Frequently asked questions
You have questions & we certainly want to help with your home remodeling. Regardless, If you choose us for your project or not.
Undoubtedly, remodeling can leave you with many unanswered questions. Therefore, we do our best to keep our community informed by updating and contributing to our Home Remodeling F.A.Q.page and posts here for you to access 24 hours a day.
On Responsive Renovations Home Remodeling F.A.Q. page you can ask us questions about requirements, materials and procedures to help you further along your project, even if you choose to DYI thereafter.
- a better bathroom-
Q & A
Q. How much does a bathroom remodel cost?
Usually, On the national average bathroom renovations cost an average of about $10,000 (as of January, 2022). The least a budget-friendly remodel can be done for is $5,500. However high-end bathroom overhauls comparatively, can be upwards of $50,000. The cost will vary depending on the materials first of all, second of all the location, and last scope of work of your home remodel.
NOTE: – Responsive Renovations bathroom remodels tend to be 12% – 20% below the national average cost. ijs
Q. What is the cost to paint a bathroom?
Basically, painting costs for a bathroom can range from $400 to $2,800 (comparatively). This usually pays for one coat of primer and two coats of the highest-quality paint. Hence, the costs may change based on factored list, like: paint quality, damages, room size and color change.
Q. How much does it cost to replace a bathroom vanity?
Installing a new bathroom vanity will be in the range of $250 to $3,200, about $1,389 on average. Bathroom vanities usually come in two styles: pre-fabricated vanities range from $100 to $2,600 and a custom build at $500 to $2,800. Ordinarily Installation runs from $200 to $1,000 per vanity (comparatively).
Q. What’s the cost to tile a bathroom and or shower?
The average cost to tile a shower is 1,400: Comparatively, initial cost for tile is about $2-4 per square foot. Secondly, comes setting materials: $1.37 per square foot. Installation is last but not least at about $8 per square foot (on a prepared surface).
Q. How much does it cost to re-tile a bathroom and or shower?
The average cost to re-tile a shower is 2,400: Tile cost: $2 per square foot. Setting materials: $1.37 per square foot. Installation: $8 per square foot ordinarily. In some cases, the home remodeling will call for subsequent removal and disposal of tile and tile backer, installation of a new tile backing system and waterproofing. $6 per square ft comparatively.
Q. Can I get my bathroom vanity painted?
Yes. Painting your vanity is an easy and practical way to transform your bathroom. Select your color of top quality cabinet paint.(click here)
Q. Will a bathroom remodel increase the value of my home?
All things considered, the highest average ROI on a midrange bathroom remodel is at 87.7 percent. The average bathroom remodel cost is ordinarily priced at $21,855, of which $19,378 is recouped at resale.
Nevertheless, new kitchens & bathrooms expedite the resale of your property. undoubtedly, these renovations repay in more than monetary contributions when selling your home.
Q. How long does a bathroom remodel take to finish?
Most bathroom renovations can take anywhere from 3-5 weeks, with the size of the bathroom being a significant factor. However, larger remodels will take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. With all things considered, you should be ready for most Residential bathroom remodeling projects to take a month to complete.
Q. What is a typical bathroom remodeling work flow?
- Select all the materials for the project – 1 to 2 weeks.
- Materials are ordered and delivered – 1 to 3 weeks.
- Demolition and removal of old materials and appliances – 1 to 4 days.
- Installation of new materials and appliances, flooring, plumbing and electrical work, painting – 2 to 3 weeks.
- Finishing touches and clean up – 1 to 2 weeks.
Q. Can a handyman renovate my bathroom?
Yes. however, in most states, home remodeling projects which require rewiring and major plumbing will require you hire a state or district licensed contractor.
Q. Should I hire a handyman to renovate my bathroom?
Not usually, a handyman probably is a handyman, because he might not want to be a contractor. Therefore, a handyman should do your light home remodeling and smaller jobs. Whereas a contractor usually has better systems to use for bigger projects like total renovations.
Q. What are the best tile flooring alternatives for bathroom flooring?
Most often the best alternative to using tile on a bathroom floor depends on your use and preferences. Here is a list of alternatives commonly used.
- Rubber- Durability and ease of installation
- Vinyl- Water resistance and ease of maintenance
- Engineered Hardwood Look of natural wood
- Sheet Linoleum – Natural anti-microbial properties
- Natural Wood – Not typically consider it for a bathroom,
- Concrete – Water-resistant and durable .
