9 Features to Consider for Your Screened-In Porch

An outdoor living space without the outdoor nuisances 

Sitting outside on a nice spring day, can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience.  But if you want to indulge in a snack or have a meal with your family, the bugs can get in the way. Why not add a screened-in porch to your home?  It will give you extra living space, where you can enjoy the outdoors without all the critters.  Plus its less expensive to add on a porch than an extra room when remodeling your house at the Lake of the Ozarks.  Between Naps on the Porch has a great list of features for you to consider when designing the plans for your screened-in porch at the Lake of the Ozarks.

1. Size Matters

Size is pretty important when designing your new space.  Depending on your vision for the space, you need to have enough room to move around, entertain guests and fit all the features you want. Most people don't wish their porch was smaller, but they do regret if they went too small with their design.

2. Critter Proof

When it comes to flooring, you have a number of options.  If you choose to go with traditional decking, you would need to screen under the flooring in order to keep the bugs out.  To avoid this extra step, go with something such as tile or KDAT flooring, you won't have to worry about any critters getting through the cracks.  Also consider materials that won't warp with the weather changes. Think about the feel you want your porch to have and then decide what works best for you.

3. Dining Area

Sometimes food just tastes better when eaten outdoors, especially ice cream on a hot summer day. You want to include enough seating for your family of course, but consider adding a couple extra spaces for entertaining guests.  Just imagine all the cookouts and dinner parties you could enjoy with friends and family out on the porch.  

4. Storage Space

If you a going to be dining and hosting dinner parties on your deck, consider adding a piece of furniture to store some dinnerware.  It will make it easier to dine outside whenever you are in the mood.  You won't have to haul everything outside, just to haul it back in when you are done. Depending on how often you use them, you may need to take things out each spring and give them a quick wash for the season, but it really comes in handy having a cabinet close for storage.

5.  Power Outlets

Depending on what you intend to use the porch for, you will probably need at least a little electricity. Lighting is very important for any space.  Maybe you want overhead lighting to light up the whole space or some lamps for a more romantic and relaxing feel.  You will need outlets for the lamps and if you want to add music or maybe a TV to watch the big game while having a cookout with friends, you will need even more outlets.  It's better to have extra than to regret not putting more in later. They also come in handy for cleaning.

6. Music 

The only thing better than decompressing under the swirling fans on a screened-in porch is doing to the sound of your favorite songs.  Pre-wire your porch for some great outdoor speakers; be sure to use the ones designed for the outdoors because the regular ones won't hold up through the season changes.

7.  Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are pretty much a must have.  Not only will they provide a cool breeze on a hot summer day, but they add ambiance and romance to the room.  One fan will do, but two is even better depending on the size of your porch.  Be sure to buy exterior grade fans otherwise after awhile, the heat and humidity will cause the blades to drop.  Also if you use interior grade fans, the housing and inner parts of the fan may rust and cease to work. Exterior grade fans don't cost much more than the interior ones and are the smarter way to go.  They will last much longer and come in various colors and styles to match the theme of your room.

8.  Ceiling Height

If you have the room and your house will allow it, go up in your design.  The extra space above you will make a smaller porch feel much bigger and even cooler.  Height will add to the airy, summer-breeze feeling you desire out on a porch.    

9. Porch Swing 

A swing is one of the most common aspects of many screened-in porches.  Even if you don't like the idea of sitting in something that moves, most of your guests will probably be drawn to it. You can create a sitting area to include other stationary pieces of furniture, so you and your guests can choose your preference.  This would be the perfect area to sit and read a book or enjoy tea with the girls.  A swing adds that extra little special something to the space.

Now its time for you to sit down and start planning.  How do you want your space to look and feel? These features are great starting points, but maybe you have some other ideas for your space. Maybe you want a flat screen TV, a game area or hot tub.  Dream big when you are making your list; you can always make changes later to fit your budget.  Be sure to do lots of research because you don't want to spend money to realize later you left out something you really wanted.  So if you are thinking about adding a screened-in porch at the Lake of the Ozarks, go for it!  Call All-Star Home Renovations today for your free estimate.  It may just end up being your favorite room in the house!

For the full article from Between Naps on the Porch, visit http://betweennapsontheporch.net/9-great-features-for-your-screened-in-porch/.

