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How to Pick Out Bricks for a Patio

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Brick is a durable material that lends itself to a wide variety of patio designs. However, there are several considerations homeowners should take into account when choosing the color, laying pattern and layout of their new brick patio.

Avoid matching your brick patio to the home’s siding; doing so can quickly overwhelm the outdoor space with too much “noise.” Aim for a more neutral palette, or use accent colors and laying patterns to add visual interest.

Color and Style

Brick patios can complement a variety of design styles and add value to the property. They can be built out of clay or concrete and come in a wide range of colors and sizes. They can be laid in different patterns to create distinct areas within a larger outdoor space or use specific paver colors to match a landscape design theme.

Before choosing a color or pattern, consider the intended function of the patio. Is it a lounge area with an outdoor fireplace, a dining space for al fresco meals or a multifunctional entertainment space? The answers to these questions will suggest a patio floor design that combines aesthetics with functionality.

Also consider other structural features like retaining walls, fences or pergolas that may be adjacent to the patio. Ideally, the color of these structures will blend with the patio’s brick paver color scheme.

A reputable contractor should be able to provide you with samples of brick and paver colors to help you visualize them in your patio layout. He should also explain the process for laying pavers, such as the need to install a base of 3-4 inches of packed crushed gravel and an inch of sand. This will prevent shifting of the bricks and will keep weeds from growing between them. He should also lay a layer of landscape fabric over the gravel to suppress weeds and protect the base from moisture.

Budget

Brick patios require a lot of careful planning and aren’t as cheap as they may seem. The key to calculating costs is ensuring you account for everything involved with the project, not just the cost of materials. This includes any extras you’re including in your design such as outdoor lighting, seating walls or fire pits. It also accounts for any site preparation needed such as removing existing materials or adding base layers.

Brick pavers are usually made of either clay or concrete. Both are durable, but clay bricks have the advantage of being less water-absorbent than concrete and will last longer in areas that experience freeze-thaw cycles. You can lay your patio with pre-cut pavers or use uncut bricks to create a custom look. Pre-cut pavers are small and modular so they fit together easily, and are available in a variety of colors.

Uncut bricks are larger and more irregular, but they can add a rustic feel to your patio and can be used in many different patterns. If you’re going to use these in your patio, a pro is the best choice since they will have access to specialty tools and have extensive knowledge of masonry. They’ll know the right soil conditions to achieve a long-lasting patio and how to prepare the area for proper drainage and leveling.

Maintenance

Brick paved patios add a great deal to the usable space in your home and create an inviting vibe. They are long-lasting and easy to maintain with proper care and maintenance.

Regularly sweep your pavers with a hard-bristled broom to remove dust and debris. This should be done 1-2 times each week to keep the pavement clean and prevent sand from being washed away by rainwater. It is also best to do this before it rains to avoid dirt and debris stains on your bricks.

Keeping on top of weeds growing in between the brick pavers is another important maintenance step. Weeds not only look unattractive, but they can weaken the mortar and damage the integrity of your patio. If necessary, use a pre-emergent herbicide to kill any emerging weeds.

Once a year, refill the spaces between your bricks with polymeric sand. This is a mixture of well-graded fine sand and a binder substance created by Techniseal specifically to fill in the gaps between stones, pavers, and other hardscape materials for patios and walkways.

The most important factor in choosing the right brick for your patio is picking a color and size that complements the style of your home. A red brick patio wouldn’t be the right choice for a modern house with gray siding, while a natural brown color would fit perfectly with a rustic wood-sided home. It’s also a good idea to mix up the sizes of your brick pavers so they look more organic, instead of trying to match them all the way around.

Durability

Brick patios add value and function to your home’s outdoor space. They also provide a comfortable surface for entertaining and relaxing. However, you need to know that not all brick pavers are created equal. The quality of a paver depends on several factors, such as its ability to hold up to weather and traffic. To ensure your bricks will last, you should lay a solid foundation for the project, which includes a layer of paver base panels and a light coating of sand.

If your paving is going to be subject to heavy foot traffic, you should choose durable materials like concrete or clay pavers. These are typically rated for more durability than soft bricks, which can be easily damaged by high-traffic areas. The paver’s unconfined compressive strength (UCS) is an important factor to consider when comparing products. To determine the UCS, the brick is placed in a compression testing machine and pressed until it shatters. This test measures the brick’s ability to withstand the pressure of human weight and equipment such as a car.

You should also look for a brick with good freeze-thaw resistance in the Aurora area. This will prevent your patio from cracking or deteriorating over time. Additionally, you should opt for a brick that is easy to maintain. For example, some bricks may require a sealant to protect them from staining, while others don’t need any special maintenance.

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Tile Ideas for Your Shower

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Elevate your shower with a boldly shaped tile that adds visual interest and provides traction. Try a herringbone pattern, like the one shown here, or experiment with alternating shapes and sizes, like penny rounds and small hexagons.

Large-format tiles are becoming an envied focal point for bathrooms. Play with tile layouts that use these larger slabs, like staggering them in a traditional brick-bond pattern or laying them horizontally to create a modern wainscot.

