Your Home Decor

Looking to add a unique touch to your home decor? Mastering the art of personalized throw pillows can transform the ambiance of any space. These versatile accessories offer a canvas for creative expression, perfect for elevating your interior design.

Customizing throw pillows allows for tailored creations suitable for diverse occasions. From birthdays to weddings, learning the techniques opens doors to endless creative possibilities.

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Understanding the materials is key—essentials like Teflon, glitter paper, and opaque paper, readily available in local art stores, play pivotal roles in the customization process.

The choice of fabric for pillow covers is equally crucial. Fabrics like velvet, upholstery, or satin serve as ideal canvases for customization. Whether crafting or purchasing covers, ensuring they match your envisioned design is essential.

The process involves printing clear and vibrant images onto the opaque paper. Contrasting opaque paper with transfer paper, the former allows direct printing, eliminating the need for mirroring images. Additionally, using vivid colors like yellow, red, and white for creating appealing emojis or designs significantly enhances the personalized touch.

Understanding the art of customization empowers individuals to craft exclusive designs for pillows and T-shirts. It’s about selecting quality materials, choosing captivating designs, and using the right colors to bring the envisioned concepts to life.

Enhance your living space with personalized throw pillows, making a statement that reflects your unique style. This guide offers insights into materials and techniques, enabling you to infuse your home with personalized charm using the art of customized throw pillows.

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In the realm of construction, the traditional design-bid-build approach is giving way to a more streamlined and collaborative process known as design-build. This method combines the planning, design, and construction phases under the umbrella of a single entity – the design-build contractor. Here’s why this approach is gaining popularity.

Firstly, design-build contractors eliminate the fragmentation seen in traditional methods. By bringing architects, engineers, and builders together from the project’s inception, the team operates cohesively.

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This integrated approach fosters better communication, reduces misunderstandings, and minimizes the risk of disputes.

The efficiency of the design-build process is noteworthy. With all key players working together, decision-making becomes quicker, leading to a more streamlined construction timeline. This efficiency also translates into cost savings, as the design-build contractor can provide cost input from the project’s onset, reducing the likelihood of unexpected expenses.

Furthermore, design-build contractors offer a unified responsibility for the entire project. From initial design concepts to the final construction phase, there’s a single point of contact. This simplicity ensures accountability and allows for faster problem resolution.

Choosing a design build contractor is particularly advantageous for clients seeking a comprehensive and hassle-free construction experience. Whether it’s a commercial space or a residential project, the design-build approach offers a smoother, more collaborative, and cost-effective solution. As the construction industry continues to evolve, embracing the benefits of a design-build contractor could be the key to successful and efficient projects.

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Transforming the look of your furniture through re-upholstering is an achievable DIY project, and here’s a step-by-step guide to help you refresh dining chairs. Start by gathering essential materials: upholstery fabric, Cambric dust cover fabric (optional), a staple gun, a C.S. Osborne combination tool, and scissors or a rotary cutter. If you’re replacing the cushion, include a serrated or electric knife, Dacron upholstery deck padding, and 2-inch upholstery foam.

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Begin by detaching the cushion and carefully removing old fabric and staples using a C.S. Osborne combination tool. Replace outdated cushions with foam, ensuring a solid foundation for comfort. Cut the foam, attach Dacron padding, and secure it with a staple gun. When selecting your upholstery fabric, consider the chair’s usage; a medium-weight drapery fabric may suffice for less frequently used furniture.

Position the fabric to allow an extra 3-4 inches for wrapping around the back of the cushion. Employ a staple gun to affix the fabric, starting from the center and working toward the corners. For a polished finish, create pleats at the corners, trimming off excess fabric. Optionally, add a Cambric dust cover for a refined look.

This accessible DIY re-upholstery process empowers individuals to breathe new life into their furniture without the need for professional re-upholstery services. The satisfaction of giving your dining chairs a fresh and stylish appearance is not only cost-effective but also a creative and rewarding endeavor. Enjoy the process and admire the revitalized look of your re-upholstered furniture.

Transforming the look of your furniture through re-upholstering is an achievable DIY project, and here’s a step-by-step guide to help you refresh dining chairs. Start by gathering essential materials: upholstery fabric, Cambric dust cover fabric (optional), a staple gun, a C.S. Osborne combination tool, and scissors or a rotary cutter. If you’re replacing the cushion, include a serrated or electric knife, Dacron upholstery deck padding, and 2-inch upholstery foam.

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Begin by detaching the cushion and carefully removing old fabric and staples using a C.S. Osborne combination tool. Replace outdated cushions with foam, ensuring a solid foundation for comfort. Cut the foam, attach Dacron padding, and secure it with a staple gun. When selecting your upholstery fabric, consider the chair’s usage; a medium-weight drapery fabric may suffice for less frequently used furniture.

Position the fabric to allow an extra 3-4 inches for wrapping around the back of the cushion. Employ a staple gun to affix the fabric, starting from the center and working toward the corners. For a polished finish, create pleats at the corners, trimming off excess fabric. Optionally, add a Cambric dust cover for a refined look.

This accessible DIY re-upholstery process empowers individuals to breathe new life into their furniture without the need for professional re-upholstery services. The satisfaction of giving your dining chairs a fresh and stylish appearance is not only cost-effective but also a creative and rewarding endeavor. Enjoy the process and admire the revitalized look of your re-upholstered furniture.

Moving into a new neighborhood can be a very daunting and nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’re eager to make a good first impression. But, alongside all of your other commitments such as work and parenting, you’re probably still expected to maintain the house. Not only can this add to your ever-growing list of stressors, but it can also make you feel incompetent, compared to your neighborhood peers. Therefore, this article will offer a range of useful tips and tricks to help you increase your curb appeal without the stress.

1. Upgrade Your Security System

You may believe that you reside in the safest neighborhood on earth. But, in reality, criminal activity is rampant on every street, so it’s imperative that homeowners work to keep their properties as safe and secure as possible. You could begin by installing a high-tech security system, complete with motion-detection cameras and video doorbells. Although these systems can offer you a lot of peace of mind, they don’t actually deter criminals from trespassing on your property. If you’re eager to reduce your street’s crime rate whilst still working to upgrade your curb appeal, consider installing a high fence instead. These structures can easily be installed by a local fence company, meaning that you can choose from a number of different styles and shapes to ensure that they best suit your property. Thus, by implementing a high fence, you can rest assured that your family is safe from potential predators and that your home still looks fantastic. Angi also informs us that this service normally costs an average of $3,149, making it a relatively affordable way to improve your exterior.

