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The Different Types of Garage Doors That Homeowners Have Today

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It’s expected that a home renovation project should add some value to your home, but did you know that garage door replacement can deliver an ROI of up to 93.3% when you sell your house?

So, if your garage door has seen better days, it’s worth replacing it as soon as possible. Apart from adding value, the best garage doors can serve you well for up to 30 years.

Are you ready to get started with your garage renovation? Keep reading to find out more about the types of garage doors preferred by modern-day homeowners. 

Sectional Garage Doors

These are among the most popular garage doors since they’re reasonably priced and easy to operate. If you’re a smart homeowner, you’ll ask about the electrically operated variety of sectional doors while shopping around. 

Sectional doors have horizontal sections joined by hinges that allow the door to roll up and curve up into the ceiling. They’re available in a wide range of materials, including aluminum and glass.

You can stain the wooden varieties to suit your home’s style, although they’ll need a little more maintenance than most other materials.

The latest fiberglass and vinyl options best suit garages with modern designs, such as those boasting sleek AICoat, IRS, or Garage Force floor coatings.

Sectional doors operate on high-tension springs that hold them in place when half open, and they don’t take up any space outside your garage.  

Side-Hinged Garage Doors

The main reason homeowners choose these types of garage doors is that they suit the style of their homes. 

They’re manually operated and have a simple design, opening outward like barn doors. They’re often made of wood to complement their old-world appeal and due to their lack of mechanical parts, they rarely have any issues. 

The benefits of this design are that it leaves extra space in the roof of your garage for storage, and it’s super-easy to install. You can even buy them pre-hung in a frame or have them custom-designed to suit your garage’s dimensions.  

Types of Garage Doors That Tilt

Manufacturers design these doors to save space in your garage. They tilt up toward the garage roof when open, and there are two main types available.

These are:

Tilt-Up and Over Retractable Garage Doors

These kinds of tilt-up doors lift up and into the garage. They’re suspended from the door frame independently and don’t protrude past the front of your house. 

You’ll need a little more space to install this kind of door, and some homeowners find it difficult to operate them. 

Tilt-Up and Over Canopy Garage Doors

Til-up canopy doors comprise one piece. They don’t have sections and work on a pivoting hinge mechanism. When open, they come to rest parallel to the garage ceiling and protrude past the front of the house.   

Better and Better

Whichever types of garage doors you prefer, you’ll soon discover that these home improvements add a lot more than value to your home. They also increase your security, boost your curb appeal, and can help insulate your home from drafts.

Are you keen to discover more ways home improvements can benefit you? Browse our blog for more information on the best ways to add beauty, comfort, and value to your home.

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HOME DESIGN, REAL ESTATE

5 Reasons to Build a Home in Calgary, Canada

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The cosmopolitan city of Calgary in Alberta, Canada, has been ranked as one of the most liveable places in the country. It currently has a population of around 1.3 million and every year sees thousands of people moving to the city to start afresh.

Whether you want to use a custom home builder in Calgary or you’d rather buy a pre-built property, the city has everything you will ever need. If you’re moving alone or with your whole family, you won’t regret making the decision to choose Calgary to look for your new home.

There’s plenty to do in Calgary and it’s a friendly place to live where everybody is welcome. In this article, we’ve got a list of the many reasons why you should consider moving to the city of Calgary.

1. Cleanliness and Environmentally Friendly

Calgary has been ranked as one of the world’s cleanest cities. No matter where you go in the area, he will find clean open spaces and litter-free sidewalks.

Cleanliness is one of the city’s main priorities and if you are caught littering, you will be fined up to 1000 CAD. The sewage system in the city is second to none and there was very little water and air pollution. Everybody is encouraged to recycle as much as possible and every street is regularly swept.

2. Affordable Cost of Living and Low Sales Tax

Compared to the nearby cities, Calgary is more affordable. It has a competitive housing market and the costs of day-to-day living or lower than you might expect.

The state of Alberta has no provincial sales tax. Therefore, moving to Calgary means that you only need to pay 85% federal goods and services tax.

This is unlike the surrounding states and cities, where the tax is 15%. Therefore, you can reduce your total expenses and save more money.

