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Just like with any industry, there are plenty of remodeling myths out there, ranging from how much a project costs to the overall remodeling process.
Luckily, the experts at Classic Remodeling are here to bust these myths and bring some remodeling facts to the table. When you choose our team, you aren’t just choosing some of Charleston’s top remodeling contractors and designers; you’re choosing the experienced builders who will provide you with transparency, high-quality work and excellent customer service.
Myth: There Are Free Remodeling Projects You Can Do
Fact: Nothing is ever free. No matter what you choose to do, it will cost you up front, but the return you’ll get on a higher property value outweighs any remodeling investments. There are, however, many cost-effective choices, and we have a lot of knowledge on how to save you money, but there will always be a cost involved.
Myth: Remodeling Always Costs A Lot
Fact: Your remodeling budget depends on your goals and material choices. We’re transparent about costs and aim to stay within your price range, and most often, we come in under budget. Research helps set realistic expectations, accounting for potential hidden issues. High-end materials like natural stone or specialty wood will cost more, but we offer budget-friendly alternatives that will give you the same look and feel. Remember, quality often aligns with price; lower bids may indicate lower quality. We’ll help you prioritize to balance quality and cost without having to sacrifice your vision.
Myth: LED (or any energy-efficient appliances) saves you money immediately
Fact: While more expensive upfront, LED lighting reduces monthly electricity bills and lasts longer than traditional bulbs, saving money over time due to fewer replacements, but you won’t see immediate savings. The money in your wallet grows over time when you save on utility bills.
Myth: You must live elsewhere during your renovation
Fact: Many homeowners stay put during their renovation, while others don’t. It really depends on your lifestyle and the project size. A whole-house remodel is tougher to carry out your normal routine in, but a bathroom or kitchen is much easier. Some clients set up temporary kitchens, bedrooms, or migrate to a single side of the house until the work is done. There are plenty of ways to live in your home during a remodel. Our team works tirelessly to ensure the job is done as quickly and efficiently as possible, and we can be flexible with your schedule!
Myth: Big changes are always better
Fact: This is not necessarily true. Although big changes can be beautiful and add a lot to your space, small changes can sometimes be just as impactful. Changing your countertop can immediately elevate a room. But even something as simple as changing out the hardware on your cabinets or painting your cabinets is super impactful, too. In my opinion, I would much rather see an updated cabinet than a new countertop, and it’s a lot cheaper, too.
Myth: Permits are not necessary for small projects
Fact: Smaller projects like painting, wallpaper, or flooring often don’t require permits. However, permits are necessary for any structural, plumbing, electrical, roof, or foundation work. These protect everyone involved by ensuring work meets legal and safety codes and passes final inspection. Permit requirements vary by location and sometimes by project cost, so always check with your local permitting office. Our expert team can help you navigate proper permits and will ensure everything is in order before we even begin the project.
Myth: Materials don’t matter as much as design
Fact: Selecting appropriate materials and design is crucial. Opting for less expensive options often compromises the aesthetic, whereas investing in quality typically yields superior results. We can assist you in prioritizing your expenditures. For instance, natural stone countertops offer a luxurious appearance but require significant maintenance. When considering design, it’s not solely about aesthetics—factors such as the long-term cost-effectiveness of LED lighting, the durability of countertops, and the structural integrity of wood are equally important. The chosen materials profoundly influence your project, both in the present and over time.
Myth: You can do it all yourself
BIG Fact: While DIY can seem appealing, improper execution often leads to costly repairs, extended timelines, and potential damage like rot or water intrusion. Essential tools are expensive, and larger projects typically require professional expertise to ensure proper completion and permitting, which is crucial for future home sales or insurance inspections. Smaller tasks like changing hardware or painting are suitable for DIY, but consult a contractor for more complex jobs. Our team of qualified professionals will help you get the job done right the first time and help you avoid correcting costly mistakes.
Hopefully, these myth-busting facts have shed some light on the often-misunderstood world of home remodeling! It’s easy to get caught up in common misconceptions, but armed with accurate information, you can approach your next renovation project with confidence and clarity.
