Nothing lasts forever – that goes for your plumbing too

Nothing lasts forever – that goes for your plumbing too

Nothing lasts forever, and this goes for pipes and plumbing, especially if you are in an ancient house. Aging pipes can become restricted, which in turn discolors water and affects water pressure. Your pipes will wind up corroding, rusting, decaying, and causing you problems. Sure, you can deal with a not-so-great water pressure in the shower; it will lead to bigger, more costly problems later on. We’re talking the possibility of getting leaks, floods, or even raw sewage leaking into your home and costing you thousands of dollars in damage to your home. Know the signs and when it is best to replace your plumbing before you run into a disaster. Stop! This does not mean that you must replace every single pipe in your house and the whole plumbing system must be gutted. This means that you need to follow these tips and learn when you need to replace and when you are okay. 1. Know what pipes inhibit your house: When it comes to supply pipes, that is, the pipes that are under constant pressure, brass pipes can last between 80 and 100 years, copper pipes can last between 70 and 80 years, and galvanized steel can last between 80 and 100 years. Drain lines tend to have a shorter life span. Cast iron pipes tend to last between 80 and 100 years; however, P.V.C, usually last between only 25 and 40 years! But don’t panic. Just because your pipes are older than the years mentioned above doesn’t mean that you need to rush out and replace them. Well-maintained pipes can last longer than the guideline above. Just keep an eye on them, and you should be fine! 2. Get rid of Lead and Polybutylene: These pipes need to be removed from your house as soon as possible. While they may seem fine they can sneak lead into your drinking water and harm the health of your family. 3. Keep an eye out for problems: You may think that a small leak is something that can just be overlooked and you can deal with later. But this is a misconception as small leaks lead to bigger problems as well as eat up a hole in your water bill. On average small leaks cost you 14% of your water bill. Keep an eye out for leaks, and check exposed pipes frequently for signs of corrosion.

Radiant Heated flooring keeps more than your toes warm

Radiant Heated flooring keeps more than your toes warm Stepping on toasty warm floors every day is no longer a dream, radiant heated flooring is what you need. Heated flooring originally came from the ancient Romans whom had workers below their marble floors fanning fires to heat the floors and home above. We now have radiant heating systems installed below our floors to give us heated flooring rather than hiring staff to do the job of the Roman workers. Read on if you are ready to pull up your old floor or are in the stages of a new floor.

Radiant heated flooring comes in a few different types of systems but, Electric and Hydronic systems are more popular. These systems produce infrared radiation that rises from the floor to warm up the house or building mass, making sure heat isn’t lost on contact surfaces. This Radiant Heat keeps your whole body comfortable and warm, not just your toes. This alone will have heating efforts as you won’t have the need to crank up your forced heating system during those colder times.

Electronic vs. Hydronic: Electronic heating systems utilize electric cables or mats installed below your floor, though they can put a damper on your electric bill. One way to offset the cost of electric heated flooring is to balance the cost through solar energy. The benefits of electric systems are the ease in installation, cost to install and the luxury of on demand heating. Hydronic systems use the water from your water heater to push around water tubes that are installed below your floor. This method is best for large scale heated flooring needs where you will love year round heated floors. Hydronic systems heat the slab as a whole, and can be more energy saving than electric systems. Radiant heated flooring gave your comfort a whole new level. (Hydronic heated flooring installation)

Why don’t you just turn up your heater instead of having heated flooring installed? This question comes up a lot, and for valid reasons. The answer may surprise you. Regular forced air heating systems heat the air only to have the heated air rise to the ceiling and drop back down toward to the floor once it cools. (Hot air rises)This makes it very difficult to keep your feet warm, as well as could be the reason you feel cold even though your thermostat is at the temperature you want it at. Heating flooring will allow you to heat your whole room to a comfortable temperature, and not lose the heat that you are paying for.

(Electric heated flooring installation in bathroom)

Thinking of heated flooring but don’t know what flooring material to use? All flooring materials can be used with heated flooring, though some work more effectively than others. Materials like stone, concrete, and ceramic tile conduct, transfer, and hold heat better than other materials. Carpet, to my amazement can be used with heated flooring systems – but does not encourage the flow of heat, therefore it may be crossed off your list. Vinyl and laminate flooring have certain heat limits, and may not be able to be warmed up to the temperature you are looking to achieve. Lastly wood floors should only be installed by a professional that can account for the shrinking and expanding of the wood with a heated floor system in place. This should take some of the guess work out of heated flooring.

With a better understanding of radiant heated flooring systems we all can say goodbye to freezing floors!

Clues your water heater is junk

Clues your water heater is junk You wake up to take your morning shower and there is ice cold, Alaska water coming out of your showerhead. This could be a very good sign that your water heater is not functioning at all anymore and it’s time to get a new one.  If you wait too long it may lead to bigger problems as well, such as large leaks and water damage to your home. So aside from complete catastrophe know when to replace your water heater from the small signs.

1. Water Temperature – Water temp variance could be a good indication that the water heater is getting ready to call it quits. If your water heater doesn’t get as hot as it used to be or the temperature comes in waves, invest in a new one before you are left in the cold water!

2. Age – Electric water heaters usually only last for 8-10 years, while gas water heaters last 6-8 years. You may even be making a eco friendly upgrade when you swap your old water heater for a newer model.

3. Leaks – If your water heater is creating an ocean or lake in your garage or basement, fixing it is recommended before water damage arises. You can trouble shoot your water heater but depending on the age you may just need to replace it.

4. Rusty water – A gush of rusty colored water when you open the hot water faucet is a major indicator of an aging water heart. Generally this is caused by years of sediment that has been deposited in your tank. When you turn on the hot water the sediment is stirred up and comes out. Usually seeing this rust colored water is a sign that corrosion and leakage is on its way. Draining and flushing your water heater can help, but when this is not enough – replace.

