Charlotte Custom Carolina Decks- know its benefits for your property.

When you want to enhance the outdoor space of your property for making it look attractive and inviting then you need to consider installing Charlotte custom Carolina Decks. This is the best way of getting a deck according to your personal style and preference without going over your budget. These decks will offer you a large number of benefits to the people living in the household as they will have additional space for relaxing and entertaining. Hence, when you are thinking of a home improvement project, you should consider installing a deck that is customized according to your requirements. The reason for customizing the deck is because your property is different from the other properties and you would want to have a deck that will conform to the shape and design of your property. You also have the option of selecting the material of the deck so that it will help you get something that will meet your needs. You can also be within your budget at the time of installing the deck for getting a deck that is of the highest quality and does not need frequent replacement.

If you want to build Charlotte custom Carolina Decks, it is important that you hire highly experienced and professionally trained experts who will complete the deck installation task successfully. You will be able to get a deck that has been customized according to your tastes and preference so that you can derive maximum benefits from the home improvement project. This is the best way of getting a beautiful and personalized outdoor space that will enhance the overall look and beauty of your property. You can select from a wide range of decking materials that will complement the interiors of your home. It should also be selected carefully for making sure that the decks will last longer and you will not have to spend money on its replacement. You should select a decking material that requires minimal maintenance and it should also be durable and strong enough for withstanding extreme environmental conditions. The right selection of the material will help in adding beauty and natural charm to your property so that it will make your living space even more attractive and appealing. Customizing the decks is a beautiful addition to your property because you will get outdoor where you can sit and relax after a tiring day at work. These decks are beneficial in adding lasting value to your property as it will last for many years and the overall appearance of your home will be enhanced with the installation. Additionally, you will get an excellent place for socializing with your family and friends outdoors so that you will create some beautiful memories at this amazing space. You can party where and have any outdoor event because decks have ample seating options that make it easier for you to invite more people for socializing. For high-quality custom decks, you should hire professionals who will help you with the construction process so that it will conform to the overall look of your property. You will also be able to attract the attention of a large number of potential buyers when you have decks that will make your property look even more attractive and visually appealing. This is the best way of transforming your outdoor living space so that the entire look of your property will change instantly. The extended outdoor area that you will get will allow you to relax and rewind while having additional space for entertaining your guests.

There are many reasons why you should consider custom-built decks for your property and the most important reason is that you will have a deck that is tailored for matching your needs and tastes. You can select the shape, size, and configurations of the decks so that it will meet your needs and tastes to the fullest. Additionally, custom decks are made with the use of piers and footings that provides the structure and support that is required for a comfortable setup. You can also decide the budget that you want to spend on the deck installation so that you don’t have to worry about spending more money than that you can afford for the home improvement project.

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The Benefits of Home Renovations

For many homeowners, renovations are an important way to keep their homes functional. For others, home improvements are a way to make things more personalized and livable. From enhancing comfort to boosting property value, there can be many benefits in renovating a home. 

Personalized Lifestyle

Home renovations provide an opportunity to transform a living space into a personalized sanctuary that reflects a homeowner’s unique personality and taste. That could include creating a cozy reading nook, designing a state-of-the-art home office or crafting a backyard oasis for relaxation.  

Increased Comfort and Functionality

For some homeowners, having a more functional kitchen layout, additional storage space, or better lighting are important goals. Optimizing a house’s layout, updating fixtures and incorporating smart storage solutions can significantly enhance the comfort and functionality of a home that make a big difference in day-to-day living.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Renovations offer a perfect opportunity to improve a home’s energy efficiency. By replacing outdated windows, adding insulation or upgrading appliances, homeowners can reduce the amount of energy used and save money by lowering their utility bills. 

Enhanced Property Value

Home renovations are an investment that can significantly boost the value of a property. Upgrading key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor spaces can make a home more appealing to potential buyers. Renovations not only increase the aesthetic appeal but also address functional and structural issues, ensuring that your property stands out in the real estate market. Whether you plan to sell soon or in the distant future, a well-renovated home can yield a higher return on investment.

Building Quality of Life

Home renovations can create an environment that supports homeowners’ lifestyles, which can positively influence their overall happiness and quality of life.

Transforming Homes and Lives

Embarking on a home renovation journey can be an exciting and transformative experience. If you’ve been contemplating a change.

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5 Reasons to Use a Whole Home Improvement Contractor

5 Reasons to Use a Whole Home Improvement Contractor

When choosing a home improvement contractor, there are many options. Along with the sheer number of contractors available, there are also variations in the kind of work many contractors typically take on. There are some significant benefits that come with using a “whole” home improvement contractor versus using one or more that can only do certain aspects of your remodeling job. Here are a few reasons to use a whole home improvement contractor who can handle every aspect of your project:

1. More Convenient

Any home improvement project has the potential to create some temporary deviations from your normal routine around the house. Home improvement projects also have the potential of becoming time-consuming for the homeowner to “manage”. Using one home improvement contractor that can handle all aspects of the necessary work required for your remodeling job can help to eliminate both of these areas of stress.

