam and condensation.
Acrylic Baths:
An acrylic bath fitted properly will give rigidity and longevity on par with a steel or cast iron equivalent. Each bath comes with a supporting, height adjustable cradle. However a highly recommended and in many cases tacit practice is to fit a supporting timber batten along the underside of the length and depth of the bath. This not only gives a much sturdier weight support for the product but will stop the bath “moving” when fitted and help prevent the sealant between tiles and bath from breaking and needing replacing.
Wastes & Sealing:
Always use a good silicon sealant to ensure a water tight seal between the metal waste and porcelain. Never fit a waste Dry.
Caution! – An over-tightened waste can cause undue stress to the pottery and in some instances crack the porcelain.
Spacing your cistern:
Be sure to space the cistern slightly away from the wall. If fitted to an outside wall this will prevent thermal shock (caused by changes in temperature between the cistern and the wall) and help reduce the condensation that forms on the pottery surface.
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Bathroom Tiles And The Best Bathroom Design Ideas
Bathroom tiles set the tone for the space. Creating a mood with bathroom tiles can lend a unique character to your bathroom. No bathroom can be complete without nice floor tiles that compliment the fittings and fixtures. A dynamic pattern on your bathroom floor or a contrasting wall color can really set the tone of your bathroom.
No longer are bathrooms limited in the choice of tiles to plain white, square shapes, and glazed ceramic finishes. Today, there are several hundreds of different styles, colors, sizes when it comes to finding that, and elusive, perfect bathroom tile. The materials are no longer limited to ceramic. You get tiles in travertine, sandstone, marble, granite to name a few.
If you are worried about the tile sizes for your bathroom, there are now tiles are available in a variety of sizes. Piecing them together can create a unique, striking, and eye-catching designing either on the floor or on the wall of your bathroom. If you think you are not creative, cover the entire wall from floor to ceiling with both the same type of tile as well as same color. Or you can create a completely different effect by mixing it up and having one color of tile at the bottom of the wall and a different (contrast) on the top of the same wall separated by thin and textured pieces that work as a chair rail clearly distinguishing between the two types of tiles used. Your imagination is the only limitation when it comes to bathroom design.
Depending on the bathroom tile idea you have in mind, you will be able to choose tiles that suit the desired décor. The starting point for bathroom decoration is the range of shapes, sizes, textures, patterns, and materials these tiles are available in. A creative bathroom tile design idea can help you have the bathroom of your dreams.
Ceramic is the preferred material for bathroom floor tile as it is durable, offers resistance to dampness, and is non-slippery to walk on and use when wet. It is also easy to clean and stains can be removed with less effort. Of course, this does not mean that other materials aren’t user-friendly or durable. You can select tiles in the materials of your choice, but check with the salesperson on durability and life.
We are listing down some bathroom floor tile ideas than can help you create the bathroom that you always wished for.
- Solid Color Tiles: Floor tiles in solid colors for your bathroom can help create a warm ambiance. You can use tile borders in contrasting colors to the floor tile or you can create a pattern using two or more than two differently colored tiles. The visual impact will be very interesting.
- Different Tile Sizes: Try to use colored tiles for floors and walls in different sizes or lay them diagonally to create unique patterns.
- Contrasting Grout Color: Using contrasting grout color with ceramic floor tiles looks very interesting. Ex: if you want to use white tiles then use grout in red, blue, or yellow color for contrast. Do not forget to apply sealers to grout lines in heavy traffic areas to protect and preserve the color of the grout.
- Using Your Favorite Tile Color: If your favorite bathroom tile color is blue, you can consider adding some blue decorative tiles on the walls or use different shapes/textures to make the composition visually appeal.
- Contemporary, Chic Look: Use bold and bright colors with graphics against plain backgrounds. Add contemporary and sleek styled accessories and enjoy the chic look!
- Turn Up the Love Feel: Add a touch of romance to your bathroom with floral tiles in pastel or soft shades such as pink, light blue, light green or use hand painted sinks and maybe get a wooden floor to complete the love-dovey look!
