Ceilings can often be overlooked as a feature that changes the feel of any living space in a home. Your home could be the most luxurious house on the block but with a boring ceiling in the living room. Your home could have the popcorn ceiling that many despise. Whatever the case may be, you have fun, stylish, and unique options! Sometimes, it's the repairs that bother you. If you have water staining on a white ceiling, get some spray paint and spray your eyesore away. Just be sure to shield your walls and important items from the over-spray. If you have other stains, it helps if you spray bleach on it with a 70% water and 30% bleach mixed ratio in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution onto the stains and repeat until the stains are gone. Shield yourself and important items while spraying. This method works best for white ceilings. Another thing you can do is caulk ceiling cracks to make the ceiling more youthful. It's best, however, to have a professional come and properly repair the cracks for you. Professionals, like Horton Remodeling, typically tighten loose sheetrock and re-tape and re-apply durable compounds to your ceiling to ensure the damage never occurs again. Getting a paint job done to the ceiling can rejuvenate the room. If you decide on a lighter color, the room could feel the freshest it has ever been. If you decide on a darker color, you can make your living space cozier than before. You can also have a stenciled paint design accentuating the living space. Ceiling moldings can be applied where the ceiling meets the walls, adding elegance to the living space. A plain trim board is a good start, or you can purchase moldings with more complex curves. You can paint the molding a different color than the ceiling or leave a natural wood look. Installing beadboard, shiplap, or other paneling can completely transform a living space. Depending on the wood you install, it can affect the warmth, depth, feel, and even the smell. Because of the random grain and knots in the wood, you can have a unique texture to the ceiling. After installing it, you can paint, stain, or varnish it. You can also wallpaper your ceiling with simple or complex designs. This option allows you to choose a particular theme, such as Japanese or Spanish. Installing coffered ceilings displays recessed ceiling panels with a revealed border molding around each panel. Installing faux beams can give the ceiling extra depth. They can also add a rustic appeal with a bare wood look, or you can paint them a different color. Ceiling medallions around light fixtures add character and charm to your ceiling. They can be great focal points in the kitchen or dining room. You can even paint them to match your paint schemes and other designs. Tin tiles or ceiling panels can add industrial or vintage accentuation to the space. You can have a tray ceiling installed for a recessed center. Adding moldings compounds the elegance of this ceiling choice. The center can be painted a different color. Lastly, different lighting options can yield different outcomes. Recessed lights open up the space as long as they are evenly and strategically placed. They also add a modern, clean look! Pendant lights and chandeliers are statement fixtures that draw attention to your style. These fixtures could capstone the ceiling vibe you were looking for. With hundreds of options to choose from, you can be sure to have a ceiling that is meant for you. You can't be bored with these options!

When beginning your kitchen remodel, every single feature installed is important. For example, if a light bulb is a different color, it will throw off how the kitchen feels. That example is on a small scale. Countertops, however, require you to make a significant choice. They cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in materials, and it’s a finishing piece of the kitchen. It is one of the first features you notice when you walk into a kitchen. The list below can educate you on the different types of countertops. Marble Countertops Pros: Can increase property value because it is a timeless and natural material with no additives and resins Cons: Stains easily, especially with something acidic, and needs sealing annually. Quartz Countertops Pros: Durable, won’t easily crack, scratch, or chip. Non-porous, stain resistant, low maintenance, versatile, and popular. Cons: High price, susceptible to heat damage because the resins prove to be vulnerable to heat, requires professional grade installation, Granite Countertops Pros: Natural material, heat resistant, scratch resistant, stain resistant, low-maintenance, sanitary due to low porosity, versatile in many applications, can add value to your home. Cons: Looks dated depending on the application, can have a busy design, seams will show, requires a sealant coat annually, prone to cracking and fading, cold, heavy, and expensive. Concrete Countertops Pros: Can be custom-sized and shaped, difficult to scratch and impervious to heat, small items can be embedded for effect, durable and long-lasting, can improve resale value, is stainable to different colors Cons: Expensive, regular sealing is required to avoid staining; its excessive weight can tax cabinet frames and floors depending on the counter thickness Butcher Block Countertops Pros: Available in plenty of wood types and stain colors, affordable, will last for 20+ years, easy to repair, is meant to be cut on if one would like to, Cons: Dents easily, scratches easily, not moisture resistant, reacts to temperature fluctuations, can be burned if pots are too hot, needs to be resealed and sometimes filled and sanded to keep it top-notch. SAE 304 Stainless Steel Countertops