How to Prepare for a Window Installation in the Carolinas

If it’s time for window replacements in your Carolina home, you’re likely excited about the prospect of having a new, beautiful installation. New windows can add an immense amount of curb appeal to your home, and they also serve an important functional purpose. Old windows get drafty over time, leading to expensive utility bills and energy inefficiency. With new window installations, you’ll be able to adequately seal your home and reduce your monthly energy bills.

Once you have your installation day scheduled, it’s important to prepare your home for the window company and its workers. Here are a few steps you can take to get your home ready.

Make Clear Walkways

One of the most important things you can do to help out the window company is to establish easy-to-access walking areas around the home. The window replacements team will be in and out of your house all day, and it makes it much more convenient for them if they have a clear place to walk.

This applies to both the inside and outside of your house. Depending on the installation, the team will need access to both sides of the window pane. Make sure the living area is clean and the exterior of your home is free from obstructions.

Remove Window Features and Accessories

Before the window installation crew can begin removing the old windows, you’ll need to make sure that you remove any window features currently installed. These include:

Curtains, Shades, and Blinds
Curtain Rods and Hardware
Window Attachments like Bird Feeders and Thermometers

Set Up a Work Area

Clear away one area, both inside and outside of the home, where the window team can set up their workstation. They’ll need a central place to keep all of their tools and run equipment, so ensure that they have access to a power outlet as well.

Keep Pets in a Separate Room

Finally, pets can be quite disruptive to a window installation. As friendly as your pets may be, the installation team would likely prefer that they’re kept in a separate room. They don’t want to worry about your pets getting in the way or getting injured. Consider putting them in a spare bedroom for the duration of the project.

Contact Paradise Home Improvement for Your Window Services

If your Carolina home requires window replacements or service, Paradise Home Improvement is the reputable team you’ll want to call. We’ve been serving the area since 2005, and with our BBB accreditation and Angi List Super Service award, you can depend on us to provide a top-quality installation. We have a variety of window styles to choose from, including bay windows, double-hung windows, and slider windows.

Get started with us today and fill out our online form or give us a call for your free quote.

Bathroom-Friendly Decor Inspiration

We’re always looking for new and stylish ways to add personality to our homes. It may seem easier to add flair to bedrooms and living rooms than to our bathrooms, but that’s where you’d be mistaken! In fact, a bathroom is a great place to get creative with your decor, considering it has arguably less foot traffic than other rooms of the home. Bathrooms can be a great way to showcase your unique style without drawing attention from the rest of your home’s decor. If you’re looking to decorate your bathroom in an exciting way, here are a few ideas!

Metallic Hardware

If you’re looking for subtle accents to liven up your bathroom and add a polished look and feel, metallic hardware is a great place to start. Not only are these handles and knobs durable, but they match everything! For a timeless look, you can opt for silver or copper hardware, or if you’re looking for something more contemporary, try gold handles! The shinier the metal, the more contemporary it appears, so keep that in mind when viewing your options.

Plants, Plants, and More Plants!

Not only do plants bring a little style to your space, but they also help purify the air in your home and help to relieve stress and anxiety! Adding some chlorophyll-filled friends doesn’t have to turn your bathroom into a greenhouse, but it does add a cozy atmosphere to your space.

If you’re worried about forgetting about your plants, consider a succulent – they rarely need watering and are notoriously hard to kill. Another low-maintenance option is a pothos or philodendron. These low-maintenance houseplants are beginner-friendly and look great trailing down as they grow! (Or you can simply choose a fake plant – we won’t tell anyone).

Revamp with a Rug

A rug can be a great way to add new personality to your bathroom without breaking the bank! Traditional bath mats can sometimes be too plain or even take away from the decorative aesthetic of your bathroom, so instead, opt for a colorful or patterned area rug or floor runner to add visual interest! If you’re looking to emulate this idea in your own bathroom, remember to purchase a non-slip rug mat to prevent any slips down the road, and to purchase a rug that is machine-washable or made of cotton or chenille.

It’s Okay to Be a Little Shelf-ish

To transform you bathroom into a space you’ll love, try adding pieces of art or some of your favorite aromatherapy items on a small shelf! By adding items to a shelf rather than installing it directly on the wall, this gives you wiggle room when redecorating (especially for the holiday seasons). Add a pop of color with a painted floating shelf or some textural interest with a handmade vase or plant!

We hope these ideas have helped inspire you to make your bathroom one of a kind! If you’re looking to refresh the look of your shower or bath, our team is ready to help bring your vision to life! When planning a bathroom remodel, most homeowners don’t have all the answers. At Paradise Home Improvement, we have a large team dedicated to quality construction, safe installations and excellent customer service.

