Updating the existing roof under home allows you to add value to your home, but it also provides you with a perfect opportunity to improve the curb appeal of your home.

Choosing a new roof isn’t something that most homeowners would mark off as exciting. Investing in a new roof is an opportunity for you to upgrade your home’s safety, style, look, and even color.

With all of the different types of roofing available in the market, how do you know which type is the best for your home project?

Are you unsure of the answer to this question? We’ve created this guide to help you get a better understanding of the different roof options available.

Keep reading to learn more!

1. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing systems are great to invest in. This is especially true if you’re looking to have a lightweight, versatile, and low maintenance roofing system on your home. As metal roofing options become more available to homeowners, metal roofing materials can be made and panels, sheets, tiles, and shingles.

While the metal roof installation may cost you more upfront, it lasts longer than other roofing material options on the market. Plus, it’s a great way to quickly increase your home’s value without ruining the appeal of your home.

2. Asphalt Shingles

This type of roofing material has been used on roofs for many decades. Since asphalt is fire retardant, it makes a great choice for a roofing material if you’re worried about making your home as a fire retardant.

Asphalt shingles are the most common choice for homeowners, mainly because they’re very inexpensive and are incredibly durable.

3. Wood Shakes

Wood shakes are a great roofing material. They’re an ideal fit for homeowners interested in choosing a roofing material that’s environmentally friendly. While the wood shakes are comprised of wood, the wood that’s used to make this roofing material comes from renewable sources.

This means that the wood hat goes into making the shakes come from sources that don’t leave a large carbon footprint. You can even choose to have your wood shakes made from refurbished wood or recycled wood.

You also won’t have to worry about any harmful runoff coming off of your roof from rainwater, as the wood is completely natural. You won’t have to worry about your groundwater, landscaping, or soil being affected by any harmful chemicals that might come with other rooting materials.

Understanding the Different Types of Roofing

If you have any questions related to deciding about the different types of roofing and which material is the best for you, you should always reach out to a local roofing company. A professional roofing company will help you make the best decision to get your new roofing system installed quickly.

Are you interested in learning more ways to improve the overall appearance of your home? Check out our blog for more information today.

If you are a property manager or a business owner you want to make sure that everyone inside your building is comfortable including you. If you have been considering making the investment in commercial window tinting, you are in the right place. Are you wondering how much does commercial window tinting cost? 

Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of commercial tint costs along with its benefits, to see if they are worth it to you.

How Much Does Commercial Window Tinting Cost?

The two word answer to this question is – it varies. Commerical film costs will vary by the height and width of the windows you are tinting. It will also vary by how clean your windows are because some companies will charge you extra to clean the windows first. 

The size of your building is another factor along with the location. The labor and materials will tend to cost you more money in a larger city than in a suburb.

To give you a rough idea, the national average cost is $8.70 per square foot. 

Tint Materials

The price of window tinting also varies based on the materials that you choose and how many windows you decide to tint. It is best to figure out what your goal if you add window tint to help ensure that you choose the best option for your business. 

Security Tint

If a window ever breaks in your business, it can be a huge problem. It can cause injuries and you can run the risk of getting sued. Buying window tint that is thick will make your windows stronger. If you live in an area that is prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, then you will want to consider buying security tint for your windows. 

Stronger windows will also help prevent the glass from shattering and going everywhere. The thicker tint will help contain the glass to the area. 

Security tint can cost anywhere between $5 to $15 per square foot. 

Frost Tint

If you are looking to add a window film inside the building for front doors, offices, or conference rooms, then frost might be the way to go. Frost tint adds instant privacy in both the day and night time. 

Usually, you will have a 5-10 year warranty with frost window film and you can expect to pay between $6 to $10 per square foot. 

Ceramic Tint

If you want a tint that will cut down on UV rays then ceramic tint is the answer. This is one of the best materials to apply because you can keep your place of business comfortable while still letting sunlight come inside. Most of the infrared heat that comes through the windows during the daytime will be blocked with ceramic window film.