Pros: Heat-resistant, hygienic, easy to clean, non-porous, won’t stain or rust, and indestructible compared to stone counters. Cons: Can get dents and scratches and highlight your fingerprints until you clean it off; pots clashing with your metal counter can be loud and may look ugly to some, can look ugly over time because you can’t repair it, and there is little risk involved in getting metal shavings in your food. Tile Countertops Pros: Lots of designs to choose from, inexpensive, can install it yourself, can use high-end materials at lower cost. Cons: Can break or chip, grout lines, messy installation, mildew build-up, tiles fall off the counter’s edge, not timeless material; especially if the tiles break, you may not find a match. Solid Surface Countertops Pros: Non-porous, homogeneous, can buff out scratches, easy to clean Cons: This countertop is soft. So, it is scratchable, can be deformed by high heat, and is difficult to fabricate. Laminate Countertops Pros: Laminate is heat-, stain-, and scratch-resistant. It is easy to clean and the least costly countertop on the market. Cons: knives, sliding metal objects, heated pots, and dishes can permanently damage the counter; only allow for drop-in sinks due to their construction; and not a timeless material. Depending on what brand you purchase, good maintenance practices will make any of these countertops last a while. Consider customers’ experiences with different counter types and professional opinions before making one of the most important decisions for your kitchen remodel.

Remodeling something as big as your kitchen or even your bathroom is almost a dream. You look through stock photos on Google or Pinterest and find yourself asking, “How is this going to begin to manifest?” remodeling is an uphill battle involving research and finding the best resources for you. Often, people will sit with a remodel until they find the remodeler that fits their needs, has their ideas and needs in mind, and cares about their home. This blog post could help you find that company. Meticulous is Your Assurance While you continue to ponder who will remodel your home, let us begin by reminding you of these items: In the future, long after the company has finished your remodel, will you be worried about leaks? Fire hazards? Electrical issues? Code violations? I’m stressed typing this part already! You are putting your life and your livelihood in someone’s hands. What remodeling company is going to care about that? There is a bridge of trust that must be crossed for sure. A meticulous company typically has these worries in mind. Internet Presence Another thing to remember is their internet presence. Scour through the company’s website and web browser reviews. In the reviews, you will notice whether or not they have an outstanding number of people who give five stars. If they have terrible reviews, it’s time to scan the next entity. Even if they have five stars, read why they got different star ratings like a 3-star rating. Ask yourself, “What about this client’s experience made it a sub-par service?” On the website a good company usually has an innovative website that lists the remodel processes and prices clearly and caters to the customer. Hopefully, your initial reaction to their website is, “These people look like they have it together.” Usually, the website will give you almost everything you need to know to decide if this company is the best fit for you. By comparing and contrasting different 5-star companies through the website and the reviews, you can narrow your options down to the optimal remodeler for you. Reviewing Documentation Another way to evaluate the array of remodelers is when you receive different estimates and proposals. After receiving these documents, you can see the services provided to you according to the total price. By comparing and contrasting the service descriptions and price breakdowns, you may find that one contractor does not mention floor protection in the proposal. In contrast, the other will note that they cover and protect your home during construction. An example like this points out how much they care about your home. Another thing to remember is how quickly you received your documents. If a remodeler is thorough about your project, it may take a month or two to finalize your project requirements before construction begins. Sifting Past Experiences As a customer, you can ask past clientele and vendors about their experience with a certain organization. Past clients will not lie to you; they paid thousands of dollars to complete a remodel. Either they had a great experience, or it could’ve been better. The last thing to munch on is making sure you have set expectations with the contractor. It’s a good idea to record what was said so you don’t wake up with doubts. Listing out your wants and needs will save future headaches for any professional because sometimes pros lack the consideration necessary for good customer service. Sometimes, it’s best to hire the pro to do a simple install or a drywall patch; that way, you see beyond any shadows of doubt what their work ethic is, how clean they are, and if they are carefully moving around the home with breakable items. A good experience on a small job will reflect well on how they manage your remodel. With a remodel, it can be a good thing that the process seems slow. Only as long as the company is working on your project every day. I have heard stories of contractors showing up once a week and not coming when they said they would. To simplify this article, remember that it comes down to conscientiousness and reliability with whom you decide, and everything else tends to fall into place.

