CKBRs (Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodelers) provide remodeling services specific to kitchens and bathrooms. To become a CKBR, candidates must possess skills and knowledge focused on the requirement of materials, layout, and installation of kitchens and bathrooms.

To qualify for the CKBR designation, applicants must meet all of the following:

• Be employed by or own a firm engaged in remodeling kitchens and bathrooms
• Adhere to NARI’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
• Have a minimum of five years continuous experience in the remodeling industry
• Have completed 4 kitchens and/or bathrooms per year
• Completed 16 hours of continuing education
• Successfully completed a comprehensive application that details their background and experience
• Successfully complete a one-day written examination on business, construction, and remodeling practices related to kitchen and bathrooms
• Submit all required application materials and fees

What is NARI?

NARI is a not-for-profit trade association representing the largest network of professional remodelers in the United States, with over 7,500 members nationwide and 60 local chapters.

As the only national association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry, NARI brings together leading trade professionals from all over the country. NARI promotes ethical and sound business practices for the benefit of America’s homeowners as well as for the industry.

NARI was founded in March of 1983 with the merger of the National Remodelers Association (NSA) and the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC).

NARI Mission:

To develop and sustain programs that expand and unite the industry, and that ensure its continued growth and security.

NARI Vision:

To become the primary remodeling resource for homeowners and professional members alike by providing information, education, and mentorship to the community at large.

Although it is not a new concept in the tile industry, tile manufactured to simulate wood has come a long way in emulating its appearance to the real thing.  Homeowners are now falling in love with the look due to advances in manufacturing technology and glazing techniques.  It captures your attention and the ease of maintenance and durability keep that attraction alive.  You will love these “wood” floors!

Porcelain will never scratch, dent, splinter or warp and will look as new 20 years from now as they do the day of installation.  No need to ever spend money on refinishing.  Pair it up with a stain resistant grout and you have the ultimate performance in flooring. These features make it an ideal choice for a kitchen or bathroom where high traffic and exposure to water is present.

Color body porcelain tiles are available in a 6×24 shape like popular woods in the market and a rectified edge profile allows for a minimal grout joint, as close as 3mm! You can stagger the grout joints randomly like a real wood floor, set them in a brick pattern for a simpler look or lay out a herringbone pattern for a traditional flair.  I recommend using grout that is a shade darker than the tile itself to have a grout line that seems to disappear. Over a dozen colors of wood tiles are available with looks ranging from refined to rustic.

Thank you to Tana Lotzer from Minnesota Tile & Stone for this Design Tip! http://www.mntile.com/