Some projects absolutely make sense for an energetic do-it-yourselfer (DIYer). But if you want your project to turn out great, you’d better have some basic skills, patience, and time.

HUD and the U.S. Census Bureau report that home owner DIY projects accounted for 37 percent of all home remodeling projects performed nationwide from 2010-2011. While we understand that home owners will do some of their own small renovations, after repairing many a DIY gone awry, we believe that many jobs should be left to the pros.

Home owners often get inspired to tackle repair and remodeling projects thanks to the popularity of Pinterest, HGTV, and the prevalence of home improvement stores. But before attempting to recreate the gorgeous bathroom from your Pinterest board (or ours), consider the following before sinking your effort and resources into the project.

Safety. Without the proper training and preparation, a DIYer can easily land in the emergency room. Unfamiliarity with tools and techniques can lead to life-threatening accidents. Please follow product directions and safety procedures—and ALWAYS use proper safety equipment.

A good rule of thumb for any home owner is to avoid projects that require a license. We strongly advise against doing electrical or plumbing work on your own, and definitely avoid making structural changes to walls (including windows and doors), roofs and floors. You run the risk of compromising the structural integrity of your home and having a large hole in your roof or floor. Leave this work in the hands of professionals with the proper training.

Even projects that appear simple, such as laying floor tile, can result in you stubbing your toes every time you are in that room if improperly installed.

Time. DIYers often tackle larger projects than they can handle before the holidays so that visiting family can enjoy the updates. But when something goes wrong, there is no one to hold to the deadline. Hiring a professional will ensure that you have a contract with a completion date and that the remodeler will bring in whatever help is necessary to get the job finished on time.

Even professional remodelers sometimes need extra time on projects when they find surprises behind walls—us included. Troubleshooting these issues often takes more time and expertise than originally planned. If timing is a priority for your weekend warrior, call a professional remodeler to get your project completed.

Cost. Purchasing new tools is a lot of fun, but consider the price of all the specialty tools used for a one-time project when they are sitting untouched in your garage for a few years.

Additionally, many of the products purchased for the DIY market, although designated by a name brand, are typically not the same quality available to contractors. It is also important to verify the terms of the product warranty. Many warranties become void by improper installation.

Here’s an important question for you. Does it really pay to do the job twice when you can pay a professional to do it once?

There are some home projects that we believe can be tackled by determined DIYers such as interior painting, caulking, changing door knobs and cabinet pulls, and some aesthetic work (depending on your skill level) like installing crown molding. Just consider the safety risks, time and cost involved in a DIY project of any size.

Still think you can tackle a big remodeling project? Just remember, DIY projects should be fun and suit your skill level. If they’re not, then consider hiring a professional—like us!

Can we help you with a remodeling project-done-right the first time? Contact us today! 425.890.9000.

Homeowner Erin Lang Morris and her husband built this fabulous fire pit in their own back yard.

It’s getting warmer outside here in the Great Pacific Northwest. Are you thinking of creating a great fire pit oasis in your back yard? It’s actually pretty easy to do!

Fire pits help people warm up to the idea of heading outside when it’s cool, and they extend the time people spend in their outdoor spaces late into the fall and much earlier in spring. Many of our clients build entire outdoor rooms around them.

Before heading outside with your lighter a frosty beverage, here’s what you need to know about creating your own fire pit:

Match Maker, Match Maker. Fire pits should always be at least 10 feet away from the house and as far as possible from overhanging branches or structures. Take precautions when digging holes, so that you don’t hit utility lines. Check the building codes in your area to get the proper specs and regulations. Fire pits make a great focal point outside, just like fireplaces do in a great room or den.

Get Grounded. Once you’ve nailed down a location, there are a few more decisions to make: Wood burning or gas? In- or above-ground? Many of our clients choose above-ground fire pits that are chair height to keep curious children out and the fire in.

Material World. Consider using materials that complement the architecture of your home. A simple way to create your own fire pit is to purchase an old cast-iron sugar bowl originally used to process sugar cane. Creating a stacked stone fire pit is pretty easy to do and it doesn’t require any masonry. Also consider some of the very attractive portable fire pits available in clay, copper, iron and a plethora of other materials.

