Bathroom Addition: Should You Choose Ceramic or Porcelain Tiles?
When it comes to bathrooms, a lot of people would think of getting tiles for the bathroom flooring. Regardless of a planned home addition design or a bathroom renovation, having a nice bathroom should be planned accordingly. There are a lot of things to consider when building or renovating a bathroom – from the countertop material to the shape of the bathtub that will suit the bathroom. You might even want to consider whether to put indoor plants in your bathroom area. But for now, we have to think about which type of flooring to put in the bathroom. All about bathroom flooring Two of the most popular bathroom flooring are ceramic and porcelain tiles. They may seem like the same thing. A lot of people wouldn’t even think about a specific floor tile as long as it looks nice and is specifically meant for bathrooms. It is understandable, though. Not everyone knows the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles. They are both used usually for bathrooms and the same installation process. Perhaps one type of tile is a little expensive than the other. But just how do they differ from each other? For one thing, ceramic and porcelain belong to the same type of tiles called ceramics. This type of tile is made from organic earthen clays and then hardened using heat. But lately, porcelain tiles had their own flooring category as it is said to have different specs from other bathroom tiles. Nonetheless, you should consider the type of bathroom material to use when planning on building a home addition. One factor to consider aside from color and design is its water absorption level. What’s with ceramic tiles? Ceramic tiles are usually made from coarse clay mixed with a small amount of fine kaolin clay. Likewise, it does not have the same additives as those in porcelain clay. Ceramic tiles also tend to be a little porous than porcelain tiles, though it may not be a big deal especially if the former is treated with glaze. Ceramic tiles are also less expensive than porcelain tiles (starts at $.50 per square foot) and used indoors only. Ceramic tiles usually come in monochromatic colors. You can ask professional home remodeling architects whether ceramic tiles will suit your budget and bathroom design. As mentioned, ceramic tiles are more porous than porcelain bathroom tiles. On the upside, ceramic tiles can resist heat better than porcelain, which is why the former can be a good countertop material. As for care and maintenance, ceramic tiles are not that difficult to clean. As bathroom tile material, it needs regular mopping and period sealing. Glazed ceramic tiles also have less tendency to absorb water. But if you have unglazed tiles, you might have to apply sealers on the whole tiles. What’s with porcelain tiles? Meanwhile, porcelain tiles have a lower water absorption rate. Like ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles also use kaolin clay but with a mix of feldspar and quartz. Unlike ceramic tiles, porcelain can mimic different materials like marble and wood grains. That is why porcelain tiles are a good choice if you want that […]
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What to Consider Before Building a Backyard Shed
Storage is one of the most important rooms in any home. Unfortunately, a lot of homeowners tend to overlook the importance of having a decent storage area in the house. Often, homeowners use the garage as their storage area. But garages are supposed to be used to park the family car, not to store paint cans and old and broken furniture. There are many ways to have an additional storage area in your home. You can use your garage (as long as it is organized), or build a shed in your backyard. This can be considered a home addition. In such a case, you should contact the best home addition builder in your area. Getting started A shed is a great way to add storage space for your home. Instead of putting all of your painting and gardening stuff in the garage or elsewhere exposed to the outdoor elements, you can store them all in the shed. But take note that building a shed may not be as easy as you think. For one thing, you might need to hire a professional home additions builder to help build your shed. Or you can build your own if you want. But the decision depends on how big the shed is, or what type of building materials to be used. Your shed need not look like a dilapidated shack but something like a small structure that will add aesthetic to your home. Building a shed will require several factors. For one, you might need the help of professional home addition companies to build a backyard shed. You also need to consider your storage needs, your household’s lifestyle, and your property’s landscape. What to consider before building a backyard shed Thinking about building a backyard shed as additional storage space? Here are some factors you have to consider before building one. Budget Before starting a home remodel or any home addition design, make sure you have the budget to build a shed. If you want to build one, make it the best shed you will ever have. Aside from building materials, you also have to include the labor and other utilities such as electricity, heating, or insulation system in your expenses. Amount of shed space There are two kinds of spaces you need to consider: the amount of space you need to build the shed, and the amount of space you need inside the shed. Is the shed simply for storage purposes? Or are you going to include a workstation inside (ex. for your carpentry or crafts hobby). Also, you need to determine how big the shed you want to build and make sure you have enough space in your yard. Design The next consideration is the shed design. Do you want a rustic design or a modern-looking one? You can check out some shed designs here for inspiration. Take note that your building materials depend on the shed design that you want to build. How to build a shed Building a shed can take time depending on the home addition design and the size you want. Here are the steps to remember […]
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What to Consider Before Insulating Your Home
