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Home Remodels for Aging In Place to Avoid Retirement Homes

Let’s be completely honest, no senior in their retirement years are ready to leave the home that they have lived in for most of their lives to move to a nursing home or other assisted living option. Your home no matter your age is the place you put roots down and have many memories that are hard for anyone to let go of just because their physical abilities change over the years. For this reason, aging in place modifications has increased tremendously to allow these elders to do just that. Staying home can come with many obstacles that an experienced licensed contractor can provide plans for a simpler way of living as a person continues to grow older no matter if you’re in your 60s or want to remain in your home till over 100.

Installation of Grab Bars

One of the most dangerous rooms in your home is the bathroom for many reasons. The floor can be slippery at times causing many falls to occur no matter your age. Installation of a grab bar could make the difference of breaking bones from an accident or being able to live happily and safely in your home for the elder years in your life. Grab bars are typically made of stainless steel and prices can range anywhere from $100 to a couple hundred depending on size and location. It is recommended to install these pieces of safety hardware in a place that is accessible before and one inside the shower or tub as well. The bathroom is an ideal area to install a grab bar by your aging in place home remodeler, but there are other areas that would be very beneficial as well in your home. Common uses for these tools can also be utilized where any type of balance is needed such as railing in the garage to help someone get in and out of the house. It would also be a great idea to install grab bars for support going up or down any number of stairs.

Widening Doors and Wheel Chair Ramps

It is common in older homes to have doorways that can be very narrow compared to the newer homes that have a standard size of at least 32 inches in width. This smaller size prohibits handicap accessibility and makes it difficult for those that use wheelchairs or walkers to get from room to room easily. Hiring a licensed contractor to increase the size of the door ways is another great aging in place home renovation. Prices can range depending on the door sizes and how many throughout the house that must be widened but can expect $400 – $800 in cost per door.

Another ease of accessibility for seniors to have installed is a wheel chair ramp. Replace indoor or outdoor steps with a ramp will make transportation much easier for older adults with less risk of falling. Installation of a wheelchair ramp can be on the expensive side depending on factors such as the type of ramp installed. Temporary ramps can range in price from $5,000 to $6,000 or if looking to have a permanent structure attached to the home prices can be more towards $12,000 to $14,000. Before deciding on a ramp, it is always best to decide on each person’s unique needs and also think of what the future may hold whether you may start with just a walker and need to switch to a wheel chair or perhaps the use of a wheelchair may be more temporary so spending your investment on aging in place tools should be thoroughly thought out to maximize your independence through out your house to continue to live a happy and healthy life inside your home.

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas.  Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing.  More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.

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Common Summer Projects For Your Home

Summers are a great time in Michigan.  It is the perfect time to enjoy the beach, BBQ’s, and flip flops.  It is also the perfect time for homeowners to tackle home improvement projects.  The weather is finally perfect – no snow, ice, or excessive wind.  The summer months are the perfect time to assess your home, make general repairs, perform maintenance, and take on larger scaled projects like the installation of a new roof, kitchen remodels (YEAH FOR BBQ’S), porch upgrades, upgraded decking, and more.  Depending on your budget and the renovations you choose, you can increase the overall value of your home by updating the space.

The Most Common Summer Projects

  • Pressure Washing – Nothing speaks louder than a well-maintained home.  Power washing your homes siding and decking is an inexpensive way to clean your home.  Removing mold, algae, and mildew can result in increasing the longevity of your sidings lifespan.  Pressure washing costs about $500 for a professional to complete or for the DIY a power washer can be rented for about $50 for four hours.
  • Landscaping – Any home improvement that increases your homes curb appeal will add value to your home.  Landscaping doesn’t have to be complex, simple lawn care and maintenance with a few flower beds to enhance the space can really transform a home.  If you are not interested in hiring a professional landscaper, it is important to have a plan in place before diving into landscaping. 
  • Kitchen Renovations – When it comes to kitchens it is best for homeowners to work with a reliable contractor as kitchen remodeling can take a quick turn in the wrong direction.  You don’t need every one of the latest gadgets, top line appliances, and exotic materials to create a kitchen that is the envy of the neighborhood. The most important aspect is the layout and flow of your space. 

A small kitchen can function better than a large kitchen with the right layout design.  An important aspect in renovating, especially in kitchens is lighting.  Modern lighting overhead and underneath cabinetry can transform the overall feel of the space.  Including a backsplash is always an inexpensive way to add to the look of the space.  Believe it or not, it is possible to completely redo the look and feel of a kitchen can cost as little as $4,000 when you hire a professional kitchen contractor.

