Though the end of hurricane season is in November, there is still plenty of time for severe storms to rear their ugly heads. And, as any Lowcountry local knows, floods and damaging winds can happen year-round in the coastal south. 

Luckily, there are steps you can take to ready your home for storm season and maintain it no matter the weather. We’ve gathered our expertise from over three decades of building and renovating homes in Charleston to share with you so you’re equipped to be a savvy homeowner and keep your abode safe, rain or shine. 

Common Weather Problems

Wind and rain are the most common problems in Charleston, and when combined, they can be particularly dangerous, often leading to flooding and other damage. Strong winds can often blow heavy rain into roof vents or ridge caps, causing leaks. Wind and flooding can also cause water to get behind walls or flooring and cause mold or mildew. 

Standing water from flooding or other leaks in your home can also damage floors and furniture, short-circuit power outlets, and damage electronics. Before severe weather with a potential flood, unplug electronics, including surge protectors and power strips, and move them to higher locations where they won’t be damaged by water. If you are evacuating from severe weather, turning off your power can help reduce damage to your electrical system. 

Should water enter your home, dehumidify and dry out the affected areas as soon as possible to prevent further water damage and dangerous mold. 

Maintenance and Inspections

Maintaining your home all year is the best way to ensure it doesn’t suffer catastrophic damage during severe weather. Regular maintenance and home inspections are the easiest way to avoid spending money on costly repairs down the road. 

Before any significant storm season, it’s a good idea to go through the following checklist to ensure your home is in tip-top shape. 

  • Keep your gutters clean and in good condition to improve water mitigation. 
  • Trim back bushes and trees that are close enough to your house to cause damage in a windstorm. 
  • Make sure to bring in any exterior furniture that’s not secured during severe weather. 
  • If you don’t have impact-rated glass, cover glass doors and windows with a system of screws, clips, and plywood protection known as PLYFASTNER during severe weather to protect them. 
  • While not an end-all solution, sandbags can help direct and mitigate water flow from areas where it is most likely to enter your home, like around doors and crawl spaces. 
  • Have your roof inspected regularly, especially after a windstorm, to ensure everything is secured and there is no damage. 

While there is no right answer for how often you should have your home inspected, you should have it checked before hurricane season every year and as soon as you notice a problem. It’s better to call experts who can diagnose and remedy the problem before it evolves into a major issue that could cause serious damage to your home. 

Weather-Proof Your Home

In addition to regular home inspections, you can add some preventative features to your home to help weather-proof it. Drip edges and larger overhangs will help protect your roof and prevent water from blowing in, while weather-resistant barriers, weep holes in masonry walls, French drains, and proper grading will ensure your home and property are safe during flooding. 

Weather-Rated Materials

If you’re planning a renovation or home maintenance, consider weather-rated materials and products to lessen potential damage to your home. Depending on where you live, you may be required by law to have these materials installed. 

Impact windows and doors are highly recommended for this part of South Carolina, but if you don’t have them, you are required to have other means of windborne debris protection, such as PLYFASTNER. They can withstand strong winds and are less likely to shatter should objects be thrown against them. If you live in an older home that hasn’t been recently updated, you may need to check to see if you have installed impact windows and doors. 

You should also use treated lumber for any part of your home that could come into contact with weather elements or the ground, as it is less susceptible to water damage. 

Other weather-durable materials to consider when in the planning phase of your renovation include:

  • Concrete
  • DensGlass
  • Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
  • Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
  • Impact-resistant shingles 
  • Moisture-resistant insulation
  • Fiber cement siding

Other ways to stay safe

After your home’s been weather-proofed and prepared, it’s time to batten the hatches! 

Make sure you have potable water, an alternative way to cook food in case the power goes out, and extra water for dishes, toilets, and bathing. Be sure to stock up on shelf-stable foods and food for your pet if you have one. Charge backup batteries and vital electronics prior to severe weather, and if you’re in an area prone to power outages, consider investing in a gas generator. 

These precautions and regular home maintenance can ensure you’re prepared when Mother Nature strikes

Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!

