Boulder Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts in the category - Home Improvementhttps://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/Copyright BoulderHomeSource.com2024-03-15T21:23:10-07:00tag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:365025 Home Security Features to Protect Your Investment<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/home_security.jpg" width="450" height="350" alt="Home security" title="Home security" style="float: right; margin: 11px;" />Looking for home improvement projects that can protect your investment? By integrating advanced security technology and proactive measures into your home in Boulder, you can protect your property and loved ones. There are 5 home security features you may want to add to your Boulder home.
If you're looking for a new<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/" target="_blank"> home for sale in Boulder</a>, we can help you find the place that uniquely meets your need. <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> any time to get started.
1. Security Cameras and Camera Doorbells
Security cameras are indispensable tools for monitoring and surveilling your home's exterior and interior spaces. Installing security cameras provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access, theft, and vandalism. In addition, they can positively impact insurance premiums.
Outdoor security cameras strategically positioned around the perimeter of your home can deter intruders and capture footage of suspicious activity. High-definition cameras with night vision capabilities ensure clear visibility even in low-light conditions, allowing you to monitor your property around the clock. Most of these cameras can be accessed via an app so you can enjoy peace of mind by checking in from anywhere in the world.
Additionally, doorbell cameras offer enhanced security and convenience by providing real-time video footage of visitors and deliveries. With motion detection, two-way audio, and smartphone connectivity, doorbell cameras allow you to communicate with visitors remotely and receive instant alerts on their mobile devices, providing peace of mind whether you're at home or away.
2. Leak Detection
Water damage can wreak havoc on your home and result in costly repairs and restoration efforts. In Boulder, where extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and snowmelt are not uncommon, leak detection systems are essential for safeguarding your property against water-related incidents.
Smart leak detectors can detect the first signs of moisture in key areas of your home, such as basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, and alert you to potential issues before they escalate. By monitoring for changes in moisture levels and temperature, these systems can help prevent water damage, mold growth, and structural deterioration, saving you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
3. Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are valuable additions to any home security system, providing an additional layer of detection and deterrence against intruders. In Boulder, where outdoor recreational activities and wildlife encounters are common, motion sensors help identify unusual movements and trigger alerts to homeowners or monitoring services.
Indoor motion sensors can also be integrated into your home security system to detect unauthorized entry or movement within the premises. Coupled with smart lighting or alarm systems, motion sensors can activate lights, sound alarms, or send notifications to your smartphone, deterring intruders and enhancing the security of your home.
4. Smart Plugs
Smart plugs offer an innovative solution for controlling and monitoring electrical devices and appliances in your home. If energy efficiency and sustainability are priorities for you, smart plugs will be an ideal addition to your home. They enable homeowners to manage their energy consumption and reduce utility costs while enhancing home security.
By connecting appliances and electronic devices to smart plugs, you can remotely control your operation and schedule on/off cycles via either apps or voice commands. This functionality allows you to simulate occupancy and create the illusion of someone being home, deterring potential burglars and improving the security of your property, especially when you're away for extended periods.
5. Keypad Locks
Keypad locks provide convenient and secure access control for your home, eliminating the need for traditional keys and enhancing overall security. With keypad locks, you can assign unique access codes to family members, guests, and service providers, allowing them to enter your home without the need for physical keys.
This function gives you convenient control over who can access the home and when. Keypad locks also offer features such as temporary access codes, remote locking/unlocking, and activity logs, providing insight into who enters and exits your home and when.
Whether deterring intruders, preventing water damage, or managing energy consumption, these home security essentials provide valuable tools and capabilities to protect your investment.To learn more about<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/" target="_blank"> owning a home in Boulder</a>, <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact us</a> any time. 2024-03-15T20:57:39-07:002024-03-15T21:23:10-07:00Greg Smithtag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:36146Designing an Eco-Friendly Home in Boulder, and Its Impact on Resale Value<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/sustainable.jpg" width="450" height="350" alt="Boulder sustainable home" title="Boulder sustainable home" style="float: right; margin: 11px;" />Homeowners in Boulder are increasingly seeking ways to make their homes more eco-friendly, not only to contribute to a healthier planet but also to enhance the value of their properties. Before you think about <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/sellers/" target="_blank">selling your home in Boulder</a>, consider how a focus on sustainability might boost your resale value.
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> any time for a free market analysis to learn more about the current value of your home, and how to strategize for a successful sale.
How can I make my home in Boulder more eco-friendly?
Depending on the scope of your renovation, there are a wide range of home improvement you can make to create a more sustainable home in Boulder. Whether you want to make a quick and minimal investment or prioritize eco-friendly elements in a whole house remodel, we have some ideas to get your inspiration flowing.
Solar Panels
Boulder's abundant sunshine provides an excellent opportunity for harnessing solar energy. Installing solar panels on your home not only reduces your reliance on traditional energy sources but can also lead to significant long-term cost savings.
Energy Efficient Appliances
Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is a relatively simple yet high impact way to reduce your home's overall energy consumption. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, indicating that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. From refrigerators to water heaters, these appliances not only contribute to sustainability but can also make your home more attractive to potential buyers concerned about utility costs and energy consumption.
Smart Home Technology
Implementing smart home technology allows homeowners to optimize energy usage. Smart thermostats, lighting systems, and energy management tools enable precise control over energy consumption.
Water Conservation
Boulder, like many areas in the West, faces water conservation challenges. Implementing water-saving measures in your home, such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and efficient irrigation systems, not only contributes to the community's water sustainability goals but can also be a selling point for environmentally conscious buyers.
Landscaping plays a significant role in a home's overall environmental impact. In Boulder's semi-arid climate, opting for drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems can minimize water usage while maintaining an attractive outdoor space.
Upgraded Insulation
Boulder experiences diverse weather conditions, and having proper insulation and high-quality windows can enhance energy efficiency year-round. Well-insulated homes retain heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer, reducing the need for excessive heating or air conditioning.
Certifications and Assessments
Consider obtaining certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or having an energy assessment conducted on your home. These certifications and assessments provide tangible evidence of your home's sustainability and can be valuable selling points.
Will a sustainable home in Boulder sell more easily?
While there is no home improvement project you can take on that has a guaranteed ROI, a significant portion of buyers in Boulder place a premium on sustainable living. Because of this, incorporating eco-friendly features into your home can positively impact its resale value.
Many real estate professionals in Boulder have seen that the demand for sustainable and energy-efficient homes is on the rise. Buyers recognize the potential for reduced utility expenses, making homes with these features more financially appealing. Homes with eco-friendly features also resonate with the community's values, creating a positive perception that can translate into a higher resale value.
Additionally, Boulder and Colorado, in general, offer various incentives and rebates for sustainable home improvements. Homes with these features may qualify for additional benefits, adding to their overall market appeal.
Eco-friendly renovations also serve as a form of future-proofing. With an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, homes with eco-friendly features are likely to be more resilient in the market over the long term. Future regulations and preferences may continue to favor sustainable homes, protecting their resale value.
Ultimately, we can help you successfully sell your home no matter where you focus your renovations, but a home with eco-friendly appeal is going to attract many of the best buyers in Boulder. Ready to learn more about boosting your resale value or <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/sellers/" target="_blank">selling your home in Boulder</a>? <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> any time. 2024-02-28T17:54:42-07:002024-03-01T14:42:59-07:00Greg Smithtag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:35401What You Need to Know About Buying a Home with a Fireplace<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/Fireplace_Maintenance_Tips.jpg" width="450" height="350" alt="Fireplace home" title="Fireplace home" style="float: right; margin: 11px;" />A fireplace is not only a source of warmth and comfort but also a focal point that adds charm and character to any home. If you are looking for <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/boulder-homes-with-fireplaces/" target="_blank">homes for sale in Boulder that have a fireplace</a>, you're not alone. This is a popular feature that adds to resale appeal, energy efficiency, and the overall enjoyment of the home.
To ensure the continued functionality and safety of the fireplace, regular maintenance is paramount. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of fireplace maintenance, highlighting key steps to keep your fireplace in optimal condition while prioritizing the safety of your home and loved ones.
The Importance of Fireplace Maintenance
Safety is the foremost consideration when it comes to fireplace maintenance. Regular inspections and cleaning help identify and address potential hazards such as creosote buildup, cracks in the chimney liner, or blockages. These issues, if left unattended, can lead to chimney fires, smoke problems, or carbon monoxide leaks.
Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, can accumulate on the walls of the chimney. Over time, this highly flammable substance becomes a significant fire hazard. Regular cleaning and maintenance help prevent chimney fires by removing creosote buildup, ensuring that your fireplace operates safely.
Additionally, inefficient or poorly maintained fireplaces can contribute to poor indoor air quality. A buildup of creosote or the presence of blockages can lead to the release of harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide, into your home. Proper maintenance helps preserve indoor air quality, creating a healthier living environment.
A well-maintained fireplace operates more efficiently, providing better heat output and reducing energy waste. Clean chimneys and properly functioning dampers allow for better airflow, facilitating the efficient burning of wood or other fuels. This, in turn, enhances the overall heating performance of the fireplace. In other words, to enjoy all the benefits of owning a home with a fireplace, take its maintenance seriously.
Steps for Fireplace Maintenance
Not sure what you need to do to keep up with your fireplace maintenance? This list should help:
Annual inspection: Schedule an annual inspection by a certified chimney sweep or fireplace professional. They will assess the condition of the chimney, flue, damper, and other components. An inspection can identify issues early on, allowing for timely repairs and preventing potential safety hazards. It usually makes the most sense to schedule this inspection in the fall, before you light your first fire of the season.
Rgular cleaning: Regular chimney cleaning is essential to remove creosote buildup, ash, and debris. Creosote is a leading cause of chimney fires, making it crucial to keep the chimney interior clean. Consider hiring a professional chimney sweep for thorough and effective cleaning. While you certainly can DIY this maintenance, it can be a messy thing to deal with and there are plenty of professionally ready to take on the task.
Pay attention to cracks and damage: Inspect the fireplace and chimney for any visible cracks, loose bricks, or signs of water damage. Addressing these issues promptly prevents further deterioration and ensures the structural integrity of the fireplace.
Clean the firebox: The firebox, where the fire burns, should be kept free of ash and debris. After each use, allow the ashes to cool completely before removing them. Use a fireplace shovel and brush to clean the firebox regularly, and dispose of ashes in a metal container.
Inspect the damper: The damper controls airflow in the chimney and should open and close smoothly. Check for any obstructions or debris that may hinder its operation. A functional damper helps regulate the draft and prevents cold air from entering the home when the fireplace is not in use.
Install a chimney cap: Consider installing a chimney cap to prevent debris, animals, and rain from entering the chimney. A chimney cap also helps minimize downdrafts and reduces the risk of water damage.
If you are looking for a much lower maintenance option, consider a gas fireplace. It will provide similar warmth and ambience with very little regular maintenance.
Buying a Home with a Fireplace
Before you <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/boulder-homes-with-fireplaces/" target="_blank">buy a home in Boulder with a fireplace</a>, it is essential to have the fireplace inspected by a knowledgeable and licensed home inspector. We can help connect you with a qualified and reputable professional so that you can move forward with your purchase with confidence. Buying a home in Boulder doesn't have to be stressful when you have the right group of professionals on your team.
Ready to find a <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com" target="_blank">new home in Boulder</a>? <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/contact/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> any time. 2024-01-24T14:29:25-07:002024-01-24T16:50:19-07:00Greg Smithtag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:19974Interior Design for New Construction Homes: Tips & Tricks for Professional Results<img src="/userFiles/1183/image/new-construction-designs.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0 auto 20px auto;" alt="Design Tips for New Construction Homes" />
Decorating a new construction home is a special time for a homebuyer because no previous owner has had a chance to leave their mark on the home. <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/boulder-new-construction/" title="New Construction Homes For Sale in Boulder, CO">New construction homes for sale</a> present a blank slate that the owner can decorate in any way that they wish. That's not to say that decorating a new home does not have unique challenges. Ready to make your mark on your new build home? Keep reading to learn four essential design tips for new construction homes.
Have a Plan Before You Start
Before you begin making any purchases, it's important to have a plan in place. Determine how much money you have to spend, the size and layout of your house, and which décor style you prefer. This will help you narrow down your choices when it comes to selecting furniture and decor. Consider creating a design board or mood board with pictures of pieces that fit into your dream home aesthetic.
