A look at your options when this wishlist feature is well-worn: repair or leave it alone?

If you’ve been shopping for your next home, you’ve probably seen some apartments with hardwood floors. If you’re buying anything other than new construction, though, you might be faced with hardwood floors that need some professional attention. Sweeten takes a look at what you can expect when viewing apartments and their floors that can potentially be your new home. How do you decide whether they need repairing and how much does replacing hardwood floors cost? 

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Carol Wang works in real estate sales in New York City and has helped scores of clients with their home purchase and renovation options. The most-prevalent flooring type she comes across is hardwood floors. “In New York City, very rarely do you come across a property that doesn’t have hardwood floors,” she said. The rest is “a mix of just the different types of engineered or manmade flooring. And then a very small percentage would be carpeted.”

Visual inspection before purchase

When she sells an apartment with carpet, she noted, nearly everyone wants that carpet gone, but they want to know what the floor underneath looks like. Often, she said, they can find a corner or edge where they can pull the carpet back a bit to see the wood floors and judge if they’re salvageable. 

“More often than not, they are because they have been covered for so long,” she said. “They have that nice protection from the ugly carpet.”

So it’s mandatory to have a visual inspection of the floors to know what steps to take next. Some people insist on a full refinishing of their floors, and some will opt for complete replacement. “Neither is required, though,” Carol said. “A lot of times it’s just part of the charm of living in a home with hardwood floors.”

Old floors, as Carol noted, may have a certain charming patina, and you might find that you can easily live with the imperfections. Will you even notice the existing wear and tear when you have rugs and furniture in place?

Solid planks are the hardiest

That said, some floors do need refinishing, and this is one of the major points in favor of traditional hardwood floors. Traditional solid-wood planks can be sanded heavily and refinished multiple times, making them easily last for several decades. Not all floors need heavy sanding to look fantastic again, though. It depends on the overall condition of and wear on the wood itself. Your general contractor can inspect the floors and determine if just a light sanding and new finish can do all you need, or if it does need heavy sanding.

More recently-built apartments with hardwood floors, from the last two decades or so, will often have composite or engineered materials that may or may not be refinishable. This type of plank has just a thin layer of wood on top with a factory-applied finish. They’re stable, install quickly, and work well, but probably won’t last for decades like old-school hardwood planks, unless they are top-quality products.

Is replacing hardwood floors a good idea?

In some cases, you’ll find it best to replace the whole floor. If you loathe the aesthetics of the existing floor, for example, replacing the whole thing is the only way to be satisfied. “People have really strong feelings about parquet, for example,” Carol said. “Some people love it and other people hate it. And so if it’s a parquet floor, there’s nothing you can change about that. You have to replace it.” The next question is whether replacing hardwood floors costs are within your budget. More on that below. 

Also, if any portion of the floor has developed a crown, or “hump” anywhere, you might notice a squeaky spot. This sort of problem could be due to water damage, which often occurs near the windows. Condensation drips off the windows and onto the floor and can cause real trouble over time.

Water damage anywhere, in fact, could be real trouble. If there was a plumbing leak in the apartment that caused water to reach the subfloor, there could be rot in the subfloor. The only way to rectify this is to pull some planks and inspect visually. You can also opt to live with some surface water stains, but most of us don’t want to endure warped and squeaky floors in our new home.

In some buildings, the main structure is concrete and/or masonry. In that case, the wood floors in each apartment might be sitting on a concrete subfloor, which means there’s no wood in the subfloor to rot. As a result, you might be able to repair sections of the flooring.

Is repairing hardwood floors an option?

Repairing floors can be done, but it’s challenging. First, do you have access to materials that can be made to match the existing flooring? A skilled professional can get the finish and color close, but it’s unlikely to be perfect. In some buildings, if you’re lucky, the builder will have left the extra flooring in the basement or elsewhere so it’s available for repairs. You or your contractor can also visit salvage material shops and perhaps get lucky. Oftentimes, replacing some planks and then sanding and refinishing the entire floor is the only way to get a consistent result. At that point, it’s a good idea to get a quote for a brand new floor as well as for the repair and refinish. A good rule of thumb is that if more than 30 percent of the floor needs repair, you should replace the entire floor.

Old apartments with hardwood floors

If you happen to buy into an historic building, you might be in for a different set of challenges. Original materials from the 19th century and earlier were made from trees that are no longer available. Those trees from times past grew slowly in the dense forests, which created tighter rings and denser wood. An oak floor from 150-year old trees that was installed a century ago will be tough to match. There is, however, a robust salvage industry that pulls salvageable materials from demolition projects, but matching remains challenging. A full floor replacement may be your best option in that case, as is working with a knowledgeable contractor.

How much does refinishing, repairing, and replacing hardwood floors cost?

Refinishing floors is fairly straightforward, and contractors usually charge from $3–8 per square foot, according to This Old House. In New York City, a Sweeten contractor included a refinishing job for an apartment with hardwood floors. The cost was $12,800 for a 1,600-square-foot apartment, which comes to $8/square foot.

Repairing floors will usually involve some work at the contractor’s labor rate, plus refinishing. You can go with the figure above, $3–8/square foot for the refinishing and get a rough estimate. Plus, have your contractor check it out in person for the number of hours of labor required for repairs.

What do replacing hardwood floors cost? Here, you’ll have some variables for tearing out the old floor, if necessary, as well as a great variety in the cost of the new floor. Here’s a recent example of a Sweeten project in Fairfax County, Virginia:

• New 5” wide red oak planks: $14.91/sf
• Vapor barrier: $0.50/sf
• Sanding and finishing: $4.75/sf
• Apply 2 coats of clear coat finish: $2.15/sf
• Install new base shoe: $2.85/sf
• Professional labor rate: $82.98/hour

So in this case, for new red oak planks, you’re looking at just over $25/square foot, plus labor. New oak planks are a standard, mid-range product, and you can spend double that if you choose.

We also have a couple of recent examples of new installations in New York City. Here is how much replacing hardwood floors cost for these Sweeten homeowners. One client supplied the engineered wood floor and soundproofing and spent $3,300 for labor in a 475-square-foot studio.

Another client spent $8,770 for 3 mm soundproofing, glued-down engineered flooring, moldings and reducers, and cleaning in a 616-square-foot, one-bedroom apartment. That works out to $14/square foot for materials and labor.

How to upgrade an apartment with hardwood floors

For most of us, bringing a tired hardwood floor back to life is not a do-it-yourself endeavor. The job requires specific tools and machinery as well as meticulous attention to detail, such as rigorous cleaning and dust removal before applying the new finish.

If you are already planning on a renovation project in your home, this is the ideal time to include your hardwood floors in your scope of work. You’ll have the advantage of a renovation crew already on-site with your contractor’s access to flooring subcontractors saving time and money. 

Sweeten can put you in touch with top general contractors for your remodeling project. If you post your renovation project with us, you can schedule site visits and request bids from each firm.

How long do hardwood floors last?

As usual, it depends, but if it’s properly installed, most hardwood floors should last more than 50 years. It really depends so much on the wear and tear, the foot traffic, the objects that get dropped on it, and so on. The number one cause of damage is water. If a floor can avoid major water damage, it can get a periodic refinish and look great again for another decade or more.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post A Guide on Apartments with Hardwood Floors appeared first on Sweeten.

When choosing an electric range oven, there are a few elements to consider

(Above) Electric oven range by GE

Often there is no clear winner when it comes to gas or electric range ovens. It comes down to your cooking style and the model you pick. There are models that cook well in either category. 

Sweeten points out the pros and cons of your dream double oven electric range.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Pros

Accessible

Electric range ovens are a go for every home in America. The same cannot be said for gas, which only half of the houses have access to. 

Minimal installation costs

Installing a gas oven will be costly if your home isn’t already piped for gas. Think thousands of dollars. The only fancy power source electric ovens need is a 240-volt receptacle. Your kitchen likely already has this if you swap one electrical range oven for another. 

Value

This largely depends on the model you choose, but generally electric oven ranges are cheaper than their gas counterparts. 

Cooler kitchen

Without the flames of gas, double oven electric ranges do not overcome your kitchen with heat. That’s something to consider on sweltering summer days.

Easy to clean

Flat top electric ranges clean quickly. There’s no removing greasy grates or wiping around burners. 

Safer

Gas and electric oven ranges are extremely safe when installed to code. However, piping gas into your home and cooking with it does come with a slightly increased risk of fire. This makes electric oven ranges safer. 

Cons

Less environmentally-friendly

A standard electric range oven typically takes longer to heat the oven and on the range. This creates a larger carbon footprint. However, new induction stovetops, which use electricity in a more savvy way than standard electric, are quickly closing this gap.

Stays hot longer

Unlike gas, electric ranges stay hot long after we dial them off. This can lead to painful burns if accidentally touched. 

