“Winter is Coming” to Delaware. Are ICFs (Insulated Concrete Forms) the Answer to Expensive Heating Bills?

Hello, neighbors! Winter is just around the corner here in Delaware, and that means we’re all about to see our heating bills go up quite a bit. It’s pretty easy to say where all those charges are coming from. The heater is going to be the biggest culprit, and around here, it’s going to be needed all day long. Most families can expect to see charges from leaving lights on more often to compensate for the dwindling daylight hours. It all adds up very fast and it can be very frustrating.

One of the ways that you can head off this frustration is to choose to build a home using insulated concrete forms (ICFs). ICFs are just another building material like lumber, but they come with many features that make them the perfect solution to those winter power bill blues. Here are some reasons to consider building an ICF home in Delaware…

It arrives fully, and powerfully, insulated

One of the ways that you can take action against high heating bills is by replacing the insulation in your home with higher-quality materials. In some cases however, that’s not going to make the difference it should for the cost. The cold air forcing you to keep the heater running could be coming from tiny cracks around the frame or the windows.

ICFs don’t need extra insulation, because they are insulation. As part of the construction process, the spaces between the forms are filled in with a special concrete mixture. What would be stuffed with insulation material is instead filled completely with several inches of concrete. Even in the harshest weather of Delaware, ICFs are highly resistant against outside weather. When a home made this way is heated, it stays heated.

A warm home that doesn’t generate big power bills is already going to make enjoying the winter a lot easier. But that’s not all. You’ll also enjoy that these types of homes are just as well insulated from the noise, inside and out.

It is an ideal material for Delaware beachfront homes

The shoreline is subject to some of the harshest weather in the winter (and in the hurricane season that directly precedes it, of course). For that reason, homes on or near to the beach experience even more dramatic changes in their needed heating every winter. They also have to deal with the fact new places for air to escape and create drafts are are constantly created when a home sways during a storm. ICFs are capable of surviving full hurricanes, and even the strongest winds aren’t going to create fissures in these homes.

Enjoy Your Next Delaware winter

Expensive heating bills can really be a thing of the past if you respond to the winter in Delaware by building an ICF home. Save a lot with the quality of the insulation and the quality of the home.

For more information, see: Ask Our Experts about ICFs

Want a Home that Stands Out in Maryland? ICFs are the Choice for Creatives!

Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are Maryland’s favorite answer to boring home design. This is an entirely different method of construction from traditional timber. It relies on pre-manufactured concrete blocks that can be formed and shifted to create almost any shape for your home. In the most exciting architectural capitals of the world, concrete homes are creating a big stir. Now, these inspired designs are available to everyone who has ever wanted a custom home.

Here are some ways you can unleash your creative side when you’re building a new home in Maryland with ICFs…

ICFs can be easily formed and shaped

When it comes to designing traditional homes, you’re stuck working with a lot of straight lines. That’s how most lumber is cut, and how it’s used. The same isn’t true when it comes to concrete, though. Organic shapes are easy to form with concrete, either in one specific area or across the entire home. You can make entire homes that appear to be cones, stacked blocks or even spheres. You don’t have to go that crazy, but you have the choice!

They are powerful enough to support a lot weight

There are low stress safety limits that need to be respected when you’re building a home from wood. That will restrict your designs a lot, specifically when it comes to your upper floors. When it comes to wood, you just can’t get that creative without getting into trouble. When you build a home in Maryland with ICF, the limits suddenly shoot into the sky.

ICF home builder

The concrete used for these homes is many times stronger than wood, and that really changes what you can get away with when it comes to designing your upper floors. You also have the ability to create features like stairs and balconies that appear to be ‘flying’ or don’t have visible supports.

They make creative home designs more practical

If you want to build a creative home with traditional materials, you’re going to have to make a lot of sacrifices. Some areas are likely always going to be a little draftier than others. You may have trouble predicting which areas will carry sound from the rest of the home and which won’t. You’ll have neither of these problems if you choose to go with insulated concrete forms.

ICF Home

An ICF-built structure is well sealed everywhere with solid concrete, so you don’t have to worry about drafts no matter what your home looks like. The soundproofing is excellent both inside and outside the home.

