What to Consider Before Choosing Paint for Your Home
Improving your home is a major project to partake as a homeowner. It can be an expensive affair, even tedious, depending on how big your planned home improvement project is. Planning for a home addition design is another story. You can avail affordable home additions from professional home remodeling architects that will suit your budget. But sometimes, home improvement can be as cheap and simple as buying good quality paint. Instead of tearing up the walls or replacing old cabinets, you can opt to repaint them for a fresher, more renewed look. Applying a fresh coat of paint is also a good idea if you are planning to sell your home. But first, you need to consider several things when choosing paint. Types of paint For starters, paint comes in different sheens. Two of the most popular ones are latex and oil-based paints. Latex paints This one is more common and more preferred to use because it is easier to clean up. Plus, it can last for many years as well. Latex paint is also less susceptible to premature fading and bubbling, hence the durability. It is also said to be more eco-friendly than its oil-based counterpart. You can use this type of paint to work on various surfaces including wood and concrete. Oil paints Meanwhile, oil-based paints came earlier than latex paint, existing for more than 50 years. But it is still being used until now mostly wood trims and moldings, as suggested by most architects builders. Oil paints also tend to dry longer than latex paint, so make sure to allow drying time. Some use an oil-based primer and use latex paint as a top coat, but it depends on your paint preference and requirement. Types of paint sheens And then there are different types of paint sheens, popular of which the glossy, semi-glossy, are and matte finishes. When to use glossy paint? Home remodeling architects recommend using glossy paint in high-traffic areas such as the living room, kitchen, or the playroom. You can easily clean and wipe walls and other surfaces with glossy paint. On the downside, glossy paint can highlight surface imperfections including bumps and other blemishes. When to use semi-glossy paint? Home improvement experts suggest using semi-gloss paint for bathroom and kitchen areas. Semi-glossy paint is also a little cheaper than glossy paint, making it a good alternative to the latter if you are aiming for the glossiness of paint. When to use matte paint? Matte or flat paint, although can hide imperfections more effectively, may not be recommended in high-traffic areas. This is because it may not be easily cleaned unlike using glossy paint. But if you want to use matte, you can opt for eggshell sheen. It also resembles matte paint but easier to maintain and wash, smoother, and more long-lasting. What to consider when choosing the paint color It can be overwhelming to choose the right paint color for your home, as there are a lot of colors to choose from. Well, it depends on your objectives. For example, experts suggest using white or off-white paint for walls if you are planning […]
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Ways to Make Your Home Smell Good After a Paint Job
A good paint job is a must for every home. It can be a fun but tedious activity depending on how big the area in your house that you are going to paint. Painting requires careful planning including the timeline, whether to hire manpower or do it on your own and where to temporarily store furniture and other things before starting the paint job. It can take days or weeks to complete a paint job. It is also a cost-effective way to spruce up your exterior and interior walls and even your cabinets and other furniture. You can hire a home additions builder to help you achieve the home you’ve always wanted. And then there’s that familiar stench While the painting is, as mentioned, a cost-effective way to improve your home, it can leave a mark in the room. An unpleasant smell, rather. Well, that lingering smell is inevitable after a major paint job. For one thing, the paint’s smell is not good at all. It can even cause a headache for others who can get a whiff of the scent of paint. You can simply open the door or the window to get rid of the smell of paint. But you cannot simply do so if it’s raining or it’s “pollen season” and you get allergies from it. There is no denying that we get used, even immune, to the scent of our home. It can be a smell of different things. It can be the smell of daily homecooked meals. Or the musty smell of your natural body scent. Or the smell of your pet dog resting in the living room. Regardless, there are still ways to get rid of unpleasant smells especially the smell of paint. Getting rid of paint smell For some reason, the smell of paint can be addicting… but not good for your health. Whether you are building a home addition or just hired a home addition builder for your home improvement project, you need to get rid of the smell of paint as much as possible. Fortunately, there are easy ways to do so. Baking soda This white, scent-free powder is a blessing to mankind. It can do a lot of things, from whitening your teeth, clean bathrooms, and even use it as a baking ingredient. And yes, it can remove the strong scent of paint. Your home additions builder might also recommend using this humble kitchen item after a paint job. Simply put a good amount of baking soda in a bowl, leave it in a room, and let it do its magic. Scented candles Candles are not only for… well, romantic candlelight dinners. It is also a great way to get rid of paint smells. While there are different candles to choose from, there are also candles specially made to get rid of strong paint odors. Coffee Not only the smell of coffee can jolt you awake every morning but is also a great odor absorber. Simply pour coffee grounds in a bowl and leave it in the room to get rid of the paint smell. But remember, do not use […]
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Effective Ways to Save Money on a Home Painting Job