Using one contractor for all of your needs is more convenient and offers a better overall experience. Having one point of contact during the job keeps things simple and helps to make communication significantly easier and more efficient. A home improvement company that can handle everything in your home will be able to better plan and coordinate the flow of work for projects with multiple phases. The end result is a more seamless timeline and a job that avoids unnecessary scheduling delays that might occur between different contractors.

2. Same Style and Quality

Not only can using the same contractor for the entirety of your home improvement project lead to more convenience and better efficiencies, but it can also equate to a better end result aesthetically.

Finding a home improvement contractor that can handle all aspects of your remodeling project can help to ensure that the style of the work remains consistent throughout the home. Additionally, you can rest assured that the quality of work and craftsmanship will be maintained throughout all aspects of the project.

3. Better Accountability

When one contractor is responsible for the whole project, it inherently brings about more accountability. Homeowners can avoid having multiple contracting companies on-site at once and can also avoid some of the miscommunications and scheduling issues that can delay your home renovation project.

This eliminates the potential of one contractor getting delayed by another’s work on the job site and also creates more accountability for the end result of the project. In these ways, using one home improvement contractor creates a better working relationship, understanding, and transparency between the homeowner and the company.

4. More Efficient

Using a whole home improvement contractor leads to a greater amount of efficiency. First and foremost, communication between customers and company personnel is streamlined. Secondly, the company must be highly accountable to the homeowner in terms of timeline estimates and the quality of workmanship.

Since there is only one contractor running the job in its entirety, they are able to ensure that timelines for each phase of the project are scheduled accordingly. Plus, extended delays between each stage can be avoided.

5. Often More Cost-Effective

Oftentimes, homeowners will find that using one home improvement contractor for everything they need can be a more cost-effective route to take than the other option of piece-mealing work to several sub-contractors.

The greater efficiencies associated with using one home improvement company, a larger scale or scope of work, and being able to plan out an optimal timeline for each aspect of the project allows the company to finalize your beautiful remodeling or home addition project at a great value.

There are just a few reasons to use a whole home improvement contractor. When it comes to home improvement projects, ease and efficiency, quality, and value are some of the most important things to consider before choosing a home improvement contractor.

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5 Surprising Benefits Of Renovating Your Home

If you’ve ever looked around your home and wondered if you should make some changes you aren’t alone. Home renovations are a popular thing for homeowners to undertake. You may be considering if commercial painting jobs are the right upgrade to make, or wondering if updating the kitchen is a better call.

Before you start contacting commercial painting contractors or knocking out walls you probably want to know what kinds of benefits a home renovation has in store for you. Is going to the effort of looking up pro paint contractors in your area even worth it? The answer is actually yes. Home renovations can have some surprising benefits.

Before you pick up the phone to call around for pricing info on commercial painters, check out some of the more surprising benefits of renovating your home. Keep reading and start making mental plans for your newly updated living spaces as you go.

1. It Can Save You Money

You’re probably already raising your eyebrows at this one but it’s true. If you’re currently repainting your walls every year or two because you’ve been using lower quality paint and it’s not holding up to the wear and tear, it’s time to upgrade. Investing in high-quality materials like better carpeting or hiring a pro paint contractor can mean you won’t be replacing things as often.

Higher quality materials last longer and hold up better. Carpet that doesn’t get worn down and matted after a few years of kids and pets is a carpet that doesn’t have to be replaced as quickly. When you’re replacing things less often and getting more out of the upgraded items, you’re saving money in the long run.

This is basically the same idea as saying, “If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.” It’s an old adage everyone has heard, and it’s applicable in this situation. Upgrade once and save money because you won’t have to replace low-quality items all the time. You’ll only have to do the job one time because it’s been done well.

2. It Can Be More Relaxing To Enjoy Your Home

Sometimes it can be more unsettling to spend time in your home when you know there are things you’d rather change about it. It can even cause stress if it feels like your home is just somewhere you can’t fully relax.

If you feel like a space is cramped or cluttered because of the way your home is designed it really can make you uncomfortable. Especially if you feel like you’re putting off a project you should’ve gotten done years ago.

Renovating your home and making it a place that feels good to you will result in you having a more relaxing environment to enjoy living in. You won’t have the nagging feeling that you’re putting things off, and your home will look fabulous to boot.

3. It Can Increase Your Home’s Value

You might be underestimating just what a home renovation can do in terms of adding value to your home. When it comes to resale value home upgrades can be a huge factor in being able to increase the asking price of your home. Even if you don’t have current plans to sell your home this is still something to consider when deciding if you should take on a renovation project.

Anything from a small thing like updating a few things in your bathroom to a huge upgrade to your entire kitchen can count towards increasing the value of your home. If you’re wondering which kinds of renovations would be most valuable for you specifically you can always consult a local realtor or contractor. They’ll be able to steer you in the right direction.

4. You Can Reduce The Cost Of Your Utilities

This benefit really does belong in its own category as it goes beyond saving money by using higher quality materials. Upgrading your home with energy efficient appliances can result in a sizable reduction in the cost of your utilities. Even things like better insulation and upgrading your windows will make a difference.