Keep in mind that this is the most expensive tint to apply but it usually comes with either a lifetime warranty or a 10+ year warranty, making it worth it. It can cost between $100 to $800 for high-performance ceramic tint. 

Unfortunately, if you have double-pane windows, ceramic tint is not an option because it absorbs too much heat which causes double pane windows to crack.

Non-Reflective Tint

This tint option is more affordable and it still cuts down on the UV rays that enter your business. You have options as far as how dark you want the tint to be, depending on your needs for privacy and security. 

The UV rays that non-reflective tint block are the ones that usually damage furniture and floors. The great thing is that you can use non-reflective tint on double pane windows.

The average price of this tint option is between $5.50 to $6.00 per square foot.

Window Tinting Benefits

When you are considering tinting commercial windows you want to weigh out whether the benefits of commercial window tint outweigh the costs or not. There are a number of benefits that might make this a great investment for you.

One benefit might be energy efficiency. If you are an environmentally friendly company, then you can prove this by adding window film. With window tint, you are reducing your carbon footprint and you can use this in your marketing campaigns to highlight how your company is being green.

Another benefit is the extra security. With window film, you will keep people from seeing inside your building. If you have a lot of expensive equipment and furniture this will keep passersby from randomly peeking in. 

The extra security and privacy can also be a deterrent for break-ins and theft. Window tint makes it hard for anyone to look in and be tempted to break into your building during after hours. 

Another benefit worth mentioning is that you can protect your equipment and your furniture from any sun damage. If you invested a lot of money to furnish your building or office, then why not help it last as long as possible.

UV rays can be very damaging and can really beat up and break down your equipment if they are constantly hitting your items. 

Ready to Add Some Window Tint to Your Place of Business?

Now that you have a better idea of commercial window tinting cost, you can make an informed decision on which route to take. Make sure to choose the best option for your place of business without going over your budget.

Remember to also keep the benefits in mind when you are making your final decision. 

Did our blog post help you today? Please bookmark our site for all our latest helpful articles. 

Approximately half of all American adults do not have an emergency fund.

When unexpected expenses arise for people without one, they often turn to their credit cards or high-interest loans to cover these expenses.

If you don’t have an emergency fund and fear that you might encounter unexpected bills, you can protect yourself in other ways. One great idea is purchasing a home warranty.

Having a home warranty helps you cover the costs of repairs to vital parts of your home, and it enables you to protect your finances.

As you start thinking about purchasing a home warranty, you should know seven key things before buying one.

1. Understand What a Home Warranty Covers

Before purchasing a home warranty, you must understand what it covers. A home warranty is a service plan designed to protect specific parts of a home. A typical plan might cover these items:

• Kitchen appliances, such as refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher
• Washing machine and dryer
• Hot water heater
• HVAC system

Additionally, you can add coverage for extra items you own.

When you have a home warranty and experience a problem with a covered item, you will not have to pay the full repair bill to fix it.

Understanding what is included in your warranty is important to understanding whether or not you’ll be covered in the unfortunate event that it’s required. Builders warranty insurance covers you for many common household faults, but an additional warranty may be required depending on your home.

2. Make the Right Choices When Purchasing a Home Warranty

One highlight of a home warranty is your ability to choose what your plan covers. You can have a basic plan that covers the things listed on a company’s basic plan or can customize your plan.

For example, if your home has a hot tub or swimming pool, you can add these items to your plan. If you only want your policy to protect your kitchen appliances or your HVAC system, you can choose coverage for those items only.

Some companies also allow you to add protection for more significant parts of your home, such as the plumbing or electrical systems.

You get to choose what your plan protects, and you should choose wisely.

3. Find Out the Differences Between a Home Warranty and Homeowner’s Insurance

You might wonder why you should purchase a home warranty if you already have homeowner’s insurance. These two plans offer coverage for your home and things in it, but they protect different things.

Home warranty coverage is for specific items, as listed above. Homeowner’s insurance protects your house and belongings.