Try not to buy anything while still in the planning stage. While it might seem like a good idea to buy a sofa if you think it will be perfect for your new home, you don't know if you'll be able to find the right décor to match it or if your plan will change completely. Purchasing things too soon can mean being stuck with mis-matched furniture or wasting money, so save all the items you want to buy and purchase them when you know you have everything you want.
Wait to Paint: The Home Needs to Settle For Best Results
Owners should expect to wait from one to two years from the time construction is completed before they paint the interior of a new construction home. All of the walls will most likely be white or beige at move-in time, which could become frustrating to the owners. However, waiting to paint will pay dividends and prevent problems down the road. All new construction homes take some time to shift and settle.
The timber used in home construction, for example, might not be completely dry or cured. It takes time for the moisture to evaporate from the wood, and as that happens, the timber will contract and shift a tiny amount. The same goes for the concrete foundation, the drywall, and other home construction materials. It takes things like plaster and concrete longer to dry out in colder weather. Remember that everything is brand new, and it takes time for an entire house to shift and settle into its final position. When <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/choose-new-construction-home-builder/">finding a new home builder</a>, be sure to ask about how long they think the settling process will take.
If a homeowner paints the house before it has settled, it's very likely to cause some problems. Painting too soon can cause cracks in the paint due to shifting and blemishes called "nail pops" in the drywall. Owners can repaint later on if they apply new paint too soon.
Take Inventory of Furnishings
The first step in <a href="https://www.grainandframe.com/buying-guides/ultimate-new-home-furnishing-checklist/" target="_blank">furnishing a new home</a> is to inventory what the owner already has. It's helpful to write a list for each room in the house so the owner knows what they already have and what is needed. If purchasing new items, prioritize them in terms of importance. Beds, sofas, and chairs are probably highest on the list, followed by a dining room table and chairs, and so on. Remember that everything does not have to be purchased at once and can be done in stages to avoid cluttering the home.
Another thing to remember is that furniture should be ordered with plenty of advance time before the move-in date. Depending on the manufacturer, it might take four to ten weeks, or even longer, for newly purchased furniture to arrive. That could be a long wait for something as important as a mattress!
One more piece of advice: take lots of measurements when planning to furnish a new home. Put that tape measure to good use and write things down. Furniture companies always list the dimensions of items, and owners can avoid frustration by purchasing items that will fit correctly in every room.
Add Flair to the Walls & Windows
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/putting-up-pictures.jpg" alt="Add Items Like Pictures to the Walls for Personality" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto;" />
Builders typically paint every room in a new home the same color, and they don't apply any window treatments. As a result, every room looks bland and plain, and people outside the home can see through it. One thing that new owners should plan for is installing their own window treatments. They should put that tape measure to use once again and purchase the blinds, curtains, drapes, or shades that they want to dress up the interior rooms (and prevent people from seeing inside the home).
While the house is settling, as described above, the new owner should take the time to plan out the wall colors desired for each room. Shoot for a coordinated scheme when it comes to painting colors. Once the rooms are painted (or wallpapered), owners can think about artwork, mirrors, and other items to add flair to the walls. Rooms that don't have anything on the walls can look bare or feel empty, even if they are furnished. Wall tiles are another decorative feature to consider. Just keep in mind that the same rule applies to wall tiles as paint: wait until the house fully settles before applying tiles.
Take Advantage of Your Ability to Customize
Customization is one of the biggest <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/buying-a-new-construction-home-what-you-need-to-know/">pros of buying a new construction home</a>. Once an owner takes possession of a new construction home, no rule says they can't change some of the builder's options. Swapping the builder's options for certain fixtures and features out for the owner's preference is a way to add individual personality to a home.
For example, the door handles or even the doors themselves can be replaced with more customized options that the owner likes. Light fixtures and ceiling fans can be swapped out for options that better fit the owner's preference. Wood floors, tile floors, and carpets can be replaced with something the owner prefers. Kitchen appliances can be replaced with brands or colors that the owner likes better. And even small things like cabinet handles and pulls can be replaced.
All of these changes don't need to happen at once. Owners should let the house fully settle before making some of these changes. Plus, upgrading certain features like new flooring can be a sizable investment. Expect the process of decorating a new construction home and making renovations until it is "perfect" to take several years.
A New Construction Home Is the Owner's Blank Canvas
Moving into a new construction home is only the first step of the journey. The new owners then have the adventure of decorating the home and turning it into their personal space over time. Follow these tips to help make the process easier and avoid certain pitfalls when decorating a new home.
2023-02-23T08:30:00-07:002023-02-23T09:43:13-07:00Greg Smithtag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:23839Can You Insure Your Mountain Cabin Against Wildfires? Getting Home Insurance in Boulder County
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/boulder-county-home-insurance.jpg" alt="What Homeowners Should Know About Wildfire Partners Certification" width="475" />Owning a mountain home can provide a wonderful retreat for anyone who enjoys the outdoors in Colorado. Of course, finding and maintaining a property in this area requires attention to the possibility of wildfires. Since wildfires are common in certain parts of <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-county-real-estate/" title="Boulder County Homes & Real Estate">Boulder County</a>, homeowners in the region need to take action to help protect their mountain homes and ensure that those homes are insurable against damage. Wildfire Partners provides a certification program that allows homeowners to learn what they need to do to minimize fire damage. By following these requirements, homeowners can simplify the insurance process and reduce fire risk to their cabins and mountain homes.
How Do You Insure a Mountain Home?
Homeowners insurance is a standard form of protection for property, but insuring a cabin or other mountain home in an area prone to wildfires is not necessarily a simple task. <a href="http://www.rmiia.org/catastrophes_and_statistics/Wildfire.asp" target="_blank">Colorado wildfires</a> have caused more than $1 billion in damages to homes and property in the past few years. Wildfire mitigation tactics can minimize the risk of damage, and insurance companies may require it before agreeing to open a policy on a particular property.
The topic of insurance can create complications for homeowners who want to sell a mountain cabin or mountain home and buyers interested in purchasing. Many lenders will not agree to provide a mortgage on a property without a homeowners insurance policy. Buyers who need to finance the purchase may have a harder time completing the process if they cannot prove that the home is in a condition that would make it reasonable to insure. And <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-home-insurance-policy/">choosing the right home insurance policy</a> is vital.
Who Are Wildfire Partners?
In order to have the least difficulty getting an insurance policy for a property in a wildfire-prone area, homeowners often have to prove that they have taken proper steps toward wildfire mitigation. Wildfire Partners is an organization that creates a set of building and evaluation standards. Homeowners can use these standards to minimize the risk of fire damage and prove to their insurance carriers that they are taking the appropriate precautions.
<a href="https://wildfirepartners.org/our-program/" target="_blank">Wildfire Partners</a> is an organization specific to Boulder County, working directly with county building codes. The organization offers in-person property evaluations, in which homeowner participation is encouraged. The result yields reports with recommendations that homeowners can follow to make their mountain homes and properties more fire-resistant. Although the program's chief goal is to minimize damage from wildfires, homeowners could get additional benefits, such as lower homeowners insurance premiums.
Program Process
To participate in the <a href="https://wildfirepartners.org/our-program/program-process/" target="_blank">Wildfire Partners program</a>, homeowners must submit an application. The application takes a few minutes and determines whether the homeowner's property is in an eligible area. The organization processes applications twice a month and will email applicants to confirm their eligibility. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements must sign a waiver to allow professionals to inspect the property and, in some cases, pay a fee. Once the waiver is submitted, homeowners can schedule an appointment for an assessment.
During the assessment, homeowners can walk through the property with specialists to identify possible problems. Common issues include:
Types of vegetation that are more likely to burn
Plants and debris that need to be removed
Areas on the home exterior that are vulnerable to wildfire due to proximity, material, or condition
After the assessment, which lasts a couple of hours, homeowners will receive a copy of a report with recommendations. The report takes a week to prepare and deliver. Homeowners must complete the list of recommended tasks to apply for a certificate. The certificate indicates that homeowners have met expert recommendations for <a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-wildfire/" target="_blank">wildfire mitigation</a>. They can take the certificate to an insurance agent to establish their efforts at wildfire mitigation on the property.
Program Eligibility
To qualify for the program, homeowners must meet certain <a href="https://wildfirepartners.org/our-program/eligibility-critera/" target="_blank">eligibility requirements</a> regarding location and ownership status. Specifically, people who own property in unincorporated Boulder County may be eligible for the program. The county has two fire zones, and only properties located in Fire Management Zone 1 can apply for Wildfire Partners certification. Only the property owner can apply for assessment, although renters are encouraged to talk to their owners about their wildfire mitigation options.
Homeowners must agree to the terms of the assessment to proceed with the certification process. They have to arrange to be present during the assessment, making various parts of the property accessible to specialists. If they have participated in the program before, they cannot start a new application. However, they can resubmit their mountain home for certification and pay a fee for the service.
Application Process
Most of the information required on the <a href="https://wildfirepartners.org/application-form/" target="_blank">application form</a> is designed to assess eligibility quickly. Applicants will spend a few minutes reading unique requirements concerning short-term rentals and other less-common arrangements. Homeowners looking to get certification as part of building new construction homes will need to request assessment and certification from Wildfire Partners and apply for building permits with the county.
After submission, the organization will review the application within a few weeks. If the application meets the requirements, the organization will contact the property owner to sign a waiver and schedule an assessment time. Applicants may find out if they are eligible for financial awards at this time, as well.
Wildfire Assessment & Mitigation Guidelines
The assessment provides a checklist of concerns that homeowners should be aware of, consider making changes, or prepare to upgrade before applying for certification. As a general rule, fire mitigation strategies divide up the property into various zones:
0–5 feet from the home
5–30 feet from the home
30–100 feet from the home
These zones carry different levels of risk, so the mitigation requirements will differ. The first zone is non-combustible, meaning that anything close to the home should be as fire-resistant as possible. Assessment for the remaining zones primarily concerns vegetation and debris that could ignite.
Wildfire Partners provides a <a href="https://wildfirepartners.org/sample-report/" target="_blank">sample report</a> that homeowners can read to understand what they might be asked to do. In the report, each item on the list is marked in one of three categories:
Acceptable condition
Recommended mitigation
Required mitigation for certification
The amount of detail depends on the zone and the property. For example, the assessment might require clearing gutters or replacing them with non-combustible materials. For a mountain cabin, specialists may mark trees for removal and recommend cleaning up dead grass or pine needles.
Grants for Homeowners
When applicants receive notification of their approval to participate in the Wildfire Partners program, they may also get information about financial awards. Generally, any grants available for wildfire mitigation are limited to $2,000, or a maximum of 50% of the contractor's cost to complete the work. Eligibility depends on the type of property, homeowner need, and grants available. For example, someone planning to build luxury homes in the area would not be eligible for these grants, nor anyone seeking certification for new construction.
In some cases, homeowners can apply for additional financial help. Wildfire Partners has an <a href="https://bouldercounty.wufoo.com/forms/wildfire-partners-needbased-application/" target="_blank">application for need-based assistance</a>. People must meet certain income limitations and other criteria, such as participation in a need-based county program. This assistance may help to cover more than the standard 50 percent, although it does not necessarily handle all costs.
Completing the Program
To complete the program, applicants must show that they have completed all the mitigation measures required in the assessment report. To do this, homeowners must schedule a one-hour assessment with a specialist to walk through the property and determine if the problems have been resolved. They will grant a certificate and yard sign if they approve it. If the property does not meet requirements, the person doing the assessment will provide a new list of tasks to complete.
Once reaching certification, homeowners should keep in mind that the process is ongoing. Wildfire Partners recommends that property owners request recertification every couple of years. That way, they can continue to minimize fire risk and show their insurance carrier that they are continuing to mitigate potential fire damage. The recertification process costs $100 per visit and takes an hour or two.
Start Mitigating Fire Risk Today
Homeowners living in Boulder County's fire-prone regions understand that wildfires are a big concern. A single wildfire can create hundreds of millions of dollars in damage, destroy hundreds of mountain properties, or even cause the death of people in affected areas. Fire mitigation is one of the best ways that homeowners can reduce the risk of damage and minimize the spread of wildfires from one property to the next, and carrying out mitigation is one of the <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/the-secrets-to-lowering-your-homeowner-insurance-premiums/">secrets to lowering homeowner insurance premiums</a>. By applying for and meeting the requirements of the Wildfire Partners program, homeowners can make it easier to protect and insure their homes.
