Skip to main content
CALL NOW (801) 404-9451
Category

Basements

Jun 02
Love0
newly remodeled kitchen in utah - modern kitchen contractor

What to Look for in a Utah Kitchen Remodel Company

By Basements, Kitchens, Residential

Finding the right contractor to handle your kitchen remodel in Utah takes time and effort. Whether you are in Salt Lake City, Provo, or somewhere else in the Wasatch Front, getting the right residential contractor will prove worthwhile as they spend time in your home. Unfortunately (and fortunately), there is a lot of kitchen remodel contractors available in Utah, which means there will be more than one qualified for your project.

Having a wide variety of options is never bad, but it will make it a little more challenging for you to narrow down your search for the perfect contractor for your kitchen remodel. Along with making a difficult choice, selecting the wrong contractor could leave you in a bind, regardless of whether it means lengthy timeframes or exceeded budgets. That is why you must take your time making the right choice.

Take a quick scan of contractors in your area, and you might get overwhelmed trying to sort the good from the bad. Luckily, our team of seasoned contractors at Aspire Construction has collected a list of everything you should look for in a Utah kitchen remodel company. Here is what you need to know.

 

Kitchen Remodel Contractor Checklist 

 

1. Consider Contracting Experience

Experience matters, especially when it comes to completing projects in your home. Residential contracting companies in Utah are a dime a dozen, but weeding out the good from the bad relies on experience.

Always check a contractor’s portfolio and credentials. Work with your prospective contractor, asking them about their experience. Specifically, ask them about their past kitchen remodels. Knowing that they have worked on similar kitchen remodels is very important. Even if they have experience performing other contract work, you should find a contracting company that is proficient in kitchen remodels.

Kitchen remodel companies who handle kitchen remodels will have the techniques and know-how necessary to complete any project, no matter what pops up along the way. Contractors with kitchen remodel experience are also better equipped to manage their time correctly, budgets, and assure the highest quality of work.

You need to do your research from the start if you are going to find the right expert for your kitchen remodel. Ask every contractor you vet how long they have been in business and their experience handling similar projects to yours, including size and type. Your kitchen remodel contractors should be open about their experience. If they don’t want to tell you about their past projects, you should be aware that they don’t have the expertise needed to perform exceptional work.

 

2. Check for a Contracting License

Always work with a residential contractor that has the proper licensing. Contractors in Utah require a state license and might need a county license depending on the specific area they serve. When vetting a particular contractor, ask them for proof of their license.

It would also help if you asked about their training and their experience acquiring all permits needed for kitchen remodels in Utah. Because states have different licensing requirements, it’s best to call your local government before hiring a contractor, learning what is needed.

Navigating these waters is challenging, so ensuring your contractor’s expertise beforehand will prove worthwhile in the long run. Not having the proper licensing or permits will put you at risk of getting caught by the government and halting any work mid-service.

3. Ask About Insurance

The chances are that you have homeowner’s insurance, but you should also make sure that whichever contractor you work with is insured. When hiring a contractor, ask for proof that they will have workers’ compensation and liability insurance in place throughout your project time frame.

As you look through their proof of insurance and coverage, pay attention to the details surrounding home projects. Understanding your contractor’s coverage, as well as your own, will give you the confidence that they and you are covered no matter what happens.

4. Read Reviews

Reviews are one of the best ways of knowing how a contractor works while handling a kitchen remodel. Before hiring a kitchen remodel company, scan online reviews posted on their website and other service websites.

Customer reviews provide valuable insights into how a company operates and treats its customers. Pay careful attention to those reviews regarding kitchen remodels, especially those in your area. These reviews will most likely mimic how the contractor will perform in your home.

It would be best if you also took extra care when reading bad reviews. Of course, everyone makes mistakes and has bad days. But one way a company can redeem themselves is by reacting to the review and trying to make the situation better. If the contracting company openly manages any bad review, you can trust that they will do the same if anything goes wrong during your kitchen remodel.

Along with reading reviews, also ask your prospective kitchen remodel contractor for a list of references. These references, along with online reviews, will give you a reasonable estimate of how your project will go if you hire that contractor.