5. Drain issues - Over time, sediment builds up inside a water heater. Flushing your water heater once a year will help solve this and extend the life of your water heater. However, if this task isn’t performed for an extended period of time then the sediment build-up will eventually reach a point where it can no longer be resolved. At this point a water heater replacement will be necessary.

When deciding to replace your water heater, you will want to decide if you would like one powered by electricity, natural gas or propane gas. Water heaters these days are amazingly efficient. Look for models that sport the government-appointed Energy Star label. The tag also is supposed to indicate the annual operating cost of the device. You also will need to determine the size of the water heater you need, in gallons. After choosing your water heater, you will want to either hire a qualified installer or learn how to do it yourself.

Common Backsplash issues that will make you glad you hired a contractor

Common Backsplash issues that will make you glad you hired a contractor

Your kitchen backsplash may be just one of the simplest parts or your home. However, you could have so many dilemmas when it comes to the installation and probably with remodeling in the future. When you look at a backsplash area, it seems so simple being a rectangular space on your kitchen wall. When you try to work on it and improve it the way you like, you come to find that it is not that easy to handle the job. Working on any vertical surface can be challenging. You may need to find a contractor for your Los Angeles Kitchen remodel to assist you and take some work off your hands.

Why hire a contractor to work on your backsplash project?

Here are some common problems about kitchen backsplash that would require help from a professional contractor, and make you thankful that you have some professional help.

1. Timing in placing the backsplash – everything should start with planning, most especially when it comes to the kitchen backsplash. What most people have dilemmas about is when to fix the backsplash. Do you install backsplash before the cabinets go in? Do you do the backsplash last? The say of a professional contractor is needed in this case. The experts will know when to take care of the backsplash, appropriately, to make sure that everything will turn out with the best quality. For example you won’t ruin a new countertop by dropping grout.

2. Right height for backsplash – this is a common problem for most homeowners. They end up doing the backsplash themselves but are not sure about the right height for it. Would it be alright to keep it low or high? Should the height be dependent with the width of the kitchen counter? A contractor will be able to measure the perfect height for it, and make sure that the wall is ready for any height and weight you choose.

3. Tiling process – it could be easy to place the tile on the wall, but which tile should be used for the backsplash purposes? You may need to contact a professional to help you in choosing the right type of tile to use. You can let them do the installation as well for better results. Although you can install the tiles yourself, a professional contractor can do it expertly in a timely manner. Get the best results for your money, after all this is an investment.

4.  Backsplash design – how should a backsplash look like? Is it a must for it to match the tiles with the designs on the kitchen floor? What material should you use? What angle should the backsplash be installed?  Your contractor can answer all these and more questions about back splashes and remodels.   

A good contractor can help you fix your kitchen backsplash in Los Angeles homes or even your business. If you have any more problems with installation and maintenance of backsplash for your kitchen you could always ask your contractor. Look for the right contractor to help you expertly with your project. Make sure all your kitchen backsplash dilemmas are resolved by hiring a professional contractor

Backsplash meant to catch your eye

Backsplash meant to catch your eye Every square inch of your kitchen should be used to improve the flow and design of your newly remodeled kitchen. Homeowners are no longer ignoring the space between the kitchen counter and the cabinets, and back splashes are no longer only 4 inches tall. Now colorful and eye catching backsplashes are being installed. Backsplashes are reaching new heights and design; even new materials are taking the kitchen remodel by storm. No longer are stone, subway tiles, and stainless steel the only “trend” when it comes to backsplashes.  Tile will remain in the number one spot for 2016 with stone falling shortly behind at number 2. Although the materials used for tiles and backsplashes are ever growing.

If you do want to stick to the older trend, you can buy your subway tiles for cheaper than regular tiles, and natural stone will give your kitchen a durable edge. Though the latest rage in tile is now 3D tile and textured tile. Textured tile can add depth to your kitchen backsplash wall, and create a cool piece of art to look at. If you spend time in the kitchen you will more than likely look at your new backsplash, so make it something worth looking at.

But if you want to liven up your kitchen and install eye catching backsplash, you will need to match your backsplash to your personality. Try mixing it up with White marble and a flashy wallpaper or river rocks. Our Advice: If you want something amazing and fit for your personal style – go with a material that complements your life. Green gurus and ecofriendly homeowners are reaching for the reclaimed wood and antique wood tiles for their kitchen backsplashes. Ever have left over wood from your homes’ flooring? Now you can put it to use by using it as backsplash. But your wood backsplash doesn’t have to match the color of your floors – opt for staining your left over pieces to your taste. Even concrete can be an ecofriendly option for backsplash. Embossed concrete will be seen on kitchen walls – and can be embossed to look like individual tiles – though with less work.

Small kitchens are happy to get a backsplash made of tile mirrors! These mirrors come in any shape or size and can really reflect the light a small kitchen may be lacking. We first saw them in kitchens of the 80’s – but they are making a strong come back for 2016. The reflective power of a mirror can catch what small light you have in your kitchen and make it appear brighter and larger. Say good bye to dark and dingy – get yourself mirrored backsplash tiles.

As you can see there are so many more options rather than simple subway tile or natural stone for your kitchen backsplash and it doesn’t take much more than a creative idea to get a cool backsplash. Some installations take less work and time than others. If you have questions or need help with a remodel project don’t be afraid to reach out and contact us. 1.877.642.7772 Spazio LA

Now is the best time to remodel and we will tell you why

Now is the best time to remodel and we will tell you why If you are like most homeowners you have had the thought of taking on a remodel project. You may have even asked yourself this question, “when is the best time remodel my home?” Many will argue that the warmer months of spring and summer are best; some will argue that the winter months are best. Every season will have pros and cons. So you can sit there and dream about what your home could possibly, one day over the rainbow, look like; or you can get your remodel kicked into gear and get a new house for the New Year.

