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Improving Your Home with Marie Kondo’s 50 Quotes – Infographic

April 19, 2019August 3, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementsinfographic, Home Organization Tipshome organization, infographicLeave a comment

Improving your home can come in many different shapes and forms and not that surprisingly, the amount of clutter and mess you have in your home can have a negative effect on yours and your family’s everyday life. The space in which you choose to sleep in, relax in, dine in, work in, play in should be designed to how you want to feel. For example, having a cluttered living room means you’re less likely to be able to switch off and fully relax, as you’ll be distracted by the mess or looking at things which you know you need to sort out. It really can make a world of difference having a cleaner, tidier and more organized home.

This is where Marie Kondo (founder of KonMari Media, Inc), organizing consultant and Netflix phenomenon, comes in. Not heard of her before? Well, she pretty much has an organizing method for every single item you can think of, and her methods really do get results. Yes, it might sound a little too good to be true but once you get started and start seeing even the slightest results, you’ll want to dive fully in and clear your clutter once and for all. Oh, and just a heads up that you will want to get your family involved as well, as trying to tackle your family’s clutter on your own just isn’t going to work.

As well as having her very own show on Netflix, Marie Kondo is the author of the bestselling book – The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. The below infographic, from JD Williams, actually shares 50 of those quotes about organizing in an easy-to-read and easy-to-remember visual format! Whether you’re already familiar with the KonMari method or you’ve never heard of it before, you’ll be able to use these quotes as a starting point for your decluttering journey, or even using the quotes as a checklist. Ready to get started with KonMari-ing your own home? Check out the below infographic…

Marie Kondo Infographic

4 Ways to Prevent Symptoms of an Aging Home

April 17, 2019December 20, 2023Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, Home Maintenancehome improvement, home maintenanceLeave a comment

4 Ways to Prevent Symptoms of an Aging Home

If you live in a house that was built around 1970 or before, you’ll probably start seeing some telltale signs of its age. You can easily remedy these symptoms and prevent them from recurring, although some may be costly.

If you’re able to take out a home equity loan, some of these fixes are well worth the investment to keep your home in top shape. Other remedies are simple upgrades and replacements that are good do-it-yourself projects to save money.

Upgrade the wallpaper

If you walk into a room and start having 60s flashbacks, it’s time to change the wallpaper or apply a fresh coat of primer and paint to bring it current.

Many older homes have seriously outdated wallpaper or possibly 60s or 70s style murals painted on the walls. If you think you may sell your home in the future, you definitely want something fresh.

Get rid of the wood paneling

Unless you designed your home to have the look and feel of a rustic cabin, there is no need for the old wood paneling anywhere in your home. You can remedy this by replacing the wood paneling with shiplap. Shiplap will give your home a beautiful upgrade that will withstand the test of time.

Replace the Carpet

Even the most expensive carpet will age as the home ages, especially in heavily trafficked areas. If you or the previous owner had small kids or animals, the carpet no doubt took a beating over the years. If replacing the carpet isn’t in your budget, you may want to consider tearing the carpet out and refinish the wood flooring underneath.

You can also opt for faux or laminate wood flooring instead of refinishing the old original wood flooring in the house to bring your home up to date and hide its age.

Upgrade the Windows

Time for an upgrade. Or maybe your house doesn’t have any shutters at all. Adding or replacing old shutters with aluminum shutters will do wonders for the appearance of older homes.

You may need to replace the older windows too so the new shutters won’t look as though you’re trying to distract from the old windows.

These are just a few of the visible signs of an aging home that are relatively easy to fix. If you’re inspecting an older home with the intention of buying it, you also need to look into the home’s electrical, plumbing and heating systems and look for any signs of termite or flood damage.

If your home was well cared for, these simple fixes may be all you need to bring your home out of the dark ages.

Individual Upgrades: 4 Ways to Customize Your Home

April 15, 2019April 4, 2019Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvementhome improvementLeave a comment

Individual Upgrades 4 Ways to Customize Your Home

Customizing your home doesn’t need to be a time-consuming, stressful, or expensive process. With a little bit of planning and some hard work, you should be able to completely revitalize the appearance of your home in a matter of weeks. Here is a look at four upgrades that are going to turn a bland house into an unforgettable getaway.

Crown Molding

One of the easiest ways to give the inside of your home a new look is to install crown molding. Also known as cornices, crown molding is decorative trim that can give a room a little bit of personality. Crown molding can also be placed around windows, doors, pillars, and pony walls. You should be able to install crown molding in a single afternoon with nothing more than a few basic tools.

