Simple Home Renovations

Simple home renovations are great for making your home feel new without spending a lot of money. They can also make your house more appealing to potential buyers if you plan on selling it in the future.

Make sure to budget for any extra costs that may arise during your renovation. Your location and the scope of the work will impact permit fees and other expenses.

Kitchen

A kitchen overhaul can dramatically impact a home’s value, but it can also be incredibly costly. If you’re ready for a change but don’t have the budget to revamp your entire floor plan, consider updating only your cabinet doors or installing a new backsplash. These small touches go a long way, appearance-wise, and will limit the need for future maintenance.

In this farmhouse kitchen, DIY homeowner Claire Zinnicker carved out new windows and painted the walls white to brighten the space. She also added salvaged wood open shelving, combining a mix of old and new to create an inviting vibe.

If you’re looking for a more substantial upgrade, consider swapping out your sink hardware and faucet. These affordable items are a great opportunity to add a splash of personality. Try opting for warmer-toned finishes, such as brass, and coordinating your hardware to the rest of your décor. You can also splurge on a custom backsplash that showcases your unique style.

Bathroom

Many homeowners start a bathroom remodel with big plans like swapping out the vanity or installing tile flooring, but small changes can make a noticeable impact for less money. Painting the room is one of the least expensive upgrades and can make even a small bathroom feel larger. If you’re going the DIY route, be sure to purchase paint that is moisture-hardy and formulated for bathrooms.

Alternatively, consider a new tub or shower curtain to add a fresh look that doesn’t break the bank. Swapping out the sink faucet can also instantly improve a bathroom’s style.

Before starting a remodel, take “before” pictures and clear out the space for work to begin. Also, make sure to have alternative bathing arrangements in place while work is underway. And finally, be sure to mark the location of electrical wiring and plumbing pipes so you don’t accidentally damage them.

Living Room

Whether you’re binging Mare of Easttown or hosting an epic game of Settlers of Catan, the living room is the heart of the home. Simple updates can make it feel like a whole new space.

Installing crown molding is a classic home improvement project that adds elegance to any room, especially in the living room. Many styles are available, and many are affordable. You don’t even need to remove existing flooring for this budget-friendly project.

If you have older windows, a few simple curtains or valances can hide them and give the room an instant facelift. There are plenty of sew-it-yourself options, and materials for a 16 by 20-foot space can cost less than $1,000.

Traditionally, living rooms were more elegant spaces where you’d display artwork and fancy antiques. Today, with open floor plans blurring the lines between family, dining, and kitchen areas, the living room is more of a meeting spot for daily life.

Exterior

A well-researched and planned home exterior makeover can add a lot of value to your property. A new coat of paint or a front door with decorative trims can provide a high ROI when it comes time to sell your house.

An updated look to the exterior can also help you achieve your goals for a greener living environment and improved energy efficiency. New windows and doors in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes can reduce the amount of heat your home loses while introducing natural light and a modern look.

Simple home renovations in the exterior can include a new porch railing, shutters and bushes or a well-designed landscaping project that complements your style and adds a touch of serenity to your backyard. A fountain or koi pond can become an eye-catching feature, and even an eco-friendly water feature like an artificial stream or waterfall can be a great way to bring your family together for fun and relaxation.

Backyard Improvements to Add Value to Your Home

Yard improvements are one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your home. The key is to choose the right improvements.

A well-maintained lawn, clean flower beds and simple hardscaping can all boost curb appeal without breaking the bank. Backyard ‘living rooms’ are another no-brainer backyard renovation that can pay off come time to sell.

1. Outdoor Kitchen and Living Area

One of the most popular and valuable backyard improvements is a professionally designed outdoor kitchen. This upgrade shows that a home is well cared for and makes it easier to entertain, which many potential buyers appreciate.

An upgraded outdoor kitchen is a great way to increase livable square footage and make entertaining more enjoyable for all family members and guests. It is also a selling point when it comes time to put the house on the market.

Backyard ‘living rooms’ can also improve usable space by adding shade, something that is especially important in warmer climates. This can be done with a patio cover or by incorporating an arbor with vines or eucalyptus wood. Landscape additions like these also add value and are easy to do on a budget.

2. Fire Pit

A backyard fire pit is a classic addition for any outdoor living space. It can be wood-burning or gas powered and adds a cozy atmosphere to your backyard for entertaining and relaxing. A well-maintained backyard fire pit can also increase a home’s value.

