Category: Industry Trends

A Crash Course in Solid Surfacing Materials

ssmcountertops We’ve gone over the differences in natural stone countertops before, now we’re talking about “Solid Surfacing Material” (SSM). While there may not be as many differences between brands of SSM, we’ll talk about what SSM is and what materials are commonly used in its creation.

What is “Solid Surfacing Material?”

A man-made material, solid surface is made up of acrylic or polyester resins, various minerals used as a filler with pigments added in. The result of this mixture is a completely homogeneous and non-porous surface that comes in a large variety of colors. With SSM you can get the look of natural stone without the hassle.

Solid Surfacing countertops can easily be made to fit your cabinet configuration, making it a perfect choice for seamless countertop installations. Solid surfacing is popular in hospitals – the easy to maintain, non porous material with seamless construction means there are less crevices for dirt and bacteria to hide in.

Wear and tear will show on SSM countertops eventually. While the surface itself may burn, get scratched or stain, owners are able to buff out surface markings. Deeper cuts and gouges can be filled if needed. It should be mentioned though that some darker/ highly pigmented surfaces will over time show scratches. Cutting boards are highly recommended if you decide to go with a SSM countertop.

Acrylic VS Polyester

Acrylic

Beware of solvents (Acetone, paint thinners)- They will damage the surface
Low gloss surface, less visual depth than polyester
Can be “thermoformed” into intricate shapes

Polyester

High gloss surface
More brittle (An issue for fabrication and installation, not so much for the user)
Can handle higher temperatures
More difficult to guarantee solid seams

Acrylic currently makes up a large percentage of products on the market today. Still, if you would prefer a polyester based material there are still some options out there for you.

We hope you’ve found this informative, next time we’ll cover wood and concrete countertops.

countertop material

Aging In Place – Part 4

Aging in place- older couple living independently

The Kitchen

Today we are discussing aging in place and some of the modifications that you can make to your kitchen to ensure that you can stay in your home for many years. Accessibility is one of the key factors to look at when renovating your home to age in place. A little bit of planning and foresight can allow you to maintain your independence for years to come.

Countertops

For safety reasons you want to make sure the countertops you choose have rounded edges to reduce the risk of injury in the kitchen.
As we age our eyesight can begin to deteriorate making it difficult to safely navigate through your kitchen. Adding a contrasting color to the edges of the countertop helps those with poor eyesight maneuver around the kitchen without fear of injury.
Try to have at least one countertop area that is shorter than the typical 36 inch height and is open underneath to accommodate a wheelchair.

Sink

The space underneath the sink should be open and piping for the sink should be placed towards the back wall to allow for wheelchair access
Look for a lever style faucet or a one touch faucet for arthritic hands, or for those who have diminished manual dexterity.
Opt for a sink that has a shallow basin to make everyday kitchen activities such as rinsing vegetables or washing dishes easier if you are in a wheelchair.

Cabinets

In a previous post we wrote about door handles, and how certain types of door handles are better for those with arthritis. The same can be said about the hardware on your cabinets. Swap out old knob handles with “D” shaped drawer pulls for easier accessibility.
As you modify your kitchen think drawers, not cabinets. Drawers will give you greater accessibility to all of your stored goods and appliances.
If you do keep your cabinets, deep cabinets can benefit from a lazy Susan or from pull out shelves. Modifications such as these allow you to reach any and all of the contents of your cabinets safely and easily.

If you have any questions about aging in place feel free to contact us. We have several Certified Aging-In-Place Specialists here at Schrader and Company to help you plan you and your loved one’s future.

Learn the Lingo: Transom Windows

Today we’re talking about transom windows, what they are and what do they do.

So lets start this off by defining what a transom window is.

Traditionally this architectural element was originally found in Gothic style churches. The windows were added to support areas where iron stays were not able to be used. In later periods of Gothic architecture transom windows were added as a stylistic element rather than an architectural need.

Transoms can serve multiple needs in your home. For example, the bathroom is a great place to use transom windows. The window would you to maximize natural lighting in your bathroom without compromising your privacy. In addition to letting in more natural light, transoms can also be opened to allow for ventilation.

In some cases transoms can be a strictly decorative element, leaded glass is often seen in this style of window. Even though the window may be only decorative, it still allows for extra light to enter the room in which it is located.

Older homes often used transoms to aid in cooling. By keeping both the transom window and lower window open, cool air can come into the home from the lower window, and hot air would leave the home. Interior transoms could be left open to allow warm air to circulate throughout the home, or could be kept closed to keep warm air in areas of the house that are being used.

There you have it, transom windows in a nutshell. Keep checking back for more “Learn the Lingo” posts.

Lingo

Comparing Natural Stone Countertops

Today we have an amazing selection of materials to choose from when looking for a countertop. It can be a little daunting. We’ll be comparing some common countertop materials so you don’t have to. First up, we’re covering natural stone!