Bath Safety Tips for the Elderly

Outside the Bathroom

Accessibility doesn’t only apply to the bathroom space! It’s important to ensure there is a clear path in and out of the bathroom. Be sure to remove all clutter or unnecessary objects from the hallways and entryways. We all know how it feels to stub a toe – ouch!

Even worse, trying to find your way in the dark – a great tip is to plug in a nightlight or a motion-sensor light so you can see the path ahead (especially if you’re in a rush to get to the bathroom).

You may think your path is clear once you’ve installed pathway lighting and moved that old credenza, but the decluttering doesn’t stop there. Rugs and floor mats can sneak up at a moment’s notice, and can be especially dangerous if it gets snagged by a rollator or walker. Consider moving your hallway runners to another area of the house that doesn’t have as much foot traffic.

Inside the Bathroom

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), using data collected from 2012-2018, falls are the leading cause of injury among adults aged ≥65 years, who in 2014 experienced an estimated 29 million falls, resulting in 7 million fall-related injuries.

The CDC’s study found that the most hazardous activities included bathing, showering, or getting out of the tub or shower.

When it comes to home safety and accessibility, bathrooms are one of the first places in the home to take preventative measures. Here are a few tips that can help you create a safer bathing environment, especially if you or someone you know is of older age or more prone to slips and falls.

Install Grab Bars – These can allow older adults to steady themselves as they come in and out of the shower or bath.
Use a Shower Seat – If you or someone you know has difficulty standing for long periods of time, a shower seat can provide stability and comfort.
Non-Slip Mats – Slippery surfaces and water, infamously, do not mix well. To prevent slips and falls outside of the shower or bathtub, stick non-slip mats on the floor of your shower and the entryway of the shower for added safety.
Keep Things Close – An accident can happen in the blink of an eye, so the less you have to strain to grab your towel or loofah, the better. Make sure to keep either a shower caddy close by or have your items within an arm’s reach.
Make a Barrier – Keep the water in the wet areas! Opt for either a weighted shower curtain or a glass shower door so you can ensure no water goes on the floor.
Upgrade to a Walk-In Tub – Consider opting for a more permanent fixture if showering is too physically demanding. A walk-in tub is built for safety, featuring a low-step entrance, grab bars, and a built-in door. This can be a game-changer if you’re looking to enjoy bathing for relaxation again.

Ask for Help

When planning a bathroom remodel, most homeowners don’t have all the answers. At Paradise, we have a large team dedicated to quality construction, safe installations, and excellent customer service.

Small Bathroom Ideas that Make a Big Difference

A shared bathroom can become a place filled with clutter. Optimizing your space while focusing on appearance can make for a great space. With limited space in a bathroom, every inch should be utilized to be a functioning area. Here at Paradise Home Improvement, our goal is providing functional and appealing bathrooms for every homeowner, so we’ve collected a few tips on how to achieve that!

The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Remodeling the Bathroom

According to data collected by HomeAdvisor, Americans spent on average $13,000 on home projects in 2020 — nearly 50% more than they did in 2019. Around two-thirds of that went toward renovation projects, and 30% were bathroom upgrades, making it the most popular project other than simply repainting walls. In 2020, 33 percent of homeowners who renovated their master bathroom stated that the main reason behind the renovation was that they could no longer stand the old bathroom. Nearly half of all U.S. homeowners decided to change the layout of their master bathroom as part of the renovations that year. Even more common was bathroom fixture replacement—such bath or shower replacement, shower or bath conversion, or a sink upgrade—with over 4.4 million homeowners reporting having completed one of these types of projects.

At Paradise Home Improvement, we’re well aware of the popularity of bathroom remodeling as it’s one of our most commonly requested services from our customers. To us, the reason for the popularity of bathroom remodeling across the country is clear: remodeling a bathroom can be a simple, inexpensive way to refresh and modernize your entire home—and can significantly enhance the value of your home investment.

Whether you’re hoping to sell your home, raise its value, or if you’re simply seeking a more functional, beautiful environment to live in, there are many ways to successfully remodel your bathroom space. For those curious about their options for bathroom remodeling and wondering how to get started, take a look at this complete guide to remodeling the bathroom from your experts in home improvement at Paradise Home Improvement. In this guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know about getting started with your minor, major, or full bathroom renovation, and what to expect from your bathroom contractor to enjoy the most successful outcome possible.

Costly Bathroom Remodeling Mistakes

A bathroom renovation is one of the most popular home remodeling projects for homeowners every year, and for good reason. Bathrooms are one of the biggest selling points of a home, and even minor improvements can yield high returns when it’s time to list your home for sale.