Less precise temperatures

It’s no secret that chefs of the world prefer gas over electric. One of the reasons is electric range ovens are less precise in temperature leading to inconsistencies in cooking.

What else to consider: cookware

To maximize your electric oven range, pair it with the right cookware. Stainless steel that has a flat surface for even cooking is ideal. 

Induction ranges require even more specific cookware. All cast iron and some stainless steel cookware are compatible with induction ranges. Other materials such as glass, aluminum, and copper will only work if they have a magnetic property in them. 

Best double oven electric range

Cafe white double oven electric range, #CES750P4MW2

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• Highlight: With a wireless connection, the newest features can be downloaded into the oven. One feature allows the oven to activate Amazon’s Alexa. 
• Dimension: 29.87″ x 37.37″ x 29.5″
• Features: Matte white, slide-in range, self-cleaning mode, ADA compliant, fast preheat
• Price: $3,143.00
• Where to buy

GE double oven electric range, #JSS86SPSS

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• Highlight: This GE range is equipped with a fifth element warming zone, providing food on the cooktop even temperature control. 
• Dimension: 29.87″ x 37.25″ x 28.25″
• Features:  Slide-in range, delay bake, Star-K Certification, fifth element warming zone
• Price: $2,243.00
• Where to buy
  

Samsung double oven electric range slide-in, #NE63T8751SS

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• Highlight: The Smart Dial allows for all oven settings to be on one dial. This dial adjusts to how the user interacts with the oven and their cooking preferences. 
• Dimension: 29.93″ x 36″ x 28.68″
• Features: Freestanding, fingerprint-resistant finish, self– and steam–clean, hidden bake element
• Price: $2,609.10
• Where to buy

Whirlpool double oven electric range, #WGE745C0FS

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• Highlight: With Frozen Bake technology, no preheating is required for frozen meals, like pizza, pies, or chicken tenders, saving time and energy.
• Dimension: 29.93″ x 47.12″ x 26.12″
• Features: Freestanding, self-cleaning mode, viewing window, FlexHeat element
• Price: $1,479.10
• Where to buy

LG double oven electric range, #LDE4413ST

• Highlight: This oven features the LG Probake Convection moving the range’s bottom heater to the side. This allows for even heating throughout the entire oven, no matter what rack the food is on.
• Dimension: 29.93″ x 47.28″ x 28.93″
• Features: Freestanding, convection oven, self-cleaning mode, LG EasyClean Technology
• Price: $1,399.00
• Where to buy

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

More popular questions

How to install an electric oven range?

If your home isn’t already piped for gas, prepping for a gas oven will be costly. The only requirement to install an electric oven is a 240-volt receptacle. If you are swapping out an electric range for another, then you most likely have this. 

What is the best double oven electric range?

• Cafe white double oven electric range #CES750P4MW2 turns the oven into a no-preheat air fryer
• GE double oven electric range #JSS86SPSS is equipped with a fifth element warming 
• Samsung double oven electric range slide-in #NE63T8751SS features a single smart dial 
• Whirlpool double oven electric range #WGE745C0FS has Frozen Bake technology
• LG double oven electric range #LDE4413ST comes with LG Probake Convection 

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post The Pros and Cons of Double Oven Electric Ranges appeared first on Sweeten.

Panel ready refrigerators blend into your kitchen design, but there are more reasons why you want one

Instead of a giant stainless steel block, a panel ready refrigerator brings a high-end look to your kitchen. These refrigerators blend seamlessly into a kitchen design with an exterior that matches the cabinets.

They come in many shapes, sizes, and styles including a panel ready counter depth refrigerator. Simply put: they are fridges with a customizable front. They’re also known as integrated or custom refrigerators. 

Whatever you want to call them, Sweeten details some considerations when you are in the market for a panel ready refrigerator.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Pros

Good-looking

Fridges typically came in white, stainless steel, or black. That changed with the panel ready refrigerator. The material and color of the front panels can be customized as well as the handles. Other appliances such as dishwashers can also be panel ready.

Resale value

If your home is high-end with semi or full custom kitchen cabinetry, future buyers will expect details like a panel ready refrigerator. Keeping those buyers happy keeps your home’s value high. 

Simple if part of a kitchen redesign

It isn’t a big step to add a panel ready refrigerator if you’re already ordering custom cabinets. The cabinet maker will attach your chosen material and hardware to your fridge with minimal cost and effort. 

Pre-made reduces cost

Panel ready fridges come with the option of pre-made panels in a variety of colors. This is also the same for hardware. Normally, this is an additional cost but it’s small compared to a cabinet maker. However, the choice is limited. 

Cons

Expensive

Most refrigerators with a panel ready option are higher-end because this is a high-end process. A panel ready refrigerator will likely cost a few thousand dollars. Fitting that fridge with custom cabinetry and hardware could double the price. So, expect to pay at least $6,000 total. Added features such as an ice dispenser can increase the complexity of the design and cost of the custom cabinet front.

Limited depth selection

There is much to choose from with panel ready fridges including side-by-side and under-counter. However, they are often aren’t as deep as the deepest models. It’s typical for panel ready fridges to be about 24 inches deep so they are flush with the counter. 

Costly to replace

If your fridge breaks that means heading back to your cabinet maker with the new fridge. 

Hard to install

If your panel ready fridge is part of a bigger renovation, it won’t add too much to install. But if this is the only project, a cabinet maker will be needed to ensure the fridge fits snuggly into your existing cabinetry. 

Best panel ready refrigerators

Fisher & Paykel RS36A80J1N

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• Highlight: The ActiveSmart Foodcare system adjusts to the owner’s lifestyle. The technology monitors the use of the refrigerator to customize temperatures, humidity, and airflow, preserving food longer.
• Dimension: 35.66″ x 79.85″ x 23.75″
• Features: Counter depth, adaptive defrost, adjustable shelves, Fast Freeze
• Price: $6,199.00
• Where to buy

Samsung RF23A9675AP

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• Highlight: The Bespoke Series offers customized panel colors and configurations. Three evaporators allow for precise temperature and powerful cooling performance. 
• Dimension: 35.87″ x 73″ x 28.75″
• Features: Counter depth, Energy Star Certified, triple cooling, FlexZone
• Price: starting at $2,799.00
• Where to buy

Liebherr HC1540

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• Highlight: DuoCooling technology preserves food better, for longer. With no unwanted air between the freezer and refrigerator, food texture and flavor are protected. 
• Dimension: 29.81” x 79.81″ x 24.06″
• Features: Counter depth, SuperCool, SuperFrost, Star-K Certification
• Price: $5,899.00
• Where to buy

Miele KS37472ID

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• Highlight: The FlexiLight system offers glare-free lighting which can be adjusted when the food is placed. DynaCool technology maintains a uniform temperature within the unit. 
• Dimension: 22″ x 69.68″ x 21.5″
• Features:  Reversible doors, Energy Star Certified, Sabbath mode
• Price: $3,299.00
• Where to buy

Bertazzoni REF30PRL

• Highlight: With Digital User Interface technology, controlling your refrigerator is easy. In addition, the FlexMode Refrigerator-Freezer makes it possible to switch the bottom compartment to freezer, fresco, or fridge.
• Dimension: 29.5″ x 83.5″ x 25″
• Features: Counter depth, Frost free defrost, ETL Certified, FlexMode
• Price: $7,899.00
• Where to buy

A note on appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 10,000 items in stock and ready to ship. In-stock items can be delivered to NY/NJ within 2 days.

More popular questions

What is a panel ready refrigerator?

The exterior material of a panel ready refrigerator can be customized so it will blend into any cabinetry, including hardware. They come in various sizes, shapes, and colors allowing for more choices than a standard refrigerator.

Why are panel ready refrigerators so expensive?

Most panel ready refrigerators will cost a few thousand dollars because it is an expensive process with high-end options. Outfitting these refrigerators with custom cabinetry and hardware can possibly double the price. When shopping for a panel ready refrigerator, expect to spend at least $6,000 in total, not including extra or upgraded features.

What is the best panel ready refrigerator?

• Fisher Paykel french door refrigerator, #RS36A80J1N, is equipped with the ActiveSmart Foodcare system, preserving food for longer, $6,199.00
• Samsung freestanding refrigerator, #RF23A9675AP, offers triple cooling and FlexZone, starting at $2,799.00
• Liebherr bottom freezer refrigerator, #HC1540, provides DuoCooling technology and automatic defrost, $5,899.00
• Miele refrigerator column, #KS37472ID, comes with a glare-free FlexiLight system and  DynaCool technology, $3,299.00
• Bertazzoni freezer refrigerator, #REF30PRL, offers a Digital User Interface and FlexMode Refrigerator-Freezer settings, $7,899.00

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post How Panel Ready Refrigerators Change a Kitchen appeared first on Sweeten.

Undecided between granite, marble, and quartz for your countertops? Read on.