The Ring of Fire. If you’re making a wood burning fire pit, consider a metal liner to act as a heat shield between the fire and the stone (it will make your fire pit last longer and burn safer), then fill the bottom with pea gravel to allow for drainage. Gas pits can be constructed with a manual match light or remote control. Usually bigger is better when it comes to the actual gas ring.

Screen Saver. Check your local laws: Some municipalities require a spark screen, or a metal mesh guard, to prevent sparks from getting into roofs or trees from wood burning fires. Plus, they protect you and your guests from sparks getting onto clothes.

Still digging the idea? Good. Grab a shovel and let’s get started:

• Dig a hole a foot deep, and fill it with compacted layers about 4” deep of gravel, then soil, then sand.
• Lay out the stone or blocks in the correct shape, making sure the course is level in both directions. Bury the first course about halfway into the ground.
• Dry stack the blocks with occasional gaps to aid in air circulation for a better fire. Sides are best kept under 20” tall. Start the second course of stone, staggering the joints in a bond pattern.
• Courses can be laid dry or connected with mortar or masonry adhesive, which can be purchased at most landscape supply stores. Use the masonry on the outside of the wall and not inside by the heat of the fire.
• If you’re going to use a cap or coping, install it now, using mortar or masonry adhesive to set it into place.
• Add additional gravel inside the fire pit for drainage and so the fire is at a visible level.
• If you’re using it, add the metal liner or gas burner. Consult with a plumber before installing the gas line.
• If you’re using a cast-iron bowl, drill a hole in the bottom for drainage.
• When you’re done, consider adding benches or comfy outdoor furniture to make your new fire pit all that much more inviting!

Fire pits typically require a low level of upkeep. Once in a while you’ll have to shovel out the ashes, but otherwise they’re relatively maintenance free.

Now you can grab your friends, that lighter, and your frothy beverage! Enjoy!

Can we help you build a beautiful outdoor space that extends your home’s living and entertaining area? How about extending your enjoyment of your landscape into the spring and fall? Contact us today to learn how we can help! 425.890.9000

You probably know that falls are a real danger for seniors. A combination of declining strength and physical limitations means that one-third of independent seniors take a fall at least once a year. Between 20 and 70 per cent of those falls result in injuries; between 5 per cent and 12 per cent of the injuries are serious.

Falls hurt — and in many ways. In addition to breaks and bruises, seniors who fall may lose confidence. Fear of another tumble and the loss of independence it could bring often cause seniors to withdraw socially and restrict other activities. The odds of an independent senior moving into care are three times as high for those who have had falls as for those who haven’t and 40 per cent of admissions to nursing homes are related to falls.

Stairs are a particular hazard; they are involved in 10 to 15 per cent of all falls by seniors. Falls on stairs account for about 10 per cent of all fatal falls in the US, but 70 per cent of people who die from falling on stairs are 65 years or older.

Here are 8 tips for making stairs safer for seniors 

1. Stairs should be well lit. Place a light switch near the top and bottom of the stairs, and add additional lighting for the steps if you can.

2. Make sure there are no nails or screws sticking up that an elderly person could catch a shoe on.

3. Get rid of thick carpets and pads.  These can make stair climbing more difficult for the elderly.

4. Never place small throw rugs near the top and bottom of the stairs and make sure the floors are not highly waxed near the stairs.

5. Do not put small items, such as toys, on the stairs that seniors could trip over.

6. Seniors should not climb stairs holding items they cannot see over or around.

7. Seniors should never rush up and down stairs for any reason such as answering a phone.  Always take your time.

8. Install a sturdy hand railing at least 36 to 39 inches tall that seniors can grab.  Anyone over 60 should get in the habit of holding on to railings.

Other Solutions for Stair Climbing Difficulties

1. A stair lift or elevator

These are now much easier to install and use.  Seniors can navigate the newer models with a little practice.  Many come with seat belts which give seniors who are afraid of heights and falling more confidence.   Stair lifts will automatically stop if they detect anything on the stairs.  This feature will help prevent an accident.

