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remodeling

8 Things to Consider When Remodeling Your Home

February 8, 2023
Chloe Taylor
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Are you thinking about remodeling your home? It’s an exciting time, isn’t it? The idea of turning your current space into something new and improved is tantalizing. But before you start tearing down walls and picking out new tiles, you should consider a few things.

This blog will discuss eight things to remember when remodeling your home. So put on your contractor hat on, and let’s get started!

1. Setting a Budget

Your budget is one of the first things you should consider when remodeling your home. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a remodel and overspend. But trust us; you don’t want to be stuck with a half-finished project and a maxed-out credit card. The key to avoiding this is to set a budget before you start the remodel.

Consult with professionals, research online, and consider potential hidden costs. It’s always better to overestimate than underestimate.

2. Planning for Functionality

Functionality is key when it comes to remodeling your home. You want to make sure that the remodel looks good and serves the lifestyle you want. Think about things like traffic flow and storage for each room.

No matter what room you’re remodeling, add shelves, drawers, or cabinets into the design. It’s also a good idea to consider hidden storage options, like pull-out pantry shelves or a built-in hutch. But what if your remodel will not allow adding more storage, or you are downsizing your home and can’t store everything in your new space? In such cases renting a mini storage unit can be a great solution. It will keep your belongings safe and protected while you’re remodeling and also give you the flexibility to add more storage space to your home.

3. Choosing the Right Contractor

When it comes to remodeling your home, the contractor you choose can make or break the project. So it’s important to do your research and find a reputable contractor. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and check out online reviews. When interviewing potential contractors, ask about their experience, the types of projects they’ve worked on, and if they’re licensed and insured.

It’s also important to get detailed estimates from each contractor and ensure you understand the costs associated with each aspect of the project. Compare the estimates and choose the one that provides the best balance of quality, cost, and customer service. Don’t rush the process. Take your time and find someone who you feel comfortable with and trust.

4. Prioritizing Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when remodeling your home. This means ensuring proper ventilation, avoiding hazardous materials, and making sure that the work area is clean and secure. Here are a few things you can do:

  • Install a ventilation system or keep the windows open to ensure paint fumes and dust don’t linger in the space.
  • Use non-toxic, eco-friendly materials and avoid toxic materials, such as lead paint.
  • Keep the area free of debris and keep children and pets away from the work area by using barriers or locking doors.

Make sure your contractor is aware of the safety regulations and follow them; your and your family’s safety is worth the extra effort. Additionally, ensure your contractor is insured; this will protect you in case of any accidents or mishaps that may occur during the remodel.

5. Incorporating Energy Efficient Technology

Technology is a big part of our lives, so why not incorporate it into your remodeled space? There are a lot of ways you can do this. For example, you can install smart home systems, charging stations, and even a home theater.

You can also consider making it more energy efficient as you’re remodeling your home. This can include incorporating energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and windows. Not only is this good for the environment, but it can also save you money on your energy bills in the long run. Think about long-term savings; energy efficiency is a smart investment.

6. Considering Resale Value

As you’re remodeling your home, it’s important to consider resale value. While you may not be planning on selling your home right now, it’s always a good idea to make sure that any updates you make will be attractive to buyers in the future. This means incorporating popular design trends and making sure the space is functional. Strike a balance between what’s popular and what’s personal. You want your home to reflect your taste and style but also add the most value to your home.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy your home now and in the future, so make it a space that you love while still keeping in mind its potential value down the road.

It’s a good idea to consult with a real estate agent or interior designer to get an idea of what updates will be most appealing to buyers in your area. They can also give you an idea of the return on investment for certain projects.

7. Staying True to the Style of Your Home

Photo by Vecislavas Popa: https://www.pexels.com/photo/turned-on-gray-flat-screen-smart-tv-1571459/

When remodeling your home, it’s important to stay true to the style of your home. Don’t try making it a modern masterpiece if you have a traditional home. Instead, focus on updates that will enhance the existing style and make it feel fresh and updated.

Incorporate timeless finishes, like natural wood or marble, or update traditional elements with a modern twist. Remember that architecture and style of your home are what give it character. Try to enhance it, not change it.

8. Planning for the Future

Finally, as you’re planning the remodel, it’s important to think about the future. What are your long-term plans? Are you planning on starting a family? Do you plan on living here for a long? These are important considerations when remodeling your home. For example, if you’re planning on starting a family, consider incorporating a nursery or a home office into the remodel. If you’re planning on aging in place, you might want to consider accessibility features.

Think about your future plans and how your remodel can accommodate them.

Conclusion

Remodeling your home can be a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun. With the right planning and preparation, you can create a space that’s functional, beautiful, and perfect for your lifestyle. Remember to set a budget, plan for functionality, choose the right contractor, prioritize safety, incorporate energy efficiency, incorporate technology, consider resale value, stay true to the style of your home, and plan for the future.

In conclusion, a home remodel is a big decision and an investment; make sure to weigh all the options and consider all the factors mentioned above to make the most of it. The key to a successful remodel is always good planning and preparation.

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7 Mistakes Homeowners Make During Home Renovation

November 14, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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Does your home require renovation? There are many reasons to renovate one’s house, like improving functionality or enhancing visual appeal. 

