April 2017 - Bruzzese Home Improvements

Laminate Floors: Tips to Choose, Benefits and More

April 30, 2017adminDIY Projects, home improvement, Home Improvement Tipsflooring, home improvement, home trends, interior designLeave a comment

The world of interior designing is highly unstable as new trends are constantly introduced and adopted by people all over the world. There are several types of wall features, upholstery patterns, seating arrangements as well as flooring options to choose from for your home to make it look stunning. All you have to do is make sure that the overall look is in harmony and the different elements do not look incongruent when viewed as a whole.

Recently, laminate floor options have become popular globally. These are also preferred by DIY interior designing enthusiasts as well as by the professionals. This is because these types of floors are extremely easy to work with and can be installed easily as well. Before delving into some of the major benefits of laminate flooring, let’s look at what exactly it is and how to pick the right type.

What Are Laminate Floors?

These are made from several layers of synthetic products such as plastic or engineered wood which are placed on top of each other in layers. The layers are attached to each other by the process of “lamination” and this is how these floors get the name. These floors are specifically designed to be aesthetic and affordable at the same time and offer several options to choose from. There are four distinct layers of a laminated floor:

The bottom-most layer is called the backer layer and it provides support and stability to the entire structure.
Above this is core layer which gives the laminate structure and makes it dent-resistant.
On top of core layer is the décor layer that creates the look of tile, stone, or wood. A printed image does this.
Lastly, the top-most wear layer keeps the floor resistant to scratches and protects it from stains, making it easy to clean. This layer contains aluminium oxide.

How to Choose the Right Type of Laminate Flooring?

Just like any other interior designing project, an important thing that you need to decide upon is the budget. This will help you determine the type of laminate floor, quality, and other related aspects. Things like how long you expect the flooring to last and how much area it is supposed to cover can be considered when settling a budget.
Most laminate floors are easy to install and can also be done without professional help. If you plan to install the floor yourself, make sure that you mention this to the dealer. There are several types of laminate floors that can be installed easily due to their durable interlocking system. These are also more durable.
Lastly, the look of the floor design must go well with the rest of the interior décor. For instance, a natural wood pattern will go perfectly if the overall theme of the room includes natural elements. On the other hand, the same floor will look out of place if the room is filled with elegant and minimalistic décor.

Benefits of Using Laminate Flooring

The main reason why people are using laminate floors popularly is because they are extremely durable and come in a variety of price ranges to choose from. Installing them is an easy feat and the overall look is parallel to none.

An important thing to consider when deciding flooring types is its cleaning and maintenance requirements. You can maximize the returns on your laminate floor investment by making sure that it stays new and damage-free even after several years of use. Firstly, make sure that the cleaning solution you use is specifically for laminate floors. Secondly, it is recommended that you don’t slide heavy furniture on the surface of the floor as this can cause scratches or cracks. Carpets or rugs can be used wherever possible to keep the surface protected.

Author Bio

Zac Ferry is a good experience writer, blogger and social media promoter by providing valuable information which help readers to get more ideas. Follow him on Google+ and Twitter.

Learn how to Live the Lagom Lifestyle

April 29, 2017adminHome Improvement Tips, infographicDIY projects, home improvement, infographicLeave a comment

The Scandinavian lifestyle Hygge became a phenomenon in 2016 generating millions of books, articles, tweets and Instagram posts.

Hygge has no literal translation, but in general it meant ‘cosy lifestyle’. However, there’s a new Swedish lifestyle that is becoming even more popular than Hygge, it’s called Lagom, (pronounced la – as in bar and gom like Tom).

Lagom is considered to be the Goldilocks of lifestyles, adopting a ‘not too much, not too little, just right’ approach. It’s all about getting the right balance and, whereas Hygge is focused on momentary instances of bliss, Lagom is a way of living which creates happiness and getting the work/life balance just right.

Lagom revolves around the notion of making your life easier, more enjoyable and less expensive. Recycling, up-cycling, reducing energy consumption and sustainable living are the ethos of Lagom.

In the home, clean and simple décor that isn’t overly fussy or frilly highlights Lagom. Looking for eco-friendly alternatives is paramount, with the use of salvaged and reclaimed wood to create furnishings and replacing man-made fabrics and materials with natural ones.