2. Revel in the Beauty of Nature

There are a multitude of benefits associated with spending time in nature, including increased activity, reduced frustration, and better cardiovascular performance. Though many of us can enjoy a quick stroll around the park a few times a week, some homeowners are stuck in the confines of a concrete jungle. As such, these individuals may not get to experience the wonders of nature, leaving them feeling defeated and trapped. But, you also have the prime opportunity to bring the nuances of nature into your own space, especially in the form of backyard fish ponds. These assets are usually created by professional gardeners or specialist builders, meaning that you can enjoy a quaint structure, whilst also working to upgrade your overall curb appeal. Obviously, you would be expected to purchase and care for the fish themselves, but the actual pond itself is quite easy to obtain. Depending on the size of the pool and its materials, Lawn Love states that this service can cost anywhere between $3,675 to $14,500. However, the average price is a lot more affordable at just $7,400. Therefore, this is a great opportunity for families to enjoy an unusual pet as they continue to immerse themselves in the wonders of their native ecosystems.

3. Improve Your Garden

Our backyards are a key part of our overall curb appeal, so it’s imperative that homeowners keep these spaces in the best condition possible. Though mowing the lawn a few times a week can keep the area looking neat and tidy, if you’re looking to really upgrade your appearance, you should reach out to a range of landscaper services. These contractors are trained to take your humble backyard to the next level, installing a number of quaint pathways, adorable flower beds, and small structures. Therefore, this is an immense resource for homeowners who are looking to make their exterior seem more functional and inviting, especially if they’re keen to host neighborhood barbecues in the future. The cost of hiring a landscaper can vary from project to project, but The Spruce estimates that homeowners are expected to pay around $4-$17 per square foot. Though this may seem like an extortionate cost to some property owners, it can help to increase the overall value of your home, which is ideal for those looking to enter the property market in the next few years.

4. Use Smart Technology

Smart technology has managed to infiltrate every part of our daily lives. Not only can this type of technology improve our overall quality of life, but it can also give us a boost in curb appeal. Whether you decide to ask Alexa to turn on the lights or question Google about the weather, these devices help to bring even the most decrepit homes back into the 21st century. Although they’re normally used for leisure, these products can also support disabled people or elderly citizens in living a normal life. So, if you want to use a plethora of smart technology on every aspect of your property, consider recruiting a local electrician service. This is particularly aimed at those who want to improve their lighting system but are too intimidated to replace the switches themselves. Admittedly, many property owners could set these devices up by themselves, so this is definitely a useful resource for those who live on their own and don’t consider themselves to be very tech-savvy. This Old House explains that the average electrician tends to charge $40-$120 per hour, so this process could be quite affordable for most people.

5. Ensure Your Electrical System is Up to Date

If you’ve lived in the same home for many years, you may have noticed that your home is showing glaring signs of wear and tear. Although this is fairly common in traditional houses, if left untreated, these problems could lead to a series of hazardous risks. For example, if you’ve experienced frequent blackouts, shocks, or even just a poor performance from your most reliable appliances, it could be a sign that there is a fault in your electrical wiring. These concerns must be dealt with by a professional, so try to reach out to an electrician as soon as possible. These contractors will help to repair and restore your entire electrical network, which, as you can imagine, is a pretty pricey service. As such, Forbes highlights that this job can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $13,000, but usually costs an average of $7,000. This can be seen as a very costly process for most people, but it can help to extend the longevity of your home for many years to come. As a result, you can enjoy your home for much longer and spend this extra time working on its overall curb appeal.

6. Turn Your Bedroom Into a Sanctuary

According to FACES Magazine, the average American will spend a total of 33 years in bed. Though it may feel like we don’t get nearly enough sleep, it seems that we spend the vast majority of our lives in our humble bedrooms. But, if this space doesn’t evoke a sense of tranquility and peace, you may spend half of your life tossing and turning. One of the best ways to create a more productive sleeping environment is to block out any source of light during the nighttime. This not only includes natural light sources but also the light that’s emitted from our smartphones or tablets. In turn, you may benefit from discussing the prospect of adding blackout blinds to your bedroom with your local blind company. These blinds work to create an entirely dark environment for sleep, allowing you to drift off a lot easier than usual. Home Guide states that the average homeowner spends $30-$200 per window, which makes this a useful service for those who want to refine their curb appeal strategy as well as wake up feeling rejuvenated each morning. In addition, a set of high-quality blinds can also offer you a keen sense of privacy, which is useful when you’re looking to create cherished memories together as a family.

7. Check for Leaks

Even though our roofs are incredibly strong and sturdy, they are still vulnerable to a plethora of damage. As our roofs continue to age, they become prone to leaks and other faults, which can damage the entirety of our home. Plus, broken roofs can allow essential heat sources to escape, leading homeowners to crank up the heating during the colder months. Not only will this cause your heating bill to increase, but it’ll also make your home hotter during the summer months, making you uncomfortable all year round. Thus, if you’re looking to eliminate any signs of water damage and make your home seem more inviting, be sure to book a roofing service. This usually involves a set of roofing contractors visiting your home to survey the overall condition and performance of your roof. Therefore, whether your roof is in need of a few minor repairs or a complete replacement, these workers will be able to identify any glaring faults before they worsen. Although NerdWallet warns that the average roof replacement can cost up to $11,000, this service can be a great way to protect your home and your curb appeal. As such, by purchasing a new roof, you can better insulate your home and defend it against large levels of moisture build-up.

8. Remove Any Unruly Trees

Although a collection of looming trees can help to accentuate any backyard if they’re not maintained on a regular basis, they can actually disturb your next-door neighbors. When these branches become overgrown, they can potentially find their way into the opposite garden, reducing your curb appeal and placing a great strain on your relationship with your peers. In addition, damaged and disorderly trees can also be a prominent safety hazard, putting your life and others in grave danger. Even though you may not want to get rid of your glorious foliage, you should still consider reaching out to a local tree removal company to help get your garden back on track. These experts can help to identify any faulty trees and eliminate them in an orderly and safe fashion. Thus, you can be rid of these structures without having to worry about cleaning up the mess. US News Real Estate explains that it tends to cost $200 to $2,000 to remove an individual tree, depending on its size and stubbornness. In turn, this is a fantastic service for homeowners looking to form stronger bonds with their neighbors, whilst still striving to make their exteriors look as good as possible.

9. Restore Out-Dated Appliances

Although you may not think that restoring your old appliances will help upsurge your curb appeal, it can actually make you seem more resourceful and sustainable. This is especially important for those who live in particularly environmentally-conscious communities and are eager to fit in. So, instead of throwing away your decrepit kettle or toaster, try reaching out to some local general contractors to see if any of your items are still salvageable. Though many homeowners would prefer to replace their old appliances with a series of shiny new kitchen gadgets, your items probably still have a lot of value, especially if they’re considered to be vintage or family heirlooms. Some general contractors also work to oversee much larger projects, so they may be a fantastic resource for those looking to enjoy a complete home renovation process. So, depending on what you desire, you could see these types of workers as generic handymen or much more imperative managers. Thumbtack suggests that the national average cost to hire a general contractor is around $1,500, but small jobs could cost as little as just $50. Therefore, this is an excellent asset for those looking to extend their curb appeal whilst maintaining some of their most favored appliances.

