Where do you provide your services?

We primarily serve communities in Gloucester County, South Jersey. Staying close to our Mickleton, NJ home office allows us to maintain better relationships with local inspection officials and ensures our trusted vendors and subcontractors are readily available for your project. See if you’re in our service area

Do I need to hire my own designer?

Ideas are welcome, but hiring a designer separately is not necessary. Our longtime design coordinator, Sharon Vick, will help you through the selection process. We review every detail of the proposed product lines with you to ensure our work captures your specific vision.

What factors influence the cost of an Ayars project?

When you work with us, your investment covers more than just labor; it covers peace of mind. Key factors include:

  • Building Science: We don’t just “install”; we follow strict guidelines to ensure the success and warranty of every product, which takes extra time and care.
  • Quality Materials: We believe it takes just as long to install cheap materials as it does quality ones, so we “coach” you toward products that will actually last.
  • Support System: As a family-run business in the community for over 50 years, we maintain an office and showroom to support our clients long after the project is done.

Why do you only run one or two jobs at a time?

We are a small, highly-focused team. By limiting our simultaneous projects, we ensure your home gets the top-level execution and professional attention it deserves from our skilled craftsmen.

I’m ready to go! How quickly can you start?

We love the enthusiasm, but because we believe in “building your dream” to a degree of quality that lasts for years, we don’t do “rush jobs”. A successful remodel requires significant planning, including:

  • The Estimating Process: Detailed communication to ensure the budget and scope align.
  • Design & Selections: Choosing tile, cabinetry, and fixtures takes time and is critical for accurate pricing.
  • Permits: This process varies by town but typically takes around three weeks.
  • Material Lead Times: Many quality materials are special orders and can take several weeks to arrive.

Do you handle smaller “handyman” tasks or one-off repairs?

To ensure we provide the best service and attention to our full-scale projects, we do not offer the following as standalone services:

  • Handyman services.
  • Cabinet refacing.
  • Flooring or painting only (unless it is part of a larger renovation scope).
  • Countertop-only replacements.
  • Managing projects where the homeowner or another contractor is performing the work.

What types of remodeling projects do you specialize in?

Our core focus is on Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Interior Renovations, which includes finished basements. By sticking to these core areas, we can apply our specialized knowledge and building science expertise to deliver the highest quality results for our clients.

How can I create storage without making the basement look cluttered?

A modern basement requires intentional and organized storage rather than serving as a dark abyss for clutter. You can utilize bespoke solutions that hide clutter while looking stylish, such as:

  • Built-in cubbies and drawers.
  • Closets or reading nooks with bench storage tucked under the stairs.
  • Dedicated equipment storage areas located in foundation jut-outs.

Why is framing such a critical part of the basement renovation process?

Framing is the setup phase that is critical to the final execution. A professional framing job accomplishes four specific goals:

  1. Structural Integrity: Using steel studs ensures the walls are sturdy and resilient.
  2. Hiding Mechanicals: Proper framing inconspicuously hides wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
  3. Fireblocking: It limits oxygen flow between walls and joists in the event of a fire.
  4. Waterproofing: It involves reinforcing walls and drawing water away before drywall is hung.

What is the best flooring for a basement that might get damp?

Moisture resistance should be your top priority due to the risk of humidity and flooding underground. The blog suggests three modern favorites:

  • Luxury Vinyl Tile/Plank: This offers a major upgrade over old vinyl, providing durability and impressive emulation of real wood or stone.
  • Ceramic/Porcelain Tile: These are naturally water-repellent and wear-resistant. You can also choose “wood-look” plank tiles with rectified edges for seamless grout lines.
  • Engineered Wood: This is virtually indistinguishable from solid hardwood but is less likely to warp in damp environments.

My basement ceiling is full of wires and pipes. Do I have to use a drop ceiling to hide them?

Not necessarily. While mechanicals often run through the ceiling, you have better options than traditional grid-and-tile drop ceilings, which most modern designs avoid.

