Upgrading your bathroom vanity can dramatically improve the look and feel of the space, and choosing the right countertop material is a major part of that transformation. There are so many options available, each with its own pros, cons, and price points, that it can feel a bit overwhelming. So lets break down some of the most popular vanity top materials to help you make the best decision for your renovation.
For a classic and luxurious feel, nothing beats natural stone. Granite remains a popular choice, offering incredible durability and a wide variety of colors and patterns. It does require sealing to prevent staining, but with proper care, a granite vanity top can last a lifetime. Marble is another stunning natural option, prized for its elegant veining and smooth, cool surface. However, its more porous than granite and susceptible to etching from acidic substances, so it requires a bit more care. Both granite and marble are at the higher end of the price spectrum.
If youre looking for something more budget-friendly, engineered quartz is an excellent alternative. Made from crushed quartz mixed with resins and pigments, quartz countertops are incredibly durable, non-porous, and resistant to stains and scratches. They come in a huge range of colors and patterns, mimicking the look of natural stone without the maintenance. Another budget-friendly option is laminate, which offers a surprising amount of versatility these days. Modern laminate countertops can convincingly mimic the look of granite or marble at a fraction of the cost. While not as durable as stone or quartz, laminate is still a good option for those on a tighter budget.
Solid surface materials like Corian are another popular choice. These non-porous materials are seamless and easy to clean, and they can be molded into various shapes, including integrated sinks. While more expensive than laminate, solid surface offers a sleek, modern look and good durability.
Finally, concrete countertops are gaining popularity for their unique industrial aesthetic. Concrete can be customized with pigments and textures, creating a truly one-of-a-kind vanity top. However, concrete is porous and requires sealing, and it can also be prone to cracking.
Ultimately, the best vanity top material for you will depend on your budget, style preferences, and lifestyle. Consider how much maintenance youre willing to do and how much wear and tear the countertop will experience. By weighing these factors, you can confidently choose the perfect material to transform your bathroom vanity.
Vanity and sink upgrades are a fantastic way to refresh a bathroom without a full-scale renovation. And while the vanity itself plays a large role in the overall look, the sink you choose can truly make or break the design. Understanding the different sink styles and their installation considerations is key to achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality.
One of the most popular choices is the undermount sink. As the name suggests, it mounts beneath the countertop, creating a seamless transition between the surface and the sink basin. This not only looks sleek and modern but also makes cleaning a breeze – no more hard-to-reach crevices around the rim. However, undermount sinks generally require a solid surface countertop, such as granite or quartz, as laminate isnt strong enough to support the weight.
Another contemporary option is the vessel sink. These sit atop the counter, resembling a bowl placed on a table. Vessel sinks come in a vast array of materials, from glass and ceramic to stone and metal, offering plenty of opportunities for a statement piece. Theyre also relatively easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIYers. However, keep in mind that the height of the vessel sink, coupled with the counter height, can impact usability, particularly for shorter individuals.
Drop-in sinks, sometimes called self-rimming sinks, are a more traditional and budget-friendly choice. They have a finished lip that rests on the countertop, creating a visible rim. Theyre incredibly versatile and compatible with most countertop materials, making them a good option for a wide range of bathroom styles. Installation is also quite straightforward. While they may not offer the same sleekness as an undermount sink, they remain a practical and reliable option.
Finally, integrated or integral sinks are formed from the same material as the countertop, creating a completely unified look. This offers the ultimate in seamless design and hygiene. However, this option tends to be more expensive and requires professional installation.
Ultimately, the best sink style for your vanity upgrade depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the existing bathroom layout. Consider the pros and cons of each style, the available counter space, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. With careful planning and consideration, you can choose a sink that not only enhances the beauty of your bathroom but also provides years of reliable service.
Vanity and sink upgrades are a common and effective way to refresh a bathroom, boosting both its functionality and its aesthetic appeal. A key element of this upgrade lies in the careful selection of faucets and hardware. These seemingly small details can dramatically impact the overall look and feel of the space, transforming a mundane bathroom into a stylish and efficient sanctuary.
