Advantages of a Mini-Split System

A home addition is a great way to add some much-needed square footage for your family. One of the factors that is not talked about as much in building a home addition is the heating and cooling of the new space. One solution would be to install a mini-split system.

Mini-split systems, sometimes referred to as split systems or split-ductless systems, offer homeowners with a cost-effective way to provide more temperature control in certain areas of the house or to provide heating and cooling to an addition. The mini-split system comes with its own thermostat. Thus, you can save money by turning off the mini-split's thermostat in the space if it isn't occupied, while still keeping the AC on in the rest of the home.

Photo: The Drain Guys

Not only are these systems great for home additions, they are also great for attached garages, detached garages, florida rooms, plus more. A bonus of mini-split systems is that it has no ducts. This is an advantage because it eliminates the energy consumption associated with the ductwork of centralized air conditioning systems. Ducts can account for a whopping 30% of energy consumption.

Many homeowners may be concerned with the attractiveness of the system and may be reminded of those in-window units. The last thing they need in their new space is a huge eye soar! Thankfully, mini-split systems are about 7 inches in depth and can be installed in various ways. the indoor air handlers can be hung on a wall or suspended from a ceiling. For a more seamless look, mini-split systems can be mounted flush into a drop-ceiling. Plus, many systems come with a remote control to make it easier to turn on and off when it is installed in a hard to reach place.

Photo: Plumbing and Mechanical

It is important to contact a professional to help you choose the right mini-split system for your space. Oversized systems can result in inefficiency. Thus, it is imperative that a professional come in and correctly install the unit to determine its most suitable location. Call Richmond, Virginia's premier home renovator for over 30 years: Balducci Additions and Remodeling. We would love to schedule a free no-obligation consultation on your home's new addition.

Exposed Beams -- Trend or Timeless?

Exposed ceiling beams are a an interesting architectural feature that add a unique flair to any space. Have you been thinking of incorporating beams into your home decor, but you aren't sure if they will complement your design style?

Ceiling beams are a popular home decor element in many homes today. They largely stem from rustic designs; however, they can be incorporated with many design styles. Wooden beams can be added to contrast with a cold, clean look, or it can accentuate an already warm design style. A good rule of thumb is to include exposed beams with styles that typically incorporate natural finishes. This can include rustic, farmhouse, Scandinavian, and traditional. Our advice is to avoid pairing rustic wooden beams with an overly modern design. The texture of the wood can be an eyesore in an otherwise sleek design. For more modern homes, we recommend metal beams instead.

Exposed beams can be incorporated in place of a load-bearing wall, or simply for decorative reasons. We have recently completed two kitchen remodels that included exposed ceiling beams. One remodel incorporated exposed beams because of the removal of a load-bearing wall, while the other included beams to accentuate the design style. The added beams in each home give off a completely different mood; however, they each aesthetically accentuate the room.

Exposed Beams in a Kitchen Remodel by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Whether they are used for structural reasons, or for design flair, there is no doubt that exposed beams add visual interest to homeowners and guests alike. It is important to take the room size an ceiling height when considering an exposed beam. Since exposed beams are meant to accentuate a space, it is important to not pick beams that feel to heavy. This can make a space feel claustrophobic. Instead, choose beams that are relatively the same proportion to your decor.

Exposed beams are a great visual element for any space. They can work seamlessly with with many design styles and give your home that extra "flair." Even though they have become very popular over the last few years, we believe that exposed beams are here to stay in the design world.  Thinking about incorporating exposed beams in your home? It is best to consult a home improvement expert since installing exposed beams can be tricky. Give Balducci Additions and Remodeling a call at 804-730-0982 to schedule an appointment for a free estimate!

4 Major Components of a Kitchen Remodel

Have you been dreaming of remodeling your kitchen? Whether it be to create more space, update the look, or increase your home value, kitchen remodels are a great investment for your home. Here are 4 major components of a kitchen remodel:

1. Layout

The layout of your kitchen is one of the most, if not the most, important components of your kitchen remodel. Since kitchens often undergo so much usage, it is important that the work flow is efficient and works for your needs. Some experts say that a no-fail solution to efficient kitchens is the "work triangle." The work triangle was developed in the 1940's to examine the efficiency between the three major kitchen appliances: the refrigerator, sink, and stove. The "work triangle" is a great tool to use when planning your kitchen layout.