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

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6 Ways Improving Your Home Can Also Improve Your Relationship

Valentine's Day is just a few days away and you have no clue how to spark that flame again!  If you really want to rev up the romance, think remodel at Lake of the Ozarks.  Working on a project together can bring you both closer to each other. ThisOldHouse.com brings us a dozen arguments for why improving your home can also improve your relationship.  We have selected a few of our favorites to share with you. 

1.  Dreaming in Bed

The perfect time to talk about starting a remodeling project at the Lake of the Ozarks is when you are cuddled up, relaxed in bed.  Sharing your fantasies about your dream home is sure to deepen your bond. Maybe you want to update the Master Suite to make it more romantic. Or redo the kitchen to make it easier to cook your favorite meals.  Browse through websites to look at pictures for inspiration and talk about why you like them.    

2. Bath Action

A spa-like bathroom is definitely the way to a woman's heart.  Who doesn't love a relaxing bubble bath in that giant garden tub?  Maybe you want to upgrade your tub so it's big enough for two. Or add a large walk-in shower with massaging sprayers.  Romantics may yearn for a deep claw-foot tub and a Victorian vanity; others may dream of heated floors and a Jacuzzi. Even small things like new fixtures and window treatments can turn a boring bath into a sweet spot.

3. Cozy Kitchen

Men just can't keep their hands off a woman busy cooking. And its a good bet that a man doing the dishes will put her in the mood.  So keep the kitchen in mind when planning your renovation at the Lake of the Ozarks.  A kitchen island is perfect for that quick meal, while a cozy breakfast nook is perfect for cuddling one last time before your off to work for the day.

4. Store to Score

You could use more storage space and so could your love life.  Allowing her that extra space for all her treasures can score you big brownie points. There's not much a woman wouldn't do for additional closet space.  The idea of custom-built shoe racks will dilate her pupils and send her straight to swoon mode.  And for men, nothing squelches desire like having your cherished comic-book collection burned in the barbecue pit because someone decides there's no room for it.

5. Bedroom Fantasies

A boring bedroom dampens intimacy, but change things up in there and you'll recapture that flame. Paint colors can arouse the mind; studies have shown a link between red and romance. Flattering shades for enhancing the skin tone include eggplant, soft rose, and teal blue.  Dimmers on the lights can set the mood, while simple lampshades can soften the glow. And pushing out the bedroom walls might allow for that king-sized bed you have been dreaming of.

6. TV Room Turn-On

The big screen can be a big inspiration.  Cushy couches, deep-pile carpet, abundant pillows and throws, and a wood-burning hearth are cliches for romance.  But that's because they reliably seal the deal. And don't forget a wet bar to help loosen you up. Cuddling up to a good movie with a glass of your favorite wine is the perfect ending to a job well done!

Now's the time to call in the pros. Hook up with All-Star Home Renovations to put your dreams and fantasies to a reality.  Seeing your project through a professionals eyes will solidify your plans and make you feel more secure about the job while boosting your happiness.  Call us for your Lake of the Ozarks remodeling needs and give your sweetheart the house you've been dreaming of!

For the full article from ThisOldHouse.com click here.

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

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10 Types of Doors to Consider for Your Remodeling Project

Things you should know before choosing interior and exterior doors

Doors, whether they be exterior or interior, are important to setting the style of your home. Doors are available in a variety of different types, materials and styles. Understanding how each type works and where in your home it will work the best, will help you choose the ideal doors for your remodeling project at the Lake of the Ozarks.  Better Homes and Gardens has put together a great list of the types of doors you could come across to help you shop more confidently.  

Types of Doors

1. Single-Acting Doors - These are the most common type of doors which are hinged on one side to open in one direction.  They are the standard doors that you'll find on the interior of your home. 

2. Double-Acting Doors - These doors open in either direction and work well between a kitchen and a dining room.  

3. Bi-fold Doors - These doors have two panels that fold to one side.  They are often used on closets or pantries.  Two sets can be installed for a wider opening.  

4. Bypass Doors - These doors have panels that slide past each other.  They are also often used on closets or any other place where there isn't enough room for a swinging door.  Only one side of the closet or room can be open at a time. 

