Kitchens Design Philadelphia
Bath Design Philadelphia
Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Philadelphia

June 13, 2012

Preventing Water Damage to Your Home

Filed under: Baths,Designer's Thoughts,Kitchens — Tags: , , — HomeTech Renovations @ 10:10 am

Thunderstorm and hurricane season is fast approaching so take preparation and protect your home from potential water damage.

Do you have a basement or other lower level space that floods during strong summer storms? Are you tired of cleaning up after every storm and worrying about your belongings getting ruined? Are you troubled by unhealthy mold and mildew buildup? Then waterproof your space!

Water damage from storms can ruin belongings, allow for the growth of dangerous mold, and greatly reduce the value of your property. Even if you think you only have minor cracks or minor leakage, these can easily turn into major disasters by causing foundation instability. Waterproofing should be used on foundations as well as exterior items such as decks and older doorways and windows. There are multiple waterproofing options to choose from to protect your home and basement from water damage. These options often work best when used together for maximum protection against damage.

One solution to an existing water leakage problem is to seal any cracks in the walls and foundation with construction-grade epoxy or polyurethane. Generally, like all other waterproofing solutions, an experienced technician should be consulted. Another more simple solution is to manage the source of the water by regularly cleaning your gutters and checking that they are free of debris. It is important to make sure that the downspouts drain away from the home on a slight slope and that the water discharges at least 5 feet away from your foundation. Similarly, plantings should be located at least 12 inches away from the foundation so that their roots cannot create a path for surface water to flow down to the foundation.

Another solution is to install a sump pump. A sump basin collects excess water and when the water level in the basin rises too high, the pump turns on and draws the water out, discharging it outside and away from the house. Even if you have an existing sump pump it is more than likely builder grade and could stand to be replaced. Making sure you have the correct size sump pump for your home is crucial. If your pump is too small it may not keep up with the amount of water coming in and get overworked from running constantly. On the other hand, a pump that is too large will pump water so quickly that the pump will short cycle which greatly decreases its life cycle. It is also important to have a sump pump that has a battery back-up. You never know when your home’s power will be lost, therefore shutting down your sump pump, and if it’s during a tropical storm or hurricane you’ll be out of luck. A battery back-up sump pump will automatically turn on until the power is restored, keeping your home flood free and giving you peace of mind. Keep in mind, the water in a sump pump needs to be directed away from the foundation, otherwise it may drain right back into your home.

More laborious waterproofing options include changing the grade of the yard to slope away from the house or installing perimeter drains. Around the perimeter of your home, the ground closest to the foundation should be graded away from the house to prevent surface water from entering. In the first 10 feet closest to the house, the soil should slope a minimum of 6 inches downward to keep water from seeping into the foundation or flooding the surrounding landscape. Additionally, you can install a perimeter drain, also referred to as a French drain, which consists of a system of perforated piping which is installed at the base of the foundation and runs along its entire perimeter. Perimeter drains are located in depressions in the ground that are filled with gravel or other compact aggregate. This drainage system redirects surface and ground water away from the house, preventing water penetration of or damage to building foundations. For both of these solutions it is best to contact an experienced professional.

Before starting any basement or other remodeling project, find ways to keep the water out. You want to protect your investments, whether they are newly built or still just a dream at this point. Why spend all of this money, time, and effort for it to be damaged by one storm and have it all gone in an instant?

Protect your investments, make your home a healthy living space, and give your family peace of mind. Prevent water damage from ruining your home and start dreaming about what you want your space to become.

May 16, 2012

David Cerami Awarded Big50 by Remodeling Magazine

DAVID CERAMI, CKBR Honored With Big50 Award

FORT WASHINGTON, PA – MAY 10, 2012 –DAVID CERAMI, CKBR (Certified Kitchen & Bath Remodeler), owner of HOMETECH RENOVATIONS, INC. & LET’S FACE IT, INC., has been selected by REMODELING magazine to join the REMODELING Big50. The Big50 awards were presented at a gala dinner at the Remodeling Leadership Conference in Baltimore, MD on May 11, 2012. The 2012 Big50 winners are featured in the May issue of REMODELING, a national trade publication read by more than 80,000 professional remodeling contractors.

Each year since 1986, the REMODELING Big50 inducts 50 owners of remodeling companies that have set exceptionally high standards for professionalism and integrity through exemplary business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community or the industry at large. Big50 remodelers run successful, often growing, companies of various sizes that have taken the lead in raising industry standards.

The Big50 selection process has become increasingly rigorous in recent years, and the result, REMODELING editors believe, is one of the strongest classes to date. All 2012 inductees “stood up to detailed examinations of their businesses and their books, and they all demonstrated an admirably deft ability to restructure, retrench, and flat-out hustle to remain viable in a challenging economic climate,” according to REMODELING.