Built-In Shelves

There are a few different reasons why built-in shelves are so popular among homeowners. This project is should only take a few hours to complete, and it can add quite a bit of storage space to a plain wall. Before tackling this renovation, you must make sure that you won’t be coming close to any electrical wires or pipes. You should also add extra insulation if some of the fiberglass or cellulose is torn, matted, or damaged in any other way.

A New Garage Door

When it comes to giving your home a facelift, very few options are as appealing as installing a new garage door. Modern garage doors are relatively easy to install, but you should always hire a contractor for this project. Garage door springs are under an incredible amount of tension, and serious injuries might occur if you don’t have the proper tools and training. You might also want to consider installing a wireless sensor so that you can control your garage door with a mobile app.

Accent Walls

An accent wall is a simple way to customize your home without making any major structural changes. Depending on what type of design you are interested in, you might be able to add an accent wall in just a few hours with some inexpensive tools and supplies. This upgrade is a good option for neutral rooms that have relatively bland walls. Some of the best materials for accent walls include faux brick, wood pallets, and old tiles.

These four suggestions are only the tip of the iceberg, and you should constantly be on the lookout for new ways to customize and upgrade your home. In addition to these few projects, you might also want to consider adding a fresh layer of paint to the walls, repaving the driveway, and hiring a landscaper to improve the yards.

4 Ways to Prepare Your Home for a Natural Disaster

April 12, 2019March 27, 2019Bruzzese Home ImprovementsHome Maintenance, Home Improvement Tipshome improvement, home maintenanceLeave a comment

natural disaster

Although you might receive a warning about a natural disaster that’s headed to your area, you might not know the severity of how it will impact your home. With a little planning, you can prepare your home so that it can withstand the high winds or flooding rains that occur with a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or a snowstorm. Keep in mind that there are some disasters that you can’t prevent and that could overtake your home, but you can still plan ahead and prepare to keep your family safe.

Secure the Windows

One of the first areas of your home that you can start with when you want to prepare your home for a natural disaster would be the windows. If there are high winds outside, then anything can get blown through the glass and damage your home. Storm windows are a good option as they are often thicker and offer more support than traditional windows.

Basement Security

There are a few things that you can do with your basement to prepare for a disaster. This is a location in your home where you can store a supply kit and create a safe area for your family. You can also focus on basement waterproofing so that the belongings that you store for your safety aren’t damaged and to keep the foundation of your house from being damaged by water.

Strapping Down

Whether it’s an earthquake or a disaster with high winds, you can prepare the belongings in your home by strapping them down so that they are as protected as possible. Make sure your water heater and other large appliances are secured to the wall or the floor so that they don’t shift around as much during a disaster. You can also attach flexible connections to appliances that require gas so that they can easily be disconnected from the energy source if needed. Your television and other valuable electronics can also be secured to the walls to keep them in place.

Generators

Sometimes, you might lose power for a few days during a disaster. If this happens, you can be prepared by having a generator in your home. Your generator can be used for the basic electrical components that you need to operate until the power is restored. This simple device can help to keep you warm and allow you to cook for your family.

You never know exactly what a disaster will bring. It could be several days of cold weather and snow or could involve high winds and downed trees. If you’re prepared for any disaster, then you can focus on keeping your family safe and secure during the event.

Steel Yourself for Exterior Renovations: 4 Advantages of Installing a Metal Roof

April 10, 2019January 10, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, Roofinghome improvement, roofingLeave a comment

metal roof

When it’s time to replace or update your roof, metal is the way to go. It offers multiple advantages over more common asphalt shingles. While a bit more expensive than shingles, metal roofing is long-lasting, low maintenance, eco-friendly, and versatile.

Long-Lasting

Metal roofs can last 50 years or more. That’s why they have become and remain such a popular roofing option. The metal sheds water efficiently, keeping it away from the roof deck below. Unlike asphalt shingles, the number of connections between the roof material and deck is minimal, reducing the chance of a leak forming.

Unlike other roofing materials, metal roof panels don’t split, crack, rot, warp, or chip. They also prevent rodent and termite infestation. They can take impacts without damage. FEMA recommends metal roofs for areas prone to hurricanes, like Florida.

Low Maintenance

One of the most popular reasons people choose metal roofing is because it requires minimal to zero maintenance. If the panels get dirty, rain will usually clean it off without human intervention.

Further, panel finish is made to endure hot sun, torrential rain, and even ice and snow (though that may not be an issue where you live). It will keep looking good for decades to come.

Environmentally Friendly

Metal roofs are 100% recyclable, as are the fasteners used to hold it tight to the roof. Metal roofing panels include up to 60% recycled material. Metal roofing can be recycled over and over again without degradation.

