Top Effective Ways To Make Your House Energy-Efficient

Making your house energy-efficient is a great way to save money on your energy bills, and it's also good for the environment. In this article, you will learn about some of the top ways that you can make your home more energy-efficient. 

Get Solar Panels

Using renewable energy sources is the best possible way to help the environment, as well as your bills. Solar panels provide clean energy that comes from the sun, and it’s getting more and more affordable to have them installed. In some cases, you can even get solar panels for free. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also help reduce your carbon footprint.

There are many other ways to make your house energy-efficient, but getting solar panels is one of the best investments you can make. Not only will you be doing your part to help the environment, but you’ll also be saving money on your energy bills. 

It's also easy to maintain your solar panels with regular cleaning and check-ups. Overall, getting solar panels is a great way to make your house energy-efficient and help the environment at the same time.

Seal The Ductwork 

Many people have started to explore ways to make their homes more energy-efficient. One way to do this is by sealing the ductwork. Research estimates that sealing and insulating ducts can save the average homeowner between $140 and $210 a year in heating and cooling costs. 

Sealing the ductwork can also improve the indoor air quality of your home. By sealing the ductwork, you are preventing outside contaminants from entering your home through the ducts. 

To do this properly, first, check for any visible signs of leaks. Once you have found the leaks, use a mastic sealing compound or metal tape to seal the ductwork. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products. 

Sealing your ductwork is a simple and effective way to make your home more energy-efficient. Not only will it save you money on your energy bills, but it will also improve the air quality in your home.

Use Fans Instead Of HVAC

HVAC systems spend a large amount of energy using fans to circulate air. Fans use much less electricity than HVAC systems and can be used in conjunction with them to save even more money on your energy bill.

When using a fan, make sure that you are using it in the right way. In the summer, ceiling fans should rotate counter-clockwise so that the blades push cool air down. In the winter, however, ceiling fans should rotate clockwise so that the blades pull warm air up.

Another great way to use fans is by placing them in front of windows. This will help to circulate the air and keep your home at a comfortable temperature. 

Run Appliances In The Evening 

There are lots of appliances that consume tons of energy. These are the following:

• your clothes washer and dryer

• your dishwasher

• your oven

• your stovetop

• your air conditioner or heater

All these appliances use a lot of energy to run. And this is especially true during the daytime when everyone is running them at the same time. This is why running appliances in the evening is a great way to make your house energy-efficient.

Not only will running appliances in the evening save you money on your energy bill, but it will also help reduce the strain on the power grid. So not only are you being more efficient with your own home's energy use, but you're also helping the environment by running appliances in the evening.

Consider Automation 

Smart homes are becoming more popular each year. Homeowners are considering automation for many reasons. One reason is to make their homes energy-efficient.

Automation can help reduce your energy consumption in a few ways. For example, you can program your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away from home. You can also set your lights to turn off automatically when you leave the room.

There are many other ways that automation can help make your home more energy-efficient. If you’re considering automation for your home, be sure to research all of the different options available to find the best solution for your needs.

Insulate Well 

Proper insulation is one of the most important ways to make your home energy efficient. Good insulation will keep heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer. This will help you save money on your heating and cooling bills. There are many different types of insulation available, so it is important to choose the right type for your home.

R-value is a measure of how well a material insulates. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Some common insulating materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and foam. You can also insulate your home with green materials such as cotton batts or denim jeans.

Energy-efficient homes are good for the environment as well as your wallet so make sure to use solar panels as renewable sources. Seal the ductwork and use fans instead of the HVAC system. Make sure to run appliances in the evening so they spend less energy and consider automating some processes so your home adjusts itself. Finally, don't forget about proper insulation that will help you both during the summer and winter months!

6 Ways to Increase Natural Light in Your Home

Natural light is something that so many people wish they could bring into their homes. Having a home that is filled with natural light makes us feel more at ease and energized. When natural light is increased in a space, you’ll notice that the colors in the room become brighter and the decor more eye-catching. Light and bright homes are also more inviting. Because of this, we are constantly looking for new ways to maximize the amount of natural light that enters our homes. Here, you’ll find the most effective methods to increase natural light in your home.