Kitchen Work Triangle

2. Materials and Finishes

The materials and finishes you choose will largely depend on your budget and personal preferences. Some major decisions that need to be made for a kitchen remodel include: countertop material, cabinetry, and flooring. Material options can dramatically range in prices, so it is important to do your research on each option. Some popular countertop materials include granite, quartz, laminate, concrete, and marble. Flooring options range from ceramic tile, hardwood, linoleum, vinyl, among many others. Cabinets are also available in a wide range of materials including: solid wood, plywood panel, aluminum, wood veneer, and polyethylene.

3. Lighting

Kitchens require lots of light for safety when cooking. Along with adding safety to your kitchen, lights can set the tone of the whole space. Like cabinets, flooring, and countertops, there are many lighting options for your kitchen. A good option for kitchens are several can lights, pendant lights over a bar/breakfast bar area, and under-cabinet lighting. Lighting is also a good way to make some energy-efficient choices through choosing LED or fluorescent bulbs.

4. Finishing Touches

Finishing touches can make or break a space. Some finishing touches to keep in mind are: paint color, seating options, backsplash, as well as other decorative items. A good rule of thumb is to contrast your cabinet color with your paint color to add some dimension to your space. For example, a dark paint color paired with dark cabinetry could leave the room feeling too dark. Create the illusion of more light by choosing a lighter color. The same concept applies to your backsplash. Your backsplash should contrast with your cabinet and countertop, as well as add visual interest to the space. Don't be afraid to steer from subway tiles and choose a more decorative option. The finishing touches of the space are a great way to let your personality shine through.

Custom Kitchen Remodel by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

There are many factors that have to be considered in a kitchen remodel, including: layout, materials, lighting, and the finishing touches. A kitchen remodel can be an overwhelming and stressful project if it is not planned out, which is why it is important to get a professional's opinion and guidance. If you are considering a kitchen remodel for your home, feel free to call Balducci Additions and Remodeling to schedule a no-obligation appointment.

Storage Solutions for a Bathroom Renovation

Photo: Pinterest

Does this sight look familiar? We can all imagine our bathrooms filled with products and other miscellaneous items that seem to make our countertops disappear. If this is the case, it may be time to consider alternative storage storage solutions for your bathroom renovation.

Wall Storage

Don't forget about the wall space! This is especially true for small bathroom renovations that don't have as much square footage available. Adding in a couple of shelves can be perfect for that extra bit of space that you need, while adding some visual interest to bare walls.

Photo: HGTV.com

Small Furniture Storage

A small piece of furniture, such as a small dresser, bench, storage ladder, or any other idea you can think of can be the perfect storage solution for your bathroom. As a bonus, freestanding storage can be easily swapped out as your style changes-without requiring any wall touch-ups.

Bathroom Renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Custom Cabinetry Storage

Perhaps the most luxurious storage solution, custom cabinetry can be one of the best investments for your bathroom renovation, When designing your bathroom renovation, it is important to bring in a professional, such as Balducci Additions and Remodeling, to assess your current bathroom and assist you in determining the best cabinet solution for you. For example, a center vanity console divides two sink areas to create "privacy" while including an abundance additional storage space.

Custom bathroom renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Under-Sink Storage

Don't neglect the space you already have! Is your under-sink cabinet being utilized to its fullest potential? If not, consider investing in sliding drawers or stacking bins. In comparison, if your under-sink area is open, purchasing baskets and bins to store away bath products are a necessity.

Photo: Bed Bath & Beyond

Storage is a huge concern for any homeowner-especially bathroom storage. These storage solutions are great ways to minimize the look of clutter and allow for relaxation. Your bathroom should be a place where you can escape the daily stresses of life-instead of feeling overwhelmed by clutter.