Homeowners may save up to 40% on their heating and cooling costs, after installing a metal roof. That’s because the roof reflects sunlight away during the summer and keeps heat inside during the winter.

Versatile

Metal roofs can be cut to fit any roof style or shape. The edges are easily capped with trim to provide a finished look. You can find panels with a ribbed, crimp, or standing seam look.

Today’s metal roofing comes in a multitude of colors, ranging from white to black to brown to blue, plus many more in between. This allows you to coordinate your roof color to your home’s body and trim colors, which enhances your homes curb appeal.

With so many advantages, metal roofing is definitely the way to replace or update your roof. What’s more, DIY metal roofs allow you to gain all the benefits at a lower price. You should especially consider metal roofing if you live in Hurricane Alley or in another area that frequently experiences high wind speeds.

4 Ways to Improve Your Home Security without Breaking Your Budget

April 6, 2019October 31, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsHome Securityhome improvement, home securityLeave a comment

4 Ways to Improve Your Home Security without Breaking Your Budget

Ensuring that your home is properly secured can make a world of difference when it comes to preventing intruders. Often, many homeowners underestimate the importance of security, which can leave them vulnerable to break-ins. Conducting the proper research and deciding what preventative measures work best for you will allow you to create a safer environment for you and your family. The following information provides a closer look at four helpful tips to improve your home security without spending a lot of extra money.

Purchase Doorbell Cameras

Doorbell cameras have become very popular over the last several years. These helpful devices allow you to see who is at your door before answering it. Often, these products will allow you to view live video feed from your smartphones, which is incredibly convenient. Also, many of these can be purchased for less than $100, which makes them a very affordable option.

Train Your Dogs to Bark at Strangers

Many people overlook the benefits of training your dogs to bark at strangers. Learning to properly train them will help them to learn to notify you of intruders, which will give you time to create a plan, such as calling the police. You just need to ensure that your dogs are well taken care of and treated like a part of the family, and they will be loyal to you. Training them to do this is free if you do it on your own. You just need to teach them to bark and stop barking on command, show them the perimeters of your property, and have them practice barking when people come near your yard. It is important to remember that training them to bark is different from being a guard or attack dog. These types of dogs are very dangerous and shouldn’t be viewed as pets.

Buy Alarms and Sensors

Alarms and sensors for your windows and doors can be very beneficial. Typically, these products are included in home security packages. However, if you are on a budget, you can also purchase and install these on your own. Essentially, the sensors will alert you whenever doors and windows are opened, which can give you time to react properly to the situation. These can be purchased at many retail stores for roughly $10 a piece, which means they are a great choice if you are trying to save money.

Properly Secure Your Windows and Doors

You need to also ensure that you have sturdy windows and doors that will help to prevent break-ins. Windows made from tempered glass and Plexiglas are much more difficult to break. You will also want to make sure all of your locks are properly functioning. You can even take things to the next level and purchase window bars. If you feel it’s time to update your windows and doors to make them more secure, you may want to research windows and doors in NJ in order to find a professional who can assist you. Also, properly securing your doors will be far less expensive than purchasing a security system, paying for installation, and monthly fees, which really add up over time.

Overall, home security is a very important factor that many homeowners overlook. Taking the extra time to conduct the proper research and buy the necessary products and services can potentially save you or one of your family member’s lives. Even if you think you live in a safe neighborhood, it is always best to be prepared in the event of a break-in.

4 Tips For Choosing The Right Roofing Material For Your Environment

April 1, 2019January 19, 2021Bruzzese Home ImprovementsRoofinghome improvement, roofingLeave a comment

4 Tips for Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Environment

One of the most important components of a house is its roof. The roof truly protects you from the elements more so than actual walls. Unfortunately, all roofs aren’t created the same. The climate in which you reside can play a huge role on the specific type of roof that you may need. Thanks to modern technology, roofs can come in various styles such as rubber, asphalt shingles, metal, slate and wood shingles. The options are nearly endless, but for your protection, you should hire a local licensed contractor, like Leon Construction, to provide you with trustworthy advice for which material to choose. Below are 4 different types of roofing materials and suggestions for when they should be used.

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are probably the most widely used roofing material in North America because they can hold up very well to a range of weather conditions. Asphalt shingles are produced by various brands, and they’re generally found on older homes. Whether it’s rain, snow, moderate wind or hail, these composite shingles are tried and true. Durability and price plays a huge role into why so many homeowners choose this material. Depending on the brand of choice, asphalt shingles have a lifespan between 10 to 25 years. On the other hand, asphalt shingles do not hold up well to dry and extremely heated climates because the material will begin to crack.