1. Change your color scheme to help increase natural light in your home

The colors of your home influence your mood, energy levels, and even lighting in your space. That’s why choosing the right color palette for your home is important. For example, even though warm colors make you feel cozier, they also absorb more light, whereas lighter colors reflect it. Natural light is best reflected by pale creams, grays, and blues. Natural light in north-facing rooms tends to be cooler, so warmer colors may be more appropriate. It’s also a good idea to think about your floor, which can either absorb or reflect light. Carpets, for example, tend to absorb light; thus, it might be good to choose polished wood, stone, or tile flooring. While a polished white wooden or laminate floor performs a terrific job, it isn’t the best option for all people. So if you prefer carpets, opt for whites and lighter hues to minimize the absorption of natural light.

Go for reflective colors to increase natural light in your home.

2. Utilize mirrors and glass for more natural light in your home

Glass and mirrors can be used in a variety of ways to improve the lighting in a room. With the perfect placement of a mirror, a space can be instantly brightened. It is possible to reflect the light into dark rooms by placing mirrors strategically in passageways. And full-length mirrors are the best way to increase natural light in your home. However, when buying mirrors, you should plan ahead for the delivery. As local moving experts from usantini.com told us, you should always employ professionals to move mirrors and glass because of the risk of breaking. Once your mirrors arrive and you set them up, you’ll be surprised at how much natural light you can bounce around your space. And they won’t just increase natural light in your home! Using mirrors in your house is also a great way to add visual interest and dimension to your space.

3. Reflective surfaces are your new best friends

Tables with glass tops aren’t exactly new, but they do a great job of allowing light to flow throughout the room. As well as making sure that light doesn’t get obstructed, clear Lucite and acrylic furniture are also good for this purpose. Transparent materials, popular in the 1960s and 1970s, are now making a big comeback. Modern, fashionable, and comfy, their designs make a room appear more spacious and less cluttered. Furniture that is opaque blocks the much-desired natural light, so the more transparent furniture you have, the better.

4. Renovate for more light in your home  

A major renovation may be in order if your property is severely lacking in windows that let in light. You can make this your own 2022 home project if you’re up for the challenge. Consider the varied types of light you’ll receive throughout the day when deciding where to position new windows. Adding skylights to your home is a great way to bring natural light and warmth into your space. Alternatively, you may knock down a few walls to make more room. Another thing you could do is install windows on opposing sides of the room. Adding multiple windows to the same area can bring the light from two distinct directions, making the space appear larger.

Installing a skylight might be the best move to increase natural light.

5. Incorporate patio doors

Both those building new houses and those remodeling old ones are increasingly incorporating patio doors. Consider installing patio doors if you want to brighten up a dark kitchen or living room. With so many patio door designs to select from, you’re bound to find a design that complements your home’s particular style. When space is bathed in natural light, it exudes wonderful energy that lifts the mood and makes the colors appear more vibrant. Glass sliding doors are an excellent investment that can help you increase natural light in your home without breaking the bank in the process. In actuality, when renovating on a budget, this can save you money in the long run compared to remodeling an entire room.

6. Take care of the outside of your home to increase natural light inside your home

You don’t have to have a lot of clutter in your house to make it feel gloomy. In many cases, trees and plants that aren’t carefully positioned around your property may be obstructing sunlight. A big part of the light coming in through windows and doors might be blocked by trees and shrubs growing outside of them. Despite its seeming insignificance, the effect that plants can have on the amount of light that enters a room should not be underestimated. If it isn’t well cared for, it can make a huge difference. As a result, it is critical to maintain the outside of your home and prune any trees, bushes, or climbing plants that could obscure the windows and doors. Make sure your windows are clean and free of dirt, pollen, and other allergens, as well. Your home’s interior will be instantly cheered up as a result of this.

Take care of the outside of your home for an increase in natural light.

Final words

You can increase natural light in your home in a variety of ways, from simple fixes to full-scale restorations. Remember to maintain your windows clean to let the maximum light into your home and spread the brightness throughout. Increasing the amount of natural light in your home is sure to positively affect your mood. Try it out for yourself today!