Home elevators are more affordable than ever, and can often be retrofitted easily into existing closet spaces or in the garage. An elevator shaft can also be added onto a home’s exterior and be resided and painted to match the home’s existing exterior.

2. Help the senior get in shape for stair climbing

Too often many elderly people stop climbing stairs too soon.  There are many exercises such as walking, leg stretching and balancing   which can help seniors build strength and confidence.

3. Get seniors checked out who have other hidden problems that may be keeping them from successfully claiming stairs.

For example, inner ear infections could be causing the senior to lose balance.  Blood pressure medication may be the culprit for dizziness.  Arthritis and back pain may be other factors making stair climbing more difficult for some seniors.

Elderly people over age 65 do not have to become another fall injury statistic, especially with stair climbing.  By taking a few simple precautions and preparations seniors should be able to successfully navigate stairs for many more years.

We love doing home remodels for our clients who need increased accessibility and safety in their home. Learn more about our Aging in Place Remodeling Services here. If we can help you with a remodeling project, give us a call at 425.890.9000 today!

Remodeling provides the perfect opportunity to make your home more environmentally friendly. A green home remodel typically has two goals: minimizing the impact of your remodel on the environment, and making the long-term operations of your home healthier and more efficient.

Certainly, there are countless ways to make your home more eco-friendly. Deciding which practices to implement can be tricky, especially for homeowners who are on a budget. Here are a few suggestions we recommend keeping in mind to help guide you in your green home remodel:

1. You don’t have to do it all. If the sheer number of options available for a green home remodel seems expensive and overwhelming, simply opt for as many as your budget will allow. Every eco-friendly choice you make has a positive impact on the environment, and small choices can add up to substantial benefits.

2. Repurpose construction materials. One way to both help the environment and save money on your green home remodel is to reuse, repurpose or recycle as many of your demolished construction materials as possible – and we definitely have plenty of creative suggestions for how to do this. You can either leave that completely up to us, or you can choose to help us decide how to recycle or repurpose materials from your home.  Repurposing both keeps the old materials out of landfills and reduces the amount of new materials you will need to use.

3. Use local, non-toxic materials. Investing in non-toxic paints, flooring, sealants and other interior products is another simple step you can take toward a green home remodel. (Choose low-VOC, formaldehyde-free products.) We also understand the importance of finding materials as close to your home as possible, as this cuts down on the negative effects of transportation.

4. Opt for efficiency. Anything you can do to save water or energy in the day-to-day operation of your home will not only enhance your green home remodel but save you money in the long run. Low-flow toilets and shower heads, Energy Star appliances and programmable thermostats are all relatively modest investments that can have a large impact over time. Additionally, we can seal up any air leaks and check for leaky pipes in your home.

5. Upgrade insulation. Substandard insulation is another common source of energy leaks in your home. If this is the case in your house, it’s a good idea to increase the level of insulation as part of your green home remodel.

Can we help you with a green remodel for your home? Call us today at 425.890.9000 to get started!

Underestimating the importance of curb appeal to the perceived value of a home is a big mistake many homeowners make. In this info graphic, we’ve put together important DO’s and DONT’s to help you navigate the important landscape of maximizing your home’s worth–from the outside. Plus, an attractive home is so nice to come home to!

Can we help you with a home improvement project to add curb appeal to your home? Give us a call at 425.890.9000 today!

No matter what you call it—accessible design, universal design, inclusive design, human-centered design, or our favorite, enabling design—the movement to create home environments that are safe, attractive and easy for everyone to use has gone mainstream.

Today, the market for universal design products is expanding in new ways. The spike in multi-generational households, plus the large number of wounded warriors returning from military duty, have expanded the interest—and the need—to adapt living spaces for people of all ages and abilities.

This approach to building or remodeling living spaces isn’t just for seniors looking to gracefully cope with arthritic knees, wheelchairs, or failing eyesight—although that market is certainly substantial. Universal design is something that should be taken into account by everyone who presently has or will likely soon need to accommodate some measure of physical change and/or decline.

