Renovate Responsibly: Reduce Your Environmental Impact When Transforming Your Home

March 20, 2023March 20, 2023Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome renovationLeave a comment

Insulation, one of the ways to reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home.

If you choose to live somewhere, that likely means you are drawn by both the home and the area. In order to keep the area beautiful, you need to know how to renovate responsibly: reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home.

Insulate and seal your home the smart way

The first thing you need to do in order to reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home is to insulate and seal your home. This is because one of the biggest contributors to wasting energy in a home is bad insulation. If your home is not properly insulated it takes a lot more power to keep it warm during winter or cold during summer. This also forces your appliances to work harder. So, even if you have a very energy efficient appliance, its rating means little if it has to work overtime to keep your home climate controlled. At the same time, insulation is not all you need to worry about. If your window or door frames are not sealed properly, a draft forms and has much the same effects. The good news is that a caulking gun can solve this, and it’s one of the best DIY projects.

Pay attention to the sort of materials you are using

Another way to reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home is to be careful with your selection of materials. This is because some building materials can be extremely harmful for the environment. Some are actively toxic for the environment, such as certain types of wood treatment and, in older homes, lead and asbestos. Of course, our understanding of building materials is constantly evolving, so there are few in use today that are as bad. But, even ‘minor’ materials that go into your home renovation, such as paint, affects your environment. There are paints you can purchase which have minimal negative effects. And which are much healthier to have in your home anyway! If you are doing a renovation on an old home, it is also smart to replace some of the materials used if they are like lead and asbestos examples we brought up already.

Consider adding solar panels to your home

One of the most beneficial ways of renovating responsibly is to add solar panels to your home. The addition of solar panels lets you alleviate some of the pressure on your local electric grid by producing your own electricity. In fact, if you live in an area with good enough weather conditions, it’s perfectly possible for you to start producing enough electricity to sell it back to your city! This, in turn, would not just ensure that you are doing a good thing for the environment by using a renewable source of power, but also help you earn some money on the side!

Pick your renovation’s timing carefully

It may sound silly, but picking the right time of year for your renovation is a way to reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home. The reason for this is simple: when renovating, it is frequently necessary to expose the interior of your home to the elements. Whether you are replacing windows, working on a wall, or just leave the windows open to let your home air out. This, in turn, brings us back to what we discussed about insulation: increased power consumption and less effective climate control. So, renovating when it’s warm but not too hot, like during spring or early summer, is the best choice.

Do not just get rid of all your old belongings

Throwing away your old furniture, or even some of your materials, goes against trying to be environmentally conscious. You can place most of your furniture into storage and then donate it. And, since there are green storage options, as the experts on the subject from Movers Not Shakers NYC point out, you’d be behaving responsible there too! Even some of the building materials you are removing from your home, such as pieces of wood, can be recycled or repurposed.

Do something with your garden

If you have a yard, then you should definitely consider adding a garden to it during renovation. A garden is pretty much the dream of everyone looking to have a sustainable home. You can grow your own food organically, and liven up your home with greenery. No matter how minor the impact of a single garden is on oxygen production, we can make a positive impact! So, don’t just look to transform your outdoor space into a modern oasis, but put it to practical use!

Be responsible with the waste your renovation produces

While a lot of what you remove from your home can be recycled, not all of it can. And you need to be responsible with the disposal of such waste. Plastic, bricks and debris dust can seriously hurt whatever area you dump them in. So, at the very least, make sure to take them to a designated area for such waste. This way, you can both enhance your home and protect the environment from the consequences of your actions.

Get energy efficient appliance replacements

The final way to reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home is to pick out energy efficient appliance replacements. Now, when you are shopping for appliances during a home renovation, your two main concerns are likely looks and cost. And while they look good, we will be upfront about this: high quality appliances with high levels of efficiency are often costly. But, the upfront cost of such appliances makes you forget something important. Energy efficient appliances use less power, which, in turn, means that your electricity bills will be lower. You may be paying more right then and there. But that doesn’t mean you won’t financially benefit from your decision in the long term!

For a beautiful home and beautiful nature both

With our guide on how to renovate responsibly: reduce your environmental impact when transforming your home, you’ll be able to both get yourself a beautiful place to live and preserve the beauty of nature in your area. So, try to follow as much of our advice as you can during your renovation project!

Ways to Save on Home Remodeling Costs

June 15, 2022May 18, 2023Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelingDIY projects, home improvement, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

According to the National Association of Realtors, the average homeowner spends about $5,000 on home remodeling projects each year. So if you’re planning a home renovation, saving as much money as possible is important, so you don’t lose your budget.

In addition to being expensive, home remodeling can also be time-consuming and stressful. The key to a successful renovation is to plan and budget carefully.