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

6 Ideas On How To Cool Off During Summer

Summertime is the perfect time to relax and enjoy the weather. However, sometimes the heat can be a bit too much to handle. If you're looking for ways to cool off, we have six ideas for you! From swimming to eating frozen treats, there's something for everyone. Keep reading for our top tips on how to beat the heat this summer!

1. Drink lots of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated

To help your body sweat and cool off, drink lots of fluids. Dehydration can make you feel hotter.

Drinking fruit juice, sports drinks, or caffeinated beverages can actually make you more dehydrated, so stick to water when possible. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting than plain old water, try adding slices of fruit or herbs like mint to your glass. You can also find creative ways to make drinking water more enjoyable, like investing in a cute water bottle or reusable straw.

Another way to stay hydrated is to eat foods that are high in water content, such as fruits and vegetables. Cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelons, strawberries, and cantaloupes are all great options. You can also make homemade popsicles with fruit juice or yogurt for a refreshing treat.

2. Eat light and healthy meals, such as salads and fruits

When the weather is hot, your body temperature rises and you can feel tired and sluggish. To keep your energy up, it’s important to eat light meals that are easy to digest. Salads, fruits, and cold soups are all great options. 

Avoid heavy foods that require a lot of energy to digest, like burgers and fries. These will only make you feel more tired in the heat. 

3. Use a pool

If you have a pool, take advantage of it! Go for a swim to cool off and relax your muscles. If you don’t have a pool, see if your community has a public one that you can use.

However, if you do own a pool, you'd have to clean it before the season starts. Luckily, today you can just find a dedicated pool stain removal company that will take care of it for you. That way, you'll be able to fully enjoy your pool during the summer.

4. Spend time in the shade or indoors when possible

Since the sun is one of the main sources of heat, it makes sense to stay out of its direct rays as much as possible. Find a spot in the shade or go indoors during the hottest hours of the day. If you have to be outdoors, make sure to wear loose, light-colored clothing and a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. 

5. Take a cool bath or shower to refresh yourself

You can also take a cold shower or bath to help you cool off. This is especially refreshing if you’ve been outside in the heat for a while. Be sure to drink plenty of water afterward, though, as showers and baths can dehydrate your skin.

If you don’t want to take a full shower or bath, you can also splash some cold water on your face and neck. This can help wake you up and cool you down at the same time.

Another way to cool off is to put your feet in cold water. You can do this by filling a basin with cold water and putting your feet in it for a few minutes. Or, if you’re at the beach or pool, you can just dip your feet in the water to cool down.

6. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothes made from natural materials

Of course, you want to avoid clothing that will make you feel hot and sticky. But the fabrics you choose can also have an impact on how cool you feel. Natural materials like linen and cotton are excellent choices for summertime wear since they're lightweight and breathable. Conversely, man-made materials like polyester and nylon trap heat, so you'll want to avoid them when the temperature starts to rise. 

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to break out your flowy dresses, shorts, and skirts. And don't forget about all the great options for summertime footwear, from sandals to espadrilles. Just make sure whatever you're wearing is comfortable and won't leave you feeling overheated.

Another way to beat the heat is by donning a pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Not only will this help shield your eyes from the bright summer sun, but it will also keep your head and face cool. If you really want to go all out, find a cute parasol to carry with you on particularly hot days. You'll stay cool and look fabulous at the same time!

There are many ways to stay cool during the summer. Experiment and find what works best for you. Be sure to drink lots of fluids, wear loose and light clothing, and take breaks from the heat when necessary. Most importantly, enjoy the season!

How To Find The Top Tools As A Handyman

As a handyman, it is important to have the right tools for the job. If you are looking for the best tools out there, you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the top tools that are available on the market today. We will also talk about how to find these tools and what to look for when making your purchase. So without further ado, let's get started!

1. Look for a reputable brand

To find the top tools, it is important to look for reputable brands. There are many brands out there, but not all of them are created equal. A good brand will have a solid reputation and will offer quality products.

Also, take a look at the warranty that the brand offers. A good brand will offer a solid warranty on its products. This shows that they stand behind their products and are confident in their quality.

Another important factor to consider is the price. Top-quality tools can be expensive, but they will last longer and perform better than cheaper options. For instance, if it's sanders you're looking for, there's a range of sanders available on the market. You can find a cheap sander that will do the job, but it probably won't last as long as a more expensive option.