Take a look at the infographic below to find out more about Lagom and how you can adopt this Swedish way of living to enrich your life in the most positive and beneficial ways.

Discover how to Live the Lagom Lifestyle by The Rug Seller by The Rug Seller

How to Incorporate Your Family’s Personality When Remodeling Your Home

April 28, 2017adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelinghome improvement, home remodeling, home trends, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

When you embark on a home remodeling project, your budget and the return on investment are factors to consider. You’ll also want to decide how to make the remodeling project work most effectively for you when it comes to creating more storage space, living space and increasing the overall functionality of your home. It’s also important that you find ways to incorporate your family’s personality into your new home design.

Remodeling the Kitchen

When you commit to a kitchen remodeling project, gaining work space and storage space are likely to be high on the priority list. Since the kitchen is often a gathering place for the family, there are some features and décor ideas that you might want to include in your new kitchen design. Adding a tech-friendly work space where kids can do homework, creating a cozy conversation area in the kitchen and adding a kitchen island are good ways to make the kitchen family-friendly. Unique features that are specific to your family can be incorporated in the décor. If your family loves Italian food, you could decorate the kitchen with a pizzeria or Italian décor theme. You could frame and hang a menu from your family’s favorite restaurant. You could include a chalkboard on one side of the island and let the kids provide an ever-changing art display in the room.

Adding a Family Room

Adding a family room to your home creates a myriad of opportunities to increase the amount of time your family spends together. This room could also become the room where your kid’s friends and your friends like to hang out when they visit. A fun and relaxed atmosphere should be a key goal when decorating a family room. It’s great if everyone has input in the decorating process. This is a good time to be creative and to think outside the box when looking for decorative features. Instead of shopping for new things, consider getting the family involved in some DIY projects so that your family room will be unique. Salvage yards, such as U-Pull & Pay, are great examples of a shopping source that can fuel your creativity. You can find DIY projects that turn car grills, headlights and gears into decorative features. Your design might include a reupholstered seat from a car as a sofa or a tire for a coffee table.

Add a Deck

Not every home remodeling project focuses on the interior of a home. Information from sources such as houselogic.com indicates that adding a deck to a home is a project that yields a high return on investment. Adding an outdoor kitchen and dining area to the deck design gives you additional space for family time and for entertaining. Choose furniture and outdoor accessories that reflect your family’s relaxation habits and favorite colors.

Remodeling Bedrooms

A bedroom remodeling project can involve everything from expanding the room to adding custom closets. The personality of the person who will be calling that room their own should be reflected in the décor. Bedrooms are an area where DIY projects are a great way to keep the decorating budget at a comfortable level and enable the person using the room to exercise some creative freedom. Lighting projects, wall art and furniture made from a repurposing project are just a few ways to personalize a bedroom.

The construction aspect of some remodeling projects may have to conform to building codes and regulations, but the decorative aspect can focus on the individual personalities of your family. Decorating gives you an opportunity to celebrate the completion of the project and to enjoy the renovation for years to come.

Major Home Renovation? Why Utilizing A Construction Supervisor Is Always A Good Idea

April 27, 2017adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelinghome improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

A major home renovation can be a stressful thing to take on all by yourself. Dealing with general contractors, materials suppliers, subcontractors, and workers can be a nightmare. However, when you hire a construction supervisor, the task of renovating your home can be a very doable task. Here are just some of the many reasons why utilizing a construction supervisor is always a good idea.

Avoid Workers Cutting Corners

When a major construction job is taking place, it can be easy for workers to cut corners. A construction supervisor will be able to inspect all of the work that is being done to your home and make sure no one is cutting corners.

Have Access To The Best Equipment

When hiring a construction supervisor you will have access to all of the best equipment in the industry. Companies like Freo Group can help you with the biggest jobs your home needs with the use of specialized equipment like cranes. It is important to hire a construction supervisor who is associated with a company that has the very best construction tools to offer.

Ensure That You Get The Best Deals On Materials

When you are taking on a major home renovation, it is important that you get the best deals on all materials. Construction supervisors will be able to get you much better deals than subcontractors or general contractors. This is due to their relationships with materials suppliers. Hiring a construction supervisor could end up saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run.