Start building a more creative home in Maryland with ICFs

By allowing you to work with new shapes and new stresses without risking a less comfortable home, ICFs unleash your creativity. Talk to Excel today if you’d like to build one for yourself.

For more information, see: Are ICFs The Answer to Expensive Heating Bills?

Ideas for Patios, Deck and Your Backyard: Fun Modern Trends

When you are thinking about designing or upgrading your home, you have to think beyond your kitchen and your living room. Your yard might look like little more than a dirt patch with a few swaths of grass and the occasional tree or shrub.

Yet your yard can have a big impact on your curb appeal and the overall value of your home. Putting in or improving your patio, porch or an outdoor entertaining space can transform your yard and increase your home’s value.

Here are a few modern backyard ideas that you might want to consider for a patio or outdoor space for your home. Be sure to ask our Delaware Patio and deck builders if you’d like some help.

Create A Blended Area

Traditionally, patios designs have taken the form of big, concrete squares. You may also be working with a traditional wood deck. Occasionally, brick or another type of deck tile was used, but the same basic shape was maintained. Current trends blend the this area with the natural area. That means using different shapes and incorporating natural stones like river rocks and boulders. It could also mean incorporating plants in and around the perimeter.

A place just for you

Think of your patio like a secluded enclave in the great outdoors just outside your house. Make it look like a small, secret garden that includes only you and your guests. Wrap the porch around your house and your landscaping beds. Try out circular or geometric patterns. Use a variety of stones and colors for a more natural look.

Water Elements

An easy way to create a more natural look and to add some visual interest to your outdoor entertaining area is to add water elements. You can include a koi pond or a simple garden pond in the middle of your patio or just off the border.

Choose natural or polished effects

Place large rocks and plants all around it to make it look more natural. If you prefer a more polished and sophisticated look for your patio, try a water fountain. The fountain can make a showy spray or it can just let down a delicate trickle. A more modest fountain will also attract birds and butterflies.

Planting Mix

Most people think of ornamental plants when they make their landscape design. Yet including some edible plants will create some unique design options while also helping you do your part for the environment and a healthier diet.

An edible garden is a great addition

Consider including a mix of edible and ornamental plants in your outdoor entertaining space, whether you plant in pots or you plant in beds or around the the border. Plants like cabbage and broccoli create some showy displays, while strawberries and pea flower when they are ready to harvest. Choose a variety of colors and textures to make the display more interesting.

Outdoor Fireplaces and Kitchens

Your outdoor cooking and entertaining options aren’t limited to grills and fire pits. An outdoor brick fireplace is easy to include when deck building, and can provide warmth while also creating a beautiful space to gather with guests. You can even roast marshmallows over it.

Entertain guests with an outdoor kitchen

An outdoor kitchen can include all the amenities you need, including a grill, mini refrigerator and bar. You can cook up just about anything you would like, depending on how you outfit your kitchen.

An outdoor fireplace or kitchen can take your outdoor entertaining area to the next level. The space will look more sophisticated, and it will offer much more functionality than a simple patio with a grill.

Seating Areas

Simple wicker or plastic furniture will make your patio look cheap and dated. Instead, you should think about your outdoor entertaining area the same way you would your indoor entertaining area. Choose large, comfortable chairs and sofas with beautiful colors and designs.

While you will be limited by the types of materials you can put outside, you aren’t limited in your design choices. You only need to choose furniture that has water-resistant fabrics so that mold will not spread. You’ll be able to choose from the same kind of designs that would look great inside your home. An outdoor rug, beautiful lighting and some well-chosen planters will complete the look and make your guests feel right at home at your next get together.

Don’t forget the importance of landscape

Landscaping design can do a lot to make your yard look beautiful and to increase your home’s curb appeal. However, installing a patio or redesigning your home’s outdoor entertaining area can take your home design to a whole other level.

Consider giving your outdoor space a makeover with some of these design trends. Not only will your home look beautiful, but your place will become the hotspot for weekend get togethers with your friends and family. You’ll soon start creating wonderful memories.

To learn more about having owning property in Delaware, see: The Benefits of a Delaware Statutory Trust

Making the most of your small bathroom

Not everyone can actually afford a mansion or a home that has the perfect size for every room in the house. Some of us, most of us, have to make do with what we have until such time as we can afford those remodels or to actually purchase a new, larger, home.

