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Reasons Why Your Kitchen Needs a Makeover

Kitchens are the heart of the home. They’re where we cook our family dinners, share stories around the table, and create lasting memories. So it’s no wonder that most homeowners take great care in designing and decorating their kitchens.

Designing a kitchen can be fun, but it can also be challenging. There are several things to consider: the layout, the cabinets, the countertops, the appliances. How do you know where to start? And how do you know when to start?

There is no right time for a makeover, but if you’re thinking about doing it sooner rather than later, assess your needs, and think about what you’d like to have. Are you working on increasing the functionality of your kitchen, or do you want to theme your remodeling around aesthetics and decor?

Perhaps, you’re doing this makeover simply because your kitchen is screaming for help. Keep reading as we show you why, when, and how to give your kitchen a makeover.

It’s About Time:

What’s the first thing your eyes set on when you walk into your kitchen? A splash of color, a picture on the wall, or maybe an outdated cabinet. Kitchens are often the most overlooked rooms in our home. They shouldn’t just be functional spaces where we cook and eat; they should also have a style that complements your living room or dining area. If you live in Contra Costa, Google the term ‘kitchen remodeling Contra Costa CA’ and find service providers to help you create the kitchen of your dreams.

Reasons why you should consider a Makeover

When Functionality Becomes a Concern!

Can you picture yourself holding a steaming hot lasagna pan in your hand with an insufficient countertop area to set it on? And after clearing some room (by knocking things off of it!), you run into the wall and bust your toe! (I hope you didn’t have a stroke or anything.) So that was a visual of a clogged kitchen that needs remodeling right now!

Insufficient Storage Space!

Your family is getting bigger, and so is your passion for different and more expensive kitchen gadgets. So one bright day, you stroll in with a bag of snacks and a fresh batch of serving plates to enjoy your weekend, only to discover there’s no place to put them in the cabinets! Busted? Don’t you think it’s the appropriate time and occasion to contact a specialist for some renovation?

The Electricity Bills are Breaking Your Back!

You adore your current kitchen, which has beautiful chandeliers and fine bar lamps; you enjoy a cup of coffee with friends over a discussion in that area. But, have you ever considered how much it’s costing you? Look around and see if there’s a hefty electricity bill on the countertop. If you find one, it’s time to think about including a window in your kitchen!

Doesn’t Match Your Taste Anymore:

You might have loved your kitchen when you first moved in but tastes change. You may now want a sleek and modern design to reflect your contemporary lifestyle. Or maybe that country-style kitchen is just too “rustic” for you these days. It’s time for a change!

If you’re facing trouble with any of the above, you’ve got a good case for a makeover. Where do you begin? What should your following actions be?

Assess the Needs:

Before beginning with the makeover, it’s crucial to understand what you and your kitchen need. What do you not like about your current kitchen? What’s missing can make everyday life a bit more pleasant and convenient for you?

Wish List:

The first step is to create a wish list describing the features and aspects of your dream kitchen. Include items such as cabinets, appliances, countertops, pantry, etc. Also include non-physical features like

  • Lighting fixtures,
  • Flooring materials,
  • Color scheme,
  • Cabinet door designs.

DIY Makeover VS Professional Help:

When it comes to kitchen makeovers, there is two routes you can go: DIY or professional help.

Both have advantages and disadvantages to consider before starting the renovation process.

DIY Makeover – The Gist:

If you’re handy with a hammer and screwdriver, have some construction experience, and feel comfortable taking on a project of this scale. Doing a kitchen remodel yourself is an option worth considering.

  • You’ll save money in the long run by not having to pay someone else for labor.
  • You’ll get to put your stamp on the finished product.
  • You’ll gain some experience, and its fun.

However, doing a kitchen remodel yourself is no small undertaking. It’s a significant project that will take weeks (or even months) of time and a lot of hard work. It’s also one that can easily cost you thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars in replacement materials alone.

