Other remodeling trends in 2017
Paint, kitchens
In paint, Bawden said whites and shades of gray are the dominate colors for walls and cabinetry.
Kitchen islands are immensely popular, he said, and often are used as a focal point by using different shades of paint or a different countertop material. Technology, home automation
New technologies in home automation are creating a big market for homeowners to be both more wired and more wireless.
From apps that control your thermostat via smartphone to smart refrigerators with cameras to track your shopping needs, options are growing and getting more affordable.
Bawden said several popular changes involve enhancing security, such as fingerprint locks, peephole apps, and cameras and sensors for monitoring indoors and out.
Others blend security and convenience, such as motorized window coverings, he said. Media hubs and more USB outlets are becoming the norm in a society that is always “connected” and where devices need to be charged.
Energy efficiency
Saving money is always popular, and as some technology becomes less expensive, more homeowners are willing to make investments in materials that will pay for themselves in energy savings.
“A big trend is to use LED lighting throughout the home,” Bawden said. Though contractors have installed LEDs under cabinets in kitchens for a long time, using them for all lighting is becoming a standard rather than an upgrade.
Bawden said that not only do LEDs save on electricity, they are cooler than incandescents, so they also save on the air conditioning bill.
Replacing older windows and doors for modern, insulated options remains a common reason for remodeling, Bawden said.
Tankless water heaters and recirculating pumps also save energy and cut down on water waste.
Luxury looks, custom finishes
Man-made products are creating more maintenance-free decor options that are trending.
In countertops, he said quartz has overtaken granite as the surface of choice, with a new synthetic marble look alike that is also gaining popularity.
In flooring, it is all about wood, but not necessarily real wood.
Bawden said sanded hardwoods and engineered woods remain desirable, but less expensive and more durable choices are on the rise, including luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and wood-look tile.
Bathtubs are out and luxury showers are in, according to Bawden. Replacement showers are much larger and have conveniences such as multiple showerheads, benches and wireless speakers.
“When people think of aging in place, they tend to think of grab bars and ramps,” Bawden said. “But there is so much more to it, such as changing floor surfaces, adding lighting, installing curbless showers and higher countertops.”