“We are very honored to receive this distinction,” says DAVID CERAMI, PRESIDENT of HOMETECH RENOVATIONS, INC. “The award recognizes excellence and leadership, and we are privileged to be named to this select group of remodelers. Additionally, it takes a dedicated team of employees to make this award and distinction possible”

REMODELING editors, columnists, industry leaders, and the companies themselves make the nominations each year.  Following a lengthy evaluation and interview process, the editors select the 50 individuals who exemplify the best of the industry that year, and who have something to offer other remodelers in proven practices. Winners are selected in these categories: business savvy, fine design, industry impact, market wise, movers & shakers, niches, sales & marketing, and teamwork. HOMETECH RENOVATIONS, INC. was selected for the category of KITCHEN & BATH SPECIALIST.

REMODELING, published by Hanley Wood, LLC, is the leading publication in the home improvement industry. Designed to address the specific concerns of residential remodeling pros, the magazine is both a business tool and an industry leader for a market that reached $278 billion in 2011.

View HomeTech Renovations’ Big50 Article and click here to learn more about Remodeling’s Big50.

At HomeTech Renovations, we take joy in designing distinctive kitchens, baths and additions for people that are both functional and beautiful. Our work shows that kitchens, baths, other adjacent interior spaces can be authentically individualized and soulful. We strive to create a space that nourishes the individual while embracing a positive environment for family & friends.

  • Understanding individual concerns and requirements in the development of a project is our primary focus
  • Assisting in critical engineering and design decisions while educating our clients during the entire design/build process
  • One on one individual attention
  • Respectful of budget considerations regardless of the project scale
  • Over 28 years’ experience specializing in kitchen, bath and addition design & installation

Our company process allows our clients an affordable method to merge their own ideas with a respectful blending of the professional advice of our experienced design staff.

We are passionate about our careers and more importantly, passionate about our clients and our work!

View HomeTech Renovations Portfolio of Distinctive Kitchens, Baths and Additions.

March 29, 2012

Keep Your Countertops Looking New With FILA Sealer

Filed under: Baths,Designer's Thoughts,Kitchens — HomeTech Renovations @ 9:58 am

There are tons of stone sealers out on the market today, but which one should you use? The only stone sealer used and recommended by our stone and tile vendor, Michael Addesso Marble and Granite World, Inc., for all stone products is FILA MP/90 from FILA Surface Care Products.

Why seal stone? Natural stone is absorbent and susceptible to staining. While polished stone surfaces are more resistant to staining than honed surfaces, a sealer is recommended for all finishes as it will keep natural stone looking beautiful throughout the years without much time or effort. A sealer will protect the stone from within by providing a barrier to staining agents and everyday dirt. Sealers fill open voids or spaces in the stone to prevent stains from penetrating the surface and allow you more time to wipe up spills.

FILA MP/90 offers the best stain protection for marble, granite, travertine, limestone, and porcelain stoneware, and the advantages of using it are numerous. It does not alter the natural color of surfaces that are sealed and is does not form film. It is suitable for use on food contact surfaces and is ready to use with no dilution necessary. Overall, it seals, protects, and makes the maintenance of stone easier.

Sealer should be applied every 6 months on marble, travertine, and limestone, and once a year for granite. That’s not much time to put in for long lasting benefits. FILA MP/90 can be purchased at Michael Addesso Marble and Granite World, Inc. located in Norristown, PA. To learn more about this product and for information on how to treat other surfaces in your home, visit the FILA Surface Care Products website.

March 8, 2012

Reclaim Unused Space by Transforming Your Basement

Filed under: Baths,Designer's Thoughts,Kitchens — Tags: , , — HomeTech Renovations @ 2:07 pm

Don’t know what to do with that unfinished, ugly, or outdated basement? Turn it into the bonus living and entertaining space you’ve always wanted!

Turning a basement into a bar and recreation center will reclaim that unused space in your home and create a space that is optimal for entertaining. A recreation center becomes a private and safe place to entertain family and friends, whether you prefer more elegant, elaborate parties or casual, family gatherings. And if you are unsure of how long you will be in your home, keep in mind that adding a bar and entertainment space can add value to your home and can be a major selling point for prospective buyers.

For the bar area, a sink and plumbing will go a long way, as the wet bar makes it convenient for disposal of liquids and washing of glasses and countertops. Products such as an ice maker, beverage cooler, water chiller, and water filter will add sophistication and ease to entertaining. Turn the basement into a true recreation center by adding billiards, a ping pong table, an area to play cards and board games, and audio-visual elements to enhance sports game viewing or video gaming. Comfortable seating at the bar and lounge chairs throughout the space will create an inviting atmosphere that you, your family, and guests will want to enjoy and never leave.

