Category Archives: Home Improvement

Changing Things Up

STORAGE

Sheltering at home meant stocking up on extra supplies. Everything from non-perishable food items to cleaning supplies overloaded many a kitchen and pantry. If you find yourself dodging rogue rolls of toilet paper (no overstocking shame intended!) every time you open the closet, you may be due for a storage upgrade. Even the novice DIY’er can make simple, yet significant space saving improvements.

Stand back and take a good look at the closet or pantry. Is there open space above the items on each shelf? If so, this unused space could be easily converted to more storage simply by adding a few extra shelves. Relatively inexpensive closet organizing kits and a la carte items can be found at your favorite home improvement store. Everything from shelving, cubbies, and slide-out wire baskets can be easily installed in less than a day with a few basic hand tools.

If you really want to maximize efficiency a custom storage system can be professionally installed. ShelfGenie is one solution. Systems are custom designed for your existing cabinetry and what you plan to store. Glide-out shelves for those hard to reach pots and pans, dividers for baking sheets and lids, to spice cabinets sized specially to meet your needs, are just a few options.

HOME OFFICE

I was lucky in this respect, as my business was already home-based. Many of you have not had it that easy. Some are still working from the couch or dining room table. I suspect that is getting old and uncomfortable.

There are many ways to get creative with some underutilized space that may not be living up to its potential. One of my favorites is the home office armoire. A friend of mine lives in a lovely yet compact, one-bedroom apartment on Queen Anne. Her computer and work supplies are tucked away in a beautiful, antique armoire. When work calls, she has everything she needs at her fingertips. At quitting time, her home office quickly reverts to a lovely antique, simply by closing the doors. Adding some shelving/cubbies and a pull-out shelf for the keyboard will help house and organize electronics and other supplies. An antique armoire can be converted to accommodate modern day equipment, or you can purchase a new armoire already outfitted for the task.

HOME CLASSROOM

Just as the home office was a challenge for many, those of you with school age children had to quickly convert a space for the kiddos to study full time from home. The same area used for homework during normal times likely needs to be modified for long term use.

Reducing distractions and organizing the space to reduce clutter is paramount for home school success. Proper lighting for different tasks, access to electronics for remote learning, and variety (think family room for reading and a separate desk with computer for online sessions) are all considerations to keep kids interested in learning and help them stay focused.

Click Here for some useful ideas to help create a productive learning space.

KITCHEN

For many, sheltering at home meant a lot more time preparing meals at home. Even under normal circumstances, the kitchen is often the most utilized and highly trafficked room in the house. Preparing meals at home daily and sitting down as a family to enjoy them put many a kitchen and dining area to its maximum efficiency test.

Even small modifications, such as re-organizing storage, improved lighting, or upgrading appliances can make a big difference in how well your kitchen functions. If you need more room, consider what is adjacent to the kitchen. Capturing space from an underutilized formal dining room is a popular way to open and enlarge the kitchen. Modern families often gravitate toward more informal seating. A well-placed breakfast nook or dinette area saves space while still providing a place to sit together. Adding an island provides additional storage, prep space, and even seating. An extra wide counter with bar stools creates a useful, multi-purpose space.

BATHROOM

Plumbers have had no shortage of business while families shelter at home. Older piping or outdated fixtures pose a variety of problems under high use. Upgrading outdated systems can save money and headaches by avoiding emergency services or damage from an overflowing toilet or plumbing leak.

Upgrading the plumbing is a good time to replace outdated fixtures. Low-flow toilets, tankless or instant hot water heaters, and vanities with more functional counter space and storage, are just a few upgrades to consider.

OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

Being able to get outside and enjoy the weather has helped keep cabin fever at bay. Imagine how much harder staying at home would be if it were not spring.

If your outdoor space is not quite living up to its full potential, perhaps this is an opportunity to consider upgrading or adding a patio or deck. The options are endless from stamped concrete or paver patios, to a new or refurbished deck. Traditional wood decks are less expensive to build but require regular maintenance. Decks made from engineered products, such as Trex or Azek cost more initially, yet longer-lasting and easy to maintain.

