Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘kitchen remodel’

Things To Know When Installing A Tankless Water Heater

Tuesday, April 25th, 2017

Also known as a “demand type” water heater, a tankless water heater provides hot water only when needed. As such, it does not produce standby energy losses, which saves you money.

How a Tankless Water Heater Works

Water is being heated without the use of a storage tank. Cold water will travel from a pipe to the unit if a hot water tap is turned on. This means a tankless water heater delivers a steady supply of hot water. In other words, you do not have to wait for the storage tank to be filled up with enough hot water each time you need to use it.

Why Opt for a Tankless Water Heater?

  • Heating costs will be reduced – Enjoy monthly savings of up to 40% off your utility bill for the product’s life. Heating and reheating water in the storage tank is not required.
  • Only a small amount of space is needed – As compared to traditional water heaters, tankless water heaters will take up less space since this is just about the size of a small suitcase or even smaller.
  • Eco-friendly – Tankless water heaters are 30% more energy-efficient than tank water heaters. Maximum energy efficiency will help conserve natural resources.
  • Long-lasting – It has a longer lifespan for up to twice as much as that of the traditional water heater. This further means less waste in the landfill.
  • Clean – Avoid using water stored in a tank with accumulated rust.
  • Safe – A tankless water heater is equipped with excellent safety features to prevent injuries and burns caused by boiling water.

Installing and Maintaining Demand-Type Water Heater

Proper installation will greatly depend on different factors. These include the following:

  • Local building code requirements
  • Climate
  • Fuel type
  • Safety issues

Regular water heater maintenance is also important to extend the life of the water heater. This will also decrease loss of efficiency.

Proper installation and maintenance are very crucial to optimize the water heater’s energy efficiency. Therefore, it is best to have a licensed, skilled plumbing and heating contractor to install your tankless water heater.

Tips for Choosing the Right Contractor

  • Ask for references. Satisfied customers will give you peace of mind.
  • Request cost estimates from different contractors. Make sure that these estimates are for completed work and not just for sections of the system.
  • Check if they can get a local permit when necessary.
  • Determine if they fully understand local building codes.
  • Check if the plumbing contractor company is a member of the Better Business Bureau.
  • Sign the contract only after you’ve read and understood it.

If you’re looking to install a tankless water heater, please call us today!

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Posted in Bathroom Remodel, Commercial Plumbing, Fox Valley Plumber, Kitchen Plumbing, Kitchen Remodel Planning, Plumbing Problems, Plumbing Trends, Remodel Contractor, Residential Plumbing, Uncategorized, Water Efficiency, Water Heater, Water Heater Instillation, Water Heater Repair, Water Pressure | Comments Off on Things To Know When Installing A Tankless Water Heater

Troubleshooting Common Garbage Disposal Issues

Thursday, April 20th, 2017

Consistent sanitary practices must start in the home. Proper waste management must be observed by each and every household member, and this includes the proper usage of the garbage disposal installed under the sink.

What is a garbage disposal?

It is a device installed under the kitchen sink necessary for shredding food and grinding other waste into very tiny pieces, allowing them to pass through the sewerage system.

Essential parts and function of a garbage disposal

  • Hopper Chambers – There are two parts: the upper chamber for storing food waste straight from the sink, and the lower chamber for collecting shredded and pulverized garbage.
  • Insulated Motor – This is necessary for spinning the flywheel and impellers fast enough to obtain processed garbage. This is generally connected to the electrical switch for ease and safety.
  • Shredder Ring – This is the teeth-like shredder located right after the upper hopper chamber. It is the garbage disposal blade.
  • Flywheel and Impellers – These two main parts are responsible for bringing the food waste to the shredder ring. They work hand in hand with the shredder ring to efficiently grind and pound the garbage.
  • Reset button – This is found underneath the device. It plays a very crucial role in troubleshooting an overheated garbage disposal unit.
  • Waste Line Connector – This is where the processed garbage passes through when flushed down the sewer or septic system.