Herringbone Patterns

Herringbone patterns are an eye-catching design option that combines elements of both classical and modern design styles. This classic zigzag parquet pattern, named for its resemblance to the bones of herring fish, can be used on walls, floors and other surfaces and is available in a wide range of tile shapes, sizes and colors.

The herringbone layout is a great way to add interest to a bathroom wall or floor without using border tiles. It also allows you to create a seamless and continuous pattern that will complement any type of tile. For a striking look, mix tile finishes such as glossy and matte or even use different color tiles to add a pop of contrast.

While herringbone can be laid in a variety of ways, the most common is to start at one end of a room and work your way across the space, or vice versa. This will ensure that the herringbone pattern flows seamlessly and that the directional element of the pattern is consistent throughout the room.

A herringbone tile pattern can be used with a wide range of materials, from natural stone to porcelain. When it comes to choosing the perfect tile for a herringbone shower, look for a material that reflects your style and will stand the test of time. Marble is a timeless choice that looks spectacular with herringbone, while a darker tile like sandstone will add a more rustic and traditional feel.

Floor Tiles

Most shower tile ideas focus on walls and niches, but your floor is a great opportunity to add style, too. Create a contrasting border with a herringbone pattern or patterned tile, or try a single strip of a different color.

Use a dark grout to highlight zigzag lines in herringbone tile or a white grout to make a monochromatic pattern pop. You can also experiment with different shapes to create a custom shower floor design, such as using small hexagon tiles in a patterned pattern or penny rounds for a dynamic look.

A natural stone tile can elevate a traditional bathroom with its earthy and soothing undertones. Try a marble-look tile with veining for a timeless look, or opt for a concrete-look tile for a modern take on the trend. This beautiful brown ochre tile, featured in this shower designed by Becca Interiors, offers a unique and classic look that complements the brass fixtures and wood vanity.

You can also choose a large-format tile for your shower floor to minimize the number of grout lines and give your room an expansive feel. This stone-look tile, shown here in a herringbone pattern, adds a sophisticated touch and coordinates with the wall tile for a cohesive design. The large-format tile also helps keep the bathroom clean, making it easy to maintain.

Corner Shelves

Adding shelving to your shower is one of the most effective ways to add storage space. Recessed shower shelves (also known as tile niches) provide a clean, elegant appearance and have the added benefit of keeping items off the floor of your shower.

Many home owners, designers and installation professionals opt for a recessed shelf that has a hook attachment that can be used for shower slings, like poofs or washcloths. These slings help to keep towels, body washes, back scrubbers and exfoliating sponges organized.

Another popular option for shower storage is a corner shower caddy. These are generally made of stainless steel and feature premium plated coatings that are designed for wet environments. This type of product is great for storing body washes, soaps and shampoos as well as coordinating bath products such as hair brushes and combs.

Lastly, shower shelves for tile are a great solution for new installations or remodels. These types of shelves are typically installed at the time of tile installation and are integrated into the wall with thinset adhesive. They are much more durable than traditional shower shelves that install after the fact as these can potentially crack through your shower waterproofing systems and allow water and bacteria to enter the walls of your home, resulting in mold growth and other costly damage.

Spa Experience

A spa experience is all about calming the mind and body, so it’s important to include textures and shades that evoke relaxation. Using natural materials such as wood and stone can help create a connection to nature that’s incredibly soothing. Light colors like beiges and calming grays are also popular for spa-like bathrooms. Avoid high-contrast pairings like black and white, which can be energizing rather than calming. Instead, try neutrals with shades inspired by nature such as seafoam green or sky blue for a serene color palette.

A shower’s surface is the perfect opportunity to make a design statement with a unique textured tile. A glazed zellige or handmade glazed travertine tile that has soft waves or geometric shapes will capture the light and look stunning under a cascade of water.

If you don’t want to commit to a completely textured tile, simply use a coordinating pencil trim to add an artistic touch around your shower head. This subtle detail makes a big impact, elevating your bathroom’s design without making it too busy.

Incorporate plants and flowers into your bathroom to instantly add a soothing touch. Whether you place a small vase on your vanity or add flower petals to your showerhead, fresh plant life can be an easy and affordable way to create a spa-like vibe in your home.

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How to Remove Wallpaper

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The first step in removing wallpaper is to apply an agent that dissolves the glue. You can purchase a commercial wallpaper stripper, or you can use an ingredient from your pantry.

A vinegar solution works well, explains Cecil Snider, an expert on painting and wallpaper. He suggests pouring the solution into a spray bottle and climbing a ladder to spray a corner seam.

Preparation

Wallpaper can add a great deal of interest to any room, but it’s important to be mindful of your design style and make sure the wallpaper you choose fits your taste. If you have old wallpaper hanging around the house that isn’t fitting your aesthetic any more, or even just needs a fresh coat of paint, it’s easy to remove it on your own without a professional.

Whether the wallpaper is peelable, strippable or vinyl, there are certain steps you need to take to make sure it comes off with ease and leaves your walls looking clean and refreshed.