Remember, when you’re ready to transform your living space, Classic Remodeling is more than just a contractor; we are your dedicated partners in bringing your vision to life. We pride ourselves on offering transparent, high-quality work that stands the test of time, ensuring every detail aligns with your expectations. Our commitment to exceptional customer service means you’ll experience a smooth, stress-free process from the initial consultation to the final reveal. We believe in clear communication, meticulous craftsmanship, and a genuine passion for turning your remodeling dreams into a tangible, beautiful reality. Let us help you create a space that not only meets your needs but also reflects your unique style and enhances your everyday life.
Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!
Sometimes, your life needs a little extra room, and expansion renovations can be the perfect solution for creating an expanded living space.
Depending on your floor plan, property, and needs, our expert team at Classic Remodeling can help design the perfect plan to expand your home and upgrade it to fit your lifestyle.
If you’re thinking about adding a little extra square footage to your home (or maybe the illusion of some), check out our helpful guide below.
We most often have clients wanting to add more space to their kitchen, bathrooms or primary bedroom, especially the closet. Needs range from adding new family members to wanting more space for entertaining to needing additional storage space.
While there are several methods for expanding a living space, the most common way our team creates extra square footage is by adding an addition.
If the house has been lived in for some time and the homeowners don’t want the daily flow of their home to change drastically, an addition is the easiest way to add more space without reinventing the floor plan. Over the course of three decades, our additions have ranged from a new bedroom to a simple powder room.
Just like with any remodeling project, our process starts with us carefully evaluating your home’s current floor plan and how you like to use the space before moving into the planning phase. We’ll determine the best way to create the most space without interrupting your flow before moving forward. Sometimes our strategies include knocking down non-load-bearing walls to create an open flow between the kitchen and living room or between two bedrooms to turn them into one large one.
In one renovation, we even removed the upper cabinets in a kitchen to make the area feel more spacious. Though these types of solutions are rare, as most often people want more storage space, in these cases, we get creative about how we incorporate storage, like shelving in islands and under countertops.
For those who are not ready for a full renovation, there are still ways to create space without construction. Decluttering and rearranging furniture can significantly impact how open a room feels. Strategic use of mirrors and light colors can also create the illusion of more space. Organizing pantries and closets, using high shelves and multi-purpose furniture, and storing less frequently used items out of sight are all effective strategies.
For homeowners seeking to maximize their space, organization is key. Ensuring that everything has a designated place, particularly in frequently cluttered areas like pantries and coat closets, can reveal hidden space. Additionally, high shelves, under-stair storage, and multi-purpose furniture like storage ottomans can be invaluable.
For closets, storing “just in case” items elsewhere can free up space for everyday clothing, maintaining order and accessibility.
For homes with strict regulations or limited expansion renovation options, constructing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on the property is a creative solution. Whether used as a guest house or an in-law suite, ADUs can increase living space and property value while adhering to local regulations. Our team is up-to-date on local codes and zoning regulations, so we can help you navigate those tricky areas as we strategize expanding your space.
Creating more space in a home requires creativity, planning, and sometimes a bit of unconventional thinking. Whether through renovation or clever organization, there are numerous ways to transform a cramped house into a spacious, functional home.Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!
Your kitchen is one of the most essential rooms in your home. It’s often the hub of activity, where homework is done, guests are entertained, and loved ones are fed. While it’s vital that this room is as safe and functional as possible, there are also many ways your kitchen can make a statement and feel luxurious. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, our expert team can help you create a space that serves its purpose and also serves stunning style. If you need some inspiration, our designers have shared some kitchen remodeling tips for taking your kitchen to the next level.
The materials you choose during the design phase of our process are vital for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. In an area with numerous hazards, such as the kitchen, thoughtfulness about the materials you use is essential.
Flooring choices can vary from project to project, and several factors influence what clients ultimately choose, including:
Many Charleston homes, particularly historic homes, still have the original flooring throughout, which is highly coveted. Most often, a new coat of stain is all that’s required to make vintage floors look new again. Natural wood is also a beautiful choice but often requires the most maintenance, including regular re-sanding and staining.
For more low-maintenance options, vinyl, which can be natural in color, and tile are excellent alternatives. There are plenty of options to capture whatever decorating style you prefer.