- The Mediterranean Look: A mix of terracotta tiles and Mexican or Spanish hand-painted tiles for the floors will create the trendy Mediterranean look.
The important thing when designing your bathroom is to pay attention to the bathroom tile colors because colors affect your mood, while creating a warm, cold, or intimate ambiance in the space. If you like bright colors them peach and yellow could be the colors for you. These warm colors make your bathroom feel cozy. Using neutral colors like beige, white, or similar colors make the area look large and reflect color. Blues, greens, and violets are serene or cool colors, while reds, oranges, purples add a touch of drama to the bathroom as well as absorb light making the area look smaller.
Have fun shopping for your bathroom tiles. Remember to choose tiles that are suit your individual tastes and are practical and don’t give in to trends, though you can always look at them for inspiration!
Call Now for Your Free Inspection: (844) 689-9709
Take Smart Steps When Remodeling Your Home
Every homeowner has dreams for their property, but often they don’t know how to invest properly in their homes. Spring is an ideal time for beginning remodeling projects. There’s just something about the weather and green grass that makes us want to paint the walls.
You can make choices to remodel your home that don’t hurt your pocketbook. What is the ultimate goal for the smart homeowner? To have every dollar that goes into a project come back to them in value. There are steps that can be taken to ensure that you don’t spend extra money on that project.
Whether you plan to paint a room, remodel your kitchen or add on a second story, you must make wise choices. Let’s look at some steps that will take you to a successful project.
Step #1: Decisions need to be made
This is your home, and you have some decisions to make. The first one is whether your project requires a contractor or not. This depends on how much time you have, what your skills are and how much stress you can handle. If there is even a slight hint that you might not finish the project or won’t finish it well, you should hire a contractor. Yes, you have to pay more, but in the end you have something that has the potential to appeal to buyers, not repel them.
If you decide to use a contractor, make some smart decisions. You have to shop around for a contractor. Ask plenty of questions and go with someone you are comfortable with. Word-of-mouth will tell you a lot, so ask everyone you know about what they’ve heard about the contractor in question. Don’t forget to call the Better Business Bureau and the state attorney general’s office about any investigations or complaints about the contractor and his subcontractors.
Step #2: Take it one project at a time
If this is your first remodel project, don’t start with something major. In order to keep your finances and sanity in tact, you should prioritize what you need to do in the home. Don’t try to do it all at once. For example, having your living room painted and your bathroom torn out at the same time will be a big strain on you.
Start with the smallest and most minor projects first. This often includes the things you can do yourself, like painting and new light fixtures. Then move onto the projects that will pay you in the long run, such as new windows and major systems. Then turn to the cosmetic and the finishing.
Step #3: Cheap will result in costly
There are many places where you can cut corners in cost. Your walls, roof and floors aren’t among them. You can buy cheaper fixtures, plain bathroom tiles and moderate-cost appliances. But your structure, insulation, electrical, plumbing and heating and cooling are what makes your home efficient. By spending the full dollar for these things, you can save a little money in the long run. Believe me, rising utilities are all the reason to make your home top-notch efficient.
Along with this, you should invest in good windows and doors. They are expensive, but again, aren’t a place to cut costs. When you are purchasing windows, look for brands with high energy efficiency ratings and low maintenance. A good choice is often a good quality vinyl window.
Step #4: Classic design is always best
While trends are fun, they cut back your resell options. You are best off if you use classic materials, like wood and granite, and simple design. Use your decor as a way to give your home style, or be prepared to repaint before you can sell the home.
Step #5: Expect your budget to be blown
It’s a nice idea to think that you can stick to your budget, or better yet, come in under budget. But this isn’t always possible with home remodeling projects. Why? Because homes hold lots of surprises.
You should give yourself at least 15% over your budget as maneuvering room. This will cushion you from any unexpected costs and surprises. Do this especially if you are working with a contractor. Remember you budget and his estimates are just numbers up in the air. When the dollars are spent, that is how much your work really costs.