Stop waiting for the perfect season:  Now is the best time to remodel!

1. January is always a great time to start fresh and make new plans for the New Year. While a home remodel can take place anytime of the year, making plans ahead of time can make your project more affordable and easier for everyone involved. Why start a remodel during January and the holidays? Most homeowners don’t want to deal with a remodel or big project around the Holidays, thus leaving the perfect opportunity to take advantage of discounts contractors and designers are offering to book up their slow season. As it turns out, January is also the best month to upgrade your AC during. When the temperature is low, heaters are in demand and leave plenty of AC’s out in the cold. The holiday season also means for tons of sales as everyone is in the season of spending money. Appliances, windows, doors, tile, carpet – you name it, it’s probably on sale during these months.

2. If you are starting a project around this time of year you will have the warmer months to look forward to it being completed – and if you are remodeling to sell your home – you will be ready for the prime home selling season. This could mean you can sell your home faster and for a lot more than you intended. Don’t let your investment sit there on the market, have it ready – start now!

3. Start now so that you can thank yourself later. We have all had that idea in the back of our head that we sit and think about and never act on. Now is the time to stop thinking about it and actually make it happen. The New Year means resolutions, for most remodeling isn’t on their list, but it should be.

Now is the perfect time for you to pick up the phone and contact us for your free in home estimate. We guarantee to make your remodel pain free, and turn your home into something you never even expected. Your ideas and dreams matter to us, and we can ensure you won’t be disappointed.

Contact us today 1.877.642.7772 Spazio LA  - Los Angeles’ best interior design and remodel company.

Where do you start fixing up a fixer upper?

Where do you start fixing up a fixer upper? Buying a brand new house or even newer house isn’t feasible for everyone. Buying a fixer upper could have been your dream, who knows. Though now that you are all moved in, where do you start when you can’t fix up the whole house at once? It seems like there is an issue every corner your turn and the issues keep adding up.

If you haven’t ever experienced a fixer upper or older house, the experience is like this; kitchen & bathroom sink backs up and wont drain, bathroom shower is slow to drain (so you are standing in dirty water),  the washer is flooding your laundry room or garage, your windows are all single paned and have no barrier to the outside elements, you have a leaky roof, your lights only turn on half the time you flick the on switch, let’s not even talk about the flooring (it’s that bad). The kitchen layout is horrible – don’t even think about having more than one person in the kitchen at any one time, mismatched cabinets, no garbage disposal or dishwasher,  ONE electrical outlet, and the appliances are not energy saving friendly. Now on to the bathroom- it may be shaped like a hallway – long and narrow, or it may be the size of a closet. It is outdated, no ventilation, and the word relaxing doesn’t pop into your head. Older houses have either very small closets or no closets, this just spells disaster. This is just the start to what a fixer upper has in store for you.

All you can see in your head is knocking down walls to make that grand open floor plan, a large chef’s kitchen, walk-in closets, spa style bathroom, new floors throughout, and to have your electrical and plumping situation in working order. All you can see is your fixer upper looking like a brand new house .The whole house remodel is nice, but sometimes you have to start small, and that’s perfectly fine. You have to figure out where to start before you start.

Make a list of all of the major issues, like the sinks not draining, leaks, plumping and electrical issues – make a list of all the major things that have to work before anything else. There is no point in remodeling the kitchen if the ceiling leaks so bad it’s like the kitchen is raining. Once you have the major issues listed you can now move on to the things that you need to change or fix, then a list of the things you want to add. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so your house doesn’t have to be remodeled in one either. Consulting a remodeling company after you have created your list is recommended.

A remodeling company isn’t you worst enemy. You may be thinking that they are more expensive than you can afford, but this may come to a surprise to you, you can afford them. Remodeling and interior design teams can help look at your house and your list of issues and break down where to spend your money first, where you can save money, and if they can help you finance the remodel projects. For help with your fixer upper – contact Spazio LA today. 1.877.642.7772

Bathroom Remodeling 101

Bathroom Remodeling 101 The bathroom remodel will be the best remodel investment next to the kitchen. Knowing this ahead of time, you should know your options and wants for this room before starting this project.  From tubs, showers, vanities, lighting and materials for counters and floors: you have much to think about before gutting your old bathroom. Let us take you through some of our recent bathroom remodels from this past year and give you some inspiration.

Your new bathroom doesn’t have to be designed anything like your old one. (Unless that’s what you want) Take our Grand Master bathroom for example: This out dated bathroom didn’t suit our client’s style or need for space. We re-arranged the bathroom to give ample enough space to even add a separate shower. With the right design you can make any space, small or large, functional.

Having a functional counter space in your bathroom is important as well. It’s never been a problem to have too much space, only not enough. His and hers sinks are becoming a standard feature in most bathrooms, but if you are remodeling a guest bathroom- one sink will work just fine. In this featured master bathroom we added a double sink with floating shelves. We even added a custom makeup vanity to utilize that odd space that would have been forgotten. Never underestimate what a new design can do for your bathroom or for any remodel.

Soaking tub and separate shower? Shower & tub combo? Trying to add a shower to a small powder room? The choices are endless, and with new showers today you can get a corner shower to fit in the smallest spaces. I would consider the main use of the bathroom, and decide if you need something extravagant in the guest bathroom, or if you can spend the extra dollar on your master bath. Claw foot tubs and spa jetted tubs are available in many shapes and sizes, and are being argued to save water. Maybe the assumption is that you will take less baths and save more water? We’re not sure, but choosing ecofriendly materials and options is always good for your pocket and the environment.

