Another important aspect of home addition building relates to compliance of rules. Check out the rules and regulations laid out by the authorities concerned in New York City before embarking on home addition. As per rule, the property owner has to pay a certain fee to the local municipal before starting work on the home addition. The owner or remodeling contractor is also required to obtain all requisite clearances before starting the construction work. Care has to be taken to ensure that the home addition work does not disturb the neighborhood.

Once you prepare the master plan for home addition, freeze the design to enter the second phase. Identify a suitable contractor or professional specializing in home additions. Evaluate their work by checking with their past projects and clients. If you find this a difficult task, utilize the services of the architect in evaluating the jobs. However, at times, the architects themselves, will refer suitable candidates for the job. Besides, there are some agencies, which take up the entire house addition project from the beginning to the end. However, at every step, the property owner will be consulted. The architect agency will charge a lump some amount to execute the entire work. If yo are a professional engaged in a twelve hour job, it is suggested that you hand over the work of home addition to a professional firm. It will reduce your burden on various matters relating to preparing the estimates and purchasing the necessary materials.

When it comes to addition to the kitchen, keep a tight control on the budget. Since the kitchen accessories are costly, there are chances that you might over stretch the budgetary allocation. Be wise while spending on home addition.

The post Building a Room Addition by Atlas Homes 713 545 2429 appeared first on Atlas Homes TX. Custom Homebuilder / Major Remodeling.

1. Swap out hardware

Old cabinets can get a simple and quick update by adding new, modern pulls and knobs. Your cabinets might not even have any hardware at all, and if that’s the case, now’s the time to add some. Check out Lowe’s, Home Depot, World Market, and Anthropologie — all these stores carry gorgeous hardware.

2. Mix up textures, patterns, and colors

Give your kitchen visual interest by mixing and matching different textures and materials throughout. For example, cream-colored kitchen cabinets will automatically lighten the room while adding appealing contrast to stainless steel appliances. If you’re lucky enough to have a window in your kitchen, put up some stylish curtains in a fun pattern. Julia Child hung her pots and pans and utensils from a pegboard in her kitchen — we love that idea.

3. Show off cherished collectibles

Cleverly use above-window shelving to create a smart, highly-visual spot for your most prized antique collectibles. This approach would work particularly well, for instance, with an antique island, a nostalgic apron sink, cherry counters, and gingham-check wallpaper.

4. Show off pretty dishware

Rather than hiding your dinnerware inside cabinets, display them on a pretty rack on your counter for all to admire.

5. Stick to one special splurge

Dreaming of granite countertops but wary of the cost? It’s okay to splurge on special countertops if you keep a tight budget on everything else. For instance, use inexpensive tile and off-the-shelf cabinetry to save a great deal of money as well as keeping the original layout of the room and not moving the plumbing.

6. Install creative lighting

Traditional glass pendant lights can easily brighten and charm a kitchen against custom cabinetry. Give your kitchen unique sophistication by using an entire wall of framed and lighted art.

7. Combine various furniture styles

A bold red-patterned area rug and Windsor stools may be a bit more expected in your home’s living room but can add a whimsical touch when placed in your kitchen. For even more whimsy, use boat hardware on your custom cabinetry.

8. Open your shelves

Use open wall shelving to create a sense of more space and to show off your attractive dinnerware.

9. Paint it white

Unify everything in the space with a fresh coat of white paint. Nothing makes a room feel more updated than fresh paint, especially white. One of the biggest offenders in outdated kitchens? The cabinets! Though time-consuming, painting your cabinets a glossy white can completely transform your kitchen.

10. Recycle and repurpose

Try using a refurbished hardware-store counter as your kitchen island. Another great idea is to simply spray paint your existing island pendants for an instant update for virtually no money at all.

11. Use spots of bold color

Although most people are afraid of wild, bold colors or patterns, using them in small places throughout adds just the right amount of decor splash in such places as bold-colored tablecloths, artwork, dish towels, or countertop appliances.

12. Embrace contrast

Black-painted solid oak kitchen cabinetry offers a dramatic contrast to cream or white planked kitchen walls. On the other hand, consider white modern cabinets against strong-patterned wallpaper for an even more drastic, but exciting appearance.

13. Include natural wood accents

An entire wooden island paired with barnwood beams conveys a cozy, traditional ambiance in a kitchen. You can never go wrong with wood.

