Remodeling Projects to Complete in the Winter

Florida isn’t known to have cold winters – famously, Florida hosts some of the warmest weather in the U.S. during this season. Most people save remodeling projects for nicer weather, but there are several advantages to remodeling in cooler seasons, especially in Florida!

Remodeling contractors are generally less busy and have much more flexibility during the offseason. They can plan your project with you from start to finish, paying close attention to all the little details that make a project great. Second, some materials are less expensive. You’d be surprised at the amount of money you can save on items like doors, tile, flooring and even lumber! This means your winter project is likely to be quick and budget-conscious.

Bathroom & Kitchens

Generally any inside remodeling project can be completed in the winter. The bonus here is that with readily available contractors and materials, you’re less likely to see delays and you’ll be able to regain use of your space more quickly. For projects like kitchens, where it’s difficult to cook, this could mean savings on other expenses, like take-out meals.

If you’re laying hardwood flooring or tile in the bathroom, the dry winter air will help prevent gapping in the newly laid boards and tile, while decreased humidity means there’s less of a chance for water damage. The cooler air also means quicker drying times for any adhesive involved, like new tiling in your bathrooms.

Windows

This may seem surprising, but changing out your old windows for new, energy efficient windows in the winter will reduce your energy bill and you’ll see savings immediately. Completing the project in the winter also increases your chances of a quick installation and no shortage of supplies. Our award-winning windows come in a wide variety of colors and styles and are extremely energy-efficient, durable, and have virtually no maintenance and upkeep.

With a little planning and foresight, completing your winter renovation project is likely to go smoothly and stay on-budget! Our FHIA team would love to help you with your winter projects – get started by requesting a free quote!

Remodeling Projects to Complete in a Florida Winter

Bathroom & Kitchens

Generally, any inside remodeling project can be completed in the winter. The bonus here is that with readily available contractors and materials, you’re less likely to see delays and you’ll be able to regain use of your space more quickly. For projects like kitchens, where it’s difficult to cook, this could mean savings on other expenses, like take-out meals.

If you’re laying hardwood flooring or tile in the bathroom, the dry winter air will help prevent gaps in the newly laid boards and tile, while decreased humidity means there’s less of a chance for water damage. The cooler air also means quicker drying times for any adhesive involved, like new tiling in your bathrooms.

Windows

This may seem surprising, but changing out your old windows for new, energy-efficient windows in the winter will reduce your energy bill and you’ll see savings immediately. Completing the project in the winter also increases your chances of a quick installation and no shortage of supplies. Our award-winning windows come in a wide variety of colors and styles and are extremely energy-efficient, durable, and have virtually no maintenance and upkeep.

With a little planning and foresight, completing your winter renovation project is likely to go smoothly and stay on budget! Our FHIA team would love to help you with your winter projects – get started by requesting a free quote!

4 Tips for a Successful Remodel

Remodeling your home is a big decision, personally and financially. Here are four tips on getting the most out of your remodeling job.

What are your goals?

The key to any successful project is to plan, plan, plan! Make sure you’ve thought through what your end goal is and why. If you’re remodeling to sell, the look, budget, and schedule will reflect that. You’ll also want to look at your neighborhood specs to make sure your changes align and match the price point and feel of the area. If you’re remodeling for you, prioritize the changes you want to make and look at ideas for the end result.

Consider Time & Money

Once you understand what you want, start building a budget. Request several quotes from remodelers and take into consideration the quality of products you want. You’ll also want to include a contingency fund of approximately 20% of the cost of the project and keep in mind extra expenses as a result of the project – eating out for kitchen remodels, for example. This will help you cover unexpected expenses after the project starts. Then, start planning how you’ll finance the project. Do you have the money in savings? Does your remodeler offer financing?

Last, if you’re hoping to have the project completed by a certain date, make sure you leave a few weeks to a month of wiggle-room in case of delays. You want your contractors to take their time and provide quality work, you don’t want to rush them to finish a project.

