Blog Archives - MastersKitchenBath.com

Shower Designs: The options are plentiful

Choosing a new shower sounds straight-forward. In most large bathrooms, the shower is typically one of the main focal points. If it’s a glass shower, it draws the eye to the shower walls and tile. If you are in the phases of a complete bathroom remodel, you’ve most likely have had to review several different shower options.

The type of enclosure, whether glass or frosted glass, should be considered. Have you ever heard that you should draw inspiration for your bathroom designs from your favorite hotel bathrooms? This is the time to get creative and while making your newly remodeled bathroom super functional, have fun with it and think outside the box!

Glass Enclosed Shower
Whether fully enclosed with glass or partially enclosed, the glass helps make space feel larger. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels create a seamless transition between the shower and the rest of the bathroom. Choosing a rainfall showerhead helps give the overall shower design a statement look.

Types of glass enclosures:
Sliding doors
Fixed glass
Frosted glass
Hinged glass door
Folding glass door
Alcove – glass door with surrounding walls
Framed
Semi-framed – metal around the structure of the shower but the door itself does not have a frame
Bathtub door – partial door
Industrial – dark metal and frameless

Light-filled shower

Some bathrooms don’t offer natural light at all, so a glass enclosure helps brighten the space. If you have a window in the bathroom, designing around the window is a great advantage to having the natural light shine through. Choosing the right lighting and tile design can help amplify the brightness of the room, as well.

Steam shower

Taking your shower space to the next level by incorporating a steam environment is entirely possible. You can create a steam environment with the type of enclosure within the shower door and walls. Small windows that open help allow the air to circulate, but overall, the shower can serve two purposes- a shower and a steam room. Relaxation, right there in your home.

Round shower

Maybe you have never considered a round shower or corner shower; however, if you are going for a statement design, round showers will do it! A corner shower may help save on space while still giving your overall bathroom a statement look.

Open Shower

Very popular in modern spaces, open showers may have a partial glass wall or no wall at all. Spacious showers that are seamless with the floor are easily accessible and safer for kids and the elderly. They are wheelchair-accessible, minimal, and simplistic in design. Open showers or walk-in showers are versatile and can be easily customized with various flooring options, configurations, and types of doors.

How can I transform my bathroom shower into a more relaxing space?

Transforming your bathroom shower into a more relaxing space is not only possible but also within your reach. Consider taking your shower experience to the next level by incorporating a steam environment. By installing a specific type of enclosure within the shower door and walls, you can create a steam room right in the comfort of your own home. To enhance the circulation of air, small windows that open can be added to the shower area. Imagine the luxury of having a shower that also functions as a soothing steam room, offering you the ultimate relaxation experience.

In addition to the steam feature, there are various other elements you can consider to elevate the tranquility of your shower space. The use of natural lighting can greatly contribute to creating a serene ambiance. Placing your freestanding or shower-combo tub strategically in front of windows or below a skylight allows for the enjoyment of gentle, natural light while you unwind. This connection to the outdoors can enhance the sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Lighting, whether natural or artificial, plays a vital role in setting the mood and enhancing the calming atmosphere of your shower. Consider incorporating additional gentle sources of light to create a more serene environment. Bright, white shower tiles mixed with clear glass walls or a shower curtain are common in many homes. However, to truly transform your shower into a personal oasis, contemplate tiling your shower with colors like tan, brushed gold, or deep blue. These soothing hues can evoke a sense of tranquility and promote a more calming experience.

One simple yet effective way to enhance your shower’s relaxation potential is by replacing your old showerhead. This straightforward plumbing change can have a significant impact on your shower experience. With various showerhead options available, you can select a model that provides a gentle rainfall effect, massaging jets, or even an adjustable steam feature. By making this small adjustment, you can immediately elevate the comfort and relaxation of your shower routine.

In conclusion, the possibilities for transforming your bathroom shower into a more relaxing space are endless. By incorporating a steam environment, embracing natural lighting, selecting soothing colors for your shower tiles, and upgrading your showerhead, you can create a haven of tranquility right in your own home. Enjoy the rejuvenating and calming effects of a shower that not only cleanses your body but also rejuvenates your mind and soul.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Can I read reviews from previous clients of Masters Kitchen & Bath?

