Home improvement projects seem to have become a national pastime. With the increase in TV shows dedicated to the subject and the hordes of customers waiting in line each weekend at Lowe’s and Home Depot, it’s clear that America is obsessed with making their dwellings better. But consumers also are looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. So how do you save money and still end up with the professional look you want for your home? Start with a visit to The Birmingham Home + Remodeling Show, coming to the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex September 26-28.
This annual consumer show will offer a smorgasbord of remodeling and home improvement ideas, interior design tips, and interactive seminars, as well as a look at the hottest new products on the market. And headlining the show will be celebrity guests Matt Muenster from DIY Network’s “Bath Crashers” and Todd Wilbur, author of the best-selling cookbook Top Secret Recipes.
A new addition to the weekend event this year is the Log & Timber Home Show that will run consecutively with the Home + Remodeling Show. Log and timber frame designers, manufacturers, and builders from around the U.S. and Canada will be housed right on the showroom floor to share their unique products and services. Tickets to the Birmingham Home + Remodeling Show will include access to the Log & Timber Home Show.
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Tips for Renovating an Outdated Bathroom
Matt Muenster, the popular host/contractor on DIY’s Bathtastic and Bath Crashers series, will be sharing insider tips on renovation with guests of the Birmingham Home + Remodeling Show September 26 – 28. But before he arrives in town, he’s sharing his tips for dealing with historic homes. If you’re one of many Magic City residents looking to revamp a bungalow, craftsman or historic home bathroom, here are Matt’s top tips:
The best place to start with any remodeling project is the budget. Not only will a budget have a big impact on the type of materials you select, it will also help you set boundaries. Knowing what you can afford will make it a lot easier to decide what items you want to replace and where you need to get creative!
Don’t underestimate the importance of lighting. Sconce lighting at the vanity is the ideal way to get even lighting on your face. Keep in mind that dim lighting is nice for a relaxing bath while bright lights are great for shaving or applying makeup. Adding more overall lighting can make a small bathroom seem larger.
Today’s marketplace is perfect for those doing a vintage remodel. Look for reproduction vintage design, such as tile and freestanding tubs, to maintain a period feel with modern updates.
Be honest about your DIY skill level. Assess which projects to do yourself and which are better left to the pros. You could save yourself a ton of money in the long run if you don’t have to call someone in to fix a project you’ve messed up. The best way to find a good contractor: Always seek referrals from friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers who live in historic homes and have had work done.
Show Hours
Friday and Saturday, 10 am – 9 pm; and Sunday 10 am – 6 pm. Tickets: $8 for adults; $3 for children ages 6-12, children under 5, FREE. For more information, visit homeshowbirmingham.com. Advance discounted tickets for $2 off adult admission are available on the site as well.