If this idea appeals to you then focus on renovations that will really make the most sense when it comes to saving on energy. Think about what will help you use less electricity, less heat, or less air conditioning and start with upgrading those things. Saving some money and being more energy efficient in your home will be worth the effort.

5. It Can Make You An Ideal Neighbor

Even if your neighbors already love you because you’re a great person, home renovations can make you even more amazing in their eyes. Homes that look rundown and dilapidated often don’t give a favorable impression of the homeowner, and it also reflects poorly on the neighborhood itself.

If you’re the neighbor that is updating and remodeling their home so it looks great, your neighbors will love that. The way homes look in a neighborhood overall can affect everyone’s resale value so updating and remodeling your home makes you the best neighbor you can be in everyone’s eyes. No one wants to be a bad neighbor, so this benefit of remodeling is a huge one.

From enjoying your home more to increasing resale value, as you can see, there are a lot of good things to be said for taking on some home renovation projects. You don’t have to take on several huge projects all at once. You can make a list of things you’d like to update and develop a plan to make those happen.

If a large project is overwhelming, focus on smaller changes. Maybe you can update one appliance, or change out just the windows in one room. There are no rules saying everything has to be done all at one time. You can make a plan that’s budget-friendly and easy for you to handle with your schedule and lifestyle in mind.

Once you have a plan and start making changes you’ll start to experience some of these benefits sooner than you might think. Getting things done and being able to check off a few things on your to-do list always feels great. Start small and try to enjoy the process as much as you can. Your home will look better and everyone living there will be glad you put in the time. Enjoy.

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Benefits of Hiring a Professional Contractor for Your Home Renovation

Homeowners often assume they don’t need to hire professionals to renovate their homes. They think DIY hacks can get the job done quickly without spending a lot. 

But renovating your home is a challenging feat. Whether you’re planning to repaint your bedroom walls or change bathroom tiles, home renovations always require professional contractors. Hiring them is cost-effective as they can provide the following benefits:

1. Understanding of Approvals and Permits

Home renovations will require approvals and permits. It’s crucial to know the necessary permits and how to get them to avoid fines and penalties in the future.

Professional contractors have an in-depth understanding of and experience securing the necessary permits. This will save you plenty of time and effort from doing the paperwork and visiting various agencies or offices in your area.

Additionally, professional contractors know the construction regulations to follow in your area. Their expertise will ensure everyone’s Safety during and after the home renovation project and protect your property from fires, collapse, and deterioration. 

2. Help in Design and Planning

The vision you want for your home is only sometimes feasible. For example, not all homes are built to support an attic. Moving forward with the project without this knowledge can lead to disasters. 

One benefit of hiring professional contractors is their extensive knowledge of the entire renovation process. They can accurately plan the project, assess the feasibility of your goals, and make suggestions to improve your initial plans. 

Professional contractors will provide materials and physical labor, meaning they can also propose realistic timelines and estimates. This will help manage your expectations before the project starts. 

3. Offer Efficiency and Convenience

You’ll have to wear different hats to complete a home renovation project. For starters, you need suppliers who can provide high-quality yet affordable materials. 

Hiring professional contractors will save you from the hassle of meeting several suppliers and contractors for your home renovation. This means you don’t have to change your daily schedule to ensure the project is completed on time. 

Professional contractors know who to contact to perform different functions for your home renovation project. Just inform them about what you want to achieve, and they’ll be the ones to find suitable suppliers and subcontractors.   

4. Ensure Peace of Mind

Home renovation projects can last for a few days to a few months. And not knowing the project’s progress during that period can cause stress.

Another benefit of hiring professional contractors is having peace of mind. With them regularly on-site, you can have someone monitor the project’s progress and address any of your concerns. This will give you confidence to know that goals are accomplished on time. 

Professional contractors also have the experience to make numerous decisions on-site, meaning they don’t have to delay the project the moment they experience hiccups. They’ll keep you in the loop of any changes they make, so you don’t have to worry. 

5. Finish On-Time

Time is crucial in home renovations. Generally, the more time spent on home renovations, the higher the overall costs. This can put a hole in your pocket. 

Professional contractors have sufficient experience to complete the project within a specified timeframe. They ensure that deadlines are met without compromising the quality and efficiency of their work. 

Professional contractors often work with an equally skilled and experienced team to complete extensive home renovation projects on time. As a result, you can stick to your original timeline and budget. 

6. Prioritize Safety

Renovating your home with DIY hacks is cheap but risky. Attempting to remodel your home without the necessary safety equipment and practices can lead to accidents and injuries.

You don’t have to worry about these problems when hiring professional contractors, as they consistently prioritize Safety. They’ve undergone many safety training courses and always wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment or PPE when on-site. These precautions not only keep the contractors safe but also help reduce your household’s risks to accidents. 

Trust The Pros 

Always work with professional contractors for your home renovation projects. This is always the best course of action as they can finish the job on time, help you stay within your budget, and ensure that you’ll end up with a newly-renovated home that meets your vision.