There are a lot of ways to be practical when making changes to your home. Walk through the aisles of your local home store when making decisions. Ask your contractor to help you get the best for your money. But the top factor to being practical in your home remodeling project – Knowledge. Do some research and investigation into what you are going to do with your home. Look at the steps involved and what to expect the final project to give you. Use your potential for knowledge to your advantage and you will make wise decisions for your home.
Call Now for Your Free Inspection: (844) 689-9709
Hiring the Right Contractor
Hiring a contractor may sound like a simple task but if your not careful you could be that “little old lady” that gets taken advantage of.
If you own a home and have a project your thinking of, you may need a contractor, BUT you run a risk of being scammed by a fraudulent one. Contractor fraud in the home improvement industry is one of the most complained about industries at the Better Business Bureau. If you think fraud victims are just little old ladies, think again. Some unscrupulous contractors can be so clever that it makes them a hazard to all of us.
Be careful of the so-called “free” inspection or “my crew is in the neighborhood on another job”. They seem to have extra materials left over and want to offer you a great discounted price, so they offer a free inspection and guess what? You need work done! The chances are the materials aren’t the best, the workmanship is going to be shabby and the price he gives you will be so good you won’t be able to pass it up. Oh and I almost forgot, you probably don’t need any work done at all!
Things To Look For When Hiring A Contractor:
- Check the contractor for a license and insurance
- Get references of his previous jobs
- Check with The Better Business Bureau for any complaints against his company
- Get at least 3 estimates from other contractors
The good guys
The vast majority of home contractors are honest, reputable small-business owners who work hard to make sure that they do high quality work, use good materials. They are dedicated to your satisfaction and earnestly want to earn your recommendation. Many contractors are members of professional organizations or unions that actively work to weed out contractor scams and fraud.
By doing your part to protect yourself, you can prevent getting taken by clever, manipulative contractors.
Call Now for Your Free Inspection: 727-573-1959
Reduce Remodeling Stress
Aside from the monetary burdens of remodeling, there are also several other factors when you choose to redo and area of your home that can lead to a significant amount of stress. Depending on the area you are redoing and the amount of work involved, remodeling can be an experience that throws the entire family for a loop and may take a long time to be finished.
One of the areas in which stress can factor highly is the presence of workers who are doing the remodeling in your home. Many homeowners have started to attempt their own remodeling, but the fact remains that there are some projects, such as installing ceramic tile floors and even painting- that require a professional to do the job right. Many people just do not have the time to try do-it-yourself remodeling. In these cases, the homeowner will have to deal with people from outside of the family using the home on a regular basis.
For most of us, our home is our sanctuary, where we can get away from the pressures of work and can relax among the people who love us. Having workers in the home takes away a lot of the sense of privacy critical to the enjoyment of our homes and the relaxation of the day. It is important that when you hire people to do your remodeling job for you that you make them aware of the ground rules in your house. Remember, they are your employees and you have the right to tell them some basic rules about the usage of your house. If you do not like the workers using areas of the house that they are not working in, make sure to tell them so. Also make sure to provide them with the ideal path in terms of exiting and entering the work area. It may sound strange, but you might also consider getting to know the workers a little bit. A degree of familiarity can take away the stress that may come with the belief that a total stranger is in your home.
Another area in which remodeling may add considerable stress is in the access to your home and especially in certain areas. If you are planning on remodeling your entryway, you will want to make sure that you have an alternative entry point and that it is easily accessible to the whole family.
There are several ways to totally reduce the stress that comes with remodeling. One way is to make plans to be out of the house when the remodeling is taking place- plan your vacation around the schedule. If you take this route, make sure that there is someone such as a neighbor who can check up on the work being done and ensure the schedule is being adhered to. You could also consider staying with family or friends in town, although many people will find that this just adds a different kind of stress to the remodeling process!
Finally, make sure that the remodeling is set to a precise schedule. Day after day of sawing and hammering will inevitably begin to grate on the nerves, and studies have shown that humans have a greater tolerance for ordeals when there is a definite end pointing sight.