If you have a smaller yard, you can make the most of your space by installing a stone fire pit with built-in bench seating. Adding pavers and a flowerbed around your fire pit can help distinguish the area as a designated gathering spot.

If you have a wood-burning fire pit, save the ashes instead of throwing them away. Ash has dozens of practical uses, including being used as plant fertiliser in gardens and flowerbeds. It can also be sprinkled on sidewalks and driveways during the winter to melt ice and snow.

3. Deck

As the most visible feature of a backyard, a deck can significantly boost a home’s value. However, homeowners should always reference local building codes and homeowners’ associations to ensure a deck will meet and maintain their community’s standards when finished.

Decks are a great way to separate a yard and provide a spot for entertaining and relaxing. Decks can be surrounded by a lush plant border to add privacy and further define the space.

A simple way to refresh a deck is to paint it. Fresh stain or paint not only looks great, but it also helps protect against rot and moisture over time. Be sure to power wash and sand your deck before applying a new coat. Then, personalize your deck with furniture and accents in fun colors to match the rest of the garden.

4. Turf

In horticulture, turf refers to grass. Well-maintained lawns protect soil from water and wind erosion, absorb runoff, and reduce dust, noise, and heat irradiation. They also provide a natural habitat for wildlife and are valuable for recreational purposes.

When planting from seed, follow recommended rates and guard against overseeding. Keep newly planted areas uniformly moist until germination and emergence.

Backyard improvements like this don’t just increase your curb appeal – they add value to your home and can make it more likely that you’ll turn a profit when you sell. These backyard improvements will also help your family live healthier lives by encouraging outdoor physical activity. And, of course, they’ll make your home a beautiful place to entertain friends and loved ones.

5. Patio

A backyard patio can add value to your home. It’s also a great way to make your home a better place for kids and families. It helps them learn to be healthy and active outdoors.

This patio features a new pergola and pool, creating a beautiful outdoor space to dine, relax, and spend time with family and friends. Streamlined patio furniture and modern fences establish a simple color palette that complements the back of the house. Pea gravel offers a low-maintenance alternative to grass, and a gas fire pit provides ambiance in the evenings.

Adding distinct zones in your backyard can help it appear larger, according to the Shoreline Pools landscaping team. Separate areas for dining and lounging allow you to use your yard more effectively.

Easy House Upgrades

easy house upgrades

Home upgrades don’t always require a large budget or team of contractors. Often it’s the little changes that elevate your home’s beauty or functionality.

Adding storage to your home and upgrading your light fixtures are simple but effective ways to add value. Other projects with great return on investment include finishing the basement and installing energy-efficient home appliances.

Paint the Front Door

The front door is the first thing people notice about your home, and painting it a vibrant hue can boost curb appeal. It’s also one of the most cost-effective and simple projects to take on over a weekend.

Before starting, remove any hardware like the doorknob or deadbolt lock. Then, wipe down the surface to remove any dust and grime. Next, sand the door lightly to roughen up the surface and prep it for paint.

Umana recommends using a high-quality exterior latex paint, rather than the cheap stuff you can find at Home Depot or Lowe’s. It’ll last longer and look better. Before committing to a color, tape some swatches to the door and view them at different times of day to see how they look in natural light.

Upgrade Your House Numbers

Having clearly displayed house numbers does more than just aid in finding your address; it enhances curb appeal as well. Choose number designs that complement your home’s architectural style, whether sleek and minimalist or ornate and detailed.

A common place to display your house numbers is on or near the front door. However, if this area isn’t visible from the road (or it doesn’t have enough space for your house numbers) try mounting them on a door frame, like Julian Porcino did here, or even your curb.

If you need help installing your new house numbers, a Tasker can do it for you. Get an estimate today!.

Power-Wash the Exterior

Over time, the weather and pollutants take a toll on your home’s exterior. A little power washing goes a long way in boosting curb appeal, priming surfaces for painting, preventing damage, and returning the surface to its original glory.

Before you get started, however, be sure to test any area for lead paint. The force of a power washer can dislodge and spread this hazardous material.

If you do find traces of lead paint, consult the proper cleaning instructions to remove it. Otherwise, the experts at Lowes provide a handy step-by-step guide for this easy house upgrade. It’s also a great idea to power wash your gutters. Without them, water could overflow and cause leakage or rot in the foundation. This is an important task that’s easy to overlook.

