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!
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- Age in place
- Bathroom remodeling
- Budgeting
- Built-ins
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- Contracts & proposals
- Design decisions
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- Hiring a contractor
- Home renovations
- Home value
- Kitchen remodeling
- Material selection
- Product comparisons
- Project management
- Remodeling costs
- Remodeling problems
- Remodeling process
- Remodeling tips
- Renovations vs. remodeling
- Timelines
Vinyl vs. laminate flooring: which is better for your home?
Picture this: you’re ready to update your floors, but you’re staring at samples of vinyl and laminate, wondering which one is the better choice. Both options are budget-friendly, stylish, and relatively easy to install—but which is right for your home? Have you been wondering:
Do people even use laminate flooring anymore?
What is the difference between vinyl and laminate flooring?
When would vinyl flooring be a better choice?
When would laminate flooring be a better choice?
Are there any pitfalls I need to avoid when installing laminate or vinyl flooring?
Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Let’s walk through these two flooring options and uncover the pros and cons of each!
Product Comparison: Single Bowl vs. Double Bowl Sinks
When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, there’s one decision that often sneaks up on homeowners: choosing the perfect sink. It’s not the first thing most people think about when dreaming of new cabinets or gleaming countertops, but the right sink can make a world of difference in your daily kitchen routine. One of the biggest debates? Single bowl vs. double bowl sinks.
If you’ve been standing in the middle of a kitchen showroom or scrolling through endless Pinterest boards wondering which option is best for you, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll break down the ins and outs of both sink types to help you decide what’s best for your home in the New Hampshire seacoast. Let’s dive into some common questions homeowners have when choosing a kitchen sink:
How do I choose the best kitchen layout for my home?
We know firsthand that planning a kitchen remodel is both an exhilarating journey and, let’s be honest, a bit overwhelming. It’s not just about picking cabinets or countertops; it’s about designing a space that becomes the heart of your home, where meals are shared, conversations flow, and memories are made. So, how do you choose a kitchen layout that fits your space, lifestyle, and family's needs?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the questions homeowners like you often ask when planning their dream kitchen. By the end, you’ll have a clearer vision of what layout makes sense for your home. Let’s dive into it!
How to Light Up Your Kitchen: A Homeowner’s Guide to Kitchen Lighting in Portsmouth, NH
When you walk into your kitchen, do you feel it’s too dim, too harsh, or just not as cozy as you’d like? In New Hampshire, especially in the seacoast, the change of seasons can bring drastic shifts in natural light. During those shorter winter days, a beautifully lit kitchen can make your home feel warm and inviting. But kitchen lighting is more than just about flipping a switch—it’s about creating a layered and well-thought-out design that enhances the space’s functionality and mood.
So, whether you're planning a full kitchen remodel or simply looking to brighten things up, we’ve gathered the top questions homeowners like you ask about kitchen lighting. Let’s dive in and see how the right lighting can transform your kitchen!
Product Comparison: Frameless vs. framed shower doors
When you're planning a bathroom remodel, one of the key decisions you'll have to make is choosing between frameless and framed shower doors. With so many factors to consider, it can be hard to decide which option is right for you. Have you been wondering:
What are the differences between frameless and framed shower doors?
Are frameless shower doors more prone to leaks compared to framed ones?
Are frameless shower doors easier to clean than framed shower doors?
Which option is more durable, frameless or framed shower doors?
Are frameless shower doors more expensive than framed ones?
How will my choice of shower doors affect the overall look of my bathroom?
In this article, we'll explore these questions and many more! We'll break down the differences, pros, and cons of frameless and framed shower doors to help you make the best choice for your bathroom remodel.
Should I choose a bathtub or a walk-in shower for my bathroom remodel in Portsmouth, NH?
When it comes to remodeling your bathroom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a bathtub and a walk-in shower. Each has its own set of benefits, and what’s right for your home depends on your lifestyle, family needs, and long-term goals.
What are the pros and cons of having a bathtub vs. a walk-in shower?
How much space will I need for a walk-in shower versus a bathtub?
Is a walk-in shower more expensive to install than a bathtub?
What materials should I consider for a walk-in shower or bathtub?
Are there any safety concerns I should consider for either option?
Will I regret not having a bathtub if I choose a walk-in shower?
Let’s dive into these questions, and more, to help you make the right decision for your remodel!
How to choose the right vent hood for your kitchen remodel
A vent hood not only keeps your kitchen air fresh by removing smoke, steam, and cooking odors, but it also protects your cabinetry and surfaces from grease buildup. With so many options available, how do you choose the perfect vent hood for your kitchen remodel?
Have you been wondering:
What size vent hood should I get for my stove?
How many CFMs do I need for my kitchen vent hood?
What is a makeup air system, and why might I need it for my vent hood?
What is the difference between ducted and ductless vent hoods?
How much does it cost to have a vent hood installed?
Are there quiet vent hoods with high CFMs?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, ensuring you make the best choice for your kitchen remodel!
How to refresh a kitchen without a full remodel: simple tips and ideas
Dreaming of a fresh new look for your kitchen but dreading the thought of a full remodel? We get it—remodeling can be overwhelming with all the mess, stress, and expenses!
The good news is, there are plenty of ways to update your kitchen without diving into a major renovation. You might be wondering:
What are some budget-friendly ways to refresh my kitchen?
Can I add an island without a complete kitchen overhaul?
How can I update my backsplash without tearing everything apart?
What small changes can make a big difference in my kitchen’s design?
Can I give my cabinets a facelift without replacing them?
How can I modernize my kitchen without a full renovation?
There are so many creative ways to breathe new life into your kitchen without committing to a full remodel. Let’s explore some practical tips and ideas to transform your space without completely revamping your entire kitchen!
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.
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.
What design decisions need to be made in a bathroom remodel?
Have you been wondering: What design decisions need to be made in a bathroom remodel? What materials do I need to select for my bathroom remodel? What is included in a bathroom design?
A bathroom remodel can significantly improve the comfort, functionality, and value of your home. Although the decision-making process might seem overwhelming, each choice is essential to creating your dream bathroom. Let’s explore the critical design decisions you'll need to make for a successful bathroom remodel.
What design decisions need to be made in a kitchen remodel?
Have you been wondering: What design decisions need to be made in a kitchen remodel? What materials do I need to select for my kitchen remodel? What is included in a kitchen design?
One of our designer colleagues once told us that there are over a thousand decisions to make in a kitchen remodel, and while that might sound overwhelming, it's actually quite accurate!
Each choice you make plays a crucial role in enhancing the functionality, aesthetics, and efficiency of your kitchen.
Not sure where to start? Let's explore some of the most significant decisions you’ll need to make during your kitchen remodel!
What is the standard height for kitchen and bathroom accessories?
Are you unsure about where your kitchen or bathroom fixtures and accessories are supposed to go? Are there industry standards that dictate the placement of these items? What are these standards? Would it be okay if you wanted to put some of these items in a different place?