Curb appeal is a very touchy subject and can make many homeowners feel very insecure about the overall appearance and atmosphere of their properties. Though it’s not the most integral aspect of owning a home, a good maintenance routine ensures that your property is kept in good condition and your neighbors are pleased. Therefore, you can continue to feel safe on your street and rest assured that your home is admired and well-loved by passers-by.

At some point, you’d want to revitalize your living space, perhaps because its functionality has gone out of vogue, and you want to upgrade with current realities in mind. Or maybe your evolved taste demands better form and function. Or perhaps you’ve just purchased a house that needs modern updates to make it more competitive in the marketplace. A repair & remodel is what you need to boost your home value. Below are nine home improvement projects that will enhance the value of your property.

1. Garage Door Makeover: Boosting Curb Appeal

A neglected, old garage door sticks out like a sore thumb and has the potential to ruin the curb appeal of your home, especially when it faces the street. It’s, therefore, crucial to take the necessary measures to ensure it doesn’t sabotage the value of your home. Contact your local garage door service to get any of the following services.

Get the easy-to-fix decorative garage skin to revamp your old garage door. It’ll give it a new look and a chance to blend the garage door with the overall house theme while removing the drab, repulsive look. In case your garage door isn’t too damaged, attaching these wooden-themed skins allows you to create realistic-looking wooden panels that match your wooden doors and give your home a fresh look.

Installing a garage door arbor onto your garage helps emphasize your garage door as an exterior feature of your home while enhancing its curb appeal. It takes a few hours to install a ready-made arbor, and the results are remarkable since a well-constructed arbor automatically increases a home’s curb appeal. If you want a custom-made arbor, your local garage door arbor supplier can make recommendations based on your garage door’s current condition and size. Other garage door repair & remodel makeovers include installing arcs and glass panel doors, getting faux wood overlays, which are durable and resistant to termites, and installing decorative fake garage door windows. In all this, your budget, time, and style are the key determinants.

2. Roof Repair for a Solid Foundation

The roof can make or break your home. Other than being a thing of beauty against the elements, it’s undoubtedly your first line of defense. A reputable roofing contractor can advise whether a roof needs replacement or repair. They can also help choose appropriate flashing, style, skylight, ridges, and venting, among other roofing necessities.

A roof repair & remodel could be necessitated by dry rot, age, typical wear and tear, construction defects, moss growing on the roof, unexpected storms, or mold. Whatever the case, a roofing contractor can advise if you’ll need a total roof replacement or targeted repairs, which are money and time-saving. Although a roof ages, it’s possible to increase its life span through proper maintenance.

If your home is in rain-prone areas, it’s prudent to inspect your roof for leaks occasionally and fix them promptly. A reputable roofing contractor usually checks for loose, cracked, or bent shingles, popping nails, or leaking around chimneys, shingles, vents, flashings, and skylights. They can also inspect your roof for improperly installed or damaged flashing. Identifying poor caulking and poorly finished connections is also within their expertise.

A roof contractor can repair fascia damage caused by rodents and nesting pests, birds and squirrels, lousy weather, and improper maintenance and installations, which could lead to leaks and moisture in the roof substructure while denying proper support to gutters and downspouts. Having well-maintained gutters and downspouts heavily contributes to solid foundations. This is because, when correctly installed, they prevent yard flooding by leading water away from your home’s foundation, roof, and siding. Well-installed gutters and downspouts complement installed soffits, fascia, siding, and trim.

3. Kitchen Renovation: The Heart of Your Home

The kitchen is the heart of the home; therefore, any repair & remodel must address your needs and goals. For example, are you looking to update the esthetics or increase its functionality, or perhaps you want to increase the property value or, better still, a combination of these? Clarity of your needs and goals helps set the tone for your remodeling project, making it possible to decide where to start.

If your primary goal is esthetics, updated fixtures, new flooring, or a fresh coat of paint could do the trick. However, if your target is improved functionality, redesigning the kitchen layout to accommodate entertainment and cooking makes sense. More storage space or smart appliances could necessitate a kitchen renovation. A fire sprinkler system installation is a bonus safety feature in your kitchen. Giving your kitchen a more contemporary design increases its market value, whether you want to live in a revitalized space or put it up for sale.

A kitchen renovation breathes new life into your kitchen. However, the execution and planning can be daunting. Hence, this task is best carried out by kitchen renovation professionals. Let them bring your dream kitchen to life. Their experience and expertise will produce a timely, cost-effective, high-quality kitchen that instantly lifts your home’s value.

4. Energy-Efficient Window Installation

You stand to gain when you repair & remodel your custom windows to revitalize your home. There are telltale signs that you need to repair and remodel your windows. For instance, indoor condensation build-up signals a damp challenge in your home. This could result from low heating levels, inadequate ventilation, high moisture production levels, broken seals, pointing, gutter problems, a damp proof course, or gaps in insulation. It’s critical to note that condensation build-up outside your windows indicates they are effective; therefore, there is no need to replace them.

Energy-efficient window installation has the potential to revitalize your living space when the appropriate five Energy Star performance categories are implemented. These include condensation resistance, visible transmittance, air leakage, solar heat gain coefficient, and the U-factor. Other ways of making your windows, conservatories, and doors more energy-efficient, effectively reducing energy bills, and lowering your carbon footprint are installing triple- and double-energy-efficient glazing covers.

These are sealed window units containing two or more glass panes. You can also use heavy curtains, blinds, and shutters to increase energy efficiency in your home. Other than keeping heat in, other benefits of energy-efficient windows include serenity, peace, and quiet due to the insulation properties leading to external noise cancelation.

5. Bathroom Remodeling for a Spa-Like Retreat

Bathroom repair & remodel come in various formats depending on your need to achieve a spa-like retreat. Water heater installations and adjustments can be part of bathroom renovations that require an experienced plumber for flawless execution, whether for aesthetic or functional purposes. Some minimal bathroom renovations involve the conversion of the bathtub into a shower or bathtub and shower replacement. Other modifications include simple maintenance, accessibility options, custom functionalities, and incorporating different colors.

Bathtub-to-shower conversions could be part of bathroom renovation aimed at an elder-proofing strategy. Showers give all users a safe environment and easy access compared to traditional bathtubs. They also increase bathroom functionality and aesthetics without requiring a full-scale renovation.

A successful transformation of a bathroom into a spa-like retreat results in enhanced self-care and relaxation. You can attain a serene, relaxed atmosphere by using calming color palettes such as earthy tones, soft blues, and shades of white or cream. Also, invest in high-quality materials such as marble or natural stone for your countertops, as they exude durability and elegance combined with indulgence and luxury.

Another option is installing quality fixtures of polished chrome or brushed nickel. Install dimmable and customizable luxurious lighting, such as under-cabinet lighting. Or a statement chandelier over a freestanding bathtub. Remember to have ample storage, such as floating cabinets, and smart technology, such as integrated Bluetooth speakers and intelligent mirrors featuring built-in lighting, to create a spa-like bathroom experience.

