Top 4 Mistakes to Avoid When Building Your Own Home

After a year of being stuck in tiny apartments and houses, many people are starting to consider building their own homes. Real estate professionals have already predicted that new construction, single-family homes could exceed 1 million in 2021. So, if you’re on the fence about building a home from scratch, you might want to decide soon.

Still, it’s wise to take your time and know exactly what you want before laying claim to a tract of land. Otherwise, you could make one of the following mistakes and end up spending more time and money than you’d planned.

1. Choosing a Bad Site

One of the biggest mistakes homebuyers make when building their own house is choosing the wrong site. In a rush to start constructing their dream home, they overlook details like light, noise, traffic, and even public water connections. When they discover their dream home site is anything but, it’ll be too late.

Visit a few sites and narrow down your options by visiting them at different times of the day and night. Walk around the property, snap a few pictures, and take some notes. Then, when you think you’ve found the perfect spot, take another day or two to make sure.

2. Picking the Wrong Materials

Many people looking to build a home also make the mistake of choosing the wrong materials. Contractors usually know where to get quality materials for the best price. However, some materials can still cost a pretty penny, tempting builders to choose cheap, low-quality materials.

While they may be able to get away with cutting corners on some supplies, they’ll have no choice but to choose higher-quality materials for high-traffic areas. Otherwise, they may end up paying out the nose to repair or redo a portion of their home later on down the road.

3. Planting Trees

Nature-loving homebuilders won’t hesitate to plant large tree and shrub varieties around their new home. However, if the vegetation is too close, it can break pipes, ruin sidewalks, and erode the foundation.

Whether you have a strong traditional foundation or an alternative type of foundation, tree roots can rob the soil around it of water, which can put extra stress on your home. Therefore, it’s best to plant larger trees farther from the site or simply stick with smaller plants that won’t erode the earth around your foundation.

4. Poor Communication

Contractors and construction teams are notoriously bad at communicating with clients — and vice versa. However, your architect, designer, and builder won’t know what to do unless you tell them, so it’s crucial to establish an open line of communication from the very beginning.

Choose a main method of communication — like texting or emailing — and use it to connect with everyone on your team throughout the entire project. Share your vision and don’t skimp on the details. After all, this is your future home, so it’s your responsibility to tell the builder what you want.

Be Confident and Live Your Dream

While you’re building your home, your friends and family will undoubtedly give you their opinion on everything from countertop materials to layout — whether or not you want to hear it. However, it’s in these moments that you must be confident and remind yourself that this is your home.

You are more than capable of making your own decisions and making your dream a reality. As long as you avoid making the mistakes above, you’ll end up with a beautiful, unique home that’s perfect for you and your family.

Great way to avoid mistakes is to find professional home builders like Country Living Homes and expect satisfaction in their work.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

Why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist

Spring isn't just around the corner; it's already here! Most people avoid doing large-scale housework or cleaning during the winter months. It makes sense to ride out the winter and start doing major household chores once the weather gets warmer. Besides the warm weather, there is also more daylight when spring finally rolls around, making cleaning much easier. Before you start crossing chores off your list, we need to discuss why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist.

But the drains are fine

It's great that you haven't had any problems so far. However, you shouldn't wait for something to go wrong to check your drains. Think of drain cleaning as preventative maintenance for your plumbing. Clogged drains are something that most homeowners have to deal with. We recommend hiring professionals to do annual inspections.

Remember to check your outdoor drains for buildup as well.

Checking the drains regularly on your home will help:

• Clear buildup: Buildup can happen in both outdoor and indoor drains. If you haven't done regular cleaning, there could be years of buildup in your drains. Outdoor drains are susceptible to foliage and twig buildups. Kitchen and bathroom drains can house a year's worth of grease and hair follicles. That's just an accident waiting to happen, one that you can easily avoid with regular maintenance.

• Detect problems: Regular inspections will let you know about any potential issues before they escalate. Know about any cracks in the pipes and replace them in time.

• Prevent future emergencies: Clogged toilets can cause substantial damage to your home. Unpleasant odors and spillage can be hard to remove. So, drain cleaning ends up much cheaper than remodeling.

• Extend the life of your plumbing: Anything will last longer if you maintain it properly. The same goes for the drains and plumbing system of your home. Don't wait for the plumbing in your home to break down. If any pipe or fixture does need replacing, it will be cheaper than doing a complete remodel.