Yes, please click HERE to read testimonials form our previous clients.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

November 12, 2019/by Milica

Bathroom Remodel, Blog

Bathroom Remodel: An Overview

Are you considering a bathroom transformation? We’ve got five critical things to consider before you dive into a major bathroom renovation.

First, ask yourself, what are the significant reasons you are considering a bathroom remodel. Are you looking for more space? Do you need to improve the lighting? Is the bathroom simply outdated and you want an upgrade.

1. Lighting

Bathroom lighting is more important than you think. On average, people spend one hour per day in the bathroom. One-third of that time is spent directly in front of the mirror. It’s essential to decide whether or not you will need aesthetic lighting or functional lighting. Correctly placed lighting around the mirror for shaving or applying makeup can make a tremendous difference.

2. Storage

For smaller and more confined spaces, you’ll want to utilize as much of the area that you can. People often choose to install recessed medicine cabinets to help save on space. If space allows, people often decide to recess bathroom shelves for towel storage. If storage is important to you, carefully consider installing a vanity with plenty of drawer storage rather than doors. Drawers are easy to organize.

3. Toilets

Wall-mounted toilets have become very popular. It’s a great way to save on space, and the tank hides behind the wall. Wall-mounted toilets are affordable and make your bathroom space look updated and modern. Although the wall-mounted toilet is a significant consideration, be sure this is the route you want to take. Due to the way the toilets drain, if this is the route you are taking, know that it’s not as easy to revert to the floor-mounted option. It would require a complete rework of the plumbing supply.

4. Shower Stalls

This is where the remodel gets fun! Between frosted glass, tiled half wall or full glass wall, you have a lot of great options. Is privacy important? Do you need a door or could you consider a walk-in shower? Whether this is a DIY project or if you hire a contractor, ensure both experienced with all aspects of shower stall installation. If the shower is near a window, it’s important that the windowsill is sloped correctly. You’ll want to ensure everything near and around the shower is watertight. When it comes to shower floors, smaller tiles are best because of the traction and ease of slope installation.

5. Bathtub or Shower?

Are you a bath person? If you said yes to yourself, then a tub is something you need to put into the bathroom remodel plan. Do you have enough room for a shower tub combo? For some people, bathtubs are not a necessity and can help save on space.

There is a lot to consider when thinking about a full bathroom remodel. Speak with a professional to share what you envision for your renovated bathroom. A project designer can help you come up with a solid and realistic plan and help you determine costs and help you stay within your budget.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage development, ordering, and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their homes with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned project manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful, and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights.

September 4, 2019/by Goran

Blog

What You Need To Know About Porcelain Tile

History

Porcelain dates back to the Tang dynasty in China (618-907). Porcelain tile is still popular today, and with technological advances, tile can be found on walls, floors, ceilings, and fireplaces. Many people associate porcelain with dishes, toilets, and figurines. Porcelain tile is a common choice in many home renovations and can also be seen on shower walls, countertops, and floors.

What a lot of people don’t know is that porcelain tile is extremely durable. Even though it’s a type of ceramic tile, it is made from finer, denser clay and fired at higher temperatures. Porcelain tile is more stringent, and more scratch-resistant than other varieties of tile, and is also resistant to stains.

Flooring

Porcelain tile shines beautifully, and if you are looking for a long-lasting surface, porcelain is a great option. Kitchens countertops, wall coverings, bathroom showers, and walls are all options for porcelain placement.

Porcelain floor tile requires little maintenance and exceeds ceramic tile with its durability and beautiful appearance. Its an excellent option for high-traffic areas and ideal if you have pets and children.

Maintenance

Porcelain looks exceptional, is tough and better yet, super easy to clean. Porcelain’s surface does not absorb a lot of moisture, and is another reason it’s so great for kids and pets. With other flooring materials, spills can trickle into the surface and cause stains. Porcelain is so easy, and spills can easily be wiped up with a damp cloth. No harsh chemicals are necessary to maintain the enamel – just water and mild detergent. Repairs typically aren’t costly either.

