by Beckworth LLC | Sep 19, 2018 | Area Based Posts
(more…)
by Beckworth LLC | Aug 8, 2018 | Area Based Posts
Alexandria Home Additions
Have you outgrown your house and are now considering some new Alexandria home additions? Instead of going through the expense and hassle of moving, consider a carefully planned and personalized home addition. With the right attention to detail, a home addition can be a smart, long-term investment that also gives you the living space you need for your current lifestyle.
‘Bump Outs’ and Sunrooms
There are many different types of home additions that can be added to your existing living spaces. Two common options are “bump outs” and sunrooms. A bump out is a type of addition that extends an existing room like a kitchen, living room, bedroom, or bathroom. A sunroom is an addition designed to allow in as much natural light as possible in an enclosed space. These additions are appealing because they can serve many purposes, some of which include:
• Family rooms or play areas
• Entertainment rooms
• Convenient home offices
• Hobby or craft areas
Conservatories and Garage Conversions
Homeowners with an appreciation of all things green sometimes prefer to add a conservatory to their home. This is simply a space designed to primarily showcase plants and flowers that can thrive indoors with sufficient access to light. Seating or relaxation areas can be added to make the space more welcoming. With garage conversions, the basic set-up with drywall, studs, and electrical outlets may already be in place.
Multi-Purpose Rooms and Rental Properties
Some additions are designed with specific purposes in mind, such as an extra bedroom or a casual family room. An extra space can also be set up in a way that allows it to be adapted for different purposes. Some homeowners in Alexandria, VA, prefer to use an addition as a rental property that can bring in extra income.
Preparing for a Home Addition in Alexandria, VA
Before you move forward with home addition construction, there are some questions to consider as you make your plans. First of all, how much can you afford to spend? Secondly, how much temporary inconvenience from the construction process are you prepared for? Fortunately, an experienced remodeling contractor is able to:
• Work within many different budgets
• Minimize disruptions as much as possible during construction
• Offer cost-effective solutions and suggestions
A well-planned and efficiently completed home addition can result in more usable living spaces and added home value. When you’re ready to start exploring the possibilities with home additions in Alexandria, VA, an experienced local contractor can discuss your options and give you an initial estimate to consider the work gets started.
Alexandria Home Additions
If you’re in the market to upgrade your home then call Beckworth LLC for a free quote (703) 570-6777, or use our contact form. You can also find good resources on our Blog or Facebook page.
(more…)
by Beckworth LLC | Aug 8, 2018 | Area Based Posts
Popular Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Upgrades
Here’s a rundown of some of the popular Vienna kitchen and bath remodeling updates many homeowners today are considering. Kitchens and bathrooms are consistently the two rooms many homeowners include on their renovation to-do lists. They’re also the spaces that can play a big role in determining the overall value of a home. If you are in the process of deciding how you want to improve one or both of these rooms in your home.
Freestanding Kitchen Features
Homeowners are moving away from the days when everything in a kitchen was relegated to standard, fixed locations. There’s more of a demand today for freestanding features such as islands or kitchen counters supported by cabriole legs. A “freestyle” look can also be created by moving common features to a center kitchen island, like the sink and dishwasher. It’s also a great way to keep interacting with guests while handling kitchen tasks.
Efficient Use of Bathroom Space
Not everyone has room for expansive double tubs, his and her cabinets, and other bathroom luxuries. But more homeowners with cozier bathrooms are discovering that smaller spaces can be just as comfortable. The trick is to make wise use of every single inch of space. Popular options include:
• Freestanding, single-person tubs
• Uniquely designed sink bowls
• Space-saving walk-in showers
• More shelving, fewer cabinets
• Floating vanities that create the illusion of extra space
Brass and Gold Fixtures
The increased use of brass and gold kitchen and bathroom fixtures is one of those trends returning from yesteryear. The reason? Mainly because of the popularity of cooler grays and neutral colors in kitchen and bathrooms in recent years. Brass or gold-toned fixtures are a perfect complement for softer-hued kitchens and bathrooms in need of contrasting color in a way that’s also functional. Brass and gold can also really standout when blended with wood countertops and used in more creative ways (e.g., a gold vent above the stove, a gold-colored sink, or brass or gold drawer handles).
Glass, Glass, and More Glass
Today the average Vienna Kitchen and Bath are increasingly full of all-things glass-related. Some homeowners are using vintage glass tiles and opaque glass on cooking surfaces. Glass can also be incorporated into a home remodeling project with translucent glass sinks, glass mosaic tiles, and an assortment of glass light fixtures.
Nifty Drawer Designs
Tired of running out of countertop for new kitchen appliances? A popular solution is to add more drawers to a kitchen. There are even microwaves that can be placed into a specially designed drawer in a lower cabinet. Drawers also allow a bustling kitchen to remain clutter-free yet highly functional.