(Above) White granite kitchen countertop in Hannah’s Sweeten renovation

The all-white kitchen with white granite kitchen countertops and cabinets is a classic go-to style. Lately, bright pops of color on the kitchen island, fully-colored cabinets, and wood tones are becoming more popular.

White countertops are a natural pairing to these playing a supporting role. The look is clean and modern. Sweeten explores why white granite countertops get top billing.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure deposits—for free.

Why is granite so popular?

Granite is a beautiful, natural stone that conveys a modern and luxurious feel. Because granite is made of organic materials, each piece is unique. There is also the option to pair white kitchen cabinets with granite countertops in the wide-range of colors and patterns available.

This versatility makes it suitable in any style kitchen.

Granite is also very durable. On the Mohs Scale, a hardness rating tool, granite outperforms soapstone, slate, marble, limestone, and travertine. (It is nearly as hard as quartz, which beats it by a hair.) As a result, granite cannot be scratched by a knife, making it an ideal working kitchen material.

It’s easy to get, and easier to cut. In the early 2000s, more countries entered the granite countertop marketplace. From 1996 to 2014, granite imports increased tenfold, to 2 million metric tons of granite being imported each year. With the re-energized demand for housing, granite imports are nearly back to their pre-recession high.

Additionally, advances in computerized cutting have made installations more accessible to the average homeowner.

Why choose white granite kitchen countertops?

With so many colorful granite options available, why should you consider white granite as countertops? You can also get that clean look in marble, quartz, and quartzite.

• Only the white granite kitchen countertop combines durability, easy maintenance, and natural veining
• It offers a wide range of looks, but can also emulate the cleaner lines of quartzite, quartz, or marble
• While quartzite is harder than granite, it can stain with dark markings, called etching, caused by acidic foods like lemons or ketchup
• Granite looks more natural than a manufactured quartz trying to imitate the look of marble
• Marble isn’t as durable or easy to care for as granite
• There are granite slabs that match the color and patterns of marble veining

Finally, the pros of granite far outweigh the cons.

Pros and cons of granite

Pros:

• Extremely durable: heat resistant, won’t etch or scratch
• Easy to maintain; needs sealing only once per year
• Comes in wide array of colors, with simple or elaborate patterns
• This popular material can be easily sourced

Cons:

• The natural stone is porous, making it susceptible to staining and bacteria if not sealed properly
• Because of typical slab size, granite countertops may require more seams than a quartz slab might

Cost and care of white granite countertops

Cost comparisons

Because it is more rare, white granite tends to be more expensive than darker colors. Granite in general can range vastly, from $45 to $270 per square foot, installed. Be sure to shop around or ask your contractor. They most likely have good relationships with vendors who can offer better pricing.

Sealing for easy protection

However, it is easy to maintain granite countertops. Seal your countertops with a water- and oil-repellent granite sealer upon installation. Repeat this once per year. Simply clear off your countertops, spray them with sealer, let them sit for 20 minutes, and blot any standing wet spots. Keep countertops clear for 48 hours to allow the sealer to fully dry.

Daily clean

With daily use, wipe down your countertops with a soft cloth and use a gentle cleanser for cleaning. While granite countertops are heat resistant, use trivets and coasters to maintain the sealant’s integrity and avoid potential staining or discoloration.

With so many options in countertop materials, it can feel difficult to make a decision. White granite countertops are the perfect blend of a modern style with lasting utility.

More popular questions

How to clean granite countertops?

A soft cloth and gentle soap or cleanser should be used to clean granite countertops. With daily use of granite countertops, they should be cleaned each day. By using trivets and coasters, it avoids staining or other damage and maintains the protectant sealant.

How much are granite countertops?

White granite is usually more expensive than darker granite because of its rarity.  Yet, all granite costs vary greatly, ranging from $45-$270 per square foot. Make sure to work with your contractor, they will likely have some connections with vendors.

How to seal granite countertops?

Upon installation place a water-and-oil repellent sealer on the granite countertops. The granite should be resealed once a year after that. To start, clear off your counter and spray it with the sealer. Let it sit for 20 minutes. After blotting the wet spots, let it stand for 48 hours to fully dry.

Which is better: quartz or granite?

Granite countertops are exceptionally durable; it is heat resistant and won’t scratch. However, if not sealed properly, it can allow in bacteria and staining. Quartz countertops require less seams than granite, but it imitates the look of marble making it look less natural.

What granite countertop colors are available?

Each slab of granite is one-of-a-kind because they are made of organic materials. Granite countertops have a broad scale of patterns and colors, such as white, black, brown, beige, blue, and green.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post Why White Granite Kitchen Countertops are a Top Choice appeared first on Sweeten.

Bottom freezer refrigerators are a step-up from the traditional model in more ways than one

The bottom freezer refrigerator is one of the most popular models thanks to its simplicity and functionality. As the name implies, the unit has its freezer compartments located below the fridge. This is the opposite of the tried and true top freezer model. 

There’s a lot to love about the bottom freezer configuration. Sweeten lays out a list of pros and cons.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Pros

Practical

Do you spend more time gazing into your fridge or your freezer? The answer is likely your fridge. So, bottom freezer refrigerators make more sense because your fridge is at eye level. This limits bending over to pull out the crisper or the milk on the lower rung of the door.  

The way the space is organized—wide compartments for fridge and freezer—gives you options. For example, there’s room to fit large items like platters.

Durable 

Due to their simplicity, bottom freezer refrigerators tend to be more reliable. A Consumer Report survey on fridge doors gave bottom freezer refrigerators an excellent rating. On the other hand, the popular french door model received only a good rating. A french door refrigerator is one refrigerator space accessed by two outward-swinging doors.

Better freezer storage

This configuration has more freezer storage that is better organized compared to its top freezer counterpart. 

A big plus of bottom freezer refrigerators is the drawer (or two) that is pulled out. Instead of stacking items in your freezer, a bottom freezer refrigerator contains everything in drawers. Therefore, there’s no avalanche of frozen goods when you peek in your freezer. 

Cost

This could be a pro or a con because bottom freezer refrigerators sit at the center of the price spectrum. They typically cost less than the french door models, but more than a top freezer fridge. Think $1,200 and higher for your bottom freezer refrigerator.   

Cons

Less economical and environmental

Bottom freezer refrigerators use between ten and 25 percent more energy than the top freezer version, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. So, bottom freezer refrigerators cost more to run with a larger carbon footprint than a top freezer model. That’s because a bottom freezer takes more energy to keep cool due to its close proximity to the condenser fan motor. These hot little things are typically below a fridge. 

The single large doors of a bottom freezer refrigerator allow more cool air to escape when opened. In contrast, a french door fridge with multiple doors releases less air so it expends less energy staying cold. 

Fewer bells and whistles

If water and ice dispensers are a non-negotiable, you might be turning to other models. These are not common features of bottom freezer refrigerators. However, that’s not to say it’s impossible to find dispensers in this style.  

Best bottom freezer refrigerators

Whirlpool bottom freezer refrigerator #WRB533CZJW

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• Highlight: The Flexi-Slide bins allow tall condiments and bottles to fit into the fridge with ease. Storage is customizable in this 24” compact counter-depth refrigerator. 
• Dimension: 24″w x 71″h x 28.37″d
• Features: Adaptive Defrost, Energy Star Certified, Reversible doors
• Price: $989, plus free home delivery
• Where to buy

Fisher & Paykel refrigerator #RF170WDRX5N

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• Highlight: ActiveSmart keeps food fresher for longer by sensing the owner’s use of the fridge and providing optimized temperature and a controlled environment. 
• Dimensions: 31″w x 67.5″h x 27.3″d
• Features: Adaptive Defrost, Adjustable Glass Shelves, Fast Freeze
• Price: $2,499, plus free home delivery
• Where to buy

LG bottom freezer refrigerator #LRDCS2603S

• Highlight: The Glide N’ Serve Drawer provides variable temperature control for cheeses, deli meats, and large party trays.
• Dimension: 32.75″w x 69.87″h x 34.87″d
• Features: SmartDiagnosis, Energy Star Certified, PrintProof Finish
• Price: $1,799, plus free home delivery
• Where to buy

Beko refrigerator #BFBF3018SSIML

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• Highlight: The EverFresh+ System allows food to last up to three times longer than an average refrigerator because it seamlessly balances precise humidity and temperature.
• Dimension: 29.1″w x 67.75″h x 28.3″d
• Features: Zone Temperature Adjustability, Energy Star Certified, Automatic Defrost
• Price: $1,469, plus free home delivery
• Where to buy

Liebherr refrigerator #CS1401RIM

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• Highlight: The SuperQuiet System keeps sounds to a minimum with speed-controlled compressors and a low-noise cooling circuit. The SoftSystem guarantees the door will close gently even if fully loaded. 
• Dimensions: 29.5″w x 66″h x 24.8″d
• Features: Automatic Defrost, FrostSafe, EnergyStar Certified
• Price: $2,499, plus free home delivery
• Where to buy

Bertazzoni refrigerator #REF31BMFIX

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• Highlight: The refrigerator can accommodate handles from the Professional or Master series. The Surround Cooling System optimizes airflow with multiple vents and provides the refrigerator with an even temperature.
• Dimensions: 31″w x 69″h x 26.5″d
• Features: Energy-Saving Mode, Touch-Control Interface, User-Friendly Storage
• Price: $2,199, plus free home delivery
• Where to buy

A note on appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 10,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in NY/NJ, in-stock items can be delivered within 2 days.