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6 qualities to look for in an effective home improvement

Here are six things to look for in an effective contractor:

  1. They are trustworthy – A good contractor must be trustworthy in every aspect of their work – your home is a major asset and you shouldn’t trust its care to just anyone. While it’s sometimes tough to know who to trust, use your best judgement to determine if your contractor has the integrity your home deserves.
  2. They are passionate about what they do – Someone who loves what they do is much more likely to get the job done well. Dow’s survey found that providing quality work and experiencing high job satisfaction go hand-in-hand.
  3. They are adaptable – The building and construction industry is anything but stagnant. A successful contractor must adapt to a constantly evolving industry, including the expansion and diversification of reliable and consistent products and materials.
  4. They come highly recommended – The best home improvement and energy contractors sell themselves through the high praise of those they’ve helped. With websites like Yelp and Google, it’s easier than ever to find reviews of contractors. If a contractor comes with dazzling reviews, this is a strong indicator they’ll do a great job. Keep in mind, however, that these reviews shouldn’t be the end-all be-all of your decision. One should also do their own due diligence in ensuring the contractor is the right fit for the job based on experience and has an appropriate working style for the project, among the other tips mentioned here.
  5. They know to look for the best solution to your problem – For many home improvement problems, there is more than one possible solution – but not all are created equal. For an energy efficiency upgrade, for example, many contractors are quick to recommend installing additional insulation when the best fix might be to look for air leakage so that it can be properly sealed with something like Dow’s GREAT STUFF PRO Insulating Foam Sealant.
  6. They have strong technical know-how – Just as important as looking for the best solution is knowing to the right way to do so. For example, if a contractor comes to your home and is not taking measurements to understand your problem, that is a major red flag. Collecting data to determine the best course of action is critical to making sure your home improvement project is a success.

Your home is where your heart is, and you should treat it as such. While you might be able to complete some simple projects like basic air sealing, sometimes calling a professional will save time and possibly money – as doing something wrong can end up costing you more in the long run. Luckily, you are now prepared to begin your search in finding a qualified contractor. And, this important selection will give you confidence in knowing your next home improvement project will be a successful one!

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6 Home Renovations That Will Actually Pay Off

There are a few reasons why you may be thinking about renovating your home. Usually the first reason has something to do with disliking the home in its current state. The next reason for renovating is typically because you’re thinking of selling at some point, near or far. Updating your home can increase its value and marketability to give it a better chance of selling, or sometimes repairs are needed because the property won’t sell without fixing. Regardless of which reason leads you to make some changes in your home, you probably want to make the best investment decisions when it comes to renovations. It should not only help your home value and marketability, but also help the value of your lifestyle while you’re living in the home.

Renovations that increase home values

Renovations that increase home values are the sort of renovations that provide a return on your investment by increasing the price of the home.

Kitchens

Kitchen remodeling is at the top of the list for increasing home values. The reason is that kitchens can easily look outdated when previous homeowners strictly follow trending designs or customize it to their tastes too much. They tend to be the priciest fixes too. When someone comes to check out your house and they walk into a dated kitchen, they’ll instantly start thinking about renovation costs. In their mind, the house just went up by $30,000 or more.

The tip is to renovate in a way that makes your kitchen look updated but still have timeless style.

For example, a marble or granite countertop will always be appealing, while an intricate backsplash or very modern design may not be stylish in 10 or more years, especially since “modern” is always changing. You may be surprised to know that you can easily upgrade an average kitchen for around $18,000 with new appliances, countertops, and some paint. You can do it for less than that too. The key is to make minor, timeless kitchen renovations. Because at the end of the day, you want kitchen renovations that help your kitchen look up-to-date, while increasing your home’s value for the long run.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are a runner up. First, get your kitchen squared away, then focus on your bathrooms. And similar to kitchens, also think timeless style but with modern bathroom fixtures. Obviously you need to update things like a shower-head if the one you currently have is small, dingy, or broken. Those are easy and inexpensive fixes. A new tub, on the other hand, is much pricier but can really transform the space. Aside from the tub, other things to focus on would be updating the sink and counter space. The cabinets can easily be updated with some paint and new hardware.

Renovations that increase marketability

Renovations that increase the marketability of the home are the type of renovations that may not exactly increase the price of the home, but will certainly increase the chances of it getting sold. This is especially true if another home in your neighborhood in the same price range is missing these updates.

Front door and garage door

A new front door is surprisingly a popular fix to have for increasing your home’s marketability. You can either get a new door which could cost more than $2,000, or you can update yours with fresh paint and new hardware for a fraction of the price of a new door. Along with front doors, garage doors are also at the top of the list for renovations that increase the chances of your home being sold.

General curb appeal

A little landscaping can go a long way. You may be surprised by how some plants can change the look of your home and make it feel more inviting to homebuyers. It’s the first impression of a house, therefore it sets the tone for the rest of the potential homebuyer’s visit. It’s also a generally inexpensive fix.