Choosing the right faucet involves considering both practical needs and design preferences. Do you need a single-handle faucet for ease of use or a double-handle for precise temperature control? A high-arc spout offers more clearance for washing hands and filling containers, while a lower profile can create a sleek, minimalist look. Finishes play a crucial role as well. Classic chrome offers a timeless appeal, while brushed nickel provides a softer, more contemporary feel. Matte black and oil-rubbed bronze are trending choices, adding a touch of drama and sophistication. Consider the existing hardware in your bathroom and aim for a cohesive look, or make a bold statement with contrasting finishes.
Beyond the faucet, hardware choices like cabinet pulls, towel bars, and toilet paper holders complete the transformation. Matching finishes create a unified and polished look, while mixing and matching can add a touch of eclectic charm. Consider the style of your vanity – sleek and modern, rustic farmhouse, or traditional – and choose hardware that complements its aesthetic. Dont be afraid to experiment with different shapes and sizes. Knurled knobs add a tactile and visual interest, while simple bar pulls offer a clean, minimalist look.
Ultimately, faucet and hardware selection for vanity and sink upgrades is about finding the perfect balance between form and function. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can create a bathroom that is not only beautiful but also practical and enjoyable to use. These seemingly small details can make a significant difference, elevating your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary.
Planning and budgeting for a vanity and sink upgrade can feel overwhelming, but with a little forethought and research, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional space without breaking the bank. It all starts with envisioning your dream vanity. Are you drawn to sleek modern lines, a rustic farmhouse aesthetic, or something in between? Browsing magazines, online resources like Pinterest and Houzz, and even visiting showrooms can spark inspiration and help you solidify your style preferences.
Once you have a vision, it’s time to get practical. Measure your existing space carefully. Consider not only the width and depth of the vanity but also the height and placement of plumbing and electrical outlets. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid costly surprises down the road. Think about your storage needs. Do you need drawers for makeup and toiletries, or would open shelving suit your style better? A double vanity can be a game-changer in a busy household, but make sure you have adequate space.
Now comes the budgeting phase. Vanity and sink upgrades can range from a few hundred dollars for a simple refresh to several thousand for a high-end remodel. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Factor in the cost of the vanity, sink, faucet, countertop, backsplash, lighting, and any necessary plumbing or electrical work. Dont forget to include a little cushion for unexpected expenses. Shopping around and comparing prices from different retailers can help you find the best deals. Consider sourcing materials from salvage yards or online marketplaces for a budget-friendly and unique touch.
If youre handy, you can save money by tackling some of the installation yourself. However, if youre unsure about plumbing or electrical work, its always best to hire a qualified professional. Get multiple quotes from contractors and check their references before making a decision.
Finally, remember that planning and budgeting are ongoing processes. Be flexible and willing to adjust your plans as needed. With careful planning and a realistic budget, you can achieve the vanity and sink upgrade of your dreams without emptying your wallet.
Building design, also called architectural design, refers to the broadly based architectural, engineering and technical applications to the design of buildings. All building projects require the services of a building designer, typically a licensed architect. Smaller, less complicated projects often do not require a licensed professional, and the design of such projects is often undertaken by building designers, draftspersons, interior designers (for interior fit-outs or renovations), or contractors. Larger, more complex building projects require the services of many professionals trained in specialist disciplines, usually coordinated by an architect.
An architect is a person trained in the planning, design and supervision of the construction of buildings. Professionally, an architect's decisions affect public safety, and thus an architect must undergo specialized training consisting of advanced education and a practicum (or internship) for practical experience to earn a license to practice architecture. In most of the world's jurisdictions, the professional and commercial use of the term "architect" is legally protected.
Building engineering typically includes the services of electrical, mechanical and structural engineers.
A draftsperson or documenter has attained a certificate or diploma in architectural drafting (or equivalent training), and provides services relating to preparing construction documents rather than building design. Some draftspersons are employed by architectural design firms and building contractors, while others are self-employed.[1]
In many places, building codes and legislation of professions allow persons to design single family residential buildings and, in some cases, light commercial buildings without an architectural license. As such, "Building designer" is a common designation in the United States, Canada, Australia and elsewhere for someone who offers building design services but is not a licensed architect or engineer.