Why spring cleaning

Due to heavy rainfall and snow in some cities, winter can leave the drains in your home in bad shape. If the winter was particularly cold, your pipes could have cracks that hadn't been there the year before. Spring is the perfect time to perform a checkup and do some drain cleaning. Also, most people find that they are in a better mood when spring comes around. With a good mood comes more energy for work around the house too, which is why people decide to commit to detailed spring cleaning. And we have some additional ideas for this project since you are already invested in doing the job right. 

Cold winters can lead to a lot of rainfall in the spring.

Unfortunately, spring comes with some issues as well. Melting snow leads to rain, and there tends to be a lot of rainfall during spring in many places. If your home has experienced plumbing issues, cracks, or leaks, you will likely face those problems again. This means it's imperative to do a checkup before any spring flooding occurs. As you can see, there are many reasons why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist. 

Moving to a new home

If you are moving to a new home, you will be facing many uncertainties. For help with the move itself, browsing through Verified Movers will allow you to connect with professional companies they work with. And then, as if relocating wasn't stressful enough, you also need to think about the condition of the drains and pipes. Even doing a home inspection before you buy will only reveal so much.

Hire an additional professional to look at the plumbing and drains. Doing an extensive plumbing checkup before moving into a new home is a good idea. You will learn a lot about the current state of your home. You can use potential problems that the checkup uncovered as a negotiation tool to lower the purchasing price. Knowing any issues in advance will make your home easier to maintain. Also, you can do any needed repairs before you move in. And it will end up saving you a lot of time and money. Besides, no one wants to live on a construction site.

Keeping your drains in good shape

Sure, spring cleaning is great; with the new season, you also get to breathe new life into your home. If you have the energy, here are some other spring cleaning tasks that you can add to your checklist. Getting professionals to do a thorough checkup is better than improvising a DIY solution. While professional drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist, there are some things that you can do yourself to keep the drains in good shape.

Keep your kitchen drains clean and free from grease buildup.

Tips to keep your drains in good shape:

• Install drain stoppers. Make sure that all of the drains in your home have drain stoppers. This is also relevant for outdoor drains in your garden or yard.

• Clean the drain covers. The drain covers and stoppers are there to hold back larger debris. Once they have done their job, it's up to you to clean them. We recommend cleaning the drain covers weekly.

• Remove hair from shower drains. Lift the stopper and try to remove all of the hair and soap residues. You can use a wire or dedicate a pair of tweezers for the task.

• Avoid flushing large items. Makeup removal pads, wet wipes, cotton balls, and large paper towels have no business being flushed down the drain. Place these in the trash. You can have a small bin in the toilet you use only for these items.

• Use drain cleaning agents. Many options on the market won't corrode the pipes and are biodegradable.

• Don’t put just anything down the kitchen drain. If your kitchen drain is connected to garbage disposal, you will need to clean that as well. Grind a mix of ice and salt and follow it with lemon juice to get a fresh smell. Avoid putting cooking oil, grease, or fruit peels in your garbage disposal, since that can clog your kitchen drain easily.

You have seen why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist. With regular cleaning, you will ensure that you avoid any accidents that need urgent repairs. We hope that you have enjoyed the article and that you will keep your drains clean and well maintained. 

Meta description: Drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist. Read on to find out why and get to it immediately.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

Which Kitchen Cabinets Match Your Tiles?

One of the hurdles when it comes to decorating a kitchen is achieving a cohesive look. The kitchen just has so many elements — cabinets and cupboards everywhere, the floor, and an island table in the center — so if you choose a lot of colors and styles for them, the whole room will simply look chaotic. 

And who wants to be in a kitchen that isn’t aesthetically pleasing? No one, that’s who.

Fortunately, there’s a way to pull off a clean and cohesive design of your kitchen. And that is to match the kitchen cabinets with the floor tiles and kitchen plumbing. 

What Does It Mean to Match Kitchen Cabinets with Floor Tiles?

Before you get the wrong idea, you should know first that when we say, “Match the kitchen cabinets with the floor tiles,” we don’t necessarily mean that both of them share the same style or color. 

Rather, what we mean is that the styles of the kitchen cabinets and the floor styles should contrast and complement each other very well. 

Sure, it’s totally okay to choose only one color or style for all of your kitchen elements. But the overall look might end up being dull and flat, and you don’t want that. You want the kitchen elements to pop every time you look over the room, and you also want them to look harmonious with each other so that your kitchen will look clean and elegant. 

The best way to achieve that goal is to maintain a contrast between the floor tiles and the cabinets in the kitchen. This contrast should highlight their differences — but also complement each other well.