The number of new housing units built in communities for people over age 55 will increase 22 percent (to 74,302) this year, and it will jump another 20 percent in 2014, says Paul Emrath, vice president of the National Association of Home Builders.

But most of us aren’t building new homes—we’re updating the ones we have. And there are many wonderful products coming to market each and every day to help us equip our homes to “age in place”.  Here’s a look at just a few of them.

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ONE. This 30-inch-wide GE convection wall oven can be installed at a comfortable height. With two cavities in a single appliance, its doors are shorter—and thus less of an obstacle when opened. $3,099

TWO. When fully extended from the base cabinets, this Kraftmaid table/work surface is comfortable for cooks of all physical abilities to use. Price upon request.

THREE. The drawer-style configuration of Sharp’s 1,000-watt microwave eliminates stretching to reach the food inside. $899

FOUR. Loading and unloading dishes is less of an ergonomic aggravation thanks to the double-drawer-style design of Fisher & Paykel’s smartly designed, 24-inch dishwasher. $1,399

FIVE. With no open flames or hot cooking surfaces, this Bosch induction cooktop poses fewer burn hazards than a gas unit or conventional electric model. Touch controls require no gripping or twisting. $2,999

SIX. This innovative slide-in bathtub allows the user to slide the door open and simply sit down (or transfer from a wheelchair at the same height) rather than climbing in.  Best Bath System’s ADL Spa allows you to fully recline for that fabulous soak, and is also available with a 7-jet whirlpool system, a hygienic 15-jet air massage system, and more. Its space requirements are the sam as an existing standard bathtub. $5,700

SEVEN. Pedestal sinks and vanities can keep wheelchair users at bay. Wall-hung basins are more approachable. With this sink from American Standard, an optional ceramic knee guard keeps open plumbing under wraps, preventing clothing snags. Sink, $220; knee guard, $185

EIGHT. Moen’s water-resistant teak seat folds up and out of the way when not in use — a smart, space-saving feature. The model supports up to 400 pounds. $472.50

NINE. This rounded rail from Invisia has four wall-contact points (instead of the standard two), can support 500 pounds and wraps around popular circular shower valves. $195

About Your Total Renovation

Your Total Renovation helps Seattle area homeowners care for all aspects of their homes. Our services include fabulous renovations to all your living spaces (beautiful kitchens, bathrooms, entertaining areas, additions and more). Additionally, we’re passionate about helping folks plan for the future by remodeling their homes for accessibility and safety, with style and modern design.

We want to help you “live happier in your home!” Can we help you with a remodel? Call us at 425.890.9000, or contact us here!

Want to know what’s hot right now in home remodeling? We’re excited to share the following top 10 design trends we’re seeing right now in 2013 after compiling the collective knowledge of our fabulous design partners based on working with material suppliers and vendors from all sectors of the industry.

Of course, every homeowner has their own ideas on style, and we encourage people to include elements that showcase their own unique flair when choosing finishes. But most folks also give a nod to current trends when updating their living spaces. Right now the overall trend is toward simpler living and low-maintenance design, with color and bling accents that don’t overpower.

This aesthetic extends from clean and simple kitchen cabinetry to “bulletproof” countertops, pre-finished wood flooring and solid “pops” of glass, color and sparkling textures. The trend toward simplicity is also manifested in a growing demand for more accessible, safer, healthier and sustainable homes.

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10. Kitchen cabinets. A clean, simple, contemporary look is popular with homeowners looking to economize and eliminate unnecessary clutter and fussy details that equate to high maintenance and complicated living.

9. Countertops. Granite has been dethroned. While granite isn’t going away and still has many die-hard fans, the new king of countertops is quartz composite—the closest thing to no maintenance, bullet-proof tough countertop materials available today.