Renovation can be a hectic, time-consuming, and cost-expensive procedure. However, homeowners can make the whole process much simpler and easier if they avoid making some common renovation mistakes. This article explains seven mistakes homeowners make during renovation and how to avoid them.

Unrealistic Budget

It is easy to get carried away with your budget during renovation; you might keep it too constricted or elaborate, making the renovation process that much harder. The key to an effective budget is ensuring it is sufficient to provide all the required changes without compromising security while not adding extra pressure on your financial well-being. 

Furthermore, when renovating your house, it is important to first focus on necessities such as potential water damage or leaks. Once the cost is covered for important issues, you can move on to budgeting other factors that add to the appeal of the house, for example, repainting the walls or adding a bathtub to your washroom. 

Moreover, it is important to remember renovation expenses frequently exceed expectations. To be better prepared for potential shocks and have a smoother renovation experience, it is advised to add 20% more to your budget.

Not Preplanning

If you plan to renovate your house, you must first decide where you will put your furniture and belongings when your house is under renovation. You might find yourself stuck in a position with nowhere to go if you do not plan this before starting the renovation. However, if you live in Melbourne, we have good news; Careful Hands Movers provides moving and storage solutions. They are a full-service removalists Melbourne centered business that will tackle everything from packing and moving to store your belongings in their facility for safekeeping. 

There are many benefits to storing away your belongings. Not only does this prevent potential breakage or damage to belongings from dust, paint splashes, etc., but it also ensures smooth working as furniture does not come in the way of workers in high-traffic areas during renovation. 

Not Getting a Permit

There is a misconception that many homeowners believe; they think that since it’s their house, they don’t require a permit if they plan to make any changes to the property. However, this is far from true. Different states have different requirements for house improvement licenses, so it is necessary to check with the local authorities and get the required legal permit for renovation. 

Failure to secure a legal permit can result in the work being stopped or asked to be torn down by the authorities. This can cause delays and incur extra costs. In addition, it can also affect the value of the property. 

Not Finding the Right Contractor 

Not thoroughly vetting their remodeling crew is one of the top errors people make while renovating their homes. You should refrain from hiring the first contractor you come across right away. An ineffective screening process for your remodeling team might lead to a costly and unsatisfactory renovation. 

You need to interview several contractors when trying to find the right professional for the job. Before you interview them, prepare a list of questions you want to ask and plan for what exact changes you want in the house. This will ensure that the contractor you choose knows what you are looking for.  

A further step you can take is contacting previous clients of the contractors and getting feedback from them about the work. As in the start, contractors might make false promises to persuade you to hire them. However, by gaining insight from their past projects, you can find out how true they are to their words. 

Using Cheap Materials

A common mistake homeowners make is cutting down costs by using cheap materials. This might save cost initially at the time of construction; however, the cheap knock-off supplies will start to show effects once you start living in the house again. The cheap materials will wear-n-tear easily, and soon you will find yourself in need of renovation again. This will not only cost you time and money, but you will have to go through the entire process again. Furthermore, using cheap materials can compromise safety. 

Using cheaper construction materials is not a good idea; therefore, it is best not to consider economizing on the material. Purchase the greatest materials and components you can afford. In addition to lasting longer, they will appear finer and enhance the overall quality of your house. Moreover, this will also increase the value of your property. 

Doing too much

This is a psychological mistake, the inability to resist doing more than required. Once the work begins, it is easy to fall into the trap of making more changes than you planned. You might start the project with the only objective of making additional storage space; however, mid-way, you might realize that a new paint color for your wall would be nice. You need to be able to resist this urge and follow your initial plan. 

Concentrate on one project at a time and ensure that that project is finished on time, within budget, and according to your liking. Once one project is finished, you can start planning your next one. Furthermore, this is essential to make sure the renovation stays budget friendly. 

Unrealistic Expectations

Even in ideal situations, renovation and construction work can be chaotic and inconvenient. Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking that everything will go smoothly. As with almost every endeavor, renovation might not always go as planned. Therefore, be prepared to be flexible and make changes as they come along. The ability to adapt to challenges as you face them will make the whole process of remodeling much more effective and efficient. 

Another common unrealistic expectation that homeowners keep is in terms of time. Renovation is a time extensive procedure. You can contact local construction firms and gain knowledge about the timeline of your desired projects. This will help you be more prepared for what you are getting into. Furthermore, timing your project is also a vital part. In Australia, many contractors are booked all year round. Therefore, you need to plan and contact firms ahead of time to ensure your renovation project is finished in time. 

Conclusion

If you don’t prepare and prevent typical mistakes, you might have difficulties renovating your house. But renovation can be a smoother ride if you develop a solid strategy and assemble a top-notch team of experts to bring your idea from conception to reality. 

To be fully prepared for what to expect during and after renovation, carry out the necessary research.

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3 Ultimate Tips For Professional Kitchen Remodeling

October 24, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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The kitchen is the heart of your house; it is the one place where everyone likes to gather around you and help you cook a hearty meal. You share wonderful moments prepping meals and cooking them for your loved ones. So, when it comes to renovating the kitchen, you want the best results. When you have the best appliances, your cooking experience is enhanced. But, like any renovation project, kitchen remodeling requires careful planning. Continue reading this article to learn valuable tips about kitchen renovation. 

