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!
Browse by Category
- Age in place
- Bathroom remodeling
- Budgeting
- Built-ins
- Case studies
- Contracts & proposals
- Design decisions
- Featured projects
- 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
The ugly side of remodeling: When contractors leave projects unfinished
Imagine this: Your kitchen remodel is well underway. The old cabinets are gone, the walls are exposed, and you’re dreaming of the day you can finally use your beautiful new space! Then suddenly, the contractor doesn’t show up! Days pass. You call, you email, but all you get is silence or vague excuses. Frustration turns to panic. Will your kitchen ever be finished?
If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Sadly, many homeowners face this exact scenario. While there are legitimate reasons contractors may pause work temporarily, sometimes projects are abandoned entirely. The result? A stressful situation where homeowners feel stranded and unsure of what to do next.
Understanding why this happens can help you protect yourself and navigate these challenges with confidence.
What happens if there’s a warranty issue after my remodel?
When you invest in a home remodel, especially for high-use areas like your kitchen or bathroom, you want to feel confident that everything will hold up for years. But what if something goes wrong? Maybe a cabinet door doesn’t close properly, or an appliance stops working. How do you handle it?
Don’t worry—you're not alone in wondering about warranty issues after a remodel. Whether it's a product failure or poor workmanship, understanding how warranties work and what to expect can ease your concerns.
Let’s walk through the most common questions homeowners ask about warranties and how to deal with them.
My contractor wants to use subcontractors for my remodel: Should I be worried?
When you’re planning a home remodel, it can be tough to find a contractor you feel confident trusting with your project. But once you find that contractor, how can you be sure they won’t hire a subcontractor who isn’t as trustworthy?
You’ve likely heard horror stories about subcontractors not showing up on time, making mistakes, or cutting corners. So, how can you make sure this doesn’t happen to you?
Your home is a big deal, and you want everything done right. What happens when your contractor brings in subcontractors? Will they communicate with you? Will they be held to the same standards? How do you know they’re qualified and reliable?
In this article, we’ll answer the most common questions homeowners have about subcontractors and their role in the remodeling process. By the end, you’ll feel more confident about what to expect and how to avoid potential headaches.
How do I avoid tile shower problems?
Are you considering installing a tile shower in your bathroom? You love the beauty, style, and endless design possibilities that tile showers offer, but you are worried about the problems that might come along with it? Have you been wondering:
What are common problems with tile showers?
Are tile showers prone to leaks?
How long do tile showers last?
Are shower tiles prone to cracking?
How often do tile showers need maintenance?
How do I avoid common tile shower problems?
How can I ensure my tile shower is installed correctly?
How can I prepare for unexpected issues during a bathroom remodel?
Preparing for unexpected issues during a bathroom remodel can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can navigate any surprises with confidence.
Have you been wondering how to handle potential challenges that might come up during your remodel? Today we’ll answer some of the most common questions homeowners have, including:
What are common unexpected issues that can arise during a remodel?
How can I budget for unforeseen expenses in a remodeling project?
Should I set aside a contingency fund for my remodel? How much should it be?
What should I do if I discover structural damage during my remodel?
What steps can I take to minimize the risk of unexpected problems during a remodel?
How can I communicate effectively with my contractor about unforeseen issues?
Bathroom remodeling problems
Remodeling your bathroom is a significant investment that can transform your home, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From unexpected issues to managing costs and ensuring a trustworthy contractor, there are many potential pitfalls to navigate. This comprehensive guide will help you understand and tackle the most common bathroom remodeling problems, ensuring your project runs smoothly and successfully.
In this article, we'll cover:
What are the most common bathroom remodeling mistakes?
How do I avoid design mistakes in my bathroom remodel?
How can I handle unexpected issues during a bathroom renovation?
How can I ensure my bathroom remodel stays on schedule?
How do I avoid cost overruns in my bathroom remodel?
What can I do if I have a disagreement with my contractor?
What should I do if my contractor uncovers mold in my bathroom remodel?
What are the dangers of asbestos in my bathroom remodel?
What happens if a contractor damages my property?
And much more!
Kitchen remodeling problems
Remodeling your kitchen is a significant investment that can transform your home, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From unexpected issues to managing costs and ensuring a trustworthy contractor, there are many potential pitfalls to navigate. This comprehensive guide will help you understand and tackle the most common kitchen remodeling problems, ensuring your project runs smoothly and successfully.
We'll cover:
What are the most common kitchen remodeling mistakes?
How can I handle unexpected issues during a kitchen renovation?
How can I ensure my kitchen remodel stays on schedule?
How do I avoid cost overruns in my kitchen remodel?
What can I do if I have a disagreement with my contractor?
What should I do if my contractor uncovers mold in my kitchen remodel?
What are the dangers of asbestos in my kitchen remodel?
What happens if a contractor damages my property?
And, much more!
How can I avoid hiring a shoddy or unethical contractor?
Have you heard all the horror stories of home improvement projects gone wrong? Are you worried that this might happen to you?
Have you been asking:
How will I know if the contractor I hire is trustworthy?
How can I know if my contractor is ripping me off?
How can I tell if my contractor’s work is good?
How will I know if my contractor will complete my project on time and on budget?
Recently, my sister bought a home that needed some updating. Since she lives 1200 miles away, our company was unable to complete the projects for her. So, she asked me for advice on hiring the right contractor.
What follows is the advice I gave her (in a more structured format). You might be surprised by what I told her!