A review from the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA revealed that homeowners can save as much as 20 percent on heating and cooling expenses at home through proper sealing and insulation. Home insulation is important especially if you are living in areas that have the four seasons of the year. Proper insulation is also a great way to lessen energy expenses. Home improvement can drain your budget depending on the extent of the said home project. You can avail affordable home additions or find a home additions builder who can offer an affordable home addition design. One of the most important parts of building a house is installing a proper insulation system. Here are things that you should know first before insulating your home. All about insulation For starters, insulation is a type of material used to reduce the heat or cold getting into a house or building. There are different uses for insulation such as thermal, soundproofing, and electrical insulations. When it comes to homes, it is the thermal insulation that is often used. Among popular insulation materials include fiberglass and cellulose. These can be used both for thermal and soundproofing insulation. Insulation is a big help especially during the winter months by keeping your house warm and lessens the household’s dependency on heaters. This means proper insulation systems can also improve your house’s energy efficiency and lower your utility bills. As mentioned, there are different types of insulation aside from fiberglass and cellulose. These include others such as radiant barrier insulations (usually installed under the roof or the attic), rigid foam insulation, and Rockwool insulation (made of minerals and rocks turned into temperature-proof fibers). Common insulation mistakes If you are planning for a home remodeling addition, make sure to include a good insulation system in your plan. It can regulate the temperature in your home, especially during the cold season. The key here is to install the insulation system properly. However, there are still a lot of people who commit these common insulation mistakes. Here are some of them that you should avoid as much as possible. Forgetting air sealing As mentioned, insulation helps regulate temperature going in and out of your house. However, this should not block air movement, either. Otherwise, your insulation system will be in vain. Using old insulation systems Installing insulation systems can cost a fortune. That is why a lot of homeowners would find a way to save money on home improvement or a home addition design. One thing DIYers do is pulling out old insulation. However, it can cost you more unlike when you hire experts to do so. Old homes like the ones built in the 50’s or 60’s used asbestos as insulation. On the one hand, asbestos is generally safe when left unbothered. But when you disturb the material like removing it or moving it somewhere, that is where the problem starts. The same goes for vermiculite, which is somewhat linked to asbestos. Overstuffing insulation So you think the more you stuff insulation in your home makes it already better? Unfortunately, not so. When using fiberglass insulation, it’s the air […]
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What to Consider Before Choosing Paint for Your Home
Improving your home is a major project to partake as a homeowner. It can be an expensive affair, even tedious, depending on how big your planned home improvement project is. Planning for a home addition design is another story. You can avail affordable home additions from professional home remodeling architects that will suit your budget. But sometimes, home improvement can be as cheap and simple as buying good quality paint. Instead of tearing up the walls or replacing old cabinets, you can opt to repaint them for a fresher, more renewed look. Applying a fresh coat of paint is also a good idea if you are planning to sell your home. But first, you need to consider several things when choosing paint. Types of paint For starters, paint comes in different sheens. Two of the most popular ones are latex and oil-based paints. Latex paints This one is more common and more preferred to use because it is easier to clean up. Plus, it can last for many years as well. Latex paint is also less susceptible to premature fading and bubbling, hence the durability. It is also said to be more eco-friendly than its oil-based counterpart. You can use this type of paint to work on various surfaces including wood and concrete. Oil paints Meanwhile, oil-based paints came earlier than latex paint, existing for more than 50 years. But it is still being used until now mostly wood trims and moldings, as suggested by most architects builders. Oil paints also tend to dry longer than latex paint, so make sure to allow drying time. Some use an oil-based primer and use latex paint as a top coat, but it depends on your paint preference and requirement. Types of paint sheens And then there are different types of paint sheens, popular of which the glossy, semi-glossy, are and matte finishes. When to use glossy paint? Home remodeling architects recommend using glossy paint in high-traffic areas such as the living room, kitchen, or the playroom. You can easily clean and wipe walls and other surfaces with glossy paint. On the downside, glossy paint can highlight surface imperfections including bumps and other blemishes. When to use semi-glossy paint? Home improvement experts suggest using semi-gloss paint for bathroom and kitchen areas. Semi-glossy paint is also a little cheaper than glossy paint, making it a good alternative to the latter if you are aiming for the glossiness of paint. When to use matte paint? Matte or flat paint, although can hide imperfections more effectively, may not be recommended in high-traffic areas. This is because it may not be easily cleaned unlike using glossy paint. But if you want to use matte, you can opt for eggshell sheen. It also resembles matte paint but easier to maintain and wash, smoother, and more long-lasting. What to consider when choosing the paint color It can be overwhelming to choose the right paint color for your home, as there are a lot of colors to choose from. Well, it depends on your objectives. For example, experts suggest using white or off-white paint for walls if you are planning […]