So what do you do in the meantime? If you have a small bathroom that needs to be more functional, consider these few hacks to make the most of your small space. Be creative and try to economize wherever you can so as to save as many inches as possible.

Lights

The most important thing in your bathroom (aside from the functional aspects) is the lighting. If you have a small bathroom space that you need to make the most of, your first priority is ensuring you have optimal lighting. Use as much natural light as possible and complement it with artificial light. The brighter the space, the bigger it will seem.

Paint

Consider painting the bathroom a light (or white) color, and keeping the ceiling the same tone as well. Consistency from the walls to the ceiling make the eyes follow in a natural path and make it all seem like one instead of having a divide that goes along with color blocking. Light or pale colors also make rooms seem bigger and brighter.

Mirrors

The bathroom is the only place where no one will judge if you have a lot of mirrors. And mirrors create the perfect optical illusion for small spaces. By using mirrors on more than one wall, your room will automatically seem to double (or quadruple) in size. Plus, you can never have enough mirrors to capture all the angles.

Glass Not Doors

If space is an issue, which it is since you’re reading this, then the ideal hack is to remove any shower doors or curtains and replace them with glass doors or walls instead. You’ll open up the room, making the shower part of the whole space, as opposed to creating a divide.

Shelves Not Cabinets

Similarly, keeping the design open means installing shelves instead of cabinets or cupboards. This will also make the room feel more open and spacious and let it all flow naturally.

Small Sinks

Most of your washing will (likely) be done in the shower. So the sink is really meant for brushing your teeth, washing your hands and perhaps your face. So do you really need an oversized (or regular sized) sink? Probably not. Make the use of every inch of space and save some of that footprint for other items that you can’t actually compromise on. Consider also saving floor space by mounting sinks on the wall instead of installing vanities. This, too, will give the illusion of more space and make a small bathroom feel like a slightly bigger one (there’s only so much we can do after all!).

Adding Solar Panels To Your House

Probably since (and thanks to) the 2006 Al Gore documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth,” more and more people are concerned with climate change and the environment. As a result, solar panels have become a more common home renovation. And with government tax incentives benefiting those who improve their homes with more environmentally responsible gidgets and gadgets, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment.

Solar Energy

For starters, there are technically two types of panels. One to harness solar energy which is converted into electricity and provides power to your home. The other uses solar radiation directly or indirectly to heat water. The former uses photovoltaic cells (or PV cells) and the latter are called solar thermal collectors or panels, sometimes simply ‘solar panels.’ Therefore, it’s important to determine if you are harnessing solar energy to provide an alternate form of electricity to your home, or if you are looking to heat water through solar energy.

Photovoltaic Cells

Probably the most common form used is the PV cells. And by using PV cells, you can save hundreds of dollars on your annual electricity bill, if not virtually eliminate it altogether. PV cells are basically panels that act as batteries; they harness the sunlight and convert it into energy that is then used in the form of electricity in your home.

Costs

Depending on the size of your home, and the types of cells you get, as well as other factors, the up-front costs of installing solar panels can be a hefty investment. Remember that there are government incentives for doing so, but they certainly won’t cover all the costs associated. Plan to spend upwards of $10,000 to $20,000.

Permits and Other Considerations

Whenever you plan on doing any additions or changes to your home, be sure to speak with your contractor about getting the right permits. An experienced and professional contractor will be able to know exactly what channels are needed and what the laws state to make sure your project can run as smoothly as possible.

Remember that although installation might only take anywhere from a few days to a week, there is pre-installation work that needs to be taken care before anything can begin. Your contractor can explain all the timelines to you in order to manage your expectations. Measuring the space, ordering the equipment, getting the permits, etc. all takes time to plan and make sure your installation runs smoothly.

Sunlight

OK, so this might seem a little obvious, but in order for solar panels to work, the panels need direct access to sunlight between at least 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. every day. Otherwise, they might not harness enough energy. Again, your contractor will evaluate the situation and advise you accordingly.

