Eight Great Bathroom Upgrades

They are usually the smallest rooms in the house but having stylish and comfortable bathrooms is a remodeling job with one of the biggest payoffs. Not only will you see costs recouped if you’re considering putting your house on the market, but a home with upgraded and fully functional bathrooms will make your family feel much more zen too. Here are eight ideas to give your bathrooms a boost without spending a fortune.

Health & Safety

If your bathroom doesn’t have proper ventilation, you will end up with mold and mildew growing on the walls and ceiling. A replacement fan will cost under $100 and you can install it yourself to ensure that the moisture caused by the shower is being extracted properly. Remember, you’ll need to measure the bathroom first to ensure you get the right fan for the job. 

Environmentally Friendly

If you want to do your part for the environment, you can update your bathroom with water-saving fixtures. Many of the big box stores, as well as local retailers, carry energy-efficient models that can cut water flow by upwards of 30 percent, making for a healthier planet and a happier utility bill. 

Neat & Tidy

If you can’t stand cleaning the shower, this one's for you. Today you can find shower doors that are finished with a water-resistant coating that sheds the droplets that leave unsightly little stains. If you’re constantly walking around with a squeegee in hand, this upgrade might just make your weekend cleaning routine just a little easier. 

Semi-Custom

If you’re looking to replace your cabinetry, take a look at some of the semi-custom options available from the major retailers. There are even companies that spruce up IKEA cabinets to make them look more personalized and stylish. If you can’t afford to replace the cabinets, a new lick of paint can breathe new life into old doors.

Get Organized

If your cabinets are in good shape but they are tough to reach or annoying to get into, a cabinet organizer might be for you. Most systems include sliding surfaces which make reaching items in the back a whole lot easier. No more digging in the dark. 

Lights and Mirrors

Dated mirrors or lighting fixtures can bring a bathroom down. Kick it up a notch and keep an eye on the sales flyers for accent pieces to give your bathroom a boost for very little effort. Backlit mirrors are very on trend this year as are soft metallics and mixed metals. 

Counters

Granite countertops are a pricey remodeling project, but these days you can get the look for less by getting creative. Talk to your local countertop expert about where to look for remnant slabs, or consider cheaper options like a preformed laminate finish.

Spa Touches

Make your shower more luxurious by replacing the old head. I personally love a rain shower, but a handheld sprayer can feel great after a long day and it makes cleaning a cinch. You can also replace your old shower curtain with a more modern update for less than $20. You won’t believe how a little change can make a big difference. 

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Rebate Programs for Connecticut Home Improvements

If you’ve ever thought about renovating your home but you’re conscious about the planet, it’s worth making sure you’re up to speed on some of the rebates and incentives offered by EnergizeCT. As conscientious consumers, making smart decisions about your home remodeling while doing good for the planet is always a great idea. Here are some of the programs available this summer:

• Heat Pump: there are big savings for people looking to upgrade their heat and air conditioning. Work with a qualified contractor for your equipment and installation and you can get up to $15,000 in combined incentives.

• Pool Pumps: a summer of swimming is always fun but maintenance? Not so much. If you’re in the market for a new pool pump, Eversource customers can get a rebate of up to $100. The offer says you can save up to $290 a year in energy costs since the new ones use up to 18 percent less energy than a standard pump.

• Air Purifiers: these became a hot item after COVID and they continue to be popular amongst homeowners. You can snag $40 off a qualifying unit through the program and save money long-term too. ENERGY STAR® certified air purifiers are more than 25% more energy-efficient than standard models

• Dehumidifiers: during the summer months, I dump my basement dehumidifier twice a day. Excess moisture is a real problem in many homes and it can lead to mold and mildew if not dealt with. The average dehumidifier costs about $300 but you can get up to $25 off per qualifying unit with this incentive program

• Insulation: If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know how important having enough insulation is in the home. In addition to warmer winters and cooler summers, insulation is also a valuable improvement upon resale. You can get up to $1.70 per square foot for your insulation project which includes both batts and blown fiberglass. 

• Boilers and Furnaces: both of these essential appliances have a 20-year lifespan so if you’re coming to the end of yours, taking advantage of the rebate is a good idea. You can get up to $750 back if you choose an energy-efficient model and there is financing available too. 

• Thermostats: I love being able to set and adjust the temperature of my house from anywhere and it’s great for the planet too. Choose a Smart thermostat like Google Nest and get an $85 instant rebate. Plus they estimate energy savings of up to $180 on electric and $565 on gas.

As with any program or incentive, it’s always smart to read the fine print to ensure you qualify for the rebates. Head to energizect.com for the latest list of offerings and availability and happy home improvement shopping!

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Protecting Your Home From Attic Moisture

If your attic holds a lot of moisture, it can cause a lot of problems for the health of your home. Last week we took a deep dive into the most common culprits of humidity and this week we’ll be talking about how to remedy those issues. To get rid of moisture in your attic, you'll need to identify and address the underlying causes. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Find the source: If your attic humidity level is high, first determine what is causing the excess moisture. The most likely culprits are inadequate ventilation and insulation, roof leaks, or a plumbing issue.

2. Improve ventilation: Most houses that I visit do not have enough ventilation. It’s truly the best way to reduce moisture buildup and keep the temperature in your home more regulated year-round. 

3. Look for air leaks: Check for any gaps, cracks, or openings that might be allowing warm, moist air from your home to enter the attic. Seal these leaks with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent the transfer of moisture. It will also help if critters tend to find their way into the attic.

4. Insulate properly: Insulation helps regulate temperature and prevent condensation. Ensure your attic is adequately insulated to minimize temperature differences between the interior and exterior. Insulation is not just helpful for the winter months, it’s actually crucial year-round.

5. Assess for roof leaks: Inspect your roof for any signs of leaks or damaged shingles or if you’re not comfortable on a ladder, contact a professional. They will inspect both in interior and exterior of the home and be able to advise on appropriate repairs or replacements.

6. Address plumbing issues: If there are plumbing pipes or HVAC ducts running through your attic, check for any leaks or condensation. Repair any leaks and insulate the pipes or ducts to prevent moisture buildup.

7. Control humidity levels: Excessive humidity in your home can contribute to attic moisture problems. Use dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms, to control moisture levels. Additionally, ensure your kitchen and bathroom vents are properly vented to the exterior, not into the attic.

8. Monitor and maintain: Regularly inspect your attic for signs of moisture or mildew. If you notice any issues, promptly address them to prevent further damage.

Attics are always tricky because they are so rarely occupied. However, if humidity levels increase the moisture will become a mold problem very quickly, which is hazardous to both your home’s health and yours. When in doubt, always contact a professional for guidance. A licensed contractor will be able to help remediate any problems both in the short and long term.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.