Materials used in your bathroom should be water and moisture resistant. We can all thank the changing times and mold for getting rid of the carpeted bathrooms. For our following bathroom we chose a material for the floor that we used in the shower and around the tub to give the bathroom a seamless look, but spiced things up with a detailed shower stall and black vanity. We created an extra-long ledge around one side of the tub to act as a bench in the shower.

Small bathroom remodels can be just a grand as a larger master bathroom. Our talented team can design and build your dreams. The following guest bathroom displays a shower stall tiled from floor to ceiling, as well as a pony wall to give the toilet area more privacy, but you could opt instead for an all glass stall minus the wall.

Make your kitchen more efficient

Make your kitchen more efficient 1. If your refrigerator or appliances are more than 10 years old – replace them. We tend to think that old refrigerator would make a great garage “beer” or “wine” fridge, but this is very bad news for your electrical bills. Old refrigerators are taking up 15% of your electrical bill, this number adds up year after year. Update old appliances and your refrigerator with ones that you have a need for, and ones that are energy star approved.

2. Choose the right size appliances. Of course, the bigger the more energy is used. Opt for a standard size fridge or freezer if you are a single home owner or a smaller family. If you don’t need the super-sized appliances, save the energy and get the right size for you.

3. Out with the outdated water fixtures. Older water fixtures like those made Pre-1992, are water hogs. Low flow products work 10times better than that or their older version and save you money.

4. Consider upgrading your water pump to an On-Demand water pump. On-demand water pumps are more efficient, and deliver electrically heated water while waiting for the hot water from the heater to reach the faucet.

5. Eco-Friendly lighting is important to reducing energy. Look for Energy Star lights and fixtures to save 66% energy compared to regular lighting. This choice will save the environment by reducing pollution and greenhouse gasses by energy production at power plants.

6. Arrange your kitchen to utilize work surfaces that have the most window or natural light. Natural sunlight is the highest quality light, and it’s free of charge. Having work areas that take advantage of this day light will save the use of artificial light for the evening, when you really need it.

7. Fume exhaust with variable speeds. This is a great option to allow you to control the energy used when you need to evacuate smells and cooking smoke. Look for the Energy Star label.

8. The newest thing that we are seeing – operable windows and skylights. Save the energy from the exhaust fan and turn the switch to vent your skylight! This is great for natural lighting and ventilation.

9. Don’t forget about your ceiling fan! Having an energy efficient ceiling fan can cut your energy bill, and I bet you never knew it could.  This will also allow for proper circulation of warm or cold air.

10. Out with the old and in with the new. If you don’t use it, don’t need it – get rid of it. Having that ice machine plugged in all the time when you haven’t used it in decades, isn’t really worth it. Make some money off your outdated stuff or donate to the less fortunate.

There are plenty of ways to make your kitchen more efficient, start with this list and get your kitchen in gear for the New Year.

Who cares more about “Going Green”?

Who cares more about “Going Green”?   The 2015 Smart Market Report, surveyed a total of 249 builders, remodelers, multifamily firms, and conducted nine in-depth interviews with homebuyers who purchased a home within the last year.

Nearly one-third (31%) of builders report that over 60% of home projects they've built this year featured green technology. By 2020, more than half , about 51% of builders project that they'll reach that same level of green work. The numbers are increasing as we are subject to seeing the documentaries about how the world is in great danger, and hear the news about global warming. People whom take this information to heart know that they can make a difference by investing in a greener home.

“Our studies demonstrate that home builders still think of green homes as an important trend,” said Dr. Donna Laquidara-Carr, industry insights research director at Dodge Data & Analytics, during a Wednesday presentation at the 2015 Greenbuild conference in Washington, D.C.

Remodelers and builders are driven by multiple factors to build greener homes, including customer demand (68%), energy cost increases (66%), green product availability and affordability (66%), greater valued recognized appraisers (66%), and code, ordinance, and regulation changes (65%). Green products can be more expensive, though understanding the impact of using green products will ease the pain of the costs.

The use of renewable technology has also grown over time. This year, 76% of surveyed builders report offering renewable energy on their projects, compared to 65% two years ago. By the year 2018, 85% of builders will offer renewable energy, such as wind or solar energy, on their products.

“The numbers that we have here are really striking,” said Dr. Laquidara-Carr. “We believe that builders are building greener because homeowners are gaining more knowledge, and there’s a greater consumer interest in these kinds of projects.”

The HERO program is one that is giving this type of Green knowledge, as they offer financing for eco-friendly projects and describe the positive impact that will come with them. In terms of potential buyers, more remodelers and builders believe that baby boomers, rather than millennials, are the most crucial customers in green home markets. This belief is echoed by builder and remodeler responses to how influential green home options are to home buyers by age: “Older buyers with previous home buying experience simply have more knowledge about homes, and therefore will value high-performance homes better,” explained Laquidara-Carr. “Millennials, however, have limited financial resources to invest in greener homes, and are also more motivated by convenience than home performance.”

With this being said, more funding and financing programs will come available and be able to offer the Millennials the chance to invest in their home with water and energy saving remodel.

Sherman Oaks Remodel goes from 700 sq feet to over 2000 !

Sherman Oaks Remodel goes from 700sq feet to over 2,000

This Sherman Oaks home is a great way to display the love and passion we have for what we do here at Spazio LA. We were able to build a home of our client’s dreams as well as bring our creative expertise to another level. After 7 months of hard work and over 1300sq feet added on to this beautiful home, we are proud to go ahead and share all details with you.

750sq feet before – 2150sq feet after: Smooth grey stucco, Brazilian Ipe siding, modern metal and glass gates and beautiful landscaping makes for this gorgeous house front. Can you say major curb appeal right off the back? I think we can be safe to say that this makes you want to come on in and see what’s on the inside.