5. Exterior Sliding Doors - These doors usually have one fixed panel and another that slides.

6. Pocket Doors - These doors actually slide into the wall.  They are perfect for a space where there isn't room for a door to swing open.  They are easy to install during construction, but adding one later can be a major project.  

7. Paneled Doors - These are built with panels that fit into grooves in the stiles and rails.  They have a classic look and wood ones can be painted or stained.  Steel, fiberglass and hardboard doors that look like paneled doors are also available. 

8. Flush Doors - These doors have a flat surface on each side, usually covered with wood veneer. Flush interior doors are usually hollow-core doors, while flush exterior doors have a solid core to help keep the heat in during the winter and out during the summer.

9. French Doors - These doors have rectangular glass panes, or lights, from top to bottom.  They are often hung in pairs opening from the sides, as exterior doors to a garden, patio or deck. Traditional french doors are made with a 15-light design.  

10. Patio Doors - These are usually sliding glass doors with one fixed pane of glass and a sliding one. They typically let in a lot of light and allow a great view of the outdoors.

Exterior vs Interior

Exterior doors make a statement because they are the first impression that people have as they enter your home.  Security and energy efficiency are the primary functions of exteriors doors. Therefore, they are typically made of wood, fiberglass or steel.  Wood provides a sense of warmth and richness, but can be relatively expensive and require a high level of maintenance. A less costly option would be the solid-core, wood-veneer flush doors.  Another option is fiberglass because it is durable and flexible enough to be installed in any climate without warping or rotting and is very low maintenance.  Steel is practical and long-lasting.  Exterior doors are typically 1 3/4 inches thick.  Interior doors on the other hand are typically 1 inch think and are usually lighter than exterior doors because they don't have to be weather resistant or provide security.    

Now that you have an idea of what types of doors you can expect to find, you can begin planning your home remodel at the Lake of the Ozarks.  Decide what will work best for your home based on your budget and the style you are going for and then give All-Star Home Renovations a call for your door installation at the Lake of the Ozarks and you are on your way to a new and improved home!

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

Like us on Facebook
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Bathroom Basics: Fixture Styles and Trends

Bathroom trends are moving towards creating a spa-like atmosphere, an escape from your day to day tasks.  But how do you decide on specifics with the overwhelming amount of bathroom fixture options? HGTVremodels.com shows us the basics of shower fixtures, sinks, faucets and toilets, so you can find the best option for your bathroom remodel at the Lake of the Ozarks.  

1. Showerheads

Wall-Mount Showerhead
Traditional wall-mount shower heads are basic and functional.  You can find them in many different styles and finishes to match the look you are going for in your bathroom remodel.  New low-flow showerheads use less water while maintaining a steady, powerful pressure.

Hand-Held Showerhead
Good for washing hair and those hard to reach places, hand-held shower heads feature a single head sprayer attached to flexible hose.  The hose allows you to aim the water at different angles, especially useful to those with limited mobility.

Rain Showerhead
Homeowners are splurging now more than ever on fancy shower fixtures for their bathrooms. Rain showerheads allow for that relaxing sensation of bathing in a waterfall or soothing rain shower and are often mounted to the ceiling.

Body Sprayers
Add another feature to your luxurious spa retreat with body sprayers integrated into your shower walls. The sprayers can be adjusted to produce a relaxing mist or to massage the body.  

2. Faucets

New-Fangled Faucet

From timeless and traditional to sleek and modern, faucets can come in a wide range of styles.  Newer models have highly functional features such as integrated ceramic disks within the fixture to help grind away buildup and reduce leaks.

High-Tech Faucet

Bacteria-killing, motion-activated faucets are widely spread among public businesses and are also available for homeowners.  The laminar flow allows for a solid-looking stream that doesn't splash allowing your mirrors and countertops to stay spot and streak free!
   

Wall-Mount Faucet

Rather than being mounted to the counter, faucets can now be fastened to the lavatory deck, integrated or even mounted to the wall.  This style of faucet has gained popularity along with freestanding or vessel-type sinks that require longer spouts that extend well over the top of the bowl.

 

3. Sinks

Drop-In Sink
Self-rimming or drop-in sinks are the easiest to install because they are mounted above the counter. This simple, traditional style sink can be found in a wide variety of shapes and materials.
 