2023-01-04T13:00:00-07:002023-10-09T12:47:37-07:00Greg Smithtag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:18654UV Damage to Homes: How to Save Money & Preserve Your House
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uv-rays.jpg" alt="How to Protect Your Home From UV Rays" width="475" />When you live in a high-altitude area, you have to be aware of the unique homeowner responsibilities that come along with it. One such danger is the increased amount of UV rays that can damage the interior and exterior of a mountain home. In this blog post, we'll discuss what UV rays are, how they can damage your home, and some tips on protecting your most valuable asset. Keep reading to become an expert on protecting your home from UV rays.
Table of Contents
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#what_are_uv_rays?">What Are UV Rays?</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#why_do_uv_rays_damage_homes?">Why Do UV Rays Damage Homes?</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#how_does_ultraviolet_(uv)_radiation_affect_your_home_exterior?">How Does Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation Affect Your Home Exterior?</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#roof_damage">Roof Damage</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#paint">Paint</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#decks_&_furniture">Decks & Furniture</a>
<a href="#how_do_uv_rays_damage_the_home's_interior?">How Do UV Rays Damage the Home's Interior?</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#rugs,_furniture,_and_fabrics">Rugs, Furniture, and Fabrics</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#hardwood_floors">Hardwood Floors</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#artwork_&_photos">Artwork & Photos</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/#get_inside-out_home_protection_from_uv_rays">Get Inside-Out Home Protection From UV Rays</a>
What Are UV Rays?
Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is a type of electromagnetic radiation that originates from the sun but can also be found from artificial sources like tanning beds and UV lights. UV rays aren't inherently bad, but it's essential to know how much exposure to ultraviolet your house is getting. UV radiation is more intense in the mountains because the sun's rays have to travel through less of the Earth's atmosphere, which generally filters out a lot of harmful radiation. A high altitude can mean more exposure to UV rays, which can ultimately damage the interior and exterior of your house.
UV rays are categorized based on how much energy they emit. The highest-energy UV rays can cause severe damage to anything that experiences too much exposure to UV radiation, including buildings.
Why Do UV Rays Damage Homes?
The harmful <a target="_blank" href="https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/health-effects-uv-radiation">effects of sun exposure on our skin</a> and our risk of skin cancer have been well researched. However, UV radiation can harm all sorts of materials over long periods of time. What's worse is that UV rays are not visible light. This means you may overlook the threat until it's too late.
UV rays are, indeed, very powerful, but they don't work alone to damage the inside and outside of houses. Many materials contain elements that make them highly susceptible to damage from UV wavelengths. Knowing where these materials are most commonly found can help you take proactive measures.
How Does Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation Affect Your Home Exterior?
UV rays can impact several different parts of your home's exterior. Here are the signs and what to do to prevent damage.
Roof Damage
The effects of sun exposure can damage your roof in many ways. Over time UV damage can cause leaks, discoloration of the roofing material, and substrate degradation. Even small amounts of exposure can cause significant harm to your roof. Here are a few of the most common types of UV-related roof damage.
Deterioration. Most roofs comprise many chemicals, each of which can be broken down by prolonged cumulative exposure.
Blistering. Blisters occur when moisture or air accumulate beneath the roofing layers or within the shingles themselves and can cause roof leaks over time.
Damaged Sealants. These specialized coatings provide added protection against weather and can quickly fail when damaged by the sun.
Thermal Damage. Thermal damage occurs when roofing materials are heated up by UV rays and then contract too quickly, causing damage. Mountain homes are vulnerable to thermal damage.
Don't worry; there are many ways to protect your roof from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Metal roofs are one of the most <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/popular-roofing-material-choices-for-homes-today/">popular roofing styles</a> for their durability and energy efficiency. Metal roofs are great because they reflect most of the UV rays that hit them, unlike asphalt shingles that absorb the radiation. This reflection keeps your house cooler in the summer, too. Research shows that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.metalroofing.com/residential-metal-roofing/benefits/energy-savings/">metal roofs can reduce your utility bills</a> by up to 40% every year by reflecting heat-producing UV waves. Placing a rubber membrane beneath your metal roof increases insulation and bolsters UV protection.
Whether or not you choose a metal roof, you should get a roof inspection every year. During an inspection, the inspector will check for damage caused by deterioration or blistering. If they find any, you can choose to seal them up on the spot or have a more permanent solution made. <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/what-you-can-do-to-prevent-and-repair-roof-damage/">Staying on top of roof inspections</a> can save homeowners thousands of dollars in the long run.
Paint
Paint exposed to all types of UV radiation will fade or denature in a way that makes it appear chunky or dusty. The eastern and western sides of any home are most vulnerable to fading, depending on the time of day. In prolonged direct sunlight, reds, blues, and yellows, in particular, are highly vulnerable to fading. Considering how important curb appeal is to buyers, faded paint can lower the resale value of your house.
What's the solution? Select paints that are proven to resist UV exposure. Think of paint as sunscreen for your house. You wouldn't hit the ski slopes without lathering up first, right? The best paints will seal your house from water damage and reflect UV radiation, keeping your true colors intact and protecting the integrity of the wood. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gardengatemagazine.com/review/exterior-latex-paint">Latex-based paints</a> are the best option for painting outdoor elements. Latex-based paints have acrylic binders that help them stretch so they won't crack when exposed to the sun. Research professional painters to determine their experience with UV-resistant products.
Decks & Furniture
Over time, different types of wood will darken or bleach in color. The sun also dries out wooden surfaces, causing them to crack and warp when exposed to UV. There's nothing worse than getting your deck ready for the first spring barbecue only to find out it's been damaged by UV rays all winter long.
Paint is perhaps the best UV protector for treated lumber, but it's not a long-term fix. You'll need to add a protective sealant on top to get the best results. You can even take things a step further by building an awning or pergola over your deck to shield it from the sun. Working with a deck specialist in your area can set you up for success when it comes to UV protection.
UV rays can also damage furniture. Be sure to invest in furniture covers or place your favorite items inside when they're not in use.
How Do UV Rays Damage the Home's Interior?
Just like the exterior of your home, the interior can also be subject to damage from UV rays. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce the impact.
Rugs, Furniture, and Fabrics
Too much sunlight can wreak havoc on rugs, curtains, and fabric-covered furniture. The effects of sun exposure are most noticeable with dark colors. Some experts recommend opting for lighter-colored fixtures since the fading won't be as noticeable. Additionally, synthetic blends hold up to UV rays better than cotton.
With all that said, it's important to note that sometimes it's not realistic for a homeowner to replace every dark-colored piece of fabric in their home. That's where UV-repelling sprays come into play. These sprays can be found online or at local shops and provide an easy solution for in-home UV protection.
Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors have a handsome, timeless look that's hard to beat. Furthermore, they're one of the best <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/best-high-roi-home-improvements/">high-ROI home improvements</a> you can find. Unfortunately, they're also one of the more expensive inclusions to any home, and UV rays easily damage them. Some research estimates that 40 to 60 percent of floor damage occurs due to UV exposure. Consider treating flooring with pigment-based stains and finishes that include UV protectants in their composition if you're concerned about fading. Are you thinking about installing hardwood floors for the first time? Look into <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/best-home-flooring-options-for-your-home/">home flooring options</a> that are less chemically vulnerable to UV damage.
Additionally, you could simply choose lighter colors over dark ones. Unfortunately, most home insurance providers don't cover damages related to UV exposure. To protect the value of your hardwood floors, it often pays off to recruit professional assistance for full UV protection of your flooring.
Artwork & Photos
Artwork and photographs make your house a home. However, if you're not careful about protecting them from UV exposure, they'll quickly become faded. Unlike floors and fabric, photos aren't as easily replaced. The first step is to avoid placing your prized art and pictures in sunny areas. Then you can frame the works with museum-quality glass designed for conservation. Another option is to coat these items in UV-resistant clear coating, commonly sold at art supply and home improvement stores for just this purpose.
Window film is another excellent option for keeping UV rays out of your house. Window films are basically stickers that can be applied to your window. They can include special features like glare prevention and heat reduction. The best part? They keep 99.9% of UV rays out of your house and away from your artwork and photos. Smart windows are another option that keeps UV rays out and helps you <a target="_blank" href="https://www.energy.gov/articles/making-smart-windows-smarter">decrease heating/cooling fees by 30%</a>. Homeowners who want to get the best tinted windows or smart window systems for UV protection should consult a local professional about window replacement.
Get Inside-Out Home Protection From UV Rays
From the roof to the inside of your home, UV rays can cause severe damage. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take right now to protect your property from these harmful sun rays. Make sure that you choose paint that's UV-resistant for an extended period. Installing a metal roof and getting annual roof inspections can pay off when it comes to avoiding damage. You should also consider installing window film or tinting to keep UV rays out of your living space altogether. With these tips, you can work against UV rays and maximize the value of your home.
2022-03-10T13:07:00-07:002022-03-10T14:26:25-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:19819Best Investments to Make When Renovating Your Home
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/best-home-renovations.jpg" alt="Best High-ROI Home Renovations" width="475" />When you own a house, there will eventually come a time when you want to make some <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/best-high-roi-home-improvements/">high-ROI home improvements</a>. This could be in the bedroom, the basement, the kitchen, or anywhere else in the home. Making these updates gives you a chance to make the home exactly how you want it.
However, in addition to redesigning the home how you like it, you also want to think about the future. The changes you make should be investments that help you increase the value of your home when it eventually becomes time to sell. Are you looking to get the best returns on your home makeover? Keep reading to learn about the best investments when renovating a house.
New Kitchens Are a Major Selling Point
Your kitchen is an essential room in the house. You spend a lot of time there, and it is often seen as the heart of the home. You entertain there, cook there, and do so much more. Because of this, it is one of the best and most impactful places to renovate your home. There are also many different ways to improve and invest in the area.
You can add some <a href="https://www.bestonlinecabinets.com/solid-wood-kitchen-cabinets" target="_blank">high-quality wood cabinets</a>, change out the appliances to be more energy-efficient, install new flooring, change up the lighting, add new countertops, and include better storage solutions. With the kitchen being a significant room, a renovation to your kitchen can surely help add value to the space and get potential buyers very excited in the future.
This renovation can be pricey if you’re not careful, so always know your budget and what you can afford. It can be hard to recoup that value if you spend too much.
Improve the Yard For Optimal Curb Appeal
While the inside of the home is vital, you need to make sure that you don’t forget about the outside. Depending on where you are, there is a good chance that a yard gets a lot of use every year. People entertain in their yard, cook on the bbq, relax in the space, play with their dogs, and so much more.
Making some noticeable changes to a yard can be a brilliant investment and boost the value of your home. Often, the yard is a deciding factor for a homebuyer faced with many homes they like. Thankfully, there are many ways to <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-ways-to-spruce-up-your-backyard/" target="_blank">spruce up your yard</a> and remodel it, so you have many options to choose from.
Remodel Your Bathroom For Improved Style & Functionality
Everyone wants to have a clean and updated bathroom. If your bathroom is outdated, it can put you in a bad mood every single time you enter it. Updating the space will not only put a smile on your face right now, but it can also ensure that the room becomes a selling point to those who may want to buy the home in the future.
The <a href="https://homeguide.com/costs/bathroom-remodel-cost" target="_blank">cost of a bathroom remodel</a> can vary greatly, but if you have a good plan, there are many <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/bathroom-upgrades-with-high-roi/">high-ROI bathroom upgrades</a> to choose from. Be sure to choose the suitable materials, and hire the proper assistance to ensure you don’t overspend.
Even a small bathroom remodel can have significant results when it comes time to sell. Simply changing out the flooring, the vanity, and the fixtures and giving the walls or cabinets some new paint can completely revitalize the space.
Make Wise Home Improvements and Reap the Rewards
When it comes time to renovate your home, which areas should you focus on? In this blog post, we’ve outlined three key renovations that can give your home a facelift and may even increase its value. With careful planning and execution, you can make wise improvements that will make your house feel more like home. What area of your home would you like to see renovated first?
2021-12-05T08:57:00-07:002022-04-22T07:11:23-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:16086Creative Ideas for Using Essential Oils in Your Home
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/tips-for-essential-oil-use-at-home.jpg" alt="Make the Most of Essential Oils in Your Home with These Tips" width="475" />Essential oils are more and more common in every home, thanks to their numerous benefits. They help improve sleep, relieve stress and anxiety, boost energy and mood, and just make you happier and healthier.
At <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/">BoulderHomeSource</a> we use them for their unique fragrance, but essential oils also serve as a fundament of aromatherapy and the final touch to <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/natural-finishes-a-timeless-upgrade/">natural finishes in the home</a>. It’s an all-natural holistic technique that promotes physical and mental healing and well-being.