Decks and patios

Then there’s the back of the house. Adding or updating a deck or patio is a runner up for outdoor renovations. And although building decks and patios can be hefty projects, it’s possible to cut down on costs by doing the work yourself. While it’s a great asset to have for selling a home, it’s not a must. Plus if you’re living in the home for a while, a great outdoor space just makes spending time with family and friends in the warmer months that much better. So the return isn’t just marketability, but a fulfilling life at home.

In-between

Okay so, the look of the house on the outside and inside is incredibly important, but the things that homebuyers don’t necessarily see matter too. Save money by first making maintenance updates depending on the severity and necessity of them, over cosmetic changes. A homebuyer is reluctant to buy a home knowing it needs some serious work, like a new HVAC system, mold problems, water damage, electrical wiring issues, possible broken or rusted pipes, leaky roof, etc.

With that being said, if you’re planning on selling your home, consider having an inspector take a look at it to make sure there aren’t deeper issues that need to be fixed over cosmetic renovations. A homebuyer will be glad to hear that there are no actual issues with the home. Any cosmetic renovations on top of that will only help increase the home’s value or marketability if they’re done right. Make sure to be accurate with your updates to prevent a sloppy job done. Otherwise, you could possibly waste money and receive no return.

Buying a house that needs remodeling?

If you’re buying a home and considering remodeling, be sure you make room in your budget for possible non-cosmetic renovations. Get an inspector you trust, and ask them to be honest with you about a house. Let them know you want to hear the bad news if there is any. If a house needs work, it could possibly bring the sale price down for you. And if you’re still interested in purchasing the house that needs repairs (or you would like to do some upgrades), you could be eligible for a renovation loan that rolls into these costs. Take the advice of your inspector, real estate agent, and a mortgage banker before making your final decision.

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10 Best Home Remodeling Ideas and Home Renovation Ideas

Today we will explore the 10 best Home Remodeling Ideas. Whether you’re renovating your entire home or simply designing an individual room, we have tips and tricks for you!

If you’re looking to renovate your entire home, or multiple aspects within your home, these innovative – yet easily executable – house renovation ideas will ensure that your home is both stylish and fits your needs and requirements.

home remodeling ideas

    What is Home Renovation or Remodeling?

    Home renovation (also called home remodeling) is the process of improving a broken, damaged, or outdated structure residential structure to make it more aesthetically pleasing or more functional – or both.

    Advancements in technology have had a significant impact on possible home renovation ideas – particularly when it comes to renovation ideas within the planning stage. The availability of home remodeling software has enabled interior designers and architects to create realistic 3D visualizations of their designs and make changes before any real-life work has been done.

    This technology provides professionals with the platform to showcase their vision, and gives clients, who often have little technical knowledge, the chance to get a realistic understanding of what space will look like after the home renovation process has been completed.

    What Are the Best Home Remodeling Ideas?

    Whether you’re looking for home renovation ideas to increase the property value of your home ahead of a sale, or you’re closing the deal on a house you can’t wait to make your own, chances are, there’s a home renovation or kitchen remodeling project in your future.

    This means you’ll have a lot of elements to consider, including how to find a contractor, how to mitigate costs, how to translate your renovation ideas into reality, and – perhaps most important – how to decide which home remodeling ideas would most benefit your space.

    In this post, we will zoom in on this final challenge and suggest specific home renovation services and ideas that can help you get the most out of your space. This will help you to make the right choice from scores of design options available today.

    10 Best Home Remodeling & Renovation Ideas

    1. Lower Your Living Room
    2. Use the Area Under the Stairs
    3. Maximize Space with Baseboard Drawers
    4. Don’t Forget the Exterior
    5. Create More Usable Space
    6. Add or Upgrade the Kitchen Island
    7. Be Mindful of Colors
    8. Create a Focal Point with Lightning
    9. Use Open Shelves
    10. Experiment with Shapes

    1. Lower Your Living Room

    home remodeling ideas for living room

    A recent home renovation trend, involves making sunken areas for the sofas in living rooms. It tends to give a more intimate feel to space and also makes the living room seem much larger than it actually is. If you have an entire room or space that you’re looking to change, try out this trick for a unique home remodeling solution.

    2. Use the Area Under the Stairs

    Home remodeling ideas for stairs

    If you’re remodeling a house that includes a staircase, don’t make the mistake of leaving the large space under the staircase unused. Add some shelves to display your bookcases or music collection, or fans of fine wines can make a fancy wine rack and create your cozy nook. You can even transform a small room inspired by your childhood fantasy of living like Harry Potter and make your lovely secret reading nook.

    3. Maximize Space with Baseboard Drawers

    Baseboard Drawers

    We often leave the space under the bed and cabinets untouched. However, this is letting valuable storage areas go to waste! Instead of leaving this space empty, you can add low baseboard drawers, where you can store extra knick-knacks lying around the house and make the house look tidier. This is especially helpful in mobile home renovation, as you have to maximize the smaller amount of space you’re working with.

    4. Don’t Forget the Exterior

    exterior room design

    The outside of your house is just as important as the inside. So, while conducting a home renovation, remember to add a few accent pieces to give your home a welcoming and pleasant appearance. Some simple methods of upgrading your exterior are: adding a garden; giving your mailbox a makeover; adding cheerful and colorful pieces to the entrance of your home; and adding shutters, window boxes, or planters to your window space.

