• 9 reasons to remodel your home

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    Our homes go through a lot of wear and tear. Over time, things start to break down, and we might not even realize it. Whether it’s the roof, the windows, or even the foundation, it’s important to keep an eye on the condition of our homes. But due to high costs and efforts, many of us put off home remodeling for as long as possible.

    However, it is not the right approach, and you should actively seek to remodel your home as it will increase its value and become more welcoming and cozier for visitors. 

    To help you in your quest to remodel your house, we've put together a list of reasons why you should consider remodeling your home.

    To Increase Your Comfort and Enjoyment

    A home should be a comfortable and enjoyable place to live. If your current home doesn't meet your needs in terms of comfort or functionality, a remodel can be a great way to improve your quality of life. 

    For example, if you're constantly tripping over things in your cluttered living room, bringing down some walls and adding additional storage space could make a difference. Or if your kitchen is too congested to comfortably cook in, expanding it could make meal times much more enjoyable.

    Get Rid of the Unwanted

    Although this is not directly linked to the remodeling of the house, it is a very important step: store your belongings in a storage space until you are done with remodeling. This will help keep you keep safe your precious belongings. 

    In addition, you can get rid of those unwanted items and create a more streamlined, efficient living space. Go now and look for storage spaces at storage Grand Island, and don't forget to review their security features.

    Update Your Outdated Home

    Failing to renovate or remodel your older-looking home could become increasingly difficult (and expensive) to sell in the future. 

    If you don't plan on putting your home on the market anytime soon, you might think, "Why does it matter how my home looks? I'll be the one living in it." But even if you're not planning on selling, it's still important to keep your home looking its best. 

    After all, you deserve to live in a beautiful home that makes you happy.

    Enhance the Returns on an Investment Property

    If you hire professionals to perform your home improvements, you may realize a greater return on investment or be able to charge a higher rent. 

    To increase rental returns, landlords should focus on factors most likely to appeal to tenants. It is because potential tenants are often willing to pay more for a property that has been well-maintained and updated. 

    If you wish to sell your investment property in the future, a remodel can also help you to get a higher price.

    Financing Is Still Affordable

    Although interest rates have been rising in recent years, they are still relatively low by historical standards. It means that now is a great time to finance a home remodeling. 

    If you're uncertain whether you can afford to remodel your home, speak to a financial advisor or mortgage broker. They will be able to help you to determine whether a home remodeling loan is right for you. It will depend on factors such as your credit score, income, and employment history.

    Help to Avoid Embarrassment

    If the awry state of your kitchen makes you hesitant about hosting your friends, or your appliances can use a thorough once-over, think about kitchen remodeling. Look at those avocado-colored worktops; they need help. 

    You could also use an update in the form of new appliances and improved flooring. All these will give your kitchen a more modern look, making you proud to show it off.

    Your Home Feels Stale

    Do you feel like something is missing when you walk into your home? If your home feels stale, it might be time for a change. A fresh coat of paint, new furniture, or a different layout can greatly impact. 

    If you're unsure where to start, hire a professional home stager. They will be able to help you make your home look its best and give you some great ideas for your own home, and if you're looking to save some money, then get some ideas from an online search and start doing work.

    Make Your Home Eco-Friendly

    Enhancing the eco-friendliness of a home is among the top reasons for remodeling. There are several ways to do this, such as installing solar panels, double-glazed windows, and energy-efficient appliances. 

    Not only will this help you to save money on your energy bills, but it will also help to reduce your carbon footprint. Speak to a green builder or energy auditor for more details. They will give you some amazing and cost-effective ideas to enhance the eco-friendliness of your home.

    In this day and age, it is important to make your homes eco-friendly, and it should be top of the reasons why you should remodel your house.

    To Fix Minor and Major Issues

    If you have a young family, it's important to make sure that your home is safe for them. It might mean replacing an old staircase or adding a new handrail to your balcony. 

    Old electric wiring can also pose a danger, so it's important to have this checked by a professional. Home inspectors are your go-to professionals for this task. They will be able to identify any potential safety hazards and make recommendations for how to address them. 

    Some areas that might need your attention are your electrical system, plumbing, and gas lines.

    Final Thoughts

    Our homes are our safe havens. We raise our families and make memories here. Therefore, it's important to keep them in good condition so we can enjoy them for years, and one way to ensure that is to remodel them. You can do it yourself or seek professional help.