Refinish Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors add a lot of value to a home and are attractive to potential buyers. If your hardwoods are looking a bit worn, however, refinishing or resurfacing can revive them and make the entire home look better.

Refinishing involves sanding the wood to remove years of wear and tear. Skilled refinishers can even repair some types of damage, such as deep scratches and dents, with stain or varnish.

Refinishing can be more expensive than replacing the hardwoods, but it’s still an easy house upgrade that pays off. A new coat of stain or varnish can refresh the look of the floor and protect it for years to come. Hardwood floors that are refinished are also more appealing to potential buyers, so you’ll get a good return on your investment when it comes time to sell.

Change Your Light Fixtures

Replacing your basic big-box store boob light fixtures with something a little more stylish can elevate the look of your home for a relatively inexpensive price. Then switch to dimmer switches and you can create different moods in any room for an even more impressive upgrade.

Before you disconnect any wires, use a non-contact voltage detector to make sure there’s no electricity flowing through the junction box (ceiling or wall). Once it’s safe to remove the old fixture, follow the new one’s instructions for connecting the electrical wires.

The black wire usually connects to the exposed screw in the junction box, and the white and copper pair of wires might either attach to a green grounding screw or a dedicated copper wire coming from the ceiling (depending on your fixture). Connect them as instructed.

Zachery Ty Bryan Wants to Star in a Home Improvement Reunion

Tim Allen has floated the idea of a Home Improvement reunion, but his former co-stars haven’t seemed interested. Pamala Richardson recently said she was never asked, while Jonathan Taylor Thomas claimed he wasn’t either.

Zachery Ty Bryan, who played oldest son Brad Taylor on the 1990s sitcom, has been arrested for domestic violence. He was charged with felony assault, which violates the Abuse Prevention Act.

Home Improvement

Zachery Ty Bryan has been in and out of the spotlight since his hit ’90s sitcom, Home Improvement, ended in 1999. He’s struggled to land serious acting gigs, and he’s also had some legal troubles. The actor who played Tim Allen’s son on the show has gotten behind bars on alcohol-related charges, a domestic violence incident, and even a digital token scam. His latest arrest occurred in July when he was arrested for violating the Abuse Prevention Act, according to TMZ.

Tim Allen

Tim Allen became a household name thanks to Home Improvement, which ran from 1991 to 1999. He starred as Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor and Jill Taylor, the parents of sons Brad (Zachary Ty Bryan), Randy (Jonathan Taylor Thomas), and Mark (Taran Noah Smith).

His character was a klutz who often hurt himself due to bad DIY projects and loved his Detroit sports teams and hot rods. He was also a smart aleck, bragging about his accomplishments and saving people’s phone numbers under celebrity names so they could call him.

After Home Improvement ended, Zachery Ty Bryan struggled to find acting work. He recently opened up about his struggle and hard comedown from teen fame. He also has had legal troubles including a DUI and a cryptocurrency scam. The actor is now living in La Quinta, California. He’s working on a new show called Shifting Gears. The sitcom will center on Matt, a stubborn widower who runs a classic car restoration shop.

Zachery Ty Bryan

Bryan, 42, starred as the eldest son on Home Improvement alongside Tim Allen from 1991 to 1999 and went on to land roles in other television shows including Boston Public and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He is also a producer on independent films.

In 2020, Bryan was arrested for allegedly strangling model Johnnie Faye Cartwright and spent seven days in jail. His sentencing included 36 months of bench probation and participation in a program called Bridges2Safety.

However, the actor seems to have turned a corner in his personal life as he recently announced that he and Cartwright are expecting twins. The pair celebrated their pregnancy with an Instagram photo of their sonogram on Friday. They have been together since 2021 and have three children of their own. The couple is based in California, where they have been spotted on ‘river walks’ and at local bars. They are also avid hikers. They have shared several photos of their adventures on social media.

The Best Home Improvement Companies Near Me

Home improvement projects are a great way to make your house more comfortable and add value to it. They can be as small as installing a water filter or as large as enclosing an unused space to create a new room. If you are planning a major project, it makes sense to work with a general contractor.

DJ’s Home Improvements

DJ’s Home Improvements is a local home remodeling company that offers a variety of services. Their team of professionals can handle everything from painting and drywall repair to landscaping and kitchen or bathroom remodeling. They also offer handyman services to assist homeowners with minor projects. They charge fair prices for their work and have an excellent track record.