    5. Create More Usable Space

    create more usable space

    Another great home remodeling idea is to create more usable space out of your existing furniture, through optimizing your designs. For example, if you have a deck, putting a bar rail on it can create a nice bench for outdoor eating space. Also, instead of adding a typical built-in cabinet, use this home renovation as an opportunity to build pull-out cabinets, which both creates extra countertop and storage space, and also makes your home look unique. This is especially helpful if you’re looking for home renovation ideas on a budget, as you’re adding to spaces and products you already own, instead of starting from scratch.

    6. Add or Upgrade the Kitchen Island

    kitchen island

    A kitchen island provides you with more counter space, additional storage area, and extra seating options. One great way to enhance the kitchen design is by doubling it as a minibar, with racks above the counter with proper shelving for drinking glasses and storage space below to keep your alcohol. Be sure to also add additional electrical outlets to the island during your kitchen remodel, to ensure full functionality. Patterns too make up the backsplash and add texture to the room. Depending on the condition of the cabinetry, you might look into painting or staining your kitchen cabinets for an immediate and relatively inexpensive kitchen renovation idea.

    7. Be Mindful of Colors

    be mindful of colors

    Different paint color combinations will give your home different vibes, so be sure to consciously choose a palette that matches your desired aesthetic. For a more dramatic feel, use a large contrast of colors in your home renovation. For a more minimalist and organized feel, try an all-white palette that looks clean and beautiful. For an inviting and alive living space feel, use bright and vibrant colors that make you feel joyful. Accent walls are a great way to add depth and dimension to a room, as well as color.

    8. Create a Focal Point with Lightning

    focal point with lighting

    By adding lighting fixtures such as low hanging pendant lights or spot lights, you create an interesting focal point of the room. If you’re adding lights above a countertop or table, be sure that the material you use in your home remodel has a high impact so you can get a true visual treat. We suggest using materials like recycled glass, marble, or granite.

    9. Use Open Shelves

    Shelving

    As you work through your home renovation, one of our favorite ideas is to include open shelves, to add an extra visual layer to your home. You only need a couple of shelves to display your antiques, tchotchkes, and more, and you can choose to either keep them completely open, or cover them with glass doors. You can also decorate shelves with baskets, books or any other home accessory.

    10. Experiment with Shapes

    l shape

    Plot twist: you don’t need to stick to the traditional rectangular shapes of furniture! We recommend customizing your home renovation according to your style and the availability of space. Swap out the regular rectangular couches for a spacious L-shape couch, or try out curved countertops and tables for increased work areas. In doing this, though, it is important to make sure that these design ideas don’t reduce any space, and that they allow for easy traffic throughout your home.

    In a small space like a bathroom, every detail matters: The right wall color, tilework or lighting can transform a dull, dated bathroom into a bright, stylish retreat.

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    Factors to Consider When Choosing Building Materials

    The quality of a building largely depends on the materials used to construct it. That’s because the materials you choose will dictate the overall appearance, strength, and longevity of a building, whether a skyscraper, a residential home, or an apartment complex. That means building using cheap, poor-quality materials can increase the risk of premature structural failure and costly maintenance and repairs. Thus, carefully selecting your building materials can help ensure the quality and durability of your project.

    Luckily, today you can find high-quality construction materials, from roofing to carpentry and plumbing. This is mostly attributed to advancements in technology and innovations in the construction industry, leading to the introduction of cutting-edge machines like Glass Edging Machines. To ensure the endurance, durability, and character of your building, here are a few important factors to consider when selecting building materials:

    1.     Cost

    While there is a wide range of building materials to choose from, the prices can vary significantly depending on the quality. Often, the least expensive option isn’t always the best choice. You need to consider the utility and lifespan of the material before purchasing it. The problem with buying cheap, substandard materials is that they might cost you more in the long run in replacements and repairs. It’s always advisable to buy a premium material that will serve you well for an extended time, saving you money in the long run.

    2.     Durability

    Another crucial factor you must consider is the durability of the building materials. This is important as different materials respond differently to climatic conditions. Some materials are moisture and corrosion-resistant, while others degenerate pretty fast, especially when used in humid areas. You should ensure the materials are durable enough to withstand the climatic conditions of the location you’ll use them.

    Some climatic factors to consider when choosing construction materials include the average temperature range during the year, rainfall, snowfall, required ventilation, wind, and amount of sunlight. Not taking climatic conditions into account can lead to choosing materials that will easily get damaged by weather elements. However, choosing materials based on the climatic conditions of where they’ll be used can ensure they’ll effectively respond and adapt to the weather throughout the year. Durable materials will require minimal maintenance and replacement over the life of the building.

    3.     Availability

    Besides checking the quality of the construction materials, you also need to ensure the materials are readily available. Choosing locally available materials is crucial since it can save you the hassles and hefty costs associated with transporting and shipping them from abroad or distant places. Apart from saving shipping costs, selecting easily available materials helps you avoid rescheduling your project, saving time and ensuring you complete construction smoothly and on schedule. It also makes replacement and repair work easier and faster in case of any damage to your property.