So if you don’t know what to do with your existing basement, whether it is finished or unfinished, revamp it by turning it into an entertaining space that will make you and your home the talk of the neighborhood.

February 20, 2012

Incandescent Bulbs Being Phased Out Due to New Lighting Legislation

Filed under: Baths,Designer's Thoughts,Going Green,Innovative Materials,Kitchens — Tags: , — HomeTech Renovations @ 6:09 pm

Do you prefer incandescent lighting over that emitted from energy efficient bulbs, such as halogens and compact fluorescents? Well beginning in January 2012 you will be out of luck. There are MAJOR CHANGES in lighting regulations that are occurring in 2012.

The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) was signed into law in 2007 by former President George W. Bush, and the law is intended to reduce energy usage. Sylvania, a leading lighting manufacturer, states, “The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA) is phasing out the iconic incandescent light bulbs and is requiring manufacturers to replace them with new, energy efficient bulbs that comply with EISA’s mandated performance levels for incandescent and incandescent halogen bulbs.”

Incandescent general purpose and decorative bulbs are being phased out starting in January 2012 with 100 watt bulbs, with 75 watt bulbs to follow in 2013, and 60 and 40 watt bulbs to be phased out in 2014. Incandescent directional and reflector lamps, or PAR lamps, will be phased out in July of 2012.

More efficient lighting alternatives are much better for the environment, and the change will result in a greatly reduced carbon footprint as well as national energy savings. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, efficient lamps generate an equal or greater amount of light while consuming much less energy and generating much less cost. For example, energy efficient compact fluorescents use 66% less energy than incandescent bulbs for the same amount of light and the bulbs last an average of 10 to 15 times longer than standard filament bulbs. Halogens are a great option for replacement as well due to their longevity and the fact that they emit more light per unit of energy compared to incandescent bulbs.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the mandated changes as many lighting manufacturers are helping to make an easy transition from incandescent bulbs to more energy efficient options. They are already offering a wide variety of bulbs to choose from that will serve as replacements.

For more information about the new lighting legislation issued by EISA, visit www.sylvania.com/lightbulblaws or click here to view a chart that shows what bulbs need to be replaced and some of the replacement options that are offered.

December 8, 2011

Countertops Become a Work of Art with ThinkGlass by Mailhot

Custom Kitchen Counter TopsDo you want your custom designed countertops to be a work of art? Do you want them to be beautiful and distinctive statement pieces? Do you want a solution that is green and environmentally friendly? Or do you simply want a clean, elegant look? Then look no further than ThinkGlass by Mailhot.

ThinkGlass is comprised of recycled glass and is, therefore, a sustainable material, and it is created using thermoforming, a process that shapes and molds through the use of heat. The glass can be infused with colors or can be lit from within by LED lights, which add a more artistic touch.

ThinkGlass can be used in a variety of applications for both residential and commercial projects. It is a blend of art and function, all at once providing a unique and custom solution while also serving as a performance product. ThinkGlass can be incorporated into residential projects in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, kitchen countertops, tabletops, bathroom vanities, raised bars, backsplashes, doors, walls, flooring, and shower enclosures. In the commercial field it is most often used to create stunning bars and nightclubs, while it is also utilized for hygienic countertops in healthcare and transaction desks in retail stores, hotels, and offices.

ThinkGlass is among the most exquisite high-end products in the world, and no other material offers such versatility, making the possibilities for its use endless. As the producers of ThinkGlass state, the product offers, “luxurious design with chameleon-like flexibility.” Crafted from 100 percent recyclable glass and serving as a sustainable material, each ThinkGlass design is custom-made with a variety of options for texture, thickness, color of glass, and edge treatment. The finished project is always unique and one-of-a-kind due to the customization of the material and the process through which it is made, so no other kitchen or bathroom will look like yours. Since each design is custom-made, it requires the use of highly skilled labor and craftsmanship throughout the design and production processes.

The technology used to create ThinkGlass allows for the unsurpassed creation of these custom designs. As a leader in the thermoforming industry, the producer’s versatile technique used to make the product allows for the creation of new or repetitive textures at a very low molding cost. The company’s exclusive thermoform ovens are the largest of their kind in North America, measuring at 88” x 152”. These ovens provide for the creation of almost any shape without needing to blow the glass, and allow for curving, shaping, molding, and heat sculpting. The technology can also create glass slabs without having to abide by thickness constraints. The variety of thicknesses, ranging from 1/8” to 18”, provide design possibilities that far exceed what can be accomplished with other mineral-based materials, such as granite or marble. For kitchen countertops, the 1.5” thick glass is the most commonly applied, but depending on the client’s desires can range to 4” thick. These custom glass designs can also be infused with dazzling colors by Master Glass Artist, Michel Mailhot, to create a personalized artistic touch so that the glass becomes more of a decorative art object and less of a utilitarian piece.