No matter your budget, there are ways to save on home remodeling costs. By being creative and resourceful, you can cut down on expenses without sacrificing quality. Here are some tips to get you started.

1. Shop around for the best deals

You’d be surprised at how much you can save just by shopping around. It pays to compare prices at different stores when it comes to big-ticket items like appliances or flooring.

Don’t be afraid to haggle with contractors, either. If you can get a lower price from one contractor than another, go for it. The reason why contractors are willing to negotiate is that they want your business. And, the more project they have, the lower their overhead costs will be.

2. Do it yourself

If you’re handy around the house, there’s no reason to hire a professional for every home improvement project. Instead, if you’re confident in your abilities, tackle simple tasks like painting or installing new light fixtures. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get a sense of accomplishment from completing the project yourself.

In such situations, a storage unit can come in handy. With a storage unit, you can keep your tools and materials organized and out of the way until you’re ready to use them. But, first, make sure you’re familiar with city ordinances before starting any major projects, as some require permits.

3. Reuse and recycle

One of the best ways to save money on home remodeling is to reuse and recycle materials whenever possible. For example, if you’re removing old flooring, see if you can use it elsewhere in your home or sell it online.

The same goes for furniture. If you’re replacing an old couch, try selling it online or giving it to a friend or family member. You can also check with local thrift stores to see if they’re interested in taking it off your hands.

The reason why reuse and recycle is so important is that it helps to keep costs down. So, not only will you save money, but you’ll also be doing your part to help the planet.

4. Know when to splurge

While it’s important to save money on home remodeling, there are also times when it’s worth it to splurge. For example, if you’re renovating your kitchen, you’ll want to ensure that you have high-quality appliances. After all, your kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your house.

The same goes for flooring. Again, if you’re spending a lot of time in your home, you’ll want to ensure that your floors are comfortable and stylish.

In general, it’s a good idea to splurge on items that you’ll use often or that will have a big impact on the look of your home. However, by being selective with your spending, you can still get the home of your dreams without going over budget.

5. Get creative with financing

If you’re not careful, home remodeling can get expensive quickly. One way to avoid this is to get creative with your financing. For example, consider using a personal loan instead of a home equity loan.

Personal loans tend to have lower interest rates than home equity loans, so you’ll save money in the long run. You can also use a credit card with a 0% APR introductory rate to finance your home remodeling projects.

The key is to find a financing option that works for you. Being creative can save money and keep your home remodeling costs under control.

6. Shop at salvage yards

Check out salvage yards if you’re looking for unique materials for your home remodeling project. Salvage yards are a great place to find old doors, windows, and other architectural elements.

You can also find furniture, appliances, and other household items at salvage yards. Just be sure to scrutinize the items before you buy them.

And, if you’re not sure how to use the materials you find, ask a salesperson for help. They’ll be able to give you some ideas and point you in the right direction.

7. Hire a professional

Hiring a professional is a good idea if you’re not confident in your DIY skills. Yes, it will cost you more money, but knowing that the job will be worth it.

When hiring a professional, be sure to get at least three quotes. It will help you to compare prices and find the best deal.

You should also ask for references and check out the contractor’s portfolio. And, be sure to get everything in writing before signing a contract. However, if you do your research, you should be able to find a reputable contractor you can trust.

8. Stay on budget

One of the best ways to save money on home remodeling is to stay on budget. So before you start your project, make a list of all the things you want to do.

Then, prioritize the items on your list and allocate a certain amount of money. Once done, you’ll be less likely to overspend on your project.

Setting aside some money for unexpected expenses is also a good idea. This way, if something comes up, you won’t have to worry about going over budget.

The Bottom Line:

Home remodeling can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. You can keep your costs down by being selective with your spending, getting creative with financing, and shopping at salvage yards. And, if you’re patient, you can find great deals on materials and labor. Finally, stay on budget and hire a professional if you’re not confident in your DIY skills. Following these tips can save money on your home remodeling project without sacrificing quality or results.

Why Pivot Doors Are the Way to Go

June 14, 2022June 11, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome decor, home remodelingLeave a comment

Has your home improvement décor gotten a little tired? Do you wish you had a bold new look that is still functional and welcoming?

If you’re ready to try a new “do,” why not go for a good, clean pivot door?

This is the kind of door you never noticed before, but once you do, you can’t do without. Doors, especially exterior doors, are always the first thing potential buyers see. They represent your taste and the style of your home.

If you are looking for a new face for your building, here is why you should install pivot doors.

Boost Your Home’s Resale Value

Pivot doors are the way to go to increase your home’s resale value. These doors are a modern, sleek option that can make any home look more contemporary and stylish.

