Jim Hicks

Water, Water, Everywhere Leads to Major Renovation and Remodel

Our clients in Smithfield came home from vacation to find that the water supply line to their upstairs toilet had broken and flooded the entire house. Upstairs, there was damage to the bathroom and all the bedrooms, to include flooring, drywall, and the bathroom vanity. Downstairs was a similar story. The kitchen cabinets, drywall, and continuous hardwood floor were soaked.

The first step was to dry everything out and remove the damaged material. By the time the mitigation contractors finished their work, much of the home’s interior was torn out to the wall studs and the subfloor.  

Now that we had a better picture of what needed to be done, we began advocating for our clients with their insurance company, to ensure that they were fully compensated for the cost of the repairs. We began with a detailed estimate, backed up by material and trade quotes. After a bit of back and forth with the adjuster, to answer questions and provide additional details, our clients were notified that the claim had been approved for the amount of our estimate.

With insurance clients, once the claim has been settled, we give them the opportunity to add to the scope of work at their own cost. In this case, the clients chose to update their master bathroom and the kitchen, turning a difficult restoration into an opportunity for home remodeling and improvements they had wanted to make.

Master Bath and Vanity Room:

Prior to the water damage, the master bath had a garden tub and a walk-in shower done in simple 4” white tile. The vanity in the adjacent room was white with a double sink. Since everything had been removed during the mitigation process, we had a clean slate to work with.

Starting with the floors, we installed 12×24 tile in matte white with grey veining in both spaces. This coordinated well with the reused vanity top. For the walls surrounding the new soaker tub, and the shower walls, the clients chose an 8” blue-grey hexagon tile. The shower floor was done with a 1 -1/2” terra cotta hexagon mosaic tile. The caramel-colored grout tied the two tile colors together, and a similar shade of paint was used on the walls.

We installed a new 80” shaker-style vanity in “Honey,” reinstalled the vanity top and sinks, and added new brushed nickel faucets. New mirrors and lighting completed the master bath and vanity room make-over.

Kitchen and Dining Area:

The kitchen was originally separate from the dining room. Our clients opted to remove the dividing wall and create a more open space. Again, starting with the floors, we installed 12×24 Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) called “Twilight” in the kitchen, laundry room, downstairs half bath, and foyer. The new kitchen cabinets were the same shaker-style and color that we used in the vanity room, topped here with Viatera quartz in “Etude.” The original pantry was removed and replaced with a beverage area. The pale green tile used in the backsplash and behind the shelves in the beverage area features a profile called “Wave Crest.” Set in a brick pattern, this faceted tile reflects light and adds interest.

The new stove was set in the original position of the old one but, without a dividing wall, the clients were able to extend the quartz countertop to create a breakfast bar. A free-standing range hood was also needed after the wall was removed. New light fixtures were installed in the kitchen and in the dining room.

Finishing touches included white oak flooring in the living room and dining room, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) in the upstairs hallway and office, and carpet in the bedrooms.

While no one wants to have to go through a disaster renovation, we’re glad that we were able to help our clients not only restore their home, but to update it as well. This home remodeling project gave them fresh, updated spaces that they can enjoy for years to come.

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Reviving Elegance: A Stunning Home Remodel in Yorktown, Virginia

Every homeowner dreams of creating a space that reflects their personal style, enhances functionality, and exudes elegance. For repeat clients, Lauren and Kevin, this dream became a reality with the help of Jim Hicks Home Improvement and Designer Jaime Simpson. The project included a makeover of the kitchen, entryway, and both bathrooms, creating a complete home remodeling transformation.

A Kitchen That Beckons:

The heart of any home is undoubtedly the kitchen. Lauren and Kevin’s kitchen remodel began with an exciting transformation. Out went the old, and in came the new, inviting a fresh breath of life into the heart of the home.

Cabinets: The new kitchen boasts ivory-colored cabinets with timeless shaker-style doors. These cabinets, known for their simplicity and clean lines, set the stage for a classic and inviting kitchen space. The new cabinets were accented with brushed nickel hardware to coordinate with the new appliances.