    If you are thinking of remodeling your house, but cannot make a final decision, just go through the reasons above, and you will find out that your house needs remodeling.

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  • 8 Ways to Add Value to an Old Home

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    House prices and mortgage rates are rising after the pandemic, making it more important than ever to increase the value of your home.

    Renovating your home is expensive, time-consuming, and messy. Despite all this, most people choose to improve their homes for the long haul. Home renovations enhance not only your home's appearance but also its market value. 

    So, if you have finally decided to give your old home a revamp, you've come to the right place. Today, we will look at some amazing home makeover ideas that completely transform your old house into a brand new one.

    Are you ready for the job? Here are a few fantastic decor ideas that will give you a new look within no time and at a low cost!

    However, before you start the makeover process, you must prep your home for it in advance.

    How to Get Your Home Ready for a Renovation?

    The first step to preparing your home for renovation is to get rid of all the excess items. Your home's appearance will improve significantly if you get rid of clutter, not to mention the benefit of freeing up space for renovations. Also, your stuff will be safe in storage from all the dust, paint splatter, etc., while renovations take place.

    Likewise, get your house checked before starting the renovations. Usually, asbestos is found in the roofs of old homes, so you should hire professionals to check for it. And if, unfortunately, it is found at your place, then call for asbestos removal services to get it removed. You can begin the renovation once you are sure your house is safe.

    Makeover Ideas to Add Value to Your Old Home

    Now let's look at some incredible ideas that'll definitely increase the value of your place.

    Enhance Curbside Appeal

    You must know that first impression matters, and trust us, they actually do. So, to make a lasting impression, start with the outside. You can make an impact by hiring a landscaping company or choosing a color for your front door.

    Therefore, you need to get creative with your entrance. People first notice your entrance when they arrive at your house. Hence, your entrance should awe the guests entering your place. It's not that hard to create one, either. Try warming up your entrance walls, and everything will seem more welcoming. You can also spruce up things by hanging some art. Lastly, make your hallway seem longer with long runners and overhead lighting.

    Bringing New Life to Kitchen Cabinets

    Nothing can give your home a more cave-like feel than a kitchen built with dark cabinets that block all the light. However, one does not have to start from scratch to give something a brighter look. Cleaning and painting the frame and doors of a dreary kitchen can make it bright and cheerful within a weekend. A paintbrush, sandpaper, and some strong cleaner chemicals are all you need to get the job done. It is not necessary to worry about the cost of the transformation since even the cheapest new cabinets are more expensive than the old ones.

    Give Your Rooms a New Look with Paint

    A little flirtation with new paint ideas can do wonders. You can bring those boring, washed-out walls back to life with just a paint can. A coat of paint works by rearranging your perception of the world. Because of its simplicity, painting is one of the most popular DIY home improvement projects.

    It takes more than just color to make a wall look good. You can learn how to do this even if you aren't an expert. From scratching the pole sander to feathering the brush, you can easily find tons of videos on YouTube about painting your walls at home

    Install a new front door

    Upon entering your home, people are immediately drawn to your front door. Therefore, you might want to consider replacing it or revamping it. You can upgrade your entry door from a steel door to one with a lot more character for about $100 to $200. Alternatively, if you cannot afford a new door, you can paint it an attractive color to fix it. You should work on your front door and curb appeal to make your place more appealing.

    Your vacated fireplace needs some love

    The perfect time to give your fireplace a new life is when it is empty. A new look can be achieved by using different styles. Fireplaces can even be used as miniature art displays to add some texture to your home. Your fireplace is the perfect place for displaying your artifact collection. Make the fireplace mantle a focal point by displaying pottery and artwork.

    Renovating and restoring hardwood floors

    Older homes are more likely to have hardwood floors under carpets. If your floors squeak, they are probably made of wood. If you are unsure, lift a corner of your carpet in an unnoticeable place. Refinishing wood floors will cost less than installing new flooring if you want to restore them to their original glory. 

    Keeping fixtures up to date

    A switch plate, curtain rod, outlet cover, door knob, and light fixture can transform your home's curb appeal for just a few dollars. The cost of attractive metal switch plates and outlet covers can be as low as $5 each. Decorative curtain rods or expensive light fixtures may be out of reach, but spray painting an inexpensive one can make it look elegant. Choosing colors and finishes that appeal to a wide audience is important if you plan to sell your house. 