They’re also a great space-saving solution for smaller homes, as they don’t require a swinging motion. Plus, they’re easy to install and can be found in various materials, so you can find the perfect option to match your home’s style.

Save on Your Energy Bills

If you’re looking to save on your energy bills, then pivot doors are the way to go. Not only do they offer a stylish and modern look to your home, but they’re also extremely energy efficient.

Pivot doors are designed to seal tightly against the frame, which helps to keep cool air in during the summer and warm air in during the winter. This tight seal also helps to reduce drafts, which can help to keep your energy bills down.

Create a Grand Entrance

There are many reasons to choose a pivot door for your home. Pivot doors add a touch of luxury and can make a grand entrance. They are also very practical, as they do not require a lot of space to open and close.

If you are considering a pivot door for home renovations, you must also keep in mind to get pivot hinges as this will make these doors possible. Read about swinging door hinges at swingingcafedoors.com.

Add Flexibility to Your Floor Plan

Pivot doors are a great way to add flexibility to your floor plan. They allow you to open up a room without having to remove any furniture or obstacles. Pivot doors can also be used to create a more open feel in a room by creating a larger opening.

The Pinnacle of Luxury Doors

Pinnacle doors are the epitome of luxury, and pivot doors are the pinnacle of luxury doors. Pivot doors are sleek, modern, and make a bold statement.

They are the perfect addition to any home improvement, and they are sure to impress your guests.

Pivot Doors 101

If you’re looking for a door that makes a statement, provides a modern look, and is easy to operate, then a pivot door is a way to go. These are ideal for both residential and commercial settings and come in a variety of styles.

Pivot doors are becoming increasingly popular for both interior and exterior doors due to their clean lines and minimal design.

These doors are also extremely versatile, as they can be used in a variety of settings and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Read on for more home renovation related articles like this one.

3 Bedroom Renovation Tips for Teens

May 1, 2022April 30, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsBedrooms, home remodelingbedroom remodelingLeave a comment

Renovating a bedroom is the perfect way to put a personal touch into your living space. There are many creative ways that you can make your bedroom comfortable and practical for all of your needs.

As a teenager, you likely have your own set of interests and you want your room to reflect your style. Whether you’re wondering how to choose a new bed to maximize the space in your bedroom or you want to create a study space, bedroom renovation can help you get there.

If your parents are thinking about home renovations, here are the top three renovation tips to help you create the room of your dreams.

1. An Accent Wall

You might love bright colors and eccentric patterns but neutral colors are more conducive to rest and relaxation. You can choose calm and earthy colors like creams, beiges, and taupes to create a tranquil atmosphere.

However, you can get creative by making an accent wall that gives your room a touch of pizzazz and personality. You can incorporate fun patterns, a splash of color, and even a neon sign. Be sure that your accent wall is cohesive with the neutral colors you’ve chosen for the rest of your walls.

These are all fun ways to make the best bedroom renovations without breaking the bank.

2. A Study Corner

If you’re hitting your teenage years, chances are you want your space and privacy to eat, sleep, and study. Creating a study corner is ideal to give you the privacy you crave while staying on top of your studies. It is possible to create a study nook even if you’re working with a smaller space.

You can opt for a bunk bed and make a study area underneath to maximize the space in your room. Or you can have a customized built-in desk that suits the shape and layout of your room.

Your family might also benefit from an EMF meter to help track the radiation in your home from different electronics. Cellphones, TVs, and your Wi-Fi connection all produce invisible EMF waves that can be harmful. You can get more info about EMF protection and what services are available.

3. Touches of Nature

There are several ways that you can incorporate nature into your bedroom renovation. This gives your room a trendy, boho-chic design with only a few changes.

Using wood is a great way to get an outdoor vibe in your bedroom. This can be a vintage dresser made of distressed wood, wall decor made of driftwood, or remodeled floors with pale-colored wood. You can also spread potted plants around your room for a touch of nature.

Plants are not only beautiful to look at but they also increase the level of oxygen in your bedroom.

Three Tips for Bedroom Renovation

Bedroom renovation is the perfect opportunity to create a personalized and practical space. Not only do you want to make it a space that you enjoy being in, but you also want to make it reflect who you are. Be sure to add some natural elements, an accent wall, and a personalized study corner.

If you enjoyed reading our blog, keep coming back for more awesome renovations tips!

8 Packing & Planning Tips For Home Renovations

April 18, 2022April 14, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodeling, Movinghome remodeling, MovingLeave a comment

We all get excited when we hear words like design and renovation. It gets our heart-rate pumping at all the creative possibilities, the opportunity to indulge our ingenuity and perhaps do it ourselves. However, it all comes with careful planning, time, and effort, to avoid stress.