There is nothing more satisfying than the smell of fresh paint. A fresh coat of paint can signify new beginnings, and one of the most exciting parts of home improvement. If you are planning for a home remodel, you have to consider the paint colors that you will use. Also, a home remodeling addition means hiring the best home additions builders out there. Getting started If you are planning for any home improvement project this year, you should think about the best color scheme to work on. You also have to have an idea of how much it can cost you for all the paint you will use and the labor (if you are going to hire professional painters). Or if you decide to do the job by yourself, make sure to do your research to avoid regrets later on. You should also have the right tools and supplies to take on the painting project. Also, you should know what to do before painting a wall or furniture, painting wall corners, saving on paint costs, and so on. Finding reliable home remodeling architects is also important if you decide to let professionals handle the job. What you need to know about the painting cost breakdown In choosing paint, you need to consider the material or surface you are going to paint. This includes wood, concrete, metal, and so on. Paint also comes in different textures and finishes such as glossy, semi-glossy, matte, and eggshell among a few. If you are planning for a condo remodeling, you may also want to hire professional painters for the painting job. As mentioned earlier, you need to consider two major contributors to painting costs: Paint and material costs It is said that paint usually cost at least $20 per gallon depending on the finish, brand, and other features. Some paints are mold-resistant or odor-free as well as a lifetime warranty, which can also contribute to the cost of the paint. When buying paint, never settle for cheaper ones – it may also mean cheaper quality and durability. Experts suggest using middle-grade acrylic paint for all-around painting needs. Consider other painting materials like paint brushes, rollers, painter’s tape, and other supplies. Labor expenses Another major cost is the cost of painting a surface. This includes the time spent on prepping so that the paint will adhere to the surface. At the same time, this will ensure that the paint job will last for a long time. The paint can be expensive or cheaper than the usual brands, but the labor and the output quality should be worth the price. How to save on a paint job Now you know that labor costs have the larger chunk of your budget. On the one hand, you can do the painting job on your own. However, it may not be recommended especially if it is your first-time or if it is a major painting job. If it’s the latter’s case, you may have to leave it to the experts instead. The good news is that it is possible to save money on a home improvement project. There are […]
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Essential Tips on Decorating Your Home Using Mirrors
Imagine life without mirrors. You cannot see yourself if that dress fits you perfectly. Or whether you are doing your makeup right. However, mirrors are not only important in checking how you look. It can also brighten up and make your room look attractive in general. So if you are planning to renovate your home, you might want to consider using mirrors to maximize your living space. When planning for a home addition design, you should also hire the best home remodeling architects in your area. Mirror designs There are different types of mirrors you can buy and use for your home. As mentioned, mirrors not only are for beauty purposes but also decorative purposes. When used correctly, it can provide balance or contrast to any room. You can utilize mirrors in your bedroom, living room, bathroom, or in any other parts of your home. Some of the most popular mirror designs you can use for your condo remodeling or home addition project include the following. Tiled mirrors This type of mirror looks better in a bathroom or a vanity room. It can truly catch one’s attention, especially with ambient lighting, and placed in a room with a high ceiling. Closets with built-in mirrors This also works best in a walk-in closet, a master’s bedroom, or even your home office. It can add a classy and timeless appeal to any room. Home remodeling architects can provide advice on the best furniture and fixtures that will suit your home. Mirrored walls This one is another popular home addition design that makes a room look interesting. You might encounter this type of mirrors in a hotel or salon lobby. Nonetheless, it also looks good in a living room and adds aesthetic appeal to the area. Huge mirrors This works in bedrooms, walk-in closets, and the living room. It can make the room look bigger, brighter, and livelier. What to consider in using mirrors to design a room Before buying a mirror for your home, you need to consider the following first. Placement For one, it should be placed across a visually appealing area. Say, you can place it near a window, a beautiful staircase, or a nice chandelier or lighting. Ideally, hanging it at eye-level can make a difference to the room. However, displaying it higher or lower eye-level can also work depending on the room. Size Mirrors can make a room look bigger. That is why you can explore using large mirrors if you want to add the illusion of space in a room. Of course, it will make the room look nicer as well. Style/design Mirrors have various designs, modern and classic designs alike. It will all depend on the frame design and the theme you want to achieve in your room or home. Mirrored furniture Now, there are also mirrored furniture that has been popular for some time now. While it looks sophisticated and attractive in a room, you also have to consider where you are going to put it. Ideally, you should not put it in an area with so many things going on that can deflect attention […]
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Useful Tips to Make Your Home Allergy-Proof During a Home Improvement Project