Eliminate The Hassle And Stress Of Getting Permits On Your Own

Trying to jump through all of the governmental hoops that are involved with getting the right permits for your major home renovation can be a load of stress. Construction supervisors have a great deal of experience dealing with agencies and getting the right permits on time. Hiring an expert will take all the stress off your shoulders.

Avoid Miscommunication Among Subcontractors

Subcontractors notoriously have a difficult time working together and scheduling properly. To avoid a mess of subcontractors arguing about who has access to the home at what times, hire a construction supervisor. These professionals have access to scheduling tools that they can share with general contractors and subcontractors alike. Getting everyone on the same page will move your renovation along must faster than when everyone’s schedules are clashing.

Top Considerations Before You Build A Fence

April 27, 2017adminHome Improvement Tips, infographicfencing, home improvement, infographicLeave a comment

Building a fence on your property will add to its value, privacy, and safety. But, before you began installation of your new fence, there are a few things you should consider before building your fence or having a fence installed for you. You must consider the purpose of building the fence. The purpose of your fence will help determine the material of your fence as well as the size and look. You must be able to properly plan for your fence. Proper planning will prevent you from wasting those materials, your time, and most importantly, your money. Installing a fence can be a bigger project than many people think so, to ease the stress of installing your new fence, First Fence Company created this guide on the top considerations you must know before you build a fence. You can view the guide below.

Top Considerations Before You Build A Fence guide created by First Fence Company

Author Bio

Chris Buenz is the owner of First Fence Company in Chicago, IL. With over 18 years of experience in both fencing and sales, Buenz is well versed in the Chicago area business market.

Garage Soundproofing: The Essentials

April 26, 2017adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelingDIY projects, garages, home improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

Being the largest and the most isolated room of the house, the garage makes a perfect location for loud activities, such as band practice, engaging in a hobby, etc. However, the noise you make is not a negligible problem, both for your household and your neighbors. That’s why soundproofing your garage is so important. On the one hand, it will keep outdoor noise outside, so you can work without distractions, while on the other hand, your neighbors will be pleased to hear you finally “turned down the volume” like they asked you to.

A room inside a room

The most effective way to soundproof any room is to make it double i.e. to build a room within a room. It might sound tricky, but the most important thing is that these two rooms should have minimal contact. Make three layers of drywalls and insulation to make sure it’s as effective as possible. First, hang a drywall inside the perimeter of the garage and add insulation. Then, frame another wall to fit the first one and then repeat the process. This framing can be done with wooden pallets or something similar, so it’s not that expensive as it might seem.

Mind the absorption and diffusion

In acoustics, absorption is a process in which a material or an object takes in sound energy and soaks up any unwanted frequencies. Diffusion, on the other hand, sends the reflections off in different directions and breaks up the sound; so, the best way to soundproof a room is to combine these two. This can be achieved by simply carpeting your garage and putting a nice sofa there, but you can take it to another level and cover your walls with absorption panels. You can purchase these or make them yourself – either way, your garage will be much better soundproofed and the acoustics in it will become much better.

Seal the door(s)

Regardless of how many doors your garage has, they can be a potential area for sound leakage. For starters, installing some kind of heavy door can be a good investment – it will lower the chances of sound escaping through it. If this is not an option, you can always make your current doors heavier and soundproof the edges. Check the seals and secure them with sealing strips to make sure your doors can be shut tightly. As for adding some weight to your door, there are special vinyl materials on the market that can ensure that effect and make sure your doors are well-insulated.

What about the windows?

Many people avoid putting windows on the garage simply because they let sound out easily. But, if you’re going to turn your garage into a workshop, then having at least some daylight is a must. There’s no need to block your windows and turn your garage into a prison cell when you can install double glazed windows. These kinds of windows are not just good for soundproofing, but for insulation and saving some money on the heating and cooling bills, as well. They work well in many different climates – for instance, installing double glazed windows in Melbourne is a must because of the city’s temperate oceanic climate and frequent temperature variations.