The Perfect Combinations of Kitchen Cabinets and Floor Styles

Oak Cabinets and Hardwood Floors

Wood is a design element that’s just perfect for the kitchen. After all, a lot of tools in the kitchen are made 

up of wood, and the impact of a wood-inspired design is rustic and homey. Because of this, wood is one of the most popular design choices for kitchen floor and kitchen cabinets. 

Pulling off an all-wood look for your kitchen can be tricky, simply because it might look too boring. The perfect solution to this is to use two different kinds of wood designs for the kitchen and cabinets. 

Oak cabinets and hardwood floors seem like a good combination, especially if the floor has a light color. This is because a wooden floor with a light color adds warm tones to the room and reflects the light. 

Light Cabinets and Dark Floors

Another way of matching cabinets and floors is to coordinate their colors. Usually, it’s the floor tiles that need to balance the colors of all the elements in the kitchen, so if you have cabinets with a light color, choose a dark color for the floor tiles — and vice versa. 

Additionally, if you want your kitchen to have multiple shades of one color, you should select the darkest shade for the cabinets. 

Traditional Cabinets and Patterned Floors

A patterned design makes for a more attractive kitchen element, but unfortunately, if not used properly, it can ruin your whole kitchen look. 

Basically, patterned cabinets and patterned floor tiles don’t mix well together. They will just make the kitchen look busy and hectic, instead of refined and elegant. As a result, you need to have a non-patterned element if you want to add a patterned one. 

For example, contemporary cabinets clash with patterned floors, but traditional cabinets don’t. So, if your floor tiles have accents and patterns on them, pairing them with traditional cabinets will make for a more harmonious kitchen look. 

Conclusion

Decorating your kitchen may seem like a fun idea at first, but trying to match the floor with the cabinets is a lot more challenging than you think. 

Luckily, you can mix various design styles for the cabinets and floor tiles that will result in a harmonious and elegant look. Even better, you can find the perfect kitchen cabinets for your floor tiles everywhere, for instance in Cabinet City - check out Cabinet City here.

So, choose the cabinet-and-floor combination from the ones mentioned above and transform your kitchen to your heart’s desire.

Guest Contributor: Ashley Lipman

Ashley is an award-winning writer who discovered her passion in providing creative solutions for building brands online. Since her first high school award in Creative Writing, she continues to deliver awesome content through various niches like Studyclerk website.

Top Kitchen Remodelling Trends: Materials and Features to Use in 2021

New year, new you, new kitchen. Now that 2021 is well under way and that you’re hard at work fulfilling your new year’s resolutions, the time has come to rejuvenate the most important room in your home and create the kitchen of your dreams. This is your opportunity to utilize your flair for remodelling and create something truly special, inspirational, and beautiful.

That said, remodelling a kitchen is not an easy task, and you need to know how to approach this project from an aesthetic and functional standpoint. So today, let’s bring form and function together and share with you the top materials and features you should have in your kitchen in 2021.

Use wood for a biophilic design

Wood is one of those materials that can never go out of style, and it can perfectly go in any kitchen design. Whether you’re going for a rustic look and feel or an up-scale vibe, you can work various colours and textures of wood into the cabinetry, the furniture and supporting elements like shelves, and more. 

That said, wood works best when introduced as a part of a biophilic design. This approach to interior design has become very popular nowadays, because it aims to create a relationship with nature in your home and create a more peaceful space. If you think that you need more nature in your life, then make sure to use wooden elements throughout the room. 

Emphasize the benchtop with Corian

The look and feel of your kitchen can oftentimes come down to your choice of benchtops and their style, so it’s important to focus on this crucial part of the remodel. For one, you need to choose the perfect benchtop materials that emphasize aesthetics while providing durability and functionality. One of the best choices out there right now is, of course, Corian.

This is a popular material that boasts high durability and typically comes with a ten-year warranty, which is why homeowners and interior designers love it. That said, it’s also important to note that Corian is both beautiful and functional because it’s non-porous, it doesn’t harbor bacteria, and it’s durable, but also comes in a variety of colours and boasts a sophisticated matte finish.

Make the appliances complement the style

When you’re remodelling your kitchen, you need to consider how the appliances will work with the overarching design while complementing the functionality of the space. This can be a tricky challenge, as you need to find the most efficient appliances that also come in a variety of design choices to suit your needs.

For one, it’s important to complement or contrast the finish on the benchtop and the cabinetry. You also want to choose the appliances you’ll actually use, and that fit into the overall design. Functionality is also important, and making sure you can cook a variety of dishes can be difficult if you’re strapped for space. A simple gas stove and a wok burner don’t take up much of your kitchen real estate but are compatible with a variety of styles – from something minimalist and sleek to rustic and exotic. 