3. Entertainment and Outdoor Activities

With the best outdoor space in Calgary, it’s the perfect place for outdoor lovers. There are almost 20,000 acres of open parkland for you to roam as you breathe in the fresh air and explore the expansive lands around the city.

Calgary lies at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, making it ideal for a range of fun outdoor activities. There is also an Olympic Park that has been used by professional athletes for years and is open to the general public.

During winter, it’s a great place to be for winter sports, such as snowboarding, skiing, or skating. In summer when the weather gets a little warmer, Calgary has the perfect areas for running, hiking, and cycling.

4. Great Public Transport

The public transport system may not be as expensive as it is in Toronto but it’s still of high quality. There is a network of trains and buses that run through the city during the day and night.

For those who rely on public transport to get around the city, the main railway network in Calgary is called CTrains. It relies 100% on electrical power that is obtained from nearby wind farms and is the very first fully wind-powered public transit network in North America.

Because of this, Calgary has been able to lower its total carbon emissions and become more environmentally friendly. Alongside their focus on cleanliness and recycling, you can’t fault the city’s efforts to minimize global warming.

Better yet, CTrains is free to use in downtown Calgary. You can save money while also reducing your carbon footprint by using the public railway instead of your car to get around the city.

5. Close Proximity to Other Popular Destinations

Calgary is in close proximity to a range of popular areas in Canada. It’s just a three-hour drive from Edmonton heading North, where there is plenty to do, including a shopping center, museums and galleries, and a huge water park.

Going three hours in the opposite direction towards the south will take you to the US border. You can also visit the Glacier National Park which contains thousands of different animal and plant species.

If you want to take a long drive out of the city, you can reach Vancouver in just 10 hours. You can split up the journey into two and stay over at a great motel along the way. When you get to the city of Vancouver, you will have plenty to do and can make a long weekend of it.

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HOME DESIGN, home renovation, LIGHTING

Natural Light Vs Privacy: How to Find the Best Solution for Your Windows

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Windows are considered the eyes of a home. They let sunlight in and allow you to enjoy views of the outside world from the comfort of the sofa. However, they can also allow strangers to peer into your home. 

Many homeowners face this dilemma at some point: how to enjoy natural light and privacy simultaneously? Finding the right window coverings is critical for your comfort too. For instance, south-facing windows can let in intense sunlight for several hours throughout the day, which can be either beneficial or inconvenient, depending on the season. 

What window treatments to choose if you want to strike the perfect balance between natural lighting and privacy? Read on to find a few tips and tricks. 

The Importance of Functionality 

When looking for window treatments, you will discover many designs and materials. Some homeowners prefer soft treatments like curtains, drapes, or roman shades. Others prefer blinds, shutters, and similar options made of hard and durable materials. Layered coverings that combine hard and soft materials can be a great aesthetic choice.

To make the right choice for your home, start by evaluating functionality. Would you like to install the window treatments inside or outside the frame? Would it be more convenient if the coverings functioned up and down or side to side? Would you prefer blinds that can be tilted open and closed? 

Functionality is a crucial factor to consider. Some window treatments allow you to control the amount of sunlight inside your home. You can find window treatments that block sunlight entirely and can turn your rooms dark instantly. There are also soft and transparent window treatments that let light stream through while blocking outsiders from getting a peek into your home.   

How to Find High-Quality Materials and Designs 

Through their shapes, materials, and the views they offer, windows play a fundamental role in the overall design and ambiance of a room. Big windows that let in abundant sunlight make a room look spacious and inviting. Small or improperly covered windows make a room look small and can even trigger feelings of claustrophobia. 

You cannot do much about the size or shape of the windows. This is why choosing practical and aesthetically pleasing coverings is vital. If you don’t know where to start your search, take a look at Hunter Douglas blinds. You will discover high-quality window treatments made of long-lasting materials in line with contemporary design trends. There are many models to choose from, each with unique features. 

 Window treatments should be the last elements to buy when decorating your home because their texture, color, and shape must be in perfect balance with the style of the rooms. 

If you prefer to install window treatments outside, choose durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions. Consider how the window coverings will affect the architecture and look of your home.   Follow our tips to find window treatments that allow you to enjoy the benefits of natural light without giving up on your privacy.