Benefits

Did you know that porcelain is harder than granite? Due to the intense firing process, extreme heat, and dense clay, the structure makes the tile very hard. The other benefits of porcelain tile are the way the color runs through rather than at surface level. The great advantage to this is that the color will remain the same at it wears down.

Are you thinking about renovating your kitchen or bath? Porcelain tile is recognized as a quality building material and is, therefore, a selling point. Installing porcelain tile in a kitchen or bathroom could potentially increase the value of the property, too.

Disadvantages of Porcelain Tile

We’ve discussed the ins and outs of porcelain, and the great features porcelain has to offer. Now let’s talk about the disadvantages. Although it is an excellent material, the tile can be very costly compared to other types. The installation is time-consuming but overall relatively easy to install. We mentioned how easy the tile is to clean; however, it’s crucial to keep in mind, like with most tile, grout is involved. And, when you have grout, grout can be challenging to clean. Grout sealer will definitely help, along with grout maintenance.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations. Our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

August 28, 2019/by Goran

Blog, Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Flooring and Cabinet Installation

For the past few weeks, we have been working through the steps of a kitchen remodel. We started with why it’s a good idea to remodel your kitchen, to the design and planning phase. We dove into what life would look like living without a kitchen, and last week, we discussed plumbing, wiring, and HVAC.

At this point in the process, we are more than halfway through the steps involved in a kitchen remodel.

Let’s discuss flooring!

Before cabinets, appliances, and fixture installation, the flooring must be complete. Flooring installation can take a week or so, especially if you have subcontractors doing the work and the type of flooring you have chosen is considered.

Flooring Options

Sheet Vinyl – If you are going with a less expensive type of floor, sheet vinyl is a great option and typically takes 1-2 days. It’s perfect for the DIYer, and not a lot of labor is required.

Ceramic Tile – Another good option for a DIYer is ceramic tile. Doing it yourself can save time and money; however, it requires some patience. To properly adhere the tile to the floor, you will need a cement backer board so the flooring can adhere to thin-set mortar. Hiring a professional for this job could cost you a lot with substantial labor expenses.

Engineered Wood – The industry has come a long way, and one of the most popular flooring options is engineered wood. It looks and feels like solid hardwood but a much more affordable option. This flooring option is relatively easy for DIYers to install.

Laminate Flooring – Another popular option as it’s relatively easy for someone looking to install it themselves. It’s also on the lower end as far as pricing. Great for moisture-rich areas as it’s easy to clean.

Solid Hardwood – Many people steer clear from solid hardwoods as they can be a lot to keep up with over time if not correctly cared for. Installing hardwoods requires a lot of equipment, and we suggest contacting a professional to do the job.

Cabinet and Countertop Installation

After the flooring installation has occurred, the next step in the kitchen remodel is installing the cabinets and countertops. If you are doing the kitchen remodel on your own, this would be a good time to call some friends to help you out. Depending on where you purchased your cabinets, the supplier should have a crew that can help with installation.

Countertops can be tricky as it seems easy to do. However, if you have chosen tile for your counters, it’s best to hire a professional to do the work. Silestone, Formica, and Corian will most likely need to be installed by the supplier. Most suppliers will require a contractor to purchase the materials so it would be difficult for the DIYer to buy. Granite, marble, and quartz are extremely heavy, so your best option is to hire a professional.

In the next blog, we will be discussing appliances and fixtures, and then we will be on closing out with a fully remodeled kitchen.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations. Our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

August 14, 2019/by Goran

Blog, Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Plumbing, Wiring, and HVAC Rough-In

The Next Phase in a Kitchen Remodel

Last week we discussed demolition and how to live without your kitchen for several weeks (maybe even months). This week we are going to discuss what happens next after framing has been completed. Now that your kitchen has been gutted, it’s time to figure out plumbing, wiring and HVAC rough-in.