You may have started doing DIY projects during COVID. Maybe you enjoy watching HGTV and getting ideas for home improvements. Perhaps you have always been creative and enjoy learning new skills.

No matter what the inspiration, if you’re considering tackling those home improvement projects yourself to help save money, we’ve shared some helpful tips and valuable knowledge to guide you.

Paint the town red…or blue…or yellow!

To update your space on a budget and make it feel bigger or cozier, consider painting your walls, ceilings, or trim. If there’s no room in the budget to expand a room or add a new window, paint can help you create the illusion of more light and space.

Lighter colors can make a room feel more open and airy by reflecting natural light. Your space will feel larger and filled with more natural light, even if there isn’t enough of either.

Darker colors can add a flare of drama to a space. If you’re looking to make a space feel cozier, dark tones on the ceiling or wall will help it appear smaller.

If you don’t want to paint a whole room, try painting just one wall for a pop of color that will stand out. Your walls also see a lot of wear and tear over the years, so if you’re still in love with the current color in the room, adding a fresh coat to cover scuffs and stains will help the room feel like new.

If you want to add a fun pattern to your walls but don’t have time or the budget for wallpaper, paint is a great option. It’s an easy way to add some design to your space. Whether you lean towards geometric patterns or want something completely whimsical, using stencils and paint gives you the freedom to be creative.

Painting may seem intimidating if you’re a novice, so here are a few quick tips to ensure your project is a success:

  • Place your painter’s tape first, and then swipe primer along the edge of the area you’ll be painting before applying color to prevent color bleeding under the tape.
  • You can use a sprayer to apply paint and save time, but a roller will still give a nice finish and be more cost effective.
  • Use tape and stencils to create dividing lines and patterns rather than attempting to free-hand it if you are looking for a clean look.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings to prevent spilling paint, stepping on wet tools, or damaging your clothes. Use drop cloths and tarps to protect your floors and furniture.

Let there be (new) lights

Swapping out existing light fixtures for new ones can completely elevate and transform your space without breaking the bank with a renovation. Of course, this requires some electrical work, so we strongly recommend hiring a professional if you aren’t confident in your skills.

It’s also important to measure your space carefully to ensure your dream light fixture fits the space. This includes making sure anything that will hang won’t dangle too low. It would be a shame for someone to bump their head on the beautiful chandelier you just installed!

When trying to decide which fixtures you love, a few things to take into consideration include:

  • Finish color
  • Shade material and color
  • Style of the fixture

When considering what lights you’d like to upgrade, take into account the existing finishes in the room, such as faucets and drawer knobs. You want to ensure you don’t choose clashing finishes, which can create a mismatched look in the room. If you’re adding lamps to the space, shade material and color are key components, too. They can either elevate the space or clash with everything else in the room if not chosen carefully.

Make sure the fixture’s style matches the space’s overall decor. You don’t want to put an ultra-modern light in a room filled with farmhouse-style decor. There are fixtures to suit every aesthetic, from coastal to mid-century modern.

Your local hardware stores will have plenty of light fixtures to choose from, but you can also find unique treasures in antique stores. You never know what treasures you might find on your hunt for home improvement. If you are visiting a specialty store, such as an upscale home decor or lighting store, be sure to call ahead, as sometimes you will need to make an appointment with the designer on staff.

Finding the hardware that’s just right

Swapping out hardware on drawers, cabinets, doors, towel rings, robe hooks, towel

bars and even your toilet paper holder is another quick and easy DIY project for homeowners looking to spice up their space.

Gold, brushed nickel, and matte black are currently popular finishes and create different looks in a space. When changing out your hardware, it’s recommended that you find all the products before purchasing because, at times, certain items (like mirrors and light fixtures) may be hard to find.

You can find hardware at any home improvement store, and switching out what you currently have is simple. If you’re having trouble finding a particular finish or hardware style at your local stores, Etsy, Ferguson, and Build.com are great resources for a DIY homeowner.

DIY Do’s and Don’ts

Before you dive into your home improvement projects, it’s essential to plan thoroughly to avoid wasting time andmoney or causing damage to your home. We recommend watching experts first so you know how to complete a project successfully. The internet is full of instructional videos for everything from applying wallpaper to changing light fixtures.