Homeowner’s insurance doesn’t help you if you experience a problem with an appliance or system. It only protects you if a covered peril damages your home.

Having both policies covers all the gaps by protecting everything you own.

4. Learn About the Costs

The next thing to do is find out about the costs of a home warranty. Home warranties typically do not cost a lot, especially for what they offer.

The costs of your plan depend on three things:

1. The company you choose
2. The types of systems and items you have coverage on
3. The age and condition of the systems

If your home is brand-new and has new systems in it, you will likely pay less for a home warranty. Home warranties tend to cost more for homes with old systems and appliances.

The average plan costs between $300 to $600 for one year. You can request quotes from companies to find out how much a policy would cost for your home.

Another thing to evaluate when choosing a plan is the costs for services. A home warranty offers discount services when you need them, but you may still have to pay a fee.

Most companies charge a standard fee for a home visit when you need repairs. You might also have to pay for some of the other costs for the services. It’s helpful to find this out before purchasing a plan.

5. Research Plans Before Choosing One

Spending time researching companies before choosing a plan is well worth the time spent. When you examine your options, you might discover bad reviews for some companies, and you’ll want to avoid the worst home warranty companies.

You should look for a company with excellent reviews and ratings. You can trust a select home warranty company that has positive reviews, and you’ll know that you have a solid plan in place if you choose this type of company.

6. Understand the Benefits of Having a Home Warranty

Now that you understand the basic features and costs of a home warranty, you’ll need to decide, “are home warranties worth it?” To make this decision, take a look at some of the benefits they offer:

You Call One Company for Repairs

A home warranty offers convenience when something in your home breaks. You won’t have to look for a specific contractor to hire.

Instead, you call the home warranty company for help. They choose a contractor and send them to your home.

You Receive Discounted Repair Bills

The second benefit is that you receive discounted repair bills. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on fixing an appliance, you might pay under $100 for the services.

You Get Replacements for Your Covered Items

Most home warranties offer replacements for covered items. If the technician cannot fix the item, they will provide a replacement device for you.

You Can Have Peace of Mind

A home warranty also provides peace of mind, knowing that you will never experience a massive repair bill you cannot afford.

7. Know-How a Home Warranty Protects Your Budget

Are you still asking, “should I buy a home warranty?” If so, look at one more essential benefit. Having a home warranty makes repair expenses predictable for your budget.

You’ll pay the one-year fee for the warranty upfront, and you can figure this amount into your budget. After that, you will not have to worry about massive unexpected repair bills, so your budget will be safe.

Find Out More About Home Warranties

Purchasing a home warranty is a smart move for most people. It is especially important for people who do not have emergency funds.

Before you buy a home warranty, it might be helpful to research your options and various companies. After that, you can choose the right plan for your needs.

Check out our blog to learn more about your options with home warranties.

Florida gets an average of 237 days of sunshine each year.

While that can make your quality of life amazing, you have to keep in mind that the sun is beating down on your home. In the summer, the sun’s rays can be intense and can cause damage to your home over the long-term.

That’s why many homeowners in Florida turn to window tinting.  If you’re thinking about it for your home, your first question is likely to be, “How much does home window tinting cost?”

Keep reading to find out the cost of window tinting, the benefits, and how you can find a top service provider near you.

How Much Does Home Window Tinting Cost?

According to HomeAdvisor, it costs between $318 and $903 to have your home windows tinted.

This is a pretty wide gap because there are so many aspects of the tinting installation. The location you’re in will influence labor costs. There are pricing differences in the types of materials.

Window tinting installations are usually priced by the square foot. The more windows you have the more square footage, and the higher your costs will be.

Another consideration is the type of window. A wood window will be more difficult for installers and will cost more than a vinyl window.

The scope of the job also influences the price to have home window tinting installed. A home that requires a second story installation will cost more. Many installers will charge additional fees to install window tinting to the second floor.

Types of Tinting Materials

As you’re shopping for window tinting, you’ll find that there are different types of tinting materials. These types of tinting will impact the final cost of your installation.