Hiring The Best

Contractors are the best way to ensure all the trades and workers are working efficiently and effectively and making the most use of your time and budget. When looking to hire someone to install solar panels, make sure you get a few things when you request quotes. First, look for a good warranty that will cover the panels for at least 20 years, and other parts for at least 10 years. Ensure you are hiring a company that is licensed and bonded and do a search with the Better Business Bureau to ensure there have been no formal complaints lodged against them. And don’t be afraid to ask them for references. Panels and equipment that has been manufactured here in the USA will be protected even if the manufacturer files bankruptcy and your parts are still under warranty.

Think You Can’t Afford a Custom Home? Here’s Why You Can

Building a custom home is a dream for many. After all, it allows you to create exactly the design you want. You don’t have to search for months for a new home, only to reject each one because you wish it had a bigger kitchen or because the closets were a bit too small or because you really wanted a garden tub but it only had a shower. A custom home can even offer features you won’t find in most existing houses on the market, such as a personal sauna, specialized craft room with built-in shelves and cabinets, or an extensive wine cellar under a clear glass door in your kitchen floor.

Though you might lust after a custom home, you might think it’s just too expensive to fit into your budget. However, you might be surprised to learn that a custom home can be more affordable than you think.

Here are a few ways that a custom home can be more affordable than you think:

Choosing Your Own Site

A big part of the cost of a custom home can be the location of the site and the impact fees involved. However, if you are a smart shopper, you can find an affordable piece of land that also helps you avoid many of the impact fees.

Shop around to find the best bargains on land for your new home. One of the best ways to save is to find a piece of land that already has a home on it — including your own land if you currently own a home. You can avoid a lot of the cost of prepping the site since the land has already been graded and sewer and utility connections are already in place. You’ll just have to pay to have the house bulldozed. If you are shopping for condemned homes, you can get a steal on the house and the land that comes with it, which suits your purchases.

Start with a Finished Floor Plan

Most homes contain many of the same features, so there isn’t a whole lot of variation in the floor plan. The placement of a room may be different, or the shape or size may vary.

If what you are most concerned with in your custom home are surface features, you can start with a finished floor plan and make a few modifications. This can help you save money on working with an architect to build your home from scratch.

Be Judicious in Your Selections

When you first start putting together your plan for your custom home, you may get over excited by the possibilities and put everything on your list of “must haves.” However, if you take a step back, you may realize that the dedicated yoga room may be a bit extravagant or that you can’t really afford the professional-grade kitchen.

Make a list of everything you would want in your custom home. Then take a step back and start crossing off things that you don’t really need or can’t really afford. Allow yourself some of the things you really want, but make sure you are prioritizing your list. Most people don’t have an unlimited budget and so can’t afford every last thing they’d like in their custom home. Just be realistic in your choices.

Work with an Established Builder

An established custom home builder can help you save more money than perhaps any other thing on this list. An established builder will have relationships with materials suppliers and laborers, which can help bring costs down. An established builder may also have a number of projects at any given time, which can allow the builder to order materials in bulk and save money.

A builder who has been able to spend many years in the industry and become established is also one that has put good systems in place for managing costs and minimizing overhead. That is a builder who knows how to minimize waste and get the most efficient work out of the laboring team.

Don’t let misconceptions about the custom home building process scare you away from having the home of your dreams. You can likely afford much more than you think you can when building your custom home. Find the right builder to work with and guide you through the process. Then use these tips to help you bring down costs wherever possible. You can use those savings to bring your project under budget, or you can channel those savings into other perks you want to add to your custom home.

Modern Vintage: Updates You can Make to Get a Classic Look for Your Home

You don’t have to move into a historic home to get a vintage look. Working with a contractor can help you make upgrades to your home that will make it look older than it is to give it some vintage charm.

You can make minor cosmetic changes, or you can work with your contractor to undergo an entire remodel. Here are a few things you can do to give your home amore vintage feel:

Wooden Windows

Aluminum and vinyl windows were only introduced within the last century, so older homes all have wooden windows. Wood creates a certain rustic charm for a home, but it does have its downsides. For example, wood is prone to rotting and warping, so it needs a lot of care. Wooden windows may also need to be replaced more quickly.

You can get the look of wood without having to deal with the drawbacks of wood by choosing vinyl windows. Some vinyl window designs are created to mimic the look of wood. However, the vinyl will not warp or rot, so the windows require less maintenance and will last longer.

