Aurora Kitchens & Interiors

Popcorn ceilings are usually made of stucco or sand paint. This technique was used on construction during the 70s and 80s for the purpose of hiding imperfections in concrete slab ceilings that were never 100% level. In some cases, chunks of these ceiling are beginning to crumble. When repairing a popcorn ceiling, its nearly impossible to make the repair invisible. There are two ways to make these ceiling smooth. One is to scrape and skim coat. This requires more work but will not affect the ceiling height. The second way is to frame and Sheetrock the ceiling. This technique is faster, but will drop the ceiling height by at least a couple of inches. In some cases, it may be an advantage because new framing will allow you to run wiring for ceiling light fixtures or speakers. Wiring through concrete slab ceilings can be very challenging. In addition, some buildings do not permit running wiring in concrete slab ceilings. Changing a popcorn ceiling to a smooth surface ceiling is a popular trend. Not only does it allow for better wiring, it also makes the space look cleaner, larger and less dated.

Wood flooring is not usually recommended for kitchens. That said, its still a very popular choice. If it works visually, go ahead and use it especially if you are opening the kitchen into an adjacent space with wood flooring. Generally, designers choose other materials over wood because of both the wear and tear factor and possible exposure to water damage. Because the kitchen is a high traffic area, the finish will wear off a wood floor more quickly than in other low traffic parts of your home and will need to be refinished periodically. Also, because there is plumbing in a kitchen, wood floors are at risk for water damage. A tile floor is more resistant to leaks and humidity.

Home depot is a great source. The huge stores are very convenient with everything found under one roof. Also, Home Depots prices are known to be the best in the market. This is not true, however, with kitchen cabinets. Actually, Home Depots kitchen cabinet prices are very similar to those of smaller kitchen cabinet dealers. Home Depot has shown tremendous success as a high volume, low priced retailer but if you are looking for personalized, high quality service, thats not where Home Depot shines. The most common complaint of Home Depot customers is that you are on your own. No one devotes time to your project helping you understand, plan, design, price and make the best choices. To keep costs low and prices very competitive, Home Depots service must remain basic. Stores are generally understaffed and most employees are not trained designers or contractors.

We love Ikea. The Scandinavian design is beautiful and the prices are too good to be true. Its a great place to research European design ideas. Heres how Ikea works: Ikea is a high volume retailer offering low priced European-style kitchens. All Ikea products are manufactured in Sweden and shipped to the U.S. To keep shipping costs low, all items are shipped and sold disassembled and the buyer must assemble the cabinets. This works well with tables or bookcases, but is very problematic with kitchens. Imagine purchasing a kitchen consisting of 10 cabinets. If you receive 10 assembled cabinets, all you have to do is install them. However, Ikea kitchens come in hundreds even thousands of pieces and there is a chance at least one piece will be missing. In addition, the assembly process takes time which will be more costly if you are paying for labor. Another issue is the strength of the cabinet. A cabinet assembled on the job site will never be as strong and precise as a cabinet manufactured in a factory. In addition, Ikea uses very low-density particleboard. If you need to re-drill or nail the cabinet in the future, there is a good chance the low- density material will crumble.

This is one of the most frequently asked questions when researching cabinets. There is a general perception that plywood is better than particleboard maybe because plywood has the word wood in it. Most people figure plywood is real wood while particleboard is a cheap imitation. Surprisingly, in many cases particleboard is a much better option than plywood. In order to make the best decision; lets define these two materials. Plywood is composed of thin sheets of wood glued together. Particleboard is made of tiny wood particles held together with adhesive. Both are strong, durable and make a good cabinet. Also, there are different types and grades of plywood and particleboard. High-density particleboard is stronger and will last longer than plywood. All wood expands and contracts because of changes in humidity. Generally, particleboard is more resistant to expansion and contraction. So in areas with significant changes in humidity like New York particleboard is the better option.

Of course, re-facing is less expensive than replacing cabinets but it is usually not recommended. If you are planning to replace doors and drawer fronts youll also need to replace the front face of the cabinet frame to make sure the doors and visible parts of the cabinet match. Re-facing the frame is where problems usually occur. If the laminate shifts or peels away, an unattractive seam shows. This is most typical complaint among re-facing clients. Another reason not to re-face is cost. The most expensive part about 70% of a cabinets cost is the door. Consider this, if you are already paying for most of the cabinet, why not add a little more and upgrade to completely new cabinets? There are many options available in cabinets for every budget. If you are already committed to spending time, money and effort on remodeling, consider the value and enjoyment youll gain by opting for brand new cabinets. At MyHome, we provide re-facing service because on occasion re-facing can be a logical choice. Cabinet re-facing is extremely profitable since very little labor is involved. Its good business for the re-facing company but not often the best solution for the homeowner.