  • Deck Additions – Summer is all about creating an environment outdoor that is both functional and comfortable.  Adding to your deck is a great way to make the space usable.  Outdoor kitchen spaces, comfy lounge spaces, sitting nooks, fire pits, high top bars, the list of outdoor decking renovations that add value to your space are endless.   Renovate your deck into a space that feels like you are on a constant vacation. 

JFC Remodeling is a full-service licensed contractor out of Howell, Michigan.  Specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring upgrades, and home remodelingservices.  More information can be found online at https://jfcremodeling.com/.

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Allow Your Family To Age In Place At Home

This may come as a surprise to many of you, the senior population is the fastest growing population according to the last government census results.  What does this mean?  For us as children, it means preparing to take care of our parents and possibly even grandparents for longer than generations before us. It means preparing their homes for them to live independently longer and preparing ours for when the time comes that this is no longer possible.

When the aging population is allowed to continue living on their own without the need to move from their homes it tends to increase their mental and physical health.  In order to keep seniors safely in their homes as they age there are a number of home modifications that can be done throughout the home.

As our parents age we will start to slowly see the everyday tasks that we still take for granted become more and more difficult for them.  Mobility starts to decline.  In an effort to address this, simple updates around the home can be put into place such as:

  • Replacing doorknobs with levels
  • Updating standard light fixtures to rocker style switches
  • Automatic lighting throughout the house
  • Shelving that slide in and out

It is pretty common knowledge that falling is the number one accident for senior citizens.  In order to prevent accidental falls, remove all throw rugs.  If flooring updates are an option choose materials that are smooth and soft like cork, rubber, and even linoleum.  Although soft, plush carpet may seem like the best option it is often a hazard to seniors, especially when using mobility assistance like a walker or cane. 

Aging in the Kitchen

If remodeling the kitchen is in the plan take time to meet with an age in place specialty contractor to ensure you get the best layout possible for your parents needs as well as for resale value.  Standing can be an issue for seniors and therefore a space that can be used in a seated position to prepare meals is best. Kitchen islands are often used in age in place remodeling because of their versatility.  If your loved one uses a wheelchair they can easily be accommodated.  It is important that all cabinetry is in reach.  The last thing that you want is an older member of the family using a step stool to reach in high cupboards.  Add drawer’s vs cabinetry when possible.  Many kitchens are incorporating deep drawers for pots, pans, dishes, and even food storage.

Aging in the Bathroom

The bathroom is another area of particular concern for the aging population.  Take the time to install a taller toilet to ease getting up.  Replace standard shower heads with handheld wands.  Remove bathtubs and install stand up showers that doesn’t need to be stepped into.  The bathroom is one space to use special care when making modifications.  Bathing and selfcare is a very private process and is one of the last places seniors want to be requiring assistance.  Make the space as efficient as possible to preserve your loved one’s dignity.

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas.  Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing.  More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.

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Home Remodeling for Aging in Place

There is an upward trend occurring where seniors and retirees no longer seek a life of leisure within a retirement community instead opting to age in place. There are many reasons that seniors are looking to stay in their homes longer including the fact that they are in better health and physical condition than past generations. Even though seniors are at the top of their game in 2019 there are still precautions to take in creating safe spaces within their homes.  Even though their health is better, aging still takes a toll and changes the way in which their bodies operate. 

One of the first areas that we like to focus on is the bathroom.  There are a number of hurdles that can make the bathroom the most danger room in the house for aging seniors.  Getting in and out of a tub, standing from the toilet, dim lighting, and inefficient cabinets.  Simple renovations can include:

  • Installation of a comfort-height toilet
  • Putting in place grab bars
  • Replacing standard tubs with step-through tubs or showers without a curb
  • Add sliding shelves under bathroom sinks for easy access to products kept under the sink

Stairs also create a challenge for aging family member inside and outside of the home.  Chair lifts make two story homes doable for seniors that have trouble navigating the stairs.  Exterior ramps can be installed to make entering and exiting the home safer.  Handicap ramps can be installed either permanently or temporarily and can be made from a number of materials from wood to aluminum. 

Another major issue that is present for seniors that choose to stay in their homes as they age is the issue of lighting.  Aging causes changes in vision and make it hard to see when the natural light is not present such as in the evening.  With the installation of light switches that light up at night and motion-activated lights, it is easier for seniors to move about even when it is dark out.