- Laminate – Water-resistant and scratch-resistant
- Bamboo – Eco-freindly
- Cork – Slip resistance mold resistance
- Carpet – Don’t even.
Q. Is it Possible to claim my bathroom remodel as a deduction on my taxes?
Yes. For example home offices, rental property and repairs can be deducted within the year they are completed. Also, improvements, such as a bathroom renovation, kitchen remodel, laundry room additions and appliance upgrades, add value to your rental property but can also depreciate over time.
What is the expected work flow for a kitchen remodel?
How we can help – Responsive Renovations is a full-service design and renovation team. Therefore, we collaborate with you, our customers. As a result we bring your renderings and home remodeling plans to reality.
-Create the Design
-Order your materials
-Building approval
-Demolition
-Delivery of Materials
How we can help – When you choose to use materials through Responsive Renovations, We will in fact handle the delivery from our manufacturers and supply wharehouses.
-Rough Electrical – Basically, all electrical cables are pulled through studs and other framing members, then are inserted into device boxes.
-Rough Plumbing – Water supply and drain pipes run through bored holes in the studs and additional framing members and that all pipe connections have been made.
-Wall Preparation
-Subfloor Preparation- To begin with waxes or sealers must be removed, and patching/leveling or embossing must be brought to a flatness of 3/16” in 10’, Next, If you are installing where existing floors have been removed, We check that there are no traces of previous adhesive residue. finally, before applying smoothing compound or screeding, your service person will ensure that there are no obvious bumps in the subfloor, simply to ensure a smooth finish.
-Cabinet Installation
-Picking Appliances
-Priming and Painting
-Countertop Installation
-Backsplash Installation
.NOTE- Because a backsplash draws attention to the whole appearance of your space, when designing your kitchen, you ought to use the backsplash as an opportunity to design an attention-grabbing focal point for your space.
-Finish Plumbing
At this initial stage, the plumber will remove the caps on the drains and water supply pipes and install water supply lines. Additionally, your plumber will connect the drain and water supply lines to the plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Finally, during the plumbing finish, your plumber will caulk and seal around all the plumbing fixtures.
-Finish Electric
At the final stages of electric, all electrical items will be installed. such as HVAC systems, receptacles, fans, lights, dimmers and all electric appliances.
-Touch Ups
The final steps to accomplish before your home remodel is complete will be to mount the trim. Also, the door frames and baseboards will be nailed up at this stage as well.
Q. Will government or state programs help pay for medical needs bathroom renovations?
Actually Yes. Depending on where you reside, special needs renovations are specific home modifications, adaptations, changes, or improvements in your existing home setting which, based on your specific needs, and are necessary to ensure your health, welfare and safety, enable you to function with greater independence in the home, and/or to prevent institutionalization or support deinstitutionalization. All Home Remodeling must be the most cost-effective means of meeting the need. Including but not limited to bathroom modifications.
For waiver specific regulations about available home remodeling benefits, please review the Volume 8 Rules and Regulations 8.493 for Home Remodeling.
-Kitchen questions corner-
Q & A
Q. How much does it cost to build a basement kitchenette?
On average a basement finishing price in Denver is about $18,080. Comparatively, some smaller basement finishing projects can cost between $5,400 and $7,200. Usually the kitchenette costs no less than $3,000, if the area has the applicable plumbing roughed in.
Q. What should I consider before starting my kitchen remodel?
Budget- Identify your budget?
layout efficiency – Work triangle. Which layout is most efficient and suitable for your needs?
What stays list- What are the parts of your old kitchen that can remain the same to save you money?
Parting with list – Which parts of your kitchen layout must be removed and subsequently discarded?
Q. What’s the average cost to remodel a kitchen?
In its annual Cost vs. Value report for 2019, Home Remodeling Magazine places the national average cost to modestly renovate a midrange to large kitchen at $36,196 and an upscale major kitchen remodel starting at $59,510 climbing upwards to $95,026 (comparatively).
Q. So how much does it cost to remodel a small kitchen?
At an industry average of $150 per square foot for both materials and labor, the average cost of a small kitchen remodel is between $8,500 and $18,250 (comparatively).
NOTE: – Responsive Renovations Kitchen remodels tend to be 7% – 15% below the national average cost. ijs.