Start by clearing the area where you’ll be working. Move furniture to a safe location and cover floors and baseboards with drop cloths. Remove any artwork or mirrors from the wall, as well as switch plates and outlet covers.

Next, use a wallpaper scoring tool to perforate the surface of the paper and adhesive layer. This will allow your removal solution to soak in more effectively. You’ll also want to place any decorations or furnishings away from the walls so you don’t risk ripping or damaging them with your tools.

Soaking

If you’re lucky, the wallpaper might come down completely with just a little effort. But in most cases, you’ll need to use a stripping process that involves scoring the paper and then spraying it with a water or liquid stripper to loosen the glue. This is a messy job, so prepare by covering your floor with plastic painter’s tarp and taping down the power outlets.

Before you start, test a small area of the wall with your solution to make sure it’s safe for the surface of your drywall. After you’ve done a spot test, saturate the wall with your wallpaper stripper solution of choice and let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to work.

Next, using a putty knife or scraper, score the wallpaper with your blade where it meets the wall. This makes the paper perforate and allows the stripper to penetrate through the wallpaper and into the wall, soaking up the adhesive. You can also cut a few holes with your screwdriver, but you’ll need to use a metal putty knife that can hold up to the chemicals.

If you’re not ready to invest in a wallpaper stripping solution, consider this DIY technique, which uses a mixture of laundry detergent and water. It works but can take a little more time than a steamer, so be patient and follow the instructions carefully!

Scraping

If your walls have old wallpaper that simply will not budge, don’t give up. There are a few methods that can help you get it off your walls so you can redecorate with new wallpaper or paint. Before you get started, however, be sure to protect floors and baseboards by covering them with plastic sheets or drop cloths. Also make sure to turn off all electrical outlets and switch plates so you don’t accidentally get shocked or electrocute yourself.

One way to remove wallpaper that won’t budge is by using a water and detergent mixture. This method is simple and uses ingredients you probably already have at home. Mix equal parts of water and liquid fabric softener together in a spray bottle or sponge and apply it to the wall. Let it sit for 15 minutes or more, then scrape the wallpaper off with a putty knife.

Another way to remove wallpaper is by using a commercially available stripping solution. Basically, you’ll score the wallpaper with a tool such as Zinsser’s PaperTiger to create perforations that will allow your stripping solution to penetrate and loosen the glue behind it. Next, you’ll use a pump sprayer or sponge to apply the solution over the wallpaper. It’s recommended that you use warm water, since it helps the solution seep into the perforations.

Steaming

If your wallpaper comes up easily and without much scraping, that’s a good sign—though it may not happen on every wall. If you’re not so lucky, it’s time to get out the steamer.

You can rent these tools at most tool rental stores, or find one at a home improvement store. Alternatively, you can heat the wallpaper with a heat gun, being careful not to scorch or damage the drywall underneath.

Regardless of the method you choose, first prepare your workspace by covering the floor and any nearby furniture with plastic. Tape off outlets and switch plates, as well, to avoid damaging them later on. Then, use a wallpaper scorer to create small holes in the paper. This will allow your solution to soak in more quickly and will make the paper and glue easier to remove. If you’re using a commercial wallpaper stripping solution, apply the solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

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Spring Home Clean Up List

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Spring cleaning is a time to breathe new life into your home. Use this comprehensive checklist to help get the job done.

Clean floors – Sweep or vacuum. Mop hardwood or tile floors for a fresh finish. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries, and replace if necessary. Purge pantry, refrigerator and shelving – throw away expired items and organize what remains.

Clean the Windows

Clean windows are a sign of a healthy, well-maintained home. Streak-free windows let in more sunlight, which brightens and freshens interior rooms. And they also help reduce the amount of dust and dander in your home, especially before allergy season hits.

Use a cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove grime. Start at the top of a window and work your way down, swapping out the cleaner and microfiber cloth when necessary. Be sure to dry the windows immediately after cleaning to prevent streaks.

If you have huge picture windows, consider using a professional squeegee method called “the snake.” Begin in one upper corner and lower the squeegee horizontally across the window, then pull up to the opposite corner. Repeat the process on all sides of each window, then touch up the edges with a cloth.

How often you wash your windows will depend on the conditions in your area and your home. If you live in a damp forest, for example, or near the ocean where salt glazes windows, you may need to clean them more frequently.

Clean the Screens

After a long winter of keeping their doors and windows shut, window screens can become dirty and dusty. Luckily, it’s easy to keep them clean.

First, you’ll need to lay the screen flat on a surface and vacuum it using a brush attachment. You can also use a spray bottle of water and mild soap to scrub both sides of the screen. Then, rinse it off with a garden hose on a low pressure setting. Be sure to not use a power washer, as this can damage the screens.

You can also make your own homemade cleaning solution with a bucket of warm water and a few squirts of mild soap or vinegar. Be sure to rinse thoroughly before letting the screens dry. Once they are dry, you can re-install them in the window frames. You’ll love how much fresher the air will smell as a result! You can even add a few drops of essential oils for a more pleasant scent.