Professional Help – An Outline:

Hiring a professional can help you in ways you might not realize. While the payback may seem initially expensive, in most cases, it will end up saving you money down the road on a project that could otherwise go wrong.

A professional designer:

  • Can look at your space and what you want out of a remodel and come back with plans for accomplishing those goals within specific budget parameters.
  • They know about building codes, permits, scheduling details, and other aspects that must be considered before any work begins.
  • They have a better understanding of cost.

Whether you want to hire a professional or not is your choice. What matters most is a completed project that was worth investing in.

Parts of Your Kitchen You Might Want to Work On:

Kitchen Flooring: If your flooring is old and worn, it might be time for an upgrade. Kitchen flooring should be easy to clean and resistant to spills and stains.

Kitchen Cabinets: You can change cabinets by adding new hardware, painting them, or giving them an overhaul with a fresh coat of stain or paint.

Kitchen Faucet: If your kitchen faucets are outdated, you can replace them without breaking the bank. New ones come in various styles and prices – no matter what budget you have in mind, there is something to suit it!

Counter-Tops: Granite, marble, quartz, or something else entirely? The countertop you choose will enhance your kitchen’s overall look and feel.

Back-Splash & Lighting: The back-splashes in kitchens can improve by adding tile, stone, or new paint color.

Appliances: Stainless steel or black finish? French door refrigerator or side by side? Built-in microwave oven or countertop model? If your appliances are outdated, it might be time for an upgrade.

Conclusion:

When it comes to kitchen renovation, there are a lot of factors to consider. The process will be easier and less stressful if you have everything organized. An up-to-date kitchen not only distinguishes your home from the competition but also adds value when resold. Of course, renovating your kitchen necessitates an investment, but upgrading just once is better than doing so multiple times if you think about it.

Renovation Tips for a Baby-Friendly Home

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.

  1. 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!   

How to Clean Your Gutters: A Guide for Homeowners

Homeowners sign up for certain obligations as soon as they sign the property deed. 

Cleaning your gutters is something that every homeowner needs to become familiar with. A clean set of gutters is able to drain properly so that your roof doesn’t get damaged or grow mold. 

But what should you understand about this ever-important task? We’re happy to explain. 

Here’s some information you should know when you’re learning how to clean your gutters each year. 

Know the Importance of Timely Gutter Cleaning

Your residential gutters need to be taken care of regularly so that your home remains intact. Clean them at least once per year, and preferably twice. 

Failing to clean your gutters can badly damage your roof and even lead to problems with your foundation due to poor drainage. 

The market for gutter guards is growing into a $746 million industry. People love gutter guards because they minimize the amount of clogging that gutters experience. 

Never Use Hard Tools When You Clean Your Gutters

Using tools on their gutters is one of the biggest mistakes that people make. 

Your home gutters are susceptible to damage if you use sharp tools to clean them. People often use garden hoes, spades, and even screwdrivers when trying to wedge leaves and debris out of tough spaces. 

It’s better to remove the leaves and debris by hand rather than risking a puncture or tear. You can also use a water hose or pressure washer to free your gutters and make sure they’re draining correctly again. 

Use the Right Equipment and Dress Carefully

Exercising safety and using the right equipment will help you more than anything when you’re trying to clean your gutters. 

A half-million people in the United States are treated for ladder injuries annually. Invest in a quality ladder that you know to be solid and sturdy. Get a partner to help you, and make sure that it’s situated on even ground. 

Wear a pair of durable shoes with a hard rubber sole. Invest in some goggles and gloves so that you don’t get cut by sticks, rocks, and any other debris. Take your time and clean your gutters out section by section so that it’s done correctly and safely. 

Hire Professional Gutter Cleaning Services When Necessary

No matter what types of gutters you have, hiring professionals to address the work will be worth your while. Start scouring your area for the best gutter pros around so that you can get them cleaned in a single appointment. 

Hiring professionals will help you avoid injuries and also make sure the work is done correctly.  

