Questions to Ask Every Commercial Remodeling Contractor

Remodeling a basement, kitchen, or bathroom can be very exciting; you can’t wait to turn that old space into something incredible.

Unfortunately, this means many people rush the process and choose the first contractor they find. However, you need to slow down and ask a few important questions before you start.

The vast majority of contractors are honest, reliable professionals, and asking these questions will help you find the right one for your project.

Ask These Questions to Hire the Right Contractor for Your Home Remodeling

How long have you been an independent contractor?

While it’s great to hire a contractor with lots of industry experience, what really matters is how long their business has been in operation. Someone might have decades of experience as a cabinet builder for another company, but decades of service as a business owner shows they have done a great job for many previous customers. It also shows they’re more likely to do a great job for you!

Is the bid fixed or an estimate?

It may not always be possible, but you want to know that the provided bid is fixed, not a flexible estimate that can change throughout the project. If it is simply an estimate, make sure you are very detailed in what will be on the final bill and set a maximum price.

Can you provide proof of licensing and insurance?

A good contractor should be fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Licensing and bonding don’t guarantee quality, but they do increase your chances of a successful outcome. Insurance is also important, as it provides a safety net incase of significant damage to your home, such as accidentally breaking a pipe or harming the foundation.

Who will be in charge of my project? (And When can I meet them?)

The person you meet may not be the person conducting your remodeling. You always want to know who is in charge and meet them face-to-face before signing a contract.

What hours will the team be working?

Contractors, like all people, have various routines and schedules, so it’s essential that you talk with the foreman or business owner to get an idea of when they will be working. You have a life to live, so ask about how early and late they work, and whether or not they plan on working weekends. A consistent, planned-out schedule is a sign of a professional, organized contractor.

Are your employees provided with workman’s compensation?

Let’s say one of your contractor’s employees slips in your yard and hits his head on a cement paver. If your contractor doesn’t provide workman’s compensation, you could be liable for the cost of medical expenses. No matter how easy or fast the project might be, workman’s comp is essential for any contractor you hire.

What is your billing process?

If all looks well and you’re ready to hire this contractor, it’s time to discuss billing. You and your contractor should be completely clear on how payments should be made and when they expect full payment. Do they expect a down payment? How timely do they expect invoices to be paid? By the way, if the contractor requires full payment upfront, find another option.

American Made Ceilings for Your Remodeling Project

If you are remodeling your basement, take the time to include a direct mount ceiling from CeilingConnex.

We have a large selection of ceiling grids and tiles, so contact us today to learn more!

CeilingConnex Barn Tiles: Upcycling for Your Ceiling

We have to be honest: we are very proud of our barn tin ceiling tiles! These tiles have some of the most unique characteristics you can find in a ceiling tile, and they also help the environment by keeping perfectly-good metal out our the landfill.

These tiles are effective for restaurants and businesses, but they can also be used to give your home a creative edge!

Why Upcycling is So Effective?

Upcycling is a popular way to conserve products and limit the environmental impact of creating new raw materials. This form of material processing is much lighter in scope and effort, making it an easier and more affordable option for many different products.

Upcycling, in many ways, is similar to recycling. There are, of course, a few differences. With recycling, you take unwanted materials, including paper, metals, plastic, and cardboard, and break them down into a raw material so that they can be created into something new. With upcycling, however, you don’t actually break the materials down, you simply recreate them.

Barn Ceiling Tiles Bring Eco-Friendly Character

Our barn ceiling tiles bring style and character to your ceiling, and they do it all in a very eco-friendly manner. These barn tin ceiling tiles are literally made from the walls and ceilings of old barns that used tin paneling. We simply took the panels and cut them into precise 2-foot by 2-foot squares, creating tiles that fit perfectly into our ceiling grid system.

By creating tiles this way, we have kept the metal materials from ending up in the landfill. They are not processed and rebuilt, they are simply torn down and cut to shape, which means far fewer resources and much less energy is used to create these products compared to tiles made from new materials or recycled materials.

Each piece is made from individual barn tin panels, so they are all unique. Because of wind, rain, and other factors, they have different shades and coloring, creating a unique character for each tile. When they come together to create your ceiling, you’ll see a major difference between each one.

Creative Uses for Barn Ceiling Tiles

So how can you put these ceiling tiles to good use? They are very popular for rustic or old-fashioned businesses, especially restaurants and retail outlets. For example, if you have an old-fashioned restaurant that sells southern-style smoked meats and ribs, these tiles will make your place look fantastic. Retail outlets that sell antiques and collectables will also find good use from these tin tiles.