Realtor Magazine reported that for the year 2005, the national average return on investment for kitchen remodeling is between 84.8% and 98.5% depending upon whether it is a major or minor project and whether the budget is upscale or moderate. However, in large metropolitan areas like New York City, the return ranged from 119.5% to 135%. So, many people will actually make a substantial profit on the money they invest in their kitchen.

From a functional standpoint, cabinetry is probably the most expensive item in the kitchen, mainly because of its sheer volume. However, you can also spend a lot of money on your countertops and flooring, depending on the style and materials you like.

Absolutely not; but it helps if you do. Your Free Design Consultation is meant to help generate ideas or work through the ones you already have.

Yes. That is a major component of what makes us a full service firm. The fact that we are able to design everything for you, help you choose the materials, and sell them to you, makes it very convenient for clients. But, it is also important to note, that we dont require you to purchase the materials from us. You may shop at other locations.

Since we have all the materials you need at our showroom, yes, an Aurora Remodeling consultant will help you choose everything you need.

You can start by getting a good idea for the type of look and style you want. If you dont know yet, look at some magazines, websites, or watch some home remodeling shows to get some design ideas. Then, contact us for a Free Design Consultation with a Remodeling Consultant. You will be instructed by your Remodeling Consultant as to what exact steps you need to take. But, generally speaking, before construction begins, youll want to clear out the area being worked on of all your personal belongings that can be removed. Although, we cover the areas surrounding our work area, youll want to protect your furniture from dust with plastic and/or sheets.

Re-glazing is a great way to save money. It requires less labor and eliminates the cost of installing a new tub. Many older tubs are cast iron a very sturdy and expensive material. In addition, some older tub models may be deeper than new tubs. Yes, there are several good reasons to re-glaze but there is one big disadvantage it doesnt last. The glaze usually begins to wear off within a few years. Depending on usage, the tub may need to be re-glaze in three years. Nothing really replaces the visual appeal of a brand new tub. If you want to do it right and are not limited by budget, replacing the tub is the best way to go.

Bathrooms typically get the best return on investment in a remodeled home. Realtor Magazine reported that for the year 2005, the national average return on investment for bathroom remodeling was between 93.2% and 102.2% depending upon the budget is upscale or moderate. In large metropolitan areas like New York City, the return ranged from 116% to 136.3%. So, many people actually make substantial money when investing in a bathroom remodeling project.

Depending on your style and taste, the floor and wall tiles can be the most expensive. Other possibly considerable expenses are the fixtures and shower system.

Since we have all the materials you need at our showroom, yes, an Aurora Remodeling consultant will help you choose everything you need.

You can start by getting a good idea for the type of look and style you want. If you dont know yet, look at some magazines, websites, or watch some home remodeling shows to get some design ideas. Then, contact us for a Free Design Consultation with a Remodeling Consultant. You will be instructed by your Remodeling Consultant as to what exact steps you need to take. But, generally speaking, before construction begins, youll want to clear out the area being worked on of all your personal belongings that can be removed. Although, we cover the areas surrounding our work area, youll want to protect your furniture from dust with plastic and/or sheets.

At the risk of sounding elusive, we really must say that it depends. The scope of the bathroom remodeling dictates how long the project will take. For example, if you are relocating your fixtures and reconfiguring the room, the actual construction will obviously take a little bit longer. But, it is important to remember that moving fixtures will generally require building department permits, which will also add to the project time. Heres a sample timeline, for illustration purposes only, of a bathroom remodeling project that does not include relocating fixtures: Meet with a remodeling consultant for a Free Design Consultation and get proposal 1 week. Meet at our showroom, finalize the scope of the project and the terms of a Remodeling Agreement 2 to 3 weeks. Select all the materials for the project 1 to 4 weeks. Materials are ordered and delivered 3 to 6 weeks. Demolition and removal of old materials and appliances 1 week. Installation of new materials and appliances, flooring, plumbing and electrical work, painting 2 to 3 weeks. Finishing touches and clean up 1 to 2 weeks.

A: Generally, the general contractor, or whoever is responsible for the construction, applies for the permits. Many municipalities will not permit a homeowner to take out some permits because of the technical aspects involving safety, such as plumbing, gas and electrical jobs.Mar 25, 1990 Search for: Can General Contractors pull plumbing permits?

Start getting permits before starting any project. If city officials spot a project without proper permits and inspections, they might force the work to stop until permits are obtained. Search for: What is pull permit?