Ceramic Window Tinting

Ceramic window tinting is one of the top materials because it reduces UV rays more than any other material. It can be clear and let natural light flow into your home.

The disadvantage is that ceramic tinting costs more than other materials.

Anti-Glare Window Tinting

This is often called non-reflective tinting. It doesn’t cost as much as ceramic window tinting, but it doesn’t have the high capacity to reduce UV rays that ceramic does.

Anti-glare tinting has different percentages of darkness, which is great if windows are in a densely populated area. You can get darker tinting for more privacy.

Shatterproof Tinting

Safety and security matter to you and your family. This type of window tinting gives you the benefits of window tinting with a little more security. This type of tint is thicker, which can limit the shattering of broken glass if a window breaks.

Benefits of Home Window Tinting

Why would you want to get window tinting installed in your home? Check out some of these benefits of residential window tinting.

Protect Inside the Home

There are a number of ways that window tinting can protect what’s inside your home. The sun’s UV rays beat down on your home. They can cause damage to your floors and furniture over time. Tinting can limit the exposure of UV rays in your home.

The people inside your home are also protected because window tinting can add extra security and privacy to your home.

Energy Efficiency

Window tinting can lower your cooling costs, which can be a major expense for many Floridians. You can reduce the heat that comes into your home, which can lower your energy bills.  

Don’t Blinds or Curtains Do the Same Thing?

This is a common question that homeowners will ask before they decide on window tinting. Blinds and curtains can give you privacy and limit the amount of light that comes in.

The drawback of having window coverings is that you completely close the light off to a room. What’s the point of having big open windows if you can’t take advantage of all of that bright light?

With window tinting, you can still benefit from having natural light in the room without the heat and the damage from UV rays.

Finding a Tinting Installer

Are you ready to take the leap and have window tinting installed on your windows? You can decide to DIY your window tinting installation, or you can find home window tinting services in your area.

Going DIY may save you a little bit of money, but you may do more harm than good.

For example, you can pick a window tint that isn’t compatible with your type of window. That can cause the window to crack and cost you more money than you saved on the installation.

When you do the installation, your window film cuts have to be exact. The slightest difference can ruin your job.

A home window tinting installer can get the job done quickly and correctly. They can also advise you on the best tinting choice for your windows.

You want to make sure that you only hire the best window tinting installation company. As you’re calling different window tinting companies, you want to make sure that they have plenty of experience with residential window tinting.

They may have limited experience with residential but have plenty of experience with auto tinting. Ask prospective companies for a written estimate and ask them if they warranty the job.

Home Window Tinting Can Make a Difference In Your Home

If you’re looking to cut down on energy costs, protect your furniture, or give yourself a little privacy, window tinting is the way to go.

How much does home window tinting cost? It depends on the square footage of the job, the type of window film you use, and the type of windows.

You will have to spend money to have a professional install the window tinting, but it’s well worth it when you consider the damage that can be done by DIYing the job.

Be sure to visit this site often for more home tips and to discover some of the best homes for sale in Florida.

Every week, the average American spends about 6 hours cleaning their house. And despite this, they’re often left to wonder whether or not they’re doing a good job and getting their whole house clean.

Do you want to stop spending so much time with a mop and bucket in your hands? You should find a housekeeper who can help you keep your home clean without having to worry about doing it yourself.

Hiring a housekeeper could very well end up being one of the smartest decisions you ever make. But before you do it, you should learn what you need to know about hiring a housekeeper.

Here are five tips for hiring a housekeeper that will help you in a big way.

1. List the Housekeeper Options in Your Area

There are almost 1 million maids and housekeepers in the U.S. today. This should make it very easy for you to find a housekeeper in your area.

When you’re trying to figure out how to choose a maid, begin by Googling something like “housekeepers near me” and listing your options. It’ll put all the possible housekeepers in your area in front of you.

2. Ask Family and Friends for Housekeeper Recommendations

Do you know anyone in your area who has gone through the process of hiring a housekeeper? They might be able to point you in the right direction.