Entry Door

A carved, wooden entry door creates a classic look for your home. You can makeover your entire entryway by rebuilding the stoop or creating a new wooden or stone facade. However, if you are on a more limited budget, simply choosing the right entry door can be enough to create the look you want.

You can choose aluminum or steel for your door that is painted and designed to look like wood. The metal is more durable and provides more protection for your home. You can also get an insulated door that will improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Roof

Wooden shake tiles create a gorgeous rustic look for your home. You can re-roof your home with wooden shake tiles and create a vintage appearance.

Again, if you don’t want to deal with the upkeep of wood, you can choose materials like vinyl or even clay that are designed to look like wood.

If you have the budget for a bigger renovation, you can work with your contractor to create additional gables or other roofing accents that will mimic a vintage facade.

Siding

Wooden shake is also a popular choice for siding on vintage-inspired homes. It can create a dated and more rustic look that is perfect for restoration projects or for creating a more vintage look for your home.

Of course, the right siding choice depends on what style and period you are trying to emulate. In some cases, stone or stucco siding would be the better choice. If you want to resurface with these materials, you’ll need to work closely with a contractor versed in this style to reshape your exterior and install the right support structures.

Hardwood Floors

You can do a lot with furniture and home decor to give the interior of your home a more vintage look. However, if you want to update the interior structure, the best thing you can do is install hardwood floors.

These days, “hardwood” floors are very popular. However, they usually aren’t real hardwoods, but rather are pressed particle board with a laminate top. The boards are created to look like hardwood, but they do not have the longevity or the natural beauty.

Installing natural hardwood floors will give your home a more vintage look and will raise the value of your home. Plus, hardwood floors will suit any interior design you choose. If you get tired of the vintage look down the line, you can just change out the interior decor but can leave the hardwood floors intact.

Working with a good interior designer or a home builder is key to creating an authentic vintage look for your home. If you have the budget, you can completely remodel your home’s exterior, including the shape of the structure, the siding, and the roof. However, if you are on a limited budget, you can make minor cosmetic changes that will have a big impact, such as replacing the windows or choosing new siding.

You don’t have to have the budget to buy an authentic historic home. You can get the same look by working with a custom home builder to remodel even the most modern of homes.

How Furniture Can Make Or Break Your Design Concept In Every Room

The way you design your home is a reflection of your personality, style, and choices. A well-arranged floor plan and interior décor make a room feel welcoming. It is important to create good harmony in a room so that people can feel comfortable in it. When it comes to designing your interiors, obviously the walls, windows, and doors come first. You should make sure that you get them right since they determine whether the rest of the features will fit in perfectly.

The second major aspect of interior design is your furniture.

The choices and arrangement of furniture play a big role in the overall design of your rooms. Before going out to buy furniture, you must have a concept in mind that you want to achieve. If you end up buying the wrong furniture, you will be frustrated when your concept does not come out clearly. Here are some ways furniture can help you break or make your concept.

When you cannot decide on a style

When you shop for furniture, you are likely to find many pieces that will catch your eye. If you do not have a defined style in mind, you will be confused since many different styles look good in their own special way. The problem comes when you buy different pieces that look good individually, but they do not look good together. As much as your unique sense of style should be portrayed on the furniture, you should ensure that you create a harmony between the pieces. Buying random pieces just because you like them individually can break the overall look and the design of the room.

When style trumps comfort

Comfort and style should always go hand-in-hand. No matter how stylish your furniture is, if it lacks comfort, you’ve missed the point. If you like designer pieces, make sure that you do not buy the brand name without checking the comfort of the piece in person. One of the considerations that you should make when designing a room is comfort and functionality. A room full of stylish or expensive furniture that is uncomfortable lacks function.

Understanding your floor plan

Your floor plan is very important when it comes to furniture design. Most people buy furniture based on how the pieces look in catalogs, prearranged setups, or online pictures. When they bring them to a room, the desired design does not come out well due to the disparity in the floor plan. Consider the design of your floor plan before making any decisions on furniture. If you have a modern open floor plan, then you can throw pieces around. However, if you have a traditional floor plan then your furniture should be arranged in a certain way.