Quartz: The kitchen countertops and backsplashes were upgraded to stunning “Calcatta” quartz, a material renowned for its durability and beauty. The quartz was carried to the breakfast bar on the other side of the room and installed on the half wall in the entry way. The elegant veining in the quartz complements the ivory cabinet color and adds a touch of sophistication to the entry and the kitchen.

Illuminating Details: Lighting plays a pivotal role in transforming the ambiance of any space. We added LED undercabinet lighting, pendant lights, and recessed lighting. These fixtures not only brighten the kitchen but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere, with multiple levels of light.

The existing kitchen floor was replaced with 12×24 porcelain tile in “Concept Gray” complemented with silver grout.

The result? A kitchen with timeless charm and modern functionality. It’s a space where culinary creativity and family gatherings can thrive.

Mastering the Bathroom Remodel:

This home improvement project extended beyond the kitchen and into the master bathroom. Here, our clients sought to create a spa-like retreat with all the conveniences of modern living.

Upgraded tile shower: The old fiberglass shower unit was replaced with timeless tile. The shower wall tile is 4×10 in “Ice Bright” white, while the shower floor was done in a matte white mosaic tile. Quartz makes another appearance on the top of the shower bench. We installed semi-frameless glass doors with polished nickel hardware. Matte white 12×24 floor tile with gray veining finishes the new look.

Vanity Cabinet and Top: The bathroom vanity underwent a striking transformation. A new pewter vanity cabinet and “Calcatta” quartz top were installed, offering not only style but also ample storage space for personal care essentials.

Fixtures: Polished nickel plumbing fixtures by Signature Hardware create a harmonious and modern contrast with the white and gray tones in the bathroom. The matte silver fixtures add a sense of refinement and luxury.

The end result is a master bathroom that exudes tranquility and modern elegance. It’s a space designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, a true retreat within the home.

Don’t Forget the Kiddos!

The final phase of this remodel was updating the smaller bathroom for Lauren and Kevin’s two young boys. We replaced the old fiberglass tub/shower unit with a new American Standard tub, topped by new 4×12 white wall tile. The new vanity in ivory has a cultured marble top with a square integrated sink, which makes for easy cleaning. The fixtures are all polished nickel, similar to those in the master bath.
This updated space will be perfect for the boys, for many years to come.
It was a privilege to work with Lauren and Kevin again, and we hope they enjoy this showcase of modern design, elegant functionality, and timeless beauty. This home remodeling project breathed new life into their cherished home while creating spaces that better fit their family’s needs.

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Kitchen and Bath Makeover in Yorktown, Virginia

We all know that the kitchen is the heart of the home, but what if that kitchen gives you heartburn? Our clients were dealing with dated kitchen cabinets, old laminate countertops, and a tiny oven that was barely big enough to use. The bathroom had been modified by the previous owners for handicap access that was no longer needed.

Let’s Start with the Kitchen:

Working closely with Summer and Adam, we were able to bring their kitchen up to date and create a welcoming space for family and friends to gather. This kitchen remodeling project focused on improving both the look and functionality of the space.

Cabinets: Our homeowners wanted a fresh look, starting with shaker style cabinets. The uppers were done in Pearl paint, while the base cabinets were stained. Contrasting upper and lower cabinets have become very popular recently, and the shaker style is timeless. The fixtures and hardware are in classic matte black. New, modern appliances improve the functionality of the kitchen.

Countertops and Backsplash: The old laminate countertops were upgraded to Silestone Quartz in “Miami Vina”. We also installed a tiled backsplash using 6×18 Daltile “Articulo” tile in a color called “Editorial White”. The tile has a unique wavy pattern that adds interest.

Floor Covering: The existing kitchen floor was replaced with Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) by Mannington in a white and gray color called Adura Legacy. LVT is known for its durability, ease of maintenance, and versatile design options.

Moving on to the Master Bathroom:

As you can see in the “before” photos, the master bathroom was anything but relaxing. The walk-in shower was certainly large enough, but the zero entry and grab bars weren’t needed. Summer wanted to update the space to create a more spa-like atmosphere, so we installed a deep soaker tub with a 3-piece wall kit by Transolid Expressions.