Create A Plan

 The first step of every renovation project is to create a suitable plan. It isn’t easy to bring that vision to life when you don’t have a clear vision. You are tired of the dingy floors, stuffy cabinets and old appliances, and you want a fresh start. But you cannot move forward with your plan unless you know what that first new look is. 

Make sure you create a budget for the project and stick to the same. At times, it is hard to stick to a predetermined budget as people often go overboard. Just because it is easier to give into temptations doesn’t mean you should. If you splurge on one aspect of the project, make sure to cut down on other sections. For example, if you purchase expensive fixtures and appliances for the kitchen, you might have to compromise on the selection of tiles. 

It is at the beginning of the project when you decide whether you want to take this renovation work as a DIY project or if you hire professionals. If you have what it takes to do such a massive project all by yourself, you will save a ton of money that you can further invest in beautifying the space. However, if you are not well acquainted with hammers and nails, it is better to hire experts who know what they are doing. 

Plumbing and Electrical

The workers must pay attention to the plumbing and electrical plugs while renovating. Make sure they do not block the plumbing area with new building blocks. It would be best if you had proper plumbing in your kitchen to work properly. You may think that the workers know where to put the plugin and how to manage the water piping solutions. But every house is unique. You cannot depend on the builders to know everything. Don’t hesitate to intervene and let them know how you plan to utilize the space. They can navigate the space better when you tell them where you wish to install the dishwasher and the fridge. 

Floor and Tiles

When it comes to kitchen floors, you want a flooring material that will withstand rough treatment. Wooden floors are definitely a big NO-NO for the kitchen. The wooden floors are hard to maintain when things get spilled on the floor. Marble flooring is a better option for the floor. The same goes for countertops, as most people opt for marble kitchen countertops. You must also select a backsplash material that complements your countertops. Adhesives Technology Corporation (ATC) has launched new lines of products that are perfect for your kitchen renovation work. These adhesives are strong and help you glue down the marble tops and tiles. Make sure the builders use the best materials for plastering the tiles to the walls.

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6 Tips to Carry out a Smooth DIY Home Improvement Project

October 17, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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The satisfaction of tearing down warped drywall or expanding a too-tight closet is hard to top. But accomplishing a do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement project on your own is a different story. It takes a lot of patience, a heavy dollop of motivation, and, most importantly, a solid game plan.

A lot can go haywire if you don’t plan and prep properly, from picking the wrong tools for the job to not ordering enough tile when you’re revamping your kitchen backsplash. (Trust us, we’ve been there.)

To help you avoid a total DIY disaster, we chatted with home improvement experts to get their best tips on carrying out a smooth home improvement project. Read on for their helpful hints—and get ready to take your space to the next level.

Move the Unwanted Out of the Way

Home renovations mean caked-on dust, piles of debris, and a lot of trip hazards. Top that with a cluttered work zone; you’ve got a recipe for injury.

The first step in preparing for any home improvement project is to clear the area of as much clutter as possible. It includes removing furniture, knick-knacks, pictures from the walls—anything that will get in the way or become a potential safety hazard.

But where to store all that stuff? The perfect place to keep all your valuables safe is in a storage unit in your region. For instance, if you are in Grande Prairie, approach a storage facility to ensure your belongings are kept in a safe space. So, check out Grande Prairie storage units and carry out the DIY project without worry. 

Ensure to label everything, so you know where it goes when moving back in.

Evaluate and Re-evaluate Your Plans

You might have a clear vision of your dream kitchen in your head, but that doesn’t mean it will fit in your space. And that new island might look good in the catalog, but it might be too big for your kitchen.

Before you start any demo, it’s important to take measurements of your space and create a floor plan. It will help you determine what changes you can and cannot make.

Budgeting is another no-brainer when it comes to home improvement projects. Determine the precise amount you can realistically afford to spend on your project, and then consider financing options. Home remodeling or repair loans are available for those who qualify.

You should also always have a contingency fund for unplanned expenses—you never know when you’ll run into an issue or make a mistake. Having to halt your project in the middle because you can’t afford to fix an error will only add more frustration (and costs) in the long run.

Load Your Arsenal with the Right Tools

You were able to get away with using a butter knife to remove the old caulk around your bathtub. But chances are, you will require more than that for your home improvement project. Make a list of all the tools and materials you’ll need for your project, and then purchase them or rent them ahead of time.

Some essentials to have on hand include:

  • A toolbox 
  • An impact driver (if you’re working with screws)
  • A saw (hand or power)
  • Cordless clamps (great for holding pieces together while you work)
  • Cordless vacuum (to clean up as you go)

Depending on the project you’re working on, you may also need more specialized tools. For example, if you’re tiling your bathroom, you’ll need a tile cutter. And if you’re painting your kitchen cabinets, you’ll need a sprayer.

Most importantly, research before you start the project to know which tools you need and how to use them. 