Material isn’t the only option to consider when choosing flooring for your kitchen remodel.
Patterns and bold colors have become increasingly popular as homeowners have embraced their unique styles and preferences. If you’re looking for your kitchen to make a bold statement, why not start with under your feet?
Herringbone is a timeless option that elevates your kitchen space, while checkerboard adds a touch of vintage charm to your cookery. If you lean ultra-modern, a hexagon pattern fits the appeal.
There are a few rules to keep in mind when choosing to add a pattern to your floor. If you select a strong pattern below, the rest of your kitchen should be neutral to let the intricate design be the focal point and not overwhelm the space. Make sure your patterns run longways from your main viewpoint through the space to enlarge your kitchen, and be sure that it will lay in a way so you’ll be able to see as much of the pattern as possible. Our expert team can ensure that a patterned floor is installed correctly and looks beautiful when the work is complete.
Lighting brightens a space, increases its functionality, and creates the illusion of a larger room. As you plan your kitchen remodel, there are ways to maximize the power of lighting and elevate your room.
Under cabinet lighting has become increasingly popular and transforms your space. Not only is it practical, but it can also create a warm ambiance. In-cabinet lighting is a newer trend but still serves the same purpose.
Pendant lights in your kitchen, especially those mounted to the ceiling above your kitchen island and cooking areas, have become all the rage in kitchens and can instantly feel like an upgrade.
No matter your decorating style or the size of the room, layering ambient, task, and pendant lighting can create depth in the space and maximize the use of your new light fixtures.
The best way to elevate your kitchen remodel is to get creative with the space and resources you have.
Custom cabinetry offers a creative way to organize your kitchen and create storage. You can create almost anything with custom cabinets, from a hidden coffee bar to an inconspicuous place to store your trashcan. They also free up counter space, giving you more room to work with.
We’ve also seen homeowners add pullout cutting boards, hidden spice racks, swing-out cabinets, and toe-kick vacuums.
Details like these might seem small, but they can make your life easier and your kitchen feel luxurious.
What really transforms a space is the attention to detail. Changes and additions that seem minor during the planning process can transform the entire room when it’s completed. Your kitchen can go from a necessary room where daily tasks are performed to a showstopping galley where you’ll want to entertain and set as the central hub of your home. A few other ways to make your kitchen feel elevated include:
All of these kitchen remodeling tips can inspire your next kitchen remodeling project, but of course, following your personal taste and preferences can ensure your kitchen is usable and a room to fall in love with. Voted Best Kitchen/Bath Remodeler by Charleston Living Magazine, the experts at Classing Remodeling are ready to help you add a little gourmet flair to your space.
Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!
Whether you’ve just bought a fixer-upper or you’re looking to make some much-needed upgrades to your well-loved home, you may be thinking that it’s time for a renovation. If this is your first time working with a renovation company like Classic Remodeling, you might not know where to start or what to expect.
We’ve shared our renovation process, or “The Classic Process,” to prepare you for your project and given you a step-by-step guide through each phase so you know exactly what to expect after you’ve reached out to us.
When you first contact our team, one of our helpful sales representatives will meet you at the project site to get an idea of what you need for your home and see some of your inspiration. It’s good to inform us of what you want during this phase, as it will make the renovation process much smoother. This can also ensure that we can work everything you dream of into your budget so you can make decisions accordingly. You don’t want to find that a last-minute feature you want to add in the middle of the project will put you way over your budget!
We also have a standard list of questions we ask to gather as much information as possible, including:
We will also ask you to walk us through your daily routine, so we know how you use your space. This includes details like how you like to cook and do the laundry, where you like to relax, how everyone else’s schedules in the house relate to yours, whether or not you have children, and anything specific they need.
These questions and details ensure that we tailor every aspect of your renovation to your specific needs so your home is the perfect blend of functional and comfortable. After all, no two homes are alike, and everyone has different needs to make their home their sanctuary.
During this first site visit, we will also ensure there are no structural issues, like rot or leaks, to address in the area we’ll be working in. This helps us identify any necessary repairs and ensure the space is safe and functional before beginning to work.
