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5 Crucial Factors to Consider Before Installing a Backsplash in Your Kitchen

Installing a backsplash seems like a tempting DIY project until you dig into the project’s specifics. In addition to obtaining all the right equipment for a one-time project, you also need careful attention to detail to ensure everything goes smoothly. As Austin’s kitchen remodeling company, we recommend that you consider the items below.  #1: Accurate Measurements Tile installation starts with obtaining accurate measurements. You need to know the square footage your tiles will cover. You also need to purchase the correct amounts of tile and grout to cover the wall. Many homeowners make mistakes during this step. Not only should the tile cover the wall’s surface, but it also should not overtake counter space or appliances. Factor the tile’s thickness into the equation as well. #2: Flexible Budget Your shopping list should include: Enough tile to cover the wall and fix mistakes Enough grout to hold the tile securely in place A tile cutter Cleaning products to sanitize wall surfaces Tile adhesive Handheld tools to apply the grout and tiles If you aren’t sure how to use any one of these items, you should seek extensive instructions on how to do so. While many homeowners think a DIY project saves money, it could cost them more than hiring a skilled contractor from the start. #3: Adaptable Itinerary Installing a backsplash for your kitchen isn’t a straightforward process. If you have a strict itinerary, you’ll encounter lots of disappointment and scheduling issues. Your DIY project requires a learning curve, plenty of research, and time to get used to the process. You should also familiarize yourself with materials that have resale value in the event you sell your home. An experienced remodeling contractor already has extensive knowledge about the process, market, and how the materials can work for or against you. #4: Color and Material Choices If you don’t have an eye for design, you can easily choose colors or materials that clash. Two elements with the same shade of gray won’t necessarily match. If two materials have matching colors but lack complementary patterns, your kitchen will look too busy or off to most visitors. A professional remodeler can easily identify elements that work well with each other, coordinating countertop and backsplash elements for cohesive results. #5: Consider Important Details When you embark on a backsplash project, make sure you: Clean the walls with the appropriate cleaning solution; dirty walls or walls washed with corrosive products won’t hold adhesive well  Double and triple-check your measurements before setting the first tile  Use caution when applying tiles to ensure straight and even application  Take your time and don’t try to rush the process  Use proper safety precautions with equipment like tile cutters Installing A Backsplash Is Easy With Catalyst Construction, Inc Does installing a backsplash seem less appealing? Don’t let these considerations dissuade you. There are numerous reasons you need a backsplash for your kitchen. Instead of stressing over the details, choose our kitchen remodeling team at Catalyst Construction, Inc. We’ll take the guesswork out of the equation for a superior final result. Contact us at 512-535-0544 for a free quote.

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8 Reasons Why You Need a Kitchen Backsplash