More popular questions

Which is better: a side-by-side refrigerator or bottom freezer?

Bottom freezers are great for size capacity, stacking, and efficiency. Side-by-side refrigerators are best for accessibility, small spaces, and price. Choosing between a bottom freezer or side-by-side refrigerator depends on what the homeowner is looking for.

Do bottom freezer refrigerators have more problems?

When stacking food, food can end up getting lost under other newer food in a bottom freezer fridge. Additionally, those with impaired mobility may have difficulties lifting food from the freezer.

What is the best bottom freezer refrigerator?

• Whirlpool bottom freezer fridge WRB533CZJW is a compact 24” counter-depth unit.
• LG bottom freezer refrigerator LRDCS2603S offers a Glide N’ Serve Drawer with variable temperature control.
• Beko fridge BFBF3018SSIML provides automatic defrost and the EverFresh+ system.
• Liebherr CS1401RIM comes with FrostSafe, the SuperQuiet and Soft-System.

What is the largest bottom freezer refrigerator?

Over 22 cubic feet is considered large for a bottom freezer refrigerator. If you’re looking for a larger example, LG has ones that are 25.5 cubic feet. Their spacious configuration provides various ways to organize. Food is stackable and easily accessible and they fit more food due to their design.

How does a bottom freezer refrigerator work?

While side-by-side refrigerators circulate cold air between the freezer and refrigerator, bottom freezer refrigerators work differently. A vent located at the top of the freezer circulates cold air into the fridge. The cooling sequence happens in the back of the freezer.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

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Soapstone countertops take the lead for low-maintenance, durability, and modern sensibilities

(Above) Sweeten homeowners Janet and Jerry install a soapstone countertop and backsplash

The kitchen is uniquely a space where we’re ultra-comfortable and happily busy. There’s a lot of infrastructure in a kitchen too, between cooking and refrigeration and storage. Countertops, we’d say, are one of the most fun choices for a kitchen remodel.

If you’re looking for a unique aesthetic choice, soapstone countertops have a unique texture, color, and artisan feel. Sweeten discusses the case for soapstone. 

Arguably, the countertops—along with sink/faucet—are the most “hands on” parts of the kitchen, so it makes sense to get those dialed in to your needs. There’s just no substitute for high-quality parts when you use them dozens of times per day.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

(Above) Soapstone countertop and backsplash in Sweeten homeowners Melissa and Russ’ kitchen. Drainage is carved directly into the surface.

First, soapstone is a real stone, and there’s no soap. It’s named for its relatively soft quality, as a major component of the stone is talc, the softest mineral. It comes out of a quarry in giant sheets, just like granite. Most soapstone in the U.S. comes from the Appalachian states, from Maine to Georgia.

This is the material often used for the benchtops in the chemistry lab in schools. That’s deliberate, and the attributes that make soapstone ideal for the lab also make it a top choice for the kitchen.

What is soapstone used for?

Soapstone is classified as either artistic stone or architectural stone. Artistic stone is used for decorative items, such as sculptures and jewelry, because it’s very soft and easy to carve by hand.

Architectural stone is harder than artistic stone and is used for countertops, sinks, tiles, even wood stoves.

Pros and cons

In a wood stove, its thermal mass radiates heat comfortably for hours after the fire has died. This quality made it a top choice back in the day before we enjoyed “instant-on” heat in our homes. For countertops, its density makes it nonporous, so it does not harbor bacteria. Overall, soapstone is a very “easy care” material. It should be obvious that a stone used in a wood stove can handle a hot pan with no worries.

The downside, in comparison to granite or quartzite, is the relative softness. It’s not as chip resistant, and you can mark it by cutting directly on it, rather than on a cutting board. Soapstone mends easy though. If you nick it with a knife, fine steel wool or sandpaper smooths it out. Re-oil the entire surface as the finishing touch. 

In addition, because it’s so dense, it’s impervious to moisture. In fact, it does not even need to be sealed. A light coat of mineral oil every few weeks works fine and gives it an attractive sheen. It’s up to you.

Compared to nearly any other material choice, soapstone offers the best stain resistance. Red wine and tomato sauce, for example, are notorious for staining just about anything. They don’t penetrate soapstone the way they can with marble and granite, which should be sealed regularly.

(Above) Close-up of Sweeten homeowners Janet and Jerry’s counter and backsplash

What colors does soapstone come in?

Aesthetically, soapstone colors are in the gray to black range. Some sheets come with some veining, but it’s often a solid black. There is definitely not the range of color options you’ll see with granite and synthetic materials. But if you like the gray and black colorways, you’re in luck!

Another bonus is the sink: you can have that seamless, one-piece look so your countertops and sink all look to be expertly carved from one massive block of stone!

Soapstone is definitely a first-tier option for countertops and sinks, despite it being relatively under-used. If you like the color options, you cannot go wrong with soapstone.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

What is soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural stone that’s used for countertops and sinks. It is dense and durable. Soapstone tends to be shades of gray to black, sometimes with contrasting veining. Made of talc, the softest mineral, soapstone is also soft for a stone.

How to clean soapstone?

Cleaning soapstone countertops includes a dishrag and water; just wipe it down, and use a mild soap. Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals. For a tough cleanup, water and a non-scratch pad will work.

Is soapstone expensive?

No, soapstone is moderately-priced compared to other popular options. Soapstone seems more expensive because other stones have a range of price points, including super cheap. Soapstone is not as abundant, so the price comes in roughly $70 to $150 per square foot, with installation.

Is soapstone durable?

Yes, soapstone is very dense and doesn’t even need to be sealed. But for kitchen use, you might scratch it or nick it if you chop right on its surface. That doesn’t hurt the stone, which can simply be sanded smooth. Use steel wool or fine sandpaper and re-apply mineral oil to the entire surface.

How long does it take to remodel a kitchen?

Typically, a kitchen remodel will take anywhere from 3 weeks to 4 months to complete, depending on project complexity, kitchen size, and scope of work. Material delivery delays or change orders extend the timeline. Leaks, mold, or faulty wiring discovered during demo also cause delays.

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(Above) Molding and picture frame molding by Sweeten homeowner

Are you satisfied with the overall look of the rooms of your house? Furniture and decor aside, does it have the character you crave? If not, consider introducing molding. The addition of trim along the ceiling, at the floor, and around doorways (even on walls) will add the depth and distinction you seek. This is true for new and old, modern and traditional houses alike. When introduced with imagination and care, molding also will boost the perceived value of a home.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Crown molding styles

You can add trim to just about any area of a room, from ceiling to floor, and areas in between. Some molding styles will work anywhere; others are designed to fit a specific location. Here’s the rundown:

• Crown molding – Just as the name indicates, crown molding crowns the room when placed at the seam or transition between the ceiling and the wall. Styles can be very simple or highly elaborate and combined to create a unique and refined installation. You can also work with a fabricator to design and cut from wood the exact look you want, but this will cost more than pre-made (see materials and profiles below).
• Casing – This trim serves to conceal the gap between the wall and the door or window frame. With regard to doorways, it also helps to stabilize the opening, so this is one trim you don’t want to skip. Casing and baseboard should match or closely resemble each other for a cohesive look that doesn’t dominate a room (particularly one with a crown molding).

(Above) Kyli and Luke’s picture frame molding jazzes up plain walls straight up the stairwell

• Chair rail – Functioning as both decoration and protection, a chair rail resides about halfway up a wall to protect the surface from dings from furniture placed close by. Decorative options abound here. As a natural separator, the areas above and below the chair rail may be painted a different color, or covered with wood paneling or wallpaper. Another practical benefit: if an area needs to be repaired, you don’t have to replace the surface material—paint or wallpaper—on the entire wall for a perfect match. You can just replace the damaged material above or below the molding.
• Panel molding – This decorative molding is used to trim out raised-panel wall construction. Beadboard and wainscoting are a couple of examples.
• Picture frame molding – This molding serves two types of applications. Use it to create a frame (or frame within a frame) on a wall, which can be further defined with paint, fabric, or wallpaper. Or run it along walls near the ceiling to support hooks for picture wires, eliminating nail holes in the wall.

(Above) Nazli and Larry’s panel molding, painted a deep teal blue, gives their dining room personality.