Age in place remodeling, otherwise known as universal design, is making it possible for seniors to stay in their homes longer.   Universal design creates an environment using products that offer safety and comfort to people of all abilities without further need for adaptation.  Glen Miller the Home Doctor has been installing wheelchair accessible ramps, renovating bathrooms, adding additional lighting, and creating safe homes for seniors and those with mobility issues. 

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas.  Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing.  More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.

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Questions You Need to Ask Before A Bathroom Remodel

Any renovation around your home, inside or out, should be strategically planned.  Once you are done with a remodel there is no turning back, you can’t change it once it’s complete.  Home improvements, once completed, are yours to enjoy (or hate) for years to come.  We encourage clients to meet with our licensed contractor and designer to discuss their project in detail to discuss the renovation.  Once you have expressed your interests to our contractors and designers they can help to create a space that you will thoroughly enjoy.  Before you commit it is important to take some time to mull over the design to ensure it is going to be perfect.

Here are a few questions to consider as you plan your bathroom remodel:

  • Should your bathroom be practical and useful or lush and lavish?

This is the first thing our licensed contractor and designer will want to know when you meet with them to discuss design options.  A bathroom isn’t a space that most clients plan on spending hours on end in however, they want a space that is simple, attractive, and functional.  However, some homeowners are remodeling their bathroom to create a space that they can retreat away from the stresses that are found in everyday situations.

  • Are you looking to create a larger space or are you planning on utilizing the existing space?

Most often the bathrooms of your home are some of the smallest spaces within the home as they weren’t necessarily the priority that bathrooms, kitchens, closets, and such were given in new construction.   It is vital when planning and budgeting to decide if you need a larger space or are fine within the space you have.  It will be important for our designers to look at the architecture of your home, along with the floor plan to determine if the space can be expanded or if they will need to create a design based the space provided.

  • Would you like a shower, a bathtub, or a combination?

Lounging in a bathtub has become something many homeowners have given up.  Maybe they don’t have the time or desire.  Whatever the case may be, leaving out a tub can make room in the budget for extras elsewhere, like a shower with multiple shower heads. If you do decide you would like the combination of a bathtub and shower our designers will plan a space accordingly to ensure your comfort and maximize relaxation.

  • How much storage will you need?

The storage within a small space such as a bathroom is of utmost importance.  The amount of storage that you need will depend on what you choose to store in the space.  Are you storing just the basics like toiletries and towels or do you need to have room to keep other daily use necessities such as a hair dryer, makeup, and such.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

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Tips to Maximize Your Bathroom’s Layout During Renovations

Bathrooms renovations can be extremely tricky, especially if you are trying to create more space in a room that currently seems really small.  However, there are many things that you can do to maximize this space during your bathroom remodel.

Here are 5 tips to maximize your bathroom’s layout during renovations:

  1. Create Storage Anywhere You Can

As you are creating the design for your bathroom remodel, you are going to want to incorporate storage wherever you can, because that is the one thing that is always needed the most in this space.  You can choose to install open shelves on the walls or consider installing a vanity with a cabinet underneath to really maximize your bathroom space.

  1. Add Natural Light

Natural light can really open up a room and make it appear larger than it really is.  We recommend installing a skylight if possible, so you have continuous light shining down into your new bathroom.

  1. Reflect with a Mirror

During your bathroom renovations, you are going to need to find a few ways to add to the space for décor, and we recommend making sure that a mirror is at the top of your list.  Not only will the mirror help as you are getting ready in the morning, it will also help create the illusion that your bathroom is larger than it is.  While most people place their mirror over their vanity, there is nothing wrong with having a couple mirrors in this room to really open things up.

  1. Create Niches

A niche is a little indentation in the wall that allows you to store items that you want to keep in your bathroom.  These niches can be located in your shower, next to your bathtub, or even in the wall above your toilet.  The possibilities are endless and so are the items that you can place inside them.

  1. Install Glass Shower Doors

A shower curtain will quickly make your bathroom look smaller than it is, which is why we recommend installing glass shower doors when you are completing your bathroom renovations.  The glass doors will allow your eyes to travel the entire length of the room, while making it feel open and airy.

There are many times when changing the layout during bathroom renovations is not completely possible, but there are plenty of ways that you can improve the layout that you have.  The above tips should help you maximize what you have to work with, and we know that if you think out of the box a little, you will find even more options as well.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

 

 

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Most Popular Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Trends of 2018

More and more people are looking to stay in their current homes longer and not having to go through the hassle of selling their home and buying a new one in order to get something new that they don’t currently have. This makes contractors and interior designers really happy because it gives them more opportunities to help people figure out how to breathe new life into their old house.