Buying furniture based on function

Furniture functionality always wins at the end of the day. The way you arrange a living room will differ greatly from the way you arrange your bedroom or study room. When you buy functional furniture, it will definitely affect the way you design the room. If you need a room for entertaining guests, you should look into plenty of sitting space. If you need reflective space, then you can use some of the pieces as focal points in the room. Pick the element that you want to highlight and use the furniture as focal points and you will come up with a splendid design.

Movement around the room

No matter how much you want your rocking chair to go next to the window or in front of the fireplace, a room needs to have proper breathing and moving space. You should arrange the furniture in a way that people walk around sitting space and not through it. Provide enough room in between tables and seats for leg space. Create depth in a large room by having multiple groups of furniture clustered together.

Working with a theme

Working with a theme helps since you use features that are harmonious with the theme. If you have no idea where to begin with furniture shopping and arrangement, do some research on themes and choose one that pleases you. This makes your design flawless since you can match your furniture with the rest of the interior décor.

Keeping it flexible

Always keep an open mind when choosing room and furniture design. It’s better if you’re able to move pieces around to come up with a good design than to have a rigid plan that does not work. Pick pieces and designs that are easy to move around the room. That way if you find that something is not working, you can switch it around and make room for more changes.

Working with limited space

If you are furnishing a small room, the pieces that you choose can make or break its design. Here is when you really need to use your creative bone. Go for multitasking pieces in order to reduce the pieces in the room. Keep big pieces away from windows since natural light creates an illusion of a large room. Use corner pieces, wall closets, and other creative pieces that help you use the most of your limited space. Use fewer large pieces as opposed to many small pieces that can clutter the room.

Understanding your family needs

It is important to understand family needs before buying furniture and designing rooms. Family needs such as a working office for a stay at home parent, a children’s play area, a rest area for elderly parents, considering family members with disability and many other needs play a big role in your furniture choice. Choose furniture that will be both functional and comfortable for use in your specific home.

Using professional help

No matter how much research you do, a professional will always be able to give you an extra perspective. If you just cannot figure out how to go about arranging furniture to come up with a flawless room design, you can consider getting professional help. You will get useful insights as well as help with shopping, furniture materials, floor plan, and interior design.

6 Ways to Customize Your Deck

Give your outdoor decking a unique look by customizing your area with different features and characteristics. Whether you go for a big or minimal change, you can be sure you’ll create some visual interest.

1. Railings

Railings not only provide a safety barrier for your deck, but also give your deck style and character. There are many designs and materials that can be used to compliment whatever look you want to achieve.

Wooden posts are one of the most popular options for deck railings. Whether you decide to keep them all the same width or choose different sizes running through your design, your deck will have character. If you like wood but you want something that has more flair, lattice is a great choice which is ideal for families with small children. This is a safe option still allowing your railings to look attractive and permit breeze to run through the gaps.

Not a fan of wood? Iron is a great material used to create an industrial or classical look. With this attractive railing, iron allows you create a classical style to your deck by creating curves in the spindles. There is a lot of diversity when using iron as it can be moulded into many shapes and designs depending on what style you want to achieve.

Glass is a very popular option if you want to achieve a modern look. This will allow you to enjoy the view beyond the decking while allowing your deck to be child friendly and safe. Whether you want a low rail or a high rail, the advantages of glass is that it will never obstruct your view.

2. Lighting

Illuminate your area by adding lighting to your deck, permitting you to enjoy your outdoor area in the evenings. From floor lighting to lamppost lighting, ‘the sky’s the limit’ when it comes to design and options. Adding lighting near railings and steps also adds safety. Lights underneath your stairs will allow your steps to sparkle in the night giving you clear visibility.

LED lights are a great option for your deck, with a longer lifespan than other lighting options. They are also energy efficient which will help you save on your energy bills. When choosing lights, you can’t go wrong with LEDs.

3. Staining or Painting

If your deck is beginning to look tired, give it a face-lift by staining your boards, making them look fresh and new once again. This is a simple way to customize your deck and can be done by any amateur – no need to call in an expert.

If you fancy something a little different, customize your deck by painting it with something other than stain. Whether you like solid colors, stripes or other abstract patterns, the choices and colors available are endless. This will allow you to have a little fun with your decking, creating an area that is a true representation of you.

