The kitchen was gutted and the new design gave our client significantly more counter space including a new island and a wall was removed to open the space into the dining area. We installed all new custom cabinets, quartz countertops with miter edges on the island. RBR-Total Home Remodeling removed and replaced a dated garden window above the sink along with replacing the window in the kitchen nook and in the bathroom for a more integrated look and feel with other windows in the home.

Furthermore, we replaced all of the floor tile in the kitchen and bathroom with wood flooring and tied into the existing hardwood. The existing flooring, including the stairs leading to the second story, were sanded and restored. We installed Luxury Vinyl in the family room. Finally, the RBR crew installed all new doors and trim throughout the first floor and built a new bench in the breakfast nook for improved seating.

Take a look at what things looked like before we began our work

The post Bright Multi Room Remodel in Arlington Heights appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

What is a curbless shower?

A curbless shower is free of any barrier or obstacle at the opening. There’s no curb or ledges and it allows you to easily enter the shower either by walking into it or rolling into it. The shower area can be totally open and integrated with the rest of the bath (wet area) or it can be designed with glass panels and doors to separate the shower from the rest of the bathroom yet still provide an open and more modern feel.

What are the benefits of a curbless shower?

There are several benefits of a curbless shower besides giving your bathroom remodel or renovation a more updated look:

• Easy entrance and exit: Removing the barrier / ledge in the shower entry allows easy accessibility immediately and in the future for those aging-in-place.
• Seamless look: Without the curb your bathroom floor plan will seamlessly flow from wall-to-wall establishing the perception of additional space. Plus, since the shower is either open or surrounded by glass, your tile design will be fully visible.
• Lower maintenance: Removing the ledge into the bathroom also removes crevices that can build up with grime, mildew, and bacteria. No barrier makes spraying down the bathroom and shower a super easy task.
• No curtain: By removing the curb and creating a wet area, there’s no need for a shower curtain that collects mold and mildew.

What to consider before installing a curbless shower?

While designing a curbless shower for your bathroom is not complicated, the construction of the shower is ed and should only be completed by a professional and competent crew. If the shower is not installed correctly, water can get everywhere.

• Drainage: First and foremost, the shower must be properly designed so that it drains correctly. Make sure your construction company has experience installing curbless showers. A properly installed curb-less shower will have a floor slope of about 1½ to 2” which will prevent the water from spilling out across the bathroom or spooling in a particular area of the bathroom.
• Drain selection: Picking the right drain for your show is a personal and functional choice. You should first decide on where you’d like the drain. For example, you can center the drain in the middle of the shower, or you can place a linear drain along the shower entrance or wall. No matter where you decide to place the drain, the floor needs to be pitched to allow for proper drainage. Center drains require a four-way pitch sloping towards the center of the shower while linear drains require the floor to only be pitched in a single direction toward the actual drain.
• Showerhead placement: Placement of the shower fixtures is a critical for keeping water from escaping the space. You’ll need to work with your construction team to make sure the showerhead and hand shower is placed in the optimal area so that water will travel to the drain. A standard rule of thumb is the closer the fixture to the drain, the more efficient the water will clear.
• Open or closed Shower: Another critical decision is whether to have an open or closed shower. If your shower will remain open, you need to make sure your newly renovated or remodeled bathroom is properly waterproofed, and the floor has is sloped toward the drain. Of you can close off your shower glass panels as the partition with either a wide opening at the end of the shower or doors

Bathroom Remodel & Renovation Projects

If you’re ready to move your bathroom to a modern day design, RBR-Total Home Remodeling is ready to do the work. We have expertise in small bathroom renovations and full bathroom remodels. Plus, our project consultant will advise you on the latest and greatest construction techniques to give you top quality installation for a curbless shower and more. No matter how big or small, every project gets the same level of service, attention to detail plus our 100% satisfaction guarantee!

Contact RBR-Total Home Remodeling today for a free estimate 224-271-9460.

