The Complete Guide to Remodeling in Black Diamond and Covington
Two smaller and community-focused areas nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, the towns of Black Diamond and Covington both have a lot going for them.
Black Diamond is a quickly growing area that is seeing many young families move in. It’s a commuter town where many people work in Seattle or Tacoma and choose to call Black Diamond home. Covington is larger than Black Diamond (around 20,000 residents) and offers a suburban feel that is close to urban areas. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
Both Black Diamond and Covington offer a variety of outdoor adventures. Black Diamond is home to Lake Sawyer, the fourth-largest lake in King County, and is known for its hiking, swimming, and biking opportunities. Covington boasts Lake Wilderness Park with its swimming beach, boating, and hiking trails, as well as Soos Creek Trails, which is great for both hiking and biking. Both communities have great schools, low crime, and beautiful views. You can’t go wrong choosing either place to live.
Why Homeowners Remodel in Black Diamond and Covington
Black Diamond has a lot of new construction homes, and many of them are in the famous Master Planned Developments (MPDs), like Ten Trails, the Villages, and Lawson Hills Estates. Many of these developments offer either townhomes or single-family dwellings. Many homeowners love these gorgeous floor plans and stunning designs…but they want to make them their own. In the area’s established homes, remodels are often done to update and modernize homes or modify them so they fit a family’s lifestyle.
In Covington, many homes are either established single-family homes or homes in new developments (like the planned Lakepointe neighborhood). There’s a focus on community and the outdoors, so many homeowners want to prioritize outdoor living spaces, as well as make their homes more personalized spaces that support their families.
The Most Popular Types of Remodels in Black Diamond and Covington
Because many homes in both Black Diamond and Covington are new, homeowners often remodel to upgrade the space or personalize it to their needs. Some homeowners remodel to make their homes more accessible for older family members or for themselves in the future if they plan to age in place in their home. Other popular remodels add square footage, finish a basement, or enlarge the kitchen.
Older homes are often remodeled to update the finishes, add more living space, and make the home more energy efficient and modern. Sometimes homeowners want to change the layout of the home to make it more open and spacious. Creating space for a home office or home gym helps Black Diamond and Covington homes support today’s lifestyles.
Kitchen remodels in Black Diamond and Covington are popular. Since kitchens are the heart of every home, it makes sense to focus on them as a place to work, eat, and spend time together. Kitchen remodels often include adding or renovating a large island, replacing cabinets and countertops, adding a pantry or more storage, and even changing the footprint so it feels more modern and comfortable.
How Much Does a Remodel Cost in Black Diamond or Covington?
Home remodels vary greatly in price based on what work is being done. Homeowners can impact the final cost of the remodel because they choose the finishes and materials they want used in their homes. At Massey Remodel + Design, we prioritize having a clear and open conversation with you about your budget before we start work on your home. We want you to know exactly what to expect and how to plan so you’re financially prepared.
Home remodels in the Black Diamond and Covington areas can run between $100-$300 per square foot. Our fixed-price contract model will help you feel confident as you discuss your options and make a financial plan for your home remodel.
Permits and Regulations You Should Know in Black Diamond and Covington
Almost all home remodels require permits. Anything that impacts your HVAC, electrical, or plumbing, any walls you remove or build, and any ways you change the home’s footprint will require permitting and inspections. Without a permit, you can face fines and penalties, be required to undo the work that has been done or cease the remodel altogether, or have difficulty selling the home later.
For home remodels in Black Diamond, you can visit this website to find out more information and start the permitting process. For home remodel permits in Covington, check out this website.
Make sure you ask your contractor about the permitting process. Some teams will handle pulling permits themselves, and any good contractor will be able to advise you and answer your questions.
Choosing the Right Remodeler in Black Diamond and Covington
Deciding who to use as a home remodeler for your Black Diamond or Covington home can be hard. You want someone good at their work, who treats you and your home with respect, and who listens and communicates with you—in short, someone you can trust.
Visit a potential remodeler’s website and see if you like their work.
Make sure they are licensed and insured.
Read online reviews and ask for references.
Schedule a phone call or meeting and ask any questions you have.
Trust your gut—how do you feel about working with them?
At Massey Remodel + Design, we believe that a design-build remodeling team is the best option for your Pacific Northwest home. Check out this article for more details about what sets design-build remodelers apart.
Remodeling Timeline: What to Expect in Black Diamond and Covington
Just like pricing, remodeling timelines are hard to generalize. They vary based on what type of remodel you want, how involved the project is, and even what time of year you are beginning the process.
Many home remodels take between three and six months, but a whole-home remodel will take longer. Your contractor will be able to give you a more accurate timeline based on the details of your specific renovation goals.
Design Trends in Black Diamond and Covington
Across the Pacific Northwest, home remodeling design trends are leaning toward warmth and personalization. Black Diamond and Covington homes are no exception.
Nature-Inspired and Warm
Popular colors today are warm, natural hues that connect us to the outdoors. Terra cotta, dusty purple, sage green, and gentle navy are trending, along with taupes and creamy off-whites. Gone are the days of stark white and Millennial Gray.
Alongside these nature-inspired colors, Black Diamond and Covington homeowners are incorporating natural textures and finishes like wood, natural stone, and brass. Home remodels are also focusing on enjoying the outdoors at home by incorporating large windows and creating great outdoor living spaces.
Functional and Timeless Design
Black Diamond and Covington homeowners want homes that work as hard as they do, providing effortless function that supports how they live. And they also want sophisticated and upscale designs. There is often a nod to traditional styles in today’s home design as classic elements meet practicality.
Sustainability and Smart Technology
Eco-conscious choices are more expectations than trends, with homeowners wanting green, sustainable materials with traceable production. Energy-saving elements are important to today’s homeowners as well. Smart technology can help, merging convenience with a reduction in energy consumption—the best of both worlds.
Common Mistakes Black Diamond and Covington Homeowners Make When Remodeling
Starting a home remodel can be intimidating. It’s common for homeowners to feel nervous and out of their depth. Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure your home remodel is the best it can be.
Not working with a designer. You might not initially think of a designer as an integral part of your remodeling team. But having someone help you turn your dreams into a concrete plan, give you a curated list to choose from for finishes, and answer questions you have along the way? You won’t regret it.
Following trends too much. Use classic materials in hard-to-change areas like flooring and countertops. Then add fun and trendy choices you love in places that you can change later if you want to: light fixtures, paint, and accessories.
Being afraid to ask questions. Your remodeling team should communicate clearly and frequently with you and answer any concerns you have. At Massey Remodel + Design, our clients get access to an online project portal so they always know what’s going on with their remodel.
How to Get Started on Your Black Diamond or Covington Remodel
If you’re ready to get started on your kitchen, bathroom, basement, or whole-home remodel, we’re here to help you. Contact us today, and let’s talk about your plans for your home and how we can partner with you to bring those dreams to life.