Every homeowner wants their home to feel comfortable and welcoming at all times. More so, homeowners want their houses to look aesthetically appealing as well. Some hire home addition companies to renovate and improve their homes. Building a home addition requires extensive planning as it can cost you some cash as well. However, homeowners should not only consider their house’s aesthetics. Rather, you should also think about its safety in general. By safety, it can also mean that your home should also be allergy-proof. For one thing, allergies can wreak havoc to you or your loved one and affect one’s quality of life. Getting started Studies show that at least 20 percent of Americans suffer from some kind of allergy. Being allergic to something that can affect one’s quality of life. Common allergic symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and rashes among a few. In the worst cases, allergy sufferers may experience shortness of breath and even death. Allergic triggers usually come from your surroundings, and yes, even at home. That is why you should determine what triggers your allergies. Whether it’s because of dust, pollen, or pet dander, allergies should be taken seriously and should start within your home. If you are planning for a home improvement project, you might have to consider the materials and procedures that can trigger your allergies. For example, the dust that can accumulate while the construction is ongoing can cause allergies. Make sure to let your home additions builder know that you or a family member suffer from allergies as well. First, know what you are allergic to A home remodeling addition is more than finding professional home addition companies. It requires careful planning, finding the best and quality materials, and considering possible adjustments needed to do Undergoing a home remodel project can possibly trigger your allergies. It can be due to dust that would fly around the construction area or the paint used for your walls. Also, you also have to consult an allergist to determine what causes your allergies in the first place. Here are other tips that can help to get started with the renovation without the constant sneezing and all. Make sure that your house is well-ventilated before starting the renovation project. Use dehumidifiers to lessen moisture that can cause the formation of mold especially in the bathroom and kitchen. Choose air-conditioning systems and vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters. Close your windows if it is windy and during hours when the pollen count is high (usually around 10 am to 3 pm). Decide whether to have carpeting as it is also a major allergy trigger. Also, make sure to clean your home regularly to lessen the accumulation of allergens. Clean the clutter The next step is cleaning up the clutter in your home, as it can also lessen dust and other allergens that can trigger allergies. Vacuum your home regularly of dust, pollen, and pet dander (especially if you have pets). Throw or give away unused newspapers, magazines, and other stuff that can be huge breeding grounds for dust mites. Clean areas where you usually spend time more such as […]
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Going Green: What to Consider Before Installing Solar Panels
Thanks to the continuous technological advances, most people are able to enjoy a convenient life. Imagine life without kitchen appliances, cars, and even the phone you are using now. Imagine how you can live without electricity that gives light and power to your home and your personal gadgets. But modern advancements also come with a price, especially in the environmental aspect. Thankfully, there have been several alternatives that aim to lessen our carbon footprints. There are also home addition companies that also offer environment-friendly home addition design and material alternatives. Solar power: An environment-friendly energy alternative Perhaps you have already heard about solar power. For starters, solar power naturally comes from the sun. Meanwhile, solar panels are becoming more and more popular these days especially for residential use. If you are planning for a home remodeling addition or outdoor remodeling project, you might want to shift to solar-powered panels instead. It will be a huge step, even expensive at first. But it will be useful in the long run, and can even save you money along the way. Solar power is not a new thing and has been around for some time now. But it was only recently when it became more accepted in many home improvement projects. As mentioned, installing a solar panel can be expensive – it can cost as a brand-new car. But despite its high costs, more and more homeowners realize the benefits of solar panels. If you are planning to install one in your home, you can hire a home additions builder who is also familiar with solar panel installation. What to consider before installing a solar panel You don’t have to be an environmental activist to have a solar panel in your home. You can think of the several benefits it can give you in terms of savings. But before that, you should think about the following first before installing solar panels. Your home should be suitable for solar installation. You should know whether your home is suitable to have solar panels installed. But how would you know if it is okay to install solar panels in your home? There should be no huge trees or any structures that block direct sunlight. The higher your energy bills (before installing solar panels), the more savings you can get with solar power. You might also consider the direction your roof is facing. Some good directions should face east-west or north. What kind of solar panel should you buy? There are several inverters and solar panel brands available nowadays. Before you buy one, make sure you: Choose a reputable solar panel supplier that has been around for years. Get quotes from a couple of suppliers and compare them in terms of price, product quality, and other important terms. Consider the long run. Are you going to live in your current home for a long time, or move elsewhere after a few years? What should you know about warranties? Most solar panels usually come with 10, 15, and 25-year warranties. The warranties will work depending on the product’s performance and usage. Also, you should have an idea of […]
