Livingston Reporting

Six Essential Features for a Well-Designed Kitchen

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Designing a functional and visually appealing kitchen involves numerous decisions and knowing where to focus can be challenging. We gathered advice from various design and remodeling experts to pinpoint the crucial features every kitchen should have. Consider these key elements carefully in your kitchen plans to ensure a satisfying outcome.

Storage Solutions

The visual impact of your kitchen is largely determined by your cabinets. Thus, choosing the right color and style for your cabinets is crucial. However, the internal setup of your cabinets is just as critical, if not more so, for functional efficiency. The ability to easily access tools, spices, pots, and other necessities during cooking is paramount.

A kitchen designer typically assesses every item—from utensils to pantry goods—to customize storage solutions like pullouts, rollouts, and swingouts for organized and accessible storage. If the budget permits, drawers or pull-out shelves are recommended for lower cabinets to avoid the inconvenience of reaching into deep shelves.

A High-Functioning Sink

Since the sink is one of the most frequently used areas in a kitchen, it warrants extra attention in design and component selection. Modern sinks often come as “workstations,” equipped with practical add-ons like cutting boards, strainers, and prep bowls to enhance functionality.

Strategic Lighting

The kitchen requires varied lighting for different tasks such as cooking, dining, or socializing. Designers suggest a combination of lighting solutions, including recessed ceiling lights for general illumination, spotlights for critical areas like the stove and sink, pendant lighting over islands or peninsulas, and under-cabinet lights for task or ambiance lighting.

A Versatile Kitchen Island

The island has revolutionized kitchen design, offering additional counter space and storage, and serving as a hub for dining, socializing, and cooking activities. It’s essential for its versatility in an open-plan kitchen, often incorporating a cooktop, dishwasher, or prep sink and enhancing the overall workflow with its strategic placement.

Top-Tier Cooking Appliances

The quality of your cooking appliances directly impacts the enjoyment and ease of meal preparation. Investing in a high-quality range, cooktop, and oven is crucial, as these are central to cooking performance.

A Customized Ventilation Hood

The hood vent not only eliminates odors, steam, and grease but also serves as a visual highlight within the kitchen space. Many designers view the hood as a chance to add a custom, stylish focal point above the cooking area.

If you’re uncertain of where to start, connect with JFC Remodeling to assess your current kitchen and explore your vision for your ideal setting. We can offer a solution that’s tailored to your unique requirements.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Jason Foldenauer Construction

15 Key Advantages of Investing in Real Estate

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Investing in real estate is a major decision that can significantly impact your financial future. Here are the top reasons why real estate stands out as an excellent investment choice:

  1. Tangible Asset: Real estate is a physical asset that you can see, touch, and directly manage, offering a sense of security that intangible assets like stocks or cryptocurrencies cannot.
  1. Consistent Cash Flow: Rental properties can generate steady monthly income from tenants, in addition to potential profits from property sales.
  1. Inflation Hedge: Property values and rental rates typically increase with inflation, enhancing the investment’s worth over time.
  1. Tax Advantages: Real estate investors enjoy several tax deductions that aren’t available to stock or bond investors, such as those for depreciation, mortgage interest, and maintenance costs.
  1. Leverage Opportunities: Real estate investing allows you to use mortgage financing to acquire properties, amplifying your purchasing power compared to paying in full upfront.
  1. Property Appreciation: Real estate values generally increase over time, and improvements to the property can further boost its market price.
  1. Market Stability: Real estate doesn’t correlate directly with the stock market, providing diversification that can protect your portfolio against market downturns.
  1. Passive Income Options: Investors can choose passive real estate investments like REITs or real estate crowdfunding, which require less day-to-day involvement.
  1. Predictable Returns: Unlike stocks, real estate offers predictable cash flow through fixed rents, providing clearer financial planning.
  1. Equity Building: Paying down a property mortgage increases your equity, enhancing your net worth over time.
  1. Diverse Investment Options: The real estate market offers various investment opportunities, from residential rentals to commercial properties and fix-and-flip projects.
  1. Financial Security: Real estate provides a secure investment with the potential for liquidation or rental income if needed.
  1. Borrowing Power: As you build equity in your properties, you can borrow against them, providing financial flexibility without needing to sell assets.
  2. Community Impact: Investing in real estate can benefit the community by improving property values and offering quality housing or business premises.
  1. Business Potential: Unlike stock investing, real estate can be operated as a business, offering additional benefits like specialized tax deductions and income generation.

