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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Being an Indoor Plant Parent: A Basic Guide to First-Time House Plant Owners
There are two types of people in this world: those who are natural green thumbs, and those who aren’t. For one thing, taking care of a plant is pretty much like taking care of a precious child. To keep your baby healthy and strong, you need to give the right nutrition, care, and love. The same goes for the plants in your home. You can create your own backyard garden or house your plants in a greenhouse. If you are considering the latter, you can plan for a home addition design for your plants. You can build one by yourself, or hire a home additions builder to help you with your gardening project. How about having indoor plants? A lot of people would love to have their own backyard gardens where they can plant fruits, vegetables, or even lovely flowers. However, not everyone has a backyard, to begin with. These are mostly those who are living in condos and apartments. But for gardening enthusiasts, there is good news! You can consider having indoor plants instead. If you are planning for a condo remodeling soon, you might want to include indoor plants in your renovation plan. Like outdoor plants, indoor plants also need proper care so it will stay alive. Indoor plants aren’t simple home decors unless they are made of plastic. Actually, indoor plants need special kinds of care as compared to the usual outdoor plants. Indoor plants are also prone to wilting and browning if not given enough sunshine and water. What to consider before buying indoor plants There are a lot of indoor plants you can choose from. This includes succulents, ferns, and cactuses among a few. You can add indoor plants if you are planning on building a home addition project. The thing is that taking care of indoor plants is not as easy as it seems. You should also consider the following before buying indoor plants for your home. What type of indoor plant should you buy? First of all, you need to think about what kind of indoor plant will suit your home. Experts say that it is better to buy indoor plants, preferably from a family-owned garden nursery, especially if it’s your first time. On the other hand, a large home and gardening stores are also great places to buy indoor plants for your home remodeling addition project. However, most of these gardening tools are mostly not beginner-friendly. So, if you are a first-timer, you can opt to go to a local plant nursery instead. Where will you put the indoor plant? Make sure to choose a plant that is suitable for an indoor environment. Some plants need to be put in a spot with ample sunlight. Others have to be watered religiously according to schedule. If you want to try taking care of an indoor plant, you can start with a cactus or succulent. If you like being hands-on to your plants, you can try buying ferns or orchids instead. How will I know if the indoor plant is in trouble? Here are some signs that your indoor plant needs urgent help. Rotted […]
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Home Improvement Projects You Should Avoid While COVID-19 is Still Here
It has been a while since COVID-19 flipped our lives upside down. The world did not expect the devastating impact of the virus on mankind in general. It also created a huge impact on the global economy and overwhelmed the healthcare sector. This pandemic also claimed hundreds of thousands of lives around the world, so far. People are reminded to stay at home as much as possible. Avoid outdoor activities or going outside for long periods of time. You may also have to skip hiring a home additions builder or any other home addition companies near you due to physical distancing. Being productive at home On the other hand, being on quarantine has pushed a lot of people to be productive. To make the most of their idle time and do something worthwhile. It may not be the right time to hire home remodeling architects right now because of social distancing. But this doesn’t mean you cannot improve your home while on quarantine. For one thing, there are a lot of things you can do while at home. Bond with your family, learn new recipes or revisit your past favorite songs online. This quarantine period is also the time to accomplish home improvement projects at home. Home improvement does not have to be expensive and need not hire a home addition builder. Then again, it will be a good help to avail of affordable home additions for your home improvement projects. But in the meantime, it might be better to be productive and practical during these uncertain times. DIY home improvement projects you should NOT do When you are cooped up inside your home for a long time, you tend to notice the small things more. Some can be as simple as reorganizing your clothes cabinet. Or it can be as tedious as building a home addition in your property. However, there are some home improvement projects that you should shelf for now. You should already know why. It can also be hard to find someone now in case you need one to help you finish the job. So, what are these specific home improvement projects that you should not do while there’s still COVID-19? Noisy home improvement projects Being mostly at home means your neighbors are more likely to be in the same situation. This also means having to tolerate each other’s noise every day. Or not at all. In such cases, you should be mindful of the right timing when doing noisy chores like mowing the lawn or using the power washer. Perhaps you can do these after 5 PM or during weekends when really needed. Home improvement projects that require a team We are often advised to do physical distancing that is why we are at home right now. But what is the sense of physical distancing if you let a team of strangers come into your house? Avoid home improvement projects that would require a lot of people to go to your home. Home improvement projects that use a ladder It may be a good time to clean your gutter. However, you should avoid this in […]
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Staying Fit During COVID-19: Tips on Building Your Own Home Gym