    4.     Sustainability

    With the surge in carbon emissions, there’s an increased need for sustainable development in the construction industry. One of the best ways to reduce the carbon footprint is by choosing sustainable materials for your construction project. Also, relevant building codes and standards have strict specifications and requirements concerning carbon emissions. Instead of using conventional materials hazardous to the environment, consider using more sustainable and eco-friendly options like silica fume, fly ash, rice husk, metakaolin, and ground granulated blast furnace slag. The best construction materials should also be completely recyclable to reduce the demand for producing new ones, significantly reducing carbon release into the atmosphere.

    5.     Maintenance

    While maintenance keeps your building looking in the best condition, these practices take up a lot of time and can be expensive, especially when done frequently. It’s always best to choose high-quality, long-lasting materials that demand minimal maintenance and infrequent replacement rather than substandard materials. Using quality, durable materials for your construction will eliminate the need for regular maintenance for many years in the future, saving you a lot of money and time during the life of the building.

    6.     Aesthetic Appeal

    Before purchasing construction materials, it’s vital you consider your personal preference, taste, needs, and specifications. This is crucial since not every construction material will be attractive to you. Moreover, nobody wants to stay in an unattractive building that lacks charisma. Besides considering the building material’s functionality, ensure you check its aesthetic appeal. That means choosing the floor, wall, and window materials that best appeal to you and help you achieve your desired look.

    Endnote

    From durability to cost, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal, considering the above factors when choosing construction materials is the best way to ensure you purchase materials that best fit your needs. This will also ensure the durability and longevity of your new construction, saving you money and reducing the need for regular maintenance. Be sure to choose locally available materials to reduce the overall project costs and ensure they don’t cause harm to the environment.

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    Top 5 Important Reasons for Choosing Quality Construction Materials

    Choosing the right construction materials is obviously important for any building project or renovation. But while the material buying process may at first seem cut and dry, it’s much more intricate than meets the eye and can be quite frustrating for new buyers. Fortunately, there are a handful of simple fundamentals to follow. We’ll give you five expert tips that cover what you need to know:

    1. DURABILITY IS KING

    While many contractors have the budget of the project at the forefront on their minds, only the best contractors know to consider the durability of their materials first no matter the dollar sign. What good is a flimsy product if it’s going to degrade in just a handful of years? Do your research first by comparing the quality of the products and focusing on only that.

    2. WHAT WARRANTY TIMEFRAME ARE YOU AFTER?

    When we’re talking about durability, we’re also talking about warranties. A number of materials are warrantied to be free of defects from the manufacturer in various timeframes. Think about what timeframe of warranty fits the project the best, and then stick with it. Don’t forget to make sure that all the materials going into the project have the same warranty time limit! There wouldn’t be any point to a subfloor with a 20-year guarantee if the walls are, say, limited lifetime.

    3. REMEMBER YOUR ECOLOGICAL IMPACT

    It’s nice to know that more sustainable options are available nowadays than in previous years. If you have the option to select ecologically friendly materials that do not sacrifice quality, we certainly encourage you to do so. Building by nature is not in itself an ecological process, but every bit we can do helps our neighbors on planet Earth out a little more at a time. You may even find better grade materials that also happen to be more eco-friendly. Green buildings also happen to be an attractive selling point when the time comes to look for occupants and businesses for your new building.

    4. COST, OF COURSE, ISN’T FORGOTTEN

    Not all durable materials are necessarily expensive. You may even find more durable comparisons that are cheaper than the other ones! Select what’s practical to get based on what you need. If you have a tight budget to work with, there are always ways to make it work without having to sacrifice too much. If you’re buying in bulk, talk with the supplier to see if they can cut you a packaged deal. It’s not uncommon to get discounts if you’re ordering large quantities from the same seller. You may also want to consider whether the said materials are originally domestic or foreign. Like any other materials, carefully examine their features to determine which kind is the best fit for your project. Just as with pricing, not all foreign materials are considered the best in the industry, and not all domestic materials may be great. It’s really an apples to apples and oranges to oranges comparison.

    5. GET AN EXPERT INVOLVED

    Last but not least, make sure you don’t go it alone when it comes to selecting construction materials. A well-seasoned expert in the business like MH Williams can discern what’s good and what’s not based from their experience and will look out for your best interest. Make sure they have the correct licensing first before listening to their advice. MH Williams, for example, is officially licensed in Florida to handle a variety of commercial building projects. An unlicensed “expert” will get you into hot water fast.

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    15 Questions to Ask A General Contractor Before Hiring

    Whether you’re building a new home from the ground up or undertaking a renovation, you’ll make a lot of complex and critical decisions along the way. Your home building or renovation process all begins with choosing the right construction company, though. Having the right team on your side can make all the difference. Luckily, there are questions to ask a general contractor that can help you find the best fit for your project. Here are 15 questions to ask before you hire a general contractor.  