Don’t Take the Media’s Word for It

Just because you watched it on HGTV doesn’t mean it will work in your home. That new design trend may look great on a TV show, but it might not be practical for your lifestyle. Similarly, gutting the entire bathroom for a new masterpiece all by yourself isn’t as simplistic as the pros make it look.

There’s always some level of misguidance when watching home improvement shows. The takeaway should be inspiration instead of a how-to guide. So, set realistic goals and accept what you can’t do before starting your project.

You’ll soon realize that hiring a professional for certain tasks is worth it to save yourself the headache—and, sometimes, the hospital bill. Anything that involves gas or plumbing should be left to the professionals. Also, don’t mess with your roof unless you want your insurance rates to go up.

Be Careful with Permits

You might get away with a little bit of a demo without a permit, but most home improvement projects will require one. Depending on the work you’re doing, you may need the following:

  • Building permit – covers most structural work like adding a room or deck
  • Electrical permit – crucial for any electrical work, including outlets and fixtures
  • Plumbing permit – needed for anything that involves the gas lines or water lines

If you’re unsure whether you will need a permit, your best bet is to contact your city or county planning department. They’ll be able to tell you which permits are required for your project.

Not pulling the proper permits can result in some hefty fines—and could even get you arrested. Usually, a general contractor will take care of pulling the necessary permits for you. But it’s always good to know what’s going on.

Give Equal Importance to Your House’s Exterior

The house’s exterior is just as crucial as the inside—maybe even more so. That’s because it’s the first thing people see when they pull up to your house. If the outside is in disrepair, it can negatively impact your home’s curb appeal—and, ultimately, your home’s value.

So, don’t neglect your house’s exterior when planning your home improvement projects. If your siding is cracked or faded, replace it. If your gutters are falling off, fix them. And if your front door looks a little worse for wear, give it a fresh coat of paint.

Landscaping is also a significant way to improve your home’s curb appeal. Something as simple as trimming your hedges or planting some flowers can make a big difference.

 

Conclusion

Home renovations are exciting. The fresh coat of paint, the new countertops, and the updated appliances add to a brand-new home without the price tag. So, it’s natural (and justified) for you to be tempted to start your project by jumping right in and tearing everything out, but trust us—that’s not the best idea. Research all the aspects of your project, make a plan, gather your supplies, and then—and only then—should you start working. And always remember to take safety precautions.

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What To Consider When Choosing The Best Concrete Resurfacer

October 14, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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Concrete does not age gracefully and that is for certain. Whether it’s your walkway, driveway, rear patio, or another place, the concrete around your house will undoubtedly begin to show its age. To swiftly repair a cracked concrete surface, most individuals typically fill cracks and “spot patch” certain areas. Your concrete will lose some of its attractiveness as a result of frequent crack and patch repairs over time. 

If this describes the situation around your home or the home of a customer, you should consider concrete resurfacing. It’s one of the simplest, most effective techniques to restore the new-looking appearance of concrete. Some of the best companies offering concrete resurfacing are present in Aurora, IL. 

All resurfacers are not created equal. Their drying times, bonding abilities, and abrasion resistance can all differ greatly, making them acceptable for some projects but unsuitable for others. Continue reading to discover more about these and other important qualities of the best concrete resurfacers. 

Temperature Tolerance 

Knowing what temperatures concrete can withstand during installation is crucial because most concrete surfaces are outside. To guarantee that the concrete resurfacer dries properly, most manufacturers stipulate that the temperature must be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit both during installation and for 24 hours after. 

The amount of time the user has to work with the concrete before it sets and becomes dry enough to move depends on the temperature. Concrete will typically dry more quickly as the temperature rises. Use cold water to slow down drying if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Most manufacturers advise using warm water to decrease the drying time if the temperature is below 60 degrees. Before applying the resurfacer, be careful to review the recommended temperature range on the packaging. 

Bonding Properties 

A concrete resurfacer must adhere strongly to the surface it will be applied over in order to prevent displacement and the need for subsequent repairs. The majority of concrete resurfacers adhere to concrete extremely well. When restoring a subfloor, bonding properties are crucial to ensure that the new flooring laid over the resurfacer will stick.   

Drying Period

When selecting a concrete resurfacer, ensure the drying time is appropriate for the project. Fast-drying concrete may be convenient since it allows the paved area to be put back into use more quickly, but it also necessitates that the user works more quickly before the concrete becomes too hard to spread. Consider the amount of time it takes for the concrete to set and dry, so that it may be used for traffic.The drying time is often indicated by concrete manufacturers as minutes or hours. Although the concrete is too hard to modify once it has hardened, it is not yet ready for usage. Within 1 to 2 hours of mixing, the majority of concrete resurfacers set. To receive foot traffic, a resurfacer may need to wait 6 to 24 hours, and many days to receive car traffic. 

Application 

There are two varieties of concrete resurfacer: dry, which needs to be combined with water before use, and premixed. Premixed resurfacers are more convenient than dry resurfacers, but they are often more expensive. You can also modify the cement’s consistency with dry resurfacers to meet your demands. 

The most common method of applying concrete resurfacer is to mix the product with water (if necessary), pour it on the old existing concrete, and distribute it using a squeegee. To ensure strong adhesion between the old and new concrete, carefully clean the surface before applying the resurfacer.  

