Bathroom Remodel: Three Materials to Consider
Your bathroom should be an oasis and reflect your personal style. If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom in 2019, the materials you incorporate can give your space a very different feel. From wood to marble, we take a look at the pros and cons of various building materials.
Luxurious Marble
Marble is a metamorphic rock that’s been used for thousands of years in design and often contains unique veining throughout. On the plus side, marble offers a classic, timeless feel, that brings luxury to any space. Drawbacks of marble can include a higher price point and more work after its installed. Since marble is prone to rust, it does require periodic sealing, however, we think the maintenance is well worth the elegance.
Worryfree Tile
If your remodel is on a budget, tile may be an affordable option for your bathroom makeover. The best part of tile in a bathroom is how durable and resistant to moisture it is, not to mention it’s easy to clean. With so many different colors and patterns to choose from tile can take a small space and make it vibrant and fresh.
Warming Wood
If you’re looking to warm up your bathroom or if you want a rustic feel, incorporating wood can be an option. Wood is an underrated material used in bathrooms because of humidity and moisture issues. One solution is to make sure it is properly treated, another is to opt for a porcelain tile that gives the look of wood but is easy to maintain.
What materials are you hoping to incorporate in your next bathroom? Tell us in the comments below and be sure to follow us on social for more design tips and DIY best practices. Join in the conversation on social or leave a comment below. Our in-house designers are also here to guide you in your remodel journey and can be reached at one of our showrooms in Louisville or Lexington.
Before, During, After Tips for your Next Tile DIY.
As the weather cools you may be more inspired to jump on a DIY project. We’ve pulled together a few tips to keep in mind during your next tile DIY. Grab your trowel, tile marker and knee pads, and let’s get going.
Before : Prep the space
Set yourself up for success and get your tools and space ready. Vacuum or sweep up as much left over debris from the floor. Make sure if there are any deep cracks or inconsistencies in the base floor to level them as best as possible to create a more even floor.
During: Take your time
After: Exit gracefully
What tips have helped you when DIY tiling your space? Join in the conversation on social or leave a comment below. Our in-house designers are also here to guide you in your remodel journey and can be reached at one of our showrooms in Louisville or Lexington.
Update your Space with Rich Fall Colors
If you’ve been leaf peeping this season, let fall colors inspire your next project. These tiles are inspired by fall but are timeless, no matter what the season.
Sage Green
Keep the fresh feeling of green even throughout fall with sage tile. This tranquil and refreshing color is perfect for creating an oasis like bathroom space.
Chocolate Brown
Peacock
Yellow
Which fall color inspires you? Join in the conversation on social or leave a comment below. Our in-house designers are also here to guide you in your remodel journey and can be reached at one of our showrooms in Louisville or Lexington.
Blog Post–Spring DIY: Your Top Three Projects
Spring is here which means it’s time for DIY home renovations. Whether it be an outdoor kitchen, your next bathroom floor remodel or a kitchen backsplash, we discuss the hottest home trends this season and how you can begin your next DIY project.
Outdoor Kitchen: Choosing the Best Surfaces
Granite is the number one choice for outdoor kitchen counters as it comes in a wide range of colors and holds up well in the weather. It will not fade due to sun exposure and is resistant to stains and mold when properly sealed. Measure your space, view our selection of granite, and order a slab with the help of our specialists. Don’t forget to install ¾ inch of plywood to the tops of cabinets for support and apply a silicone sealer around the edges before laying granite.
Kitchen Backsplash: More Tile Please
When placing your own tile, take your backsplash to the ceiling. As we see less wall cabinetry and more open shelves and windows in kitchens, ceiling-height backsplashes are becoming more popular. This trend brings reflective qualities to your kitchen making it brighter and creating a focal point. Can’t decide on what kind of tile? View the types of tile we offer at Mees and work with closely with our consultants to find your favorite look.
Bathroom Floors: Make A Statement
This Spring switch up your bathroom with DIY statement flooring. Geometric tiles paired with neutral walls are on trend. View examples of our bathroom tile installations here.
Ready to switch up your space this Spring? Contact Mees consultants and get started today. (502)-969-3838.
Must-have tile tools for your next DIY project.
Are you ready to tackle a tiling project but don’t know what you need to get started? We discuss the top tile tools for your next DIY project.
To Begin: Chalk Line
Tiling is about straight lines. Fill the tool with chalk powder, shake it up, and unreel the string to the desired length. Snap the string to get a legible blue line as needed. This technique is used to define the tiling area before you begin your DIY project. A laser level line can be used as well.
Application: Trowels
Trowels are used for laying thinset mortar or mastic. From the mixing bucket to the installation site they provide the right amount of substance to the tile. Trowels come in different sizes and there are two basic types: the v-notch and square-notch.