Load-bearing walls are a crucial part of any building’s structure. They support the weight of the building and distribute it down to the foundation. Understanding these walls is essential for both construction professionals and homeowners alike. What Are Load-Bearing Walls? Load-bearing walls are structural elements that bear the weight of the building above them, transferring it to the foundation below. Ceiling joist ends rest on the top of these walls as well. They can be constructed with 2x4 or 2x6 wood walls, or more hardened material, like brick or blocks. Refer to the image below: Importance of Load-Bearing Walls Load-bearing walls are vital for the structural integrity of a building. They support the floors, roof, and any additional levels of the building. Without these walls, buildings would not be able to stand up to the forces of gravity and could collapse. Identifying Load-Bearing Walls Identifying load-bearing walls can be tricky, especially in older buildings. Here are a few tips: Blueprints: The surest way to identify a load-bearing wall is to refer to the building’s blueprints. Wall Direction: In general, load-bearing walls run perpendicular to floor or ceiling joists. Exterior Walls: Most often, exterior walls are load-bearing. Eaves: Eaves are the edges of the roof that extend beyond the walls of the exterior substrates. However, it’s always best to consult with a structural engineer or a professional if you’re unsure. Can You Remove Load-Bearing Walls? Yes, but it’s not a DIY job. Removing a load-bearing wall requires careful planning and execution to ensure the building’s structural integrity isn’t compromised. Typically, a temporary support wall is built, the load-bearing wall is removed, and then a beam or another type of structural support is put in its place. Load-bearing walls are an essential part of any building. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to renovate or a professional in the construction industry, understanding these walls is crucial. Always consult with a professional when dealing with these structural elements to ensure safety and structural integrity. Remember, when it comes to load-bearing walls, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Sometimes it feels like there is not enough room for anything. Sometimes we have the inner speech saying "get off your lazy..." and we clean and organize and do the boring task most of us hate. In this article I hope you find ideas that will permanently open your living spaces, regardless of the mess you may or may not need to attend to. Open Up Your Floor Plan: Create an open floor plan to make your main living area feel less crowded. This layout offers a feeling of spaciousness without increasing the home’s overall square footage. Part of your plan could be simpler furniture or mounting your TV so you can get rid of the entertainment stand. Use Area Rugs: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to separate an open floor plan and create individual areas is with area rugs. Rearrange Furniture: Create the perception of individual living spaces within an open floor plan simply by rearranging furniture. Add Simple Barriers: Invest in physical barriers for added separation when family members are vying for space to call their own. Re-Paint the Area: You can paint your walls lighter colors or paint 3 walls a golden color with a contrasting accent color on the 4th wall. Remove Walls: Demolish shared walls between living spaces. For instance, maybe there’s a wall between the kitchen and the living room. You may be able to create square openings in the middle of a shared wall. BE SURE to ensure that the wall is not LOAD BEARING. Read here for more information on load-bearing walls. Install Skylights: Ceilings can feel like they are too low. Adding a typical 2’ x 2’ skylight is compelling enough to drastically add the illusion of depth to your home while adding free light. Multipurpose Islands: Consider an open-plan layout that blends the kitchen with living or dining areas. Multipurpose islands serve as dining spots, preparation areas, and storage spaces. Remember, the key is to use light, neutral colors on both walls and furniture to create a roomy feel. Maybe the simple option is organizing and throwing away things you do not need. However, that’s a boring option! May these ideas inspire spaciousness!

Are you tired of finding water leaks in your kitchen or bathroom? Don't let this frustrating situation get the best of you and don't pull out the checkbook just yet! Instead, take control and fix the leak yourself with these 2 easy stages. Stage 1: Identification First, identify the source of the leak by using a flashlight, dry hands, and a clean rag. Check your drain pipes, feel for any moisture, and examine the water lines and the shut-off valve. Once you've found the source, it's time to tighten the connections. Below are possible leaks you may be experiencing. Drain-Pipe Leak: Shut-Off leak: Water Line Leak: Stage 2: Resolution To tighten the connections, you will need two crescent wrenches and a 6-in-1 screwdriver. Run hot water over the drainpipe and hand-tighten the connections. Be careful not to over-tighten or break the drain line. If it's a water line, use your crescent wrench to tighten the nut that threads onto the shut-off valve. Don't forget to check the screw holding the handle of the shut-off valve and tighten it too. If it's leaking where it meets the water pipe, use two crescent wrenches to tighten it and provide counterpressure on the water pipe to prevent leaks behind the wall. If required, remove the faucet's water lines before turning off the shut-off valve. In Summation By following these simple steps, you can fix the leak without spending hundreds of dollars on a professional. However, exercise caution while providing counterpressure to avoid breaking anything. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional. Take back control and say goodbye to water leaks!