Slate & clay tiles

Slate and clay tiles are more of a regional style of roofing that can generally be found in the Southwest. Many Spanish-style homes are equipped with this material because it holds up really well to dry-heat conditions. Slate & tile provides protection against heavy rain, and it can offer better cooling attributes in warm weather. If you reside in cold-weather climates, then you shouldn’t use this roofing material. Extremely cold temperatures can cause this material to crack and lead to water leakage.

Metal roofing

Metal roofing is by far the most durable and complete type of roofing that’s currently available on the market today. This particular material can come in a variety of hues to match your home’s exterior color and style. Though the metal is lightweight, it’s highly durable. Whatever Mother Nature throws at you whether it’s snow, hail, heavy rain, extreme heat, sleet or frigid temperatures, this material can protect your home more effectively than its counterparts. Try to stay away from corrugated-metal because it utilizes a number of fasteners which can lead to leaks and other issues.

Green roofing

For those who want to reduce their environmental impact, green roofing materials can be a good option. They can provide thermal insulation, which is good for extreme weather climates. They can absorb rainwater to ensure there won’t be any leaks in your roof in rainy climates. A green roof can offer a more natural look and can provide an environment for you to grow plants or moss to further help with oxygen production in the air.

These are four of the most popular styles of roofing in North America. Depending on your exact location, a professional roofer will offer the best possible solution to meet your home’s specific needs.

Full House: Should I Build up or Add On?

March 29, 2019Bruzzese Home Improvementshome addition, home improvementaddition, home improvementLeave a comment

Full House Should I Build up or Add On

Families change over time. Typically, they grow larger. As this happens, the needs of that family change. While a home may have been an adequate living space when the family was smaller, this may no longer be the case after you have several kids and your parents move in with you. Many people can’t afford to move into a bigger place. So, one of the only options for many families is to expand the living space they do have.

In terms of a home expansion project, you have two choices. You can either build up or add on horizontally. Here the advantages and disadvantages of each choice.

Benefits of Building Up

One choice is to expand your house by building up. This of course means adding an extra level to either the main structure of your home to the garage to create extra living space. The main benefit here is you won’t lose any of your yard when completing this kind of expansion. You may also be able to avoid zoning restrictions that could be in place on the square footage of the floor of your home.

Disadvantages of Building Up

However, despite the benefits, there are distinct disadvantages to building up. Building a new stable floor can be difficult. Even if you find a good deal on timber for sale, you will likely require a contractor. Building a new staircase can take up a lot of room in the lower level you may not want to sacrifice. Building over your garage can also produce the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning if a car runs in the garage for long enough even with the garage door open.

Benefits of Adding On

Your second choice is to add on to your home by building out horizontally. This method may be preferable because it causes the least disruptions to your existing home. You won’t, for example, have to alter the existing foundation. Instead, you just lay more foundation. You’ll also have much more freedom to do what you want with a completely new addition.

Disadvantages of Adding On

Of course there are also possible disadvantages to expanding your home horizontally as well. You will of course lose some of your yard that you may have wanted to preserve. There may also be zoning limitations that introduce a legal element to expanding your house in this way.

Families grow and so do their needs. If your home doesn’t have enough space, certainly consider an expansion project. Put a lot of consideration into whether it would be best to expand horizontally or vertically. Each choice has its own advantages and disadvantages.

6 Signs You Need to Replace & Upgrade Your Windows ASAP

March 28, 2019December 2, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsHome Improvement Tips, Home Maintenancehome improvement, home maintenance, replacement windows, windowsLeave a comment

windows

Your house cannot talk to you if it needs fixing; however, it gives you different signs if something wrong. Your windows are a particularly communicative element of your residence. Although they do not last forever, well-maintained and high-quality windows can last for two decades or even more.

Windows are tough but they aren’t immune to wear and tear or deterioration. Even if you give them the highest level of care, a window replacement or upgrade may still be necessary eventually.

So if your windows are more than a decade years old, you must listen to what they are trying to tell you. This way, you will know when they must be replaced or upgraded. Here are some of the important signs to watch out for.

1. Your energy bill becomes remarkably high

Your windows will provide some heat during the cold months by letting in sunlight. But if you have drafty windows, your energy bills can increase by up to 25 percent.

So it is a must for you to replace and upgrade them and opt for energy-efficient windows. Storm windows, caulking, and weatherstripping can be used to prevent air leakage from outside.

However, you should not assume that all windows are created equal. It is crucial for you to consider your specific needs, especially your location. Consult reputable window specialists in your area to know which types of windows best suit your property.