It seems every year there are new trends and new ideas in the remodeling world and two of the more popular spaces in the home to remodel is the kitchen and bathrooms. This article will be looking into new trends for 2018 in order to help give you some ideas for your own home.

The Top 5 Trends in the Bathroom and Kitchen in 2018

 

For the Bathroom

Smaller, more efficient size – Smaller sometimes is better and in the case of today’s bathrooms smaller has become better. Fitting more into a small space is definitely the in thing.

 

High tech toilet – Features like heated seats, automatic opener/closers, air drying and even some with built-in automatic deodorizers.

 

The revival of the brass and gold fixtures – The use of gray tones in bathrooms now are beckoning to the return of the brass or gold tone fixtures to add a much less chrome look.

 

New style vanity lighting – Lighting in today’s bathroom is much more a much more integral part of the bathroom designs. There are much more options in lighting with pendants and lighting bars to go along with the sconces.

 

Underfloor heating – In the colder climates, having the floor warmed under your feet in the winter adds that extra touch of luxury.

 

For the Kitchen

 

The smart kitchen – Smart kitchens today have gone beyond the smart appliances to include motion sensing faucets and lighting that can be controlled by your smartphone. We are almost to the point of the nearly automated kitchen.

 

Cabinet colors – White cabinets are still number one for cabinet colors with a light gray a distant second. However, when there is an island there should be darker colors to contrast all of the white or light grays.

 

New textures and material – The trend has been reducing the number of upper cabinets to give the kitchen a more open look and feel. Having open shelving where storage is needed and more textures to the backsplash for the necessary focal points.

 

Quartz countertops – Quartz countertops are still all the rage since there is such a wide range of colors you can choose, and they look fabulous all the time.

 

In cabinet storage systems – With kitchens almost never having enough room or a pantry is not always an option, in cabinet storage is a simple solution that would work in almost all situations.

 

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

 

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Top Reasons Why Homeowners Desire To Renovate Bathrooms

There are a number of reasons that homeowners consider renovating their bathrooms.  A lot goes into the renovation of a bathroom, so it is important to remember the end goal as you plan your ideal space.  No matter what the reason the space needs to meet your end goal once the renovation is complete.  Consider the following:

  • Add an Additional Bathroom: Many older homes have the one-bathroom dilemma.  Anyone with more than one person living in a home knows the importance of a second bathroom.  When adding an additional bathroom within your home consider if you need a full bath or half bath.  A half bath is more common in homes with two full bathrooms.
  • Bathroom Expansion: Expanding a bathroom is common in a home with more than one half bath.  Homeowners looking to add an additional shower or tub often consider expanding.
  • Accommodate the Aging Process: Aging is one of the most common reasons homeowners choose to remodel their bathrooms. Aging bodies need special concessions within spaces that are used multiple times a day like bathrooms and kitchens.  Some common renovations that are done because of aging are taller toilets, increased lighting, the addition of grab bars, pulls instead of knobs on cabinets, walk-in showers, and such to ease use.
  • Update Plumbing: Sometimes there is absolutely nothing wrong with your bathroom space when it comes to the look or layout but the components keeping it running begin to fail. Signs that your bathrooms plumbing needs upgrading can range from leaky sinks, mold, and low water pressure.
  • Improving Utility: Sometimes your bathroom needs to be renovated to increase the usage of the space.  It could be from improving ventilation, add storage, put in a bidet, or accommodate an extra person in the space with the addition of a double sink.
  • Cosmetic Upgrades: An updated look is always a good reason to renovate your bathroom space.  Sometimes a fresh space can really transform a style that has become dated.  Often some new cabinetry, a clean coat of paint, updated flooring, and a splash of new tile can really transform a space.

When looking into renovating your space it is important to hire a professional contractor.  Even the smallest of spaces, when renovating, can turn into a major disaster for those who go it alone.  A professional contractor specializing in bathroom renovations can quickly take your space from dull and dated to functional and fantastic.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

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Clever Bathroom Storage Items to Pull Your Renovation Together

Now that your bathroom renovation is finished, it’s time to add additional storage to the space.  A bathroom can never have too much storage as it allows you to neatly organize everything while also providing a visually pleasing space you’ll absolutely love. Although you might have asked for and gotten lots of extra storage space for your renovation, here are a few clever bathroom storage hacks that will really pull the whole renovation together!

Hanging Baskets

Get more space in your bathroom by hanging baskets on the wall that look like floating shelves.  They can be used to house things like towels and toilet paper. Choose baskets that you like and then anchor them to whatever wall you’d like to showcase them on. It’s an easy way to add both décor and storage to your bathroom!