In general, choose high-gloss appliances if you want to make certain areas pop, or go for a matte finish if you want that simple yet elegant look. Make sure to consider other colours than your typical white and black options, because nowadays appliances come in a variety of hues to complement the look of your kitchen.

Infuse various metals into the space

In order to give your kitchen a rich and luxurious look and feel, you might consider adding metals to your design. Metalling surfaces and features can make any kitchen beautiful and functional, so even if you’re going for eclectic or rustic, metallics can still make a big difference.

Consider brass tiles for the splashback that will act as a reflective surface and give the space a unique hue. You can also go with bronze faucets and exposed brass pipes to create a minimalist yet retro look, but remember to refrain from metallics on your appliances if you choose this approach, because the two tend to clash.

Finish the project with stone elements

Lastly, consider adding stone to your kitchen remodel. You can introduce stone for your countertops or your flooring, and both work great as durable and aesthetic materials. That said, keep in mind that granite countertops come with a hefty price tag because of the inherent durability and functionality of the material. Nevertheless, investing in stone is a good long-term decision, and the material comes in numerous styles and finishes to complement your new kitchen.

Wrapping up

In 2021, you want to make your kitchen more functional and beautiful than ever before. Use these tips to make the best decision and build the kitchen on your dreams.

About the author: Mike Johnston is an avid blogging enthusiast and experienced freelance writer. He’s a regular contributor to the “Smooth Decorator” blog and numerous other online publications where he writes about real estate, construction, home improvement, and interior design.

How To Tell If You're A Minimalist or a Maximalist

Personalizing your house and making it feel like home starts with identifying your preferred style. In simplest terms, identifying whether you're a minimalist or a maximalist can set the tone for every interior design decision you make.

Here's what you need to know about minimalism and maximalism in design and how to identify your style. 

What is Minimalism?

Minimalism is a less-is-more approach to interior design. This style is defined by a clear, open flow within a room. People who prefer minimalism often have fewer furniture and art pieces, gravitating toward clean, simple lines. Rather than having two overstuffed couches with throw pillows, minimalists prefer a single, modern-style seating arrangement and accessory furniture.

Being a minimalist doesn't mean that someone is plain or boring. People with this preference feel overwhelmed by objects that they perceive as clutter and are more intentional when choosing what has a place in their homes.

What is Maximalism?

Maximalism is a more-is-more approach. People who prefer this style tend to create more warm, welcoming, and comfortable spaces. The walls in a maximalist's home rarely have an open space, featuring photos and art that add to the atmosphere.

Color and design choices in a maximalist's home tend to be brighter and more vibrant. There's a misconception that maximalism is synonymous with clutter. However, many maximalist designs are well-organized if a little busy. 

Do You Prefer Bold or Calm Decor?

If you prefer bold colors and attention-catching decor, you might be a maximalist. If windows filled with plants, shelves teeming with books and treasures, and seating that invites you to while the day away, you have maximalist tendencies. You likely feel at home in a crowded bookshop or cafe that provides warmth and comfort.

Conversely, if you prefer neutral tones and calming decor, you might be a minimalist. If the soothing, sparse spa experience appeals to you, you'll likely try to capture that in your decor scheme. If you're a minimalist, your art preferences will be nuanced and straightforward, or you'll gravitate toward having one central piece on display.

Do You Prefer Symmetry or Contrast?

Maximalists tend to prefer contrast over symmetry. These are the people who are more likely to have boldly colored kitchen cabinets, mismatched rugs and curtains, and chintz textiles. 

Conversely, minimalists prefer cleaner lines and symmetry. There should be balance in every room and matching accent pieces that come together for a streamlined decor scheme. 

Do You Feel Attached to Things?

Another common difference between minimalists and maximalists is the inherent attachment or disconnect from material things. Minimalists follow the Mari Kondo attachment style, collecting and displaying only that which brings joy or feels necessary. 

Maximalists have more sentimental values attached to material belongings and often view them as memory triggers. In essence, those material belongings also spark joy but differently than experienced by a minimalist. For example, a minimalist might have fond memories of the beach and revisit those thoughts often. A maximalist might choose to have a tangible reminder— such as a jar of shells— displayed in their living room. One is not better than the other; they're just different.

Are You Both?

Believe it or not, you can have both minimalist and maximalist tendencies. You might prefer an open concept room with minimal furniture but bright and bold accents on the walls and floors. Conversely, you might like a busy kitchen and living room but have a very minimalist style bedroom. 

As humans, we tend to label ourselves and create a dichotomy between preferences. Yet as history has shown, that black and white thinking rarely applies to everyone. 