It’s no surprise if you want to include essential oils in your household and get the most of them. Wondering how to best use essential oils at home? You’re in the right spot.
Keep reading to find a detailed list of tips and tricks on using essential oils to scent your entire home in a pleasant way and enjoy wellness benefits.
Run an Essential Oil Diffuser
An essential oil diffuser is an electric device that transforms the oils into fragrant mists and carries them to <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/how-to-improve-the-air-quality-in-your-home/">improve the quality of air at home</a>. Why invest in an oil diffuser?
It doesn’t denature the structure of the essential oils. This means that the gadget preserves the chemical composition and aroma of oils and therapeutic effects.
Not only does the device scent the air, but it also serves as an air purifier and humidifier.
The diffuser creates a soothing atmosphere.
It also promotes energy and focus, eases stress, boosts your mood, and improves your immune system.
Tips for Using an Oil Diffuser
Confused about how the diffuser works and how to get started with it? Follow the steps below for the best results.
Set up the device. Whether you position the diffuser in your living room, your bedroom, or any other room for relaxation, place it on a table, or a cabinet, at least two feet above the floor. This ensures an even spread of the essential oil mists into the entire room.
Add water. The gadget needs water to create the aromatic mists. But don’t fill its tank with regular tap water! Instead, use filtered water, so the device runs at its best.
Add your favorite essential oil. For a 100ml diffuser, 3 to 15 drops of desired essential oil are more than enough. Want to blend different essential oils? Go ahead! Don’t be afraid to experiment with various essential oils and scents until you find what best soothes you and matches your preferences.
Fix the running mode. Set the diffuser on a pulse or constant stream, activate its LED lighting if you need it, and more.
Ensure regular maintenance of the diffuser, so you guarantee that it distributes the essential oils well and lasts for an extended time. Clean it thoroughly every other month. Place the diffuser in bedrooms to enjoy the <a href="https://www.oakhillgardens.com/blog/plants-that-induce-sleep" target="_blank">sleep aid benefits of plants</a>.
How to Make a DIY Oil Diffuser
If you don’t have an oil diffuser, don’t fret and give up on essential oils, says <a href="https://galen-n.com/" target="_blank">Galen N Essential Oils</a>. There is a wide range of DIY hacks to use and apply essential oils in your home, especially for <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/the-kitchen-factor/">the kitchen factor</a>.
Water Beads Diffuser Jar
When you add essential oils to water beads, they become a great source that evaporates the aromatic scent of the oils. So, combine water beads with your favorite essential oil and some water in a jar. You'll have a DIY oils diffuser in no time.
Clothespins Diffuser
Wood absorbs liquids and different scents well. Soak some wooden clothespins in preferred essential oils and let dry. Then clip them around your home or even your car and enjoy the lovely aroma the pins release.
Air Freshener Spray
A homemade air freshener spray is one of the easiest to prepare, according to professionals from <a href="https://www.paulscleaningsydney.com.au/" target="_blank">Paul’s Cleaning</a>. Just mix essential oils you like with filtered water in a spray bottle, and it’s ready. The spray is a great instant air freshener and mood booster. Use it as an all-natural disinfectant or cleaning agent, too.
Gel Diffuser Jar
Gel materials are another excellent essential oil absorbent. Combine gel crystals, desired essential oils, and water in decorative jars and place them around the house. They give out a subtle aromatic smell and add up to a cozy atmosphere.
Sticks Diffuser
Go for a nice walk in the wood and gather some sticks. Drip some essential oils on the sticks and put them in old glass bottles. They spread a pleasant scent and serve as creative home decoration perfect for every rustic-themed interior.
Cotton Ball Bowls
Now and then, we find ourselves in situations that upset us. A quick way to calm yourself and relieve stress is to put some cotton balls soaked in essential oils in a bowl and let the soothing scent eliminate all negative energy and emotions.
Feather Air Freshener
Want your storeroom, attic, wardrobes, or your car to smell fresh and natural? Instead of commercial air fresheners, try feathers that spread the lovely aroma of essential oils.
Drip a few drops of favorite essential oil on a decorative feather.
Hang it in the place you want to scent.
It’s also a lovely addition to the interior, as well.
Freshening Carpet Powder
Although there are many <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/best-home-flooring-options-for-your-home/">home flooring options</a>, annual refreshment is crucial, according to Simon McDermott of <a href="https://www.rugcleaninglondon.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rug Cleaning London</a>.
Prepare a mixture of essential oils and baking soda.
Sprinkle it all over your carpets and let sit for a couple of minutes.
Vacuum for fluffy carpets with a fresh, natural scent.
Rice Diffuser​
Another quick and affordable way to spread that lovely fragrance of essential oils around your home is the rice diffuser. To get started, put some uncooked rice in a decorative container, jar, or bowl. Then, add a few drops of preferred essential oil or blend different oils, and your DIY diffuser is ready. One container is perfect to scent one room.
Leather Bracelet Diffuser
Braid a bracelet from leather and add a few drops of essential oil to it. This aromatic accessory is ideal for scenting your personal space and keeping you in a good mood. Plus, it’s also great to repel all kinds of annoying bugs.​
Baking Soda Sachets
Create small sachets from old clothes and sheets, or get some from a craft store. Fill them with baking soda, coffee, and essential oils. These are great to freshen shoes, drawers, closets, and they are one of the <a href="https://gentlemanzone.com/men-tips-for-cleaning-the-house-guide/" target="_blank">cleaning hacks that anyone can master</a>. Coffee absorbs the bad odor, while the essential oil gives a lovely and fresh new scent.
Olive Oil Aroma Candles
DIY fragrant candles are easy to make when you follow these steps:
Pick a jar for your candle.
Place the wick in it and secure it with a metal wire, so it stays in one place.
Fill the jar with olive oil and add your favorite essential oils.
And there, you have a unique scented candle that doesn’t even smoke because it contains oil instead of regular wax.
Ready to Use Essential Oils in Your Home?
The list of ways to <a href="https://www.bintheredumpthatusa.com/article/simple-home-design-post-covid" target="_blank">implement simple design ideas</a> via essential oils is nearly endless. Follow our tips and use your imagination to develop other creative applications of essential oils. These DIY projects are <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/fun-clever-ideas-to-do-with-your-family-while-youre-at-home/">kid-friendly in-home activities</a> that improve the quality of life for everyone in the house.
2021-10-26T10:20:00-07:002021-10-26T11:38:43-07:00Greg Smithtag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:14614Tenant Vs Landlord: Who Has To Do What Maintenance?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/aK5X5GbxqopRAuWywqn2452IaCdR0vTaBe0bjuxuyw6GFlmHq1WHVBWHYV8kKYVKMlHhvtcnWDCCAeS1HvbsiyExFCoqyLiQZfktl9yPz1_J2wlnjUi-Jtp7mLnLgt6l3g" alt="Who is responsible for repairs on a rental?" width="475" />
<a href="https://limaone.com/real-estate-investment-denver/" target="_blank">Renting a property</a> is usually a pretty straightforward transaction. You need somewhere to live, a landlord needs someone to pay for their negative-geared investment portfolio. So as long as your rent is paid on time, your new landlord will let you live on their property, and everyone is happy. Except for when everyone's not happy.
Despite having state regulations outlining both tenant's and landlord's responsibilities, sometimes it's still unclear exactly who is legally responsible for some aspects of the property. That's why you should make sure you fully understand your rights and responsibilities before signing a tenancy agreement and moving into a property. Because it can ultimately save you a considerable amount of time, money, and stress throughout the period of your tenancy.
Obviously, it's your <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/becoming-a-rental-property-owner-dos-and-donts/">landlord's</a> responsibility to provide a home that meets all of the current safety requirements, is structurally sound, and in a liveable condition, but what about garden maintenance, pest control, or a plumbing emergency? We'll answer some of the biggest issues below.
Smoke alarms
Your landlord is required to install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
But it's the responsibility of tenants to perform a smoke alarm check. This involves pressing the test button, wiping and vacuuming the dust, and replacing any flat batteries. If any of the alarms aren't operating correctly, contact your landlord immediately so they can get them replaced. Remember that smoke alarms save lives and if for whatever reason your smoke alarm was not installed properly or fully working and you've been injured at your rental as a result of it, <a href="https://www.shumanlegal.com/file-a-personal-injury-claim/" target="_blank">consider filing a personal injury claim</a>.
Lock problems
If your landlord loses a set of keys, it's their responsibility to organize a replacement set. Or if one of the locks is broken or faulty, then your landlord is required to<a href="https://www.rent.com.au/blog/front-door-lock" target="_blank"> replace the lock</a> themselves or pay a locksmith to come out.
As frustrating as it is locking yourself out of your house, it's up to the tenant to arrange and pay for a locksmith to get inside and/or replace the keys. It's also the tenant's responsibility to pay for replacement locks or repair any other damage if they break in themselves instead of calling a locksmith. If someone else breaks into your home in a burglary situation, ask your landlord if the police need to be called, because this would usually need to be claimed on insurance.
Plumbing issues
As long as tenants take care of the property and do the right thing, the most basic<a href="https://www.jrtplumbing.com.au/is-plumbing-the-landlords-responsibility/" target="_blank"> plumbing maintenance</a> and repairs should be covered by the landlord. These can include anything from plumbing upgrades to leaking taps, blocked pipes, <a href="https://kreatecube.com/blog/outdoor-and-landscaping/how-long-does-pipe-lining-last-a-complete-guide" target="_blank">pipe lining</a> and other issues caused by general wear and tear.
However, if an issue is assessed by a licensed plumber who shows it was caused by misuse, tenants will usually be responsible for covering the costs of repairs. Misuse may include the build-up of hair, soap, and <a href="https://masterrooter.plumbing/signs-you-need-drain-cleaning-services/" target="_blank">grease blocking shower or kitchen drains</a>, as well as excess toilet paper, sanitary pads, or other foreign matter causing a clog in the toilet.
Yard maintenance
Any trees, plants, bushes, or lawns that require any kind of specialist upkeep such as hedge trimming or tree lopping, will usually be the responsibility of your landlord. That being said, the details of this will need to be specified within your tenancy agreement.
At the minimum, most tenants will be required to weed the garden as well as mow and edge the lawns. The expected state of the yard should generally be maintained to the same standard as the initial property condition report and as stated in the tenancy agreement.
Remember that some tenancy laws are different across different states, so tenants should always check their state's legislation. But no matter where you live, you can't simply stop paying rent if your landlord isn't doing their part. Just like they can't kick you out without the appropriate notice.
Image Credit: <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/oamw52SCGi0">Unsplash</a>2021-07-05T05:12:00-07:002021-08-13T12:45:16-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:14794Where to Begin When Planning A Backyard Makeover <img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/backyard-makeover-tips.jpg" alt="5 Backyard Makeover Tips to Help You Get Started" width="475" />The potential for a backyard should not be underestimated. Designing a dream outdoor space to meet your needs can soon result in a new happy place. Think of it as an extra room in the home, and you'll soon realize the endless options available to match your taste.
Everybody has different thoughts when it comes to a backyard. For some, it's practical, a place for messy work that you wouldn't do inside. For others, a backyard is a tranquil haven to be used for leisure.
If a backyard makeover is what you desire, there's no time like the present to start building it. But before going in full steam ahead, consider what it is you want from a backyard. Here are five useful tips to get you started when planning <a href="https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/backyard-landscaping-ideas-on-a-budget/" target="_blank">a backyard makeover</a>.
Get It Right the First Time
With so many options available, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a renovation. To get it right the first time, do your research. Consider a professional opinion from a <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/deringhall/2018/04/24/8-landscape-design-tips-trends/" target="_blank">landscaper </a>before splashing out on materials that might not be suitable in the long run. Invest in built-to-last products that will stand the test of time in all weather conditions.
Backyards don't go out of fashion easily, but getting the foundations right means you won't need to worry in the future about renewing the basics. You want to do it once and remain happy with it; then you can focus on the <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/tenant-vs-landlord-maintenance/">upkeep and maintenance</a>.
Think Long-Term
A great backyard is for keeps. If you're investing in yours, be sure to think long-term. Right now, a large area dedicated to relaxation may seem like the dream, but where will the kids play on the weekends?
A backyard should be a place for everyone in the household, so thinking of the future and considering the different needs of members is a good incentive and will serve you well in the future.