    A simple approach is the best

    Simplicity is the key, as you must have heard. It is certainly the case, especially today when minimalism is so in vogue. You should begin decluttering your home if you want to transform your space into a trendy one. 

    A great solution to this issue is to buy fewer items, as a cluttered home will not look good. As a result, your space will appear cleaner because it will be less crowded. For a house to feel spacious, it should have plenty of space. Make the room seem spacious by placing only the necessary items in it.

    Final Words!

    These are just a few of the many ways you can give your old place a revamp and increase its worth. You can use these tips whenever you decide to remodel your home. So happy renovating!

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  • Is HVAC Important to Building Architecture?

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    Most people think about structure and design when planning a building’s architecture. While these two components are vital, other minor and mostly forgotten inclusions, such as heating and cooling systems installation, are also crucial to the buildings’ functionality. Unfortunately, most architects and engineers realize HVAC’s importance quite late, after heating and cooling problems have emerged. Below are a few reasons why HVAC considerations, with the help of Thomas and Galbraith heating and cooling experts, are important to every building’s architecture.

    1.  Ensure HVAC Needs of Every Room are Met

    Mapping out the building's general architecture without prior HVAC considerations can lead to serious problems, especially when it comes to constructing proper ducting systems. While traditional ceiling-cassette and wall-mounted HVAC systems are an option, you shouldn’t consider them because they negatively affect the buildings’ interior aesthetics.

    The space available to install an air conditioning closet may be insufficient, making HVAC installation complicated or impossible. Living in a building with heating and cooling inefficiencies is uncomfortable. Tenants and homeowners will have to persevere through tough hot and cold conditions throughout different seasons unless they install ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, and portable aircon to regulate indoor temperatures.

    However, the HVAC unit’s functionality isn’t limited to regulating indoor temperatures. They also regulate indoor humidity and filter incoming air to trap dirt, dust, and potential allergens. Buildings without HVAC units predispose occupants to allergies and illnesses related to poor indoor air quality.

    2.  Performance and Aesthetics

    A functional HVAC unit doesn’t necessarily reflect good interior aesthetics unless with a proper architectural plan. While a building’s aesthetic appearance is subjective, homeowners and tenants can enjoy HVAC units’ cooling efficiencies and aesthetic indoor appearance if architects and building constructors consider HVAC design.

    With proper system layout, heating and ventilation won’t be a problem throughout all rooms. Proper planning can help hide common bulky HVAC components, such as ductwork and heat pumps, during construction. Without a proper plan, it becomes impossible to balance aesthetics and cooling efficiencies, especially since practicality is often prioritized over aesthetics if HVAC installation is done later.

    3.  Determines Window Placements and Room Heights

    HVAC considerations are also important in determining window placements and room heights. Windows highly affect HVAC efficiencies. Homeowners can also choose window designs that help reduce HVAC unit workloads and save energy. While windows should be placed strategically to provide natural light and ventilation, they also guide architects on the best place to position vents and heating ducts.

    On the other hand, architects should consider room and ceiling heights to maximize HVAC efficiency. Generally, air conditioning systems depend on large airflow for proper performance. Architects should figure out how staircases, doors, and room positioning affect airflow across different floors.

    Endnote

    HVAC units are a crucial installation for most buildings. Unfortunately, it took a while before building designers and architects realized the importance of making HVAC considerations when designing these structures. Poorly designed HVAC can cause several problems down the road by necessitating reconstructions to accommodate HVAC components, excessive noise to building occupants, poor indoor air quality, or poor functionality.

    partnered post • cc-licensed photo by Mitchell Luo on Unsplash 

  • Is Minimalist Home Design Still Trendy?

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    Designers and home buyers are gravitating toward minimalist home designs more than ever before. A minimalist home is appealing to many with less clutter and a simplified look. But is this trend here to stay, or will it eventually fade?

    Let's take a look at some of the reasons why minimalist home design is becoming more popular and see if it's something that you should consider for your own home.

    For many people, the idea of a minimalist home design is clean, uncluttered, and free of unnecessary distractions. However, the reality is that a genuinely minimalist home design can be pretty challenging to achieve. The key is focusing on functionality and simplicity while incorporating your style. 

    How to Achieve a Minimalist Home

    Start by decluttering your home.

