Archive | December 2012

HAVE YOU CAUGHT THE HOME REMODELING BUG?

It’s contagious and it’s a tough to overcome. The home remodeling bug seems to be affecting all sorts of homeowners these days! Maybe because it’s a great time of the year to start planning a remodeling project. Winter—which is normally considered off-season– is the perfect time of year to start planning a remodel or renovation. Why? Because successful remodeling projects should be planned at least 2 months in advance and be quite detailed. And Winter is the ideal time to start planning those project details because you will then be ready to start construction in Spring when the weather is warm and the daylight is longer. Winter is also the perfect time of year to secure contract workers because their rates are typically more cost effective and they have more time to spend with you and personally answer your questions. Products can be ordered and/or purchased in the winter to save money as well. Especially if Architectural Accent pieces (Fireplace Surrounds, Mantels, Kitchen Range Hoods, columns, etc..) are being custom made. Realm of Design suggests a lead time of at least a month for measuring, designing, manufacturing and delivery.

Fireplace Surround by Realm of Design

Fireplace Surround by Realm of Design

n this sluggish economy, many homeowners have understandably been putting off remodeling their homes. But with home values going up, Remodeling Magazine has reported that a homeowner can expect to get the cost/value ratio back on a small to mid-range project. In fact, many homeowners that have been trying to sell their property and have been unsuccessful, have opted to remodel and give the property a more competitive edge in the marketplace. Consequently, even after minimal property remodeling, homeowners have found success in unloading their property.

So whether you are looking to “fix and flip” your property or transform your house it into your dream home, you too may catch the remodeling bug. But remember, the home remodeling bug is no different than the common cold —there is no cure. However; Realm of Design suggests that you take-in at least two of our picture galleries at http://www.RealmofDesign.com and call us in the morning!

IT’S TIME TO RIP OUT THAT CARPETING

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So many people are opting to rip the carpeting out of their homes because of health reasons and because there are just too many other (better) options. One of the most popular flooring options homeowners prefered when remodeling has been the installation of concrete flooring. Homeowners have realized that concrete floors offer benefits that other flooring materials do not. And Realm of Design offers Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) flooring which is basically a Concrete Tile—and they have even more benefits than regular concrete slab floors.

Here are the top benefits of concrete floors overall:

Durable – It holds up to heavy foot traffic. And unlike tiles, concrete floors rarely require replacement. In fact, sometimes the imperfections add character to the floor. Also, if you have pets..this is the way to go because their claws won’t blemish the concrete like they would a wood floor.

Versatile – Goes with any room style.

Maintenance — It’s easy to clean. Use mild soap and water with a mop for basic cleaning. You can always wax it to give it a shine. And once again, if you have pets, concrete floors are much easier to clean than carpets.

Environmentally friendly – no trees get cut down for concrete flooring.

And here are some additional benefits of installing Realm of Design’s Concrete (GFRC) Tile floors:

Installation – Fairly simple.  Pieces can be cut with a tile cutter and can be placed directly over old ceramic tile or concrete floors when installing.

Customize– The Cement Tiles have texture, depth and designs that can all be customized. GRFC tiles can be made to look like wood, tile or cement.

Sustainable— Can be made with Realm of Design’s GreenStone which is made with recycled glass.

Realm of Design’s GFRC (Concrete) Tiles come in a variety of styles and designs. We are happy to create a unique customized design for you. Browse more concrete floor designs in the galleries section of the http://www.realmofdesign.com website.