Are you seeking a minimalist approach to revamping your kitchen? As Austin’s kitchen remodeling contractor, our team at Catalyst Construction recommends that you consider a kitchen backsplash for a pop of complementary color and patterns. A well-designed backsplash will elevate your kitchen in ways few renovation projects will.  #1: Timeless Interior Design A backsplash never falls out of style depending on the type of tile. You can choose from a variety of: Colors Tile designs Patterns Styles Sizes Each combination of elements adds a unique visual flare that elevates your whole kitchen. Explore your aesthetic preferences in-depth before making a final decision. If your kitchen boasts a clean style with solid, light colors, mosaic tiles with complementary colors and unique patterns will uplift its appearance. For minimal, modern kitchens, try neutral, natural tones like warm brick reds or cool grays. #2: Simplified Cleaning Process Even the cleanest kitchens catch food and oil splashes during the cooking process. Many homeowners forget their kitchen walls can fall prey to stubborn spills too. You might have difficulty cleaning the average drywall with cleaning products and a sponge. Many cleaning products can damage the wall’s paint. Wall tile, however, doesn’t fade or erode as easily. When grease pops out of the frying pan or oil splashes from a mixing bowl, you can easily wipe the mess away without harming the tile’s visual integrity. #3: Environmentally Friendly Numerous manufacturers make backsplash tiles from recycled materials. Instead of choosing non-renewable materials, you’ll discover a wide tile selection that includes reusable materials. This makes a positive impact on the environment. Additionally, manufacturers make glass tile backsplash from easily sourced materials. Ceramic and porcelain tiles contain materials that manufacturers can mine and create without using as much fuel or pollutants. It offers a trendy yet timeless option that protects future resources. #4: Stress-Free Installation Kitchen backsplash installation can seem like a challenging process for the average homeowner. But choosing a skilled installer greatly simplifies the installation process. Your tile will add value and beauty to your home when installed professionally. A professional kitchen remodeling contractor removes the guesswork from the equation. They’ll take precise measurements, choose quality materials, and pay attention to the details throughout the process. You’ll reap the benefits of professional installation for years to come. #5: Easy Maintenance Not only will you enjoy a hands-off installation process, but you’ll also appreciate easy routine maintenance. You can easily clean your backsplash each day no matter what cooking products find their way to the tiles. Additionally, you won’t have to stress if a tile falls out of the pattern. Although missing or damaged tiles are rare occurrences, they do occasionally happen. If you notice a damaged tile, you can gently remove it. Then, mix up the same grout used for the rest of the backsplash. Finally, add a new, matching tile to the pattern and allow it to dry. #6: Raises Your Home Value When potential buyers seek new houses to purchase, they pay attention to smaller details. One defining factor of a home’s resale price is the kitchen. A good backsplash will certainly catch their attention. If you want to increase your home’s value, research tile styles and materials that offer an increased return on value. Some materials are more durable and attractive than others. You should shop for such quality options in colors and patterns that pull the whole kitchen together. #7: Damage Resistance When you spend time in the kitchen, you’ll quickly notice that humidity factors into the lifespan of several appliances and structures. Moisture can cause mold, warping, and rust on any material it touches. Yet, you can’t easily avoid it when so many recipes and cooking methods require water and other liquids. Most tile materials easily resist moisture damage. Thus, they’ll protect the wall area beneath them. Since tile and grout don’t absorb moisture like other materials, it can reduce the likelihood that mold develops within your kitchen. Some tile varieties also boast heat resistance, which adds an extra protective layer within your kitchen. Since kitchens include heat-powered appliances, a heat-resistant tile may prevent fires from sparking or spreading. Ask your tile installer about moisture and heat-resistant options. #8: Endless Possibilities You can purchase tiles in numerous materials, colors, patterns, and other styles. If you want to personalize your kitchen’s aesthetic, you’ll discover endless possibilities while you shop for tile. This variety of options comes in handy when matching countertop and backsplash options. Consider both visual appeal and functionality when choosing your tile. Answer the following questions during your shopping adventure: Which tile colors will match pre-existing colors in my kitchen? Will colorful patterns improve the aesthetic? Or should I opt for something simple to prevent clashing colors? What types of tiles will improve my kitchen’s function and safety? Which backsplash examples are trends? Which ones have fashionable staying power? If you struggle to find detailed answers, an experienced kitchen remodeling company will guide you. How to Choose Your Kitchen Backsplash An overwhelming tile selection at home improvement stores may tempt you to make a quick purchase. However, you shouldn’t make a final purchase without completing the following steps first:  Set aside a flexible budget. Before embarking on your backsplash journey, identify how much money you should spend.  Identify the function and vision you want your tiles to achieve.  Get quotes from different remodeling contractors. During your discussions with them, present your budget and vision.  Choose the best contractor for the job.  Allow your chosen contractor to handle the project. A reputable remodeling contractor will take the initiative to communicate with you when necessary.  Following these steps ensures you achieve the desired result. Choose Catalyst Construction, Inc To Design Your Dream Kitchen Installing a backsplash shouldn’t be a source of stress. Once you contact us, our team at Catalyst Construction, Inc will go over your kitchen backsplash vision in detail to ensure you get the most out of your kitchen. We can also assist you in other remodeling projects. Call us at 512-535-0544 to request a free

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kitchen remodeling near Austin