• Baseboards – Besides casing, this trim is the most common. It sits at the juncture between the wall and the floor. The purpose is twofold: to protect against shoe scuffs and to give the floor a finished appearance, hiding any separation that may occur as the room settles. You can go narrow or wide here, as your taste and the room’s style dictate.
• Medallions – Typically used to conceal the opening through which a light fixture such as a chandelier descends, medallions are also decorative. Available in a range of sizes, apply one or several for pure embellishment on a wall, as an alternative to art.

(Above) Egg-and-dart molding supports a layer of crown molding in Tina and Fletcher’s kitchen

How to use decorative crown molding

• Crown molding most commonly runs along the perimeter of two surfaces to conceal or soften the appearance of the transition between them. Think window frames or crown moldings, described above.
• It can also be applied to pleasing and elegant effect to top cabinets or a bookcase, for a built-in, bespoke look.
• Crown molding that is at least a couple inches deep can also serve as a wall shelf or plate rail in a kitchen.
• Go even deeper and you can employ molding for a fireplace mantel.
• Drop crown molding a few inches from the ceiling and light it for an extra touch of drama in a living or great room, or a romantic glow for a dining room. There are two-piece molding systems available with lights in the lower molding that project upward, illuminating the upper piece. Your contractor can help you create a similar effect with a strip of LED lights.
• Also consider UL-Listed hollow crown molding that can hide common household wiring, good for a home office.

(Above) Crown molding at the top of these twin windows and panel molding below in Janet and Jerry’s brownstone.

Crown molding materials and profiles

Molding is widely available through stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s as well as lumberyards and some hardware stores. You’ll find a vast selection of profiles—the shape or contour that you see when the molding is seen from its side—from crisp, straight edges to sensuous, elaborate curves. Stock items come in six- or eight-foot lengths.

• Patterns – what you see from the front—include classic dentil and egg-and-dart, as well as floral and abstract designs.

As for what molding is made of, the most popular options include wood, of course, as well as MDF, plaster, and plastic. All of these materials can be painted, and the woods can be stained.

• Wood – Wood molding comes in a variety of species, some hard like maple, and some soft like pine. Go for wood if you want to match walls of the same species or seek an effect from a distinctive grain, like that found in fir or oak. Wood takes stains, varnishes, clear coating, or paint. Some manufacturers will offer wood molding pre-primed and ready for painting.

For an authentic, historic look, check out salvage outlets for reclaimed wood molding from old, deconstructed houses.

As a natural material, wood will respond to changes in humidity so it’s not for rooms with a lot of moisture.

(Above) An elaborate ceiling medallion takes the contemporary edge off this hyper-modern kitchen in Kavi and David’s historic townhouse. Original molding frames the doorway.

• MDF – Made of wood fibers and resin, medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is a stable yet flexible material, suitable for surfaces that are not completely flat or even. It resists water better than wood and is lighter than plaster but heavier than the plastic options. It should come pre-primed, ready to paint or finish once installed.
• Plaster – A time-honored molding material going back a couple centuries, plaster offers lots of choice in ornate designs. Since it’s also heavy and rigid, it’s not good for rooms where walls are not plumb. For experienced installers only!
• Plastic – There’s a range of options within plastics—polyurethane, polystyrene, PVC. All are flexible to conform to rooms with curves. They are also lightweight, and hence easier to handle than plaster and some woods. Of particular importance, plastics are waterproof, and so will not expand, constrict, split, or warp from exposure to changes in temperature or moisture, such as a kitchen or bath. They are also easy to cut and come ready to paint or faux finish.
• Metal – This material is for rooms with stamped metal ceiling panels.

How to install crown molding

Unless you are an experienced DIYer, it’s best to work with a pro when selecting the size of crown molding for a particular application. First, you or the contractor will need to match the molding to your home’s era and décor. Note that mid-century architecture, in its drive to streamline, did away with most ornamentation. Because of this, it will be hard to find crown molding examples from this time. However, very simple trim—molding, baseboard, and casings—can enhance even a very contemporary or minimal space to make the room feel truly finished. Here, paint the trim the same color as the walls.

Pick the right crown molding for your home

The array of styles and range of materials make molding a simple and fairly thrifty addition to a room—once you’ve made your selection! It can transform a room without requiring you to move a single wall or replace a bit of furniture. If your home has a historic or traditional heritage, you have much more leeway for choosing different types of molding, including very elaborate styles. Look at pictures of historic homes online or in books for period-appropriate inspiration and guidance.

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Looking for more ways to add character to your home? Hardwood flooring provides a classic look that stands the test of time.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor. 

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

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A wall-hung toilet in Sweeten homeowners Sonya and Aaron’s Brooklyn bathroom

While a toilet may not be the very first thing you think about when imagining your dream bathroom, it is definitely a decision that requires some thought. Ahead, Sweeten, a free service that matches renovators with general contractors outlines how to choose the best toilet for your bathroom renovation, highlighting sizes, styles, and features (including self-cleaning bowls).

Determine the Toilet Size

If you’re replacing an existing toilet, you will need to find a model that matches the rough-in—the distance from the wall to the center of the flange, the bolts that secure it to the floor. Twelve inches are standard, but you can find 10- and 14-inch models. The next measurement to consider is height. While standard bowls provide a rim from 14 to 15 inches high, “comfort height” is also available, which sits 17 to 19 inches above the floor, to make getting on and off easier.

Choose Your Style

Bowl Shape
Consider the bowl shape: A round bowl is classic. It also takes up less space than an elongated version, so it’s good for a small bath or water closet. However, the elongated bowl provides greater room to sit and thus tends to be more comfortable.

If you seek a contemporary style, look at toilets with a concealed or skirted trapway, to hides the contours of the base. Besides the sleek appearance, this version is easier to clean since there are fewer curves where dirt can collect.

One-piece or two?

Sounds like a bathing suit, but there are practical as well as stylistic reasons. A one-piece toilet takes up less space, is faster to install, and easier to clean since there is no seam to trap grime. However, all other features being the same, a two-piece is cheaper, plus its tank can be removed if you need to replace it or repair a pipe, whereas damage to a one-piece can mean the entire toilet would have to be replaced.

You can find wall models with the tank concealed in the wall which speeds maintenance since you don’t have to clean around the base. However, be aware that a wall-hung toilet requires breaking into the wall to hide the flushing mechanism which is an added cost to the budget. Also, access for repair is more complicated since the tank is not exposed.

A one-piece toilet in Sweeten homeowner Erica’s bathroom

Fashion colors

As with appliances, you won’t find all styles in all colors, but you will find a nice range to choose from—including the hue of the moment, gray—if you want to go beyond white. A color will cost more, however, since whatever you choose won’t be manufactured in the same quantities as white or even black. And since white remains the most popular color for baths, you’ll enjoy plenty of options there, from cool to warm to ivory to bisque, to match your decor.

Don’t Forget About Flush Performance

Flushing mechanisms
There are two choices: gravity feed and pressure-assisted:

• Just as the term indicates, gravity feed uses gravity to send water through the rim of the toilet to force waste through the outlet pipe.
• Pressure-assisted employs compressed air or a small pump. Gravity feed tends to be quieter, while pressure-assisted claims to require less water to operate along with greater effectiveness removing solid waste. You can find some pressure-assisted models that use electricity to boost function, but keep in mind if there is a power outage, the toilet won’t operate.

Water conservation

Two decades ago, the U.S. Department of Energy set a requirement for all newly manufactured toilets, restricting them to a maximum use of 1.6 gallons per flush. (Since then, the state of California has set a lower standard—1.28 gallons per flush.) Manufacturers met this requirement and, in fact, now some go as low as 0.9 gallons. As you shop, look for the WaterSense certification from the EPA, which indicates that the toilet uses no more than the standard 1.28 gallons.

Other Toilet Features to Consider

Dual-flush options
You want worry-free performance from your toilet, but even with the EPA restrictions, you’re aware of the ongoing need to conserve water, right? With dual flush, just as the term indicates, two buttons offer either the option of a partial flush for liquid waste or a complete flush for solid.

Touchless flush
Motion sensors are no longer just for faucets and towel dispensers in a public washroom. The same type of touchless technology can now activate the flushing of your toilet with just the wave of a hand. Super convenient and ideal for hygienic considerations.

Bidet or a combo?
If a bath doesn’t have room to add a bidet—which takes up at least the width of another toilet—manufacturers now offer a toilet/bidet combo in some of their models. This added feature translates to as much as 10x the cost of a standard toilet, but think of all the money you’ll save on toilet paper. Expect to find controls that offer different settings for water temperature, spray, and pressure, and also a drying mechanism.

