Timing: Timing is everything they say. Lead times are creeping up again. I am hearing more and more talk of significant pricing increases on the horizon. If you want a new kitchen, bathroom or any other room remodeled in your home before the holidays you should get started soon.
Trends – Flight to Quality: Yes I know that term is typically used in financial markets. Perhaps this is a sign of a tightening economy. I am finding that many quality contractors and design professionals are still busy. Simultaneously I am seeing other less established or experienced contractors finding it difficult to stay busy.
Trends – Smart Toilets: These are not just upgraded toilet seats. Yes they are here to stay. How smart are they? That depends on your budget. Some are using less than one gallon to flush now. Some can auto clean, not just you but the toilet itself. Some are made with better ceramic like Toto’s Neorest NX22 feature CEFIONTECT an ultra-smooth ceramic glaze plus their best technology. Both Kohler and Toto offer styling from traditional to modern.
Pricing can vary widely depending on your choices from $1,500.00 to north of $ 22,000.00. Are they worth it. You would be surprised by how many people say yes after they have used them for a while. Here are some links to read more about smart toilets.
Toto’s Washlet+ https://www.totousa.com/products/washlet#subcategories=10175212631916030446
Toto’s Neorest Line – https://www.totousa.com/neorest
Kohler Smart Toilets – https://www.kohler.com/en/products/smart-home/shop-smart-toilets
Trend? – Is Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Out? – Food For Thought Anyways
For as long as there have been bathrooms in homes there has been tile in bathrooms. But “the times they are a changin” as they say. This is being driven by product innovation, economics and a shortage of skilled labor.
Is Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Out? In a sense yes. The introduction of large format porcelain products in 4’ X 8’ slabs such as Cossentino’s Dekton as well as the ready availability of 1 CM and 2CM Quartz slabs has made cladding a shower walls or fireplace surrounds and some cases entire (accent) walls.
Aron Rissman from Mr. Floor.
I asked Aron Rissman from Mr. Floor for his input on flooring options available to homeowners today
“Everyone loves hardwood flooring! Its warmth and natural beauty elevate any room where it’s used. However, when selecting new flooring it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the room where it will be installed. Environmental conditions can significantly impact the floor’s performance and longevity. For example, in a full bathroom using hardwood flooring is not recommended because wood absorbs moisture from steam and naturally expands and contracts with fluctuations in humidity and temperature. More suitable alternatives for a bathroom include porcelain or ceramic tile, or luxury vinyl flooring, which are more stable in humid sometimes wet environments. Natural stone tile, which performs well in a bathroom, is another excellent option. However, natural stone like granite, marble and travertine require regular maintenance, such as sealing, to prevent discoloration and staining. Unlike porcelain and ceramic, natural stone is porous and absorbs moisture. For all the other rooms in your home where temperature and humidity are consistent and controlled, even a powder room, hardwood flooring is an excellent and affordable choice.”
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The Ask the Kitchen Guy Blog by Jeff Kida is the property of DDS Design Services, LLC. All rights are reserved by the owner.