You can also use these tiles at home to enhance your shop, barn, or garage. Wherever you want to add classic character to a room, these tiles will meet your needs.

CeilingConnex has the Right Tiles for Your Home or Business

CeilingConnex provides a wide range of direct mount ceiling grids and tiles, including the popular Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles.

Place your order and you’ll get American-made products backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee!

6 Essential Tips for an Effective Home Office

Working from home is becoming more common every year. According to a 2015 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly a quarter of all employed people in the U.S. did some or all of their work from home.

Working from home requires an office space that allows you to focus and stay productive. It means making the right choices for decoration and organization so you can continue to work at a high level.

Whether you are self-employed or working at home for an employer, remember these important tips for your home office...

Home Office: 6 Tips for an Effective Work Space

1. A Door is a MUST

We can discuss the uses of a standup desk, carpet or hardwood flooring, and extra seating in the home office. A door, however, is non-negotiable. With a home office, you need to be able to separate yourself from the rest of the home distractions, so while open-floor plans might work for modern offices, you can’t drop your home office in the middle of the living room. Choose a separate room with it’s own door for privacy and quiet.

2. Use Natural Lighting Whenever Possible

Your office should have as much natural lighting as possible. While direct sunlight in your eyes can be a problem, having natural light in the room will give your space a balanced, even appeal. Using natural light makes for a better office and a smaller utility bill.

3. Get a High-Quality Office Chair

Don’t skimp on your office chair. If you will work even half-days in your home office, you need a chair that will be comfortable for hours. It’s tempting to go out and purchase the most affordable desk chair around, but your back muscles and spine will thank you if you purchase a quality product.

4. Paint the Walls an Appropriate Color

Do your research when painting the walls in your home office before dipping your brush. There are different colors for different purposes, so you may want green, beige, yellow, or blue for your office.

According to color psychologist Angela Wright, blue is generally considered to be the most productive color, while yellow is best for designers and creativity. Green provides balance and calm, while red it best for areas that use physical activity, so it may not be effective for most modern home offices.

5. Organize Vertically

Clutter in the office brings clutter in the brain. To help get items off the floor and desktop, use vertical storage, such as filing cabinets, tall bookshelves, and cabinets to completely change the space in your office and give a better atmosphere for high productivity.

6. Limit Your Wall Decorations

Just like storage clutter, wall clutter can mentally clog your mind. While you should have a few nice wall decorations, if your job involves lots of deep thinking, writing, or problem-solving, try to keep wall decor to a minimum. A few paintings are better than a wall covered in pictures, artwork, plaques, and logos.

Create the Perfect Home Office with CeilingConnex

If you are turning part of your unfinished basement in to a home office, install a reliable ceiling with CeilingConnex.

You’ll get an easy-to-install direct mount ceiling grid when you order from us, so check out our full selection today!

Why Repurposing Materials is More Important Than Ever!

Repurposing is becoming more important every day. While recycling certainly has its advantages, using repurposed materials is important for everyone, from homeowners to builders to anyone furnishing a home.

Advantages of Repurposing Building Materials

Saves Energy

While recycling is a wonderful practice that has a positive impact on the environment, repurposing materials is even more effective when it comes to saving energy. In fact, recycling can actually be a very energy-intense practice, depending on how it’s done. With recycling, the material, be it cardboard, metal, or plastic, is shipped to a facility and broken down and recreated through an industrial process, which takes energy and resources to complete. Repurposing, however, takes far fewer resources to complete, making it a more energy-efficient process.

Possibly More Affordable

Recycling material takes time and energy to complete a rather significant process. While this results in fewer raw materials being used, it can bring a higher price for these goods compared to repurposed materials. You can find many repurposed materials that are very affordable, giving you a great deal on home items, decorations, clothing, accessories, and more.

Reduces the Amount of Waste in our Landfills

In many cases, when materials and equipment are no longer needed, we simply throw them in the trash and move on. It’s all too easy to dispose of the items and forget about them, but unfortunately our landfills are filling fast, so reducing the amount of trash is essential. Repurposing takes usable items, including raw materials, and turns them into items that people can use, keeping pressure of the landfills and disposal areas. By reducing the amount of trash in our current waste areas we are protecting future lands from becoming landfills themselves.

