Are you tired of stepping into a freezing garage during winter or sweltering in the summer heat while trying to complete your latest DIY project? Did you know that insulating your garage could not only improve your comfort but also save you money on energy bills? It’s time to transform your garage into a cozy and energy-efficient space with these four effective insulation methods.
Not only will you enjoy a more pleasant environment when you insulate your garage, but you’ll also notice significant savings on your energy bills. With a few tips you can say goodbye to temperature extremes and hello to a garage that works for you. In this article, we will reveal several ways that you can iunsulate your garage for energy efficiency.
1 – The garage door
Insulating the garage door is a crucial aspect of creating an energy-efficient and comfortable garage space. One popular and cost-effective option is to use garage door insulation kits, which are designed specifically for this purpose.
These kits often include foam panels, reflective foil, or fiberglass batts that can be easily installed on the interior side of the door. While these insulation kits are affordable and relatively simple to install, they may not provide the maximum insulation possible for your garage door.
For a more comprehensive solution, consider calling Asmara Garage Door Repair to install an insulated garage door. These doors are typically constructed from steel or aluminum and have built-in insulation, such as polyurethane or polystyrene. Insulated garage doors offer higher R-values, making them more energy-efficient and effective in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the garage.
2 – The garage walls
Insulating garage walls is the first step towards creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient space. There are two common methods for insulating garage walls: batt insulation and rigid foam insulation. Batt insulation is made from either fiberglass or mineral wool, and it’s widely used due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. However, one of the drawbacks of batt insulation is the potential for gaps and air leakage, which can compromise its insulating properties.
Rigid foam insulation is moisture resistant and can be easily cut to fit your garage walls. However, it’s important to note that rigid foam insulation tends to be more expensive than batt insulation.
3 – The garage ceiling
Two popular methods for insulating garage ceilings are blown-in insulation and spray foam insulation. Blown-in insulation is made from cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool, and it’s an excellent choice for filling gaps and voids in the garage ceiling. This insulation type is particularly suitable for existing structures, as it can be easily installed with specialized equipment. However, it’s important to note that blown-in insulation usually requires professional installation.
Another effective option for insulating garage ceilings is spray foam insulation, which comes in two forms: open-cell and closed-cell polyurethane foam. Spray foam offers air sealing and moisture resistance, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to condensation or air leaks. While spray foam insulation has numerous benefits, it can be more expensive than other insulation types and typically requires professional installation.
Are you looking to hire a designer for your home remodeling project?
A home remodel can upgrade your house, help you sell, or make you feel happier and more satisfied with your space. When looking to hire a home remodeling contractor, there are a few tips to make the experience smoother for you.
With the tips below, you can find the perfect person to redesign your home and give you a better space! Read on to learn all about the benefits of home remodels and where to find the perfect contractor for the job.
Start With Research
The first step in hiring a home remodeling contractor is to do your research. Start by asking for referrals from friends, family, or neighbors who have recently completed a remodeling project.
You can also use online directories and search engines to find local contractors. Look for contractors who have good ratings, reviews, and certifications, and make a list of potential candidates.
Check Licenses and Insurance
Before you hire any contractor, it’s important to check their licenses and insurance. Contractors should have a valid license to operate in your state or region.
Also, they should carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. This is to protect you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the home remodeling project.
Get Multiple Quotes
Once you have a list of potential candidates, it’s time to get multiple quotes. Ask each contractor to provide a detailed estimate that includes materials, labor, and any extra costs or fees.
Compare the quotes to determine which contractor offers the best value for your money. Keep in mind that the cheapest quote may not always be the best option, as quality and experience are important factors to consider.
Ask for References
Before you hire a contractor, it’s important to ask for references. Contact previous clients and ask about their home remodeling experience working with the contractor.
Did they show up on time? Did they complete the project within the agreed-upon timeframe and budget? Were they professional and easy to work with
Also, consider the type of remodeling you need. For example, if you need kitchen remodeling, look for a contractor specializing in this service. Use this information to help make your final decision.
Review the Contract Carefully
Once you’ve chosen a contractor, review the contract carefully before signing. Make sure it includes all the details of the project, such as the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and warranties. If anything is unclear or incomplete, ask the contractor to revise the contract before signing.