Anyone may use the title of "building designer" in the broadest sense. In many places, a building designer may achieve certification demonstrating a higher level of training. In the U.S., the National Council of Building Designer Certification (NCBDC),[2] an offshoot of the American Institute of Building Design,[3] administers a program leading to the title of Certified Professional Building Designer (CPBD). Usually, building designers are trained as architectural technologists or draftspersons; they may also be architecture school graduates that have not completed licensing requirements.[4]
Many building designers are known as "residential" or "home designers", since they focus mainly on residential design and remodeling.[5] In the U.S. state of Nevada, "Residential Designer" is a regulated term for those who are registered as such under Nevada State Board of Architecture, Interior Design and Residential Design, and one may not legally represent oneself in a professional capacity without being currently registered.
In Australia where use of the term architect and some derivatives is highly restricted but the architectural design of buildings has very few restrictions in place, the term building designer is used extensively by people or design practices who are not registered by the relevant State Board of Architects. In Queensland the term building design is used in legislation which licenses practitioners as part of a broader building industry licensing system. In Victoria there is a registration process for building designers and in other States there is currently no regulation of the profession. A Building Designers Association operates in each state to represent the interests of building designers.
Building surveyors are technically minded general practitioners in the United Kingdom, Australia and elsewhere, trained much like architectural technologists. In the UK, the knowledge and expertise of the building surveyor is applied to various tasks in the property and construction markets, including building design for smaller residential and light commercial projects. This aspect of the practice is similar to other European occupations, most notably the geometra in Italy, but also the géomètre in France, Belgium and Switzerland. the building surveyors are also capable on establishment of bills of quantities for the new works and renovation or maintenance or rehabilitation works.[6]
The profession of Building Surveyor does not exist in the US. The title Surveyor refers almost exclusively to Land surveyors. Architects, Building Designers, Residential Designers, Construction Managers, and Home Inspectors perform some or all of the work of the U.K. Building Surveyor.
A contractor[1][2] (North American English) or builder (British English),[3][4] is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site, management of vendors and trades, and the communication of information to all involved parties throughout the course of a building project.[5]
In the United States, a contractor may be a sole proprietor managing a project and performing labor or carpentry work, have a small staff, or may be a very large company managing billion dollar projects. Some builders build new homes, some are remodelers, some are developers.[6]
A general contractor is a construction manager employed by a client, usually upon the advice of the project's architect or engineer.[7] General Contractors are mainly responsible for the overall coordination of a project and may also act as building designer and construction foreman (a tradesman in charge of a crew).
A general contractor must first assess the project-specific documents (referred to as a bid, proposal, or tender documents). In the case of renovations, a site visit is required to get a better understanding of the project. Depending on the project delivery method, the general contractor will submit a fixed price proposal or bid, cost-plus price or an estimate. The general contractor considers the cost of home office overhead, general conditions, materials, and equipment, as well as the cost of labor, to provide the owner with a price for the project.
Contract documents may include drawings, project manuals (including general, supplementary, or special conditions and specifications), and addendum or modifications issued prior to proposal/bidding and prepared by a design professional, such as an architect.The general contractor may also assume the role of construction manager, responsible for overseeing the project while assuming financial and legal risks.There are several types of risks can occur include cost overruns, delays, and liabilities related to safety or contract breaches.
Prior to formal appointment, the selected general contractor to whom a client proposes to award a contract is often referred to as a "preferred contractor".[8]
A general contractor is responsible for providing all of the material, labor, equipment (such as heavy equipment and tools) and services necessary for the construction of the project. A general contractor often hires specialized subcontractors to perform all or portions of the construction work. When using subcontractors, the general contractor is responsible for overseeing the quality of all work performed by any and all of the workers and subcontractors.
It is a best practice for general contractors to prioritize safety on the job site, and they are generally responsible for ensuring that work takes place following safe practices.
