IN Brentwood-Baldwin-Whitehall Spring 2020 | Page 31

Though it’s a significant investment to update your kitchen, it’s a worthwhile endeavor from both a personal standpoint and a financial one. And like bathrooms, HGTV.com estimates that a kitchen remodel can offer returns that are upwards of 100% on the resale of your house. You can give your kitchen a whole new look in any style from ultra‑contemporary to French country. Your designer and builder can assist you with computer-aided design (CAD) to help you envision your dream. Some new trends in the kitchen include spacious farm sinks that offer tons of space for food prep. Clean, white subway tile can match virtually any décor, making it a popular choice for backsplashes. Recycled glass tiles can be found in any color for a look that’s great for your kitchen and great for the environment as well. Mosaic tiles are frequently used and can be laid in customized patterns for a uniquely personal look. Although cherry wood cabinets are popular, there’s a trend toward white cabinets. Cherry will give your kitchen a warm feel, while white cabinets will brighten the space and have a clean appearance. As for flooring, natural stone and travertine are extremely popular right now. After the stone is sealed, it’s an easy-care option for homeowners and offers a lot of longevity. It’s not just about the look you want to achieve in your kitchen, it’s also about the way it makes you, your family and your friends feel when you’re there. ADDITION: 1 + 1 = FABULOUS! Ever feel like your home would be perfect if only it had that one room that’s missing? Perhaps it’s an extra bedroom for when Mom comes to visit, or a bathroom downstairs for guests when you’re entertaining. Maybe you already have a family room, but it just needs to be a little larger for your needs. If this sounds familiar, a home addition may be the perfect solution for making life a little more comfortable. The great thing about a new room is that you can plan it exactly the way you want it. If you’re adding a family room or game room, why not build a fireplace as well? This will quickly make it the most visited room in your house. If you’re adding a bedroom either for visiting parents or a returning college student, why not include an ensuite bath, which will increase your home’s value as well as make for more enjoyable visits for your guests. As with any work done in your home, make sure that you do your homework before contacting any contractors. It’s a good idea to obtain estimates from three different contractors before deciding which one to use. It helps to be as specific as possible in your choices in order to get the most accurate estimates. Use a spec sheet to ensure that you are giving all three contractors the same exact information. Using local contractors is another great way to ensure that you’re getting someone with a good reputation in the community. A good idea is to attend home shows where you can actually meet the contractors face to face. It’s easier working with someone when you have a good rapport. The most important thing to remember in any home design project is not to be too focused on the bottom line only. Many times the lowest price does not result in the best‑quality job. Do your research to find the best person for your particular project.   ■ #HP3663 PA Contractor #069727 Selling your home? Most home sales now require sewer line inspection Sewer Cleaning Camera Inspection Sewer & Drain Repair Don't Dig - Call Us Today 1-844-MR-SEWER BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL New Location! Headquarters 110 Valley Brook Road McMurray, PA 15317 Equipment Yard 3003 South Park Road Bethel Park, PA 15102 ❘ SPRING 2020 29