Hire a Home Remodeling Contractor to Transform Your Home Today
Hiring a home remodeling contractor can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these steps, you can ensure you hire a home remodeling contractor that is right for your job.
Your home will be well on its way to becoming your dream home. Don’t delay – start looking for your professional remodeling contractor today!
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Have you bought a boat that’s been at sea for too long? Have you inherited a yacht, or somehow come to possess an old boat that you thought was past its best? If so, this article could help you with the refurbishment process.
There are old vessels out there that have life in them yet. As long as she still floats, no boat, dinghy, tug, or passenger ferry is truly ready for scrap. Floating is the number one check for buying a used boat. Floating without leaks is even better. As to the innards – well – sometimes a full renovation is the only way. A slight problem that comes with refurbishing a vessel is what is inside it. Is it rust or revival-ready? Would it survive a renovation? If so, here are the best 7 interior design improvements you can make on your new (old) boat to bring it up to modernity.
The 7 Tricks to Revive an Old Boat
Try these interior boat design tricks to update any vessel. From a 90’s tour vessel to a private yacht – these tips can save you time, money, and effort.
1 – Develop a Plan
Before you do anything, set yourself a budget and develop a boat restoration plan to spend it. Plan to buy the materials you need immediately. This is a hard lesson for house flippers. When you begin with a vision for your new space, you look at finishings which are in trend at that moment. If you don’t buy immediately, you may miss those trends and be short of stock when the time comes to finish the boat refurbishment. Plan everything from the outset and make your purchases before you begin.
The following tips contain things to think about spending good money on.
2 – Spend on the Deep Clean
An important step in the refurbishment process is to deep clean the whole interior before you start to decorate. If you can’t do it yourself, then employing a deep cleaning company to do it for you is a safe alternative. Make sure they detail the inside from top to bottom. Once this task is complete and the tech and engine get an update, you can finally start to get down to designing business.
3 – Update the Seating
In some cases, replacement boat seat cushions can make a huge difference to the boat’s interior. Every boat, be it high end or trawler, has a seating area in it. These seating areas gather dust, bacteria, and spills. Ripping the cushioning out and starting again is an efficient way to solve the problem. Complete the look with new cushion covers and you have a whole new room. Check out the African Mud Cloth trend for inspiration.
4 – Budget for Home Comforts
The whole point in all this is to make your new, inherited, or refurbished boat, feel like your own. Prepare to spend a large chunk of your budget buying the digital devices, electronics, and luxury touches that you need to make it feel like your floating home. Think of functionality and of little luxuries. If you’re going to perform a refurbishment, you might as well make it high end.
5 – Match Your Fabrics
You can soften up the hard edges found in vessels by choosing fabric with a distinguished pattern, picking out colors from feature furniture to add to individual pieces around the space, or mixing up soft fabrics which complement one another. Mix your textures but match your palette – just as if you were designing your home.
6 – Use Lighting for Atmosphere
Not all boats have walls. This can make the decorating a little difficult. If you have exposed industrial metal and wooden finishings to work with, add a little brass around and light it withLED strips, your choice in colors, or even specially made spot lighting, if you can afford it. Lighting adds atmosphere on board, and if you surround yourself with soft fabrics, you could feel right at home.
7 – Use Tapestries
Instead of spending a small fortune designing the interior of a boat which may or may not have walls to hang paper on, try tapestries, instead. Decorating the living spaces with soft fabrics takes the edge off all that industrial steel. Not only that, it adds to the insulation, which you really need on open water.
If it Floats, it Bloats!
If your new investment doesn’t have balance issues, engine issues, or leaks, you can get some life out of it yet. Especially if you followed our advice.
With the condition of our planet being as well documented as it is, there is no excuse for leading wasteful and irresponsible lives. Global warming has, is, and will continue to have a devastating impact on communities around the world.
This isn’t the first time humanity has needed to drastically change the way we live so we can protect our planet; this is a burning issue that we’ve known about for decades. As the climate changes and the effects get felt in some of the poorest countries, more and more people are starting to realize that a change needs to happen – for the good of everyone on Earth.
What we drive, buy, consume, and use all contribute to our carbon footprint, and we drastically need to reduce that. Follow these seven tips below to reduce yours from today:
1. Know Your Usage
Do an energy audit of your home because that is the only way to get an accurate insight into how you use or waste energy. After digging deeper into your usage, you will be better informed on how to be more energy efficient.