A toilet with a bidet seat in Sweeten homeowner Alice’s Pleasantville, New York renovation

Self-cleaning bowl
While maintenance hasn’t been completely eliminated, some toilets come with ceramic glazes that include antimicrobial ions to reduce germs. You can also find models that integrate self-cleaning systems that do some of the scrubbing labor for you (and eliminate those messy toilet brushes!), with a combination of nozzles to reduce daily waste buildup, as well as a cleaning cycle, which is to say a system of sprays that— at the press of a button—interact with a cleaning solution emitted from a cartridge concealed in the tank.

And more little extras
It wasn’t so long ago that the news in toilets was the soft-close seat. Now you can have a toilet that opens the lid for you, too. Some turn the toilet into a miniature spa experience with more innovations, including soft LED lights for nighttime use, venting systems, and heated seats. If these features don’t come with your new toilet, you can find kits at box stores to retrofit.

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If you’re planning on redesigning your bathroom, consider what kind of storage you’ll need. Here are clever bathroom storage ideas that are more than average!

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post How to Choose the Right Toilet appeared first on Sweeten.

Nazli and Larry’s brownstone renovation

First impressions make lasting impressions, and this is as true of your home as it is of anything else in life. Let’s begin with the front door. It’s the focal point of your entry and the feature upon which pretty much everything else hinges—literally. You can go dramatic or understated, but you want a door that works with the style of your house while also keeping it secure and free from drafts. The right choice will set you well on your way to the kind of curb appeal that also gives a boost to the value of your home.

There’s plenty to consider when selecting from front door styles. Sweeten, a free service matching homeowners with vetted general contractors, offers a rundown of front door styles—materials, colors, accessories, and add-ons—to help you navigate the process.

When should you upgrade a front door?

In short: security, energy efficiency, and good looks. The appropriate door performs on many levels. It’s also a good investment. The National Association of Realtors advises that homeowners can expect as much as an 80 percent return on window and door upgrades at closing. If you’re not moving, this enhancement makes you a better neighbor and a happier homeowner with a prettier front entrance. Prices across front door styles can range from $200 up to $2,000+ if you add on sidelights, transoms, or different finishes.

You can also seize the opportunity to upgrade security with a newer, more secure lock system. Additionally, you could also get an energy-efficient door that reduces air leakage and cuts your utility costs!

Finding your front door style

The choice is yours, and you can have whatever you want—windows or a solid panel, sidelights, or a transom. To maximize curb appeal, you should stick with a door that fits with the architecture of your home. Today’s houses, especially new construction, can often be a hybrid that includes features from different eras. For example, you’ll see Tudor plus French Revival, or Spanish Colonial plus Craftsman. Consult with a professional (an architect, your contractor, or a door company sales rep) who has experience pairing the right door with a particular house style. You can also research architectural home styles online, like on manufacturers’ websites, and compare what you find with your home. Therma-Tru Doors offers the DoorWays app, which allows you to try out different doors on an image of your own front entrance.

Exterior renovation by Sweeten contractor Richard

Front door systems and configurations

You’ll find that entry doors are often referred to as “door systems.” This means they come pre-hung in a frame and pre-drilled for both doorknob and deadbolt, not just a mere rectangular slab. The system should also include the door’s bottom edge, which interlocks with the threshold. It will also likely have weather stripping encircling the door’s perimeter. This setup is convenient and sensible. This way, you purchase all the door features from one manufacturer to ensure everything functions well together.

If you’re replacing an existing door, you will want it to be the same size as the previous one, unless you are taking apart the entire entryway for a dramatic change. Changing the dimensions of the door (like adding sidelights or a transom) involves reframing the opening. For this type of involved job, you want to work with a general contractor. Before committing to a particular door, consult with your own contractor to ensure the door will fit. (Do this before it is paid for and delivered!)

Other terms you’ll encounter are “flush” and “paneled.” Flush doors are flat and smooth on both faces. Paneled doors have rectangular recesses framed by horizontal rails and vertical stiles. Originally, panel construction was meant to minimize cracking and warping on wood doors. They do this by giving the panels room to shift with changes in humidity. The “look” caught on, and it can now be found in other door materials.

Front door material choices

When you see the word “door,” you may automatically think “wood.” However, there’s more to materials nowadays, including fiberglass, steel, and wood composites. In each of these categories, doors are typically made of more than one material. Other materials are incorporated to enhance stability and energy efficiency. A wood door may have a steel interior, a steel door may have a wood exterior, a fiberglass door may have a wood frame—all for stability and strength—and most will have some type of foam insulation to fill the interior voids.

Each of the materials has its pros and cons, and the versatility to achieve different styles, configurations, and finishes, including the look of woodgrain.

Fiberglass front doors

Pros: Fiberglass doors are a practical choice for most climates, particularly harsh or humid weather. They resist wear and tear extremely well. Available in smooth or embossed woodgrain texture, they can mimic the look of wood and take paint or stain. These doors are dent-resistant, require little maintenance, and typically come with a long warranty, from 20 years to a limited lifetime.

Cons: Can crack under severe impact.

Price range: $200 – $1,500

Steel front doors

Pros: Steel doors are positioned as the strongest of doors. They will not crack or warp. Coated with a baked-on polyester finish, steel doors will require periodic repainting. Higher-end versions come with a vinyl finish for greater weather resistance. Some manufacturers offer a wood veneer or wood composite coating that can be stained.

Cons: Not as weather-resistant as fiberglass or wood doors. They are easy to dent, and dings are hard to fix. Scratches on steel doors may rust if not treated promptly. In extremely high temperatures, the surface can be hot to the touch.

NOTE: Both steel and fiberglass doors should come with a thermal break that separates the inside and outside door skins. This prevents the transfer of outdoor heat and cold, which can cause frost to form on the inside surface.

Price range: $200 – $2,000

Wood front doors

Pros: Fans of wood front doors are drawn to its heritage of warmth and the versatility of different species. Wood resists cold and heat. Some wood doors are composed of veneer skin over an engineered wood core. This protects the core from moisture that causes shrinking, swelling, and warping. It’s also the least likely material to dent, and scratches are easy to repair.

Cons: Solid doors can be made through a millwork shop, lumberyard, and some door manufacturers, but they are expensive and time-consuming to complete. They also require regular upkeep—painting or varnishing to maintain their appearance—and a protected area in the shade or under an overhang.

Price range: $175 – $2,600

Decorative details for front doors

The hardware—hinges, door handle—are practical, while also complementing your door style. Manufacturers will offer further options for customization with decorative glass, grilles, metal trim, and clavos (AKA, decorative door studs). Sidelights and/or a transom also lend visual interest while letting in more light. There’s plenty of choice within the glass category, too—clear, rain, satin, and geometric to name a few. And don’t forget the door knocker, even if you have a doorbell!

Front door styles: Colors to consider

A contrasting or complementary door color adds a touch of wit and drama to the entry. Try matching it to the window frames or shutters, if you have them, for a truly coordinated look. Or just go for it with one bold color for the door. Many manufacturers offer color as part of the door selection process, which saves you the trouble of painting. These finishes are formulated to be fade-resistant, too.

Picking the right front door can feel like a big commitment, and it is. But as with all the right relationships, it’s one that you can depend on and enjoy for many years.

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Just as a front door makes a lasting impression on everyone who enters, interior doors—whether they stand out or blend in with their surroundings—impact the overall design of your home.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Front Doors for a Warm Welcome appeared first on Sweeten.

(Above) Sweeten homeowner Michelle and Nate’s deck renovation in Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Serving as either an open gathering place or a cozy retreat, the deck has become a popular alternative to the patio and porch. Outdoor deck materials have improved in durability and beauty, with a range of types to choose from. Rather than choosing based on looks alone, it’s useful to know the pros and cons of the most common material options available.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Importance of the deck’s foundation

No matter how you design it or outfit it with planters and pergolas, at its essence the deck is a large outdoor platform. Typically, it is connected to the house, and raised from the ground anywhere from a few inches to several feet. This is in contrast to a patio, which is made of stone or concrete and set into the earth.

Though made from moisture-resistant or repellent material, decks should be isolated from the ground by supports set into concrete footers. Contact with soil will eventually rot any kind of wood.

Decking boards come in specially milled or manufactured sizes that are typically 2-by-4s, though widths can vary from a given manufacturer to provide you with more design options. Look for rounded edges that resist splintering.

You will find many choices for joining systems. Some systems conceal screw heads, for a cleaner appearance and and to keep water from seeping into screw holes. Other systems are designed to allow expansion and contraction of the boards. “Decking boards with slotted sides can be installed using a clip system, so you do not have to surface fasten the boards,” says Doug L. Mucher, Senior Marketing Manager for CertainTeed. “This provides a cleaner installation.”