Clean the Light Fixtures

Light fixtures set the mood for each room in your home, but they can also collect dust and grime that dulls their luminosity. A little bit of regular cleaning can keep them clean, but a deep clean can eliminate grime and grit that cake on over time.

Wiping away dust is usually all that’s required, but stubborn or sticky grime may need a gentle solution like mild dish soap. You can test a small area for compatibility with your fixture’s finish before using any cleaner.

It’s also important to take precautions when working around electricity. Always turn off the switch to the fixture and unplug it from the power source (ideally at the breaker box), to prevent shocks and to avoid mixing electricity with cleaning solutions.

When you’re removing glass globes or shades, firmly support the piece by hand and remove the screws or clamps holding it in place with the other hand. Once you’re able to dump out loose dirt and dead bugs, you can use a mixture of warm water and soap to wash the fixture.

Clean the Toilet

There are few household chores more groan-inducing than cleaning the toilet, but it is one of the most important. Not only does it remove unsightly rings and stains, but regular toilet cleaning also eliminates harmful germs.

Start by coating the interior of your toilet bowl with a specialized cleaner, according to the instructions on your product. Then scrub away stubborn stains with your toilet brush.

Next, squirt the toilet tank lid and flush handle with disinfectant spray, making sure to get into the corners and cracks. Make sure you remove any fabric toilet lid covers and seat rugs, which are great places for microscopic splatters to hide.

After letting the cleaner sit for a minute, use a paper towel to wipe down the toilet’s exterior, including hard-to-reach spots like the back of the base and underside of the toilet seat. If you’re worried about your hands coming into contact with harsh chemicals, consider wearing rubber gloves. Just remember to sanitize them afterward to prevent the spread of germs. It is also a good idea to put your sanitizing supplies in a separate tote or bucket from your regular cleaning products, to avoid accidental mixing.

Clean the Bathroom Fan

A clean bathroom fan is essential to keeping the rest of your house smelling fresh and eliminating potential mold, mildew or rot problems. It’s a simple task that shouldn’t take up too much of your time, but it’s important to do regularly-about twice a year.

Before starting the cleaning process, you’ll want to make sure the fan is turned off at the circuit breaker for safety reasons. Once it’s off, you can remove the cover and wash it in a sink full of hot water and mild dish soap. Once you’re finished, rinse the cover and allow it to dry completely before re-attaching it to the fan.

Once you’re up on your stepladder, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush or crevice attachment or an electrostatic duster to dust off the fan blades and recessed housing. You can also use a can of compressed air or cotton swabs dipped in alcohol to get to any tough-to-reach spots. Don’t submerge the fan in water though, as this can cause electric shock when you plug it back in.

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Shower Upgrades to Add to Your Bathroom in 2024

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Shower upgrades are one of the most popular renovations for transforming bathrooms into spa-like sanctuaries. Think expanding the shower area, adding built-in nooks and seating, and installing multiple shower heads with body sprays.

Homeowners are also incorporating natural materials and earth tones into their bathroom designs. Other popular choices include terrazzo, reclaimed wood and concrete.

Walk-In Showers

A walk-in shower can create a spa-like environment in an en suite bathroom or make a spacious primary bath feel more updated and luxurious. They can be expanded to include a built-in nook or seating area, outfitted with stunning tiles and multiple shower heads, and even adapted for accessibility needs such as slip-resistant flooring and grab bars.

While showers can be prone to splashback, they can minimize water damage by using a wall or glass partition to enclose the space, opting for a rainfall showerhead so the water falls straight down, and installing slip-resistant floors. For a modern industrial design, frame the walls of your walk-in shower with aluminum piping to add a touch of roughness and a visual contrast to the polished decorative finishes.

Pretty floor tile arrangements on shower floors are also trending, with patterns like hex and chevron replacing large-format tile and pebbles. App-controlled heating options are becoming available to elevate the experience even further.

As more homeowners plan to stay in their homes into retirement, there’s a growing interest in universal design that prioritizes beauty as well as accessibility. This could mean features like nonslip flooring, curbless showers, wider doorways, lower vanity heights and grab bars are seen more often in bathrooms. This aging-in-place element helps to reduce the risk of injury and can be implemented into any shower type or style.

Frameless Glass Showers

Showers are a focal point in most bathrooms, so upgrading the look of your shower will make a significant impact. This year, many homeowners are incorporating beautiful frameless glass doors into their bathroom remodels. These stylish doors are easy to clean and offer a modern aesthetic.

Frameless glass showers have several advantages over framed glass doors. Frameless doors are easier to clean because there is no frame to trap dirt or soap scum, and they have a smooth surface that wipes down easily. They also don’t require regular sealing or painting, which makes them a long-lasting option for your shower. Frameless doors can be more expensive than framed doors because they require thicker and stronger tempered glass and stronger hardware, but they’re worth the investment if you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom.

Another bathroom remodeling trend for 2024 is universal design, which aims to create spaces that are accessible and functional for people of all ages and abilities. This is reflected in new trends like curbless showers, adjustable height fixtures, wider doorways, and grab bars. This is a smart way to future-proof your bathroom and add value to your home, as it will appeal to more potential buyers in the future. Additionally, these upgrades can be implemented at a budget-friendly price.

