Home & Garden

Solar shingles, a fairly new technology, are a long-lasting and robust solar energy generator. They, like solar panels, are installed on the top of your home. Unlike panels, however, they combine structural roofing and solar energy into a single construction element.

Because of their size and form, they are substantially lighter, making your solar roof simple to install for professional workers. A solar roof may generate almost as much solar energy as standard rack-mounted panels despite its size.

They are also built to endure adverse weather conditions such as hail and snow. As a result, they are one of the best options for energy-efficient technologies.

Keep reading to learn more about the advantages of solar electricity for your home.

1. New and Improved Appearance

Although solar shingles are now engineered to fit nicely with ordinary shingles, they give a fresh, new perspective to your roof. This unique home roofing may be customized in various shingle colors and sizes. Furthermore, studies suggest that new roofs improve curb appeal significantly.

2. Eco-Friendly Choice

Installing solar roof shingles will contribute to a cleaner, safer environment for everybody. This is because solar and other renewable energy sources reduce the amount of harmful carbon and toxicants in the ecosystem.

Because these installations produce no greenhouse emissions, you can help to combat climate change. As a consequence, you contribute to a healthier world for everybody.

3. Cost

Solar roofing shingles are often the same price as a premium roof with rack-mounted solar panels. The pitch, slope, and size of your roofing, as well as installation prices in your location, are all factors that influence the price.

Consider paying a little more upfront for this solar energy update if you’re building a new house or replacing your present roofing in the near future. The additional expenditure will generate a significant payback throughout the roof’s life.

4. Reduces Your Monthly Expenses

A solar roof lets you produce power for your house, reducing your monthly electricity bills. Remember that the amount you’ll save is determined by how much power your household uses and the load on the local power grid. Take a peek at your utility invoice. If you observe a large amount, you’ll probably save more money by installing solar roofing panels.

5. Durability Factor

Solar shingles may last 30 years, which is around 10 years longer than a standard asphalt roof. Solar energy products generally operate at maximum capacity for roughly 20 years before progressively declining over time while still producing electricity for the life of the shingles.

6. Increase Home Value

Solar roofing is a highly desired feature for property buyers. Installing a solar roof is a significant home upgrade, and buyers are ready to spend thousands in premiums for a house with solar installation.

Solar-powered homes sell more quickly than those that don’t have them. This is a massive advantage because having a house up for sale can be a substantial financial and practical burden for a property owner. A quicker sale allows you to proceed to the next chapter of your life. Solar is among the best house upgrades you can do, particularly because it’ll never be out of style.

7. Easy Maintenance

Solar roofing shingles require minimal maintenance, aside from a periodic check for performance, and have a manufacturer’s guarantee. The material is strong and resistant to various weather conditions. Choose an installation provider with cutting-edge solar shingle technology and a solid warranty. It’s also critical to think about future roofing repairs and replacements.

8. Allows You to Get Tax Breaks and Other Benefits

Installing solar shingles lets you enjoy federal tax incentives, which may be a significant financial gain. Alternative energy consumption is supported by local, state, and federal governments since it’s eco-friendly and helps to establish a sustainable economy. You can benefit from these tax breaks by enjoying a lower taxable income.

Check state and local legislation to discover if you are eligible for further incentive programs. Additional tax incentives on state taxes are available in several states. Other financial benefits may be available based on where you stay:

• Performance-based incentives
• Cash rebates
• Tax exemptions
• Solar renewable energy certificates

While searching for rebate programs, research state, and local laws. Your solar installation will be more lucrative if you participate in many incentive schemes. Additionally, keep an eye out for any emerging federal laws that may improve the benefits of solar for homes.

Bottom Line

Ultimately, you must select if solar shingles or regular solar panels are the best energy-saving option for your house. Find a reliable roofer for more information on solar shingle installation and the most inexpensive selection of solar solutions.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

All pool owners understand that regular water care and maintenance, chemical balancing, stain prevention, equipment checkup, filter maintenance, and vacuuming are vital to keeping your pool clean and in proper working order. However, there are varying pool cleaning methods and chemicals that make you wonder how long you should wait before using the pool.

How Long Should You Wait to Swim After Cleaning Your Pool?