Check Out Their Work

This can make a big difference when comparing contractors. Do a little internet sleuthing and check out their Facebook pages and Instagrams. Contractors who are proud of their work will post about it! You’ll also get a feel for their style and work habits, and see if they’ve completed projects like yours before. A picture is worth 1,000 words!

Communicate

Homeowners with realistic and well-defined goals are usually the most satisfied. Be clear and decisive in what you want, and ensure everyone is on the same page to eliminate errors and miscommunications. Make your expectations clear during the discussion stage, and then take your time reading the contract and discuss the details again. One of the worst things you can do to contractors is let them get started on a job and then say you meant something else. If at any point, you have a question or are unhappy with the project, bring it to the contractor’s attention ASAP. It’s your home, your project and your money.

We’d love to help you get started on your next remodeling project! We have monthly specials and financing available to help you get the most for your money. Want to get inspired? Check out ourpast projectsthen contact us for a free quote!

Where to Start When Remodeling Your Kitchen

When looking to remodel your kitchen there are hundreds of options to choose from and it can be an overwhelming project to start. White kitchens have been the trend the last couple of years, but recently we have been seeing more colors, textures, and natural elements incorporated in the kitchen. Much of your home life is spent cooking and entertaining for you and your loved ones and you want to create a place that feels like home and lets your style shine through.

Create a 3-Toned Color Palette

The first step in designing a new kitchen is to choose a 3-toned color scheme. It is important to choose neutral tones that are timeless. The first two colors will be the main colors (countertops and cabinets) and then the third will be the accent color that will make a statement. The pop of color can be incorporated in the island, the backsplash, or kitchen décor. Choosing more than 3-4 colors in the kitchen could be distracting and too busy.

Create Balance

After choosing your kitchen’s color palette, focus on what countertops matches your style. There are many options and materials to choose from. Most homes opt for granite, quartz, or laminate. Laminate countertops are inexpensive and low maintenance if you are trying to remodel on a budget but can mimic pricey stone. After choosing the countertops, the next step is to choose the cabinet color, and lastly the backsplash. It is important to choose cabinets that will match or compliment the colors found in the countertops. The backsplash can be the most challenging part of the kitchen design because it is a focal point. You can add color, choose different shapes or textures, or make it blend with the rest of the kitchen. The backsplash is where you get to bring your personal style into the design and create a kitchen you will love!

Hardware to Compliment Your Design

The last step in designing your dream kitchen is choosing the hardware that matches your design. Trending recently has been gold or black hardware, but you can never go wrong with the classic brushed nickel! It can be fun to mix and match metals by using brushed nickel cabinet pulls and a matte black kitchen faucet. Get creative with your hardware and choose a style that is functional for your lifestyle and compliments your creative kitchen design.

10 Things to Avoid When Remodeling Your Home

Planning a remodeling project can be super exciting! You’re finally getting thatroof you’ve been meaning to replace or the bathroom of your dreams – but how can you ensure that your remodel is nothing but smooth sailing? Here are the top 10 things to avoid for a stress-free remodel:

Don’t forget the permits!

If you start your project but forget to get a permit when needed, you could find yourself paying large penalties or even having a “stop-work order” placed on your project. Worst-case scenario, Development Services could make you undo everything that’s already done! A trusted, professional remodeler should be able to tell you what kind of permits your project requires. Chances are if your project includes structural changes, adding electrical or mechanical systems, or adding a deck or fence – you’ll need a permit.

Don’t forget to check with your HOA.

If you’re a part of a Homeowner’s Association, they might have certain rules about what you can and can’t change in your home, especially outside changes in the backyard/patio area and at the front of your home. Don’t forget to check with them before you start a project. You definitely don’t want to start investing in something you’re not allowed to finish.

Don’t go in blind.

Make sure you do your research before even requesting quotes.

What will your project entail?
How much does the project typically cost?
What kind of design will you switch to?
What’s the recoup value for the project?
What’s the ideal timeline for the project?
What’s most important to you through the remodel?
What licensed and insured contractors are in your area?

