Category: Construction

August 22, 2023

Top 5 Home Design Mistakes According to Custom Builder in Westfield

Couple looking out over a field of grass where there is a line drawing of a home design by a top custom builder in Westfield

Designing a dream home is an exciting endeavor, but it’s not without its challenges. As a prospective homeowner, you want every aspect of your new house to reflect your personal style and meet your unique needs. It can be difficult to fit everything you want into a design without running into issues. To ensure that your vision becomes a reality, it’s crucial to avoid common design mistakes that can lead to regrets down the road. We’ve consulted with a reputable custom builder in Westfield to bring you the top 5 home design mistakes you should steer clear of when crafting your ideal living space.

Ignoring Your Lifestyle and Needs

One of the most significant mistakes you can make when designing your home is ignoring your lifestyle and needs. A custom builder in Westfield emphasizes the importance of understanding how you and your family live day-to-day. Consider factors like family size, hobbies, and daily routines when planning the layout and functionality of your home. Failing to do so can result in wasted spaces or insufficient room for activities that matter most to you. In addition to taking your current lifestyle into consideration, thinking about future needs is important also.

Disregarding Future Expansion is an Expensive Mistake

Your current needs may not encompass your future requirements. Neglecting the potential for expansion can lead to costly renovations or the need to relocate. The custom builder advises leaving room for growth, whether it’s an additional bedroom, a home office, or a larger living area. Thoughtful planning now can save you from the hassle and expense of major modifications later. In addition to planning extra spaces, it is important to design rooms that can be easily converted for another use. For instance, built-in desks sound like a great idea for kids in school. However, once they leave the home, updating these rooms will involve major demolition and reconstruction.

Neglecting Natural Light and Ventilation is a Mistake per Top Custom Builder in Westfield

Natural light and proper ventilation contribute significantly to the comfort and ambiance of your home. Overlooking these elements can lead to a gloomy or stuffy atmosphere. The custom builder suggests strategically placing windows and doors to maximize sunlight exposure and facilitate proper air circulation. This design decision not only enhances your living experience but also saves energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting and excessive air conditioning.

Landscaping choices also have a lot to do with natural light. Planting deciduous trees where they will shade the home in the summer, but allow the sunlight through in winter. This cuts down on energy usage by decreasing the temperature inside the home in summer and increases it in the colder months reducing the strain on the HVAC system.

Overlooking Storage Solutions

Ample storage is a hallmark of a well-designed home. Underestimating your storage needs can lead to clutter and a lack of organization. The custom builder advises incorporating built-in storage solutions during the design phase, such as spacious closets, well-designed kitchen cabinets, and functional furniture with hidden compartments. These additions ensure that your home remains tidy and clutter-free, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. Experienced custom home builders in Westfield have seen all types of storage solutions. They are experts in what works and what doesn’t, making them an excellent resource for homeowners.

Sacrificing Quality for Trends

While incorporating trendy elements can make your home feel contemporary, it’s essential to strike a balance between current styles and timeless quality. Following fleeting design trends without considering their long-term viability can result in a home that quickly looks outdated. The custom builder recommends focusing on durable, high-quality materials and classic design principles that can stand the test of time. You can then incorporate trends through easily changeable elements like decor and accessories.

Listen to Your Custom Builder in Westfield

Designing your dream home should be an exciting and fulfilling journey, not one fraught with design regrets. By avoiding these top 5 home design mistakes highlighted by a trusted custom builder in Westfield, you can ensure that your new abode perfectly aligns with your lifestyle, needs, and long-term vision. Remember, a well-thought-out design enhances comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, making your home a true haven for years to come.

March 18, 2021

Selecting the Right Duct Cleaning in Red Bank Company is Important

There is a lot of contradicting information available online about duct cleaning. Is it worth it? Does it improve air quality? Does it help with illnesses? There are many questions surrounding the topic of duct cleaning in Red Bank. Once you have done your research and you have decided that your home could benefit from this service, the most crucial decision comes next. What company do you choose to do the duct service? Just as there is false information that floods the internet, there are less than stellar businesses that claim they can perform duct cleaning. In reality, they may just be a carpet cleaning company and probably don’t have the proper equipment required to complete this delicate procedure. Done incorrectly, it is not only a waste of time and money, it can cause a larger mess and more problems. That’s why the “who” is so important for duct cleaning.