If you want to get more elaborate, consider an open-air roof or covering to protect you and your furnishings from inevitable rain showers and sun. Outdoor kitchens fully equipped with a plumbed sink and gas range are gaining popularity. Lighting, a heat source, and even a fireplace are more significant creature comfort improvements to make your outdoor living space a year-round gathering spot for friends and family. The options are endless, limited only by budget and available space.

CAN-Do Checklist, Using This Time Wisely

So much of the current news is full of what we cannot do, and for good reason – it’s working! Let’s not forget there is also plenty that we CAN do. Now, more than ever, we need to remain positive and use this time wisely. Before you know it, we’ll be back to our routines and maybe wishing we had done a bit more with our time while ‘stuck’ at home.

For many, doing our part by staying home provides an opportunity for spring cleaning and de-cluttering. Tackling a spring to-do (or can-do) list can lift spirits, create a fresh space to enjoy, and free up valuable time to enjoy your favorite summer activities (it’s coming!).

While you’re at it, this is a good time to take a closer look around your home and note anything that may need some attention. As with most repairs, early detection is key to the least expensive solution. This gift of time may help you identify some potentially costly repairs if left unnoticed. Make a list of anything that’s not a DIY project. Contact those service providers right away, before they are released back to work. Waiting may prove difficult to get on busy contractor’s schedules.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Clean walkways, driveway, porches and decks.
Trim plants and shrubs back from the side of the home or overhanging the roof.
Weed beds and add new mulch.
Add some contrast and color with plants and flowers.
Consider painting the front door or replacing worn out hardware.
Add some colorful potted plants to the front porch or steps.

While you’re at it…

Inspect the roof for any signs of compromised or missing shingles, flashing that doesn’t appear firmly attached, and moss or debris buildup.
Check that gutters and downspouts are firmly secured, free of debris, and properly sloped. Organic buildup or discoloration are signs there may be a blockage or they aren’t properly diverting water from the house.
If you have a chimney, check for any mortar or brick damage. Is the chimney cap and spark arrestor secure.
Inspect soffits (or eaves), looking for discoloration, cracks, wood rot, peeling paint, or anything that appears compromised. Continue your way down paying attention to siding and trim. Look for cracked or missing pieces of siding, signs of pest intrusion (birds, rodents, and insect), peeling paint, and mildew build-up.
Check around windows and doors. Make sure there aren’t any air leaks or failed caulking. Look for cracked or broken windows, or condensation/fogging between double pane windows.
Inspect decks and fences for loose or cracked boards and support pieces, missing nails, and mildew.
The foundation is often overlooked, yet such an important element in supporting the rest of the home. Look for signs of uneven settling or cracks. Look for indicators that water may not be properly diverted away from the home or ponding alongside the foundation.

DE-CLUTTER AND ORGANIZE (great projects for those rainy days!)

One at a time, tackle closets, bathroom vanities, under the kitchen sink, pantry, and garage/storage space. Wherever there is a door hiding the contents, clutter tends to accumulate.
Have a donation box nearby. Items that are no longer needed or haven’t been used or worn in a year, add to the box. Properly dispose of old cleaning supplies, paint, make-up, or prescriptions.
Re-organize the remaining contents and return to the respective shelf or drawer.
Group all items to be donated somewhere out of sight until it can be collected or dropped off at your preferred charity.

WINDOWS & DOORS

Wash the windows, inside and outside.
Clean door and window frames and tracks.
Check for air leaks, caulk as needed.
Check for condensation, properly working locks and hinges, and that windows open properly.
Remove storm windows and repair damaged screens.
Clean blinds and curtains.

FLOORS

Deep clean hard surface floors.
Shampoo carpeting and area rugs.
Wipe down baseboards.

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Deep clean fixtures, countertops, cabinets, and appliances.
Re-caulk around sinks and tub/shower as needed.
Don’t forget to disinfect light switches, doorknobs, and faucets – all high touch areas that harbor germs.