    Homeowners are increasingly embracing the minimalist aesthetic, and for a good reason. Decluttering your home can make it feel more spacious and inviting, and it can also be a helpful way to reduce stress levels. If you're interested in trying the minimalist home design, you should keep a few things in mind. Start by decluttering your home. Get rid of anything you don't use or need, and consider donating or selling items that are still in good condition.

    Remove excess furniture and accessories.

    It is important to remember that less is more when achieving a minimalist aesthetic. In addition to removing unnecessary items, it is essential to declutter surfaces and storage areas. This means getting rid of knick-knacks, organizing papers and paperwork, and eliminating anything that is not essential. By taking these steps, you will begin to see the beauty of minimalism and how it can transform your home.

    Choose a color scheme and stick to it.

    Then selecting colors, opt for neutrals or muted tones that create peace and calm. Once you choose your colors, you can use them throughout the space on walls, floors, furniture, and accessories. Maintaining a consistent balance throughout the room is key to making this work.

    Use simple, clean lines in your design.

    Look for ways to use simple, clean lines throughout the space. For example, you might choose furniture with straight lines and avoid using too many different patterns or colors. Instead, stick to a few key pieces that will complement the rest of your space. In addition, pay attention to the spacing in your room. Negative space can be just as important as your chosen furnishings and decor. 

    Opt for natural materials whenever possible.

    Instead of using synthetic materials that are processed and often contain harmful chemicals. Natural materials like wood, stone, and metal are more durable and eco-friendly and add a sense of warmth and personality to your space. When choosing furniture and decor for your home, look for pieces made from natural materials or with a clean design.

    Edit your collections and get rid of anything you don't need.

    This can be difficult, but it's important to be ruthless in creating a genuinely uncluttered space. Start by going through each room and removing any items that are no longer used or needed. Donate anything in good condition, and dispose of anything broken or damaged beyond repair. 

    Once you've cleared out the excess, look closely at what's left. If there are items that you love but don't use often, consider putting them into storage. The goal is to create a clean and serene environment, so only keep those things that genuinely bring you joy. 

    Create storage solutions for small spaces.

    For example, consider installing additional cabinets or shelving if cluttered countertops are a problem. Or, if floor space is at a premium, look for ways to maximize vertical storage. This might involve hanging pots and pans from a rack or wall-mounted shelves. By taking the time to assess storage needs and find creative solutions, it is possible to achieve a sleek and stylish minimalist home design.

    Don't be afraid to experiment with different layouts.

    Don't be afraid to experiment with different layouts until you find one that feels just right. Start by decluttering your space. Get rid of anything that you don't use or need regularly. Then, take a close look at your furniture. Choose pieces that are simple in design and that can serve multiple purposes. 

    Tips for maintaining a minimalist home design.

    A minimalist home design is clean and uncluttered. The key to creating this type of design is to consider every element you add to your home carefully. Ask yourself if the item serves a purpose or simply takes up space. 

    If it is the latter, it does not belong in your home. In addition to being mindful about what you bring into your home, it is also essential to keep things organized. Create a place for everything and ensure that everything has its designated spot. This will help to prevent your home from becoming cluttered and chaotic. 

    A few well-chosen pieces will have a much more significant impact than a cluttered room full of knick-knacks and trinkets. Follow these tips, and you will be well on creating a beautiful minimalist home design.

    Conclusion

    Over the past few years, there has been a growing trend towards minimalism in home design. This style is characterized by clean lines, simple color schemes, and a focus on function over form. While it may seem cold and sterile at first glance, minimalism can be pretty warm and inviting if done correctly. One of the benefits of minimalism is that it can help to make a small space feel larger and more open. 

    This is because there are fewer visual distractions, allowing your eye to focus on the overall shape and size of the room. Minimalism can also be soothing, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. 

    Why not try a minimalist approach if you're considering home remodeling? This style is about simplicity and functionality so that you can create a sleek and stylish space perfect for modern living. By decluttering your space and focusing on clean lines and simple designs, you can start a functional, beautiful, minimalist home.

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  • Why Do You Need to Consider Building Single-Story Houses in Australia?

    Contact RBWA to start building your single-story home in Australia. They can assist you in maximizing a small space rather than searching for a greater parcel of land. This is the right method with regard to the limited land offers in Australia in the past years. For that reason, it is nonsense to buy a huge lot if the area is not well-occupied. 

