Blog

Homeowners today have a wide variety of options when it comes to incorporating natural light into their homes. Skylights and solar tubes are two of the most popular solutions, each providing its own unique benefits.

Skylights

Skylights are one of the oldest methods for bringing natural light into a home. Skylights are typically installed in the roof or ceiling and are designed to let in natural light from the outdoors. Skylights are ideal for adding light to hallways, stairwells, and other areas that don’t receive direct sunlight. They can also be used to provide additional light to rooms that receive direct sunlight.

Skylights are available in a variety of styles and sizes, from the traditional flat-glass variety to domed, bubble, and tubular skylights. The type of skylight you choose will depend on the type and size of the opening, the budget, and the desired aesthetic.

One of the biggest advantages of skylights is that they allow natural light to filter in without the need for additional ventilation. They can be opened if needed to provide additional ventilation, but this isn’t necessary to bring in natural light.

Solar Tubes

Solar tubes are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to skylights. Solar tubes are essentially small, tubular skylights that are installed between the roof and the ceiling. They are designed to capture and reflect sunlight from the roof, and then direct it into the home.

Solar tubes are ideal for providing natural light to smaller spaces, such as bathrooms and closets. They are also very energy efficient, as they don’t require any additional ventilation for the light to enter.

Solar tubes come in a variety of styles and sizes, and can be installed in less than an hour. Unlike traditional skylights, solar tubes are flush with the ceiling, and require no additional framing or construction.

Regardless of which type of natural light solution you choose, both skylights and solar tubes can be an attractive and energy-efficient way to bring natural light into your home.

As your family grows, so does your need for space. Whether you’re expecting a new baby or an adult is coming to live with you, you may have to consider remodeling your home to make it large enough and comfortable enough to accommodate everybody.

Remodeling is not only a practical solution but also a great way to customize your home according to your needs. There are many things to consider when remodeling for a family, such as cost, location, lifestyle, and even the climate. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

Identify Your Needs

The first step is to decide what kind of space you need and what type of design suits your family best. Consider where you’re going to add the extra space, whether it’s going to be an extra bedroom, a larger living room, or a larger kitchen. Also, consider how you’re going to use the space and think about the lifestyle of your family.

Establish a Budget

Once you know what kind of remodeling you need, you can start working on a budget. This will help you determine how much you’ll need to spend on renovating and where you’ll get the funding. Consider government grants, loans, and budgeting ahead to save up enough money before you start remodeling.

Consider the Climate

When remodeling, think about the local climate. This can help you determine which materials are best for the environment and will suit your lifestyle. For instance, if you live in a cold area, you may want to invest in insulation and double-glazing windows.

Get Professional Help

Remodeling is a huge undertaking, and it’s best to get professional help. Find a reliable contractor who can help you meet your remodeling needs and come up with a plan that is within your budget.

Get Permits

If you’re making big changes to your home, you may need to get permits and follow the local building codes. This can save you from expensive fines and delays in the project.

Remodeling your home can be a daunting task, but it’s worth it to make sure that your growing family is comfortable in your home. With careful planning, you can create the perfect home for your family now - and well into the future.

If you're looking to give your home a facelift, updating its exterior is the perfect way to start. A simple upgrade to your home's exterior can have a huge impact on the look and feel of your home, as well as its overall functionality and value. Whether you're looking to spruce up your curb appeal or to enhance your home's energy efficiency, there are a variety of ways to update the exterior of your home.

Siding

One of the most effective ways to update your home's exterior is to replace or repair your existing siding. Depending on the material you choose, new siding can not only give your home a fresh look, but can also increase its energy efficiency and protect it from the elements. Popular siding materials include vinyl, wood, fiber cement, and metal.

Windows

Upgrading your windows is another great way to update your home's exterior. New windows can enhance energy efficiency and improve the overall look of your home. Plus, with a variety of styles, sizes, and colors to choose from, you can customize the look of your windows to create a unique look.