The Better Business Bureau has received complaints from consumers about this company. Some of these complaints allege that the company did not complete or finish work in a workmanlike manner. Others complain that the company charged for work that was never performed or completed.

This company is a design-build remodeler, which means that they provide all aspects of the construction process under one roof. This includes design, product purchasing and a full compliment of vetted subcontractors. This helps to streamline the process and minimize costs. They strive to complete each project to the client’s exact expectations or better.

Rusk Renovations

Rusk Renovations is an award-winning contractor and construction manager specializing in luxury townhouses and apartments in Manhattan. Their decades-old relationships with buildings, managers, architects and designers create trust and synergies that clear the way for them to build spectacular residences in formidable time frames.

They pride themselves on delivering projects on time and within budget and have built a reputation as a reliable, trustworthy partner for discerning clients who demand quality craftsmanship and service. They have been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers, including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. John is the author of On Time and On Budget, an expert on residential construction and renovation and a regular contributor to the Today Show.

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Cinch Home Services

Cinch Home Services offers home warranty plans that can help shield homeowners from the financial jolts of unexpected repairs and replacements. The company has three different warranty plans: Appliances, Built-in Systems and Complete Home. The company’s plans include a 180-day workmanship guarantee that is six times longer than the industry standard. Each plan also includes protection for unknown pre-existing conditions, which is a major perk that other companies don’t provide.

In addition, Cinch’s customer service is highly accessible and responsive. Its website features a 24/7 online claim submission portal and mobile app. Customers can file claims through these channels or work with an independent insurance agent to handle the process. The company also has several add-on coverage options and flexible service call fee options to give customers more control over their monthly pricing. This gives Cinch an edge over many of its competitors. Its plans are also affordable and have decent coverage levels. However, the company does exclude some items like exterior pipes and free-standing freezers.

MyHome

My Home Improvements offers a wide variety of services, including whole-house remodeling and renovation projects. They also offer digital design renderings of what the finished product will look like to help clients visualize their project. The company has been serving New York City and Long Island for over 30 years, and has won numerous awards.

When hiring a contractor, get a written estimate that details the project scope, materials to be used and projected completion date. Ask for referrals from past customers and check online reviews. In addition, verify that the contractor is licensed and insured before signing a contract.

Home improvement projects can improve the quality of your home and make it more enjoyable to live in. However, they aren’t always guaranteed to add value or return your investment. The best way to ensure your project is successful is to hire a professional. BBB recommends choosing a contractor who is licensed, insured and accredited.

Top Home Improvement Companies

Home improvement is a term used to describe construction projects that upgrade the interior or exterior of a building. These upgrades improve the safety, security and energy efficiency of homes or apartments.

To find a contractor, ask family and friends for recommendations. You can also search online for reviews.

America Green Builders

America Green Builders is a specialized home renovation company that offers a variety of general contractor services. They can help you transform your kitchen, bathroom, or add an extra room to your home. They also offer a variety of other services, including house lifts, seismic upgrades, decks, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). They provide a range of products for home improvement projects and work with architects to design and build green custom homes. Their services include scheduling, estimating, constructability reviews, and value engineering.

Build Method Construction

The company specializes in home remodeling, construction, and restoration. Its services include kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodel, home additions, and new construction. Its team of experts can assist with design and renovations that are tailored to your budget and needs. They offer free estimates and consultations. Their services are available in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

The company uses the Design/Build method to streamline efficiency and deliver top quality projects. The process eliminates disconnect between the designer and contractor that can often arise with other construction delivery methods.

Kavin Construction

Kavin Construction provides comprehensive home remodeling services to help make those dream houses a reality. They specialize in hillside construction and work to create a custom design that matches your vision of your home. They also offer a variety of products, including wall paneling.

Michael Kavin established himself as a thought leader in the industry over 45 years ago and ensures each project is handled with the utmost professionalism and superior craftsmanship. He has a deep appreciation for the unique properties in the Los Angeles area and knows how to maximize their potential.

Leroy Merlin Studio

Leroy Merlin Studio offre une accompagnement de A à Z pour les propretaires qui souhaitent renover leur domicile. Ce service intègre un seul interlocuteur qui aide et conseille les clients jusqu’à la réalisation des travaux en question.