The General Rule of Thumb

Generally, you should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when cleaning your pool. These guidelines include how long you have to wait before using your pool after cleaning it. Additionally, you should ensure that the levels are safe by resetting the water before using the pool. However, the best route to take instead of doing it yourself would be to contact a professional pool cleaner service in Windermere to come out and reset the water.

The Specifics

It would be awesome if there were a specific period to wait before using the pool after cleaning it. However, the waiting time varies depending on which chemicals you use. All pool owners understand that they use several chemicals to clean their pool, and each chemical has its properties contributing to the time it takes to disperse in water.

Read these guidelines for more information on determining when your family can safely swim.

Clarifier, pH, Alkalinity

Professionals suggest that pool owners wait 20 minutes before using the pool when using these types of balancing chemicals.

Liquid Chlorine

It would help to wait at least four hours to use your pool when using liquid chlorine. However, your pool size and amount of chlorine used greatly affect how long you’ll have to wait. Before using it, you should test the pool and ensure the chlorine levels reach 5ppm or lower.

Calcium Chloride

You should wait for one filter cycle before using the pool when cleaning it with calcium chloride. This could take between two to four hours.

Algaecide

You should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using an algaecide. It’s safe to use the pool after 20 minutes when using some algaecides; however, others may require more time. Thus, it would help to stay safe by reading the manufacturer’s instructions before using the pool.

What is Shocking a Pool?

Shocking, the pool kills and prevents the growth of bacteria and algae. When shocking your pool, the main chemicals are sodium dichlor, calcium hypochlorite, and potassium monopersulfate. The chemicals used to determine how long pool owners have to wait before swimming.

When Should You Use the Pool After Shocking It?

When shocking your pool, you should get into the pool after the chlorine levels reach 5ppm. Additionally, according to the CDC, the pool’s pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. The time you have to wait after getting into the pool may last between 24 hours to a couple of days, depending on the type of shock you use.

What Happens If You Use the Pool Too Soon?

You’ll experience a few issues if you use the pool too soon after shocking it. Chlorine reacts with water to form hydrochloric acid, which is corrosive. The effects experienced depend on whether you’ll inhale the fumes or whether they get in contact with your eyes or skin.

Minimal effects include dry skin; however, they could cause a flare if you have various skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. You may also experience redness, blisters, pain, and burning.

Additionally, the water can harm your lungs and eyes when inhaled. Effects of eye contact include redness, pain, watery eyes, and blurred vision. The effects of inhaling the chemicals are more severe. They include chest tightness, shortness of breath, fluid in the lungs, and wheezing. Additionally, you can throw up and feel nauseous if you drink the pool water.

Most of the effects are reversible. It would help to get out of the pool when you notice these symptoms. You should move to a place with fresh air and remove all exposed clothing. It would help to wash all infected areas with water and soap. You should rinse your eyes with saline solution.

Conclusion

Getting in a pool after cleaning it can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know how to do it. The best step to take is to call professional cleaners. However, these guidelines can help provide you with a rough estimate of how long you’ll have to wait.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

Are you wondering how to prepare your business premises for heavy rain? If this is the case, you are not alone. Regardless of where you are or how much rain you expect this season, there are steps you can take to prepare your building for the monsoon season. Light rain has no effect on your building, but weeks of continual rain can cause mold growth, flooding, and other problems. Here are seven tips to get your business premises ready for the upcoming rainy season.

1. Inspect The Roofing

When it rains, the first thing that should come to mind is your roof. Examine your roofing for any cracks, holes, or other issues that might lead to water leaks and extensive problems. Also, watch out for moss development on your roof since even a tiny quantity can trap moisture underneath the roof tiles, leading them to decay. Remember that water may leak into your premises and equipment if your roof is damaged.

Before it rains, inspect your roof to check if there is sagging, any broken shingles, or other issues. If any components require maintenance, you should contact reliable commercial roofing in Atlanta, ga, to take care of them right now rather than waiting for summer to end.

2. Clean The Gutters

Aside from your roofing, your building’s gutters are another defense mechanism against downpour rains. Gutter systems, which are designed to collect rain and redirect it away from your building, may greatly minimize the danger of rot, mold, and other rain-related hazards.

Unfortunately, they will not operate if they are blocked. Moreover, the debris creates a dam, which can drive water down the exterior of your building or back up under your roofing. Although you may clean your gutters in a variety of methods, a garden hose will suffice.