How to Set the Perfect Budget for Your Kitchen Remodel

Renovating your kitchen adds life to your Austin home and increases the resale value of your property. Without an organized budget, however, many homeowners find themselves spending much more than they anticipated. Before delving into your next big home improvement project, learn to set a reasonable budget for your kitchen remodel.  Catalyst Construction Inc. offers full-scale kitchen remodeling services in Austin, TX, and has the advice to help you transform your kitchen on a budget you can afford. Determine Your Spending Whether you want to replace existing cabinets or add a new tile backsplash, you need to set a realistic budget for your kitchen remodel. Double-check your finances during the planning phase before committing to any materials or plans. Knowing how much you can afford will help you make informed decisions concerning your upgrade options and makes all the difference during the renovation process. Consider the Long Term Before getting carried away with upgrades, consider your long-term plans with your home. If you plan on moving within five years, don’t spend more on renovations than you hope to gain when selling the house. If you plan on staying in your home longer than five years, you have more freedom to make your kitchen remodel as tailored to your style and preferences as possible as long as you stay within your budget. Break Down Costs and Expenses One of the most important things to consider when renovating a kitchen comes down to cost. The average upscale kitchen remodel costs around $80,000. Balance your budget accordingly by familiarizing yourself with the different costs associated with your renovation.  Consider this list of expenses for an average kitchen remodel:  35%: Cabinet hardware 25%: Labor 20%: Appliances 10%: Flooring 5-8%: Countertops 5-7%: Plumbing 3%: Permits and other Avoid Overspending During the remodeling phase, you may find adding small fixtures or additional upgrades tempting. Always ask yourself if you’ve allocated these items into your budget previously. If not, try to skip the extras to avoid overspending. Prepare for Unexpected Costs To avoid a financial scramble during your kitchen remodel, dedicate at least 20% of your remodeling budget to cover unexpected costs. Some of the expenses you may face during the renovation process include: Replacing outdated wiring Removing mold from interior walls  Fixing water damage and plumbing issues Stay Organized Make an itemized checklist to keep an eye on your spending. Using a spreadsheet helps you allocate your funds and keep track of every dollar you spend during your remodel. As bills and invoices begin to accumulate, staying organized will help you manage costs and account for every square foot of your remodel much more easily. Schedule Your Kitchen Remodel Today Catalyst Construction Inc. has served the Austin area with home transformations since 2007. We specialize in full-scale kitchen remodels with superior craftsmanship and always complete jobs in a timely manner. As a family-owned and -operated remodeling company, we always bring you transparent estimates and work within your budget for a kitchen remodel. The best time for your kitchen remodel starts today when you call Catalyst Construction at 512-535-0544!

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Austin Kitchen Remodeler

When Is the Best Time for Your Kitchen Remodel?

Planning the best time for a kitchen remodel varies with every household. If you’ve allocated your kitchen remodeling budget and want to get started on your project right away, consider these suggestions from Catalyst Construction Inc.’s kitchen remodeling experts in Austin, TX. Family Preference Due to the scope of the project, kitchen renovations present a scheduling conflict with your family, especially for homes with children. Many families opt for the summer to start their kitchen remodeling process due to more relaxed schedules and vacation times.  Summer also provides several benefits for contractors. They can enjoy air-conditioning while working inside your home. Also, the abundance of bright natural lighting during the summer helps accurately identify the colors of cabinets, countertops, flooring, and walls in your kitchen. Eating Meals During the construction phase of your kitchen remodel, you need to decide where to eat your daily meals during construction. Eating out at restaurants can put a strain on your kitchen remodeling budget as well as your diet. Depending on your eating preferences, a simple microwave or air fryer might suffice for all your meals.  Late spring or early summer makes a great time for a kitchen remodel because you can take advantage of pleasant outdoor weather for a backyard cookout. You may need to evaluate contractor prices and availability during this time, however. Both spring and summer mark a busy period for contractors with significantly higher labor costs. Cold Weather Unlike during the warmer months, contractors become more available during the fall and winter seasons and typically offer less expensive rates for their services. The holidays also provide opportunities for discounts on home goods. Stock up on supplies during promotions like Black Friday, even if you don’t plan on installing them immediately. Having all the necessary resources on hand can help keep your project on track and prevent any unnecessary delays. Compared to winter, fall still serves as one of the best times for a kitchen remodel. You still have abundant natural lighting available and the most flexibility from contractors. Also, by wrapping up renovations in the fall, you can open your home for guests and showcase your new kitchen in time for the holidays. Product Lead Times Product lead times make the winter months less ideal for a kitchen remodel. Suppliers often fulfill contract orders slower during this period which can cause unexpected delays for your project beyond your contractor’s control. Cabinetry often has longer lead times due to construction and delivery times. Always plan ahead and start shopping as soon as possible to avoid delays and product backorders.   Other common items that may require early ordering include: Faucets Lighting fixtures Large appliances Countertops Determine the best time for your kitchen remodel once you have the majority of the necessary resources on hand. Contact Catalyst Construction for Your Custom Kitchen Remodel Choosing when to remodel your kitchen is just one of the kitchen renovation considerations our team at Catalyst Construction Inc. can help you decide. When you need the best quality craftsmanship for a complete kitchen transformation in Austin, TX, call the home remodeling experts, Catalyst Construction Inc., at 512-535-0544 today!

