Choosing the right flooring for your home can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available in the market. Each floor type has its advantages, aesthetic appeal, and practical considerations. In this article, we’ll delve into four popular choices – hardwood, engineered wood, laminate, and vinyl – to help you make an informed decision.

Hardwood Flooring

Pros:

• Durability: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades or even centuries.
• Natural Beauty: Offers a timeless and classic look, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room.
• Value Addition: Can increase the resale value of your home.

Cons:

• Cost: Typically, more expensive than other options.
• Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning and can be prone to scratches. They may also need refinishing over time.
• Sensitivity: Not ideal for areas with moisture as they can warp.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Pros:

• Stability: Less susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature compared to hardwood.
• Versatility: This can be installed over concrete or radiant heating systems.
• Appearance: Looks nearly identical to real hardwood but at a lower cost.

Cons:

• Lifespan: While durable, its lifespan is generally shorter than traditional hardwood.
• Refinishing: Can only be refinished a limited number of times, depending on the thickness of the top veneer.

Laminate Flooring

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Generally, more affordable than hardwood or engineered wood.
• Durability: Resistant to scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets.
• Easy Installation: Designed for DIY installation with click-lock designs.

Cons:

• Feel and Sound: It might feel less solid underfoot and can produce a hollow sound.
• Water Damage: Older types can be prone to damage from standing water.

Vinyl Flooring

Pros:

• Water Resistance: Excellent for bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-moisture areas.
• Comfort: Softer underfoot compared to wood or laminate.
• Affordability: One of the most budget-friendly options available.

Cons:

• Durability: While newer luxury vinyl can be quite durable, cheaper options might wear out faster.
• Environmental Concerns: Some vinyl flooring can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), though many manufacturers now produce low-VOC options.

When deciding on the best flooring option, consider factors like budget, the room’s purpose, expected foot traffic, and your desired aesthetic. While hardwood offers timeless beauty and durability, engineered wood provides versatility, especially in variable climates. Laminate flooring is ideal for those seeking a cost-effective, durable option, while vinyl is perfect for moisture-prone areas and those on a tight budget.

Choose a flooring contractor such as JFC Remodeling for a seamless transition in beauty and functionality. Contact us for a quote.

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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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Home renovations are great, but when it comes to Return on Investment (ROI), some will increase your home’s value while others won’t. Typically, most home renovations will turn out an average of 70 percent ROI. By improving the quality of life in your house, home renovations can also increase the house’s overall value in the future. 

The best ROI home improvements add functional space and square footage. Some examples include basement finishing, addition projects, major landscaping, and kitchen or bathroom remodeling. Luxury upgrades for aesthetically pleasing purposes are generally not ideal for adding value to a home. 

Home improvement ROI measures a project’s financial return or profitability based on the value or gain generated from a specific investment. Moreover, most home improvements will give a partial ROI.

How to Calculate Your Home Improvement ROI

The official way to calculate home value is through an appraisal. The next best option is to calculate it with a simple formula: 

Home improvement ROI = (Net Gain from Home Improvement ÷ Cost of Home Improvement) x 100 

Divide the difference between the cost and gain, then multiply that result by 100 to get the percentage. This formula gives an estimate only; actual results vary based on several factors, including real estate market, location, project type, and timing. 

Examples of Home Renovation Projects with a Great ROI 

• HVAC Conversion/Electrification potential ROI: 103 percent
• Garage Door Replacement potential ROI: 103 percent
• House Siding with Stone Veneer replacement potential ROI: 102 percent
• Entry (steel) Door replacement ROI: 101 percent
• Vinyl Siding potential ROI: 95 percent 
• Fiber-Cement Siding replacement potential ROI: 89 percent
• Mid-range Basic Kitchen Remodel potential ROI: 86 percent
• Vinyl Window replacement potential ROI: 69 percent 
• Mid-range Bathroom Remodel potential ROI: 67 percent 
• Wood Window replacement potential ROI: 61 percent 

Another thing to consider when determining home improvement projects based on ROI: short- and long-term value. Adding a functional space with extra square footage or upgrading appliances are valuable enhancements that can stand the test of time. On the other hand, surface-level updates will add only short-term value because they will likely be out of style in 20 years (think shag carpeting, white laminate cabinets, etc.) Consider if you’re likely to move soon, and remember how trends change before you make any major renovations.    

Ready to add value to your home? Call the pros at JFC Remodeling!

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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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Remodeling your kitchen may seem overwhelming, and the options for you to choose from may add to this daunting sense. Before you get started, keep in mind the primary functions of your kitchen: to cook, to eat and drink, to store food and supplies, and fellowship. Determine what you must have (storage, a double sink, etc.) and what you want (a work desk, a super-sized island for making noodles.) A great remodel job incorporates functionality with an appealing design that feeds the aesthetic taste of most individuals.

