Where should I prepare meals while my kitchen is being worked on?

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There are several places you can set up a makeshift kitchen while your kitchen proper undergoes reinvention. A few we recommend are:

  1. A corner of your dining room
  2. A section of your living room
  3. A parcel of your finished basement

Ultimately, you need enough space to accommodate a small prep area, a compact cooking appliance or two (e.g. portable induction cooktop, toaster oven, or microwave), and a mini-fridge (if not the full-sized fridge from the previous iteration of your kitchen). Proximity to running water is the biggest challenge for most folks — we’ve seen people utilize laundry room sinks, basement or garage utility sinks, or even the hose outside during the warmer months.

We know that surviving a kitchen remodel can be tough, so restoring running water within 4 weeks is our first priority.

How do I choose the right appliance package for my new kitchen?

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There are a few things to consider when choosing the right appliance package for your kitchen, and we’ll review these things thoroughly prior to project kickoff:

  1. Functionality: There is a kitchen appliance for absolutely anything and everything you might want to accomplish in the kitchen nowadays. We’ll start with the essentials (refrigerator, oven/range, and dishwasher) before diving into more niche products. Modern high-end appliances offer some pretty awesome features and we work closely with our appliance supplier to find a match for your needs.
  2. Budget: We firmly believe that kitchen appliances should be equal to their surroundings, and therefore strongly advise our clients to leave room in their budgets for higher-end appliances that fit in with the beautiful new kitchen remodel you just invested in!
  3. Power: Electrical requirements are growing substantially, with most high-end appliances requiring dedicated circuits. What used to be an average of 5 dedicated circuits required for a kitchen has now grown to 7-10+ depending on the package. Everything draws power and we have to be mindful of the space in the panel and what is required by code, as well as your needs.

What is the difference between a pantry cabinet and a pantry closet?

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The main difference between a pantry cabinet and a pantry closet is how they make use of space. A pantry closet is effectively a small room with 2-3 shelves and then the floor space below for storage. In larger homes, it can be a luxury to have a large, walk-in pantry closet.

But we tend to favor full-height (i.e. floor to ceiling) pantry cabinets for their flexibility and versatility — their entire cubic volume is dedicated to storage and storage alone (they don’t have to accommodate walk-ins), and we can combine stationary and pull-out shelving for a fully customized storage solution. Plus, they’re a lot nicer to look at.

Are kitchen islands going out of style?

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Hardly — at least from our point of view! A large kitchen island (in tandem with a more open layout) remains a highly popular request for the simple fact that family and guests almost always hover in the kitchen. A dedicated gathering area in one of the most communal spaces in the home just makes too much sense for most folks.

Do I need a microwave in my modern kitchen?

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Not necessarily — in fact, some customers are forgoing them altogether. One thing is certain — microwaves in modern kitchens have assumed a much lower profile than they used to. Mounting a microwave over the range has become exceedingly rare in modern kitchen design —which leaves room for the range hood to become a statement piece.

Still, the convenience of a microwave is tough for most folks to give up entirely. To minimize their influence on the overall kitchen aesthetic, we’ll often hide them in base cabinets or install a sleeker and more integrated alternative, such as a steam oven or microwave drawer.

 

What is the most popular backsplash for kitchens?

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One of the emerging trends in kitchen backsplashes has been large-format tiles or slab backsplashes, with a preference towards natural stone and a sleeker, more modern, European feel. Integrating the backsplash with the same countertop material — another popular request — requires a lot of planning and attention to detail.

What is the best material for kitchen countertops?

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The best material for kitchen countertops depends on your priorities in terms of aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and budget. In general, kitchen counter materials fall into one of two major categories:

Natural Stone

Pros:

  • Aesthetics: Natural stone, such as granite, marble, and soapstone, offers unique, one-of-a-kind patterns and colors that can add a luxurious and timeless look to your kitchen.
  • Durability: Many natural stones, like granite, are very durable and heat-resistant.
  • Value: Natural stone can add value to your home due to its high-end appeal.

Cons:

  • Maintenance: Natural stone is porous and often requires regular sealing to prevent stains and damage, especially marble.
  • Cost: It can be more expensive than some engineered options.
  • Variability: The natural variation in stone can be a pro or con, depending on your preference for uniformity.

