finnteriors, Author at Finnteriors

December 2, 2021 by finnteriors

5 Commercial Flooring Options

Is the flooring in your commercial property showing signs of wear and tear? Are you ready to invest in replacing it with a new look but can’t decide among the many options available to you?

Hopefully, this article will make it easier for you to choose the right flooring that’s best for your business.

Factors in Choosing the Right Flooring Type

There are several factors that weigh into what type of flooring is best for your property. The majority of them are:

Cost
Durability
Comfort
Maintenance

Colors
Intended use
Noise
Sustainability

With these factors in mind, we’ll compare the six major types of flooring and how they each stack up.

1. Laminate Wood Flooring

Laminate wood floors are found in many commercial buildings. They are affordable, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance. There are many styles and wood finishes available. Especially when compared to hardwood floors, laminate flooring will weather a lot of abuse. It is water-resistant and easy to clean.

There are downfalls to laminate wood floors. They cannot be easily repaired. If one or a few boards get damaged, it may be difficult to find a match. Replacing the entire floor is the only option for it to look uniform. Contrary to some beliefs, laminate floors are not waterproof. If water is not cleaned up quickly, the floor will buckle and warp. Because of the difficulty in matching the rest of the floor, the entire floor will need replacement if this happens. Also, compared to carpeting, laminate flooring can be noisier.

2. Hardwood Flooring

There are two kinds of hardwood flooring; engineered hardwood and solid hardwood. Solid hardwood is exactly that: planks of solid wood of different species that are usually treated and finished for preservation. Engineered hardwood has several layers of plywood, fiberboard, or hardwood, with the outermost layer consisting of a hardwood veneer.

Both regular hardwood and engineered hardwood provide a high-end look wherever they are installed. The main difference is in the durability of the engineered hardwood over solid wood. Because of the solid construction of the engineered hardwood, it is more stable and resistant to water damage. It is easier to install and costs less than hardwood. Solid hardwood is not as eco-friendly as engineered hardwood, since it’s made directly from trees, whereas engineered hardwood uses a fraction of those resources.

3. SPC Vinyl Flooring

Stone plastic composite (SPC) vinyl flooring is a commercial flooring choice that’s great for high-traffic areas. It is completely waterproof and extremely durable. It consists of four layers that create a solid surface that resists wear and tear. It can be made to resemble the look of wood, tile, or stone. It’s easy to install, clean, and maintain.

The initial cost layout for SPC vinyl flooring is considerable, but because of its durability, is still a great value. Its surface is more rigid than other flooring choices, so comfort can be a drawback.

4. Vinyl Flooring

We’re combining two types of vinyl flooring in this category: Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). The main difference between the two is that LVT flooring has a clear protective layer on top that preserves the color and finish, whereas VCT will eventually need to be stripped and sealed when it wears away. LVT has a higher-end look than VCT, as well.

Both VCT and LVT tile are made from synthetic materials that can mimic the look of more expensive materials, like hardwood or stone but are much easier to maintain. They work great in high-traffic areas like schools, hospitals, and hotel lobbies. Both come in a wide selection of patterns and colors and are moisture-resistant.

Vinyl flooring, while quite durable and less expensive than other flooring options, may not maintain its appearance as well. It can fade if exposed to UV rays and can dent or puncture with heavy use or foot traffic. Damaged sections can be hard to replace if the floor is faded or discolored. Compared with other flooring systems, vinyl has a bigger impact on the environment, since volatile chemicals are released during the production process.

5. Carpeting

Many offices, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial entities still want the warm and luxurious look of carpeting. Commercial carpeting can be either a large roll of carpet or separate carpet tiles. There are many different fibers and styles to choose from, depending on traffic and use. Carpeting absorbs noise and provides added warmth better than hard flooring surfaces.

Many homes and businesses have replaced traditional carpeting with other types of flooring requiring less maintenance. Carpet fibers still retain dirt and allergens, whereas hard flooring can be swept or mopped to easily remove the debris, making it a healthier environment. Spills can cause staining and if moisture isn’t immediately removed, mold and mildew can settle in.

Choose an Experienced Professional to Install Your Commercial Flooring

No matter which type of flooring you choose for your business, call on the professionals at Finnteriors to install it for you. We can advise you on the best options for your needs. We’ve been in business for over 30 years, serving the St. Louis community.

Give us a call today for all your commercial or residential remodeling needs. As always, we offer a free consultation on any project.

FREE Consultation!

October 31, 2021 by finnteriors

How to Choose the Right Countertop Materials

Kitchens and bathrooms are possibly the most pre-owned parts of your home. It feels excellent when you see these two spaces completely created and styled. The method to do this is to find the best countertop for your kitchen and the perfect vanity for your bathroom.

Your kitchen countertop can be the most crucial aspect of your home. This is where you prepare your food and may even be used for interacting socially. In fact, the kitchen countertop is the heart of your home. So it is very important that the countertops in your kitchen are practical, yet attractive and long-lasting.

10 Countertop Materials to Consider

There are different kinds of countertops to choose from, depending upon the atmosphere of the home and the theme of the style of the whole home.

1. Quartz Countertops

Quartz has surpassed granite in the popularity contest for countertop materials. It is made from natural quartz that is ground up and mixed with resin, then molded into slabs. Quartz is durable and easier to maintain than other types of materials and is available in various patterns and colors. It resists heat, scratching, and stains, although some very hot items may damage the surface. It’s available in many colors and patterns, although not as many as with natural stone..

Quartz does not require sealing, as it is a nonporous surface.

2. Granite Countertops

Granite is probably the most durable material available for a countertop. Its hard surface resists very high heat, scratching, and damage from other everyday occurrences; however, it is prone to chipping. There are several colors to choose from, as well as a few different patterns. If you’re looking for a unique and elegant look, granite is a great choice.

4. Quartzite Countertops

Quartzite is a natural material made of stone. It is very thick and hard to cut, making it more expensive to install if there are complex designs. It also comes in several grades and the higher ends can be pricey. However, it is durable and low-maintenance and resists damage from very hot pots.

4. Concrete Countertops

Using concrete for your countertops can be a great economical option that also looks great. It comes in many different colors. Depending on the source of the concrete, it can vary in pigmentation and colors, so each product is unique. It resists heat and scratching but can be stained. It requires periodic resealing to maintain its appearance and custom concrete countertops can be more expensive than other options.

5. Laminate Countertops

If you’re looking for an economical solution that offers a huge variety of colors and patterns, go with laminate. Laminate countertops can be paired with colorful backsplashes for a beautiful aesthetic. They are very easy to maintain and clean; simply wipe with soap and water or a gentle cleanser.

6. Wood Countertops

Wood or butcher block countertops offer a warm and cozy look in your kitchen. It is less costly than other choices but is prone to scratching, staining, and damage from hot pots. It’s also a porous surface that can stain if spills aren’t quickly cleaned up. It’s important to keep wood sealed for the best performance.

7. Paper Composite Countertops

If you’re looking for a countertop that is eco-friendly, paper composite is a great choice. It’s made of layers of recycled paper, bound with resin. It mimics the look and feel of soft stone, but with a much larger choice of colors and patterns. This material is easy to cut and install and can be used both inside and outside. It resists water and any scratches and burn marks can be sanded out. However, it is easy to burn with hot objects and must be oiled regularly to keep its aesthetic appearance.

8. Corian Countertops

Corian is made from a plastic polymer resin base, sometimes mixed with sand. This material results in a seamless surface that is easy to maintain and clean. It is available in a wide variety of colors. However, if you’re looking for a more natural look, Corian may not be for you. It is also prone to damages from hot items and can scratch easier than other materials.

9. Porcelain Countertops

Porcelain countertops have become popular in recent years. They are even stronger than granite. Porcelain can be used outdoors and are heat and stain-resistant. It is an eco-friendly material that is easily recycled. It is rather delicate, however, and can crack from blunt force. It offers limited edge profile options.

10. Marble Countertops

Marble has been popular in kitchens and bathrooms for decades. It adds an elegant look to any home. Marble countertops are conducive to baking, especially with pastry. They can be easily scratched and stained; however, honed marble can make these imperfections less noticeable.

Choose the Right Contractor to Install Your Countertops

Whatever material you choose for your kitchen or bathroom countertops, you’ll need to hire an experienced remodeling contractor for installation. Finnteriors Construction Services has been remodeling St. Louis area homes for over 20 years. We’ll help you decide on the right look for your countertops and install them professionally and accurately.

Give us a call today to schedule your free consultation.

FREE Consultation!

September 29, 2021 by finnteriors

Design Considerations for a Gourmet Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most important areas of your home. Before starting the design of your dream kitchen, think about your household’s needs and set goals. Even if you’re an amateur chef or an occasional cook, gourmet kitchens make it easier to prepare, cook and enjoy your meals.

The kitchen layout will need to be big enough to hold everything a gourmet chef needs, while still providing a cooking station with all the necessary ingredients and tools within arm’s reach. Your gourmet kitchen must be designed around you and your preferred style of cooking. A baker’s needs will be different from say a person specializing in raw foods, just as a vegetarian will choose different appliances and accessories than a meat-eater.

Kitchen Design Specifications to Consider

Start with the basics, for example, which appliances do you use frequently? Try to think beyond your everyday appliances; what other types do you often rely on? It can be everything from your Insta Pot to your air fryer or toaster oven. Then consider how many people are typically preparing food in the kitchen on a consistent basis.

The next important decision is how much storage room will be needed. Having a gourmet kitchen tends to include specialty tools and spices that will need to be stored in a location convenient for cooking. Finally, decide if the kitchen will be set up for entertaining guests or strictly for preparing food. Having answers to these criteria will help you create a kitchen design that will fulfill your needs.

Creating Your Floor Plan

To utilize all a gourmet kitchen has to offer, an open floor plan will work best. Creating an open kitchen layout gives ease of movement from your prep counter to the stove. If you want a kitchen with room for guests, an open floor plan is a must have. This will allow you to engage with your guests while also completing the finishing touches to dinner.

The best open floor plan will include a spacious island because a true gourmet kitchen requires more than the typical counter space for preparing meals. A large kitchen island will not only give you extra space for meal prep, but it can also be used for entertaining with extra seating for your guests. It is like having a second kitchen in the center of the room.

The gourmet kitchen should have plenty of cabinets and drawers for storage, plus other features like ovens, and even a second dishwashing area. Be sure to include plenty of power outlets and a built-in cutting board to add even more conveniences to your cooking experience.

Lighting for the Gourmet Kitchen

With the right task lighting, you can create a very efficient and clean cooking environment. When trying to read recipes or ingredients on items, the right lighting is imperative. Adding one misread ingredient could ruin the whole dish.

We recommend pendant lights that focus light over designated work areas, as well as under cabinet lighting to aid in the prepping and cooking experience. A well-lit kitchen will also help with maintaining a clean and sanitary environment.

Create Storage Space

Every chef needs adequate storage space in the kitchen. Make sure your gourmet kitchen has enough room for all your pots, pans, and other cookware. Be sure to include drawers for all of your favorite tools and utensils as well.

A walk-in pantry should be included in your kitchen to provide enough room for your spices, cooking and baking ingredients, and daily essentials. Hanging pot and pan racks, open shelving that displays ingredients, and inventive knife organizers -- such as wall hanging magnet strips -- are other great ways to add storage space to your gourmet kitchen.

Hire a Professional to Create Your Gourmet Kitchen

In the United States, among all home remodeling projects, kitchen remodeling is the second-most requested home construction service. This is because people interested in selling and keeping their homes updated know that remodeling a kitchen is a smart investment. A kitchen remodel will increase storage space, make the kitchen more functional, and allow a homeowner to update older model appliances like refrigerators and ovens.

However, remodeling your kitchen has more than utilitarian benefits—it also increases the value and overall attractiveness of your home. The kitchen is often the second stop on the open house tour, so in many ways increasing the “wow” factor of your kitchen is one of the wisest home improvements you can undertake. This is why it is so important to hire a professional for your remodel.

Finnteriors Construction Services has been providing its commercial and residential customers with exceptional general contracting services for over 20 years. Our expert kitchen remodelers will work fast to refresh your kitchen so that you can get your life back and start enjoying your great new kitchen as soon as possible.

At Finnteriors, our experienced kitchen remodelers are ready with innovative designs to upgrade any kind of kitchen. If you’re ready for an update, then contact us now. We will partner with you to create the kitchen of your dreams!

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September 20, 2021 by finnteriors

How to Create an Organized Laundry Area

The laundry room has come into its own as a bright and organized cleanup command center. It is a space you visit at least once a week, but it may not be on the top of your list of home renovations. However, when you spend a lot of time in a room that is important to the household, it’s worth giving this space an update.

Even if you don’t have much square footage, you can still create a high-functioning laundry area with standard appliances and room for things like storage and a utility sink. When updating your laundry space, there are many things to consider; everything from energy-wise machines and quality flooring options to the best layout for the space.

Create a Space That Works for You

Before starting your renovation, it’s important to think about the existing space you have and if you can work within the confines of the current location. Will you need to open up the current space or move the room to a different part of the house altogether. Take time to write up a plan for your renovation so you’re prepared. This is key to having a room you are satisfied with.

As you design your new laundry room, be sure to account for the space needed for the appliances and storage. For many people, a basement is a fine place for the laundry room; however, if you can spare the space on the main level it could be an option as well. Pros and cons of moving the laundry room to the main floor include:

pros	cons
Proximity to where dirty clothes are shed	Machines hidden in cubbies or cabinets require vented doors
Can tap into existing plumbing lines in bathroom or kitchen	Clearance needed for proper ventilation
Near where most other housekeeping chores take place	Noise and vibrations may require extra insulation and a motion-arresting pad

Design Elements to Consider

Design elements that are important to consider for an organized laundry room include the colors you choose for the cabinets and walls, adding open shelving, and the type of flooring you will use. Picking the right materials that express your style is important, but remember that it’s a high-traffic area that will likely endure water, detergent, and bleach spills.

The Flooring Options

There are many options for flooring materials. It’s important to choose a material that is resilient and durable. Look for flooring that’s water-resistant and low-maintenance. For example, Glue-down linoleum, cork, and vinyl floors tend to be moisture resistant with less upkeep than wood and eliminates the worry of ceramic tiles cracking or dealing with dingy grout lines.

Storage Options

There are several options when it comes to storage in the laundry room. There are choices like cabinets, open shelves, and cubbies. Be sure to take measurements of the laundry room to get the proper size storage.

When selecting the actual material for whichever storage option you choose, wood cabinets are often popular, but keep in mind this is a room that experiences humidity. If you decide to use wood cabinets, they will need a good sealing layer or they may warp.

There are other materials to consider that will work better with high humidity, like rubberwood, plywood, or veneer. Rubberwood is one of the cheapest material options and it doesn’t stain easily, Plywood is also a low-cost option with good stability and the veneer is stable and lightweight.

Countertops and Sinks

When it comes to selecting countertop materials, remember that the counters are also likely to come in contact with grease, dirt, and other debris from your clothes as well as spilled laundry detergent. Therefore, it is best to use a durable and non-porous material, like a quartz countertop. This material is very easy to clean and can handle high humidity.

Another option if space allows would be to add a deep sink. It would be great for soaking clothes with stubborn stains, and hand washing your delicates. Stainless steel sinks can be a better choice over a plastic laundry tub as it’s less likely to leave marks and is easier to clean.

Wall Design

For the walls, there are a couple of ideas to consider, ranging from using easy-to-clean semi-gloss paint to beadboard paneling, and glossy ceramic tiles. Smaller rooms should use lighter colors to enhance size, but don’t be afraid to add a splash of color.

Best Washer/Dryer Appliances for Your Space

Last but not least is choosing your appliances. Decide if you are keeping your existing washer and dryer or planning to buy new ones. If you've decided to purchase new appliances, take time to consider if you would prefer a side-by-side or stacked washer and dryer combo. The only difference is a side-by-side appliance combo can take up more space, so if you’re working within a small laundry room, keep that in mind.

Another thing to consider is whether you prefer front-loading machines or top-loaders and which will work better for your space.

Hire an Expert

When you are ready to start your laundry room remodel, hire the experts in home remodeling,

Finnteriors Construction Services. We are a locally owned and operated general contracting business based in the St. Louis area.

For over 20 years, we have provided our customers with exceptional general contracting services available at fair and competitive prices. At our local business, our goal is to bring your design ideas to life with each of our services.

FREE Consultation!

August 24, 2021 by finnteriors

How to Choose a Contractor for Your Next Remodel

The thought of a home renovation project can be exciting but also overwhelming. The struggle to find a competent and reliable contractor to do the job can be frustrating.

We’ve all heard horrible stories of contractors who tore apart a room and never came back. Then there are the projects that end up costing more than three times what the contractor estimated originally.

Home projects have the potential for problems to arise; everything from hidden plumbing issues to rotted floor boards and faulty wiring. This is why finding a good contractor that is upfront about potential problems that could arise is so important.

Have a Clear Idea of What You Want

When starting a home remodel project, spend time thinking about exactly what you want. Be very specific with the size of the space to the types of materials you are looking to add. The more details you can give a contractor the more accurate their estimates will be.

Put the time in to do your research before contacting contractors. Communication is key, give as much details as you can to help move the process forward more efficiently and effectively.

Start with Recommendations

When choosing a contractor it is important to have some insight into their work. This is why finding Contractors with excellent reviews can be a great place to start.

Talking with friends and family can be another effective way to get recommendations. When talking with friends and family, ask for the pros and cons of their experience with contractors they’ve used. Inquire about the communication between them and the contractor. Also ask if any problems arose and how the contractor dealt with the issue.

Contact Contractors

When you are done researching contractors, the next step is to reach out to each one and have a list of questions ready to ask. For example:

Years of experience
Size of projects they can handle
References
Number of consecutive projects they can handle
Portfolio of past work

Answers will reveal the contractors availability, reliability, how much attention they will give your project, and how smoothly it will go.

Schedule a Bid

Once you have spoken with the contractors, the next step is to have them come to your home to give you a bid. Don’t consider any company who charges for this initial consultation and estimate.

After scheduling your appointment, it is important to prepare for their visit. Try to have some plans written up and an idea of the materials you would like to use. You will also need to have a budget in mind that has some room for possible issues that could arise during construction.

Once your appointment is complete the contractor will submit a bid for the job. The bid should show the cost of materials, labor, and other expenses.

Be Realistic with the Timeline

A great contractor is a busy contractor. When preparing for a home renovation project, be sure to have a realistic timeline.

There are certain times of the year when contractors are busier and in demand. The better the company’s reputation the more likely you are to wait up to a few months for the project to begin. If you can give them a 3-6 month window, it will take the pressure off the contractor and you will be more likely to get top quality work.

Confirm Licenses and Insurance

General contractors and most subcontractors should be licensed, though the procedure varies by state and municipality. Check your state disciplinary boards, Better Business Bureau, and local court records for problems. Ask the contractor for a copy of their license and copies of the licenses of the subcontractors who will be involved in the project.

In case of accidents or weather events that cause damage to your home while work is being done, know what is covered by your homeowner’s insurance and what is covered by your contractor's business insurance. Get a copy of the company's insurance policy.

Get all Details in Writing

Have a contract written up that details every step of the project, including:

payment schedule
proof of liability insurance and worker's compensation payments
a starting date and projected completion date
specific materials and products to be used
a requirement that the contractor obtains lien releases (which protect you if he doesn't pay his bills) from all subcontractors and suppliers.

Insisting on a clear contract is imperative to the success of the project.

Price Alone Should Not Be the Deciding Factor

When deciding which contractor to go with, the price should not be the first factor. Oftentimes, the cheapest bid is from the inexperienced contractor or the one that will cut corners and not do the job well.

The most important thing to look for in a contractor is communication. If you have consistent communication and you feel comfortable with the contractor, it is worth paying more money and getting the job done right. Remember when hiring a contractor, you are buying a service, not a product. The quality of service will determine the quality of the finished project.

Choosing the Right Contractor Is Important for Success

How you evaluate contractors can dictate the success of your project. Being thorough is a priority, pursuing details about who you’ll hire will benefit the entire remodeling project. The contractor you select will be working directly with you throughout the entire project. They will craft your home and ensuring they understand goals will save both time and money over the long haul.

An experienced professional remodeling contractor will be able to do the job efficiently with professional results. Finnteriors Construction Services is a locally owned and operated general contracting business based in the St. Louis area. For over 20 years, we have provided our customers with exceptional general contracting services available at fair and competitive prices.

We work hard so you’ll be satisfied with your next remodel. We can design and provide guidance on which materials will work best within your budget. We are proud to serve homeowners with quality workmanship and excellent customer service. Contact us today for a free estimate for your home remodeling.

FREE Consultation!