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Can’t Reach? 3 Home Remodeling Ideas Shorter Individuals Will Appreciate

Can't Reach 3 Home Remodeling Ideas Shorter Individuals Will Appreciate

If you’re shorter than 5’3”, then you’re typically considered “short”. Any lower than 5’, and life can get a whole lot more challenging. Whether it is while driving, retrieving items from the top shelf at the supermarket, or even at home, there can always be an issue related to your height waiting to jump out at you.

While the environment outside of your home can’t always be controlled, you can take action by changing your living space. In this article, we will go over three home remodeling ideas that shorter individuals will appreciate.

Lower Your Kitchen Counters

This is first on the list, and for many folks, it is the most important. We spend a great deal of our waking time in and around the kitchen. Whether you are frying up some eggs, chopping shallots, or just pouring a glass of orange juice, it is important that your kitchen is adapted to your height or the height of those that live with you. That is why lowering your counters might be beneficial and may help to make it easier for you to go about your culinary tasks.

By doing so, however, you may need to consider other changes that will need to be made—such as the height of appliances (stoves, dishwashers, etc.) and seeking out plumbing services if the piping connected to the sink would need to be altered as well.

Keep in mind, though, that not everyone is as short as you, and so you shouldn’t lower the counters more than two or three inches. By lowering it that much, using the space will be more comfortable for you while still making it practical to be used by taller individuals. Any lower could also make it hard to sell your home in the future as taller buyers might need to remodel the kitchen to adjust to their comfortability.

Replace Higher Shelving & Cupboards

If you’re short, then you know that retrieving items that are stored higher up is a huge obstacle. You might even keep a stool in your kitchen to help you get things but that might not always be enough. Perhaps you even find yourself getting up onto the counters to help you with such tasks. If so, then it’s time to get rid of higher shelving and find other storage options.

Instead of cupboards in your kitchen, make use of your wall space by having lower shelves installed along any usable wall space in your kitchen/dining area. The same could be done in your closets, storage rooms, and bathrooms.

Install Steps in Necessary Areas

If lowering your kitchen counters or replacing shelving seems like too much of a remodel, then you might want to consider installing steps or raised platforms around your home. This is especially ideal if only one or two people are short and the rest of the household is taller. These steps should be about four to six inches tall and the same measures for width as well. These steps can be installed around the kitchen and bathroom areas at the base of the lower cupboards. Doing this will give shorter individuals the increased height that they need without being too much in the way of taller individuals.

Remodels are always tough, and when you throw lowering and raising levels into the process it gets even more complicated. However, with some planning and hard work remodeling for the benefit of shorter people is a definite possibility.

Cost-Effective Home Construction: The Essentials

new-home-construction

There is no going around the fact that building a house is quite pricey. It tends to be the largest investment one makes in life. Then again, there are many cost-effective tactics one can employ. They allow us to trim the spending without jeopardizing the whole project. There is no need to blow the budget buying from expensive showrooms. But, when going down this road, there are some additional responsibilities in the area of planning and due diligence. All these efforts pay off in the execution stage and especially when the work comes to an end. Here is an essential guide on how to make it happen.

Get your ducks in the row

You probably want your new home to be exactly what you envisioned. That is why you need to know which areas you can afford to skimp and where not to. To set the wheels into motion, come up with a sound budget. Identify opportunities to reduce material, labour, construction and operating costs. Right off the bat, figure out who you will need to hire. Doing everything yourself is hardly an option. However, actively participating in the building process can decrease labour costs and give you more oversight. Involve friends and family members in case they are willing to help and possess some know-how.

In any event, you will likely need services of designers, engineers, contractors, plumbers, electricians, architects, etc.  Here, note that clear and open communication is paramount to fruitful collaboration. For a peace of mind, do your homework to research contractors, their crew and subcontractors. Get familiar with main construction methods to optimize accordingly. Pay close attention to strategic material sourcing, construction techniques, installation, energy efficiency, material limitations and other frugal measures. Decide what really matters to you and what non-negotiables are.