Here’s some more information to consider when you’re looking into rain gutter services: https://saltlakeroofing.com/rain-gutters/.

Learn How to Clean Your Gutters the Right Way

Knowing how to clean your gutters will help you take the best care of your home. Now that you understand the ins and outs of making this happen, start getting the help that you need to handle your gutter care. 

Check out our other articles when you need to know more about homeownership, yard work, real estate, and more. 

4 Interior Garage Lighting Ideas to Transform Your Space

Did you know that around 63% of US homes have a garage?

Whether you use your garage as a workshop, a home gym, or to store your car, choosing the right home lighting can help you get the most out of your space. 

If you’re thinking of remodeling your garage, there’s a lot to consider. Fortunately, our guide is full of interior garage lighting ideas to give you one less thing to worry about.

Read on for 4 home lighting options that are perfect for garages.

1. Use LED Lighting

LED bar lighting is one of the most reliable ways to light your garage space. LED lights are popular for house remodeling because of their brightness, energy economy, and extended lifespan.

If you’re looking for an affordable, functional way to add some light to your garage, look no further than LED. There are many different LED lights available, so make sure you figure out how much light will be required to illuminate the room.

You can rely on a good LED setup to light up every corner of the room and make DIY and workshop projects much more straightforward.

2. Use Fluorescent Lighting

A good alternative to LED is fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lights work by passing an electrical current through mercury vapor gas.

Using fluorescent lighting in your garage is an excellent idea because it will distribute light very evenly throughout your workspace, allowing you to see what you’re working on clearly.

Fluorescent bulbs also give off a cold blue light, which is often clearer in areas and workstations with no natural light.  

3. Consider Ambient Lighting

Once your overhead lighting is in, it’s time to consider adding ambient or task lighting to complement the primary light source.

Ambient lighting casts a gentle light across a big area, making it easier to find tools and equipment. Task lighting emits a powerful beam focused on a specific region, providing illumination for detail-oriented tasks.

By adding complementary light sources, you create a well-lit and well-organized garage. Ambient lighting also helps you create a better-looking and more comfortable environment for work. 

4. Incorporate a Skylight

While artificial lighting is the priority for a garage, incorporating a skylight provides natural light and improved ventilation.

Garages are ideal breeding grounds for mildew since they are often damp. Letting some natural sunlight into your garage can help disinfect the space and keep mildew and mold levels to a minimum.

A skylight gives also gives the space some flair. This can help improve your curb appeal and boost the market value of your home.

Interior Garage Lighting Ideas For 2022

So, that’s the rundown on the top 4 interior garage lighting ideas you need to check out. 

Adding a good home lighting solution to your garage design is a smart way to enhance your work or storage space in 2022. Our helpful guide shows you where to start.

Did you find this article informative? If so, be sure to check out the rest of our blog for more garage ideas and home lighting trends, plus much more. 

7 Reasons Why Every Student Should Have a Self-Storage Space

Studying in another city or country can be an incredible experience. You get a chance to meet people from different cultures, make new friends, participate in extracurricular activities, and much more. However, you may also have to consider your accommodations–a dorm room most likely–which will probably have less space than your bedroom. Your things may look stuffed or cluttered. But before all of that, the biggest challenge is deciding which belongings you should take with you and which ones you should leave behind. 

Self-Storage units can be a big help and probably the best option for your overcrowding problems. It provides students with extra storage space for their necessary items while also giving them peace of mind. Some self-storage units are also available in non-temperature and temperature-controlled types, and some may even come with an electrical facility. You can go to the area and pick one that best suits your needs.

No matter where you have moved for your education, whether it is a big city like Los Angeles, CA or a small town like Royse City in Rockwall County, there are various facilities that offer a self-storage option. Even small cities like Rockwall, TX, offer plenty of storage service providers to help with your storage needs. Finding your best option may require some search; for instance, if you’re studying in Texas, you might want to consider Rockwall storage since their facilities are well-known in the city. 