Permit requirements vary in each locality, but in most places, a permit is not required for roof repairs. A permit is only required for replacement of the roof covering, and in many areas, that does not even require a permit. Check with you local building permit office.Aug 19, 2009 Search for: Do you need to pull a permit to replace a roof?

Here's the good news. You are (probably) within your rights to sue someone who knowingly sells you a house with serious problems. ... If you buy a house from someone who had a roof leak, and it was fixed, you're under no obligation to know that because the seller doesn't have to disclose it, Young says.Nov 24, 2015 Search for: Can you sue the seller of a house after closing?

A municipality is liable for negligence if it breaches its duty of care. ... However, in cases where the owner is the sole source of his or her loss (i.e. the owner never applies for a building permit or never notifies the municipality that they need an inspection), the court will absolve the municipality of all liability.Jan 2, 2007 Search for: Are Building inspectors liable?

A real estate home inspector can insert a clause in his contract that limits his liability to the cost of the inspection. ... It only applies to the person who signed the contract. If the buyer sues the real estate agent and the inspector, the clause does not protect the inspector from liability to the agent.Dec 14, 2018 Search for: Can a home inspector be held liable?

There is generally a requirement that you cannot sell the house immediately after construction unless you are a general building contractor with proven experience, a license, and proper and adequate insurance. No. You can function as your own contractor and build your own house.Nov 11, 2016 Search for: Can I legally build my own house?

By pulling your own permit at the request of a company you've hired: Legally, you are considered to be the contractor and are required to “materially supervise the work done”. ... Normal homeowner's insurance does not cover accidents or work done by an unlicensed contractor.Jun 25, 2017 Search for: Can a homeowner pull their own permits?

Each time you question what happens if I get caught without a building permit, the answer is that you should have one. ... Under most circumstances, government agencies require a general permit when homeowners are going to make square footage additions or remodel their homes.Aug 27, 2018 Search for: Is it illegal to remodel without a permit?

Building A DIY Garden Shed: 90cm from the boundary If you're building a small garden shed – the kind you get from Bunnings that are designed to hold a couple of garden tools, you might not require a building permit. Building permits are only required for sheds over 10m2.Jun 14, 2018 Search for: Can I build a shed on the boundary?

Garden Buildings are considered Permitted Development and do NOT require planning permission as long as: The building is to be placed less than 2.0m from the boundary of the property with a maximum overall height of no more than 2.5m from existing ground level. Search for: What is the maximum height you can build without planning permission?

A permit isn't automatically required to build an on-grade patio, whether it's concrete, brick or any other material. Requirements vary widely in local governments, ranging from relaxed to stringent. Check with the local authority as to whether a permit is required to build a patio. Search for: Do you need a permit to pour concrete in your backyard?

Unlicensed contractors can't pull permits for home improvement projects unless it's their own home. Often, when a permit is required but not pulled, it's a sign of a contractor who is cutting corners to save money.Nov 28, 2011 Search for: Can a contractor get in trouble for not pulling a permit?

Permit Often Not RequiredTopicProjectFlooringPutting in any kind of hard flooring (wood, laminate, vinyl, etc.) or carpetingPlumbingReplacing an existing sinkPaintingInterior or exterior paintingKitchenReplacing your countertops13 more rows•May 13, 2019 Search for: What home improvements require a permit?

The consequences of building a garage or any other home addition without a building permit can be severe, including the risk of shoddy construction. ... Extra costs and legal headaches also occur when selling property that lacks permits for renovation work and approval of that work as meeting local building codes. Search for: What happens if you build a garage without a permit?

Building deck without a permit may result in removing it, possible penalties and back property taxes. A building permit is required if the deck is attached to the house or is 30 inches above grade. ... The bylaws might affect how big of a deck you can build and how close to a property line, among other factors. Search for: What happens if I build a deck without a permit?

Fines & Penalties The condensed version of this statute allows a penalty of up to $275 per day fine for every day the violation exists. The fines start from the day of the conviction of the violation or from the day notice is first served whichever is earlier. Search for: What is the fine for not pulling a permit?

In some areas the maximum size can be as small as 9sqm and in others as much as 20sqm. In rural areas, it is often possible to build a shed as large as 50sqm without obtaining council approval. Sheds lower than 2.4 metres in height do not require council approval in many areas.Sep 13, 2018 Search for: What size shed can I build without a permit?

A building permit is required for interior alterations. Q. Do I need a permit to enclose a porch? ... Because it extends the "indoor" area of the house, enclosing a porch is considered additional living area and considered as an addition that is subject to the same setback limitations as the house itself. Search for: Do I need a permit to enclose my patio?