What to do when things go wrong?

When you are well-informed about the different parts and functions of your unit, you’ll generally know how to troubleshoot simple and common garbage disposal issues such as overheating, clogging or jamming, and having no power at all.

It is also recommended that you become aware of the warning signals that your disposal is unable to function properly. Signs include a foul odor, leaks, and a strange noise coming from the unit.

Determine if the problem can be fixed with simple troubleshooting or if it requires professional help.

An overheating garbage disposal unit may simply require pushing the reset button. If resetting doesn’t work, check the source of power. Something might have gone wrong with the circuit breaker.

A jammed garbage disposal can be fixed by helping the impellers move. Before touching the inside of the unit, turn off the circuit breaker for safety. Then you can proceed and try to dislodge the blockage underneath.

A foul odor indicates that the unit may be clogged or blocked. It means that the unit is unable to do its function of grinding food waste into pieces, which is why they don’t get flushed down the drain. This may also indicate that the blades or shredder aren’t sharp enough. Situations like these will need professional services.

Finally, a strange noise and water leaks must also be checked immediately by trained professionals as these signs indicate a much more serious problem. Call us today if you’re having a problem!

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Vital Components in Determining a Kitchen Remodel Timeline

Tuesday, February 14th, 2017

Kitchen Remodel TimelineHow to Determine a Kitchen Remodel Timeline

For many property owners, speed is a vital consideration for any remodeling job. Homeowners simply want the remodel to be completed fast as possible. And with how home makeover shows on TV get things done, many tend to believe that any home improvement project can be accomplished in just a matter of days. A fast kitchen remodel is the dream. This is possible if homeowners are willing to dole out a huge amount of money for manual labor. It truly will not be difficult to complete a remodeling project in just a matter of days.

But the reality is most homeowners do not have the same resources as popular reality home makeover shows. Thus, they need to plan the project carefully in order to control costs and establish an effective timeline. This is most especially applicable when planning a kitchen remodel. Timeline development is very important because having property work done can alter the efficiency of the household. This can also impact the quality of life at home.

Now, if you need to determine a kitchen remodel timeline, trusted remodelers in Applegate and Fox Valley, Wisconsin say it’s necessary to clearly identify the important factors that can really affect the speed of work. What are these factors?

Hiring the right remodeler

The first factor that can determine project timeline is the remodelers you hire for the job. Will you be hiring a lot of them or will you be sticking to just a few? If you hire more people for labor then you can expect the project to be completely finished within a month or even just three weeks.

It’s worth mentioning too that there are remodelers that utilize more advanced equipment that allow them to finish tasks much faster. Have a thorough consultation with remodelers and you can have a fair estimate of how long the project will last as well as how tasks are grouped into stages.

Consider your design carefully

The next factor is the design of the kitchen. If you’re thinking of a complete overhaul, this surely will require more time even with advanced equipment and more workers. Taking into account the design and the new installations the design requires will provide you a fair estimate of how long certain tasks will take to complete.

Materials

And the last component is the materials – you need to know when materials will be delivered. The delay in the arrival of certain materials can really mess up the schedule. Establish the schedule of when materials will be delivered. Know when you’re going to follow up on your orders to ensure that all the supplies necessary for the project will arrive even before they’re needed.

Determining the right kitchen remodel timeline is a vital part of your upcoming project. For additional tips on how to tackle a kitchen remodel in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Tips on Creating a Kitchen Floor Plan

Thursday, February 9th, 2017

Tips on Creating a Kitchen Floor Plan That Effectively Combines Style and Function

Kitchen – the heart of the home. Homeowners usually have a many ideas on how to make it the center of productivity and quality time for the family. But often, with all of the ideas they have on beautifying it and making sure it can do more for the family, the kitchen just turns into a mess of good intentions and “stuff.”