Establishing your budget before you start is also important. If this is your first time doing this kind of project, we recommend being prepared for the budget to come out higher than expected in case of mistakes. Break down the cost of everything you might need to ensure it’s doable.

Of course, for the really big, complicated, or potentially damaging projects, call in the experts. At Classic Remodeling, we pride ourselves on years of experience.

We can navigate plumbing, electrical, waterproofing and exterior jobs with ease. Our team will ensure that a job is

done correctly the first time so you don’t have to spend money getting it fixed. We also have extensive knowledge of building codes and laws s

o that you can avoid any legal issues and protect yourself and your loved ones. You could get hurt or risk serious fines if a job isn’t done correctly. And unless you’re prepared to deal with your HOA (if applicable), inspections and permits, we will handle the complex parts of a home renovation.

In the end, sometimes hiring a pro is less expensive than doing it yourself. We’re here to do the heavy lifting for you…figuratively and literally!

Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today

Making your home efficient and sustainable has become the norm among homeowners over the last decade. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, making your home more efficient can help you save on utility costs and make your home more comfortable. We’re excited to share how Classic Remodeling and Construction can help you make your home more energy-efficient.

What is Home Efficiency?

In case you aren’t sure what it means to have your home be energy efficient, we’ve broken it down.

Your home is powered by gas or electricity to run essential functions such as lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems. You receive a monthly utility bill accounting for the energy used. Energy-efficient homes have features and devices that help you use less than average amounts of energy. Homeowners find that the more energy efficient their home is, the less their utility bills are.

When looking for efficient materials or energy-saving devices, there are some important acronyms, terms, and symbols to familiarize yourself with:

  • R-value: used to measure the insulating efficiency of your home’s walls, floors, and roof. A higher R-value means the insulation is more efficient than insulation with a lower R-value.
  • U-value: used to measure the transfer and flow of heat. A lower U-value means your home is transferring or losing less heat than one with a higher U-value.
  • Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): used to measure the energy efficiency of your heat pump or air conditioner. The higher the EER rating is, the more efficient your HVAC system is.

Efficient Renovations

If you’re looking to incorporate some energy-efficient upgrades into your home during your renovations, there are many easy ways to do so.

Windows are an excellent place to start when it comes to home efficiency. Older windows are more likely to decrease energy efficiency, as there may be air leaks around the edges or possibly through the glass. Newer windows tend to have higher R-value-rated glass and an overall better U-value. Even if you don’t plan on changing your windows, it’s a good idea to inspect them to ensure there are no leaks, cracks, or holes that could raise your utility bills.

Insulation is another energy-efficient area that can be easily addressed during a renovation.

High R-value insulation can help your home stay warm during winter and keep cool air indoors during sweltering summer. If the renovation (and your budget) allows, consider upgrading your home’s insulation to improve efficiency. Spray foam is common for residential buildings that need a high R-value. It is especially common in high-heat or very cold climates.

If you’re on the fence about adding a skylight, consider the potential energy savings. Skylights with excellent energy-efficiency ratings can help fill your home with natural light during the day and reduce your overhead light usage. There are even window treatments outfitted specifically for skylights to further insulate them and increase their energy efficiency ratings.

The best news is that increased home efficiency often goes hand in hand with renovations. If our team is renovating your kitchen and replacing appliances, chances are, your old models will be replaced with ones that are far more energy-efficient. If the plan includes new flooring, leaks, and poor insulation will most likely be remedied during construction. Energy efficiency will almost always improve with new Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E).

Ways Homeowners Can Increase Home Efficiency

Of course, even without renovations, there are things you can do to help improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Switching all bulbs and fixtures to LED is a quick and budget-friendly way to trim your utility bills. LED lights take less energy to work and last up to 20 years, depending on frequency and duration of use. Many fixtures these days have built-in LED lights that don’t require bulbs!

Replacing older appliances, including your HVAC unit, can help you reduce energy usage. Newer models tend to be more energy efficient than older ones and often come with features to further increase their efficiency.

When it comes to your HVAC system, be sure you have it inspected regularly to prevent costly repairs and be prepared to bid your old unit goodbye when the time comes.