3. Trim The Trees

Although you may not pay much attention to the surrounding trees, branches, and other landscapes on your premises, it is critical to remember that falling trees and tree limbs are the most significant causes of preventable property damage! Reducing these landscape characteristics in the spring is particularly important since repeated heavy rainstorms can create powerful gusts that can knock them to the ground. Therefore, trim your trees to keep your building safe, especially during a storm.

4. Reseal The Doors and Windows

Your building’s windows and doors will also protect you against weeks of nonstop rain. However, if they are not properly fitted or sealed, they might leak a lot of rainwater into your building. As a result, reseal your windows and doors before the heavy rains begin. Use weather-stripping, foam tape, caulk, rigid foam insulation, or window film to fix any water or air leaks in your building.

5. Apply Waterproof Sealant

If your building is not weatherproofed, rain can infiltrate the brick walls, causing dampness and moisture to travel from the exterior to the interior walls. This kind of issue demands immediate attention and usually necessitates the intervention of a qualified contractor. After the issue has been fixed, you may apply a clear waterproof sealant to prevent additional damage.

6. Inspect The Basement

If you reside in a wet region, your basement may be in danger of flooding throughout the rainy season. Keeping this in mind, it’s a good idea to get your basement professionally examined before the rains begin. An expert may inspect your basement for leakage, structural flaws, and other factors that could cause issues during heavy rain.

7. Prepare for Flooding

Take the time to plan for flooding if you live in a flood-prone area. Elevate anything that is delicate or prone to harm, move boxes of documents, equipment, or other special items to a higher area, and lift electrical cables off the ground. If the power goes out, make sure you have an emergency power supply.

Closing Remark

Mother Nature may produce problems in your building, whether it is winter, autumn, summer, or rainy. As a result, it is critical to maintaining your office building now, especially because the fall weather is comfortable and allows a professional to examine gutters, skylights, shingles, and flashings. The strategies mentioned above and tactics will also enable your business to maintain its performance as workers’ productivity won’t be affected during the rainy season by troubles in your building.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

Regular furnace upkeep can help you avoid costly home repairs down the road. In addition to preventing untimely breakdowns, consistent heating system maintenance can reduce energy usage and keep your monthly bills affordable. Several types of routine maintenance can extend a furnace’s life and lower energy costs.

1. Change Or Clean Your Air Filters

Air filters are the first line of defense against the buildup of dust, dander, and other contaminants in your home’s HVAC system. If you don’t change or clean your filters, they can become clogged and require replacement sooner than expected. The more often you change your air filters, the less you’ll have to spend on new ones. Clean filters can also increase the lifespan of your furnace and reduce energy usage. If you have allergies, changing or cleaning your filters more frequently can help reduce the number of allergens in your indoor environment. Filters collect dust, dander, and other allergens in the air. Frequent filtering changes prevent these contaminants from accumulating on the filter and being recirculated into your home.

2. Rotate Your Furnace’s Ductwork

The ductwork attached to your furnace’s blower wheel distributes heated air throughout your home. Air circulates through the ducts by way of a draft inducer. The draft inducer pulls air through the furnace’s ductwork and pushes it into your home. If you don’t rotate your furnace’s ductwork every one to two years, warm air can collect in the ductwork where the blower wheel is located. Warm air can collect in the ductwork when a furnace is not balanced or when a furnace is installed improperly. This warm air can cause the blower wheel to overheat. If your furnace’s blower wheel overheats, it can break and need to be replaced.

3. Check For Repairs

If you notice signs of wear and tear, you may need to have the ductwork repaired or replaced. If your ductwork is badly damaged, it can reduce the efficiency of your furnace and increase energy usage. The ductwork is responsible for pushing heated air throughout your home. If the ductwork is damaged, warm air may not be distributed evenly throughout the house. Damaged ductwork can also increase your risk of indoor air pollution by circulating contaminants into the air supply.

4. Have Your Burners Serviced

Burners are responsible for igniting the gas that fuels your furnace. During regular furnace conservation, you can have your burners serviced to ensure they are operating properly and ready to handle the next heating season. A furnace’s burners may stop producing flames for various reasons, including debris buildup. If your burners are not producing flames, your furnace will not be able to function. Having your burners serviced can help prevent costly furnace repairs.

