Preparing Your House for Spring: Interior Cleaning

Spring is just around the corner!  Now is the time to spruce up those parts of your homes that have been neglected throughout the winter season.  From the interior to the exterior, getting your house ready for spring will ensure you'll be ready to enjoy that warm weather when it hits. All-Star Home Renovations is here to help with any tasks to large to do on your own.  Here are some things for you to tackle now to help prepare your home for the warmer months and keep it in top shape!

Spring Cleaning

Grab a bag, walk through your house and clean out the clutter!  Get rid of any items collecting dust and either donate it or toss it in the trash.  Once you have rid your home of all the junk, its time for some deep spring cleaning. Eliminate those cobwebs and dust that have built up over the past few months and get your home sparking clean again!

1. Open Windows
Opening your windows will help rid your home of toxins built up from cleaners, heating and cooking trapped inside during the colder winter months.  You will eliminate any of  the stale, stuffy air and that burst of sunlight will get you energized to start cleaning. Note that if you have allergies you will want to check your outdoor air ratings to avoid triggering or worsening any symptoms.

2. Washing Windows

By now, your windows are definitely overdue for some cleaning after just sitting there through the winter.  Before washing the glass, rid the sill and tracks of dirt and dust that they've collected.  Pour some water into the sill to make sure the weep holes that drain rain water outside aren't clogged.  You will be amazed at how much you can see out of your windows after a thorough inside and out cleaning. And don't forget the screens!  While you are cleaning, if you notice some maintenance issues, call the All-Star team for window replacement at the Lake of the Ozarks.

3. Test Emergency Systems
Make sure that your home alarm, smoke/fire alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide alarms are all working properly.  Most home owners forget to test these regularly; spring and fall maintenance time is the perfect opportunity to ensure everything is in good working condition.

4. Check HVAC Systems
The spring and fall are the two most important times to check your home's major heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, right before the harsh climate changes occur.  Clean or even replace your air filters and stock up on new filters if you use the disposable kind.  Make sure your air conditioner is working properly before the summer heat hits.  Air conditioners draw moisture from interior air, called condensate, which must run off outside. If sediment and algae clog the drains, water may back up, making your home more humid or creating water damage. If you need a professional to take a look at it, now is the time to do it; if you wait until summer, you will end up spending a lot more money on a service call.

5. Dusting
Clean off any areas that attract dust, such as the tops of cabinets and other furniture and don't forget the ceiling fans. The last thing you want to do is turn on the fans to watch a thick layer of dust being dispersed into the air your breathing.

6. Deep-Cleaning 
Carpets and Curtains are both huge dust collectors and require a deeper cleaning at least once a year. If you have pets, you should do some deep-cleaning more often.  Pull out your vacuum and start on the upholstery and draperies to remove any dust, pollen or dander that may have accumulated throughout the winter months.  If your drapes are heavy, you may want to store them and temporarily replace them with some lighter ones.  Then move on to tackle the carpeting and any large rugs.  If you have a steam cleaner, now is the time to drag it out of storage.  And if you don't, consider renting one.  Using a rug cleaner can help remove residual pet odors and dust mites that can cause allergic reactions and make your home smell less fresh.      

7. Clean Out Dryer Vent
Even if you empty out the lint trap each time you do a load of laundry, lint that you can't reach accumulates over time. Its especially likely if snow got in the way of the back-draft damper over the winter.  A clogged vent can not only reduce the efficiency of your dryer, but can also be a fire hazard, so be sure to clean it out thoroughly.

8. Prepare for Insects
Be more vigilant about storing and discarding food because the warmer weather that comes with Spring attracts more insects.  Follow these tips to help keep the bugs away: use airtight food containers, pick up pet food dishes immediately, always rinse bottles and containers before recycling, and make sure your trash can is still in good shape with a tightly-fitting lid.  You will also want to consider calling a pest control company to come spray your home to help keep the insects out.  

9. Clean Out Kitchen
Spring cleaning isn't all about your house, its also a time to look at yourself and your habits. Look in your cabinets and throw out that junk food!  Clean out and organize your refrigerator too. Try to find a way to add healthier foods to your diet.  Consider planting a garden this spring to grow your own vegetables.

10. Rearrange Furniture
Once your home is clean and de-cluttered.  Its time to rearrange the furniture to give your home a new feel. Start with the room you use the least, spin some beds around and add or remove some pieces of furniture. Then move on to the rest of the house from the living room to the office giving each room a refreshing look.

