The Complete Guide to Remodeling in Lake Tapps
Kitchen Remodel in Lake Tapps, WA by Massey Remodel + Design | Modern French Country
If you’re a Lake Tapps (or Bonney Lake) resident, you know the charming area: the beautiful Lake Tapps and the boating, waterskiing, fishing, and swimming it offers. With beaches and outdoor recreation areas, Lake Tapps is a great place for families and active individuals. And the location—close to Tacoma, and an hour from Seattle—means it’s a doable commute and a quick day trip to the city. Lake Tapps is a wonderful place to live. And if you own a home in this Pierce County town, it’s also a great place to consider remodeling.
Why Homeowners Remodel in Lake Tapps
Many homes in the Lake Tapps area are on the older side. While there aren’t a lot of actual historic homes in the area, the average home was built in 1993, making it a prime candidate for a remodel. Many homes from the early ‘90s had formal living rooms (that don’t really serve a purpose today), corner soaking tubs (not the most popular choice anymore), cherry wood cabinets (pretty but dated), and other interior design features that don’t serve today’s families well. Remodeling in Lake Tapps often means updating the home’s layout to be more multifunctional and flexible with an open and airy floor plan. It also means changing dated fixtures, flooring, paint colors, cabinets, and more to fresh new ones.
The Most Popular Types of Remodels in Lake Tapps
Many homeowners in Lake Tapps, Washington, prioritize home remodels that make their homes serve their families better. Some popular remodeling projects include:
Whole home remodels that open up the space and make it more flexible and connected.
Kitchen remodels that prioritize updating the heart of the home and making it more functional, space-efficient, and hospitable.
Bathroom remodels that focus on the bathroom as a spa-like retreat for relaxing at the end of a long day.
Outdoor living projects like outdoor kitchens, outdoor living rooms, decks, porches, and more.
Lake Tapps homeowners are also increasingly considering tear-downs—removing their current home and rebuilding in the same location. This allows them to stay in the area they love and design homes that are perfect for their families.
How Much Does a Remodel Cost in Lake Tapps?
Costs for home remodels vary widely based on what type of project is done, what the square footage is, what systems are involved (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), and more. In the Lake Tapps area, a whole home remodel can cost between $125 and $500+ per square foot.
At Massey Remodel + Design, we wholeheartedly believe that remodeling companies should give you a range of cost—and then stick to it. It’s hard to compare estimates between various companies, but a range of cost that narrows into an actual fixed-price contract will give you the security you need to begin your remodel with all the information. Check out this post for more information.
Permits and Regulations You Should Know in Lake Tapps
If your home is lakeside, permitting can be a little more complicated. You may need permits from both Cascade Water Alliance and local authorities (the City of Bonney Lake or Pierce County). Remember that starting a remodeling project without having the correct permits can lead to stop orders, fines, or orders to reverse the work. Talk to your contractor about what permits are needed and how best to apply for them. They’re here to help you!
Choosing the Right Remodeler in Lake Tapps
It can be hard to know who to trust with your home. We believe that the design-build model of project delivery is the best option. This means that all the work from preconstruction to the final walk-through is handled by one team. Design-build companies like Massey Remodel + Design give homeowners the benefit of better communication, creative problem-solving, innovative ideas, and clear timelines. Read more about design-build here.
Remodeling Timeline: What to Expect in Lake Tapps
The timeline for home remodels can vary based on a variety of factors:
How extensive is the project?
Is the home historic? (If so, more permitting and approvals may be required.)
Are there specialty or custom finishes being ordered?
How much square footage is involved, and how many systems need to be modified or replaced?
What time of year is it? How busy are subcontractors?
And more.
Generally speaking, many home remodels in Lake Tapps take between three to six months. You can reach out to us and ask about your specific project for a more accurate timeline.
Design Trends in Lake Tapps Homes
Homeowners in Lake Tapps love the outdoors. With views of the lake, forests, or Mt Rainier, it’s no surprise that large windows to maximize views are at the top of many homeowners’ wish lists. Other design trends include natural materials like wood and stone, bright white in bathrooms and kitchens, luxury materials, smart home technology, and contemporary yet comfortable designs.
Popular colors are warm neutrals, pops of color, dark blues and greens, and other nature-inspired hues. And there’s a focus on making gathering spaces (like living rooms and kitchens) both functional and comfortable. Homeowners value a well-designed space that supports their lifestyle and values.
Common Mistakes Lake Tapps Homeowners Make When Remodeling
Remodeling is exciting and fun, and can be a very satisfying process. We want you to be completely happy with your final project! After all, your home is likely your biggest investment, and it’s the place that holds many of your cherished memories. There are a few common mistakes that can trip people up when they’re starting a remodel.
Not starting with a great design. The design process is incredibly important to the success of your project. If you skip this step or hurry through it, you will likely end up with change orders, unpleasant surprises, and delays. But with a good design and lots of planning before construction begins, you’ll have a home remodel that you love.
Not doing your research on contractors before you start. Remember, it can be hard to compare different contractors and what they’re offering based on their estimates. Have conversations and ask all your questions before you sign on the dotted line.
Ignoring the home’s architectural style. You may love a farmhouse vibe, but if your home has a more modern or contemporary look, a farmhouse sink might look out of place.
How to Get Started on Your Lake Tapps Remodel
If you’ve decided you want to remodel your home, a great place to start is by gathering inspiration. Look at Pinterest, home magazines, websites—whatever sparks your creativity—and start collecting photos and images you love. Then, when you meet with a designer or contractor, you’ll have some concrete ideas to discuss.
And when you’re ready to start, contact us! We serve the Lake Tapps and surrounding areas. Our award-winning team prioritizes care, integrity, and craftsmanship, and our design-build model will give you confidence that you’ve made the right choice. We’d love to help you transform your Lake Tapps home into the perfect place for you and those you love.