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Planning for a Staircase Overhaul? Here’s What You Need to Know
The staircase is one of the most important parts of a building, whether residential or commercial. Unless you have your own elevator at home, you cannot go to one floor to another. Or opt to use a ladder instead, which is not a practical solution for home use. Staircases not only are useful but can also add an interesting touch to your home. That said, it can also be a good idea to renovate your old staircase, or add some aesthetic touch to your existing one. You can come up with a home addition design for your staircase and hire a professional home addition builder. Why you need to renovate your staircase Staircases are one of the most overly-used parts of the house. They are there not only to transport you from one floor to another. It can also add an interesting appeal to your home. Because of frequent use, your home’s stairs will eventually have signs of wear and tear. That means any signs of wear and tear can make your staircase a safety hazard, especially if you have children. Aside from safety reasons, here are other instances that should convince you to hire home remodeling architects for staircase renovation. For one, an outdated staircase can decrease home value. A lot of home sellers often take their staircases for granted. Not only should it be safe for the entire household but also look nice and appealing to potential home buyers. No one would like to buy a house with stairs that creak as they step on it. As mentioned, a staircase can also add a refreshing look to your home. You can be creative with your staircase. You can also have your staircase customized by a home remodeling addition professional. You can even add an extra room or storage area under the staircase. What to consider before renovating the staircase A staircase renovation is an important investment for your home. But before hiring a home remodel professional, you need to plan for it. You need to consider the following first before starting a staircase renovation. Space Before looking into different staircase designs, make sure you have enough space to accommodate the design you want. You don’t want to end up spending on huge banisters that won’t fit in your limited space. Budget Of course, you need to have a budget to fund your staircase renovation project. You need to factor in the materials needed and rates of home addition companies (for comparing purposes). Safety The most important thing is to ensure that the staircase is safe for everyone in your household. You also need to choose balustrades and handrails that are sturdy and can last for many years. Of course, one that looks good in your home, too. Design There are different kinds of staircases: L-shaped, curved, bifurcated, and straight. All of these staircase designs will add appeal to your home. However, you need to consider the space you have in your home before deciding on the staircase type. Staircase renovation ideas There might be some questions before starting a staircase renovation project. From the material to be used, […]
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Home Additions for Added Property Value: Which Ones to Pursue and Ones to Avoid?
Much has happened because of the pandemic. For one, a lot of businesses have been affected and some even have to close. While some businesses are able to bounce back and survive the impact of the ongoing pandemic, some industries are still struggling until now. One of these is the real estate industry. Being mostly at home, a lot of homeowners took the quarantine period to do something valuable. Say, planning for a home addition design for your outdated kitchen or bathroom. For your home improvement needs, better hire home remodeling architects. Home improvement in the middle of a pandemic As mentioned, the real estate industry has been affected a lot by the pandemic. Buying property may not be a priority for now. However, there are some homeowners who are considering selling their homes now. One reason is because of financial problems – some may have lost their jobs and have no means to pay for a mortgage. Unfortunately, this is the reality of many homeowners now. It will be a lucky occurrence if they are able to sell their homes during these uncertain times. But for those who are more fortunate, now is the time for a home improvement project – no matter how minor or major it is. Then again, it also depends on your long-term goals. If you are planning to live in your home for many years, it is good to invest in your home. It is also a good idea to hire a professional home additions builder to help you with your home improvement project. However, home improvement projects can also be tempting. For example, you might be considering to add a small pool or build a treehouse in your backyard. But the question is: Are they necessary? Is hiring an outdoor remodeling expert worth it? More importantly, will these add value to your home? Home improvement projects to avoid this pandemic As luxurious as it may seem, there are a lot of home improvement projects that won’t add value to your real estate property. More so, if you are planning to move to another place after a couple of years. So, which of these popular home improvement projects you should avoid? Jacuzzis/Sauna baths It may sound relaxing to have your own Jacuzzi in your bathroom. For one thing, building a Jacuzzi or sauna bath can cost you high electric bills aside from frequent maintenance costs. In-ground swimming pool Depending on the type and size of the pool you are aiming for, it can cost as much as tens of thousands of dollars. While having a pool seems like a dream come true for many homeowners, it might make your house challenging to sell. For one, families with small children may not want to buy a house with a large pool due to safety reasons. High-end kitchens Too much home addition design not only is expensive but also unnecessary. Just like when you buy expensive tiles, countertops, and appliances. Trends come and go, and so will these appliances, tiles, and other home décor. Your high-end refrigerator might already be outdated when you decide to sell […]