Smart home technology can also help you save money and run your home efficiently. From smart thermostats that can control the temperature of your home even when you’re away to smart lights that can turn on and off automatically to window treatments that will lower, rise, or tilt on their own depending on the time of day, these little gadgets can help you maximize the energy flowing through your home. While they may cost a little more upfront, the energy savings will help these smart devices pay for themselves.

Of course, installing solar panels is one of the ultimate ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Solar panels can help you save on your monthly utility bills while providing clean, renewable energy to your home. Not only are you saving money, but you’re also reducing your CO2 emissions and taking a step towards sustainability. It’s a win-win for you and the planet. Check with local regulations and building codes before investing in solar panels.

Practice Good Habits

While energy-efficient appliances, smart home devices, and renovations are excellent steps towards efficiency, there are good habits you should incorporate into your daily life as well. You’ll be amazed at how much you can save on utility bills by implementing a few of the practices below:

  • Turn off lights and other appliances that use power when you aren’t using them.
  • Unplugging cords to things that aren’t being used will lower power usage, or use a smart power strip that can be switched on and off and cut power to plugged-in devices that are not in use.
  • Take shorter showers. There are also smart water heaters that will heat water for a specified amount of time to ensure you aren’t running over.
  • Keep your windows and doors closed during hotter months to trap cooler air in the house.
  • Turn off your HVAC during cooler months and open your windows to keep your home comfortable.
  • Change your HVAC filters every 2-3 months to ensure air is flowing properly and maintain the life of your unit.
  • Wash your laundry with cold water unless hot water is absolutely necessary.
  • Only run your dishwasher when it’s completely full, but don’t overstuff it.

While these little tips may not seem like much, you may notice a reduction in your monthly bills over time. You’re also taking steps towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle, and that’s always a positive move.

Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!

 

Accessibility isn’t always something you think of until you need it.

 

However, it’s an essential feature that ensures your home is comfortable and functional for you and your loved ones. Fortunately, there are plenty of upgrades and renovations that can make your home more accessible, prevent dangerous safety hazards, and increase your overall quality of life. Your home, after all, is your sanctuary and should be the epitome of your comfort.

 

At Classic Remodeling, our team has been fortunate enough to help several clients renovate for aging in place. From installing safety features like benches and grab bars to using materials that can help visually impaired homeowners navigate to creating a little more room for wheelchairs and walkers, we’re proud to make sure your home can accommodate you no matter what your needs are or what phase of life you’re in.

 

Here are some of the many renovations or upgrades we recommend to clients regarding increased accessibility.

 

Making Your Kitchen Accessible

One of the easiest ways to make your kitchen more accessible is by using high-contrast materials. For people with visual impairments or eyesight that will worsen with age, low-contrast design, such as tan floors combined with tan or white countertops, makes delineating between different surfaces difficult. Low-contrast design can result in poor depth perception, which leads to things getting dropped and broken and creating hazards in the kitchen.

 

If you’re in love with a lighter color for the flooring, for example, we recommend pairing it with a bold cabinet or countertop so it’s easy to distinguish different surfaces and avoid injury or damage.

 

If mobility or wheelchair access is a concern, we highly recommend designs that incorporate plenty of space to sit or roll under the counter. More seating around peninsulas and counters has become a prevalent trend lately. With extra seating or space to accommodate a wheelchair, your kitchen becomes a great place to entertain and gather and comfortable for everyone.

 

Since countertops are typically too high to be comfortable work surfaces for someone in a wheelchair or for someone who can’t stand for a long period of time, consider lowering a portion of the counter or adding a pull-out cutting board that is table height to provide a comfortable and reachable work surface.

 

Storage can often be a difficult barrier, but there are plenty of solutions that make kitchen organization a breeze to navigate no matter what your needs are. Lower drawers and pull-down/pull-up storage solutions make accessing kitchen items easier and negate the need for climbing on a step ladder or reaching too far over your head. People in wheelchairs will also be able to access drawers easier too.