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Nine Tips for Renovating Rental Property

March 22, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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It is hard to manage and renovate rental properties with limited time and resources. Even though staying in rental houses comes with both pros and cons, you can move to new places and rent out a new home depending on your needs without worrying about the maintenance of your place. 

Similarly, it gives you the freedom to do whatever you want with your place. For example, you can make major changes like new flooring to minor changes such as a change in the color of walls. However, when you stay in a rental house, you hesitate to invest your money in the renovation as you can’t stay in it forever. Renting a house is a common practice in the United States. According to statistics, 37% of households rent their homes in the United States, the highest level in the last 50 years. 

Sometimes, it is easier to rent a new property rather than spend time and energy on renovation. Consider the environment and government policies if you plan to move to a different state and don’t know where to get started. For instance, Florida is one of the states that offers a thriving economy with a tax-free regime. If you’re living or moving to the city, you can consider looking into Orlando homes for rent to start your journey without any hassle. With that said, here are nine useful tips for renovating your rental property. 

Identify the Areas for Renovation

Before starting your home renovation project, focus on those areas where repair and maintenance are most needed. Don’t look all over the place for improvement as it would cost you high. Invest your time and money in renovating those things you cannot neglect while staying in rental property. Some people are very particular about their home interior, no matter rental or owned property, they prefer to make their place vibe along with them. Still, you need to identify your priorities and renovation goals first. 

Paint the Interior

Painting your place, especially the interior, can always give your house a fresh look and new perspective. By investing less time and money, you can completely change the look of your house by painting it with new shades and colors. One of the benefits of painting your rental property is doing this job as a DIY project.  While painting your rental property, prefer neutral colors as it gives a more refreshing and soothing aura to your place. People who want to give their place a vibrant and high-energy look can opt for bright colors. However, it is easier to manage neutral shades like Off-white. Moreover, it is best to paint your rental property all over with the same shade so that you won’t face difficulty in fixing the patches and touch-ups later on. 

Improve the Lighting

The proper lighting can brighten the beauty of every place. On the contrary, shady living areas and inadequately lit homes give a dull ambiance. Make small investments towards fixing the lighting of your rental place. Starting from the natural light, try to use the sunlight. For instance, remove obstacles coming in the way of natural light. You can chop down tree branches that stop sunlight from reaching your living area. For artificial lighting, pick brighter bulbs with dimmer switches to adjust the illumination of an area. You can also choose to install lamps in dark locations to enhance the place’s lighting. 

Replace Handles and Knobs

If you have a low budget and still want to upgrade your rental place, start with the small but highly noticeable things such as handles and doorknobs. You can replace cabinet handles and doorknobs with the latest chic designs. It would make a big difference and give your rental property a modern look. 

Work on the Yard

Your front yard or backyard can change the first impression of visitors if properly managed. A well-organized lawn area with proper landscaping is a source of refreshment.  Spend some time chopping down the grass and trimming the bushes, branches, and shrubs to give your lawn a clean look. Place the plantation in order; it would enhance the beauty of the walking trails and won’t mess up your space overall.  You can do this lawn project independently or count on professional services to make it low-budget. Choose all-season and low-maintenance plants that you don’t need to give extra care and attention to more often. 

Replace Faucets

If you have old faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms, replace them with new and stylish faucets. Similarly, you can also replace the shower and sink to make your bathroom and kitchen look more modern.  

Fix Exterior Lightning

It’s good to start with small amendments, but to change the overall look of your rental property, you should also focus on exterior lighting. Fix the lighting of your backyard or front lawn area so that your family can use it every time, even without daylight. You can consider a switch light or a motion-sensor light to brighten your outdoor space. 

Work on Storage 

Everyone needs storage space to put extra and unneeded stuff. You can make a storage area in an attic or the backyard by doing the needful. For example, use shade to cover the things from environmental effects if you place them in the backyard. Basement is also a good alternative for storage. 

Go for DIY Projects When It’s Necessary

The do-it-yourself (DIY) approach is effective when you know how to do things right and properly. If you are a handyman and like to fix things, by all means, go DIY. But in some cases, when you try to save money and renovate a household on your own, it can become tricky, complicated, and troublesome. DIY is not always the best available option. Sometimes, you spend more money and time doing things on your own. Always consider alternatives such as affordable professional services to renovate your property. 

Conclusion 

Home renovation is an essential component to upgrade the look of your house. However, in the case of rental properties, it is a good idea to look out for homes according to your taste and preference. As you don’t have to spend extra money on renovation and upgrades. 

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6 Missteps Homeowners Should Avoid When Renovating Their Homes

March 1, 2022
Chloe Taylor
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Are you thinking of renovating your house? A home renovation allows you to make your house the best to look, even if it seems like an ordinary one. It is a wonderful way to get your dream house full of charm. Renovating your home provides you the chance to explore a place full of new features and trends. It helps you make quick and stylish improvements, boosting the value of your home when you decide to sell it. Not just that, it enables you to redesign your space as per your wishes. However, taking on such a big job isn’t always easy.