Call on your family and friends to provide you with housekeeper recommendations if they can. If nothing else, they might be able to steer you away from any housekeepers that aren’t going to be worth your time.

3. Read Online Reviews for Local Housekeepers

If you don’t happen to know anyone who has hired a housekeeper in the past, the best way to hire a housekeeper yourself might be to scan through online reviews for the ones in your area.

Look at both positive and negative reviews to see what you can expect from the various housekeepers you’re considering. You can learn so much about housekeepers by leaning on online reviews.

4. Set Up Interviews With as Many Housekeepers as You Can

At the end of the day, you can do all the research you want on housekeepers online. But you’re not going to know if someone will be a good fit until you get them on the phone or sit down with them in person and talk to them.

They’ll be able to tell you all about the professional house cleaning services they can provide when you’re talking to them. It’ll allow you to gauge how good they’re going to be for the job you need done.

5. Consider the Cost of Working With Different Housekeepers

Hiring a housekeeper is a great way to save some time every week. But you don’t want to have to spend an arm and a leg to do it. With this in mind, you should ask each housekeeper you speak with for a quote and compare all the quotes you receive.

You shouldn’t just hire the cheapest housekeeper you can find, but you should look for one who offers competitive prices for great services.

Find a Housekeeper You Love Today

Now that you know how to go about hiring a housekeeper, get out there and do it. You can find a housekeeper that you absolutely love when you follow the tips found here.

They’ll prevent you from having to spend too much time cleaning every week. They’ll also make your home healthier for you and your family by getting rid of potentially dangerous germs.

Check out our blog for more tips on taking better care of your home.

Is the ocean calling your name?

If you’re ready to enjoy life by the sea, there’s nowhere more fun to live than Miami.

You can find a condo in Miami to set up your perfect beach pad, giving you easy access to the beach, restaurants, and entertainment.

But don’t get distracted by the glitz and glamor and make a purchase that you may regret— keep reading to learn the top questions to ask before buying a condo to help you make the right decision.

1. When Buying a Condo in Miami, Understand the Condo Fees

Prices for condos are more than just the purchase price. When you own a condo, you’re also responsible for regular HOA—homeowner’s association— fees.

All condo owners pay into the HOA, which goes to maintaining the public spaces, such as sidewalks, gym, swimming pool, and the cost of trash disposal, repairs, etc.

If you’re moving to Miami, many condos, with lush amenities like outdoor pools and large gyms, also have large fees.

2. Can I Have Pets?

Do you have a dog or cat, or hope to in the future? If so, always ask what the building’s pet policy is.

Even if you’re an owner, if the bylines state no pets, you won’t be able to have an animal in your unit. Make sure you completely understand the building’s policy on keeping pets before purchasing.

3. Can I Get Hurricane and Flood Insurance?

Living in Miami means an amazing beach lifestyle, but with the ocean comes the risk of hurricanes.

Unfortunately, Miami and many parts of Florida are in hurricane zones, with large storms not uncommon.

If you’re buying near the water, make sure you can get homeowner’s insurance to protect your property in case of flooding or hurricane damage.

Usually, the closer you are to the water, the higher premiums you pay for insurance. Before purchasing, get insurance quotes.

4. What Is the Parking Like for Visitors?

Your new Miami condo may come with a parking spot, but what about your guests? Check if the building has parking for visitors, as parking can be hard to come by in many parts of Miami.

Be familiar with how you can reserve the spots, any time limits, and how many are in the building. It’s no fun having a beachside pad if no one can come to visit!

5. Can I Rent My Condo if I Have to Move?

If you relocate for work, can you rent out your condo? For example, you moved cross-country, used a house buying company to sell your previous home, and now you’ve bought in Miami.

What if you need to move again? Some HOAs have restrictions on owners renting their unit, so check this before buying.

Find Your Perfect Condo Today

Ready to buy a condo in Miami? If so, you’re sure to fall in love with the beach lifestyle and eclectic atmosphere.