  • Drywall: This is the preferred method for a modern look because it integrates cohesively with the upper floors of your home. It allows for polished details like crown molding and recessed lighting.
  • Industrial Style: For a nautical or industrial aesthetic, you can simply paint the exposed overhead joists and beams.

What defines a “modern” finished basement compared to older styles?

A modern basement moves beyond the old standard of simply laying down carpet and installing cheap drop ceiling panels. Instead, it focuses on converting the area into a “bona fide living space” that feels just as finished as the rest of your home. This is achieved through strict attention to detail regarding framing, ceilings, and flooring.

What is the first step in planning my basement design?

The first step is assessing your basement type (standard, walk-out, or garden-level) as this dictates your lighting and access options. As a reminder:

  • Standard lot basements are completely below grade
  • Garden-level basements are partially above grade (gently sloping properties)
  • Walk-out basements are built into properties that slope significantly

Next, determine your primary goals for the space: Are you looking for improved storage (smart shelving and hidden cubbies), a secluded work space (a quiet office or gym), more room for entertaining leisure activities (a theater, game room, or bar), or all of the above? Having these goals in mind will help us “zone” your finished basement appropriately when we are planning the layout.

Will finishing the basement increase my utility bills significantly?

Basements are naturally energy-efficient. Because they are subterranean, the ground temperature regulates the space, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter compared to the rest of the house. While you are heating and cooling more square footage, the energy expenditure per square foot is often lower than in above-ground rooms.

Can I turn my basement into a separate apartment for an in-law or tenant?

Yes, basements are excellent candidates for multi-generational living or studio apartments. You can add a bedroom, full bathroom, and even a kitchenette to create a fully functional, independent living space.

Note: If you have a Garden-Level or Standard basement, we will need to ensure we plan for proper egress (emergency exit) requirements during the design phase.

I want a home office, but I’m worried about noise from upstairs. What can I do?

Soundproofing is a key part of the planning process for basement offices. We recommend several effective methods depending on your budget and needs. For light dampening, acoustic foam tiles and sound-absorbing blankets work well. For a true “fortress of solitude,” we can install blown insulation or soundproof underlayment (though underlayment often requires removing the main level flooring above).

My basement is fully underground with small windows. Is it still worth finishing?

Absolutely. While “Standard Lot” basements don’t offer the walk-out access of other types, their secluded nature makes them perfect for specific uses. Without the glare of large windows, these spaces are ideal for home theaters, media rooms, or quiet, distraction-free home offices. You can also utilize smart lighting design or install an egress window well to create a space that feels bright and welcoming, even in areas with limited natural sunlight.

How much value does a finished basement add to my home?

On average, homeowners see a return on investment (ROI) of around 70% when finishing a basement. Beyond the monetary resale value, it adds “livable square footage” that makes your home more attractive to potential buyers who need extra room for recreation, work, or guests.

Is finishing my basement a better investment than building an addition?

Generally, yes. Finishing a basement is almost always less expensive and less disruptive to your daily life than constructing a new home addition. Since the structure (foundation, walls, and ceiling joists) is already in place, your budget is allocated directly toward the interior finish rather than the exterior shell. Plus, you gain significant living space without losing yard space.

How are showerheads classified and what types are available?

Showerheads, which control water pressure and spray patterns, are classified in two ways:

  1. By mount position:
    • Fixed showerheads are mounted directly to a shower wall.
    • Hand-set showerheads are also wall-mounted but feature a hose, allowing you to maneuver the spray to various angles and making cleaning easier.
    • Ceiling-mounted showerheads deliver water from above at low or medium pressure.
  2. By control settings:
    • Single-setting: Offers one constant spray setting and pressure.
    • Multi-setting: Provides variable spray patterns and pressures, ranging from fine mists to beads.
    • Rainfall: This is a highly desired single-setting showerhead type that simulates showering under a gently cascading waterfall.
    • Shower tower: This system features several vertically oriented jets and nozzles that can be adjusted to provide a full-body spa experience, akin to a standing jacuzzi.