The world of construction has gone through many changes through the millenniums. The history of drywall has it's beginnings from over 100 years ago. We have used plaster walls for thousands of years and when drywall came around, it was not a popular choice. But why do we use drywall today? During and after WWII, the use of this newer product started to take hold in the United States. Plaster … [Read more...]
Garage Conversion
If space is getting tight around your house, a garage conversion is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to add living space to your home. Transforming the garage will cost less than adding on to your existing house because the foundation, walls, and roof are already there. Converting your garage may not be easy. Not all garages have drywall or are insulated. The ceiling might also … [Read more...]
Ceiling Designs
Ceilings—which conceal the underside of the roof/rafters or the floor of the story above it—are one of the most important structural features in the home along with the walls and floor. They are also one of the most overlooked elements. There are various types of ceiling designs, but some are best suited for a specific height or architectural style. The height, shape, style, and color of the … [Read more...]
Home Bar
A home bar—whether it is wet or dry—can be a great addition to your home if you do a lot of entertaining. When comparing a wet bar versus a dry bar, the main difference is plumbing. Wet bars feature a sink that allows for immediate cleaning of glasses, blenders/mixers, and spills. Because of the plumbing, wet bars also allow for beer taps and drains. Dry bars do not have a sink and cleaning must … [Read more...]
Decorative Paneling
Don’t worry—I’m not talking about the dark, wood looking laminate sheets of decorative paneling that your grandparents had on the walls in their basement. These days decorative paneling options are much more attractive, and they enhance the aesthetic of the home. The paneling also provides an extra layer of insulation. Decorative paneling can be installed in any room of the house. It can be … [Read more...]
Decorative Moldings
Decorative moldings are strips of material with various profiles. Some moldings are functional and are used to cover the transition between two surfaces such as along the top and bottom of walls and around doors and windows. These moldings are designed to hide imperfections, gaps, and joints. Other decorative moldings are merely for decorative and design statements. Most moldings are made from … [Read more...]
In-Law Quarters
Accessory dwelling units for multi-generational households are also known as in-law quarters/apartments, mother-in-law suites, secondary suites, or granny flats. They are separate, self-sufficient apartment-style spaces within the main house or on the same grounds as the main house. Although these nicknames imply they are meant for aging parents, they can also be used for adult children or … [Read more...]
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
It's a tradition every fall to do a get your home ready for winter weather. Take a look at the following Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for ideas and inspiration on what to do to get the interior and exterior of your home ready for winter weather. Checklist: Check for drafts and leaks around windows and doors.Check your roof for damaged or missing shingles. Also check for any damage to the … [Read more...]
Spring Cleaning Checklist
It's a tradition every spring to do a deep clean around the house. Take a look at the following Spring Cleaning Checklist for ideas and inspiration on what to do to get the interior and exterior of your home ready for warmer weather. Checklist: Clean interior and exterior of windows.Clean out the junk drawer or cabinet.Reorganize clothes—and donate anything you no longer wear/need.Clean … [Read more...]
Pet Friendly Home Renovations
Millions of families have dog(s) and/or cat(s) – and, collectively, these families spend billions of dollars a year on their fur companions. If you have a pet, have you considered doing any pet friendly home renovations around the house to improve their quality of life—as well as your own? Built-In Feeding Stations Are you tired of tripping over your pets’ water and food bowls? Or are you … [Read more...]