Home renovations begin with a firm idea of what you want to alter in your home. Whether you want to add a whole new section or a new coat of paint, if you plan on renovating every room, including the bathroom and kitchen, it needs proper planning. You need to define the color and décor themes for each room and identify any necessary structural changes or cabinet additions.

The scale of your project will determine three major issues. First, whether to hire a contractor or you can do it yourself with a little help from a few skilled craftsmen. Secondly, you need to decide whether to live in your house during the renovation process or find alternative accommodation. Finally, what is your budget, and how far can it extend? Here are some expert tips to peacefully get through the packing and planning phase.

Packing tips

1. Consider downsizing

Throw any junk lying around the house. Not only junk but also stuff that you don’t use anymore. You can donate to charity or give it to someone who can use it productively. Get rid of old clothes, worn-out shoes, unused cutlery, or faulty electronics. Downsizing can benefit in positive ways:

Backyard sale; extra earning
Help friends and families
Lighter load
Space for new things

2. Select a Storage Facility

Do your research and find secure storage facilities with a good reputation and easy access. If you live near New Palestine in Indiana, you can use the New Palestine self storage since they offer climate-controlled storage with round-the-clock security monitoring. Monitored self-storage facilities can give you the freedom to access your storage box at your convenience and yet ensure the security of your belongings. You will need facilities with a climate control system to keep your clothes, jewelry, furniture, and electronic items safe and sound. Do not forget to ask questions related to:

Facilities pest control
Any restrictions or timings that limit access to the facility
Ask about their security system to keep units safe
Also, ask for recommendations from people around you

3. Use bubble wraps and labels

Use bubble wrap to protect crockery, wall hangings, and fragile decorations, such as vases, lamps, and glass ornaments. Label each item to make it easier to unpack and transport the objects. You wouldn’t have to worry about opening the wrong boxes or looking through all the cartons to find what you’re looking for.

Planning Tips

4. Set Your Goal!

Many people directly jump into buying supplies and searching for contractors when they are unsure what kind of changes they are looking for. Instead of worrying, you need to sort out a few questions like:

Why are you renovating your home?
Is it a temporary change or long-term?
What changes are essential, and what changes are a luxury?
Are you allowed to make the planned changes as per your area regulations?

Finding answers to these questions will automatically help you set your renovation goals accurately.

5. Stay within your budget.

Setting up a budget is not the most important task but sticking to it is. People often go over their budget whenever they go to the store and see new things that appeal to them. Even if we hire a contractor, fresh and expensive ideas can be tempting. The following two suggestions may be useful:

Search and visit the market before setting up your budget.
Always give your contractor an amount of 25% less than your final budget. If you are thinking of adding more sparkle to the project, you will be at peace knowing that you have enough backup.

6. Consider Your Situation

Home remodeling is not the same as organizing your closet; it is considerably more time-consuming and disrupts your life for a few weeks or months. It refers to a wide range of situations and scenarios. If you have children, you must consider your work schedule and your children’s school calendars for study and extra-curricular activities.

Of course, don’t forget about the weather. Good weather is essential for completing all construction projects on schedule. It will be difficult to organize any outdoor renovations during the rainy season or in winter when it starts to snow. The holidays are great for planning and organizing reconstructions, upgrades, and facelifts. Special occasions are another good time to schedule such work, as long as you can find willing contractors and craftsmen. If special occasions are a busy time for you, find some other time because nobody wants a thousand things going on simultaneously.

7. Acquire Permits

Many homeowners overlook getting the necessary building permits in a bid to start the renovation process as early as possible. Acquiring permits is a vital step to ensure there are no objections raised against your projected changes at any time by local code inspectors. The main things inspectors must assess are whether the reconstruction follows the structural and fire safety regulations. Code inspectors can ask you to pull down any unauthorized construction or additions that don’t conform to local building codes.

After you’ve spoken to your contractor or artisans, you will know what steps are involved in your renovation project. Accordingly, you should apply for permits for alterations featuring windows installations, plumbing, and electrical and structural changes, like if you are installing a new water heater or adding a shed or a garage. You will need a permit for any demolitions and walls you are planning to knock down or build, even if you transform your garage into a work-from-home space or add an underground sprinkler system. What kind of a permit? You can approach a local office to find out.

If you don’t want to be disturbed during the property renovation, you should get a permit first. Applying for permits after you’ve started work or completed the renovation is a costly issue. It is better to seek approval during your projected home renovation’s packing and planning stage.

8. Clean-Up & Seek help

After weeks or months of overwhelming routine, assembling everything can be far more exhausting than disassembling. Most of the time, people do not ask for help to save money. Now that you’ve already spent a lot of money, it’s time to hire someone to clean up after the renovations. After cleaning up, you can enlist the support of your friends and family to help you put everything back in its place.

