Tag: Pennsylvania

5 Benefits of a Walk-in Shower in Pennsylvania

Jun 18, 2019

5 Benefits of a Walk-in Shower in Pennsylvania

  • bathroom remodeling
walk-in shower in Pennsylvania from McHale's KBA

Are you building a new bathroom or considering remodeling a pre-existing one? If so, you might be debating what kind of bathtub or shower to put in there. Walk-in showers are growing in popularity and are worth consideration in any home. These showers are not only useful for older residents but are stylish additions to any modern home. Let McHale’s tell you about the good that can come from installing a walk-in shower in Pennsylvania.

Here are five reasons a walk-in shower in Pennsylvania is worth considering:

 

Easily accessible

One of the best features of a walk-in shower is how easy it is to enter and exit. Because of its accessibility and space, seniors and those with mobility issues can easily use the shower without slipping and injuring themselves. Even if no one in your home has mobility issues, it’s a great investment for the future.

 

Spacious

If you own a bathtub in one of your rooms, it might make your bathroom look smaller and clunky. However, if you have a walk-in shower, it’ll make your bathroom look much more open. As well as being good for accessibility, this also acts as a design element for your bathroom.

 

Easy to clean

With a bathtub or stand-alone shower, there are plenty of nooks and crannies you have to clean. In addition, shower curtains and linen tend to be prone to mold growth. With a walk-in shower, you only have to worry about cleaning some metal, the tile floor, and possibly the glass panes. All of these are easy to clean and keep free of mildew.

 

Flexible design

Walk-in showers can easily be tailored to your needs and the bathroom’s layout. You can even install a shower screen or two to protect parts of your bathroom from the shower spray.

 

Solid home investment

Walk-in showers are also appealing to potential homeowners. Having a more open bathroom design helps to make your bathroom more appealing to buyers. It’s especially appealing to buyers who are older or have mobility challenges.

 

Why choose McHale’s KBA for my bathroom remodeling?

With nearly 70 years of experience, McHale’s Kitchen and Bathroom is an expert at remodeling kitchens and bathrooms. When you work with us, we offer free consultations and a showroom that lets you see your product under all kinds of lighting. This way, you can be sure that what you order will look just as you imagined it when you saw it at our showroom. If you want to install a walk-in shower in Pennsylvania, call the experts at McHale’s KBA today!

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Benefits of Installing a Kitchen Island in Pennsylvania

May 31, 2019

5 Benefits of Installing a Kitchen Island in Pennsylvania

  • kitchen remodeling
kitchen island in Pennsylvania by McHale's KBA

Do you feel like you don’t have enough space in your kitchen? If you want to remodel the heart of your home, consider installing a kitchen island. A kitchen island is a bit of counter and drawers separate from the main countertop. They’re all the rage in kitchen remodeling – and for good reason. Versatile and attractive, there’s a lot you can gain from having an island installed. Let McHale’s KBA tell you why your next kitchen remodeling should include a kitchen island in Pennsylvania.

Here are five benefits of installing a kitchen island in Pennsylvania:

 

Extra storage space

One of the most appealing features of a kitchen island is the ability to have more storage space. With a kitchen island, you can add all sorts of customizable storage, such as shelves, drawers, and cabinets. This can help you manage all of your kitchen supplies and anything else you have stored.

 

More cooking space

This is another common reason people install a kitchen island. The counter space you normally have gets eaten up quickly, especially if you have a lot of appliances on there. In addition, the extra space is great to have if the rest of the family likes to cook as well.

 

Space for more amenities

Kitchen islands provide the opportunity to significantly improve your kitchen’s functionality. For instance, a kitchen island is a perfect place to install a wine fridge. If wine doesn’t interest you, you can still add sinks, fridge doors, or even a cooktop.

 

Extra seating

Even if you already have a dedicated table, a kitchen island makes a great place to add some extra seating. Depending on the size of your island, you can add anywhere from two to six extra seats for casual activity.

 

Focal point

There’s more to a kitchen island than its functional uses. They have a tendency to catch people’s eyes and can highlight the overall style of your kitchen. You can use this to your advantage and display things like your favorite cookbooks.

 

Why choose McHale’s KBA for my home remodeling needs?

McHale’s Kitchen and Bath has nearly 70 years of experience in the home remodeling industry. Our company’s long history is marked with various awards, affiliations, and appearances in several publications. When you choose us, we’ll give you an up-front price, a realistic project timeline, and the high quality you’re looking for. If a kitchen island in Pennsylvania is what you want, look no further than McHale’s KBA. 