Below are some benefits every student can get from using a self-storage service. 

1-            You’re Running Out of Space

When you move to another location, you accumulate things regardless of how hard you try but can still run out of storage space. Either you get creative and utilize the available space or find some other place to store items. 

Self-storage units allow you to store your possessions safely. They are safe and will help you declutter your room, creating space for your daily necessities.

2-            It’s Economical 

Money is one of the major concerns for most students. You may save money by using a self-storage unit since other options may be too costly. For example, it is expensive to rent a truck to transport your belongings back and forth from your family home every vacation. Or parking your vehicle regularly costs a lot more than a storage space unit does. Renting a self-storage space near your accommodation will help you to spend significantly less. Often, renting facilities even provide a free pick up and re-delivery to your location. 

3-            Variety of Sizes Available

Worried about finding your required size of self-storage? Storage comes in various sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits you. From small to large, the specifications are designed to accommodate every person’s needs. Let’s check out the range of sizes you can choose from: 

  • A 5×5 storage space unit is more like a small walk-in closet. It is perfect for students or individuals who need a little extra space in addition to their small apartment.
  • A 10×10 space is roughly the size of three bedrooms that can hold an entire family’s furniture. 
  • A 10×20 storage unit is equal to five bedrooms and can easily hold multiple bedroom furniture. 
  • A 10×30 space is as large as a multiple-bedroom house and can easily accommodate large furniture like sofa, bed, refrigerators, and other large items.
  • The largest one so far is a 15×30 unit that can even fit a boat. 

4-            You Don’t Want to Carry Your Belongings Back and Forth

Whether its summer vacation or the end of the year, moving items back and forth from home can seem like a futile task. Getting a storage facility will help you move with only a handful of essential items while keeping your items safe and secure until you come back from your vacation. 

5-            You Need Space for Sports Equipment and Your Hobby

Engaging in extracurricular activities is a vital part of student life. You may be a member of a club or hold an important position in a sports team. Due to the equipment required for these activities, students with limited storage space face additional storage issues. If your room is too small for your sports equipment, you can store your equipment in a self-storage facility and enjoy your favorite activities without worrying.

6-            You Want to Keep Your Stuff Off from Sticky Fingers

Living in shared accommodation can be challenging. It’s a make-or-break situation. You might find the perfect roommate or the complete opposite. Perhaps your roommates don’t mind taking your stuff whenever they want to. To avoid sticky fingers, consider moving your valuables into a self-storage unit.  

7-            You Need Space for Vehicle Storage

Most student accommodations do not have parking areas, while some have limited ones. Students who are blessed to have a car may not find a space to park it. This poses a problem for them as they either have the option of parking the car in a nearby parking garage or on the street. The car may be at risk in both cases. Similarly, if you own a bicycle, you will face the same issue. Neither can you keep it in the room nor outside. The ideal solution is to get a self-storage unit to put your vehicle in a safe place – this will give you a calm, stress-free night’s sleep.

Conclusion

One of the prominent issues students face while they are away from home is lack of space. You will probably share many components from cupboards to bathrooms and shelves to study tables. If you live in shared accommodation with other students, or even if you live alone, there is a possibility that you are unable to adjust to the space that is available. A self-storage unit is a great way for students to get extra space. Depending on the size, you can store pretty much anything you want. From saving your money to storing your oversized items to locking up valuables for safety, renting a storage unit can solve a bunch of your problems.

How Much Does a Furnace Replacement Cost?

For most homeowners, thoughts about home improvement projects usually center on areas like the kitchen or bathroom. Those parts of the home can end up feeling dated very quickly or you simply decide that you want better appliances. Yet, those kinds of home improvements aren’t the only kind you’ll face.

The less glitzy side of home improvement happens around those essential systems in your home, such as your electrical, plumbing, or HVAC system. One of the things most homeowners don’t look forward to in those terms is a furnace replacement.