Winding up!

The renovation process is unquestionably difficult and aggravating. However, it can flow more smoothly by following these recommendations and guidelines. The packing and planning phase is when you start collecting new ideas for your home’s aesthetic look. Once you’ve chosen the look and feel that appeals to you, you can start talking to contractors while you pack away your possessions and get busy acquiring the necessary construction permits.

6 Essential Factors to Consider Before Restructuring Your House

February 15, 2022February 15, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome improvement, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Do you wish to spruce up your house a bit? Home restructure, without any doubt, can improve the property’s appeal, enhance the aesthetics, and make the place more functional. While it can yield fulfilling results, the process is a huge undertaking.

Most homeowners dive into the exciting stage of selecting new lighting fixtures and deciding paint colors with zero clue of what lies ahead. They regret not having a solid plan mapped out before they encounter numerous obstacles in the middle of the projects.

Without proper preparations beforehand, hasty home restructuring projects might result in a series of challenges and disappointments. That’s because, unlike constructing a new house, you aren’t starting everything from scratch. As a result, things may go against expectations, and unforeseen events can occur.

Even if you have restructured your house in the past; remember, every project comes with unexpected twists. So, before you jump to the home restructuring path and give the green light to the contractors, here are a couple of things you must keep in mind:

Find the best contractor

Unless you are a staunch DIY person, you will most likely need the help of various contractors to renovate different sections of the home. For instance, you might want to get your hot-water heater removed from the closet on the upper floor, and instead, you want it installed in the garage. In that situation, you might have to hire a plumber to complete this job.

Likewise, suppose you’re willing to build your house from scratch and, this time, use steel. In that case, you’ll definitely have to pick the most reliable professionals in the region. If you’re a resident of Montana, all you need is to type in welding Bozeman MT and hit search to find the best and most trained professionals. These contractors may also execute tasks such as creating iron gates, reinforcing garden fences, and applying paint.

Choose the right time

Indoor home remodeling projects aren’t contingent upon weather conditions. For instance, you can practically complete kitchen updates, bathroom fixtures, and basement projects any season of the year. However, this isn’t the case with outdoor projects.

If you plan to add an outdoor patio, you may need to be mindful of the weather conditions. Even if you decide to begin restructuring during the spring or summer, don’t just count on the pleasant weather to complete the job. Instead, pay attention to the short and long-term weather forecasts. Keep tasks such as woodcutting and spray painting for days when you can enjoy the gorgeous weather outside. That said, ensure you remain alert if there are any unforeseen weather changes.

Consider your budget

Setting a realistic and reasonable budget and sticking to it are critical aspects of home restructuring. That’s because, as with any thriller novel, home restructuring projects also come with unexpected turns and twists.

It’s pretty easy to balloon out of your defined budget. Therefore, be sure to communicate with the contractors, get quotations on project overall costs, and settle on them beforehand.

Remember, a home restructure isn’t an inexpensive venture. You can meet numerous expenses before, during, near the end, and after the project completion. Also, you may have to incur the costs of temporary living arrangements, specifically if the house in question is where you live. Thus, always think ahead and have an accurate understanding of the estimates.

Set a realistic timeline

While you need to be realistic with the budget, stretch the same approach to your restructuring timeline. Even the most diligent contractor you hire may not be able to complete the entire home restructuring project in a specific period.

So, stay alert and accommodate setbacks in your plan to account for problems that may crop up at any time. But what types of delays should you expect? For instance, you may think that the job of replacing an antique tub and vanity mirror would only take a couple of hours. However, you may need to wait to enjoy your new whirlpool tub since the process of removing and embedding new mirrors and tubs can stretch for several weeks.

Aside from this, weather delays and the availability of materials are other concerns that can take longer than usual to get done with home restructuring.

Explore various designs and styles

Restructuring your home isn’t just about materials and choosing the best contractors. Instead, it’s more about how you envisage your new place to be after the remodeling. If the design and style aren’t up to the snuff and match your taste, it can be a kick in the teeth, even if you have invested a fortune.

Therefore, explore various designs and get inspiration from magazines or check Pinterest dashboards. And feel free to scour the interior designing websites to know what’s trending. Mentally visualize which style would make the property more attractive – contemporary, transitional, coastal minimalism, or a rustic farmhouse design.

Be sure to narrow down your interests and be specific about demands to prevent getting talked to by an interior designer.

Obtain necessary permits

Some, if not many, homeowners overlook obtaining building permits and consider them redundant headaches that can decelerate the restructuring process. However, it’s an indispensable part of the process in most cases. It may spell negative consequences if not acquired in the first place. What’s more, you may get knocked with hefty fines, adding more financial burden.