Engineered Materials

Pros:

  • Durability: Engineered materials like quartz are non-porous, making them generally resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria without the need for sealing.
  • Consistency: They offer consistent patterns and colors, which can be a plus if you prefer a uniform look.
  • Low Maintenance: Generally easier to maintain than natural stone, requiring only regular cleaning.

Cons:

  • Aesthetics: While engineered materials can mimic the look of natural stone, some people feel they lack the unique character of natural stone.
  • Heat Resistance: Some engineered materials, such as solid surface, may not be as heat-resistant as natural stone and will need to be insulated against hot pots and pans.

While both materials include very impressive and quality offerings, we find many of our customers opt for natural stone for its unique, timeless beauty — but higher-end engineered countertops can pretty closely approximate the look.

How do I brighten a dark kitchen?

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Brightening up a dark kitchen can make it feel more inviting and spacious. Here are some effective strategies to achieve this:

A well-orchestrated kitchen lighting layout that provides ample illumination overall while highlighting prime task areas and focal points. Our go-to lighting types are:

  • Recessed overhead lighting (aka can lights): Provide general illumination while providing a clean, modern look.
  • Under-Cabinet Lighting: Add LED strip lights or puck lights under cabinets to illuminate countertops.
  • Pendant Lights: Use pendant lights over islands or dining areas to add focused lighting and style.

Windows and skylights

  • A garden or casement window behind the sink is standard for most kitchens.
  • Picture windows with large viewing areas are great if you’re blessed with a beautiful yard or natural surroundings. Keep windows unobstructed and use sheer or light-colored window treatments.
  • Skylights and/or solar tubes will bring in more natural light

Colors and finishes

  • Light, neutral colors for walls and cabinets reflect more light and give a sense of more dimension.
  • If utilizing darker colors or stains for cabinetry, we recommend contrasting with lighter countertops and/or floors.
  • Stainless steel appliances are reflective and will help your new kitchen sparkle.

Declutter!

  • We don’t necessarily need to knock out walls to create a more open feel. Open shelving can free up some wall space, while nifty build-ins and storage solutions help our customers preserve precious counter space.

Do I need a permit to remodel a kitchen?

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In Gloucester County, New Jersey, you typically need a permit for most kitchen remodeling projects, especially if they involve significant changes. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Structural Changes: If your remodel involves structural changes, such as removing or adding walls, you will likely need a building permit.
  • Electrical and Plumbing Work: Any work that involves changes to the electrical or plumbing systems usually requires a permit. This includes moving or adding outlets, installing new lighting, or relocating plumbing fixtures.
  • Major Renovations: For major renovations that change the layout or significantly alter the kitchen, a permit is generally required.
  • Cosmetic Updates: Simple cosmetic updates, such as painting, replacing countertops, or installing new cabinets without altering the layout, may not require a permit. However, it’s always best to check with local authorities.

Ayars will secure all necessary permits on your behalf prior to beginning work.

How do I prevent mold in the shower?

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The best way to prevent mold in the shower (and the bathroom in general) is proper ventilation. Venting that air outside — rather than into the attic or soffit — is the best way to limit the accumulation of condensation that fuels mold growth, rust, and peeling paint. Moisture in a bathroom is inevitable, but deterioration as a result of it can be avoided.

As an added failsafe, Ayars often installs timer switches that run the fan for a full hour after the shower is done, drying things up and preserving your investment. Another of our standard inclusions with bathroom remodels is the Schluter System — a series of waterproof membranes applied as a substrate to all tiled floors, shower walls, and shower pans. This prevents moisture from penetrating into floors, ceilings, and walls — which can be problematic and potentially destructive over time.

How can I increase water pressure in my shower?

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You can increase the water pressure — as well as the volume of the water flow — with a new showerhead and transfer valve. Many of our customers pair these upgrades with a handheld shower wand and drop ell, giving themselves access to a fully customized shower experience. (Precision temperature control and steam settings add another layer of luxury!)

How big should a master bathroom be?

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Ideally, a master bathroom should be big enough to allow you to spread your wings a little — that’s kind of the point! We prefer to leave enough square footage for:

  • A well-appointed walk-in shower enclosure
  • A comfort-height double vanity (sometimes referred to as “his and hers” or “jack and jill”)
  • A comfort-height elongated toilet
  • Ample storage space (linen closet, etc.)