But first, let’s explain what rough-in means. Rough-In means to bring in the various lines (Plumbing pipes, duct work, electrical conduit) to the space, but not make the final connections. For plumbing, this would be the pipes in the walls and floors that lead to the sinks, bath, toilets, etc, but not actually hooking up those fixtures. (via quora)

Plumbing Rough-In

More often than not, your kitchen remodel is going to require moving the sink, dishwasher and refrigerator to a new location. This means the water supply and drain lines will need to be rerouted. Maybe your appliances are going to remain in the same place, if so, it’s still a good idea to update the old piping. The most common scenario is to update from galvanized steel pipes to PEX. Even the most experienced DYIer will subcontract out this job. When the plumbing rough-in is finalized, it will need inspections mandated by permit requirements. The inspector will review everything to ensure the work has been done correctly and according to code.

Wiring Rough-In

If you thought plumbing was intense, electrical upgrades can be even more overwhelming! New kitchens can require a lot of electrical load – as many as seven circuits. Your home should have 200-amp to effectively power a new large kitchen. We highly suggest hiring a professional electrician for this job.

Keep in mind that the wiring rough-in will also need to be reviewed by an inspector before further work can be completed. If this is a DIY project, you will need to make sure you are responsible in contacting an inspector to review your work.

HVAC Rough-In

In conjunction with plumbing and wiring, HVAC ductwork may be required for this project. If you don’t have a lot of experience with installing sheet metal ductwork, its a good idea to hire a HVAC contractor for this job. A HVAC professional that has experience with physics of airflow will understand how to position new vent registers and cold air returns in the best locations.

Inspection Passed!

If everything went well with inspection and you met code requirements, it’s time to put up some walls and ceilings.

This is where the kitchen transformation gets super exciting and your vision comes to life. Walls will be insulated with fiberglass or other high quality insulation. The next step is perfect for the DIYer. Hanging up the drywall with tape and finish does not require inspection or passing code requirements. No need for contractors if you are looking to save money.

Next week we’ll discuss flooring and cabinet installation.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations. Our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

August 7, 2019/by Goran

Blog, Kitchen Remodel

Living Without a Kitchen

Pack it up, you’re getting a new kitchen!

The decision has been made. You are getting a brand new kitchen! While it’s all very exciting and the end result is going to be amazing, now it’s time to think through how you are going to live without your kitchen for a short time. It’s time to start planning and organizing your temporary kitchen space.

Temporary Kitchen

More often than not, your appliances and plumbing will be out-of-order during portions of the project. You’ll need to designate your dining room or living room as a temporary informal kitchen. Electric, tabletop cooktops are inexpensive and a great alternative. You’ll need a microwave and also designate a spot to wash your dishes. You can also cook up some meals in advance and just heat them in the microwave. Move all your kitchen utensils, flatware, pots and pans and dinnerware into plastic bins for easy access.

And, there is always eating out as an option. Not ideal for weeks on end but definitely convenient when you are without your kitchen.

Demolition

Now that you have designated a temporary kitchen, it’s time for demolition. It’s going to be noisy and messy so make sure you are prepared!

Out with the Old

Whether done by you or your general contractor, removing the old appliances and cabinets is the first step. Demolition can be fun but also very messy. Be sure to equip yourself with safety gear and be cautious of lead-based paint or asbestos. This requires proper handling and we recommend contacting a professional to haul it away. You’ll also need to make arrangements for a dumpster service for all the old materials.

In with the New… almost

Now your kitchen is a shell and if framing work is necessary, the contracting crew will start the framing job. Dependent on the size of the project, for example, new windows, adding walls, removing walls, this could potentially involve a lot of time. Be patient and keep your eye on the completed kitchen remodel.

Next post we will discuss Plumbing, Wiring, and HVAC Rough-In

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

August 5, 2019/by Goran

Blog, Kitchen Remodel

Designing and Planning your Kitchen Remodel

A complete kitchen remodel can seem overwhelming but don’t lose sight of the fun part – designing your dream kitchen. If you have made the decision to remodel, we’re pretty sure you have already started brainstorming and visualizing what you want your kitchen to look like.