While you’re at it…

Much like outside, keep your eyes open for areas of concern that may be evident inside the home. If the attic is accessible, start here. Signs of mold, mildew, or moisture on the sheeting and insulation are all indicators the roof might be leaking.
Check for ducting that may not be sealed. This includes ducting from kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans. These should be securely attached and vented out the roof or side of the home.
Roof leaks often go undetected inside closets or may be evident around door and window frames and exhaust covers in kitchens and baths. Check these areas for moisture or discoloration.
Heating season is nearing an end. Replace furnace filters now and you’ll be ahead of the game this fall.
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Change the batteries, if due.
Check for air leaks around electrical outlets and plumbing sites on exterior walls. Seal as needed.

Take advantage of this extra time now. You’ll enjoy summer that much more once you are free to get out and socialize, AND all your spring cleaning and repairs are completed or ready to be scheduled.

Keep in mind, some things are considered essential services and still allowed at this time. We can help connect you with cleaning/disinfecting services, repairs to plumbing, electrical, and heating/air-conditioning systems, repairs due to water intrusion or leaks, and some exterior cleaning of roofs and gutters.

Items that leave your home vulnerable to further degradation if left unchecked are likely considered essential. If you’re not sure, give us a call at 425-775-9085. We’re open and available to answer any questions.

If you need assistance with any of these projects or upgrades, we can connect you with the appropriate service professionals for your specific needs. Just let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request.

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New Year, New Kitchen Trends

Now is the perfect time to start planning home improvement updates in 2020. The kitchen is the perfect place to start. A new year also means new kitchen remodeling trends. Better use of space and functionality are common drivers behind a kitchen remodel. Once the important decisions are made for improving the flow of the room and its functionality, the fun part (and often most time-consuming part) begins – selecting finish materials. This is where looking at the latest kitchen trends can be helpful.

Kitchen ‘trends’ are exactly as the word suggests, a trend. Home improvement updates should reflect your personal design preferences, while being timeless and practical. Below are five of our favorite trends for 2020 that are just that and likely to be here for the long term.

COLOR POP

This trend has been popular for many years, not only in the kitchen but other rooms throughout the home. Nothing can add an instant impression like a colorful accent wall, and kitchens are abundant with opportunities. When choosing a color decide how much of a commitment you are willing to make. Choosing a color is a very personal choice. Make sure it is a color that pleases you and coordinates well with adjoining rooms. It is also a relatively easy and inexpensive improvement that can be easily changed. A good wall to paint to not create too much of a ‘pop’ is a wall that is broken up by cabinets, a window, or appliances.

STONE AGE

Skip the scrubbing and constant dirty-looking countertops and transition into a timeless, mid-century modern design. Bring back the stone age! Marble or quartz offers a classic design and requires less upkeep. Not to mention it pairs well with light or dark cabinets. If replacing all the countertops blows the budget, consider a subtle marble accent piece on a kitchen island or cutting block.

REUSABLE, REPURPOSED WOOD

Many home improvement suppliers are gravitating toward more eco-friendly materials. Cabinets, countertops, flooring, and even paint are available in myriad sustainable and ‘green’ options. Sustainable materials such as bamboo, and salvaged or reclaimed wood, are becoming increasingly popular. Reclaimed wood is from materials previously used in the construction of a building, whereas salvaged wood remains in a more natural state. Bamboo is extremely durable, making it an ideal choice for a high traffic area such as the kitchen. Add a simple stain to create a natural looking, yet environmentally friendly kitchen.

WALLPAPER

Just when you thought wallpaper had its 15 minutes of fame, it’s back! Wallpaper is a simple and inexpensive way to spice up a tired looking kitchen. Not all wallpaper has to be as permanent as it used to be. There are plenty of peel-and-stick papers in trendy designs that are incredibly easy to install and remove. Think about using various styles such as 3D wallpaper, florals, or wallpaper that emulates the look of tile. You can also try painting one wall a solid color and utilizing wallpaper to accent it.

WHITE & GRAY ARE HERE TO STAY

If a minimalistic approach is more appealing white and gray kitchens are gaining popularity. This applies especially to smaller kitchens. White or light colors reflect light, making the space appear larger. A modern white and gray kitchen is versatile and classic and can be combined with any style or design. Make it rustic by pairing with wood furniture painted white, reflecting a farmhouse appeal. For a more retro or mid-century modern look combine white pickled wood with glass materials and smooth lines. For a classic modern look opt for matte materials and aluminum or steel finishes and appliances.