Finish it off : Grout Float
Every tiling project includes grouting. This process includes filling the spaces in between tiles with freshly mixed grout, and scraping the tiles clean of excess grout. Enter a grout float which will help get the job done. Choose a rubber grout float for walls or floors and don’t forget to take a sponge to the surface for easy clean-up.
Do you have questions about the tools you need for a DIY project? Mees specialists are happy to discuss your project with you. We provide underlayment material, tile, grout, sealers and other tools for need to get the job done! Give us a call at (502)-969-5858.
How to Decide Granite Thickness
After deciding granite as the primary stone in your home, it’s time to determine which thickness will complete your look. Typically the industry standard for kitchen granite is 1.25 inches (3 cm), while a granite bathroom vanity is ¾ of an inch (2 cm). We share tips that will help you make the best decision for your next home project.
Thick Granite
Thicker granite gives colors and patterns a stronger presence providing a nice focal point in a room. This style works especially well in contemporary and modern rooms. Darker colors are often times easier to find in a thicker variety and are largely popular for kitchen countertops as they can withstand heavy traffic.
Thin Granite
Although a thinner stone costs less, there a few things to take into consideration. With a 2cm slab, you must install a plywood underlayment on top of the cabinets for support and decide on a laminate edge style, whereas a thicker granite stone can rest directly on cabinets.
At Mees, no matter what the thickness, the durability will be the same due to proper installation. Need assistance with granite installation or advice on stone thickness for your home? Give us a call at (502)-969-5858.
Chipped or Cracked: Our Top Tips for Granite Repair
Is your granite in need of repair? We discuss DIY advice for granite chips and cracks to keep your countertops looking new. Mees has all the necessary tools to complete minor repair projects and the staff on hand for those times you need a pro.
Chipped Granite
Granite is a very durable material, but if it happens to chip, a repair is possible taking these DIY steps. First, prep your surface area by taping it off. Then use the same granite aggregate color as the counter stone. Mix the stone powder with clear epoxy to create a paste. Wearing gloves, pat the mixture into the chip. Speed up the curing time with an industrial heat gun which should be pointed six inches aways from the chip. Turn the heat gun on for one minute, and then pat down the paste, repeating multiple times until it is hardened. Make sure the patch is cool and hard before grinding it out.
Cracked Granite
Whether it’s a hairline crack that occured during installation or a separated crack that is a result of heavy impact, it can be repaired by filling with an acrylic or using a color-matched epoxy to glue the pieces back together. Many times a hairline crack won’t worsen and can be taken care of with a simple sealant. For deeper cracks you’ll want to bring in the pros to help you refinish the countertop and make sure the fix appears even by blending the crack itself with the surrounding surface color and shine.
Looking for granite repair help? Mees specialists have the knowledge, skills, and experience. Call us today at 502-969-5858.
3 Scary DIY Tile Mishaps to Avoid
When it comes to a DIY tile project, there’s a whole list of dos and don’ts. Want to avoid those scary mishaps? We’ve rounded up three common mistakes that you can be sure to avoid on your next tile project.
Wrong Dimensions
Whether you’re cutting around an outlet or cutting a curve like this, double check your measurements on any project. Measure twice, cut once and you won’t have to worry about wasted tile. (Photo via DIY Network)
Uneven Tiles
Not using spacers while you’re laying tile results in an uneven, messy finish. Add a couple on each side of the tile to keep things level and looking professional in the end. (Photo via Erin Spain)
Excess Grout
Once you’ve laid your tile, you’re in the home stretch, but a common mistake that happens at this point is using too much grout. Create a crisp, clean finish by smearing the grout on in a diagonal pattern, squeegee off the excess, and then use a damp sponge to remove any leftovers. (Photo via Love Grows Wild)
What are common tile mistakes you’ve seen and how do you avoid them?
Share them with us on Facebook!
Tile as Art: 4 Creative Tile Patterns
Adding creative tile patterns to your space in equal parts is decorative and durable. If you’re looking for a way to bring art into your home with tile, we’ve highlighted four options below.
V-Shaped
A few shades of subway tile and a little bit of patience is all it takes to achieve this showstopping backsplash. The V-shaped pattern makes your backsplash the focal point of the kitchen, while the subway tile keeps it looking classic and timeless. (Photo via Design Milk)
Modern Chevron
Not ready to give up on the chevron pattern? Neither are we. Stack rectangular tiles in this pattern to create height and dimension, and also bring a little fun to your kitchen or bathroom. (Photo via Design Milk)
Random
If uniform isn’t your style, try incorporating scattered colored tiles throughout a white diamond pattern to add a geometric modern look to your space. (Photo via Amara)
3D Art
When the right shades hit the right shapes you’ll create an eye-catching 3-D effect that brings depth to your space. Stick with neutral colors like gray hues to keep it clean and modern. (Photo via Domino)
What tile patterns are you loving at the moment? Share your favorites with us on Facebook or comment below!