With a realistic mindset of your current layout, explore the possibilities of some basic and classic kitchen design plans. Consider the workflow, ease of movement and the kitchen triangle rule.

The One-Wall Kitchen Layout

This is where all appliances, cabinets and countertops live on one wall. This type of design can typically be found in small spaces or very large oversized “chef inspired” kitchens. The advantage to this type of design is, it’s easy to design and remodel. One of the biggest disadvantages to the one-wall design is you can’t stick to the kitchen triangle rule.

The Galley Style Kitchen Layout

You’ll find this kitchen design in apartments, condos and smaller spaces. This style typically offers a decent amount of cabinet and counter space, however one of the biggest drawbacks is the tight corridor. Galley style kitchen don’t allow for multiple people to be in the kitchen at one time nor does it make a great space for gathering in the kitchen.

The L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

One of the most popular layouts that provides openness and flexibility. This design adheres to the kitchen triangle principle (refrigerator, cooktop and sink are close in proximity of the work space). The L-shaped design offers many possibilities when it comes to design.

The Double-L Layout

Perfect design for the chef of the house. This layout offers tons of work space with plenty of counter capacity as well as enough room between the two L’s for an island. Typically two or more people can be working in the space at the same time with the amount of space this layout offers.

The U-Shape Layout

Similar to the galley style design, the U-shape can give you plenty of counter and cabinet space while still offering some openness so you aren’t feeling cramped. One drawback is that this design doesn’t offer the best for traffic flow however with this design, you really get to utilize all the space from wall-to-wall.

Turning Your Ideas Into Reality

Now that you get the idea of all the classic design options, it’s time to thing about the resources you will need to execute your kitchen remodel plan.

Have you decided to the remodel yourself or have you spoken to a designer or general contractor? For those that decide to take on the project themselves, there are several inexpensive computer design software options to help you with planning. You can always head to your local bookstore to look for cardboard punch out kits. Helps you visualize your space in a 3-dimensional view. If you decide to go the general contractor route, make sure you ask if design or sketches can be part of the proposal.

Hiring a general contractor – Do you research and interview several contractors. GC’s can range from big construction firms to small business. Make sure you speak with multiple people so you can properly choose the right person for the job. Remember that for several weeks, these people will be going in and out of your home. Read reviews and choose a reputable company. Also remember that things can happen during the entire process so be flexible and understanding – some things can be out of their control.
Do it yourself – Do you have the skills and experience to do it yourself? Taking the project on can help save money and time (if you have the availability to knock it all out in a timely manner). Keep in mind, this isn’t a project for the new DIYer or inexperienced individual. Talk to other people that have done similar work on their own. Understand all the pro’s and con’s and what you are getting yourself into.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

July 24, 2019/by Goran

Blog, Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Remodeling: An Overview

Remodeling your kitchen is not an easy task. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to do a kitchen remodel.

Hiring a general contractor to manage the kitchen remodel has several benefits. While it may seem expensive, think of the time, knowledge and professionalism a contractor brings to the table. If you have the courage to do the remodel yourself, be sure to educate yourself on the entire process and develop a good plan. Either way, take into consideration that you will have to live without a kitchen for several weeks but the finished product is worth the wait!

A kitchen remodel is certainly worth the time, money and effort. Not only will you have the kitchen of your dreams but it will help increase the value of your home.

Three things to consider before you begin the kitchen remodeling process:

1. Speak to someone who has been through the process already. Find out what they learned and ask them if they had to do it over again, what they would change.

Many people find that by making a list of needs and wants, helps prioritize the must haves and the would be nice to have. This also helps determine what you can and can’t afford. Ask yourself what is working in your current kitchen and what definitely needs to change. Are you finding yourself wishing you had a double oven? Do you lack counter space?

Establish a prioritized list of things you would like in your new kitchen, ranked according to their importance. It’s helpful to distinguish between those elements you absolutely need and those you simply want.

2. Logistics and Expenses

Kitchen remodel projects involve a lot of work and just like you see on those reality shows, things may happen unexpectedly that can cost you more money.