2. Compare prices and features

If you're looking for the best bang for your buck, it's important to compare the prices and features of different tools. Not all tools are created equal, and there will usually be a trade-off between price and quality. It's up to you to decide what's more important: getting the job done quickly or saving money in the long run.

There are a few ways to compare the prices and features of different tools. The first is to read online reviews. There are plenty of websites that specialize in reviewing products, so you should be able to find plenty of information on the internet. The second way is to ask around for recommendations from friends or family members who are handymen themselves. They may have some great insights that you didn't think of. Finally, you can always head to your local hardware store and talk to the employees there. They should be able to point you in the right direction.

3. Make sure the tools are durable

When you are looking for the top tools, you want to make sure that they are durable. This means that they can withstand the wear and tear of being used on a daily basis. You don’t want to have to replace your tools every few months because they are not built to last.

Some things to look for when you are determining the durability of a tool are the materials it is made from and the reviews that other users have left. If a tool is made from high-quality materials, it is likely to last longer than one that is made from lower-quality materials. And, if other users have left positive reviews about the durability of a particular tool, it is likely that you will have a positive experience as well.

4. Consider the weight and size of the tools

One of the things you have to think about when you're a handyman is the weight and size of your tools. This is especially true if you're going to be carrying them around with you all day. You want to make sure that they're not too heavy or too big, otherwise, you'll just end up getting tired and frustrated.

5. Check customer reviews

You can also find good tools by checking customer reviews. This is especially helpful if you’re looking for a specific tool that you’re not familiar with. Checking reviews can help you get an idea of the quality of the product, as well as any pros and cons that other customers have found.

When looking at customer reviews, it’s important to take them with a grain of salt. Remember that people are more likely to leave a review if they’ve had a bad experience, so try to look at the overall picture. If there are mostly positive reviews, with a few negative ones mixed in, that’s usually a good sign.

Another thing to keep in mind is that people have different standards. What one person may consider a “must-have” feature, another may find unnecessary. So, try to read between the lines to see if the reviewer’s standards are similar to yours.

Following these three tips will help you find the top tools as a handyman. By keeping an open mind, doing your research, and knowing what to look for, you can be sure that you'll find the right tools to get the job done quickly and efficiently. With the right tools, you can tackle any project with confidence and ease. So don't wait any longer, get out there and find the top tools for your next project! Thanks for reading.

Home Fixes That Should Be On Top Of Your Priority List

There are a few home repairs and improvements that should be on your priority list. Whether you're renting or owning your home, these projects will help make your living space more comfortable and functional. Also, keeping everything up and functioning will save you money. It’s much cheaper to maintain everything than to fix or replace it when it’s completely broken. Here are four essential home repairs that you should make:

The Roofing

Your home is one of your most valuable assets, and like any other valuable asset, it needs proper upkeep and maintenance to ensure that it retains its worth. One of the most important aspects of home maintenance is roofing. These days, you can get phenomenal roofing service quite easily, and often with a free consultation. Your roof is responsible for protecting your home from the elements, so it’s important to make sure that it’s in good condition.

If you’re not sure whether or not your roof needs repairs, here are a few signs that you should look out for:

• The roof is leaking

• The roof is missing shingles

• The roof is sagging

• The roof is rusty

• There are streaks on the ceiling

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional to determine the extent of the damage and to get an estimate for repairs. The rule "the sooner the better" applies here, definitely. 

The Plumbing

There are a few home repairs that should always be on your radar. One of these is plumbing. Plumbing problems can cause a lot of damage and be very expensive to fix. It’s best to take care of them as soon as you notice there’s an issue.

Here are four common plumbing problems that you should address as soon as possible to avoid greater issues:

1. Leaks: A leaky faucet or pipe can waste a lot of water and lead to expensive repairs down the road. If you notice any leaks, address them as soon as possible.

2. Clogs: A clog can cause water to back up and overflow, leading to costly damage. If you notice that your drains are backed up, take action immediately.

3. Dripping faucets: A dripping faucet can waste a lot of water over time. If you have a dripping faucet, fix it as soon as possible.

4. Water heater problems: A malfunctioning water heater can lead to very expensive repairs. If you notice any problems with your water heater, address them immediately.

