How to Remove Backsplash Tile in the Kitchen

Posted on January 28, 2021 by admin

There are plenty of ways you can update the look of your kitchen. One of the most impactful remodels is replacing the kitchen backsplash. Even if you are not interested in changing the backsplash, it is likely that your kitchen remodeling project will require you to demo the existing tile around the sink and stove. If you are up for the challenge, and have some experience with tools and construction, you might be able to remove backsplash tile in the kitchen on your own without damaging the drywall underneath.

Continue reading for the basic steps of kitchen backsplash removal.

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What You Need to Remove Kitchen Backsplash Tile

To remove kitchen backsplash tile, there are some specific tools you will need. It is better if you already have experience using these tools, as kitchen tile removal requires precision and technique. You can locate any of these tools at your local home improvement store, or online at your favorite home retailer.

✏ Putty Knife
✏ Utility Knife
✏ Electric or Hand Sander
✏ Hammer
✏ 120 Grit Sandpaper
✏ Drywall Sanding Pad
✏ Drywall Joint Compound
✏ Box or Trash Receptacle
⚠ EXPERIENCE (We said that already; right?)

Basic Guide for Backsplash Tile Removal

FIRST —Turn off the power to the outlets and electricity in the kitchen area. This is a vital safety precaution. You do not want any power in the kitchen or backsplash areas.

Be sure your workspace is clear. Remove everything from the kitchen counters, including outlet covers, and anything on top of the refrigerator that might fall off.

Using your putty knife and hammer simultaneously, begin gently chiseling off the tiles. Be very careful not to penetrating the drywall underneath.

Place all of your demoed tiles in a box or trash receptacle and dispose of them responsibly. Consider donating them to an art school.

Under the tiles will be one of two types of adhesive, rock-hard or semi-soft. Semi-soft is also known as mastic, and you will need to use the 120 grit sandpaper to remove it from the wall. Rock-hard is a cement based thinset, which will require you to use your putty knife and scrape it off the wall.

If you have made any gouges in the drywall, use your putty knife, joint compound, 120 grit sandpaper, and sanding pad to repair them.

Trusted Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable and certified kitchen remodeling in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are extensively experienced at restoring residential and commercial kitchens, as well as, providing complex remodels, repairs, and renovations, including drywall and painting for interior and exterior needs. If you want to add more storage space, new appliances, cabinetry, floors, or anything else you can dream of; we can do it! Contact us today to get started with a written estimate.

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What You Need to Do to Prevent Frozen Plumbing Pipes

Posted on January 21, 2021 by admin

Winter is not going anywhere anytime soon, so it is a good idea to get your plumbing systems under control now, before the peak of the season is upon us, and your options are more limited. Frozen pipes are one of the most common plumbing mishaps among homeowners, and one of the most common repairs done by plumbers in the spring. You do not want to deal with the aftermath of frozen or burst pipes, and you won’t have to as long as you get prepared.

Continue reading to learn how to prevent frozen plumbing pipes this year, and what to do if you suspect you might already have some plumbing issues that need professional attention.

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The Problem With Frozen Plumbing Pipes

Although your plumbing pipes are likely insulated, as most are here in the United States, they can still be prone to freezing in extreme temperatures. This is bad news because water expands and contracts as it freezes and thaws. Ever notice those huge potholes in the spring after all the snow melts away? This is due to water seeping into pavement and expanding and contracting as it freezes and thaws. This causes pavement damages like cracks and holes, and the same can happen to your plumbing pipes.

If the frozen water within plumbing pipes creates too much pressure build up, it can actually cause the pipe to rupture, which leads to unexpected water leaks and flooding after the ice melts. It also causes water and energy bills to skyrocket. Not as costly or invasive, but equally frustrating, frozen pipes can also lead to faucet problems, slow water, poor water pressure, and similar water quality issues.

How to Protect Your Pipes From Freezing Over

Inspect your walls and ceilings for any cracks. Seal them up.

Inspect your basement and crawl space for any gaps or openings, and seal them up.

Apply weatherstripping and caulk around your basement windows, and also around your crawlspace door.

Have your home insulation inspected and repaired as needed.

Locate all unprotected pipes and insulated them with pipe sleeves. Be sure they are tightly secured together. Seal up any openings or joints with duct tape.

Consider thermostat-controlled, UL-listed heat cable technology for your plumbing pipes. This keeps them warm during the colder seasons.

Install storm windows over any basement windows.

Replace your windows with energy-efficient models.

Professional Plumbing Services in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of licensed general contractors, provide a wide range of plumbing and repiping work for residential and commercial properties, including water heater repair, installation, and replacement. Call 317-454-3612 to speak with one of our knowledgeable Indianapolis plumbers, today.

Recommended Remodeling Tips for a New House

Posted on January 14, 2021 by admin

There is certainly a feeling of excitement after purchasing a new home, so as expected, home buyers are eager to move in as soon as they can. But, before moving into a new home, there are some specific areas to focus on for immediate renovation. Making such modifications to some commonly over-looked areas of a new house will not only better protect your asset, but will make the home entirely yours.

Continue below to review some important tips if you are looking for, buying, or moving into a new house.

Plumbing Systems

The plumbing is the most important system in any home, aside from heating and cooling. Without proper working plumbing, a home is sent back to the stone ages. Toilets, faucets, baths, showers, laundry, and more are all everyday appliances that we use to function in life. For this reason, always be sure to have your new home’s plumbing system thoroughly inspected by a licensed professional before moving in.

The Fuse Box

Another task to complete before moving into your new home is to set up the fuse box. Learning and labeling the fuse box will require more than one person, so be sure you have a helper with you to get this job done. Grab some labeling tape and a permanent marker, and then get to work! Start by first powering off any electronics plugged in, including radios and televisions. Then, have the other person turn on all the lights in the house, and go through each fuse one by one to assign it to an area of the home. It is recommended to bring a lamp with you to plug into the outlets and check them as well. Label each fuse clearly and you’re done!

Vents

For those purchasing a new construction home, there may not be much need for vent cleaning and inspection, but it is still a good idea to clear out the dust collected during the building period. As for homes that have been around for a few years, or more, it is strongly suggested to get rid of all the years of dirt, dust, and dander that has accumulated in the ventilation system of the home. This can be done by a professional service for a relatively low price, and should take no more than a day to finish. Start your new journey in a fresh, clean home with a healthy indoor air environment.

Chimney and Fireplace

For homes that are not new construction, you definitely want the chimney inspected. Bats and birds can roost and nest in chimneys, especially in homes that are left vacant for extended periods of time. Also, there could be potential structural issues and even health concerns that a professional can point out for you. Have any issues repaired before you move in for a safe and functional fireplace.

Locks

This may seem like a no brainer, but the reality is that many home buyers get distracted with all the requirements and hassles of moving and settling into a new place, that changing the locks gets put on the back burner. And then after a while, you forget you are still using the same keys given to you at the time of closing. But it is very important to not let this happen to you. The first thing you should do before moving into a new house is change the locks. This can be done by a local door repair service, or it can even be a DIY project if you are good with tools. New locks are relatively inexpensive, but range in price depending on quality, brand, style, design, and more.

Indianapolis Home Remodels and Commercial Building Renovations

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis home remodeling or commercial general contracting services at competitive prices. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!