The typical mindset of the homeowner is to keep expenses as cheap as possible. An understandable need as the economy ebb and flows. When it comes time to repair your home, you would like a speedy, quality, repair. In the painting industry, you will be quoted various prices, all of which depend on quality and speed. Since this article is about painting your home, we are going to delve into what a fast job looks like, and what a quality job looks like. Hopefully, you will gain understanding of why you may get different prices from various professionals, and ultimately hire the professional that best fits you. The Fastest Paint Method Let us begin with a fast job. A fast paint job entails this scope, usually done with a paint sprayer machine: The professional masks off doors, windows, walkways, and anything that may be affected by overspray (overspray meaning the fine particulates of the paint that bounce off the painted surface, like spraying with a spray bottle). The professional may fill noticeable cracks in wood, stucco, baseboard, drywall, depending on exterior or interior paint jobs. If the work is outside, a good professional should recommend pressure washing and scraping your walls. Doing so will remove loose and chalky paint, ensuring the new paint coat has maximum adhesion. The professional takes a day or two at most to spray the entire home, again, depending on exterior or interior jobs. This fast job, across the board, is the cheapest you will find because it spits the paint rapidly, covering the previous paint lickety-split. However, spraying does not allow the paint to seep into wood grain, hairline stucco cracks and holes; all of which are areas for water to build up, and rot away over the years. Horton Remodeling has seen spray painted homes, and in only a few years the paint begins to fade because the method only “blankets” the substrate. This is good for clients who need a quick maintenance coat, but not good for clients who need a long-lasting job. The Best Paint Job Let's finally talk about a high-quality paint job. A good paint professional recommends roll-n-brush method: The professional follows proper preparation practices listed above, except it requires less masking and drop clothes, and more time is spent brushing and rolling. The professional begins brushing the paint close around windows, doors, light fixtures, etc.; also known as cut in work. The professional begins rolling the paint on all required surfaces. This process can take up to a week and more, and uses more paint, depending on the square footage in question. As you can see, this job takes longer for a good reason. This is because you are physically pushing paint into every crevice, which gives a deeper and more durable hold. It provides better coverage and leaves the paint drying denser than the spraying method. It also takes more time for the paint job to fade away. The bottom line here is that this finish costs you more. More time spent is equivalent to more money necessary to complete. Additional Considerations As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. When making a hiring decision ask yourself these questions: Will they adequately cover and mask off? Will they leave spots where old paint is showing through? Will they leave paint drops on landscaping or other property? Do they work efficiently? Do they communicate effectively? Do they dress neatly, and uphold a tidy work environment? Will they keep track of your requests? Also consider their paint methods (spray vs. roll – n – brush). The items discussed in this article are all variables that hold potential in price differences between different pros. As a customer you will run into all kinds of people. Some people may show up, and the project manager has shared zero information to the professionals, so time ends up being wasted there. Sometimes you will have people who just show up one day to say “we are here to work now! Ready or not here I come!” Typically, these are situations for companies who charge less than others. But if you factor in what has been written in this page, you will hopefully have a better chance of getting what you need.