These permits are pivotal to ensure that the house restructure conforms with the fire safety and structural requirements. Additionally, code inspectors hold the authority to rip out if they find any work that’s not up to the mark and satisfactory.

Therefore, if you plan on an extensive home remodel, be sure to obtain planning permissions from the local authorities. It’s recommendable to get the permits well in advance to avoid delays in your project.

Final Words

People restructure their houses for various reasons. For instance, some may wish to increase the home value, while others want to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Whatever the reason, a home restructure is never an easy feat, and you may need to make tough decisions. Of course, every house would be a Pinterest masterpiece and full-blown showstopper if it were that easy.

Instead, the whole process is messy, tiring, noisy, and not to mention, it can get on your nerves. Nonetheless, with patience, attention to detail, dedication, and willingness to adapt, you can navigate the experience without any hitches and losing your sanity. And what’s the final result? Your foresight can help transform a space into a dream home that feels just right for you and your family members.

Remember, every house holds secrets – either in walls, floors, or somewhere else. Therefore, be sure to space in time and extra budget to expect the unexpected and meet unanticipated mishaps.

Renovation Tips for a Baby-Friendly Home

January 20, 2022March 23, 2024Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, home remodelinghome improvement, home renovationLeave a comment

Home renovation is usually exciting, fun, and a bit stressful. You would pour your heart into the task since this is your place of comfort. Now imagine doing that for your little one! The fun and joy would multiply manifold. Every move will revolve around what is best for your baby. The renovation should result in a baby-friendly environment while conforming to the merits of grace and beauty. It would require some prior planning, and you will achieve both goals in no time! So, get to work if you are parents-to-be, as your hands will be full later with your little bundle of joy. Here are some tips that would help you along.

Declutter Your House:

You will need to do some serious decluttering of the house before moving things for the baby, as they occupy a lot of space. Otherwise, the mess caused would further drain your already sleep-deprived mind. Empty some kitchen drawers and bathroom cabinets for baby products. Also, specify some shelves in your bedroom for things of daily use.

Try removing some furniture for some open space as well, as babies keep on bumping into random things once they start crawling. They will surely keep you on your toes. So, consider emptying some space for a while. However, you do not need to sell everything. Affordable housing is already a concern, especially in cities like Williston, North Dakota, where apartment rents are skyrocketing in the US. Purchasing new furniture again can be out of your budget too. In that case, you can keep your furniture in a storage facility and search for Williston ND storage units options until you decide what to do with it. Just make sure you select a storage unit as near to your home as possible.

2. Prepare a Nursery:

It is nice to have a separate space for the baby. Though the baby sleeps with parents in the initial months, you shouldn’t delay prepping for the nursery. It would be a space solely dedicated to the baby items you can stash there. Be prepared to receive loads of gifts that you will have to accommodate somewhere. A nursery can serve the purpose of organizing the baby’s wardrobe and toys. Moreover, painting the walls, shifting the furniture, and hanging the curtains are fun activities for first-time parents. Enjoy them beforehand as it would get noisy for the infant afterward.

3. Shift to Non-Carpeted Flooring:

When renovating your house, give special attention to the hygiene of the floor, as babies are in contact with it most of the time. When it comes to carpets, their cleanliness is somewhat of a problem. Carpeted floors have a high tendency to trap dust, and you cannot mop them with an anti-bacterial solution like non-carpeted floors. Then there is always the chance of mold growth on carpets. They can be very hazardous, considering the underdeveloped immunity of the infants. Molds are not always visible, and their spores can be accumulating without ringing the alarm bells. Your baby might inhale them, and you wouldn’t even know. It can result in respiratory disorders. You can always hire experts, but it might get costly for you. So, while renovating the floor of your house, try to remove the wall-to-wall carpeting if you have one.

4. Remediate the Potential Hazards Within an Infant’s Reach:

There are many potential hazards an infant can get into if not addressed. For example, make sure to cover your fireplace. Install heat-resistant fire gates for protection. Babies can seriously burn themselves if they accidentally get near the unguarded fireplace. Moreover, the electrical switches on the lower walls are a favorite place for toddlers to poke their fingers in its holes. Or worse, they might also love plucking the wires in the switch. It is a dangerous electrical hazard, and the babies can get an electric shock. Try to remove the electrical switches in the lower area of the walls and install them a little higher. Also, install strong magnets in the lower cabinets of the kitchen. Toddlers can, otherwise, lock themselves inside. Make sure to mount your television on the wall and remove the TV trolley. You can make your house childproof by remediating these and many other hazards during the renovation.