To restore order to this very important room, a kitchen floor plan is needed, says kitchen remodelers in Applegate and Fox Valley. In creating a kitchen floor plan, it automatically gets so much easier to combine style and function, or in the words of design gurus, “beautility.” To help you with this, here are tips on how to plan a smart layout for your kitchen.

Tip #1

Write down the different activities you commonly use the kitchen for. Do you love to cook and bake there? Does your family often hang out in it? Do you wish to have a bar there that will be the perfect spot for the parties you like to throw? It’s important to identify all these activities so you can also identify the best appliances and furniture to use for the space.

Tip #2

Triangle or Workstation? The triangle layout is highly efficient for movement in the kitchen, especially if it’s a small one. But if you’re adding more appliances to your kitchen space, the workstation may be more ideal.

Tip #3

If you’re going to install an island, determine how you can make it a more functional feature of your kitchen, particularly if it’s a big one. You want to make sure that for the amount of space it eats, more uses can be derived from it so activities carried out in the kitchen will have a comfortable and smooth flow. Some of the features you can add to an island are a wine rack, shelves for cookbooks, mini-fridge and dishwasher.

Tip #4

Don’t forget about strategic lighting. Strategic lighting  should always be included in floor planning. Proper illumination is necessary for the right ambiance, comfort, convenience and function.

Tip #5

Do check building guidelines in your area so your kitchen can be remodeled to code. TheNational Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) provides guiding principles in order to make kitchen and bathroom optimally functional. Refer to the guide to see if your layout ideas are compliant with the functional standards established by the experts.

With these tips, you can better organize your ideas for “arranging” your kitchen. The goal is to create a visually pleasing and productive section of your home. Before starting a kitchen remodel in the Fox Valley area contact Turek’s Plumbing for more kitchen floorplan ideas.

 

 

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Modern Kitchen Remodel Design Ideas for Tight Budgets

Tuesday, February 7th, 2017

Modern Kitchen Remodel Design Ideas

There are two main reasons why homeowners want to upgrade the look of their kitchens.

First, if you are planning on selling your home, you definitely would want your kitchen to be appealing to the broadest possible number of potential buyers. And according to many property professionals, a kitchen remodel, when done right, can yield good ROI.

Another reason why property owners want to revamp their kitchens is because these have become outdated and are either no longer functional or look drab and unappealing.

However, a kitchen remodel is a massive undertaking that often requires a big budget. Does that mean that you cannot upgrade the look of your kitchen if money is tight?

Listed here are a few quick and easy modern kitchen remodel design ideas that do not require a big budget. With a little hard work, creativity and ingenuity, you can transform the look of your kitchen for cheap.

Apply a fresh coat of paint

Applying a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to transform the look of your kitchen.

Apart from the wall, you might want to consider repainting all of your kitchen cabinets. Alternatively, you can paint a just a few of the kitchen cabinets. Against other wood and metal elements in the kitchen, painting a few kitchen cabinets creates contrast which generates interest in the kitchen.

Painting the floorboards is an economical alternative to replacing these. If you are adventurous enough, you can paint the floorboards white or use stencils for a dash of creativity.

Add/Replace/Remove

Another simple yet effective way to update the look of your kitchen is to replace a few key elements like knobs and pulls.

Adding new lighting fixtures like sconces can make the kitchen look refreshing. Plus, lights add functionality to the kitchen.

Another welcome addition that can add style and functionality to your kitchen are wood shelves on metal brackets placed just above the counter.

Finally, you might want to consider removing the upper cabinet doors which can add an element of open space to your kitchen.

Some TLC for the fridge

If you cannot afford to replace your old fridge at the moment, there are a few things that you can do to upgrade its appearance.

One, you can paint it with chalkboard paint. This trick allows you to use the refrigerator for note taking and for drawing.

If you have ample time, you can make a wainscot fridge cover. A wainscot fridge cover will surely catch the attention of house guests.

If you are thinking about starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Cities, contact Turek’s Plumbing for more modern kitchen remodel design ideas.