Pay attention to how things will blend together, from the lighting to the flooring, and showcase certain select details that will unearth your style. Read on to learn some tips for making your kitchen remodel a success:

Function
How will your kitchen function? Will it be more of a culinary area with a few bar stools, or will there be more of a seating area? If a dining room is also a part of your floor plan, ensure your layout between both spaces is complementary rather than incongruent. 

Storage
Added storage is a must in kitchen design. Extra plates and small appliances can be hidden under drawers and cabinets, and pantry items can be stored behind doors. Large drawers can be placed at a lower level to help with access, and pull-out drawers are great for heavy or bulkier items. 

Cabinets
From transparent glass-front to opaque solid wood, cabinets are a crucial part of kitchen design. If you have some fine china to display or, rather, grubby little handprints you want to be less-noticeable, consider all the pros and cons when choosing.  

Lighting
The latest lighting trend includes a mix of styles such as pendants, chandeliers, or recessed lights. All of these options – and more – provide different settings based on mood and functionality. Consider under-cabinet lighting for more accessibility. 

Hardware
Brass, silver, chrome, brushed stainless, etc., are all common finishes in a kitchen design. Matte black can be striking and bold, while warm-toned metals such as gold can be inviting. Ensure your hardware matches the faucets so everything is consistent. 

Countertops
While white marble is difficult to maintain, stainless steel can bow or scratch. Quartz is durable, and granite can withstand high heat. Natural stone can contrast with quartz, as well. The options are endless, but with so many selections come different advantages and disadvantages. Be aware of what each countertop can withstand before making a final decision. 

Flooring
The latest trend is to use the same flooring as the surrounding living area to create a more open feel. Carpeting, however, is not sought after in kitchens, so be mindful of how your new floor will connect with the surrounding area. 

Thinking of remodeling your kitchen? Look no farther; JFC Remodeling specializes in home renovations of all types!

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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law by President Joe Biden, is a legislative collection of documents designed to diminish climate change, reduce the federal deficit, lower costs for families, and raise taxes on large corporations. 

While taxes and healthcare are important, the renewable energy sector is poised for growth through homeowners looking to remodel or improve their space. Home improvement and remodeling industries will see specific clean and renewable energy tax provisions as outlined by the IRA for the next ten or more years.

Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit
The Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit (NEPC), which expired at the end of 2021, will be revitalized and renamed the Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit (EEHIC). The EEHIC will offer homeowners higher tax incentives for qualifying home improvements, including energy-efficient appliances, insulation, windows, doors, roofing, etc. The credit will be up to 30 percent of all eligible home improvement costs made during the year, with a $1,200 annual limit. 

After 2024, EEHIC credits will only be allowed if the product manufacturer creates a specialized identification code, which the taxpayer claims by using that code on their federal tax return.

Residential Clean Energy Credit
Another revitalized tax credit under the IRA is the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit (REEPC), now renamed the Residential Clean Energy Credit (RCEC). The RCEC gives a 30 percent credit for installing qualifying green-energy systems such as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, or fuel cell power for heat, air conditioning, electricity, and more.

High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebates
The IRA offers a High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program aimed at lower- and middle-income families. Potential buyers who make 80 percent or less of their area’s residential median income can qualify for a wide range of tax rebates for water heaters, area heating or cooling, stove tops, breaker box upgrades, insulation, electric wiring, etc. A few stipulations do exist, though, which include the percentage ratio between the cost and the family’s income, the total amount of rebates, and more. 

Are you looking to update your home or office to be more environmentally friendly and energy efficient? Call JFC remodeling to help lower your carbon footprint. 

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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

The average kitchen remodeling project can take anywhere from three to six months to finish. More significant kitchen remodels can take longer, sometimes more than a year. These estimates range in duration depending on the overall scope of the renovation. 

Kitchen remodels involve changes in plumbing, electrical wiring, new appliances, cabinets, countertops, backsplash, floor plans, and more. The overall timeline can shift contingent on the project’s overall complexity. 

Organization is vital to ensure a kitchen remodel goes smoothly and efficiently. Creating a concise, accurate budget, ordering materials and products in advance, and confirming the specifics prior to demolition is imperative. 

While planning can be tedious, the end result will yield a timely remodel. It takes roughly a month of planning with the architect, interior designer, and contractor to prepare before demolition. Materials will need to be ordered, and global shipping is still suffering delays due to Covid-19, which is one reason the project needs to be planned accordingly.

Kitchen remodels are much more complex than a typical remodel due to all of the different moving parts. Specific design features and color schemes can take time to plan, order, and install. 