If you hire a contractor to do the job, a lot of the work may be handled by subcontractors. That means that you could have strangers in and out of your house through the entire process. Contractors will give you an estimate as far as how long the project will take but be flexible. Some unexpected challenges may arise that are out of their control. If you do the job yourself to help save money, ensure you have your plan in place and that you have fully educated yourself on the process.

A new kitchen could potentially have rewards further down the road. If you decide to sell your real estate, your newly remodeled kitchen might help increase the overall value. But, don’t expect a full return on your investment. Your dream kitchen may not be the next person’s dream kitchen. Also, ask yourself, how long do you plan on being in your home. If you have a 2-5 year plan, then maybe a surface-level kitchen remodel is all you need.

3. Prepare yourself that it may not be a completely seamless process

Again, talk to some professionals and get some help with planning, design and overall management. Professionals can help you decide whether or not to spend the money on top of the line wood cabinets and Italian marble floors or, work within your budget and recommend porcelain floor tiles. They can also help you decide if you need commercial grade appliances or if quality consumer grade stovetop will do just the same.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

July 16, 2019/by Goran

Blog, Kitchen Remodel

5 Reasons to Remodel your Kitchen

The kitchen is no longer a place for just cooking. Kitchens are multi-purpose areas for homework, catching up with your spouse after a long day, and a central hub for connecting with your family. The idea of remodeling your kitchen can be overwhelming and a major undertaking, however the end result is worth it.

Here are five reasons you should consider a remodel!

1. Outdated and falling apart

Aesthetically it may appear that the kitchen is falling apart with broken cabinet doors, peeling backsplash and outdated appliances. While you can still bust out breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s not the ideal place for large gatherings or entertaining guests. If that sounds like your kitchen, it’s time for a remodel.

2. Add value to your home with a kitchen remodel

A remodeled kitchen can appeal to prospective home buyers. Some buyers can be extremely picky when it comes to kitchen so if you choose to update your kitchen and sell down the road, you could land the sale much quicker.

3. Save energy, save money!

Who wouldn’t like to lower their energy bill? That may give you enough motivation for a complete kitchen remodel. With new energy saving appliances and water heaters, you could potentially save money on your utility bill and of course less stress on the environment. Adding skylights can also help reduce the amount of energy you are using with artificial lighting.

Lighting, paint and cabinetry can help modernize a kitchen in no time.

4. Community

Kitchen’s should be inviting, warm and give you a sense of community with your family and guests. Updating your kitchen by adding an island or a breakfast bar is a great way to informally gather around for an after school snack, coffee with friends, or a quick family meal.

5. Gourmet kitchen. Gourmet meal.

For the people that enjoy the creativity of preparing fancy meals and consider themselves foodies, that’s reason enough to dive into a kitchen remodel and create the kitchen of your dreams!

“I hired Masters Kitchen and Bath to do a gut remodel of our galley-shaped kitchen. I had never undertaken a project of this size and scope and wanted to find a company that would handle/manage everything from design to execution. After reading reviews on Angie’s List, I decided to go with Masters.” –Melissa W. Lincolnshire, Illinois

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Masters Kitchen & Bath has been providing top quality construction, cabinetry, and design on kitchen renovations and remodeling since 2004. We coordinate and manage construction, ordering and installation. Masters help homeowners get more enjoyment from their home with new kitchen designs that blend beautifully with their new or existing home decor. Visualize your complete kitchen remodel by visiting our showroom. We also offer consultations where our seasoned Project Manager will inspect your job site, listen to your specific needs and considerations, and offer you design suggestions that best meet your needs.

We are proud to offer beautiful and American made Decora and Kemper Cabinets.

Masters Kitchen & Bath serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

July 11, 2019/by Goran

Blog

Park Ridge Master Bathroom Overhaul

Taking a Master Bathroom From 1988 to 2019

Let’s imagine it’s 1988, you’re driving down a quaint street in a beautiful Park Ridge, IL and your mixed tape of love ballads is blasting out of your Pontiac Bonneville. You pull up to a lovely spacious home that sits on a tree lined street. The home is everything you dreamed of including a master bathroom designed for the riches. Thick glass blocks, make up the shower stall and a vanity with wall-to-wall mirrors. The adjacent walls are uniquely decorated with dusty pleated fabric that finishes the quintessential look. Truly a dream bathroom for any young couple.

