McClurg's Home Remodeling Blog

Each year we look forward to the publication of REMODELING Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report” and to reviewing industry trends both nationally and within our geographic region — the Mid-Atlantic region. One of the most significant changes in the 2013 report is that the expected return on investment (ROI), which measures the difference between average construction cost estimates and estimated resale value, increased for almost all projects.

Central New York summers come and go much too quickly. Homeowners in our area truly appreciate the season and enjoy outdoor living spaces. If you’re planning to build or replace a deck, there are many new decking products and features to consider that will add beauty and comfort to your home.

Central New York winters take a toll on the exterior of our homes. Now that spring has finally arrived, it’s time to go outdoors and look for home damage and repairs that need to be made. If you have a deck, you will want to be sure it’s in good condition and safe to use for summer leisure and entertaining.

Kitchen cabinets are an essential feature in any home. They provide functional storage and help define the look of the kitchen. Homeowners often look for cabinet styles that are classic and timeless. Cabinetry should also complement the architectural style of a home and interior design. 

Designing a staircase is like putting the pieces of a puzzle together. There are many details to address as you make design decisions. First, you’ll want to become familiar with the various parts of a staircase and terminology because you will find there are many design options to consider that add both architectural interest and function to your staircase. Second, there are building codes that apply to interior and exterior staircases. Building codes specify the height of risers, size of stairs and slope of a staircase.

One of the hottest looks in today’s kitchens and bathrooms is marble counters. The white and gray tones of marble complement almost any style of cabinetry and a multitude of finishes. While the look is hot, quarried marble is more porous than other popular stone surfaces (granite and quartz) and requires more TLC. 

In any kitchen, the sink always receives the most daily use. Therefore, it’s important to choose a sink that is right for you. There are a variety of materials used for sinks and various styles. Each has advantages and disadvantages.

If you’re planning to remodel your master bathroom consider including features to create a comfortable and enjoyable personal retreat. A good master bath design should address both function and style. Some master baths are small but can be equipped for comfort. Others are large but may require reconfiguration to add amenities. Or, you may be starting fresh by adding a master bath addition. In each case, here are twelve essential comfort items to consider in your master bath remodeling plans:

Kitchen islands provide a space for food prep, informal seating, storage, and can also be a location for appliances or a sink. When designing a kitchen island, it’s important to understand the basics, your needs and options. Here are five design tips to help you get started:

We frequently work on older homes (i.e., those built prior to 1980). Once a home reaches the 30-year mark, things begin to wear out or become outdated. Remodeling becomes a necessity.