revival-remodels

3 Ways To Finish A Shower Niche

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 21:19:04 GMT

Simplifying how to finish your shower niche

Finishing a shower niche(aka shampoo shelf) can be done in several ways. Most commonly, the shower niche is trimmed using metal trim profiles. Metal trim profiles for shower niches come in a variety of colors and raw metal finishes, as well as a variety of shapes.

In this post we'll explore 3 different ways to finish a shower niche using the metal trim profiles as well as other materials such as stone and tile. The goal of the post is to help you decide which design option you like best so you can be prepared when building a custom shower.

The most common method of trimming a shower niche is using a metal trim profile. Metal trim profiles create a clean, framed look for a custom shower niche. Tile supply stores typically stock standard colors like black, white, aluminum, gold and a few other brushed metal finishes. It is important to keep in mind that the colors and finishes available may not match your tile exactly. It is best to take a sample of your tile when selecting a metal trim profile at a tile supply store so you can see the tile next to the metal trim profile and find a finish that pairs well with your tile. Here are two photo examples below of shower niches finished with metal trim profiles.

1. Metal trim profile shower niche

This method uses a stone slab, typically marble, granite or quartz to finish a shower niche. Some tile supply stores will stock stone material in 6"x6' sizes that you can use to build a custom look for your shower niche. A best practice that is often used in custom shower design is to use the same stone slab material for the shower curb and shower niche so both pieces are matching. This ties together the stone material for a well designed look.

Another common practice for shower niches is to use an accent tile on the back wall of the niche like the photos below. The accent tile can be matching other adjacent tiles like the floor tile used in the shower or other nearby tile pattern.

2. Stone slab accent trim shower niche

Bullnose tile trims are another popular option for finishing shower niches. It is important to know that not all shower wall tiles have a bullnose accessory trim available. With this in mind, if you plan to trim your shower niche with bullnose trim, you will want to select a tile that has a matching bullnose trim available. You can ask your tile supply store which of their shower wall tile options has matching bullnose trim available.

3. Bullnose tile trim shower niche

Now that you have seen three of the most popular ways to finish a shower niche, you should be able to decide on how to finish the niche in your custom shower. The photo examples provided in this post are just suggestions to guide you to the right finishes. The fun part is that with a custom shower you can build a custom niche any way you like, so get creative.

Want to get more advice about custom shower builds and bathroom remodels? Read our post on the 5 ways to finish a shower curb.

5 Ways To Finish A Shower Curb

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 17:08:41 GMT

Simplifying how to finish your shower curb

There are many ways to trim out or finish a shower curb in a custom shower build. In this post, we'll break down 5 ways it can be done. Depending on your design, you may choose to use any of these methods to achieve the custom look you prefer in your bathroom remodel. Let's dive in.

This method uses a stone curb top with matching floor tile as a baseboard under the curb top. The tile under the stone curb top matches the floor tile used in the general bathroom area for a seamless look. It looks like the floor tile flows up the wall and tucks tight under the stone curb top.

1. Matching floor tile under stone curb

This method uses a stone curb, typically marble or granite, wrapping the entire curb. Using this approach makes the stone curb material look wrapped and continuous around the top and sides of the shower curb.

2. Stone slab wrapped curb

This approach still uses a stone curb top with a finished drywall look underneath that can be painted to match bathroom walls. Behind the finished drywall look there is a waterproofing layer so even though it looks like painted drywall its actually a waterproof solution.

3. Finished drywall look under stone curb

Using this method, shower wall tile is used under a stone curb top to match the shower wall tiles. This blends the look of the shower down to the floor under the curb top.

4. Matching wall tile under stone curb

This method uses a wood baseboard under a stone curb top. It is best to use a hardwood like alder as shown in this photo and make sure it is sealed with a waterproof finish coating to avoid any water penetration.

5. Wood baseboard under stone curb

There you have it, shower curbs finished 5 different ways. In our opinion, it's always best to use a stone curb top made of marble or granite like the examples shown above. The advantage of using a stone curb top is that there are no grout lines to collect moisture and build up mildew or grime in the grout joints. The stone curb tops can be easily cleaned and even polished if they become dull after years of use providing you with a lifetime solution for your shower curb.

Want to get more advice about bathroom remodels? Read our post on choosing the right tile type for your remodel.

Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home Remodel: A Guide for Homeowners

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 17:24:46 GMT

Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home Remodel in Tahoe–Truckee

When you’re upgrading your bathroom, shower, or flooring, selecting the right tile is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make. Tile affects durability, maintenance, and overall style—which is why homeowners in the Tahoe–Truckee area often ask us: What type of tile should I choose?