These compelling reasons highlight why real estate is a smart addition to any investment portfolio, offering tangible assets, stable cash flow, and potential community benefits. Whether you’re a new or seasoned investor, real estate provides numerous advantages that can help grow your capital and secure your financial future.

For More PRODUCTS, More SOLUTIONS, and More OPTIONS, contact EB MORTGAGE!

EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

EB Mortgage

History of Surety Bonds

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Surety bonds have been a significant part of the commercial landscape for over a century. In fact, the concept of suretyship—providing guarantees—dates back several centuries. Although surety bonds are classified as a form of insurance due to capital requirements, they function more similarly to a banking instrument. This is because a contractor must qualify for what is known as “surety credit.”

Unlike typical insurance, which is a two-party agreement that expects potential loss, surety involves a three-party agreement where, ideally, no loss should occur. The purpose of surety bonds is to prevent losses.

History of Surety Bonds in Public Projects

Surety bonds first became mandatory for Public Works projects with the enactment of the Heard Act in 1894, which applied to federal projects. This act was later replaced by the Miller Act in 1935, alongside the implementation of “Little Miller Acts” that govern state and local government projects, with bonding requirements varying by state.

Benefits of Surety Bonds

Surety bonds offer several benefits, including providing pre-qualified and capable contractors to:

  • Execute the work efficiently
  • Minimize the risk of potential liens
  • Protect taxpayer funds allocated to the project

Overview of Performance & Payment Bonds

Performance bonds ensure the satisfactory fulfillment of contract obligations, while payment bonds assure that subcontractors, laborers, and suppliers receive payment for their services.

The surety arrangement is a specific contract where the surety assures the completion of work and the principal’s (the general contractor) payments to subcontractors and suppliers, benefitting the obligee (the project owner).

Handling Defaults: The Role of Surety Bonds

In the event of a contract default, the surety company is obligated to intervene and fulfill any contractual commitments. Consequently, the surety is entitled to full restitution via the terms of an indemnity agreement with the principal, compensating the surety for any losses incurred.

For more detailed information about surety bonds and guidance on how to obtain one, contact Construction Bonding Specialists.

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Construction Bonding Specialists

Remove Persistent Pollutants From Your Drinking Water

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Numerous harmful substances are increasingly contaminating our drinking water. This includes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as ‘forever chemicals.’ These fluorinated compounds are notable for their resistance to degradation, ability to accumulate in tissues, and high mobility in the environment. Originally used in products like non-stick cookware, stain repellents, and surfactants, PFAS have emerged as a significant environmental and health issue in recent decades. With advancements in analytical technology, PFAS can now be detected nearly everywhere, intensifying concerns about the health implications of current exposure levels.

PFAS: Multiple Exposures

Our exposure to PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—occurs through drinking water, air, food, and to a lesser degree, skin absorption. While reducing airborne exposure is challenging, frequent household cleaning can help minimize inhalation of PFAS-laden dust, although this exposure route needs more research.

PFAS are also prevalent in food and food packaging. With limited regulatory oversight in this area, altering our dietary habits to decrease PFAS exposure proves difficult without knowing which foods are less contaminated or if a significant portion of grocery store products are affected.

Drinking water is currently the most manageable source of PFAS to address when aiming to reduce exposure. Effective filtration systems can significantly lower PFAS levels in household water supplies, providing a direct and impactful means of protection.

Treating Drinking Water

The most effective method for ensuring safe drinking water is to upgrade treatment facilities to remove PFAS, thereby securing clean water for people of all socio-economic statuses. This is crucial since traditional water treatment methods often fail to eliminate these contaminants. However, specialized treatments for PFAS can be expensive and take time to implement.