Call Now for Your Free Inspection: (844) 689-9709
Mold Growth
Mold Growth
Mold Remediation in Tampa FL
Mold can start to grow in as little as 48 hours any time excessive moisture is the result of a flood, slow leak, broken pipe, or just high humidity.
If we find mold in your Tampa home or office, we will respond appropriately and immediately reporting all of our observations to your insurance company. If mold contamination is isolated to less than 10 square feet, expensive testing and protocols are generally not required. Total Restoration Services can proceed with the claim and perform mold remediation in your home or business if the contaminated area is less than 10 square feet. If we encounter an affected area more than 10 square feet, we will contain the area, stop the normal mitigation process, and immediately notify your insurance company. If this is the case, we strongly recommend the use of an environmental testing service to establish baseline levels of mold.
Over the last three decades, mold growth and consequent allergies have resulted in the tripling of asthma cases all over the country. Allergies that arise due to mold have many symptoms like congestion in the chest, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, nausea or fever, and in some cases, hives and rashes may also develop depending on the type and proliferation of mold growth. Mold eats up the very surface it thrives on which means that you will end up facing structural and foundation damage as well.
How We help
We are the professionals to turn to if you you start to smell that distinctive, musky mold smell in your Tampa home or commercial premises. We will get rid of your mold problem for good. Our services are all-inclusive and in-depth. We ensure that complete mold remediation and inspection is conducted and there is no stone left unturned making sure that the air you breathe is safe from mold spores and allergens.
Call Now for Your Free Inspection: (844) 689-9709
Mold Inspection, Remediation & Removal
Mold Inspection, Remediation & Removal
Total Restoration Services Group has years of expertise and technical know-how when it comes to complete mold remediation and removal in the Tampabay area. We undertake every aspect of the process with just one end goal in mind and that is to ensure that your commercial and residential premises are completely free of mold.
Our experts are certified professionals who are well versed with every single aspect of mold cleanup and removal like inspection and assessment, testing, removal, remediation as well as mold abatement. We also ensure that all these procedures are completed in a green and environmentally friendly way.
Successful mold remediation requires total mold removal from the interior environment. This may require removal of the contaminated materials. In most cases, the use of industry specialized professional equipment will be required to remove and safely return the contaminated conditions to normal.
An air quality test by an industrial hygienist will be performed to confirm remediation process success.
Reconstruction
Total Restoration Services Group LLC is a state-certified general contractor. We can rebuild or repair any damage that has occurred or help you create a new space to enjoy. With over 45 years in this industry, we have seen it all and done it all. From mild to wild we can help you create a new look or recreate your pre-existing look.
How We help
We are the professionals to turn to if you you start to smell that distinctive, musky mold smell in your home or commercial premises. We will get rid of your mold problem for good. Our services are all-inclusive and in-depth. We ensure that complete mold remediation and inspection is conducted and there is no stone left unturned making sure that the air you breathe is safe from mold spores and allergens.
Water Extraction & Flood Cleanup – What to do and not to do!
Water Extraction & Flood Cleanup
Our state-of-the-art machines remove all water from your home or business after a flood or other event has occurred. We make sure the area is dry and thoroughly cleaned. Let the professionals ensure all water is removed to avoid mold and mildew.
Our Flood Damage Restoration Professionals are trained on current procedures, such as Rapid Structural Drying, to dry your entire structure as quickly as possible, using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Moisture meters are used to locate moisture that may not be visible or may be hidden behind walls or cabinets, so that our Water Damage Restoration Service Professionals can ensure that all wet materials are dry. Because we understand how important it is to react quickly in the unfortunate event of water damage, smoke damage, or fire damage, you can rely on Total Restoration Services to provide emergency response and quick professional service 24-hours a day.
In the event of flood damage, do the following:
- Stay calm! Call Total Restoration Services Group
- Make sure the water source is turned off. This will help contain the damage.
- Turn off the breaker in the damaged area before you unplug or remove any electrical devices located on the wet carpet.