The options are endless when considering a kitchen update or remodel. Whatever you choose, the room should be functional and compliment your lifestyle. Stay true to your personal design preferences, consider ‘trends’ that won’t go out of style, and be mindful of the rest of your home’s design and color scheme. Happy designing!

Off-Season Savings

If you hired a home improvement contractor in the last couple of years you likely experienced some sticker shock and delays getting your job scheduled. Many things contribute to this all too common phenomenon. While we can’t control a lot of it, there are some things we can do to minimize scheduling delays and possibly save some money. Understanding what drives some of these delays and cost increases is helpful.

For starters, contractors in Western Washington are in high demand. One of their challenges is finding experienced, skilled labor to hire. There is a shortage of skilled labor in Seattle and the surrounding area. Contractors must pay higher wages and benefits to attract and retain good employees. This affects both contractor availability (or lack thereof) and the cost of doing business.

Another factor is material costs. The cost of construction materials is on the rise and expected to continue to increase. Inflation and tariff increases have driven up the cost of lumber, steel and aluminum, concrete, gypsum, and plastic products, to name a few. These costs add up on a sizable remodeling project or upgrade.

These reasons, among many others, affect contractor availability and the increased costs associated with home improvement. If you are willing to get a little creative, there are ways to get around some of this.

OFF-SEASON SAVINGS

Many trades have a high and low season. Scheduling your projects during the off-season whenever possible is worth considering. Doing so will minimize scheduling delays and could save you money. Some trades even offer discounts during the off-season. Be sure to ask!

HEATING & AIR-CONDITIONING (HVAC)

The non-heating and non-cooling seasons are the best time to schedule tune-ups, repairs, or new installs of these systems. Typically, HVAC companies provide both heating and cooling services. Aim to have the heating system serviced in the warmer seasons and the air-conditioning in the cooler seasons.

CHIMNEY CLEANING & REPAIR

Chimney cleaning is a great summer project. Oftentimes this important maintenance project is overlooked until it is time to stoke up that first fire. By then, the chimney sweeps are booked for weeks. Thinking of adding a gas insert? Summer is also an optimal time to refurbish or reface the fireplace or have an existing gas insert serviced.

PAINTING

Exterior painting is seasonal in Western Washington. There isn’t a lot we can do about that. If you need your house painted it will be done as weather allows. The key take-away here is plan ahead. By late spring, most painter’s schedules will be booked for the summer. To ensure your job is completed while the weather allows, start getting bids by late winter and get your job scheduled by April or May, latest.

On the flip side, interior painting can be done year round. However, unless you hire a painter that specializes in or prefers interior painting, you may have a hard time getting a painter’s time and attention during the summer season. If you can, plan your interior painting projects outside of the summer, exterior painting season.

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS

Remodeling contractors don’t have much down time these days. That said, there is still a spike in spring and a slow-down in late fall for many types of remodeling projects. Many folks don’t want their home to be a construction zone during the winter holidays. This can be a tremendous opportunity to get your remodeling project completed timely and with less competition than the rest of the year. If it’s an option, crash someone else’s home for the holidays or plan a well-deserved vacation and take advantage of this window of time. Keep in mind, a remodel requires some advance planning. Ideally, by summer your plans have been finalized and you are scheduled with your contractor of choice for a fall or winter start date.

DECKS & FENCES

The calls for deck and fence repair and new installations peak in spring and summer. The first warm days of spring beckon us outdoors, perhaps reminding us that our deck or fence is in a state of disrepair. By then, deck and fencing contractors are flooded with calls. Get in line. If you’re lucky, you might get your deck completed in time to enjoy the final dog days of summer. Those same contractors would love your business in the winter. Fall is a great time to start talking with contractors. They are winding down from summer and able to start scheduling winter projects. Your project will be completed and ready to enjoy by the time the first warm days of spring arrive.

ROOFING

We don’t always think of replacing a roof outside of summer, and for good reason. You certainly don’t want to expose your home to adverse weather conditions. A reputable roofing contractor won’t either. Most roofs can be torn off in a matter of hours promptly followed by the installation of a waterproof felt paper. It usually only requires one reliably dry day for this procedure. The new roofing material can be installed during inclement weather. Most roofs will be completed in less than a week, start to finish. There are many opportunities throughout fall, winter, and spring where the weather cooperates for this often overlooked ‘seasonal’ project.