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BATHROOMS, HOME DESIGN, KITCHENS

Bigger Is Better: The Role of Big Floor Tiles in Indoor Design

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When most people think about tile, they think about the small square tiles that are often used in kitchens and bathrooms. However, larger floor tiles can be an excellent option for indoor design as well! In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using bigger tiles in your home and give you some tips on how to choose the right ones for your space.

What are Large Format Tiles?

As the name suggests, large format tiles are simply tiles that are larger in size than the standard tile. While the standard tile size is usually around 12” x 12”, large format tiles can be anywhere from 18” x 18” all the way up to 36” x 36”.

These are the kinds of tiles you’d use for flooring in a large space. The bigger the tile, the fewer grout lines there are, and the fewer grout lines mean less opportunity for dirt and grime to build up over time. Not to mention, large format tiles give your home a more luxurious feel – even if you’re working with a tight budget!

What are the Advantages of Using Large Tiles?

There are a few key advantages to using large format tiles in your indoor design.

First, larger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which makes for easier cleaning and maintenance. What’s more,  because there are fewer grout lines, your floor will have a more seamless appearance.

Another advantage of large format tiles is that they can make small spaces look bigger. If you have a small bathroom or kitchen, using large tiles can give the illusion of a larger space – something that can be very helpful if you’re working with limited square footage.

Finally, large format tiles are often more durable than small ones. Because there is less surface area for dirt and grime to build up, they’re less likely to crack or chip over time.

How to Choose the Right Large Format Tiles

Now that we’ve gone over some of the advantages of using large format tiles let’s talk about how to choose the right ones for your home.

When selecting large format tiles, it’s important to consider the space you’re working with. For example, if you have a small bathroom, you’ll want to avoid using overly large tiles as they can make the space feel even smaller. Conversely, if you have a large open floor plan, you can afford to go with a bigger tile size.

It’s also important to think about the design of your space when choosing large format tiles. If you want a more traditional look, smaller tiles might be a better option. However, if you’re going for a more modern aesthetic, large format tiles can definitely help you achieve that.

Finally, make sure to take your budget into consideration. Big floor tiles can be more expensive than small ones, so you may want to stick with the smaller size if you’re working with a tight budget.

Summary

Large-format tiles are a great way to add style and luxury to your home – but you’ll need to make sure they are right for you! Keep these tips in mind when choosing the right tiles for your space, and you’re sure to love the results. Thanks for reading!

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HOME DESIGN, OUTDOORS

How to Choose Front Entry Doors for Your Home

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What does your front door say about you? Do you prefer the elegant look of glass and iron, or do you like the warmth of wood?

Your front entry doors are one of the first things people see as they approach your home. As such, you want it to make a statement. It should also complement the look of your house.

The right front door is both practical and beautiful. So how do you begin to choose the right entry door with so many options out there? Start with these tips to find a door that says, “Welcome Home.”

Wood Front Doors

Wood used to be the go-to option for front doors for thousands of years. The first depictions of doors appeared in Egyptian tomb paintings 4,000 years ago. King Solomon used olive wood for his temple doors.

Wood doors can last for generations in the right conditions. Some of the most famous and most iconic doors in the world are made from wood. For instance, the door of St. Edward’s Church in Gloucestershire has been welcoming people since the 1200s.

While you may not want to go as far as framing your front door between two trees, there are many creative front door ideas that involve wood designs.

Even today, many homeowners choose wood for their front entry doors. Wood doors are extremely versatile, as you can stain and paint them any way you wish. They also add warmth to your front entryway, making your home seem more welcoming.

The downside to wood is that it’s porous. Wood also expands and contracts as temperature and humidity levels change. Wood doors are more resilient these days compared to older doors, but they still require sanding and staining every few years.

Steel Front Entry Doors

If you prefer the look of a modern door, steel might be the better choice. Steel doors are incredibly durable and popular in the south, where heavy rainfall and bright sunlight are a concern.

If security is a concern, you can’t go wrong with steel doors. These doors are much stronger than wood or fiberglass, protecting you from intruders and holding up to any kind of storm debris.

They won’t crack or warp no matter the weather conditions, and any dents can be fixed with a repair kit. Steel doors also come in a variety of different styles, from classic to contemporary.

Fiberglass Doors

Steel has one downside, and that is it’s prone to rust. Fiberglass doors won’t rust, and they won’t rot either. Modern fiberglass doors are designed to withstand the elements, making them a durable choice for homeowners.