A general contractor's responsibilities may include applying for building permits, advising the person they are hired by, securing the property, providing temporary utilities on site, managing personnel on site, providing site surveying and engineering, disposing or recycling of construction waste, monitoring schedules and cash flows, and maintaining accurate records.[9]
The general contractor may be responsible for some part of the design, referred to as the "contractor's design portion" (JCT terminology).[10]
In the United Kingdom, Australia and some British Commonwealth countries, the term 'general contractor' was gradually superseded by builders during the early twentieth century.[citation needed] This was the term used by major professional, trade, and consumer organizations when issuing contracts for construction work, and thus the term 'general contractor' fell out of use except in large organizations where the main contractor is the top manager and a general contractor shares responsibilities with professional contractors.
General contractors who conduct work for government agencies are often referred to as "builders". This term is also used in contexts where the customer's immediate general contractor is permitted to sub-contract or circumstances are likely to involve sub-contracting to specialist operators e.g. in various public services.
In the United States and Asia, the terms general contractor (or simply "contractor"), prime contractor and main contractor are often interchangeable when referring to small local companies that perform residential work. These companies are represented by trade organizations such as the NAHB.[11]
Licensing requirements to work legally on construction projects vary from locale to locale. In the United States, there are no federal licensing requirements to become a general contractor, but most US states require general contractors to obtain a local license to operate. It is the states' responsibility to define these requirements: for example, in the state of California, the requirements are stated as follows:
With a few exceptions, all businesses or individuals who work on any building, highway, road, parking facility, railroad, excavation, or other structure in California must be licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) if the total cost of one or more contracts on the project is $500 or more.
In every state that requires a license, a surety bond is required as part of the licensing process, with the exception of Louisiana, where bonding requirements may vary in different parishes. Not all states require General Contractor licenses - these include Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, among others.
Some general contractors obtain bachelor's degrees in construction science, building science, surveying, construction safety, or other disciplines.
General Contractors often learn about different aspects of construction, including masonry, carpentry, framing, and plumbing. Aspiring general contractors communicate with subcontractors and may learn the management skills they need to run their own company.
Experience in the construction industry as well as references from customers, business partners, or former employers are demanded. Some jurisdictions require candidates to provide proof of financing to own their own general contracting firm.
General Contractors often run their own business. They hire subcontractors to complete specialized construction work and may manage a team of plumbers, electricians, bricklayers, carpenters, iron workers, technicians, handymans, architects and roofers. General Contractors build their business by networking with potential clients, buying basic construction tools, and ensuring that their subcontractors complete high-quality work. General Contractors do not usually complete much construction work themselves, but they need to be familiar with construction techniques so they can manage workers effectively. Other reasons include access to specialist skills, flexible hiring and firing, and lower costs.
A property owner or real estate developer develops a program of their needs and selects a site (often with an architect). The architect assembles a design team of consulting engineers and other experts to design the building and specify the building systems. Today contractors frequently participate on the design team by providing pre-design services such as providing estimations of the budget and scheduling requirements to improve the economy of the project. In other cases, the general contractor is hired at the close of the design phase. The owner, architect, and general contractor work closely together to meet deadlines and budget. The general contractor works with subcontractors to ensure quality standards; subcontractors specialise in areas such as electrical wiring, plumbing, masonry, etc.
The concept of home improvement, home renovation or remodeling is the process of renovating, making improvements or making additions to one's home.[1] Home improvement can consist of projects that upgrade an existing home interior (such as electrical and plumbing), exterior (masonry, concrete, siding, roofing) or other improvements to the property (i.e. garden work or garage maintenance/additions). Home improvement projects can be carried out for a number of different reasons; personal preference and comfort, maintenance or repair work, making a home bigger by adding rooms/spaces, as a means of saving energy, or to improve safety.[2]
While "home improvement" often refers to building projects that alter the structure of an existing home, it can also include improvements to lawns, gardens, and outdoor structures, such as gazebos and garages. It also encompasses maintenance, repair, and general servicing tasks. Home improvement projects generally have one or more of the following goals:[citation needed]
Maintenance projects can include:
Additional living space may be added by:
Homeowners may reduce utility costs with:
The need to be safer or for better privacy or emergency management can be fulfilled with diversified measures which can be improved, maintained or added. Secret compartments and passages can also be conceived for privacy and security.