Bathroom Remodeling Trends

A bathroom remodel can be an ideal home improvement project. Depending on how modest or extravagant your plan, it can be one of the more affordable (relatively speaking) improvements when considering a room or home remodeling project. An updated or remodeled bathroom adds value to the home and perhaps most important, personal enjoyment or improved function. You might finally have an excuse to purchase that claw tub you’ve been dreaming about for ages!

The decision to embark on a bathroom remodel can be motivated by many different reasons. The bathroom doesn’t have to be purely functional. It can be a refuge to enjoy a quiet soak after a hectic day. A bathroom remodel can be as simple as a fresh new color and light fixture to something as complex as knocking down a wall to create the bathroom extraordinaire of your dreams, complete with a Jacuzzi tub or sauna.

When planning a bathroom remodel, it helps to look at current bathroom remodeling trends and see what inspires your creative juices. You will likely come across ideas you never considered. They might inspire you to get creative with use of space, color, tile design, or ease of accessibility. Whatever catches your attention, choose a design that aligns with your personal taste and needs and that complements the rest of your home’s style. This is sure to result in a beautiful, functional, and more timeless upgrade.

Another factor and perhaps the most important part of your bathroom remodel design is budget. According to the Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) a midrange bathroom remodel in Seattle can cost $25,000, or more. That said, you can expect to recoup nearly 90% of your investment at resale. Establish a budget that works for you and work with a contractor or designer with that number in mind.

So, let’s get to the fun part and go over a few of the latest trends in bathroom remodel design.

Past & Present

Combine past bathroom design and features such as a traditional, free-standing tub with a modern concept. Add colorful tile around the tub or include a little pop with an accent wall. Another “past” element to play up in the bathroom is a mid-century modern vanity. Its natural wood maintains a retro look, but by adding modern elements like copper accents, it will seamlessly converge past and present design elements.

Natural Textures & Tones

A natural design gives off a luxurious and relaxing vibe. Think ‘spa in your own home.’ A polished configuration inclusive of concrete floors or a wood-paneled ceiling will surely bring a calm ambiance to an otherwise busy room. A light grey or beige color scheme with white trim will ensure the design will outlast color trends. To maximize space, position a marble sink in the middle of limited counter space for an interesting feature.

Black & White + Something Nice

Black and white color schemes will always be a classic among bathroom design renovations. White tiles with small, black elements will always be in style. A new addition, however, is adding an accent tone, pattern, or texture into the mix. Replace faucets and wall hangers with matte ones. Add a color element to the vanity by painting it a dark, navy blue or light periwinkle for two different concepts with the same black, white, and color effect.

Pattern Pop

Patterns can be a little domineering when it comes to bathrooms. As a small space, it’s a delicate balance between not looking too busy and overwhelming, and not having enough pattern that will look out of place. A subtle version of this could include neutral-colored, patterned wallpaper, combined with a large, gold, ornate mirror to give it a French feel. A bolder wallpaper pattern such as oversized flowers will give the room a romantic, whimsical feel.

Enlarging the Space

The above trends focus more on design and ambiance. Another trend is creating more of a sanctuary within your bathroom. Knock out an aligning wall to add counter space to a smaller bathroom or to install a sauna or steam room. Perhaps install an oversized walk-in shower with bench seat to accommodate a multi-generational household. Although these upgrades are more expensive, they all add value to your home and in some cases a more functional space for residing in the home long term.

Before tackling any sort of significant bathroom remodel, you will want to consult with a remodeling contractor, designer, or both. Pictures say a thousand words! Collect pictures from magazines, websites, and Pinterest of features you are drawn to or that you would like to see incorporated into your bathroom remodel. Decide on a budget and share this with the professionals you consult so they can best help you design and build the bathroom of your dreams, without breaking the bank.

If you want some creative design assistance or have a plan that you need a little advice to bring to fruition, we would love to help. Please give us a call at 425-775-9085 or let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request today!

Outdoor Living Spaces, Bringing the Inside Outside!

