Get a Warmer Home with Heated Floors
No one likes being cold in the winter. But the majority of us have learned to accept it as a normal part of life. When the temperature drops, we understand we’ll just have to put up with the cold often for six or more months at a time. Of course, modern amenities help a lot. Our jackets, gloves, scarves and boots all go a long way in protecting us from harsh winters. And thanks to modern technology, our homes are warmed by our heating systems. Some of us might use space heaters too to supplement. But there’s another option many people don’t know about. This is unfortunate, too, because it can make a world of difference. Floor heating is an option more people should begin embracing for a warmer, more comfortable home. Ceramic tile floor heating, for example,...
Use Medallions to Give Your Floor a New Look
Are you looking to give your home a new style? Did you just buy it and it could use some modern flavor? Or have you been there for a while now and are just sick of seeing the same old thing? Either way, you’d be surprised what you can do with your home’s floors. No, you don’t need to rip them out and replace them. That’s expensive, time consuming and completely unnecessary. Instead, opt to set in a floor medallion. These gorgeous geometric designs are affordable to install and sit flush against the rest of the surface. Best of all, you can choose from just about any material you want. Stone medallions, for example, are a great way of making your marble floor even more beautiful. With all the different colors you can choose from, you’re bound to find a...
How to Purchase a Radiant Heating System
Radiant heating systems are no longer considered a luxury. Today’s homeowners are using it to create inviting bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms without going over their budgets. In fact, under floor heating is considered a cost-effective upgrade that helps to reduce heating bills year-round. It’s easy to upgrade your home with a radiant heating system, as long as you know how to shop for one. What type of radiant heating system should you buy? What is the difference between an electric system and a hydronic system? And what type of flooring can be used with radiant systems? If you’re in the market for a new system, you might be overwhelmed by the many options available to consumers. Here’s how to purchase a system according to your project goals and...
How to Buy a New Garage Door
Today’s garage doors do more than just open and close the entrance to your garage. They complement your home’s look, enhance your property, withstand all weather conditions, and even control the degree of light transmission and privacy. Regardless of technological and design advances, a garage door is an essential part of a home. If you’re in the market for a new garage door, you might be surprised by the variety. Residential garage doors — from traditional to contemporary – are available in a variety of materials, styles and sizes. Use this guide to help you find the right one for your home. Measure your garage door. Since modern garage doors vary broadly in size, it’s important to precisely measure your garage door before purchasing a new one....
Basic Tips for Chicago Home Improvement
Chicago has all types when it comes to winter: The hermit home body who only comes out when the snow shows signs of melting The winter spelunker, complete with arctic gear. The only thing this traveler is missing is a walking stick. A breed of super human cyclists who seem to actually enjoy sliding around out on the ice. That’s because Chicago is the city that works through snow, sleet and rain. It’s a city where nothing stops, nothing sleeps. Especially the winter, which is why your house needs some extra attention before the heavy snowfall hits. Proper Heating Did you know that turning your heating off during the day can actually hurt you in the long run? Frozen pipes bursting does more damage than a few dollars on your gas bill. Install and learn to use...
Door Knockers Spruce up Front Doors
You don’t have to install a new front door or apply a new coat of stain or paint in order to spruce up the look of your front door. You can give your entryway a bold new look simply by replacing or adding new hardware to your door. One of the easiest ways to do this to add a decorative and attractive door knocker to your front door. Door knockers have been a part of homes dating back to the Middle Ages, but truly became decorative pieces during the Renaissance, when door knockers became more ornate. With almost every home having doorbells, door knockers are less functional items used to announce someone’s arrival at a house and are more ornamental fixtures that bring a level of antiquity and class to any front door. There is a wide variety of door knockers to...