4. Spa

Don’t have room for a pool? Why not remodel your deck area by adding a spa. Whether you want your spa recessed or above ground, deck flooring is a popular anti-slip surface choice, helping avoid any unnecessary accidents. Having a spa on your deck is a great way to give your area a wow factor and allow you to relax in the midst of your backyard.

5. Pergola

Adding a pergola will allow you to enjoy your decking space in all different weather conditions. Whether the sun is shining or raining profusely, a pergola will allow you to enjoy the outdoors. Enhance your area with an extra element by adding café blinds. These will keep the wind and heat out creating an enclosed area in your backyard. Café blinds are extremely versatile and can be left up if you prefer the openness.

6. Multi-level

Add architectural interest by creating a multi-level decking to your existing deck. This will separate your decking area into different sections making your area more functional and giving you more outdoor space. This will also give you a unique view of your backyard and surroundings, as you will be able to see it from more diverse angles compared to what you once did.

Whether you are looking to give your deck a major makeover or just a simple one, there is something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore your options, customizing your deck true to your style.

Complete Guide to Upgrading Your Basement

Having a basement can add to the value of your property significantly. Having a finished basement can add even more.

Everyone likes having a basement, even if it is unfinished. It is an extra space where you can store boxes, old furniture and other things that you need but don’t use every day. But if you finish your basement, you can turn it into much more than a storage space. It can become an extra bedroom, a space to entertain guests, or even a whole apartment under your home — perfect for an aging parent, a child who comes home after college, or a rental opportunity.

Upgrading your basement takes a lot of work, and it requires a lot more than just slapping up some drywall. It is essential that you work with a general contractor to learn about all the issues involved, ensuring that you meet code requirements and you make the space safe and inviting. A general contractor can also give you some design ideas you might not have considered.

Here are a few things you’ll want to talk about with your contractor when upgrading your basement:

Moisture Issues

Basements are notorious for experiencing moisture problems. They are, after all, sunk under the ground. Water surrounds the walls, and it will easily come inside if the basement is not properly water-proofed.

If you start hanging drywall under those conditions or laying down flooring, you’ll quickly have mold and mildew spreading throughout the room. You must work with a contractor to first solve any moisture issues before you can begin any of the work for the upgrade. This may include sealing the walls, installing strong moisture barriers and more.

Even after the basic moisture issues are addressed, you’ll still want to choose specialty materials for completing your finished basement. For example, instead of using traditional drywall, you may want to choose a treated drywall or specialty wall covering that is designed to resist moisture.

Insulation

In addition to being damp, basements are also notorious for being cold. They are not well-insulated. Unless you want to dress for outdoor weather every time you go into your basement, you’ll need to have it properly insulated before you start finishing it.

It is important to choose insulating materials that will be resistant to moisture damage and mold. You’ll need to insulate the floor, ceiling, walls, and pipes.

Exposed Pipes and Joists

Pipes and ducts are often run through the basement, and covering these can prove challenging in some basement upgrades. In addition, you will likely have exposed joists for your home’s flooring on the ceiling of your basement.

You can cover some of these by putting up a ceiling or drywall on the walls. However, you may end up losing a lot of space in the room in doing so. You may also lose vital access to plumbing and ductwork in case you need to make repairs.

Many finished basements still have an unfinished ceiling. You can just hang recessed lighting above the joists, and stain the beams for a stylish, rustic look. You don’t have to finish the walls either. Painting the exposed brick can create a nice look that is very popular right now. You can also leave the brick natural and hang some strategic wall coverings for a nice design.

Flooring

Adding flooring can create a nice, finished look for your basement, but it is not necessary. You can paint and coat the bare concrete to get a polished look that could be featured on the pages of a home magazine.

However, a bare concrete floor can also be cold. You may choose to add flooring for the insulation and comfort. If you are on a budget, you can just lay out a couple of area rugs and still get the protection you want for your feet on cold mornings.

Talk through your flooring choices with your contractor to see what best meets your needs and your budget.

Finishing your basement can add thousands of dollars to your home’s value, but it is definitely not a DIY project. You’ll need to work with an experienced contractor to ensure that you are addressing all the underlying issues in the space when you design the remodel, such as moisture control and insulation.

Working with a contractor can also help you come up with some better design ideas for the space. Your contractor can build new walls, install crown molding, and much more. Think of your unfinished basement like a blank canvas on which to create.