Except it’s not 1988, you don’t drive a Bonneville, and the master bath isn’t a dream. It’s 2019 and this quintessential bathroom needs a major overhaul.

How we transformed Amanda’s 1980’s Park Ridge bathroom to a more 2019 updated style.

“Masters Kitchen and Bath took an extremely outdated room from the 80s, complete with pink and green wallpaper, toilet and sink, and made it beautiful and modern.” – Amanda M.

Phase 1 – Demolition and Relocation

After removing everything to the framing and the floor joists, we were able to reorganize the space to create a “wet room” in the back half. With the glass block shower gone, the toilet was relocated to the middle of the bathroom at the end of the vanity.

Phase 2 – The Transformation Begins

Next, a custom shower base was poured across the entire back half of the bathroom. The base was covered with small decorative tiles to allow for a gentle pitch to the center drain. The sidewalls were covered with large format commercial porcelain tiles and the gracious shower bench was tiled to match the walls. The bench blended into the walls so well that it effectively disappeared.

One side wall was plumbed for the shower, and the other side fitted with an oversized free standing soaking tub placed under the window. A heavy plate glass wall was installed to separate the wet room from the vanity area, and a chandelier placed over the soaking tub completed the look.

Phase 3 – New Look and Feel

With all of the visual obstructions gone, the bathroom is spacious and visually open. Entry into the bathroom starts with a sleek chocolate stained double vanity with a white marble look Quartz top. Large recessed medicine cabinets, framed to match the vanity, create an updated upscale look as well as ample storage. A matching custom depth wall cabinet over the toilet was added for even more storage capacity.

“Masters did a terrific job on the remodel of our master bathroom. Every step–from the initial consultation to delivery of the finished product–went smoothly. The manager, designer and remodeler were extremely professional and responsive throughout–our emails and calls were returned within hours without fail. The price we paid was exactly the price we were quoted. No surprises. The price is higher than elsewhere, but we got what we paid for. This was true one-stop shopping with excellent service and an excellent result. We could not be happier with our bathroom!” – Amanda M.

Masters Kitchen and Bath is a family owned business with a rich 30 year tradition of European craftsmanship. We provide complete Kitchen and Bathroom remodeling services from design to completion.

Are you ready to transform your kitchen or bath? Schedule a consultation with us or visit our showroom at 1014 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge, IL 60068.

We proudly serve the following areas: Addison, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Glenview, Kenilworth, Lincolnwood, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Northbrook, Northfield, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights

June 27, 2019/by Goran

Light-filled shower

Steam shower

Round shower

Open Shower

How can I transform my bathroom shower into a more relaxing space?

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

1. Lighting

2. Storage

3. Toilets

4. Shower Stalls

5. Bathtub or Shower?

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

History

Flooring

Maintenance

Benefits

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Let’s discuss flooring!

Flooring Options

Cabinet and Countertop Installation

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

The Next Phase in a Kitchen Remodel

Plumbing Rough-In

Wiring Rough-In

HVAC Rough-In

Inspection Passed!

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Pack it up, you’re getting a new kitchen!

Temporary Kitchen

Demolition

Out with the Old

In with the New… almost

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

The One-Wall Kitchen Layout

The Galley Style Kitchen Layout

The L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

The Double-L Layout

The U-Shape Layout

Turning Your Ideas Into Reality

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Remodeling your kitchen is not an easy task. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to do a kitchen remodel.

Three things to consider before you begin the kitchen remodeling process:

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Here are five reasons you should consider a remodel!

Lighting, paint and cabinetry can help modernize a kitchen in no time.

About Masters Kitchen and Bath

Taking a Master Bathroom From 1988 to 2019

How we transformed Amanda’s 1980’s Park Ridge bathroom to a more 2019 updated style.

Phase 1 – Demolition and Relocation

Phase 2 – The Transformation Begins

Phase 3 – New Look and Feel

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