6. Deck or Patio Expansion for Outdoor Living

Both decks and patios expand your outdoor living space. They differ in elevation; whereas decks are best on uneven terrain, patios are flush with the ground. Most decks are made of composite materials, aluminum, and wood, whereas patios are made of stone, tile, brick, and concrete.

Building patios is more affordable if you only want to expand your outdoor living space on general, even terrain. Both patios and decks can be attached to a freestanding house. If your home is on a highly elevated, uneven terrain, go for decks, as they are constructed above the ground and supported by vertical joists.

A patio with an alfresco glass enclosure allows light to pass, ensuring an unhindered outdoor view. If your home has a scenic view, consider installing alfresco glass doors to take advantage of its transparency and durability while increasing the value of your real estate. Alfresco glass enclosures and doors are biophilic; they bring the outdoors in. Conversely, decks are easy to customize, conducive for uneven yard terrain, and quickly increase a home’s resale value. The downside, however, is that they have a shorter lifespan than patios, have higher maintenance overheads, and are costly to build.

7. Smart Home Integration: Modernize Your Living Space

Smart home integration is an excellent way to revitalize your everyday living space with reliable internet and the appropriate devices. Your living space can be the most secure, efficient, and convenient place to spend time. Smart home integration is more affordable and has various options to indulge your commitment and interest. It’s designed to enhance and simplify your living space. Electricians are crucial in bringing smart home integration to reality since household appliances, alarm systems, thermostats, and refrigerators can be remotely managed and controlled using tablets, smartphones, and laptops.

Transforming your home into a fully automated facility is a gradual process that can start small. It requires one to think big but start small. Begin with what’s dear to you, then move on to other matters. For instance, if turning off lights is tiresome, set up automated timers.

Ensure you have a reliable internet connection, then start with timed lights featuring a smart thermostat before moving to more sophisticated systems, such as intelligent water and security systems. Once you have set up your systems, orientate your family and bring them up to speed on how the integrated smart system works. After the orientation, they’ll appreciate the repair & remodel taking place in your home.

8.HVAC Upgrade for Comfort Year-Round

When considering an HVAC upgrade, remember that heating your home takes four times the energy it takes to cool. An HVAC repair & remodel expert understands that heating is energy-intensive. Hence, an HVAC upgrade offers instant energy savings and comes with the benefit of a comfortable environment all year round.

If you fix the AC unit or furnace more than once a year, it’s time to upgrade. Air conditioning repair should stop once the unit is over a decade old. Similarly, when your boiler or heating system hits fifteen years, do away with it. To revitalize your living space, HVAC must match your needs.

Investing in a variable-speed blower allows you to use less energy. Contrast this with a traditional blower that runs at full speed at all times without variations, translating into significant energy savings. Variable blowers use less electricity and are gentler on the fan and motor than traditional single-speed blowers.

Consider upgrading to smart thermostats if you’re using gas or electric furnaces. Their flexible programming allows one to schedule heating and cooling levels when you’re not at home, saving on energy utility bills. This appliance also generates monthly usage reports to help you analyze usage, leading to necessary adjustments and money savings.

9. Next-Level Entertainment Room

With the pervasive use of technology, a new trend is emerging where people prefer to entertain themselves at home rather than go out with the boys and girls. The need for a next-level entertainment room was more apparent in 2020 and 2021 as the world battled the COVID-19 pandemic that necessitated global lockdowns. With more people working from home, the need for a dedicated room to entertain them is rapidly gaining traction.

As a homeowner, it’s crucial to repair & remodel your media room to make it a comfortable entertainment area for your family. Decide which room additions will make the remodeling worthwhile. A rectangular room is desirable because it transmits the projected sound to the audience. Embedding speakers to the walls enhances the experience, giving the audience a similar surround-sound experience.

A stadium-seating arrangement with screen placement on the shorter walls optimizes sight and sound for the audience. The media room sound quality is superior, courtesy of the heavy drapery on the walls and floor carpets. Choose the appropriate screen size by multiplying the diagonal screen width by 2 to 2.5 to determine the best viewing distance. Give your media room plush, comfortable reclining seats with inbuilt cupholders.

Most home improvement projects have functionality as a priority. However, esthetics and beauty are also important when executing home improvement projects. Besides making a bathroom or kitchen functional, you want to make them appealing and comfortable places. While there’s a place for function, there’s one for form and beauty, which home improvement projects must aim to achieve. Like Steve Jobs once said, ‘Let’s make them beautiful products.’ Likewise, home improvement projects that transform must have both form and function as a goal.

As we step into 2024, the realm of home design is undergoing a transformative evolution, with homeowners increasingly embracing innovative concepts to redefine their living spaces. From futuristic architectural elements to sustainable solutions, 2024 promises an exciting array of home design ideas set to leave a lasting impression.

Elevating the concept of home additions, 2024 sees a surge in multifunctional spaces that seamlessly blend work and leisure. Designers are integrating versatile elements, such as convertible furniture and adaptable room layouts, to create dynamic environments aligning with the diverse needs of modern living.

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Collaboration with a skilled home designer is becoming an essential aspect of the remodeling process 2024. Homeowners recognize the value of professional expertise in translating their visions into reality. The emphasis is on bespoke designs that reflect individual lifestyles, and home designers are adept at curating personalized spaces that balance aesthetics with functionality.

Sustainability takes center stage as environmentally conscious choices become integral to home remodeling projects in 2024. This shift towards sustainable design not only aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints but also enhances the overall quality of living spaces.

The top home design ideas for 2024 revolve around the seamless integration of technology, the collaborative efforts of skilled home designers, and a commitment to sustainable practices. These trends offer a blueprint for creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also tailored to the demands of modern living.

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As you sit in your home, are you thinking of ways to improve it? As the year is about to end, more homeowners are in the same position. As you make your list of major home improvements, you have a lot to consider, from your garage to your landscape to your flooring. To help make your decision easier, we’ve put together this article to help you get started on typical major home improvements.

Upgrade Your Roof

Do you remember when your current roof was installed? Did it come with the house, or did you make updates since then? The age of your roof matters, especially when making timely repairs and replacements. For example, according to Bob Vila, asphalt roofing lasts about 20 years, whereas metal and slate can last up to 70 years. The climate that you live in also matters when it comes to the best roofing for you. To get started, you should contact a local roofing contractor for a consultation about the upgrades you should make.

If you live in an arid climate, a metal roof can help you with your energy efficiency. Metal is great at reflecting heat, so it’s ideal for keeping your home cool during hot weather. If you don’t mind splurging even more, ceramic tiling can last as long as a century and is often seen in Mediterranean homes and South Florida homes. Both metal and slate also have a Class A fire rating if you’re in an area that may be prone to brush fires.

Materials like metal and slate are also handy for their aesthetics. These are very beautiful, durable materials that can easily add extra curb appeal to your home. There are different types of metals to choose from, ranging from copper to tin to aluminum to steel. The right metal roofing contractor can further enhance your roof with various designs and finishes.