- Place aluminum foil under the legs of any furniture that is in contact with wet carpet. This might help prevent furniture stains on your carpet.
- Lift draperies away from wet carpet.
- Pin up upholstered furniture skirts which may get wet.
- Remove books, shoes, paper goods, fabrics, potted plants, and other items which may stain wet carpet.
Do not attempt the following:
- Don’t use your home vacuum, since electrical shock may result, as well as certain damage to the equipment itself.
- Don’t place newspaper in traffic areas to walk on, since newspaper ink transfers easily to the wet carpet fibers and may result in permanent staining.
- Don’t walk on carpet any more than necessary. This will keep the damage from spreading to unaffected areas.
Total Restoration Services Group, LLC Launches Revamped Website For Customer Service
Total Restoration Services Group, LLC who provide emergency restoration services unveil their improved website.
[Press Release Distribution]
Statistics indicate hurricanes and associated flooding have caused approximately $500 billion in damages to homes and businesses, in the state of Florida alone, over the last century. If water damage is not controlled in a timely manner, resulting mold damages can cost the average homeowner at least $4,000 per incident. In an effort to assist Florida families with damage control and restoration, Total Restoration Services Group, LLC has launched a newly revamped website designed to facilitate access to the emergency services they provide.
Jessica Ralph of Total Restoration Services Group, LLC explained, “Our newly designed website makes it easy for visitors to access important information when emergency services are required. Whether our clients need services related to flood and water damage restoration in Tampa, fire and smoke damage restoration in Clearwater or wind and storm damage in the surrounding Tampa Bay areas, we offer a 24/7 phone number for emergencies. We take care of all insurance claims and adjusters so the customer does not have to worry about those details during these stressful situations. We also offer a wide range of non-emergency services, such as mold inspection, remediation and removal as well as a variety of construction, reconstruction and cleaning services for residential and commercial clients.”
Jessica continued, “Our previous website needed a major overhaul because we felt it did not adequately provide our visitors with the information they needed to assist them regarding emergency restoration services in Tampa Bay, as well as all of Florida. We contracted the services of Your Marketing Crew, LLC in Tarpon Springs, Florida and we are very pleased with the outcome. Our pledge to our customers is to go above and beyond our call of duty. We will do whatever it takes to deliver a Total Satisfaction experience. Our new website is just another component that will help us do that. When an emergency happens, it is important to begin damage control and restoration as quickly as possible to mitigate the amount of resulting damage. Our dedicated team at Total Restoration Services hopes to make that process as easy and stress free as possible for our customers. Total Restoration Services Group also has a state-of-the-art showroom for their clients. It’s a one-stop shop with thousands of selections to choose from. These include items such as flooring (tile, wood, carpet and laminate), cabinets, counter tops, paint, and much more. Our goal is to get our clients back to the comforts of their home or place of business as quickly as possible.”
About Total Restoration Services Group, LLC
Total Restoration Services Group, LLC is a certified, Florida licensed General contractor with more than 45 years of experience. Based in Clearwater, Florida, they specialize in restoration of damage from fire, wind, water and mold for residential and commercial clients throughout the state of Florida. Their reputation for excellence is reflected in the customer reviews posted on their website. They offer free damage repair estimates and utilize the state-of-the-art Xactimate estimating system, which is the same estimating system the insurance companies use to control claims. This allows them to customize work orders and documents, therefore expediting the estimating process accurately. Current and potential customers are encouraged to visit their website for a complete listing of their services. They can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus.
For more information about us, please visit https://totalrestorationfl.com/
Contact Info:
Name: Jessica Ralph
Email: Jessica@totalrestorationfl.com
Phone: (727) 573-1959
Organization: Total Restoration Services Group, LLC
Our Pledge To You
- We will listen.
- We will learn.
- We will stay late.
- We will show up early.
- We will strive to exceed your expectations.
- We will go above beyond to do what ever it takes to deliver a ‘Total Satisfaction Experience’.
- We will always be here for you.
- Thank you for allowing us to serve you today.