Pieces of the frugal puzzle

Try to creatively source all materials and products. Be prepared to balance different priorities such as affordability, aesthetics and structural capacities. One of the most important things is to understand the cost grades of materials and trade-offs associated with the lower end of the price spectrum. Never sacrifice durability and longevity completely, as that could come to haunt you later. Save money by playing it smart: take advantage of standard construction dimensions and modules to minimize material waste. Consider versatile and affordable options such as prefabricated wood truss and joists.

floor plan

Bear in mind that the floor plan and layout are crucial aspects of home construction. You have to get them absolutely right. Thus, take your time to work out the room dimensions and the total size of the house for a detailed floor plan. It is highly advisable to invest in a precise laser level to obtain the most accurate measurements, even when dealing with unusually shaped rooms, landings, alcoves and hallways. An additional benefit is that it works both with metric and imperial units. You can include a garage as a separate measurement. In case your attic is a habitable space, include it as well.

Finally, there are some new trends and industry standards that can work to your advantage. Check out, for instance, advanced framing techniques. They facilitate faster and cheaper construction and lead to higher energy-efficiency. This is due to the fact that there is less timber overall and fewer pieces to install. Moreover, more space for insulation and decreased thermal bridge save money on utility bills in the future. This brings us to the point: always build with energy efficiency in mind. Insulate everything properly and have an airtight envelope. It will pay off in years to come.

new home

The best of both worlds

Well-conceived, affordable home design requires a whole lot of planning and organization. So, be mindful of how the home will get built. Make certain you use suitable materials and in an efficient manner. Make a list of everything you need and get creative a bit. Do not hesitate to get your hands dirty, but also rely on professionals. See to it that everyone is on the same page and aware of the overall goals and priorities. Take your chance to infuse the building with higher energy-efficiency to build a frugal lifestyle. Just be careful not to undermine the quality of work and materials. Measure twice and cut once.

How to Redesign Your Home without Breaking the Bank

home

If you strive for perfection or are growing tired of the same surroundings, refreshing your home might be the solution. But first, stop yourself from thinking it’s too expensive.  There are a few simple, affordable suggestions that will make noticeable differences to your home

Painting

Admittedly, it’s the most obvious, but we aren’t talking about just the walls here. A new coat of paint can do wonders for your floors as well. Don’t be afraid to tackle the task. You can revitalize old, wooden floors with just a little bit off effort. Bear in mind that you will also be able to afford higher quality paint in this way. Usually it would cost you 30% more if you hired a painter for the job.

A vintage entry lantern

This small, yet inexpensive detail in the form of a vintage lantern can add significant charm to your residence. There are plenty of options out there, even in the flea markets or garage sales. So, opt for the favorite one and watch your guests’ pleasant surprise.

Garden

As much as we’d all love to, hardly anyone actually finishes arranging their garden properly. If that has been your case, roll up your sleeves, clean the driveway and add some flower pots here and there. This will immediately change the overall appeal of the house.

Decorate your hallway

The hallway is the first room that you and your guests enter. Take a good look and give an honest answer. Does it really seem inviting? If the reply is no, there are plenty of things you could do. Try a new wall colour, hang a few paintings or photos or replace the old rug to ensure warmer atmosphere.

A new statement sofa

A living room is the space which is most occupied by all the family members, so you must be very careful about the enhancements you introduce. Changing just this piece of furniture is going to have a huge impact on the whole room in terms of style. Think about how it fill fit in with your new color scheme and read some tips on selecting a sofa.

Mirrors

While mirrors are usually bought with the purpose of admiring ourselves, they can also be used strictly for decorative purposes and making the room appear larger. A couple of mirrors in the right places and the space will feel more capacious and feel different.

Stairs

Usually, you can’t change their shape but what you could consider doing is buying an appealing low-cost stair runner, which will completely change the perception. You can go for different designs without having to invest too much in your new non-slip upgrade.

Art

A big painting acts as the centerpiece of every section of your home you introduce it to. It really sets the tone and mood for the space. Just by hanging one large work of art, you can even make painting the walls unnecessary (if you only wished to change the room, and not make it look clean). As for what kind of picture it is, it’s up to your taste and budget, but if you really wish to save on cash, you could do an abstract piece on canvas yourself.