Multiple Shower Heads

Showers are one of our most frequent self-care activities. Whether you need to wash off the day or soothe tense muscles, a new shower head can make your bathroom feel like a spa. But not all shower heads are created equal. There are plenty of options that offer the best in functionality and luxury—including some advanced features that help you tailor your experience for a perfect fit.

For example, some shower heads allow you to control the temperature of the water, meaning that you can adjust it for a relaxing or invigorating experience. Others also come with a programmable spray pattern or thermostatic mixer that lets you adjust the flow of the water to match your preferences for both comfort and efficiency. And for a truly customized experience, you can opt for a dual showerhead that offers both stationary and handheld wand heads with various spray settings to match your mood.

Regardless of your preference, you can find an array of showerheads in modern finishes to suit your style. Consider the classic Pottery Barn model, which includes a stationary head and a handheld wand for versatility, and is available in seven finishes to match your other bathroom fixtures. It also has a convenient diverter switch that lets you easily swap between the two heads and choose from different spray patterns to suit your needs.

Soaking Tubs

If you want to turn your bathroom into a luxurious spa, a soaking tub may be the perfect upgrade. Soaking tubs are comfortable, graceful, and equipped with many different systems and add-ons to enhance your bathing experience.

They are typically deeper than standard bathtubs, allowing for almost full immersion to help you unwind and relax your entire body. They’re also available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect option for your bathroom space.

Like walk-in showers, soaking tubs don’t require any special plumbing, making them a more cost-effective and accessible upgrade. However, the deep nature of soaking tubs can make them harder to get into and out of, so you’ll want to choose one that’s easy for anyone in your household to use.

In contrast to the minimalist trends of 2023, soaking tubs often come with lots of design options for visual interest. They can be decked out with pillows, shelves, armrests, mood lighting (or chromatherapy), aromatherapy, and more to create an experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed. They’re also available in a range of finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your space. They’re also a great choice for larger bathrooms where a traditional long tub would not fit. However, you’ll need to make sure your flooring can handle the weight of a fully-filled soaking tub.

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What is Recessed Lighting and What are its Benefits?

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Recessed lighting is a unique way to highlight features of your home. From a bookshelf full of your favorite novels to an antique piece of furniture, these lights can really make them stand out.

The most visible part of a recessed light is the trim, which is available in a broad variety of styles and finishes. Here are six reasons to consider recessed lighting in your next project:

Energy Savings

Recessed lights can offer a subtle glow that softly illuminates a room without creating hot spots or shadows. They also allow you to highlight artwork or other design elements that you want to draw attention to.

Energy efficiency is a major benefit of recessed lighting. Traditional fixtures, such as fluorescent light boxes or outdated sconces, typically waste a lot of energy. However, you can make recessed light fixtures more energy efficient by using LED bulbs, which last up to 30 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and use about 80% less energy.

Another way to save on energy costs is by installing a dimmer switch for your recessed lights. This allows you to use a lower level of illumination when your space is unoccupied, which will result in significant energy savings.

Even Illumination

When you use recessed lighting, you can eliminate dark corners and unevenly lit areas that occur with traditional fixtures that hang from the ceiling. This creates a more uniform, well-lit space that is perfect for home theater rooms, kitchens and other areas where the lighting needs to be focused on a specific design element.

In addition, recessed lighting gives off a subtle glow that can help to make smaller spaces look larger than they are. This is especially helpful for people who live in cramped apartments or condominiums that can’t expand their living spaces but want to add an air of spaciousness.

Recessed lights can also be paired with dimmer switches, giving you the flexibility to set the mood for any occasion. From intimate dinners to romantic movie nights, recessed lighting will allow you to create the ideal ambiance with just the flick of a switch.

Another advantage of recessed lighting is that it reduces the number of light fixtures that are needed in any room. This can create a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic, and it can also help to keep your electrical bills down.

Aesthetics

Unlike chandeliers and other hanging fixtures that can detract from furniture and decorative accents, recessed lighting is great for highlighting these elements. It also does a better job “pushing” usable light to countertops, tables and reading chairs than ambient lighting like pendants and lamps can.

A clean aesthetic is another important benefit of recessed lighting. Whereas hanging fixtures can disturb contours of walls and ceilings, recessed lights fit into the ceiling for a smoother, unbroken look. This is particularly helpful in rooms with low ceilings where a bulky fixture would be too much.

Many recessed lights have trims in a variety of colors and materials to complement your space. They can also come in various shapes and sizes, with a single bulb or multiple. The trim is what you see when you glance at a fixture, and it can make a big difference in how the fixture looks.

Choosing the right trim is an important part of any recessed lighting project. There are many different options available, in a variety of sizes, styles and colors, to suit any décor. The housing is another important consideration, as it determines the type of fixture you need to install. For example, you’ll need IC-rated housing or “insulation contact” housing if your ceiling has insulation.

In addition, recessed lighting can add a sleek look to your ceiling. Since they are not as noticeable as other types of ceiling fixtures, recessed lighting is a great option if you want to streamline your home’s appearance and avoid tripping over bulky light fixtures.