14. Indulge in high-end appliances

New appliances instantly make a kitchen feel new and updated. If your budget allows, incorporate a large range, a stainless steel refrigerator, and marble countertops.

15. Install a fun backsplash

Consider a fun and colorful kitchen backplash in order to add loads of style and charm. Choose from various textures, materials, styles, and colors to complement your kitchen’s overall decor.

16. Mix the new with the old

Traditional country charm such as beadboard cabinetry, an apron-front sink, and a repurposed barnwood island offer a warm, but interesting contrast to sleek stainless steel appliances.

17. Install an extra-deep sink

An extra deep sink combined with convenient open shelving make cleaning up easy as well as washing huge pots a breeze. We especially love the charm of farmhouse sinks.

18. Create a cozy spot

A cozy window seat looking out to a beautiful backyard makes the perfect spot for morning coffee. Try adding pillows with intricate patterns and bold colors to boost the room’s overall design.

19. Add unforgettable details

Original hand-carved elaborate scrollwork around the windows paired with functional butcher-block island counters leave a memorable impression on guests.

20. Liven up your walls

Consider using rich-colored wall paint to accentuate the other contents in the room. This works especially well in a Mediterranean-style kitchen.

Instantly modernize your outdated kitchen without the drama of an entire remodel by incorporating these simple and easy updates and turn your kitchen into a work of art for fun, food, family, and friends.

The post 20 Easy Ways to Modernize Your Outdated Kitchen by Atlas Homes appeared first on Atlas Homes TX. Custom Homebuilder / Major Remodeling.

Dust mites don’t live in your air ducts, although most people tend to focus there when attempting to remove them. They live in soft places, prefer higher humidity and release a protein which causes an allergic reaction for many people. If you don’t have any reactions to dust mite proteins then reducing your exposure may not be a priority for you but these basic treatment steps should still be taken to reduce their presence in your home and affect on your life. If you need motivation to do some of these steps you can see pictures of dust mites by doing this google image search. They’re gross enough to scare anyone into a rapid cleaning spree.

1. Dust and vacuum your house on a regular basis. The more dirt you have, the more dust mites you have.

2. Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity levels in your home as they prefer high humid environments (anything over 70%)

3. Wash your family’s bedding in hot water at least twice monthly, preferably weekly.

4. Get machine washable plush toys if you have children, the fabric harbors dust mites.

If you have someone allergic to dust mites these are more intense combat steps to take:

1. Do your best to eliminate all cloth surfaces as they tend to harbor these creatures

2. Replace your carpets with wood or laminate flooring

3. Remove fabric covered furniture and switch to wood or plastic pieces

4. Wrap your mattress, pillows and box springs in zippered covers that area dust proof and allergen proof.

You probably won’t completely eliminate dust mites, but you can go a long way toward reducing their numbers by maintaining a clean healthy living environment. Your family will thank you for it.

The post Controlling Dust Mites in Your Home – appeared first on Atlas Homes TX. Custom Homebuilder / Major Remodeling.

How many times have we heard the jokes about the ambitious do-it-yourself homeowner who starts project after project, only to stop in the middle and not finish any one of them? Usually the weekend warrior runs out of time, or perhaps money, or maybe he or she realizes that much more has been bitten off than can possibly be chewed. The results are evident – half-finished paintjobs that leave some walls in one color while others sport another; flooring has been exposed but never finished; kitchen cabinets are leaning against the wall yet will not be anchored in for weeks or perhaps months. Sadly, many a homeowner neglected to receive some sound remodeling tips prior to embarking on their tasks. To this end, here are some tips and tricks that will you to get off to a good start, before you actually pick up your checkbook or your tools!

One of the first remodeling tips that are usually neglected is the fact that it should have a general appeal. Granted, this may be common sense, yet it is astounding how many homeowners add or take away from their homes in such a way that a future sale is compromised. While the homeowner may think that a purple bathroom with yellow handprints is just darling, the potential buyer who tours the house two years down the line will probably wrinkle his nose at this décor faux pas. In the same way, if you decide to add on to your home, do it with an eye on the investment potential. In other words, do not do a half-fast job yourself, but instead pull the proper permits and hire licensed contractors to at least take a look before the building inspector stops by.

