From there we know we needed to remediate and build back the kitchen. We had to remove the lower cabinets as well as the countertops in order to access the drywall that had been affected.

Once the remediation took place we were able to begin putting everything back. Our clients opted to keep the upper cabinets so we did our best to find new ones to match. We were able to find some reasonably priced RTAs at Home Depot that matched very closely.

Our clients wanted a lot of drawers so we found them drawer boxes that worked with their odd space to give them as many drawers as possible.

The new cabinets matched the old ones very well and we were also able to find matching door pulls to add to the uniformity of the kitchen.

To prepare for the new quartz countertop, we installed a 5/8-inch plywood sub-top. Afterward, our partners at Renovo Stone completed the templating and prepared the surface for a seamless installation.

Once the brand-new quartz countertops from Arizona Tile and the stylish Cambric Ivory textured tile were installed, the kitchen truly began to come together.

Take a look at the finished product:

As it normally goes, we were really happy to work with these clients and they were happy with the result.

– Kaleb Pete

KP Home Remodeling is a company based out of Long Beach California that specializes in Kitchen and Bathroom renovations. If you have a project in Long Beach or in the surrounding area we would love to be able to assist you starting with a free consultation.

The post Long Beach Kitchen Renovation: Style Meets Affordability first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

The finishes in this secondary bathroom had become outdated, and the grout in the shower was beginning to discolor. It was clear that a remodel was necessary.

The first step was to secure a permit from the city of Costa Mesa. In the Los Angeles and Orange County areas, bathroom remodels of this scale typically don’t require complex plans. As long as the fixtures are replaced “like for like,” permits are usually granted quickly, which was the case here.

Once the permits were secured, we implemented the schedule and commenced the remodel. With tile and drywall testing negative for asbestos, we proceeded with demolition as planned.

After removing the finishes, we uncovered several issues from previous installations. The house was missing insulation and lacked proper structural support on an exterior wall. We addressed both problems efficiently and effectively.

Once that was resolved, we installed a new shower valve and replaced the tub.

From there, the tile installation was able to begin. We used Schluter Systems wall boards for our backer and waterproofing. The layout for small tiles like these can be complicated to ensure everything lines up perfectly. We took our time to get this right. We mitered all the outside corners for a cleaner, more polished look.

We installed thick concrete tiles on the floor and baseboards. The surfaces and edges were polished and sealed both before and after installation to ensure lasting stain resistance.

Both of these products came from Zia Tile. The floor tile is the Apollo 12×12. The Wall tile is the Clove 4x4.

We also transformed this small wall niche with the same tile as the shower. That coupled with the Kohler Verdera surface mounted vanity added plenty of storage and style

The lighting was centered, raised and exchanged to a travertine wall lamp that added warmth to the bathroom. We also added a can light in the shower at 2700k to add that same hue.

A new exhaust fan was added to help with moisture as well as a humidistat which are pretty standard to meet code these days. A humidistat will kick on the fan when it senses too much moisture in the air. This alleviates the need for a timer switch.

We rounded this out by installing a new vanity. We opted to use the floor tile as a backsplash and that tied the bathroom all together.

Many small details required careful attention. For the sake of brevity we won’t go through everything, but the result shows the time and effort put in to get this job dialed.

Take a look as some of the final pictures:

Working with these clients was a joy. I was happy to bring their vision to life.

– Kaleb Pete – Owner Operator

Our company is based out of Long Beach, CA and we specialize in bathroom and kitchen remodels. If you are interested in having a project done like this or if you have your own vision, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation

The post Beautiful Custom Bathroom Remodel in Costa Mesa California first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

Most homeowners aren’t blind to the fact that they can get work from someone who is unlicensed for cheaper. Many of these tradesman are even very skilled in their craft as well as reliable. This raises an important question: Why would you hire someone who’s licensed if their bid is more expensive?

Let’s get into it.

1. Its the Law

This is kind of a moot point. Likely anyone reading this article is aware of that and yes we will touch on more reasons hiring a licensed contractor for your next remodel is beneficial. But just to touch on it, here’s the rule:

In California, any project thats quoted above $1000 dollars requires a license. This number includes all labor and material that the contractor provides in the estimate.