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Ways to Make Your Home Smell Good After a Paint Job
A good paint job is a must for every home. It can be a fun but tedious activity depending on how big the area in your house that you are going to paint. Painting requires careful planning including the timeline, whether to hire manpower or do it on your own and where to temporarily store furniture and other things before starting the paint job. It can take days or weeks to complete a paint job. It is also a cost-effective way to spruce up your exterior and interior walls and even your cabinets and other furniture. You can hire a home additions builder to help you achieve the home you’ve always wanted. And then there’s that familiar stench While the painting is, as mentioned, a cost-effective way to improve your home, it can leave a mark in the room. An unpleasant smell, rather. Well, that lingering smell is inevitable after a major paint job. For one thing, the paint’s smell is not good at all. It can even cause a headache for others who can get a whiff of the scent of paint. You can simply open the door or the window to get rid of the smell of paint. But you cannot simply do so if it’s raining or it’s “pollen season” and you get allergies from it. There is no denying that we get used, even immune, to the scent of our home. It can be a smell of different things. It can be the smell of daily homecooked meals. Or the musty smell of your natural body scent. Or the smell of your pet dog resting in the living room. Regardless, there are still ways to get rid of unpleasant smells especially the smell of paint. Getting rid of paint smell For some reason, the smell of paint can be addicting… but not good for your health. Whether you are building a home addition or just hired a home addition builder for your home improvement project, you need to get rid of the smell of paint as much as possible. Fortunately, there are easy ways to do so. Baking soda This white, scent-free powder is a blessing to mankind. It can do a lot of things, from whitening your teeth, clean bathrooms, and even use it as a baking ingredient. And yes, it can remove the strong scent of paint. Your home additions builder might also recommend using this humble kitchen item after a paint job. Simply put a good amount of baking soda in a bowl, leave it in a room, and let it do its magic. Scented candles Candles are not only for… well, romantic candlelight dinners. It is also a great way to get rid of paint smells. While there are different candles to choose from, there are also candles specially made to get rid of strong paint odors. Coffee Not only the smell of coffee can jolt you awake every morning but is also a great odor absorber. Simply pour coffee grounds in a bowl and leave it in the room to get rid of the paint smell. But remember, do not use […]
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What to Consider in Choosing a Roofing Material
Roofs are meant to last for many years. That is why you should choose the right residential or commercial roofing system that is worth the money. There are also several things to consider in choosing a roofing material such as style, durability, and functionality. These are crucial especially if you are planning on building a home addition. Factors in choosing a roofing system Choosing a roof system is no easy task. As mentioned, there are several things you need to consider before buying a roof for your home. This is so important when you are planning a home remodeling addition project. That being said, here are some important things to remember when looking for a roofing system. Your home/building’s style The roof style you choose depends on your house or building’s architectural style. For example, tile roofing can suit more for historic-style structures. On the other hand, asphalt shingles may look good in various styles of houses. Meanwhile, metal and built-up roods may suit better for commercial buildings. Application This is important regardless of whether it is intended for replacement or as part of a home addition design. On the one hand, installing a new roof is easier as you won’t be restricted from existing roof materials, underlying composition, and so on. However, a home addition builder may recommend a roofing material so it blends better with the current roofing system. Long-term plan Are you planning to stay for the next 20 years? Or you are planning to move to another state soon? In the case of the latter, it might be better to install a roofing material that is less expensive and has a shorter lifespan. Otherwise, you should choose a roof that should last you a long time. Building codes and other regulations Different states may have different building codes and regulations that need to be followed. For example, some areas are prone to tornadoes or fires that do not allow installing roof shingles. Some communities may also require building restrictions including roofing materials. Types of roofing systems By now, you already have an idea of things to consider when looking for roofing material. The next question is knowing the different types of roofing materials. Here are some of the most popular ones used in many residential and commercial buildings. Asphalt shingles This one is popular in the US as it can endure all sorts of outdoor elements. They are generally affordable and can last for about 20 or so years. Use impact-resistant asphalt shingles if you are located in a hail-prone place. Metal Meanwhile, metal roofs can last for more than 50 years and are great for resisting rain, snow, and extreme winds. Metal roofs are also lightweight and can work with other existing roof materials. However, metal roofs can be noisy during strong rains and hail. This material can also be prone to rust and corrosion. Slate This one is said to last more than a hundred years and is resistant against harsh outdoor elements. It is recommended to be used in wet climates. On the contrary, it is heavy, expensive, and can be prone to […]
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Effective Ways to Save Money on a Home Painting Job