Yes, you will be required to pull a permit when removing a tree, including dead trees. ... Do I need to obtain a permit to pour a concrete slab, patio, or driveway? Yes, a site plan will be required with a description of what is being done. Search for: Do you have to have a permit to pour concrete?

The driveway permit shall serve as an approved permit for driveway use only. A driveway construction permit must be obtained by a licensed sidewalk contractor before the driveway can be constructed. Search for: Do you need a permit to pour a driveway?

The typical price is $1,221 while the average range is between $441 and $2,001. In a big city permits can cost $7,500 - in small towns the permits may be $100. Building permits are needed in all sorts of remodeling and homebuilding situations.Mar 1, 2018 Search for: How much does it cost to pull a building permit?

Usually, the price ranges from $398 to $1,561, with an average cost of $979. Permits for small projects cost as little as $100, while a permit for major renovation and building work costs as much as $3,240.Jan 20, 2017 Search for: How much does a window permit cost?

In most areas, you generally do not need a building permit for a small shed, such as a 6×8 or an 8×10. However, larger storage buildings may challenge local zoning restrictions. Many areas will only allow sheds to be installed in backyards. ... Here are some instances when a permit may be required for a shed. Search for: Do I need a permit to build a shed in my backyard?

Because of this, the cost of a building permit varies by location. It is estimated that the average cost of a permit is about $1,221, but costs often fall anywhere between $441 and $2,000. Search for: How much do electrical permits cost?

If you work for a contractor that is a licensed/certified Master electrician and they supervise you, you can do electrical work as an employee without "certification". ... As an unlicensed individual, legally you can't charge for electrician work because you won't be able to pull a permit or schedule an inspection.Sep 9, 2011 Search for: Can you do electrical work without a license?

Electrical Outlet Addition Cost Most electricians charge between $75 and $150 per hour. Therefore, depending on the complexity, adding a new electric outlet can range from $100 to $800, with the average cost around $350.Jul 28, 2017 Search for: How much does it cost to install a new electrical outlet?

For example, if you plan to install insulation or drywall in a large area, add or remove walls, or put in replacement windows, you will probably need a permit. ... Plenty of building projects are in a kind of gray area -- they may or may not need a permit. Search for: Do you need a permit to replace drywall?

Building permits are written authorizations issued by a city or county to construct a project. They are required for most construction or remodeling projects, in order to ensure the safety of the work and its compliance with building, construction, and zoning codes. Search for: What requires a building permit?

Most electrical or plumbing renovations need a permit, such as bathroom remodels. If you plan to do an interior remodel and only change the visual elements of your bathroom, a permit is not required.Jul 20, 2018 Search for: Do I need a permit to remodel my bathroom?

Expect to pay between $300 and $1,000 to remove a non-load-bearing wall in your home. On the other hand, removing a load-bearing wall costs $1,200 to $3,000 for a single-story home. Price increases to $3,200 to $10,000 for homes with more than one level. Search for: How much does it cost to remove a non load bearing wall?

If you are merely replacing existing cabinets, fixtures, finishes and appliances then a permit is likely not required, but once you start messing with electrical, plumbing or anything structural (enlarging a window or door opening) then a permit is almost always required- especially in California.Dec 21, 2014 Search for: Do I need a permit to replace kitchen cabinets?

A PERMIT IS REQUIRED TO: ... A PERMIT IS NOT REQUIRED TO: Repair or remodel a mobile / manufactured home, such as, the structure, roof system, walls, floor system, windows and exterior doors, etc. BUT THE USE OF MATERIALS AND DESIGN MUST BE EQUIVALENT TO THE ORIGINAL CONSTRUCTION OF THE MOBILE / MANUFACTURED STRUCTURE.Feb 23, 2005 Search for: Do you need a permit to remodel a mobile home?

Building Permit: Pay Now or Later So, you've done a bit of work without having building permits issued and now you want to sell your property. ... You can still get the necessary construction permits, and make your work legal so you can sell your home: Disclose the unauthorized work to your listing agent. Search for: Can you sell a house without permits?

If you're installing new or removing existing plumbing, a permit is probably required. Any job that includes installing new electrical service to your home will also require a permit. ... If you want to replace your water heater, you will need a permit. You may also need a permit for ventilation system changes.Oct 1, 2012 Search for: Do you need a permit to replace a tub?

Permit requirements vary in each locality, but in most places, a permit is not required for roof repairs. A permit is only required for replacement of the roof covering, and in many areas, that does not even require a permit. Check with you local building permit office.Aug 19, 2009 Search for: Do I need a permit to replace my roof myself?