Home or residential renovation is an almost $300 billion industry in the United States,[5] and a $48 billion industry in Canada.[6][full citation needed] The average cost per project is $3,000 in the United States and $11,000–15,000 in Canada.
Professional home improvement is ancient and goes back to the beginning of recorded civilization. One example is Sergius Orata, who in the 1st century B.C. is said by the writer Vitruvius (in his famous book De architectura) to have invented the hypocaust. The hypocaust is an underfloor heating system that was used throughout the Roman Empire in villas of the wealthy. He is said to have become wealthy himself by buying villas at a low price, adding spas and his newly invented hypocaust, and reselling them at higher prices.[7]
Perhaps the most important or visible professionals in the renovation industry are renovation contractors or skilled trades. These are the builders that have specialized credentials, licensing and experience to perform renovation services in specific municipalities.
While there is a fairly large "grey market" of unlicensed companies, there are those that have membership in a reputable association and/or are accredited by a professional organization. Homeowners are recommended to perform checks such as verifying license and insurance and checking business references prior to hiring a contractor to work on their house.
Because interior renovation will touch the change of the internal structure of the house, ceiling construction, circuit configuration and partition walls, etc., such work related to the structure of the house, of course, also includes renovation of wallpaper posting, furniture settings, lighting, etc.
Aggregators are companies that bundle home improvement service offers and act as intermediary agency between service providers and customers.
Home improvement was popularized on television in 1979 with the premiere of This Old House starring Bob Vila on PBS. American cable channel HGTV features many do-it-yourself shows, as does sister channel DIY Network.[8] Danny Lipford hosts and produces the nationally syndicated Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford. Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete co-host the nationally syndicated The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show.
Movies that poked fun at the difficulties involved include: Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House (1948), starring Cary Grant and Myrna Loy; George Washington Slept Here (1942), featuring Jack Benny and Ann Sheridan; and The Money Pit (1986), with Tom Hanks and Shelley Long. The sitcom Home Improvement used the home improvement theme for comedic purposes.
I truly cannot say enough good things about Tamari and TNT Design and Build. We had a pipe leak in our kitchen that caused extensive damage. We ended up needing to do an entire kitchen renovation on a tight timeline. Because it was unexpected we weren’t prepared with many ideas. Luckily, with guidance from Tamari’s team and his extensive showroom we were able to choose quality products that we were really happy with. TNT does top quality work everywhere—from replacing pipes, putting up new drywall, flooring, custom cabinet installation, countertop installation, custom tiling, painting and more. The team is professional and punctual. The small hiccups we encountered along the way were dealt with quickly—the team is very solution oriented. The work exceeded our expectations and was completed ahead of our agreed upon timeline! We highly recommend TNT Design and Build and will definitely use them for any future house projects
I have worked with TNT Design & Build on over 15 remodels and flips of my personal properties, and I can confidently say that they are the best in the business. From start to finish, every project has been handled with professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail. Tamari, the owner, is truly outstanding. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence ensure that every project is completed on time and with impeccable quality. He takes the time to understand my goals and always goes above and beyond to bring them to life. His team of workers is just as impressive—skilled, hardworking, and dedicated to delivering top-notch craftsmanship. What sets TNT Design & Build apart is their reliability and consistency. No matter the size or complexity of the project, they have always delivered results that exceed my expectations. Their work is not only high-quality but also beautifully designed and built to last. If you’re looking for a trustworthy, efficient, and talented team for your next remodel or construction project, I highly recommend TNT Design & Build. They have been my go-to company for years, and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my projects!
We have used TNT for multiple projects from building an addition to full house flooring and complete kitchen and bathroom remodel. Mor and her team continue to amaze me! The work is impeccable and the customer service is top notch. Highly recommended!
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