COVID-19 forced people to stay indoors, whether they like it or not. A lot of businesses closed in the meantime, including gyms and health and wellness centers. Even planning on building a home addition needs to take a back seat for now. In other words, this pandemic has already affected much of our usual routines and it seems that we have to get used to it. Staying fit in the middle of a pandemic We all know how important it is to keep ourselves healthy and fit. That is why there are a lot of health and fitness centers in every neighborhood corner. Others go for a morning or evening run or pedal their bikes around town as part of their fitness routines. However, all of these changed when COVID-19 appeared out of nowhere and spread like wildfire. People’s daily routines have been drastically disrupted due to the virus. Weekend parties and out of town travels were prohibited, and people have to shelter in place. Running outdoors is strongly discouraged as well, although there are some people who still do. Nevertheless, staying fit and healthy is a lot of challenging these days. People can only dream of having a home gym built by professional home addition companies. Having a home gym is possible Then again, having your own home gym is possible. It doesn’t have to be full-scale and fancy like in many popular gyms and health and fitness centers. On a side note, there are a lot of households that already have home gyms before the COVID-19 outbreak. There are good reasons why you should have your own home gym. For one, it can save you time and money from going to another gym. You also get to have and use all of the fitness equipment all by yourself. Most of all, it is a good idea to invest in your health in the long run. You can hire a home addition builder to help build your dream home gym. There are affordable home additions that can cater to homeowners and their home addition needs. Before that, you need to consider some things before building a home gym. What to consider before building a home gym Having a home gym should not only be something to show off your guests. Rather, it should be useful for you and your family. What you will include in your home gym largely depends on your fitness goals. Setting up a gym at home may not be an easy task. As mentioned, there are some things that you will need to consider. These include the following. Space First of all, you need to decide where you will set up your home gym. Some prefer putting up their gyms in the garage or in a spare room. Some even hire home remodeling architects for a customized home gym area. Budget Setting up your gym also depends on your budget. You would have to shell out a large amount of money if you want a bigger home gym or more sophisticated fitness equipment. Type of workout It is also important to consider the location depending […]
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What You Need to Know in Choosing a Roof System
Any structure, including residential homes and commercial buildings, would not complete without a roofing system. Not only it adds aesthetic value to the structure but it also provides protection against outdoor elements such as snow, rain, and sun. Looking for a roofing material may not be as exciting as choosing a home décor or furniture. However, it is important to understand why you need to know different roofing materials. If you are planning for a home remodeling addition, you should also consider the right type of roofing that will suit your home’s needs. For one thing, building a home addition is an important decision for every homeowner. It will make a lot of difference in your domestic living. Still, it will depend on the type of home improvement you are aiming for. Different types of roofing materials When it comes to home improvement, a lot of people tend to focus on choosing nice tiles, paint colors, and home décor. However, it is also important to choose the right roofing system for your home extension. For starters, there are different types of roofing materials you can choose from. It will depend on your budget, personal preference, and your home’s structure. A home addition builder and home remodeling architects can also help recommend a nice roof for your home addition. More than aesthetic appeal, it should last you many years and provide protection to you and your family in your home. Some popular roofing materials include the following. Slate This type of roof is made from stone which makes it durable, fire-proof, eco-friendly, and weather-resistant. It is also available in different shades that can suit your house exteriors. Plus, it can add a nice aesthetic appeal to your home. However, this should be installed by professionals. It is also expensive and requires reinforcement to support the slate’s weight. These can also be expensive as well. Clay/concrete Like slate, clay or concrete roofs are also durable, eco-friendly, and weather and fire-resistant. It also comes in different styles. However, it also has to be installed by professionals and should have underlying support to handle the weight of the roofing material. Metal It includes different materials such as aluminum, copper, and steel. Some come as sheeting and tiles. It is also durable, fireproof, and effective in shedding ice and snow. Make sure it has some kind of protection against corrosion as most metal roofs can be prone to rust. Wood Such wooden roofs are made from pine, redwood, cypress, and cedar. These are also visually appealing and ideal for those who are looking for sustainable materials. However, the main issue is it is fireproof and prone to decaying and rotting over time. What to consider in choosing a roofing system By now, you already have an idea of the different roof options to choose from. It will depend on several factors such as the following. Terminologies Before choosing a roofing material, you should be familiar with the roofing terminologies home addition companies use. For example, architects builders use “squares” in measuring the roofing area. Material The roofing material you choose depends on your budget, home […]
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Have a Balcony in Your Home: More than Just for Aesthetic Value