Q. Does a kitchen remodel increase the value of a home?
Usually, a newly renovated kitchen can boost your property’s value by 5.5%, (about $25,400) on the average mid-sized property.
Q. How long does a kitchen remodel take to finish?
Most kitchen renovations can take anywhere from 6-8 weeks, with the size of the kitchen being a significant factor. However, larger or more complex remodels can take anywhere from 10-12 weeks or more.
Q. Can I hire a handyman to remodel my kitchen?
In most states, remodeling work which requires rewiring and or major plumbing work will require that you to hire a state or district licensed contractor.
Q. Can I use my kitchen during a kitchen remodel?
Using the kitchen during a repair or renovation is not recommended. For what can be considered safety issues, it is best to set up a temporary kitchen. Your current kitchen will become unrecognizable, whereas a temp kitchen with some amenities can make the transition from old to new kitchen bearable and easier to maneuver during your home remodeling.
Consider your daily needs when designing your temporary kitchen.
- Shelving units for dishes
- Portable camping sink
- Storage for dry goods
- Mini fridge or cooler
- Convection oven
- Microwave
- Table space for food preparation and appliances
- Dish drying rack
- Trash and recycling containers
- Coffee maker
- Temporary kitchen zone with an appropriate amount of electrical outlets,
Q. Should I hire a handyman to remodel my kitchen?
Probably not, A handyman might not be qualified to do a total renovation. Therefore, a handyman should do your lighter repairs and smaller jobs, whereas a contractor usually has better systems to use for bigger projects like total renovations as a result.
Q. How much does it cost to finish a basement?
Basically, the average cost to finish a basement is $29 to $57 per sq ft. or between $19,000 and $54,000 (comparatively) . An open-plan basement remodel ordinarily costs $2,000 to $5,000 less than with rooms. However basement renovation costs depend on first materials, second layout & third location.
Q. Does a finished basement add value to my home?
According to a repost from Remodeling magazine, the average national midrange basement remodel in 2019 was $81,115. This same report stated that ordinarily 70% of this was recouped at resale (amounting to $48,669.)
Q. Can you finish a basement with a low ceiling?
Yes. You can finish a basement with a low ceiling, but a basement ceiling is too low if it violates local building codes. In particular, for older builds, that means anything below 6 feet 4 inches and for new construction, ceiling heights under 7 feet or obstructions below 6 feet 8 inches would be too low legally.
Q. Can I hire a friend or handyman to help me or remodel my basement for me?
No, anyone you hire and pay for a basement renovation needs to be a locally licensed professional for the type of work they are doing, however
unpaid, supervised volunteer labor is allowed.
Q. Should I hire a general contractor or remodeling firm for my basement finishing project?
Hiring a general contractor will ensure that the proper trades are hired and the work gets done. Additionally, general contractors know how to hire, coordinate and schedule all the subcontractors so you don’t have to. They also have an advantage over the average homeowner, this is because they have access to contractor pricing and know good quality work when they see it.
General contractors are basically a safety barrier between you and all the moving parts of your Home Renovation. On the whole a general contractor is an asset to a busy property owner and should generally be used on larger more complex projects.
-Decoding basement finishing-
q & A
Q. How long does a basement refinish take?
Basement finish times vary from project to project but time ranges are typically from 4-8 weeks from the start of the project. Use the outline below to get an idea of timing for a basic basement finish.
- Framing: 4-6 days
- Electrical and Plumbing Rough Ins: 4-6 days
- Rough In Inspection: 1 day
- Drywall: 6 days
- Trim: 3-5 days
- Painting: 3-4 days
- Flooring Install: 2-3 days
- Finish Touchups: 2-4 days
- Final Inspection: 1 day
Q. How do i prepare my basement for finishing?
Clean Out Your Basement
First of all, before you bring in experts or embark on any home remodeling project, you need to remove clutter and debris from your basement. Clear away all the boxes, bins, trash and appliances before getting started.
Complete a Moisture Test in the Basement.
It’s a great idea to perform a moisture test to find out if you need to waterproof your basement before remodeling whereas If not, your basement / home remodeling plans could be ruined by sneaky leaks.
Research Local Building Permits and Building Codes for Basements
Responsive Renovations will obtain the appropriate building permits before the start of your basement finishing project.
Take measurements of your space.
Draw a rough draft of your desired basement project layout.
Drawing a rough draft off of your measurements can help you come up with many layout possibilities to discuss with your contractor or supply retailer ahead of time.
