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!

Misc. Ben Rothrock Misc. Ben Rothrock

I got three quotes for my remodel—how do I even begin to compare them?

If you’re planning a home renovation in the New Hampshire seacoast region, you’ve probably heard advice like, “Always get three quotes for your project. Don’t hire the cheapest, don’t hire the most expensive—go with the middle one.” At first glance, this sounds like solid advice, but as you’ve likely experienced, comparing quotes is anything but straightforward.

Does this sound familiar? You reached out to several contractors—maybe 6 or 7—4 or 5 of them came to your home, and now you’ve got three different quotes. Great! All you have to do is choose the middle one, right?

But there’s a problem. Each quote is formatted differently, with varying levels of detail and wildly different price points. Now you’re left scratching your head. How are you supposed to make sense of this? How do you know if you’re comparing apples to apples? Why does this have to be so complicated?

In this article, we’ll answer your most pressing questions about the quoting process, help you understand what to look for, and give you the tools you need to make an informed decision. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the right contractor for your home renovation in NH.

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Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock

Case study: a functional kitchen renovation in Dover, NH

Atiya, a passionate cook and grandmother, reached out to us because her kitchen wasn’t meeting her needs. She loves to prepare meals for her family, but the outdated appliances and lack of proper ventilation made cooking a challenge. She needed a kitchen that allowed her to create meals without the hassle of smoke, odors, and cramped space.

Check out this case study of the kitchen renovation we completed for her in Dover, NH where we transformed a dated, frustrating space into a cook’s dream! From installing granite countertops to solving a tricky ventilation issue with a custom air system, this project allowed Atiya to enjoy cooking for her family again!

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Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock

Payment terms for a bathroom remodel: What can I expect?

Planning a bathroom remodel is such an exciting journey, isn’t it? You get to envision that new, refreshing space, whether it’s a luxurious master bath or a cozy half bath. But let’s be honest, the topic of payments can bring a bit of uncertainty to the process. How much will it actually cost? How will the payments be broken down? What should you expect as things progress?

Understanding how payments typically work in a bathroom remodel can make this experience much smoother. No one likes surprises when it comes to finances!

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about payment terms, from the initial deposit to that final payment. Whether you're planning a bathroom remodel or just want to understand what to expect, this guide will give you the clarity and confidence you need when working with your contractor.

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Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock

Payment terms for a kitchen remodel: What can I expect?

Remodeling your kitchen is like turning the heart of your home into something truly special. You’re probably dreaming of new countertops, gleaming appliances, and a layout that makes cooking a joy again. But before diving into the excitement of picking out tiles and cabinet colors, there's an important topic to cover—payments. Understanding how payments work during a kitchen remodel can help you plan your budget and set clear expectations with your contractor.

Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen overhaul or a more modest refresh, having a clear picture of the payment terms can make the process much smoother. So, let’s walk through what you can expect, from the initial deposit to the final payment, and everything in between. If you're considering a kitchen remodel, this guide will help you understand the process and prepare you for a successful project.

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Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock

How can I keep my kitchen remodeling costs down?

Have you seen what kitchen remodeling costs these days? It’s astonishing, isn’t it? Has it left you wondering:

  • How can I save money on a kitchen remodel?

  • How do I plan a kitchen remodel on a budget?

  • What are the most expensive parts of a kitchen remodel?

  • How can I save money on kitchen fixtures and materials?

  • How can I find affordable kitchen remodeling contractors?

  • Is it cheaper to do a kitchen remodel myself?

  • What are some cost-saving tips for kitchen remodeling?

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Home Renovation Ben Rothrock Home Renovation Ben Rothrock

Built-Ins 101: Everything You Need to Know About Custom Built-Ins

Imagine walking into your home and everything has its place! No more cluttered countertops or overflowing closets!

Custom built-ins can transform your living space into a haven of organization and style. In this article, we’ll answer all your burning questions about built-ins, like:

  • What are built-ins?

  • Who do I hire for built-ins: a carpenter or a cabinet maker?

  • What are the best materials for a built-in?

  • How much do built-ins cost?

  • How long does it take to install built-ins?

  • Can built-ins be relocated in the future?

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How can I keep my bathroom remodeling costs down?

Have you seen what bathroom remodeling costs these days?!! It’s crazy, isn’t it?!! Has it left you wondering:

  • How can I save money on a bathroom remodel?

  • How do I plan a bathroom remodel on a budget?

  • What are the most expensive parts of a bathroom remodel?

  • How can I save money on bathroom fixtures and materials?

  • How can I find affordable bathroom remodeling contractors?

  • Is it cheaper to do a bathroom remodel yourself?

  • What are some cost-saving tips for bathroom remodeling?

In the following article, we'll answer some common questions about keeping bathroom remodeling costs down, offering practical tips and insights to help you navigate your project efficiently!

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Misc. Ben Rothrock Misc. Ben Rothrock

Why are some contractors more expensive than others?

Have you ever wondered why some contractors are more expensive than others? Why might one contractor quote $30,000 for a remodeling project, while another will charge $50,000 for the same job? Is the pricier contractor overcharging? Is the cheaper one cutting corners? 