    1. Are you licensed for this type of work?

    Among the many questions to ask a general contractor, this is the big one. Licensing is an important aspect of many industries, and construction is no exception. 

    Ask for a copy of their license and contact the issuing authority to ensure it is current and in good standing. In Louisiana, this type of license is issued by the state. Use the online contractor search form provided by the Louisiana State Licensing Board For Contractors. 

    2. Which types of insurance do you carry? 

    There are a few answers you want to hear in response to this question. 

    First, your contractor should have general liability insurance that protects your home and property in the event of an accident. For example, if they hit a water line and flood your house, you can rest assured knowing they’ll take care of the cost of this type of disaster. 

    Second, your general contractor should also carry workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you from liability if someone is hurt while working on your property.

    3. How many building permits have you obtained in my area over the last two years?

    Make sure your general contractor is familiar with your local building code requirements and the permitting process in your community. It’s important to find a contractor who is credible and has recently worked within your area. 

    Put simply, you don’t want to hire a contractor who is new in town and unfamiliar with the regulations that will apply to your project. 

    4. Can you provide a list of references?

    Talk to former clients who have hired the general contractor you’re considering. Ask them about the process, as well as the final product. Discuss budgeting, timeliness, and professionalism. 

    One of the best ways to learn more about a potential general contractor is from credible sources. Ask them, would you hire this general contractor again?

    5. What is an expected timeline for this project?

    It’s important for you to have a clear picture of when the contractor will begin and end work on your project, especially if you have a deadline in mind. 

    Perhaps you’re awaiting the birth of a child or need to move out of your current home. Whatever the reason, ask about any circumstances that may push back your completion date. This is also a good time to ask about how many projects they’re currently juggling. Also, make sure the timeline is realistic. You can read more about the common project timeline for a new home build here. 

    6. Will you hire sub-contractors for the job?

    It is rare for a general contractor to have every type of necessary worker under one roof, especially if you are building a home from the ground up. They’ll often need to subcontract work out to plumbers, painters, electricians, and other specialists. 

    Ask for the name of every person they will hire, as well as the type of work they do. Use this information to verify these credentials and ensure they also have the necessary insurance requirements.

    7. How will my project be supervised?

    Most general contractors are not in the thick of it when it comes to slinging hammers. With that in mind, ask them how often they’ll stop by to check on your project to ensure the project is on track.  

    If they will not be checking in daily, who is the on-site project manager? Will you also be able to contact them directly with questions? You should feel confident that there is a person on-site tracking every phase of your new build or renovation.

    8. What kind of written warranty do you have? 

    Most contractors will guarantee their work, and some will even use a written warranty agreement. This should clearly disclose what is covered in the build, what is not, and for how long. Asking about warranties is definitely important when considering questions to ask a general contractor.

    While a one-year warranty is good, two years is even better. Others will provide long-term warranties for things like the foundation. 

    9. What’s your typical payment schedule? 

    The payment schedule is important for both you and the contractor you choose to partner with. 

    You don’t want to pay the full price upfront, and most contractors won’t ask you to do so. Discuss payment terms before work begins, including payment amounts, key deliverables, and due dates. 

    10. Do you anticipate any challenges regarding this project?

    Construction isn’t always cut and dry. There are challenges that may be clear from the beginning or issues your crew discovers along the way. 

    Ask your potential contractor to be up-front about these things from day one. This will help you prepare for any adjustments to the cost or timeline. 

    11. How do you communicate with your clients? 

    Questions will come up along the way, regardless of the size and scope of your project. You should have a designated point of contact and details about the best way to get in touch. Whether this is by phone, text message, or email, it’s important to be able to get ahold of someone on your contractor’s team as soon as possible. 

    On that note, your contractor should also offer a plan for staying in touch. Whether this is on a daily or weekly basis, ask about their protocol for sending project updates.  

    12. What does a typical workday look like for your crew?

    Organization is key when it comes to construction projects. Your contractor should be able to give you an idea of a potential work schedule over a few different phases of the project, such as working hours and general timelines. 

    During this conversation, you should also ask how the crew will ensure a safe, secure, and clean working environment. 

    13. Will you obtain all of the required building permits?

    Permits and inspection requirements vary by location. You may need a county, city, or even HOA approvals. In addition, most remodeling projects that change the structure of a home will require some type of approval. 

    A reputable general contractor will know which building permits are required, and they should handle this for your project directly. 

    14. Will you provide a written lien waiver at the end of the project?

    A lien waiver is a legal document that verifies you have paid the general contractor and all sub-contractors for the work that was done. It waives the signer’s right to file a lien on your property. 

    In simple terms, you can think of it as the construction industry’s version of a receipt. You want to work with a contractor who keeps detailed records for all projects. 

    15. Optional: Are you familiar with renovating historic homes? 

    If your project involves a historic home, experience is essential. 

    The intricate process of merging the past and the future can sometimes be a challenge. For this reason, you want to make sure you hire a general contractor who is familiar with the unique nature of historic renovations. Ask them for a few examples of the work they’ve done on historic homes, as well as references. 

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