Identifying your preference toward minimalist or maximalist design is a great starting point when personalizing your house, but it's ultimately your unique inclinations that will make it a home. 

Guest Contributor: Ashley Lipman

Things You Should Know For Choosing The Right Plumbing Service

It is a very difficult task to control all the plumbing problems when you don't have much knowledge about it. As a result, you have to pay a huge water consumption cost and your building can get affected by some water leakages. So it is better to take the assistance of professional water and gas plumbing service.

It ensures safety and prevents future extra costs. But for all this, you need to choose the best service. Thus we have discussed some factors that will help you choose the perfect plumbing company for your house. 

Six things to look for in your plumbing service

Below is the list that you should look for in your plumbing service to make sure it is the right one and will help you resolve your problem:

• Local
  
  When choosing a plumber for your regular gas and water system's services, you should always look for a local one. This is because they will be able to reach your place on time whenever you need their help. Apart from that, they do not charge anything extra for transportation and you can call them anytime for an emergency issue. Make sure, you must choose a plumbing service that offers 24x7 services.

• Look for credential
  
  Some house owner does not ask for certificates and accreditations while taking water and gas plumbing service from a company. The plumbing service you are planning to hire must have a proper state-specific license to run their business. There are also individual licenses and certificates that every worker holds. These certificates are proof that you are paying the taxes to the government and they are liable to offer the best quality work. If you find any issue in their services then you can lodge a complaint in your local authority against the company.

• Surf through the customer reviews
  
  Another important thing to look for when hiring a water and gas plumbing service is their customer review. Today you can be assured about the service you will receive only by reviewing the customer's voice. You can expect a good service if you find good comments and reviews that reflect quality work.
  
  You can find these reviews either on their website or any social media platform. However, you may find some bad reviews on social media because companies cannot satisfy their customers by fulfilling their unwanted claims. So you can check their reviews and choose a gas plumbing service that has some positive reviews.

• Service rates
  
  The most important thing to look for in your water and gas plumbing service is the rate at which they are offering the service. Top-notch plumbing service will be able to provide you an accurate and close amount that you may incur at the time of service. This is important to prevent any surprise charge.
  
  However, there may be a condition in which complications arise at the time of work and requires extra cost. But, a good plumber will always be able to explain to you why you are incurring the extra cost.

• Area of work
  
  While choosing the best water and gas plumbing service for yourself, make sure you check the area in which they work. In other words, are they prepared for every kind of problem or not. They should have proper knowledge and experience to provide assistance.

Above are the vital points that you must follow when selecting the right plumbing service for your house. These will ensure you are getting the right service and at the right charge. However, don't forget to ask someone who has taken the service from the respective plumbing company if they have specialized plumbers insurance. They will be able to guide you better. 

Guest Contributor: Emma Smith

How to Make a Greenhouse at Home - DIY Guide

Are you looking for ways to create your very own greenhouse at home? Well, you have reached the perfect place! This article focuses on the step by step process of building a greenhouse at home, which includes planning, assembling of materials, and ideal execution. 

To begin with, it is crucial to fix a budget before proceeding with the DIY project, choose the area where you want to build it, and to know what materials you need. Before proceeding further, if you love DIY and are looking for materials to set up your large flat-screen television to your eye level, go check out the motorized tv mount and flip down tv mount for more information! 

Now, follow these simple steps to create your very own greenhouse at home!

What is a Greenhouse? 

A greenhouse is a home-like structure that houses your plants, offering them an ideal climate for proper growth and development. The building is used to provide shelter for your plants and keep them healthy and alive for a long duration. Creating a greenhouse includes massive work; however, it is super fun too! 

Steps to Make a Greenhouse at Home 

1. Area/Location 

First and foremost, choosing an ideal location is exceptionally vital before building a greenhouse. Moreover, it would be best if you found an area that gets proper sunlight for the growth of your plants. Hence, don't go for a place that has a lot of shade or doesn't get much sunlight. 

2. Electricity 

A greenhouse needs uninterrupted electricity. It is best to make an attached connection to your home. In this way, there is less establishment cost and no hassle. To keep the temperature at the most appropriate level, the greenhouse requires proper ventilation and heat. 

3. Drainage 

If you stay in a region prone to frequent rainfall and floods, you need to make sure the area you choose for your greenhouse has proper drainage facilities. A flood would inevitably result in the destruction of your plants and the structure. Hence, the best way to prevent this mayhem is by building the greenhouse on high ground and consult a professional to know more about drainage systems. 

4. Measurement 

Once all the above steps are taken care of, start by measuring the area of your greenhouse. It entirely depends on your preference when it comes to the size of the structure. However, the most relevant measurement is eight by six feet.  