Common areas that need addressing include the following – changing incandescent light bulbs, switching lights off when they are not in use, and taking shorter showers. Many people are guilty of the same patterns when wasting energy.
2. Insulation Is Paramount
Insulation dramatically decreases the amount of heat lost through roofs, walls, and flooring – meaning far less energy is required to heat your home. Properly installed insulation reduces and frequently removes the reliance on electricity and gas power at home.
Once your reliance on energy gets reduced, your carbon footprint automatically reduces too. Installing decent insulation can reduce your home’s carbon footprint by over 30% – not to mention the savings you’ll enjoy on monthly heating and cooling costs.
3. Choose Native Landscaping
Gardeners unwittingly contribute to the problem of climate change in multiple ways, one of the most significant being the decision to plant trees and bushes that are not native to that area.
Landscaping your yard with native trees, flowers, bushes, and shrubs virtually eliminates added sources of emissions and reduces air and water pollution at the same time. Create the perfect garden for birds and insects in your area and enhance your home’s curb appeal by going native with your plant selection.
The landscape’s native plants require less water and no chemical pesticides or fertilizers – only homemade compost occasionally.
4. Go Solar
Solar power produces no emissions during the generation process, making it one of the most eco-friendly energy sources ever invented. Multiple assessments and studies have proven that solar power significantly reduces the carbon footprint in a household.
Before you get solar fitted in your home, jot down any questions to ask a solar installer to put your mind at ease. Some of the most common issues and concerns have probably been addressed in the past, so trust in their knowledge and experience to guide you along your journey.
5. High-Efficiency Appliances
Apart from the more obvious ways to reduce your carbon footprint at home such as turning your water heater down and taking shorter showers with a low-flow showerhead, there are other clever ways to reduce your energy consumption.
Once solar power has been installed in your home, you will find that you need to make a few necessary lifestyle adjustments, and investing in high-efficiency appliances can help in the long run.
One of the biggest advantages to investing in high-efficiency household appliances is being able to do the same or more, with less. High-efficiency washers use up to two-thirds less water per wash when compared to older models – and they use less energy since there is less water being used.
6. Wash In Cold Water
Almost 90% of the energy used during the average washing cycle of your machine goes towards heating the water. Using cold water to wash your clothing eliminates the need for that extra energy.
Studies have shown that washing in cold water is better for your clothing as well – resulting in happier clothes and a happier planet. You can drastically decrease your carbon footprint simply by making the switch to washing in cool water.
7. Install A Smart Thermostat
Thermostats are used by certain appliances such as water heaters to regulate the cooling and heating of said appliances. Smart thermostats take that one step further by using algorithms and specialized sensors to boost energy efficiency.
That makes them a smart and simple way to lower your energy consumption and reduce your footprint simultaneously.
Moving into a new home is exciting, and most people can’t wait to take an empty house and make it their own. In a way, decorating your new house is kind of like starting with a blank canvas and then turning it into a work of art.
Even if your new home needs no serious work, you may still want to give it a bit of a facelift so that it can feel not only feel new but also reflect your style. That’s why this post will be walking you through a few ways to do just that.
Redo your kitchen
If there’s one room in any house that people feel strongly about, it’s the kitchen. The kitchen is often described as the heart of the home, so it makes sense that people want it to feel welcoming and cozy. After all, this is where you and your loved ones will spend a lot of time together. You may not have the budget to renovate your entire home, but if you have some extra money, it can be a good idea to invest it in a kitchen renovation.
Of course, this is a big project, so it can be helpful to hire professionals to do it for you. Have a look at Mode Built’s Edmonton home renovations to see what they can offer you
Give your house a fresh coat of paint
If you want a more affordable way to give your home a new touch, paint is the way to go. Compared to other renovation options, painting is much cheaper, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t completely transform how your house looks.
You can opt for bold and bright colors if that’s your style, or stick to neutral tones if you enjoy a more natural look. And if you aren’t ready to go all out, you can always dip your toes into the water by painting just one room in each wall a different color so that there are accent walls everywhere.
Consider switching up your flooring
Our floors often undergo a lot of wear and tear, so you may find that your new home’s floors look a bit worse for wear.