5. Check And Change Gas Filters

Gas filters are responsible for trapping contaminants as the gas travels from the natural gas line to your furnace. Contaminants such as dust, dander, and insects can build up on the filters and cause them to clog. If the filters are not changed regularly, they can cause your furnace to stop functioning. An inoperative furnace can lead to high energy bills and home discomfort. Replacing the gas filters during regular maintenance can help prevent a furnace breakdown and reduce energy usage. Regular gas filter replacement can also reduce indoor pollution. A clogged gas filter can circulate contaminants into the air supply, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, and discomfort.

6. Install Programmable Thermostat

While regular furnace maintenance can extend the lifespan of your heating system and reduce energy usage, repairs and adjustments can take several months to affect your utility bills. An energy-efficient thermostat can reduce your furnace’s energy and your monthly bill. Programmable thermostats can be set to automatically adjust your home’s temperature during periods of low energy demand. Lowering your home’s temperature during off-peak hours can reduce your energy usage and utility bills. An energy-efficient thermostat can be installed during regular furnace conservation.

Conclusion

Regular furnace conservation can prevent costly repairs and reduce energy usage. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your furnace and reduce energy usage by increasing efficiency, cleaning debris from the ductwork, and reducing indoor pollution. With a regular maintenance schedule, you’ll be able to identify and correct small issues before they become big problems.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

How would you like to raise the value of your home by 7% to 14%? It’s easier than you think. It’s all about curb appeal, according to Realtor.com. That’s maybe the best reason to decorate your front yard: to improve the curb appeal. While you may have no interest in selling your home right now, creating an attractive front lawn will pay dividends in enjoyment. This is true even if a home sale isn’t in your near future. As such, we recommend the following six tips to help you decorate your front yard and improve your curb appeal at the same time.

1. Fix the Blemishes

Blemishes, like weeds or overgrown grass, broken tiles, or dirty sidewalks, reduce your home’s curb appeal. This, in turn, reduces your home’s ROI at sale time. Before you start any serious work on landscaping and other decorative elements, take the time to fix anything that’s broken, whether it’s windows and doors or an unruly lawn. Make this the first step of your front yard decorating plan. It creates a strong foundation on which you can execute the rest of your plan.

2. Mind the Landscaping

Manicured lawns, with lovely shrubbery and fragrant flowers, calm the senses and invite people to linger a bit in front of your home. To catch the eye, try working with different sightline levels when you’re planning your landscaping.

For example, incorporate low-level, ground-covering flowers and vines in the flower beds. Then add some visual height by flanking your walkway with topiaries planted in brightly-colored pots. Finally, affix hanging flower planters on the ceiling of the front porch. These steps, plus a nicely-cut lawn, create beauty and visual harmony.

3. Create a Focal Point on the Lawn

If you do any kind of interior decorating, then you know that there is such a thing as a focal point in decorating. In your living room, it would be something like a built-in fireplace. It’s the big piece that draws the eye in and around which, the rest of the decor in the room is balanced.

You can employ the same kind of eye trick to the front lawn by creating a focal point. A natural focal point would be a feature, like a large old tree, around which you plant a flower bed or place curved benches.

However, you don’t have to have a natural focal point like a tree to do something like this. Man-made features, like a tall one-piece aluminum flagpole, surrounded by curving benches and flowers all around replicate this idea. Basically, your focal point is meant to draw the eye in and create interest in the rest of the house.

4. Entice Them With a Walkway

The walkway up to your front door offers you another way to draw the eye into the “picture” of your front lawn. As such, it makes a natural spot to decorate. You have many options for this. You can plant flowers on each side of the walkway at six- or eight-inch intervals.

Another option is to add outdoor lights. If you install solar lights, then they’ll recharge during the day and light up the path at night. This gives you an additional safety feature as well, which future buyers may appreciate.

5. Invite Them to Sit a Spell

Once upon a time, people used to sit on their front porches with a glass of lemonade and offer up chat with their neighbors. This setup had everything: a bench to sit on, some side tables for the lemonade, and even potted plants to the sides of the bench.

Adding a bench or a porch swing to your front porch is like giving your guests a subconscious message to sit down and stay a while. It is a throwback to a simpler, better time, which is something many people long for these days.

Add a bit of eye-catching, soul-inviting furniture to your front lawn decorations and see how it will change the vibe for the better.