Are you looking forward to curling up in front of the fire at this winter? Make sure you add chimney repair to your list of major home improvements. After all, your chimney is also part of your home’s curb appeal, so that’s part of your roof. Most importantly, an upgraded chimney can help keep you and your family safe. When your chimney functions properly, it can make sure any exhaust fumes and gases from your fireplace go outside the home and not circle back into your main living quarters. As a result, it protects the air quality of your home and your family’s respiratory health.

Plus, chimney cleaning professionals can ensure that there isn’t a buildup of dangerous soot. They can also make sure that there aren’t any pests hibernating in your chimney. Such pests can cause blockages as well as other detriments to an infestation.

Turn Your House Into a Smart Home

When it comes to electrical devices, your smartphone and iPad aren’t the only smart technology available. Thanks to advances in home and smart technology, your entire home can become as smart as your phone with electrical services on hand.

Call an electrical contractor to upgrade your home with the various smart technologies suitable for your lifestyle. When it comes to major home improvement, you may want smart lights that can automatically come on or off whenever you enter a room or that you can operate by phone. As the winter months set in, it would be great to be able to come home that’s already warm and cozy. So, instead of turning on your HVAC system and waiting for it to warm up, you can remotely operate your smart thermostat to come on shortly before you arrive. Of course, you can do the same thing if you live in a hot area and you need to keep cool. Thanks to smart technology, you never have to wait for your home to reach a comfortable temperature again. It could be ready the minute you walk in.

Expand the Garage

You should add garage expansion to your list of major home improvements. Why, you ask? Because your courage isn’t just a place to store your cars. Sure, they protect your cars from the elements and theft, but it’s a viable space for other uses. If you have several people living in your home, or if you want to invest in a few more cars, your garage may not be able to fit all of them. So, instead of having a two-car garage and parking the rest of your cars on your driveway, why not properly expand them to take on more vehicles?

When it comes to curb appeal, think about how your garage door looks. After all, your garage doors are one of the first things people see when they approach their property. Regardless of how well you maintain the rest of your home, if you have an older, noisy, and dirty garage door, it could stick out like a sore thumb in a negative way.

There are so many more materials residential garage door contractors can easily match with your current home design. Do you have beautiful cars you don’t mind people seeing as they walk past? Are you proud to show off your workshop and show how often you stay busy in your garage? Why not invest in a semi-transparent fiberglass garage door? Are you a fan of metal and already have a metal roof? Match things up with a custom-made metal garage door. Are you a fan of farmhouse living? Create a beautiful rustic appeal with a barn house-style garage door that you can manually open.

Garage expansion could also include adding more storage. Typical Americans have the typical American has over 300,000 items in their home. If you find that you’re running out of space in your main house, there’s nothing wrong with using alternative spaces, such as your garage, to add extra storage. Some professionals specialize in building storage, specifically in garage spaces. So, if you enjoy working or spending time in your garage, you can make it as comfortable as possible by having things more accessible to you.

Create Your Own Off-the-Grid Water Source

Are you tired of being worried about the sanitation of your municipal water supply? Are you tired of the traffic and fees that come with living in the city and are ready to move to a more rural, quiet life? If so, then a water well installation should be at the top of your major home improvements.

Imagine the peace of mind you’ll experience when you have your water well at home. When you draw for a water well, you’re in control of the water that your family drinks and bathes with. In the event of inclement weather or a national disaster, you won’t have to worry about your home losing water as long as your well is functioning. Just make sure that you keep up with your water wall maintenance by having regular inspections and upgrades.

Proper water heater installation can also ensure that your family has adequate water when it comes to bathing and sanitation. Thanks to advances in technology, you can always get the most energy-efficient water heater solution available. One of the more popular ones that homeowners are choosing for major home improvements is tankless water heaters. Tankless water heaters take up less space and only heat the water that you’re using. They burn less energy, and as a result, you’ll save a lot of money on your water bills.

Build a Pool

Coming home and being able to take a dip in the pool whenever you like is a major life upgrade. That’s why you shouldn’t invest in the services of a local swimming pool contractor. Swimming is a great low-impact activity that can bring a lot of fun and exercise to your home.

According to Healthline, Americans should get at least 30 minutes of activity at least five days a week. Are you someone who doesn’t like going to the gym? If you’re looking for alternative ways of increasing your cardiovascular fitness and staying in shape, swimming is a great way to do so. When you have your own residential pool, you have no excuse not to partake in this easy activity. Forget being turned off by going down to the public pool, where you have to sit in other people’s germs and bacteria. Go outside to your beautiful custom-made pool any day, night, or on your lunch break.

Pools come in a range of designs and additional features. You can have an in-ground or above-ground pool. Contractors can add additional features like pool lights to make nighttime swimming easier. They can also increase pool security by adding a gate so that pets and kids can’t get in unless you are there to attend to them.

You or anyone in your home needs hydrotherapy. You can do so from the comfort of your pool. Thanks to the buoyancy of water, your muscles and ligaments can have healthy levels of resistance that won’t hurt them. A pool contractor may also be able to add extra water features, such as a jacuzzi or hot tub near the main pool. Your regular pool can also have heated water to make swimming in wintertime a lot easier. The right pool contractor can help you with all of your pool-related needs.

Maintain Your Septic System

Regular septic services are a must in any home. Without a functioning septic tank, your home is susceptible to an unsanitary environment. If your system has shown signs of needing servicing, you should add that to your list of major home improvements immediately. If your tank is several decades old, it may have reached its lifespan and needs replacement.

Even if it doesn’t need replacement, it may need some repairs to ensure it functions more efficiently. According to Bob Vila, septic pumping should happen at least every three to five years. Consider the size of your home when it comes to septic tank servicing. If you have a large household with many people constantly flushing toilets, bathing, and washing clothes, it can put a lot of work on your existing septic system. Plus, you may never know if people aren’t flushing things down the toilet or drains that they shouldn’t.

Reinforce Your Home’s Structure

A strong foundation is a must in any home. If you suspect any type of issues with your foundation, add it to the top of your major home improvements today. Your home foundation is much like a human skeleton. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to stand. If your foundation begins to rot or suffers damage from mold, it can become a safety hazard as a wall or ceiling could collapse at any time.

One of the first signs that you may need foundation repair is water damage. Water damage often reveals itself in wet spots on your ceilings and walls. A common source of such water damage is often a busted pipe or a roof leak. So, get to the source of these issues by calling a plumber or roofer today. Timely foundation repair can save your home and prevent your home from becoming unlivable. Plus, this type of upgrade can give you peace that you and your family are safe from a collapse. After all, your home is a major investment, and if you want to pass it down to your heirs one day, make sure that they have a solid foundation to work with.