Whether Duct Cleaning in Red Bank is Needed Could be Based on These Factors

Not every home needs to have its duct work cleaned routinely. But some do. A well-maintained home may only need this service every 5 to 10 years. Some homes never have it done. And the residents suffer no ill effects. However, there are some situations where this service could be beneficial. While it may not be the norm to need duct cleaning or live in a home where duct cleaning makes a noticeable difference, it is important to consider if it could be helpful in any way. In the end, when you hire the right company to do your duct cleaning in Red Bank, it certainly won’t hurt.

Pet Hair Can Clog Ducts

A house that is home to many pets could potentially benefit from duct service in Red Bank. Anyone with pets knows that the cleaner you keep everything, the cleaner everything stays. Fur balls can gather quickly and become out of control before your eyes. Removing the stray clumps of fur that will inevitably gather in the ducts can help keep the inside of the home cleaner. It prevents the redistribution of fur through the ducts and also stops the fur from creating blockages within the ducts.

Demolition and Construction Dirt Gets Everywhere

Homes that live in constant construction zones should speak with a local duct service professional about whether duct cleaning could possibly benefit them. Some of the dust and dirt that is kicked up during construction ends up in the ductwork of homes. For remodeling projects and any other in-home construction, be sure to turn off all HVAC components and seal off any vents and registers. This will go a long way towards helping keep a majority of that dirt out of the ductwork.

People with Respiratory Illnesses can be Sensitive

If residents in a home suffer from a severe respiratory sickness, duct cleaning may in fact help them breathe a little easier. This is extremely circumstantial however. It depends on what particles the person is sensitive to, if those irritants are present in the ducts, and if the right duct cleaning in Red Bank company was hired. In the right situations though, cleaning and sanitizing a homes ductwork can improve the air quality noticeably for someone.

How to Get the Best Duct Cleaning in Red Bank

Duct cleaning in Red Bank being done by professional covered in black saftey gear like gloves, hood, and mask; working is inspecting an open vent

As with any business, it is important to do your own research before hiring someone. Things like reading reviews and testimonials may seem trivial, but it can prove very important. Consider if you read that one review that lets you know this is not the right company for you. It is essential when you start interviewing companies that you question their method, equipment, and chemical usage. Buyer beware of companies that use biopesticides during their cleaning. Also, duct cleaning is so much more than vacuuming out the ducts. If this is what a company describes as their process, it is best not to choose them. The only company that should be hired to perform duct cleaning in Red Bank is a professional duct service company like Carlin Chimney and Duct Service. With the proper equipment, a state-of-the-art method, and well-trained technicians, they are an ideal duct service company.

October 8, 2020

Custom Builder in Westfield Review Beautiful Bathroom Upgrades

Custom home builder in Westfield exhibits master bath with eclectic mix of styles and a copper tub. There is a red runner in front of a darkspindled wood counter with 2 white sinks and multiple house plants

When building your own custom home, there is an almost endless list of choices, options, upgrades, and decisions. Some people revel in limitless options. For others, it can be overwhelming. One of the main jobs of a custom builder in Westfield is to listen to and get to know their clients. By doing this, they should be able to effectively narrow your sights to items and designs that fit you best. We researched some portfolios of a few custom builder in Westfield to see what types of upgrades were being done in master baths today. What we found was bold colors, combinations of natural materials, and upgraded fixtures. Class and elegance are present in every bath no matter what the design style is.

Color Palettes

A common misconception regarding the color palette of a master bath is that it must be neutral or soft to be soothing. However, using bold colors and patterns can bring an unexpected level of elegance. When designed by a master builder, a color that may seem striking in another setting, suddenly exudes class and comfort. Custom tile work is the most common and easiest way to add these colors in your master bath. Rather than a subway tile in white, consider a deep navy blue. That color matched with the highest quality gold fixtures gives a master bath a true luxurious feel.