Budget Wisely
A backyard renovation can be a big project, calling for a big budget. If your dream space requires costly materials, structures, and furniture, it can be a good idea to break down the costs over time. A makeover doesn't need to happen overnight.
Spreading the cost over time gives you a chance to get to grips with what it is you want, prevents you from rushing into decisions, and will ultimately allow you to build a lifelong space without leaving you short in the meantime.
Don't try to do too much too soon. If a swimming pool is a luxury you've had your heart set on, but the budget doesn't allow for it at the moment, start planning. That way, when the time comes, and the money is available, there won't be too much upheaval. If installing a pool, always consider <a href="https://narellanpools.com.au/blog/poolside-lifestyle/how-you-can-help-keep-your-pool-area-safe/" target="_blank">health and safety</a>.
Don't forget there are lots of <a href="https://www.realhomes.com/au/advice/cheap-garden-ideas?region-switch=AU" target="_blank">budget-friendly ways</a> to improve a backyard.
Work With What You Have
Each backyard space varies in size and shape. When designing a new garden, or making small changes for a makeover, making the most out of what you have is key. If your backyard is filled with sunshine most of the day, plant flowers that love the sun. If it has lots of shade, think about outdoor lighting to create an ambiance.
<a href="https://www.homestolove.com.au/25-small-garden-design-ideas-6659" target="_blank">Small backyards</a> require just as much thought as bigger ones. Even the <a href="https://outsidelivingtoday.com/best-lawn-mowers-for-small-yards" target="_blank">most compact gardens</a> can be crafted into a special place.
Consider What to Plant
Do you love to cook and explore flavors? A herb garden or vegetable patch could be a great addition to mealtimes. If it's the color and beauty you're after, choose wisely. Plants are living creatures that require different care. Some need long hours of light to survive, while others are more suited to shaded areas. Some flowers need to be replanted, while others bloom year after year.
You should also consider some safety elements when it comes to choosing plants. Many plants and flowers have poisonous properties to humans and animals, which could put your loved ones at risk.
If you're new to gardening, don't go too hard too soon with planting. Gardens require a lot of maintenance and are prone to neglect if the work is too much.
These tips for a backyard makeover should help give you the confidence to start planning. Before you know it, you'll have a considered, thoughtful, and idyllic outdoor area ready for every purpose.2020-12-04T09:35:00-07:002022-08-17T07:17:56-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:7251Adding a Deck: A Deck Installation Guide for Homeowners
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/what-to-know-about-installing-a-deck.jpg" alt="Installing a Deck In Your Home? Tips to Help" width="475" />Are you a homeowner who would like to make an improvement to your home? The more you know about backyard decks, the better. Below, we've outlined some reasons that a homeowner would want to install a deck in their backyard and how to get the work done properly.
Why Adding a Deck Is Worthwhile
Decks add a lot of value to residential properties, because they're attractive, functional and make entertaining easier. For homeowners who enjoy spending time outdoors during the warmer months of the year, backyard decks are a luxury. For homeowners who like to have parties, backyard decks are practical because they provide outdoor seating and mingling space for groups. Finally, for homeowners who want to sell their property, backyard decks make the house worth more to potential buyers, which can increase the homeowner's potential profits.
What Materials to Use
At one time, decks were primarily made from pressure-treated wood. Pressure-treated lumber can last many years because it's been infused with chemicals that prevent it from deteriorating. The downside with pressure treated lumber, or with any wood for that matter, was that it needed to be restained periodically to protect it from the sun. Without regular refinishing, wooden decks would eventually fall apart.
Today, many decks are made from <a href="https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/construction/green/composite-decking.htm" target="_blank">composite decking material</a>. This decking comprises a mixture of wood pulp and resins that can last for decades without any refinishing, restaining or repainting. This material is more expensive to purchase than standard wood, but it also lasts much longer and requires far less maintenance. Homeowners who are on a budget may still choose to install pressure treated lumber, but most homeowners today turn to composite decking materials instead.
Homeowners who aren't sure which type of product is for them can ask their contractor for quotes regarding both types of materials. Once they have the quote for both, they can make their decision.
Deck Design Tips
When <a href="https://www.starbuildingwinnipeg.ca/blog/?id=10" target="_blank">designing a deck</a>, focus on practical features that will make the deck multi-purpose and easy to use in varying conditions.
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/how-to-light-the-rooms-in-your-home/">Install lights</a> on the stairs and around the railing to keep the deck well-lit even at night.
Install a sheltered area around the deck to provide shade on hot days.
Position the deck in such a way to be in sight of the best views on the property.
How to Choose a Contractor
Choosing a contractor can be a time-consuming process, but in the end, it's worthwhile to vet contractors thoroughly. Finding the right contractor can help ensure the deck-building process will go smoothly, and that the finished product will be safe and well-constructed. Below are the best methods for choosing a contractor:
Interview contractors in-person and at the site where the repairs need to be made.
Get a bid from each contractor, then compare the bids to ensure that it's an apples-to-apples comparison.
Contact each contractor's references.
Check that each contractor has the proper licensure and certifications.
Selling Your Home? Work With Your Real Estate Professional
If you're a homeowner who would like to improve the value of your home before selling it, work with a real estate professional to determine which home improvements are likely to make your home most appealing to buyers. A good real estate professional can help you determine which <a href="http://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/best-high-roi-home-improvements/">home improvements deliver the highest ROI</a>, or which home repairs are most necessary for a fast and smooth selling process.
2020-08-05T06:24:00-07:002022-11-15T08:05:57-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:6789Which Bathroom Upgrades Produce a High ROI for Your Home?
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/bathroom-upgrades-for-high-roi.jpg" alt="5 Bathroom Renovations to Receive the Best Investment" width="475" />Renovating the bathroom is a necessary home improvement project for most homeowners to complete every 10-15 years. Because the bathroom is such an important part of the home, this work can often increase the property's resale value. It is difficult to estimate how much a project will affect a specific home's
value, but some tend to be more practical choices than others. These renovation ideas in particular have a high return on investment.
1. Bathroom Addition Within Existing Space
Creating a new bathroom from existing space in the home, or extending a half-bathroom into a larger one, makes a home more competitive at <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/best-time-to-list-your-home-for-sale/">selling time</a>. This depends on the number of bathrooms, with the increase from one to two having a greater return on investment than going from three to four bathrooms. The increase may not show up significantly in the appraisal; rather, the change allows a home to come up in a search for buyers looking for a higher number of bathrooms. Homes with more bedrooms and bathrooms tend to cost more, even at the same square footage.
2. Universal Design Bathroom Remodel
Most current bathrooms are not particularly accessible, especially for people who use mobility aids or who plan to age in place. A universal design remodel is not a luxury upgrade; rather, it focuses on improvements that people need in order to move around the bathroom using a wheelchair, walker, or other supports. This includes:
Doors at a minimum 36” wide
Walk-in shower with a pull-down seat and no curb
Additional space for movement between sink, toilet, and shower
Comfort height toilet with grab bars
3. Walk-In Showers
Although most home buyers expect to find at least one bathtub in the home, a preference for walk-in showers is clear. Partly related to aging in place and partly related to luxury preferences, walk-in showers provide a seamless transition. Many <a href="https://www.homedit.com/5-walk-in-shower-ideas-love/" target="_blank">walk-in showers are built with high-end features</a> like:
Natural stone walls and flooring
Full-body shower head system
Built-in lighting and sound systems
Optional sauna
Replacing a second bathtub with a walk-in shower might take years off a home that is 30 years old or more.
4. Plumbing
Replacing the plumbing tends to be a larger project than most homeowners expect, but it can still be a highly rewarding investment. People must remove the fixtures and possibly the walls and flooring to get to the plumbing, which is why it tends to remain in place unless it breaks. Older homes often have original plumbing, no matter how old. As part of a significant <a href="http://www.nelsonkb.com" target="_blank">remodel for the bathroom</a>, <a href="https://my-plumber.co.uk/blog/household-drains-and-drainage-systems/" target="_blank">giving the plumbing a fresh upgrade</a> can make the home look much younger than it is.
5. Fixtures
The fixtures tend to show the most age for the bathroom, whether it is a faucet or a shower-bathtub combination. Homeowners should plan to replace these at least every 15 years, with surface improvements once every 10 years. Since elements like a shower head or a toilet usually cost very little to purchase and install, homeowners can expect to recoup most or all of what they have paid. The faucets with the best return typically have a metal interior, which lasts longer. Toilets with a bidet function are becoming increasingly popular among home buyers.
Return on investment is a great reason to <a href="https://teknikinc.com/bathroom-remodel-san-diego/" target="_blank">renovate a bathroom</a>, because there are so many projects that fit the bill. These options help homeowners maximize their money while increasing use of their bathrooms.
2020-06-03T05:06:00-07:002021-08-18T12:38:56-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3884Getting New Siding? Check Out These Great Options<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/what-are-the-various-types-of-siding.jpg" alt="4 Siding Materials You Should Know About" width="475" />In most cases, siding isn’t forever. It can rot, break, fall off, get ripped off by extreme weather, and more. However, homeowners aren’t under any obligation to get the same type of siding again just because it’s what their home had previously. There are many great types of siding homeowners can pick from that can drastically change a home’s look and also possibly give them added benefits. Here are some of the different types of siding homeowners can purchase for their homes and what makes them good options.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular types of siding because of its affordability. Vinyl costs the least of any of the major siding varieties, and it’s widely available no matter where in the country the home is located. This type of siding does have a tendency to <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/how-to-remediate-mold-in-your-home/">collect mold</a>, mildew, and grime over time, but it can easily be cleaned off with a pressure washer and regular care.
Vinyl can be a great choice for homeowners who are trying to stick to a budget or just want to save money. Vinyl siding is affordable, but that doesn’t make it a lesser option. Vinyl has come a long way since it was first used in homes, and homeowners can now purchase vinyl that is colored and molded to look like other types of siding, so homeowners don’t have to sacrifice looks for a more affordable option. It can also often be installed by the homeowner as a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">DIY project</a>.
Wood Siding
For many people, wood siding is the type that comes to mind when someone says “siding.” Like vinyl, wood siding can be found just about anywhere, and it can be used in nearly any climate. Pricewise, wood siding is often seen as a mid-priced option. It’s more expensive than vinyl, but it’s generally much more affordable than brick siding, so this helps its popularity.
Homeowners who want a traditional material for their siding can’t go wrong with wood. Wood siding is easy to find because it’s so common and so many people want it. Homeowners can call any siding specialist and it will be difficult to find one who isn’t familiar with cutting and installing wood siding. Wood siding does have a downside, though. It's fairly durable, but because it’s wood, it can rot. <a href="https://modernize.com/home-ideas/33423/pests-create-problems-siding" target="_blank">Insects can also make their home</a> beneath the wood siding, and that can attract birds like woodpeckers to try to get them. Of course, it isn’t guaranteed to happen, but it’s something homeowners need to consider before purchasing wood siding.
Brick Siding
Another classic siding material is brick. Bricks come in a wide variety of different colors and color combinations to make a home look unique. Brick siding is fairly expensive to purchase, but it’s also extremely durable and can last decades or even a century or longer with very little issue.
Brick can be tricky, however. Unless the home is built with brick siding in mind, it will need to have special supports built in order to support the immense weight of all the brick <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/what-to-know-about-foundation-damage-and-repairs/">on the home's foundation</a>. If a homeowner is unaware of this going into brick siding installation, it can be a shocking expense.
Stucco Siding
For homeowners in the American southwest, stucco is a common sight. Stucco is made from a concrete-based mixture that dries to be incredibly hard. Because it’s heavy, it needs the help of a supporting metal grate in order to stand properly. However, stucco is extremely durable, especially on homes in drier climates, which is why it’s so common in the southwest.
However, in wetter climates, there’s a risk of water getting into the small cracks and grooves in the stucco. If that water freezes, it can cause the stucco to break apart due to the natural expansion of the water into ice. But if stucco is taken care of properly and is in the right climate, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bobvila.com/articles/stucco-homes/">it can easily last for a century or more</a>.
When considering getting new siding, these are just some of the great options to pick from for your <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/lafayette-real-estate/">Lafayette home</a>. For more information about these and other siding materials, be sure to go to a local hardware store and consult a siding specialist. They can help choose the best siding material for every situation so homeowners get the right material for their needs.2020-01-09T07:04:00-07:002022-07-06T06:59:22-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:63184 Projects That Hurt Your Home's Resale Value
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/bad-roi-projects-that-can-hurt-your-homes-value.jpg" alt="The Worst ROI Home Improvement Projects" width="475" />Tackling any home improvement project can be a rewarding activity for any <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/wheat-ridge-real-estate/">Wheat Ridge homeowner</a>, especially if they've been meaning to spruce up certain areas for quite some time. But those looking to improve their resale value should know that there are some projects that ultimately won't pay off very well in the end.