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Tom Scanlon, President and owner of RBR Total Home Remodeling, has been in the home renovation business for over 35 years. His hard-earned experience and dedication to his craft as a contractor have not gone unnoticed. Under his leadership, RBR Total Home Remodeling was the first local contractor to be picked for the Chicago run of HGTV/DIY Network’s Kitchen Crashers* series. Scanlon and his RBR Total Home Remodeling team are also the preferred Chicago contractor for Disney, ESPN Radio, WLS Radio, and ABC 7.

In the past 35+ years, Scanlon has overseen countless renovation projects and has become a seasoned veteran in the industry. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with the contractor and he shared some insider knowledge and expert home-renovation advice with me. The following Q&A session is inclusive of that renovation advice:

Question: How long have you been working in this industry?

Answer:  I’ve been in the remodeling business for over 35 years now. I started right after high school in the flooring business and things just progressed from there. When I was 22, some friends of mine opened up a remodeling business of their own and I ended up joining them. And I’ve been in the business ever since.

Q: What’s something customers are typically surprised to learn when taking on a renovation project?

A: Customers are definitely surprised to learn about the amount of involvement that they actually need to have for the duration the project. Even with the best contractors, homeowners have to be involved from start to finish. People think that they can hire a contractor and then they can just disappear and things magically will get done. The best results happen when the homeowners are constantly involved and are willing to collaborate with the contractor.

Q: What are the most common renovation mistakes you see?

A: I go into a lot of job sites and see materials that haven’t been installed properly. This normally stems from either a DIY project or the work of or sub-par, typically cheaper contractor. When you hire cheap people, you get cheap work. I also see a lot of people that have started the project in the wrong order. Every project has an order that things should be done in. I see lots of projects where things are being done totally backwards or out of order, and the results are both bad and expensive to fix. Following the correct process, step by step, is key.

The biggest mistake I often see, though, is when people try to finish painting by themselves. Always hire a professional painter. A beautiful remodeling job can be totally ruined with a bad paint job. It is absolutely worth spending the money to hire professional painters.

Q: How do you correct these mistakes when you encounter them?

A: Unfortunately, in most cases, the only way to correct these mistakes is to rip everything out and start all over. Renovations need to be done properly, step by step, from start to finish. You can’t build on top of shotty work and expect things to last. It may look nice now, but functionality might lacking, or things could start falling apart quickly.

Q: What renovation advice would you give to someone looking to take on a small, DIY project?

A: Do as much research as you can before you start. Some people are extremely handy and don’t need a bunch of help, but if you do, YouTube videos and tutorials are a great resource. That’s for simple jobs, though. Stay away from DIY plumbing, electric, and carpentry. There are professionals and specialists in these fields for a reason, so leave the toughest jobs to the experts.

Q: What renovation advice would you give to someone looking to take on a large renovation project that requires a professional?

A: Again, do as much research as you can initially. Make sure that you have all the information ready about exactly what you want done in this renovation. If your project requires blueprints, meet with an architect before you meet with a contractor.

Hiring a contractor is like hiring an employee. Conduct some interviews first, ask for referrals, research some work that he or she has previously done, and ask for examples. A key question to ask is, “If there was a problem on any of your job sites, how was it handled?” All projects are bound to have a few bumps in the road, so knowing how your contractor handles those curve balls is key to ensuring your confidence and comfort with the project.

As a homeowner, ask yourself, “Do I feel like I’m collaborating with the contractor on the job, or is everything his call and then he just moves on to his next project?” Working together in confidence will ensure that you have the best possible results.

Q: What’s your favorite part of your job?

A: When we finish the project, when it’s really, finally done, and I see how happy my customers are. I’ve had people cry because they’re so happy that I made their dreams come true, and that’s the best, most rewarding feeling. Knowing that I delivered someone’s dream to them makes all the stress and constant running around worth it. I take a lot of pride in the work I do, and so I’m very happy when I make my customers happy.

Q: Any last pieces of renovation advice or final thoughts you’d like to share?