Yes, you can sue an unlicensed contractor. However, Unlicensed contractors more than likely do not have any type of insurance that would cover a claim by you and probably are judgment proof. You should consult with an attorney regarding your options.Nov 28, 2017 Search for: Can I sue an unlicensed contractor?

Can Homeowners Legally Do Electrical Work on Their Own Houses? ... In many cases homeowners can perform their own electrical work without the help of a trained professional, as long as the work complies with local codes. Search for: Can a homeowner do their own electrical work?

Though of course it depends on the size and type of kitchen remodel, I can safely say that an average kitchen takes between four to six weeks to remodel, not including the planning and design phase.Dec 14, 2013 Search for: How long does a kitchen remodel take?

Like any good workspace, your kitchen needs good tools.Knives. ... Cutting Boards. ... Bowls. ... Measuring Spoons & Cups. ... Cookware. ... Instant-Read Thermometer. ... Utensils. ... Colander.More items... Search for: What do you need for a new kitchen?

Removing a non load bearing wall does not need a permit. You will need any plumbing, electrical, and hvac inspections and permits. If you are worried about a simple wall removal just call them. Cosmetic changes do not need a permit.May 21, 2014 Search for: Do you need a permit to take down a non load bearing wall?

Lawsuits happen, but they don't always end badly for home inspectors. ... In those cases, it's more often the buyer who attempts to sue the inspector for allegedly overlooking a problem. But sometimes a seller can sue an inspector. It's not common, but it does happen.Jan 8, 2016 Search for: Can a seller sue a home inspector?

Renovating Without a PermitPainting and wallpapering.Installing flooring like hardwood, carpeting, linoleum or vinyl tile.Minor electrical repairs.Installing new countertops.Installing or replacing a faucet.Landscaping work.Oct 6, 2014 Search for: What can a homeowner do without a permit?

The penalty for Work Without a Permit violation is increased to six times the amount of the fee payable for the permit and the minimum has increased to $600 with a maximum penalty of $10,000. Search for: What's the penalty for building without a permit?

You'll still have to pay a fee, and perhaps even a fine. And there's no guarantee that you'll obtain a permit -- if the renovation is completely illegal or not up to building standards, the town may demand that you tear it down.Nov 4, 2004 Search for: Is there a fine for building without a permit?

The national average cost of a building permit is $1,119, with most homeowners spending between $394 and $1,843. This data is based on actual project costs according to HomeAdvisor members. Depending on the area, they may be required for additions, renovations and even electrical or plumbing projects. Search for: How much do Permits cost?

If you do not own or do not intend to live in the unit, a licensed electrical contractor must do the work. A permit is required to do any of the following: ... Run additional wiring, put in an electrical outlet or light fixture, install a receptacle for a garage-door opener, or convert from fuse box to circuit breakers.Jun 12, 2015 Search for: Do I need a permit to add an outlet?

Most cities and counties require a building permit for installing replacement windows, and it is not up to the homeowner or the contractor to decide this.Nov 6, 2013 Search for: Do you need a building permit to replace windows?

For example, if you plan to install insulation or drywall in a large area, add or remove walls, or put in replacement windows, you will probably need a permit. ... A deck may not need a permit if it's less than 30 inches (76.2 centimeters) from the ground [source: The Building Department]. Search for: Do I need a permit to replace drywall?

Although building codes vary from state to state, a permit is generally required for remodeling projects that involve changes to the building's existing footprint, electrical system or plumbing. Adding new windows to existing walls usually requires a permit. Search for: Do you need permits to remodel a bathroom?

Work Without Permits It's illegal to do construction without the Department's approval or permits. Illegal construction is unsafe and may results in fines. Property owners may have to correct multiple Environmental Control Board violations. Search for: Is it illegal to renovate without a permit?

The Potential for Fines Incurring Neighbors can also call the permit office to make a complaint about work being completed without a permit, and this could result in a fine. ... Therefore, it's critical that homeowners get a permit before attempting any building projects in their home.Aug 27, 2018 Search for: What happens if you build something without a permit?

Home Improvement and Renovations that Always Require a PermitFencing installation and repair.Window installation.Plumbing work.Electrical work.Structural changes.Many HVAC maintenance projects (like installing a new water heater).Additions and remodeling projects (even including sheds and garages).May 14, 2017 Search for: What kind of home improvements require permits?

Simply changing the light fixtures is a small renovation project which does not require a permit. This renovation project doesn't require a permit. Painting is a DIY renovation project which doesn't require a permit. You don't need to obtain a permit, but you should have licensed home improvement contractor to do it.May 27, 2018 Search for: Do I need a permit for a kitchen renovation?