Have you been wondering:

  • Why is there a difference between contractors’ prices?

  • Why are some contractors more expensive than others?

  • How do contractors come up with their prices?

  • What factors affect how much a contractor charges?

  • What are contractor prices based on? 

  • How will I know if a contractor’s price is fair?

  • How can I avoid being overcharged by a contractor?

Let’s explore the factors that influence contractors’ pricing and help you make an informed decision for your project.

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Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock

How do I budget for a kitchen remodel?

Embarking on a kitchen remodel is an exciting adventure, filled with the thrill of selecting new designs, colors, and materials that will transform your space into the heart of your home! 

Unfortunately, this excitement often comes with the overwhelming task of budgeting for the project. Have you been wondering how to balance your dream kitchen with a realistic budget? Have you been asking:

  • How do I create a budget for a kitchen remodel?

  • What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel?

  • How much should I spend on a kitchen remodel?

  • How do I estimate the cost of a kitchen renovation?

  • What factors affect the cost of a kitchen remodel?

  • What are the hidden costs of a kitchen remodel?

  • How can I save money on a kitchen remodel?

  • How much should I budget for kitchen appliances?

  • What is a realistic budget for a kitchen renovation?

  • How do I finance a kitchen remodel?

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Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock

How much does a bathroom remodel cost in 2024? A story of three bathrooms.

How much does a bathroom remodel cost in the New Hampshire Seacoast in 2024? How much does an average bathroom remodel cost? How much does a luxury bathroom cost? How much does a budget-conscious bathroom cost? How much should I expect to spend on a bathroom remodel?

Let's explore the journey of three bathroom remodels to give you a better understanding of what a bathroom remodel might cost in 2024. Follow along as we discuss:

  1. Jeff & Greg’s Luxurious Farmhouse Bathroom Remodel

  2. Mike & Amy's Functional Family Bathroom Remodel

  3. Amanda's Practical Bathroom Remodel for Aging Parents

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Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock

How much does a bathroom remodel cost in New Hampshire?

Are you considering having your bathroom remodeled? That’s great! I’ll bet you have tons of awesome ideas for your transformed bathroom! 

As you have been thinking about the new space you wish to create, have you been wondering what a bathroom remodel costs? It’s exciting to think about your new space, but what kind of bathroom can you expect to get with the budget you have? Is your budget too much for the bathroom you want? Is it too little? How will you know?

Don’t worry, we’ll talk about all of that!

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Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock

What factors will affect the cost of my kitchen remodel?

Have you been getting conflicting information about how much a kitchen remodel costs? Why do these numbers vary so much? Are some people lying? Are others trying to rip you off? Are they even talking about the same thing?

What factors affect the cost of a kitchen remodel? What will cause a kitchen remodel to be more expensive? What will make a kitchen remodel less expensive? How will you know that you are getting a fair price for a kitchen remodel?

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Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock Kitchen Remodel Ben Rothrock

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in the New Hampshire Seacoast?

So, you are considering having your kitchen remodeled! This is exciting! I’ll bet you have some questions.

Most people in your position are asking questions like: how much does a kitchen remodel cost? What kind of kitchen can I get with the budget I have? Does my location affect the cost of my kitchen renovation? Is my budget too small for the kitchen remodel I want? What factors will affect the cost of my kitchen remodel?

If you’re asking these questions too, you’re in luck! We’re going to answer all of these questions, and a few more!

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Misc. Ben Rothrock Misc. Ben Rothrock

How much of my building costs are labor and how much are materials?

Have you been picking out products for your new bathroom renovation?

When you were at the store, you scribbled down the prices for these items on a notepad. Now that you know what the materials cost, are you wondering how much the labor costs will be? Do you wonder if there is a way of estimating the labor costs of a remodel based on the material costs? How can you find out what a good budget for your project will be?

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Home Renovation Ben Rothrock Home Renovation Ben Rothrock

How much does it cost to build a closet?

The project we will discuss today is a fairly simple home modification, building a closet.

What is the process for adding a closet to a room?

What factors affect the cost of a remodeling project like this?

What are some pitfalls to avoid when you are building a closet?

What is a good budget for a closet addition?

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Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock Bathroom Remodel Ben Rothrock

How much does it cost to replace an acrylic shower?

What will a shower replacement cost?

Recently, a homeowner asked us to replace a failing bathroom floor. She was also unhappy with the bathtub that was currently in the bathroom. She asked us if we could replace the bathtub with a shower unit at the same time that we were replacing the flooring.

What did the remodeling process for this project look like? How much did the shower replacement cost? How much did it cost to replace the flooring & subfloor? How much does a shower and flooring replacement project cost?

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Design and Material Selection Ben Rothrock Design and Material Selection Ben Rothrock

What are material allowances?

When a homeowner is planning a home improvement project, there are a lot of decisions that need to be made. Every single decision will affect their budget, either positively or negatively.

How can a homeowner know if they can afford the project if they have to spend months designing it and choosing all of the materials before they can learn what it will cost? Is that what a material allowance is for?

When are material allowances used in a construction project? What are the advantages of material allowances? What are the disadvantages of using material allowances? Should I sign a contract that has material allowances in it?

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