The weather in the Pacific Northwest is wildly unpredictable. A sunny day in February might be 70 degrees, while April could bring snow flurries. That said, the three months out of the year of near-perfect weather make the other nine months worth the wait. If you like to maximize your time outdoors once the weather is conducive, now is the time to make sure your outdoor living space is ready.

Depending on how much space you have available to work with, the opportunities for elevating your outdoor experience are endless. Is dining alfresco something you enjoy? Consider carving out some underutilized space for an outdoor dining area. Perhaps add a patio or convert an existing patio into an outdoor kitchen. An outdoor fire pit is a cozy place to gather with friends and family after sunset. These are just a few ways to expand your living space and add value to your home.

Patios

If you don’t already have a hard surface in which to transition your outdoor space into an alfresco oasis, perhaps you want to consider adding a patio. Patios add value to the home and can provide a variety of uses. They are the perfect location for a table and chairs, container gardening, or even a canvas for children’s chalk art. Some popular types of patios are stamped concrete and paver patios.

Stamped Concrete: This is a popular option because of the beautiful aesthetics and durability for your outdoor environment. It doesn’t take a lot of maintenance, such as required with a wood deck. Typically, the surface is sealed, which protects and gives the surface a “wet” look. Re-sealing is generally required every three to five years.

Paver Patios: Paver patios are an excellent choice if you’re looking for another long-term option. They are anti-slip, durable, and over time will withstand cracking and weather damage. It also comes with unlimited design options and virtually no maintenance costs. The only disadvantage is the potential weed-growth between the cracks, which isn’t anything a little natural, vinegar-based weed killer can’t solve.

Outdoor Kitchen

Do you love to cook and entertain? Enhance the alfresco dining experience even further by adding an outdoor kitchen, combining a love of cooking with the great outdoors. Adding a kitchen is a larger commitment and investment. Like a patio, it adds value to your home and entertaining options.

Outdoor kitchens are designed to withstand exposure, within reason. Typically, they are constructed with some type of overhead roof cover and open air on the sides. This design, along with a heat source allows for maximum use, nearly year-round. An outdoor kitchen will need to have a water and electrical supply, and possibly natural gas, if available, or propane. Construction and zoning rules are careful considerations for this type of project. Consulting with a certified home improvement contractor who specializes in outdoor upgrades will be helpful.

Sun Protection & Lighting

Keep in mind how your outdoor space will serve you, day and night. By day, you might want some protection from the sun. Just type in sun awnings or sun shades in your favorite browser. It’s amazing the variety of designs and options available. After dark, outdoor lighting plays a large part in the ambience and usefulness of your space. Experiment to find that perfect balance of not having to play hide and seek with your guests while maintaining a soothing glow on those warm summer nights. Don’t forget about pathways. Strategically placed solar stake lights are inexpensive and will help avoid anyone tripping on the journey to your outdoor mecca.

Fire Pits

Another source of light and warmth is an outdoor fire pit. Adding a fire pit to your patio or outdoor kitchen pulls everything, and everyone, together. Common options are gas and wood burning fire pits. Gas is clean and easy to light and doesn’t give off smoke. If you like chopping wood and enjoy a natural flame, then a traditional wood burning fire pit is for you. Be sure to check with your city’s zoning rules to see if wood burning fire pits are allowed in your area.

Each of these outdoor enhancements is a guaranteed way to sizzle up your summer, convince your guests into thinking they stepped onto the pages of Landscaper’s Digest, and get the kids away from being glued to their screens.

There are no bad ideas when it comes to renovating your outdoor space for entertaining. We invite you to get creative. Even the smallest of updates can elevate the outdoor experience for yourself, your family, and your guests. For larger projects such as a kitchen or patio installation, make sure you have a certified contractor who specializes in that specific type of outdoor renovation.

Sustainable Home Improvements

In today’s world “go green” encompasses a more impactful meaning than it did even a few short years ago. As society moves toward a more eco-friendly mindset, you might think about how a more sustainable home can help your pocketbook and decrease your carbon footprint. Creating an energy efficient home is an investment. It involves a lot of initial planning and upfront costs. In the long run it should decrease overall energy consumption, improve your home’s comfort, and increase value and desirability at resale. Another benefit, some energy efficient upgrades also qualify for tax credits and reimbursement programs.