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    Image by vanitjan on Freepik

    Many families who want to reside abroad think about Australia. It has a tranquil climate and pleasant spots to visit. Most of the houses are modern-looking to impress every passerby. This also benefits a household planning to sell the property in the future.

    Hence, working with the right builder can help to finish a house project every step of the way from purchasing land to construction. 

    Benefits of Single-Story Building

    Living in a single-story home was the standard in earlier years. It has a more straightforward gaze but will secure better protection over the household. A couple of home buyers will pick this one for the following reasons:

    • Cost-Efficient 

    Single-story houses require less proportion of materials and labor than two-story buildings. As a result, you can save money for other things with a lower initial cost. The price of a lot increases as the square per meter requirement expands. Accordingly, it is best to erect a home in a small lot and be more sapient in using the allotted space. 

    Properties in Australia are made of thermal devices to ensure comfort. This is cheaper than other climate control gadgets and therefore will reduce your expenses in the long run. 

    That being said, choosing to build a single-story home is best for people with a strict spending plan yet expecting a relaxing home.

    • Has Better Appeal 

    Home building on an interstate needs to be extra to leave a good impression on road passers. Fixing your house’s exterior even with a little parcel of land is possible with the help of professional builders. This must not compromise an adequate space for everybody. It is perhaps the reason why home buyers in Australia create wide patios to accommodate guests. 

    The market brings to the table endless home plans to pick from. The home choice will rely upon the number of families and your approach to everyday life.

    • Kid and Senior-Friendly 

    Certain individuals may not go well with two-story houses due to the risk of falling on stairs. Correspondingly, a one-story home is a better choice while living with little kids and seniors to avoid likely disasters. 

    One best way to reduce accidents is to construct easy-to-reach storage for each room. Additionally, place fragile stuff in secured areas to protect playful kids. 

    • Enhances Relationship 

    Residing in a single-floor home causes everyone to communicate more often. It likewise energizes relationships in the family compared to living in bigger houses. You can spend more time with your loved ones in a single spot, unlike double-story houses that have bigger rooms. 

    • Less Maintenance 

    Settling on one-story houses will help you with simple upkeep. There will be less time needed to clean the area. In the case of repair and replacement of parts, it is unlike a double-story house that will last for a longer period. 

    Part of maintenance is repainting the walls which seems easier with one-story houses. No need for additional gear to reach elevated areas, such as the roof and the ceiling. There will be a decline in any misfortune along with maintenance. 

    Its interior is easy to vacuum to eliminate dirt and other residues. It is ideal to start cleaning the rooms and afterward the kitchen and living room. A few Aussies choose to hire a professional cleaner for housekeeping, however, you can do the task alone.

    • Can Be Modified

    Building a home may require upgrading some of its parts in the future. This is to satisfy your lifestyle, so a bit of change must take place. 

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    image by jcomp on Freepik

    Unlike double-story houses, one-story homes have an open-plan design. This gives you the freedom to alter the home appearance whenever you want to. 

    You can conclude whether it would be low or high-roof. High-roof is a superior decision for little houses to expand the space and furthermore exploit natural light. Adding entryways and windows that you think fit the general home plan is crucial to complete your home. 

    Like other locals, Aussies adore simple-looking houses and yet well-cultivated. They often add a garage and a balcony to cater to any social event. 

    The home design should rely on many factors, including your budget and long-period lifestyle. Do not overlook the needs of the people you are living with in constructing a house. What matters most is that everyone is safe and enjoying a great and calming dwelling place. 

    Final Thoughts 

    To summarize everything, owning a home in Australia accompanies a great deal of advantages. The perfect climate and the community are already a bonus when living across the city. Whether you build a single or double-story home, the real thing that matters is the comfort and peace it would provide. The prior is the best choice in connection with the decreasing land supply for Aussies according to studies.

    What are you waiting for? Contact a homebuilder to get everything rolling in building your dream house!

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  • 8 Home Exterior Upgrades to Boost Your Property’s Value

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    Home improvements do not always happen to make your property more functional. Often the purpose is to increase your property's value. For sellers, an impressive exterior, a well-kept lawn, and a well-maintained entrance gate do a lot to grab their prospective buyer's attention. The rest of the house and the contemplation on all its practical aspects come later. 