The new bright white vanity cabinet and cultured marble countertop with a rectangular integrated sink add much needed storage space. Matte black hardware and LVT flooring in the same styles found in the kitchen finish the space.

These upgrades in the kitchen and master bathroom have created spaces that are better suited to our clients’ needs and will serve them for many years to come. A thoughtful kitchen remodeling project can make a major difference in how a family uses and enjoys their home.

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Cost vs. Value: Porches, Patios, and Decks

This is the last in a 4-part series that will examine the cost of remodeling or upgrades vs. the potential value or enjoyment of your home.

In this series, we have discussed your home’s exterior, kitchen, and bathroom. Let’s talk about ways to increase your enjoyment of the great outdoors in your own yard. Creating comfortable outdoor living spaces can add both functionality and enjoyment to your home.

Porches

A welcoming front porch increases your curb appeal and offers shelter from the weather as you unlock your front door. It’s a great place to “sit a spell” with a good book and a cup of coffee or glass of wine. When giving your porch a facelift, paint is your best friend. Try a bold new color on your front door for an updated look.

A screened porch will offer more protection for the weather, and a refuge from insects. You can even take it one step further by adding windows to make it a 3-season room.

PS: If you don’t have a porch, we can build one for you!

Patios

Traditional concrete patios are functional, but they’re a bit boring. Give it a good scrub and try staining or stenciling the concrete to add some pizzaz! Adding a retractable awning or pergola roof will give much-needed shade in the warmer months.

Decks

Whether it’s a simple deck with space for a few chairs and a grill, or a multi-level outdoor entertaining space, a deck adds usable square footage and will bring you enjoyment for many years. We’re still seeing a trend towards composite and PVC materials instead of wood.  These products are available in a variety of colors and are built to last, with a little annual maintenance.

PRO TIP: Make a great first impression when you’re selling your home. Beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces will give you an advantage over your competition.

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Cost vs. Value: Bathrooms

This is the third in a 4-part series that will examine the cost of remodeling or upgrades vs. the potential value or enjoyment of your home.

Whether it’s your master bathroom, a shared hall bathroom, or a simple powder room, updating it can be a great return on your investment. Here are a few trends that will bring your bathroom into the 21st century.

Tubs

In the 80s and 90s, giant jetted soaker tubs were all the rage. Unfortunately, they used so much water that by the time you got the thing filled, the water was cold! Very inefficient. Today, many homeowners still want the luxury of a tub, but they want something that uses less water and is easier to maintain. A free-standing tub is a great option.

Showers

In those homes with the jetted tubs, you usually find a small glass and tile shower next to it. We’re seeing many homeowners remove the tub and the shower, so they have room to install a much larger spa-like shower. Tile and glass are still the most popular options, but we now have a wide range of acrylic wall options. These units look like tile, but they are molded acrylic – no grout to scrub each week! They can be installed with a traditional shower curtain, or with a custom pivot-style or sliding glass door.

Vanities

Like kitchen cabinets, we’re seeing more options for bathroom vanities. With a variety of styles and colors, there is something to suit everyone’s budget and design. Countertops range from the traditional culture marble with integrated bowls, to quartz or granite with ultra-modern glass “vessel” sinks.

Fixtures

Faucets, shower heads, handheld sprayers. There are options galore! Whether you go with a traditional chrome faucet or sophisticated black rain shower, you’ll appreciate the look and functionality of these fixtures.

Lighting

Again, there are so many options you may find it hard to choose. If you have the old “Hollywood” bar style light with 3 or 4 round bulbs, consider updating to a sleeker fixture. We love the multi-light fixture with square glass shades that we recently installed for one of our clients.

Flooring

Finally, update your floor covering. Simple sheet vinyl may have been all the rage when your house was built, but it can really date the space. Traditional tile or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) will give you a more contemporary look and feel.

PRO TIP: Working with a designer in conjunction with your builder can help you pull together all the elements of your new and improved bathroom!

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Cost vs. Value: Kitchens

This is the second in a 4-part series that will examine the cost of remodeling or upgrades vs. the potential value or enjoyment of your home.

The kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where your family gathers to eat and talk about the day, and it’s where your guests always seem to end up when you get together. Does your kitchen reflect your taste and meet the needs of your family? Let’s look at a few ways you can increase the value and functionality of your kitchen.

Cabinetry

Whether you’re looking for custom, semi-custom, or budget cabinetry, there is something out there for everyone. Stained cabinets are classic, and never seem to go out of style, but there are many options for homeowners who want a more contemporary look. Today’s kitchen cabinets are trending towards white, cream, and shades of blue or grey. Often, homeowners will choose light colored upper cabinets with darker base cabinets. Another option is having the uppers and lowers in the same color, with a contrasting island. Custom items like pull-out spice racks and pantry shelves add convenience and make finding ingredients a breeze.

Countertops

Granite and quartz remain customer favorites, but they may not be in line with your budget. Laminate countertops look better than ever and are available in dozens of colors and patterns. New countertops are also a great way to freshen up the kitchen if you aren’t ready to replace the cabinets.

Lighting

Back in the day, kitchens generally had one light over the sink and one in the center of the room. Today, task and accent lighting are the way to go. Recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, and decorative pendants illuminate workspaces and give you options to control the amount of light in the room. New LED and CFL bulbs cost a little more, but they pay for themselves by lasting longer and saving energy.

Flooring

Are your kitchen floors showing their age? Tile remains a classic, but we’re seeing many of our clients opt for luxury vinyl tile (LVT). This product looks like tile, but it has a lot of advantages that tile doesn’t. Most LVT products have a rubber or cork backer which makes them warmer and more comfortable to stand on than tile. While some of these may have faux grout lines, they are much easier to clean than real grout!

Appliances

Stainless steel appliances are still the go-to for kitchen designers. With so many styles and features to choose from, you may have a hard time deciding which ones are right for you! New appliances may carry big price tags, but the energy savings will offset that over time.

PRO TIP: Using the services of a kitchen designer in conjunction with your builder will save you time and frustration. A proper design will ensure that the materials you select will work (and fit) in your new kitchen. Our Kitchen Designer and our Selections Coordinator are here to help!

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Cost vs. Value: Exteriors

This is the first in a 4-part series that will examine the cost of remodeling or upgrades vs. the potential value or enjoyment of your home.

The exterior of your home is about much more than curb appeal. Let’s look at the four key items you should be monitoring.

Roofing

Your roof is your first defense against the elements. If your roof is over 20 years old, or if you see signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace it. Shingles, pipe collars, vents, flashing, and skylights wear out over time and can lead to leaks.
Today’s roofing materials are better than ever. They last longer and offer better defense against the elements. If you see cracked or broken shingles, cracked pipe collars, or rusted flashing you could have a potential problem. Replacing your roof gives you peace of mind and protects your biggest investment – your home.

Windows

Drafty old windows that don’t open or close properly are costing you money every month. New energy efficient windows will pay for themselves with lowered heating and cooling bills. Most replacement windows now offer tilt in styles that make spring and fall cleaning so much easier and safer than standing on a ladder.

Siding

Do you have aluminum siding that’s dented or oxidized? Old or cracked vinyl siding? Are you looking to upgrade to Hardie Plank siding? Or are you just tired of the color and looking to update? All of these are great times to contact us. When we replace your siding, we will also look at the plywood sheathing to check for any damage, and we’ll install new house wrap which will help insulate your home and lower your energy costs. Plus, your house will look brand new!

Gutters

Many homeowners choose to forego gutters on their home but, if you have drainage issues, they can be a big help. Gutters and downspouts allow you to direct rainwater away from your home. This can prevent ponding around the foundation of your home, which could cause damage.

PRO TIP: Fill out our online contact form if you’re interested in learning more about these exterior updates that will increase the value and life or your home. We’re here to help!

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Kitchen Makeover in Yorktown, Virginia

A leak in her half bath flooded the downstairs of Mary Jo’s townhouse. There was damage to the half bath vanity, and to the floors, baseboards, and drywall throughout the first floor. We worked closely with her insurance adjuster to create the scope of work and budget for the repairs, and then got to work.