Bedroom makeover

There is one simple way for your bedroom to appear brand new – simply rearrange the furniture! This will probably means you have an extra piece or two that should’ve been removed a long time ago. In case this sounds too complicated, simply change the throw pillows and buy a bedspread in a totally different color and pattern from the one you have right now.

With a couple of low budget alternatives and some DIY projects, you’ll have the feeling you’re living in an entirely new home.

How To Make Your Windows Stand Out – Infographic

Are you looking for ways to improve the appearance of your windows? There are many ways in which you can achieve drastic results and gain great looking windows.

Your windows are a massive investment into your home and they are often left undressed and bare. Adding even some colour to your frames can make the world of difference. Like many home renovation tasks, there are costly and cheap ways of going about it.

Plants are a natural and cost effective way to liven up your window space. It’s environmentally friendly and they will even clean the air within the house for you! If you’re looking for something with less maintenance then you can add some bold curtains or coloured blinds to lighten up your windows.

Window stickers are a great way to add design to your windows and good for distracting prying eyes that try to look into your home. We often only think of window stickers when it’s Christmas time but they are becoming increasingly popular as their design has become more sleek and modern.

There are bigger tasks like adding a window seat that can add a really cosy feeling to your room, but if you’re looking for a quick fix then this may not be the option for you.

Whatever you’re looking for, the infographic below will guide you through many inspirations that you can start using today!

How To Make Your Windows Stand Out - Infographic

 

Add a More Lavish Appeal to Your Backyard with These 4 Must-Have Features

Add a More Lavish Appeal to Your Backyard with These 4 Must-Have Features

Turning a bland backyard into an outdoor oasis doesn’t need to be an expensive or time-consuming process. For many homeowners, a few simple upgrades and additions will make all the difference. Here is a look at four must-have features that are going to transform your yard.

Hang Patio Misters

If you live in a particularly hot climate, then you should consider installing outdoor misters. You do have the option of permanently attaching misters to posts and awnings, but removable misters require much less work. In addition to being more affordable, removable misters are also much easier to clean. Outdoor misters should be thoroughly sanitized with vinegar or another cleaning agent once every few weeks to prevent germs from spreading.

Replace Your Old Patio Furniture

Most traditional patio furniture isn’t built with comfort in mind. Replacing old plastic and metal chairs with swings and hammocks is a great way to take your yard to the next level. Very few things are as relaxing as swinging in a hammock on a quiet summer night. If you don’t have any large trees on your property, then you might want to build a standalone pergola. These structures are relatively inexpensive and will last for years with the proper sealant.

Create an Outdoor Kitchen

Those who love to entertain guests need to have an outdoor cooking area. No one wants to leave their guests outside while cooking in a stuffy kitchen. A simple outdoor cooking space requires nothing more than a few comfortable seats, an ice chest, and a BBQ. For a more luxurious feel, you can install a fireplace to provide warmth in the winter and built-in refrigerator for drinks. With the proper setup, you will be able to keep your guests entertained while preparing a meal.

Install an Invisible Sound System

Your next BBQ or outdoor party won’t be complete without a good playlist. Multiple companies are now making outdoor sound systems that are designed to blend into natural landscape features. Some speakers can be hidden in lights while others look just like bushes or rocks. Many of these systems are controlled with a smartphone or tablet, but you can also hook them up to a traditional amplifier or stereo.

While most of these projects don’t require any special permits, you should always double-check all local statutes before working on your property. You must also contact your local utility companies before digging in your backyard so that you don’t hit any pipes or lines. Cracking a sewage line is an expensive and unpleasant problem that no homeowner wants to deal with.

7 Home Improvement Tips to Make Your House Energy Efficient

energy efficient home

We are fortunate to be living in an era of fast paced technological development and innovation. You can find smart technologies, transportation efficiencies and useful appliances for almost any application which makes it easier for us to live with a smaller carbon footprint. With all these amazing innovations, why don’t people live greener lives? It is a common belief that going green is too expensive, but we are here to set the record straight.

If each one of us made at least one eco-friendly change, there would be significant impacts to the universe, our communities and our energy bills.