    Who knows how many house listings the prospective buyers search before they contact you? If you invest in improving your house's curb appeal, you can sway the buyers' decision, encouraging them to click on your listing. 

    Thinking about reselling your house, some home exterior upgrades you can carry out include the following. So, without further ado, let us get straight to the topic and help you upgrade your house.

    1. Repair your roof

    Renovating your roof can be a costly project. But over time, certain parts of your roof get more wear and tear. Repairing these areas is essential before showing your house to prospective buyers. 

    Instead of DIYing your roof repair, contact a roofing company, especially if you see hail damage on your roof. If you live in an area such as Denver with frequent severe weather warnings, roof damage is a strong possibility. Denver roofing company workers are experts in undoing the damage to your roof while keeping the disruptions in the rest of the house to the minimum. 

    Once you have made the investment, don’t forget to tell the real estate agent and the buyers about the changes you have made to the roof and how it has improved your house. 

    2. Remove dirt and decay

    Seeing dirt and debris removed from the exterior walls is gratifying. A buyer looking at your house for the first time will feel the same relief. 

    A dirty exterior can make the buyers lose interest in your house. They might even think that since you have not maintained the exterior of your house, you might have kept the rest the same way. 

    The easiest way to remove dirt and decay is to power wash your house; you can complete this task in one day. But it can radically transform the look and feel of your house. 

    However, a note of caution is to ensure the material of your house’s exterior is compatible with a power wash. For instance, it is easier and more suitable to power wash vinyl, but the same cannot be said about shingles. Similarly, weathered brick in houses aged more than 80 years can also be damaged by power wash.

    3. Don’t overdo the garage 

    If you have a garage in the house for car parking, ensure it is well-blended, which means you should not overemphasize it. Its location at the entrance of the house already makes it very prominent. What you can do max about it is to paint it with a color that is in line with the remaining house's exterior. 

    However, having red brick does not mean painting your garage red. Instead, you can go with beige or any other nude shade. You have to select a color that goes well with the rest of the palette of your house.  

    4. Paint the gate

    Another quicker way to improve the exterior of your house is to paint the gate. A fresh coat of paint on the entrance gate instantly lifts the spirits of your house’s exterior and improves its overall look. 

    If you feel the walls on both sides of the gate must be painted too, go ahead. 

    5. Repair the rotting wood

    Before sprucing up your house with new elements, don’t forget to consider the old and rotten ones. Focusing on what is already there helps you save costs because you can combine new elements with the older ones. The same goes for trims, doors, roof frames, and windows. 

    In addition, if you have used wood in the house, it starts to rot at various spots over time due to contact with harsh weather and naturally. Hire a professional to remove the rotted parts. They will help you remove and repair the damaged parts without spoiling the reaming area. 

    6. Add flowers to your house

    Adding colorful flowers to the front of your house significantly enhances curb appeal. Just looking at flowers makes people happy and refreshed. It is like helping your prospective buyers think favorably about your house. 

    When you add flowers that have the same color or have similar shades as your house, it makes the front look more expansive than it actually is. 

    7. Be more creative with the lights

    Nothing makes your house cozier and more beautiful than adding the right lights. Illuminating your house with the right shades of light lifts the clouds of sadness and gloom from your house. 

    Adding a well-coordinated and visible light fixture is easier and often stays under your renovation budget too. It creates a warm and welcoming feeling for anyone visiting your home. 

    For instance, you can fix motion sensor lighting on the porch and driveway. They conserve energy by lighting up the area only when it is required.

    8. Remove faulty hardware

    Often your house doesn’t need big, prominent, and expensive updates. Instead, smaller updates, such as replacing faulty hardware, make the most difference. 

    Eliminate the faulty fixture, remove the malfunctioning door knobs, and change the broken or worn-out nameplate. All the metal door knockers, door knobs, etc., should match each other in style and material to create continuity and cohesive design. 

    Also, the fixture, hardware, and accents should complement the design of your house too. For instance, if your house has a modern appeal, adding vintage and wrought-iron hardware creates a hotchpotch of ideas and does not appeal to the eye. 

    You may be tempted to experiment by adding funky design; if it does not synchronize with the rest of the house, it won’t do much to lift the value of your house. 