Don’t forget about ventilation

Once you sealed all the leaks and made your garage very well-insulated, it’s important not to forget about ventilation. This is important not just for breathing but also for preventing mold from accumulating – without proper ventilation, moisture in your garage will damage your equipment or whatever you decide to keep in there. Having an air vent is necessary, but the trouble is that they can let sound out, too. Make an MDF acoustic box and place it over your vent and you won’t have to worry about it.

Once you’ve done this, you can be sure that your garage is completely soundproof. Now, it’s your turn to relax and engage in your favorite activity. It’s time to make some noise without disturbing anyone!

A Guide To Determine Your Ideal TV Viewing Distance

April 25, 2017adminEntertaining, For Fun, infographicinfographicLeave a comment

Thanks to technology, sometimes it almost feels as if we’re standing shoulder to shoulder with the movie characters and athletes on our TV screens. Enjoying the best possible viewing experience is easy when the right size TV is set up at the proper distance from your favorite viewing spot. This distance, however, can vary among individuals — some may like being up close for a more “immersive” experience, or adjustments might be needed for vision problems.

Here’s a look at what size TVs are best for which types of rooms, along with a guide for what viewing distances are best for which screen sizes:

Infographic courtesy of Conn’s HomePlus.

Reasons for Choosing Aluminum Security Screens

April 24, 2017adminHome Improvement Tips, Home Securityhome improvement, home trends, SafetyLeave a comment

People choose aluminum security screens because they are less prone to rusting. These screens keep the bugs on the outside and ensure that only the breeze gets in. Materials used in aluminum security screens are important. These screens are manufactured using aluminum and the mesh is made with the help of structural alloy or stainless steel that is of the marine grade. The mesh is very strong. Hence, it does not let any intruders inside.

Apart from that, you can install these screens as an additional security measurement in your home and commercial places. People now install these screens at their main entrance and windows to protect their family from intruders. On the other part, when you install these security screens at your window and door, you can keep open your doors and windows during daytime hours and enjoy your garden views. Natural lights and airflow will enter through these meshes and it will help to prevent germ and bacteria from affecting your house.

Safety standards for aluminum security screens – aluminum is a sturdy material and it is difficult to break these security screen door and windows by any intruder. So, when you install these, you will stay protected in your house.

Aesthetics provided by the security screens – These screens are of the narrow sightline and can easily blend with the design of the building and overall it looks like a regular window screen made of cloth or a door for storms.

Corrosion free – The frame is made up of aluminum and hence it is free of any kind of corrosion. These screens can provide you the best longevity and you do not need to pay any additional amount for the maintenance purpose of these security screens.

Other benefits of aluminum security screens are –

Privacy: These screens are very popular because of their ability to give better privacy to. The angle and thickness of the mesh ensure that it is very hard for the folks passing by to see what is inside the property. This ensures that the users get a total view of the outside while eyes from the outside can be completely blocked. The mesh for security can be customized based on the needs of the household.

Decoration: Security screen doors can add a level of style and sophistication to the entire property. This is not the reason why people usually buy this, but it certainly adds a level of style when the user decides to make the investment. Improving the first impression in the home is very important for most people; and the front door is something that is noticed at the first time.

Aluminum security screens can save your power consumption cost:

The other type of benefit added by these screens is that they help in reducing the entire energy cost of the home. This is done with two methods: one by providing protection against solar energy loss and the other is by blocking the penetration of UV rays. Aluminum security screens also add another layer between the home and the outside natural environment. This additional layer traps the heat from the sun and ensures that the rays do not penetrate the house. So, it will help you to keep your rooms cool all the time. Similarly, during winter, huge amount of natural lights can enter through these screens, and it will provide you with more warmth. So, in both ways, this screen will minimize your electric consumption bill.

These factors allow the individual to understand how important these security screens and the level of functional stability they provide to users using this. There are many companies in the world that provide good screens and once all the areas fall into place the user should take the plunge and purchase the screen.

Author Bio:

Zoe Sewell is a passionate writer to write about Home improvement, Business and Automotive with have some helpful information for his readers. View the social networks of website at Google+, Twitter and Facebook.

How to Remodel Your Basement One Room at a Time

April 23, 2017adminBasement renovation, home improvement, Home Improvement Tipsbasement, basement renovation, home improvement, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

When you need more space but you like your current home, remodeling the basement is a great option. This solution avoids the need to expand up or out, which may not be an option. As you make your plans to remodel the basement into a living space, keep these four important tips in mind.