Generally, kitchen remodeling timelines can be summarized as follows:

1. Envision and set goals
2. Create a budget
3. Find a contractor and designer
4. Apply for building permits
5. Order all appliances, cabinets, tiling, etc. 
6. Start demolition
7. Begin rough-in plumbing and electrical
8. Install drywall and flooring
9. Mount cabinets, countertops, appliances, backsplash, fixtures, etc.

There are countless aspects to a kitchen remodel, and to keep the stress level down; it’s imperative to set aside the time to properly plan and gather information before setting expectations.

If you or someone you know is looking for a kitchen remodel, contact the experts at JFC Remodeling today.

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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

According to a new study published by “Today’s Homeowner,” most home improvement projects do not necessarily pay for themselves. To calculate a homeowner’s Return on Investment (ROI), researchers estimated the total value of certain improvements added to a home based on its sale price. Then, they divided the extra value by the project’s average cost. 

Only one out of 34 different remodeling projects in 70,000 homes broke even: replacing a garage door. Some other improvements did come close to breaking even, however. Wood windows came in with an estimated 96 percent of the cost, and a screened-in porch was 93 percent. Replacing wooden decks with composite was another higher ROI, at 87 percent.

For all projects, the average was 69 percent ROI. Finishing a basement had the smallest ROI, at a mere 23 percent. For the right buyer, though, finished basements make all the difference. 

Home improvements and repairs are expected to jump to $485 billion in 2023, with kitchen and bathroom renovations returning up to 75 percent of costs. 

While the outlook might look grim, resale price is only one way to measure value. If a home renovation increases energy efficiency or reduces insurance premiums, it’s an ROI, but differently.  

When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, the best value for ROI is countertops and appliances, according to the study. Smaller kitchens tend to have a higher ROI than larger ones. 

Are you thinking about remodeling your home or office? For premier, top-quality work, 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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

With homeownership comes the ability to make it your own. Adding your own personality and following design trends throughout your home can make a huge impact. Remodeling your kitchen, updating your bathroom, installing a fence, updating plumbing or HVAC, etc., can boost your home’s comfort for years to come.

Renovations in the new year are expected to be more mechanical versus cosmetic due to the rising cost of materials and high inflation. When choosing between fixing a broken fence or repairing a burst pipe, homeowners are expected to select the more critical option. 

Here are some forecasted trends on the horizon for 2023:

Home Offices
Following the pandemic, many people continue to work from home. Renovating home offices is expected to continue on trend throughout 2023. For professionals who own businesses, the convenience of being at home outweighs purchasing or renting a commercial space.

Energy Efficiency
As an increasing number of people reduce their carbon footprint, the eco-friendly aspects of a home are expected to rise. The Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes homeowners to craft energy-efficient home updates in 2023 with the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit. Experts project a monumental shift toward solar energy this year by installing subsidized solar panels. Increasing utility bills have caused many homeowners to seek smart HVAC systems to monitor and track their usage and spending. Adding insulation and installing energy-efficient appliances, low-flush toilets, etc., are expected to be trendy in 2023. 

Outdoor Living
Piggybacking on our first trend of more homeowners spending time at home, many people are seeking to maximize livable space. Decks, patios, gardens, outdoor kitchens, pools, and other outdoor amenities are expected to rise in 2023 as homeowners look for comfortable and functional options to complement their at-home lifestyle.

Multi-Dwelling Residences
Rising interest rates and real estate costs are being shared between new homeowners who want to split their home into multiple residences. Multi-generational living is expected to be a huge trend in 2023, as the economy has shifted and an increasing number of children are going back to live with their parents, or aging parents are opting to move in with their grown offspring. 

Are you thinking of updating your home to include a dedicated home office, improve efficiency, update your kitchen, or more? Contact the home renovation experts at JFC Remodeling today. 

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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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

As people age, issues with health and mobility can impair everyday life. Independent living at home can be challenging, depending on the situation. Nursing homes or assisted living facilities are not always an option or preferred. Most adults aged 50 and older want to stay in their own homes rather than transfer to a new place; however, most houses need modifications to accommodate them. 

The good news is that several low-cost investments can help older adults remain in their homes. Even small renovations can have a significant impact on ensuring that the home front remains safe for people of all ages.

Stability Bars
Preventing falls is a major priority for seniors, and stability bars are perfect for maintaining balance in the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. 

Increased Lighting
As we age, our vision declines, which could lead to slips, trips, falls, and other accidental injuries. Smart lighting and other technology that allows lightbulbs to turn on automatically or with a mobile button can lead to fewer mishaps.

Shower Seat
Wet, slick surfaces, soap, and more can lead to trouble for older adults. Shower seats are easy to install and allow people to bathe in a seated position instead of standing up, minimizing the risk of slipping and falling. 