Major Bathroom Remodels
The average cost of a mid-range bathroom remodel is about $20,000, and this price tag doesn't even include the coveted sunken tub and jets. While these remodels tend to be satisfying for owners, it will only return about 60% for resale value. The same is true for a major bathroom remodel that redesigned everything for universal use.
Major Kitchen Remodels
Even if the bathroom and kitchen give homeowners more opportunities to show off, there's only so much that buyers in any given neighborhood will be able to spend. A new kitchen can cost up to $70,000, and return just more than half the costs.
Master Suite Additions
Adding extra space, especially in the form of a master bedroom plus en-suite bathroom, can be an attractive way to entice more buyers into the home. However, these remodeling projects can cost well above 6 figures and recoup just 58% of the costs.
Specialty Spaces
From a <a href="https://www.rosehillwinecellars.com/blog/2014/10/a-step-by-step-guide-for-building-a-wine-cellar-in-your-basement/" target="_blank">wine cellar</a> to a brand-new basement movie theater, these projects tend to be fun for the owner, but not as fun for future buyers. The utility of these spaces doesn't always shine through to people, especially when they were focused on much more practical additions, such as a fence or upstairs laundry room.
Tips for Sticking Small
Here are a few tips for scaling back projects to improve the overall ROI:
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/home-painting-guide-for-new-homeowners/">New paint:</a> This inexpensive trick can quickly change the whole look of a room.
Refinish: Try restaining the cabinets or refinishing the counters.
Repair: From broken tiles to holes in the fence, small repair projects can add up over time.
It's ultimately up to the homeowner to decide which projects are the best for them. There's no use putting a price on the quality of life improvements that can come with redoing the kitchen or bathroom. But for those concerned with resale value, it helps to keep the above in mind.
2020-01-08T08:17:00-07:002020-04-08T06:21:00-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:4284How To Winterize Your Home
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/how-to-winterize-your-home.jpg" alt="3 Tips for Winterizing Your Home" width="475" />
The winter can be a dangerous time for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/longmont-real-estate/">Longmont homes</a>. Extremely cold temperatures can <a href="https://dameasyfloodbarriers.com/a/blog/winterize-your-home-in-10-steps" target="_blank">cause a lot of damage to homes</a> if they aren’t prepared to endure them. Winterizing is everything that can be done to a home in order to help protect it from the harsh winter weather. While winterizing may seem difficult, there are quite a few easy strategies homeowners can use to protect their homes. Here are some quick and easy ways homeowners can winterize their home to help it survive the winter.
Change the Furnace Filter
In order to ensure a furnace continues working properly, homeowners need to change the filter regularly. Most furnaces need a new filter three or four times per year, <a target="_blank" href="https://reddihvac.com/blog/heating/how-often-should-you-replace-your-furnace-filters">but it can change depending on the model</a>. Furnaces have to work harder during the winter to keep homes warm, so it’s always recommended that homeowners change the filter when the weather starts getting chilly.
If homeowners don’t take care of their furnace, it can lead to the furnace breaking down in the middle of winter, which means the home won’t have any heat. Changing the filter, and also having it regularly inspected, can help keep the furnace in working order for the winter.
Run Ceiling Fans in Reverse
During the winter, it can be easy to rely on the furnace. However, if the home has ceiling fans, those can be used to warm the home as well. This is because most ceiling fans come with an option to reverse the direction of the blades. If the fan blades are turning clockwise, they force hot air that accumulates on the ceiling of the room to go back down. This warms the room instead of cooling it.
Using a ceiling fan to warm a room is a great way to save money on heating bills during the winter because it means homeowners won’t have to rely on their furnace as much.
Insulate Water Pipes
When the weather gets really cold, there comes a <a href="https://porch.com/advice/preparing-home-winter" target="_blank">risk of water freezing in the pipes</a> and causing them to burst. If that happens, it means the home won’t have any water, and it will create a huge mess and cause a lot of damage to the home. In order to prevent this from happening, homeowners need to insulate the pipes that are at the highest risk of bursting. This includes pipes that are located on exterior walls and pipes in basements.
One of the easiest ways to insulate pipes is simply by giving them access to warm air. For pipes located beneath sinks or inside cabinets, all homeowners need to do is open the cabinet to allow the warm air inside. Another extremely easy way to protect pipes is by turning the faucet on so water can trickle out. This keeps water from being able to sit in the pipes. When water is still, it freezes far easier than it does when it’s moving.
Another way to protect pipes that’s a little bit more intensive is by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/home-insulation-basics-for-conserving-energy/">covering them in some sort of insulation</a>. This can be a blanket, foam sheet, or anything that protects the pipe from coming into direct contact with the cold air.
When the winter is approaching, homeowners need to focus on winterizing their homes so they stay safe during the cold weather. Using these three strategies are easy ways to winterize a home, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/winterizing-your-home-windows/">but there are other ways as well</a>. For more information about winterizing homes, be sure to consult an expert who can provide advice and make recommendations.
2019-11-27T06:39:00-07:002022-06-08T11:22:49-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3042Tools Every New Homeowner Should Own
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/home-tools.jpg" alt="The Essential Toolbox For New Homeowners" />All homeowners are going to have to perform some modifications are simple fixes around their home at some point, whether they expect it or not. When it comes time to do a job, whether it’s hanging up a picture frame to show off man’s best friend or just doing a quick fix to prevent a pipe from leaking until a professional plumber can take a look at it, every homeowner needs to have a toolbox handy to <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">do their own repairs around the home</a>. But what should a homeowner put in that toolbox? Here are some of the essential tools everyone should have ready to use in their home.
The Basics: Hammers and Screwdrivers
When people think about a toolbox, their minds automatically go to hammers and screwdrivers. These are useful for just about any maintenance project that can be required around the home, so no toolbox is complete without them.
When it comes to picking hammers, homeowners fortunately don’t need to worry about many different varieties—just a normal metal hammer and maybe a rubber mallet for more sensitive jobs. Hammers are extremely useful around homes, but they aren’t well suited to every job that requires pounding. Because of this, homeowners should purchase a rubber mallet as well in order to take on more delicate tasks like putting furniture together without breaking the wood or causing other harm to the pieces. It’s always good to have options, so a mallet is a good addition to any toolbox.
When putting together furniture or just trying to get at the battery inside a toy or remote control, screwdrivers are a must. However, the problem homeowners run into when trying to choose which screwdriver to buy is the sheer number of different shapes and sizes available.
It’s common to find screwdrivers sold in sets with different sizes and tips, and getting multiple screwdrivers is recommended because they aren’t one-size-fits-all, so try to find both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers in a few sizes in order to be prepared. Some kits have some of each, but others only have one or the other. Be sure to get <a target="_blank" href="http://www.zeitgeistfilm.com/how-to-choose-the-right-screwdriver-set/">either one kit that has both or two exclusive sets</a>.
For Saving Walls: Spackling and a Putty Knife
The worst part about hanging up pictures on walls is how nails leave holes in the wall. While this may be a little bit annoying in a single-family home or condo, it’s possible that people living in apartments may find that the landlord has a problem with nails and the holes they create.
Fortunately, a tiny hole in a wall doesn’t mean that the wall is damaged forever. Keeping some spackling and a putty knife around is an easy and cost-effective way to preserve a wall after deciding that the family photos really didn’t look that great hanging over the mantle. All that needs to be done to fill holes is spread some spackling over them, sand it flat, and paint it to match the rest of the wall. <a href="https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/hole-wall-help" target="_blank">No need to replace the drywall</a>.
For Getting at High Places: A Step Ladder
While a step ladder may not actually be able to fit inside a toolbox, it’s still an invaluable tool to have on hand in a home. Not everyone is naturally tall enough to reach every shelf or replace lightbulbs when they start flickering. A step ladder can be used to reach higher while dusting, painting, rearranging cupboards, hanging pictures, and more. And if the homeowner gets one that is foldable or collapsible, it can be put away in a closet where it doesn’t take up very much space.
For Quick Fixes and Big Painting Projects: Tape
<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/tools-every-homeowner-may-nned.jpg" alt="5 Essential Tools All Homeowners Must Have" width="475" />Everyone has heard the jokes about fixing anything and everything with duct tape, but when something breaks unexpectedly and needs to be held in place, a roll of duct tape can be a lifesaver. However, there’s more to household tapes than just duct tape. Homeowners should also be sure to carry electrical and painter’s tape for the jobs that duct tape can’t handle.
Electrical tape can be good when the homeowner discovers a stripped wire on an old appliance or something similar. Wrapping it up in electrical tape will make it safer until the wire or whatever it’s attached to can be professionally repaired or replaced.
While electrical tape may not seem very important at first, it’s important to take into consideration how many electronics are used every day. From microwaves to TVs to video game consoles, a lot of the things people rely on throughout the day require a plug and electricity. The biggest problem with this is when the plastic casing around cords gets old and breaks, exposing the wire inside. Instead of throwing out the entire device, it’s much more economical to wrap some electrical tape around the broken part so it isn’t a danger to anyone or anything that accidentally touches it.
Painter’s tape is the new best friend of homeowners who want to personalize their home by painting the walls. Painter’s tape is more akin to masking tape that goes on and comes off easily in order to protect walls and help the homeowner <a href="https://projects.truevalue.com/paint/interior/prep_cleanup_and_safety/best_ways_to_use_painters_tape.aspx" target="_blank">ensure a crisp edge</a> when they paint. It's also useful for temporarily demarcating lines, such as when planning renovation projects, because it's designed to be easy to pull up.
For Seeing What You're Fixing: A Flashlight (Or Several)
Many different sources will tell homeowners that they should always have at least one flashlight on hand. Not only are they helpful in case the power goes out unexpectedly or during a natural disaster, but they also come in handy for everyday problems. They can be used to illuminate dark cupboards to look at pipes to check for leaks or in dark basements where a little extra light is necessary to see clearly. Homeowners should always include a flashlight as part of their toolbox, and a couple of others around the home just in case.
Basic Home Maintenance Skills New Homeowners Should Develop
After moving into their first home, many new homeowners start to <a href="https://www.ahs.com/home-matters/quick-tips/learn-home-improvement-skills/">develop maintenance skills</a> to help them take care of their property. People who have been renters all of their life must learn to:
Fix a drippy faucet.
Replace the toilet tank parts in a running toilet.
Install shelves, blinds, and curtain rods.
Patch up holes in drywall.
Paint interior walls.
Most of all, homeowners must become comfortable with learning new things. Finding trustworthy online tutorials helps. Some homeowners will ask friends or handy family members to show them what to do.
Starting small is an important part of learning to take care of a house. Many new homeowners start out hanging pictures and painting interior walls. They graduate up to replacing plumbing parts, which can be far trickier.
While this is no means the limit on which tools new <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/superior-real-estate/">Superior homeowners</a> should keep in their toolbox, these are some of the most essential entries. It can also be helpful to have things like wrenches, levels, stud finders, measuring tapes and rulers, and even handsaws. Try taking a walk through a local hardware store to see what’s available to make the perfect toolbox.
2019-08-28T02:06:00-07:002022-07-06T07:14:56-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3838Popular Roofing Material Choices for Homes Today<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/types-of-roofing-material.jpg" alt="Need a New Roof? Here are the Top Roofing Materials for Homeowners" width="475" />When choosing the best roofing materials for a home, owners typically have two top factors in mind: price and durability. It's wise to not go over the budget if possible, but buying a low-quality roof can lead to sooner replacement or repair needs. However, homeowners can create a balance between the two when choosing just the right roofing for their home. Here are some top choices along with pricing and resilience to consider.
Most Importantly… Consider Durability
How well a roof will hold up in the home's climate zone is essential when <a href="https://www.colonyroofers.com/residential-roofing/" target="_blank">choosing the best roofing materials</a>. For example, those living in areas prone to tornadoes or hurricane winds will want to choose something more durable, even if it comes at an additional cost. However, those who live in moderate climate zones will have more freedom when selecting a material. Point being, choose smart to prevent regrets down the line. With this in mind, here are four of the most popular roofing materials for homeowners today.