Whether you’re looking to remodel your home or create an entirely new space, you need to know how the design ideas will translate into reality. From the cancellation of deliveries to unpredicted structural problems, there are always hurdles in the way homeowners forget to consider. It would help if you planned before you start renovating your house.

Therefore, before you renovate, have a look at these six top renovation mistakes you must avoid:

Forgetting to create a budget

It is essential to plan ahead and budget when renovating your home. This will help you determine what products are best for the project and how much time they might take with overall cost consideration during the planning stages.

Loans for home improvements in New Zealand can be a great way to make your house more energy-efficient and comfortable, but there are some things that you should know before taking out one. 

Visit https://nectar.co.nz/home-improvement-loans/ for an insider’s view.

When people think of living in New Zealand, they often imagine the beautiful scenery and climate. But what many may not know is that this country offers more than just nature. There are plenty of opportunities for renovation too. 

There are many different types of home improvement loans, but all have the same goal: to make your house look better. However, knowing your budget before you start renovating can help you understand what the results will be like. To decide on a budget, you need to determine what you need versus what you want. After that, you need to have a general idea of how much you can spend on renovation, helping you make smarter choices.

Avoiding the professionals

Renovating your home might be one of the most significant investments you are likely to make. Homeowners often think it’s a great idea to go the DIY way to cut costs. However, it might lead you to a  disaster, messing up your home renovation. 

Hiring professionals help you get the job done the first time, avoiding costly mistakes. It allows you to make the required changes to your house, enhancing the look of your home.

Experienced and professional contractors will have the expertise to provide all the services you require for a renovation project. You can discuss your preferences with them to ensure the results according to your wish. 

Not setting a realistic timeline

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make while renovating their house is not making a realistic timeline. As a homeowner, there are high chances your renovation projects take longer than you expected. Therefore, avoid making the mistake of not being prepared if the project gets delayed. 

Take a month or so to plan the renovation. Once that’s done, devote some time to get all permits. To avoid making any mistakes, make sure you create a realistic timeline that estimates your time accurately.

Not looking after plumbing and drainage

Homeowners often forget to check their draining and plumbing systems before starting a renovation. Uncovering any water damage can be the cause of your renovation headache. It might begin with a leak in the roof, which you might have left unnoticed until water seeps through ceilings. Besides that, it might be caused by a broken pipe, causing delays in your renovation project. Hence, check your water system beforehand to prevent further damage and ensure your renovation goes smoothly.  

Ignoring the lights

Instead of giving your house an expensive makeover, consider changing your home’s lighting every time you need to redesign your interior. It can impact and improve everything in your place, from its architectural look to its color tone. Hence, instead of ignoring your light fixtures in your renovation project, make sure you try something new with them. Replacing your old fixtures and updating them to new ones reflect a new design, adding an elegant touch to your house.

If you need to breathe some life into your room, try adding colored light fixtures. You can introduce a pop of brightness if you are looking to change the color scheme of your home. Besides that, you can place a fun and colorful pendant light or lamp for a playful and sleek look. However, if bright colors are too much for you, look for pieces with shiny metallic touches. They instantly warm up the room without the dramatic vibes.

Not repainting your house walls

Many homeowners often ignore the importance of giving their walls a new coat of paint. Hence, as a homeowner, don’t underestimate the transformative power a fresh coat of paint has. Just a day’s work can change the way your room looks. Repainting your house is one of the simplest ways to make your room look bigger with minimal effort. Consider painting your ceiling a lighter color than the rest of the room. Besides that, painting the trim and molding lighter than the rest of the walls can make them look appear farther back.

Moreover, repainting your walls allows you to clean your walls. Repainting your walls will enable you to match your walls with the rest of your furniture and interior. In addition, painting enables you to give your room a fresh and updated look while being light on your pockets.

Final thoughts

Renovating the house is an exciting yet daunting experience. To make sure you make your home renovation a success, avoid leaving your walls as they are. Besides that, check your plumbing and water system beforehand to avoid delays during your renovation. 

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5 Home Improvement And Remodeling Ideas That Increase Home Value

October 4, 2021
Chloe Taylor
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We’ve all heard the mantra about how it takes money to make money. It may sound cliché, but according to Usaj Realty, it’s true. The thing is, it’s not just a case of launching buckets of cash at your house. You have to be smarter about it. 

Kitchens

Kitchens are key. Even folks who seldom cook at home want a certain kind of look to their kitchen areas. It’s just one of those things in real estate. Depending on what your plan is, you can go big on things or make smaller changes. On the small side, there are still effective changes you can make. Putting in new backsplashes and touching up some cabinetry won’t cost the world and can make all the difference to the feel of the space. New lights and taps are other easy fixes. If you’re budgeting bigger, you can think in terms of increasing storage space. Installing new cabinets throughout is sure to add value to your home. Another feature that seems big and flashy is a center island. It has a high visual impact on your buck. 

Bathrooms

On a tighter budget, a retile might be your best choice for the visual pop. It won’t cost much and can totally change up a smaller space like a bathroom. If you’re feeling a little more generous, maybe throw in a new set of taps to top it off. For the adventurous at heart, there’s the full refurb option. Get everything out of the room, and give it a total makeover. New toilets, tub, basin, the works. It will be on the hefty side, but you’ll see the rewards if you do it right, especially if the old stuff isn’t great. 