While consuming bottled water might seem like a simple alternative, it is not always economically viable for everyone. Additionally, compared to tap water, bottled water has a larger environmental impact due to the transportation and disposal of plastic bottles.

Boiling water does not effectively destroy PFAS. Although boiling can slightly reduce PFAS levels in the water, it also releases some volatile components into the air, merely shifting the problem rather than resolving it.

Residential Drinking Water Treatment Options

For domestic water treatment, the most economical option is to install a filter at the main kitchen sink, known as point-of-use (POU) treatment. Treating the entire home’s water supply is generally unnecessary and more costly, as baths and showers pose minimal risk for PFAS exposure. Below, we list the two main types of residential treatment options:

  • Nanofiltration and Reverse Osmosis Systems

These systems are effective if certified to remove PFAS, but their efficiency varies based on water quality and the contaminants present. While under-sink systems require a higher initial investment and yearly replacement of cartridges or membranes, they may also need professional installation and space under the sink.

Our Reynolds Reverse Osmosis System has five high-performance filtration stages to reduce harmful contaminates, including PFAS’s, providing you with healthier and better tasting water right from the tap.

  • Pitcher-type Filters

These are easy to use, relatively inexpensive, and quick to install. However, standard pitcher filters may not effectively remove PFAS, particularly the newer, shorter-chain varieties. Their effectiveness can also vary depending on the water’s characteristics and the contaminants it contains.

To enhance filtration performance, it’s advisable to regularly replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Furthermore, for households with higher contamination levels or specific water quality concerns, considering a more robust filtration system is likely necessary.

For clean drinking water solutions, contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today for quality you can trust.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Reynolds Water

Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant to Power Microsoft’s Data Centers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The Three Mile Island power plant in Middletown, Pennsylvania, site of the most significant nuclear accident in U.S. history, is set to reopen. The plant will now serve a new purpose—powering Microsoft’s data centers, which are crucial for the company’s cloud computing and artificial intelligence operations.

Constellation Energy, known as the largest producer of clean, carbon-free energy in America, has entered into its most substantial power purchase agreement yet with Microsoft. This partnership is set to provide reliable, carbon-free energy essential for powering industries that are crucial to the U.S.’s economic and technological competitiveness.

Joe Dominguez, president and CEO of Constellation Energy, emphasized the unique capacity of nuclear energy to deliver constant, carbon-free power, crucial for data centers that operate around the clock. The deal is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including the creation of approximately 3,400 jobs and an injection of more than $3 billion in taxes into state and federal coffers. Furthermore, it’s projected to contribute $16 billion to Pennsylvania’s GDP.

The power plant, which will be renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center in honor of the late Chris Crane, former CEO of Constellation’s parent company, is scheduled to reopen in 2028 and will operate under a 20-year agreement.

While nuclear energy provides a carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels, it remains controversial. The reactor at Three Mile Island set to power Microsoft was not involved in the 1979 accident, and before its closure in 2019 due to economic reasons, it was considered one of the safest and most reliable in the grid. This reopening has sparked concerns among state activists about the potential financial burden on taxpayers.

This development marks a significant step in Pennsylvania’s journey toward a sustainable energy future, contributing to both economic growth and environmental preservation.

Please reference the original article at NPR.org.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Creative Programs and Systems

Keeping Mice at Bay During the Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As temperatures drop, we’re not the only ones seeking warmth and shelter—mice are also on the lookout for cozy winter havens. Your home, as well as any vehicles you have in storage like RVs, boats, and cars, can become prime real estate for these pesky rodents. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to prevent an infestation are key to protecting your property from damage and health hazards associated with mice.

Why Mice Seek Refuge in Homes and Vehicles

Mice are small, nimble creatures that can enter buildings and vehicles through gaps as small as a dime. Once inside, they find everything they need: shelter, warmth, and potential food sources. Your home offers various nooks and crannies that serve as perfect nesting spots, while stored vehicles are less frequented and thus provide peaceful harborage.