Also, make sure you’re budgeting enough for the remodel, plus 10-20% extra for unforeseen expenses like wonky plumbing or electrical discovered in demo.

Don’t just hire the cheapest option.

Remodeling is expensive. While it’s in your best interest to get several estimates, going with the cheapest option simply because they’re the cheapest option could get you in trouble down the line. You want to make sure your contractor is using quality materials and quality workmanship. Do your research and go with the most qualified option. Your remodeler should be licensed and experienced. You should also check their social media profiles and website for examples of their work. Choose a remodeler that will be the best fit for your project and budget.

Avoid Miscommunications

Miscommunications can set a project back significantly.

Make sure you tell your remodeling contractor exactly what you’d like and ensure that it’s stated in the contract correctly, along with an estimated start and completion date.
If there are any issues during the time of the remodel, make sure to bring them up to the project manager immediately.
If you’ll be staying in an inactive area of your home, make sure the crew is mindful of their working hours and know what areas they should stay away from.
Familiarize yourself with construction and design lingo so you know exactly what’s going on with your project.
Plan a daily check-in with the job supervisor or project manager to make sure everything is going according to plan.

Don’t lose your head!

Remodeling is an extensive process. The research and preparation alone are time-consuming, plus having crews in and out of your home can be exhausting. Keep the end goal in mind and know that in the end, it will be worth it!

Remodeling doesn’t have to be stressful or difficult. With the right preparation and research, you can have an awesome experience. Let us take the guesswork & stress out of your remodeling projects! We offer free quotes, and flexible financing to help you get the remodel you’ve always wanted. You can request your free quote online , or give us a call at (954) 737-1911.

FHIA Grows from #13 to #3 in Remodeling Magazine’s “Remodeling 550” List

Florida Home Improvement Associates, commonly known as FHIA, is Florida’s largest interior and exterior remodeling company. FHIA was founded in 2006 on the philosophy of providing customers with the best-in-class product offerings, professionally trained and insured installation, exceptional warranties, and dedicated customer service.

This quality of work and distinct commitment to customer satisfaction allowed FHIA to quickly become the leader in impact windows #1 in Florida according to Remodeling Magazine. FHIA started showing up on the “Remodeling 550” List in 2015 after completing over 3,000 jobs. Since then, FHIA has made it to #3 on the “Remodeling 550” List in the Remodeling Magazine. FHIA landed #11 in 2016, #10 in 2017, and #4 in 2018 and 2019.

As of 2021, FHIA has completed over 50,000 custom home remodeling projects for Florida homeowners while helping customers to beautify their property, protect their loved ones, and boost their home’s energy efficiency. Over the past 5 years, FHIA has expanded to open offices in Orlando, Tampa, Sarasota, Fort. Myers, and Jacksonville.

15 Kitchen Gadgets You Didn’t Know You Needed

Make cooking fun with new kitchen gadgets. Not only will these gadgets make cooking fun, but they will make cooking easier and more efficient! Look through our 15 favorite unusual and exciting kitchen tools.

1. Avocado Slicer

If you are looking for an easier way to make the famous avocado toast, we found the perfect tool for you. This Avocado slicer includes all three steps in preparing sliced avocado including and knife to open the avocado, a tool to remove the pit, and on the other end, the perfect tool to make perfect slices without the hassle.

Get it Here Avocado Slicer

2. Prep work Progressive Onion Chopper

This is one of the best kitchen gadgets on the market! This chopper can be used on any fruit or vegetable and has different size and thickness slicers. This tool can also be used to store the fruit or vegetable in the fridge so you don’t need to use another container for the left over.

Get it Here Dice Slice Chopper

3. Veggie Spiralizer

With 7 different attachments, have fun making all different shaped vegetables. With the veggie spiralizer, you have the ability to make vegetable noodles, curly fries, or any vegetable topping. The veggie spiralizer can make any healthy meal more fun!

