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,...

Artificial Grass Can Make You Money

The perfect lawn, as some people know it is perfectly flat, and perfectly green; what people don’t know is how much time and money you waste just to get that perfect lawn home owners have always wanted. When you take all the expenses on water and fertilizer you use on maintaining your lawn in a year, you’ll be surprised to see just how much you spend, as the seemingly petty expenses you didn’t realize you have each day accumulated to a large lump sum. What most people are doing nowadays is to invest in synthetic lawns. These lawns are made up of fake grass made of polyethylene fibers that closely resemble real grass. Once you actually touch and see the synthetic lawn, you’ll be surprised that it’s actually made of plastic. It’s exactly because of this...

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....

Address Health Concerns in the Home

“There’s no place like home” as the saying goes and most of us would certainly agree. Home is where you can kick back and relax after a long day and let your worries melt away. Unfortunately, there are often health concerns waiting for us there too. Without addressing these concerns, we can be damaging our own health at the one place we should feel safest. Your home’s furnace is a modern marvel that keeps us comfortable all throughout the year. But many of us don’t realize that our filter operates by sucking up air before heating it up and pumping it out. This might not surprise you, but think of the ramifications involved. Unclean air that gets spread throughout the home can cause real problems. The same thing can happen when you turn your air...

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...