Granite

The most popular countertop material
Comes in a wide range of colors – vibrant blues, deep reds, variegated browns and whites and more.
Few seams
Is treated to prevent staining- treatment can last 10-15 years
Should be cleaned with a stone cleaner- not an abrasive treatment
Depending on the color and complexity of cuts granite countertops can cost between $75 to $250 per square foot

Soapstone

Soapstone comes in far fewer colors than granite. The material is usually a dark greenish-black Lighter green-gray slabs are also fairly common.
Can be turned into a matching sink if desired
Requires treatment with mineral oil as soapstone is a porous surface
Costs between $100 to $150 per square foot

Slate

Typically comes in these five colors – green, red, gray, purple and black. Mottled and variegated purple slates which have shades of contrasting colors and visible veins are less common.
Like soapstone, slate can also be fabricated into a matching sink.
Slate is a non porous surface that requires minimal maintenance
Can be scratched because it is a relatively soft stone, buffing out scratches with steel wool is recommended
Can treat with lemon oil to give the slate a wet appearance
Costs between $100 to $200 per square foot depending on material and fabrication

Quartz

Not as “natural” as the other materials mentioned, but quartz countertops are engineered using various sizes and grades of crystals to create slabs.
Can come in a variety of hues, patterns, and finishes that can mimic the look of other materials including granite and slate.
One of the hardest materials on Earth, quartz can withstand tough treatment.
Quartz countertops are made with ground quartz and a mixture of resins, resulting in a non-porous, scratch resistant surface that never needs to be sealed.
Costs between $65 and $ 100 a square foot.

We hope that you have found this quick comparison helpful. Next time we’ll be comparing solid-surfacing materials such as Corian. Keep check back for new posts.

comparison kitchen countertop material natural stone

Learn the Lingo – Wainscoting

We’re talking about Wainscoting today. You’ve probably seen it at some point, but never knew that it had a name. It’s been trendy for a few years now but did you know that it has actually been around since at least the 18th century?

So what is it?
Wainscoting is a paneling that is applied to the lower half of a wall and is often topped by a chair railing. The top portion of the wall is left uncovered by paneling, often you will find the area above the paneling is painted or wallpapered.

Why would I use it?

If you like the look of wainscoting then go for it. This architectural detail is so versatile that, it can be used in any room of your house. Many say that wainscoting is easy to care for and clean, making it perfect for your mudroom.

What else should I know?

Wainscoting is pretty versatile, there are many styles available today that will suit whatever style you’re aiming to emulate in your home.

Living room interior with hardwood floor. 3D illustration — A modern take on Wainscoting

If you are interested in more wainscoting applications take a look at this photo gallery by This Old House

learn the lingo

Aging in Place Part Three

So far in this series we have focused on fall prevention, and how it can factor into your remodeling and renovation plans. Today we’re moving away from fall prevention to address another big concern when planning to age in place – accessibility. Making your home accessible to a range of different mobilities will ensure that you can spend more time in your home safely and independently as you get older. This is just the first post of many in our aging in place series that will focus on mobility. Today we have a short post focusing on hallways and doors.

There may come a time when you or a loved one has to make use of a walker or wheelchair, however many older homes do not have hallways and doorways that can accommodate the width of a wheelchair. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recommends that hallways be at least 36 inches wide, and goes on to say that wider than that would be preferred.

The NAHB also recommends that interior doors have levered handles installed rather than the traditional round door knob. The reason for this is that levered door handles are far easier to use for those with limited dexterity.

Keep checking back for more of our aging in place series, next time we will be covering accessibility in the kitchen. If you have any questions about remodeling or renovating your home with aging in place in mind please feel free to contact us.

Aging in place

Aging in Place – Part Two

Previously we discussed changes you can easily make to your home in order to aid those who would like to age in place. Specifically we focused on fall prevention, one of the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in seniors. Today we’re going to discuss the major changes that you can make to your home in the interest of preventing falls in your home. Much of what we’re discussing today are suggestions for those who are beginning to think about making their home a space where you can age in place. If you have any questions regarding your particular project please feel free to contact us. We have multiple NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place specialists here at Schrader & Co. to discuss your specific project and needs.

Railings and grab bars are a good first step when looking to modify your home for aging in place, but eventually you may want to look at your overall household floor plan to see what kind of single floor living space (with a full bath) is possible to achieve. Eliminating steps and elevated thresholds in your home will greatly reduce the chance of falls as one gets older.
Many of those who specialize in aging in place remodels suggest that you try to make your home livable on one level. For many people this is not an option. If you cannot get rid of a staircase within your home, but need more than a railing to assist moving up and down stairs a stair glide may be what you need to help. You can determine what will best fit your needs when talking to a Certified Aging-in-Place specialist.

The greatest area of concern in fall prevention is the bathroom. 80% of falls actually occur in the bathroom. Traditional step in tubs and shower stalls pose a great fall risk to many people as they get older, not to mention they might be inaccessible to those with other mobility issues. Zero-entry showers are a great investment for those who want to age in place. They provide a level entryway and they look great too!