Energy efficiency means reducing the impact on the environment by consuming less energy. Energy efficient solutions promote a healthier environment, particularly for those suffering from modern-day conditions such as asthma or allergies.

With that in mind, here are 7 simple steps to help you make your home energy-efficient.

1.      Replace Incandescent Bulbs with Florescent bulbs

Halogen bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs offer you long-lasting light and are more energy-efficient than the old incandescent bulbs. Since the average home uses at least 20 bulbs, switching to greener bulbs is an excellent way to save your money.

2.      Install Solar Panels

Solar panels are not cheap, but they are becoming trendy ways to heat your water and generate electricity for houses. They assist in saving money on energy bills, they promote lower fossil fuel usage, and they even help you qualify for annual tax incentives. Just install a solar system on your roof and cut down your electricity costs by generating energy independently.

3.      Perform an Energy Audit.

By hiring a professional energy auditor, they can evaluate the inefficiencies and wasted energy in your home. They will help you in pinpointing saving opportunities and identify the areas that need improvements.

4.      Add Insulation to Your Home

Insulation can help seal air leaks and improve your home’s heating and cooling costs. The idea is to make sure that you install proper insulation, weather stripping and other insulating techniques throughout your house, and you can do this yourself, or seek the services of an expert. If you hire an expert, ensure that they conform to HSE regulations in terms of safety gear and safety precautions and that they have a green energy certification.

5.      Upgrade or replace your windows

If you have old and leaky windows, you might need to replace them with energy-efficient models or to boost their efficiency with weather-stripping and storm windows.  Double panel windows and other vinyl frames are way energy-efficient than single pane windows and aluminum frames. You may also want to consider tinting your windows and keeping your drapes open to let in some light.

6.      Purchase energy efficient appliances

When shopping for new appliances to help make your home more energy efficient, look for devices that have the HE logo.  High energy-star certified appliances use less power, and while the upfront capital outlay needs to be considered, they are a long term investment. According to ByPurify, an energy star certified ionic air purifier consumes around 40% less energy than a standard air purifier, this equates to a saving of around $30 per year (and saves 225 kWh/year!)

7.      Consider having a Programmable Thermostat

When you are not around, set your thermostat to a high temperature in the summer and to a low temp in the cold months. A programmable thermostat does not cost a lot, and they help you reduce your energy usage.

In conclusion, everyone should be able to find at least one or two things to do to ‘greenify’ your home even if you have a tight budget. By considering these steps, you will save energy and reduce the amount that you need to spend every month on electricity and heating.

 

 

The Road towards a Truly Energy-Efficient Master Bathroom

bathroom

The bathroom, along with the kitchen, is the most wasteful area in a modern household. Across the globe, homeowners are becoming increasingly aware of the consequences the modern lifestyle and resource-spending habits are having on the deteriorating eco-system, as well as their household budget.

In the wake of climate change and the growing scarcity of natural resources such as water and electricity, it is the duty of every household to optimize its spending across the board. Here is how to transform your master bathroom into an oasis of energy efficiency, effectively helping in the preservation of the environment and making long-term financial savings at the same time.

Replacing the traditional shower head

With the majority of traditional shower heads having a high flow rate (more than 2.5 gallons per minute), they cannot exactly bear the ribbon of water or energy efficiency. Quite the contrary, traditional showerheads greatly contribute to water waste in the modern household.

However, you can effectively cut down on water consumption while showering by simply replacing your old showerhead with a high-efficiency model that maintains pressure but lowers flow rate. Don’t worry, you won’t be able to tell the difference, but you will notice a decrease in water waste immediately.

Choosing energy-efficient lighting

Energy-efficient lighting is a staple of green living in the modern world, and just like you would introduce energy-saving light bulbs in other parts of your household, you want to introduce them in the master bathroom as well. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t stick to the healthy habit of turning the lights off when the bathroom is not in use.

Instead of traditional incandescent light bulbs, consider efficient LED lighting or even modern smart light bulbs that you can control from your smartphone, set the mood just right, and even change their colour with the push of a button.

shower

Conserving energy with a modern hot water system

Out of all the energy-efficient and water-saving solutions you can introduce into the room, switching up your hot water system will make the biggest impact on your overall spending and help you reduce your carbon footprint.