If we have the room and budget for a more extensive master bathroom buildout, we can look to incorporate separate “zones” for a more personal, spa-like experience:

  • Bathing (we prefer a freestanding tub)
  • Showering
  • Toileting
  • Grooming
  • Linens and laundry

Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom in New Jersey?

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A permit is needed to remodel a bathroom in New Jersey if:

  • Plumbing or electrical work is required
  • There will be structural changes to accommodate the footprint of the remodeled bathroom (e.g. knocking out a wall, absorbing closet space, etc.)
  • You’ll be adding skylights or windows (this means cutting into walls and framing)
  • You’re installing a new water heater

The Ayars team will acquire all permits necessary to realize your bathroom remodeling goals.

How long does a bathroom remodel take?

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A bathroom remodel can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the size and scope of the project. At Ayars, we emphasize preparation and organization to shorten the timelines of all of our remodeling projects — ordering all materials well in advance of our start date so our craftsmen have everything they need to hit the ground running.

How much does it cost to remodel a bathroom?

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The cost of remodeling a bathroom is highly variable — the size of the bathroom, the quality of finish materials and fixtures, and the number of customized or smart features will all play a role in the project cost. Plumbing and electrical complexities can significantly escalate the overall expense, so it’s important to exhaust all the possibilities with your current bathroom layout before reconfiguring.

We will talk you through these things extensively during the consultation and design phases to ensure full transparency before beginning work.

What should I consider when contemplating a wet bar vs. dry bar in my basement?

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The main challenge to consider is utility hookups, especially if you favor a wet bar. Bar areas and kitchenettes have many of the same plumbing complexities as the bathroom. The pump system can often be hidden under the sink in the cabinet, but depending on the layout sometimes we create a small closet to house the pump system to not steal cabinet space. Beverage fridges, ice makers, small dishwashers have all been more common requests in these areas as clients want all of the creature comforts of the main floor brought into the basement.

Can you finish a basement with low ceilings?

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With some creativity, a basement with low ceilings can be finished. Low ceiling heights in a basement in certain key areas are inevitable unless it is a new home construction with engineered joists and mechanicals were carefully considered to maximize ceiling heights. The trick in basements is to move the things you can and what makes sense in terms of electrical and plumbing, work around key ductwork and use light colors and good lighting to maximize the feeling of space.

Are basement egress windows required in New Jersey?

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Currently New Jersey building codes only require that egress windows be installed in basement bedrooms — so if you’re hoping to add an in-law suite or give your teen their own space, they’re a must.

Nonetheless, we consider egress window wells essential for any finished basement — not only for a safe route of egress (escape) in the event of an emergency, but also because they allow for natural light and ventilation that would be impossible to achieve otherwise. You can be assured of a quality install through our trade partner just down the road in Mullica Hill, Egress Solutions

Can you put a bathroom in a basement?

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Adding a bathroom to a basement living space is a frequent request but there are a couple of conditions to consider:

  • Septic Systems – Septic systems have specific requirements when adding a basement bathroom since the waste water is discharged with a pump and a separate dosing tank is required. There is often an additional requirement to enlarge the size of the septic field and both of these items combined can be extremely expensive and often take away this possibility.
  • Pump System – Most bathrooms create a significant amount of waste water and require the installation of a croc/pump system in the floor to handle the water, which is then eliminated by a specialty pump designed to handle the volume. The pump has to push the water up to the sewer line so that it can then run out to the street with the rest of the waste water. This also includes check valves so that water can’t come back into the system, dedicated circuits for the pump, and dedicated circuits for the alarm system so that the client is alerted to a failure. These pumps are laborious to install and require cutting up concrete and running all of the drain lines to the system below the concrete slab.
  • Exhaust Fans – Required by code, exhaust fans must be present for both powder rooms and full bathrooms alike. The size of the fan is critical to evacuate the air and the path to the exterior can also be challenging.

 

How can I prevent moisture and water issues from surfacing in a finished basement?

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Making sure the basement does not have any water issues before finishing is paramount. If there are signs of water in the basement, we’ll often make a referral to a local basement waterproofing company and recommend you get that work done a year in advance of your remodel to ensure that the problems have been properly remedied. An ounce of medicine is worth a pound of cure!

Because humidity can be a concern in the summer months, we’ll talk to you about considering steel stud framing over wood framing for added moisture resistance. Supplemented with proper insulation and ventilation, you can be assured your finished basement will stay dry for years to come.