2. Home Remodel Expertise

When it comes time to hire a lawyer would it matter to you if the lawyer passed the bar? Of coarse it would. This would give you peace of mind that they have a basic understanding of the laws that can help you win their case.

When hiring a contractor wouldn’t the same principle apply?

3. Legal Recourse

Licensed contractors have to answer to the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) for poor quality work or failure to comply with local and universal building codes.

As a homeowner you have can dispute damages to the CSLB when things go wrong on your remodel. This gives you an added layer of protection when hiring a licensed contractor knowing that even if you made a bad choice, so long as he’s licensed, you’ll be able to take legal action.

Hiring an unlicensed contractor on the other hand gives you very little, or even sometimes no grounds, for legal recourse.

Your Next Home Remodel

As a Licensed agency in the state of California we would be happy to help you on your next remodel. KP Home Remodeling is based out of Long Beach and we love meeting our neighbors so please reach out if you have any questions

The post Why a Licensed Contractor Is Essential for a Successful Remodel first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

This article will cover the following:

• What projects require a permit in the state of California?
• What are the benefits of pulling permits?
• How much will a permit cost?

Lets get into it.

What Projects Require a Permit?

In all honesty the better question to answer is what doesn’t require a permit. When you start a remodel project in all likelihood it will affect one of the following 4 things that all require permits:

Structural Changes

Additions and ADUs are obvious inclusions to this and you likely didn’t have any doubts about this. This also can affect a kitchen or bath remodel as well if walls are taken out or moved or doors and windows are added to load bearing walls.

Mechanical Changes

When mechanical systems like water heaters, A/C units and heat exchangers are replaced or expanded this will require a permit.

Electrical Changes

Adjusting any wiring in a remodel requires a permit. This can be avoided if the wiring is left and the only changes made are to the fixtures themselves. Replacing light fixtures and receptacles do not require a permit.

Plumbing Changes

This is where it gets tricky to work around. If you’re just replacing a sink or toilet that will not need a permit. But when you get into a shower its really hard to avoid the work that will require it. New valves will need to be installed as well as the drain adjusted. All this requires permits.

What Projects are Exempt From Permits?

Typically if you’re just repainting, installing new floors, tile or cabinets then a permit will not be required.

Check out this link on the LA Public Works website for a list of whats exempt: https://pw.lacounty.gov/building-and-safety/permits/workexempt

What are the Benefits of Pulling Permits

There are good reasons to pull permits besides the fact that its legally required. Here are a couple to consider:

Protects the Value of your Property

When selling a home the work that was done typically will be scrutinized and the buyer will want to see permits and the corresponding inspections to ensure the work was done properly. This can be devastating to a property’s value even if the work was done properly.

Ensures Safety

Poorly built structures do cause a safety issue. If theres a problem with waterproofing or plumbing then dry rot and mold can develop. Improper wiring can be a fire hazard. Structural changes that are not approved by an engineer can lead to serious and expensive issues down the line. Having state inspections and the paper work to prove it was done right protects you and your family.

The Cost of Pulling a Permit

These numbers are determined by the size of the project and whats being altered. The more trades that are involved the more a permit will cost. The city and county you live in will also dictate these prices.

For a small remodel where theres minor plumbing and or electrical changes it could be as little as $50-$300. For bigger projects like moderate kitchen remodels it could get into the $1000-$2000 dollar range or more if structural changes are being made.

ADU’s and Additions start to command a lot more money. Typically these will cost between $4000-$6000 for the permits and inspections required to complete the project.

Remember that permits require plans as well to be drawn up and submitted. A future article will be published about the different avenues to achieve this.

Conclusion

Permits don’t have to be something that cripples a project. A licensed professional can help you navigate this with ease. Click here to reach out to us for a free consultation.

The post Pulling Permits for Remodels: The Requirements, Advantages and Costs. first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

It becomes increasingly important that as we age we plan for this. We invest in a 401k and plan for retirement. But what about preparing our homes for this new stage of life?

Let’s look at some things to consider in your next remodel that can help you be ready for the challenges to come.