Undermount Sink
Growing in popularity for their easy to clean style and sleek appearance, undermount sinks are installed beneath the countertop.  These work well with stone and other solid surface countertops.

Vessel Sink
Make a statement in your bathroom with a decorative bowl that sits on top of your counter.  This elegant sink style comes in a variety of eye-catching materials including glass, stone and china.

Pedestal Sink
Not only do pedestal sinks offer a timeless appeal, but they save space in the bathroom.  The bowls are available in many shapes from oval to rectangular.

Wall-Hung Sink
Similar to the pedestal sinks, the wall-hung sinks save space by directly mounting to your bathroom wall.  The sinks not only give a bathroom a contemporary look, but are ideal for those in wheelchairs.

4. Toilets

Dual-Flush Toilet

New technology now encourages "conscious flushing" in water-efficient toilets.  You are required to select either a low-water flush for liquid waste or a 1.6 gallon flush for solid waste.

One-Piece Toilet

Eliminating the seam between the tank and the bowl, one-piece toilets allow for a sleek design that doesn't have crevices that attract dirt.  These models are typically more expensive than your average toilet.

Taller Toilet
Traditional toilets are about 14 to 15 inches in height, but newer toilets of 16 to 18 inches in height are favorable for homeowners because they are more comfortable.  While not ideal for children, this style of toilet is perfect for those who use a walker or wheelchair.

According to realtytimes.com, oversized walk-in showers and elegant standalone tubs are strong bathroom trends for 2014!  Combine what you've learned about fixtures with these design trends and you are sure to have a bathroom that will not only wow your guests, but allows that escape for you! And once you have an idea of the design you are going for, call All-Star Home Renovations for your bathroom remodel at the Lake of the Ozarks!

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

Like us on Facebook
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4 Hot Kitchen Trends for 2014

Kitchen Changes for the New Year

Get your New Year kicked off right with that new kitchen you have always wanted!  We want to highlight some hot new trends in kitchen remodels for 2014 that we have pulled from the Zillow Digs Home Design Trend Report for 2014.  Consider having All-Star Home Renovations make your dream kitchen remodel at the Lake of the Ozarks a reality!

1.  Black Countertops. 

Looking to add sophistication to your kitchen this year?  Try black countertops with popular materials such as black granite and quartz.  For a tasteful yet dramatic look, use black granite that is honed or has a leather finish.  You can also expect to see these black counters paired with a lighter counter such as marble for contrast.  

2. Open Shelving.

Traditionally, people would try to hide their kitchenware in cabinets and drawers, but a new trend shows that open shelving is the way to go in 2014.  It is now considered fashionable to display everything from dishes to pots and pans to gourmet cooking spices and oils.  Be careful not to end up with a cluttered look, organize your kitchenware artistically.

3. Glass Front Cabinets.

For those of you who aren't quite ready for everyone to see your kitchenware, or maybe you still have some stuff that doesn't completely match, glass front cabinets are also trending.  Since the kitchen has become a gathering place for family and friends, presentation has become a priority.

4. Dark Paint Colors. 

Some of the most popular paint colors for 2014 include black, dark browns, dark red and copper tones.  However, since dark colors make a room feel smaller, limit yourself to painting an accent wall.  You could even consider painting the ceiling or floor.  A splash of color can really pull a room together and liven it up.




Not only are these trends going to be popular, but kitchens are at the top of the list for most likely to be remodeled in 2014.  The report by Zillow is based on what homeowners identify as trends, so you can update your kitchen with the confidence that your peers will love it.  For help with remodeling your kitchen at the Lake of the Ozarks, be sure to call All-Star Home Renovations for a free estimate!

Follow our blog for advice on remodels at the Lake of the Ozarks, minor home repairs and improvements, tips to improve the value of your home, and so much more.

All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.

All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!

• Kitchen Remodels
• Bathroom Remodels
• Deck Additions
• Siding, Roofing, Windows & Doors
• Tile & Flooring Installation
• Screened Room Additions
• Custom Trim Finish Work
• ... and so much more!

Request a free estimate on your next project!

Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area

Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com

Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com

Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Connect with us on LinkedIn

Follow us on Google+