(Above) Designer Shana Sandberg worked with her Sweeten contractor to build a two-level deck

Zoning and local codes for outdoor decks

To ensure your deck is in compliance, deck supports are best installed by an experienced contractor who knows the local codes and zoning laws. Some cities or counties require approval from the planning commission and inspections during the building process. Keep in mind: these rules might limit your grand plans, or require some creative adaptations. It’s wise to consult with your contractor before proceeding with the build. “Most homeowners can handle replacing the deck surface,” says Mucher. “However, if the project requires the deck substructure to be built as well, you’ll most likely want to hire a contractor. A contractor can be required to make sure it is built to code.”

How to choose outdoor deck materials

Your choice of outdoor deck materials will be driven by your lifestyle, taste, and local climate. Does your area get a lot of rain and humidity? Heat and sun? Most modern deck materials can withstand any climate, but some require more upkeep than others to stay in good shape and appearance, especially in harsher climates.

(Above) Sweeten homeowner Nel’s roof deck renovation in Philadelphia

Different types of outdoor deck materials

Wood continues to be a popular choice. If you like classic materials, you can choose from a range of softwoods and hardwoods. You’ll get good-to-great performance, as long as you follow a regular maintenance routine. There are some synthetic alternatives, too. Consider the following:

Pressure-treated pine hardwood

PRO: This is an inexpensive softwood that’s been impregnated with chemical preservatives, making it more resistant to insects and to splitting, swelling, and rot from humidity than other woods. It’s easy to paint. It’s also strong, and well-suited to the structural parts of the deck, even if you choose different woods for the deck surface and other visible elements. Pressure-treated pine is the thriftiest option, so it’s good for homeowners on a strict budget.

CON: It is a natural material and requires frequent maintenance to assure top performance. Pressure-treated pine is not as attractive as some other popular wood options, including cedar or redwood. As with all real wood, it can splinter. Upkeep includes deep cleaning and application of a lumber preservative annually as well as occasional sanding. The chemicals used in the pressure treatment are toxic. This isn’t typically a problem in an outdoor setting, but some homeowners prefer to keep this treated wood in places like the deck’s support structure, where they won’t have to come in direct contact with it.

COST: From $1.50 per square foot.

(Above) Sweeten homeowner Jessica’s elevated backyard deck renovation

Non-treated wood

PRO: There’s a reason why many synthetic decking materials simulate the look of wood. There is nothing like this natural material for its warmth and expression of quality. The most popular softwood species are cedar and redwood, for their good looks and natural moisture resistance. Natural tannins and oils resist insects well, and these woods are easy to stain, paint, and seal. Some decks are built with tropical hardwoods, such as ipe, which are incredibly resilient, and in some cases are accepted by fire codes that otherwise require concrete.

CON: Even hardwoods are not as long-lasting as plastics. Wood can dent, split, splinter, fade, and require frequent upkeep to maintain the best appearance and life. You will need to not only wash with a wood cleaner or pressure-washer, but also seal it at least once annually. Best to sweep daily or weekly to avoid damage from gritty dirt. Darker shades will heat up in sunlight, making them unpleasant underfoot in the summer when you are likely to spend the most time there.

COST: From $4 per square foot for cedar; from $6 per square foot for redwood, $8 per square foot for ipe.

Composite

PRO: Made from wood fibers bound by a resin, synthetic decking is nearly maintenance-free. It will not warp, splinter, or rot, and it repels insects. It requires no stain or sealing and offers a wide selection of simulated wood looks and colors. It also can be molded and so lends itself to curved shapes. It requires little care except cleaning with soapy water and a soft-bristle brush.

CON: Surfaces in darker colors can become hot in the sun and may fade over time. It can melt if exposed to high heat, such as from a grill. Scratches can’t be buffed out, and dropped greasy foods might leave stains. It will not break down in a landfill.

COST: From $5 per square foot.

PVC

PRO: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a thermoplastic that can be shaped and formed into a variety of products including decking. A particularly hard plastic, it won’t scratch, warp, rot, split, or stain; it’s lightweight and easy to install and requires no annual treatments other than cleaning with soap and water.

CON: More limited palette than composite. It will not break down in a landfill.

COST: From $4 per square foot.

Vinyl

PRO: Lightweight vinyl is comprised of PVC and polyethylene. Available in faux-wood styles and textures, this material is easy to install thanks to its light weight and ease of slicing with a saw. It never needs painting, resists staining and fading, and won’t heat up, unlike natural wood and some composites. Easy to clean with soap and water.

CON: Over time, it may sag. It will not break down in a landfill.

COST: From $3 per square foot.

(Above) Elevated deck by Trex

How to personalize your outdoor deck

Once you’ve narrowed down your choice of material, you can think about ways to customize the deck. “With all the styles and colors available, homeowners are really only limited by their imagination,” says Mucher.

Outdoor deck design ideas:

• Mix different colors or shades of planks
• Combine different plank widths
• Run planks in different directions to create a pattern, like a herringbone or a fan
• Add a contrasting border
• Paint on a stenciled motif

(Above) Deck by CertainTeed

Make the deck resemble an actual room:

• Create steps and two or more levels for different activities, such as relaxing, dining, taking in the view
• Install an outdoor kitchen, chiminea (freestanding, front-loading fireplace or oven), or spa
• Incorporate a pergola or a lanai
• Include lighting, for use at night or to highlight an area

Finally, most decks, particularly those that are raised or tiered, include a railing. You can match your deck material or choose a complementary style or finish. Work with your contractor to make sure all the necessary elements are incorporated, for safety and security as well as environment and maintenance.

Invest time in planning and selecting a vetted general contractor to guide you through the process. You want your deck to be dependable and a space you enjoy sharing with family and guests.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Choosing Outdoor Deck Materials? Here’s Where to Start. appeared first on Sweeten.

Ceramic glass induction cooktop from Wolf

How do you like to cook? Do you like to prepare gourmet meals? Do you entertain frequently? Are you in a hurry to get dinner on the table? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, you might want to check out one of the hottest “new” entries into home cooking today: the induction cooktop.

While this type of cooking was first introduced to the U.S. about 70 years ago, it is enjoying a surge in popularity, thanks to a couple of factors. A growing demand for this appliance has lowered prices. You can find some models for under $1,000, or as much as a third of what they once cost. The smooth cooking surface answers the demands of another trend: a sleek, uncluttered kitchen. Finally, the precision and speed of induction cooking draws Americans who are increasingly strapped for time at home and welcome the opportunity to cut even minutes from meal prep.

Sweeten, a free service matching homeowners with vetted general contractors, unpacks the many features of induction to help you better understand what’s available and noteworthy.

What is induction?

Induction is a method of producing heat for cooking. It works by creating an interaction between a metal pot or pan and an electromagnetic field below the tempered glass surface of the cooktop to heat the cookware. Induction is the only method that directly uses the cookware as a part of the cooking system.

How does induction work?

Beneath the surface—ceramic or tempered glass—of an induction cooktop rests an induction coil. When the coil is activated (by turning on its control knob or pad), an electrical current passes through this coil, creating an electromagnetic field of energy. Upon contact with that field, the iron molecules in the pan begin to vibrate. It is the friction between those molecules that heats the cookware.

The cooktop surface itself does not emit heat. Rather, heat is produced only when it is turned on and a pan makes contact with the cooktop surface. Once the pan is removed from the cooktop, the magnetic connection is broken and heat is no longer generated. Before the pan makes contact, the cooktop surface, even when it’s been turned on, will remain cool. After the pan is removed from the cooktop, the surface will be warm, but not hot to the touch.

How does induction differ from other heating sources?

Unlike gas or radiant cooktops, there is no exposed flame or coil. If you turn on an induction cooktop, it generates no heat until the appropriate cookware is placed in contact with it. Also, the heat is contained within the circumference of the pan or cooktop. As a result, less energy is generated and wasted because the heat is created only within the pan, and not in the surrounding environment.

Are there distinct benefits?

Clearly, all cooktops are not alike. While any heat source will cook food, and cook it well, induction does have standout features that include:

Safety – The heat happens in the pan, so there’s no danger of accidentally touching a hot cooktop. This is a particular benefit to homes with children or elderly family members.

Accuracy – Precision control at very low or high heat lets the cooktop maintain a temperature to melt chocolate, simmer a cream sauce, or boil pasta water.

Speed – The electromagnetic field below the glass cooktop surface quickly generates heat directly to the pan, so water boils faster—manufacturers claim a quart of water boils in less than two minutes—than with gas or radiant heat.

Energy efficiency – Heat occurs only within the pan where it makes contact with the cooktop, so there’s no energy wasted.

Easy cleaning – A smooth, continuous surface means no crannies where food can catch, and because most of the cooktop stays cool when you’re cooking, spills don’t burn on.

What else is noteworthy?