But before buying, make sure to use the tips above to ask the right questions and learn as much as you can about the condo before purchasing.

Even if a condo seems perfect, if it doesn’t meet your needs then you may regret buying.

Did you find this article helpful? If so, please check out some of our additional content across our site.

 

Are you considering installing a skylight on the roof of your home? Doing so can provide your property with an incredible source of natural lighting. It can help your home feel comfy and cozy, even in the harsh winter months.

More importantly, it will differ your house from so many others. Since not every roof has the capability to have one in the first place, your home will flaunt it’s skylight feature day and night.

See below for several tips on skylight installation that you should consider before committing to it. Be sure to give this process a fair bit of thought as you weigh out whether or not to put one in.

1. Consider the Roof You Have

As previously mentioned, not all roofs are created equal. Some have the proper construction to install a skylight in, others do not.

There are generally two types of framing within a roof: truss-framed and stick-framed. 

Truss-framed roofs are pre-assembled in the manufacturing stage and rely on structures and joints that are unremovable. They were assembled before they even arrived for construction on your home.

That makes them unable to be used for installing skylights. To mess with the truss would be risking the total integrity of your roof.

Stick-framed roofs, on the other hand, are much easier to install a skylight in. They offer plenty of space for you to cut out room for a skylight in between the separate rafters.

If you’re unsure of whether your roof is fit for a skylight, be sure to reach out to trusted skylight installation contractors for help.

2. Opt for Domed Skylights

Imagine the horror of going through the construction process to fit a skylight in your roof, then waking up to find it covered in debris from a storm. Now you’ve added the chore of climbing the stairs and sweeping debris off your roof to your chore list.

In order to avoid this horror, you should consider purchasing domed skylights which will prevent leaves, branches, and other debris from settling on top of it. That will keep your skylight clear of any blockage.

If your roof is at an angle, then you might not necessarily need a domed skylight, as the debris should naturally slide off due to the angle. Be sure to ask your contractor which one they’d recommend for your situation.

3. Ensure the Construction Process Is Quick

Simply put: you cannot afford to have the skylight installation project take much longer than a few days. The installation company you hire has to have urgency with their projects.

Why? Because one day of bad weather can sabotage all of your plans. If it rains as they’re installing the skylight, it might trap moisture inside, thus risking things like mold growth in the roof of your home.

Before you hire a company for skylight installation, be sure to ask them about how they plan to perform this project. The contractor should provide you with a clear picture of how long it will take and what their backup plan is if it starts to rain.

4. Chose Your Preferred Materials

Perhaps the biggest concern of yours about implementing a skylight is the risk associated with putting glass in a part of your roof. However, you might not realize that glass isn’t the only skylight option you have.

You can also purchase glazing that’s made of plastic which is more budget-friendly, lighter, and more durable. However, it scratches relatively easy and starts to show its age due to the constant UV light exposure.

Glass, on the other hand, offers you a more clear display, more customizable, and holds its age better. In fact, the only real drawback with glass glazing is the fear of it breaking easier. 

However, that concern can be resolved by purchasing a skylight that is double-paned, thus making it twice as strong. Consider all your options in order to choose the material that’s right for you.

5. Purchase A Skylight With Some Tint

One of the biggest concerns that you should have with installing a skylight (or several skylights) in your roof is the energy efficiency.

You want to make sure that they won’t turn your house into a human oven that forces your monthly energy bill to skyrocket. Luckily, you can combat that concern by purchasing a window with tinted glass.

The tint will help protect your home from all the harmful UV rays, thus reducing the amount of heat that comes inside. Not to worry though, you’ll still have all the natural lighting that you’re looking for!

6. Location, Location, Location

Location is everything in home decor, and the location of your future skylight(s) is no different. In fact, the line between where you’d like to put in a skylight and where you should install a skylight can sometimes be very different.

For that reason, start thinking of all the places in your house where you’d enjoy putting a skylight in and make a list.

Then take that list to the contractor you hire and see what they think about your ideas for skylight location. They might have some feedback or recommendations of their own, so be sure to hear them out.