This is why you should consider having new flooring installed. You can do this right across the house, or only in certain rooms – it’s up to you. Of course, you need to consider all of your options. Carpets and tiles used to be the most popular, so you can check out the price difference between those options here. Nowadays, however, laminate and hardwood floors seem to be trending.
Add your own décor
It’s not enough to simply decorate your house and give it a new style – you should also add your own touch. Remember that it’s not just a house, but also a home.
Your home should be your safe place, so it makes sense to decorate it in a way that speaks to you, instead of just doing what is trendy right now. To truly give your new house a facelift, add some décor that means something personal to you – whether it’s postcards from places you’ve traveled or photos of you and your loved ones, you should see this as an opportunity to make the place your own.
Do some work in the garden
People often forget that their homes don’t just refer to the house, but also the garden. The truth is that many people don’t utilize their gardens to their full potential, and this is a missed opportunity.
If you have some extra time on your hands, go out and buy your favorite plants to place in the garden, or get a table and some chairs so that you can create an outdoor entertainment area. You can alsoclick here if you need some inspiration for sprucing up your garden during spring.
In conclusion
Few things are as exciting and rewarding as moving into a new house and adding your own personal touch to it. that is what takes it from being a house to being a home.
Most people want their homes to be a reflection of them, which means that they want their homes to look beautiful and showcase what they find pleasing. That’s why this post shared some ideas for how you can give your new house a facelift. Hopefully, this inspired you, and there is something in here for everyone, regardless of their style or budget.
Also, don’t be afraid to try new things when decorating your house! If you don’t like how it turns out, you can always change it again.
Home insulation is essential for keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It can help reduce energy bills, improve air quality, and protect your home from damage due to moisture and temperature extremes. But with an old and outdated insulation system, you may be missing out on all these benefits. Here are five reasons to consider replacing your insulation system:
#1. Improve Energy Efficiency
Have you noticed an increase in your energy bills over the past few months? Insulation that is outdated or insufficient can cause your home to lose heat, forcing your heating and cooling systems to work harder to keep your home comfortable. Leaks on your doors and windows can also contribute to the problem.
Replacing your insulation system with a newer, more efficient one can help improve energy efficiency and reduce your monthly bills. Newer insulations are designed to trap air in the material, creating a barrier that helps keep your home’s temperature consistent.
#2. Reduce Moisture and Mold Damage
Moisture in your home may cause a variety of issues, and one of them is mold damage. High levels of moisture can lead to the growth of mold, which can cause health problems and structural damage. Molds thrive in warm, damp environments, and old insulation can be a breeding ground for them!
Replacing your home insulation system with one that is designed to resist moisture can help reduce the risk of mold growth and damage. Look for insulation materials specially designed to resist moisture, such as spray foam or rigid foam insulation. Professionals such asiFoam offer spray foam insulation designed to prevent moisture from entering and staying in your home.
#3. Improve Air Quality
Old insulation may contain asbestos fibers, which are hazardous to your health and can cause respiratory issues such as asthma, lung cancer, and other conditions. Asbestos fibers are tiny and can easily enter your air supply if they become loose or disturbed. If you think your home may contain asbestos, it is important to have an expert inspect the insulation before you replace it.
With a new home insulation system, you can help improve the air quality in your home and reduce any health risks associated with asbestos fibers. Many of the new insulation materials are designed to be non-toxic and hypoallergenic, so you can enjoy better quality air in your home.
#4. Increase Comfort
Do you ever feel like your home is too hot or too cold? If your home is not insulated properly, you may be experiencing drafts or air leakage, which can lead to uncomfortable temperatures. Replacing your insulation system can create a more comfortable living environment for you and your family.
It’s important to take note that even if the room is well insulated, the lack of proper ventilation can lead to an uncomfortable environment. As such, you should also consider having a professional inspect your home’s ventilation system and ensure it is working properly.
#5. Save Money
Old and outdated insulation systems can be expensive to repair and maintain. They’re also the cause of some of your home’s largest energy inefficiencies, so replacing them with a newer one can help you save money on utility bills.
Your insulation is vital in protecting your home and keeping it comfortable, so consider replacing your outdated system with a newer one. Newer insulation systems offer the various benefits mentioned above. You’ll be glad you replaced your insulation after seeing the long-term benefits, such as improved air quality, comfort, and energy savings!