There is nothing more satisfying than the smell of fresh paint. A fresh coat of paint can signify new beginnings, and one of the most exciting parts of home improvement. If you are planning for a home remodel, you have to consider the paint colors that you will use. Also, a home remodeling addition means hiring the best home additions builders out there. Getting started If you are planning for any home improvement project this year, you should think about the best color scheme to work on. You also have to have an idea of how much it can cost you for all the paint you will use and the labor (if you are going to hire professional painters). Or if you decide to do the job by yourself, make sure to do your research to avoid regrets later on. You should also have the right tools and supplies to take on the painting project. Also, you should know what to do before painting a wall or furniture, painting wall corners, saving on paint costs, and so on. Finding reliable home remodeling architects is also important if you decide to let professionals handle the job. What you need to know about the painting cost breakdown In choosing paint, you need to consider the material or surface you are going to paint. This includes wood, concrete, metal, and so on. Paint also comes in different textures and finishes such as glossy, semi-glossy, matte, and eggshell among a few. If you are planning for a condo remodeling, you may also want to hire professional painters for the painting job. As mentioned earlier, you need to consider two major contributors to painting costs: Paint and material costs It is said that paint usually cost at least $20 per gallon depending on the finish, brand, and other features. Some paints are mold-resistant or odor-free as well as a lifetime warranty, which can also contribute to the cost of the paint. When buying paint, never settle for cheaper ones – it may also mean cheaper quality and durability. Experts suggest using middle-grade acrylic paint for all-around painting needs. Consider other painting materials like paint brushes, rollers, painter’s tape, and other supplies. Labor expenses Another major cost is the cost of painting a surface. This includes the time spent on prepping so that the paint will adhere to the surface. At the same time, this will ensure that the paint job will last for a long time. The paint can be expensive or cheaper than the usual brands, but the labor and the output quality should be worth the price. How to save on a paint job Now you know that labor costs have the larger chunk of your budget. On the one hand, you can do the painting job on your own. However, it may not be recommended especially if it is your first-time or if it is a major painting job. If it’s the latter’s case, you may have to leave it to the experts instead. The good news is that it is possible to save money on a home improvement project. There are […]
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Essential Tips on Decorating Your Home Using Mirrors
Imagine life without mirrors. You cannot see yourself if that dress fits you perfectly. Or whether you are doing your makeup right. However, mirrors are not only important in checking how you look. It can also brighten up and make your room look attractive in general. So if you are planning to renovate your home, you might want to consider using mirrors to maximize your living space. When planning for a home addition design, you should also hire the best home remodeling architects in your area. Mirror designs There are different types of mirrors you can buy and use for your home. As mentioned, mirrors not only are for beauty purposes but also decorative purposes. When used correctly, it can provide balance or contrast to any room. You can utilize mirrors in your bedroom, living room, bathroom, or in any other parts of your home. Some of the most popular mirror designs you can use for your condo remodeling or home addition project include the following. Tiled mirrors This type of mirror looks better in a bathroom or a vanity room. It can truly catch one’s attention, especially with ambient lighting, and placed in a room with a high ceiling. Closets with built-in mirrors This also works best in a walk-in closet, a master’s bedroom, or even your home office. It can add a classy and timeless appeal to any room. Home remodeling architects can provide advice on the best furniture and fixtures that will suit your home. Mirrored walls This one is another popular home addition design that makes a room look interesting. You might encounter this type of mirrors in a hotel or salon lobby. Nonetheless, it also looks good in a living room and adds aesthetic appeal to the area. Huge mirrors This works in bedrooms, walk-in closets, and the living room. It can make the room look bigger, brighter, and livelier. What to consider in using mirrors to design a room Before buying a mirror for your home, you need to consider the following first. Placement For one, it should be placed across a visually appealing area. Say, you can place it near a window, a beautiful staircase, or a nice chandelier or lighting. Ideally, hanging it at eye-level can make a difference to the room. However, displaying it higher or lower eye-level can also work depending on the room. Size Mirrors can make a room look bigger. That is why you can explore using large mirrors if you want to add the illusion of space in a room. Of course, it will make the room look nicer as well. Style/design Mirrors have various designs, modern and classic designs alike. It will all depend on the frame design and the theme you want to achieve in your room or home. Mirrored furniture Now, there are also mirrored furniture that has been popular for some time now. While it looks sophisticated and attractive in a room, you also have to consider where you are going to put it. Ideally, you should not put it in an area with so many things going on that can deflect attention […]
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Useful Tips to Make Your Home Allergy-Proof During a Home Improvement Project