As you consider your major home improvements this year, you have a lot to think about. Luckily, you don’t have to get stressed out, as many other homeowners are going through the same thing. As 2023 comes to a close, make sure your home is as efficient and functioning as possible. With the right major home improvement, you can upgrade your quality of life, increase your home value, and have a home that you can look forward to showing off during the holiday season and beyond. Hopefully, this article has provided a useful guide for you to follow, and good luck with your home planning!

No matter how much you love your home, you need to change things up a bit from time to time. It’s the only way of ensuring it preserves its appeal. The part you may struggle with is knowing which projects to undertake. Lucky for you, this article lists ten expert home renovations to consider that’ll keep your home looking and feeling as good as new.

1. Revamp Your Electrical System

Thanks to recent technological advancements, appliance and electrical manufacturers are producing more aesthetically pleasing and reliable products that appeal to homeowners worldwide. So, why not take advantage of them? Consider replacing your home’s entire electrical distribution system with the modern options available today for an upgrade.

Revamping your electrical system as part of your expert home renovations is the only way to enhance its performance and energy efficiency. Of course, working with electricity presents some serious safety hazards, so hire one of the reputable electrical services in your area. A revamp typically entails adding energy-efficient HVAC systems and fans, replacing outdated lighting fixtures with more stylish and elegant ones, and modernizing the wiring and panels. You can also have your electrical contractor install new circuit voltages, upgrade the circuit breakers in the fuse box or metallic panel, and update the electricals in your kitchen and bathroom.

Whatever you do, don’t stay with an old electrical system. Outdated wiring presents some serious safety risks for you and any other occupants. For example, it can increase the likelihood of electrical shock, electrocution, and overheating, which can cause electrical fires. An old electrical system will also lead to frequent power outages and other frustrating and expensive electrical issues.

2. Purify Your Water

When rain falls, it’s usually clean of minerals. However, as it flows through the different layers of the ground, it picks up minerals such as magnesium and calcium. Water with excessive quantities of minerals is known as hard water.

While it poses no health risk, it’s not friendly to your home. When the dissolved minerals in the groundwater flowing through your home’s pipes combine with the heat, resulting in scale buildup that will damage the pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Water softener systems work to remove the minerals responsible for hard water using a process known as ion exchange. Resin in the system traps mineral ions, exchanging them for potassium and sodium ions.

If you’ve been suffering from the negative consequences of hard water, then including a water softener in your expert home renovations can be a lifesaver. However, there are situations where a water softener isn’t the best choice. This appliance will surely keep your home’s water clear of mineral ions. Still, it won’t do anything about contaminants like bacteria and heavy metals such as iron, mercury, and lead. If you want something that will give you better-tasting water, then a water filtration system is what you want.

3. Install a Deck

A deck provides an amazing gathering spot. It is a great addition to your expert home renovations if you like playing host for family and friends. Whether for a midday meal or a summer BBQ, it’ll offer a cozy area to sit and enjoy the great outdoors. Add unique patio furniture pieces to ensure guests can mingle, dine, and conversate comfortably. The good thing with a deck is even if you don’t love entertaining, it will give you a place where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of nature on beautiful days.

The benefits don’t end there. Whether you intend to sell or not, having professional deck builders erect a deck in your yard can increase your home’s market value significantly. Most potential home buyers desire to have nice outdoor spaces. So, having a deck is a plus as it takes away the worry, hassle, and costs of adding one themselves.

Another benefit of this home addition is it can enhance your front or backyard’s aesthetics. With the virtually limitless array of stain and finish options for composite and real wood decks, you will surely find one that goes well with your home’s exterior. You can also incorporate storage space for outdoor game supplies and sports equipment to keep clutter hidden. A deck will also allow you to define your outdoor space so everyone can use and enjoy it.

You may have thought of adding a room or making other interior renovations to your house, but depending on the size of the project, doing so will cause a major disruption to your daily life. On the other hand, a deck can be constructed quickly and is usually confined to outside work, so you won’t have to deal with inconveniences while it’s being built. Ultimately, this home addition will be much more cost-effective.

4. Finish Your Basement

A basement is a useful room for any home. However, most people tend to not finish the space because it is not the most visible, and they mostly use it for storage. Don’t let this valuable space go unused.

Finishing your basement with the help of basement contractors will give you more room to accommodate your friends and family when they’re over at your place and need a place to sleep. You can transform a section or the entire space into an ultimate guest suite. Think of a roomy seclusion with a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom; your visitors will like it!

Your loved ones will come to your house more often if they know you have a special place ready for them. You could even decide to rent out your basement if you’re okay with it and have the amenities. This is a great way of offsetting the costs of your expert home renovations. Once the project is paid off, you can use the rent money to pay for your mortgage or other expenses.

Finishing your basement can also boost your home’s comfort. Unfinished basements are generally chilly and damp. However, when you have professionals install insulation during the project, you’ll notice that the space feels more comfortable.

During the cold winter temperatures, it’ll stay warm, and in the sweltering summer months, it’ll keep things cool. Since finishing your basement will help to regulate temperatures, you’ll also be reducing the likelihood of the excess moisture buildup that usually triggers mold growth and attracts pests. Another benefit you’ll get to enjoy is improved air quality.

5. Protect Your Patio

Who wouldn’t want to have a lovely outside area right on their property’s compound? However, creating an exterior space you and your family can enjoy for a long time without the constant stress or worry of repair needs requires going above and beyond in protecting your patio from the elements. Ultimately, the items that enhance your patio’s experience are also the ones that’ll sit outside in the rain, snow, and intense sun all year long. Luckily, there are a few things that can help you preserve this outdoor living space so it can serve you for a long time.

One of the best things you can do for your family and their favorite outdoor chill spot during your expert home renovations is installing an outdoor patio awning. When shopping for these additions, you’ll find a wide array of options, allowing you to find something tailored to your aesthetic and performance needs. You’ll also come across various prices, sizes, and features, so there’s a product out there for any price range, skill level, and performance need for an outdoor awning.

6. Update Your Garage

Despite the important role it plays for you and your home, you probably don’t think much about the state of your garage. Whether that’s when performing routine home maintenance or undertaking improvement or renovation projects. However, you probably use it to store your automobile and other miscellaneous stuff. What you may not realize is your garage offers a lot of untapped potential, which you can only realize when you update it.

Understandably, you might be hesitant about putting your money into such a project, especially if you plan to sell your home soon. However, that should be the last thing stressing you out because a garage update offers a great ROI, whether you’ll be staying in the home for a long time or listing it for sale. Statistics show that something as simple as garage door replacement can give you up to a 102.7% return on investment, one of the highest for upgrade projects, according to Realty Times.

You can also enjoy other benefits. The garage door makes up a significant part of your home’s facade, so when it’s looking neglected or outdated, it negatively affects the visual interest of the rest of your home. Upgrading it with the help of professional garage door services can give your curb appeal a much-needed boost. A brand-new garage as part of your expert home renovations also demonstrates your concern for the aesthetics of your home and your willingness to go above and beyond in maintaining it.