Nathalie Hervet, responsable d’Escouter Paris et Ile-de-France, affirme que le lancement de l’entreprise a ouvert à nouveau le marché axé sur des projets particuliers d’amélioration du logement. Elle a déclaré que le réseau constitue des professionnels d’architecture DPLG, architectes d’interieur et de décorateurs qui sont sûrs de mettre en valeur les attentes et responsabilités des clients.

Principal Home Services

Principal Home Services offers a range of services and products, including home improvement services. These include interior design and renovation, as well as maintenance services such as window cleaning and repair. They also offer energy services such as insulation and weatherization, and they can help homeowners save on their utility bills. They also provide home emergency repair protection plans and warranties. This company is a top choice for many homeowners. Their team is highly experienced and can handle various fields of construction.

Woodbridge Home Solutions

Woodbridge Home Solutions provides remodeling services intended to improve the energy efficiency and curb appeal of homes. The company specializes in the installation of replacement windows, doors, vinyl siding, soffit and fascia, kitchen cabinets, and showers. It also offers design assistance to help customers choose products that best suit their needs.

The company is a subsidiary of Renovo Home Partners and holds strong brand positions in its markets. The company’s focus on providing lifetime products and transferable warranties can provide a competitive advantage.

Celebrating the Opening of the Palmer Museum

Come celebrate the opening of Palmer Museum’s new home in the Arboretum. The Palmer will be open to all for a weekend of fun programming for all ages.

Season five of “Home Improvement” is a solid middle ground between the series’ promising start and its drop-off end, featuring several of its finest episodes.

1. Tool Time

Home Improvement starred Tim Allen as Tim “The Toolman” Taylor, host of the home-improvement TV show Tool Time. The series ran for eight seasons.

Al – The show’s straight man with a dry sense of humor. His favorite board games are Parcheesi and Chinese Checkers. He also likes bingo.

Guests on Tool Time have included The Beach Boys, Rodney Dangerfield, George Foreman, the crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia, Dave Chappelle, Jim Breuer, and Drew Carey as a road kill remover.

Heidi Keppert (Debbe Dunning) – The second “Tool Girl” and a master electrician. Initially she was seen mostly in and around the set. She is eye candy for the male audience and a frequent subject of jokes about her cleavage and body. She and Tim share a child, Brad.

2. Home Improvement

Home Improvement was a successful American sitcom that ran for eight seasons. The show was well received by both critics and audiences, winning several awards and nominations. The main cast of the show included Tim Allen, Richard Karn, Casey Sander, and Debbe Dunning. The show was also known for its catchy theme song and blooper scenes.

In the last episode of the series, Randy left for an environmental study program in Costa Rica. Despite this, the cast remained close throughout the show’s run. In 2003, the cast reunited for a special called Home Improvement Presents: A User’s Guide, which featured favorite clips, insider tips, and personal reflections. The show’s creator, Tim Allen, was the host. He was joined by co-stars Karn and Dunning, as well as a terminally ill Earl Hindman who provided voice-overs for Wilson.

4. Anniversary Party

In one of the series’ most lighthearted and fun episodes, Jill uses her inheritance to buy a 1967 Austin-Healey that Tim doesn’t want. So, he hotwires it and tries to drive it away!

As with the previous DVD sets, this one is devoid of extra features. Still, it looks great presented in its original 1.33:1 widescreen aspect ratio.

Palmer started her career as a topless dancer in London’s Windmill Theatre before becoming a glamour model for the Strobe Studios photo agency and studio, which sold prints to amateur photographers and featured models in popular magazines such as Practical Photography. She also appeared in 8mm glamour films by Harrison Marks (Flesh and Fantasy, Photo Session, Taste the Blood of Dracula) and Russell Gay and Express Films (Body Beautiful [2]). Palmer married stuntman Arthur Howell in 1966 and divorced him in 2000.

Home Improvement For Seniors

Maintaining a home can be expensive, especially for seniors. Fortunately, there are resources available to help senior homeowners afford needed renovations and repairs.

The Section 504 Home Repair Loan and Grant Program is one such resource, aimed at helping elderly individuals in rural areas. Additionally, the FHA’s Limited 203(k) program allows homeowners to include home improvements and renovations in their mortgage.

Aging in Place

Many seniors want to continue living at home as they age. It’s a desire that, with a little planning and DIY projects, may be possible to achieve.

In addition to modifying the home, seniors should also look into options for in-home care services and community resources. These can help with tasks that become more difficult as a person ages, such as transportation and housekeeping.