6. Choose Big House Numbers

This one is a practical suggestion. There’s nothing more frustrating than driving around, looking for a home you’ve never been to, only to find out you’ve driven past it three times. This happened because the house numbers were either too small or non-existent.

Beautiful house numbers not only add to your home’s curb appeal but also ensure that any visitor to your home finds your home safely and easily. This is an especially important consideration at night. No one likes to drive around in circles in an unfamiliar neighborhood. Big house numbers equal getting lost less.

Final Thoughts on Decorating Your Front Yard

While the scope of this article often centered around creating curb appeal if you want to sell your home, the fact is, you don’t need to wait until you’re ready to sell. Having a lovely lawn to enjoy is a benefit in its own right. A beautifully-decorated front yard will welcome you home each night from work, refreshing your heart and soul after a long day. It is just the excuse you need to restart a tradition like lemonade on the front porch.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

If you’re in the market to renovate your bathroom but are looking for some insight into the costs and process, look no further. Continue reading to learn more about the hidden costs of a bathroom renovation.

Planning a Budget

To begin a budget you’re going to want to do your due diligence and research the potential price it may amount to. The average cost of a bathroom renovation is over $10,000. This is no small sum of money for the average homeowner. The good news is that renovating a bathroom can increase the value of your home by a considerable amount. When choosing to tackle any type of renovation, your first step is to create a budget that fits your finances. When budgeting, make sure to set aside some funds for any hidden costs that you will inevitably encounter.

 

Regardless of your budget, you’re going to need a way to pay for this project with room to cover additional expenses if need be. Utilizing an equity home loan could be beneficial in this instance as it allows you to use your home’s equity to pay for your renovation. Using a home equity loan (HEL) toward home improvement is also tax deductible so it works in your favor to use it towards a project such as this.

 

Now that your budget is in place, it’s time to start renovating. Below is a list of some hidden costs you may run into when remodeling, and how to combat them.

 

Obtaining the Correct Permits

If you’re planning on doing anything other than cosmetic upgrades in your bathroom, you’re most likely going to need the correct permits. As a rule of thumb, if you’re planning on changing any plumbing, electrical, or anything structural, a permit is required. Make sure that you research when you need a permit so that you do not run into any trouble down the road. Check into your city’s local government to apply and pay for any permits that you’ll need to complete your project.

 

Encountering Mold and Water Damage

You never know what you’re going to find when you start tearing down walls. Mold and water damage are common problems that can add an unexpected strain on your budget. The average cost to remedy a mold problem in a bathroom is around $1,000. You will not be able to avoid any current water damage or mold in your home; however, you can avoid it in the future. Enlist the help of a professional when dealing with anything related to plumbing. This will ensure that any water stays where it belongs, and doesn’t cause any damage later.

 

Disposing of Old Materials

One thing that you may not have planned on paying for is the disposal of any old materials or fixtures. Disposing of an old toilet and bathtub could cost you around $200 depending on the cost of labor, disposal, and the location you’re in. Add this to the cost of removing and disposing of drywall, a sink, and any flooring and you could break your budget. A great way to cut down on costs during this process is to donate any materials that you can.

 

Upgrading Electrical

If you’re planning on adding or upgrading any electrical fixtures in your bathroom, you’ll want to make sure to hire a professional. A professional electrician can cost between $65 and $90 per hour, and this is not the place to cut corners. To keep electrical costs low, try keeping existing outlets and lighting fixtures where they currently are if you can.

 

Changing Your Plumbing Layout

A major cost when renovating a bathroom is choosing to change your plumbing footprint. Relocating a shower, tub, or toilet can add thousands of dollars to your budget that you may not have expected. If you’re looking to save some money, consider leaving the plumbing where it is currently and only upgrading your fixtures instead. This gives your bathroom the wow factor without the price tag and you won’t need to hire an experienced plumber to come in and do it for you.

 

Making the Space Your Own

Don’t forget about the smaller costs once you’re done with the hard stuff like putting money into the decor and visual staples within the space. You’re going to want to make your vision a reality, so paint the walls with a color that speaks to you and add some decor. Once you’ve chosen a color, check out some DIY tips and inspiration to use around the house to make your painting and renovation experience smoother while on a budget. Pick out new items to include in your bathroom that you didn’t have the chance to have in your previous space but be sure to view the price tag before having your heart set on them. Now is the time to really make the space your own and update it how you see fit.