Q. What is a scope of work?
Basically a scope of work” or “scope” in construction or home remodeling is the list of work that needs to be done in a that project. When a contractor asks for your project scope of work, they’re asking for a industry standardized to do list. The details of this list will cover the exact work that needs to be done, including materials and fixture specifics, and plans drawn for any changes to the layout, pipes, or wiring
Q. When do I need a permit for finishing my basement?
If any walls are constructed or electricity is added to the basement finish or home renovation a permit certainly should be obtained.
Q. How long does it take to process my home remodeling permit application?
If the permit application is complete and there are no problems with the plans, it will normally take 7 to 10 business days to complete the entire permitting process. Turn around times are estimates only and may vary depending on workload.
Q. How long is my permit good for?
As long as work and inspections continue your home remodeling permit will be valid. If the project is abandoned or inspections are not requested for a period of 180 days or more, the permit will expire. A new permit will have to be issued before work can be resumed.
Q. Do I need to have my permit issued for me (homeowner) to start working on my basement?
Yes, you must have a permit in your possession before starting any home remodeling project.
Q. How much will my basement finish permit cost?
We do not have a set fee for basement finish permits. The valuation of your job is based on the square footage that is being finished.
Q. If my basement was finished without a permit, is there a way that I can still get a permit?
Yes. You would still need to follow all of the above procedures for obtaining a building permit. You may be assessed an investigation fee for the initial inspections that will be performed in your basement. During these first inspections for framing and electrical, the inspectors would assess the work that was already completed. If they discover any code deficiencies they will discuss with you what will be needed to correct the problem.
Q. Do i need to add windows for all basement remodeling / finishing projects?
Usually, yes you will. A finished basement plan must include one or more Egress windows when opting to use any portion your finished basement will be used as a bedroom, or if you are creating another habitable space (a family room, for example) that does not already have an Egress window or a door. Q,
Q. What is a egress window?
An egress window looks just like a regular large window, but opens fully to allow a building’s inhabitants to escape in the event of an emergency, such as a house fire. Egress windows are required in all finished basements before they can be legally converted into a living space.
Q. When is the best time of the year to remodel?
For most homeowners summer is time of year for home remodeling. The long streches of daylight are choice for taking on most big projects.
Q. When is the cheapest time of the year to remodel?
Winter is definitely the cheapest time to start a big home remodeling project. The lowest price quotes from contractors are usually given during the winter as a result of lighter workloads.
Q. What Can I Expect From My Basement Finishing Company?
What you can expect from your finishing company depends on the pros you’re hiring. If your hiring Responsive Renovations You can expect and will certainly be given a meeting to plan out the detailed floor plan and material choices. You can expect professional, timley, quality service and warrentied work through the full course of your home remodeling / basement finishing Project.
What are some flooring options for my finished basement?
- Carpet or carpet tile
- Ceramic tile
- Stained or painted Concrete
- Vinyl tile
- Engineered wood
- Luxury vinyl
- Waterproof laminate
Q. What are my options when heating and cooling my basement?
1. Extending your current hvac system. If it’s determined that the existing HVAC system can be used to heat and cool the basement, the only other step is to extend the ductwork into the new living space.
2. Baseboard heaters- are a popular choice in cold climates, where heating is a greater priority than cooling
3. Radient Heaters- Rely on heating cables embedded in the ceiling or, more often, the floor. The warmth provided by these heating solutions will feel different from that
4. Ductless mini-split. – Mini-split systems are a common solution for heating and cooling both aboveground and belowground home additions.
Q. What type of insulation is best for my basement finishing project?
1. Rigid foam sheets are the go to for the do it yourself community who insulate their basements prior to framing the walls. Rigid foam works well when the concrete walls and usually is very easy to use.
2. Spray foam is Used by many basment renovation companies .Spray foam is a cost effective means of insulation and is likely the best possible insulation material for basements and damp areas.
3. Hybrid foam and fiberglass insulation is the most cost effective of the options listed. Hybrid foam and fiberglass insulation should not be used in situations that show signs of water infiltration.