A: When taking on a remodel, prepare to be inconvenienced. When you’re remodeling a house, be prepared that you will run into problems and you may have to adjust your original plans. Be willing to be flexible. Even when you’re dealing with the best people in the world, remodeling projects can get stressful. Have patience. If you’re working with good people, there is always a solution to any problem.

*To see Scanlon in action on HGTV/DIY Network’s Kitchen Crashers, click here.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Home Renovation Advice from an Experienced Contractor appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

Looking to remodel or update your home this year, but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Whether you’re looking to totally gut and overhaul your kitchen or simply update some of your dated fixtures, it helps to have some inspiration. We’ve compiled a list of renovation trends we’ve seen so far this year, along with a few, industry-wide renovation trends to help get your brainstorm started.

1. Heated Bathroom Floors

Thinking of installing new flooring in your bathroom? You may want to consider going with heated bathroom floors. This small touch can take your home bathroom from lackluster to luxurious. Of all the renovation trends we’ve seen recently, this one is definitely the hottest.

2. Curbless Showers

Another recent trend we’ve seen is also happening in the bathroom. Many homeowners are choosing to make their showers curbless, and some are even choosing to forego shower doors all together. These easy-access, sleek designs are one showstopping way to modernize your bathroom.

3. Maximizing Storage Space

This year, the “tiny home” has grown increasingly trendy. Though most homeowners are not choosing to downsize so drastically, they are looking to maximize storage in their own tight spaces. This includes custom kitchen and bath cabinetry, custom, built-in closet organizers, and adding functionality to the area under the stairs, ideally leaving little-to-no wasted space.

4. High-End Laundry Rooms

Nobody likes a dark and dingy laundry room. Homeowners are starting to see the value in investing more into their laundry spaces. Laundry-room redesigns can help maximize space and functionality. Whether you’re remodeling for resale or seeking to upgrade your space for yourself, a sleek laundry room definitely adds value to your home.

5. Splurging on Entryways

The industry as a whole has seen a recent increase in spend on entryways and mudrooms in homes. According to both Forbes and the 2016 Houzz & Home Report, “homeowners will spend on average $2,500 to make over their entryway or mudroom that’s 150 square feet or more ($1,400 for a space that’s less than 150 square feet).”  First impressions count!

For more recent renovation trends and inspirations, check out Forbes’ list of “Top 10 Home Design Trends To Expect In 2017.”

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Home Renovation Trends to Watch in 2017 appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

Often times, when homeowners consider making updates to their homes, they do not necessarily consider how the updates will impact their homes’ resale value down the line. While most home renovations are likely to increase the value of your home, certain remodeling projects will give you a greater return on investment. One the other side of the coin, some home renovations can fall flat in helping you generate a healthy return on your investment.

According to a Remodeling Magazine survey of real estate professionals, “The average renovation pays back about 65 percent of its cost if you sell your house soon after the remodel is completed.” Although, US News notes that “the amount of payback varies widely, depending on the type of improvement.” The following are a few tips from us and US News on home renovations to help you get the most bang for your buck.

1. Upgrade your Kitchen

Time and time again, we have seen that in the realm of home renovations, the kitchen is king. As US News notes, “Modern families spend most of their time in the kitchen, and so an investment to improve the look and functionality of this popular room is typically a good one.” If you are willing to take on a project as big as a kitchen remodel, you will likely see a great return on your investment.

2. Use Quality Materials

Whether you’re choosing countertops for your kitchen remodel or tile for a bathroom upgrade, always use quality materials. While cheap materials might seem cost effective at the time, they will rarely improve your resale value. On the other hand, you should be conscious that you may not generate your desired return on investment when choosing top-of-the-line finishes. Depending on your neighborhood and the average buyer in your area,  people may not be willing to pay a premium price for the highest quality materials. When it comes to selecting building materials and finishes, find a quality happy medium.