The windows in your house are an integral part of your home’s overall look and feel. Not only do they provide a view of the outside world, but they also help control the amount of sunlight, ventilation, and insulation that your home receives. Over time, however, windows may need to be replaced due to age, damage, or efficiency. Here are some signs you should look for to determine if you need a window replacement.
#1. They are already old!
Windows don’t last forever, and if your windows are over 10-15 years old, it may be time to start thinking about replacing them! While windows can last longer than that, they become less efficient as they age and can start to let in more air or moisture. You don’t want that to happen, so it is better to replace them before they start to fail. With new windows, you can also enjoy the latest energy-efficient technology and improved insulation, which will help save you money on your heating and cooling bills.
#2. Your Energy Bill is Rising
If you’ve noticed your energy bills are going up for no apparent reason, then your windows may be the culprit! Old and inefficient windows are more likely to let outside air in and cause your heating or cooling system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Window replacement is the best way to bring your energy bills back down and ensure you are not wasting money on heating or cooling the outside air.
#3. Foggy Glass
If you notice condensation building up between the panes of glass, then your windows have likely lost their seal. When this happens, outside air can enter the home and cause condensation, leading to foggy glass. This is a common problem with older windows, and replacing them with insulated double- or triple-pane models can help prevent future moisture buildup.
#4. Warped Frames
Over time, wooden window frames may become warped due to moisture and temperature changes. This can make it difficult to open and close the window, as well as create gaps in the seal that can let outside air in. Window replacement is a wise investment in this case, as it can help you get better insulation and a tighter seal that will keep your home more comfortable.
#5. Difficulty Opening/Closing
If you struggle to open or close your windows, then it may be time for some window replacement. This is especially true if the window’s operation has become increasingly difficult over time. Newer windows are designed to open and close easily, so replacing old ones can make opening and closing them a breeze.
#6. Crack and Fissures on the Window
Finally, if you notice any cracks or fissures on the window itself, then it’s definitely time to replace it. No amount of repair can fix a cracked window, and leaving it as is will only lead to further damage. Cracks can occur for many reasons, such as age, weather conditions, and even structural issues. It’s best to replace them as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your home safe.
When Should I Replace them?
If you notice any of the issues above, you need a window replacement soon as possible. According toMighty Dog Roofing in Marietta, GA, “Your windows are a key part of your home. And by getting new ones, you’re ensuring your home is more secure and more energy-efficient.” This is true, as new windows can provide several benefits. So if you want to save money on your energy bills and keep your home comfortable, then consider replacing your windows.
However, it’s crucial to get the right windows for your home and consult a professional before making any decisions. A professional can help you find the best windows for your home and budget and provide advice on installation and maintenance. These steps can help ensure you get the best windows for your home and enjoy their benefits for years to come!
Are you tired of looking at the hardwood flooring that you chose for your home? Or maybe you think that you made a poor decision when buying your home’s carpet. Whatever the circumstances, you need to find a great way to resolve this issue.
The best home flooring will solve all of your problems and make you the envy of your friends. Read on to learn how to choose the best home flooring that’s reliable and affordable.
Assessing Your Needs
There are several things you should take into account when choosing the best flooring for your home. First, you need to assess your needs. Are you looking for durability? Ease of maintenance? Aesthetics? Once you know what you need, you can begin to narrow down your choices.
There are many different types of flooring on the market, so it’s important to do your research. You can read reviews, talk to friends and family, and even consult with a flooring specialist.
But, you want to choose the flooring that will meet your needs and that you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Considering Your Budget
Homeowners have many factors to consider when choosing flooring, including budget, durability, maintenance, and style. Some flooring options are more expensive than others, but may offer more durability and require less maintenance. It is important to consider all factors when choosing a floor for a home to get the most value for your money.
Hardwood Flooring
It’s the best wooden flooring and a popular choice for many homeowners because it is durable and easy to maintain. However, hardwood floors are also one of the more expensive flooring options.
Homeowners who are on a budget may want to consider laminate or maple flooring. These options are less expensive than hardwood, but still offer durability and easy maintenance.
Tile
is another popular flooring option that is available in a variety of colors and styles. It is durable and easy to clean but can be cold and hard on the feet. Homeowners who are considering tile should also be aware that it is one of the more expensive flooring options.