Fiberglass doors are also relatively low maintenance, making them a good choice for homeowners that don’t have the time or experience to handle DIY jobs. Unlike wooden doors, you won’t have to maintain them as much.

Another benefit of fiberglass doors? They’re excellent insulators, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in the winter.

Fiberglass composite doors can mimic the look of wood, and you can stain them to look like cherry, walnut, oak, or other types of wood.

Choosing a Style

There’s more to choosing exterior doors than just selecting a material. You also have to consider the style.

What kind of home do you have? The architectural style should influence your decision. For example, a wood-paneled front door makes an excellent choice for a traditional home, such as a Victorian, Tudor, or Colonial.

If you have a contemporary house, you might want to choose a metal or glass front door that matches the exterior and feel of your home.

If you want the design of your home to flow, match your front entry doors to your patio doors. Beautifully designed French doors look elegant in any home and match well with a similarly designed front door.

Picking a Color

Depending on the material you choose, you have many options for stains and paints. Try to match the material and color of your door to other exterior elements, such as your windows, garage door, and so on.

You can work with your surroundings and choose a natural color that blends in, such as an earthy tone. White and black are classic choices that never go out of style.

You might want to make a statement and make your front door pop. Shades of blue and green are popular choices among homeowners. Some people also believe a red door symbolizes good luck.

Think about your location, your surroundings, and the other homes in your neighborhood. If you live in a coastal region, you might consider painting your door a nautical color such as seafoam green or navy blue.

If you want a wooden door, you also can’t go wrong choosing a natural stain finish.

Security and Locks

When choosing a front door, you need to consider security as well as aesthetics. A front door with a multipoint locking system offers more security and can help put your mind at ease.

Lock grading varies from Grade 1 to Grade 3. You might consider choosing a door or lock with a higher deadbolt level.

Locks these days are also designed to match any kind of decor. While security should be your top priority, you should then consider a door with locks that have a shape and finish that complement the look of your house.

You might also want to consider adding a keyless smart lock to your home. You can control these locks from your smartphone, so you never have to worry about whether you locked the front door or not again.

A Door to Welcome You Home

Choose front entry doors that welcome you home by following these tips. The right front door can boost your home’s curb appeal and add value to your property. The front door should look beautiful and keep you and your family safe.

Are you looking for additional home decorating or DIY advice? Take a look around our website for more.

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HOME DESIGN, REAL ESTATE

A Guide to Finding Your Dream Home

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Looking for your dream home is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful. After all, buying a house isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly because it’s an incredibly big commitment. And if you’re trying to find the perfect house for you and your family, it’s even harder since you will have such high standards. 

That being said, when you do get your dream home, it will be so worth it. So, what steps do you take to find your dream home? If that’s what you’re asking yourself, you’ve come to the right place. 

Find the right area

You can find the perfect house on paper, but if it’s in an area you don’t like, it won’t be the right fit for you. Have a look at safe neighborhoods close to you to get an idea of where to start looking. You also need to find a neighborhood that matches your lifestyle; some neighborhoods are geared towards families, whereas others may be best suited to young, single professionals. 

Once you’ve found the right area, you will be able to narrow down your search. You can search homes in St. Albert to see if there’s anything that catches your eye. 

Make a list of your dream home needs

There are plenty of houses on the market, with more coming up for sale each day. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or to somehow miss your dream house in the sea of other houses. That’s why you should start your search by making a list of things your dream house simply must have.

This means that you can easily eliminate many houses and only focus on the ones that will work for you. While many of these needs can be added after you buy a house, one thing you should look for is a structurally sound house. You can click here to learn about how to tell if a house has structural damage. 

Get an estate agent

Where possible, it’s always worth it to work with professionals who know what they are doing. House hunting is no different. 

By working with an estate agent, you may get the opportunity to view houses before they are even officially on the market, and many estate agents have contacts that can help the sale go through faster. Estate agents will also be able to specifically find houses that meet your needs, which means you won’t need to waste your time; they’ll do the hard work for you. 

Estate agents sometimes have a bad reputation, but a good estate agent can be just what you need to find your dream home.