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Benefits of Ceramic Kitchen Tile

May 15, 2019

5 Benefits of Ceramic Kitchen Tile

  • kitchen remodeling
ceramic kitchen tile by McHales KBA in Pennsylvania

Ceramic tile is a durable type of flooring that has been used by various civilizations over several millennia. In all of that time, ceramic flooring has never gone out of style. Even today, tiling your floor with ceramics continues to be a popular choice. At McHales KBA, we can help you learn what makes this kind of flooring an appealing choice for your kitchen.

Here are five ways ceramic tile can be a great choice for your kitchen’s flooring:

 

Highly durable

Ceramic tile is highly durable and resistant to scratches and heat. If you properly maintain and clean your flooring, it has the potential to last for centuries. In addition, it’s also relatively simple to repair it. If one of the tiles becomes broken or cracked from a severe impact, you can simply replace it.

 

Easy to maintain

Speaking of maintenance, tile is comparatively easy to maintain. Dirt, stains, and liquids of all kinds rest on top of the tile and can easily be wiped up. If the tile does get stained, you can use just about any heavy-duty cleaner without damaging the tile. All you have to do to regularly maintain it is to sweep or vacuum it with a soft brush attachment to pick up loose debris and dirt. The ease of cleaning also helps keep your home allergen-free.

 

Plenty of design options

Modern manufacturing methods give tile users plenty of ways to customize their flooring. It’s possible to mix and match solid tiles to make patterns or to accent them with custom designs or motifs. In addition, its possible to print tiles to resemble other materials, like hardwood or natural stones. Finally, tiles can be cut and shaped in a variety of designs, like triangles or planks.

 

 Glazed tiles are highly water-resistant

If you make sure to install glazed tiles in your kitchen, you won’t have to worry about water and other stains. Glazing gives your tiles a hard protective top layer that makes them much more resistant to humidity. This reason is why ceramic tile is used so often in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. However, if your tiles aren’t glazed, you should make sure to seal them as well. The grout in between tiles is also susceptible to moisture and stains, so make sure to seal it as well.

 

Increased home value

If you know you won’t be staying in your current home, a kitchen remodeling might be a good idea. Newly-installed ceramic tiles look very nice and are likely to be attractive to people looking at your home. This practical and attractive flooring may cost a lot up front, but it can be a very good investment.

 

What makes McHales KBA qualified to install tile in my kitchen?

McHales Kitchen and Bath has nearly 70 years of experience helping Pennsylvania homeowners remodel their kitchens and bathrooms. We know that a big part of remodeling is choosing how the room will look, and we have a wide range of tiling options for you to choose from. When it comes time to install, our team of professionals will install your flooring while protecting your home and hauling away debris at no extra cost. In addition, all of our jobs come with a one year warranty plus all related manufacturers warranties, with options for extended warranties available. Call McHales KBA today to schedule a showroom visit and get a free estimate!

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Features of an Aging in Place Bathroom

Apr 29, 2019

5 Features of an Aging in Place Bathroom

  • bathroom remodeling
aging in place bathroom from McHales KBA in Pennsylvania

The U.S. CDC describes ‘aging in place’ as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” Remodeling for this kind of design is much different than remodeling for aesthetic or home value. If you worry that you’ll have to move because of age-related challenges with your home, check with McHales KBA. We can help you add features to your home that can help make it suitable for your aging body.

Here are five aging in place features that we can install in your bathroom:

 

First-floor bathroom

If your home has stairs, an easy way to reduce the risk of injury is to have a major bathroom on the first floor. Some older two-story homes only have a bathroom on the upper floor near the bedrooms. While this makes sense, it’s a problem for older residents, and chair lifts can only help so much. Depending on how much room you have on the first floor, it might be tough to get a bathroom in there. It might require the conversion of a room you don’t use too often or part of a large closet. Keep in mind that the large size is important for accommodating a walker or wheelchair.

 

Step-in tub or curbless shower

For younger people, stepping in or out of a tub usually isn’t too hard. However, it can be much more difficult for older people. Step-in tubs and curbless showers let you easily enter, even with a walker or wheelchair. There are other options as well, such as tubs with a watertight door. Whatever your option, you’ll want to look at how you’ll enter and exit it. A common idea is to install wall-mounted bars you can use to help you keep your balance.