And they’re great for highlighting unique architectural features such as a tall chimney, angled eaves or three-story stairwell that might be difficult to illuminate with other types of lighting. A judicious mix of recessed and other types of fixtures can create dramatic interior architectural lighting designs that make any room feel bigger and more interesting.

Ease of Installation

In addition to saving energy, recessed lighting is easy to install. If you are working with an existing home, simply open the switch box and fish in your new wiring through the ceiling (or access it from above in the attic) to the recessed light’s junction box. If you are installing into an unfinished ceiling, use a remodeling box with built-in cable clamps and drill holes into the joists according to your plan.

Once your wiring is in place, trim comes in multiple colors, styles and materials to match or contrast with the ceiling surface. Choosing the correct size of aperture, or opening, is also important and will determine how much light your fixture produces.

Recessed lights can be used as a primary light source in most rooms, or as accent lighting for wall art, display areas or a fireplace mantel. Because they don’t hang down, they don’t take up any floor space which can be useful in small rooms or homes with low ceilings. Plus, they are less likely to be bumped into than traditional light fixtures hanging from a chain or cord.

The understated, sleek appearance of recessed lighting makes it ideal for contemporary or minimalist homes. However, this type of lighting is not appropriate for every room and it can be difficult to create the perfect look with DIY installation. For this reason, many homeowners prefer to have a professional contractor complete the work.

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Ideas to Turn Your Basement into a Game Room

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Turn your basement into a game room that the entire family will love. Start by creating a plan for what games will fit in the space. Avoid over-packing, as table games like air hockey or foosball need 3 to 4 feet of space around them to be fun.

Incorporate gaming memorabilia and framed art into the décor to elevate the room’s ambiance. Choose soft fabrics for seating options and add rugs to provide comfort when playing.

Ping Pong

The classic game of ping pong is a staple for any family-friendly basement. Ping pong tables are inexpensive and can be easily stored when not in use. Make your own table more interesting by adding a unique frame or painting it in a fun color. If you don’t have room for a full-sized table, consider adding a half-table to the corner of your space.

Even if you don’t have the budget to buy a new table, you can still turn your basement into a great place for gaming with some DIY ideas. Try using a thrift store or garage sale to find affordable tables and other furniture. Purchasing some second-hand pieces will help you save money and create a unique style for your basement.

Pool

Family members of all ages enjoy playing games, and the basement is the perfect place for this fun activity. From classic board games to modern video games, there are many ways to make this space a hit with your family.

One popular option is to create a pool table for family and friends to enjoy. Pool tables are a great choice for all ages and can be played with two players or more.  In addition to the table and balls, you’ll need a triangle to rack the balls, cue sticks, cue chalk and a brush to keep the table clean.  You might also want a diamond which can be used for 9-ball.

Video Games

If you have kids, they will love the idea of transforming their basement into a video games area. They can use their favorite consoles or a PC setup and play with their friends. You can add a comfortable sectional and plenty of seating to make this space a relaxing hangout. You can also decorate the walls with framed posters to add some flair to the room.

When designing a gaming room, you need to consider your family’s interests and how much space you have available. You should plan your game room early in the renovation process to ensure you can fit everything on your wish list. For example, table games like air hockey or a foosball table require three to four feet of space around them. If you have the space, a partition may be a good idea to separate table games from video games.

Other Considerations

A game room should also have plenty of storage to keep everything organized. It’s easy to end up with a lot of accessories and supplies for your gaming console, like remotes, batteries, cables, and more. You can create more storage space by adding custom closet doors to your game room.

Choose a color scheme for your gaming room that reflects the mood you want to create. Bright colors can give your basement a more energetic and fun feel, while dark tones can make it feel more relaxing and calm.

Regardless of what you choose to include in your game room, make sure it is comfortable and inviting for your guests. Look for cozy seating options, such as a sectional or loveseat, and oversized armchairs. If your game room is going to be used for entertaining, be sure to include ample table space for drinks and snacks. You can also add a station for popcorn and candy to make the room even more fun.

Improvements

The design of your gaming room is important to make it look great and feel inviting. You should consider the colors you use and how they will affect the ambiance of the room. You can use moody paint colors to create a dramatic look or go for lighter colors to make the space more inviting.

Another important aspect of a good basement game room is the sound quality. Investing in soundproofing solutions will allow you to enjoy your games without disturbing other areas of the house. You can install soundproofing panels or curtains to block out noise and create a comfortable space for your family and friends.

The basement is often cold and damp, so it’s important to properly insulate it. You can do this yourself or hire specialists, and it will help you to get the most out of your gaming room. It will also improve the acoustics in the space, so you won’t bother other people in the house when you’re playing. This will make the space more comfortable and inviting for everyone who uses it. It will also be more fun for the whole family!

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How to Pick Shutter Color For Your Home

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The shutter color you choose plays a major role in the impression your home makes. The right color will complement or contrast the colors already showcased on your house, and create a cohesive look for your entire exterior palette.