    Conclusion 

    Renovating your house exterior is one of the easiest and budget-friendly ways to enhance the value of your property. Adding appealing elements such as flowers, lights, etc., are budget-friendly ideas but significantly increase the curb appeal. If you have the budget, you can change the entire exterior paint, replace the gate, and improve landscaping too.

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  • 2022 Pros and Cons of Composite Doors

    A front door can make or break the look of your home. This is why it’s important that you dedicate time to figuring out and visualizing the best one for your needs. If you’re running out of ideas, you could always check door designs and styles online. A good place to start is to look at composite doors. Premium composite doors, like the ones available at Rock Solid Doors, can freshen up and modernize the look of your house in ways you’d never imagine. If you’re thinking of considering one, this post is perfect for you. We would enlist the main PROS and CONS in installing one to help you decide if a composite door is a perfect fit for your home. 

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    image by João Ferrão at Unsplash

    What are composite doors?

    Composite doors are highly durable doors that are made of different materials that usually include wood, foam, uPVC, and glass reinforced plastic (GRP). They come in numerous beautiful designs that can match any kind of aesthetic that a homeowner may prefer. They were first introduced in the market during the ’90s. They have since become extremely popular as homeowners noted how durable and aesthetically versatile they are.

    PROS of Composite Doors

    The following are the main advantages of using a composite door: 

    1. High level of security

    Composite doors are preferred by many because they provide high levels of security. They are simply the safest and most secure kind of doors available in the market. This is due to the fact that it has reinforced materials. Such reinforced materials add to the overall strength and quality of composite doors. As it is advanced in its design, it also offers a state-of-the-art locking mechanism that is not available in other kinds of doors. Such a mechanism is extremely effective in preventing intruders and deterring thieves. 

    1. Low maintenance

    Homeowners also love how composite doors are not complicated to maintain. You will not have a hard time tending to it as it is not as high maintenance and sensitive as other kinds of doors like wooden doors. It will not look dated or begin to chip if you’d forget to clean it for months. It will also not be liable to rot. A simple cleaning with good old water and towel every now and then will do. Its need for little to almost no maintenance makes it so worth its price.

    1. Durability

    Composite doors can last for a lifetime. As they are not prone to rotting, chipping, or fading, you can be sure that you’d get to use your composite doors for years to come. They can also easily stand nasty weather so you have no problem whatsoever when it comes to non-stop rain or snow. It shines best during tough weather conditions as it is even reliable and durable. With a composite door, you will not have to shell money every now and then for a new door. A composite door is so durable that you will find it shocking that it will not need any replacement at all for so many years. This is why manufacturers can really up its price.

    1. Style

    Houses with composite doors look beautiful. Apart from the effortless chic and sleek look that it exudes, its design and look are ever versatile because it comes in different styles and colours. This is why homeowners who are after full customization always prefer composite doors. You will simply not run out of looks to try and consider if you’d opt for a composite door.

    CONS of Composite Doors

    The following are issues and disadvantages that you may encounter with composite doors:

    1. Pricing

    You will need to have a dedicated budget if you’re after installing a composite door. As they offer numerous advantages across all endpoints – style, durability, and security – they most naturally come at a significantly hefty price. You can expect to spend as much as £1,000 or more on just one door. This is not ideal if you’re under a strict budget. To get over this disadvantage, opt to plan ahead and religiously save. We promise you that it will all be worth it. 

    1. Possible creaks

    Homeowners with composite doors often only have one issue with them and that is the fact that some models can creak or even crack when the weather is hot.

    Owners report how their composite doors always end up creaking if it’s been under the heat of the sun for too long. This creaking sound is caused by the plastics that expanded and contracted due to heat. Hence, it’s not something that should be a cause of major alarm. You need to take note though that it will be harder to close the door when it heats up. This is because of the fact that it expanded. It will be easier to close it come night time when it’s back to its normal size.

    Will a composite door be ideal for you?

    A composite door will be ideal for you if:

    • you want a technologically advanced door that comes with next-level security mechanisms
    • you want a fully customizable door
    • you want a door that will last for a lifetime
    • you have a liberal budget and can spend as much as £1,000 or more

    Nazrin-babashova-z1uhic2f7Tg-unsplash (1)

    image by Nazrin Babashova at Unsplash

    On the other hand, it will be better for you to look for other kinds of doors (and there are plenty) if:

    • you are under a tight budget
    • creaking sounds are a deal breaker

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  • 6 Bad Things That Will Happen If You Don’t Clean Your Carpet Regularly

    Do you know that only 3 out of 10 people have time to clean their homes? This means that so many homes are dirty, unkept, and unhygienic. This means that so many homes are in trouble. Especially homes with dirty carpets.