Waterproofing the Walls and Floors

Basements are at an increased risk for dampness because of their contact with the soil. Waterproofing the perimeter walls and flooring are important steps in the basement remodeling process. This can be accomplished through installing a perimeter drain system, reinforcing the walls and coating them with a waterproof sealant. On the exterior side of the basement, strengthening piers and additional waterproofing materials can be applied.

Installing a Sump Pump

Installing a sump pump before finishing your basement is also important to the remodeling process. The sump pump removes water collected in a pit by the perimeter drain system. Sump pumps are essential in areas with high water tables. The pump works to prevent a flood of water from seeping into your remodeled space.

Using an Air Compressor

Using an air compressor makes the remodeling process more efficient. An air compressor can be used to power key tools, which is helpful in a poorly-ventilated basement. Some companies, like Kruman Equipment Company, know how helpful these machines can be for remodeling projects. The compressor can operate drills and other hand tools so that no emissions are created. Compressors are also ideal for lifting heavy items and for clearing dust and dirt out of tight spaces.

Putting Up Interior Walls and Ceiling Tiles

Once the space is waterproofed, interior walls and ceiling tiles can be placed. The interior walls are usually framed with wood and finished with sheet rock or drywall. Ceiling tiles make for easier access to plumbing and air ducts to the rest of the house. You can arrange the interior walls to allow for a utility space, recreation room, workshop, laundry room or a “man cave” to suit your lifestyle or other plans for the space.

Remodeling your basement allows you to increase your living space without making any changes to the size of your house. It is an efficient and environmentally-friendly project that does not add to your carbon footprint, heating or air conditioning costs. The remodeling process for basements is complicated because of the potential for water intrusion, but the effort can be worthwhile because of your increased enjoyment of your home. The right tools and some helpful professionals will ensure a successful project.

What Preventative Maintenance Does an HVAC System Require?

April 22, 2017adminHome Improvement Tips, Home Maintenancehome improvement, home maintenance, springLeave a comment

Maintaining your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system helps to lower your monthly energy bills. Preventive maintenance also extends the system’s lifespan and protects breakdowns that make an impact on your comfort. There are four key steps to HVAC preventive maintenance that should be performed at least twice per year.

Changing the Air Filter

Changing the air filter is essential to an HVAC system’s performance, efficiency and longevity. The air filter is usually housed in its own chamber or within the air blower portion of the system. It may be framed with cardboard and disposable, or it may be reusable. A reusable filter will be cleaned and put back into the unit. A disposable air filter will be replaced. The filter should be changed every 90 days.

Cleaning the Condensate Line

In air conditioners and heat pumps, the condensate line is responsible for draining the water that is condensed during a cooling cycle. The condensate line can grow mold and algae. If the growth gets too thick, the condensate line can become obstructed. If it gets obstructed, water can back up into the equipment and cause a malfunction. Cleaning the condensate line consists of bleaching the interior of the pipe, removing algae and mold and rinsing it with plain water.

Checking the Refrigerant

Air conditioners and heat pumps use a chemical refrigerant such as R-410-A. Some companies, such as Classic Air and Heating, know that if the refrigerant tubing or chamber develops a leak, the system will not operate efficiently. The system could freeze up or simply blow room-temperature air. HVAC technicians use special equipment to check the level of the refrigerant. If it is low, the refrigerant can be charged after the leak is found and repaired.

Cleaning and Lubricating Motors and Fans

Furnaces, air conditioners, ventilation units and dehumidifiers all have motors and fans. The motors and fans can collect dust and debris that inhibits their motion. These parts are cleaned and lubricated during a maintenance visit. Proper lubrication of the motors and fans reduce the risk of overheating and minimize the amount of noise made by the unit while it operates.

HVAC maintenance should be performed by a licensed, bonded and insured provider. It is a good idea to schedule maintenance for the air conditioner in the spring and a checkup for the furnace in the autumn. Heat pumps and other equipment that is used all year long should be serviced twice per year, also in the autumn and spring to identify and repair any defects.

Call Us