White and colors in the same tonal family are foolproof options for light home exteriors, and dark houses can carry bold shades like red, purple, and green with panache.

Brown

As a natural material that can enhance the look of any exterior, wood is an ideal option for shutters. Whether you choose raised panel, louvered, or board and batten (BnB), the color of your shutters will complement or contrast the colors of your window trim, roof, siding, and other architectural features on your home.

Light browns are great choices for shutter colors, as they pair well with most home styles. Dark browns also work well, especially on homes with brick or stone exteriors.

Light Green

If you’re seeking a vibrant color option that complements your home, light or dark green is a good choice. This shade is a great complement to homes with earthy characteristics, especially those made of wood, stucco or tan brick. Many homeowners choose to pair this shade with tan or gray exteriors, but it also works well with stone and stucco.

White

For homeowners who prefer a more classic look, white shutters work well with almost any house color. White shutters can also help a smaller home appear larger, when paired with white window trim. Beige and earthy tones are also great choices for shutters, as they offer a natural warmth and a window-enlarging effect similar to white. If you’re not sure which color is right for your home, consult with a local exterior painter. Professionals can use a photo of your home to identify the perfect shutter shade and create a custom color match. This traditional approach ensures your home’s aesthetic is consistent throughout. It also helps you find a color that will stand the test of time.

Yellow

Some homeowners want to use their shutter color to create a pop of personality for their home. Bright, eye-catching shades like yellow are a good option for this purpose as they provide a natural warmth and can draw attention to the windows. Yellows of all shades also pair well with a range of other colors, such as brown, green, and blue.

Light yellows are also a great choice for shutters. They can add a fresh, lively look to your home’s exterior and pair nicely with most colors, including olive green, brown, and blue.

For a classic and timeless choice, gray shutters complement yellow, tan, white, and brown exterior home colors. A light gray shade, such as Silver Mist by Farrow & Ball, creates a soft and delicate effect while a darker gray provides a bold contrast.

Beige

Earth tones, including browns and tans, are a safe choice for shutters. They pair well with a wide variety of exteriors, and they help to create a sense of natural warmth. These shades also offer window-enlarging effects.

When it comes to choosing shutter color, many homeowners are unsure of whether they should match or contrast their house’s current aesthetic. While both options have their merits, it’s important to carefully consider the colors of your home’s trim and siding before making a decision. This will ensure that your shutters don’t clash or blend in unintentionally.

Purple

Purple is another choice for homeowners who prioritize bold aesthetics, with dark purple offering a deep character to exteriors while lighter shades can create a more cute and fun-looking look. Like beige, purple pairs well with a variety of colors, including tan, cream, and gray.

Blue

Blue is another popular choice for shutters, as it’s a classic shade that compliments almost any home exterior. Deep cornflower or navy blue shades are a good choice for homeowners who want their shutters to make a statement. These hues are a great match for red, yellow, cream, tan, or gray siding and stucco or brick exteriors. They also work well on homes with cedar shingles or wood-clad structures.

As you consider your options, be sure to take color swatches outside to see how they will appear in sunlight as this can greatly affect their appearance. When in doubt, contact a professional exterior painter near you to help find the perfect shade for your home!

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Home Improvement Projects to Do Before Selling Your Home

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Home improvement projects can seem overwhelming. But you don’t have to take on major renovations before selling your home to increase its value and boost curb appeal.

Simple updates like painting, deep cleaning and upgrading hardware can make your home more appealing to potential buyers without requiring a large investment. Here are some easy upgrades to complete before you sell your home.

1. Paint the Interior

While it’s not always cost-effective to make major renovations before selling, minor changes can give your home a new look and help buyers see the potential. New paint, for example, can freshen up rooms that may have been overused and worn.

When choosing color, be sure to stick with neutrals, which can easily match any furnishings. Also be sure to stir the paint, both upon opening and if it has been sitting for more than one day, so the colors used to make the paint are evenly distributed.

If you have wood trim or shutters that need painting, consider using a tack cloth to remove dust and sawdust before sanding and applying a fresh coat of paint. This will create a smoother surface that’s ready for primer and paint.

2. Paint the Exterior

A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a worn exterior and boost curb appeal. Buyers often drive by homes to check out their potential, so this project is worth the effort.

Prior to painting, make any repairs needed that could affect your new paint job. Also, make sure your substrate is dry, which is easy to do by running a damp cloth over the entire surface. Then use a calculator to determine how many square feet each side of your home is to determine the amount of paint you’ll need.

Choose your color carefully, based on the type of siding and trim you have and the shaded areas that will be painted. Test out colors on large pieces of foam core and observe how they look at different times of day.

3. Rearrange Furniture

Most home sellers think they need to tear down walls or do major renovations to sell their homes. However, there are several small changes you can make that can help your home sell faster and for more money.

For example, rearranging your furniture can make the space look bigger and more inviting. Similarly, removing curtains and window coverings will allow more light to enter the room and makes the space feel airier. Lastly, depersonalizing the space by putting away family photos and removing clutter can help buyers visualize their own families living in the home.