Initially, the plan was to replace the vanity, flooring, and baseboards, and paint the areas defined by the insurance company. After meeting with Mary Jo at the cabinet shop, she decided that this would be a great time to go ahead and make the investment to update the 1990s kitchen as well.

As you can see in the “before” photos, the kitchen was a typical example of the era. There were stained upper and lower cabinets on both sides of the galley kitchen and the countertop was an off-white laminate. The vanity in the half bath matched the kitchen cabinets, and the flooring in both rooms was sheet vinyl.

In the “after” photos, you’ll see that the kitchen and half bath were completely transformed! We eliminated the upper cabinets and replaced them with open shelving. Bright white Shaker-style cabinetry, and new vinyl flooring from Mannington in “Artic Frost” take the spaces from drab to fab. Mary Jo had us paint an accent wall in the kitchen and the area above the pass through in a gorgeous shade of blue, and the half bath was painted the same color.

Make sure to check out the countertops! To create additional workspace, we extended the countertop to the left of the sink and added furniture-style legs for support. The countertops resemble granite, but they are actually Wilsonart laminate in the color “Typhoon Ice”. The rolled edge finishes this more contemporary look at a fraction of the price for granite.

New appliances, sink, faucet, range hood, and lighting complete the makeover. Our client loves the new look! (And the cat approves, too!!)

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Kitchen Goes from Water damaged to Ultra-Stylish

While they were out of town, Brendan and Faith’s house-sitter (Brendan’s mom) called us about a dishwasher leak that had flooded the kitchen, damaging the flooring and the base cabinets. Once the insurance company’s mitigation contractor had removed the damaged material and dried everything out, we scheduled a time to meet with the homeowners and discuss the repairs.

Because the flooring was continuous throughout the home, it was replaced everywhere except the foyer. After looking at multiple options, the homeowners chose Shaw Pantheon HD Plus luxury vinyl plank (LVP) in “Foresta.” The wider planks and lighter color really brightened all the rooms.

Then our clients got creative, and decided to do some updating! Drawing inspiration from the slate tile in the foyer, the boring brown countertop was updated with “Black Pearl” granite, and the faux brick backsplash tile was replaced with a bright white mosaic.

We replaced the damaged portion of the base cabinets, which the homeowners then painted a gorgeous dark teal. New gold hardware on all the cabinets helps bring together the two distinct paint colors on the upper and lower cabinets.

In the living room, Brendan and Faith refashioned the old terra cotta hearth with concrete for a sleek, modern look. While we were working in the living room, we also found a spot of old water damage in one corner that we were able to repair before the new floors went in.

 By putting in a little extra money, and a lot of sweat equity, our clients were able to turn a kitchen disaster into a fresh new look for their home!

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Plumbing Leak Becomes a Remodel

Our client suffered a plumbing leak in their kitchen and dining room when the vendor who was installing their new microwave put a fastener into the main drainpipe. When we arrived, the demo contractor hired by their insurance company had completed the tear out as shown in the before photos.

The client’s insurance company estimated the total cost of repairs and paid our client $11.458.45 to restore them to pre-loss condition. They asked us to help. We supplied the insurance adjuster with detailed cost estimates and documentation, and we answered all his questions. Final settlement from the insurance company: $48,032.40.

Our client invested some of their own money to make a few upgrades, and to purchase new appliances. The white cabinets and black countertop make for striking combination, while the black handles on the cabinets and drawers add a sophisticated touch. If you look closely at the tiled backsplash, you’ll see that each tile has beveled edges which add interest and reflect the light. Speaking of light, we also replaced the client’s boxy overhead light with a new, more contemporary round fixture in brushed nickel to match the faucet. And don’t miss the drawer and doors on the back of the peninsula. No more struggling the get items stored in the corner cabinet – what a clever idea!

We hope our clients enjoy their beautiful new kitchen for many years to come!

PRO TIP: If you’re dealing with an insurance claim for damage to your home, don’t go it alone. We are experts in insurance restoration, and we know how to work with adjusters. We’re here to help!

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