The Windows

Definitely, one of the most important features of a home is the windows. They provide natural light and ventilation and can improve the appearance and value of your home. If your windows are damaged, it’s important to fix them right away.

There are a few things you can do to fix your windows and keep them in top shape:

• Replace the window panes.

• Replace the window frames.

• Repair the window seals.

• Replace the window glass.

If your windows are in bad condition, it’s best to replace them completely. You can find new windows that fit your budget and style in many stores, both online and in-store. 

The Appliances

Appliances account for a big chunk of your home’s energy use. They also tend to break down more often than other home systems. Here are some tips to help you keep your appliances running in top condition and save money on your energy bill in the process.

Refrigerator: 

You should make it a habit to clean the condenser coils at least once a year. You can do this by unplugging the fridge, removing the back panel, and using a vacuum cleaner to clean the coils. You should also check the seals around the doors to make sure they’re tight and not letting cold air escape.

Washing machine: 

Wash only full loads of laundry and use cold water whenever possible. A full load of laundry typically uses less energy than two or three smaller loads.

Dishwasher: 

Run the dishwasher only when it’s full. Again, this will save energy and money. You can also save water by using the “air dry” setting on your dishwasher.

Television:

Turn off your TV when you’re not using it. TVs use a lot of energy when they’re turned on but not being used.

Computer:

 Turn off your computer when you’re finished using it. Computers use a lot of energy when they’re turned on but not in use.

This article outlines some simple home repairs and upgrades that should be on your priority list. Many of these projects are easy to do and can be completed on a weekend. By taking care of these tasks now, you can save yourself time and money down the road.

What Qualifies As A Plumbing Emergency

Most people have had to call a plumber at some point. But have you ever had to call for emergency plumbing services? What qualifies as emergency plumbing is a bit subjective, but here are a few situations that usually fall in this category.

Ruptured Pipes

A burst pipe is definitely a plumbing emergency. It can quickly fill your house with water, causing major damage. If one of your pipes has burst, call for an emergency plumber immediately to help minimize the damage. 

Overflowing Toilet

An overflowing toilet isn’t always cause for emergency plumbing but certainly can be if you can’t stop it before the floor gets flooded. If your toilet is about to overflow, immediately shut off the water valve, which should be on the floor behind the toilet. If this doesn’t totally prevent the overflow it will at least minimize the damage. If serious flooding occurs, call an emergency plumber. You’ll also want to get a plumber ASAP if this is your inly toilet and you can’t use it.

Major Water Leaks

A minor leak might not be such a big problem, but you do not want to let it go untreated. It could indicate (or lead to) a bigger problem. A major water leak can cause serious damage to your house in a short time, and cause mold to grow, so if you detect a major water leak, call for an emergency plumber right away. 

Sewage Backup

If dirty water is coming up through your drains, this indicates a serious problem that needs immediate attention. Your sewer pipe may be blocked, or your septic tank may be full. 

Gas Leak

Many people don’t realize that plumbers work on gas lines, but most plumbers do have experience installing and repairing gas water heaters and therefore have considerable expertise in this area. That being said, if you suspect there’s a gas leak in your house, immediately leave a window or door open and get everyone out of the home. Then you should call either 911 or your gas company. You can ask them at that point if you should call an emergency plumber or if they want to send someone to you. 

Water Heater Malfunction

If your hot water goes out in the summer, it might not qualify as an emergency. But taking a cold shower in a cold time of year is extremely unpleasant. Also, a malfunctioning water heater may pose a risk. There may be a leak somewhere, of water or gas. Both of these types of leaks are serious problems, so it’s best to call for emergency plumbing services as soon as you can. 

When you’re in need of emergency plumbing services for your home or business in San Jose, CA, trust Mike Counsil Plumbing, a family owned and operated business. Their plumbers can provide you with everything from water heater repairs to professional drain cleaning. 

Guest Contributor: Sandra Rico

How to Prep Your Home for a House Party This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to catch up with friends while enjoying the nice weather. However, you may need to tidy up your house so guests are comfortable. Follow these tips to get your home party-ready. 

1. Start by Cleaning the Most Important Rooms

Before getting started, write down a list of what areas you need to clean, including entryways and coat closets. Having a list will help you stay more organized. Start with essential locations, such as the living room and bathrooms. 

