Kitchen & Bath Learning Center

Welcome to our Learning Center, your trusted resource for all your home remodeling questions! Whether you're wondering about the timeline for planning a kitchen remodel, the design decisions involved in a bathroom remodel, or the costs associated with these projects, we’ve got you covered! 

Our expert articles dive into essential topics like selecting the best water filter system for your kitchen remodel, understanding the difference between a bathroom renovation and a remodel, and finding the right remodeling contractor for your project. We also offer insights on choosing the best building materials and tips for living in your home during a kitchen or bathroom remodel. Explore our comprehensive guides to make informed decisions and turn your dream home in the New Hampshire Seacoast or Southern Maine into a reality!

Remodeling Process Ben Rothrock Remodeling Process Ben Rothrock

The Ultimate Guide to Controlling Dust During a Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel

If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you probably have a vision for a fresh, updated space that feels just right. But along with that excitement, there’s often a very real concern: dust. Remodeling dust has a way of sneaking into places you’d least expect, and it can be a headache if not managed properly. Whether you’re working with a contractor or tackling the project yourself, knowing how to control dust can make the whole experience far more pleasant.

This guide is here to help you understand the ins and outs of dust control during a remodel. We’ll talk about dust containment, explain best practices, and offer practical tips to give you peace of mind as you prepare to create your dream space!

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What should I expect from contractors and workers during my remodel?

When you're planning a remodel, knowing what to expect from contractors and workers can make the process smoother and less stressful. From work hours to how workers interact with your home, understanding these details helps you prepare and feel more comfortable during the renovation. Have you been wondering:

  • Do contractors work on holidays?

  • Will I need to let the workers use my bathroom during the remodel?

  • How early do contractors usually start working in the morning?

  • Are contractors responsible for cleaning up after each workday?

  • Do contractors normally pay for utilities during a remodel?

  • How much should I expect my utilities to go up during a remodel?

Let’s explore these questions and more to help you understand what to expect when the remodeling process begins!

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What is design-build? Is it the right choice for my remodel?

The design-build model has been gaining popularity amongst New Hampshire homeowners. But is it the right choice for your remodel? Have you been wondering:

  • What does design-build mean?

  • How is a design-build company different from a general contractor?

  • How does the design-build process work for home remodeling?

  • Are there benefits to hiring a design-build firm for my remodel?

  • What are the disadvantages of hiring a design-build firm?

  • Is a design-build company more expensive than hiring separate designers and contractors?

Let’s explore these questions, and more, and see if the design-build approach will be a good fit for your remodeling plans!

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What information does a contractor need to provide a price quote for my project?

When you’re planning a remodeling project, getting a price quote from a contractor is a key step. How can you ensure that your contractor understands your vision, and the quote is accurate and thorough? Have you been wondering:

  • What should I include in my project description to get an accurate quote from a contractor?

  • How detailed should my project plans be before asking for a quote?

  • Do I need to have a budget in mind before requesting a quote from a contractor?

  • Do I need to have a complete design before getting a quote from a contractor?

  • How do I compare quotes from different contractors?

  • What factors influence a contractor’s price?

Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the process so you can be sure that you have the details you need for a successful remodeling experience!

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What to do when you’re away: Managing your home remodel from afar

Imagine this: you’re about to embark on a dream remodeling project, but you’ll be out of town while it’s happening. Does this feel a bit daunting? Have you been left wondering:

  • What should I do to prepare my home for a remodel if I'm going to be away?

  • How can I ensure my home is secure while I'm away during the remodeling process?

  • What are the risks of being away during a home remodel?

  • How can I communicate effectively with my contractor while I'm not at home?

  • What are the best ways to handle unexpected issues during a remodel if I'm not there?

  • How do I make sure my remodeling project stays on schedule while I'm away?

  • How can I track the progress of my home remodel while I'm away?

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What is project management software?

Are you curious about how contractors keep large remodeling projects on track and within budget? Imagine having a tool that acts as your guide throughout the entire process, ensuring every detail is accounted for—from initial planning to final touches. That's what project management software does!

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of project management software, its benefits to both contractors and homeowners, and why it's a game-changer in the remodeling industry. We’ll answer all of your questions like:

  • What is project management software?

  • Why do contractors use project management software?

  • What kind of information does project management software track?

  • What is the advantage of hiring a contractor who uses project management software?

  • How does project management software improve the efficiency of remodeling projects?

  • Can project management software help in selecting materials and finishes?

  • What project management software does Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling use?

  • What is the role of the homeowner in using project management software?

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How long does it take to plan a kitchen remodel?

Are you wondering how long it takes to plan a kitchen remodel? Hoping to have your kitchen remodeled by a certain date? Do you wonder if the design process will be completed in time? 

Don’t worry, we’ve got the answers for you!

Planning a kitchen remodel is an exciting process that requires meticulous attention to detail and a well-structured timeline. Understanding the various phases of a remodel, and their respective durations, can help you set realistic expectations and ensure a smooth remodeling journey. Let's break down the steps involved in planning a kitchen remodel, and discuss the timeline for each phase.

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What Is project development?

Are you considering a home renovation or remodel? Whether it’s transforming your kitchen or updating your bathroom, embarking on a remodeling project is both exciting and daunting.

Have you been wondering: Where do I start in planning my kitchen remodel? What steps do I need to take to bring my bathroom remodel vision to life? Can my contractor help me design my remodel? Is it as simple as just talking to a contractor and letting them get to work?

Unfortunately, no, it isn’t that simple. There’s a lot involved in project planning to ensure everything turns out just as you’ve imagined.

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What is the flow of work in a bathroom remodeling project?

Are you getting ready to remodel your bathroom? Do you have questions about the building process? Are you wondering how the work will progress?

What is the sequence of tasks in a construction project? How will the remodeling work progress? Should the plumbers do their work before the electricians? Or, does the electrical work come first? How do you know which tasks come first, and which come last?

Let’s walk through the workflow of a typical bathroom remodel, and get you some answers!

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What is the process for remodeling my home?

If we go to the internet, we will learn that there is a process for how you are “supposed to” hire a contractor. While some of the steps in this process seem to make sense, many don’t seem very convenient for a busy homeowner.

What is the process contractors use to complete renovations? Where did this process originate? Was it created to meet the homeowner's needs, or someone else’s needs? Are there better ways of doing it?

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