5. Get Your Pets Their Personal Space:

A baby sleeps away most of the day after the initial months. It is necessary for their growth and development. Your pets, like dogs, can easily get attached to the infants. Though adorable in its way, the constant noise and barking can interfere with your baby’s sleep. To avoid that, build your pets their own space, where they can spend some time of the day and enjoy the company of your baby for a specified time.

Wrap-up:

Babies need every bit of your attention, especially in the initial days. As first-time parents, you would also be struggling with this massive turn of your life. After your child is born, it would be difficult for you to find time to renovate the house. Apart from that, you would be sleep-deprived and drained of energy. The noise and dust can be unsettling for your baby as well. Your baby will start crawling in no time, and you will have to remain very alert if necessary renovations are missing. So, try to cross this task off your checklist before it becomes a headache for you later. You wouldn’t be disappointed!

Four Creative Exterior Home Remodeling Ideas

January 18, 2022January 18, 2022Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome remodelingLeave a comment

Were you aware that exterior home remodeling is a great way to add value to a home and make it look more attractive?

Many people are hesitant to get into home remodeling because they don’t want to spend a lot of money. However, you can get several exterior home remodel ideas that will drastically change your home and won’t cost much.

To help you, we’ve put together a small list of several creative exterior home remodeling ideas. Soon, you can start making amazing changes to your home without breaking the bank.

Here are four exterior home remodeling ideas!

1. Add New Paint

One of the best ways to drastically change the way your house looks is to add new paint. Whether you add a fresh coat of the same paint or use a different color, your home will look much better and you’ll increase the longevity of your siding.

While the home exterior remodel cost can vary depending on what you do, painting is an affordable option. However, you should spend some time looking at different types of house paint to determine what will look best.

2. Install a Patio

Aside from adding new paint, you can also take drastic measures and install a patio. When looking at exterior home remodel ideas, many people recommend installing things like porches and pools because they can add more value to your home.

Similar to adding new paint, installing a patio will make your home look more appealing. It will also give you more space to do outdoor activities. For example, you can place a grill on the patio and won’t have to worry about stability or rain.

3. Update the Roof

If you’re looking to make your home look more attractive while also preventing wear, you should update the roof. Many houses have shingle roofs, though some have metal and brick roofs. No matter what you have, research the local costs so you can start setting a budget.

Consider checking out the Roofing Company at diligentexteriorremodeling.com to learn more about replacing a roof. You can also get thorough answers to questions like “How much does it cost to remodel a home exterior?”

4. Improve Landscaping

If you end up looking for exterior home remodeling services, consider asking about improving your landscaping. Because this is one of the first things people will notice about your home, it’s best to maintain it as best as possible.

You can keep the grass trimmed, plant flowers, clean your sidewalk, and more. Do anything you can to keep the ground clean, then you’ll have no problem going through with other exterior home remodel ideas.

Exterior Home Remodeling Has Never Been Simpler

Now that you’ve read this article, you have several exterior home remodeling ideas to consider. With this info, we encourage you to start thinking about what you’d like to change to your home.

Whether you’d like to increase your home’s value or simply make it look better, you’ll have no problem doing so by following this advice.

To learn more about the home exterior remodel cost and more, check out our other articles!

6 Home Upgrades and Improvements That Add Tons of Value

October 4, 2021October 4, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementshome improvement, home remodelinghome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

Many people are surprised by stability in the housing market despite this never ending pandemic. Even the remodeling sector is expected to grow by 5 billion dollars this year alone.

This makes sense, considering that people worldwide have spent more time in their homes than ever before. Considering the fierce competition in the housing market, it’s no surprise that homeowners are readying their homes long before resale. The right renovations even increase home value.

If you’re thinking about home remodeling, consider these six home upgrades that improve the value of your home.

1. Open the Floor Plan

Modern homebuyers want modern floor plans. And that means open floor plans. Closed-off rooms are traditional and make the space feel smaller.

This is a big renovation job that typically involves opening the living room, dining room, and kitchen areas. You’ll need to knock down walls and potentially add some load-bearing beams into the ceiling.

2. Update the Garage

More specifically, update the garage door. This plays into the concept of “curb appeal” because a home’s exterior plays a huge factor in how much homebuyers expect to pay. Also, mentioning a brand new door when negotiating will help get them closer to your asking price.

If you can’t afford to replace the door completely, consider repainting it at least.

3. Invest in Hardwood

If you’re lucky, your home may have hardwood hiding under your flooring. If not, considering investing in hardwood once your current flooring hits the upper limit of its lifespan.

It’s a substantial bet that any homeowner looking at your home is hoping for hardwood floors. Homes already with hardwood will command a higher asking price.

4. Replace the Roof

Roofs generally have a lifespan between 20 and 50 years, depending on the material. A potential buyer looking at your 20-year-old roof sees an expensive project they need to do right after they spend a lot of money buying a house. It’s not ideal, and it gives them leverage in negotiation.