Living Areas

People like space. Living areas ought to be spacious and airy, with as much natural sunlight as possible. On the thrifty end, this could involve as little as lighter coloring and maybe some clever lighting installation. If you’re up for the whole hog, you can literally open up the space. Find out which walls can go, and make things open-plan. Similarly, you can widen windows and doorways where possible, bringing in that sought-after sunshine. 

Bedrooms

What a lot of people look for is clever storage that saves space in a bedroom. Having tall closets can be really helpful, especially ones that are built into the walls. It gives the sense of there being more room when the closets are recessed. Stylistically, creating a smooth and uniform effect is a decent plan. Using lighter colors and having that sense of spaciousness enhanced by closet space going into the walls achieves that effect beautifully.

When in Doubt, Clear Out and Paint! 

This one is true inside the home and out. Clear away as much needless clutter as possible, and paint all surfaces. It’s probably the biggest and cheapest effect out there, and it genuinely makes a huge difference. A fresh lick of paint can enliven any area, especially when you opt for lighter tones. A medley of creams, whites, and off-whites seems to make spaces wider and more appealing. If you can’t do every surface, you should at least touch up the worst ones. 

 

When selling a home, it’s best to get a certain balance right. You don’t want your renovations to seem bland, but you don’t want to be too niche either. Your remodeling should have broad appeal while still being interesting. If you are going to splash some cash, then the alternatives are endless. But, there’s no reason why even fairly substantial changes should break the bank. Ultimately, altering the right bits in the right way can add real dollars to your home’s value. 

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10 Things To Keep in Mind When Remodeling Your Home

June 24, 2020
Chloe Taylor
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Our house is our comforting abode. It is the place that resonates with our personality, our hideaways from the world. It is the reason why we make sure our homes look beautiful and pleasing. We want to design the interiors in the most aesthetically pleasing manner. We want our houses to provide us the most ease and comfort every day. It is why certain things are essential when planning on building or remodeling our home.

It would be best if you keep these pointers in mind while remodeling your house so that they are not an annoyance later.

Drawing A Budget

Well, you will have a baseline figure in mind regarding the remodeling; that is not something you will forget. However, what we often look over is the budgeting for separate areas of the house. Like what is your budget for the renovations in the kitchen? Do you want to spend a significant chunk of your remodeling expense on your bathroom because you love long showers? The answers to these and many more questions are crucial. It is because they will help you direct your spending most efficiently. You will not have to fret over, later on, when the project is midway over how to allocate your resources. And of course, you will want to allocate your limited resources effectively unless you are a millionaire.

Do Your Research

By research here, we mean going through all your options regarding how to make your house more spacious and practical for a living. But how do you make a home effective? Planning things out in a way that makes your day-to-day activities smooth and not difficult is what we mean by planning your house effectively.

Today, with people having to survive to live in small spaces, there are tons and tons of ideas about how to make the best use of areas and spaces inside the house. Look them up and find the ones that are the best fit for you! You can also hire professionals to provide you with advice regarding different spaces in your house, such as any kitchen or bathroom remodel company in San Diego if you are from California.

Choose The Right Paints

Most of our house remodeling involves a change in the colors of the walls. It is an essential thing that gives the house a revamped look. However, while choosing the colors for your walls, should you only focus on what looks pretty and what doesn’t? No, the selection of the paints for your walls should depend on a few other factors rather than just liking. And one of these factors is lighting.

The color of your walls can affect the amount of lighting inside your house. Darker colors tend to absorb light, which makes rooms feel dark and dingy, whereas lighter colors and specific hues of white reflect light, which makes the space look lit up and bright! So, which ones do you want to choose according to your preferences?

Focus On Storage

All looks pretty and cute until it serves no purpose. The underlying motive behind a house is for us to live and function in it. And for that, we also need a lot of storage, especially in our kitchen. You would need a pantry, or if you don’t have enough space, design your cabinets in a way that provides hidden storages.

Storage planning is an entire art. If you look up and research a little, you will find unusual avenues and opportunities to create storage. Remodeling will give you the chance to work out the efficient use of the house space.

Focus On Switch Boards

The right placement of switchboards is very crucial. You would know the importance if you have struggled with setting your furniture according to the switchboards only so your TV could get the supply. It is sometimes restrictive and a bummer. This is why we advise that while remodeling your house, you keep this in check too.

Don’t Forget The Doors

When you enter a room, the first thing you come in contact with is the door. The right doors create the ideal first impressions. They will either create the vibe or spoil it. Therefore, make sure you give in enough thought in the appropriate kind of doors. One unusual way to revamp your house is to get different colored doors for each room if you are into colors and is willing to accept a drastic change. It is a fantastic, cost-effective way to add some zest to your house space.

Window Placement

If you are someone who adores sunshine and loves soaking in the sun, then don’t ignore the importance of window placement. You can get some extra windows in your lounge or redecorate the existing windows. Window décor adds a massive impact to the interiors and is one opportunity often disregarded. You can switch the windowpanes or get them repainted. On the other hand, if you dislike bright light, get the windows boarded shut for a dimmer light source for your space!