7. Beautify Your Home’s Exterior

You’ve probably heard this many times before, but it’s worth repeating, ”You only get one chance at making a first impression.” This holds true, even for your home. Your landscape is one of the first things people interact with when they approach your property. So, if you want to impress your neighbors, guests, or potential buyers with your home’s curb appeal, you’ll want to focus some of your resources there during your expert home renovations.

You can never go wrong with planting colorful flowers and shrubs. They’ll transform your outdoors into a bouquet of colors. Whether you’re into bold, vivid hues or beautiful pastel petals, you have an endless selection.

Picture yourself walking outside to a rainbow of colors daily. It doesn’t have to stay an imagination. By introducing vibrant flowers and bushes to your garden, you won’t just introduce nature’s beauty into your backyard but also get a free instant mood booster. It would be best if you also considered introducing hardscaping elements with the help of hardscaping services to define the space.

8. Insulate Your Home

The insulation in your home does a lot. For one, it helps to maintain the temperature that your HVAC system works so hard to generate by preventing air leaks and thermal loss through the walls and roof. However, its ability to do this deteriorates as it ages. The result is your heating and cooling system working almost twice as hard to keep you comfortable.

So, if you can’t remember the last time you installed new insulation, replacing it as part of your expert home renovations is a good idea. If you proceed with this project, consider using spray foam insulation. It offers great benefits like easy installation and durability and is great at preventing drafts.

9. Restore Your Gutters

When you think about the different components of your home, the gutters are probably the last thing that comes to mind. However, the gutter system is one of the most important parts of your home’s infrastructure. It works to protect your home from water damage, which can affect its structural integrity and overall condition.

If you’ve had yours in for a while, but they’re still in good working order, consider restoring them with the help of a professional gutter service. This way, they’ll serve you for longer and reduce the likelihood of needing premature replacements. So, as you consider expert home renovations to undertake, be sure to include the gutters.

10. Refresh Your Driveway

Your driveway is among the components that contribute to the first impression people have of your home. Over years of constant use, it’ll likely fade, develop cracks, and other faults that negatively affect its aesthetics and performance. If you hope to restore it to its former glory, consider investing in driveway sealcoating services as part of your expert home renovations. Besides giving your driveway a visual appeal boost and its original glossy black color, applying a sealer will also help to prevent further damage. While it’ll definitely cost you some money, seal coating is much more cost-effective than waiting for extensive damage to occur.

You want to enjoy your home for as long as you live there. So, if your financial situation allows it, make renovations and improvement projects a routine undertaking. This read provides some great examples of projects worth considering.

Is your home showing signs of structural issues? Foundation repair can help you address problems before they worsen. Here are some key indicators to watch for:

1. Cracks in Walls and Floors: The appearance of cracks in your interior and exterior walls or on your floors can be an early sign of problems. These cracks often start small but can widen over time, indicating a need for foundation repair.

   
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2. Uneven or Sagging Floors: If you notice that your floors are no longer level or have developed slopes, it may be a sign of issues.
3. Sticking Doors and Windows: When your foundation shifts, it can cause door frames and window casings to become misaligned.
4. Gaps Around Windows and Doors: These gaps occur when the foundation moves, affecting the alignment of the openings.
5. Bowed or Leaning Walls: Walls that appear to be leaning or bowing inward are very clear indicators.
6. Exterior Cracks in Brickwork: Cracks in the bricks or masonry on the exterior of your home can signal foundation problems.
7. Basement Leaks and Moisture Issues: If you experience water leaks or moisture problems in your basement, it may be linked to keystone issues.
8. Chimney Separation: If your chimney is separating from the rest of your home, this is a crucial issue that should be handled promptly.
9. Settling or Sinking Foundation: A foundation that appears to be sinking or settling into the ground is a clear sign of problems.

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One of the most highly touted methods of buying more house than you could typically afford – buying a fixer-upper – requires more than financial investment. A fixer-upper takes time to repair, especially if it incurs considerable damage. Many experienced do-it-yourselfers consider a fixer-upper home the ultimate challenge in home care and repair.

What Makes a House a Fixer-Upper?

Most homes include one or two things that require repairs. We’re talking small things though, like chips or gouges in the kitchen’s granite countertop or an older heating, air conditioning, and ventilation (HVAC) system that needs a professional overhaul or a new system that replaces it. These small issues require only a few days and a few phone calls to repair.

A fixer-upper exhibits one or more types of major damage. The home care and repair it requires might include replacing the plumbing, rewiring the home, making subfloor repairs, foundation repairs, or re-roofing the house. A fixer-upper may have sustained flood or fire damage, or damage from another natural hazard, such as a tornado or earthquake.

How Do You Decide Whether to Repair or Start Over?

Survey the damage before you buy the house. Consider the framing and foundation. Nearly all homes settle over time, so needing to jack up a home to fix it shouldn’t surprise you. Huge foundation cracks or crumbled areas indicate a need for a teardown.

The home’s frame offers the other deciding factor. If the two-by-fours underlying the siding and wallboard remain in good shape, the rest proves easy to fix. A sturdy frame means you can build onto it and while framing a building typically requires a professional, an experienced do-it-yourselfer can drywall an interior rather easily.

Let’s assume that your intended home purchase has a rugged foundation that might need only a shim or two, perhaps some reinforcing cement. The frame checks out with only healthy two-by-fours present. Where do you start?

Making a Plan for Repairing Your Fixer Upper

Before you start on your repairs, go through the home methodically, noting any damage. Write it all down on a comprehensive list. Consider which skills you have and where you could use help.

If you need to demolish walls, flooring, or ceilings, do it before contacting any professional contractors for work. Any demolition work that the pro contractor does, you pay for on your bill. You can probably swing a sledgehammer on your own, especially to save yourself tons of money.

Perhaps the ceilings, floors, and walls remain in superb condition. The last owners left the place a mess though, and you need help deep cleaning such a huge place. Contact a residential cleaning services company that specializes in move-in cleaning. Consider obtaining a project estimate instead of purchasing a flat rate option because that saves you from surprise fees tacked onto your invoice.

Once you have a clean work area, you can invite contractors to your home to make estimates. Unless you hire a general contractor (GC), you will need to organize the order of the work yourself. What order makes sense? Start at the bottom or the top, whichever needs repairs.

1. Roof or foundation repairs
2. Flooring
3. Electrical
4. Plumbing
5. HVAC including ducts and ventilation
6. Walls
7. Ceilings
8. Refurbishing or refinishing tubs, sinks, cabinets, etc.

Essentially, the top items relate to the areas required for a safe structure. The second tier, the electrical and plumbing, makes it livable and easier to work on and in. Until you have the wiring repaired, everyone who works on the home has to bring a generator, or you must provide one for them. Finally, you make things look nice.

Addressing Specific Repairs

For a home requiring a wide range of repairs, such as drywall, countertops, and roof repairs, hire a general contractor for the home care and repair project. These renovation and remodeling contractors specialize in project management and large-scale jobs.