Reduce VOCs in the Air

Using old materials can be very important for the environment. For example, when you use repurposed items, you keep volatile organic compounds, or VOC’s, from the air. According to E-Cycle Environmental, furniture and other materials release VOC throughout their lifespan. However, the highest amount is released during the first two years. If you use repurposed items, as opposed to new items, most of the VOC’s have already been released.

Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles: Repurposed for Your Building

By repurposing barn tins, we have created one of the most unique ceiling tiles you can find today. Our Barn Tine Ceiling Tiles perfectly fit 2’x2’ ceiling grids, allowing you to match the items with our direct-mount system. This gives you an amazing style that is perfect for rustic bars and restaurants or unique retail outlets. If you want to add character to your location while getting all the benefits of repurposed material, our Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles will be perfect.

Get High-Quality Ceiling Tiles and Grids Today!

CeilingConnex has some of the finest ceiling tiles available, including high-quality repurposed Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles and black or white ceiling tiles.

Visit our website and you’ll find everything you need for your home or commercial area by using our ceiling kits, so check out our selection now! 

Important Factors When Remodeling a Restaurant

Remodeling a restaurant is a complex process. You not only need to consider your business needs, you need to create a viable budget, think about your customers’ preferences, and make changes that will result in a long-sustained restaurant.

Before you start, consider these important factors and you’ll have better results when your restaurant remodeling is complete...

Remember These Factors Before Remodeling Your Restaurant

Seating Capacity

What is the overall seating capacity that you are aiming for when remodeling your restaurant. If you are simply adding a new coat of paint or updating the light fixtures, then the seating capacity won’t really be affected. However, if you are remodeling the floor plan in any way, you need to take careful consideration of the seating capacity and use this to guide your final layout.

Kitchen Size and Equipment

The size of your kitchen will also play an important role in your kitchen remodeling, and it’s a factor that should be carefully considered before you start. Do you have multiple grills, friers, and stoves? Do you need space for a large meat smoker or storage freezer? What about a prep table? What about utensil storage? If your remodeling will spill into the kitchen, it’s vital that you take a detailed approach to the size of your kitchen and the required layout for all your equipment, machines, and tools.

Fire Suppression and Fire Safety Needs

Every restaurant, no matter what the size and scope, needs to seriously consider fire suppression systems. In many cases, it may be a required part of your remodeling. Kitchen fires can occur in any kitchen, so installing a system designed to suppress grease fires will enhance the safety of your entire restaurant. It may also be legally required as part of your local codes. While you’re considering fire suppression, be sure to look at your layout and make sure there are safe exits for everyone in the building. (Again, this is likely a required factor.)

How Will Changes Affect Movement of Staff and Customers

If you are changing the floor plan of the dining room, make sure you are increasing (or at the very least, not harming) the efficiency of your staff. The hosts, wait staff, servers, and dining room team should be able to move through a clear, unobstructed path. This not only enhances efficiency, but by reducing the chances of a collision or trip, it can improve the overall safety in your restaurant as well.

Consider how your customers can move through the restaurant also. Can they easily walk to the exits? Are bathrooms and exits clearly marked? It there enough space between tables? You remodeling plans should always consider the customers that keep your doors open!

The Exterior Matters Too!

Most restaurant remodeling considers the interior. While this is obviously important, a thorough restaurant remodeling project could also include the exterior. Display your restaurant theme with exterior styles and decorate the outside with a design that matches your interior.

Direct Mount Ceiling Grids and Tiles for Long-Lasting Quality

Our ceiling grid is perfect for remodeling. They are not only fire and mold resistant, they are made from some of the best materials available.

You can have a direct-mount ceiling that looks neat and professional, just like your restaurant! Find the ceiling kit that works best for your restaurant today!

Basement Remodeling: 6 Tips for a Safer Family Space

If you’ve decided to remodel your home, you likely can’t wait to get started! We understand, as remodeling will add a new level of excitement and comfort to your entire home.

But before you jump into the process, make sure you are taking steps to ensure excellent safety.

Ventilate While Painting

While this step has more to do with the process of remodeling over the final results, it’s still important. If you are painting, make sure you ventilate the area thoroughly, using fans and open windows, to ensure any harmful chemicals from paint are swiftly removed from the home.