Home builder Westifeld shows bathroom with wooden wall, marbled stone tub which is sitting on pile of loose marble surrounded by dark blue large floor tiles. — https://www.pexels.com/@quang-nguyen-vinh-222549

Custom Builder in Westfield Says Mix and Match with Natural Materials

Nothing says opulence like the finest natural materials. Many would not consider using a lot of wood in a bathroom. When the right wood is used in combination with stone live travertine or marble, it can result in a truly lavish bathroom. A large advantage of using natural materials is that they are environmentally friendly, can be used in a variety of ways, and are normally more affordable than other materials. Using materials in unconventional ways such as a reclaimed wood wall or a loose pebble walkway is a great way to ground your bathroom and give it a lavish, yet peaceful feeling.

Small Fixtures Can Make a Big Impact

For such a small part in the master bath, fixtures can really bring the room together. They can also bring it to the next level of affluence. In addition, bath fixtures have gone the way of technology and there are a ton of smart and technologically advanced options on the market. If you are looking for something that screams lap of luxury, these modern fixtures are it. No matter the design style, different fixtures can make a room feel completely different. Fixtures come in all sizes, shapes, and colors or materials. It doesn’t make a bit of difference how specific of a faucet you want. Chances are, you can find it. This is why people change out their fixtures so often. It is a fast and easy way to update your master bath.

Upgrades to Definitely Make During Construction per Custom Home Builder in Westfield

Building a custom home is expensive. Sometimes, in order to stay on budget, you can’t have all the upgrades you might want in your master bath retreat. The best thing to do is upgrade the items that would involve major renovations to change later on. After spending all this time building your home, construction will be the last thing you’ll want to endure. In addition, making the right choices and investing in the right upgrades means you’ll love your bath for many years without even wanting to change a thing.

Flooring – This is an obvious item because in order to replace your flooring, major construction is involved. When you upgrade your floor, you should look for products with enhanced durability and ageless design. In addition, now is the time to talk about heated flooring. This is something you’ll be happy you spent the money on. Flooring is not something you’re going to jump at the chance to demolish and replace a few years after the completion of your home. So if you are considering radiant heat flooring, we say go for it.

Tiling – This element is another that involves a lot of work to replace. If you truly want the master bath of your dreams, putting some extra money into the tiles that you want is an expense that is worth it.

The Right Design from the Right Custom Builder in Westfield is a Priority

Custom built homes in Westfield; White soaking tub with black faucet in front of taupe textured tile wall

Honestly, this just might be the most important part. Designing the right space is the most important step. This can take into account everything from size, layout, shower benches, built-in storage, and more. Having the right space is priceless. While the kitchen is the heart of the home, the master bath can be the soul. It’s where you can go to get away, to take a break, and to recharge. It is where you get ready for your day in the morning and prepare for sleep at night. Make this room a dream come true by selecting the right custom builder in Westfield who listens to your ideas and helps to make them a reality.

February 5, 2019

3 Things To Avoid in Order to Protect Your NJ Driveway

We invest a lot of time, effort and money into taking care of our homes and places of business. We spend money on landscaping. We sweat out Saturday afternoons maintaining our yard. We hire contractors to do major renovations and improvements.

But you know one thing too many of us neglect to do?

We don’t take care of our driveway.

If you have a driveway in Spotswood, a paver driveway in North Brunswick, a concrete driveway at the shore, just got new Spotswood sealcoating done, or any other variation on the driveway theme, you should know that it’s important to protect your investment – and it’s easy to do! (and if you are looking for asphalt driveway installation in Spotswood NJ, you should contact TDM Construction!)