This guide breaks down the most popular tile materials we recommend for residential remodels and explains where each one performs best.

Porcelain Tile: The Most Durable Choice

Porcelain tile is our top recommendation for most homeowners. It’s made from refined clay and fired at high temperatures, making it incredibly dense and extremely durable.

Why Porcelain Works Well in Tahoe

Highly resistant to moisture and stains
Excellent for showers, floors, and high-traffic areas
Withstands Tahoe’s freeze–thaw climate
Available in wood-look, stone-look, and modern finishes

Best Uses

Shower walls
Bathroom floors
Entryways
Kitchen floors
Laundry and mudrooms

Tip: For most bathrooms and showers, porcelain provides the best long-term value with minimal maintenance.

Ceramic Tile: Stylish and Affordable

Ceramic tile is similar to porcelain but slightly less dense. It’s a great budget-friendly option, especially for walls or lighter-use areas.

Why Homeowners Choose Ceramic

Cost-effective
Easy to clean
Wide variety of colors and patterns
Great for decorative applications

Best Uses

Shower walls (light-use or decorative)
Kitchen backsplashes
Bathroom walls
Low-traffic floors

Consideration: Ceramic is more prone to chipping on high-wear floors. Porcelain is usually the better choice for durability.

Natural Stone: Timeless Luxury and Texture

For homeowners who want unique character and higher-end design, natural stone offers unmatched beauty. Options include marble, slate, travertine, and granite.

Why Stone Stands Out

Each tile is completely unique
Creates spa-like bathroom designs
Works beautifully in rustic and modern homes
Adds a higher-end look and feel

Best Uses

Master bathroom floors and walls
Accent walls
Fireplaces and hearths

Consideration: Natural stone requires sealing and more regular maintenance than manufactured tile. It may not be ideal for heavily used family showers.

Glass Tile: Perfect for Accents and Highlights

Glass tile is rarely used as a full wall covering but makes a stunning impact in small doses.

Why Homeowners Love Glass Tile

Reflective surface adds depth and light
Vibrant color options
Great for modern designs

Best Uses

Shower niches
Accent stripes in showers
Backsplashes
Mosaic details

Mosaic Tile: Detail, Grip, and Design Flexibility

Mosaic tiles come mounted on mesh sheets and can be made from ceramic, porcelain, stone, or glass.

Why Mosaics Matter

Ideal for shower floors (extra grip)
Allows detailed patterns
Adds texture and interest without overwhelming a space

Best Uses

Shower floors
Backsplashes
Accent strips
Decorative niches

Which Tile Is Best for Your Remodel?

Here’s a quick summary:

Best overall durability: Porcelain
Most budget-friendly: Ceramic
Best luxury look: Natural stone
Best for accents: Glass
Best for shower floors: Mosaics

Every home is different, and the ideal tile depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. At Revival Remodels, we help homeowners choose materials that will perform beautifully for years to come.

Kitchen remodel 5 pro tips

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 19:02:50 GMT

Kitchen remodel 5 pro tips

Read on for insider tips and tricks to ensure a successful bathroom remodel. Making the right decisions early, before you ever get started, is half the battle on a remodel.

Appliance selection

Choosing the right appliances for a kitchen remodel can feel overwhelming. These tips will help you make sure your kitchen has appliances that you'll love for years to come.

Make sure to get a counter depth refrigerator so it sits flush with your countertop and doesn't stick out into your aisle way
If you haven't heard - refrigerators are now available that produce full size round ice spheres for cocktails. OMG ��
Panel ready dishwashers are a great design idea to hide the traditional stainless metal face of your dishwasher with a matching cabinet panel
Motion sensing faucets are a must have in kitchen remodels as they keep your faucet cleaner and prevent the spread of germs
Induction ovens are a popular alternative to gas ovens as they are known for rapid heating and quality cooking for the foodies out there

Lighting selection

Lighting technology has developed rapidly over the past few decades. Modern lighting fixtures use only a small fraction of the energy the old can lights commonly used in kitchen remodels consume. Switching your old can lights out for new LED recessed lights will reduce energy consumption and costs while also providing a more even distribution of light in your kitchen. It is generally best to choose 3000k lighting for kitchens, which still casts a warm light, but is slightly brighter than living area lighting which is typically 2700k extra warm light.

Under cabinet lighting has been a standard in kitchen remodels for many years. Another popular lighting detail for kitchen remodels is the addition of toe kick lighting. Toe kick lighting adds a soft glow from under your cabinets to illuminate your kitchen during evening hours without disturbing nearby living areas.