 

Other accessibility-friendly renovations could include a work-station with room for a counter-height stool or chair for chefs who can’t be on their feet for too long and a pot filler behind the range so people who can’t carry heavy loads can easily fill a pot in place. There are also cabinet inserts that can bring items down from higher shelves for those who can’t reach them.

 

Don’t underestimate the power of under-cabinet lighting, either. This particular upgrade is a great help for everyone, no matter their age or eyesight quality, it prevents accidents and spills.

 

Making Your Bathroom Accessible

If you’re designing with aging in place in mind or for someone with disabilities or mobility issues, the bathroom needs to be safe, as a majority of serious home accidents happen in the bathroom. Our team has renovated many bathrooms to make them accessible for homeowners while still looking beautiful and functional.

 

Like the kitchen, high-contrast materials will help with depth perception and navigation throughout the space.

 

Grab bars make toilets, showers and tubs safe and help prevent slips and falls. Benches or a fold-away seat make showers easier if you cannot stand. When paired with a hand-held faucet, using a shower becomes safe, comfortable and just a touch more luxurious.

 

If you aren’t ready for grab bars yet, but would like to plan your renovation around aging in place, adding blocking in the walls of your tub or shower will prevent you from needing another renovation in the future. Blocking is a small section of framing wood that is placed specifically to create a strong anchor in your wall for the grab bars or anything heavy you may want to hang.

Adding this blocking now will make installing grab bars easier when you’re ready for them.

 

When designing with accessibility in mind, we also encourage clients to consider what will be best for their needs rather than wants. For example, free-standing tubs are beautiful but often difficult to get in and out of, as opposed to tubs with “decking” around them. The decking allows for an area to sit and swing your legs into or out of the tub, which would be much safer for anyone with mobility or balance issues.

 

If the bathroom requires accommodations for a wheelchair, there needs to be at least five feet of clear space in the room for the wheelchair to turn around.

 

One way to get creative with designing a wheelchair-friendly space is a “roll-in shower.” This type of shower stall typically has a very low curb that is easy to roll over or no curb at all and instead has a flush drain in the floor to prevent flooding. This 5’ radius can also include space under the sink if the floor area is clear (pedestal sink).

 

This design is similar to a “wet room” in the bathroom, which is becoming an increasingly popular trend.

 

Making Stairs and Entryways Accessible

Stairs and entryways can be some of the tightest spots in your home and can subsequently be the hardest to adapt. However, the key to creating accessibility for stairs and entryways lies in making as much use of the space available and being innovative with design.

 

Entryways need some kind of seating, whether a removable bench or a built-in, to aid with tasks like putting on shoes. Be mindful, however, that you don’t overcrowd the space with too much furniture or excess decor that will take up valuable room. Hallways should have at least four feet of space to allow a wheelchair or passerby to navigate comfortably.

 

Stairs are the trickiest area to make accessible. If you aren’t accommodating a wheelchair, a sturdy railing and incorporating a well-fixed runner will help reduce injuries while using the stairs.

 

However, the best way to make a multi-level home fully accessible is to install an elevator. Our team is well equipped, with years of experience, to re-configure your home to allow for an elevator in the best location possible. If you are doing a remodel and are not ready to add an elevator but would like to incorporate one in the future, stacking well-sized closets on top of each other is a great way to plan ahead. Make sure your contractor knows what your plans are so they can properly frame the house to allow for an easy retrofit.

 

Building for accessibility or aging in place is a unique challenge for our team, and it’s an excellent opportunity to collaborate with the client to think outside of the box when it comes to designing a space that will allow them the freedom to do what they love, live as independently as possible, and stay safe in their home. With our thorough knowledge of building codes and regulations and decades of experience, we can help design a renovation that you can enjoy no matter what stage of life you’re in.

 

Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!

 

Sometimes, your dream home may lack adequate storage space. Closets, bathrooms, and kitchens, in particular, are notorious for not having enough room and creating inconvenience. It’s easy to end up with your things in a precarious, disorganized heap in your small spaces.

But have no fear!

At Classic Remodeling, we are experts in creating space and guiding you to maximize the storage real estate you do have to make it functional for your needs.