Q. What is an insulation R value?
Insulation levels are specified by R–Value. R–Value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it. The higher the R-Value the better the thermal performance of the insulation
Q. Why does a garage or basement floor sweat?
Q. Can something be done about the speed hot water arrives to my faucet?
Q. Can I turn my crawlspace into a basement?
Q. How often should I clean my oven vent?
Q. When is it time to change my windows?
- If your windows have broken, cracked or unsightly glass
- When you notice a dramatic increase in your home energy bills
- If you have metal frame windows
- When your windows stop operating properly
- When you see condensation between the panes of glass – this means there are glass seal failures
- When there is air starts leaking in your home in around your window
Q: How much time will it take to have my custom windows manufactured and installed?
Q. How much does window replacement cost?
Q. Will replacing windows increase the value of my home?
Yes. New Windows & Doors increase your home’s value, raise your curb appeal and energy savings.
Q. When should I replace my entry door?
Q. Will a replacement door require doing structural alteration?
Q. Are home windows installed from the inside or outside of the house?
To ensure the best possible fitting. Access to the interior of the home is required and should be arraigned with you service provider prior to the installation date.
Q. Will I have to be home when my windows are installed?
Q. How can I prepare my house for replacement windows?
Q. What happens to my old windows?
Q. Do you bring your materials through the house when remodeling Basements?
In most cases, no. not speaking for everyone bu Responsive Renovations will use egress and walk out window options to bring materials, tools & workers to & from your basement. Although In some cases, we may have a cabinet, countertop or other material too large for the window. In those instances, & gennerally when there is no outside access to the basement, we work with the homeowners to secure access through the garage or front door. When necessary, we put down protective floor covering & or plastic sheeting to protect the areas that aren’t construction zones durring your home renovations.
Q. Do workers need access to the upper / main floors during a basement finishing project?
Q.Do workers need access to my bathroom toilets and sinks during a remodeling project?
Q. What is a laminated edge countertop profile?
A laminated edge is a edge profile that makes your countertop appear thicker. It is done by gluing a strip (usually 2 cm to 3 cm in width) of the same material underneath the countertop’s exposed edges. It makes an .75 inch thick granite appear 1.5 inches solid. Hence, it is commonly referred to as a “double”.
Q. Can I polish my existing countertop?
This is unlikely considering that the countertop is already fixed, polishing edges may damage your kitchen cabinets and walls during the process. Hence, we advise against this type of home renovation except under special conditions.
Q. How long does it take for you to install a kitchen countertop?
Typically, it takes two to four days to complete a project for an average kitchen. We (Responsive Renovations) need a day or two to fabricate the edges of the slabs and another day or two to install everything on site.
Q. Should I seal my kitchen countertop?
For granites, test by dropping a small amount of water onto your kitchen countertop. If the water beads up, you don’t have to worry about anything yet.
Q. Can I get a ready made stone counter top?
This is a possibility however most materials are sold as raw slabs. Responsive Renovations custom-fabricate each piece to fit the measurement and the design of your kitchen countertop.
Q. How do I take care of my kitchen countertop after installation?
For natural stones, such as granites and marbles, always seal your kitchen countertop as needed. For engineered quartz, on the other hand, sealing is highly discouraged.
Protecting the luster and longevity of your counter tops also require that you:
a. Wipe up spills immediately;
b. Use coasters or trays under all glasses, bottles, and cans;
c. Always use a cutting board when cutting or chopping;
d. Do not place hot pots and pans right off a stove or out of an oven directly on your countertop;
e. Clean your countertop with a specially made stone cleaner.
Q. What is a backsplash?
The backsplash is a vertical panel installed above the countertop, protecting the wall from splatters and blocking spills and drips from reaching behind the cabinets and moreover.
Q. What is the standard height for a backsplash?
There is no standard height for backsplashes. Everything is customized to fit perfectly inside every kitchen.
Q. Can I use granite, marble, and engineered quartz for my bathroom? Floor? Wall cladding?
Granite, marble, and engineered quartz can be used in applications, such as vanity tops, floor tiles, and even wall cladding.
Q. Normaly what sizes do natural stone slabs come in ?
Granite and marble slabs are typically between 9 and 10 feet long and between 5 and 6 feet wide, although the exact dimensions of individual slabs vary.
Q. What is the standard thickness of natural stone countertops?
In particular, the industry standards typically hover around 1 and 1/4 inch (or 3 centimeters) for granite and marble kitchen island countertops and 3/4 inch (or 2 centimeters) for bathroom granite and marble vanity tops
Q. Which countertop is right for my kitchen or bathroom?
Below is a printable graph to help you determine the best fit for you project.