The Dangers of a Mouse Infestation

Mice are more than just a nuisance. They can cause significant damage and pose health risks:

  • Property Damage: Mice chew on everything. In homes, they can gnaw through wires, insulation, and wooden structures, leading to costly repairs. In vehicles, they might chew through wiring and upholstery, which can compromise safety features and lead to expensive fixes.
  • Health Risks: Mice can carry diseases such as hantavirus, salmonella, and listeria, which are transmittable to humans through their droppings, urine, and saliva.
  • Allergens: The presence of mice and their droppings can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms, particularly in children.

Preventive Measures to Keep Mice Out

Taking action before mice settle in is crucial. Here are some effective strategies to prevent an infestation:

  • Seal Entry Points: Thoroughly inspect your home and any stored vehicles. Seal any cracks, holes, and openings with steel wool, caulk, or a combination of both. Pay special attention to gaps around doors, windows, and utility pipes.
  • Remove Food Sources: Keep food in sealed containers and dispose of garbage regularly. In vehicles, avoid leaving crumbs or food wrappers which can attract mice.
  • Declutter and Clean: Regular cleaning helps reduce potential nesting areas. Declutter spaces and keep storage areas tidy and organized. In vehicles, clean the interiors regularly and avoid storing items like blankets that can attract mice.
  • Set Traps: In areas where mice are likely to enter, consider setting traps. Various options are available, from traditional snap traps to humane catch-and-release traps, depending on your preference.
  • Professional Pest Control: Sometimes, despite all efforts, mice find a way in. In such cases, or if you’re dealing with an existing infestation, contact Northern Pest, a professional pest control company in Northern Michigan, for effective, customized solutions.

Winterize Your Vehicles

For vehicles that will be stored over winter, take additional precautions:

  • Thoroughly Clean: Remove all food traces and vacuum the interiors to eliminate crumbs and debris.
  • Use Repellents: Natural deterrents like peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls can be effective. Place them in areas prone to mouse entry.
  • Regular Checks: Periodically inspect stored vehicles for signs of mice. Early detection can prevent extensive damage.

Mice infestations can cause extensive damage to property and pose health risks, but by taking preventive measures, you can protect your home and stored vehicles. Regular maintenance, sealing potential entry points, and keeping areas clean and declutter-free are your best defenses against these unwelcome winter guests. If you suspect an infestation, consulting with a pest control professional, such as Northern Pest to effectively tackle the problem and prevent future issues. Remember, the key to pest management is prevention and early intervention.

No matter where you’re facing a mouse problem (RV, stored boat/vehicle, deer blind, or your home), Northern Pest has a team of seasoned professionals ready to safely and promptly remove any pest issue.

Northern Pest: Our family serving yours! We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to offer professional mold mitigation services caused by animal damage. At Northern Pest, we do it all!

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Northern Pest

BAT: A Revolutionary Garment Enhancing Radiation Safety for Healthcare Professionals

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

On September 23, 2024, Burlington Medical announced the availability of BAT, a groundbreaking radiation protection garment designed to significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer and other radiation-associated cancers among healthcare workers. This innovative garment covers crucial areas such as the breast, axilla, and thyroid.

Developed by Dr. Lauren Ramsey, a Breast Surgical Oncologist, BAT was inspired by a personal loss. Dr. Ramsey’s friend and colleague succumbed to breast cancer, which she believed was exacerbated by occupational radiation exposure. Addressing a dire need within the medical community, BAT offers an additional layer of protection that is often missed by traditional radioprotective aprons.

Dr. Ramsey highlights the increased risk faced by female healthcare professionals, particularly noting, “Female orthopedic surgeons have up to a three times higher risk of developing breast cancer.” With women now comprising 55 percent of medical school attendees, the design of BAT is tailored specifically with their safety in mind. It achieves over 97 percent reduction in radiation exposure to the upper outer quadrant of the breast and also lessens exposure to the thyroid, chest, and spine.

