3 Easy Ways To Warm Up Your Bedroom

October 2, 2014adminBedrooms, Home Improvement Tips, interior paintingbedroom remodeling, color schemes, DIY projects, home improvement, home trendsLeave a comment

As the weather cools down, people are preparing for cozy nights indoors. Perhaps nowhere is the desire for warm, comfortable living spaces more important than the bedroom. Fortunately, it only takes a few simple tricks to warm up any bedroom in just one weekend.

Step 1: Switch to down and feather bedding

Down and feather users reported warmth as the main reason for purchasing down products, tied at 55 percent with softness and fluffiness, according to a 2013 nationwide Harris survey conducted on behalf of the American Down and Feather Council (ADFC).

“Down is a natural insulator that creates warmth without the added weight that many synthetic fill materials have; and the lightness creates a fluffier bedding experience,” says Stephen Palmer, ADFC president.

That warmth even allows homeowners to turn down the thermostat and save some money on heating costs. In fact, 80 percent of users said down and feather products can help save money on home heating bills, the survey found.

Step 2: Opt for a warm color palette

Don’t underestimate the psychology of color. Warmer colors, such as shades of red, orange and yellow, can heat up a room. Choose rich tones to create an inviting feel. Popular interior paint colors this year include cayenne shades of red, deep oranges, and bright, botanical-inspired yellows.

Accent walls or warm, richly-colored accessories are excellent options for those not ready to commit to such a bold color in the entire bedroom. Throw pillows and blankets, rugs or art can be easily changed with holidays or seasons.

Step 3: Select warm, effective lighting

Warm up your bedroom and create an inviting living space with strategically placed lighting. When selecting artificial light, avoid bulbs that cast blue tones and select bulbs with yellow hues that light the space with a soft glow. Keep in mind that sometimes overheard lighting can be harsh, especially in a bedroom. Place table lamps on bedside tables or add a standing lamp near a comfortable chair.

Candles are a simple and inexpensive way to add a warm glow. If desired, pick an inviting scent that complements the season – apple cinnamon for fall or evergreen for winter. And don’t forget to take advantage of natural light by selecting window treatments that let in sunlight, such as transparent curtains.

Just these few simple changes can warm up the bedroom during the cold days ahead. Not only will you keep toasty warm at night, but you’ll enjoy the inviting space during the day as well.

Ready to warm up your bedroom with a new rich paint color? Contact us for a free in home estimate!

Tips To Prepare Your Windows And Doors For Winter

September 23, 2014adminhome improvement, Home Maintenance, Winter Tipsenergy efficient, home improvement, home repairs, winter23 Comments

How much do you spend on utilities? Are you looking for ways to save? A typical American household spends about $2,100 on energy bills each year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Most of that expense comes from a home’s energy use during the winter heating season. But a quick home checkup can help you can reduce these costs, prepare for winter and enjoy energy savings.

Properly installed and maintained windows and doors can help keep your home more comfortable year-round. Save on heating costs by preparing your windows and doors for winter with these tips:

* Clear sills and moving parts of dirt and debris. Debris like sand, dirt or leaves can get caught in windowsills and moving parts of windows or doors. Clean these areas with a dry paintbrush to create a tighter seal and enhance window and door performance.

* Check weather stripping. Re-attach or replace missing or worn weather stripping around windows and doors. Loose weather stripping can let cold air in during the winter and out in the summer, reducing energy efficiency.

* Reapply caulk or sealant around windows and doors. Reseal areas around windows and doors that may have been exposed to heavy weather or extreme sunlight – creating breaks in caulk or sealant – to help reduce potential drafts and leaks.

* Installing snap-in blinds or shades. Install snap-in blinds or shades to help insulate your home from cold outdoor temperatures. Pella Designer Series windows and patio doors feature convenient between-the-glass options to add energy efficiency and privacy.

* Repair or replace damaged exterior surfaces. Cracked or deteriorated wood associated with water penetration may allow moisture or cold air to leak into your home. Look closely for signs of moisture leakage and replace damaged wood. Consult a professional to help correct any roof or drainage problems around your home.

* Install storm doors. Storm doors add an extra layer of protection and help reduce air and moisture leakage. Adding a Pella storm door to your exterior doors can reduce energy loss through the entryway by up to 45 percent.

* Replace old windows and doors with energy-efficient ones. If you have single-pane glass, clear glass, or older windows or doors, you may be paying more to heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer. Replace old windows with energy-efficient, double or triple-pane glass versions made with insulating argon, or install new durable fiberglass doors to help save money and energy year-round.

Contact us today for a free estimate to have new energy efficient windows and doors installed before the cold weather hits!

Getting New Carpet: When and How

September 16, 2014adminHome Improvement Tips, Home Maintenancehome improvement, home remodelingLeave a comment

Though we often ignore it, flooring is a major part of our everyday lives. We’re pretty much in contact with it every moment we’re indoors. So when your carpet needs to be replaced, here are some helpful tips!:

Signs your Carpet Needs to be Replaced

Sometimes, all a dingy carpet needs is to a nice strong power-cleaning. But there are signs that you should just give up on the floor beneath your feet and opt for an upgrade:

You just had your carpet professionally cleaned, and it still smells like cat pee, old coffee, or something unidentifiable.
Every time you walk through a doorway, you trip over the carpet that’s no longer attached to the ground.
You notice no difference in foot comfort when walking on your carpet and walking in your garage. Actually, the garage floor might be more pleasant.
Your carpet is older than your kids, who now have kids and carpet of their own.

Good Times to Replace your Carpet

Having your carpet replaced is a big project. You have to choose a company, pick out the flooring you want, and then get your house ready for the installation-meaning all the furniture will have to be moved. It’s a big task, and there are definitely some optimal times to complete it.

After your kids become less accident prone. If you have a toddler, there’s no point getting your carpet replaced. Children spill, tear, and otherwise abuse the floor no matter how new and pretty it is. Once your kids are older, it will be easier to get them to respect the investment your put into carpet replacement. This way, you won’t have to get new carpet every two years.
After your pets are housetrained. Accidents happen, but if you have a puppy or kitten, wait til they’ve learned where to do their business and that scratching the carpets and couches is not okay. Likewise, after you get a new carpet, you might want to refrain from bringing untrained animals into your home.
When the weather is nice. If a lot of furniture needs to be moved, you’ll appreciate the space that outside has to offer. This isn’t really an option if it’s the middle of hurricane season or there’s a snow-storm going on. Conversely, the carpet installers will appreciate not having to break their backs on a super-hot day.

Finding the best deal

There are a lot of things to consider when you’re deciding on new carpet. You want something that is durable, while also matching your design preferences. You might have limited days that you’re available for contractors to work, or a deadline by which you want the carpet installed. All of these factor into who you will choose. But how do you find these companies in the first place?

Word of Mouth: Ask your friends and family who they’ve had good experience with in the area. When people are unhappy with service, they’ll let others know. People you know are probably the most reliable way to get honest reviews.
Get Estimates: Not only will getting estimates from several companies help you figure out your budget, but it will also enable you to get a preview of what each company is like to work with. You can get local carpet estimates for free at websites with a strict vendor review process.

New carpet is a big commitment and investment, but with the right considerations and planning, you can replace your worn-down, torn-up, smelly floor in no time. And when your feet are happier, the rest of you will be too.

Thomas Greeley writes about home renovations, real estate, and home design. He has never lived in the same place for more than five years, and plans to continue this trend so that he can experience even more cultures, people, and scenic views.

5 Kitchen Remodel Ideas That Add Value To Your Home

September 10, 2014adminhome improvement, home remodelinghome improvement, kitchen remodeling, kitchens, remodeling tips3 Comments

No matter if you’re an aspiring chef or TV dinner connoisseur … if the look of your kitchen makes you want to dine out – it may be time for an upgrade. The kitchen should be the heart of your home: it’s where you entertain, hold family meetings and even pay bills, so why not take it from “make-do” to “magnificent?”

Nothing reinvigorates a home like a newly remodeled kitchen. Think of renovating this space as an investment. Here are five “must-do” updates to ensure your kitchen will earn compliments from everyone and add value to your home.

1. Add character with color

Even the most lackluster space can be energized with color. Paint the walls or hang new curtains in a bright fabric. Or for a bigger statement, consider painted cabinets. To save you time and energy, manufactures now offer cabinets in a wide range of beautiful – and colorful – painted finishes. If considering a bold cabinet shade like blue or red, pair with complementary colors like brown or white – it will be easier to switch up the decor and add accent colors down the road.

Sticking with a neutral color scheme? You can still make a statement and add warmth with a colorful mosaic tile backsplash. These backsplashes can instantly brighten a space and are now easier than ever to install. Plus, a glass backsplash is easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about food splatters getting on walls.

2. Faucet facelift

The sink area is among the most hardworking of kitchen spaces, and the faucet in particular, gets the most grueling daily workout. Because of its constant use, updating the faucet will immediately improve the function and look of your prep space.

According to the NKBA, contemporary styling will be the fastest growing kitchen style in 2014. To easily obtain this look, the new Tilt pullout kitchen faucet from Moen is the ideal choice for homeowners wanting to create a sleek and chic statement at the sink. Tilt offers compact, modern styling that works well in any size kitchen. It’s also offered in two on-trend finishes: Chrome and Spot Resist Stainless, which helps the faucet stay visibly cleaner, longer.

And don’t just stop with the kitchen faucet … fixtures such as built-in soap dispensers or beverage faucets can further the functionality and improved styling at the sink. In fact, research shows that more than one-third of homeowners remodeling their kitchens are interested in beverage faucets with filtration systems, as well as matching soap dispensers. Moen is helping homeowners fulfill these wishes with a new line of soap dispensers and Sip beverage faucets. Each is available in traditional, transitional and modern designs in matching finishes, elegantly coordinating with the rest of the space.

3. Amp up accessories

Much like fashion, accessories can make a room; think of hardware as the finishing touch to make your space feel polished but also serve a purpose. To start, easily answer the age-old question: “where’s the dish towel?” Most homes don’t have a convenient place dedicated to hanging this necessity in the kitchen. For a stylish solution, install accessories such as hooks, towel bars or towel rings on the side of an upper cabinet, the end of the island or in other work areas. Next, think of the sink – accessories such as colanders and cutting boards can now fit seamlessly into the sink to help make meal prep and clean up a breeze.

4. Enhance lighting

Lighting is a critical element in kitchen design, both for its decorative and functional benefits. But not all lighting is created equal; the best way to enhance the room is to install custom lighting to suit your kitchen’s needs. It can also make the space look roomier and more elegant. With styles ranging from incandescent bulbs with vintage glass shades to ultra-chic halogen cones, hanging pendants are popular ceiling fixtures for the kitchen. For an instant update, install pendants over an island or countertop where the low-hanging fixtures won’t interfere with traffic flow.

5. Add personality

Adding something beautiful like a bouquet of flowers, new linens or a colorful new tea pot will bring life into the space. You can also jazz up your kitchen with lively artwork. Whether it’s a professional painting you love or fun vintage posters, artwork helps complete your renovation. For a more personal touch, hang a grouping of family photographs, or frame some of your children’s more colorful artistic creations for a vibrant and charming display. Or, make artwork functional by painting an old framed mirror with chalkboard paint to display grocery lists, menus or your favorite quotes.

Before starting demolition on your kitchen remodel, make sure the design is a reflection of you. By following these five steps not only will you have a kitchen that complements your lifestyle and increases the value of your home, you will also draw plenty of compliments from family and friends.

Ready to get started with your Kitchen Remodel? Give us a call! We specialize in Kitchen Remodels in Westchester County, NY.

Top Trends In Smart Home Technology

September 4, 2014adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tipsenergy efficient, home improvement, home trendsLeave a comment

Home is where the heart is, and now thanks to home automation, it’s also where technology thrives. More people want smart home features that let them control their spaces while increasing energy efficiency and cutting waste. In fact, the smart home market is forecasted to hit $12.8 billion by 2017 in North America and Europe alone.

The rapid growth of smart home technology is closely connected to the large number of people who own mobile devices. Today 90 percent of American adults have a cellphone, 58 percent have a smartphone and 42 percent of own a tablet computer, according to the Pew Research Internet Project.

Home connectivity is no longer a novelty – it’s quickly becoming commonplace, allowing you to stay connected to your home from near or far. Here are the top trends in smart home technology today:

Wise water usage

More people are aware of their water footprint and are taking steps to control H2O usage in their homes. Low-flow toilets and shower heads in the bathrooms are a start, but technology is taking water usage and conservation to new levels. EcoWater Systems HydroLink Plus is an example of a water treatment system enhanced by Wi-Fi technology. The system softens and treats your water while monitoring water usage, letting you know when softener salt is needed and sends you alerts if potential issues are detected, such as a continuous water flow over a period of time or excess water usage above normal usage. This allows you to make adjustments to save money on utility bills, plus provides peace of mind that problems can be corrected before expensive repairs are required. This is on top of the inherent savings water softeners provide in hard water areas, reducing the amount of soap and cleaning agents needed and saving on energy bills. Also, if you choose, HydroLink Plus enabled systems can be programmed to send alerts and diagnostics to a local EcoWater dealer who can monitor the system and provide maintenance as needed. For more information, visit www.ecowater.com.

Heating and cooling control

Heating and cooling accounts for more than half of the energy used in a typical American home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It’s no wonder homeowners want tech-savvy solutions to cut bills. Programmable thermostats are affordable and readily available, and when used correctly, they can save homeowners up to $180 per year in energy costs. Some smart thermostats even allow temperature adjustments to be made remotely from smartphones while providing energy statistics to help you control costs. Zoned heating and cooling systems are also gaining traction, meaning that you can heat or cool certain parts of the home based on where you spend the most time.

Smart security systems

For years, home security alarms consisted of sensors that detected break-ins and responded with loud sirens. Today, security systems literally put a home’s safety and efficiency in the palm of your hand. Video cameras and alerts let you know when children arrive home from school or when packages are delivered. Fire alarms integrated into the system alert you of smoke, fires and the presence of carbon monoxide and other poisonous fumes.

We live in a digital age and homeowners are embracing smart home technology for everything from water treatment to home safety. The result? Homes are more efficient and secure, and homeowners are conserving natural resources while saving money on utility bills. Perhaps it’s time to hop on the bandwagon and consider intelligent home improvements? There are definitely benefits – and you’ll have the smartest home on the block.

Tips To Keep Your Tools In Tip Top Shape

September 1, 2014adminDIY Projects, Home Improvement TipsDIY projects, home improvement, home tools, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

From painting supplies to gardening and hand tools, buying well-made home improvement tools can help improve project results. The tools you use may be an investment, so you’ll want to take care of them to ensure they last for more than just one project.

Painting tools

Painting is the easiest and most cost-effective way to transform a space or revive an outdated piece of furniture. The quality of your brushes and rollers is just as important as the quality of the paint. You’ll want to know how to clean and maintain them so they can be used again and again.

It’s important to clean paint brushes and reusable rollers immediately after use. A mixture of warm water and mild soap suds is the best cleaning solution for latex- or water-based paints. When cleaning oil-based paints, varnishes, lacquers and shellacs, closely follow the manufacturer’s instructions to select the proper cleaning solvent such as paint thinner or denatured alcohol. Consider using one set of synthetic brushes or rollers for oil-based products and another set for latex products.

Avoid soaking paint brushes in solvent or water as this can damage the bristles. A paint brush comb is an easy way to keep your brushes in tip-top shape after cleaning. For best results, comb both the edge and center of the brush to prevent paint buildup during use and extend the life of any brush. You can find step-by-step videos on YouTube that demonstrate how to clean paint brushes.

It’s also important to store brushes properly. Hang brushes when storing them; never store a paint brush on its tip, which can result in “curling.”

After washing used roller covers, string them on rope or dowels to aid in drying. To ensure a nice, smooth finish the next time you have to paint, don’t stand the paint roller on its end or lay it on its nap. Be sure to dry and store your roller covers with care.

Gardening tools

After a day spent doing yard work, it’s important to clean off any shovels, hoes or rakes. Moist soil on metal surfaces can result in rust so hose off tools and towel dry them after each use. Use a wire brush or wire-steel pad attached to a power drill to remove rust or other debris from metal tool parts. Make the most of your storage space or garage and hang garden tools by their handles to prevent damage and avoid clutter.

Store small garden tools like shears, trowels and soil scoops in a sand-filled trough to keep them organized and in top-notch condition. Fill a 13-inch by 15-inch plastic or galvanized container with sand to within an inch of the top, pour in 1/4 cup of motor oil and stir. Place the tools in the sand with the handles out. The sand helps the tools stay clean and sharp while the oil prevents any rust buildup. Keep the container in your garage or shed to avoid the elements.

Hand-held workshop tools

Quality hammers, screw drivers, cordless drills and the like can be costly. Given enough time, rust will damage metal permanently. For rust removal on hand-held tools and corroded nuts and bolts, soak them in vinegar for a few days and rinse with warm water. Another way to remove rust is to gently scrape the tool with a wire brush.

When cleaning power tools, wear heavy duty gloves when handling and disconnect all power cords. With a toothbrush, clean around any switches that may interfere with the proper operation of the machine. If you are cleaning a chainsaw, jigsaw or similar power tool, use an air compressor to blow out any sawdust that’s collected within the crevices.

A little extra time spent cleaning and storing tools after a home improvement project can keep them looking and working their best. Protect your tool investments and be the ultimate weekend warrior with proper storage and organization.

Need help with a home improvement project on your Westchester, NY home? Call us at 914-576-2572 for an estimate!

Tips To Save On Home Energy Costs

August 26, 2014adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Maintenanceenergy efficient, home improvement, home repairsLeave a comment

There’s no better time than now to give your home the attention it deserves. Give it an annual checkup before cold weather arrives to help add comfort, save energy and cut home maintenance in the long-run.

When inspecting your home’s windows and doors, here’s what to check:

Inspect interior and exterior finishes: Over time, paint and stain can weather away. Flaking or peeling may mean that it’s time to refinish or replace the unit. When replacing windows or doors, consider factory prefinished wood or fiberglass options from Pella, or vinyl options that don’t need painting or staining, to save time and money.

Look for damaged exterior surfaces or signs of leaks: Check your sprinkler system to make sure it’s watering your lawn and landscape, not soaking your windows or doors. Cracked or deteriorated wood may be a sign of water penetration. Leaks can linger and affect interior walls, floors or ceilings, so look closely for discoloration or other moisture signs.

If you spot a problem, track its trail. For example, discolored trim around a window might actually be caused by moisture entering a ways away. With a leaky roof, water may run down inside the wall and appear at the window. Contact us for help in making home repairs.

Clear windowsills and tracks of dirt and debris: Sand, leaves, insects or pine needles stuck in weather-stripping can affect the performance of your windows and doors. Open the windows and clean the opening with a soft brush, like a dry paint brush or vacuum attachment. Do the same for sliding patio doors.

Try opening and closing: Open your windows and doors to make sure moving parts work, and units close properly. Replace worn or broken parts.

Inspect weather-stripping: Re-attach loose weather-stripping around windows or doors, and replace material that’s ripped or torn.

Replace or repair broken locks: If locks feel loose or don’t work smoothly, replace them. Keep windows and doors locked when not in use. Locks help hold doors and windows tightly, to lock out rain, wind, snow and insects.

Inspect weep and breather holes: Weep holes in the exterior of windows, allow excess moisture to escape, while breather holes allow air exchange within certain components. Clear blocked holes of dirt or debris with a wire or toothpick.

Check exterior sealants and caulk on and around windows and doors. Pay attention to areas susceptible to rain, water and extreme sunlight. Remove damaged material and reapply sealant.

Feel for signs of air leakage around the window or door: Improperly installed windows or doors can be drafty, decrease energy efficiency, and allow unwanted moisture into your home. To help save on utility bills and keep your home more comfortable year-round, replace drafty old, leaky windows with new, ENERGY STAR-qualified Pella windows installed properly.

Are your windows old and drafty? Contact us today and get them replaced before the cold weather arrives!

Serving Westchester County, NY for over 50 years!

Summertime Home Improvement Projects

August 7, 2014adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tips, Summer ActivitiesDIY projects, home improvement, home remodeling, home trends, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Summertime home improvements don’t have to be all work and no play

If this year’s summer vacation plans involve more hardware than beachwear, don’t fret. Just apply tried-and-true trip-planning principles to your “staycation” renovation plans and you can ensure both your time and money are well spent.

Set a budget

You would rarely take a vacation without setting a limit on the amount of money you can spend. That budget affects your destination and hotel choices, length of stay and more.

The same principle goes for your home improvement vacation. Set a budget for tools, supplies and new purchases as you decide whether you’re investing in big renovations, like installing new cabinets, or small touches, like a new area rug. Be sure to consider small, added perks as you’re building your budget. For instance, you likely won’t want to cook in the midst of a kitchen remodel, so don’t forget to include money in your budget for restaurant meals or take-out.

Splurge a little

Every vacation needs a guilt-free splurge item. If your time off will be spent working on your home, you’ll thank yourself later for selecting a high quality paint. Choose a premium paint. Not only will your home look beautiful, but because higher quality paint goes on smoother and often in fewer coats, you’ll save yourself time and avoid frustration during the application process. Plus, a superior paint will last longer, look new for years and be easier to maintain, so you can sit back and relax when your next vacation rolls around.

Plan ahead

You would never begin preparing for a trip the day you leave. In order to make the best use of your time, the same level of planning should be considered when using time off for home improvement projects.

You’ll want to determine the projects you’d like to complete several weeks before your staycation begins. Start by creating a prioritized list so you focus time on the tasks that matter most to you, whether that is painting the kitchen, installing a new vanity in the bathroom or reorganizing the garage. Then, just as you wouldn’t shop for flip flops and bathing suits on your way to the beach, don’t shop for brushes, rollers, spackle and caulk on the day you want to start your home improvement projects.

Be sure to select paint colors ahead of time. Pick up color chips at your local hardware store or paint retailer or bring home tinted samples to try out and come to a color conclusion before your time off begins.

Eye your itinerary

You may not need to compile a minute-by-minute breakdown of your day’s activities, but it’s a good idea to develop an itinerary of to-dos and project milestones to accomplish each day.

Scheduling a “no work” day mid-week can help you maintain your sanity. Use this day to sit outside, go see a movie or do just about anything other than work on your home. It’s a nice break and prompts you to unwind and de-stress. Finally, end the week with a celebration to appreciate all you’ve accomplished.

Even though there is much to be done on a home improvement holiday, there are ways to be sure you enjoy that time. Approach the time off like any other vacation – with some planning, patience and prudent expectations – and you’re well on your way.

Need help with your home improvement project? Give us a call or contact us for a free estimate!

Key considerations for family-friendly bathroom renovations

August 2, 2014adminBathroom Remodeling, home improvement, Tips to sell your homebathroom remodeling, bathroom renovations, DIY projects, home improvement, home remodeling, home trends, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Family Friendly Bathroom Renovation Tips

Mom rules the media room, Johnny loves the basement workshop and the kitchen is Dad’s domain. Gender roles notwithstanding, each family member has one room where he or she enjoys spending more time. One room, however, is equally used and loved – or reviled – by all: the bathroom.

If you’ve decided to renovate a bathroom that no one wants to use, it’s important to keep family-friendly upgrades in mind. Approximately 4.3 million American households are multi-generational – with grandparents, parents and children living under one roof – according to the U.S. Census Bureau. It’s more important than ever to keep the needs of all family members in mind when undertaking a renovation project, especially in a key room like the bathroom.

Here are a few areas for attention when you’re planning your family friendly bathroom renovations:

Safer, more satisfying showering

If your family has older members, grab bars in the shower are necessary for safety. They can also be helpful for youngsters learning to manage the shower on their own. A safer shower doesn’t end with grab bars, however. Have you ever considered the safety – not to mention ease of use – of the shower door?

New technology improves the usability and safety of an often-overlooked part of the shower experience – the door track. The ComforTrack is a flexible bottom track that bends under applied pressure, making it easier and more comfortable to bathe a child (or pet) and virtually eliminating the unpleasant scrapes that con occur with metal tracks. The durable track is also simpler to clean, making it friendlier for the family member cleaning the bathroom.

Since durability and cleaning ease are essential in bathrooms that see a lot of use from multiple generations, consider a shower unit that installs without the hassle of caulking, reduces leak risks and reduce maintenance and cleaning time. Shower surrounds like Sterling’s new Ensemble Medley product are simple to install – within the abilities of most DIYers – and easier to clean. What’s more, the material is stain and scratch-resistant, so it can stand up to use by the most demanding bathers, including the family dog.

To further enhance safety in the shower, install slip-resistant flooring and consider a device that prevents unexpected temperature changes – and potential scalding – in showers and faucets.

Lightening up for everyone

Like any room in your home, the bathroom benefits from layers of lighting. Overhead lighting should keep the room well illuminated for showering and bathing, when you need more light. Lighting around and/or above the mirror is essential for detail work, like applying makeup or shaving.

You’ll also want sources of gentler light for nighttime bathroom visits. Keeping lights low can help make it easier for bathroom users – especially young children — to return to sleep. Dimmers control the intensity of overhead lights, or a simple nightlight may be sufficient to preserve safety and sleep. Natural light from windows can be a welcome addition to a bathroom. Privacy is always a concern, so consider window frosting or even a skylight to admit natural light while preserving modesty.

Making it personal for all

In bathrooms where people share space, it’s important to make everyone feel at home. Giving each person a dedicated storage spot (such as a shelf, cubby or a cabinet bin beneath the vanity) ensures he or she will feel at home and the bathroom will stay organized. You can further enhance the welcoming feeling by including personal touches like monogrammed towels, his-and-hers accessories or even framed art created by the kids.

The kitchen will probably remain the heart of the home, but the bathroom will never lose its vital spot in the lives of American families. If you renovate yours with an eye toward making it more family-friendly, your home-improvement dollars will be well spent – and your family happier.

Ready to make your bathroom more family friendly? Give us a call or send us an email for a free estimate!

5 Home Improvements To Boost Your Home Value

July 28, 2014adminhome improvement, Home Improvement Tipshome improvementLeave a comment

Home improvement season is in full swing, and homeowners across the country are deciding which projects to tackle this year. By taking a strategic approach to selecting home improvements, you can go beyond adding value to your property – you can also boost your comfort and safety as well.

Here are five home improvements to enhance the value, safety and comfort of your home:

1) Standby Home Generator
A standby generator is installed outside your house (like a central air-conditioning unit) and comes on automatically within seconds of a utility power outage to keep your property up-and-running whether you’re home or away. Standby generators are connected to existing gas lines in your home (propane or natural gas), so there’s no refueling necessary. A standby generator like those from Kohler can power critical appliances and systems in a home, including lights, heating/cooling systems, refrigerators/freezers, sump pumps, security systems, office equipment and sophisticated electronics. Adding a standby generator not only increases your comfort and safety, it’s a sound investment. In addition to preventing losses due to power outages, a backup power generator recoups 67.5 percent of its cost at resale, according to Remodeling magazine’s 2014 Cost vs. Value Report.

2) Lighting
Updating lighting can have a dramatic effect on a home’s aesthetic, but beauty is just one benefit of redoing light fixtures inside and out. Lights highlight architectural features plus add a safety element to the property. Properly lit paths, stairs and entranceways make it easy to navigate throughout the home. Use solar light to brighten pathways, stair lights to illuminate steps, wall sconces to light functional areas within the living room or bathroom, and under-cabinet lighting to illuminate kitchen surfaces for safer cooking.

3) Front door
In addition to properly lighting your entrance, there is another simple and affordable update you can make to boost curb appeal and home security: a new steel front door. Doors that feature decorative glass might look nice, but they make it easy for criminals to break into your home. Give your home’s facade a facelift and added security by replacing your entry door with a steel option. With a 96.6 percent recouped cost, it is the number one remodeling project for resale value, according to the Cost vs. Value Report. Plus, steel front doors can be purchased in a variety of colors or easily painted to match or accentuate your home’s existing paint color.

4) Security system
A security system assures owners that their family and property are secure day and night. Whether you hire a company to install it or you go the DIY route, there are numerous options. Smart security systems go beyond cameras, fire alarms and motion detectors; they allow homeowners to monitor their homes online so they can see when children come home, packages are delivered, or whether they forgot to shut the garage door. Adjustments to locks, lighting and temperature can all be made remotely. Plus, adding a security system often qualifies for a discount on homeowner’s insurance, so ask your agent.

5) Sump pump
With the recent storms in the Northeast and across the country, flooding has become a major concern. If your home has a basement, it should have a functioning sump pump. Often located under stairways or in basement utility spaces, a sump pump is a special pump that is only activated when water reaches a certain level in a basin that collects water and enables proper drainage around the home. Sump pumps are critical to prevent basement flooding, and they reduce dampness around a home’s foundation. The upfront cost of a sump pump is easily justified when you think about the thousands of dollars in damages it prevents: the average cost of a flooded basement is $21,000 according to FloodSmart.gov (2-inch flood in 2,000 square-foot home).

Call Us