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A Helpful Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

Friday, January 13th, 2017

A Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling can be fun, especially if you’re going for a completely new style that aligns with your current personal aesthetic preference. However, you need to approach the task very seriously as well because it’s important to make sure that you’re not sacrificing function for beauty.

Now, if you’re choosing kitchen cabinets to install, you need to think about this carefully; this is a piece of advice from trusted kitchen remodelers that service Applegate and Fox Valley, Wisconsin homeowners. Kitchen cabinets do not only serve as visually appealing storage for dinnerware or kitchen essentials; they are known to improve space dimensions as well.

If you have off-center built-ins in the kitchen, the strategic installation of cabinets can achieve a more balanced look for the space.

To help you choose the right kitchen cabinets to install, here is an easy guide to follow.

Take the DIY route or hire professional builders

A DIY route is advisable if you’re purchasing ready-made cabinets that you don’t intend to permanently fix to a wall. Basically, all you need to do here is to drag it to your chosen location in the kitchen. Now, if you want to fix cabinets to the wall, it’s best to let professional builders accomplish this task; ditto if you’re fitting in custom-made cabinets.

Clearly identify the cabinet design you want

Do you want framed cabinets or frameless ones? Framed cabinets are perfect if you have traditional aesthetics. Frameless cabinets are more ideal for modern and transitional designs because they have a sleek profile.

Bespoke or stock cabinets

Custom-made cabinets work best for the space you have. Opting for these can better streamline the kitchen since they will not create weird corners and awkward protrusions. They are, however, more expensive. Stock cabinets come in a variety of designs, but you need to make sure that you have the right location for them, and that you measure spaces for installation accurately so you can go with the cabinet sizes that are most appropriate to the dimensions of the space where they’ll be installed.

Study the cabinet material, especially if you’re gravitating toward stock kitchen cabinets

Of course, you need to make sure that the cabinet will be durable enough for everything that you intend to put in it. Also, the kind of material you choose can enhance the kitchen’s overall style.

Establish your budget

It’s best to work with a clear budget. This will make selection and installation a whole lot easier and organized. It can also make the process easier if there are other things that you want done in your kitchen.

Are you having trouble deciding how to move forward with your kitchen remodel? Contact the kitchen remodel pros in Fox Cities. Turek’s plumbing can answer all of the most common remodel questions.

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A Few Kitchen Remodeling Project Tips

Tuesday, December 27th, 2016

Kitchen Remodeling Project How to Get the Most Out of a Kitchen Remodeling Project

It is fairly easy to understand why kitchen remodeling ranks as one of the most popular home improvement projects; the modern kitchen has certainly become the centerpiece of home living. But apart from that, a well-built kitchen can increase functionality, makes it easier to entertain guests at home, and increases property value.

But remodeling a kitchen entails spending a sizeable amount of money and involves a few inconveniences while work is ongoing. It is also not unusual for property owners to encounter a wide variety of problems ranging from overspending to project timelines being continuously pushed back.

If you want to minimize (if not totally avoid) these problems and ensure that you get good returns on your investment, here are some kitchen remodeling project tips for you to consider.

Planning is Key

Planning is the most essential step that homeowners need to undertake, and yet is one that is often overlooked. Failing to plan accordingly can only lead to mishaps during the construction stage as well as overspending.

Ideally, you should spend at least half a year toward planning. This will give you enough time to decide on what you really want to achieve and prevent changing your mind mid-stream.

Think of the Remodel as an Upgrade

One critical factor that can drive up costs and extend the project timeline is changing the location of pipes and electrical systems. Additional works like tearing down walls can also lead to higher costs and extended timelines.

To streamline the kitchen remodel process, opt to keep as much of the existing kitchen in place.

Prioritize Design and Functionality

Want to avoid overspending? Choose your appliances well. One of the most common pitfalls encountered by homeowners is the temptation to upgrade appliances more than necessary. Instead of spending lavishly on new equipment and tools, think about how your remodel will improve both the design and functionality of your new kitchen.