This week we focused on getting the interior of your home ready for Spring and next week we will provide you with tips for getting the exterior of your home ready for the warmer weather as well. Spring is nature’s fresh start – make it your fresh start too!

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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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

Like us on Facebook
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Caring for Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors make a great addition to any home remodel at Lake of the Ozarks.  Although they aren't soft like carpet, they require less maintenance, last longer and don't hide all the harmful matter that carpet does.  However, that means you can actually see this matter building up on your hardwood floors; so how do you keep them clean?  Check out these tips from Lowes.com to keep your hardwood floors scratch and dirt free!

Cleaning Your Hardwood Floors

Since hardwood floors are one of the largest investments in your home, avoiding permanent damage is important to protecting your investment. Cleaning your floors is the first step in protecting your hardwood floors and eliminate the expense of replacing them in the future. Routinely clean and maintain your floors to avoid dirt and scratches that will dull the finish.  To ensure your beautiful hardwood floors will last a lifetime, be sure to use products that are safe for your floor, family and the environment.  While kids, pets and environment are all key factors in the amount of dirt your hardwood floors attract, you should clean your floors as often as possible.  This frequent cleaning will keep dirt and dust off the floors and avoid scratching.  In addition, it will keep harmful pollutants such as dust and allergens out of the home.  

Polishing Your Hardwood Floors

Depending on the amount of traffic your hardwood floors get, you should polish them every two to four months.  Polish provides a protective layer and evens out your floors by filling in the micro-scratches.  Polishing your floors is a simple do-it-yourself task that starts with sweeping, vacuuming or dust-mopping your floor.  Make sure your floor is dry and then squirt the polish on, spreading it with an applicator.  Follow the coverage specifications and allow it to dry completely.  Don't walk on it for at least an hour and wait 24 hours before allowing heavy traffic on it.      

Steps to Protecting Your Hardwood Floors

1. Daily 

Dust: Dusting each day keeps dust and dirt off the floor therefore preventing scratching.  Daily dust-mopping will also significantly reduce allergens in your home.  Try using a microfiber material because of its static charge that attracts more dust and allergens.  The smaller fibers reach into the floor pores to lift dirt more effectively, extending the life of your floor.

2. Weekly

Clean: Did you know there is actually a wrong way to clean floors?  Too much liquid can damage your hardwood floors, while the wrong formula may not work at all.  When choosing a cleaning product, look for pH-neutral, nontoxic and biodegradable formulas to clean effectively and keep you safe.  Vinegar, for example, can eat away at the finish, even when diluted with water.

3. Quarterly

Polish: Every two months, use water-based polishes to restore luster and shine. These types of polishes won't leave a residue or emit harmful toxins.  Plus they'll prevent over cleaning and stripping of your floor.  Durable, urethane-based polishes have fast dry times, no waxy buildup and a protective wear layer to fill in micro-scratches and even out the appearance of your floor.    

Hardwood Floor Maintenance Tips

• Avoid using water and vinegar, soap-based cleaners, wax or steam cleaners on your hardwood floors.  Vinegar and water will dull your floors finish over time, while soap or wax will leave a residue.  Steam cleaners put hear and excessive water on your floor, which can lead to cupping and long-term damage.
• Use a natural, rubber rug underlayment with a waffle pattern in the entry ways or high traffic areas.  Use felt floor protectors on your furniture and avoid walking across your hardwood floors in high heels.  
• Frequently dry-dust your hardwood floor with a microfiber dusting pad.  The electrostatic action will attract dirt, which is the main cause of scratches, micro-particles and common household allergens.    
• Using the proper tools to clean your floor is important.  A mop paired with a machine-washable microfiber pad is perfect for dusting and cleaning.  Avoid string mops because they put excessive amounts of water on the floor, which can be damaging and actually push dirt around, instead of picking up and removing dirt. 
• Wipe up all spills immediately to avoid permanent stains. 
• Keep pet nails trimmed to avoid scratching on your floors. 
• Maintain a comfortable environment and temperature, especially no extremes in humidity.  