If you plan on renovating your current residence or building a home from the ground up, this is an ideal time to optimize energy efficiency opportunities. There are multiple ways to make your home more sustainable. Some of the most popular are water heating, solar energy, lighting and daylighting, air-sealing and insulation, appliances and home electronics, sustainable building materials, and water conserving plants and landscape design.

Water Heating/Tankless Water Heaters

A tankless water heater uses 30 to 50 percent less energy than units with tanks. It can save the average family about $100 each year. It is smaller and more compact than a standard 40 to 50-gallon storage tank. Instead of continuously heating a large water tank, it works by only heating water on demand and allows a continuous supply of hot water (i.e. no more cold showers!)

Solar Panels

According to EnergyInformative.org the U.S solar market grew 76 percent in 2012. This is largely due to the sizeable return on investment savings. In most places, solar energy can save the average homeowner roughly $100 per month in heating and cooling costs. The federal tax credit (extended through 2019) can reduce your tax bill by 30 percent of the total installation cost. In addition, Washington has some of the best state solar incentives. Take advantage of incentives while they last. In addition to saving you money, it creates energy independence and reduces emissions. Solar energy is the cleanest energy source available.

Lighting and Daylighting

This might seem like an obvious choice. Installing energy efficient windows in strategic locations can increase natural light in your home, reduce the need for artificial light, and decrease overall electricity consumption. Skylights have the same effect and are also aesthetically pleasing. Energy savings vary depending on how many windows or skylights are used and where they are placed.

Air Sealing and Insulation

Taking time to ensure your home is weatherized and air-tight will make your home more comfortable and reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home. Caulking and installing weather stripping can be an inexpensive DIY project. Caulking is best used for smaller cracks around window frames while weather stripping is more appropriate around door frames and windows that open.

Ensuring the attic and crawl space are properly insulated will help keep your home warm in winter and cool in the summer. Insulation works by conducting heat and maintaining warmth in the existing space. During warmer temperatures, insulation confines cooler air and deflects warm air from entering the home. Depending on how much you increase the R-Value, you may be eligible for rebates from your energy provider. To get the most benefit, be sure the insulation contractor you hire is an approved installer with your local utility service.

Appliances and Home Electronics

Electrical devices account for more than 30 percent of the average energy bill. Energy-efficient or solar powered appliances are designed to greatly reduce energy consumption. When choosing more energy efficient appliances look for the Energy Star labels. These products are designed to use an average of 30 percent less water and 20 percent less energy than their lesser efficient counterparts.

Sustainable Building Materials

When renovating your home for energy efficiency, building materials aren’t always something that initially come to mind. However, like the rest of the energy-saving products above, they can save you money and reduce environmental impact. Sustainable building materials are durable, reusable, and derived from natural sources or recyclable materials. Bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly building materials on Earth. It is a sustainable and attractive wood alternative for many home building applications. It is a fast growing, perennial grass that continues to grow without having to be replanted. It is also prevalent around the world, thus, easy to find. It is particularly durable, making it an excellent choice for flooring or cabinets.

Landscape Water Conservation

Who says you need a machine to save water? Take conservation efforts to your garden by using water-conserving plants. Replacing water thirsty lawns with drought tolerant vegetation saves time on upkeep and money on reducing water usage. Plants such as lavender, sea holly, and kangaroo paw, need little to no water to survive. If you prefer indoor plants, start collecting succulents which only require water once every couple of weeks, or less.

Overall, designing and developing a more sustainable, eco-friendly home takes careful planning and renovating. In the long run, you’ll have a more self-reliant house that naturally saves you money and has a more positive impact on the world.

Fireplace Reface

The fireplace is a natural focal point in your home. Left untouched it can make the entire room appear tired and dated.

These before and after photos from a fireplace renovation project in Snohomish, WA, is an example.

BEFORE

AFTER

However, replacing a fireplace is no small undertaking and can be messy and expensive. A more cost-effective and efficient approach may be to reface the fireplace. A reface focuses on upgrading the visible surface of the fireplace, without changing its functionality or how it heats the room. Think of it as giving your fireplace a facelift. If the fireplace is otherwise sound and in proper working condition, refacing may be a good alternative for you.