3. First Impressions Count

It’s hard not to judge a book by its cover, so make a good first impression on a potential home buyer. We suggest upgrading old siding, replacing dated windows, and repairing tattered roofs. Even a something as simple as updating and replacing your front door can make an impact.

4. More Space Doesn’t Always Mean More Money

Home additions are typically some of the most expensive renovation projects to take on, and because they can be high in cost, they have the potential to fall flat in generating a great return on your investment. As US News notes, “Lower-cost improvements typically offer better payback than major renovations.”

At the end of the day, you are the homeowner and are likely choosing how to renovate your home based on your current needs. However, whether it be upgrading fixtures in a dated bathroom, replacing old windows, or taking on a total kitchen redesign, you should consider how your home renovations will impact your home’s future resale value.

For more helpful remodeling tips, the full Money.US News article can be found here.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Home Renovations That Pay Off, and a Few That Don’t appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

We’ve all heard the horror stories about an under-qualified contractor botching a renovation. A homeowner trusted the contractor enough to hire him initially, but the job was not completed as expected or promised. So how can you avoid this? How can you be certain that the contractor you choose is right for the job? We’ve compiled some tips to help you make a smart and informed renovation decision.

The most important thing is doing your research. In order to choose the right contractor, you need to be informed. We suggest interviewing a contractor first, and asking him or her for references. People who have hired this person and his or her company can have great insight into what it’s like to work with him or her on such an important project. We also recommend reading company reviews online. Sites such as Angie’s List and Home Adviser confirm that each review is written by a legitimate customer, making them a relatively trustworthy resource.

You should also consider asking family members, friends, or neighbors for a recommendation. If someone you know has completed a renovation and refers the contractor he or she used, it is likely a good sign.

If you’re interested in hearing more advice, Angie’s List creator Angie Hicks sat down with Teresa Mears of U.S. News and shared her tips for how to choose the right contractor. With years of experience, Hicks has many great insights to share. The list is full of tips to help you find the best contractor for the job can be found here.

Ultimately, the more informed you are about the contractor and the remodeling business itself, the easier it will be to make the right choice. When you do your research initially, you’re much more likely to have a smooth and successful renovation.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post How to Choose the Right Contractor appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

In today’s housing market, most homeowners are looking to increase their home’s value. Yet, many homeowners don’t realize that value can be added at any budget. While investing in larger home improvement projects–such as a bathroom remodel–can generate a greater ROI (return on investment), something as simple as painting can still add value to your home. So don’t let your budget hold you back. Home improvement is possible at any price.

If you are like most homeowners, purchasing a home is one the greatest investments you will ever make. And increasing your home’s value means taking care of that investment. For under $100, the experts at DIY Network suggest hiring an “inspector to check out the areas of your home that you don’t normally see,”  saying, “you can’t fix it if you don’t know it’s broken.”

It’s also important to remember that first impressions count. If you’re looking to sell, the DIY Network professionals recommend spending a few hundred dollars to “hire a lawn service company to trim your lawn and shape your hedges.” A well-manicured lawn will instantly improve your curb appeal.

When choosing which home improvement project to take on, “kitchen or bath remodels are always a safe bet.” From fixture updates to appliance upgrades to total overhauls, everything makes a difference. If you have the funds, consider a total kitchen remodel. A kitchen remodel can greatly increase a home’s value. According to DIY Network, “most experts agree that if you plan on updating only one room in your home, it should be the kitchen.” While kitchen remodels can be quite costly, they typically generate one of the largest ROIs.

So don’t be afraid to take on a home improvement project. Find a project in your price range and start increasing your home’s value. Remember, you can improve your home’s value at any budget–you just have to be smart. The professionals at the DIY Network have compiled “30 Tips for Increasing Your Home’s Value,” designed to help you make the most of your greatest investment: your home.

The list is full of cost-effective, home improvement suggestions and can be found here.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Home Improvement Tips to Help You Increase Your Home’s Value appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

From buying cheap materials to over-building for their neighborhood, homeowners often make the same, avoidable renovation mistakes. To help prevent you from doing the same, our expert friends at HGTV have made a list of the “Top 25 Biggest Renovating Mistakes” homeowners typically make.