Keeping your hardwood floors looking beautiful and new should be easy if you follow these tips. If your hardwood floors at the Lake of the Ozarks are already dull and scratched up, consider having All-Star Home Renovations install some new ones for you.  Or do you not have any hardwood floors in your house? Consider adding some!  Whether you are looking to sell or just update your home for your own enjoyment, hardwood floors add value to your home, proving to be a sound investment.

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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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
Follow us on Twitter
Connect with us on LinkedIn

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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!

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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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How to Keep Your Tile Floors Clean

Make Those Tile Floors Shine

Clean floors can do a lot for the appearance of a home.  You may have all the rooms picked up and organized, but a dirty floor creates that sense of clutter even when everything else is clean. Every time you go in and out of the house you are dragging in more dust and dirt.  At first you may not notice it, but eventually your floors become dull and sometimes you can even see the dust gathering together near the walls and behind doors.  And if walking on them turns your bare feet black, it's time to clean those floors and make them shine.  SheKnows.com has a few steps for you to follow to get your tile floors at the Lake of the Ozarks squeaky clean!

Step 1: Wipe Up Spills

During your day to day tasks, you are bound to spill something on the floor.  Rather than letting it set into your floors, wipe it up immediatly.  This will keep you from having to work extra hard to get it up later.  For liquid splills, use a damp cloth and for solid materials grab the broom or a vacuum for a quick fix.

Step 2: Remove Loose Dust

A broom and dustpan work well for any hard surface floors, but a vacuum is actually a better option, even for tile.  Sweeping often leaves behind dust particles, whereas a vacuum will get more of that dust out of the way and get your floors ready for mopping.  Most vacuums have a hard surface setting. but if yours doesn't, raise the height to the maximum setting to avoid scratching your floors.

Step 3: Know Your Surface

Knowing what type of materials your tiles are made of makes a difference in how you clean them. Many materials are sensitive to the harsh chemicals in cleaning products, especially any natural stones such as marble or travertine.  A general purpose cleaner or even simply hot, soapy water works fine for daily cleanup on ceramic tile.  You only need cleaning products if the dirt and grime has really built up and you need to do some hard-core cleaning.  Many manufacturers will recommend certain products for you to use for the heavy duty jobs. Since all tile is not the same, using the wrong cleaner can mar or dull your tile.  In addition to the cleaner, you need something to clean it with.  For smooth tiled floors, a soft mop should do the trick, but for rough surfaces, you will probably need a good scrub brush.

Step 4: Distinguish Your Dirt 

In addition to the type of tile you have, you should be aware of what type of dirt you are trying to get rid of.  If your are cleaning bathroom tile, you are likely dealing with soap scum.  Kitchen tiles will most likely be covered in grease and and grime.  Different types of dirt need different types of cleaning products.  Many cleaning product labels will say "cuts grease," which is good for the kitchen. Often times, you don't even need those store-bought products with all their harsh chemicals.  If hot water doesn't do the trick on your ceramic tiles, try adding two tablespoons of rubbing alcohol to each gallon of water.  This especially helps with dirty grout, but be sure to wipe up any excess liquid to keep from saturating the grout.  For vinyl tiles, you can add one cup of vinegar to a gallon of water. For marble and stone tile, as mentioned above, you need to be very careful.  Vinegar, rubbing alcohol and the store-bought cleaners can destroy the natural stone tiles.  Add some mild dish soap to your water instead and be sure mop again with just water to make sure all the soap residue is gone.    

Step 5: Be Pro-Active

The most important step you can do, is to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.  The more often you at least sweep or run a soft mop across the floors, the easier they will be to keep clean. Experts suggest to sweep at least every other day and mop at least every two weeks.  If you wait and let that dirt build up, it will be harder and take longer to get them back to the way they were. You can also lessen the amount of dirt you track in by having mats inside and outside your doors.  Also taking off your shoes at the door helps a lot and be sure to clean those mats regularly.

Now how do you know when your floor is really clean?  Its easier to tell on hard surfaces than it is on carpet, but sometimes you don't know for sure until you test it. You can take a wet paper towel and wipe the surface to see if it picks up any dirt you may have missed.  Also touch it with you hand to see if there are any sticky places, sometimes the cleaning products will leave a residue that will actually attract more dirt and keep it glued to the floor.  Be sure to get those products thoroughly cleaned up.  And if you have neglected your flooring at the Lake of the Ozarks for too long and find that they are dull or scratched up and need replaced, call All-Star Renovations to get the job done!

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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Follow us on Twitter
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