If you’ve never replaced a furnace, you likely wonder what’s involved and how much it costs. Keep reading for a breakdown of the overall process of furnace replacement.

Furnace Repair

It’s very rare that a furnace simply dies completely the first time it fails. In most cases, it’s just a component that fails. You call an HVAC company, and they come do some repairs.

At a certain point, though, the frequency of repairs ends up becoming a financial drain. That is typically the point at which you will decide or the HVAC company will suggest a furnace replacement.

Furnace Replacement Options

Most homeowners will replace their existing furnace with the same kind of furnace. If you use a gas furnace, you get a gas furnace replacement. If you use an oil furnace, you get an oil furnace replacement.

There are several options you can choose from, though, such as:

  • Heat pumps
  • Steam/boilers
  • Natural gas or propane
  • Electric

You should consult with an HVAC company if you think you want to switch to see what the changeover will entail.

Sizing

You want a new furnace that is appropriately sized for your home. An undersized furnace will run constantly, which shortens the lifespan of the furnace. An oversized system will ultimately prove inefficient and a waste of money.

You get a furnace based on the square footage of your home and, typically, the overall climate. As a general rule, 60,000 BTUs to 80,000 BTUs will suffice for an average-size home.

For professional input, you should search online for “furnace replacement near me” for HVAC companies that sell and install furnaces.

Furnace Replacement Cost

In general, your average furnace replacement cost will run approximately $4500. However, several factors can affect the price, such as location, climate, and home size. For a better picture of what you’ll pay, you should get a quote from an HVAC company.

Furnace Replacement and You

Few homeowners prove happy when it comes time for a furnace replacement. It’s usually a major expenditure that will cost you thousands of dollars. Yet, it’s also not something you can put off indefinitely. A furnace that goes on the fritz during the winter can prove a serious threat not

The Best Business Flooring For Different Kinds of Offices

Ready to renovate your office flooring, but you’re not sure where to start? We recommend making a decision about the material you’ll use first. 

This is because, with a budget in mind, some types of materials are more expensive than others. If you have a particular color or style in mind, the type of material you choose may limit your options. 

With this in mind, read on for our tips on the best business flooring for your office! 

Tile Flooring

Along with being easy to maintain, tile flooring can give your office a sophisticated look that is harder to achieve with carpet. Keep in mind that tile can also be used in order to mimic other materials such as wood.

This means that you’ll be able to achieve the look of wood flooring without maintenance issues or cost. Warranties typically last up to 25 years, and you have a variety of options when it comes to color and shape. 

Wood Flooring

Wood flooring is the go-to choice for office buildings that want a look of warmth and elegance. Although hardwood can be more expensive and harder to maintain, choosing a good finish to protect your floor can go a long way.  

If you live in a humid climate or near the water, keep in mind that engineered wood is also an option. Because of the way it’s fabricated, this type of flooring is far more moisture-resistant than natural wood.

Keep in mind that areas that get more traffic will need to be cleaned more often. You’ll also want to use cleaners meant for hardwood floors.

Laminate Flooring

If you have a large office building and you’re concerned about high traffic, laminate flooring is a smart option. It’s durable enough to resist damage such as abrasions, hard impacts, and stains. If you have a lot of large windows, it’s also known to be UV resistant.

Even better, laminate flooring is more affordable compared to other types of flooring. You also have many designs and colors to choose from so that the flooring can still match the aesthetic of your brand and office building. 

You can view this site to take a look at a variety of laminate flooring options.  

Business Flooring: Practical and Aesthetic

When it comes to choosing the best office flooring, you’ll find that it serves a practical as well as aesthetic purpose. Upgrading your flooring will make your office building look new and clean again, giving a better impression for employees and clients. 

Even better, switching from carpet to laminate flooring or tile flooring means that cleaning and sanitizing are easier. Since tile and laminate are hardy materials, you can use a mixture of white vinegar, borax, and ammonia to clean your floors without worrying about damaging them. 