There are a variety of flooring options available to homeowners, and the best option depends on the individuals needs and budget. Homeowners should consider all factors when choosing flooring, including durability, maintenance, and style.
Seeking Professional Advice
When making the decision on what types of floors to put in your home, it is important to seek professional advice. There are many different options and each has its own set of pros and cons.
Doing your research ahead of time and knowing what you want will help the professional better understand what you are looking for and guide you to the best flooring option for your home.
Learn More About the Best Home Flooring Today
If you’re looking for reliable and affordable best home flooring, tile is a great option. It’s durable, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of styles.
Don’t forget to consider your lifestyle when choosing tile, if you have pets or small children, you’ll want to choose a tile that’s slip-resistant.
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One of the most exciting benefits of homeownership is the freedom to do your own renovations. The ability to alter your living space to reflect your personality can be a fulfilling experience that can completely change the way you feel when hanging out at home.
Whether it’s a simple update like adding a fresh coat of paint or a more extensive project like replacing the flooring, these updates make owning a home so special.
Even though it’s exciting to dive in on a renovation head first, there are certain steps and safety precautions that should be top of mind to ensure that your project goes according to plan. When it comes to a successful home remodel, taking shortcuts or rushing work is not the way to go. This can cause issues down the road, and could even put your family at risk. Your home should always be a safe environment for your family, so before you kick off your next project, consider these tips and steps below.
Make a List of Priority Projects
Whether you’ve recently moved into a home or have been waiting to renovate, start with creating a list of all the projects you want to do, and begin ranking them in order of importance. This will allow you to focus on the projects that are more important than others, first. For example, projects like resealing windows or doors to prevent heating or cooling inefficiencies should be a higher priority than repainting the trim on baseboards. Not everyone knows what projects should be tackled first and it can be overwhelming when they start to add up. In these situations, lean on the expertise of a friend or family member who is more knowledgeable in home maintenance and DIY projects.
Some projects will come with more moving parts than others, so much that it can affect your day-to-day living in the residence. Bathroom renovations can leave plumbing fixtures like your toilet, sinks, or shower out of commission for several days. Kitchen remodels can have the same effect on appliances if work is needed around the stove or fridge. Take time to consider how the project area will impact your usual routine and plan any needed accommodations well ahead of time.
Plan Your Timeframe
In order to ensure your house isn’t left in shambles for months without progress, planning your project timeline will keep things moving with the finish line in sight. This includes knowing how much free time you can dedicate, how many people will be working on the project, and identifying projects that have tighter turnaround times. As you get a timeline in place, try to also prioritize projects that add value to your home. To get you started, here are some tips to help plan and get things moving:
Take notes in a Google Doc with schedules and material links
Keep all purchase receipts for returns and warranties
Track your shipments and watch for delays
Lookup “How to” guides for your type of project
Keep in mind that no one is immune to last-minute schedule changes, life happens. If something unforeseen interrupts your original plans, try to adapt by working on a different portion of the project that doesn’t require assistance.
If you’re closing in on the deadline for a project with too many leftover tasks, it’s time to decide what can be completed at a later date. It’s always most important to restore the functionality of a room and eliminate safety hazards before objectives like decorating or non-essential painting.
Avoiding Safety Hazards
Most remodeling projects entail some form of tearing apart old portions of the house and replacing them with something newer. During this phase, you and your family are more at risk for injury and other health hazards. In order to keep your family safe during the remodel, it’s important to know what hazards you’ll be dealing with and when it’s necessary to keep kids away from the work area.
Electrical Work
If your project involves tampering with electrical wiring within the walls or running to appliances, it’s absolutely crucial that you turn off the power to the affected rooms from the circuit breaker. Neglecting to do so can lead to serious or fatal injuries from electrocution. Leaving wires exposed is generally not safe, but if you have to, keep the power to the room turned off and don’t allow kids to enter without your supervision. To be extra safe, you can use a residential voltage tester to know for sure if an outlet or wire is still active or not. As always, if something is out of your comfort zone it might be worth calling a professional, especially when it comes to electrical work.