5. Greenhouse Kit 

After you are sure of the measurement, you need to purchase a greenhouse kit to set up the structure. You can find various kits on online shopping sites or any local store! 

6. Support the Structure 

The best way to build a greenhouse is to attach the structure to one side of your home. This will help provide appropriate support to the building, and nothing would affect it or break it in any way. 

7. Framing 

Once you attach the greenhouse kit at one of the outer walls of your house, it is time to build the outer frame. The best material for the outer frame would be steel. Now, create a dome-like frame on the top of the structure and fix it properly. 

After the head of the greenhouse is done, you need to create a base or foundation with the same steel material. Make the base as sturdy as possible. You might need little help from your friends or family while fixing the foundation of the structure. 

8. Coverage of the Structure 

Before covering the structure, you have to choose a material that would be durable and affordable. One of the best materials for covering a greenhouse is LDPE plastic. It is bio-friendly, long-lasting, and won't need much effort for maintenance unline regular plastic material. 

However, keep in mind that even an LDPE plastic covering has to be washed regularly without fail. Moreover, don't forget to attach the cover with the frame of the structure. 

9. Walls of the Structure 

FIberglass would be the most cost-effective option when it comes to the walls of the greenhouse. It would easily fit on the roof as well as the walls of the structure. The material is stable and lasts longer than glass walls. 

10. Control of Temperature 

Last but not least, you need to know how to control the temperature inside the greenhouse. Here are a few easy ways you can keep the temperature accurate for most of the times: 

• Install fans at every corner of the greenhouse.

• The roof of the structure must have facilities for ventilation.

• If you have more budget, you can also purchase a heater for the greenhouse.

Your greenhouse is ready! 

Conclusion 

Now that you have detailed knowledge about making a greenhouse at home, you must also learn more about gardening and how to provide the plants with proper nourishment for appropriate growth. Don't forget to water the plants regularly! 

Guest Contributor: Vijaykumar

When Should You Replace Your Flooring?

Floors often face a lot of wear and tear. People walk on them throughout the day, and they’re also vulnerable to dirt and other messes that can create stains. So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your floors? Here are some giveaways. 

Common Flooring Options 

Popular flooring options can be found in many homes because they are stylish, affordable and long-lasting.

Laminate Floors 

This type of flooring provides the look of real wood, but at a more affordable price. It also requires less maintenance than other options since it is scratch-resistant and waterproof. In addition, it reduces noise. These factors have increased laminate’s popularity in homes. 

Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are a classic option for various rooms. They are durable and easy to repair, and also provide good insulation. However, they can be on the pricey side. The higher cost may be worth it to get more return on investment when selling your home because it’s attractive to potential homeowners. 

Vinyl Floors 

Vinyl is also a very durable and cost-effective option. It is made from plastic and available in planks, sheets or tiles. It gives off a stylish vibe at a lower cost. 

Tile Floors 

Tile floors are most effective in rooms with large amounts of moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens. They can be used in many ways and can last for several years. Some tile textures can mimic wood, stone or even fabric. 

Alternative Flooring Options

Many options for flooring are available, including these lesser-known varieties.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a flooring option you may have not previously considered. It is less expensive than hardwood and usually more moisture-resistant. Its natural color can blend into a room well and enhance the overall design. This option is also a more environmentally friendly one. 

Concrete 

Concrete can add an industrial or modern feeling to any space. These floors are relatively inexpensive and provide a unique style. They are also long-lasting and easier to clean. 

Pennies

Pennies aren't just things you throw into a fountain to make a wish — they can also be used to create flooring material. This is a low-cost option that will definitely stand out. The coins’ copper tones will also add a pop of color to the space. 

Cork 

Cork is an alternative option that can be used in a variety of rooms. This material is durable, comfortable, and resistant to mold and mildew, making it the perfect choice for a bathroom or living room area. It is fairly inexpensive and unique. 

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Flooring 

There are several indicators that it’s time to install new flooring. Here are some things to consider.

Scratches or Marks 

One sign that your floors may need to be replaced is large scratches or marks. They can be damaged when furniture is moved around or if you have pets. While small scratches are OK, larger ones may be an issue. The deeper the scratch, the more likely water can seep into the floor and cause long-term damage. 

Water Damage 

Water damage can occur from spills, pipe leakages or flooding. It can cause warping or separating. These problems can’t be fixed with a simple refinish, so replacing the floors is your best option. 