Key benefits of BAT include:

  • Targeted Protection: BAT is meticulously crafted to shield the breast, axilla, and thyroid, cutting down radiation exposure by up to 97.7 percent.
  • Comfort and Mobility: Featuring a lightweight design with mesh panels, BAT ensures comfort, freedom of movement, and temperature control.
  • Compatibility: Designed to be worn with any radioprotective apron, BAT requires no additional attachments, making it a versatile and essential addition to any healthcare professional’s safety gear.
  • Enhanced Safety: Besides safeguarding the breast and axilla, it also minimizes scatter radiation that can impact the chest, neck, and spine.

Exclusively distributed by Burlington Medical, BAT stands out as a vital innovation in the field of healthcare safety, offering a critical solution to reduce cancer risks associated with ionizing radiation exposure, which accumulates over time. This garment empowers healthcare workers by providing effective protection without compromising on comfort or mobility.

Healthcare professionals can directly place orders at: https://burmed.com/store/bat.html

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

RadParts

Preparing Your Inground Pool for Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As summer fades and the cooler air of autumn arrives, it’s time to start thinking about closing your inground pool for the winter. Properly winterizing your pool not only protects it from damage due to freezing temperatures but also makes your spring opening much easier. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you securely close your pool for the season.

Balance the Water Chemistry

About a week before you plan to close your pool, adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. This step is crucial to protect the pool surface and equipment during the winter. Ideal levels should be:

  • pH: 7.2 – 7.6
  • Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
  • Calcium Hardness: 180 – 220 ppm

Clean the Pool

Remove any leaves, dirt, and debris from the water. Scrub the sides and bottom of the pool to prevent algae growth and stains. Ensure that the pool is as clean as possible to reduce the workload when it’s time to reopen.

Lower the Water Level

Lower the water level below the skimmer or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific pool type. This step is important to prevent water from entering the skimmer line and freezing.

Add Winterizing Chemicals

Add winterizing chemicals to help keep the water clear and free from algae during the off-season. These typically include an algaecide and a winterizing pool shock. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for the correct amounts based on your pool’s volume.

Circulate the Chemicals

Run the pool’s pump for at least 24 hours to circulate the new chemicals thoroughly. This ensures that the chemicals are evenly distributed throughout the pool.

Drain and Store the Equipment

Drain all pumping, filtering, heating, and chlorinating equipment. This includes hoses, pumps, filters, heaters, and chemical feeders. Dry and store them in a dry place to prevent any damage during the winter.

Blow Out the Lines

To prevent freezing and cracking, blow out the water from the plumbing lines using a compressor or shop vac. Seal the lines using expansion plugs or other appropriate methods to keep water out.

Cover Your Pool

Install a quality winter pool cover to keep out debris and reduce the possibility of algae growth. Make sure the cover fits securely and is weighted down or tightly sealed around the edges to prevent it from blowing away or allowing debris to enter.

Regular Checks

Throughout the winter, periodically check on your pool cover and the area around the pool. Remove any accumulated water or snow from the top of the cover to prevent stretching or damage. Also, ensure that the cover remains secure and adjust if necessary.

Closing your inground pool for the winter is an essential maintenance step that can prevent costly repairs and ensure your pool remains in good condition when spring arrives. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your pool will be well-protected against the harsh winter elements. Remember, taking the time to close your pool properly can save a significant amount of time and effort when it’s time to dive back in the following summer.

If you’re considering restoration work for your inground pool, now is good time to plan! Contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering today!

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Pound Pool Plastering

Rodent Control and Prevention

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Image of two mice on a kitchen floor at nighttime.

In September, we began restocking rodent bait stations due to the increased pest activity from last year’s mild winter. To prevent unwelcome mice, ask us about effective methods to reduce their local population and keep them away.

Warning Signs of Mice

Be alert for these indicators of a mouse presence:

  • Mouse droppings, about 0.125-0.25 inches long, resembling rice grains.
  • A distinct ammonia-like smell from mouse urine.
  • Greasy, black rub marks on walls along mouse travel paths.
  • Gnaw marks and burrows in insulation or other materials.
  • Sightings of mice, which likely indicate a larger infestation.