Countertop selection

Quartzite is one of the best materials to choose for a countertop in a kitchen remodel. Quartzite is a natural stone that is known for its extreme durability. In the past, other popular countertop materials like granite or marble have shown to be less than ideal for kitchen applications where spills and high heat are a regular occurrence. Softer stones like granite or marble are also more prone to scratching if something sharp gets dragged across the surface. Quartzite stone ranks among the hardest, most heat resistant and stain resistant compared to any other countertop surface.

If you are looking for a more affordable countertop solution - check out butcher block countertops usually made of hardwoods like walnut, acacia or maple.

Exhaust

Make sure to include an exhaust plan in your kitchen remodel. This is an often overlooked element in kitchens. Simply getting a range hood with exhaust may not be enough for your application. It is important to calculate the size of your kitchen in cubic feet and then choose an exhaust motor that has the correct cubic feet per minute of air removal. If your exhaust fan is not powerful enough to remove the air in your kitchen in a timely manner, it can leave your kitchen smelly funky the morning after a proper fish fry.

For large kitchens with high ceilings, a secondary exhaust system can be designed and installed for proper management of the kitchen atmosphere. If you have multiple cooktops in your kitchen, you may not want to have multiple range hoods. Adding a secondary exhaust set up is a great solution when you need to exhaust kitchen air from multiple locations.

Cabinet selection

Deciding how to begin choosing cabinets for your kitchen remodel is a daunting task. Working with a cabinet designer will make your life easy. It is the cabinet designer's job to understand your wants and needs in your kitchen remodel. The designer can recommend cabinet features that you may not have considered. So where do you find a cabinet designer? Many cabinet suppliers have designers in house and offer basic design services included with purchasing cabinets. The collaborative process of designing a kitchen cabinet layout results in a beautiful visual rendering that you can see and adjust before your kitchen remodel comes to life.

We are here to help

If you have a topic regarding remodels that you'd like to learn more about reach out to us and let us know.

5 Pro tips learned remodeling a 107 year old house

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:52:55 GMT

Lessons learned remodeling an entire house built in 1918

We bought this 107 year old house that was built in 1918 for $80k before it was torn down.

We took off 3 layers of wall and 3 layers of ceiling to get all the way down to the original framing - and we rebuilt every single component back to new again including electrical, plumbing, hvac, insulation and everything else. Here are 5 home renovation pro tips we learned during this renovation that you absolutely must know.

1. Insulation: spray foam is worth it!

I’m a huge spray foam fanatic after studying its benefits for thousands of hours. Spray foam often costs around 50% more than fiberglass cost depending on installation costs in your area, but in my opinion it is totally worth it.

Air sealing is one of the biggest benefits of spray foam which is where traditional forms of insulation fall short. Especially in an older home with lots of odd crevices, spray foam air seals where fiberglass cant.

Spray foam also allows you to potentially size down your hvac needs - talk to your hvac contractor and inform them of your intentions of installing spray foam and they will likely be pleased and may even size down your hvac units.

You can put spray foam in your attic, your crawlspace and even your walls - we got a whopping 8 inches of open cell spray foam in the attic of this house and let me tell you it is absolutely changes the feel of the entire house. In the middle of winter or the heat of the summer the attic is totally comfortable and that benefits the feel of the entire home.

2. Butcher block countertops the most affordable solution

Countertops can be one of the most shockingly expensive parts of a remodel project but this pro tip will save you thousands of dollars.

Price ranges for Granite/Marble: $40 to $100 per square foot.

Quartz countertop prices range from $50-$200.

Butcher block countertops $20-30 per square foot and you can cut and customize them yourself with basic woodworking tools.Most butcher block countertops are made of a hardwood like walnut so they are incredibly durable.

Butcher block countertops are beautiful, you can cut food directly on them as a cutting board, they can be conditioned occasionally to bring them right back to that stunning fresh wood look. People comment on our butcher block countertops every time a new guest comes over.

3. Look for ways to reuse old materials during the renovation process

Disposal costs can be in the thousands especially for heavy materials like brick since most landfills charge by weight. We came up with some really creative ways to save money on disposal and create some really cool features.

Old houses often have a lot of chimneys. In our case the 107 year old house we renovated had 4 chimneys for 4 different fireplaces that were once spread throughout the house. We tore them down and used the old bricks to create this stunning kitchen island surround complete with a dishwasher, double sink with a pendant light over it and even went the extra mile and installed phillips hue downlighting under the countertop.

In old houses the wood is old growth wood which means its harder and has better looking grain than wood you buy today. Old wood torn out of renovations is great for making mantles or floating shelves throughout the house instead of throwing it away.