 

The Bottom Line

Remodeling your bathroom is a big project where a lot of unforeseen issues can arise. Having a budget in place will guide you through the process and allow you to know where your should prioritize your spending. Make sure that you plan ahead for the unknown, and you will have a stress-free experience.

Are you moving into a new home soon? Whether it’s your first home or just another move, making the transition go smoothly is key. Here are six tips to help make the process easy and headache-free.

1. Make a Plan

The moment you know you’re moving, it feels like there’s a million things to do and not enough time to do them. Packing up an entire household is daunting, especially if you’re moving to a new city or state.

Before you start throwing everything into boxes, take a deep breath and make a plan. Start by purging anything you don’t need or use, then make a list of everything that needs to be packed, shipped, or thrown away.

One of the best plans to make moving into your new home a breeze is to ship your car cross country. This will save you time and money in the long run, and it will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your car is safe and insured during the move.

2. Delegate Tasks

Have each family member or friend who is helping with the move take on a specific task, such as packing up kitchen items, loading furniture into the truck, or unpacking boxes in the new house. Having everyone focus on one thing will help to keep things organized and moving along smoothly. In addition, be sure to set aside some time for yourself during the move.

Take a break from unpacking boxes and explore your new neighborhood, or treat yourself to a relaxing bath in your new home. With a little planning and some help from friends and family, moving into your new home can be a breeze.

3. Hire Professionals

One piece of advice that will make your move go much smoother is to hire professional help. This can be in the form of a moving company to do the heavy lifting for you or hiring a cleaning service to clean your new home before you move in.

Even if it is just for a few hours, having professional help will take a load off of your mind and allow you to focus on other aspects of your move.

Additionally, if you are moving into a home that requires any renovations or repairs, it is best to hire professionals to do the work for you. Not only will this save you time and hassle, but it will also ensure that the work is done correctly and up to code.

4. Start Packing Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing – it will only make the process more stressful. Start packing up your belongings a few weeks in advance, and be sure to label all of the boxes so that you know what goes where

Begin by making a list of everything you need to do, and then break each task down into smaller steps. For example, if you need to pack your kitchen, start by gathering all of the boxes and packing materials you will need. And when the big day finally arrives, you’ll be able to just sit back and relax knowing that everything is under control.

5. Get Rid of Stuff You Don’t Need

The best thing about relocating is that it provides a great opportunity to get rid of items you don’t require. Declutter your home before you start packing by getting rid of items you no longer use or need. Take a few days to go through your belongings and determine what you can live without. This includes items that are damaged or no longer serve a purpose.

Once you’ve pared down your possessions, it will be much easier to pack and unpack, and you’ll have more room to enjoy your new home. Plus, getting rid of clutter will help you to feel fresher and less weighed down as you start this new chapter in your life.

6. Stay Positive

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but it can also be a bit daunting. There are so many things to think about and do, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. One of the best things you can do to make the process easier is to stay positive

Remember that moving is an opportunity for a fresh start. Try to focus on the excitement of your new home rather than the stress of the move itself, and things will go more smoothly.

Conclusion

Making a move into a new home can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. But by following these simple tips, you can ensure that your move goes smoothly and that you’re settled into your new place in no time.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

A comfortable, cozy home can be built on any design platform if you can keep your focus on livability. An empty home can be lovely, but it can’t be cozy. Personal touches, rich colors and plush textures can all boost the coziness of your home.

1. Greenery

A livable home contains life, and plants provide oxygen. They’re a perfect fit! To keep plants looking tidy and still vigorous, carefully review your scale. A series of small herb pots in a small kitchen window can be a wonderful choice. However, in front of a large picture window, small pots can look cluttered and messy. Consider an asymmetrical placement; one large plant at one corner of a picture window will give you more light and more visual interest than a pot centered in the middle of the window.

2. Color

Rich color can boost the coziness of a room. Bright sunlight in a white room can be quite harsh. Try to use darker tones on walls and fabric to saturate the space. If you prefer cool tones, lean toward charcoal grey and blue tones with touches of cherry red. A warm palette can focus on rust, moss green, and gold.