Roofing

Your roof is a vital part of your home's exterior, and replacing or repairing it can have a huge impact on the look and feel of your home. Whether you're looking to upgrade to a more modern roofing material or to give your roof a fresh coat of paint, there are plenty of options to choose from. Popular roofing materials include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, tile, and cedar shake.

Decking

Adding a deck to your home's exterior is a great way to create more usable outdoor space. A new deck can be used for entertaining, relaxing, or simply to add more character and curb appeal to your home. Popular decking materials include pressure-treated wood, composite, and vinyl.

Updating your home's exterior is an easy and effective way to give your home a facelift. From siding and windows to roofing and decking, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to updating the exterior of your home. With the right materials and a little bit of creativity, you can easily create a stunning exterior that you, your family, and your neighbors are sure to love.

Remodeling a bathroom to make it accessible and comfortable for everyone is an important task that should be taken seriously. It is often necessary to make a bathroom accessible for those with limited mobility or other physical disabilities. Fortunately, the right techniques and materials can help you make the bathroom more accessible without sacrificing style.

The first step in remodeling a bathroom for accessibility is to evaluate the existing layout. Take a look at the various features of the bathroom, such as the tub and shower, toilet, sink, and countertop. Consider whether any of these features can be modified to make the bathroom more accessible. For example, installing grab bars near the tub and shower can make it easier for those with limited mobility to enter and exit the area.

If possible, replace the existing sink and countertop with one that is designed for accessibility. This type of sink is usually slightly lower than a standard sink, making it easier to use for those who are unable to stand. Additionally, you should consider replacing the toilet with an ADA-compliant model, which is designed to make it easier for those with limited mobility to use the restroom.

When remodeling a bathroom for accessibility, the flooring should also be taken into consideration. Non-slip flooring is highly recommended as it can help prevent falls and make the bathroom safer. Additionally, the floor should be leveled and free of obstructions, such as loose rugs, to make it easier for those who use wheelchairs to move around.

When remodeling a bathroom for accessibility, it is also important to consider lighting. Installing brighter, more efficient lights can help those with limited vision to see better. Additionally, consider adding a nightlight or additional lighting near the toilet and shower, as this can make the bathroom easier to navigate in the dark.

Finally, install safety features, such as emergency call buttons and grab bars, to ensure everyone is safe while using the bathroom.

Remodeling a bathroom for accessibility can be a daunting task. However, with the right materials, design elements, and safety features, it can be done successfully. By taking the time to evaluate the existing layout and install the proper features, you can make the bathroom more accessible and comfortable for everyone.

Adding a second story or other expansion to your home can be a great way to increase your living space without having to move. It can also be a way to add value to your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers in the future. However, there are some things to consider before you embark on this project.

First, you need to determine if zoning and other local regulations will allow an expansion. You may also need to get approval from your homeowners' association. If approval is not granted, you may have to modify your plans or abandon the project altogether.

You'll also want to consider the cost of adding a second story or other expansion. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and any sub-contractors you may need. Even if you opt to do some of the work yourself, you'll need to have a budget for the project.

If cost is a major concern, you may want to explore cheaper options, such as adding a single-story addition or converting an existing room into a bedroom or other living space. You can also look into financing options, such as a home equity loan or a home improvement loan, to help pay for the expansion.

Next, you'll want to consider the extra work that may be needed to ensure that the addition looks like part of the original home. This may include matching the roofing, siding, and other features. You should also consider how the extra space will impact your utility bills, as well as the aesthetic of your home.

Finally, it's important to factor in the time and effort you'll need to put into the project. Depending on the size and complexity of the expansion, it might require a few days, weeks, months, or even longer to finish. If you're not a DIY expert, you may need to hire an experienced contractor.

Adding a second story or other expansion to your home can be a great way to increase living space and add value to your property. But, it's important to consider factors such as cost, regulations, and the time and effort required to ensure that the project is done properly. By doing your research up front, you can ensure that any expansion you undertake is one you can be proud of.

Turning an unfinished basement into a living space can be a great way to add more usable area to your home without having to break ground or even moving. It's also an economical way to create extra living space that can be used for anything from a family game room to a guest suite. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of an unfinished basement.

Assessing the Space

Before you start, you should assess the condition of your basement. Look for signs of water damage like cracked walls and standing water, as well as mold, mildew, and rot. If there are any issues that need to be fixed, do that first before continuing with the project.

Designing the Space

Once you've assessed the space and made necessary repairs, it's time to think about what kind of living space you want to create. Do you want an extra bedroom, a home office, or a recreation room? Sketch out a floor plan and decide what kind of furnishings and appliances you want to include.

Preparing the Space

It's important to make sure the walls and floors are suitable for the type of living space you're creating. If the walls need to be painted, patched, or insulated, now is the time to do so. You may also need to waterproof the area if it's not already done. This is especially important if you plan to add any plumbing fixtures.

Finishing the Space

Once the basement is prepped and ready to go, it's time to finish the space. You can do this by adding flooring, lighting, and ceiling tiles. You can also add furniture, appliances, and other decor items to make the space more comfortable and inviting.

Adding a Bathroom

If you want to make the basement living space even more useful, you can add a bathroom. This will require some plumbing and tiling work, so you may want to hire a professional for the job.

Converting an unfinished basement into a living space is a great way to add more usable area to your home without breaking ground or moving. It's also an economical way to create extra living space that can be used for anything from a family game room to a guest suite. With the right preparation and design, you can turn an unfinished basement into a comfortable and inviting living space.

As people age, the risk of health issues and accidents increases. To ensure safety and comfort, many seniors prefer to stay in their homes and age in place. This can be a great way to maintain independence and enjoy the comforts of home. However, it is important to make sure that the home is suitable for aging in place. Remodeling and making modifications to the home can be an effective way to do this.

One of the most important things to consider when remodeling for aging in place is safety. Seniors may be more prone to slips and falls, so it’s important to address any potential hazards. Installing grab bars near the bathtub, stairs, and other areas of the home can help to prevent falls. Non-slip surfaces can also be installed in areas with frequent foot traffic.

Another important consideration is accessibility. As mobility decreases, it is essential to make sure that the home is accessible. This includes making sure there are no barriers to entry, such as steps or narrow doorways. Widening doorways, installing ramps, and adding railings can help make the home more accessible.

Lighting is also important for safety and convenience. Seniors may have difficulty seeing in the dark, so it is important to ensure that the home is well lit. Adding extra lighting along pathways and stairways can help to make the home safer and easier to navigate.

Remodeling for aging in place can also involve more general renovations. It can be helpful to install features that make life easier, such as motion-activated lights and automated doors. Comfort can also be improved with features like heated floors and energy-efficient appliances.

Remodeling for aging in place can be a great way to ensure safety and convenience in the home. With the right modifications, seniors can enjoy the comforts of home while remaining independent and safe.

Smart home technology is quickly becoming one of the most popular features of contemporary home remodels. By integrating different devices with your home, you can create innovative and automated solutions to many of your home's needs. Smart home technology can minimize energy requirements, help automate tedious tasks, and provide improved security for your home. With the help of this technology, you can make your home both more efficient and more comfortable.

Benefits of Smart Home Technology

One of the primary benefits of incorporating smart home technology into a remodel is the ability to save energy and money. Smart thermostats, for example, can be programmed to adjust the temperature of your home depending on the activity level in each room. This results in a highly efficient heating and cooling system, which can significantly reduce your energy bills. Additionally, automated lighting systems can be programmed to turn off any lights that are not in use, which can further reduce your energy costs.

Smart home technology can also automate tedious tasks, such as vacuuming and mowing the lawn. Robotic vacuums can be scheduled to clean your carpets and floors at regular intervals, while robotic lawnmowers can be programmed to mow your lawn when needed. This can save you time and effort, allowing you to spend less time doing chores and more time enjoying your home.

Finally, smart home technology can provide improved security for your home. Motion sensors and video surveillance systems can alert you to any suspicious activity, and some systems can even be programmed to alert the authorities if necessary. Additionally, locks and alarms can be linked to your smart home system, allowing you to monitor and control access to your home from anywhere.

Smart Home Features to Consider

When planning a remodel, there are several smart home features you should consider incorporating. Smart thermostats are a great way to keep your home at a comfortable temperature while reducing your energy costs. Smart lighting systems can be programmed to turn off any lights that are unused, as well as adjust lighting levels for different rooms and times of day. Additionally, motion sensors and video surveillance systems can provide improved security for your home. Finally, automated vacuum cleaners and robotic lawnmowers can help automate tedious tasks.

By incorporating smart home technology into your remodel, you can create an innovative and efficient home environment. Smart home technology can save energy, money and time.

If your kitchen looks like it’s been stuck in the same decade since the 1980s, it’s time to give it a modern update. Here are some tips to help you update your kitchen and make it look like it belongs in 2021!

Paint

A quick and easy way to give your kitchen a modern update is to paint it. Opt for a neutral color or even a bold color like navy blue or deep green. Painting can be done fairly quickly and doesn’t require too much effort. Plus, you can always touch up your paint job if it starts to chip.

Refinish Cabinets

Another way to instantly upgrade your kitchen is to refinish your cabinets. You can either repaint them or restain them if you want a darker look. If you’d rather leave the wood natural, you could also apply a polyurethane sealant to give it a lasting shine.

Replace Countertops

Replacing your countertops is a great way to make a big impact in your kitchen. There are so many options for countertops these days, from natural stone to quartz and even concrete. Choose a countertop that fits your style and budget and watch your kitchen come to life.

Update Fixtures

Fixtures like cabinet handles, drawer pulls, lights, and faucets can date a kitchen. Take the time to replace these items with something more modern and functional. Choose a style that matches the rest of your kitchen and you’ll have a totally different look in no time.

Invest in Small Appliances

Investing in small appliances, such as a toaster oven, coffee maker, or food processor, can instantly make your kitchen look more modern. Try to choose appliances with a sleek and modern design to keep the look of your kitchen consistent.

Updating a dated kitchen is a great way to give your home a new look. With a few simple updates, your kitchen can look like it belongs in the 21st century. Paint, refinish cabinets, replace countertops, update fixtures, and invest in small appliances to create a modern and stylish kitchen.

Integrating sustainable features into your home remodel can not only benefit the environment, but also save you money in the long run. Here are a few ways to make your remodel more eco-friendly:

1. Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial in keeping your home energy efficient. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient insulation materials such as cellulose, fiberglass or spray foam insulation.
2. Windows: Replacing old windows with energy-efficient models can help reduce your energy bills. Look for windows with a low-E coating, which helps reflect heat and UV rays, and double-paned glass, which provides better insulation.
3. Lighting: Incorporating energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED or CFL bulbs, can save you money on your electricity bill. Consider installing dimmer switches and motion sensors to further reduce energy consumption.
4. Water conservation: Installing low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets can help conserve water and lower your water bill. A greywater recycling system can also be a great way to reuse greywater for irrigation.
5. Renewable energy: Consider incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels, geothermal systems, or wind turbines to generate your own power.
6. Materials: Use eco-friendly building materials such as bamboo flooring, reclaimed wood, or recycled glass tiles. These materials have a lower environmental impact than traditional building materials and can add unique character to your home.
7. Landscaping: Incorporating native plants and trees in your landscaping can help reduce water usage and promote biodiversity.

By incorporating these sustainable features into your remodel, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also save money on energy and water bills in the long run. It's important to note that incorporating all of these features may not be feasible for every remodel project, so it's important to prioritize and plan accordingly to fit your budget and goals.