Empowering those with disabilities through design

Making things accessible doesn’t have to mean making them ugly. Design can either hinder or enable. When it comes to remodeling a space with a disability in mind the goal is the latter. Lets look at some ideas that can help you stay in your home longer but that don’t make your home look like a hospital

Accessibility

Wider door ways are a huge help if a wheel chair is ever a possibility. 32” wide is the minimum but 36” is recommended. Making switches a bit lower as well as outlets reachable can help as well.

Visibility

Many old houses don’t have nearly enough light built in. This can be addressed on your next remodel by adding more over head light via can lights or decorative ceiling fixtures.

Task lighting is also important. Under-mount cabinet lights can go a long way in making the kitchen easier to use.

Adding light switches that are backlit or that glow will make it easier to locate lights in a dark room

Smart Home Technology

Picking fixtures that do the work for you can go a long way for those who don’t have the same strength they used to.

Bidets are very useful for those who have little energy for basic hygiene. Many of the newer models keep themselves clean.

Smart mirrors as well as fully functional bath fans connected to timer switches help keep the steam in bathrooms down. This increases visibility and reduces the chances of slipping when getting out of the shower.

Wifi connected thermostats will help regulate temperature without the need to get up to make adjustments.

Safe and Easy to use Finishes

There’s a lot of options here that can help. Consider a few.

• Slip resistant flooring
• Levered door hardware (eliminates the need to grab and twist)
• Shorter toilet (or Taller toilet depending on the need)
• touch to turn on or touch-less faucets
• Decorative grab bars
• Curb-less shower.
• Night lights

Universal Design and Resale Value

When it comes to design theres a lot to factor in. We want our spaces to not only be useful for the future but to be useful now. We care about it being useful to others that live there and who will visit. Its also important that it doesn’t diminish our resale value. All these factors make universal design so important.

Would you like some help incorporating these elements in your next design project? Click here to reach out for a free consultation.

The post How to Remodel a Space you Won’t Age out of first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

Quality of Craftsmanship

This speaks for itself. A poorly done project that looks bad will always have lower value. Make sure you don’t go the cheapest route when looking for a contractor. That being said even the pros who charge a premium could cut corners. Make sure you hire someone you can trust.

If you do the work yourself don’t rely on you’re own knowledge. Check industry standards and inform yourself about materials and processes.

Know the Numbers

The more you spend on a remodel the smaller your ROI (return on investment) becomes. Many say that a kitchen remodel should cost between 5% and 15% of your home.

A light kitchen remodel has the possibility of recouping all its value. Once you start changing cabinets, layout, and adding fancy appliances you’ll start to see the ROI fall to 60% then 50% and even down to 40% if you start creeping into spending a fifth of your homes value on that remodel.

Pick Tasteful Finishes

Installing cheap materials and very hip designs will date your kitchen fast. Make sure to pick finishes, colors and patterns that work with your own taste but also could possible appeal to someone else’s as well. This is where friends and family come in. Get their honest opinion before you settle.

Summary

While thinking about ROI is important, it isn’t everything. Ultimately this will be the space you spend a large portion of your life and will be a space that draws in your family and friends.

If you would like help to plan your remodel click here for a free consultation at your home or on a video call.

The post How a Smart Kitchen Remodel Can Maximize Your Home’s Resale Value first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

Typical installations often leave one side of the tile exposed, resulting in a strip of color that may disrupt the harmony of your carefully designed space. To create a polished and visually pleasing finish, consider the following options.

“Schluter” Edge (Edge Profile)

This trim piece is available in stainless steel, coated aluminum, or PVC. Various manufacturers offer their own versions, available in a wide range of shapes, colors, sizes, and styles to perfectly complement any tile.

This solution delivers superior edge protection, is cost-effective, and requires minimal effort to install.

Bullnose Tile

Many tile collections include bullnose pieces designed to match the field tile. These pieces share the same color and finish but feature one rounded edge, and may vary slightly in length or width. Bullnose tiles are ideal for subway tile installations, providing a softer, more classic appearance. Since not all manufacturers offer bullnose options, be sure to confirm availability before ordering your field tile.

Pencil Tile

These are thin tile strips adhered to the edges of your installation. Typically measuring about 6 inches long and 3/4 inch wide, they offer a soft, rounded finish that highlights the edges. These pieces are often fragile and can be costly, so be sure to order extra.