Set up a budget

Of course, every big expense has a limit to how much you can spend. You may find the perfect home, only to realize that it’s out of your budget. Rather set up a budget upfront, and don’t even look at houses that don’t fit it – you’ll only get your hopes up. 

When you buy a house, you need to be sure that you can afford to pay for the house as well as any other expenses you may have. Set up a household budget to estimate how much you spend each month on various things, and then how much you have left to spend on a house. 

Look at the potential 

When you’re looking for your dream house, you probably have a specific image in mind. Unfortunately, you will rarely find a home that matches this image. 

If you keep waiting for that to happen, you will likely never find a home that meets your expectations. So, instead of looking at only the house, look at its potential. For example, don’t look at a small room and see only a small room. See what it could become. A nursery? Or perhaps even a home office? Once you start to look at how you can turn a house into your dream home, it becomes a lot easier. 

In conclusion

While searching for your dream house can be stressful, and at times you may feel hopeless, this doesn’t need to be the case. There are plenty of things you can do to find the perfect home for you and your family.

Of course, you will need to be patient, so don’t give up if you don’t immediately find your dream home! The most important things are to know what you want and to have a plan of action so that you can achieve it. Start planning for your dream house well in advance to make things go smoother.

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HOME DESIGN, home renovation

Window Shopping: All About Window Glass Types

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You might not be thinking about it when you’re searching for a new home, but windows are a critical component of any living space. Not only do they contribute to the outside architecture of your home, but they help bring in natural light. The better your windows, the more comfortable you’ll feel in your home.

One of the biggest things you need to consider when shopping for new windows is the different types of window glass. Don’t know what to look for? Read on to learn all about window glass types!

Safety Glass

People who have homes with large panes of glass, such as sliding glass doors, need to make sure that all of the occupants of their homes are safe in the event that the glass shatters. That’s where safety glass comes in. 

Safety glass is created through the fusion of two panes of glass to a layer of polyvinyl butyral. Instead of shattering into shards when this glass breaks, it breaks into rounded pebbles. This type of glass is most commonly found in automobiles and anywhere else objects may fly at the glass, but it’s also one of the types of glass used in windows.

Float Glass

If you’re looking to give the windows in your house a refresh without draining your bank account, then float glass might be one of the best types of glass for windows. Float glass is simply a sheet of glass that hasn’t had any kind of treatment. 

The end result is a thin sheet of glass without any color. It’s one of the lowest cost options out there, but that doesn’t mean that it’s the best type of glass for your home. Since it hasn’t gone through any types of treatment processes, it is easily breakable, and if it does break, it breaks into shards.

Insulated Glass

Did you know that energy loss through your home’s windows is responsible for up to 30 percent of your energy bill? Thankfully, insulated glass is a great option to help prevent excessive energy loss.

Insulated glass consists of two panes of laminated or tempered glass with argon in between the panes. The interior of the panes also contains a desiccant to prevent moisture build-up. This combination helps keep outside air outside and inside air inside.

Low-E Glass

Another option for window glass replacement that’s energy-efficient is low-e glass. Think of it like insulated glass taken to another level. It’s treated with a coating that reflects thermal radiation, keeping heat energy from invading your home.

The only downside? It’s quite pricey. If you live in an area with excessive heat or cold, however, then it’s definitely worthwhile.

Which of These Window Glass Types Will You Choose?

There are so many window glass types to choose from when you’re buying a home or replacing your windows. Whether you opt for budget-friendly float glass or lessen your environmental impact with insulated or low-e glass, you’ll be happy that you took the time to research your choices. Now all you have to do is get the windows installed, and you’ll be good to go!

Do you need help with other homeowning decisions? You’ve come to the right place. Check out the rest of our blog for all the homeownership advice you need!

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HOME DESIGN, HOME ENTERTAINING

Tech Items You Need in Your Home in 2022

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There are a lot of different things that you likely value in your home. From the big things that make your life easier, your bed, kitchen appliances, storage facilities, etc., to the smaller things. Those small things potentially include the likes of artwork, cutlery, and more. Every single thing that is a part of your home will hold some sort of significance. This is because they all contribute to making a house your home. Without them, there isn’t much separating your house from someone else’s. 

Some of the best additions that you could add to your house in 2022 are in the tech field. When you look at how much technology has developed over the past few decades, it is truly mind-boggling. It also makes you wonder what kind of devices will be around in another couple of years. However, there are still some pretty great things you can buy today. Some of these inventions can really improve your daily living and make life far more convenient. If you are interested in investing in some of these tech items, then there is no reason why you shouldn’t. If you are stuck for ideas on what to buy, here are some good examples. 

Desktop

Everyone should really have a great desktop in their house. In a world where so many of life’s responsibilities are online, having a good device to work on is essential. If you are currently sending your emails from an old laptop that you barely use or a desktop from 20 years ago, it is time for an upgrade. Having a great desktop isn’t going to just make your life far easier, but it could also boost your productivity rates. Having a great device to work off is definitely going to make you more enthusiastic about being productive online. If you have an upcoming move ahead of you, don’t worry. Using large item shipping, you can safely transport your desktop, and if you need more information, you can learn more here. 

Alexa Device 

Amazon’s smart speakers have really made a massive impact since their release. This is due to good reasoning, however. Not only do the speakers provide an excellent service for listening to music, but they are capable of so much more. The speakers can allow you to set reminders, to do lists, and much more. There are dozens of different actions that Amazon’s Alexa can do. It is a handy thing to have around the house, especially for those with a busy schedule. 

Smart Lights 

If you want to add some atmosphere to your home, then you should consider investing in smart lights. Not only are they accessible to use, but the range of color displays they offer are second to none. Whether you are trying to relax, concentrate, or anything in between, there is likely a color pattern for you. They really add a little bit extra to whatever room they are utilized in, and certainly worth the investment. 

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HOME DESIGN, home renovation

3 Tips to Make Your Large-scale Renovation as Smooth as Possible

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Renovating your home is always a messy ordeal, even if your plans are relatively small and you’ve done your best to prepare. You have to account for various potential obstacles – some of which may or may not actually come up – and keep your plans as flexible as possible. That said, there’s definitely a lot you can do to make your typical large-scale renovation as smooth as possible. As long as you know what options you have available and take the time to explore which ones would work best in your current situation, you can generally accomplish a lot to make the whole process as trouble-free as possible.

1. Shop in Bulk Wherever Applicable

Large-scale renovations tend to consume lots of resources, making it important to plan ahead when it comes to purchasing supplies and tools. Most people tend to make these considerations for the obvious things like construction supplies, but there’s a lot more that you could often be doing to equip yourself for the renovation while keeping your costs low. Companies like powerpointelectrics.co.uk can be very helpful when it comes to electrical equipment, for example – and it’s not rare that you might need lots of things like cables, lamps and light fittings, heating units and more. The same goes for every separate part of the renovation project – get in touch with a wholesale supplier whenever it’s an option and try to contact them as early as possible.

2. Work with a Professional Designer

Another thing that separates large-scale renovation jobs from smaller ones is that they’re practically impossible to handle on your own, at least if you care about good results. This is the kind of job that always requires professional help, and you should spare no expenses in getting in touch with a good designer and bringing them into the project. This will spare you a lot of trouble in the long run, and it can also bring some financial benefits about, especially if you work with someone who already has good connections to reliable suppliers.

3. Keep Your Options Open for the Future

No matter what you’ve chosen to change, make sure to keep things as flexible as possible for the future. Don’t commit to designs that will cost a lot to undo, especially if you’re on the fence about them. Consider what you’ll be doing with this place five or even ten years from now – will this renovation improve its value or make it more difficult to sell for some reason? This is another reason to work with a competent designer, as these are questions that they should be able to answer for you.

As we mentioned above, no matter how much planning and thought you may put into this, there’s always a risk that things will go wrong at various steps of the project. As long as you’ve chosen reliable contractors for each part of the job, you should be able to minimize any downtime and unexpected expenses, especially if you start planning your renovation as early as possible.

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HOME DECOR, HOME DESIGN

Open Concept Home: What Is a Barndominium?

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Many people remain unaware of an option open to them when they choose to build a home. However, the barndominium is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. Don’t let the nickname barndo fool you or the fact that this housing option was created to allow caretakers to stay close to their animals. Today, it serves as the perfect solution for many people wishing to buy a home and design it the way they want. 