3. Fabric Texture

The Hygge design trend reminds us that simple colors can be used to great effect when decorating a cozy home. Suede, velvet, and velour are wonderful fabrics for cushions, whether on dining chairs or in your living room. A plush sheepskin rug or animal print upholstery draws the eye and welcomes touch. Look also for fleece blankets and throws that have a great deal of loft; these fabrics reflect light differently when folded than when draped and will offer a lot of visual variety in your home.

4. Rugs

In many modern homes, open concept ideas can leave the space feeling rather ungrounded. Rugs can help you regain a sense of definition across the space. Consider stacking rugs for more coziness during weather changes. For example, a jute rug can define your living room seating space in the summer. Adding a faux cowskin rug over the jute when the temperature drops can make things feel warmer and cut down on noise in your space. If you want to put down an especially fluffy rug as a foot pad in front of a favorite chair, get in the habit of leaving your outside shoes at the door to keep things cleaner.

5. Furniture

Color is the key to cozy! Skip furniture sets and look for pieces that invite relaxation. One comfy high back chair for reading, a snuggly couch for movie watching with family, and a more spare wooden framed chair can be all you need to make your living room both visually interesting and soothing. You can find beautiful furniture in Edmonton or anywhere specific to your local to find pieces that will bring you joy and provide a welcoming environment into your space.

6. Window Coverings

Many high-end design images leave windows uncovered. However, privacy and weather protection matter in a cozy home. Start with simple blinds set inside the frame for privacy and light control. Sheers over blinds can cut down on dust and offer a lot of light filtration while giving you some privacy from street traffic. If you live in somewhere cold, lined drapes can keep the heat in when the temperatures drop, especially overnight. Keep things simple; thermal drapes that stop at the bottom of the window can make cleaning easier.

7. Light

Use natural light for as much of the day as possible for a cozy feel. As the sun goes down, look for lamps that will help you create pools of light that invite lingering. For example, a comfy side chair and table can become a reading nook with the right lamp. A mirror with a candle shelf in front can send a great deal of light into your dining room.

Closing Thoughts

A cozy home is one that invites folks to linger and feel comfortable. Focus on eclectic design options to take the formal edge off your space. Use seasonal pieces that will warm things up when days get short and temperatures drop.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

Many people don’t know that their home is an asset rather than just a place to live. Many people’s homes are worth more than what they paid for them. If you’re one of these homeowners, make the most of it. Here are 10 ways you can increase the value of your property.

1. Install Energy Efficient Appliances

Replacing your old, energy-sucking appliances with more efficient ones could increase the value of your property by as much as 10%. This may not seem like a lot, but if you take into account the fact that most homes are purchased for over 100% of their listing price, this change could make all the difference. You’ll also save money on your electricity bills in the long run.

2. Upgrade Finishes

Installing laminate or bamboo flooring in your home is a great way to increase its value. Many buyers will pay extra for a home with this type of flooring, knowing that it will add value to the property. You can even install hardwood floors, although this will cost more money than laminate and bamboo flooring.

3. Add A Landscape

Just about any outdoor space is an asset when it comes to increasing the value of your property. A well-designed, professionally landscaped area is a great way to increase the value of your home. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding or high snowfall, you may want to consider installing a gutter system instead of having a retaining wall built around your property.

4. Install Artificial Grass Installation

The best way to increase the value of your property is to install artificial grass in your yard. If you live in Flordia, you can consider artificial grass installation in Orlando, it can be costly, but many people choose it because they know that it will decrease the maintenance needed on their lawn. Since synthetic grass fits well with farm or ranch-style homes, this type of home tends to be more popular with buyers than other styles.

5. Install Skylights

Skylights are a great way to increase the light in your home and make it feel more spacious. They are easy to install, and they don’t cost a lot of money. Although skylights tend to cost more than other types of lighting, they usually last longer, making them worth their price.

6. Update the Kitchen

When it comes to increasing the value of your home, people are looking for luxury. If you update your kitchen, buyers will know that your home is a high-quality investment. Many buyers choose to remodel the kitchen completely or update it slightly. It’s always a good idea to think about what future buyers may be looking for when planning the design and layout of your kitchen.

7. Repaint Your Home

Paint is cheap, and it’s easy to apply. You don’t have to hire a professional to do it for you. All you need is a paintbrush and some paint that coordinates with the color of your house. It will take a few weekends to do the job, but in the end, you’ll be glad that you did it, especially if your home looks better than before.