 

Removable/Adjustable showerheads

Surprisingly, there’s a lot to consider about your showerhead. Some showerheads offer more than a simple spray, while others offer adjustable angles. Both of these features are very useful for older people. A good type of showerhead to consider is a removable showerhead. This kind of showerhead has a hose that hooks to where a normal showerhead would be, with spray adjustment options on the backside. This lets older users easily wash while staying safe.

 

Non-slip flooring and rugs/mats

You’ll want to consider choosing flooring that doesn’t get slippery when wet. Marble, for instance, is a poor choice, but there are tiles that are slightly rougher. These aren’t as slippery as a flat marble floor. In addition, laminate flooring is also a good choice for non-slip flooring. As for rugs and mats, they can help avoid slipping, but they can also be tripping hazards. Thinner rugs with a rubber backing are your best bet, while your tub/shower can have a textured bottom if you don’t want a mat in there. However, some bathrooms just aren’t meant for rugs or mats. A good rule of thumb is the tighter the bathroom, the more likely you’ll better off with a non-slippery floor.

 

Functional fixtures and accessories

When designing for aging in place, you should consider everything in the bathroom. The sink and light are fine for you now, but what about when you’re older? Consider things like pull-down shelves and lower cabinets for your bathroom. In addition, think about if you’ll be able to reach the faucets and controls for the sink or tub/shower. Everything in the shower should be close by so you can reach it easily. You’ll also want to consider the lighting. Sensor lights are good for those who have trouble turning or who might forget to turn it off. It’s also good to consider lights that are set lower so you can easily reach them in case they go out.

 

Why choose McHales KBA to help me design my bathroom?

For almost 70 years, McHales KBA has been helping homeowners of all ages design their kitchens and bathrooms. We’ve been around so long that we know how our clients’ needs change as they get older. Our company has been able to help them adjust to their changing lives while maintaining the independence they’re used to. If you’re looking to prepare for the future with an aging in place bathroom, call McHales KBA today!

By Michelle Fadeley

10 Kitchen Countertop Options, and Their Pros and Cons

Apr 29, 2019

10 Kitchen Countertop Options, and Their Pros and Cons

  • kitchen remodeling
kitchen countertop from Mchales in Pennsylvania

Deciding on the material in your kitchen countertop is a big decision. There are a wide variety of materials with their own pros, cons, and prices. Fortunately, the experts at McHales KBA can help you narrow down your choices. We’ve compiled ten popular kitchen countertop choices to help you decide what material you want to put your food on.

*Costs don’t include labor or installation.

 

Granite

One of the most popular choices. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also resistant to heat and scratches. As for pricing, it’s one of the more expensive stones, it can vary wildly depending on the type of granite you choose. Average price ranges can go from $40 all the way to $200 per square foot.

 

Quartz

Interestingly enough, the quartz used in countertops isn’t the actual stone you find in nature. In reality, countertop quartz is a mix of resin and quartz that allows for a larger variety of color choices. This hard-working material is slightly more flexible than normal stone, so it’s less likely to crack during installation. Despite being man-made, it costs about as much as natural stone. You can expect to pay $60 to $150 per square foot.

 

Marble

This classic stone beloved by statue-makers is softer than other countertop stones, making it easier to work with. In addition, its heat resistant, cool to the touch, and comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors. However, these benefits are also its drawbacks. The softer stone can chip and scratch easier, and its porous nature means it can stain if not sealed properly. It’s also one of the more expensive options at $125 to $250 per square foot. If you’re looking for alternatives, white granite bears a similar appearance for cheaper.

 

Plastic Laminate

Laminate has a reputation for being cheap, but low price doesn’t always mean low-quality. Some of the better types of laminate are durable, waterproof, and attractive. However, don’t expect the same durability or hardiness that stone has. At $20 to $50 per square foot, it’s definitely a budget material, but it’s still a good choice if you’re on a budget.

 

Stainless Steel

Primarily used in commercial kitchens, stainless steel is becoming more popular with homeowners. When you see the benefits, it’s easy to see why it’s becoming more popular. It’s durable, easy to clean and maintain, simple to install, and gives your kitchen a sleek, modern look. As for price, it’s middle-of-the-road at $75 to $150 per square foot.

 

Recycled Glass

As the name suggests, recycled glass countertops are made from recycled glass, pigment, and resin/cement mixed together to form a kitchen work surface. These countertops are eco-friendly and fashionable, making them good for a home trying to reduce their carbon footprint. Depending on the glass used, expect to pay $50 to $125 per square foot. However, the exact range depends on the kind of glass used.