Toilets can leak for various reasons. For your reference, here is a toilet diagram: Here are the typical reasons for toilet leaks, ultimately resulting in damage and a higher water bill: Supply line leaking: The line that supplies water to your toilet could be damaged or loose. Water lines can be damaged if the rubber seal ring, also known as gasket, is corroded or split, or the line is not tightened enough on the threads, faulty installation, or faulty thread sealant. Wax ring Leakage: The wax ring that seals the base of the toilet to the drainpipe could be worn out, broken or loose. Wax rings last for a very long time, only if a toilet is installed correctly with an evenly mounted toilet over the drain and wax ring. If this does not happen, wax rings will begin to let water seep through over time. For the readers information, this is also why you do not completely seal the bottom edge of the toilet to the floor all around, because you need see if it leaks on the floor as shown in the picture below. Damaged closet flange: This flange is between the drainpipe and the wax ring seal. If this flange is rusted out or cracked, you will not be able to properly tighten the toilet and wax ring to the drain. The white ring on the floor is a closet flange in the picture below: Loose flush valve: The valve that lets water into the bowl when you flush could be loose. Loose connection where the tank meets the toilet: Check the connecting bolts. If they seem loose or you can see water gathering in that area, use the screwdriver to tighten them ( suggestion: use a wide flat head screwdriver). Damaged or worn-out fill valve: If your fill valve is damaged or worn out, it can start to leak, which will cause water to constantly flow into the tank and eventually overflow into the toilet bowl. These problems can cause water to drip or seep out from the base of the toilet or the tank. If left unaddressed, these leaks can cause extensive damage to the flooring and walls. The water from a toilet base is not clean to begin with, and the excess water can create a moist environment that promotes the growth of mold and mildew. Most of these issues can be resolved without professional assistance since the repairs are typically straightforward and inexpensive. However, if you’re unsure or apprehensive about repair jobs, never hesitate to contact a professional.

Windows are an essential part of any home, but they also require regular care and maintenance to ensure they function properly and look great. Whether you have wooden, vinyl, or aluminum-framed windows, there are some simple steps you can take to keep them in good shape for a long time. In this blog post, we will share some tips on how to maintain your windows and avoid common problems. Cleaning One of the easiest things you can do for your windows is to keep them clean. Dust, dirt, insects, and moisture can accumulate on the glass and the frames, affecting the appearance and performance of your windows. To clean your windows, you will need a gentle glass cleaner, a microfiber cloth, a mild detergent, and a soft scrubbing brush. For wooden windows, wipe them down with a damp cloth regularly to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using too much water, as it can cause rotting or warping. For vinyl and aluminum-framed windows, wash them with a mild detergent and a soft scrubbing brush. Rinse them well and dry them with a cloth. For the glass panes, use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove smudges and spots. Clean the inside of the windows once a week and the outside once a month. Inspection Another key step in window maintenance is to inspect your windows periodically for any signs of damage or deterioration. Cracks, leaks, gaps, peeling paint, and broken parts can all affect the efficiency and functionality of your windows. By spotting these issues early, you can prevent them from getting worse and causing more problems. Inspect your windows at least once a year, preferably at the start of each season. Look for any leaks or moisture around the frame, cracks in the glass or the material, sealant cracks or breaks, problems with sliding sashes or window cranks. Pay special attention to the caulking around your windows. This is the sealant that keeps your windows watertight and prevents air leakage. If you notice any cracks, breaks, or missing pieces in the caulking, you need to fix them as soon as possible. You can use a caulk gun and a suitable sealant to fill in the gaps and create a tight seal. If you notice rubber hanging out in between the windowpanes, this is a sign to replace your window soon, as it may be leaking into your home. When this happens, your windows typically fog up and retain moisture between the panes. In old single pane windows, which is common in the US, check if the glazing is cracked or too deteriorated to withstand the elements. Check the finish of your windows, especially if they are made of wood or metal. The finish or paint protects your windows from weathering and corrosion. If you see any peeling, cracking, or chipping in the finish, you need to repaint your windows every three to four years. Use a high-quality paint that is suitable for your window material and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Repair If you find any damage or defects in your windows during your inspection, you need to repair them as soon as possible. Some repairs are easy to do yourself, while others may require professional help. Here are some common window problems and how to fix them: Cracked glass: A cracked windowpane can let in cold air and moisture, as well as pose a safety hazard. You can fix a cracked windowpane by using a repair kit that contains glass adhesive and stabilizer strips. Follow the instructions carefully and apply the adhesive over the crack. Then place the stabilizer strips over the adhesive and press firmly. Let it dry for 24 hours before removing the strips. You can also cut to size a piece of plexiglass and siliconize the edges of it to the windowpane. Stuck sash: A stuck sash can make it hard to open or close your window. This can be caused by dirt buildup, warped frames, or faulty hardware. You can try to loosen the sash by cleaning the tracks with a Q-tip and vinegar. Then lubricate the tracks with a silicone-based lubricant. Avoid using products like WD-40, as they can damage the tracks. You may also be running into paint buildup; in which case you must take a putty knife and a hammer and gently chisel away the paint between the sash and the track. If this does not work, you may need to replace the hardware or adjust the frame. Damaged parts: If any part of your window is broken or missing, such as a lock, handle, hinge, or screen, you need to replace it as soon as possible. You can find replacement parts at your local hardware store or online. Make sure you get the right size and type for your window model. Then follow the instructions on how to install the new part. Windows are an important feature of any home, but they also need regular care and maintenance to keep them in top condition. By following these tips on how to clean, inspect, and repair your windows, you can ensure that they look great and perform well for years to come.