To ensure the best possible results, every project must start with a plan. Careful thought and consideration should go into every last project detail. One of the biggest renovation mistakes homeowners make is skipping the prep work. The experts at HGTV say, “You shouldn’t avoid your prep work. You want to take the time to do it right and right from the beginning,” as it will save you time and money down the line. When you cut corners with your prep work, it can lead to bigger renovation mistakes like incorrect measurements and unnecessarily torn-down walls.

It is also important to consider the impact of going too trendy in your design. The HGTV experts point out that when people want to be trendy, “they don’t take into consideration is that trendy means that it’s short term.” Going too trendy could lessen your resale value down the road. Remember, design elements can make a big difference.

Also on the list of renovation mistakes is “Building a Small Bathroom.” The experts suggest not building one in the first place, but offer a few tips if you decide to anyway. They suggest you avoid putting “full-size fixtures in a tiny, tiny bathroom,” saying, “It’s just going to be crowded.”

So before you start a renovation, do your homework. Choose the right contractor and do some research on them. Learn from other people’s mistakes and be smart in your own renovation project.

The full list of common renovation mistakes is available here.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Common Home Renovation Mistakes You Need to Avoid appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

When remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, your choice of countertops can enhance both the design and durability of the room. Typically the difference in cost of countertops stems from the quality of the material you choose. But before you install new countertops, make sure you know what your money is getting you. While granite and marble countertops are more expensive, they are far more durable than laminate. Choosing a higher quality material is an investment that could save you money down the line AND improve your resale value.

However, that does not necessarily mean that a less expensive option won’t look nice or suit your needs and lifestyle. Many homeowners rarely cook and look at upgrading their kitchen countertops as a cosmetic fix rather than a functional one. The experts at HGTV say that, “Whether your remodeling budget is $1,000 or $100,000, there’s a kitchen countertop that fits your price range.” If you can afford $100,000 marble countertops, they are definitely a great choice. But if you’re like most homeowners on a tighter budget, there are plenty of beautiful, quality options at a more modest price.

Our friends at HGTV have compiled a list of countertop materials to help you choose the best product for your project and budget. The full article and materials list is available here.

Do some research and be a smart homeowner. Know what your home value can support. Will you get your desired ROI if you choose the more expensive option? Pick the right countertop material for your space and only splurge when necessary. Just because you can afford the most expensive material doesn’t mean it’s the best option for your space. Beauty can still be achieved on a budget.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Cheap vs. Steep: Choosing the Right Countertops appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.

Realtors and remodeling experts often debate where certain home-improvement investments rank in helping increase a home’s value the most. Every renovation project has the potential to increase your home’s value, but the majority of experts and homeowners agree that the “kitchen is king.” But what about other improvement investments? Investing in a smart renovation project can greatly increase your home’s value, no matter what the size the project is. So before you rule out a home improvement project because of cost, consider taking on something smaller.

Before starting a renovation, it is important to consider what you can financially afford. A larger, more expensive renovation project typically generates a greater ROI. Yet, when they are done right, smaller home-improvement projects can still make an impact. Installing new fixtures in your bathroom is a quick, inexpensive fix that can significantly upgrade a space. Even something as simple as a fresh coat of paint can brighten and update a room.

Our expert friends at the DIY Network have compiled an insightful list of “10 Investments to Boost Your Home’s Value,” designed to help you make an intelligent and informed renovation decision. From painting to plumbing updates to finishing a basement, each home renovation project can upgrade your space and boost your home’s value. Remember, even if your budget is small, a smart home-improvement investment has the potential to make an impact and increase your home’s overall value.

The full list of suggestions and expert advice is available here.

Looking to renovate or remodel your home or commercial space?

Call us today for a FREE estimate at 847-443-5893!

The post Renovation Project Ideas Designed to Increase Your Home’s Value appeared first on RBR Total Home Remodeling.