Let’s get started with all the great details that made this remodel whole.

Master Bedroom and Kid’s Bedroom:

This beautiful master bedroom has lots of natural light thanks to the use of the world famous NANA wall (retractable glass door panels, we have a great blog about them and how to get your own) as well as the 14 foot vaulted ceilings. The NANA walls open up to the IPE deck and patio area.  Some will argue that the NANA walls make this room feel so huge, some will argue that the incredibly tall ceilings make this room feel huge – but we will tell you that the combination of the two make for one amazing sight to see. The art work on the walls are all original pieces, and the bed frame was designed and fabricated specifically for the client. We will always go above and beyond to make sure our client is entirely happy with their space.

The beautiful kid’s room has zebra hardwood floors, a custom aluminum and glass doored closet, and a custom blue ocean chalk wall mural. This room was designed for a younger child – but the design can most certainly grow with your child or become an office later on when they fly the nest.

Open floor plan:

 

Our design for the sunken living room was to and depth and dimension, maybe even bring in some drama. This open floor plan needed a little change in level, so we sunk the living room and opened it up with more 11ft NANA walls. This makes for the perfect indoor/outdoor experience, just open the glass walls to bring the life to the party.

An open concept design and polished concrete floors, Spazio LA was able to achieve a loft feel in this large home. Concrete flooring throughout the kitchen, island with seating – plus room for a dining table, are just a start to this great kitchen. This contemporary kitchen shows off master chef appliances and became an entertainer’s delight.

This bathroom design incorporates concrete onto the walls with a beautiful green color pallet and black slate tile on the floors.  The shower has large Italian porcelain tiles complemented by a Brazilian teak wood floor. For those of you whom don’t know much about Brazilian Teak Wood it is durable, and will not absorb water – which makes it good for showers or saunas as it will never rot.

We spent a lot of time on this project from the design to the build, but we are very proud to share this with you. Spazio LA hopes to inspire you to believe that your home can be just as beautiful as you dream it to be.

Waterwise plants for a low maintenance yard of Los Angeles

Waterwise plants for a low maintenance yard of Los Angeles

A lawn might be lovely, but it takes a lot of hard work to make it so; you’ve got to mow, weed, thatch, reseed, aerate. Then repeat. If you’d rather spend more time enjoying the outdoors instead of working on it, switch to one of these low-maintenance yard ideas. As a bonus, you’ll also save on your water bill because these alternatives use less water.

Low maintenance does not necessarily mean that you will avoid plants all together; the use of water wise plants will require less water and grow well in your area. As well as water wise plants, use of rocks in your yard will allow run off water to collect and feed your plants.

Gardeners wishing to live in a sustainable way will want to plant water-wise plants in their gardens. Indeed, many cities may soon require it. Waterwise plants have developed qualities that help them tolerate low rainfall, high heat and drying winds. These characteristics are taproots, leaves with fine gray hairs or high oil content, and bulbous, water-storing roots.

Here are  a list of water wise plants and alternatives:

Perennials, Shrubs, and Ornamental Grasses  Agave species (Agave)  Alyogyne huegelii (Blue Hibiscus)  Arctostaphylos species (Manzanita)  Artemisia species (Sagebrush)  Ceanothus species (California Lilac)  Chamelaucium uncinatum (Geraldton Waxflower)  Cistus species (Rockrose)  Dudleya species (Live Forever)  Echeveria species (Hens-and-Chickens)  Encelia californica (California Encelia)  Galvezia speciosa (Island Bush Snapdragon)  Grevillea species (Grevillea)  Heteromeles arbutifolia (Toyon)  Lavandula species (Lavender)  Leucophyllum species (Texas Ranger)  Lobelia laxiflora (Mexican Bush Lobelia)  Mahonia nevinii (Nevin’s Barberry)  Melalueca nesophila (Pink Melaleuca)  Myrtus communis (Common Myrtle)  Nassella species (Needlegrass)  Penstemon species (Penstemon)  Rhus species (Sumac)  Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)  Salvia, selected species (Sage)  Sisyrinchium bellum (Blue-Eyed Grass)  Tapetes lemmonii (Copper Canyon Daisy)  Verbena, selected species (Verbena)

Trees  Arbutus unedo (Strawberry Tree)  Chitalpa tashkentensis (Chitalpa)  Geijera parviflora (Australian Willow)  Laurus nobilis (Sweet Bay)  Olea europaea ‘Swan Hill’ (Swan Hill Olive)  Pinus eldarica (Afghan Pine)  Prosopsis chilensis (Chilean Mesquite)  Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak)  Rhus lancea (African Sumac) Vines  Bougainvillea species (Bougainvillea)  Macfadyena unguis-cati (Cat’s Claw)  Vitis californica (California Wild Grape) Turf  Buchloe dactyloides (Buffalograss)  Cynodon dactylon (Hybrid Bermudagrass)  Zoysia ‘Victoria’ (Victoria Zoysiagrass) Ground Cover  Acacia redolens ‘Desert Carpet’  (Dwarf Prostrate Acacia)  Achillea species (Yarrow)  Baccharis species (Coyote Brush)  Cotoneaster dammeri (Bearberry Cotoneaster)  Lampranthus species (Ice Plant)  Lantana montevidensis (Trailing Lantana)  Myoporum parvifolium (Myoporum)  Sedum species (Stonecrop)

Maximize your curb appeal: 1 day & 3 day projects

Maximize your curb appeal: 1 day & 3 day projects Driving through Los Angeles neighborhoods and any like neighborhoods you will notice houses that can use a little sprucing up. We spend some much time on the inside of our homes that we forget when the outside needs attention. Curb appeal is important no matter if your home is on the market or not. Maybe you have just neglected the outside as you don’t have the time or budget to vamp it up. Here are our top 1 day & 3 day projects that range in price, pick the one that best suits your needs and give it a try.