Keep Your Closets Organized

There’s nothing worse than an overstuffed, disorganized closet where you can’t find what you need or see what you have. However, we have some tips for maximizing your closet storage and making your life easier.

Mix up your storage types and utilize stacking storage! Maximize box sizes to reduce wasted space where boxes meet.
Break up the space! Instead of a hanging rod across the entire width of the closet, divide it into sections. Long-hanging clothes can go on one end, and short-hanging clothes can go on the rest of the width, with baskets, drawers, or shelves.
Double Check! Prior to starting a renovation, we always measure your current storage space to ensure that the new design will accommodate your needs.
If your space allows, cabinets are a great (and often forgotten) upgrade to your closet storage solution. In cabinets, you can opt for drawers or shelves, depending on your needs. With shelves, your only option is to stack, making it hard to get to the things underneath or in the back. In a drawer, however, you can store your clothes in a way where everything is visible and accessible.

Enhance Bathroom Space

Bathrooms can be a little tricky when it comes to storage, and a lot depends on what the client wants in the space. Vanities can be an excellent way to create extra room, and you can either opt for a built-in vanity or a freestanding one.

Both have their pros and cons depending on the dimensions of the room. A built-in vanity can be customized to maximize the space you have, whereas a freestanding one comes in a standard size (18 “,24″,30″,36”,48 “,60” typically). Depending on your space, you may have to size down for a freestanding vanity, which could create unnecessary wasted space in your bathroom.

When putting together your design plan for your bathroom renovation, consider how your tub and shower play into the space. Can you remove the tub? Is there room for a large mirror to make the room feel larger?

Utilize Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinets are your kitchen’s best friend when creating functional storage. In a kitchen renovation, we will typically extend the height of the cabinets to the ceiling.

If storage is the goal, a full overlay cabinet vs. an inset will always give you more room. Installing roll-out shelves in your cabinets creates accessible pantry space, and using stationary shelves higher up provides storage for seasonal or infrequently used kitchen items.

We strongly recommend drawers for lower cabinets instead of swing-out doors. Not only are they easier to access, but you won’t lose stuff in the back like you would with shelves. You will maximize your space since you won’t have to accommodate roll-out tracks, and you will have a better vantage point so you can stay organized.

All our cabinetry lines also have drawer and cabinet organizers. While these can help keep everything organized, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone. For example, a peg board drawer organizer might actually cause more wasted space. The pegs have to be placed on a grid, and your dishes may not fit exactly between them. Carefully planning where you will store everything in your kitchen will ensure you don’t spend money on an organizational solution that may not work for you.

Tips From Our Designers

Of course, there are other ways to make the most of your small spaces and make them feel larger without a renovation.

Keeping your countertops clear of items will keep the room from feeling small and cramped. Use organizing bins, shelves, and drawers to create a clutter-free space. You’ll be amazed at how much room you have when everything is put away.

Our designers also recommend using light materials in small spaces. This will help make them feel larger and less cramped.

Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!

Now more than ever, it’s essential for companies to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their business models and do their best to go green and give a little back to Mother Nature. Although Earth Day is April 22nd, practicing sustainability is in season all year round. We’re proud to share some of our eco-friendly methods that we conduct in an effort to significantly lower the environmental footprint of our projects.

Reducing Waste

Reducing waste is one of the easiest ways to practice sustainability. Regarding our projects, we do our best to order the correct amount of materials so there’s no waste. If there are usable leftovers, we will store them in our warehouse for use on another project or by one of the staff.

The construction industry creates more waste than most industries. We try to offset this by finding ways to recycle any extra materials that are not left with the homeowner. While the ultimate goal of a renovation is to blend new and original construction seamlessly, we also try to source materials that are as local as possible to reduce the environmental impact of shipping them. When our projects take us outdoors, we do our best to minimize the disruption we create to the surrounding ecosystem. Sustainability isn’t just about creating a healthy space for humans but also creating one that will be harmonious with the environment.

Eco-friendly Materials

LED lights have become the norm as an effective way to make any building more green. We always use LED bulbs and strip lights in all possible fixtures in our projects! They can last up to 20 years and will use less electricity than a traditional lightbulb in that time.

