12-31-2011 06:45 AM
by BillyJ |
3 comments »
I’m almost at the point where I can begin making the cabinets. After months and months of demo and rebuilding, the cabinets are almost in view. Although designs change almost daily, I can see an end to the renovation. There were only a few items left to complete, finishing the tiling was next on my list.
The tiles were handcrafted in the early 1940s by an artisan. Fortunately, the original owners purchased more then enough for the kitchen when they put the tile down. I had four boxes...
Read this entry »
12-06-2011 08:48 PM
by BillyJ |
2 comments »
I was able to move both the light and construct the arches in two nights. It would have been much easier incorporating the arches into the original design, however, I found it was not all that horrible building off site.
Laying everything out on a 1/4 OSB board, I drew a 70 5/8” circle. Allowing for the 1/4 drywall, I cut and assembled the two sides. After that, it was glue, screw, block, glue, screw, and finish.
I find using the 3M #61 spray to hold the molding is a lot easie...
Read this entry »
12-04-2011 07:38 AM
by BillyJ |
4 comments »
I am honestly not keeping track of how many change orders have taken place, because most of them originated from me opening my big mouth and suggesting a different approach. Just when I thought it was safe to move on to another segment of the job, changes in design take place. Who cares – right?
Finishing the drywall went well. I recently picked up a Porter-Cable 7800 Drywall sander and vacuum and couldn’t wait to use it. Although this is a small job, I brought it along just so...
Read this entry »
11-14-2011 10:44 PM
by BillyJ |
1 comment »
Although I told the client MANY times that this remodeling job will take a long time, I do not think she believed me. Working by myself, and for only a couple of hours a night, it is rather difficult for real progress to take place. There were many items that put a crimp in me accomplishing a lot, the least of which is a demanding client. I left off in the last installment showing a gutted shell, with only a little plumbing and electrical completed.
Time now to install the windows. The...
Read this entry »
11-09-2011 05:12 PM
by Mike Blank, CGR CAPS |
1 comment »
The new year is quickly approaching! In the spirit of change, we decided to put together a list of some of the kitchen remodeling trends that are in store for 2012. The general contracting we do here in Lancaster County, PA brings us into a variety of kitchens every year. We get to experience first hand these growing trends, and have decided to discuss the following topics – Design Styles, Appliances, Colors, Cabinetry, Countertops and Lighting.
Design Styles – A recent survey ...
Read this entry »
09-02-2011 04:22 PM
by BillyJ |
10 comments »
I left off sharing my experience with a new surprise behind every wall. It continued through the entire demo. I finally got to the point where I wouldn’t be surprised by what I found (or didn’t find). Fortunately, most of the framing by the renovators who previously pounded a nail in the kitchen was good.
Here are some of the things that I have to work around – plumbing.
The stack going to the upstairs bathroom runs against the exterior wall – that happens to...
Read this entry »
08-19-2011 03:55 PM
by BillyJ |
5 comments »
I began this project a while ago and just now had some time to start writing about it. This is one of those projects that hold a surprise behind every swing of the hammer. Here is what I have to work with.
It’s an older home. Built in 1939, it started out as a three-room house. Owner after owner left their mark. Unfortunately, almost all of the additions and renovation jobs were done by people who owned stock in fastener or plaster companies. The plaster is that good stuff –...
Read this entry »
07-11-2011 10:21 PM
by Mike Blank, CGR CAPS |
2 comments »
Dreaming of your own fantasy island? No, I don’t mean the island with white sandy beaches, palm trees and sun… a kitchen island. They are increasing in popularity here; and with the interest both the attractiveness and innovations of kitchen islands continue to grow. Centrally located, islands are easily accessed and ideal for kitchen tasks such as food prep, cooking, clean up and entertaining. Here are the newest kitchen finds and options to consider when building or turning your fantasy is...
Read this entry »
03-28-2011 08:55 PM
by Mike Blank, CGR CAPS |
1 comment »
The kitchen is the perfect place to add character to your home with the use of color. Choosing the right color palette is an important part of the decision making process. But how do you choose colors that are compatible with your space and your taste? Here are a few helpful tips for guiding your color choices:
Cabinetry Color vs. Wall Color – Painting your kitchen walls is an easy way to add color and personality to your space. Soft blue wall paints, which are calming and easy to li...
Read this entry »
02-22-2011 02:05 AM
by chief101 |
3 comments »
My first adventure in refurbishing was in 1974. I added a 17×27 addition to my ranch style home in Northfield Village, Ohio. I built it myself with the help of friends and a few issues of Time Do It Yourself magazines. These were very popular at the time and extremely helpful. The addition had a cathedral ceiling, main room 17×19, exposed beam, an 8×13 laundry room, in ceiling stereo speakers, and recessed lighting. One wall 17ft was an all split brick fireplace. Mason Bill Swa...
Read this entry »
1 2 3 4 5 6
56 entries