General contractors don’t do all of the work themselves. They typically hire sub-contractors, such as hardwood flooring installation professionals, masons, electricians, etc. These management-level contractors usually have a specialty, such as carpentry, and do all of that work themselves. The advantage of hiring a GC comes from their connections and scheduling because they handle all the other hiring, create the work schedules, and maintain the work site.

Hiring Single Positions for Home Repairs

Sometimes, the chips and cracks in the countertops preclude salvaging them. That’s when you need to hire a professional contractor for granite counter top installations. A professional countertop layer can help in other ways, too, by recommending home care and repair contractors with whom they have had good work experiences on prior jobs.
Finding one specialty professional for kitchen work can lead to a bevy of home care and repair contractors, such as the ideal contractor to handle your custom cabinet designs. Kitchen contractors typically work together as sub-contractors through various general contractors. Even if you skipped hiring a GC, you can obtain referrals from the specialist. These referrals can reduce the time it takes to locate a dependable, reliable, talented contractor to redo the cabinetry, update the sinks and faucets, and install the new dishwasher.

Similarly, when focusing on bathroom remodeling, finding one reliable home care and repair professional can easily lead to the other individuals you need to complete the job. If you need an overall bathroom renovation, consider hiring a renovation contractor who specializes in bathrooms. These companies typically employ every needed position for a bathroom overhaul, so you won’t need to hire a GC separately and you save yourself from needing to interview for each position. Conversely, if you only need to revamp the tub, search for local bathtub renovation companies and your local home care and repair professionals.

Finally, some home care and repair projects only require a carpenter, drywaller, and painting crew. For this need, search your local construction community for a master carpenter or a GC. Either position typically employs the others.

What types of repairs require a master carpenter? Damaged built-ins, such as bookcases or desks require a carpentry professional to repair them. Broken or damaged stairs or banisters do, too. If you’ve decided to build a home addition during your repairs, the carpenter can help you but may recommend a GC if your addition requires electrical and plumbing work, too.

Some fixer-uppers look a mess when you visit them with the real estate agent. After closer inspection though, what seems like a home care and repair nightmare turns out to be a pretty simple cleaning and painting job. For the best results possible, hire professional home painters to handle painting the exterior and interior of the home.

Perhaps painting sounds easy and you think it would make the ideal DIY project. That’s true when you only need to paint a feature wall in one room or a tiny bathroom. When you need to repaint an entire home, inside and out, the DIY idea goes south. Professional painters own thousands of dollars worth of equipment that you would need to purchase to do the job yourself.

The Real Costs of DIY Home Repairs

Most people don’t consider the real costs of doing home repairs themselves versus hiring a professional. Typically, they only consider the materials costs versus the cost of hiring a professional and that’s where the budget goes awry. Even with a simple task like painting, when it comes to the home’s exterior, you would need extensible ladders, scaffolding, extensible paint rollers, an array of brushes, primer, paint, and sealant.

Without the proper tools, DIY home care and repair projects don’t turn out right. Buying the proper tools can cost thousands of dollars, although most major home improvement retailers rent equipment in major cities. If you don’t reside near a major city, you will need to buy those tools or hire someone whose entire profession revolves around that work. Hiring a home improvement specialist makes more sense than buying tools you will probably use once or twice because how many times do you plan to paint the home’s exterior – honestly?

Decorating and Enjoying Your Home

Finally, with your home care and repair items finished, you can shop your favorite stores for furniture for sale. Once you have repaired everything, you decorate your home and enjoy it. You may have clear ideas about what you want in a home’s interior and exterior, but what if you don’t? Hire an interior decorator.

Despite the position’s title, an interior decorator also designs and decorates home exteriors like outdoor living areas, outdoor kitchen, and pool house. From a gazebo to a portico, an interior design professional can help you unify the decor of both areas of the home and create a comfortable environment in both. This professional contractor begins by learning about your favorite things, from your favorite colors to hobbies, to design a home decor that suits you and how you will use your home.

What if you have fabulous taste and already own tons of furniture that you want to use? Of course, you can design your home’s interior on your own as a DIY project. It makes it much simpler if you already own the furnishings you want to use and merely want to update the look to match your new digs.

While people once had to travel afar to find furnishings, carpets, and art objects to differentiate their home from their neighbors’, the Internet has solved that problem. Shop stores like Temu, Amazon, Alibaba, and Walmart to access stores throughout the world. Etsy offers a source for handmade items from worldwide artisans. That means that instead of needing to travel abroad to find the perfect Turkish or Persian rug, you can shop from your living room or bedroom and have it shipped to you.

Modern technology has also solved the problem of deciding whether something matches the decor you desire. Many online shopping platforms offer augmented reality apps that let you take a photo of your room, upload it, and try various items from their catalog in the space. Using this method lets you see ahead of time whether the blue hues really match or just perfect a green rug goes with your grandmother’s tablecloth. Taking the time and effort to snap a few high-quality photos of the room you need to update can make a difference in how smoothly your shopping experience goes.

Keeping Your Fixed Home Perfect

Enjoy the rewarding feeling of your fixed-up fixer-upper by investing in home maintenance. Your homeowner’s insurance policy covers surprise repairs necessitated by perils covered in the policy, which range from 10 to every known peril, depending on your coverage. For every maintenance item, you pay out of pocket. The easiest way to ensure your budget covers your home maintenance remains to build in savings for it monthly. Typically, homeowners spend 1% to 4% of their home’s value on maintenance each year.

Each year, your roof and foundation should undergo an inspection. You can look at your foundation to note cracks or gouges and any sinking but have a professional roofer inspect the roof. The inspections typically cost nothing, but you pay for the repair of any wear and tear damage they find. If a peril covered by your home insurance caused the damage, file a claim for it.

The purchase documents of a home list the dates of purchase of each major appliance. Generally, they all last about 15 years, except dishwashers, which wear out around nine years after purchase. Home insurance does not cover the replacement of these items from wear and tear. Most plumbers and HVAC professionals offer maintenance plans that you can purchase to lock in lower prices while providing for the annual upkeep of these appliances and home utility devices.

To help reduce budgetary outlays, consider purchasing a home warranty. These plans provide coverage for the wear and tear and maintenance items that insurance does not. The warranty does not cover the big, emergency damages that insurance does, so you would need both.

Fixing Your Fixer Upper

Ask friends and family for referrals for home improvement professionals they trust. Once you find a home repair pro that you trust, and who does great work, ask for referrals for other professional contractors that they recommend. This speeds up your home improvements and can fix your fixer-upper faster. Do small, simple tasks yourself, and once you complete all repairs and decorate, focus on maintaining your ideal home.

Schedule your annual maintenance on various items like roof inspections, so you can maintain it at the ideal level. Most fixer-upper homes cost little initially, but the money you invest in their repairs provides you with instant equity that it makes sense to maintain. It makes good sense to invest the dollars necessary to upkeep your new home.