Asphalt Shingles for Homes
There are two main reasons why asphalt shingle roofing is so popular with homeowners: they are affordable and can last 20-30 years in moderate climates. Another reason they are still trending is that asphalt shingles are now available in a wide array of colors and even unique layout patterns that appeal to many homeowners. And in some cases, asphalt shingles can be a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">DIY project.</a>
Those buying asphalt will want to pay close attention to the impact resistance rating and hail rating. Be aware that manufacturers generally aren't required to post hail ratings, so passing on those brands might be wise if hail is common in the home's locale. Buyers can choose from traditional, architectural and 3-tab shingles to create a unique look.
Wooden Shakes and Shingles for Rugged Beauty
Wooden shakes and shingles are most often crafted from redwood or cedar, and with proper upkeep and maintenance, they can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years in certain climates. The catch is that investors in wooden roofing systems don't want to live in a termite-prone environment. A perk of these options is that they are fire-resistant and are somewhat natural insulators.
Furthermore, that maintenance we mentioned is necessary every three to five years and involves refinishing the planks and making repairs to cracks that can appear. Wooden shakes and shingles don't quite have the best impact resistance for hard hits, but they typically last longer than other materials and cost more than asphalt shingles.
Plastic Polymer Roofing Materials
One of the newest superstars in roofing materials are <a target="_blank" href="https://shakeguys.com/2016/06/polymer-roof-problems-benefits/">polymer roofing systems</a> that offer up to 50 years of service when maintained. The good news is that plastic polymer roofs require very little maintenance, and they are available in realistic hues and textures that resemble slate and even wood shingles. Those in windy or stormy areas or tornado-prone zones will appreciate their high impact ratings and wind resistance. While plastic polymer roofing can be costly, it could be well worth it for those who want to avoid repairs and plan to stay in their home for many years to come.
Metal Roofing Systems
Metal roofing systems offer anywhere from 30 to 50 years of lifespan when well maintained, and they range in price similarly to wooden shakes and shingles. However, metal roofing systems are rising in popularity because they are now available in an array of architectural styles that resemble traditional systems. The highest-end systems offer maximum impact resistance, making them the <a class="hw-link" href="https://porch.com/advice/roof-care-tips-installation-maintenance" target="_blank">roofing</a> of choice for those facing harsh weather situations regularly. Metal roofs are easy to maintain, and they are one of the most eco-friendly roofing materials one can choose.
Has the time come when a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/broomfield-real-estate/">Broomfield home</a> roofing replacement is imminent? Receive expert guidance by contacting a local <a href="https://porch.com/advice/roof-care-tips-installation-maintenance">roofing</a> professional today for advice.2019-08-21T08:39:00-07:002021-11-29T14:37:34-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3714Home Insulation Basics For Conserving Energy<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/what-is-home-insulation.jpg" alt="Home Insulation Guide" width="475" />Homeowners may not be aware that additional insulation can do more than make a home more energy efficient. Home insulation has been known to provide a significant ROI for homeowners. Even those who will remain for their home for some time can benefit on saving money on heating and cooling with home insulation and recoup their costs when its time to sell. Understand more about insulation before taking on this common home improvement project today.
Why Add Home Insulation?
As energy costs continue to rise, small steps can help improve the energy efficiency of a home. Homeowners benefit from cutting their electric bills and potentially reducing the stress on their HVAC system. In addition, this project can be completed along with steps to improve the envelope of a home, such as when sealing gaps and cracks to keep warmed or cooled air from escaping outside. Attic insulation may have a return as high as 116.9 percent and is one of the few home improvement projects that can pay homeowners back and then some.
What Are Some Types of Insulation?
Not all types of insulation are the same in regard to their R-values and their application. Some may be added by a homeowner while others require professional installation. Explore which type of insulation may best suit specific needs before starting on this project.
Blanket insulation is relatively easy to install and an affordable alternative. This can be used in spaces without obstructions. Unfinished walls and foundation walls can be insulated with this type of insulation.
Homeowners may also want to investigate <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whysprayfoam.org/spray-foam/">sprayed foam</a> products or those that are foamed-in-place. A small spray container is generally used in application. Useful for adding insulation in irregularly shaped areas, this insulation can be applied to unfinished attic floors and new wall cavities.
There are some types of insulation that require a professional or someone experienced with application. However, many types of insulation can be performed on a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">DIY project</a> basis. Concrete block insulation looks like a foam board and may be applied to new or older homes. This insulation increases the R-value of a wall and serves to moderate indoor room temperature. It can be used during a major renovation or in new construction on unfinished walls.
Another type of insulation requiring special equipment to blow or pour in is loose-fill insulation. Used hard to get areas like wall cavities, it can be applied to oddly shaped spaces, around obstructions or in finished areas.
Before simply choosing insulation based on price, there are a number of considerations like the features of a space and how much skill is need for proper application. Concrete forms and reflective systems are a few other types of home insulation available to homeowners.
What Are the Costs of Installation?
Depending on the type of insulation purchase, a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/fort-collins-real-estate/">Fort Collins CO homeowner</a> may need to pay installation costs. Foam insulation products are more expensive to apply than traditional batt insulation. Homeowners requiring insulation with a higher-R value and an air barrier may be choosing foam insulation, known to also be beneficial when having to perform weatherization tasks. Home insulation installation costs can vary. The average for blown-in installation can run $1,363 or more. Homeowners can spend upwards of $2,250 for foam installation or $1,588 for rolled or reflective insulation.
How to Choose Home Insulation
Homeowners have a range of choices when it comes to home installation. Those new to this type of project may want to discuss their needs with a specialist to see which form of insulation may best suit specific requirements.2019-07-17T14:14:00-07:002019-07-18T13:16:09-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3677Tips for Preventing and Removing Common Home Pests<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/is-your-home-full-of-pests.jpg" alt="How to Keep Pests from Getting Into Your Home" width="475" />A real pest infestation can do more than just ruin a family's dinner. Rodents can chew through wires and cause electrical fires, termites can destroy whole <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/fort-collins-real-estate/">Fort Collins homes</a>, and mosquitos can spread dangerous disease. Thankfully, the steps to prevent and remove pests don't have to be as frightening as their potential consequences. To keep pests at bay, homeowners should consider the following remediation tips.
Watch for Signs
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.terminix.com/blog/home-garden/homeowners-rat-infestations/">Rats</a> leave grease trails, mice leave droppings, and cockroaches will taint the rooms with their odor. Take a full tour of the grounds and structure to get a better idea of where pests might enter. A pool of standing water outside is the perfect breeding for mosquitos who will eventually come inside. Now is also a good time to inspect the home for gaps or holes where pests could potentially enter, and to clear any clutter in both the home and yard. Pests love to hide away, and clutter is the perfect place for them to live undercover for a while.
Lock It Up
All food should be kept off the floors and counters, and all trash should be kept in a relatively sealed cabinet. Homeowners should also be keeping an eye on the trash outside of the home. The longer it's left out, the more likely it is that critters will find their way over. The trash may lure them to the outside of the home before they manage to work their way inside of it. Experts recommend keeping trash contained in the home for as long as possible before trash day. Certain food odors, such as rotting meat, are pungent enough to break through the thick plastic barriers of an outdoor trash can.
Pest Proof Your Home
Once you remove all the possible food sources, focus on cutting off the entry points pests might use to get inside. Critter-proof your vents with mesh. <a href="https://fantasticpestscontrol.com.au/rats/%20" target="_blank">Rats</a>, mice, birds and squirrels may want to shelter in your home and vents are the easiest access point for them. And did you know that rodents may bring mites and <a href="https://www.gunterpest.com/news/whats-your-states-flea-and-tick-season-vet-safety-tips/" target="_blank">fleas</a> with them as well? Double trouble. Another common entry point are cracks in the foundations, walls and around windows and under doors. Inspect the foundations once a year and make sure all the cracks are tended to. Get some seal foam insulation tape and use it to block any holes under the doors or around window frames. If you have a fireplace, make sure the firewood is located away from the house and is elevated from the ground, because pests often hide in it and use it to get inside the house.
Start Up the Yard Work
From mowing the lawn to changing out the water in a birdbath, regular yard work can make it more difficult for insects to find places to live and spawn. Sweeping puddles will disperse the water so it dries faster, so insects will have to move on. Homeowners should also check any cables that run from the outside of the house to the inside. Sealing these cables off is just one more way to prevent smaller bugs from getting inside.
Taking Action
Here are a few ways for homeowners, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">doing it DIY</a>, to tackle an existing pest infestation:
Traditional traps: Traps that eliminate the source of the problem (e.g., the queen, etc.) will always be more effective than sprays. Sprays can be used for sudden sightings of course, but they're considered a short-term solution in the case of a real infestation.
Ultrasonic repellant: For those who don't want to kill the rodents, these traps are designed to make sounds to drive the pests away. Live traps are also an option, though rodents tend to return if they're anywhere near the property.
Professional help: Sometimes only an exterminator will be able to root out every last trace of the pests, especially in the case of termites or other tiny creatures.
Pest remediation is a part of general home maintenance so homeowners should look for concurrent problems whenever possible. For example, gaps in doors or windows could indicate a foundation problem besides simply serving as a means for pests to enter the home. By paying attention to the state of the home as a whole, it's easier to multi-task or even fix several problems at once.2019-07-10T09:24:00-07:002021-10-01T11:09:56-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3484Which Type of Home Security System is Right for You?<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/what-is-a-home-security-system.jpg" alt="What You Need to Know about Home Security Systems" width="475" />Home security systems help homeowners keep their house and property safe. If you're a homeowner seeking a security system, here's what you need to know about the types of security systems available on the market.
What Home Security Systems Are Available?
Generally speaking, there are two types of home security systems available to homeowners: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">professional and DIY</a>. These systems are very different, so homeowners should have a good understanding of what each one entails before they make their decision.
Professional Systems
Professional systems are remotely managed by companies that specialize in home security. These systems generally have different components including motion-triggered alarms, smoke detectors and hidden cameras. These systems often include a sign for the front yard, to warn passerby that the home is protected by a professional security company.
When an event occurs to trigger an alarm, the <a href="https://thermogears.com/flir-thermal-security-camera/" target="_blank">professional security system</a> may contact the owner and dispatch someone to the home to check on the property. These systems are generally paid for with a monthly subscription and contract.
DIY Systems
DIY security systems typically rely on smart technology to keep the homeowner tuned in to what is happening on their property. For example, many DIY security systems rely on cameras that are motion activated. When something passes in front of the camera, the homeowner's cell phone receives an alert.
DIY systems sometimes include a video door bell and smart lock, so the homeowner can check to ensure their door is locked. The video doorbell enables the homeowner to see who has approached their property and tried to use their door.
Differences Between the Two
Functionally, both systems can help homeowners keep tabs on what's going on in their own home. These systems are most different in one very significant way: one system relies on the homeowner to monitor their own home security, the other relies on an outside entity to monitor security for the homeowner. Cost can also be a significant factor, as the professional system incurs an ongoing cost, while the DIY system is a one-time cost.
Which Type of Home Security System Should You Get?
The type of home security system that a homeowner chooses should depend on a variety of factors.
Budget. Since the DIY system is a one-time expense, it is generally preferred by homeowners on a budget.
DIY ability. Not everyone feels capable of installing their own DIY home security system; homeowners who are not DIY savvy generally prefer a system from a professional.
Technology. Generally, homeowners who do not have smart phones and tablets are inclined to use the professional security system versus the DIY security system.
How to Get Started
If you're thinking about getting a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/broomfield-real-estate/">Broomfield new home</a> security system, start by doing some research. Contact a <a href="https://mylocksmith.pro" target="_blank">professional locksmith company</a> to find out how much they would cost each month, and determine whether this would fit into your budget.
Start looking up DIY security systems by reading online reviews and professional consumer reviews. Make a list of pros and cons, and if you're leaning toward the professional security system, schedule an in-person meeting with the company's sales representative.
If you do decide to hire a professional home security system, contact references before selecting the company. Doing this kind of research can help you get the kind of security system that will work for your needs.2019-06-13T10:24:00-07:002022-03-24T10:32:16-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3415How to Remediate Mold in Your Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/get-rid-of-mold-in-your-home.jpg" alt="How to Rid Your Home of Mold" width="475" />Mold in<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/"> Boulder homes</a> can be a common occurrence for many owners. From the bathroom to the basement to the kitchen, there are plenty of water-logged places where a colony can form. Mildew and mold may have similar roots, but mold can't be killed with just simple household cleaners. Those who notice a formation will need to take serious remediation steps to make their home safe for all.