Other simple tasks like a deep cleaning, replacing carpets and decluttering can also have a big impact on how quickly your home sells. If you’re unsure what needs to be done, consult your real estate agent and a home inspector.

4. Clean the Garage

Having an uncluttered, well-organized garage is a big plus for potential home buyers. It will let them imagine themselves using the space for a workroom or to store their cars and sporting equipment.

Start by removing and storing away any items that are of a monetary or sentimental value. Then clear out the clutter and vacuum and wash the floors. If there are oil stains on concrete floors, you can use a commercial degreaser to get rid of them.

Odors from smoking or pets can also turn off potential buyers, so clean the house thoroughly, especially the refrigerator and closets. You may also need to have the air ducts and carpet cleaned. Investing time in these small tasks can help you sell your home for more money in less time.

5. Clean the Windows

If your windows are dirty, it’s a turn off to prospective buyers. Clean windows make a house look brighter, bigger and more welcoming.

Similarly, you should remove any decorative hooks from your walls and scrub every nook and cranny. Scrub light fixtures, vacuum tight spaces and steam-clean rugs to get your home ready for sale.

Adding new windows is an expensive improvement, but it can significantly boost your home’s value and speed up the selling process. Replacing old and drafty windows with energy-efficient windows is also an excellent way to increase your home’s curb appeal.

6. Clean the Gutters

Cleaning your gutters will send a positive message to potential buyers. Dirty gutters can be an indicator of poor maintenance and will give the impression that you don’t care for your property.

While it may be tempting to put off any home improvement projects that are time-consuming, making the necessary updates before selling your home will help you get top dollar for your property. Buyers will be able to see past minor issues like a creaky floorboard or chipped paint if the house is clean and well-maintained.

While many of these tasks will be time-consuming, they will pay off in the end by giving your home a better chance of selling at its estimated price. And if any repairs are needed, they’ll be taken care of early in the process and won’t derail your sale down the road.

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Types of Sidelights to Add to Your Front Entryway

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Sidelights provide a clear view into the entryway without having to open the door. They also increase security and can help with home energy efficiency if they are insulated.

Ideally, sidelights should match the door in color and materials. There are a few exceptions to this rule though:

Decorative Sidelights

For homeowners seeking a front door upgrade with a decorative touch, door sidelights are an ideal choice. Available in a variety of glass options, these windows help to illuminate wide entry way corridors and create an inviting atmosphere. Decorative window film also helps to filter light and improve privacy.

The most obvious advantage of adding door sidelights is the influx of natural light. Unlike peephole doors that leave the homeowner reaching on tiptoes for a distorted view of visitors and deliverymen, these panes offer a full view of those approaching the door. This allows the homeowner to greet guests more easily and also makes it easier to avoid unwelcomed solicitors.

Door glass sidelights can be customized to complement any style of front door, from traditional to contemporary. Etched designs, for example, work well with both rustic and classic homes. For an even more striking look, consider combining a single door window with a multi-pane Alpine or Lakehouse sidelight to create a dramatic statement.

Depending on the design of your home, these sidelights can either be fixed or venting. The latter allow for fresh air to circulate through the entryway and adjacent spaces, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The right pair of sidelights will enhance your front entryway while ensuring that it remains energy-efficient throughout the year.

Etched Glass Sidelights

Fiberglass sidelights allow homeowners to maximize natural light while enhancing their home’s curb appeal. They can be customized in shape, size, and glass options to complement a home’s unique architectural design. These front door additions can also improve ventilation, providing a fresher indoor atmosphere. Additionally, fiberglass entry door sidelights are highly durable and require minimal maintenance, resulting in long-term cost savings on heating and cooling costs.

If you want to illuminate the corridor of your entrance, etched glass sidelights are a great option. These beautiful glass designs are available in a variety of colors and patterns to enhance your home’s aesthetic. They are a popular choice for homeowners who want their front entryway to be both welcoming and visually stunning. Additionally, these sidelights offer privacy from curious passersby and solicitors.

Energy-Efficient Sidelights

Sidelights add natural lighting to an entryway, making it feel more spacious. They also allow you to see who is at your door without opening it, enhancing home security. Additionally, frosted or textured glass options can obscure visibility from the outside to preserve privacy.

When choosing sidelights, homeowners should consider how they will affect the home’s energy efficiency. Traditional single-pane glass allows heat to pass through, which can lead to increased heating and cooling costs throughout the year. Fortunately, modern sidelights can be installed with insulated glass that helps to regulate indoor temperatures. This means that you can enjoy a comfortable home environment while saving money on utility bills.

While some homeowners may be concerned about the cost of adding sidelights to their front entryway, they can be a great investment for those who are looking for a way to increase natural lighting and improve curb appeal. These narrow windows are made from a variety of materials, including wood, fiberglass and steel, and come in many different shapes and sizes. By working with a professional, you can find sidelights that perfectly complement your existing entry door and overall home design.

When you’re ready to add sidelights to your home, consult with a local entry door and roofing contractor for expert advice on customization options. You can choose from a wide range of styles, colors, glass patterns and hardware to create an entry door that will perfectly suit your aesthetic preferences.