Your guests are most likely to gather in your living room to socialize, so it should look clean and inviting. Vacuum your carpets and mop your floors to get rid of any dirt or dust. Also, dust off commonly used surfaces, such as tables. Removing dust allows your friends with allergies to breathe easier. 

Your guests may also want to access your bathroom, especially if you provide refreshments. Start by scrubbing your toilet and sink surfaces. Instead of using costly cleaning products, consider using a mix of baking soda and ammonia to get rid of soap scum and grime. Remember to sanitize your toilet tank to prevent the buildup of rust or mildew. 

Also, mop your floors and remove any mold from your shower curtains. If you plan to leave your curtains open, give your shower stall a quick wash. 

To clean more efficiently, start from the front of your house and work your way through. Take note of the areas your guests are most likely to congregate in. 

2.  Clear Your Clutter 

It’s vital to get rid of any clutter. This is especially important if there are children’s toys lying around the house. Also, unplug any electronic cords to clear floor space so guests can move around easily. Consider using a junk drawer or container to hide away items until after the party. 

You can divide these items into separate categories for further organization, such as put away or donate. 

To make the decluttering process go by quicker, consider asking your family to pitch in. This can save you time and teach your kids a valuable lesson in responsibility. 

3. Take Shortcuts 

To make the preparation process simpler, focus on areas you know your guests will be. If they will only be downstairs, you can skip cleaning the upstairs bedrooms. Simply close your kids’ doors to signal to your friends not to enter.

Another area to take shortcuts is the dining ware. If it’s a laid-back party, then use paper plates. This can save you time on washing dishes or buying fancy bowls. 

4. Add Finishing Touches

Once you are done cleaning, you can then focus on the fun stuff. Consider giving your home a few personal touches to make it more inviting. You might want to add floral arrangements, photos or candles. If it’s a themed party, put up your decorations. These added touches can also serve as talking points for the party. 

Here are some other summer decorating ideas to make your home more welcoming: 

• Add beach-themed decor and hues of blue

• Hang up artwork

• Spruce up your outdoor space with comfortable seating and lights

• Purchase colorful accent dishes

• Incorporate floral fabrics

Along with adding decorations, consider rearranging your furniture. Keep in mind that you want to limit your seating. Too many chairs can clutter up the space and make it harder for guests to move around easily. Also, face your furniture toward each other to encourage conversation. 

5. Prepare for Minor Cleaning Emergencies 

With multiple people moving around your house, spills are likely to occur. This is why it’s vital to prepare ahead of time. 

Before the party starts, stock up on stain removal products. You may also want to buy additional napkins and paper towels for water spills. 

Having emergency supplies allows you to take care of messes right away and enjoy your party stress-free. It also saves you time during the post-party cleanup. 

Getting Ready for Summer Festivities

Summer is a busy time for parties and festivities, so you want to make sure your house is ready for your friends and family. Consider these tips to prepare your home for your next event.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

2021 Sunroom Ideas to Enjoy Year-Round

(Photo By © Yongyuan/Getty Images)

Sunrooms are the perfect place to begin and end your day in. In the morning, you can bask in the sun’s early rays as you sip on your favorite caffeinated beverage. At dusk, you can unwind with a glass of wine or tea while admiring your landscape or reading a new book. Sunrooms add sophistication to your house and can be installed in several different ways. 

Below are several sunroom ideas to help inspire your next home renovation or DIY project.

Meditative Sunroom Ideas

These sunroom ideas below will help you enjoy the natural light and relax throughout the day.

1. Install a fireplace 

Installing a small fireplace is a great way to enjoy your sunroom during the wintertime. The warmth of the fireplace contrasted against the cold window panes will make for a pleasant and cozy environment. 

2. Design a Cabin-Style Sunroom

A cabin-style sunroom is perfect for houses in densely forested areas. An easy way to do this is to use dark-stained wood planking inside the sunroom and on the exterior beams.

3. Create a Sunroom Studio

If you’re passionate about working out via yoga, cycling, or doing online classes then consider creating a sunroom that also serves as a fitness studio. Pro-tip: if you’re using weights in the sunroom, consider installing gym floor mats. 