1 day Curb Appeal Projects

Dress up your front door – try adding some paint to fancy your entry way. Try a bright color like red to really make a statement.

Replace old hardware with new complimentary hardware – For instance replace your house numbers, door locks, mailbox and lighting with new designs. Create symmetry by placing even lights or plants on either side of the door or walkway. The eye will always be drawn to misplaced or uneven objects, give your home the symmetry it needs. Install outdoor lights along the walkway or driveway – you can even purchase solar powered lights to be eco-friendly. Renew planter beds – cutting away the dead plants will help give more life to the plants you have left. Nothing screams uncared for than dead plants and yards lacking maintenance. Replace gutters and downpours – At least check to make sure your existing ones are still attached to the house.

There are many more projects that will take less than a day to complete and will really add that extra oomph your home needs.

3 day Curb Appeal Projects

These few projects will take more than a day to complete and may require some professional help, though they will be more than enjoyable in the end.

Renew paint, siding, and trim – Give your house a facelift with a new paint job. Dated and fading exterior paint may be holding your house back from rocking the appealing side. Look into paint colors that will accentuate your home. Choosing a color that is really loud may not be such a great idea either. Add shutters or accent trim – it’s the little details that really show you care. Dress up the driveway – a new drive way is worth a thousand words. Make the drive way the grand entrance with new concrete or stone. Even adding lighted columns at the bottom of the driveway can make your house a big deal on the block. Add a porch or portico – Creating more for the eye to look out is very beneficial. Not only will this added feature be something nice to look at, you and your family can benefit from it as well. Try adding a pergola to an existing porch or adding a portico to your front entry way. Hardscape and water features – The newest craze if showing off your water features in your front yard versus your back yard now.

Contact a remodeling and design company to give your front yard a hardscape and possibly a water feature that is top of town.

Last but not least – adding stone veneers or slate tiles to the exterior walls can really add the look of luxury and elegance for a low price.

No matter what project or projects you decide to try, never forget that the outside of your home needs as much attention as the inside. For all of your remodel and design needs, you can contact us for your free estimate. 1.877.642.7772

Los Angeles Remodeling Trends 2015

In this day and age there are so many different options and trends to follow when it comes to the latest and greatest Los Angeles remodel ideas. We say stick with what you love and we will help you build what you dream of.

For homeowners who want to make sure that their places of residence are ecofriendly, there is good news for you; you can remodel your house without making a large dent into your wallet or the economy.

We can thank the economy to the increase in remodeling, as banks are reluctant to give out home buying loans, meaning our only option is to upgrade the home we have currently. You will now find that there are a great deal of home remodeling incentives out there these days ready to give your home a makeover at a fraction of the cost as before, but with more materials and customizable options than ever before. We have recently seen the value of partnering with a program that will help finance energy and water saving remodels. The HERO program is not based of credit score, and you can finance for as long as 20 years.

One very popular way to modernize your Los Angeles home is to renovate the kitchen. To most people, the kitchen could very well be considered the heart of the home. This is due to the fact that a great deal of time is spent in the kitchen and because the kitchen is the place in the house that needs the most attention when it comes to appliances and their upkeep. The increased value of an upgraded kitchen done the proper way is unbelievable.

An easy way to give your kitchen a “facelift” is to redo the existing cabinets, shelves, and drawers in the kitchen. Materials for floors and countertops are also available in an array of recycled materials that can cost you less than others.  Some types of components that can be added to existing cabinets, shelves, and drawers is to add new hardware, new handles, slide-out shelves, or install devices such as a Lazy Susan. The great benefit of hiring a Los Angeles remodeling firm, such as Spazio LA, they will be able to redesign your kitchen and give you more space than you ever thought you had. Another quick and easy way to give your kitchen a new look is to replace the sink. One may not notice just how much a sink makes a difference, but cooking in a kitchen with a faulty, small, not-aesthetically pleasing sink can be a real pain-in-the-butt. Nowadays, the Farmhouse sink is making a way into Los Angeles remodels. From the floor to the cabinets, the options are endless.

The kitchen is just a place to start with, Los Angeles remodeling trends will be constantly changing and evolving, whole house remodels are on the rise. To see about financing for your home remodel, contact us today. 1.877.642.7772

Eco Friendly Upgrades that really make a difference

Eco Friendly Upgrades that really make a difference Remodeling your home can feel great as you get a fresh start and get to fix all the issues that bother you, but then you worry about how much wasted materials there are and the cost of remodeling, and the energy and water waste. Fortunately for you there are ways to remodel to make you planet and your own health better. Well planned Green remodels can save you money every month on utility bills. Green remodels can even be financed without easy payment options and NO credit check.

Let go over the basics so you can get a better idea why green remodels are so important to the environment.

The average household uses 350 gallons of water every day – this goes to you toilet, shower, faucet, laundry, and leaks. That amounts to 127,400 gallons per year for every house.

Water wasted from leaks: 30 gallons – 4,000 gallons per day

Water wasted from older toilets: 18 liters per flush

Here are a few of the most common remodeling projects, along with some specific advice on what you can do to make them eco-friendly.

Remodeling a Kitchen

Kitchens are high on most home remodelers' wish lists. If you're remodeling yours, here are some ideas for making it green:

• Choose Energy Star rated appliances, which will use less energy and often don't cost more. Check with your utility company, too: you may get a rebate on your purchase. And federal tax credits are sometimes made available, as also described on the Energy Star website.

• Put in formaldehyde-free cabinetry to avoid releasing environmental toxins. Better yet, go for wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which will be sustainably harvested.
• Install a beautiful alternative to granite: recycled-content countertops, incorporating glass, paper, cork, or other materials.
• Get a water filter instead of buying bottled water.
• Take advantage of natural light with well-placed windows, skylights, or sun tunnels.
• Keep the refrigerator out of the sunlight and away from the oven, where it gets hot and must work harder.

Remodeling a Bathroom

Bathrooms are another place where remodelers have plenty of opportunity to make wise choices. Eco-friendly ideas include:

• Replace toilets with low-flow models.

Together we can make a big difference, one house at at time. Go Green

HERO Financing helps homeowners become more Eco-friendly

HERO Financing helps homeowners become more Eco-friendly You are fully aware that your energy bill is too high and that your home is not water efficient, but you just can’t afford the eco-friendly remodel you need. At least not until now, we are here to introduce the HERO program.

HERO, Home Energy Renovation Opportunity, is the number one efficiency program in the U.S. Offering 100% financing on the cost and installation of all eligible products at a low fixed rate, and with flexible payment terms. Spazio LA has partnered with the HERO Program because we want to make a difference with water and energy consumption. In our efforts to protect the resources we currently have, we are now offering homeowners this great opportunity.

What does the HERO program mean to Spazio LA?

Our participation in the HERO program means homeowners will be able to afford remodels and renovations in Los Angeles and all counties active in the program. Thousands of people will be able to make a difference in the effort to save energy, water and use renewable resources. Thousands of people will be able to afford to renovate and save money every single month on utility bills. We have gone through rigorous through test and inspections to become a qualified HERO participant, just to show you how important this program is to us here at Spazio LA.

This means that more homes will be equipped with water efficient toilets, faucets, and shower heads. More homes will have the luxury of proper heating and air conditioning that will also save energy, and more homes will use the power of solar to heat their pools and water tanks. Saving money on your monthly bills is real, and we are happy to help.

How does the HERO program work?

The program offers 100% financing, also the payments are made directly through the homeowner’s property taxes, as often as you make the property tax payment – not monthly. The financing can be carried for 5-20 year terms.  Since the financing is paid into the property, 100% of the cost of the remodel is tax deductible.

HERO offers financing in over 50 product categories including, but not limited to:

1. Exterior doors and windows

2. Central Air, Mini Split Heat & Air

3. Attic insulation

4. Ventilation Fans

5. Furnace

6. Solar panels

The list goes on; there are numerous eco-friendly upgrades that are 100% covered by the HERO Program. If there isn’t a product on the list that you are interested in, you can call the HERO Program to talk to a specialist to see if the product will qualify. https://www.heroprogram.com/products

Contact Spazio LA today to see if the HERO program will work for your remodel. 1-877-624-7772

Luxury isn’t just a large home anymore

Luxury isn’t just a large home It takes more these days than just a large home, to define the true meaning of luxury.  And Luxury homes are popping up all over the Los Angeles remodel scene. The word luxury brings to mind plenty of conveniences such as, pools, bathrooms with built in towel warmers, in-home gyms that include the newest equipment, backyard tennis courts, game rooms, and fully-stocked kitchens with warming drawers and wine cellars? But what are the items that luxury home buyers want the most?  What is a luxury homebuyer looking for when shopping for their new abode? How can you make your home as luxurious as possible during your next remodel?

Here are the top luxuries people are looking for to ensure you aren’t adding amenities that no one is looking at.

A home theater is great, but luxury home buyers are looking for more than just a room with a large screen and comfy seats. You will need to step it up a notch and get yourself an IMAX home theater if you want to wow the crowd, the luxury crowd that is. Watching Hollywood block busters from the comfort of your home is now possible, with a hefty price tag that is. IMAX will bring the best theater to your door for $3 million dollars and change. If this isn’t something you think you have prepared in your remodel budget, that’s ok, wait a few years and the price may decrease. Until then we can continue to shell out big bucks for the movie theater or wait until it shows up at your local Redbox.

Speaking about technology, the luxury amenity next on our list is a home that is fully managed, monitored and controlled by a smart phone or tablet. Hence the name: “smart home.” Control the temperature, light setting, security system, door and window locks, sound system, t.v’s, and more, with the touch of one button from where ever you are. The digital world is taking over and people want technology improved homes. Think about technology and innovations before you start your next luxury project. Luxury is all about making life easier, better and being able to do things faster. Such luxury means you do not have to open or close your curtains. That’s right; homes are becoming equipped with motorized blackout curtains or shades. Why? Because this is what home owners think will make their life easier. I guess it seems nice to have your curtains set to close or open at a certain time, or pressing a button to close the shades when the afternoon glare is obscuring your t.v show rather than getting up to do it yourself. Have your smart phone control your curtains too while you are at it.

So you have guessed it, luxury comes with a cost. Keep in mind that these are the top luxury amenities, but there are thousands that are affordable and worth the renovation.

Old kitchens are warned: Your days are done!

Old kitchens are warned: Your days are done!

Our Burbank kitchen remodel is warning to all old kitchens, your days are numbered! Spazio LA is coming for you.

Our client had grown tired of their outdated kitchen, and dreamt of nothing more than a space that complimented their style and a place to entertain.

Problem areas of the existing kitchen: The dark and dreary color scheme of their kitchen made the space seem more small and compact than it was already. Lacking cabinet & storage space floating shelves housed appliances and décor. These problem areas our client hoped to fix with the new space we were going to deliver.

Remodel must haves:

1. More space to entertain – build Custom Island with seating and built-in appliances.

2. More cabinet & storage space – replace floating shelves with cabinets and pantry.

3. Upgraded appliances- add built in appliances, energy saving appliances.

4. Eco friendly materials – environmentally friendly flooring, light color flooring.

Have you made your remodel must have list yet?

Demo and construction gets under way as we plan to surprise our clients with a kitchen straight out of a magazine.