Several simple modifications can be made to a home to make it more aging-in-place friendly, such as adding non-slip flooring in the bathroom and kitchen, removing throw rugs, installing grab bars in the shower or by toilets and exchanging doorknobs for lever-handled models. It’s also a good idea to have a personal alert system that can be used to call for assistance if needed. This type of device can be especially helpful in preventing falls and allowing for immediate help if an accident occurs.

Safety

Many older people face health-related accidents at home, such as falls, burns and poisoning. Home safety renovations can help prevent these accidents, lower a senior’s stress and improve their quality of life.

Installing handrails on stairs and in the bathroom, removing tripping hazards like area rugs and installing light switches at the top and bottom of the staircase are simple ways to make a home safer for seniors. Adding a CO2 detector and smoke alarm to the house, and checking batteries regularly, are also important to ensure safety.

Using a personal loan can be a great way to finance safety improvements to the home. These loans typically have low interest rates and are not tied to your credit. Other options for financing safety renovations include state housing finance agencies and nonprofit organizations such as Rebuilding Together. These programs have income-limit requirements, so be sure to check eligibility before applying. GPS trackers, which are available in many forms such as on phones, can be helpful for seniors who wander from home.

Energy Efficiency

Having a home that’s energy efficient can benefit seniors in several ways. According to a 2020 report, low-income households spend over six percent of their income on energy costs, which can be particularly high for seniors with limited resources.

One way to reduce energy costs for older adults is through an improved home’s insulation and air sealing. This can help to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year and save on heating and cooling expenses.

Additionally, there are some states and local utilities that offer assistance with lowering household energy costs for elderly homeowners. These programs can provide for things like caulking, HVAC maintenance and other services that improve energy efficiency.

Lastly, many states, local governments and non-profit organizations have funding available for aging in place remodels or renovations. These programs can be a great resource for helping homeowners pay for projects like installing grab bars around the toilet or converting an upstairs bedroom into a ground-floor primary suite.

Financial Assistance

Home repairs and modifications can be costly, and it’s important for seniors to explore available resources to help reduce their cost. Many local and state programs provide financial assistance for certain home improvements. For example, the New York RESTORE program covers a wide range of repairs to eliminate unsafe conditions like faulty wiring and leaky roofs. Additionally, the FHA’s Limited 203(k) financing option allows homeowners to include the purchase and renovation of a property in a single mortgage for a streamlined solution.

Area Agencies on Aging are another valuable resource, providing connections to local and national grant programs that offer support for specific home repairs. Additionally, energy efficiency programs such as Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAPs) can help low-income households install insulation, caulking and HVAC maintenance to save on utility bills.

Simple Home Upgrades to Make Your House Feel Newer

Many homeowners want to upgrade their homes, but don’t have the time or budget for extensive renovations. These simple home upgrades can help your house feel newer without breaking the bank.

Repair or Replace Appliances

It’s often hard to decide whether an appliance is worth repairing or it’s time to move on. Consider these guidelines when making your decision:

Laminate Floors

Laminate is a great floor option for many areas of the home. It is available in an amazing range of styles and colours from traditional oak and hickory to contemporary grey and white.

This flooring is incredibly hard-wearing and highly resistant to scratches, dents and stains. Its protective wear layer is particularly good at resisting scuff marks and scratches commonly caused by pets, children, shoes, furniture and sharp objects.

It also protects the decorative paper layer from sunlight fading, shielding it from ultraviolet rays that can bleach color. It is easy to install, with boards fitted using a tongue and groove joint and glued together with water-resistant adhesive.

Appliance Upgrades

Adding luxury appliances to your home is one of the most effective ways to increase its value and enhance your living experience. In addition to enhancing functionality and aesthetics, appliances with energy-efficient features can lower your utility bills and offer long-term cost savings.

When deliberating between repairs and upgrades, consider the long-term value of each option. Repairing outdated appliances may be a quick fix to a minor problem, but upgrades can provide more modern technology and advanced features that will be attractive to potential buyers in the future. They also improve indoor air quality and contribute to reduced energy consumption and natural resource depletion, which can benefit the environment.

Door Handles

Door handles are a key component to the look and feel of your doors. They are available in a wide variety of styles, colours and finishes to suit both contemporary and traditional homes. They are usually fitted on a round rose but can also be mounted to a latchset, bathroom thumb turn or escutcheon depending on the requirements of your door.