Don’t Neglect The Bathroom

We spend quite a time in our bathroom, which includes taking unwinding hot showers after a hectic day. Do not forget to look for any leakages and repairs as well. Moreover, a little revamp of the shower area, or your vanity won’t hurt anyone.

Get A Laundry Area

Often, people neglect to get an appropriate laundry area and regret later. Focus on planning out a spacious area that allows you to wash and dry some clothes. It will be a backup if there is rain or a thunderstorm, and you need to dry clothes. Also, sorting clothes and putting them in the wash and drier is a messy chore. You will find it convenient if you design a proper laundry space for yourself in the remodeling plan.

Devise A Remodeling Timeline

Yes! One thing you may completely forget is defining a timeline for your remodeling project. Even if you are hiring professional renovators, you should have a schedule for your tasks yourself to ensure the deadline. Some costs and services may also be time-related, making it more important to keep a check on your schedules.

Conclusion:

Remodeling your house is an extensive project. It requires quite a lot of planning and a whole lot of research to pull off, making the house of your dreams. Focus on all the details and plan out a well-researched remodeling plan with the expected budgets, and you are good to go!

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Interior Design Trends: Small Changes for a Big Impact

April 15, 2019
Chloe Taylor
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No matter with how much love, devotion and enthusiasm you decorated your home the first time around, chances are that you’ll grow a bit tired of the design as time passes. Don’t worry, that’s completely normal. Since people are visual beings, it’s logical that we like to spend time in a visually stimulating environment, and if your home featured the same design since you’ve moved in, it probably became just a bit too familiar. That’s precisely why some interior design pros advise against fully decorating every room top-to-bottom at once, but rather encourage you to allow the design to grow alongside your personal growth.

However, if you’ve reached a point where redecorating seems like the only option left, here are some nifty tricks to consider. Keep in mind that, in order to fall back in love with your interior, you don’t have to spend a ton of money or go for a large-scale home improvement projects that really won’t add value to your home . Rather, it’s enough to make some small but very effective changes that will completely turn a room’s design around.

The hallway

Hallways are the most commonly neglected areas of a home when the design is concerned, which is a big mistake since a hallway is the first area of your home anyone who enters will be presented with. Therefore, inspect your hallway and see if there’s anything you can do to it to boost its visual appeal. For example, replace your old coat hanger with a funky new alternative and DIY a fun key holder. Next, get a tall wicker basket to act as an umbrella holder. Finally, create a gallery wall by framing and hanging some of your family photos, but choose the frames carefully and make sure they go well together.

The kitchen

The easiest way you can update the look of your kitchen is by simply repainting your cabinet doors and replacing all the handles with a fresh alternative. Additionally, if you want to make an even bigger change, create a new backsplash and introduce a new area rug. Just make sure that the new color you’ve chosen for your cabinets works well with the overall color scheme you have in your kitchen to avoid creating an environment that just looks too random.

The bathroom

In the bathroom, you won’t believe just how much a new shower curtain can transform the look of the entire space. You can also replace hardware fixtures and bathroom accessories for more modern alternatives. Browse some online retailers to find the right fit and give your old bathroom a modern twist on a budget. Additionally, you can even consider adding a couple of plants to your bathroom but make sure that they can thrive in such an environment.

The bedroom

Master bedrooms also generally tend to be somewhat neglected when the design is concerned because some people don’t see the point in beautifying a space that’s used primarily for sleeping. However, that is a huge mistake as a well-put-together bedroom design can work wonders for your sleep quality. So, first, take care of your window treatments. Choose the ones that allow you to completely darken up the room when necessary – afternoon naps – but still let plenty of natural light through when pushed aside. Layered curtains and drapes work best in this scenario. Next, add a luxurious throw blanket on top of your bed to make it visually cozier. Finally, add a soft, fluffy area rug that will be just a few inches bigger than your bed underneath it to both accentuate and section off that area and make it a focal point of the room.

The living room

We’ve purposefully left this area of the home for last because it’s arguably the most versatile one. The number of easy touch-ups you can do in your living room is so big that we are only going to list the most effective ones. First of all, create an accent wall. This can be literally any wall in your living room. If you have a fireplace, turn that area into an accent wall by creating an exposed faux brick wall and hanging an impactful piece of wall art just above the fireplace. Alternatively, you can choose to accentuate the wall behind your sofa by opting to paint it in a bold hue or cover it with an elaborate, textured wallpaper. Next, aside from the statement wall, you can choose to completely change up your decor items, which will give the room a whole new vibe. Also, think about replacing your rugs, throw pillow cases and other textured elements of the room’s design, or even reupholstering your furniture entirely.

As you can see, there are numerous ways you can give your home a facelift without having to spend a lot of money. Besides, these small changes really do make the biggest impact, as they shift the vibe of the room very slightly in a chosen direction, instead of turning it into a completely new, unfamiliar space.

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Smooth Decorator is a website dedicated to our little sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of the outside world – to our homes, sweet homes. We believe that the foundation of a quality life needs to be set right there, in the place where we first dream things up, and that only when we organized our homes can we hope to organize the rest of our everyday existence.

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