Ready for more tips on how to spruce up the office and business flooring? Keep reading the blog for more of our tips! 

A Step by Step Guide to Remodeling a Basement

Do you know finishing your basement will give a return of 70 to 75% on your investment?

An unfinished basement works perfect as extra storage space, but it could be of greater value if you finish it. It’s possible to convert that basement into a billiard room or a new office through remodeling.

Remodeling and finishing a basement is costly, but you can spend less if you opt for the DIY version. However, this will demand creativity and a considerable amount of time.

Below is a step-by-step guide to remodeling a basement.

Step 1: Decide How You Want to Use the Space

Before you begin renovating your basement, have a plan on how you will use the space. Understanding what you want will help you decide everything from what color to paint the walls to the type of floor you want.

Common basement ideas for a newly renovated basement include a home gym, a playroom for kids, or an added bedroom.

Step 2: Come Up With a Budget

Before you begin to renovate your basement, ensure you determine how much the project will cost. A budget is a vital step to the whole renovation process.

A budget should steer you in the right direction regarding what finishing features and materials to use.

Step 3: Clear Your Space

To begin basement renovation, clean out everything currently occupying basement space. This will offer you space to work conveniently.

Step 4: Carry Out a Moisture Test

If you were using your basement for storage, dampness might not have been a concern. However, moisture and dampness could be a significant problem now that you are ready to renovate it.

You can test for moisture through a humidity test or by running a calcium chloride test. If the relative humidity is below 40%, you are good to go. However, anything close to 80 indicates you need to take corrective actions.

Installing a dehumidifier and keeping air circulating will help correct the situation.

Step 5: Apply for Permits

Before renovating your basement, ensure you familiarize yourself with local codes for renovations. At times, you might require to apply for a building permit to ascertain your building fulfills the requirements for renovations.

Step 6: Insulate Your Basement

Once you are done with preparation, it’s time to start renovating. Begin with insulating the walls.

Use spray foam or foam board as insulation. This will help reduce energy costs and increase comfort levels in your basement.

Step 7: Paint and Floor Your Basement

To have your basement walls looking great, add several coats of paint. Once you are done with painting, choose a basement décor that matches your style.

The flooring in your basement can set a tone for your entire basement. Floating floors with laminate are a good choice.

Also one can choose to go with carpets. Click here for basement carpeting advice and recommendations.

Remodeling a Basement Made Easy

Remodeling a basement doesn’t have to be a daunting task if you follow these steps. However, if you run into trouble, it’s best to call home renovation experts for professional help.

For more home improvement guides, visit our website today.

Solar Panels vs. Generator: What’s Best for Your Home?

Are you wondering what’s the better off-grid power option right now? Is the answer still a generator, or is solar poised to take the throne?

Traditionally, homeowners rely on portable or standby generators to keep the house running during a power outage. That was the case even if you had solar panels installed. That’s because grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) panels have to be shut off during a blackout for safety reasons.

But now, the solar panels vs. generator debate has no clear winner due to the introduction of solar battery storage. With PV systems equipped with a solar backup battery, you can harness the excess energy stored in the battery even if the grid is out.

So between solar panels or generator systems, which one’s the best backup plan? Let’s look at the pros and cons of both off-grid power solutions.

Solar Battery Storage Benefits

A solar battery can store the excess energy generated by your solar panels, so you can use it if the grid goes out for some reason. As mentioned, grid-tied solar power systems don’t actually output electricity during a power outage. That’s because utility workers fixing the lines are at risk of getting electrocuted if the panels continue to send power to the grid.

Your system will disconnect from the grid, but the battery will start supplying the power instead. You can also utilize the stored energy during times of low solar output (at night) or during peak hours when the electricity rates are highest.

And of course, you also get to enjoy the benefits that solar panels have to offer, such as using a clean and renewable energy source. You can save money by reducing or even eliminating your electricity bills. For more on solar panels, please visit the link provided.

