Selecting the right materials is a vital part of a successful home remodel, particularly in the unique tropical climate of Southwest Florida. The durability and longevity of certain materials can differ significantly compared to other regions of the country.
This article looks at things to consider when choosing the best materials for different parts of your home renovation in this beautiful part of The Sunshine State.
Work with a Qualified Design Build Firm
Many homeowners underestimate the number of choices needed to be made before and during a home remodel. Navigating the different options can feel overwhelming, especially when juggling other responsibilities.
That’s why working with a qualified design-build firm can help you simplify the process and enable you to make the best choices for your property. Our experts here at Progressive Design Build, for example, guide you through every step, from selecting materials to finalizing design choices and so much more.
The collaboration with a design-build team also helps you tap into the benefits of their extensive knowledge and industry connections. They know what will work, where to find the applicable materials, and how to source them at the best price. Their relationships with suppliers can streamline timelines and potentially reduce costs.
A Design Build Firm Can Help You Assess Your Needs and Lifestyle
Before beginning your remodeling project, take time to assess the specific needs and the lifestyle requirements you want your newly refurbished home to reflect. Consider how you and your family will use each space. Think about where you might prioritize certain materials in different areas based on usage, position, temperature, and size.
High-traffic areas (where you tread most) may need durable, easy-to-clean materials like tile or vinyl. Kitchens and bathrooms will benefit from water-resistant and heat-proof options like quartz, granite, or porcelain tiles. Hardwood or carpet might suit your living areas, depending on your comfort and aesthetic preferences.
A design-build firm can help you determine which materials best suit your unique requirements. As Nikki Bruty, a designer at Progressive, says, “We tailor your shopping and design experience to fit your needs and goals. We get to know you so we can provide you with full clarity on your options.”
Know Your Budget
Setting a realistic budget for your home remodeling project is crucial. Doing so helps you allocate the appropriate funds for materials. Your trusted design-build firm will help you assess the upfront costs of different materials and their long-term value.
David Wherry, President & Owner of Progressive Design Build, advises: “Some materials may require a larger initial investment but offer greater durability and reduced maintenance over time. The right choices, with both short-term and long-term considerations in mind, can save you a lot of money. This requires expert knowledge.”
The professionals you work with will help you figure out the best options that fit within your financial plan while meeting your functional and aesthetic goals.
Take the Time to Research Your Material Options
The types of materials you choose largely depend on their use and placement. It’s essential to research the different options as they relate to your requirements. Here are some things to consider.
Flooring
Flooring, by its nature, needs to be durable. Hardwood offers longevity and a timeless appeal. That said, it does require maintenance and can be prone to scratches. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) provides a durable, water-resistant alternative that mimics wood without the upkeep. It’s also generally more affordable than hardwood.
Tile is another option and is particularly suited to homes in Southwest Florida. It stays cool underfoot and is moisture and wear resistant.
Countertops
Countertops also need to be durable and able to withstand high temperatures. Granite is a popular option and provides a beautiful natural look. While water-resistant, it does require periodic sealing. Quartz also looks great and provides a non-porous, low-maintenance surface that is available in various styles.
Solid surfaces like Corian offer a seamless and easy-to-clean alternative to the above materials. The benefit of Corian is that it’s repairable, which ensures longevity.
Cabinets
Durability, moisture resistance, and aesthetic qualities are all important when it comes to cabinet materials. Solid wood cabinets bring classic appeal and strength. Woods like maple, oak, and cherry are popular choices and can be stained or painted to match your design. Plywood is a less expensive alternative but can be prone to moisture damage.
Thermofoil cabinets are another option and are particularly water-resistant due to their vinyl coating, making them easy to clean.
Ideal Selections for Exterior Materials
When it comes to exterior material selections, requirements change somewhat.
Siding
For exterior protection, fiber cement is a great siding material option due to its resistance to moisture, pests, and fire. It mimics the appearance of wood, stucco, or masonry but is easier to maintain. Vinyl siding is another versatile, low-maintenance choice, available in many colors and styles that hold up well against the region’s weather.
Roofing
In Southwest Florida, roofing materials must withstand heat, wind, and moisture. Metal roofs are highly durable and can withstand high winds and heavy rain. They are also energy-efficient and reflect heat, thereby keeping your home cooler.
Clay barrel tiles are a popular option in hot and humid climates, providing a classic appeal, durability, and resistance to extended UV exposure. Composite tiles also offer excellent weather resistance, UV resistance, and minimal heat absorption.
Windows
Impact-resistant windows are crucial for homes in Florida. Select window materials with high durability and energy efficiency, ensuring your home stays safe and comfortable in all weather conditions.
Evaluating the Durability and Longevity of Materials
Before choosing materials, it’s essential to research the maintenance requirements of different materials. These can vary and impact cost and upkeep in the long term.
Low-maintenance materials, like quartz countertops, vinyl flooring, and composite decking, provide good durability and ease of care. These make them particularly ideal if you want to spend less time or money on keeping them pristine.
On the other hand, materials such as granite countertops, hardwood floors, and natural stone tiles may require more upkeep. This high maintenance might be worth it, given their more high-end appeal and overall durability.
Comparing Premade vs. Custom Materials
Another factor to consider during the planning stage of your home remodel is whether to go with premade or custom materials. Both come with pros and cons, depending on your requirements.
Premade materials, like standard cabinetry or flooring, offer convenience, faster delivery, and often lower costs. These can be a great option when needing to get things done quickly and affordably.
Custom materials, however, provide greater flexibility in design and can be tailored to perfectly match your unique vision. That said, they usually come with higher costs and longer lead times. Your design-build team will help you determine the best options that align with your aesthetic and practical needs, as well as your budget.
Luxury Home Remodeling in Southwest Florida
Progressive is an award-winning design-build luxury remodeling firm founded in 1989 that serves Southwest Florida. Whether you’re looking to enhance an indoor or outdoor space – or create a new one – we’re the team that can get the job done.
Progressive Design Build is a trusted expert in custom home remodeling, from kitchens and bathrooms to whole houses, condos, and outdoor living projects. You can rely on our seamless processes, advanced technology, and exceptional customer service to deliver on-time and on-budget results.
Ready to talk about remodeling? Reach out directly to schedule a free consultation.
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