Use These Skylight Installation Tips In Your Plans

Now that you’ve seen several skylight installation tips, it’s time to start piecing together your plans for adding skylights to your roof.

Be sure to consult your contractor about the different ideas you have and see how realistic they are for your home.

Also, make sure to browse our website for more articles on roof maintenance, as well as many other helpful topics!

In the United States, minor water leaks account for 1 trillion gallons of wasted water annually. That’s the same amount of water used by 11 million homes for the whole year! 

While a minor leak might not seem like much to you, in the grand scheme of things, it can add up. If you want to do your part to conserve water, the first step is to locate any leaks within your home. 

Keep reading to discover how to find a water leak in your house. 

Monitor Your Water Bill

If you’re wondering how to find a water leak, the easiest thing you can do is monitor your water bill. 

Your water bill is calculated by the water rate multiplied by your consumption. There may be additional fees, like wastewater, added on as well. 

Because of this calculation, each bill will contain the gallons of consumption for the billing period. If your water use is consistent, your usage shouldn’t change much month to month. If you see a spike in recent months, this is likely due to a water leak. 

Keep in mind the time of year when you’re comparing bills. If you use sprinklers in the warmer months or fill a pool in the summer, your bill will obviously spike then. 

Look for Clues 

Looking for clues is the next step to take if you’re asking how to find a leak. 

The main clues that you have a leak include:

• Discoloration of your walls or water stains
• Water collecting on floors or areas where it shouldn’t be
• Wallpaper or paint bubbling or bulging
• Mold growth

Keep in mind that some leaks may occur underground or in inaccessible locations. Just because you don’t see any visible clues of a leak doesn’t mean that there isn’t one. 

Call in Professional Help

If you think you have water leaks in your house but are unable to locate proof, you need a plumber. 

A professional will know exactly where to look for the most common house leaks. But they don’t stop at just finding a water leak. Instead, they’ll discover the root cause of the leak and fix your plumbing so you no longer have to worry about it. 

Some plumbers will even fix any damage caused by the leak! Instead of searching your house for a leak you suspect, save yourself time and hassle, and call your plumber ASAP. 

Now You Know How to Find a Water Leak in Your House

After reading this article, you now know how to find a water leak in your house. 

Start by monitoring your water bill to see if your usage has increased over the past months. Then, look for clues of a leak, such as wall discoloration, wet floors, or bubbling paint. Finally, call in a professional to accurately locate and fix the issue. 

Tired of dealing with home repair projects? We don’t blame you! Browse the rest of this site and find a new home or condo to move into. 

Have you noticed that your heating and air conditioning bills have risen or that your house just doesn’t seem to keep a comfortable temperature? If so, this indicates you may need to consider replacing your home insulation and reaping the potential savings and health benefits.

However, choosing the best insulation will require careful consideration of the type of material, its thermal resistance, and the place where the insulation will go. Further, you’ll want to think about whether you plan to do the job yourself or hire a pro since some types of insulation need more work.

Read on to learn about some common insulation types along with their uses, pros, and cons.

1. Spray Foam Insulation

If you want an insulation type that works for walls and anywhere else in your house and offers the best performance, then consider spray foam insulation. Along with helping keep your home a comfortable temperature, this insulation can help with air and vapor leakage. 

Spray foam insulation is usually made of polyurethane and is very long-lasting. It is flexible and can fit in hard-to-reach places, especially if you seek professional installation services from a company such as JWS Construction LLC.

However, do know this deluxe insulation type comes at a higher price than other options.

2. Fiberglass Insulation

When you’re seeking insulation for your basement or attic, consider fiberglass insulation as a cost-effective option. This type comes in forms such as a roll, batt, or loose fill, so it offers some flexibility for installation.

If you choose this home insulation, you’ll get some benefits such as decent thermal resistance, non-flammability, and a relatively low cost. You can also do this kind of insulation yourself with some experience and precautions.