Solar Drawbacks

Having a solar battery installed on top of your photovoltaic panels comes with a much higher price tag. The battery also needs time to charge up. This could be a problem in times of bad weather when the sun doesn’t show up.

Generator Pros and Cons

Backup generators create electricity by burning fuel, such as propane or natural gas. Compared to the costs of a solar battery backup, a generator is much more affordable. It also doesn’t need charging up and can power your appliances directly during an outage.

While a generator is cheaper and easier to install, especially if you have an existing natural gas line, it does come with costs. You have to pay for the fuel it consumes while running, and fuel these days isn’t exactly cheap.

Generators are also loud in their operation. Aside from the air pollution due to the burning of fossil fuels, generators also contribute to noise pollution.

Solar Panels vs. Generator for Home Backup Power

It all depends on your current situation. If you’re only looking for power during emergencies, then the price of solar panels may be too prohibitive. A standby backup generator might be your best option, especially if your home comes with a natural gas line.

For those that already have solar panels installed or planning to have them installed, a solar backup is a nice upgrade.

Can Solar Panels and Generator Systems Work Together?

The question of solar panels vs. generator equipment doesn’t have to be only one or the other. You can also combine the two. When the power goes out, the battery will come online first, followed by the generator should the battery become depleted.

For more home improvement tips, feel free to browse our site.

6 Tips on Picking Outdoor Lighting for Homeowners

Picking outdoor lighting can be a tricky thing to get right.

There are many different types of outdoor lights, and it’s important to know what you need before you start shopping. Here are some tips on picking the perfect type of light for your project.

You’ll want to make sure that any outdoor light is durable enough for outside use and won’t break easily in bad weather or if someone accidentally bumps into it. It should also have a long lifespan so that you don’t have to replace it too often.

Read this article now for some tips on how homeowners can pick the right type of outdoor lighting!

1. Know Your Options

There are different types of outdoor lights, but most homeowners choose between landscape lighting and pathway lighting. Many people use both forms in their landscaping projects to get the best results. 

There are tons of outdoor lighting options. You can use landscape lights for simple accenting jobs that give off a diffuse glow without necessarily shedding light on an area. Pathway lighting is more direct and can cast light on an area of the garden, walkway, or driveway. Companies like Imperiallm can get your project off to the right start.

2. Determine What You Want to Accomplish

You can use landscape lighting for many different effects, such as illuminating a tree or highlighting a rock formation. Pathway lighting is better for focusing light on a certain area, like a path or a garden. 

This is especially true if you’re using it for evening walks.

3. Compare Durability and Lifespan

Outdoor lighting should be able to stand up to harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, and intense sun exposure. 

It should also last for several years without needing replacement often. Many landscape lights are more susceptible to damage than pathway lights because of their diffuse nature; some manufacturers claim that some types of landscape lights will last up to 10 years.

4. Assess Illumination Needs

If you just need a little light in an area, something like a solar garden light may be sufficient. Pathway lighting is usually more effective for illuminating larger areas or specific features in the landscaping design.

It also depends on your outdoor lighting budget, because each type of light varies quite a bit in price. 

5. Evaluate Safety

Consider safety when you are choosing outdoor lighting.

You will want to make sure that people can see well when they’re walking along the path or driveway at night, for example. Also, consider shielding any lights directed upwards to prevent them from shining into someone’s window.

6. Think About How You Want the Lights to Look

Different types of landscape lights can provide different results, so choose carefully based on how you want them to look in the landscaping design. 

The most common type of landscape lighting is low voltage lighting. Photocells turn it on when it’s dark outside. You will need to have electricity running through your yard to power low-voltage lights.

Get Started With Picking Outdoor Lighting

These 6 tips for picking outdoor lighting should give you a good place to start when picking the perfect outdoor lighting for your landscaping project. Hopefully, you’ll land on the perfect set of lights.

For more tips, check out the rest of the articles on our blog!

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