Egress Windows for All Bedrooms

It’s no coincidence that egress windows are legally required for all basement bedrooms. These large windows have enough room for someone to safely exit through, creating an emergency escape in case of fire. If you already have egress windows built, you’re in good shape. However, if you don’t have egress windows, you’ll need to have them built, which can be expensive and time consuming, as you’ll likely have to dig a space and pour supportive concrete.

Use Fire-Resistant Materials Wherever Possible

Much of the effort you take for increasing the long-term safety in your remodeled basement will center around fire safety. This, of course, includes using materials that are less likely to cause or increase a fire. If you are installing a direct-mount ceiling, you can choose tiles from CeilingConnex, which are fire resistant and create a safe and attractive ceiling.

Have a Comprehensive Strategy for Water Proofing

While you probably won’t have to worry about sudden flood of water in your basement, you’re more likely to have to deal with seepage and leaks, which can eventually cause mold to grow in the home. Mold spores can become airborne, leading to respiratory problems and allergic reactions. For the long-term health of your family, be sure to take measure to ensure a water-proof basement.

Test for Radon

Radon occurs naturally, seeping through the ground at levels that are usually harmless. However, when radon seeps from the ground into an enclosed home, it can collect in potentially dangerous concentrations. You can’t see or smell radon, so test your basement for radon on a regular basis to ensure your family has safe air for years to come.

Safely Secure the Television to the Wall

There’s a small debate going on about the safest place for modern televisions. Placing a flat screen on the wall is a popular choice, but many people are concerned that it could fall and harm children or pets. However, there are a few resources, including Wired and Safe Kids Worldwide, that claim wall-mounting may actually be safer, because kids can’t reach the television and tip it over. If you do choose wall-mounting, be sure to properly mount and secure the television, and consider adding emergency straps for enhanced safety.

Fire Resistant, Mold Resistant Ceiling Tiles from CeilingConnex

You can have safe, stylish tile from CeilingConnex for your basement remodeling.

Check out our full line of products and you’ll have practically everything you need for your direct mount ceiling. In fact, if you order one of our ceiling tile kits, all you’ll need is a few tools and the right fasteners!

Save on Your Commercial Remodel with These Convenient Tips!

Commercial remodeling is certainly not cheap, but when done right, it can be an affordable process that is worth the time, effort, and money.

While you certainly don’t want to cut corners on your commercial remodel, there are some specific ways that you can save and still have the world-class results you demand.

How to Save on Your Commercial Remodeling Project

Shoot for Minimal Changes

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning your commercial remodel is to overextend yourself and your project. Instead of going after every single corner of your current space, think about what you need and make it a priority. Make minimal changes whenever possible and you will significantly reduce the overall cost and time of your commercial remodel.

Leave Plumbing, Ducts, and Electrical Components in Place

This ties directly to making minimal changes in your commercial remodel. When planning out your project, work with your contractors and designers to ensure that as few changes as possible are made to the existing structure, especially the plumbing, ducts, and electrical components. Moving these items requires the service of a highly trained professional, and you’ll inevitably pay more for their services. Leave the ducts, wires, and pipes alone and your budget will be much happier.

Find Things You Can Do Yourself

While many phases of a remodel must be handled by a certified professional, (electrical and plumbing, for example) there are parts that virtually anyone can manage. Demolition is the obvious example. If you need to tear out carpet, remove installed cubicles, or take out an existing ceiling, you can likely take care of these tasks yourself. Depending on your skill level, you could also hang sheet rock, paint the walls, or install tile. But it’s worth saying again: when in doubt, leave it to the pros.

Avoid Mid-Project Adjustments

This comes down to planning. Take your time with the planning phase of your remodeling to ensure that every step meets your needs. The last thing you want to do is change the plans halfway through construction. This not only frustrates contractors, it will skyrocket the cost of your commercial remodeling project. Create a plan, stick to the plan, finish the plan. Your budget and your business will thank you!

Plan Your Commercial Remodel for the Off Season

Contractors are busiest during the summer, so their services will often cost more during the peak season. If possible, schedule your remodeling for the winter months; you may find contractors who are looking for work and willing to offer significant discounts. While each situation is different, you can reasonably expect to save about 4 to 5 percent on your remodeling, which can make a big difference when you’re spending tens, or even hundreds, of thousands of dollars.

The Perfect Ceiling for Commercial Remodeling

CeilingConnex is proud to offer American-made direct connect ceilings that are rust-proof, durable, and easy to install.

These direct mount ceilings are perfect for commercial remodeling, as they allow for simply access to utilities while maintaining overhead height.