While still a popular choice, fiberglass insulation does have some health considerations during the installation process. That’s because the fibers can cause skin and lung problems.

3. Mineral Wool Insulation

Known as one of the older types of insulation, mineral wool insulation provides a more natural alternative to fiberglass insulation. It’s the best insulation for walls when you need soundproofing along with moisture and fire resistance. 

This type of insulation comes in batts and has a price somewhat higher than fiberglass. You’ll also find it easier to install yourself in places like ceilings.

Keep in mind that touching mineral wool insulation without protection can cause skin discomfort. It also has slivers that can potentially get into your lungs, so wearing a mask is essential.

4. Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose insulation offers an organic alternative since it comes from recycled paper. This loose-fill type of insulation is available for wet or dry use, and it offers good mold, pest, and fire resistance. 

It offers better thermal resistance than fiberglass and also avoids much of the potential health issues. It also comes at a lower price and works well for ceilings and walls.

Some drawbacks include a potentially higher installation cost and shorter lifespan as the insulation loses effectiveness over time. It can also cause dust that presents a health risk during installation.

Find the Best Insulation for Your Home

Now that you know about the types available, consider which sounds like the best insulation for your home. It will come down to your preferences and affordability.

If you don’t feel certain, you can always contact an insulator contractor to get an opinion. They can explain the pros and cons and give you some estimates to work with.

Be sure to check our other posts for more home improvement advice.

A well-designed house shines from top to bottom. If you’re refreshing your space, have you considered what’s underfoot? 

Flooring is an often overlooked aspect of decor. But a great floor can make a huge impact. Whether you’re renovating your home or building a new one, there’s no better time to check out flooring trends. Wondering what’s out there? Read on for the hottest flooring ideas.

Eco-Friendly

These days, going green hardly seems like a trend. Rather, it’s become a way of life. Homeowners are embracing sustainable materials such as bamboo, cork, and wood carpets. They’re also opting for engineering products made right here in the United States.

Environmentally-friendly flooring isn’t just great for Planet Earth. Non-toxic finishes result in cleaner indoor air and better overall health. What’s not to love?

Natural-Looking Materials

Natural floors like hardwood and stone tiles are elegant and sophisticated. But these materials are also costly and sometimes impractical to install.

The solution? Engineered products that resemble the real deal.

Technological advancements have come so far that it can be hard to distinguish real from fake. If you love the look of wood, consider these popular flooring options:

• laminate
• vinyl
• ceramic tile

Dreaming of stone or marble? Check out porcelain tiles for a budget-friendly alternative. 

Durable

Warped wood. Chipped stone. Scratched tiles. Damaged floors are no easy fix. Luckily, the latest products are more durable than ever.

Choosing floors for a young family home or a high-traffic commercial space? You’ll find a wide range of products that stand up to wear and tear.

Many are even waterproof! WPC (wood plank composite) flooring is a luxury vinyl solution closely resembling laminate. Low maintenance and 100% waterproof, it’s the perfect product for kitchens, bathrooms, and damp basements. 

Pattern and Texture

Engineered products are surging in popularity. But homeowners are also craving floors with a unique, worn look. As a result, you’ll find tons of distressed options on the market. If you want floors with an aged look, check out hand-scraped products with knots and wire scratches.

Prefer a smooth finish? Why not opt for a unique layout? Doiggs Flooring can install your planks diagonally, or in a classic herringbone pattern. This job is more time-consuming and costly. But the result is a custom look that pops.

Blondes Are Having More Fun

No, we’re not talking about hair color. People are going light for their floors, too. Think blonde, light grey, off-white, and warm-honey tones.

Light-colored flooring trends can be found in tiles, carpet, and wood. They look crisp and airy. Plus, light floors can make small rooms appear bright and spacious.

These Flooring Trends Are Here to Stay

Fantastic floors are the foundation for a beautifully furnished room. Not only do they look great, but these flooring trends can increase your home’s property value.

Looking for more awesome real estate and home improvement articles? We’ve got tons of great content. Be sure to check out the rest of our blog.