The Benefits of a Bardominium

The Barndominium works for a range of housing styles, including vacation rentals and luxury homes. What makes this the perfect residence in upscale rural areas known for their vineyards and expansive ranches? Why would a person wish to invest in a residence that is unlike anything they are familiar with in terms of the building methods used? These serve as only a few of the countless questions a person may have before deciding if this option is right for their needs. 

Customization

When a person chooses to construct a barndo, they find they have countless options available to them. The building often comes as nothing more than a shell with basic framing on the interior. As a result, the owner finds they can finish the interior however they desire. One person might want an open floor plan that allows the interior to be wide open other than bedrooms and bathrooms. Another individual may choose to have separate areas for each part of their daily life. It’s all a matter of what the owner wants and needs when it comes to the residence, as no two families are alike. 

Furthermore, companies now offer a do-it-yourself option that every potential buyer should consider. The construction team handles the basic tasks. They construct the metal shell, hook up the utilities, and handle tasks such as putting up the drywall. Once this work is complete, they turn the home over to the new owner. This individual then handles all of the remaining details, such as choosing the flooring and fixtures before having them installed. This ensures the home meets the owner’s needs and wishes in every way. 

Construction

People find they must wait months to have their new residence inhabitable when they choose to build from the ground up using conventional building methods. That isn’t the case when a person opts for a barndominium. Experienced crews can have the metal shell construction up in a fraction of the time. The homeowner can then take as long as they want or need to complete the interior of the residence. Doing so ensures the home is everything the owner dreamed of when starting the project and remains within their budget at the same time. They finish the home as money allows to ensure they get the perfect residence in every way. 

Durability

The metal used to create a barndo ensures the residence will last for decades. In fact, these materials come with a longer lifespan than conventional building materials. Homeowners know they are making an investment in the future that will provide a nice return on investment in the coming years. 

Flexibility

One reason people love barndos is the structure can be used as a home or combine elements of both a workplace and living space. It’s all a matter of what the individual wants and needs from their residence. As more people work from home today than ever before, it’s no wonder they are taking a second look at the barndominium option.

Furthermore, potential buyers find they can create a home that allows them to enjoy both indoor and outdoor living. They select those features that will be of most benefit to them. For example, one person might wish to have a rollup door on their residence to accommodate their classic car collection. Another buyer could select oversized windows throughout the home to enjoy the beauty of the landscape even when they must stay indoors. 

Creating the Perfect Residence

When designing a barndominium, individuals find they have flexibility. While certain rooms must be situated a particular way to accommodate utilities, the majority of the interior layout can be customized to meet the needs of the owner. Experts recommend planning the home around the way each room will be used. 

Once the square footage of the barndominium has been decided, it’s time to begin planning the interior. Many barndos feature a main living area with a loft area above this space. To ensure the home feels open and welcoming, many individuals opt for large windows and a wraparound deck. However, these serve as only two of the countless ways the barndo can be designed for the specific individual or family who will live there. 

Finishing the Barndominium

When the time comes to finish the interior of the residence, experts offer some advice that will benefit any new homeowner. They explain that color serves as the best way to make the house a home. When the residence contains a large, open space, add a colorful stripe that extends around the perimeter of the room. Doing so provides the area with an intimate feel. Countless individuals opt for an accent wall, as this helps provide the large open space with a focal point, and homeowners should consider making the ceiling the accent wall. 

Large furnishings serve as the perfect pieces for barndominiums. These furnishings include oversized chairs and sectionals, among other things. When placing the furniture, group pieces together to distinguish different living spaces. Many people tend to arrange their furniture in a way that leaves the residence looking like a furniture store. Using this technique that can be avoided. 

Allow the furnishings to tie the different areas of the home together. A single color palette across the different spaces serves as a great way to accomplish this goal. If you are concerned about becoming bored with this color, choose a neutral palette. By doing so, you can change up the look of the space simply by changing accessories in the different rooms. Add some new throw pillows or choose lamps in a different color to achieve this goal.

Area rugs serve as another great way to separate different living spaces in an open concept home. The rugs help to define the different areas and separate them. Again, try to keep the rugs in the same color palette for a look others will envy. 

Barndominiums serve as a great option for individuals looking to build a home. Speak to a builder today to learn whether this option meets your needs. Many people find it is exactly what they want for their new residence, as these structures have so much to offer. 

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