5. Consider Price

Project costs will always play a factor in any decision. Of course, your budget matters, but you should never choose the cheapest option solely because they are the most affordable. Weigh your options by finding a kitchen remodel contractor that provides the highest quality at the best price.

You should also manage your money well throughout the project. Ask your contractor for a budget breakdown that lists the bidding price and an itemized receipt. Keeping things completely transparent will ensure trust between you and your contractor.

Our team also suggests that you only pay for completed work. Don’t get taken advantage of– tell your contractor that you’ll only pay for the work that’s done and they should respect your demands. Get all of these requests written down, and you will have the confidence needed to move forward on your project.

 

Utah Kitchen Remodels by Aspire Construction

Renovate your kitchen so it can survive all the memories, messes, and traditions you’ll make. From Taco Tuesdays to homework at the kitchen counter, once you’ve stepped inside your new kitchen remodel by Aspire Construction, you’ll know you’re home.

Trust our kitchen remodel contractors with your renovation. Contact us today to learn more about our services. You can also review our contracting services on our website, including the areas in Utah where our contractors perform kitchen remodels.

Apr 07
Love0
finished walk out basement

Questions To Ask When Finishing Your Utah Basement

By Basements, Residential


The majority of Utah homes have a basement built into their floorplan. However, not every homeowner chooses to finish their basement when they first build their home. When Utahans, like you, decide that they are ready for a finished basement, they nearly always have questions. How much should it cost to finish your basement in Utah? Should I DIY or hire a contractor? What do I need to ask before hiring a Utah basement finishing company?

But, before answering all of your questions, let’s discuss the basics.

What to Know Before Finishing Your Basement in Utah

Finishing your basement involves a lot of work, whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a professional. From understanding the costs of finishing your basement in Utah to knowing the typical timeline, arming yourself with knowledge regarding basement contracting can make the entire process easier.

Fortunately, there are tricks you can use to make the process easier. Our team of experts install basement finishes around Utah year-round. That is why we understand the value a finished basement can provide a Utah homeowner, including increasing your property value, living space, and financial opportunities.

With all of our team’s experience in Utah home construction, you can consider Aspire Construction your go-to team for answering your basement finishing questions. For example, the value of finishing your basement comes from comparing other property values in your area. While it will always add value to finish your basement in terms of resell value, you should also consider what value it adds to your life now.

Ideas for Finishing Your Utah Basement

Perhaps you want to transform your unfinished basement into a rental property. Renting out your basement can help you earn extra income and even help you pay off your mortgage faster. College towns in Utah, such as Provo, Logan, and Salt Lake City, are great rental markets.

Finished basements are also great for storage and extra space. Think about what your current home is missing while designing your basement—what do you want included? Many Utah homeowners leave extra space in their basement for storage. Others install home theaters, craft rooms, fitness areas, and more. Since an unfinished basement typically has a rough layout, the design is reasonably easy to manipulate. Have fun and make it yours.

Now that we have our bases covered let’s answer all of your basement finishing questions.

How Much Should It Cost to Finish Your Basement in Utah?

Perhaps the most frequently asked question in Utah is how much it will cost to finish my basement. While it largely depends on the size of your home, a finished basement project can run between $30,000 to $60,000. You must also consider how you want to customize your design. If you need specialized electrical or multiple bathrooms, the price will lean towards the steeper end.

5 Signs That You Shouldn’t DIY Finishing Your Utah Basement

Some Utah homeowners take on the task of finishing their basement themselves. While it isn’t impossible to do it on your own, it does take a lot more work. There is plenty of information online to help you finish your basement. Unfortunately, some challenges could seem daunting when you don’t have a professional there lending a hand. If you are trying to decide whether to DIY or hire a basement contractor, here are five signs you should seek professional help.