Every homeowner wants their home to feel comfortable and welcoming at all times. More so, homeowners want their houses to look aesthetically appealing as well. Some hire home addition companies to renovate and improve their homes. Building a home addition requires extensive planning as it can cost you some cash as well. However, homeowners should not only consider their house’s aesthetics. Rather, you should also think about its safety in general. By safety, it can also mean that your home should also be allergy-proof. For one thing, allergies can wreak havoc to you or your loved one and affect one’s quality of life. Getting started Studies show that at least 20 percent of Americans suffer from some kind of allergy. Being allergic to something that can affect one’s quality of life. Common allergic symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and rashes among a few. In the worst cases, allergy sufferers may experience shortness of breath and even death. Allergic triggers usually come from your surroundings, and yes, even at home. That is why you should determine what triggers your allergies. Whether it’s because of dust, pollen, or pet dander, allergies should be taken seriously and should start within your home. If you are planning for a home improvement project, you might have to consider the materials and procedures that can trigger your allergies. For example, the dust that can accumulate while the construction is ongoing can cause allergies. Make sure to let your home additions builder know that you or a family member suffer from allergies as well. First, know what you are allergic to A home remodeling addition is more than finding professional home addition companies. It requires careful planning, finding the best and quality materials, and considering possible adjustments needed to do Undergoing a home remodel project can possibly trigger your allergies. It can be due to dust that would fly around the construction area or the paint used for your walls. Also, you also have to consult an allergist to determine what causes your allergies in the first place. Here are other tips that can help to get started with the renovation without the constant sneezing and all. Make sure that your house is well-ventilated before starting the renovation project. Use dehumidifiers to lessen moisture that can cause the formation of mold especially in the bathroom and kitchen. Choose air-conditioning systems and vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters. Close your windows if it is windy and during hours when the pollen count is high (usually around 10 am to 3 pm). Decide whether to have carpeting as it is also a major allergy trigger. Also, make sure to clean your home regularly to lessen the accumulation of allergens. Clean the clutter The next step is cleaning up the clutter in your home, as it can also lessen dust and other allergens that can trigger allergies. Vacuum your home regularly of dust, pollen, and pet dander (especially if you have pets). Throw or give away unused newspapers, magazines, and other stuff that can be huge breeding grounds for dust mites. Clean areas where you usually spend time more such as […]
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Going Green: What to Consider Before Installing Solar Panels
Thanks to the continuous technological advances, most people are able to enjoy a convenient life. Imagine life without kitchen appliances, cars, and even the phone you are using now. Imagine how you can live without electricity that gives light and power to your home and your personal gadgets. But modern advancements also come with a price, especially in the environmental aspect. Thankfully, there have been several alternatives that aim to lessen our carbon footprints. There are also home addition companies that also offer environment-friendly home addition design and material alternatives. Solar power: An environment-friendly energy alternative Perhaps you have already heard about solar power. For starters, solar power naturally comes from the sun. Meanwhile, solar panels are becoming more and more popular these days especially for residential use. If you are planning for a home remodeling addition or outdoor remodeling project, you might want to shift to solar-powered panels instead. It will be a huge step, even expensive at first. But it will be useful in the long run, and can even save you money along the way. Solar power is not a new thing and has been around for some time now. But it was only recently when it became more accepted in many home improvement projects. As mentioned, installing a solar panel can be expensive – it can cost as a brand-new car. But despite its high costs, more and more homeowners realize the benefits of solar panels. If you are planning to install one in your home, you can hire a home additions builder who is also familiar with solar panel installation. What to consider before installing a solar panel You don’t have to be an environmental activist to have a solar panel in your home. You can think of the several benefits it can give you in terms of savings. But before that, you should think about the following first before installing solar panels. Your home should be suitable for solar installation. You should know whether your home is suitable to have solar panels installed. But how would you know if it is okay to install solar panels in your home? There should be no huge trees or any structures that block direct sunlight. The higher your energy bills (before installing solar panels), the more savings you can get with solar power. You might also consider the direction your roof is facing. Some good directions should face east-west or north. What kind of solar panel should you buy? There are several inverters and solar panel brands available nowadays. Before you buy one, make sure you: Choose a reputable solar panel supplier that has been around for years. Get quotes from a couple of suppliers and compare them in terms of price, product quality, and other important terms. Consider the long run. Are you going to live in your current home for a long time, or move elsewhere after a few years? What should you know about warranties? Most solar panels usually come with 10, 15, and 25-year warranties. The warranties will work depending on the product’s performance and usage. Also, you should have an idea of […]
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