Storage Ideas for Pedestal Sinks

If you have a pedestal sink in your bathroom, you already know that you can’t store anything under it or else it will show. To fix that problem, you can invest in a wrap-around shelf that is made especially for pedestal sinks. This stylish option will provide you space to organize your things while still being out of sight! Or you can dress up the sink in a skirt and simply hide baskets behind it!

Wine Rack for Towels

There are plenty of gorgeous wine racks you can use to hang on a wall that will visually add to the space and hold bath towels at the same time. This is a popular option for more rustic renovators with small bathrooms where a linen closet or under the sink cabinet are not possible.

Invest in an Expandable Organizer

Make the most out of the space under your bathroom sink by investing in an expandable organizer that will easily fit around your pipes and provides an easy way to organize your products under the sink. Other options are adding storage onto the side of the cabinet doors and stackable baskets.

Shelves Over the Toilet

Adding shelves over your toilet will allow you to have a number of everyday essentials within reach.  Shelves also add additional space for towels and small appliances like blow dryers, electric razors and such.

There are a number of ways that contractors will include storage for you within your bathroom renovation however, as you know there is never enough.  Anywhere you can sneak in some hidden storage you should take full advantage.  Storing items allows everything to have its own unique spot and ensures an uncluttered space.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

 

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Timeless Tips for Remodeling Your Bathroom

One of the most unique and personal places in your home is your bathroom. It has been said that to truly understand a person’s living style all you need to do is to look at their bathroom.  At that point, it is easy to know lots of things about the home as well as the family living there. Therefore, people always seek new methods for remodeling bathroom.

After the kitchen, bathroom remodeling has become one of the first priorities of homeowners. If your kitchen and bathroom renovations are done properly, it will raise the worth of your home. Your guests will always feel warm and comfortable during their stay in your home.

When you begin to plan for renovations to your bathroom you can get various types of materials that will make them the showpiece of your home. However, getting the remodeling project completed is often easier said than done. A good and licensed contractor can help this process and can aid in making your remodeling adventures as short and sweet as possible.

Considering the important role that the bathroom must play in our lives it is always a good idea to update its look from time to time. Here are few steps to help you remodel your bathroom.

The first step is to select the style you would be comfortable with that is appealing visually while also being neutral enough if you decide you need to sell your home. To get ideas for your bathroom renovation look at sites such as Houzz and Pinterest.  Once you get an idea of what you want the goal should be to find a contractor to help recreate a version of your ideas that fits your space.

The next step is to pick a bathroom layout. Check if it suits your needs and respects the space available. A basic bathroom will have a sink and vanity, a toilet, a tub and in some cases a separate shower. An inexpensive design would be to have the basics that require plumbing on the same wall. To counteract the look and feel of being cramped in a small bathroom, try using a glass wall in your shower.

The third step involves choosing finishes. You can choose paint, tile, stone, glass or wood for your wall. For floors, you can choose from tile, stone, wood, linoleum or vinyl tiles. For a vanity countertop, you can choose from tile, stone or plastic laminate.  There are many materials to choose from that can change your bathroom into a space you never want to leave.

This involves picking fixtures for your bathroom, like your toilet, sink, tub, and faucets. While cost is often a major factor, people are concerned about style and water conservation. A fourth factor in purchasing a toilet is its flushing ability. Toilets saving water are beneficial for house owners in the long run. When researching retailer’s websites for bathroom fixtures, ensure you get the full picture before making your purchases.

The last and final tip involves hiring a reputed and licensed contractor. Once you have your contractor, make sure you have a written estimate and a clear start and completion date.

One of the best ways to find a licensed contractor who will be a good fit for you is to ask around. Does anyone you know have a recommendation based on having worked with a contractor before? Ask people you trust if they have any suggestions. This will help narrow down your search field so that you have a better pool from which to choose.

Ensure you investigate his or her license and insurance. Most states have a licensing board in place that’s designed to protect consumers and safeguard the integrity of the construction industry. Applicants must pass an exam and pay a fee to be licensed. For the most part, anyone who is established and recognized as a contractor in your community will be licensed, but it never hurts to check!

You also need to make sure that any contractor you consider for kitchen and bathroom renovation is insured. You do not want to be liable for any injury that a contractor or contractor team member suffers while on your property. If you have any questions about a potential contractor’s insurance situation, make sure you resolve them before any work starts.

When it’s time to finally pursue your home kitchen and bathroom renovation, finding an insured and licensed contractor can make all the difference. Do some research ahead of time to make sure that you get a pro who will handle your project the way you want it handled from start to finish.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.