Creative, Personalized Lighting
More homeowners are using lighting in more personalized, creative, and unexpected ways. In kitchens, for example, popular lighting solutions include under-cabinet and floor lighting. And in larger bathrooms, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to opt for a chandelier in the center of the bathroom ceiling. With vanity lighting alone, options include:
• Wall sconces
• Lighting fixtures with dimmers attached
• Light bars
• Small pendant lights
Built-In Convenience Features
In addition to saving space, built-in convenience features can make kitchens and bathrooms even more livable and multi-functional. In the kitchen, built-ins might include professional ice makers or ice beds for shrimp for homeowners with a passion for seafood, wine rack or coolers, spice holders, or knife racks. In the bathroom, you could opt for drawers with compartments for makeup or shaving supplies. You can even have a refrigerated drawer installed in the bathroom for those times when you feel like a little-chilled bubbly in the bathtub.
‘Green’ Kitchens and Bathrooms
Eco-friendly kitchen and bathroom products will always be popular with homeowners, especially millennials. The good news is that there are many ways to make your kitchen and bathroom more energy efficient and earth-friendly at the same time. Possibilities include:
• Low-flush toilets
• Energy-efficient dishwashers designed to use less water than what you would use when doing dishes by hand
• Environmentally sound flooring or wall tiles made from reclaimed materials
• Increased use of natural light (e.g., wider windows, skylights)
Regardless of your improvement plans, take comfort in knowing kitchen and bathroom makeovers consistently rank among the projects that offer the biggest return on investment for homeowners. If you need some help fine-tuning your kitchen and bath update plans, a home remodeler can discuss your options and guide you through the steps necessary to turn your ideas for your living spaces into a beautiful reality.
Vienna Kitchen and Bath
If you’re in the market to upgrade your Vienna Kitchen and Bath then call Beckworth LLC for a free quote (703) 570-6777, or use our contact form. You can also find good resources on our Blog or Facebook page.
(more…)
by Beckworth LLC | Jul 20, 2018 | Area Based Posts
Replacement Fairfax Windows
Most people have a general idea of what it means to replace Fairfax windows. But when you get into the specifics of what’s typically involved with this process, there are some lingering myths that may give you reason to put off replacing your windows. Here’s a closer look at some common window replacement myths and the truth behind these misconceptions.
Replacement and New Windows Are Different
There are some subtle differences with processes involved. However, window replacement and new window installation are very similar. The difference between processes will also depend on the type of window involved. For example, vinyl and aluminum windows usually have the frame and sash installed at the same time regardless of whether it’s for a new installation or a replacement.
Windows Can’t Be Replaced in Winter
Granted, winter isn’t an ideal time for a window replacement project. Even so, experienced contractors know how to orchestrate this type of work in various situations and environments. For instance, when replacing windows in winter, each room may be blocked off in a way that prevents cold air from getting into the rest of your home.
Replacing Windows Won’t Do Much for Energy Efficiency
On the contrary, about 90 percent of heat loss occurs through glass. It’s also estimated that as much as 70 percent of a home’s energy can be lost through windows and doors. Replacing windows that are no longer efficient could definitely contribute to lower utility bills and provide a much-appreciated boost in home energy efficiency.
Wood Windows Are ‘the Best’ Option with Materials
While wood can still be a smart choice for a preferred replacement window material, it’s not always “the best” choice in every situation. In fact, vinyl can produce a look very similar to natural wood. However, with vinyl, you won’t have to worry about rot, mold, or repainting. There are also benefits associated with windows made from aluminum, steel, and clad wood.
One final myth is that numbers and ratings aren’t all that important. The truth is that things like Energy Star ratings and U-factor can provide important information about heat gain and loss and overall energy efficiency. A home remodeling professional can answer any other questions you may have as you start planning your window replacement.
(more…)
by Beckworth LLC | Jul 20, 2018 | Area Based Posts
5 Fairfax Window Replacement Tips
Replacing windows is an investment. For this reason, some homeowners prefer to look for other ways to keep their home energy efficient and comfortable throughout the year as an alternative to replacing windows. However, there are times when a replacement can offer very good long-term benefits for homeowners. If you think you might be putting “replace home windows” at the top of your to-do list soon, here are some tips to keep in mind.
1. Determine Your Priorities
What’s the main reason you are considering window replacement? The answer to this question makes a difference because it can help you narrow down the specific features or qualities you want in your replacement windows. For instance, if energy efficiency is your top concern, you would do better with windows with a higher Energy Starrating. But if you want something lower in maintenance, you might opt for vinyl windows that mimic other materials like wood.