4. Invest in Dimming Lights

Dimming lights are that much more expensive than regular light bulbs. It’s worth it though to adjust the lights to correlated with the outside’s natural light.

Shed-Turned Sunrooms

If you have an unused shed in your backyard, it’s the perfect place to create a gorgeous extra living space by transforming it into a sunroom. Here are several shed-turned sunroom tips and ideas.

5. Protect Your Garden

A shed-turned sunroom can be a place to both relax by surrounding yourself with plants. Even better, these plants will be enclosed, protecting them from insects and critters. Your shed will serve as a greenhouse and a relaxing place to hang out. 

6. Add on an Additional Office Space 

Perhaps you’re a remote worker and sometimes your home is too noisy to work in. If so, then look to turn your unused shed into a small office sunroom. The natural light will help keep you awake and energized throughout the day. 

7. Construct an Additional Guest House

Give your guests more privacy away from the house by transforming your shed into a sunroom guest house. Your guests will look forward to visiting as they fall asleep under the stars. To make sure they have a working bathroom, use our plumbing services. 

8. Create an Additional Meal Space

If you love entertaining others, then create an additional meal space with a great view. If you’re short on space in your shed, consider placing a long counter bar against the window with the best view. 

Guest Contributor: Chi Whitley

5 Tips for Deciding Which Contractor Is Right for You

Your home isn’t only your castle — it’s probably your biggest investment. The work you have done significantly impacts its resale value, and you don’t want to entrust the job to just anyone who hangs out a construction shingle. Here are five tips for deciding which contractor is right for you.

1. Read the Contract Terms

It should go without saying that you should get all contracts in writing. However, that alone isn’t enough. You need to read the fine print. At a minimum, your contract should clearly state all terms, including the project’s scope, estimated time for completion, and a thorough breakdown of who is responsible for which contingency costs.

Sit down with your contractor and iron out the terms together to avoid any confusion later. You’ll both feel more comfortable proceeding with the project when you’re clear about who is responsible for what.

2. Shop Around

When you want a project completed quickly, it’s tempting to press forward with the first quote you receive. However, remember that your home is a significant investment — it pays to protect the value by doing your due diligence. You might also save some money.

Should you consider unlicensed contractors? It’s probably not worth the risk. You will have a hard time establishing standing to sue for damages. Many such individuals carry insufficient liability insurance to cover damages if they shoot a nail through a pipe or electrical line.

3. Ask for Recommendations

You could do a Google search for contractors in your area, but this approach is hit or miss. You can hire someone with more confidence when you know they’ve completed quality work for other people in your network.

Therefore, put your social media feeds and in-person connections to work. Ask your friends and family who they used in the past and would recommend. Many contractors rely primarily on word-of-mouth advertising, and some quality smaller operations might not have much of a web presence yet. That doesn’t mean they won’t do impressive work.

4. Read Online Reviews

However, the internet is another source of information you can turn to if you still feel unsure who to hire. Sites such as Houzz and Homestars offer insights from many other users who are willing to share their experiences.

Exercise judgment — some people do use the anonymity of the internet to vent their frustrations. Look for patterns. One negative review among a sea of five-star ratings isn’t a cause for concern, but multiple similar complaints should give you pause.

5. Trust Your Instincts

Personal safety expert Gavin de Becker writes this of intuition: “It is always in response to something. It always has your best interest at heart.” Sometimes, you perceive things that signal your “something’s wrong” trigger, even if you can’t articulate what it is at the moment.

Maybe your contractor candidate didn’t slur their words, but your nose detected a slight hint of whiskey. Perhaps something in how they eyed your fine china collection when providing a free estimate raised a red flag. Please keep in mind that the crew you hire will have substantial access to your home and family. If something seems off, keep searching, if only for peace of mind.

Choose the Right Contractor for You With These 5 Tips

Choosing the right contractor is a challenging decision. Follow this guide to find the help you need to get your project done right the first time.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

Moving your kitchen to another room

A typical kitchen remodel done when moving your kitchen to another room.