Furthermore, bathroom remodeling gives homeowners a chance to update the aesthetics, showcase personal style, and ultimately to have the dream shower they’ve always wanted.

However, despite the many benefits of bathroom remodeling and the popularity of this household project, it can also be an intimidating project for many homeowners. The reason for this is simple: a lot of things can go wrong in a renovation. It’s true that mistakes can happen, but when these mistakes are costly, a decision to remodel a bathroom can turn into a high-stress problem.

At Paradise Home Improvement, we’re a local’s number one choice for high-quality home remodeling. We’ve been helping homeowners enhance their homes with beautiful bathroom renovations for over 50 years and have seen first-hand what happens when bad contractors and DIY projects go wrong. The key to a successful result lies in the experience and professionalism of your contractor, and in avoiding these most common mistakes homeowners make when starting a bathroom renovation.

Six Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a bathroom renovation project. Unfortunately, the impulse to rush through a renovation without properly planning it first is where most mistakes occur. If you want to feel confident that your next project is a guaranteed success, then make sure to avoid these pitfalls.

Messing with the Plumbing: It can be tempting to move the bathroom fixtures. Maybe you always felt like the sink would be better on the other side of the room. However, plumbing work is best left to the professionals. New plumbing is costly and is an absolute requirement when you reposition a toilet, shower, or sink in another spot. Instead, have an experienced contractor plan and execute a layout reconfiguration for the best outcome.

Lack of Vision: If you have great ideas for your bathroom redesign, go ahead and share them with an experienced interior designer. Your bathroom remodeling team will want to create a space that truly reflects your vision, so be sure to communicate clearly. Don’t leave the vision up to the designer completely—this can result in a bathroom style that you’re not happy with.
No Contracts: Don’t neglect to get a fixed-price contract in place before work begins. You need to know exactly what is being charged, at what rate, and detailed materials and labor cost sheets. While you’re at it, make sure that the contractor is experienced, licensed, and comes with excellent references before agreeing to anything.

Beauty Without Function: There are some truly beautiful bathrooms out there. With the right planning and execution, yours can be one of them. However, it’s critical that the bathroom remains functional. Unlike the living room or bedroom, the bathroom actually works for you. It’s where you bathe, wash your hands, use the facilities, and more. To that end, make sure your design is stylish but that it also allows for safety, accessibility, and comfort, too.
Compromising on Labor: We get it. Labor is an expensive cost. It’s also a worthwhile cost when done right. Don’t make the mistake of hiring strictly by the lowest price. You could be a victim to poor quality, unlicensed contractors, expensive repairs and replacements, and more. When it comes to labor, you truly get what you pay for. Make sure you choose a contractor that offers fair labor pricing while maintaining a good reputation and expertise.

Lack of Funds: Without a solid remodeling contract in place with a reputable, experienced contractor, you simply won’t know what to expect as far as cost. DIY projects and remodeling work done by less experienced or unlicensed contractors tend to cost more than expected. This is mostly due to poor planning, lack of expertise, rising materials costs, and problems that come up during the renovation. Many renovations fail because the customer runs out of money before the project is finished. Before you start the project, be sure to set up reserve funds for those unforeseen expenditures—or skip doubt entirely and get a fixed-price contract from a reputable remodeling company.

Ranked as South Carolina’s number one remodeling team, Paradise Home Improvement is proud to offer a wide range of bathroom remodeling services to our customers. From walk-in tubs to bath conversions, full bath renovations, and more, we specialize in beautiful bathroom transformations and one-day remodeling services for homeowners in Knoxville and beyond.

Ready to explore your bathroom renovation options? Then give us a call to speak with one of our agents about our professional remodeling services or fill out our online form to schedule your free, in-home pricing estimate and design consultation.

What Are Bathroom Electrical Zones?

Your bathroom needs to be functional for your lifestyle, and this can often include different electric items like outlets, lighting, fans, heaters, the list goes on. Where exactly can these additional electrical items be installed? Bathroom Electrical Zones determine where electrical can be installed in a bathroom and what type of electrical can be safely installed in that zone. When planning on installing any electrical appliance in a bathroom, it’s essential to identify the bathroom zones first, as safety is always the number one priority in any renovation or build.

7 Surprising Bathroom Updates that Make All the Difference

What Are the Best Houseplants for Your Bathroom?

Do you feel like the decor in your bathroom is missing something? Houseplants are a great way to add a personal touch to your space and to brighten your day. The humidity of a bathroom makes it a great location for plants that appreciate extra moisture. Depending on the level of light your bathroom receives, there is an ideal plant for you.

If you are interested in finding the perfect plant for your bathroom space, read on to learn more!