While you’re up there, consider adding solar panels. You can read more about this investment at blueravensolar.com/north-carolina/raleigh/.

5. Repaint the House

This is a simple way to add value to the home, especially for the house’s exterior. Again, this plays into “curb appeal” and gives the homeowner more leverage in negotiation. It helps the potential buyer see the home as high quality and deserving of a high price.

6. Finish the Basement

Finishing a basement adds square footage to the listing, demanding a higher listing price. This is a massive project, however, that requires installing drywall, adding flooring, and painting.

More Home Upgrades to Consider

Not all home upgrades add noticeable value to the home, but that doesn’t mean they’re not valuable. Some renovations are done out of comfort or necessity for the homeowner. Just make sure whatever the project is, it’s completed in a timeless style and of the best quality.

For more helpful home improvement articles like this one, take a second to browse our page.

This guide will save you both time and money on your remodels

January 30, 2021January 30, 2021Bruzzese Home Improvementshome remodelinghome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

After years of thinking about it, you’re finally ready to move forward. You’re finally ready to remodel your home’s kitchen or bathroom. There’s just one question: where do you start?

For many homeowners, kitchen and bathroom remodels can feel slightly intimidating. There’s so many decisions to make and things to complete. Don’t let your upcoming renovation overwhelm you! In this article, we’ll walk you through several ways to start thinking about your remodel that will maximize your return-on-investment (ROI) and help things run smoothly.

Prioritize your ROI

On average, U.S. homeowners spend about $22,000 on remodeling their kitchen and around $19,000 renovating their master bathrooms. That’s a significant upfront investment, but the results are typically worth it: both projects have a relatively high ROI, at 80.5% and 70.1%, respectively. You can push that return even higher. By prioritizing your ROI above all else, you can lower your upfront investment while maximizing the home value boost that comes with completing a major remodel.

To accomplish this, you need to stick to the essentials. In your kitchen, this means finding high-quality countertops and cabinets at the right price. Talk to your remodeling contractor to see if they can get you a great deal on quality granite and quartz countertops. In the bathroom, put the time and money into renovating the shower and avoid costly “extras” like an expensive bathtub.

In both spaces, always be thinking about the next homeowner. You want to love your new kitchen or bathroom, but you don’t want it to be a space only you’ll love. Stay within the design mainstream while adding personal accents and touches to make it your own. Walls can always be repainted—an eclectic countertop is pricier to replace.

Make the most of small improvements

Once you’ve priced all the major items out, you’re only going to have a couple hundred dollars left over for accessories, decor, and other features. By making the most out of these small improvements, you can put the finishing touches on your renovation.

First, there’s paint. Inexpensive and easy, it’s one of the best things you can add to your new kitchen or bathroom. Add paint near the end of the project when it’s less likely it will be damaged in the renovation process.

Many homeowners overlook lighting. Light changes our perception of space, and outdated lighting isn’t going to do your new kitchen or bathroom any favors. Work with a professional to hang new pendant lights over your kitchen island and install new under-cabinet lighting above your beautiful countertops. If your kitchen or bathroom has access to natural light through a window or skylight, take advantage of that: your home will never look better than it does in natural sunlight!

Know your own limits

We live in a DIY-friendly world. Want to tile your own bathroom? There are literally hundreds of online videos and walkthrough guides showing you how to do just that. It’s never been easier for homeowners to pick up that screwdriver, paint brush, or hammer and get to work.

This freedom comes with responsibilities, however. It’s important for you, as a homeowner, to know when you’re not cut out to take on a particular project or repair. You’re not admitting defeat: you’re recognizing when something is outside of your wheelhouse and better handled by a professional.

Take plumbing, for instance. There’s a good chance that your kitchen and bathroom remodeling plans involve some degree of plumbing work. If you decide to try doing this work yourself, you could save the money you would have otherwise spent hiring an experienced and licensed plumber. But, there’s a tradeoff: you also run the risk of making plumbing mistakes that one day can lead to a water leak. When the stakes are high, you need to work with an expert, whether they’re a plumber, electrician, or general contractor.

Start planning your project

Let’s call a spade-a-spade: many homeowners put off remodeling because they find the entire process a bit intimidating. It’s not just about the upfront investment: there’s just so much to think about and plan. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and call a locally trusted remodeling contractor. There’s nothing better than having an experienced guide who can walk you through the renovation process, answer your questions, and take care of hiring subcontractors and other specialists. In short, it’s a game-changer.

Ready to move forward with your kitchen or bathroom remodel? We’ve only scratched the surface in this article. For more helpful home renovation tips, check out this infographic.

Your guide to kitchen and bathroom remodeling