  1. Your Basement DIY is Taking Too Long
    If you have already started finishing your basement by yourself and it’s taking too long, consider getting additional help. Most homeowners in Utah who start DIY-ing their basement finishing project get overwhelmed and quit before it’s done. No matter how far along you are, an experienced basement contractor can help. Don’t let your basement stay unfinished another year, get the help you need right away.
  2. You Keep Running into Major Issues
    Finishing a basement may seem simple, but challenges can come up you don’t know how to handle. Whether you are having trouble installing plumbing, electrical, or keep making mistakes, a basement finishing company can speed the process along. They will also get it done safely, without any hiccups.
  3. You Have Never Done Any Major Construction Projects
    If you don’t have experience finishing basements or doing construction, it is probably best that you hire a basement finishing contractor. Even if you think you have done all the research and watched hours of YouTube tutorials. Nothing compares to experience. You can always ask your contractor if there are areas you can do yourself to save money if you want to get your hands a little dirty and contribute to finishing your basement.
  4. You Can’t Do It All
    As mentioned earlier, most basement contractors will work with you customizing your project. Let them know the areas you need help and what you want to do yourself. The chances are that they will help you customize a process that better fits your needs and budget. Plus, they can look over your work to make sure it is all done correctly.
  5. You Don’t Know All the Legalities
    If you don’t know the specific rules and regulations required by Utah’s local municipalities, it is probably best to hire a basement finishing company with experience in your area. A professional basement remodeling company in Utah is aware of all the legal requirements that need to be met and followed before and during a basement remodeling project.

4 Questions Every Utahan Should Ask Before Hiring a Utah Basement Finishing Company

After deciding that it’s best to hire a Utah basement finishing company rather than doing it yourself, there are a series of questions you should ask the companies you are vetting. Here is what our contractors suggest:

  1. How long have you been in business?
  2. Can you provide a list of referrals?
  3. Do you have a contracting license and insurance?
  4. How long will the project take?

Asking these questions will help you narrow down your search. It will also give you the experience and knowledge you need to feel comfortable hiring them as your basement contractor. Use these questions as your starting point into opening up a dialogue that ensures you hire a basement finishing company suited to your needs.

For more information about basement finishing services in Utah, contact the basement finishing specialists at Aspire Construction.

Aug 01
Love0
Utah kitchen renovation

Basement Remodel: How to Use Your New Space

By Basements

Have you recently remodeled your basement or are you planning on a basement renovation? Your new space is the perfect area for lounging, living, storing, and more. But how do you get the most out of your basement? Here are a few tips for the perfect basement remodel.

basement finishing utah

Rethink Your Basement Layout

If you are finishing your basement the first thing to decide is the floor plan. Chances are you have a rough idea of what you want. However, don’t settle too quickly. Now is the time for determining what you want your basement to become. Do you need a bonus room for extra hangout space? Does your family require a fitness and gym area? Maybe, you want to add a basement apartment for any children that need a space of their own? Whatever needs you may have, make sure that the new layout matches them.

Working with our experts, you can determine a layout that maximizes your space without compromising any of your desires. No matter what you decide, you’ll probably want your design to combine necessary functionality with the look, feel, and degree of comfort you want.

 

Pick Your Style

Now that you decided your layout, it’s time to pick out a design. For many of our clients, this is their favorite part. Browse Pinterest. Visit hardware stores. Talk with our experts. Knowledge is key. But don’t fall into the trap of going with a trend just because it is the popular design of the day. Make sure that the style you use is one that you will like a year, five, ten down the road.

Also, another tip we give our clients is to pick a style that fits into the rest of your home. If you use an industrial style for your basement but have a farmhouse style upstairs visitors might be a little confused. Try and find something that matches but adds some new and exciting elements.

Remodeled Utah basement aspire construction.

Add in the Extras

Once you finish the basics, it’s time to think about everything else. Purchase a new television set. Find those table lamps. Grab that new couch you have been eyeing. Pulling everything together with all of the extras is what will bring your new basement remodel to life.

 

Basement Organization

When your basement remodel is officially finished, now is the time to get organized. If you want to make your renovation look like new years down the road, then you should make organization a top priority. Basements are often a dumping ground for items that don’t have a place upstairs. Don’t let your basement become a cluttered mess—get organized at the start.

But organization doesn’t need to be mundane. Make It fun by getting creative. Add in extra shelving. We love floating shelves and built-ins. You can also use accessories like woven baskets and ottomans for an added touch of style and storage.