Asbestos
A danger that still lurks within homes made before 1989 is asbestos. Asbestos was used to manufacture a wide variety of home construction products and was utilized for its fire-resistant capabilities. Over time, medical professionals learned that when asbestos is disturbed, it releases microscopic fibers that become airborne and can be inhaled when not following the proper precautions. Once asbestos fibers enter the body, symptoms of serious health issues like asbestosis or mesothelioma cancer can develop several years later.
So how can you assess the potential asbestos exposure risk for your next renovation project? Unfortunately, sellers are not required to disclose if this dangerous material is present in a home to buyers, making it difficult to know for sure. Because of this, it’s essential to at least educate yourself on the most common locations where you might find asbestos in the home. When you start looking around, you can test any material around the home for asbestos with an at-home kit found in most hardware stores. If you find that your renovation project requires asbestos removal to proceed, you should contact a local asbestos removal company for further assistance.
Potentially Dangerous Tools
Any remodeler’s best friend is their tool inventory, which is usually a variety of power tools, hammers, and fasteners. Although they are a great asset to have around, young kids may want to play with them if they are left out, which could lead to a serious injury. When you’re working on a project, it’s wise to either set up a safe playroom for your kids, encourage them to play outside, or spend the day at a friend’s house. If you’re taking a break and will be working on the project for a few days, disconnect any power tool batteries or power cords and try to make the unpowered tools as inaccessible as possible.
If your kids are a bit older and are at the age where they can help out with the home project a bit, that is great, just make sure to show them how to be safe on a job site. Even though they may be old enough to measure and mark some boards, you should still wait to let them use any power tool.
Cleaning Up at the End of the Day
With another day of hard work and progress on your project coming to an end, it’s time to tidy up. Home renovations can create a lot of dust and wood shavings that are not only unappealing but are also not healthy to inhale or spread throughout the household. To help with this, dedicate some time at the end of your project workday to check off this cleaning list:
Run an air purifier to catch any airborne particles
Reorganize any tools like sockets or wrenches
Tightly reseal any paint containers or other chemical containers
Wipe down and charge power tools
Lastly, replace any floor coverings to make sure they aren’t dirtied during clean up and you can pick up where you left off on a clean slate. If you are leaving any construction debris or materials in the renovation area, remind kids in the household to avoid the area.
Make Your Vision a Reality
Now that you know the right steps to take when remodeling with a family, it’s time to make your vision a reality. With the proper planning and safety precautions, your renovation will move along smoothly and preserve everyone’s health. If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next remodel, check out ourE-Decor services!
It may shock you to learn the door industry is valued at over $140 billion. However, considering how essential doors are to a home, you’ll understand why so many people spend big on entryways.
If you need new patio doors, it may seem as simple as picking the first option you see when you arrive at your local showroom.
However, there is more that goes into selecting the perfect patio door. After all, your yard is a sacred, serene space where you can enjoy the outdoors, so ensuring your entrance is up to par is paramount.
Stuck on where to start searching for the best option? Keep reading to learn how to choose the ideal patio door for your needs.
1. Narrow Your Needs
Before you can start shopping, you’ll want to determine what you want from your patio doors. Though the answer may seem obvious – serving as an entrance – there’s more to it than just walking in and out of your home.
If you plan on installing your patio door in an area of your home that doesn’t see as much light, you may want to ensure you can bring as much natural light into the space as possible.
Also, you may want to use it as a functional entryway but as a decorative element. The type of patio door you choose can help complement the rest of your home’s style, adding a decorative touch.
Finally, you may want to create a more energy-efficient home, so installing the correct type of patio door can help you achieve that. This will impact how many panes the door has and the material of the frame.
Assessing these factors before you start shopping can help you determine what you’re looking for and narrow your options, ensuring you don’t feel overwhelmed by all the choices.
2. Set a Budget
Much like assessing your needs, setting a budget is something you’ll want to accomplish before you start shopping.
Much of the cost for your patio doors will be the material they’re made from. Depending on the size and material you choose, you can spend anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000. Though most homeowners won’t pay five digits, this can be a pricey project.
However, setting a budget before you go into your project is essential. You’ll need to consider the size of the door, preferred material, and the style you’d like. This helps narrow down your options by making the process less intense.
3. Look at the Types of Doors
Next, you’ll want to consider the different door styles you can choose from.