The unique cooking function—that electromagnetic field—lends itself to lots of interesting options. For instance, most manufacturers make cooktops with multiple cooking zones that can be bridged to create larger zones for, say, a roasting pan or a Dutch oven. Gaggenau’s induction cooktop makes possible the free positioning of cookware within its combined cooking areas. Thermador offers a memory feature that transfers power settings to another cooking area when the pot is relocated. BlueStar, in addition to a warming burner at 150 degrees, has a Power Boost feature—a 5,500-watt burner that claims to bring one gallon of water in a large pot to a rolling boil in only three and half minutes. Previously, induction wasn’t so good for wok cooking because the coil element couldn’t make contact with enough of the wok’s raised surface. Jenn-Air makes an induction wok module for just that purpose.

What about installation or replacement?

Induction cooktops are made to the same dimensions as comparable gas or radiant cooktops—24, 30, 36, and 48 inches. So you can replace your existing cooktop with an induction version of the same dimensions as long as you have an electrical hookup of the same voltage.

If you wish to install an induction cooktop over a wall oven, it’s best done with both appliances from the same manufacturer. However, you will want to consult with your contractor and review the installation instructions to make sure they are compatible.

Most manufacturers that make induction cooktops will also offer ranges with the induction cooktop option.

Is special cookware required?

Induction cooking requires ferromagnetic cookware or pots and pans with an iron core, which allows the transfer of energy to the pan. Your cast iron pieces and most stainless steel should work fine. Hold a magnet to the bottom of the pan; if it sticks, it will work. Glass and other non-metallic items will not, however, since they lack the iron core and will need to be replaced if you opt-in for this type of cooktop.

How about care and maintenance?

Since the unused areas of an induction cooktop remain cool while you are cooking, most spills and splatters will not cook onto the surface. The exception can be foods with sugar content, such as sauces or sweet potatoes. It’s sensible to wipe up any spills quickly with a sponge.

The smooth, continuous surface makes it easy to maintain and keep it looking new—far easier than a gas model with its contours and grates, or radiant, unless it is topped with tempered glass.

Only use a cleaner made for your cooktop. A regular glass cleaner with ammonia will mar the surface. Also, always lift a pot when you transfer it; never slide cookware, as this can scratch the cooktop.

All of these features add up to lots of choice for the home cook. With so much selection and specialization, where do you begin? When shopping for induction, ask for demonstrations. Many showrooms offer cooking classes so you can try your hand at induction cooking. After all, who doesn’t want a little romance before making a commitment?

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Steam-powered cooking provides an easy way to create healthy meals.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor. 

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Induction Cooktops 101 appeared first on Sweeten.

Nancy and Aram’s bathroom renovation

The shower has, at last, stepped up next to the tub—separate and equal—to become a focal point in the bath. However, there’s more to a fabulous shower experience than a multi-spray shower head and pretty tiled walls. You will also want to consider the shower door, which sets the tone for the shower’s overall appearance and harmony with your bath’s décor.

Spa-like and almost invisible? Check. Framed and architecturally attention-worthy? Check. As you research and shop, you’ll find a shower door to suit every bathing enclosure and décor. Sweeten, a free service matching renovating homeowners with vetted general contractors, surveys the factors involved in selecting a shower door to better inform you as you research this important feature.

Glass shower doors: Getting started

You may decide to place the shower next to the tub because it looks nice, or because you don’t want to make major changes to the water lines. Perhaps you only need a shower in a space with limited square footage, so you want to put it in the corner. Wherever the shower ends up, your design will require one of the following door mounting options:

• Framed shower doors
• Semi-frameless shower doors
• Frameless shower doors
• Freestanding shower doors

The style you choose can be based mostly on your taste. However, before committing, you will want to consult with your contractor to assess the bathroom space for quirks. After all, not all bathrooms are made alike: dimensions vary from ceiling to floor, plumbing lines wander, walls and floors are not always plumb. Your contractor can help you determine the best location for the shower, including making sure that the walls can bear the weight of frameless shower doors.

Mary Ann and Frank’s bathroom renovation

Styles for glass shower doors

The door you select will depend not only on your preferences as to the style and movement of the door but also any space restrictions. Is there room for the door to swing open? Or can the width handle sliding doors? Placement of controls on one or two walls and the width and height of the shower enclosure will also factor in. Consider the following options:

Sliding shower doors

Two panels fit in a frame and slide in either direction to open and close.

A sliding glass shower door in Nicole & Missy’s Arlington, VA bathroom

Swing or pivot shower doors

A single pane attached to a wall swings open from the left or right.

Door and panel

One narrow pane is fixed to the wall while next to it, a panel is fixed with hinges to the other wall and operates as the door.

A door-and-panel style shower door in Jaime Ray Newman’s bathroom

Butterfly or bi-fold doors

Two equal-size panels are hinged at the center to open inward.

Fixed shower doors

A single pane of glass attached to the wall holding the showerhead protects the bathroom from splashes; the rest of the shower opening remains uncovered.

Shower door mounting options

Once upon a time, framed was the only way to go. (Remember those shower doors when you were growing up?) With the widespread popularity of open design, semi-frameless shower doors and frameless showers have caught homeowners’ attention. Improvements in mounting systems, including thicker glass supported by sleeker, stronger hinges, means you can have a shower that seems to float or even disappear. Your choices come down to four solutions:

Framed shower doors

This product features a metal frame around all four edges of the operating doors. In addition, metal channels framing the shower opening allow for hinges that attach swinging doors or the gliding motion of sliding doors. Framed glass doors are created to fit standard shower openings. The appearance doesn’t have to be standard, though. Manufacturers offer a range of looks, from super contemporary clean-lined chrome to matte black in a windowpane pattern from Coastal Shower Doors that will conjure your own private Downton Abbey. Duravit makes a glass enclosure with two self-locking doors that fold against either wall when not in use, so the shower disappears entirely.

Special details notwithstanding, framed doors can be the thriftiest way to go and the easiest to install. The glass panes are typically 1/4-inch thick

A framed shower door in Max & Kate’s Brooklyn bathroom renovation

Semi-frameless shower doors

Semi-frameless shower doors may include framing around the entire shower opening, but not around the actual door panels. It also typically features 1/4-inch glass. Semi-frameless doors lend themselves to some creative trends in headers, like exposed industrial-style hardware with rollers and bars that suggest barn door hardware.

Frameless shower doors

Not completely without hardware, frameless is still the way to go if you want an open, seamless, truly spa-like effect for your shower. Advances in hardware engineering and glass manufacturing make this type of installation appear to float. Glass panels attach to hinges that then attach to walls. There is commonly a combo of a fixed panel and a swinging door, both made of 5/8-inch safety glass. Besides the hinges, the only hardware is the door handle and possibly a towel bar, though after going to all this trouble, why would you want anything to block the view?

A nearly-invisible frameless shower door in Amy and Kevin’s L.A. bathroom

Freestanding shower doors

At the very high end, you will find freestanding shower enclosures. They consist of a shower pan with a four-sided metal framework in which glass panels fit, one of them a door. Drummonds, an English manufacturer, makes several models for the United States market. If you can afford the hefty price tag, you can have this shower up and working in a couple of hours.

Finishes for glass shower doors

Finally, you will choose a finish for the frame and its accompanying pieces—hinges and hardware. A good rule of thumb is to choose the finish that matches your shower head and any other shower fittings, like a hand shower or jets. Of course, the choice is up to you, and here, too, is a range—brushed, nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and ever-popular chrome.

All edges of your shower door should arrive finished or polished. Styles for the appearance of the flat surface include:

Opaque shower doors

A holdover from the previous century, opaque shower doors are good for those seeking privacy. Ask to see a manufacturer’s offerings in this category, which can range from pebbled to brushed to the appearance of raindrops.

Clear glass shower doors

These remain a strong trend in bathrooms. Rightly so: they promote the open appearance in a bath while showing off sleek shower fittings and surface treatments of tile or stone.

Tinted glass shower doors

These are created during the manufacturing process and come in subtle, natural tones like gray, bronze, and blue. As a bonus, they complement America’s favorite bathroom color—white—as well as stone, tile, and metals for faucets and showerheads, and controls.

An etched panel shower door in Andy & Cory’s L.A. bathroom

Etched glass

Etched glass shower doors permit privacy with opaque designs etched onto clear glass. Patterns available can be figurative, like images from nature, or abstract. Custom designs will cost you more and must be specially ordered. The etching is on the outside face of the shower.

Glass shower doors: Thickness & durability

The less framework for the door, the thicker the glass. Standard glass shower doors come 1/2- or 3/8-inch thick; frameless doors should be 5/8-inch thick. All must be made of safety glass, which shatters into small pieces when broken, not into lethal shards.

The shower door—a seemingly small yet often overlooked feature—makes a huge impact on the look and feel of your bathroom. As you make your decision, think about how you shower, and what’s important to you as you experience your daily bathroom rituals. You want the shower to feel like it’s part of the of the bathroom. The right glass shower door can do that.

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Turn your shower into an at-home spa with features like body sprays, steam, and more!

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Guide to Glass Shower Doors appeared first on Sweeten.