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Kitchen Renovation in Austin

5 Things to Consider When Renovating a Kitchen

The kitchen often becomes the heart and warmth of your home, but without aesthetics and functionality, you can quickly lose your love for it. Even if the space worked for you at some point, kitchens eventually become outdated, meaning their fixtures become worn, paint fades, and appliances grow less effective and energy efficient. Other times, residents simply look for an opportunity to match their changing personalities. However, before breaking down walls and buying a new island, here are five things to consider when renovating a kitchen. At Catalyst Construction, Inc., our family-owned and operated team has over 15 years of experience assisting homeowners like you. Trust our certified kitchen remodeling contractors in Austin, TX, each embodying transparency and a keen eye for detail to bring your blueprints to life. What Does Your Dream Kitchen Entail? If you’ve had your kitchen for a while, you’ve probably noticed some obsolete add-ons irrelevant to your family’s needs. For instance, if you have a breakfast nook taking up a large portion of your smaller kitchen, but your kids always find their way in front of the living room television when eating before school, tearing it out may offer the best way to open up the floorplan.  Or if your growing family makes a habit of eating at the kitchen island, but you’re running out of space, you may need a larger one with more seating. Either way, list what should go permanently and what incorporations you need moving forward.  You should also research to determine not only what would make your new kitchen complete but also the specific style and size of these additions to best outline your dream kitchen. Receive inspiration for kitchen designs anywhere, from Pinterest and Better Homes and Gardens to your neighbor’s newly decorated abode. Full layouts help you better decipher your style and what you need for optimal flow. Budgeting for Your Remodel You can easily go overboard with all the high-end, shiny, new appliances on the market and end up with something that does more than you need it to. Rather than spend all you have on your renovation behind one kitchen insert, pace your spending and budget for a kitchen remodel.  Roughly determine what you plan to upgrade in your kitchen, whether adding new cabinets and replacing the refrigerator or gutting the entire room, including stripping the walls to replace wiring and plumbing pipes. Use your list from step one and write down prices for each new item alongside installation costs. Ask friends who’ve undergone the process or call a contractor to relay accurate prices. Taking Care of Electricity and Plumbing One of the most important things to consider when renovating a kitchen includes upgrading your electrical wiring to code. Your contractor must place at least two 20-amp circuits within the kitchen, with at least one powering the room’s lights. You must also have electrical outlets spanning the kitchen countertop, leaving no spot further than two feet away from one.  Each outlet must also have a GFCI protector, especially since they’re near water, that shuts off the power if there’s a short circuit to prevent fires and shocks.  Also, depending on your plumbing fixtures, they may be close to the end of their lifespans, so ask the contractor to examine the pipes’ condition. For instance, while copper may last 20 years, cast iron lasts up to 100. However, if you have an old home or the fixtures had improper care or installation, they may need immediate assistance. Take care of that now rather than tear apart your new kitchen in a few years. Updating Existing Kitchen Surfaces: Walls and Floors Once your plumbing and wiring meet the codes, professional contractors will apply drywall with furring strips and go over it with joint tape and compound. Afterward, you can bring your color scheme to life by choosing your paint colors and designs for your walls. Otherwise, either change your entire wall look by wallpapering, adding a brick accent wall, or incorporating wood trim. If you include new flooring in your new floor plan, consider options that match your new walls while remaining practical. For instance, if you switch from smooth, wooden floors with no grooves to more elevated tiles with deep grooves, ensure they’re not too high to block cabinet doors from opening or become a tripping hazard.  Switching to tile may also mean you need an added plywood subfloor to uphold the tile, so ask your contractor about all the necessary steps and costs beforehand. Upgrading Other Surfaces: Cabinets and Countertops Among things to consider when renovating a kitchen, you need to decide whether you want to install custom cabinets. While you can repaint or stain existing ones, you may prefer a new set, especially if you change from wood or vinyl cabinets to glass or vice versa. However, you have more to think about than just aesthetics since you should consider leaning walls, sloped floors, and corners that affect how your drawers open and close.  The right countertops affect how your cabinets and drawers come together, so make sure you choose something that complements it well. Also, because countertops are where you do most of your meal preparation, determine the appropriate material for your daily needs.  For instance, while marble makes an elegant option, its porous rock material soaks up liquids and stains. If you prefer not to take the extra step to laminate this already expensive material, consider quartz, a great durable alternative. On the other hand, if you more frequently turn to take out, softer and more cost-effective wood or laminate will suffice. Let the Heart of Your Home Steal Your Heart Again! With careful planning, your new kitchen design will leave you with a breathtaking new household room and a work triangle that makes functioning between your refrigerator, sink, and stove effortless.  At Catalyst Construction, Inc., in Austin, TX, we know what things to consider when renovating a kitchen. Call 512-535-0544 when it’s time for a kitchen remodel to get a free

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The Benefits of Custom Cabinetry: Is It Worth the Investment?

Custom cabinetry is a growing trend in the Austin suburbs. If like many homeowners, you are considering replacing your existing cabinetry with custom cabinets, a cost-benefit analysis in the planning stage can ensure that you are happy with the result. Catalyst Construction has advice for getting the most out of your custom cabinets and keeping costs down throughout the process.

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