One of the most popular options for outdoor entryways is sliding patio doors. These sit on a track and, as the name implies, slide back and forth to open and shut. Sliding doors are ideal for small spaces, as they don’t have to swing open.
Another popular choice for homeowners is French doors. These are a set of double doors that open from the middle. One of the main appeals of these doors is the fact you can open one or both at the same time, giving you control over the amount of air and light you allow inside.
You can learn moreabout your sliding door options and opt for a more sophisticated style depending on your budget. Combining French and sliding doors, you can find an option that allows you to slide both panels to the side.
4. Consider Security
Another significant factor you’ll want to consider is the security and safety the door can offer. After all, it is an entryway into your home, so ensuring you can secure it quickly and easily is crucial.
Most all exterior doors come outfitted with a lock mechanism featuring a deadbolt for additional security and peace of mind. However, if you have a sliding door, you should consider adding a safety bar to the bottom of the track.
This will fit in the space where the sliding door would sit if it were open, making it impossible to move the door.
Similarly, you can invest in additional door locks for French doors that wrap around the parallel handles to ensure they can’t open even if someone can pick the lock.
Finally, you’ll want to decide on how much privacy you want. While many opt for stunning glass sliding patio doors, if you’re backyard doesn’t have much privacy, you may want to consider frosted glass.
This helps prevent wandering eyes from peeking into your home, offering an additional layer of security and privacy.
5. Decide on a Door Material
Once you have researched all the significant factors of your patio doors, the next aspect you’ll need to cover is the material of the door. This is the element the glass panes will sit in, so ensuring it fits your budget, style, and maintenance needs is crucial.
The most popular options offered by nearly every patio door company are wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Each has its pros and cons in durability, longevity, and price.
Wood is one of the most expensive options due to its aesthetic value, but it may not be as durable as the others. Vinyl is much more affordable and lasts longer than wood but may not look as nice. Fiberglass is the most durable and right in the middle of wood and vinyl when it comes to price.
For example, wood is one of the most expensive options as it is the most visually appealing. However, you can get a cheaper option in a vinyl material that’s concocted from various chemicals. However, the vinyl may not look as nice as wood.
6. Think About Furniture
Though it may not seem important at the moment, you’ll find yourself frustrated once you have to rearrange all your furniture because you forgot to consider how easy it would be to open your french patio doors with your dining set.
Ensuring you pick the best patio door that works functionally with your indoor and outdoor furniture is crucial.
If you have a smaller space or furniture that obstructs your hinged patio doors from opening fully, opting for a sliding door may be your best bet. You can even look into having your sliding door track lead into a pocket for a smoother and cleaner look.
However, if you have plenty of space, you can install a swing door. You may even opt to keep one of the panels propped open at a time, allowing natural light and fresh air into your home while making it easy to move in and out of your home.
7. Don’t Forget the Details
Next, you’ll want to consider all the less important details that go into your patio sliding door.
For example, you’ll need to choose the best handle and lock hardware that matches the style of your home while being secure and functional. You’ll likely be able to choose from a selection of hardware colors that match the other details around your home.
You’ll also want to consider a patio screen door that helps keep bugs and debris outside while allowing an uninterrupted airflow in your home. Many screen doors, especially hinged doors, come in various decorative styles for additional details that add elegance to your patio space.
8. Ensure the Quality
Finally, you’ll want to ensure the quality of the patio door installation and that the door itself is up to standard. After all, this is a pricey investment, so you want to make sure it’s money well spent.
Many assume that all installation companies are the same, however, the quality will vary based on the experience and professionalism of the workers. Researching your options, whether you reside in Columbia, SC, or Sacramento, CA, is crucial to ensuring you get the best installation.
Similarly, you’ll need to research the best quality material. For example, vinyl is cheap and easy to produce, meaning there’s an abundance available. However, not all vinyl is the same, as some options are more durable than others.
Pick the Best Patio Doors to Complement Your Space
Though you may not have thought there was much to consider when choosing the best door for your patio space, you would be surprised. Keeping these factors in mind can help put your mind at ease, confident you made the most informed choice.
Remember, the most essential factor influencing your choice is the functionality of the door. After all, an impractical patio door is a waste of money.
While you may know how to choose patio doors, your search for home improvement content doesn’t end here. You’ll want to check out the rest of our website for more tips and tricks.