Before any renovations begin, and especially if you have an older fireplace, it’s recommended you hire a certified chimney sweep to thoroughly clean and inspect the fireplace and chimney. They should be checking for any safety concerns or recommended maintenance or repairs. Once you are confident the fireplace is in good, operable condition, let the fun begin!

The cost of refacing a fireplace can vary greatly depending on what materials you are using, how drastic you want the refacing to be, and how large the fireplace. There are several refacing materials to choose from. Depending on budget and what kind of design you are looking for a few options are concrete, tile, wood, or stone slabs, such as slate or granite. All of these and more are viable options for breathing new life into your old fireplace.

Concrete or Stucco

This material can be applied directly over the surface of an existing masonry fireplace and finished with a design appropriate texture. The dry mixes can be combined with water to create a clay consistency. It is applied by hand and finished with a trowel or any number of tools to create either a smooth or unique texture. This is a creative and inexpensive way to upgrade your fireplace, and you can do it yourself.

Wood Facing

Wood is a natural material that is versatile enough to upgrade any area of a home, the fireplace included. Wood planks or panels work well for this type application. Options are limitless in size, texture, and color. If applied over masonry, you’ll first need to install wood batts so there is something to attach the wood panels. Before proceeding be sure to check with your local building authority. Fire code limits how any combustible material, including wood, is installed around a fireplace. If you aren’t sure how to proceed, this application might be best left to a professional.

Tile

Tile is a traditional and often used material for fireplace refacing. The multiple choices for color and design make it easy to match your home design. Price varies and can be quite affordable or expensive, depending on your taste and choice. Tile and stone slabs can be applied directly to most smooth surfaces, such as drywall. Uneven surfaces like masonry must first be prepared, usually by smoothing the surface with a coat of mortar.

These are just a few ideas to get the creative juices flowing for your fireplace refacing project. Have fun exploring your options and choose a design that will complement your home’s style and your budget. Do your fireplace a favor and give it a much needed “spa day.”

That’s What She Shed

Move over men, the female revolution has arrived. For every Man Cave, there should now be a She Shed. A She Shed, or Babe Cave, is the female equivalent of a Man Cave, and is a tranquil space to relax and rejuvenate from the many responsibilities women have.

Like the Man Cave, the She Shed should reflect what is most important to you, but in an environment separate from the chaos of everyday life. This can include an area for hobbies such as yoga, a personal library, horticulture, crafting, or even a place to escape for a much-needed nap.

This is another fun home improvement project because it allows you to use your imagination and design a space specifically for you. She Sheds are typically a separate space from the house in another small building, similar to a tiny-house or storage shed. However, a home or room renovation can incorporate a She Shed into your existing living space and re-utilize rooms you already have.

Garage

This is an easy and inexpensive way to create a She Shed without an extensive renovation. Borrow an unused corner and frame in a small space. Finish with drywall, paint, lighting, and ventilation.

Patio

If your house includes a large patio, renovating it into a She Shed is a simple way to incorporate your own personality and touches into an existing space. The renovations would be limited with minimal costs, and it also provides ample space for entertaining.

Separate Space

If you don’t have an existing space to incorporate a she Shed consider adding an out building in a portion of your backyard. If you currently have a storage shed, you can clean it out and utilize that space. This is the most convenient way to create a She Shed, and it will give you the motivation to cross off shed cleaning from the to-do list. The renovations are easy because the base walls are there, so the primary goal is designing the inside. If you don’t have an existing shed you can buy an easy-to-build kit or purchase one at a home improvement store, such as Home Depot.

After establishing a space for your She Shed the design possibilities are endless. It’s up to you to define the purpose for your She Shed and how to incorporate it into your life. Basic design ideas are a fresh coat of paint, fill the space with unique pieces or antiques that reflect your personality, incorporate some greenery, make an inviting entryway, add appropriate lighting, and include an area for entertaining if that is an important element.

These are just a few ideas to help you get started in creating your unique oasis. For many this is a fun and relatively easy DIY project. If that’s not your cup of tea, we can help you find a certified contractor to assist.