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Shipping Container Homes: What You Need to Know Before Building One
A lot of people dream of having their own houses with a garage area and a spacious backyard. Who doesn’t want to live in their dream homes with their own family? In fact, owning a house is one of the tell-tale signs of a person’s financial capability. For one thing, buying a house and lot or an apartment unit usually does not come cheap. Maintaining your home, especially if you will live in it for many years, is another story. You might have to contact home remodeling architects for your future home improvement projects. Don’t worry, there are a lot of home addition companies that offer affordable home additions. Do you want to live in a shipping container? Seriously, shipping containers? Those rectangular corrugated boxes used for large shipments? These are important items in transporting goods both in land and in the sea. But over the years, there has been a surge of used shipping containers awaiting a second chance. It might seem like a huge problem as it can lead to a huge amount of trash. However, several creative individuals saw a silver lining with these seemingly useless containers. One of which includes building a house using these containers. Apparently, not only shipping containers are used for cargo but also for building homes. You might have a lot of questions in mind right now. Is it hot inside? Is it even possible to have a complete home in a box-shaped shipment container? Is it sustainable in the long run? For these questions, you can consult architects builders especially if they have experience building a shipping container home. What to expect in a shipping container home For one, a shipping container house is made from, obviously, a shipment container. Shipping containers are usually available in 20 ft. by 8 ft. and 40 ft. by 8 ft. The former can provide about 160 sq. ft. of liveable space, while the latter can give you 320 sq. ft. domestic space. Some homeowners hire a home additions builder to turn a shipping container into a liveable home. On the other hand, some owners fuse several containers to make into larger houses or office spaces. The corrugated walls would usually be removed to add more space and invite more natural light inside the structure. Home designers have the opportunity to exercise their creativity in building a shipping container home. Shipment containers are usually budget- and environment-friendly. However, it is better to check the condition of the container before converting it into a liveable space. As for building permits, you might have to check your local area’s building rules and regulations. But most likely you have to make sure that the container will fit the land area and that it should meet your local area’s zoning and building restrictions. Shipping container homes: Pros and cons On the one hand, shipping container homes are budget-friendly. Building a shipment container house is a lot faster than building a concrete or wooden house from scratch. On average, a used shipping container costs around $1,400 and above. The former can be built as fast as three weeks, while traditional […]
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Refreshing Makeover: What to Consider Before Painting Your House
Painting your home may be easier said than done. You need to plan for it carefully. You also have to choose the right paint color that you won’t regret later on. Or whether you need to paint your house walls in the first place. You might have to hire a professional for a home remodel. Nonetheless, it is a good idea to refresh your home every now and then. It doesn’t matter whether you decide to repaint your room, replace your bathroom tiles, or renovate your kitchen. What’s important that whatever these home improvements will benefit your entire household in terms of aesthetic appeal and safety. Painting: A cheap but effective home improvement White walls sure can look boring. So, the easiest and most inexpensive solution to brighten up your walls is by repainting it. Its difficulty level depends on how big the wall area you are going to paint. It can be only one side of the room or all of the walls of the house. This is one reason why a lot of homeowners dread house painting but should be done nonetheless. Aside from time, you also have to take into consideration what specific color to choose. There are several factors that you should consider when choosing a paint color. Home remodeling architects might help you choose the right paint shade for your home. It can be a tedious chore, but you will love the end result. If you are hiring a home additions builder, make sure you let them know what you want if they will also paint your walls. Otherwise, you can do your own thing – or even let your family decide on the colors! What to do before painting your house walls As mentioned, there are several things you need to consider before painting your house’s walls. It is important that you know these to prevent regrets later on unless you are willing to repaint over again. Getting the area to be painted ready Painting the walls with the furniture and desks around can be quite a hassle. That is why you should clear the area first before doing the paint job. If it’s a home remodeling addition, you have to take them out first so you can finish the paint job faster. If it’s a simple paint job, you can just move them to the center of the room and cover the items using old bedsheets or blankets. Wiping off any debris It may seem unnecessary, but cleaning the walls of any dirt and debris is important. Doing so will make the paint stick to the walls a lot better. Also, make sure to fill in any cracks or holes present on the walls. Add tape on window trims, outlet covers, and light switches before painting. Don’t forget to put old newspapers so that the paint won’t drip off on the floor. Checking the paint color If you have a specific color that you want, make sure to get a sample first. Sometimes, the actual color when applied on the wall may look different from what you imagine it to be. You can […]
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