2. They are broken, damaged or warped

There are instances where repairing windows is more practical than replacing them entirely. If your windows need new hardware or weatherstripping, a repair can be the best option. But for damaged, broken, or warped window frames or sashes, window specialists recommend replacement instead of repair. With repair work, your windows may remain operable but they will surely develop problems sooner.

3. Noise easily penetrates your home interior

Aside from cold air, sound can also penetrate through failing windows.

If you are living in a warm climate, you may notice the noise before you even notice a draft. Most property owners who have invested in new windows claim an increased sense of quietness, which is a major advantage if your home is close to highways or airports or is located in a busy neighborhood.

A double-pane window does well in blocking sounds and offers an added buffer zone between your home’s interior and exterior.

4. It feels drafty

One of the warning signs that your windows need replacement is discomfort. If you feel air coming through a closed window, the seals are already failing.

Remember that slight draft is not a minor issue because it can throw off the temperature indoors, making your HVAC system work harder just to keep up.

Though you may use insulating curtains, weatherstripping, and caulk to stave off heat loss, these are not permanent solutions. The best thing you can do to a drafty window is to replace it.

5. Condensation builds up in between glass panes

If your windows fog up and there is condensation build-up inside their glazings, you are looking at seal failure. Moisture enters the space in between the glass panes if the seals fail.

You may even notice some ice and frost build-up during the colder months. When your window seal is broken, its insulating capacity is extremely compromised. Window replacement is your only option.

6. You have trouble opening or closing windows

Stuck windows are not just an annoyance but are a potential hazard as well. A closed window may refuse to open in case of an emergency while an open window may suddenly slam shut.

If your windows’ open/close mechanisms are poorly functioning, this is a sign that your windows are out of balance. This can leave your home vulnerable to water, air and other particles getting in and out of your property.

By replacing worn-out windows, you can definitely create a more reliable, stronger barrier between you and your home exterior.

A window replacement project can be costly, but it is worth it. New windows can help you save money on your monthly energy bills, and add to your level of comfort at home. You can actually get years of quality service from properly installed windows. If you are lucky, you might not even worry about replacing your windows in the duration of your stay in your house.

However, if you ever need to replace your windows, make sure to have them installed by reputable window manufacturers. This is your best guarantee that your windows will leave you worry-free for decades to come.

AUTHOR BIO

Carmen Velilla is an experienced Brand Manager currently overseeing the strategic development of multiple brands as part of the Epwin Group. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (ACIM), specializing in Corporate Communication and Digital Marketing.

Need a New Look? 5 Kitchen Updates that Will Make a Big Difference

March 28, 2019December 20, 2023Bruzzese Home ImprovementsKitchen Remodeling, kitchen renovationskitchen remodeling, kitchensLeave a comment

Need a New Look 5 Kitchen Updates That Will Make a Big Difference

While you’re preparing meals and serving food in your kitchen, you might begin to look at the dull features that you see on a daily basis. With a little creativity, you can easily transform this busy room of your home to give it a new and refreshing look. Before you start updating, you should have a plan in mind so that you can complete all of the work at one time instead of taking numerous breaks.

Faucets

One of the easiest kitchen remodeling updates that you can perform is to change the faucets. While you’re changing them to a design that is a bit more modern, consider a few of the smart technologies that are available. A touch-sensitive feature allows for moving your hands under the faucet for the water to come on or gently tapping the faucet with your hand instead of touching the handles.

Crafting Waves

The walls in your kitchen might be a little boring, but with the right backsplash design, you can have a kitchen that you want to cook in every day. Metallic designs are popular, especially behind the stove and sink. Install the backsplash in one area where you want everyone’s eye to go to instead of covering all of the walls with the material as this will create the biggest statement for the kitchen.

Don’t Dodge the Drawers

When you’re looking for one certain item in the kitchen, it never fails that it’s buried somewhere in a drawer that you don’t use. Organize the drawers that are in the kitchen by adding dividers. You can also install pull-out drawers and cabinets in hidden spaces so that you utilize every area of the kitchen.

Adding Lights

Illuminate the counters with a simple update that makes it easier to see what you’re doing when you’re preparing meals. LED lights that are attached underneath the cabinets above the counters where you work most can add a soft glow to that area of the room. The light can also highlight a special decoration that you want others to see when they walk into the kitchen.

Changing the Ceiling

If you want to completely transform your kitchen, then consider changing the design of the ceiling. Remove the old material that is used that can sometimes create a washed out appearance. Replace this material with a bold design and one that shines as it can add brilliance and a special touch to your home.

The kitchen is likely the most popular room in your home. It should be one that features modern designs that make cooking and spending time with your family enjoyable. Take a step back to get a better perspective of what you can change in your kitchen before completing updates so that this room in your house is one that speaks volumes.

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