 

Cultured Marble

Cultured Marble is another alternative for those who like marble’s appearance but can’t or don’t want to pay for it. This material mixes crushed marble with pigments and resins in a mold to make various fixtures. It combines the beauty of marble with the durability of engineered stone. It’s much less expensive than marble at $40 to $140 per square foot, but it’s an attractive alternative.

 

Soapstone

Soapstone has been used in science labs and medical facilities for decades, but it also works great in the kitchen. It doesn’t require any sealing and is resistant to bacteria and heat. It also happens to be fairly affordable at $70 to $120 per square foot.

 

Travertine

Often called ‘black marble,’ travertine is a kind of limestone formed under extreme heat and pressure. Like marble, it’s very beautiful, but it’s high-maintenance due to its softness. In addition, it’s porous, so it has to be sealed properly and regularly. If you’re willing to take on the responsibility, travertine costs $50 to $100 per square foot.

 

Butcher Block

Wooden countertops look warm and inviting, and it’s easy to clean stains on it. However, it can also require a lot of maintenance. You’ll need to reseal it monthly, be careful about dinging it, and keep in mind that it expands and contracts with the temperature. However, it can last for decades if properly cared for. Depending on the thickness of the wood, it can cost $35 to $200 per square foot.

 

Why is McHales KBA a great choice for installing my kitchen countertop?

Since 1950, McHales Kitchen and Bath has worked to help Pennsylvania homeowners design their dream kitchens. Our showroom lets you see just how our products look under different kinds of lighting so you know how it’ll look. We know that anyone can sell a product, but we provide a tearless remodeling product. We have a thought-out process listed on our About Us page, so you know exactly what to expect when you call on us. If you need someone to help you remodel your kitchen countertop, call the experts at McHales KBA

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Benefits of Installing Hardwood Flooring

Apr 12, 2019

5 Benefits of Installing Hardwood Flooring

  • kitchen remodeling
hardwood flooring from McHale's KBA in Philadelphia

Hardwood flooring is a flooring style that has remained popular among homeowners all over the country. The simple yet elegant style of this flooring makes it a popular choice aesthetic-wise. But what actual benefits does it give you as a type of flooring? As it turns out, there are quite a few benefits it has for homeowners. McHales can provide you with five different reasons you should consider hardwood flooring for your kitchen.

Here are five reasons to consider hardwood flooring for your kitchen:

 

Easy to clean

Using a non-carpet flooring in your kitchen and dining room is generally a good idea. Carpets have a tendency to absorb stains that makes it hard to clean out certain messes. Hardwood, meanwhile, is significantly more stain-resistant than carpets. All you have to do is wipe up the spill! In addition, you can clean the flooring through sweeping, steam-cleaning, or vacuuming.

Durable

Durability is one of the main reasons homeowners use hardwood floors. Its exact durability depends on a lot of factors, but hardwood lasts a very long time overall. It’s possible to scratch or dent hardwood, but it’s pretty difficult to do. Even if you do damage it, it can be sanded down and refinished multiple times without ruining its integrity. If cared for properly, solid hardwood can potentially last for generations.

Better air quality

Out of the various types of flooring out there, hardwood is best for those who have allergies. Carpets make it very easy for allergens and dust to get trapped in the fibers. Meanwhile, tiles and laminate have grout lines and an embossing where dust and allergens can settle. Hardwood gives no place for dust to hide.

No fading colors

Over time, many carpets will lose their original coloring and face wear and tear. Hardwood doesn’t have this issue, and its steady appearance is one of the reasons it’s has a reputation for being long-lasting. However, if you do want to change the flooring’s color, it’s easy and cheap to refinish it. This lets you drastically change your home’s appearance without spending too much money.

Boosts your home’s value

Hardwood is a very appealing type of flooring for potential homebuyers. Home buyers often remove carpet flooring because it’s seen as “someone else’s” carpet and has a tendency to carry old germs. The popularity and other features of hardwood flooring make it so you can sell quicker and for more. Getting hardwood isn’t just an investment for your family. It’s also an investment in the future. 

Why is McHale’s KBA a trusted name in home renovation?

McHales Kitchen and Bath Remodeling have helped people design their dream kitchens and bathrooms since 1950. Our company is affiliated with many well-known organizations and has won plenty of awards for our high-quality work. We can offer complimentary design consultations and have a showroom that lets you see our products in a variety of lighting styles. If you’re looking to buy hardwood flooring, call McHales Kitchen and Bath today!