Don’t Forget About the Lighting

Choosing the right type of lighting can instantly upgrade the look of your kitchen without needing to spend an inordinate sum of money. Additionally, the right type of light can make the kitchen look bigger and safer to work in.

There are two types of lighting to choose from. Task lighting is ideal for dark work areas. Ambient lighting, on the other hand, is primarily used to create a specific mood in an area.

Look Beyond the Price

Unless you are working on an unlimited budget, you may have some corners that you need to cut. But do not simply trade in low cost for quality and durability. Remember, you are making an investment. If you must splurge, focus on quality and durable items which will last long.

Establish a Good Working Relationship With Your Contractor

Quite simply, you need to be involved with the project if you wish to achieve great results.

From time to time, drop by during work hours and check on the project progress. This sends a signal to the contractor that you expect nothing less than quality work.

Make it easy for the contractor to contact you should any concern arise.

Set ground rules for both the contractor and his workers, especially if you are not moving out of the property while the kitchen is being rebuilt.

Are you starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing and allow them to help take the stress out of your upcoming kitchen remodeling project.

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Starting a Kitchen Remodel Project on the Right Foot

Tuesday, December 20th, 2016

Kitchen Remodel ProjectStarting a Kitchen Remodel Project on the Right Foot

Even the most minor of kitchen remodels entails more than a monetary investment. At the same time, you will need to invest time and deal with some hassles as you try to bring your kitchen remodel project into life.

As such, you would like to get the best returns on your investment, whatever your purpose may be for your project kitchen. In order to do that, you need to avoid one of the most common mistakes in starting a kitchen remodel project: proceeding without a plan.

As the old adage goes, failing to plan is planning to fail. Quite simply, the planning stage is an integral aspect of a kitchen remodel. Give ample time and effort toward planning so that you can get the kitchen that you have always dreamed of.

How do you do that?

Find Sources of Inspiration and Gather These

Perhaps you have unconsciously started this process by looking for inspiration from TV shows, magazines and blogs.

But in order to get the most out of this step, you will need to create your own stylebook. To do that, the first thing that you need to do is to gather all the photos which inspire you in one place. Tear out photos from magazines and print out photos you have found online.

After that, write down exactly what you like about these photos. Now, when you have found a kitchen designer and/or contractor, you can show your stylebook.

Set a Clear Goal

What’s the reason why you want to remodel your kitchen? Perhaps you want to resell your home a few years down the road. Or maybe you want to facilitate the optimal flow of traffic in your kitchen. Or maybe you simply want to turn your kitchen into a great place to entertain guests. Whatever your reasons may be, you have to be clear with your needs and wants.

Set Your Budget

Setting a budget allows you to avoid overspending. In fact, failure to set a budget is one of the leading costs of overspending on kitchen remodels. Go online and use available tools to help you figure out how much you will need for your project. From there, you can look for items on your shopping list that you might think are unnecessary or too costly. After that, you can find alternatives that will help you stay within your budget.

Create a Timeline

Apart from setting a financial budget for the project, you will also need to determine how much time you are willing to allocate for the completion of the project. Set a project timeline and talk about this when you are interviewing prospective contractors.

Be Realistic

Talk to friends or relatives who have recently had their kitchens remodeled. This will give you a fair idea of what to expect and help you avoid being blindsided by unexpected factors.

If you are thinking about starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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Increase Your Home’s Value With a Kitchen and Bath Remodel

Monday, November 14th, 2016

kitchen and bath remodel

How to Increase Your Home’s Value With a Kitchen and Bath Remodel

If you want to increase your home’s value, you need to start out by making a plan. Your upgrades should best be intentional and not impulsive, so list the changes and updates you want to achieve. Factor in your choices the duration in which you plan to live in the house. If you plan to sell soon, it’s a good idea to be guided by a realtor regarding improvements you should implement.