Nails Peeking Through the Floor

Nails sticking up from the ground can be a painful tripping hazard for your family and guests. This issue is more common in high-traffic areas, such as living rooms. Not addressing this issue could increase the chances of injury. 

Discoloration of Wood

Long-term heat exposure or water damage can cause floors to change colors. At the beginning stage, you may be able to do a simple refinish. However, if left untreated, you will need to replace the wood. 

How to Replace Your Flooring

You will need to remove the adhesive of the subflooring with a floor buffer and abrasive disk. Once that step is complete, make sure to level the subfloor and add a moisture barrier to protect the floor covering. The last step is nailing or gluing it down and adding baseboards. 

The Right Time to Replace Flooring 

Your flooring is an important feature in your home, since it sees a lot of wear and tear throughout the years. It doesn’t last forever, though, so you need to know the right time to replace it. Doing so will give your house a whole new look and boost your ROI, so it’s well worth the effort.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

Which Things Do You Need to Remember When Renovating Your Home in Spring?

Your home is your sanctuary and one of your places of comfort. That little corner of the world that you have to yourself. This is why you have invested so much in getting your dream home. So, it makes sense when you decide to renovate your house as often as you can to continue to keep yourself comfortable—Usher a new spring season on your home by renovating your home. Sure, renovation can be frustrating for you and your loved ones as tension will be running high, and there is so much to do. With our tips, you need not put pressure on yourself and your relationships. So, read on to learn the things you need to remember when renovating your home. 

Do you Need to Spend so much on a renovation?

We find ourselves asking the above question. Renovation can be expensive, but most times, we over budget. As much as we want to try to hold off from renovating our home after winter, we can't ignore the damage winter does to the house. Some of these damages are;

• Cracking of your home's foundation as a result of gutter overload causes water to drop and flow along the house into the foundation

• Plaster wall cracks. This arises as a result of dry air and a plunge in humidity. In this type of condition, materials like plaster shrinks then crack.

• Rotting of door frames. This is due to winter dampness softening the wood, thereby causing wood rot. The moisture in your door's wood can also create a fertile ground for termite infestation in your home.

• Your roof gutters can break. This happens when there is snow build-up in the gutters. You can prevent this by regularly clearing your drains during winter. No one blames you if you can’t find time to clean your gutters during winter. It can be a pretty daunting task.

• Mold grows on your wall. In trying to keep yourself warm from the winter cold, you inadvertently provide the mold environment to grow as it would be cold outside and warm in your house.

• Chimney Crack. Your chimney can crack due to winter, as when the sun sets, bricks or blocks shrink, and any moisture around them at the time freezes up and cracks. The cracked chimney can allow animals seeking warmth, such as rats gain entry into your home.

• Unprotected pipes can burst. An unprotected pipe like the one outside the house is exposed to the cold winter and is prone to freezing.

Need More Convincing?

Most people think renovating homes is just for purposes of aesthetics and bragging right over your neighbours. It could be that, but it is so much more. There are quite a few benefits to renovating your home. They are;

• It helps your home to be more efficient.

• It helps rid your home of safety hazards.

• Helps in achieving new space creation

• Your house becomes more comfortable.

• Your home's value increases.

NerdyWriters state that you will benefit from improving your home, and your expenses are an investment. 

Things You Should Remember when Renovating

1. Fix the Damage Caused by Winter First.

Earlier, we made mention of some certain damages that winter causes around the home. So when you are renovating, your priority is to take care of those winter damages before engaging in any extensive renovation. 

2. Start Early.

Renovations are exhausting. One of the ways to prevent the exhaustion and tension caused by renovating is to start early. Please note the areas that require renovation and list out your plans for them with your budget. Also, contact your contractors early so you wouldn't have to rush into picking a contractor who would end up turning your house into a renovation disaster. 

3. Don't Overshoot your Budget.

You might be tempted to overshoot your budget and go for flashy improvements. Restraint is needed here. Just stick to your budget for your spring renovation. You can, however, save up for bigger improvements for later. 

4. Remember, Renovation as an Investment

Don't skimp on spending because you want to stick rigidly to your budget. Don't go for cheaper alternatives. Always go for a quality replacement. Your renovation is an investment that could yield a return later should you decide to cash in on your home. The improvements you are making are for now and also for the future. 

5. A small budget Does mean a Small Scale Renovation.

If you need massive renovations that can stay until later, you can be creative with your budget by handling some renovations by yourself or with your friends. The money you've saved could end up tackling some of the massive renovations you have planned. 