Ask a Professional

Whether you are just beginning your basement remodel or are having a hard time organizing your recently finished basement, the easiest way to get it right is by working with a professional. Together you will make your basement everything you want it to be. To get started on finishing your basement contact the professionals at Aspire Construction. Our basement remodels will make your home feel like new again.

Feb 22
Love0
beautiful open concept kitchen and living room

4 Ways to Increase Your Home Value This Year

By Basements, Kitchens, Residential

Preparing to sell your home isn’t the only time to start thinking about your home’s value. If you, like 70% of American homeowners, believe that your home is your most lucrative investment, then it’s time that you make your belief a reality. The good news is that there are four renovations proven to make you the top dollars you need when selling your home.

Whether you are putting your home on the market in the next few months or you want to build equity, use these four tactics to raise the value of your home.

Finish Your Basement

Unfinished basements are a gold mine for untapped potential. Basements can substantially increase the value of your property. By finishing this space, you can add a significant amount of usable living space that is proven to add dollar signs. In fact, on average, finishing a basement will give you a return of 70 to 75% of your investment.

Even if you aren’t considering selling any time soon, you can add a rental unit to your basement. This is an excellent option for homeowners looking to lighten the load of their mortgage or increase the cash flow of the property. Then, when it comes time to sell, the new homeowners have the same benefits moving forward.

Remodel Your Kitchen

Tackling your kitchen offers the most significant return on investment. In fact, buyers often look at the kitchen first when determining whether your home is worth the asking price. Most homes on the market offer an upgraded kitchen, and if you have any chance of keeping up, it’s essential that you make yours one of them. However, you don’t always need a full-scale remodel to get a significant boost in equity. A minor kitchen can sometimes even boost your resale value more than a major one.

If you were to focus on certain aspects of your kitchen make sure that you modernize the cabinets and countertops, switch out your old appliances, update the flooring, along with the sink and faucet. These upgrades offer the biggest bang for your buck.

Update Your Look

Today, homebuyers are searching for homes that offer a modern, turn-key look. If your home’s look belongs in the last century, then it’s probably time you updated your design. The condition of your home’s interior tells buyers a lot about the price of your home. If you expect buyers to pay top dollar, then it’s important you give them the reasons to do it.

Update your home with new flooring or a fresh coat of paint. If you want to see an increased value, consider revising your floor plan. Most buyers want an open-concept floor plan. Work with a contractor to properly knock down a few walls and make your home the updated floor plan of buyers’ dreams.

Add Some Square Footage

The easiest way to see the price of your home increase is by adding square footage. Bigger homes typically have higher price tags, and that’s something buyer notice. If you add a decent-sized bedroom or an additional bathroom, you’ll bring in other buyers ready to pay the extra price. If you are not sure which addition is best, there are a few places to look.

Consider the costs of the addition versus the increased value of your home. Another aspect to look at is construction time. If you are on a time crunch, a bedroom or additional living space might be your best bet. If you have more time flexibility, consider adding a new bathroom. Bathrooms are a major draw for buyers and can often give you the increased value you desire.

If you are ready to make the best and most valuable improvements to your home, take a look at Aspire Construction’s services. Our home equity experts will work with you to find the most promising renovation for your pocketbook.

Jan 03
Love0
finished basement family room - basement finishing experts

Waterproofing Your Basement

By Basements, Residential

No matter where you live, waterproofing your basement may be among the most important things you can do for your home. However, in Utah waterproofing is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’. Living in a state that’s known for its snow, the extreme weather the Utah environment presents is something every homeowner has to take into account. In fact, wet basements affect many Utah homeowners.

 

Finding the Problem

 

Stemming from a number of culprits, wet basements can be the first sign that you need to update the waterproofing on your home. Unfortunately, according to the American Society of Home Inspections, more than half of American homes have this problem. While wet basements are the first signs your home is in need of repair there are a number of reasons your home could flood, including:

  • The concrete walls are cracked
  • Poor yard drainage that has increased the stress on your home’s sewage system and overwhelmed the foundation
  • Your septic system is blocked
  • Poorly designed or damage gutter system that has led to poor drainage

 

Preventing Flooding in Your Basement

 

Since there are a many senarios that could cause damage or flooding, waterproofing your basement requires a number of things. From the concrete walls to the drainage in your yard, here a number of things needed to keep your basement clear of water damage.