Got mirrors to hang? No matter the size, style, or where it’s located, mirrors are necessary. No one wants to go out the door with the chance of something unsightly distracting everyone. Invest in a mirror, but first educate yourself on your options here in this article. The Brass Tacks Some mirrors require a professional or two to hook up. Mirrors are glass, and it is ok to hire help when playing with glass. A professional knows what wall anchors hold the weight of some the heavier mirrors. The typical cost to hire someone would be about 150 to 200 per mirror, not including the mirror itself. The price does include anchors the worker may buy to install it. Remember This The only two concerns the customer should worry about is: 1. the type of wall material the mirrors will hang from. It is good to inform the professional if some of your pictures will hang off of a brick wall, just in case they need to buy specialized anchors to complete the task. 2. The size of the mirrors will also inform the professional for his/her preparation. Whatever the decision, whether it’s installing mirrors alone, or hiring someone, may the odds be in your favor, and may your house feel more at home with new stylin’ mirrors.

A fresh and new paint job in any color can be refreshing, just like the paint job we did a while ago above. Almost like taking a shower. Okay, maybe not like that, but it will make your home feel like a million dollars. Not only that, but the options to paint are endless. In this article the focus will be painting rooms, the cost thereof, and a few key items to think about. The Brass Tacks The cost for painting a typical size room of dimensions 10’ Length x 12’ Width x 8-9’ Height falls between $600-$1,000. This includes labor and materials without painting the ceilings. With ceilings the price bracket is $900-$1,500 labor and materials. This is the price per coat of paint. Remember This: For every couple feet added to the figure above, another $300-$600 is the added cost. Any furniture in the way of the project completion? Either the professional moves the furniture or the client will. Whatever is decided, it is always best to have chairs and couches moved as soon as possible so that the paint is on the walls sooner. How many rooms will be coated? Remember that the typical cost figured above is for one coat of paint. Will the new color cover the existing cover without it bleeding through? This is a determining factor in the number of coats of paint, which also determines the ultimate price paid. In some cases only one coat is needed, like a fresh and clean paint job of the same old color. Sometimes one would like an accent wall color, which could potentially lower the cost to a $100-400$ range. With every paint job, it is all about the eyes of the beholder. Hopefully, with this article, the beholder can choose what is good for their home.

Sometimes, one of the most efficient ways of sprucing up a bathroom is getting rid of that raggedy old medicine cabinet. These days, people have either found updated solutions, or have eliminated the medicine cabinet idea from their home. This article will shed light on what it costs to remove the junk and patch the wall, with some additional considerations. The Brass Tacks Whether the walls are sheetrock, brick, block, or plaster, the labor and material figure falls between $600 - $900 for a good quality job. Remember that this entails removing the medicine cabinet, installing minimal framing to hang the sheetrock, installing sheetrock, and finally finishing and texturing the wall. Remember This Before the project proceeds, it is wise to consider the following: As aforementioned, sometimes the cabinet is surrounded by dense compounds. Fixing some light framing to allow for sheetrock patching can add a $100 - $200 cost. And even though lath and plaster is wood framed behind the surface, it is a rock hard surface, which proves difficult to meddle with. Are the walls flat (no texture)? If so that can cost you a little more as well. Are the walls being painted? Remember: when you hire a professional, it is generally cheaper to get projects done in a package (removal, patching, then painting). I have come across many clients who trash the old medicine cabinet. On the rare occasion when I would use one, it would have been in old homes with the original cabinet. New-built homes generally have big or wide mirrors to elude minimal space. Bottom line: it is worth the update!