Risks Associated with Mice

Mice are adaptable and breed rapidly, with a single female producing up to 35 offspring annually. They can enter homes and businesses through tiny gaps and pose health risks by spreading diseases, contaminating food, and potentially triggering asthma or allergies with airborne particles from their droppings and urine. Rodents can also carry other pests like fleas and ticks into your home.

Identifying Local Rodents

In northern Michigan, common rodents include house mice, deer mice, Norway rats, roof rats, pack rats, meadow voles, and squirrels. Familiarity with these species can help you recognize and prevent infestations.

Controlling Mice

If you suspect a rodent problem in your home or business, contact a professional service provider such as Northern Pest. Our licensed techs have the experience and training to safely and effectively address pest invasions, big or small, within walls, attics, commercial properties, multi-unit dwellings, and more!

Don’t let a small pest problem become a big infestation; contact the pros now! 

Northern Pest: Our family serving yours! We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to offer professional mold mitigation services caused by animal damage. At Northern Pest, we do it all!

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Northern Pest

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom can be an exciting journey that adds significant value and functionality to your home. However, without proper planning and understanding, it can also be fraught with costly mistakes. As a licensed contractor specializing in these spaces, JFC Remodeling has compiled some key pitfalls that many homeowners encounter and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Underestimating the Budget One of the most common mistakes in any remodel is not setting a realistic budget. Costs can quickly escalate due to unforeseen circumstances or changes mid-project. To avoid this, create a detailed budget that includes a buffer of at least 20% for unexpected expenses. Be upfront with your contractor about your budget limits to ensure that design choices align with financial realities.

2. Overlooking Functionality While aesthetics are important, functionality should be your primary focus, especially in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms that serve specific purposes. Consider how you use the space daily. Think about storage, counter space, and appliance placement in kitchens or the layout in bathrooms to enhance usability and comfort.

3. Neglecting Adequate Ventilation In bathrooms, poor ventilation can lead to mold and mildew, damaging surfaces and compromising air quality. In kitchens, inadequate ventilation can make cooking odors linger. Ensure that your design includes proper ventilation solutions, such as a quality exhaust fan in the bathroom and a hood vent over the stove.

4. Choosing the Wrong Materials Using inappropriate materials can be a double-edged sword. Some materials may look beautiful but can be impractical for spaces exposed to water, heat, or heavy use. For bathrooms, opt for moisture-resistant materials such as porcelain tiles and use durable quartz countertops in kitchens that can withstand high traffic and heat.

5. Trend Overload While it’s tempting to go all-in on the latest design trends, remember that kitchens and bathrooms should stand the test of time. Choose designs that match your home’s overall aesthetic and opt for trends in small doses that can be easily updated, such as accessories and paint colors.

6. DIY Overreach – While DIY projects can be rewarding, they can also lead to disasters if you overestimate your skills, especially with plumbing and electrical work. These tasks require professional expertise to ensure safety and compliance with local building codes. Hiring a licensed contractor can help avoid costly mistakes and legal issues.

7. Ignoring Lighting -Lighting is crucial in both kitchens and bathrooms. Poor lighting can affect the functionality and ambiance. Incorporate a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting to ensure the space is well-lit for specific tasks while also providing adjustable options for mood setting.

8. Forgetting Storage -Ample storage is crucial to avoid clutter, especially in smaller spaces. Plan for enough cabinets and drawers in kitchens for utensils and appliances and include adequate shelving or cabinets in bathrooms for toiletries and towels.

Avoiding these common mistakes in kitchen and bathroom remodels can save you time, money, and frustration. It’s essential to plan carefully and work with professionals such as JRC Remodeling, who can guide you through the process to achieve a space that is both beautiful and functional. Remember, a well-thought-out design is the key to a successful remodel.

Providing unique and polished renovations for over 30 years, contact JFC Remodeling for a free estimate! 

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Jason Foldenauer Construction