We gutted everything! From the floating shelves, sink, counters tops, cabinets, and range – we emptied the entire kitchen space.

Framing for the new skylight is in the works! Skylights are a great way to lower your energy bills and impress your family. And this skylight will be a show stopper when we are finished.

It may not look like much while we are in the midst of a remodel, but that just makes the outcome even more satisfying.

Say hello to a brand new kitchen! Is this the same house? Oh yes, this is the same house you saw in the very first picture. It now has the Spazio LA touch.

I bet you never would have thought that we could the dark and sad kitchen into something as spectacular as this! This magazine worthy kitchen has everything off the must have list plus more.

White cabinets and light floors make this room feel large, but the dark counters and pop of backsplash give a modern edge. Ecofriendly hard wood floors installed parallel throughout the space elongate the floor plan.

Our specialty is custom kitchens, and custom islands come natural for us. This custom island is well equipped with a built in microwave – say goodbye to a counter space thief! Built in range that will make any professional chef jealous, and seating for 3. I forgot to mention the outlets on either side of the island, just in case you want to throw a table lamp up there for ambience or need to plug in a crockpot during a family gathering. You will want to throw gatherings with a kitchen like this. The remodel makes organizing and utilizing space easy with custom cabinets and pantry – no more awkward spaces or flimsy shelves.

Every detail in this kitchen was done with special care, keeping one thing in mind: our clients dream. You give us your ideas and we make them become reality.

How to completely ROCK a Home Remodel

How to completely ROCK a  Home Remodel It is important to know that not all Home Remodel companies are created equal. Some professionals have been in the business longer, and others have a better reputation when it comes to completed work. Make sure you have the best team on your side to Rock your home remodel. Do your homework and make certain you have made the best choice before you sign a contract. I know that you are eager to hurry up and start so they can hurry up and finish, but take your time or else you may regret it in the end. For instance, there are plenty of stories detailing shady contractors being paid and not doing the work. Take Michigan home and business owners whom hired a company, paid the owner and received no work or refund.

"It is important to know that not all Home Remodel companies are created equal"

Horror stories these are, though we want to make sure you aren’t one to live a nightmare with this remodel or any project. Interview companies that you interested in, ask lots of questions and read their reviews. People tend to write reviews when they are really mad or really happy, having public reviews means you can see for yourself if their reputation is one to be proud of. Reviews will help guide you but here are a list of questions you need to be asking upfront.

Ask the right questions: 1. How long have you been in the kitchen and bathroom remodeling business? 2. How many projects like mine have you completed? 3. Who will be working on the project? 4. Are the other workers employees or subcontractors? 5. Can you provide me with references? 6. May I see a current job site? 7. Are you and your employees licensed and insured? 8. What license(s) do you have? 9. What other training and affiliations do you have? 10. How do you charge, and what does that include? 11. Can you give me a written estimate? 12. What do your services include? 13. How will I be charged for parts and materials? 14. When can this job get done? 15. What is your policy for change orders? 16. What happens when cost exceeds the budget? What about changes to materials or labor pricing? 17. What will I need to provide? 18. Are there any important considerations or concerns you foresee with this project?

Contact us today to get all your questions answered.

The WORST remodeling advice EVER

The WORST remodeling advice EVER Every great remodel started with a great plan, and if you don’t have one you are asking for disaster! If you want to fail at your remodel, we can give the best advice to lose money, waste time and get the worst imaginable remodel outcome.

Follow these steps to have your home remodel FAIL!

Below we have comprised the all-time top remodeling LIES!!!

1. Do not ever dream about this remodel, or look for inspirations. Ideas and inspirations are a no no. Steer clear of Pinterest and home décor magazines, these will give you dreams and ideas of a perfect remodel. Think of how you want remodel each room once you get to it, never plan before you start.

No plan = fail. You must have a plan and ideas of how you want your remodel to look before you start. Take all of your ideas and put them together in a binder or file so that you can get a better feel for what direction you want your remodel to go in. Write down all of the things you dream of and your partner, even if it is a spa bathroom or laundry room addition.

2. Don’t set a budget. Checking to see how much money you have to actually spend on this project or need to finance is warned against. It doesn’t matter how much your home is worth, or the how much the homes around you are worth. Spend as much as you want on your home remodel, you will get it all back if you plan on selling anyways.

You must set a budget and figure out how much is too much to spend on this project. You can waste the most money by not using the money you have wise enough.

3. DIY the whole remodel project. Contractors and professionals, who needs them? Everything can be done on your own, and may even cost you less money than anticipated, if you have the spare time to work after you get off your day job.

You can NOT DIY your whole home remodel. There are certain projects that you can DIY, but if you are not experienced you may waste money and time, and end up with a major fail. Check into local remodel companies and bring all your ideas to the tables.

4. If you do hire someone for help, give them all the money up front and just let them do the remodel without any contracts or guarantees. No need to check references or other completed projects of theirs, all remodel companies are created equal.

Do your homework! Not every contractor or professional remodel company is professional. A contract should be drawn up with deadlines and phases, contractors ask for a deposit but generally require full payment once completed.

5. If you need to get a loan, get the first loan you hear about. Quick money is the most important thing when looking for a remodel home loan.

Check what types of loans are available, interest rate and amount available. Do not settle for the first loan that offers quick money, they may cost you in the long run.

6. The most expensive materials and fixtures are the best way to go when you want to make money on your remodel. If your new kitchen is worth more than your neighbor’s kitchen, then your house will sell and make you tons in profit.

Expensive materials do not mean that you will make more money necessarily when you sell. There is a such thing as investing too much money on a remodel, and losing money when you sell. Be wise.

You can either do your remodel the right way or the wrong way. Get educated and think things through before you jump the gun. Remodel smart the first time.