Of all the home remodeling projects you can think of, moving your kitchen to another room is definitely on the list of the challenging ones. Why would someone consider want to move kitchen to a different room, you might ask. Well, the kitchen is an essential part of any home. You want it to be operational, spacious, and it needs to serve a daily purpose. Furthermore, transferring your kitchen to another room creates lots of opportunities to change the layout of all the equipment. Also, kitchen upgrades are quite often, so let's see how to tackle this project with ease!

Get all renovation permits

Whether you live in a house or an apartment, you will need renovation permits, especially if you plan to tear down walls. Thoroughly check state or municipal rules because they might be different from place to place.

Furthermore, if you have contractors coming over to do the renovation, they also need to have valid permits.

To sum it up, you will need:

• a building permit (covers any structural changes to your home);

• a plumbing permit (for drainage and water inlet);

• mechanical and electrical permits (for heating, energy supply, and ventilation);

No matter what kind of home remodel you want to do, you need to acquire different permits.

Once you get all the permits, it is time to start moving your kitchen to another room.

How much will everything cost?

The golden rule is that the entire project will be as costly as you make it. The more you complicate, the more money and time is required to complete the job. Besides doing all the electrical wiring and plumbing, you will also have to tidy up the old kitchen room.

With that out of the way, it is crucial to plan what changes you want to make precisely. Put everything on paper, get a quote from your contractor, and see if everything fits into your budget. If the remodel seems too expensive, see how you can simplify it to avoid overspending. Consider some cost-effective kitchen interior designing ideas.

How to plan this project?

The first step of the plan is to empty the designated room for the new kitchen. You need to make space for all of the changes. It is a good idea to consider getting a self-storage unit for this. If you have no idea where to put all the furniture and other things, find the right unit for your items and store them until the new kitchen is done. This is a good approach because it creates more space to work with. If you live in a small place, you can avoid making a mess by piling up all of the stuff in one room.

Do all the plumbing and electrical installations before moving in kitchen equipment to the new room.

Before you start moving all of the stuff from the kitchen, it is crucial to make all the necessary changes. Do your plumbing, electricity, and other installations. Furthermore, perform any structural changes to the new kitchen area.

Consider the airflow setup

Every kitchen must have good airflow. You don't want the food smell to spread across the entire place. If you have large windows, you might even reduce air conditioning costs this summer because you won't have to use the HVAC system or the extractor fans to get the smell out of the house.

Clean the new kitchen

Before you start moving in things, clean the room thoroughly, especially the areas where large appliances will go. If there are no other changes to make, it is best to clean everything.

Prepare the old kitchen for the transition

While the contractors are working on the new kitchen area, you can spend that time packing your kitchen for the transition. Good preparation makes things easier, so do not rush it.

Clean all the appliances, and start packing the glassware and the cutleries. If you have cabinets with pots and other kitchen utensils, see if you can move them without taking everything out. If not, pack everything into boxes so you can move the cabinets.

Keep in mind that your refrigerator and freezer need to work all the time. To move them, you have two different approaches to consider:

• wait for the new kitchen to be finished, take out all of the food, move the appliances immediately and return everything inside;

• if you don't have a lot of food, you can take everything out and defrost and clean the units. Use a mini-fridge to keep the food fresh.

Moving in the kitchen to the new room

When all of the changes are done, and the new room is clean, you can start moving in your stuff. Start with the largest items, like cabinets and electric appliances. If some things cannot pass through the door, you will have to take them apart. Think about it in advance, and disassemble everything.

When all of the cabinets and appliances are in place, connect the freezer and fridge first, and then the stove and other electrical devices.

Moving your kitchen to another room is worth it if you finally get the kitchen you always dreamed of.

When all of the more oversized items are in place, you can move all the kitchen utensils.

Cleaning up the old kitchen space

After your new kitchen is up and running, you can slowly start to clean the old place. If you have any electrical or plumbing installations that need to be removed or sealed, do it while the room is empty.

It is a good idea to plan in advance what you want to do with this space. That way, you will avoid potential delays while thinking about what to do with the room.

Moving your kitchen to another room made easy

As you can see, moving your kitchen to another room is a challenging process. It will cost money, so know what your budget is. The main idea is to plan everything in advance so that the contractor can finish the project on time. Even though it might take some time, it is all worth it if you finally get the kitchen you have always wanted!

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry