Posts made in July 2020

10×10 Carmel Valley Master Bathroom Remodel

Not sure how 2021 flew by so darn quick, but 2022 in upon us and we know how much you've got to get done.

If you're anything like many of our families, you've got all of the usual projects. In addition, you need to get a master bathroom remodel done, but you're not sure how COVID, raw material availability, and the container ship situation is impacting construction, remodelers, and the remodel process.

Not to worry! You're scanning the right article!

We will lay out what has been happening so you can have some context for your research and decisions.

In this article we will cover:

  • What you can't control and what to do about it
  • What you can control and what to do about it
  • Parameters and expectations for a master bathroom remodel in 2022

So let's get into it.

Teknik Testimonial

Bathroom Remodel Factors You Can't Control

Material ETA's for your bathroom remodel


Since March of 2020 appliances and plumbing fixtures are the two categories that got hit the hardest. 

Heavy metals (and other metals) have seen reduced availability but they are used in manufacturing. Steel, resin, microchips, you name it. Many hundreds of raw materials have seen production and transportation slow downs...which trickle into every category of basic commodities and durable goods.

Some appliances are available within 90 days. Many brands are out 8-10 months.

Generally, plumbing fixtures are available within 30-45 days. Most brands are out a few to several months.

Tile materials for your master bathroom remodel are usually available within 3 weeks.

Flooring materials for your Encinitas bathroom remodel are usually available within 2 weeks.

What to do about it


The best thing you can do is get an early start on clarity in your own mind. Here are a few things you can research on your own before choosing a contractor:

  1. Sort by least expensive $ and most expensive $$$$ to get a sense of the cost range you're shooting for, then set a tentative budget target for yourself and see if you can stay within it
  2. Choose your finish, i.e. brushed Nickle, oil rubbed bronze, matte black, brass, etc.
  3. Consider how many items you'd like to see on your plumbing wall. You can have all or a combination of the following: 
    • Shower head
    • Rain shower head
    • Handheld shower head in a cradle
    • Handheld shower head on a slider bar
    • Shower valve & temp control
    • Shower diverter separately
    • Shower valve & diverter combo

Tools:

It's difficult to know which of the options that Google brings up is truly the best tool for you. Here are out top two when making selections for a master bathroom remodeling project in San Diego.

  1. houzz.com - build an Ideabook of fixtures you find attractive or that fit your taste
  2. buildwithferguson.com - add everything you like to your cart and then compare & eliminate from there. 

Additional Costs Due to Economic & Global factors


Fuel: Costs of fuel have risen which causes any item that requires transportation to increase. 

Labor: Labor costs have risen which causes any item that requires labor to increase. 

S&D: Supply has decreased and demand has increased which causes prices to rise.

Inflation: The more times you slice a pie; 2 pieces, 4 pieces, 8, 16, 32, the smaller each slice will be compared to the whole pie. If you want 6oz of pie, or 15% of the pie, you'll need more slices in proportion to how many times your pie was sliced. Naturally, having a higher number of slices does not increase the amount of pie you have in the pan.

The concrete assets behind our currency have not increased but the mints have been printing more "slices" of pie with make each of them smaller in proportion to our total GDP. It's a question of concrete value vs. just counting dollars to know "how much" something costs or "how much" it's worth.  

These aren't the only four reasons costs are up but they are the main four.

What to do about it


Control what you can control by not just hiring any Jack that has a CA-B License or General Contractor's License. Invest time into finding a contractor who's reviews, clients, and staff are eager to share their process with you. If you want outstanding results, you've got to find someone who is meticulous about their process. Check out our Perfect Remodel Process here

How Do You Recommend I Save Cost?


This is a great question.

Here are three things that many Carmel Valley, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Del Mar, Solana Beach and Cardiff by the Sea home owners do to keep some cash in their wallet:

  • First, you can use LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) flooring instead of tile. Tile is more expensive material per SF, and the time to install is three to eight times higher.  Check out pictures of bathrooms with LVP flooring in our gallery.

  • Second, make sure you do your research on that bathtub option. Two freestanding bathtubs could be visually identical, but one is porcelain, costing over $5000 and the other is hollow fiberglass, costing $1000. WOW. Save that cash on your bathroom remodel finish materials and direct it to something better!

  • Thirdly, we will help you to save costs by purchasing your finish materials directly and buy purchasing a stock vanity as opposed to building a custom piece. 

How Can I Figure Out The Cost Range?


The best way to find the range is to speak to actual contractors.

Websites that claim to have up-to-date data from home owners "in your area" are:

  • First, they are less accurate now than ever before due to the global and industry changes since March of 2020.
  • Next, they're not invested in the accuracy of that information
  • Then, they are not accountable for the accuracy of that information
  • Additionally, they are not actually contractors engaged in building anything
  • Furthermore, they are not thorough in the information gathering process, so many costs are not reported
  • They are paid to gather your name and email address, so the lower the prices they list, the more likely you are to provide your information. It ain't right.
  • Finally, Their algorithms include homeowner feedback on "what they spent" from 20 years ago. Therefore, the "average" includes data from the early 2000's that will pull the number down, and create emotional whip lash when you discover how much they actually cost in 2022. Can you imagine trying to budget for a road trip using the "average" gas prices since 1999? Us either.

In conclusion, If you chat with real companies, you'll find that some are high, some are low, and some are in the middle but each can have a unique approach to the remodel process and their PROCESS is what should interest you the most

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

What Is The Ballpark Cost Range?


On the low end master bathrooms usually fall between $45,000 and $65,000. 


On the high end master bathrooms can range from $65,000 to $95,000

Why Choose Us for Your Master Bathroom Renovation?

Let us help you avoid:

  • Late Completion
  • Going Over Budget
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still need more comfort? You'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

5′ x 10′ Medium Bathroom Remodel

Hey, if you’re a San Diego homeowner and wondering where to start with your medium sized bathroom remodel, check out a few of these hot topics!

  • what determines tile quality and cost?
  • how long will my medium bathroom remodel take?
  • medium 5' x 10' bathroom remodel - discount for two?
  • single vanity is here now. Can we install a double vanity?

We love bathrooms as much as you do but we know that it's not the only thing on your to-do list.

There may be a few more decisions that come with a bathroom remodel, but don’t worry.

You’re in the perfect place! 

In this article, we will answer these four your questions so you can make a great decision about your bathroom for you and your family.  

Teknik Testimonial

What Determines Tile Quality and Cost?

If we're talking tile quality, look for

  • Good - ceramic. Ceramic tiles are basically baked clay, they chip easily because they are brittle. Not a good durable option. Flippers use ceramic tile often because of the attractive price point. 
  • Better - Porcelain. Porcelain is probably the 80% of the 80/20 rule. Most families can find a wonderful porcelain tile option most of the time.
    • Brand/origin advice: The best porcelain in the world comes out of Italy. The second best comes out of Spain. If you buy from either of these places, you've got a pretty good shot at really liking your tile. 
  • Best - stone. Of course, real stone will be the most durable but it also comes with a cost that reflects that durability. The cost of mining, manufacturing, cutting, and sanding to the desired finish is high. Some stone tiles can cost $150 per square foot, and many most more than that.

You may think that durability is the primary concern when looking at tile options, but unfortunately you need to worry about uniformity too. 

There are knock-off versions of every product known to man but the devil is in the details. If you hire the BEST tile setter in the state and give him a box of cheap tile, you may have to:

  1. Throw away up to 50% of the tile before use
  2. Spend extra labor to trim tile that is not uniform
  3. End up with asymmetrical tile lay patterns after all that extra headache. 

You're buying tile so infrequently anyway...save yourself! Buy once, buy right.

How Long Will my Medium Bathroom Remodel Take?

The individuality of each bathroom cannot be overstated.

At the same time, most contractors will be able to tell you which elements of your scope are common across most projects, and which are unique to you.

As a general rule of thumb, the bulk of your bathroom remodel could occur inside of 3 to 8 weeks

After most of the work is complete, tile can begin which takes the longest of any phase. 

After, and only after the tile is complete can your bathroom be measured for the custom glass shower enclosure, if that is a feature you've selected. The fabrication and install of this glass may take up to 10 business days.

Medium 5' x 10' Bathroom Remodel - Discount for Two?

There is not a way to reduce the minimum skeleton cost of a remodel per se, but we love where you're going with this!

But where there is a will, there is a way. Here's what we can do.

If there is an opportunity to serve your family by remodeling two or more rooms simultaneously, then you'd save on the overall cost of your project by incurring only one set of the following costs instead of two:

  • Admin costs
  • Design, architecture, and engineering costs
  • Superintendent & job set up costs

Give us a call if you have questions about your specific bathrooms or multiple project phases to see about the options available to you.

Medium 5' x 10' Bathroom - Single or Double Vanity?

Most 5' x 10' remodels have a single vanity by default. If the bathroom is being used by a couple, or a couple of kiddos, then a dual vanity makes sense to maximize the space.

Here are a few options that would allow you to have the best of both worlds:

  • Purchase a prefabricated vanity to save money, but double your sinks
  • Purchase a prefabricated vanity topper along with it, and even throw in the sinks too!
  • Vanities are built at different depths, so if you are worried about a too-narrow walking space, this is a great option.

We are sometimes asked if the toilet can be moved in order to make more room for the larger vanity.

Sometimes this is possible, but it depends largely on the floor joists and the plumbing required.

All of our home owners in the last three years have decided against this option.

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

The Allowance Rules for Your Medium Bathroom

Your budget is important to establish, but what is included in your budget?

There is a portion of your budget that will be assigned to your contract amount, that includes rough-in and finish labor and the rough-in materials. 

But what is missing from this list?

Finish materials are missing, but why? It is common for San Diego contractors to save you costs by:

  • helping you select your finish materials 
  • allowing you to use their discounts and preferred vendors
  • helping you to avoid paying additional markup that would result from them purchasing your materials and reselling them to you

This category of materials may include

  • vanity
  • finish plumbing
  • tile
  • flooring
  • mirrors

Bottom line? Make sure you include the contract price and finish materials in your bottom line.

Why choose Teknik for Your 5' x 10' Bathroom Remodel?

There is something to be said for finishing a beautiful project. 

But it's truly another thing altogether to finish it quickly. And your time is worth more than anything else. Your time is our priority. That is why we have spent 20 years mastering the process of avoiding these three industry blunders:

  • Late Completion
  • Going Over Budget
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still Nervous? You'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

5×7 Small Bathroom Remodel

You're looking for a small bathroom remodel but you don't want it to expand into something huge?

You're not alone. We are all preparing to work from home for the rest of 2020 and at least part of 2021. Here are the top phrases people use when sharing why they want their bathroom remodeled now:

  • It's just time!
  • It's so old, I can't even clean the grout anymore.
  • The fiberglass insert is so old, and gross. I need a tile shower!
  • My kids need a cleaner bathroom, this old stuff is so worn out I can't really get it clean anymore.
  • The whole family keeps going through my bedroom to use my bathroom. Enough!

Boy, do we know how it feels to shop for the perfect remodeler for a small project that needs to be done relatively quickly. Seems like all of San Diego is choosing to improve, not move simultaneously.

But don’t worry. You’re in the perfect place! 

In this article, we will answer a few questions so you can make a great decision about your 5x7 small bathroom remodel.

Teknik Testimonial

Minimal Layout Changes

If you're looking for the most cost effective route, you just found it. Don't reconfigure the room, add, remove or move any walls.

Just gut and replace all your finish materials and update the plumbing and electrical so they meet the current code.

You may have the opportunity to take over a closet space, build a bump out, or expand into the office. All layout changes involve framing, and framing is a lot more labor and materials than a quick-and-dirty "small" bathroom remodel. 

If you want to change your layout, then you're looking at "major" costs in a "small" space and it may be cost prohibitive if there are other things you want to do in the home in the next few years.

Possible Layout Options

There are options, ad infinitum when looking at what you could do in your small bathroom. However, here are two notes on separating the plausible ideas from the best ideas:

  1. It is best to do the separating and hash out a few details before dropping money into design.
  2. It is partly the responsibility of your contractor
  3. BONUS TIP: If you ask "Is it possible?" you will usually receive a "Yes" because that is true based on the building code, etc. But the top five concerns of home owners always include cost...

Please help out your contractor by asking "Would you do this in your house?" or "Do you see a good way to solve xyz problem?"

Let's consider a few of the ideas that are most cost-effective and therefore most popular:

Using a closet - closets are not difficult to move and they are arguably less cherished than the bathroom. Most of us have increasing need for storage, linen cabinets, etc.

Consider this framing option to create a bathroom that could comfortable have more than one person or sibling in there at the same time.

Adding a shower wall - many second or third bathrooms still have fiberglass shower/tub combos.

These are outdated and no one has time to bath anymore. Build a shower wall or have 2 sides of a custom glass shower enclosure. You'll love yourself for it.

Honorable mention goes to: Adding a bump out - The idea is great and they are oh-so-cute.

But do you really want to send plans to the city, have an 8 week delay while your project sits in each department, then have to pour footings for a few square feet in your guest bathroom, hall bathroom, powder room, or half-bath?

Nah, we'd skip it. Typically when you see a bathroom bump out, it's going to be a large bathroom or the master.

Can You Tell Me The Price Per Square Foot?

What a great idea! Sounds reasonable enough, right?

Look at all the bathrooms you've built over the last five years, find the cost per square foot for each, find the sum total cost per square foot, and divide by the number of bathrooms. Ta-da! Average price per square foot!

Not so fast. We would LOVE it, if estimating remodeling projects were this easy.

Hopefully we will make your day if we are able to five you a loose ballpark range based on our experience. That we can do. 

There is a good reason for site visits a doing our due diligence before producing an estimate...a few dozen reasons actually. 

  • how old is your plumbing?
  • when was the last remodel?
  • which waterproofing method do you prefer and do you want a lifetime warranty with that waterproofing?
  • is this bathroom one of many phases, or a part of a larger remodel?
  • are you including your finish materials or not?

Rather than make dozens of assumptions as we chase a moving target, give us a call today (858) 775-7628 to provide specific information about your small bathroom and your unique requirements.

Large or Small Tiles?

We usually get this question because home owners are wondering if they can save on material or labor costs by choosing a specific size. The logic goes something like this:

  • "Larger tiles are popular right now so are the large tiles more expensive? If they are, what sizes still look good but would be less expensive?"
  • "Smaller tiles still have to be installed like large tiles, so is the labor way higher for small tiles? Can I save more labor the bigger I go?"

Great questions, but here is how it really works from our perspective:

  • Large tiles in a large space are relatively efficient to install. 
  • Small or medium tiles in a small space are efficient to install.
  • Large tiles installed in a small bathroom can actually create more work even though there are fewer tiles because you'll have a lot of labor cutting and prepping them.
  • The tile on a shower floor, also known as the shower pan, will almost always by 2" x 2" or smaller. This has two benefits: 
    1. The additional grout frequency between smaller tiles allows more friction, grip, and safety. 
    2. The small 2" x 2" or 1" x 1" tiles are sold pre-installed on a mesh so you will not have 10x the labor to install individual tiles that are a tenth of the size of a larger tile. 

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

How Can I Figure Out The Cost Range?

The best way to find the range is to speak to actual contractors. 

Websites that claim to have up-to-date data from home owners "in your area" are:

  • Not invested in the accuracy of that information
  • Not accountable for the accuracy of that information
  • Not actually contractors engaged in building anything
  • Not thorough in the information gathering process, so many costs are not reported
  • They are paid to gather your name and email address, so the lower the prices they list, the more likely you are to provide your information. Not fair to you.
  • Their algorithms include homeowner feedback from 20 years ago. Can you imagine trying to budget for a road trip using the "average" gas prices since 1999?

If you chat with real companies, you'll find that some are high, some are low, and some are in the middle. But if you started online, and now ALL the contractors seems high...there is a problem with your source of information.

Why Choose Teknik for Your Small Bathroom Remodel?

We love helping families in San Diego get remodels completed in record time. We remain in contact with clients for years afterword and we are often invited to their family events. We believe it's because we put our whole heart into what we do. And as a result of being wholehearted, we are also able to help them avoid these three industry pitfalls:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget 
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still not ready to call? That's okay, you can call us tomorrow, although you'll be in line behind every person who takes action today. And don't worry, you'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee! 

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Five Must Have’s For Your Bathroom Remodel

If you're one of the millions of San Diego home owners pricing out your bathroom remodel because you've been home so much more, you're in the right place!

Most San Diego home owners start in the information-gathering stage. Once they feel they have a lay of the land, they are ready to begin talking with trust contractors to start getting estimates.

Whether you are kicking tires or ready to start, these five must-have's are for you!

  1. Do the work in one shot
  2. Choose only one company
  3. Do not hot mop
  4. Install dual shower heads
  5. Install a towel warmer
  6. BONUS tip! 
Teknik Testimonial

1. Do It In One Shot

If you're busy, you might think:

  • "I'll convert the tub/shower to a walk-in shower this summer".
  • "I'll replace the sink, vanity, and faucet on my next long weekend".
  • "I'll find the best deal I can on a really quality toilet and buy it during a black Friday sale".
  • "I'll just paint and finish the trim when I can get around to it".

Can we help you out? This is a great way to never finish your bathroom.

We see it all the time. You think it will be quick, but everything takes four times to five times longer than you think it will, and that's without any major issues.

The best way to save time on your bathroom remodel is to choose a reputable company and let them do what they do. Once you've chosen them, you will have access to their resources, discounts, design, planning team, and apps.

Most importantly, you should have a single point of contact for your entire project who will ensure that the work is completed efficiently, and for the cost you agreed on.

We humans get a dopamine rush when we finish a task. Do you really want to rob yourself of the joy of completion?

2. Only Use One Company

If you are bored, retired early, and have extra money lying around then this section is not for you. Please move on to the next paragraph, "3. Use Modern Waterproofing Techniques".

If however, you are in the world of getting the job done right the first time, do not attempt to break up your project and give each portion to the lowest bidder.

If you think about it, this behavior is based on the following:

  1. "I want to save money by finding the least expensive tradesman from each trade. I will give him the work."
  2. "I want to save money by managing the project myself. This way I wont pay a general contractor to run the job."
  3. "I want to know all the hard costs so I don't pay any hidden fees. I will not pay a markup on anything."

These are fine ideas and may stem from intentions to be a good steward of resources. 

Unfortunately they are misguided ideas. There is a lot of expertise that comes with full-time remodeling when you do it for a living. That expertise springs into action on your behalf when things go awry. And in remodeling, things always go awry.

You can imagine the difference between a five year/ten year do-it-yourself-er and someone with 10,000, 20,000, or even 40,000 hours of remodeling experience.

The ownership team of Teknik has over 20 years of full time experience, totaling over 40,000 hours.

3. Use Modern Waterproofing Techniques

For decades the traditional method of waterproofing a shower pan was the "hot mop" technique.

The process of hot mopping is essentially painting hot tar over the shower pan area. Once it dries there the tar is waterproof and will supposedly prevent leading for decades.

This method however is:

  1. Outdated, there have been better options available for many years.
  2. It smells terrible for a few days after application.
  3. The tile installer cannot begin right away, but must wait a day or two for it to fully cure.
  4. There is no warranty. Eventually it dries out, becomes brittle. Finally it cracks which leads to the dreaded leak that you can't detect until it is too late.

There are several less toxic methods of waterproofing. They also happen to be more efficient, therefore they tend to shave time off of the overall project length.

Call today to find out more about our waterproofing, or visit https://www.schluter.com/schluter-us/en_US/ for some ideas and photos. Need a lifetime warranty? No problem.

4. Install Dual Shower Heads

If you get dual shower heads installed, you'll put yourself in a great position to experience the following:

  1. Increased resale value, you deserve to get the most out of your investment!
  2. A smooth morning routine, all successful people have mastered their mornings!
  3. Your preferred water flow!... one partner prefers rain fall which is always a low-pressure flow. The other partner often prefers a traditional shower head that allows more water pressure.

The feedback that we get from our families is that even if you use it 40% of the time, it will still be worth it. Often they report that they can't believe how much more frequently they use it, compared to what they expected.

Love to do activities together? Dual shower heads are the answer for:

  1. Getting cleaned up to go out to dinner...no need to be late for those reservations!
  2. Returning from the gym together, get cleaned up and get on with your day!
  3. Returning from a trip to the beach together, you do NOT need to track sand all over the house while you wait for the shower

 And there you have it. Six reasons to choose dual shower heads.

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

5. Towel Warmer

The smell of coffee in the morning.

The chirping birds in spring time.

The quiet cool air wafting into your bedroom on a Saturday with nowhere to be.

Turning the shower off and reaching for your WARM towel. Ahhh, there's nothing quite like it...gives you goosebumps!

If you're sinking thousands of dollars into your bathroom updates, make sure you add a towel warmer to the electrical and fixture list. The opening cost range for a towel warmer is $200 to $500.

Don't make this optional.

6. A Crank Open Window With Privacy Glass

Natural light, fresh air and quick steam evacuation are three top reasons that home owners love having a bathroom window that opens. Unfortunately many guest or hallway bathrooms have just a small fixed window.

If you have the budget, consider re-framing the opening for a larger window that will allow:

  1. More air flow.
  2. Increased natural light.
  3. Total privacy despite the larger window, providing you use privacy glass.

Worried about the privacy when your slider window is open? Select a crank-open window instead. All fixed!

Why choose Teknik for Your San Diego Bathroom Remodel?

No exaggeration, there are thousands of remodeling companies in San Diego that could remodel your bathroom for you.

So why choose us? Well, if you think it's frustrating to have a kitchen remodel run long, imagine how annoying it is to have such a small project that your contractor refuses to prioritize...

The devil really is in the details. In the world of regular contractors, the smaller your project, the more likely you are to get pushed out on their schedule if they feel like there are other projects more "worth the time".

Basically, this communicates that unless you're spending a certain large sum of money, your project is going to serve as a filler for when they have time between larger projects. 

Don't be one of these cases. Don't choose a regular contractor. Choose a contractor who will prioritize you!

Here are the industry blunders that families avoid when they choose Teknik Design & Remodeling:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget 
  • Overuse of Subcontractors
1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Best Contractor To Add A Second Story

Hey, if you’re a San Diego homeowner and you are **this close** to having an ocean view, then you're in the right place!

Ocean view, home value, outdoor living. These and many more are the apeals of building a second story addition. Check out these common questions and their answers below:

  • Is the project possible?
  • Can I just "get a few bids" to see if it's feasible?
  • How long will it take to build?
  • Is there a way to keep it under $100,000?
  • What types of permits will I need to pull?

A large project takes time and due diligence. Give us a call to schedule your free consultation.

Teknik Testimonial

Is The Project Possible?

In the world of remodeling, anything is possible. 

But it is possible to get the right answer to the wrong question. Try these collaborative questions and prompts when speaking with the design-build firm that you choose:

  • This is how I plan to use my second story addition, **insert description**. Allow questions and discussion to flow.

  • This is what frustrates me about the current layout/what it's missing **insert description**. How might you change it to accommodate x, y, or z function?

  • I plan to have my two boys use this as their bedroom, bathroom and play room, what can we do to bring the plumbing upstairs?

  • I'd like this second story addition to be an apartment eventually, but I'm not determined to have a second kitchen up here; what do you think?

These questions may be all wrong for your project but the format is collaborative and discussion based. They will allow you to discuss if your project is possible after project specific dialogue. 

Can I Just "Get A Few Bids" To See If It's Feasible?

You're welcome to try, but you'll find that most reputable contractors will charge you incrementally for the phases of design and you will not want to be design with multiple firms. 

Go ahead and survey their reviews, past clients, office staff, process, and choose your contractor early. Then work with them on design, layout, special features and value engineering. 

The art and the science of estimating projects occurs in tandem with or just after design and scope decisions are made. It requires tremendous focus.

The most common mistake we see people make is to get pre-qualified or fully qualified for a home equity line of credit and then see what they can have built for that amount.

We recommend doing more research up front. Don't talk to lenders until you know that what you're looking to build is possible, within reason, for approximately what you're looking to spend.


If you chase two rabbits, you will not catch either one. 

- Russian Proverb

How Long Will It Take To Build?

For some perspective, the smallest remodel projects tend to be small bathrooms.

These small bathroom projects are often completed in two to four weeks. But with just a few hiccups, these small projects can extend to two or three months, and sometimes longer. 

It has become more difficult to build project schedules due to COVID-19 and how the pandemic affects each sector of the construction industry uniquely. 

For a large remodel like adding a second story addition, it is common to spend a few months in the design phase, and five to eight months in the build phase.

Many second story additions without any major hiccups do run more than twelve months from the first design consultation to the completion of the punch list

Is There A Way To Keep It Under $100,000?

Lol. Nah. Not even close.

What you could build for less than $100,000 wouldn't allow the project to be worth the hassle for most people. 

If you took the exact layout of the second story you're looking to build and, hypothetically, got bids to do that same scope except as a first story instead, it would cost significantly less.

Why? Because you'd be able to start from scratch, zero, a clean slate, tabula rasa. 

You'd be avoiding all the additional labor and materials required to gently navigate demolition and structurally enhancing your existing home $$$ before starting to build your second story. 

Second story addition projects can be extremely costly, so it is best to set your budget up front, and allow 7% to 10% for extras or unforeseen scope requests. 

Even the most thorough and experienced contractor cannot include everything.

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

What Types of Permits Will We Need To Pull?

Each project is different and the specific permits required for your project will depend on the scope. 

Typically you'll see these permits cover most projects. 

  • Structural
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • Mechanical
  • Combination

Your contractor will take care of coordination and can answer all project-specific questions you may have. 

Why Choose Teknik for Your Second Story Addition?

You need to choose a firm who has a track record that includes both of the following: 

  1. Foreseeing issues before they arise and solving issues before they become project delays or worse.

  2. Being professional, prompt, and communicative when unforeseeable issues arise so that you can rest at ease. 

If they and their team posses both of these qualities, they will help you avoid these classic industry pain points:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget 
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still have concerns? That's normal! You'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Best Contractor for Quarantine Home Improvements

So you're a San Diego home owner and you need work done but not you're not sure if you need a general contractor...?

Here are a few ideas of home improvements that you can make without the demolition, cost and timeline of a "major remodel". It wont be perfect, but it will be good! Including but not limited to:

  • Repaint the main floor
  • Replace the flooring & baseboards
  • Replace the old doors and casings
  • Update aging electrical fixtures
  • ...and more!

Check out more below and look for the bold type to scan the article quickly!

Teknik Testimonial

Repaint The Main Floor

If you're looking to give your space a refreshed look and touch up a few of the wear and tear areas, repainting the main floor is a great option. 

If you repaint the walls, ceiling, and even the trim you could have much lighter, more open feel in a few days time. Just remember to keep that furniture away from the walls until it's fully cured!

When considering painting contractors, we recommend calling a few of their previous clients. Please ensure that you are working with a reputable company before allowing them into your home. 

Home Advisor touts "pre-screened pros" and they do run background checks. But be warned, they only look in-state and they only go back 12 months. 

Replace The Flooring & Baseboards

Even the most durable floors get beat up, scratched, and eventually start to look dingy.

We move furniture, drag chairs, have our pets, and our company all over our floors.

If you're looking to update your Travertine tile look or to replace old carpet with LVP (Luxury Vinyl Planks), there are plenty of options that will allow a classic look that is very low maintenance and doesn't cost you an arm and a leg. 

We love flooring like we love hair. It's not just pretty, it's yours and it reflects your taste. It's practical. It's personal.

Replace The Old Doors & Door Casing

What you may not know, is how BIG of a difference your interior doors and trim make.

We can replace stock trim with standard three inch trim. Trust us, it looks way better.

How about replacing the beat up builder grade doors with high quality doors that create a crisp, classy feel

When you replace all three: doors, door casing, and interior trim, you'll have replaced the areas that tend to get the most bruises due to high traffic and moving furniture. Wha-la! Fresh look.

Update Your Aging Electrical Fixtures

New chandelier. 

New wall sconces.

Replace existing and add new can lights for additional lighting.

Install coordinated fixtures throughout the kitchen, main living areas, and hallways. 

There you have it! You'll have a more energy efficient home, and have a better time controlling your LED's throughout the day since they'll now be on dimmer switches.

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Get The Front Yard Refaced

Contrary to the opinions of some, refreshing the front yard is not "putting lipstick on a pig".

Yes, curb appeal is cited as a top influence by real estate agents for hopeful home buyers. When they check out properties for sale, a pretty front yard may pull on their heartstrings, but it's not the only reason to get it done.

Research demonstrates that an area in disarray will not be maintained as well as an area that is meticulously designed and manicured. In other words, we protect and preserve more intensely, that into which we have already invested.

Whether you have teenagers at home during quarantine, or a partner that you'd like to help you do yard work, they are more likely to oblige if there is already beauty there to protect

Why choose Teknik for Your Quarantine Home Improvements?

Well, there are about 3000 companies with a General Contractor's "B License" in San Diego County.

Many of them will be able to complete the scope of work you're looking for. Where we stand out from the crowd, is having mastered systems so that you don't have to babysit your project

Let us help you remain focused on your 2020 goals and on spending time with your family by working to keep you away from these three industry shortfalls:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still not convinced?

Not a problem. You can just call to chat with us for a few minutes, no pressure.  Plus, you'll be 100% protected by our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee! 

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Most Popular Quarantine Remodels in 2021

You deserve some credit for choosing persistence and resilience in 2020! Rock on. Keep going!

But if you're not satisfied with your ability to thrive in your home, we know you're looking to improve, not move! Read on for the 411 on what projects San Diego home owners are asking about most frequently!

Families have been lining up around the block for these hot projects because of their massive impact on lifestyle and freeing up time. Projects like:

  • Adding a patio or deck
  • Remodeling the guest bathroom
  • Remodeling the master bathroom
  • New or expanded mud room
  • ...and more!

What could be so good that it makes turning one's home into a construction zone, totally worth it?

Let's go see!

Teknik Testimonial

Adding A Patio or Deck

You guessed it!

Since you're at home more, you're cooking outside and spending time outside with the kids...but without a patio or deck you're dealing with issues like no shade, un-level ground, lack of seating, etc. 

Building a patio or deck off of the kitchen accomplishes a few things: 

  1. You can have the kiddos play outside, or entertain guests (when we are allowed to have those again) outside while you wrap up the last few dinner details. It's hard to food prep with kids under foot.
  2. It's a great place for that barbecue or Traeger smoker you've been eyeing for the last two years.
  3. You can solve the shade problem by installing a patio cover or sales to moderate those hot rays of sunshine.

Remodeling The Guest Bathroom

You likely have one bathroom in your house that has taken a beating since quarantine was first announced.

Guest bathrooms and powder rooms in particular are not built with 24/7/365 use in mind, especially not after they are ten to fifteen years old.

Most of us use restrooms at work, school, the gym, etc., but since San Diego home owners have been 100% at home, we've seen a spike in calls due to broken and leaky pipes, mold, and other issues as a result of more continuous use. 

These are all indicators that it's time to update that bathroom. Do it once. Do it right.

If you keep the framing and layout as-is but update everything else, you could have a project of that size completed in as little as two to four weeks.

That's it for a bathroom remodel San Diego! Of course, all projects vary in length, so call today for more info!

Remodeling The Master Bathroom

The practicality of reworking your master bathroom cannot be overstated.

If you are a busy professional, you need your professional and leisure clothes to be in the right position with reference to your shower.

If you're raising little ones, you need the linen cabinets and towel hooks to be one arms length from the cutie that's in the bathtub. 

Do you want your bathroom on the other side of your master closet, or your closet on the other side of your bathroom? If you incorporated a washer & dryer setup, would that change your answer? Why or why not?

To answer these questions and more, make sure you go with a design-build firm who can walk you through the scope and cost in tandem as opposed to just an architect, engineer, or designer who can walk you through design but not cost.

Bonus Tip:

The oversized jetted bathtub and small tiles were big for a while but they ended up taking up space and rarely being used. In 2020 and beyond we want bright, open bathrooms and all the square footage we can get! Rip out the giant tub and tiny shower. Build a bigger shower and have a free-standing tub that's gorgeous and low-maintenance. 

Install continuous flooring throughout master bedroom & bathroom or consider throwing in that whole floor of the house. You want to maximize the natural light you have without replacing or re-framing windows? This is how!

New Or Expanded Mud Room

And just like that, keeping the house clean became way harder! With more time in parks, in the yard and getting dirty, the desire for a mud room has become a need for one. 

Sometimes you can add a bump out, sometimes you can reconfigure the kitchen or back entry area. In either case you'll be taking advantage of floor to ceiling storage and utility options!

These may include cubbies, shoe and boot holders, benches, coat hooks, winter clothes storage, and out-of-the-way drainage areas for muddy or sand filled items.

Are the pets just as dirty after that last adventure? Consider a laundry sink or pet bath so you don't find evidence of that last hike in your bed.  

Framing New & Improved Storage or Custom Built-In's

In 2019 we would have never imagined that 2020 would have become such a record-setting year.

Here are a few of the roles people are filling at home in 2020 that have caused them to pursue new and improved storage or custom built-in's:

  • Remote employee - office
  • Home schooling mom - classroom
  • Home schooling dad - classroom
  • Host for family that is in need - office to bedroom conversion
  • Host for long term stays including family member or aging parent(s) - loft to bedroom & bathroom conversion
  • Business owner - attic or garage work bench or work space
  • Providing additional housing during housing crisis - basement to apartment conversion including kitchen

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Kitchen Remodel

With restaurants at limited capacity, we are not getting takeout as much.

With budget considerations, we are trying to be better stewards of our resources and cooking in.

With health goals in mind, we are trying to wash produce and prepare food that helps us to maximize our energy and brain function all day.

Remarkably, even quarantine life is busy and we are trying to food prep on weekends so we don't spend all week in the kitchen.

Does your current kitchen accommodate any of these needs?

Every day we talk to families who would love to food prep if only they had more counter space.

They'd love to do larger batches of weekly food prep, but their 25 cubic foot refrigerator is too small to store more than a few days of veggies and leftovers. 

They can't just buy a new refrigerator because of their cabinet layout...and on...and on...

It's just plain wrong that an outdated kitchen would stop your family from the health and nutrition that they deserve. Or more importantly, from the time with you that they deserve.

Why Choose Teknik for Your Quarantine Remodel?

You want your remodel process to be as painless as possible, right? Us too. That's why we've spent over 20 years perfecting the processes that keep families away from the classic pitfalls of the remodeling and construction industry.

Let our school-of-hard-knocks experience save you from your own hard knocks:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget 
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still not ready? It's okay to be nervous. You'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Summer Remodel Frequently Asked Questions

Hello!

Are you a San Diego homeowner with questions about remodeling? 

We get it. We know how it feels to shop for the perfect company for your project and to hope that they can meet each need and answer every question to your satisfaction.

We're glad you're here. You’re in the perfect place to find answers! 

In this article, we answer a few of the most pressing questions on the minds of home owners including: 

  • Does the price change based on supply and demand?
  • Does the price change based on the weather?...wait, what?
  • What should I look out for so I don't have a bad experience?
  • What should I prepare for so I can have the BEST experience?

Read on!

Does The Price Change Based on Supply & Demand?


Negative. Demand is stable and therefore pricing is stable.

Elastic Vs. Inelastic Demand - In residential remodeling, there are so many factors that influence when a family decides to move forward, that the demand remains steady all year. So, with a few exceptions, there is a pretty steady flow of work regardless of the time of year.

Think it will be slow during tax season? Many families are ready to jump in!

Think it will be slow during the holidays? Aging parents need a granny flat right away, so we work around Santa!

Think it will be slow during back-to-school season? Empty nesters can't wait to see how their project turns out!

In the rental market, as a contrast, there tends to be elastic demand. Families try to move during the summer so kids are not in school, which means fewer folks are moving during the winter months.

This leads to increased inventory and that will drive rents down seasonally. As a result, you can save a heap of money on your lease if you time it just right and move when its inconvenient for everyone else, around the Christmas/New Year holidays for example.

The elastic demand in the rental market impacts prices. But in remodeling, you're getting the right price no matter what!

Teknik Testimonial

Does The Price Change Based on The Weather?


This is not a silly question! We are not asking "Can I have 15% OFF if it's partly cloudy with a 60% chance of showers?"

So what are people asking, and where does this question come from?

We are a city of transplants--people who move here from all over the world. In areas where the ground freezes for several months a year, there is a feeling of "Make hay while the sun shines". In sunny San Diego we "make hay" all year but in the north, contractors prefer to build new buildings and additions during the summer months when the ground is not frozen.

So if you have an interior kitchen or bathroom remodel, those contractors may offer a discount so they can get the project under contract, get it into their calendar, and keep their guys busy all winter. 

Answer: Nope, no discount based on weather. In San Diego it's sunny almost all year long. We can dig trenches, excavate, backfill, build forms, and pour concrete all 12 months with relatively few issues. 

What Should I Look Out For So I Don't Have A Bad Experience? 


Look out for the other guys' timeline!!

Starting a renovation can be a scary thing. You think:

  • Is this a bait-and-switch quote that will change later?
  • What if something goes wrong? Will the company be able to finish the project?
  • Can I really trust my contractor when I’m not at home?

We know how you feel!

Our founder, Kevin Tootoonchi, found his friends and family members sharing the exact same concerns before he decided to start Teknik.

"The three biggest problems I saw in the industry were bait-and-switch quotes, subcontractors my friends didn't feel comfortable leaving in their home alone, and projects that went way over their completion date," says Kevin.

The problem is other contractors give you a quick quote without being sure they can staff it, and don't spend enough time analyzing your home.  This leads to surprises, changes, delays, and projects that go over budget.  Here's their timeline:

They also complain that the "other guys":

  • send a crew who wears dirty clothes
  • use 100% subcontractors (so there's a new face in your home daily)
  • when unexpected changes to the job occur, they have to change their quoted price

These are some of the problems with San Diego remodelers we've fought hard to improve.

What Can I Prepare For So I Can Have The BEST Experience?


Please, prepare for The Perfect Remodel Plan!

Here are three reasons to choose Teknik and our Perfect Remodel Plan for your renovation project.

  1. Our clients come back to us over... and over.... and over.  Please see their praises here.
  2. Only Teknik has "The Perfect Remodel Plan" and "The Three T Promise"
  3. Clean-Cut Crew... not the Motley Crew - We don't lean heavily on subs.  Our Clean-Cut Crew are employees only.  They are happy, friendly, well paid, and clean up their work every day

The Perfect Remodel Plan

Whereas other contractors spend little time planning your project and a LOT of time putting out fires and making changes once the project begins, we heavily front-load our time commitment to our projects to ensure accurate quoting and no surprises.

Our project timeline looks like this:



Can I Use The "Cost Plus" Method To Save Money?


A word of caution...one doesn't usually end up saving time or money...check it out.

Cost Plus - You provide the scope to your contractor and they begin work and bill you for their exact costs at regular intervals with a percentage markup on those costs. They use a markup that was agreed upon beforehand. 

The risk is that you have no accountability for efficiency, because as long as the project is not done...you continually receive progress invoices that more labor and material costs billed to you with a mark up...proceed at your own risk!

Fixed Bid - You solidify all the details of the scope and the cost together and up front before you sign the contract.

Then, you know what work will be complete and for what price. What a relief! 

Fixed bid or fixed fee contracts protect the contractor from unreasonable scope-creep since the scope is already defined.

It also protects you, the home owner, from being used as a cash cow by a contractor who decides to take their time and keep billing you for incorrect or inefficient work. 

Teknik only provides fixed bid estimates.

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Why Choose Teknik for Your 2020 Remodel?

Allow us to help you join the ranks of San Diego home owners who have avoided the most common industry blunders!

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget se of
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still a little worried? You'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

12×12 Kitchen Remodel

Hey, if you’re a San Diego homeowner about a few changes to your kitchen, this article will share four of the most common questions that home owners ask our design team.

  • Can I convert the peninsula to an island?
  • Can I move my appliances in my medium sized kitchen?
  • I love my cabinets, can I just reface them?
  • How much do San Diego kitchens cost to remodel?

There are so many questions but here are the top four questions for this week!

You’re in the right place to get started! One question at a time. 

Read on!

Teknik Testimonial

1. Can I Convert The Peninsula To An Island?

You sure can! The top benefits you might take into consideration when looking into your peninsula-to-island conversion are:

  1. Improved flow in and out of the kitchen into surrounding rooms
  2. Improved workspace flow for food preparation
  3. Your kitchen will feel larger
  4. A new island will have new cabinets which means the cabinet options will be custom selected by you to fit exactly what you would like to be stored in them, i.e. large bowls, food storage containers, cookie sheets. 

Here are some of the options that will come with your decision to build an island:

  1. How much counter top space would you like? What are the dimensions you could see in that space?
  2. Do you want drawers or cabinet doors?
  3. If you'd like drawers, do you want deep drawers or shallow ones?
  4. Could you use inserts and dividers for each cabinet box to help you stay organized?
  5. Do you want a sink in the island or perhaps your cook top?

These options and many more are available for this one item in your kitchen!

2. Can I Move My Appliances in my Medium Sized Kitchen?

Don't you love to hear "Yes!"? 

It is possible, but the plumbing determines the feasibility of this option so make sure that you check with your contractor first!

3. I LOVE My Cabinets - Can I Just Reface Them?

It's possible to reface your cabinets by:

  1. Repainting them
  2. Sanding and refinishing them
  3. Replacing the doors, hinges, and pulls but keeping the cabinet boxes.

However, most estimates we provide for refacing cabinets get shredded and the home owner chooses to replace them with new cabinets.

The cost savings exist, but the margin is not that significant, when you consider all the organization options and other options that you forfeit by refacing instead of replacing.

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

4. How Much Do Kitchen Remodels Cost?

The cost varies so widely, there is no way to give you a price without the design process.

At the same time, here are some general rules of thumb for what a kitchen remodel range might look like for you.

The kitchen remodel cost range may fall between $70,000 and $120,000+ for the following sizes. Scope and selections will vary.

  • 10x10 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 10x12 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 12x12 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego


The kitchen remodel cost range may fall between $90,000 and $135,000+ for the following sizes. Scope and selections will vary.

  • 12x14 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 14x14 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 14x16 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego


The kitchen remodel cost range may fall between $110,000 and $160,000+ for the following sizes. Scope and selections will vary.

  • 16x16 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 16x18 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 18x18 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego


The kitchen remodel cost range may fall between $135,000 and $190,000+ for the following sizes. Scope and selections will vary.

  • 18x20 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 20x20 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 25x25 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego
  • 25x30 Kitchen Remodel in San Diego

None of the ranges listed are representative of what your project will cost. 

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Why Choose Teknik for Your Kitchen Remodel

Being in love with your own kitchen is so important if you want to food prep, host company, and enjoy all the moments at home that center around the kitchen. 

Don't get stuck in the unending remodel by getting snagged by these industry failures. Choose Teknik to help you avoid:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget 
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

If you're excited to call but still nervous, don't worry! You'll be 100% protected with our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

Top Seven Cabinet Makers to Consider for your So-Cal Remodel

Looking for the best cabinet maker in San Diego California for your kitchen, bathroom, or custom built-in's? Look no further! In this article, you'll find several of the top companies that service the greater San Diego area and have the reviews to prove it!

A few of them are: 

  • Domain Cabinets Direct, Inc.
  • La Casta Cabinets & Design
  • Premium Cabinets 
  • BKT LOFT Italian Kitchen Cabinets
  • San Diego Painting & Refinishing
  • and more!...

Boy, do we know how it feels to shop for the perfect cabinet maker who can deliver on the design you want.

But don’t worry. You’re in the perfect place! 

In this article, we will introduce you to the companies listed above and a few more!

Teknik Testimonial

1. Domain Cabinets Direct Inc - 145 Reviews

Claude & Raechelle both receive high praise from their customers in endless 5-star reviews. These guys have been building trust in the community for a long time. Their 145+ reviews on houzz.com have been posted from 2013 to pressent. The favorite traits named for their tremendous success are:

  1. Communication
  2. Responsiveness
  3. Quick & accommodating

2. La Costa Cabinets & Design - 51 Reviews

Holly, William, and Cheyanne have raving reviews from all over the map. They are rated highly in many areas and are definitely a relationship-focused business. Some of their most frequent compliments came from the areas of:

  1. Patience with plan & design changes
  2. Highly recommended, even by friends and family who know them most intimately
  3. Thoroughly share all options to find what is best for each client

4. Premium Cabinets, Oceanside - 22 Reviews

Past and present, Premium Cabinets has been consistent and predictable in making a name for themselves among the most prestigious companies in southern California. A few client transformations that they are responsible for include:

  1. We were very nervous --> "Wanted to express how thrilled we are to have chosen Luke @ Premium Cabinets!"
  2. We were doing research --> "They stayed true to every promise. My wife and I are over the moon with how everything turned out."
  3. We never dreamed our kitchen could look this good --> We can honestly say there is not one thing we would change."
  4. Intimidated --> "We are so pleased with the outcome!"

5. BKT LOFT Italian Kitchen Cabinets - 16 Reviews

This small family-owned business has many happy customers and several of them have made it known to the world! They are known for:

  1. Beautiful product
  2. An outstanding kitchen & bathroom design team
  3. Responsive & knowledgeable

6. San Diego Painting & Refinishing - 16 Reviews

Jose and the team at San Diego Painting & Refinishing have been used by many families to "reface" the cabinets they have instead of having them refinished. They are popular among their clients and receive many referrals due to:

  1. Being so quick!
  2. Being so clean!
  3. Attention to detail - the ultimate professional!

Take It From Our Happy Customers


"Kevin had the work done as if it were his own house and the project was completed before the contractual completion date."  - Jack B., San Diego, CA

“This is our second remodel with Kevin. Once again, done on TIME! Great job! Just sorry we’re out of bathrooms! 🙂 He’s on speed dial in case we have another project.”   - Gary G., Encinitas

“Kevin told me to allow 25 days and it was done in just over two weeks.”  - Gina H., San Diego, CA

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!

7. Imperial Custom Cabinets - 16 Reviews

Your are in for a treat when you call Imperial Custom Cabinets! The families, businesses, and industry professionals that they serve, sing their praises from the rooftops!

  1. Been used for multiple projects since 1981.
  2. They know what they are doing from beginning to end.
  3. "As an interior designer, I have high standards and I work only with Imperial!

8. BONUS! Bell Millworks Inc. - 6 Reviews

Sean Bell is the owner and he takes incredible ownership of every part of his company and process. He is trusted by all that use him! 

  1. Reasonably priced
  2. Very thorough in estimating and execution, a perfectionist even!
  3. "We've had them complete three remodels and every time the result matches the vision!"

Why Choose Teknik For Your Custom Cabinets?

The options are endless and the GOOD NEWS is that you'll probably be very well-taken care of no matter who you choose! Woohoo! As long as the community they are serving loves their service, chances are good that you'll love it too. Like many of these successful companies, you'll find that the Teknik team has three strengths in avoiding the three main industry oopsies. We know how to avoid:

  • Late Completion  
  • Going Over Budget
  • Overuse of Subcontractors

Still not ready to call? You'll be 100% protected by our Spoiled Rotten Customer Guarantee!

1 - Dream Design

Step 1: Dream Design


We’ll collaborate with you to transform your dark and outdated space into bright and inviting space.  It all starts with your free consultation so book now!

Step 2 - True Quote

Step 2: True Quote


You can trust our service agreement!  We get to know your home intimately before working on it to ensure we stick to budget with no change orders.

Step 3 - Complete On-Time

Step 3: Complete On-Time


We'll make your dream come true and do it on-time and on budget!  Then it's party time!  Perhaps leave out your friends who get jealous easily.

Call (888) 747-2013 or click here for a free consultation now!