Guest Contributor: Arthur Evans

Bio:

Arthur Evans is a veteran British writer who writes mostly on self-development and digital marketing. Arthur believes in the power of science and is a tireless campaigner of intellectual freedom wherever possible. Arthur believes in quality education and has often encouraged students who buy assignment to study and learn how they can improve themselves and their writing through those. Arthur is an avid lover of history documentaries and old-school sci-fi TV shows.

Slate Roofing Material Breakdown

Buying a new roof? A slate roof is one of the materials you can consider as you explore your options. It is waterproof, resistant to mold, and can last more than 100 years. On the other hand, it is brittle and can easily break, and is also relatively expensive to purchase.

This extensive guide will help break down the important aspects of this material, its pros and cons, and its variants at your disposal. Follow through to make an informed roofing decision.

Photo by Watts Roofing Supplies on Unsplash

Types of Slate Roofs

1. Natural Slate

This is a natural quarried stone, and it's the first thing that comes to most people's minds when the term 'slate' is mentioned. It is resistant to ultraviolet rays and does not get destroyed by thermal expansion and contraction.

With proper care and adequate maintenance, this material can last over 100 years. It is among the most environment-friendly roofing materials because there is no manufacturing process involved in its production. Besides, it can be recycled and reused. You can find it in natural shades of blue, red, or gray depending on its source.

2. Synthetic Slate Roofing

Is used as an alternative to natural slate roofing. It is a reflection of the magnificence of its traditional counterpart devoid of the expense (synthetic roofing shingles are much cheaper) and the stressful installation process.

These roofs boast of being lighter than natural slate roofs, hence may not require additional support during installation. They would also present you with a wider range of colors compared to their natural counterparts.

The materials durability varies depending on their manufacturing process. Some are treated with ultraviolet inhibitors, reducing degradation from the sun. Others are not easily breakable. The durability of these roofs ranges from half the lifespan of natural slate- 50 years- to about 100 years.

Slate Roof Maintenance

If properly installed, it will require very little maintenance over its lifespan. This material is resistant to mold, fungus, and mildew, further minimizing the maintenance cost.

The greatest risk of installing slate roofs is their ease of cracking and breaking. However, this is easy to fix since you will just need to repair or replace the broken or missing shingles. Make sure this is done by a roofing professional such as Fortress Roofing. 

Even though most of the maintenance and repair works are generally universal, there are some details you need to take into consideration with regard to the specific types of slate on your roof. For instance, replace broken shingles with those of the same pattern and color. Additionally, when you have to replace the entire roof, get to know the alternatives available in the market. They will still provide your home with the elegance of slate.

Photo by Axinte on Unsplash

Notable Pros

1. Unique Roofing Styles

A slate roof can be designed to produce very beautiful roof designs. This is attributable to it being a natural product.

It is available in different shades depending on its chemical composition and its source. These natural colors give these roofs an allure that cannot be provided by any other material. Imagine you can still play around with colors to match your roof with the architecture of your home.

2. Recyclable

This natural roof will stay on your house for over a century if you want it to. It will lie dead, emitting no toxins at all. It is just stone after all!

If for some reason the roof has to be removed, the material can be reused on other roofs or for other purposes as may be deemed fit. If you are looking for an eco-friendly roofing material, we can proudly say that slate is the material for you!

3. Energy Efficiency

This material is dense and can help regulate the temperatures within your home. This can help you save money that would have otherwise been spent on footing energy bills.

Besides reducing energy bills, energy efficiency is enhanced by the reduced carbon footprint. The material occurs naturally, well apart from synthetic slate, and can be recycled, of course!

Cons of Slate Roofs

1. Fragility

This quality makes the roofing material easy to cut into different shapes and sizes, but it can be disadvantageous in some cases. If not handled with care or if a considerably large amount of pressure is exerted on it, it can easily be cracked or broken.

Inspecting the roofs can be challenging because if the roof inspector steps on the shingles, there is a possibility of them cracking. You need to be extra careful when handling these roofs.

2. Slate Is Heavy

Natural slate is very heavy. One tile of slate of about 100 sq. ft. can weigh between 800 pounds (ca. 363 kg) and 1,500 pounds (ca. 680 kg). Your roofing structure has to be reinforced to ensure it is able to carry this weight. This can be expensive.

If you're installing a new roof, consider having your roofing structure assessed to see if it can bear the additional load.

Conclusion

Slate can tremendously improve your home's curb appeal and, by extension, its value. It is a material that has a natural appearance and blends well with the environment. Despite being heavy and fragile, its durability is something to marvel at.

As you ponder over your choice of roofing material, have it in mind that you can never go wrong with slate roofing tiles if their cost is not a scare to you and your home’s structure can support the weight.

Guest Contributor: John Willmer