2. Consider Personalized Options
If you “inherited” your windows when you first moved into your home, you may have grown to like them over the years – for the most part. With window replacement, you can have things your way. This means you can personalize your windows with:
• Customized shades that complement your home’s color(s)
• Privacy or safety glass
• Upgrades from single-pane to double-pane windows
• Materials with qualities that are more appealing to you
3. Be Mindful of Your Budget
It’s true that replacement windows can be an investment that pays off in many ways. Still, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider what you can comfortably afford before you start narrowing down your choices. Knowing what you can afford can also help you plan your project better. It may, for example, be easier for you to replace windows that are particularly problematic first and update the other ones later in the year or next spring.
4. Consider the Time of Year
Most home improvement contractors can replace windows any time. However, there are still certain times of the year when factors like weather conditions can present issues that can make the job more challenging. Generally, it’s better to replace windows at a time when you’re not likely to be dealing with extremely cold temperatures, accumulated snow and ice, or excessive heat and humidity.
5. Embrace New Technology
There’s all kind of new home window technology that didn’t exist even 10-15 years ago. For example, some newer windows have special glazes that react to light, while others are capable of blocking out most of the sun’s harmful rays. Other windows are now made in a way that eliminates weak points along seams.
Lastly, remember you don’t have to limit yourself to windows that are exactly the same as your older ones. There are many different window styles and designs that can give your home an entirely fresh and new look. Ready to invest in replacement windows? A home remodeling contractor can guide you through the process by offering suggestions and an initial estimate before any work is done.
Fairfax Window Replacement
If you need help with your Fairfax window replacement then give us a call. We will send our team to assist you with a free in-home estimate so we can cover the materials, styles and prices of new windows for your home.
(more…)
by Beckworth LLC | May 17, 2018 | Area Based Posts
Bathroom Remodeling Northern Virginia
Beckworth LLC specializes in providing our customers with the most practical and unique bathroom remodeling Northern Virginia options for your next renovation project. We have been remodeling homes for years and in our experience, there are some unique bathroom options you may consider which we will list below.
Bathroom Remodeling Northern Virginia
Floating Vanities
To make a room feel more modern and also add more open space you may consider adding a floating vanity. These can be made of a simple solid plank of wood with a vessel sink or outfitted with double sinks and drawers for more storage. This will also help accommodate more than one person if you install this in your master bath.
Tile Accents
An affordable and appealing bathroom upgrade that can add a splash of glamour is using tile accents. Installing a backsplash made up of glass tile mosaic above or around your vanity and on the walls is a great way to improve the look of any bathroom.
Heated Flooring
Unless it never gets cold where you live, heated floors are one upgrade homeowners absolutely love. Nothing makes getting out of your warm bed less appealing than having to walk on a cold bathroom floor to relieve yourself unless of course the floor is heated. Such systems typically heat cold materials like ceramic tile and stone.
Glass Showers
Glass showers can make any bathroom appear more luxurious but the main reason to install one may be about more than just looks. If you have an aging person in your home, removing the barrier or lip on the tub for elderly make it more accessible and convenient.
Comfortable Seating
Remodeling your bathroom gives you the opportunity to create more space for things that will make your life more enjoyable. One thing you may want to consider is adding a more comfortable seating area with a small ottoman with pillows.
Heated Towel Bars
Another cozy centric idea is adding a heated towel bar to the bathroom so you can fry off with warm towels all year round instead of running to the dryer to get one heated for you.
Freestanding Tubs
If you really want a place to relax and even possibly have jacuzzi jets then you may want to consider adding a freestanding tub to your home. This is an ideal place to soothe your sore muscles in the warm of a whirlpool tub.
Steam Showers
If you’re looking to bring the spa experience home with you then you may consider adding a steam shower generator to make your shower double as a steam room. You will want to make sure and have a professional install this, not only to select the right generator for the room but also to seal the shower properly to prevent wood rot and mold.
Storage Solutions
Take a beautiful bathroom to the next level by adding practical and pretty storage. It’s easy for bathrooms to get overloaded with cosmetics and grooming products; adding more storage allows you to put everything in its place.
Windows and Skylights
If your bathroom is dark and dull then you may want to add a window or skylight. This will also offer more ventilation which can help with condensation and moisture while also making the room brighter and more enjoyable to be in.
Luxury Showers
Dual shower heads, handheld showerheads, body sprays, and a broad bench take an ordinary shower experience to invigorating and lavish. Wall-mounted shower heads can be adjusted to spray high or low for people of different heights. If you are still using the original shower tub combo with a fixed shower head then maybe it’s time to upgrade your showering options.
Bathroom Remodeling Northern Virginia
If you are considering any Bathroom Remodeling Northern Virginia ideas then contact our experienced contractors for a free quote as well as help covering the realistic costs associated with your proposed projects. You can call us (703) 570-6777, contact us here or send us a message on Facebook.
Save Money