Boston Ferns

Boston ferns are a great choice for first-time houseplant owners because they are easy to care for. These plants love high humidity, making them well suited for the bathroom. If your bathroom has a window that allows bright, indirect sunlight to your fern, you will find that it grows quickly.

Display your fern on a small table, countertop, or consider hanging it from the ceiling.

Water it once or twice a week, and regularly check to make sure the soil does not dry out completely.

Air Plants

Air plants are a low-maintenance choice for a bathroom houseplant. These unique plants do not need soil to grow, so they can be displayed in exciting ways! With a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors to choose from, air plants will do well in any bathroom.

Since air plants do not need soil to grow, the watering process is a bit different than other houseplants. Air plants pull moisture out of the air, but if your bathroom is less humid you will need to water them. You can either soak them in a container of water for fifteen minutes or mist them. Make sure to dry the air plants upside down to prevent the leaves from rotting.

Snake Plants

Snake plants are one of the best houseplants for air purification. They are unique because they are able to release oxygen at night. They even filter the air of formaldehyde, benzene, and other harmful pollutants.

These plants are a great choice for bathrooms that receive less light. Depending on the humidity in your bathroom, a snake plant should be watered once every 2 to 8 weeks. The hardy snake plant is a great choice for the laid-back houseplant owner!

Bromeliads

Native to tropical regions, bromeliads are a great way to add color to a bathroom space. Their long-lasting blooms come in a variety of shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow. The humidity of your bathroom will help these plants thrive.

Bathrooms that receive a moderate amount of sunlight are best for bromeliads. Too much sun and a bromeliad can get bleached out, and not enough sun can turn the plants’ leaves brown.

The tank, or vase-shaped space at the center of the plant where the leaves overlap, will collect water. Keep water in this tank at all times, but do not allow it to stagnate. Changing the water out once a week will help prevent rotting.

Displaying houseplants is a great way to customize your space to reflect your personal style! Decorating your bathroom with houseplants does not have to be a chore with these low-maintenance options.

Are you in love with the look of your bathrooms? If the answer is no, we can help bring your bathrooms up to date with our remodeling services. Request a free online quote today to see how we can help transform your bathroom into the space of your dreams!

Bathroom Lighting Ideas to Create a Dreamy Atmosphere

The bathroom is a sanctuary where many people start and end their day. When you are in the bathroom, you want to feel relaxed and comfortable. Here are some bathroom lighting ideas that can help you elevate your space and make it unique to you.

Lighting Around The Mirror

When you are getting ready for the day, you want to make sure that the final product of your grooming routine looks the same outside as it did in your bathroom mirror. Being able to see clearly while you get ready in front of your bathroom mirror is essential.

To improve your bathroom mirror lighting, consider installing LED backlighting. This can create a halo of light that surrounds your mirror. A backlit mirror is a beautiful statement piece in the bathroom while also being highly functional.

Chandeliers and Pendant Lighting

A great way to draw the eye upward in the bathroom is the inclusion of chandeliers and pendant lighting in your lighting plan. This style of lighting is a great way to express your personal taste and create a unique space. From modern to antique-style lighting fixtures, there are decorative lighting options to fit every bathroom.

Pro Tip: When choosing any lighting fixture for the bathroom, its location is important to consider. As long as your bathroom is well ventilated, any style of light fixture should be suitable above the sink. Lighting fixtures in the shower need to be wet-rated, and fixtures above a tub should at least be damp-rated.

Increasing Natural Light

If you are a lover of natural light, adding skylights and windows will certainly make your bathroom more inviting. If privacy is a concern, a frosted glass will allow in natural light while keeping people from seeing into your bathroom. If the windows in your bathroom or any other area of your home are in need of an update, check out our window replacement process here.

Other Considerations

If you want the level of lighting to adjust to your preference throughout the day, dimmable light fixtures are a good option. The amount of light you will want when you are getting ready for the day in the morning might be different when you are unwinding in the bath in the evening.

The kind of bulbs in your bathroom lighting fixtures is also another important factor. Different bulbs cast different colors of light, affecting the atmosphere of a space. The color temperature of light bulbs is denoted by the Kelvin rating. For the bathroom, we recommend warm white light (3,000 to 4,0000 Kelvins) or cool white light (4,000 to 5,000 Kelvins), depending on your personal preference. The warm white light will have a yellow cast, while the cool white will be bluer.

Making your bathroom inviting and functional for your life is such a rewarding feeling! Customization through lighting and decor can make your bathroom uniquely your own. Is your bathroom meeting your expectations? If the answer to that question is no, we are here to help! You can request a free online quote today to find out how we can turn your bathroom into your dream space.