Walk in tubs are another option, but they have a few flaws. One has to get into the tub and wait for it to fill if they wish to take a bath, likewise you would also have to wait for the tub to drain before getting out, the whole bathing process can become a bit inconvenient because of this. Walk in tubs do not have a level entry way like that of a zero-entry shower, the threshold that you have to step over is lower than a standard tub wall, but it still poses a falling risk in the long run.

Next time we’ll be talking about other improvements you can make to your home to help you age in place. With a little consideration and anticipation of what your needs may be as time goes on you can live in your home independently and safely for years to come.

Learn the Lingo – Daylighting

If you are looking to convert your basement into a livable area, or cut down on your electric bill you may come across the term “Daylighting”. Here’s a quick rundown of what it’s all about.

Daylighting is the term for design basic that is centuries old. Placement of windows and reflective surfaces is determined by taking into account the position of your house in relation to the sun. This allows you to maximize the amount of natural light coming into your home leading to energy savings for you.

For a more in depth look at daylight you can check out this video from the U.S. Department of Energy

5 things you should know about radiant heating

Radiant heating systems are has been growing in popularity for quite some time and there are many reasons why its reputation is so well deserved. Today we’re sharing a few things you should know about radiant heating.

What is it?

Have you ever felt the heat from a campfire? You can feel the heat radiating from the fire even from multiple feet away. That would be called infrared radiation, and that is what makes radiant heating systems work. Radiant heating systems deliver heat directly from a hot surface to the adjacent room by way of infrared radiation applies heat directly to panels in your wall or ceiling or even flooring.

It’s not as new as you would think.

Evidence of radiant heat systems have been found as far back as the neoglacial and neolithic eras. You can find examples of radiant heating in many civilizations such as Greek, Roman, and the Ottoman Empire.

There are different types of radiant heating

Hot air, Electric and Hydronic (water-fed). Those are the three types of radiant heating.

Hot Air – the least effective of the three, rarely used now.

Electric – More efficient than a hot air system, due to rising electricity costs it can become a little pricey. In order to make electric radiant heating more economical it is recommended to

Hydronic – The most efficient of the three types of radiant heating. It works by heating up water in a boiler then pumping the hot water through lengths of flexible tubing.

It’s efficient

Compared to baseboard heating and forced air heating radiant heating is far more efficient. Forced air heating is probably the most common heating system in American homes today but that doesn’t mean that it’s the best option for your home. Radiant heat systems have been found to be at least 20% MORE efficient than forced air heating systems.

Provides you with better air quality

Forced air systems cycle the air in your home in order to provide you with heat. In doing so the forced air system distributing dust, dander, and other allergens throughout your home on a regular basis. Radiant heat also has the benefit of not drying out the air in your home like a forced-air or baseboard heating system would, leaving your home nice and comfortable.

That’s Nifty– Kitchen Edition

Kitchens are pretty standard when it comes to what they’re equipped with. Cabinets, countertops, a stove, refrigerator, sink and maybe a dishwasher. That is all you really need to have for a kitchen. Still, you may want to add a little something extra to your kitchen, it may seem frivolous, but again, we aren’t talking about kitchen necessities today. We’re talking about things that will make your friends say “That’s nifty”.

Pot Filler Faucet

Filling up a large pot in your kitchen sink isn’t so difficult, but it can still be a bit of a pain. Enter the pot filler faucet. A pot filler faucet sits next to your stove and has a swing arm that allows you to swivel the faucet back and forth as needed. Pot filler faucets had a brief boom in popularity a few years ago but has since waned a bit. Don’t let it’s fall in popularity turn you off, if it is a feature that you like, go for it. Depending on the design of the pot filler faucet it could look great in a country style kitchen, but another model might lend itself to to a more modern aesthetic. Pot filler faucets could be a great addition to a kitchen for someone who has arthritis or cannot lift heavy/bulky items easily.

Steam Oven

Steam ovens appeared on the scene only a few years ago so not many people know that they exist. People love steam ovens for several reasons, not just for steamed vegetables. To begin with, steam ovens are typically smaller than a standard ovens, allowing them to heat up much faster, great for those who aren’t so patient. They’re great for reheating leftovers because they won’t dry out your food. Steam ovens are perfect for ambitious amateur bakers who need steam to create wonderful chewy crusty loaves of bread. A steam oven alone will not brown your foods like a traditional oven, but some steam steam ovens double as conventional ovens.

Appliance Garage

You might love your large upright mixture or your trusty toaster, but you might not be a fan of how they can make your countertop look a bit cluttered. You could put them in a cabinet, and pull it out as needed but that can become cumbersome overtime. This is where an appliance garage can become incredibly useful to cut down on kitchen clutter quickly. You can even have electrical outlets installed in the back of the cabinet to make using your stored appliances a snap!

Stay tuned for more nifty features for your home