Flat Flooring
It might sound obvious, but refinished hardwood floors with a matte appearance can help minimize glare and reduce accidental falls. Depth perception is huge when it comes to aging eyes. Carpeting can also minimize impact. Use non-slip floor mats in high-traffic areas whenever possible.

Secure Fixtures
Keep all loose cords secured and tucked away to minimize the chance of tripping. Ensure all loose handrails or staircase railings are tightened and strong. All rugs should have non-skid pads underneath, and surfaces should be free of clutter so they can be grabbed for stability as necessary.  

More extensive renovations such as widening doorways, adjusting countertops and shelving, and installing a full bathroom on the main level may also be necessary. Assess and plan for your current needs and try to implement scalable solutions, so your home grows with you. And always consult with a recommended professional who can provide you with price and timeline estimates.

Looking for aging-in-place home upgrades? JFC Remodeling is licensed and insured, with over 30 years of experience! Call for an estimate today. 

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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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

It’s a jolly time of year for most, filled with upbeat spirits, laughter, and celebrations. While we endure the hustle and bustle of shopping, wrapping gifts, cooking, baking, and preparing for the upcoming festivities, it’s important not to overlook safety. Read on to learn some common safety hazards that are often overlooked.    

• Never leave cooking unattended. The most common cause of cooking fires is from the stovetop or fryer. Be sure to observe small children in the kitchen and remove any clutter near the cooktop that may ignite other flames. Clean built-up grease from the cooking area, including the hood vents.

• Don’t leave lit candles unattended. December is the peak month for candle fires, and holiday decorations like festive greenery and wrapped presents increase the combustible hazards. Be sure to use sturdy candle holders on clear and steady surfaces. Do not allow candles to burn all the way down, especially if they are within a glass jar, as they can explode when the glass gets too hot.

• Prepare for bad weather. Keep salt and snow shovels nearby to clear walkways as needed. Ensure that gutters are free of debris and ice dams to prevent water damage. If you own a generator, ensure it is in good working order and NEVER use it indoors or near an open window, as carbon monoxide fumes are incredibly toxic. Running generators should be at least 20 feet from the home, windows, or garage, and the exhaust must be pointed away from the home. 

• Keep your chimney clean. If you have a fireplace or a wood-burning stove, it’s imperative to clean the chimney at least once a year. Creosote is the buildup of residue in chimneys and contributes to 25% of heating-related fires. Be sure to soak hot ashes and store them in a metal container until there are no embers. Also, keep objects at least three feet away from heat sources, including space heaters, which cause 43% of home heating fires. 

• Don’t overload your electrical wires. Be sure to follow instructions on lighting equipment and your surge protector. Use clips, not nails, to secure lights and prevent damage to cords that can spark fires. Christmas tree fires often occur due to inaccurate electrical distribution. Keep them watered, away from heat sources, and get rid of them shortly after the season, as dry trees become extremely flammable.

• Check your smoke detectors at least once per month, and replace the batteries every six months, even if they still hold a charge. The detector itself should be replaced every ten years. An easy reminder is during the fallback and spring-forward time changes, or at the end of the year and mid-year.

Happy Holidays from JFC Remodeling! Stay safe and call us if you’re in the market for some home remodeling.

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: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Since the onset of the global Covid-19 pandemic, lumber prices have been tumultuous. As the world came to a screeching halt, wood prices collapsed. However, home sales and remodels skyrocketed by summer, as did lumber prices. From supply chain issues to labor shortages, lumber has been bundled with a hefty price tag these past few years.

The Wall Street Journal reported lumber prices are at their lowest level in over two years, down over 70 percent from the peak price only six months ago. The demand for lumber has lowered due to a decrease in home sales and housing starts, which are down 13 percent from their decade-high peak in April.

Back to where the price was before the pandemic, the collapse of lumber prices is viewed by some as an indicator of a sharp slowdown in construction and a decrease in inflation. 

Michael Goodman, director of Melville, NY-based lumber wholesaler Sherwood Lumber Corporation, said, “All of the urgency over the past two years – ‘give me everything you can’ – that’s basically over. Lumberyards are not scared of the price going up.”

As the housing and remodeling market boomed in 2021, supply-chain disruptions caused lumber prices to soar to a record of roughly $1,700 per 1K board feet. 

The government recently delivered a crimp on inflation, a 75-bps rate increase, which has also affected the price of lumber. 

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said, “We’ve had a time of a red-hot housing market all over the country. The deceleration in housing prices that we’re seeing should help bring prices more in line with rents and other housing-market fundamentals, and that’s a good thing. For the longer term, what we need is supply and demand to get better aligned, so that housing prices go up at a reasonable level, at a reasonable pace, and people can afford houses again. So, we probably in the housing market have to go through a correction to get back to that place.”

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 an 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: https://www.cpsmi.com/