Modern solutions such as a highly efficient gas storage hot water system aim to minimise energy consumption while accommodating the needs of a growing family. This way, they do not only help decrease financial expenditure, but also aid in preserving the environment. When replacing your hot water system, be sure to work with a company that will safely and efficiently dispose of your old unit.

Opting for low-flow toilets

Modern homes usually already have a dual-flush toilet installed, allowing you to control water consumption per flush. However, if you don’t have a dual-flush toilet, you can opt to install a flush converter that will allow you to change the flush settings depending on your needs.

This simple addition can go a long way in reducing water waste in your home, as the amount of water regular flushing consumes is much more than an average situation requires. Just like the efficient shower head, the low-flow toilet will not sacrifice water pressure, just the amount of water used per flush.

Don’t forget about the faucets either

High-efficiency faucets, or faucet aerators, are not only readily available at any home centre but they are also affordable and highly effective amenities that can cut your water usage in half immediately. Much like the low-flow toilet or the efficient showerhead, faucet aerators reduce water consumption but preserve water pressure, so you will be able to reduce water waste without sacrificing a truly enjoyable bathroom experience.

While you’re upgrading your faucets, make sure you inspect the plumbing around the bathroom, and fix any leaks in the process. This will further help minimize water waste and in turn, elevate energy efficiency as well.

In the modern world, water or energy efficiency is no longer an option, but rather it has become the duty of every household to aid in the preservation of the environment in hopes of creating a better tomorrow. What’s more, by introducing these effective solutions into your master bathroom, you will be able to make long-term financial savings in the process.

 

 

4 Reasons Why It’s Important to Know How Old Your Home Is

4 Reasons Why It's Important to Know How Old Your Home Is

Just like it can be helpful to know how old a person or a pet is, it can be worthwhile to know how old your home is. This can provide important clues about how long a component may last for or what materials it was made from. Let’s take a look at some reasons knowing the age of your home can be important.

The Home Could Contain Harmful Chemicals

In decades past, it wasn’t uncommon for asbestos or lead paint to be used when creating a home. Society now knows that lead paint chips could cause brain damage if eaten or swallowed for any reason. Asbestos can also cause health issues if inhaled or touched. Therefore, knowing the age of your home could clue you in as to whether there are repairs that should be made right away.

New Homes Could Come with Warranties

A new home might have a warranty on one or more of its components. If this is true, it may be possible to repair a roof or furnace at no charge or with limited money spent out of your own pocket. Even if a furnace isn’t under warranty, it can still be worth it to call a heating repair services company if yours isn’t working right.

An Older Home Could Have Outdated Electrical Work

Homes that were built decades ago may still rely on fuses instead of a modern circuit breaker system to send electricity around the house. This may reduce the amount of electricity that the home can use at one time, and it can also increase the odds of a fire. If you live in or buy an older home, be sure to check the wiring to make sure that it is safe.

Older Homes Could Be Worth More

Houses that were built 100 years ago or more could be desired by some home buyers. This could mean that you get more for the home when you sell it even if it isn’t in perfect condition. If your house was once occupied by a famous person or someone who was known in the area, it could further increase the home’s perceived value.

Knowing the age of your home can tell you a lot about how well it is built or if there are any hazards to look for. If you do find that an older appliance in your home isn’t working, be sure to have it looked at to see if it can or should be upgraded.

How to Clean Up Before and After a House Party

When having a party, it’s crucial that the house is clean and presentable for guests. Unfortunately, it’s easier said than done.

You don’t only have to deal with the cleaning before the party, you also have to tidy up after the event. To have a stress-free cleaning “spree,” below are helpful before and after-party clean-up tips.

Before the Party

The first thing you have to do before the party preparations is to evaluate the party venue. Look at the things you need to do and create a strategy to accomplish cleaning tasks in an effective manner.

  1. Imagine you’re a guest

Due to your daily routine, you may overlook some clutter and dusty corners. Walk around your home from a guest’s perspective, and identify flaws and dirt. List down anything that catches your eye and requires cleaning.

After your walk-through, consolidate your list. Break it into achievable cleaning tasks. You can gather your family members or get a party helper to help you clean. Having another person split the tasks with you will help you finish it all quickly.