To further visually enhance the awe inspiring aspects of ThinkGlass, powerful LED lights can be imbedded inside to provide a glow from within. The LED lights are offered in pure white or a variety of colors which enable the client to create a light show. Programmable by remote control, hundreds of colors can be manipulated to transform the glass to suit the mood or to add interest to a special event. The client has the ability to pick one color, change colors, fade the light in and out, or create a flashing or strobe light effect. The incorporation of LED lights can highlight countertops and backsplashes, and can transform a simple space into the atmosphere the client desires.

Clients will question the durability and maintenance of ThinkGlass, much like they do with any material proposed for a countertop or vanity material. But do not be concerned, as ThinkGlass’s durability rivals all common countertop materials such as stone, granite, and marble. Under normal use and conditions, the material should not break, chip, crack or shatter. Since glass is pure and non-porous, it will not be affected by any chemicals and it is naturally resistant to scratches, mold, and mildew, making it the most hygienic ThinkGlass: Custom Design Glass Countertopscountertop material on the market. Although it can also endure high heat without cracking or scorching, the producers of ThinkGlass recommend not sitting hot pots or pans on glass counters as breakage near edges or corners can occur under certain circumstances. ThinkGlass is virtually maintenance free, since the textured finish hides fingerprints and the material is impossible to stain. Cleaning is quick and easy. There is no need to use special cleansers specifically designed for the material; simple window cleaners or water and vinegar solutions will suffice.

A cutting edge material in the interior design market, ThinkGlass provides clients with the opportunity to create something truly distinctive and inspiring in their home. Whether it is used as a simple, clean solution for a bathroom vanity, or as a bold, colorful statement for home entertaining, ThinkGlass will become a piece that is talked about. So the next time you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, consider ThinkGlass. The possibilities are endless.

Contact HomeTech Renovations for more information on custom designed kitchen-bath countertops, kitchen-bath remodeling or renovation project.

October 3, 2011

Updating the Look of Your Home Without Breaking the Bank

bankDuring these trying times when the economy is down and money is tight it seems almost impossible to improve or update your home without feeling like you are going bankrupt. By doing simple things around your home you can improve any space without having to reach deep into your wallets.

A Splash of Color – Color is a powerful tool that can provide a change and enhance in almost any environment. While most of us may not spend a lot of time thinking about room color, it affects every day of our lives. Room color can influence our mood and our thoughts. Colors affect people in many ways, depending upon one’s age, gender, ethnic background or local climate. Certain colors or groups of colors tend to get a similar reaction from most people – the overall difference being in the shade or tones used

To have a beautiful home, you do not have to worry about trends. Color trends will come and go. The people who live in a home make it beautiful by choosing colors that reflect their likes and their personalities. Color has the power to change the shape and size of furnishings as well as the shape and size of the room itself. Adding color will give your tired room a whole new look and make you, the homeowner, feel better.

paint fanEach color has a psychological value. Colors behave in three basic ways: active, passive, and neutral, and you can easily match every room’s colors to your personal desires and taste and to the room’s purpose. Light colors are expansive and airy, they make rooms seem larger and brighter. Dark colors are sophisticated and warm; they give large rooms a more intimate appearance. Specific colors emit different emotions so picking a particular color to go in a specific room is important.  (more…)

September 19, 2011

Karen

I love my space and spend as much time there as possible.  It’s so restful and warm.  The fireplace takes the chill off on the really cold evenings and adds to the ambience so nicely.  The bathroom is super cozy especially in the evenings with the adjustable lighting and all.  LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!!  Everyone who sees it thinks it’s beautiful!!

Visit Our Portfolio to View Additional Kitchen & Bath Designs.

Uma & Prabhakar

We are definitely enjoying the bathrooms. It is a very satisfying feeling to have accomplished this major task which we had been putting off for seven years!!  Just love the new baths.

Keith & Judy

First of all, we want to thank you for the great gifts. The flower arrangement and vase were so beautiful that we’re going to recreate it with silks so that we can enjoy it all year long. And the Litolier remote control was the perfect gadget for Keith! You know him well!

Most of all we want to thank you for the gorgeous bathroom that we still can’t believe is in our house! Working with Kate and her wonderful ideas and Ken with his incredible attention to details was such a positive experience. Everyone who worked on our project was a professional and we are so pleased with the quality of work.

We wish the best for the company in 2009 and will be happy to be a reference anytime.

View Additional Bathroom Renovations at HomeTech Renovations Portfolio.

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