 

  1. Diagnosing All Sources of Water: Find every problem area that could cause water damage to your basement including pipes, cracks in your concrete, window/door opening, and more.
  2. Get Rid of Excessive Humidity: Eliminate any source of humid air by adding vents, fans, and sealing off any pipe leaks. You can also consider adding a dehumidifier to your basement.
  3. Insulate Pipes: Cover cold water pipes with foam pipe insulation to prevent any excess humidity or condensation.
  4. Insulate Walls Properly: Poor insulation can lead to excessive condensation build up that can cause all sorts of water damage. However, if water is leaking from the outside this is not the solution-it’ll only create a mold infestation.
  5. Proper Landscaping Keeps Water Out: Having the right type of landscaping surrounding your house can be a huge help in keeping water damage away from your basement. This includes proper lawn edging, gravel placement, mulch, grass, and soil.
  6. Extend Downspouts: If your basement leaks when it rains, this could be your solution. Consider adding extended downspouts to your home to channel excess water away from your home and basement.
  7. Seal Foundation Cracks: Holes and cracks in your foundation can allow water to creep into your basement. Plug the holes up with the proper cement filling to keep water out.
  8. Waterproof the Walls: Properly seal your basement with the right waterproofing sealant. These sealants prevent water from leaking into your basement by sealing the foundation. If properly done, this can truly help in the waterproofing process.
  9. Install a Proper Drainage System: The most long-term fix, proper drainage systems keep your basement clear of water for years to come. However, it’s important that the drainage system is properly done and requires the help of a professional.

 

Ready to Waterproof Your Basement?

 

The home experts at Aspire Construction understand how to properly build a basement that keeps water out of the home and in your grass. Working with Aspire Construction we’ll be able to find the source of your water woes and efficiently attack the problem without breaking the bank. Contact us to get started on your waterproofing project.

 

Jul 05
Love0
Finished Business Basement

Top 5 Reasons to Finish Your Basement

By Basements, Residential

Many homeowners spend years in a home with an unfinished basement. For reasons such as cost and time, these homes remain empty and mundane rather than cozy spaces that capitalizes on the original floor plan. Whether you’re looking for extra space to entertain or need more room for guests, unfinished basements are a blank slate of possibility. Here are our five reasons to finish your basement.

  1. Increase Value

While the upfront cost of finishing a basement scares off homeowners, it’s important to look a little further. A finished basement significantly increases the value of your home. The renovation can often include increasing the livable square footage of your home. This automatically increases the resale value. Also, depending on the renovation and design, finished basements that include kitchenettes, bathrooms, bedrooms, and more, further increase the value of your home.

  1. Expand Your Space

Another benefit of finishing your basement is the amount of space you’ll gain in your home. A basement not only adds functionality but it’s extra living space for your family. From home theater rooms to exercise rooms, these spaces can transform your current home into the home you’ve dreamt of for years. The extra square footage you gain from finishing your basement is invaluable space where you can create.

  1. Entertain

When homeowners consider finishing their basement, one of their top priorities is creating a space in their home dedicated to entertainment. Whether your teenagers desire a space for them to bring friends or you want to throw birthday parties in your own home, your finished basement is the perfect place. Forget about taking everything you own to the park for a party, your home is the best place to entertain your friends and family (and everything you need will be right where you need it).

  1. Extra Storage

Another benefit of finishing your basement is the extra storage you’ll gain. While an unfinished basement is often home to an eclectic storage space full of unorganized boxes, a finished basement provides a dedicated storage space. Depending on your needs and wants, attractive and functional shelving can be installed. Imagine an extra laundry room or a workshop, your basement is exactly what you need.

  1. More Availability

More than ever, home contractors have the availability to take on your unfinished basement project. The team at Aspire Construction has mastered the art basement finishing. With years of experience finishing basements, our team has established a reputation for quality workmanship and timely efficiency. Our creative ideas, quality work, fair pricing, and fast work makes us stand above the rest. Most importantly, our open lines of communication will provide you the assurance you need when undertaking a large project like a basement remodel.

Contact Aspire Construction to get a bid on your basement renovation today.