Experts have a tool box full of different small bathroom remodeling ideas, but most can be grouped into two categories: creating light and creating visual space. The illusions of space and light complement each other and expand a small space. Anyone who has tried to apply makeup in a small dark room knows how important light is, and it’s created in a variety of ways, both natural and artificial. Natural light comes from windows, skylights, and any other opening that allows sun into the space. Whenever possible, windows should be left uncovered or only lightly covered by a filmy white or light-colored window covering. Paint colors from the cool end of the color spectrum reflect and enhance natural light, as do mirrors and light-colored flooring. Even a light-colored, inexpensive rug used to cover a dark floor can brighten up a space. Artificial light, originating from ceiling lights, wall sconces or lamps, can also brighten a space when employed artfully. Recessed lighting, which creates the illusion of space as well as light, could also be a viable option for you. Just be sure to use artificial light that is bright without being oppressive. Look in your home and garden store for special bulbs that can be used to effectively diffuse the light.

Other remodeling tips include the popularity versus functionality of a desired item, as well as value for the items. For example, just because recessed lighting is the latest fad, it may not be the lighting of choice for the bathroom where it may create dark spots and shade in undesirable areas. In addition to the foregoing, the value of the items purchased should remain intact, thus adding value to the home rather than simply costing money. Thereafter it is a smart idea to do a bit of research to see where home decorating trends are headed. Some old time favorites, such as ceiling tiles or even marble counter tops, are becoming a thing of the past, and if you are wondering about adding value to your home it is best to decorate with the market in mind. Naturally, not all homeowners will look to sell their properties within the next few years or until after the next remodel, yet this rule of thumb is certain to add value to the biggest investment you will ever make rather than just drain the bank account.

Hopefully these remodeling tips have added a little bit of common sense to the mix of weekend projects and large undertakings, and the next time you contemplate a project, please be sure to think it through from beginning to end before your jump into the car to head to the local big box store for supplies!

The post Useful Remodeling Ideas – BEFORE You Get Started! – ATLAS GREEN HOMES appeared first on Atlas Homes TX. Custom Homebuilder / Major Remodeling.

Houston area 713 545 2429

Austin and San Antonio area  

The post An extension of your home and personal taste, Atlas Homes 713 545 2429 appeared first on Atlas Homes TX. Custom Homebuilder / Major Remodeling.

Starting at the ground

When you hire a garage contractor, they may include the initial ground work or hire a subcontractor for a separate fee. Your garage addition typically rests on untouched yard soil. The area must be excavated, leveled and inspected for stability before even starting the building project. A foundation must be poured into this excavated area, requiring a hired concrete truck for at least a morning or entire day. Every project has an extremely wide cost factor, making it crucial to have several contractor quotes before hiring a team.

Materials make a difference

If you want to build a simple wood garage for one vehicle, basic materials may run around $4,000. However, you’re looking at around $10,000 to $14,000 when you want prefabricated materials in steel or specialized wood. Homeowners with visions of multiple windows and wood accents in the garage will pay more for the materials. Everyone has a different goal for their garage. It’s critical to work with your contractor to ensure they understand your garage’s vision.

Simplicity costs less

A basic garage with little buildout for the interior, such as insulated walls, commonly costs between $35 and $45 a square foot. If you only want a space to hold your cars and increase property values, this design type is ideal. Once the contractors complete the project, you can add DIY details. Add hooks to a wall for tools or personally add a small work light over your bench. A garage of any size and type is valuable when selling time arrives.

Garage addition dreamers

There are always those garage dreamers who see a tiled floor and finished walls as their perfect project. With a dream garage costing nearly $50,000, it’s possible to have almost all the comforts of home in one area. Contractors will need to factor in electrical design, plumbing, insulation, drywall, painting and a host of other details. It’s up to you to approve or decline certain project ideas to lower the addition cost. Four windows may be ideal, but two could be just perfect to reduce installation costs.

Return on investment

Depending on the region, it’s possible to have nearly a 70 percent return on your garage addition project when completed properly. Homebuyers look for amenities that make a property stand out. If they’re deciding between your home and another without a garage, your property could win out on that one detail. Consider this sale concept when designing the garage. Even a basic, freestanding garage is valuable during open houses.

Whether your garage addition is freestanding or attached to the home, considerable cost and thought goes into this vehicle haven. Choose materials that stand the test of time, from concrete floors to metal flashing, to protect your new property addition. Being able to park cars or work on a messy project in private is what garages were built for.

The post How Much Does a Garage Addition Cost? appeared first on Atlas Homes TX. Custom Homebuilder / Major Remodeling.