Using environmentally safe cleaning products is a simple way for homeowners to be sustainable. We use eco-friendly cleaners when we use soap and water on our jobs to clean up after ourselves. By incorporating environmentally safe cleaning products into our operations, we reduce the risk of exposing harmful chemicals to our workers, protect surfaces and materials we work with, and meet the expectations of our eco-conscious customers.

Sustainability Tips for Homeowners

At the end of every project, we leave the homeowner with a binder detailing all the finishes, fixtures, and equipment. This also includes cleaning and maintenance instructions, so that materials last longer and continue looking great. The less often that fixtures need to be replaced, the less waste there is. Even if you aren’t renovating, or planning to do it anytime soon, keeping your home clean and adequately maintained reduces excess waste caused by replacing fixtures and finishes.

Of course, sometimes going green can come with a steeper price tag than alternative materials. It may seem like you’re saving money by going the cheaper route. However, high-quality, eco-friendly materials typically have a longer life, and over time, the cost of upkeep can be less.

At Classic Remodeling, we strive every day to reduce our carbon footprint and offer more sustainable material options. The journey to a healthier planet for all begins with a single step. We’re honored to continue our work creating your dream home while maintaining respect for the beautiful Lowcountry environment around us.

Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!

Our story starts with our homeowners who were relocating to Charleston. Their purchase was a stunning abode with plenty of living space, tucked away in the woods to create a peaceful retreat – the perfect place to call their forever home. However, while this house was nearly perfect, it didn’t have quite the personalized touch the couple was looking for and needed professional remodeling to include everything the homeowners wanted.

The house had good bones, though the inside was a bit dated, and there wasn’t enough natural flow for the client, according to our project consultant, Christy Ammerman. “They wanted to update the home and also open up the main living spaces of the kitchen/dining/living room to better suit the way they ‘lived,'” she explains.

The original kitchen layout for this home in CharlestonNatural light floods into the newly remodeled kitchen spaceA remodeled screened in porch brings light and added space to this home in Charleston, SC

Our team started with the flow problem by opening the wall between the living room and kitchen, creating an airy and spacious open floor plan. With this new modification, the homeowners also got the added benefit of an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard.

Their primary bedroom was the next room to be remodeled. We gave the owners a larger bathroom and closet space and created a perfectly functional space.

“Another important space in the house was the screen porch,” explains Ammerman. “The original house came with a small screen porch that had little function. We tore off the existing porch and built a new larger screen porch for them that included both a sitting space and a dining space.” This outdoor renovation created a beautiful extended living space perfect for enjoying warm Lowcountry evenings surrounded by the property’s natural beauty.

Of course, every job comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities to get creative.

“When we initially met with these homeowners and started the design process, we knew that we would need to accomplish some of the changes in phases as they were on a time crunch of making the move down from up north,” says Ammerman. With such a tight time constraint, a master plan of all the tasks our team wanted to accomplish was created, and the different project phases were laid out so that we could stay on task and complete everything on time.

Another challenge required our team to redesign a set of stairs that was being added to an existing bedroom. The goal was to create a functional transition from the first to the second floor and provide the owners with easy access between floors that looked great and followed proper building codes, which we completed successfully.

This home had plenty of opportunities throughout the renovation to add little touches and details that perfectly suited its new owners and their lifestyle, from incorporating large skylights to help bring in as much natural light into the home as possible to building a custom bookcase in the entryway for the homeowners to showcase some of their art and artifacts from their travels abroad. “We had to design each cubby based on the certain sculpture that it would house. The piece turned out beautifully and is a great feature as you enter the home,” says Ammerman.

Of course, our team prides itself on using high-quality materials for our projects. This home featured Cambria quartz countertops, custom Greenfield cabinetry, wide plank, white oak flooring with a custom stain, Sherwin Williams paints, porcelain tiles, and Brizo plumbing fixtures for an effortlessly luxurious look.

Interior design makes this blue bookshelf stand out

When the project was finished, the homeowners moved into their newly renovated abode, which featured an open, airy floor plan, beautiful outdoor living space, functional rooms and storage, and intricate details, making their dream home complete.

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