Get it Here Veggie Spiralizer

4. Digital Meat Thermometer

If you have ever been curious how restaurants make the perfect steak, this is it. A digital meat thermometer will help ensure your meat is safe to eat and you will never overcook your chicken or steak again.

Get it Here Digital Meat Thermometer

5. Air Fryer

Cut calories by 70% to 80% by switching to an air fryer. Air frying cuts out the frying oil and can cook frozen foods faster than an oven, with the additional benefit of making your food crispy in no time.

Get it Here Air Fryer

6. Herb Keeper

Tired of your herbs going bad after 2 days? Purchase an herb keeper for under $15 and your herbs will last up to three weeks! All you have to do is fill the bottom with water and the herbs will stay fresh and crisp.

Get it Here Herb Keeper

7. Hyperchiller

If you are tired of spending $5 everyday on an iced coffee from the local coffee shop, check out the HyperChiller. the HyperChiller will chill any drink in under 60 seconds and is dishwasher safe! Just pour your drink of choice in the top and let the magic begin.

Get it Here HyperChiller

8. Uutensil Stirr

With everyones busy schedules, there is no time to stand around and stir your sauces for dinner. The Uutensil Stirr will do all the work for you! This battery powered stirrer will automatically stir your sauces, porridge, or gravy with three different speed options.

Get it Here Uutensil Stirr

9. Bacon Grease Container

Doesn’t bacon make everything better? Save your bacon grease in a bacon grease container to add flavor to your next meal. This container includes a strainer so you won’t get any bacon bits, but you will get all of the delicious flavors.

Get it Here Bacon Grease Container

10. 5-in-1 Multi-Function Can Opener

If you ever have difficulty opening cans, bottles, or sauce jar try the multi function can opener. With superior grip, there will no longer be any hassle opening a pasta sauce jar.

Get it Here 5-in-1 Multi Function Can Opener

11. Electric Frother

Take your drinks to the next level with an electric frother. An electric frother will add texture and richness to your milk of choice or creamer and create a coffee shop experience in your kitchen. Use the thick layer of milk to create latte art at home!

Get it Here Electric Frother

12. Snap N’ Strain

Straining boiling water can be a difficult and irritating task, but with the Snap N’ Strain, you will save space in the cabinet and take away the difficulty of using two hands. Snap on the strainer that will fit any pot or bowl and make your life easier.

Get it Here Snap Strainer

13. Kitchen Shears Herb Scissors

Cut down prep time in half with herb scissors. These 3″ bladed scissors will slice through any herb in no time and comes with a tool to make clean up easy. The scissor grip is also comfortable for both lefties and righties.

Get it Here Herb Scissors

14. Healthy Dessert Fruit Soft Serve Maker

Make healthy desserts in your kitchen! This Fruit Soft Serve Maker will create a creamy and delicious desert with nothing but frozen fruit. Add toppings like granola, honey, or diced fruit for extra flavor and an easy breakfast or late night snack.

Get it Here Fruit Soft Serve Maker

15. Watermelon Slicer

Create the perfect watermelon slices with the quick and easy watermelon slicer. All you have to do is run the slicer over a watermelon piece and it will create perfect cubes in no time. Stop trying to cut watermelon cubes with your knife this summer and invest in the watermelon slicer for under $10.

Get it Here Watermelon Slicer

5 Budget Friendly Home Renovation Tips

Are you tired of staring at the same walls inside your home? Does your home decor not match your style anymore? Is your home ready for a facelift? If you are prepared to take on a home renovation, but don’t feel like breaking the bank, check out these five home renovation tips on a budget.

1. Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

Nothing makes a room feel brand new like a fresh coat of paint. New paint on the walls can increase property value and liven up a space. Check out our Popular Color Trends blog post to see the most popular colors of 2021 for any room of the house.

2. Replace the Closet Doors for a More Modern Look

Are your closet doors the same as the ones that came original to the house? If so, it is time for an upgrade. There are many options to choose from including a barn door, frosted glass doors, mirror closet doors, or stick to the classic white bifold doors. This renovation can be as little as $70.