4. Use expansion pex plumbing and create a manifold with a shutoff for each section of the house

Traditional plumbing pipe like copper or pvc pipe is prone to all kinds of issues, especially if you live in a cold climate like me.

Pex piping is one of the best ways to upgrade your plumbing system to a near freeze proof system.

Make sure to use Pex A aka expansion pex and not Pex B which uses clamping rings to fasten fittings.

I built a simple manifold based off a plumbing system I designed. Looks a little scary but honestly its pretty simple. If you would like me to send you my plumbing design diagram template, just drop a comment below and let me know - I’m happy to send it over for you to use.

Instead of trimming your interior doors and windows with standard 1x4 or 1x6 trim, you should get these craftsman style headers that give a super classy, victorian vibe to your interior trim.

You can get craftsman style headers preassembled from your local lumber or building supplier and they will give you a price per foot for the style of craftsman header that you want. Then all you have to do is cut, install and paint the headers over your windows and doors.

This saves you lots of money, time and effort because you dont have to buy a bunch of different trim pieces and then assemble them on your own using glue and nails. Our craftsman style headers get tons of comments from guests that come to visit.

5. Craftsman style headers for door and window trim

Unveiling the Transformative Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Wed, 08 May 2024 15:15:29 GMT

Spray foam insulation benefits

In the realm of home improvement, insulation often takes a backseat to more visible upgrades like new countertops or fresh paint. However, the impact of insulation on comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainability cannot be overstated. Among the various insulation options available, spray foam insulation stands out as a transformative solution offering a myriad of benefits for homeowners. Let's delve into why spray foam insulation is gaining popularity and how it can revolutionize your living space.

First and foremost, spray foam insulation boasts unparalleled sealing properties. Traditional insulation materials like fiberglass or cellulose often leave gaps and crevices through which air can infiltrate, compromising energy efficiency and indoor comfort. In contrast, spray foam insulation is applied as a liquid, expanding to fill every nook and cranny before hardening into a solid, airtight barrier. This seamless coverage effectively prevents drafts and heat loss, ensuring consistent temperatures throughout your home and reducing the workload on your heating and cooling systems.

Moreover, the superior insulation provided by spray foam extends beyond temperature control. Its high R-value per inch means that even thin layers can offer significant thermal resistance, enabling you to achieve optimal comfort levels with minimal material thickness. This feature is particularly advantageous in tight or unconventional spaces where traditional insulation may be impractical or insufficient.

Another notable benefit of spray foam insulation is its moisture resistance. By creating a moisture barrier, spray foam helps mitigate the risk of mold growth, rot, and other moisture-related issues that can compromise indoor air quality and structural integrity. This moisture resistance makes spray foam an ideal choice for areas prone to humidity, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms, where traditional insulation materials may succumb to moisture infiltration over time.

In addition to its thermal and moisture-resistant properties, spray foam insulation offers soundproofing benefits, dampening noise transmission between rooms and from exterior sources. Whether you're seeking tranquility in your home office or hoping to muffle the rumble of traffic outside your bedroom window, spray foam can help create a quieter, more peaceful living environment.

Furthermore, spray foam insulation contributes to sustainability by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. By minimizing heat loss and lowering heating and cooling demands, spray foam helps homeowners shrink their carbon footprint while saving money on utility bills. Additionally, some spray foam formulations are made from renewable or recycled materials, further enhancing their eco-friendly credentials.

Beyond its practical advantages, spray foam insulation also delivers long-term value by enhancing the durability and longevity of your home. Unlike traditional insulation materials that may degrade or settle over time, spray foam maintains its integrity for decades, providing enduring protection and performance. This durability translates to fewer maintenance requirements and potential savings on future repair or replacement costs.

In conclusion, spray foam insulation offers a comprehensive suite of benefits that elevate it above traditional insulation options. From its unmatched sealing capabilities and thermal efficiency to its moisture resistance, soundproofing qualities, and environmental sustainability, spray foam represents a wise investment in the comfort, durability, and energy performance of your home. Whether you're building a new house, renovating an existing property, or simply seeking to improve your living environment, consider the transformative potential of spray foam insulation.

Bathroom remodel pro tips

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 20:41:58 GMT

Bathroom remodel pro tips

Read on for insider tips and tricks to ensure a successful bathroom remodel. Making the right decisions early, before you ever get started, is half the battle on a remodel.