Once we know the issues we’re addressing, what your dream renovation will include, and get an idea of your budget, we will measure the areas where we will work. Sometimes, this is just one room, and other times, it’s the whole house. We will also take photos during this time to document the space’s appearance before we start and use them as a reference while drawing your as-built plans.
Before we draft our own plans, we will draw the existing conditions of your home and determine any hurdles we might have before we start designing. This is especially important if we are moving windows, changing anything with the exterior, or adding to the house in any way. A few common hurdles we see include FEMA, HOA, BAR, including the 50% rule, and the Substantial Improvement Rules. We need to know how many of these things will affect your project as early as possible so we can design within the legal guidelines for your home.
We will usually make multiple site visits to confirm measurements, confirm details, assess any new issues that may arise before and during construction, or see materials in the space. We can also set meetings with you in the space if you’re having trouble visualizing how your renovation will look.
The selection process happens during this phase, too. We have an onsite showroom with cabinetry, counters, tile, faucets, sinks, pulls and knobs, grout, tile trim, and paint decks. You and our designers will meet to pick out the materials you want to incorporate into your renovation and solidify the finer points of the design details. This part can be a fun experience, and our knowledgeable designers are ready to offer suggestions, provide product information, and guide you should you start to feel overwhelmed or stuck. They will also know what products best suit the space and your everyday life.
Once plans are drawn up and everything is approved, we will start purchasing materials, ensure all legal proceedings are completed, and send plans to the appropriate municipality for permitting. This phase, while often time-consuming, is vital before we break ground to ensure we don’t violate any regulations or break any laws.
Once construction starts, the designer will visit multiple times a week to ensure the project is on task, everything is done correctly according to the plans, and to answer any questions.
You may also be called in occasionally to assess tile choices, countertop choices, confirm pulls and knobs and paint choices, and other details. This can be a fun part of the renovation process as you see the choices you made with the designer earlier in the process start to come together.
Our team is dedicated to updating you on every step of the project, so you don’t have to worry about where you are in the timeline. We will meet with you during the planning phase as often as every two weeks.
During the construction phase, a lot depends on the scale of the project and your needs. Some clients need weekly check-ins, and others prefer updates only when significant milestones are crossed or if the project is delayed and will fall behind schedule. We also have many clients who live out of town and will come visit to see the progress or have meetings. Whether you prefer weekly updates or mile-stone check-ins, we tailor our communication to ensure you’re always in the loop – giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
Sometimes, projects last longer than initially estimated. Some common delays include:
While we do our best to avoid delays, they inevitably happen. We will ensure you know what’s happening and when things start moving forward again.
Throughout the renovation process, from start to finish, what continuously sets us apart is that we care. We care about the quality of our work, we care about our clients, and we care about doing it right the first time. With Classic, you have our quality guarantee. If you have any issues with our work, check out our Worry-Free Warranty. We work very hard to maintain solid relationships with our clients, even after the project is completed.
You also benefit from our company’s “design-build” status. Unlike general contractors, we can do everything in-house, from preliminary planning and design to construction. Our experienced team has worked in the industry for many years, giving us the knowledge to complete our jobs well. This also means that you can save some money since you won’t have to work with different companies to complete things like designing and planning. We’re here to see the project through from start to finish.
Ready to make your home inspiration a reality with our 30 years of superior performance, craftsmanship, and service? Contact us today!
We’re excited to announce the launch of our new website! The site has a whole new look, hopefully making it easier to get to the information you need as you vet remodelers for your next project.
The goal for our new site was to make it much more user friendly – especially on mobile devices. We wanted to make it easier for you to get information about who we are and what we do, see examples of our work, and contact us to start your project. With that goal in mind, you’ll find multiple ways to access our portfolio and past customer reviews, a detailed breakdown of our process highlighting what to expect during each phase of the project, and no matter what page you are on within the site you’ll have a contact form at your fingertips.
And finally, for past clients you have an easy way of contacting us should any warranty work come up. There is a contact form on every page of the site where you can select “existing project” for any warranty requests. This goes directly to our staff who can log your request.
We hope you enjoy the new site and find that it meets your needs as you search for a professional remodeler for your next project!
1832 River Road, Johns Island, SC 29455 T 843.763.3297 | F 843.766.9342 E dreams@classicremodeling.com
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