By Michelle Fadeley

Benefits of Installing a Walk-In Shower

Feb 15, 2019

Benefits of Installing a Walk-In Shower

  • bathroom remodeling
A walk-in shower is just what you need from McHale's KBA

You may have been considering replacing your existing shower or tub in Bucks County. At McHale’s Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, we recommend going for a modern walk-in shower for your next bathroom remodel. Instead of taking up room in your bathroom with a clunky bathtub/shower combo, you can have a walk-in shower that fits seamlessly into any space. What are the benefits of switching to a walk-in model over a traditional bathtub?

Reasons to Choose a Walk-In Shower

Fits Your Space

Walk-in showers come in a variety of heights and widths which can fit any bathroom. If your bathroom is spacious, you can have one that takes up an entire wall. But if you have a compact space, a walk-in shower can be small enough to take up just a corner. There is no need to wonder if the bathtub will fit into your space or compromise on your designs. A new walk-in shower will work in any space!

Easy to Clean

Most walk-in showers are made of tile, which is much easier to clean than your average porcelain or plastic shower interior. Tile can be scrubbed down with any cleaner you choose without the worry of damaging it or staining with bleach. In addition to the tile walls, many walk-in showers have glass doors. You can say goodbye to moldy shower curtains- glass doors can be cleaned with the same products as the tile. You can enjoy less time cleaning and more time enjoying your new shower with a walk-in model.

Ease of Access

If you’re someone with mobility issues, then a walk-in shower is the perfect solution. Walk-in showers are nearly flush with your flooring, so there is no high ledge to climb over. If you want a shower that will serve your family for years, then this is the best option for you.

Why Choose McHale’s Kitchen and Bath?

When you make the decision to remodel your bathroom or kitchen, you want the final product to be both functional and beautiful. At McHale’s, that is our ultimate goal and what we strive to deliver for every customer. Our designers can help you achieve the bathroom of your dreams and get you the best products on the market. And when you choose to install a walk-in shower, you can enjoy your new bathroom for years to come.

By Michelle Fadeley

Why Is My Toilet Not Flushing?

Jan 31, 2019

Why Is My Toilet Not Flushing?

  • bathroom remodeling
a toilet not flushing shouldn't slow you down

Of all the things that can go wrong with your plumbing in Bucks County, one of the most frustrating is a toilet that does not flush properly. Problems with flushing range from no flush at all to continuous “running” after the flush. Here at McHales Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, we want to break down the common culprits when it comes to an improperly flushing toilet. 

 

Not Flushing At All

If nothing happens when you press down the flusher, there are two common problems that may be happening inside your toilet. The first is that the tank may not have enough water in it. Without enough water, the tank will not flush. The valve for this is usually just behind your toilet, so ensure that it is open and the float inside the tank is unobstructed. The second most common problem with no flush at all is the chain connecting the flapper is loose or disconnected. If the chain is too loose, it will not activate the flush. Open the tank and ensure there is tension between the chain and your flusher handle.

 

Bowl Does Not Empty

When you press the flusher, it should lift the flapper in your tank allowing water to rush quickly into the bowl for a smooth flush. When your toilet bowl does not empty all the way, this can be the sign of a couple different issues. One may be that the pipes are clogged. This can be solved by plunging it yourself or snaking the pipes by a professional. If you have snaked and plunged your toilet and are still experiencing slow flushes, it can be the chain. If the chain is too loose, it may be lifting the flapper slowly when you pull it. This slow release does not give the water the momentum it needs to flush the bowl quickly.

 

Continuous Flushing

Perhaps the most annoying problem of all is when the toilet continuously “runs” after you’ve flushed it. That running water sound is not only annoying, but it’s also wasting water. When the flapper lifts to let the water into the bowl, it should seal tightly over the drain once the flush is complete. If the flapper is bent or warped, it will not seal properly which allows a slow stream of water to trickle into the bowl. That is the culprit for the running water noises. The flapper should be replaced if you hear that noise for extended periods of time after each flush.

 

Why Choose McHales Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

If your toilet is struggling to keep up with your family’s needs, then perhaps upgrading may be the solution. The expert bathroom remodeling team at McHales Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling can assist you in choosing and installing the right toilet for your needs. We have been in business since 1950, providing the highest quality services to Bucks County and the surrounding areas.

By Michelle Fadeley