Make a list and budget early

The cost for a bathroom remodel depends largely on material costs. Most often you will see estimates for bathroom remodels as "labor only" which means no materials are included. This is because you can buy cheap tile from the big box stores for less than two bucks per square foot or you can spend close to $100 per square foot for high-end marble or granite. Trust us when we say, you get what you pay for. Making a detailed materials list with your contractor and setting your budget early is the best way to avoid surprises.

Don't buy cheap tile

Cheap tile looks great on a shelf in a store, but can get you into a mess down the road on your bathroom or kitchen remodel. Cheap tile is often misshaped, out of square and inconsistent in general. Low quality tile will also crack very easily during cutting, installation and throughout the life of the floor. You don't have to spend a fortune, but don't go with the cheapest option because you'll regret it later.

Use ABS for drain plumbing

When it comes to drain plumbing you have the option to use PVC (white) or ABS (black), or cast iron in some applications. Locations like under the shower, under the toilet and sink are places you only want to go once during a remodel. ABS is superior to PVC because it has a higher heat rating so your hottest water won't destroy it. ABS is more durable and quieter than PVC plumbing. In sinks with garbage disposals, for example, ABS is the way to go because you don't want a bunch of flimsy PVC parts rattling around. ABS only costs a tiny bit more than PVC but if you are going to do it - do it right and do it once.

Use Pex A for supply plumbing

If you've found yourself in the plumbing aisle staring into the eyes of God for an hour, you've probably seen the red and blue plastic plumbing called Pex along with PVC and other types. The Pex you find in big box stores is typically Pex B, but there's a better Pex called Pex A that's usually only found at plumbing supply houses. Pex A, also known as expansion Pex, is able to expand and contract back to its original position making it ideal for cold climates. It's also a lot quieter than other types of plumbing. If you've ever had a copper pipe burst on a snowy night high up in the Sierra Mountains - get yourself some Pex A!

Install a heated floor

An electric radiant heated floor may sound like a luxury option that you probably can't afford, but they are fairly affordable and really add a ton of value to a bathroom remodel. It's not just about keeping the floor warm so your toes stay cozy. Electric radiant heated floors actually provide warmth to the room and in most cases can totally replace HVAC heat to the bathroom. Heated floor materials and thermostat for a standard size bathroom will cost you only about $1,000. Installation cost varies but the system can usually be installed in a day. For all the money you are shelling out for tile, spending the money on a heated floor will give you more smiles per mile.

Final thoughts on bathroom remodels

With these pro tips on bathroom remodels, you will be prepared to make the right decisions early in the process. Deciding on tile selection and material selection is the best thing you can do to get started on the right foot. If you have questions about how to make your bathroom remodel successful, feel free to reach out to us .

revival-remodels

3 Ways To Finish A Shower Niche

Simplifying how to finish your shower niche

1. Metal trim profile shower niche

2. Stone slab accent trim shower niche

3. Bullnose tile trim shower niche

5 Ways To Finish A Shower Curb

Simplifying how to finish your shower curb

1. Matching floor tile under stone curb

2. Stone slab wrapped curb

3. Finished drywall look under stone curb

4. Matching wall tile under stone curb

5. Wood baseboard under stone curb

Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home Remodel: A Guide for Homeowners

Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home Remodel in Tahoe–Truckee

Porcelain Tile: The Most Durable Choice

Why Porcelain Works Well in Tahoe

Best Uses

Ceramic Tile: Stylish and Affordable

Why Homeowners Choose Ceramic

﻿ Best Uses

Natural Stone: Timeless Luxury and Texture

Why Stone Stands Out

Best Uses

Glass Tile: Perfect for Accents and Highlights

Why Homeowners Love Glass Tile

Best Uses

Mosaic Tile: Detail, Grip, and Design Flexibility

Why Mosaics Matter

Best Uses

Which Tile Is Best for Your Remodel?

Kitchen remodel 5 pro tips

Kitchen remodel 5 pro tips

Appliance selection

Lighting selection

Countertop selection

Exhaust

Cabinet selection

We are here to help

5 Pro tips learned remodeling a 107 year old house

Lessons learned remodeling an entire house built in 1918

1. Insulation: spray foam is worth it! ﻿

2. Butcher block countertops the most affordable solution

3. Look for ways to reuse old materials during the renovation process

4. Use expansion pex plumbing and create a manifold with a shutoff for each section of the house

5. Craftsman style headers for door and window trim

Unveiling the Transformative Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation benefits

Bathroom remodel pro tips

Bathroom remodel pro tips

Make a list and budget early

Don't buy cheap tile

Use ABS for drain plumbing

Use Pex A for supply plumbing

Install a heated floor

Final thoughts on bathroom remodels

Best Uses

1. Insulation: spray foam is worth it!