If you want your driveway to last, here are three things to do:

Avoid Using Rock Salt on Your Cement

We know that slippery driveways during the winter are no fun and can even be dangerous, but it’s best to use methods other than rock salt to handle the ice. Salt and chemical de-icers can cause big problems for concrete driveways in North Brunswick, easily seeping in and causing cracks and splitting. Instead, use things like sand, kitty litter, or even alfalfa meal to help give you traction, break down the ice, and prevent slipping. It’s just as effective and won’t contribute to your driveway crumbling apart.

Keep Heavy Vehicles Off The Edges

Your asphalt driveway in Spotwoods is made for vehicles, yes, but within reason. Residential driveways are not designed for heavy vehicles and equipment. This is especially true near the edges, where excessive weight can more easily cause damage, cracking, splits, and chipping. If you have larger and heavier vehicles, center them on the driveway when you park to minimize the danger or, if possible, don’t park them there at all.

A Clean Driveway is a Long Lasting Driveway

Keeping your driveway clear of dirt and debris is about more than just keeping it looking great. Dirt and debris are the first steps towards an eroding and damaged driveway. Dirt provides a place for pests and weeds to take root. It can aid water in seeping under the stone, causing cracks and potholes (especially during the freeze and thaw cycle). It can help stains get down deep. And more. That’s why it’s so important to keep your driveway clean. It’s not just about the aesthetics, it’s about extending its lifespan.

As you can see, these are simple, common sense solutions to problems that can effect almost any driveway in the State of New Jersey, from the shore area to North Jersey, central Jersey, and beyond.

None of these things are complicated to do and none of them take a lot of work, labor, effort, or expense from you to do. They are just easy habits to incorporate into your life, habits that can help you take better care of your property and ensure your North Brunswick driveway lasts for many years to come.

So take note, put this article on your mental checklist, and when it comes time to start taking better care of your property, whether residential or commercial, remember to take good care of your driveway, too. Your wallet will thank you for it!

September 3, 2018

Getting The Most From Your Home Architect

If you are one of the many people interested in having Monmouth County custom homes constructed for them, you already know that the road ahead of you will be filled with hard work and meetings, meetings, meetings. You’ll be meeting with your attorney to discuss property issues. You’ll be meeting with your bank people to discuss money issues. You’ll be meeting with township officials to discuss permits and all the other red tape that goes with new construction.

But in the long term, the most important meetings you’ll have will be those you have with your architect. After all, it will be his or her work that dictates the final design of the home you and your family will live in. That’s something that will last a lifetime – or at the very least until you sell your new Monmouth County custom homes for a handy profit!

So with that in mind, these are some key things you should keep in mind when talking to the architect of your custom home in Monmouth County.

Figure Out Your Budget In Advance – Home architecture is not a simple matter of A plus B equals C, and the budget to build a home is not a simple equation. The cost for 1,600 square feet in one configuration is not the same as 1,600 square feet in another configuration. That’s why it’s important for you to have a good idea of your budget BEFORE you sit with your architect and begin to flesh out the details of your custom Jersey Shore home.

Have Some Ideas Before Your First Meeting – You wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t have a rough idea of the sort of house you wanted, so the good news is this: You SHOULD come equipped with your own ideas when it comes to designing your own custom homes in New Jersey. It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert in design. A good architect’s job is to bring your vague ideas into reality, turning your various wants, needs and daydreams into a structure that you will love.

Meet With Several Architects First – Unless your architect is your brother-in-law John who also happened to design the luxury home of Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston, you’re not going to want to go with the first person who comes your way. It’s important to meet with a few architects to get a sense for who understands your style, who understands your desires, and who can best bring them into reality.

Understand Your Architect Has Good Design Intentions – If your chosen architect doesn’t seem thrilled about a certain want or demand on your part, perhaps you should listen. The fact is, architects are trained professionals. They understand what will and will not work with building design, both for aesthetic and structural reasons. You may not always like what they have to say, but once they are hired they have your best intentions in mind.

Ask Questions – This is a simple one. Never, ever be shy about asking questions. If someone is going to be designing the custom home at the Jersey Shore you plan to live in or flip for profit, you’ll want to be sure you understand everything they tell you and show you. So if you’re not sure of something, don’t be silent. Ask questions!