Levers are easy to use for everyone, including young children and clever pets. Their design is also less likely to catch your knuckles on the edge of a door frame. This makes them a great choice for doors that will be used by people with limited mobility or physical disability.

Crown Molding

Crown molding is an elegant way to frame walls and give a house a cared for appearance. It is also a great way to hide wires or cables that can look shabby in a room.

There are several types of crown moldings that can be used in your home, but wood is a traditional choice. However, it is expensive and requires a lot of skill when working with it.

Another option is medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which is inexpensive but still looks good. There are even a few stock designs that can be painted, which is a great alternative to custom work. This molding can also be used on mantels and bookshelves to give a graceful look.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors add a rich, authentic look to any space. They are durable, easy to clean and have a positive impact on indoor air quality. They also increase resale value, as home buyers prefer them to carpeting.

Solid hardwood planks are made from one piece of 100% natural wood, offering durability and longevity. You can choose from a variety of widths, colors, streaks and patterns for a customized flooring design.

Engineered hardwood offers many of the same benefits as solid flooring but are more resistant to temperature and moisture fluctuations. It’s suitable for above ground spaces, such as living and dining areas, kitchens and bedrooms.

What to Look For in Home Improvement Builders

Home improvement is the repairing, renovating, altering, converting or adding to a residential building. It includes work on driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, patios, fences, porches, kitchens and bathrooms.

Look for a builder that specializes in the type of project you need. Ask friends and relatives for recommendations. Visit a builder’s job sites and model homes.

Licensed and Insured

Whether you’re hiring someone to build a swimming pool, paint your home, or perform any other home improvement project, it’s always important to work with licensed contractors. Licensing provides a baseline of knowledge and skill, while bonding and insurance provide financial protection.

A licensed contractor must show proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation before getting a license, so it stands to reason that you should ask to see these documents before hiring anyone to work on your home. You should also inquire about a surety bond, which covers unsatisfactory work or non-payment by the contractor.

If you find yourself unable to secure any references, you can always check with your local department of consumer protection for information on complaint history. You can also visit the website of your state’s licensing board to determine whether or not a contractor is licensed. However, it’s important to note that online contractor referral services may not check for this information, so you should still request these documents before hiring someone to do any work at your home.

Experience

A home improvement builder who has experience with your project will be able to answer any questions you may have. This will save you time and money in the long run. They will also be able to provide you with an accurate timeline for how long it will take to complete your job.

Home improvement contractors are involved in repairing, remodeling, altering, converting, renovating, modernizing, painting or improving residential and noncommercial property. This includes, but is not limited to, the construction, installation or replacement of driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, terraces, patios, landscaping, fences, garages, fallout shelters and basements.

In addition to having experience with your project, ask your home improvement builders about their certifications and memberships in industry organizations. They should also carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance. This will protect you if an accident happens on the job site. They should be able to provide you with a contract with a detailed work schedule, payment schedule and specifics about your project, including the types or brands of materials to be used.

Good References

Having good contractor references is one of the most important things to look for in a home improvement builder. The answers to questions about how well the contractor stuck to their timeline, if they played by the rules, and whether or not they pulled all necessary permits can give you a sense of their overall professionalism.

Ask for references from projects similar to yours and try to talk to homeowners who worked with them during the project. They’ll be able to tell you how happy they are with the final result and whether or not they would work with them again.

Make sure to also talk to references from projects that were installed a few years ago to see how well they’re holding up over time. This will help you get a sense of how long the contractor has been in business and how much they’ve grown as a company. It will also help you know if they’re still capable of completing the quality of work you need.

Good Communication

One of the most important aspects of working with a residential contractor is good communication. It’s when homeowners articulate their vision and contractors echo those details back to them that the building process is defined by clarity, minimizes misunderstandings and maximizes project efficiency.

Whether in person, over the phone or via email, communication should be clear and direct. Avoid using jargon or excessive wording that can be confusing for homeowners. It is also a best practice to have only one person in your company authorized to communicate details about the build, as this eliminates miscommunication and reduces the amount of time needed to resolve any issues.

No building project is 100 percent problem-free – something will go wrong at some point, but it can be significantly reduced by choosing a contractor who has your best interest in mind and puts you first. Pay attention to how the contractor treats you during your initial meeting as this is a good indication of their communication style throughout the entire project.