8. Clean and Declutter

Cleaning and decluttering is one of the least expensive things you can do to improve your home’s value. This is a good thing because you’re going to be cleaning and decluttering regularly, so you might as well get used to it. Buyers want to see their potential future home in its best possible condition, so get rid of clutter that is meaningless or too personal to part with.

9. Finish Your Basement and Other Incomplete Spaces

You can increase the value of your home by improving unfinished spaces in your home. The work you have to do will be minimal, so you don’t have to worry about being able to afford it. You may want to talk with a contractor who specializes in finishing the basement and other unfinished spaces because you’ll be dealing with an expert who knows what it takes to finish these areas.

10. Upgrade Your Front Door

An old front door is the first thing that people see when they first visit your home, so you want it to look as good as possible. You can spend a lot of money on a new front door, but it will be worth it. You’ll also want to pay attention to the details like hand-carved designs and stained glass.

Conclusion

Increase the value of your home by making some of these simple changes. Most of them are relatively cheap and easy to do, so you can improve the value of your home without spending a lot of money.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category

Older homes can often feel dated and stuffy, but with a few simple changes, you can give them a modern chic facelift that will make them feel fresh and stylish. The beauty is that most of these changes are easy and inexpensive to do, so you can enjoy a whole new look without breaking the bank.

However, before making any changes, getting a clear vision of your expectations is important. It’ll help you make choices that align with your overall style and taste. Once you have a vision, here are six ways to make older homes look modern chic:

1. Paint the Walls in a Light, Neutral Color

Neutral colors are safe and calming options for walls. They can help brighten a space, making it feel more open and airy. Additionally, painting an older home’s walls in a light neutral color can give it a chic, modern look. It’s the best choice if the home has some traditional features you want to keep while still giving it a fresh new feel.

Alternatively, use limewash, a type of paint made of lime, water, and pigment. It works well on any surface, but most people use it on brick walls because it can give them a stunning appearance. You can use a brush or a roller to apply and it dries quickly, so you won’t have to wait long before you can start using your room.

One of the best things about its versatility because you can apply it on drywall, plaster, or brick. It also comes in many different colors, so you can find one that will match the color scheme of your room. The paint is also environmentally friendly because it has no harmful chemicals and is biodegradable.

2. Hang Modern Artwork or Photographs on the Walls

One of the best ways to make an older home look modern and chic is by hanging modern artwork or photographs on the walls. It can add a personality and style to any room and help brighten a space. Also, hanging modern artwork or photographs can help keep a home updated and stylish.

3. Swap Out Old, Heavy Curtains for Lighter, More Modern Ones

Consider swapping old, heavy curtains for lighter, more modern ones. The relatively cheap and quick, simple changes can significantly impact the appearance. The main benefit of swapping out your curtains is that it will instantly brighten up the space and make it feel more airy and open. In addition, modern curtains boast lighter materials like cotton or linen, which will help to keep the room cooler in the summer months.

4. Update the Furniture to More Contemporary Pieces

Many people think they have to live with outdated furniture when they have an older home. Updating your furniture can make your home look more stylish and elegant and help you feel more modern and current at your home. Additionally, it improves your home’s function and flow.

However, choosing pieces that will complement your home’s overall style and architecture is crucial. You should also ensure that the furniture is functional, has high-quality pieces to last for years, and fits your family’s needs.

5. Change the Light Fixtures to More Modern Ones

Replacing outdated light fixtures with more modern ones is a great way to make an older home look stylish. By doing this, you can completely transform the look and feel of the entire space. Additionally, modern light fixtures are often more energy-efficient than their older counterparts, so you can save money on your energy bills while enhancing the look of your home.

6. Add Some Greenery With Fresh Plants or Flowers

Plants release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, making them an important part of keeping the air in your home healthy. They can also help to purify the air by removing toxins like formaldehyde. Flowers can add a touch of color and brightness to any room, improving your mood by providing a sense of relaxation or cheerfulness. Lastly, plants and flowers are a natural way to decorate your home without using artificial materials, which can be better for the environment and your health.

Closing Thoughts

With the above affordable changes, you can give your older home a modern chic facelift. However, it’s advisable to engage the services of a professional home designer to get the best results. They can help you determine the best way to improve your home’s appearance while staying within your budget. They also have access to many resources, helping you find the perfect furniture, lighting, and accessories to complete your vision.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Home & Garden category