8. Glass backsplashes. Glass mosaic tile is on the way out.  Taking its place are glass/stone/tile mosaic composites that can add more texture and visual interest and that tie in more readily with stone or quartz countertops. Be on the lookout for back-painted, solid glass panel backsplashes in contemporary settings, which provides an ultra-clean, almost ethereal look to a polished, modern kitchen setting.

7. Hardwood floors. Pre-finished and engineered wood flooring will become more popular than the once gold-standard of site-finished flooring.  Pre-finished woods provide a hard, durable finish, are an installation time saver, and eliminate the sanding dust dilemma. Engineered wood floors are also compatible with under-floor heating systems, a big plus in cooler climates like ours.

6. Bathroom tile. Synonymous with luxury, Calacatta marble is finding its way into both traditional and contemporary bathrooms. Calacatta is a rarer stone than Carrara marble, but is quarried in the same region. It is valued for a whiter background and bolder grey veins.

5. Stylishly simple sinks. Goodbye double-sinks; hello deep single-bowl sinks. With accessories such as fitted colanders and dish drains, deep single-bowl sinks have all the benefits of a divided sink, plus the large size to actually fit that roasting pan or those baking sheets into the sink all at once. Stainless is still popular, but the quartz composites are a great value and durable option.

4. Color. Charcoal is the new black.  2013 is finding this silky color everywhere as it blends the right amount of chocolate, grey and a touch of green.

3. Texture and sparkle. Bedazzled may find its way into home décor and design as homeowners seek a blend of classic textures and colors with pops of bold color and elements of sparkle.  Glossy glass tile backsplashes and sparkle on polished nickel fixtures is a strong trend this year.

2. Sustainable, healthy home. Green and sustainable design is here to stay.  The number one trend this year is creating a healthy living environment, free of toxins and harsh chemicals.  More and more homeowners are taking advantage of federal and state incentives to evaluate their home’s energy efficiency and overall performance.  Upgrade trends include the use of low VOC materials to improve indoor air quality, testing combustion safety, and radon mitigation.

1. Living in your home longer | Multi-generational living. With his certified aging-in-place specialist (CAPS) designation, Owner Tom Dealy puts a lot of emphasis on designs and remodels that help aging baby boomers safely “grow old” in their homes, for as long as possible. Watch for easy kitchen and bath upgrades to enhance functionality, accessibility and safety.

About Your Total Renovation

Your Total Renovation helps Seattle area homeowners care for all aspects of their homes. Our services include fabulous renovations to all your living spaces (beautiful kitchens, bathrooms, entertaining areas, additions and more). Additionally, we’re passionate about helping folks plan for the future by remodeling their homes for accessibility and safety, with style and modern design.

We want to help you “live happier in your home!” Can we help you with a remodel? Call us at 425.890.9000, or contact us here!

I’m so happy! Wallpaper is back and it’s bigger and bolder than ever. Usages range from an entire room—including the ceiling for a dramatic designer look—to just one wall, to create a focal point in a room. Today’s papers offer a myriad of patterns, colors and textures that could never be achieved with paint alone.

I first saw this awesome birch tree inspired wallpaper (“Woods” by Cole and Son) on HGTV’s Color Splash with David Bromstad—and I was instantly wowed. I’ve been scheming about where to put it in MY house ever since. He turned a relatively dowdy dining room into a high impact eclectic stunner with the black and white of the wallpaper with chartreuse green paint on the trim. I’ve never forgotten that wallpaper, or that dining room. Check it out here.

I’m not the only person who thinks this wall covering is fabulous. If you’re a pinner on Pinterest, just type in Birch Tree Wallpaper in search, and you’ll see a plethora of fabulous rooms that sport this paper in one of its several color combinations.

It’s also been featured in an article on my favorite home design inspiration website, Houzz.com. Check it out!

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We want you to live happier in your home.
Can we help you?
Call us at 425.890.9000 for a quote!

Are you enjoying the second (and best!) half
of your life, or do you have a loved one who is?
Are you (or your loved one) living in the
home you want to spend the rest of your life in?

You love your home. SO STAY THERE!

STAY & THRIVE
in the Home You Love.