Having an outdoor balcony is one way to enjoy the outdoors without stepping away from home. It is also a great place where you can relax and enjoy the sunrise while sipping your morning coffee. Apartments in major cities have their own balconies as well. You should contact a professional home addition builder to add an outdoor balcony. Why it is a good idea to have a balcony Outdoor balconies are associated with castles and Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It is where Rapunzel let down her hair so the evil witch can go up and down the castle. It is also where you can get sentimental and feel the cold air touching your skin. You can see the beauty of your neighborhood through your balcony. But having an outdoor balcony is more than adding drama to your real estate property. For one, it can improve the overall value of your property. Plus, it adds aesthetic appeal to your home and makes it look inviting. If you want to build a balcony, you should contact a home additions builder near you. You can also do so much to your outdoor balcony. For one, you can turn it into a zen spot where you can relax while doing yoga or reading a book. You can also add potted plants and other greens on your balcony area. Or if you are a gym junkie, you can install a stationary bike or treadmill in your balcony. You can also set up your balcony into a mini-dining or coffee table spot for your family and guests. Building a home addition by adding an outdoor balcony is a good idea for improved home value. What to consider when building a balcony Building a balcony requires professional planning. There are also affordable home additions that will help achieve your home improvement goals. But, you should also consider the following before building an outdoor balcony in your home. Access point First of all, you need to have an access point to go to the balcony. It can be a doorway from your bedroom that will lead to the balcony area. Size Homeowners should also consider the size of the balcony. For one thing, it should be suitable for the size of the adjoining room. The balcony size will also depend on the overall size of your home and your proximity to the neighbors. You can consult professional architects builders for the right balcony size. Style The balustrade style you choose will make a lot of difference to your balcony area. Some choose a glass balustrade material to match their modern-looking homes. Some homeowners prefer materials like metal or wood to exude a classic, Juliet-style balcony. Building permits You should also consider whether you need a permit to build a balcony. For one, it is important to have one to keep your home’s structural integrity. Likewise, this is also to ensure everyone’s safety when using the balcony. Tips on designing a balcony Aside from building a balcony, you also need to consider how you will style it. Of course, it will depend on your preference, lifestyle, and your surroundings. […]
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Home Remodeling Essential for Your Senior Years
One study revealed that more around 76 percent of individuals age 65 and above own the house they are living in. Out of the respondents, about 88 percent of them are planning to have a home renovation after a few years. This study only shows that elderly people are also interested in real estate property ownership and home improvement. For one thing, comfortable home is important for elderly people. This means considering their mobility and ensuring their safety when they are in their own homes. A home remodeling addition may be necessary to accommodate the elderly person’s domestic needs. In building a home addition, one must hire a professional home addition builder to ensure quality and satisfying finish. But it doesn’t mean you have to delay planning for a home addition design just because you are not yet 60 and above. In fact, now is the best time to plan for a home renovation while you are still able. We all need to prepare for our retirement, and that includes making our home a senior-friendly one when that time comes. Planning a senior-friendly home renovation As mentioned, now is the right time to plan an elderly-friendly home. On the contrary, it is not a good idea to delay a home renovation or addition project when you are already old and unable to do tasks like before. Also, you can have more time to pay attention to details if you plan a home addition or renovation while you are still at the peak of your health. Planning for an elderly-friendly home remodeling or renovation may seem overwhelming. However, home remodeling architects assure everyone that it doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s mostly just replacing or adding certain items to ensure the elderly person’s convenience and safety. Nonetheless, it is important to prepare for a home renovation or addition especially in terms of budget. It depends on what type of remodeling you want, but it is better to be financially prepared nonetheless. You should not wait until you reach retirement to hire a home addition builder because you might be qualified for a loan if you are going to rely on your monthly pension. Elderly-friendly home renovations Here are some of the most popular home renovations that can help home living easier, more convenient, and safer especially for the elderly. Elevator/chair lift This is important especially if your house has a second or third floor. There are chair lifts that can be attached to the stairs, and costs at least $3,000, excluding installation fees. Kitchen/bathroom countertops and cabinets It is also a good idea to adjust the countertop lower than regular countertops. This is to make kitchen tasks easier for the elderlies. Make sure there is also enough space in the kitchen and bathroom to walk and navigate around. Flooring Elderly people are prone to accidents that is why safety is crucial. In the case of flooring, it is safer to use linoleum, vinyl, cork, or bamboo. Such floor options may cost at least $3 per square foot depending on the type of flooring. Grab bars This is important in bathrooms to […]
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