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    If you’re part of the 70% who have yet to devise a way to regularly clean and maintain your carpet, this article is for you. This article will enlist all the bad things that will happen if you stay off track. And we promise you that you don’t want any of them. So much so that we’d also help you on how to stay on track. This article will also give you tips on how to care for and maintain your carpet easily – from administrative tips to particular ones like applying the correct pressure when cleaning carpets, we got you covered! Read on, learn, and please get on with the cleaning. Pronto!

    6 Bad Things That Will Happen If You Don’t Clean Your Carpet Regularly

    1. You will lose focus.

    Have you been working from home and you feel like you haven’t been able to focus well? It could be fatigue, burnout, or as simple as having a dirty carpet. Dirty carpets are breeding grounds of moulds that can make you lose focus and fail at successfully finishing any task. 

    1. Your family could get sick.

    As dirty carpets are breeding grounds of harmful elements like fungi, mould, allergens, and bacteria, you and your family can end up getting sick. Carpets are multi-dynamic because apart from the fact that they can effectively store bad elements, they can also effectively spread them. One step, one movement, and one swift wind can trigger a carpet to release massive amounts of elements that can cause headaches, itchy eyes, and even nausea. 

    1. You will need to replace your carpet earlier than expected.

    Your carpet will need early replacement if it is not cleaned regularly. This is because its fibres will easily give in and lose their former glory. This is very counter-intuitive because it would lead you to spend more. And no household wants to spend more. Hence, a dirty carpet should always be a no, no, no. 

    1. Your home will smell.

    No one wants a smelly home. But you will have one if you’d fail to regularly clean and care for your carpet. Keeping your carpet dirty is the easiest way to make your home smell bad. A carpet can easily smell bad because it can store moisture and dirt at the same time. And we all know that the combination of both is a surefire way of creating poor indoor air quality. Poor indoor air quality, apart from being smelly, is also deadly. We all should know that given that we’ve already been through years of dealing with a global pandemic. A smelly home is not a safe home. 

    1. Your carpet will look bad.

    A dirty carpet may not just smell bad, it can also look bad. And this is something that you should heavily avoid because it goes against all the reasons why a person installs carpets. You put your carpet on your house to look good and feel good. There is no use for anything at your home, especially a carpet if its presence only results in making you feel bad and making your house look bad. 

    1. Your home will not feel homey.

    A house is not a home. And it takes a lot for a house to be home. Your home will cease to become one if there are dirty carpets around. A home should be a place of peace, solace, and calm. A home with a dirty carpet will be one that looks bad, smells bad, and can cause people to feel physically bad. Please avoid this. This can be easily avoided if you’d maintain a regular carpet cleaning routine.

    Expert Tips on How to Make Carpet Maintenance Easier:

    Housekeeping experts advise you to do the following to easily maintain a regular carpet cleaning routine: 

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    1. Commit to a schedule

    A thing will not get done if it is not scheduled. Thinking about a thing or about doing a thing is not going to make a difference. You need to put it into action. And there is no better way to do that than by scheduling something. Created a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly cleaning schedule. Having it scheduled will ensure that you get to clean every single time. 

    1. Delegate

    Do you know that an individual spends at least 2 – 4 hours every week on house cleaning? Do you have that amount of time? If not, then it’s best to delegate or outsource. Delegating will ensure that the cleaning gets done even if you won’t be the one who gets to do it. Ensure though that the cleaner of your choice will have all the necessary instructions, tools, and equipment.

    1. Make cleaning easier

    The secret to sticking to a habit is in making it easy to do. Cleaning will never be a thing that all people will excitedly do. If you’re one who does not get excited with just the mere thought of it, you need to be proactive. You need to make it easy, fun, and exciting. Make things easier for you by making everything that you’d need easily accessible. Make it fun by incorporating singing, dancing, and inviting other family members for some fun bonding while cleaning.

    Reference: Home Cleaning Time – Eye Opening Statistics – https://firstclasscleaningfla.com/content/home-cleaning-time-eye-opening-statistics/#

    partnered post • images from unsplash