Mitered Edge

This method removes the need for trim pieces and additional tiles. Instead, both tiles are cut at a 45-degree angle, forming a sharp, clean corner. This technique provides the sleekest finish of all but is also one of the most delicate. If you opt for this method, make sure it is installed in a low-traffic area to minimize wear and tear.

Polished Edge

This is the simplest and most cost effective approach since it requires no fancy cuts or trim pieces. Usually all thats done is a quick bevel one the front edge of the tile to remove the sharpness. This is okay for natural stone as well as some porcelain. Before settling on this route, make sure you’re happy with the side color of the tile since this will show. Typically a good rule of thumb is if the side is a relatively close match to the face the edge won’t stand out.

Summary

The versatility of tile is unmatched which can be exciting and intimidating. If you’re still not sure which edging will work best for the tile you’d like to install don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Click here for a free home consultation or video call.

The post How to Pick a Tile Edge Option that Works first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.

The Condition of the Existing Cabinets

The first step in deciding whether your cabinets need a simple refresh or a complete replacement is to carefully assess their condition. There are several key factors to consider to determine if your cabinets are still in good shape.

Cabinet Boxes: Are the cabinet boxes still perfectly square, or has water damage over time caused them to warp or distort? If water damage is extensive, no amount of paint will restore their appearance. However, if the damage is minor, some repairs can be made before painting. Keep in mind that the more repairs required, the higher the overall cost will be.

Interior: Are the inside of the cabinets in good shape? This may not bug most people but wear and tear on the inside of the cabinets typically aren’t repaired when painting them.

Door and Drawer Faces: These tend to take the most beating in the kitchen. Stuffs, scratches and nicks will all be fixed when painting. Swelling or peeling paint insinuates a deeper issue thats a lot harder to fix.

If youe unhappy with the doors there’s always the option of buying new doors and drawers and just painting the cabinet boxes. This option will be discussed later in this article.

Cabinet Materials: It’s no surprise that some materials are more durable than others. OSB, commonly used in cost-effective cabinets, tends to swell when exposed to moisture and steam. Plywood also absorbs moisture but to a lesser extent. Hardwoods are the most durable option, with durability varying based on the wood type. Plywood and hardwood cabinets are ideal for painting and refinishing, while OSB cabinets usually require full replacement.

Time

When Planning a remodel time tends to be a huge factor. When you’re kitchen is down day to day life becomes a lot harder so you want the project to go as fast as possible.

Painting typically takes the longest time among these options and is also the most disruptive. Scaffolding is required to paint the doors, rendering your living room or dining room inaccessible throughout the project. Moreover, paint fumes, particularly during the priming stage, are an important consideration.

Installing cabinets on the other hand goes quite a bit faster and is less intrusive. The cabinets will come pre-finished so there will be no painting necessary.

Design and Layout.

Ultimately if you’re not happy with how the cabinets look or how your kitchen is laid out it may be a good idea just to buy new cabinets.

If you’re only unhappy with the door and drawer face style, a more affordable option is to keep the existing cabinet boxes and simply replace those parts. This also allows you to upgrade to soft-close hinges and drawer slides for added convenience.

Cost

This is a crucial consideration when remodeling. As the cost of living continues to rise, homeowners are looking for upgrades that offer the greatest value at the most affordable price. Each of these options can vary widely in cost.

Painting. This tends to be the cheapest option. The price is made up mostly with the cost of labor.

New Door and Drawer Fronts. This option includes painting the cabinets along with replacing the door and drawer fronts, giving your cabinets a fresh, upgraded appearance. It is slightly more costly than painting alone but offers a more transformative result.

New Cabinets. This is the most costly option, with prices varying significantly based on the cabinet style and materials used. The most affordable choice is a hybrid of OSB and plywood, while the highest-end option features hardwood cabinets.

	Painting	Painting with New Doors and Drawers.	New Cabinets
Lead Time
Project Duration
Cost

Wrap-Up

Planning a kitchen remodel involves many important considerations, and this is just one aspect to keep in mind. Every project is unique, so consulting with a licensed contractor is the best way to ensure your remodel starts off on the right track. Click here to schedule a free in-person consultation.

The post Should you Refinish your Existing Cabinets or Install New Ones first appeared on KP Home Remodeling LLC.