Come hear two Certified Aging in Place Specialists
tell you how your beloved home can be
modified so you can remain safely independent
while enjoying your life there for years to come.
Whether you’re in tip top shape or are faced
with physical challenges that are making the
activities of daily living more and more difficult,
your house can be made into the safe haven
you deserve.

Two times on WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2013:

1 p.m.
Northshore Health & Wellness Center
10212 East Riverside Drive, Bothell, WA 98011
Conference Room

6 p.m.
Northshore Senior Center Bothell
10201 East Riverside Drive, Bothell, WA 98011-3708
Room 205

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We want you to live happier in your home.
Can we help you?
Call us at 425.890.9000 for a quote!

You’re planning a remodel, and you know it’s going to disrupt your routine for a while. But you also know that in the end it’s going to be worth it. Whether your project is big or small, you need to answer this question: Should you find an untouched space in your home and live through the construction, or pack your bags and go until the dust settles, so to speak? The answer depends on the size of your remodel and these nine other things you might never have considered.

1. Money. This obvious consideration is actually more complicated than you might think. Yes, it will cost money for a rental, but it can also cost money if you stay and you’re in the way. Contractors will typically need to charge more for projects where clients stay on to cover additional costs in protection, access and cleanup, a rush to get mechanical work done so that plumbing and electrical services interruptions are minimal, and things as simple as lengthy daily conversations onsite with homeowners.

This calculation is best done together with your contractor and with a serious dose of reality. If you’ve never been in a house that’s undergoing a remodel, this is a good time to visit one to get a better idea of how much of your home will be affected by what you’re planning.

2. Purpose. The type of your project can quickly answer the stay-or-go question. If your house is being raised up, or your roof is coming off for a second story, you should probably move out. These kinds of renovations make it impossible to heat or cool a home effectively and generally involve cutting off plumbing service, electricity, heating and air conditioning. If a very large blue tarp will be part of the plan, consider that your invitation to an alternate dwelling.

3. Scope. Work that affects all of your bathrooms and kitchen will pretty much rule out staying in the home as well. Most families can get by without a kitchen for a period of time, but having no bathroom as well means nowhere to clean dishes or your family. And a single room to sleep in does not usually work well for most families.

4. Pets. The key with pets is keeping them away from the part of your home that’s under construction. Temporary doors and ZipWalls can help, but sometimes the incessant noise and activity can be disturbing to cats and dogs even if they are physically separated from the work area. Contractors are just as worried about your pets as you are, but you should know their limits. Some contractors actually ask for special contract clauses stating that they will not be responsible for the pets in the event that they escape.

Even if you decided you will stay in your home, you may want to consider finding a place for your pet to “vacation” until the project (and noise and disruption) is finished.

5. Children. Kids are almost always fascinated by the work going on. But if a lot of time is spent engaging carpenters in talk with your kids, costs will add up quickly. Also, workers at your home cannot be asked to stop making noise at nap time (remember, you are paying them hourly), so if you have a young child, you need to find an alternate place to nap or bite the bullet and stay somewhere else.

6. Cooking. A temporary kitchen will usually get you through a kitchen remodel. If you’re up for it, a hot plate, microwave and toaster oven are great for makeshift food preparation. Preparing and freezing meals ahead is very effective, if you have a location to keep a freezer on. But making a few months’ worth of meals can be daunting. Many homeowners make and freeze food for a month or two before the remodel so they don’t have to eat out every night. This may require purchasing a new freezer, but that may be a solution you’ll be happy with.

7. Cleaning. Do not underestimate how this may wear on you over time. Washing your dishes in the bathtub might get old after a few weeks. And even with thorough site protection, expect dust to collect around your home. It may be worthwhile to ask your contractor to run an air handler to filter out the dust for the duration of the project.

8. Drywall. It’s possible to strike a happy medium by staying away from demolition until after the drywall phase and then moving back in. By waiting until the drywall is complete, you avoid the messiest, dustiest and noisiest portions of the project. This usually happens two-thirds of the way through a project, and that translates to a possible one-third savings on a rental. But your place will still not be move-in ready.