In making your list, be sure to categorize according to cost, both in time and money. It’s important that you be realistic and keep your financial limits in mind. Once you have your list categorized, figure out what’s doable.

With your plan in place, do your research on the potential returns of your intended improvements. Understandably, some will add more value to your home than others.

Now, if your budget only allows you to focus on a couple of areas in your home, the expert recommendation is that you do a kitchen and bath remodel. Any real estate professional will tell you that a kitchen upgrade brings in the greatest return. The bathroom, on the other hand, is a workhorse, so you need to remedy all the wear and tear it has suffered to ensure that everything’s in tip-top shape and looking great.

What can you do to upgrade your kitchen?

  • Change the paint. It’s simple, but the difference it makes is huge. You could also change the look of your cabinets using a faux-wood finish.
  • Install a new backsplash. New tile looks attractive and adds color to your kitchen.
  • Switch to stainless steel. This gives your kitchen a new, shiny, and modern appeal.
  • Put in a rolling island. This gives you adjustable storage and counter space.
  • Hang a pot rack and a wine bottle holder. This will allow you to display new pots and pans as well as an interesting assortment of wines, which will emphasize the functionality of your kitchen.

What can you do to beautify your bathroom?

  • Put in attractive faucets and switch to under-mount sinks. Drop sinks look dated.
  • Invest in a granite countertop. This should be cheaper than a kitchen countertop since it would be smaller.
  • Use wall mounts instead of overhead lighting. They are warmer and make the bathroom look more chic.
  • Install heated floors. These should win many buyers over if you’re looking to sell.
  • Improve the bath area. Consider installing a stone surround tile shower with body sprays. This will give your bathroom a Zen feel.
  • Freshen up your grout. Old grout usually causes the dingy look of a bathroom.

These kitchen and bath remodel ideas are sure to make your home look better while gaining value. If you are interested in a few remodel ideas, call your local Fox Cities Plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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Plumbing Projects to Increase Your Home’s Value

Wednesday, October 19th, 2016

Plumbing Projects

What Plumbing Projects Could Increase Your Home’s Value?

Whether or not you intend to sell your Appleton, WI home, it wouldn’t hurt to make some improvements. It’s important to note, not all home improvements have the ability to increase your homes value.

Among the home improvement efforts that can actually have a huge impact on your home’s market value are those that include plumbing, since plumbing is such an essential component in a comfortable and convenient life at home. As such, provided below are plumbing projects to increase your home’s worth:

Adding a New Bathroom

HGTV estimates an 80% to 130% return on investment from a new bathroom remodel. Why such value? People like the convenience of being able to take a bath or use the toilet whenever they need to. Bathrooms have become spaces to experience full comfort and relaxation. People have great appreciation for a well-designed bathroom that will provide them such an experience. And of course, the cost of bathroom implements is no joke. If they are high-quality provisions that offer multiple convenience features (such as “futuristic” toilets and senior-friendly hot tubs), and are combined beautifully with each other for optimum function, then the value they’ll create in the lives of people will be greater.

Kitchen Remodeling

Modern kitchens boost home values by anywhere between 5% to 10%; incorporating new gas appliances and improving plumbing to match a better floor layout can really enhance the value of the room. The kitchen remodelers that Applegate and Fox Valley residents trust advise placing the cooktop and dishwasher on the sink for a smoother flow of activities in the kitchen.

Replacing Old, Rusty Iron Pipes

Home appraisers pay great attention to plumbing when assigning value to a home. Directing money toward the replacement of old pipes on the property can boost the property’s market value. Heavy-duty plastic tubing is generally the more preferred option now. This type of tubing is much easier to maintain and homeowners won’t have to worry about rusty particles in the water.

These three plumbing projects are the most highly recommended to implement in order to boost the value of your property. These projects may seem complicated or daunting at first. But you can have the assurance that when you do decide to sell, you will get a solid return on your investment.

If you are looking for a plumber in Applegate, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing today!

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