FAQ

Kitchen Renovations

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

Typically, a kitchen remodel can take anywhere from six to eight weeks, not including the planning and design phases, however, every kitchen remodel project is different and highly personal. Plans must be customized to each household’s unique needs, whether your objective is to create a functional space for cocktail parties or family dinners. With this in mind, the length of your project may vary based on the complexity of the remodel. Structural changes and floor plan reconfiguring may add time to your project, and if materials, such as custom tile or countertops must be shipped internationally, this may also affect your timeline.

When is the best time to remodel a kitchen?

Deciding when to take on a kitchen remodel is a choice only you can make. Nevertheless, there are a few factors to consider in your decision. Depending on the complexity of your remodel, your kitchen may not be functional for weeks or months. Even if your kitchen is in working order during the remodel, construction may make preparing meals difficult. If you are purchasing or building a new home, taking on a kitchen remodel before moving in would be an ideal scenario. If you and your family are already living in the space, you will need to plan ahead, whether that is setting up an interim kitchen space in another room or renting a home or hotel for some or the duration of your remodel. We will help you come up with a plan that best suites your needs.

What does a kitchen renovation cost?

Updating a kitchen with new tile and fixtures or new stone countertops can start at $5,000. Replacing cabinetry begins at $25,000. A complete remodel with new cabinetry, countertops, tile, plumbing fixtures and appliances begins at $50,000, and varies depending on the brands and levels of appliances, fixtures and finishes chosen.

Will a kitchen remodel increase the value of my home?

In most cases, a kitchen remodel will yield a return on your investment. While the amount added to your home’s value may vary, the average return on a major, upscale kitchen renovation is about 54%. Of course, potential returns may vary depending on your local real estate market and may change daily.

Bathroom Renovations

What’s the difference between renovating and remodeling a bathroom?

Renovating your bathroom is a less invasive makeover. You may replace a sink or bathtub, but your changes are modest. Remodeling occurs when you plan to get rid of virtually everything and start from scratch.

How long does it take to remodel a bathroom from start to finish?

Typically, a bathroom remodel can take anywhere from two to five weeks, not including the planning and design phases, however, every bathroom remodel project is different and highly personal. Plans must be customized to each household’s unique needs. With this in mind, the length of your project may vary based on the complexity of the remodel. Structural changes and floor plan reconfiguring may add time to your project, and if materials, such as custom tile must be shipped internationally, this may also affect your timeline.

What do I need to do to prepare for my bathroom renovation?

You can start by getting a good idea for the type of look and style you want. If you don’t know yet, that’s okay, look at some magazines or websites. Then when you speak with Maria, our Business Operations and Design Manager at DSR, we can discuss all the plans and options. But, generally speaking, before construction begins, please 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, you’ll want to protect your furniture from dust with plastic and/or sheets.

hat type of tile should I use on my bathroom floor and/or shower?

Your choice depends on personal preference. There are numerous materials and styles that will suit your needs. However, there are many questions you should ask yourself and identify which are most important. What is my budget? How large is the space? Does the room receive a lot of light? How much foot traffic will the bathroom receive? This will all be discussed during the design phase of the project. We will come up with a plan and design that will transform your space making our vision a reality.

Will DSR Developments help me chose all my materials?

Yes, we will help you choose everything you need. And of course, keeping in mind quality, time lines and your budget.

Do I need to have design ideas before I start the renovation process?

You can certainly start by getting a good idea for the type of look and style you want. HOUZZ.com is a great platform to look for ideas and share them with us prior to meeting. If you don’t know yet, that’s okay. Maria Ritz, our Business Operations and Design Manager at DSR can discuss all the designs and options with you.

Is re-glazing a bathtub a good solution to replacing the tub?

Re-glazing is a great way to save money. It requires less labor and eliminates the cost of installing a new tub. However, there is one big disadvantage — it doesn’t 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. If budget isn’t an option, replacing the tub is the best way to go.

Will a bathroom update increase the value of my home?

You can certainly start by getting a good idea for the type of look and style you want. HOUZZ.com is a great platform to look for ideas and share them with us prior to meeting. If you don’t know yet, that’s okay. Maria Ritz, our Business Operations and Design Manager at DSR can discuss all the designs and options with you.

Can we move the toilet to increase the size/functionality of the space?

Most definitely. Moving a toilet can drastically improve the form and function of a bathroom. Most bathrooms do not make the best use of their limited space; relocating some of the primary elements of the bathroom when possible can make a huge difference. This does require moving plumbing fixtures, which can be costly. However, if you have access below the bathroom (crawlspace, basement, etc.) to the plumbing, costs and effort can be minimized.

Can we turn a single sink vanity into a double sink vanity?

Most definitely. Of course, this is dependent on space availability and budget, as this is getting into plumbing (water supply and drain pipes). Creating a double-sink vanity top generally involves installing all-new vanity cabinets and countertop.

What are the different and best types of water proofing systems?

The best and most widely used bathroom water proofing systems are the Schluter Kerdi system, and the WEDI system. Both offer great waterproofing, flexibility for design as well as function. Our personal preference is the Schluter system and we put it in all of our tiled showers and tub surrounds

What is an uncoupling membrane?

An uncoupling membrane is a tile underlay membrane that gets put on top of the subfloor and before tile. A typical tile installation requires a solid floor surface (usually about 1 ¼” thick). The uncoupling membrane allows for the reduction in subfloor thickness making it easier to keep the tile flush with other flooring and reduce transitions. While doing this it solidifies the floor to reduce tile popping and grout cracking, making the installation much stronger, more durable and longer lasting. We now also use this type of membrane in conjunction with our in floor heat wire to keep it in place and secure.