  1. Tidy up guest areas

While you’re busy cleaning all parts of the house, it’s important that your guests have enough room to move around.

  • Move your fragile or breakable items to safe places, away from messy spills and errant elbows.
  • Straighten your coat closet and entryway. Makes sure that you have a room for guest’s outerwear, and extra hangers whenever necessary.
  • Scan the living spaces for any unnecessary items. Clear tabletops and walkways to make room for your guests’ glasses and plates.
  • Clear the clutter in your living room, and take the opportunity to place them in their proper places.
  1. Prepare the kitchen

Your kitchen needs to be in tip-top condition for the party. Since you’ll be spending most of your time here preparing or cooking food for your guests, it’s best to scrub everything clean now.

  • Defrost and clean the refrigerator. Throw away any leftovers and food which is no longer edible. Make room for party food and move items you no longer use at the back. Also, make sure you have enough room in the freezer for ice.
  • Clean your gas range or cooktop as well as hard to reach surfaces or grates.
  • Mop up the kitchen floor and use the right household cleaner in washing drawers and handles.
  • Empty your trash and recycle bins outside.
  1. Get ready for the party

You have to finish a few things before your guests arrive. This is the opportunity for you to check if everything in your home is in its best shape for the party. You may miss some corners so it’s good to do some double-checking.

After the Party

After the fun of the party, there’s much cleaning work to do. It’s now time to face the party mess. Tackle each task one at a time so that cleaning up won’t overwhelm you.

  1. Kitchen and Dining Room

If you cook for the party, chances are there may be a mountain of dishes waiting to be cleaned. For pans or dishes that are hard to wash, leave and soak them in warm water to soften the residue. While you’re soaking the plates, clean the kitchen worktops and wipe the inside of your fridge.

  1. Guest Areas

Since this is where your guests hang out during the party, this will be the dirtiest place in your house. Plastic, trash and empty cups may be hiding in corners. For messy areas like these, a professional deep cleaning service will help you tidy up in no time.

  1. Guest Bedrooms

You may have guests whom you will allow to stay for the night because they’re too exhausted to go home or live far away. The first thing to do is to strip the beds to wash the sheets and all duvet covers. While those heavy beddings are swirling in the washing machine, attend to other tasks, from wiping down surfaces (start from the highest spots) to cleaning and disinfecting the bathroom.

Remember to vacuum the floors, and check the drawers for any items your guests may have forgotten.

  1. Bathroom

Besides the guest areas, your bathroom would have taken a beating, and had its fair share of frequent use. Give your shower curtain a good clean using a double strength cleaner. Disinfect and clean your toilet thoroughly. Remember to follow the instructions on cleaning products for safe and effective use.

No matter how numerous and heavy the cleaning tasks are, don’t devastate yourself, and do them one at a time. And if you know you don’t have enough time to clean, it’s fine to seek help from others. With the assistance of your family or better yet, the expertise of cleaning professionals, the clean-up process becomes much quicker, giving you time to rest when all the after-party is work done.

AUTHOR BIO

Rania Bellos launched Dust Busters Cleaning Services with the help and support of her husband after spending 15 years working in the banking and finance industry in France, Lebanon and the UAE. She welcomes the daily challenges and exciting opportunities provided by the highly competitive residential and commercial cleaning services market.

 

The Scandinavian Secrets to Keeping Cosy – Infographic

Scandinavian ideas to decorate the homes have been ruling the Interior Décor world for a while now. There won’t be a single person on the planet who might not have heard the terms like Lagom and Hygge.

And it is no wonder that the simple, yet classy Nordic ways are so admired and followed worldwide. Scandinavian lifestyle ensembles as simple as white or light-coloured walls, cosy warm rugs, and the addition of few decor elements to combat the chilly winters in a chic way.

Here is an Infographic by Insulation Express, consisting the snapshots and ideas from each Nordic country to help you style your home the snug Scandinavian way. It’s amazing how the assorted colour palette on the walls simply translates and reflects the characteristics of the respective region.

 

The Scandinavian Secrets to Keeping Cosy by Insulation Express.

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