3. Add Interest to the Walls or Ceilings

One of the most popular 2020/2021 home renovation trends is adding interest to the walls or ceiling. Adding either Wainscoting or Beadboard to the walls can create contrast and is easy to install. There are hundreds of designs on Pinterest to choose from and this home renovation can cost under $100.

4. Replace Your Old Throw Pillows

An inexpensive way to spruce up the living room is to start with the couch throw pillows. Adding new throw pillows to the living room can add a pop of color and bring your style into the space. Check out stores like Target, Home Goods, and TJ Maxx to find throw pillows that’ll match any style at a great price!

5. Install New Hardware in the Guest Bathroom

Updating your bathroom fixtures will improve the aesthetic of the space, save water and money, and increase your home’s value. There are plenty of options that cost under $50 and can completely change the look of the space. New hardware can also improve efficiency and reduce water usage. Reducing water usage will eventually lower your monthly water bill.

FHIA is Proud to Receive CertainTeed Governor’s Award

FHIA is thrilled to announce that we have been chosen to receive CertainTeed’s Governor’s Award for our diligent work and dedication to excellence. As one 66 roofing companies to receive this award, FHIA takes great pride in this accomplishment. To be eligible to receive this award, the best roofing companies must meet certain requirements and criteria.

Winners must hold a CertainTeed roofing credential for more than 5 years
Winners must earn a Customer TrackRecord Award
Winners must be #1 in SureStart Plus jobs in their state

FHIA’s dedication to quality and consistency has allowed us to help our staff grow and stay committed to their efforts. We recognize our employees for their hard work and providing premiere service to our customers each day. Every year, thousands of roofing companies apply for this award and FHIA is proud to carry this title and we thank CertainTeed for their continued support.

Organizing Your Kitchen Like a Pro

When reorganizing the kitchen, it is all about efficiency. Think of your daily routine and how you move around the kitchen when making your morning coffee, putting away the dishes, or disposing of prep scraps. No matter how big or small the space, it can be tricky to stay organized and know how to utilize each cabinet for maximum efficiency. Use these tips below to create your dream kitchen that will make people believe you hired a pro.

Dishes and Silverware

The first step when organizing the kitchen is finding a home for the dishes and silverware. For maximum efficiency, store the plates, bowls, and silverware nearest to the dishwasher. This will make the dreadful job of unloading the dishwasher a little easier. It is best to store cups and mugs closest to the refrigerator to easily make yourself a drink or get ice.

Cooking Utensils and Spices

When choosing where to store cooking utensils and spices, start next to the stove. When you’re cooking on the stove, you’ll want easy access to the spatula and tongs so they should go in the drawer to the left or right of the stove. If there is no drawer space next to the stove, opt for a stylish utensil holder to sit on either side of the stove. When organizing your spices, purchase a spice drawer on Amazon for under $20. This will allow easy access when cooking and allow you to see all the spices at once and won’t create clutter in the cabinet.

Cookware and Appliances

Choosing where to store the pots, pans, and baking sheets can be tricky, but we know how to utilize the space to make it easy and convenient for you to start cooking. Close to the oven range should be pots and pans. You want to make sure they are easily accessible and use pots and pan organizers to decrease clutter in the cabinet. The most important tool in having an organized, clean kitchen is to keep the countertops free of clutter. Find a space in the lower cabinets or in the pantry to store appliances like the toaster, crockpot, and blender.

Trash Bins and Cleaning Supplies

Don’t forget to keep efficiency in mind when choosing a location for the trash bin and cleaning supplies. There are three great options when fining a home for the trash bin. Under the sink on a pull-out system, a trash built into one of the lower cabinets, or in the pantry if you have a walk-in pantry. These three options are functional and will keep the trash out of sight. Our go to for cleaning supplies is underneath the kitchen sink. Only keep the cleaning supplies that are used in the kitchen under the sink including dish soap, detergent, and countertop cleaner. (Pro tip for cleaning supply storage: Place your supplies on a Lazy Susan under the sink to have easy access to all the cleaners)