Evaluating the Damage
Mold isn't necessarily a reason to panic, but homeowners also need to treat it with the gravity it deserves. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm">Untreated mold can cause illness</a> and even death if it continues to spread. Scraping off a small sample can help determine the individual risks of the species in the home. If anyone in the home has unexplained chronic symptoms, they'll need to see a doctor for an official diagnosis. Mold poisoning can affect the body in a variety of ways, but it typically manifests in cold-like symptoms. All residents should avoid infected areas until the home has been treated.
Look for the Cause
Leaky pipes, appliances, showers: these are all common culprits for mold. However, even if homeowners successfully identify the cause, it's not always easy to determine just how deep the problem goes. For example, homeowners may be able to easily tighten a pipe under the sink and eradicate the visible mold that surrounds it, but if the mold spread behind the walls, they may not notice it until it causes serious devastation to the structural integrity of the home.
DIY testing kits may be able to shed some light on the subject, but homeowners should be careful when testing. It's not uncommon for more than one species to form, which can compromise results if homeowners only test one patch.
DIY Home Mold Removal
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">Most experts advise against DIY</a> removal for the following reasons:
Ventilation: Most homeowners don't have the equipment they need to ensure proper ventilation in an infested area.
Disease: Mold spreads disease and extended exposure can be harmful—especially for those with a weak immune system.
Expense: Purchasing equipment can be more expensive than calling a professional.
Efficacy: Many homeowners may miss important signs when they're performing DIY remediation.
If homeowners do choose to hire a professional they should insist on third-party retesting after treatment. Even the best professionals may miss part of the colony, and third-party retesting can give homeowners peace of mind that all mold is truly gone from the property.
Home Insurance and Mold Remediation
Home insurance may cover home mold if the mold stems from a covered reason under the policy. If the basement experiences mild flooding from a storm, home insurance may cover the costs of mold remediation in this case. However, if the mold starts because a homeowner didn't complete proper home maintenance in time, then the homeowner would be responsible for the full removal costs.
The chances of mold can be greatly reduced with proper home maintenance. Homeowners should take a thorough tour of their property once every few months and note any necessary repairs that need to be made. This may include anything from fixing a leak on the roof to buying a new gasket for the dishwasher. Hiring a professional home inspector once a year may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can also be the key to solving small issues before they have a chance to become large problems.2019-06-05T06:38:00-07:002022-01-06T11:51:30-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3359How to Light the Rooms in Your Home<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/different-types-of-lighting-in-a-home.jpg" alt="How to Light Your Home" width="475" />The lighting in a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/broomfield-real-estate/">Broomfield home</a> has a lot to do with how residents interact with different rooms. Dark rooms can be relaxing if people are trying to unwind from a busy day, or they can be frustrating if they want to put the final touches on a craft project. While it may seem obvious how much light a room needs, there may be a few details that homeowners may not have considered. Here are a few tips for getting it right.
Living Room/Den/Family Room
These rooms are often some of the most used in the home, likely because they're versatile. People may want to watch television, read a book, or play a video game. Because the space is multi-purpose, the lighting should be too. Layered lighting can be used to illuminate each activity and eliminate shadows. For example, turning on concealed cove lighting when hosting company but using a side lamp for watching a movie. Valance lighting can be used to create a vertical effect that causes the eye to move up, or accent lighting can be used to highlight a painting, bay window, or fireplace.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms can become a breeding ground for injuries if homeowners aren't careful. One slip of the razor or a misstep on a slick floor can end in disaster. Strong lighting can't prevent all mishaps, but it can provide people with a clear picture of the dangers in front of them. Adding sconces on either side of the mirror can make the bathroom more decorative and functional at the same time. If lighting a smaller bathroom, consider putting a fixture on the opposite wall of the mirror. This tactic can banish dark corners and help people see their true reflection when getting ready.
Bedrooms
The bedroom may seem like it should be romantic and relaxing, but it's also the place where people scramble to find their keys, get dressed, and organize their closet. Those who like to mix and match their outfits may want to put overhead lighting directly above the closet area. Those who like to read before bed should keep a reading light by the bed, so they can easily drift off to sleep. As a general rule, it's best to direct the lighting away from the bed for best aesthetic effects.
Kitchens
There are a few things to keep in mind before lighting a kitchen:
Food prep: The right lighting can greatly reduce the chances of a knife slip. Recessed or under cabinet lighting can reduce darkness when preparing food.
Shadows: LED lights may be great for the living room, but have been known to create dangerous shadows in kitchens.
Walkways: The entire area between the sink, countertops, and cooking area should be bright and visible.
Dimmers
Dimmers can go a long way to set the mood in each room. This way, homeowners can use their kitchens to make dinner in the evening and to enjoy a relaxing cup of tea at the breakfast bar at night. If they're checking their phone at night, they can set the dimmer so the glare from the screen isn't quite as harsh on their eyes.
Lighting is a major component of the home's overall vibe, and can help <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/sellers/showing-your-home/">sell a home</a>. More than an aesthetic feature though, lighting can be a safety benefit for everyone in the house. If the lighting isn't sufficient in the different rooms of the home, it's only a matter of time before an accident occurs.2019-05-15T10:07:00-07:002022-06-08T11:23:14-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3318Common Home Hazards You Need To Know<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/household-dangers-and-possible-dangers.jpg" alt="4 Household Hazards Every Homeowner Should Know" />Everyone is familiar with diesters like housefires, tornadoes, and earthquakes, and they know how to identify them when they happen. They also may have a plan for how to stay safe during them. But what about the hazards that aren’t as easy to identify? Many homeowners are familiar with some, but there are a lot of different hazards that can occur in homes, especially in a home that has recently been purchased. Here are some of the different types of common household hazards that can occur in homes, even in <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/buying-a-new-construction-home-what-you-need-to-know/" target="_blank">new construction homes</a>, and what can be done about them.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is one of the most common household hazards that homeowners are told to be on the lookout for. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal if inhaled for too long, which is why it’s artificially scented so it smells like rotten eggs to make it easier to identify. However, it can be possible that an unscented carbon monoxide leak may happen in a home. This is why every home should have a carbon monoxide detector. Like smoke detectors for smoke, carbon monoxide detectors can be placed on a ceiling and will sound a loud alarm when they detect carbon monoxide in the air.
Lead Paint
While it is now illegal to use <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-remove-lead-paint-safely/" target="_blank">lead as an additive when making paint</a>, many older homes still have walls coated in lead paint. When eaten or inhaled, lead can cause permanent brain damage, anemia, seizures, and other ill effects. Lead has a sweet taste and was sometimes used as a sweetener in foods in ancient times, but for young children, this gives them an incentive to ingest something that can kill them. Homeowners who have purchased a home that was built in 1978 or earlier may have lead paint on their walls. If paint is suspected to have lead in it, homeowners can use a DIY testing kit that can be purchased at most hardware stores.
Radon
Like carbon monoxide, radon is another odorless, colorless gas that can be lethal when exposed to it. In addition, radon is a carcinogen, and it’s the second most common cause of lung cancer in the US, so homeowners need to take radon leaks seriously. Homeowners concerned that their home may have radon in it can go about testing for it in a two ways. The first is by purchasing a testing kit at a hardware store, and the second way is by hiring a professional to do the testing for them if they don’t feel comfortable doing it on their own.
Asbestos
Like lead paint, asbestos can sometimes be found in older homes, specifically homes built before 1980. There are many places it can be hiding, including floor tiles, ceiling tiles, shingles, in siding, and more, and asbestos becomes a problem if it’s ever given a chance to go airborne. Because of this, it isn’t recommended to actively go looking for asbestos. Asbestos has many different appearances and can be difficult to identify by sight alone, so homeowners should try to find a record of what materials were used to build the home to confirm if it is in fact asbestos. If a record can’t be found, the homeowner can hire a professional to identify it or send a sample to a lab if they have one.
Many of the worst household hazards are ones that <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/broomfield-real-estate/">Broomfield homeowners</a> aren’t even aware is there. Regular testing for gasses can be the best way to prevent injuries related to them. Otherwise, it’s always important for homeowners to be vigilant and know what sorts of materials were used to build their homes.2019-04-24T15:04:00-07:002022-04-15T05:59:18-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3039What You Can Do to Prevent and Repair Roof Damage<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/repair-roof-damage.jpg" alt="How to Prevent and Repair Basic Roof Damage" />Unless a homeowner is good with a drone or unafraid of heights, they're probably blissfully unaware of the condition of their roof. They may not know when to inspect it or what to look for. It's the biggest reason why a leak or insect infestation is the first clue a homeowner gets of the structural damage that was likely forming for many years prior. Roof damage is not only inconvenient, it can also be dangerous to the people who live in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/nederland-real-estate/">the Nederland home</a>. See what can be done to prevent problems before they begin.
Common Signs of Roof Damage
As scary as it may be to get up on the roof, it's usually the best way to <a target="_blank" href="https://woodard247.com/roof-inspection-tips-7-easy-steps-to-inspecting-your-roof/">inspect the flashing, joints, and shingles</a>. Tears in the outer layer of the roof, moss or algae formations, or curling shingles are all signs the roof is starting to wear out. Usually, homeowners with asphalt, wooden, or composite shingles should inspect their roof once every three years or so. Those with tile roofs can go up to five years without an inspection. Those who would prefer to stay on stable ground should inspect their attic or crawlspace for signs of water damage. Flaking paint or peeling wallpaper may indicate a decomposing roof.
How to Manage Roof Openings and Ventilation
There is a sweet spot that homeowners need to hit when it comes to their roof. Too much ventilation and it will start to invite in insects and small animals. Too little ventilation and it can cause water to become trapped inside the interior of the home, leading to mildew or even mold. If an ember happens to land on a roof with poor ventilation, it can rapidly fan the flames. Soffit attaches to the eaves of the roof and serves to reinforce the stability of the roof with either cement or steel. But despite its hardy construction, soffit won't last forever. If a homeowner sees signs of major wear and year, they'll need to have it replaced as soon as possible to balance the ventilation of their home.
Roof Cleaning, Inspections, and Maintenance
Gutters need to be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ocregister.com/2016/08/23/why-is-gutter-cleaning-so-important/">cleaned out regularly</a> to or else they may start to create a drag effect on the roof. They can also be the culprit of <a href="https://njahc.com/how-to-prevent-ice-dams-from-harming-your-home/" target="_blank">dangerous ice dams</a> that can cause major liability headaches for homeowners who aren't careful. For those who can't (or would prefer not) to perform their own roof maintenance, they should consider <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/should-you-diy-a-homeowners-guide/">hiring a professional to help</a>. These extra costs can usually save owners more money in the long run because the professionals will take care of the damage sooner rather than later. For those who consider themselves to be DIY mavens, they should get into the habit of cleaning and inspecting the roof but they may want to skip doing the actual repair work. Most experts agree that major roof repairs are not worth the risk.
What are the Most Durable Roofing Materials?
If a roof is too badly damaged for repairs to be feasible, it may be time to replace the roof. During this period, it's important for homeowners to do research to determine what type of new roof will serve them best going forward. Not all roofs are created equally, and some roof construction materials can last decades—or even a century—longer than traditional asphalt.
Asphalt shingles generally last 10–20 years. Here are a few different roofing materials that offer longer lifespans than asphalt.
Architectural Asphalt: This is a higher quality type of asphalt better made to withstand the elements. They tend to last anywhere from 25–30 years.
Wood Shingles and Shakes: Though they generally have a lifespan comparable to asphalt, homeowners in moderate climates with mild weather can see these roofs last as many as 30–40 years.
Metal roofs: No longer the eye-sores they were in the past, metal roofs are catching on in popularity both for their durability and their energy efficiency. Metal roofs can be expected to last 40–80 years.
Slate, concrete, and clay tiles: Possibly the most durable roofing products on the market, slate, concrete, and clay roofing all have a life expectancy of 100 years once installed.
The cost of each of these roofing styles is varied, but the money and time saved through the lifespan of the roof can be tremendous.
Start Your Home Roof Repair Project Today
The best way to prevent and repair roof damage has a lot to do with just understanding the components of the physical structure. It's usually less expensive in the long run to perform a thorough repair of the roof when it's damaged. While it may be tempting (and certainly less expensive) to do a quick patch-up job, these methods often just lead to additional repairs later on down the line. Finding regular maintenance now can be a good way to stave off future trouble.2019-04-15T21:49:00-07:002022-03-24T10:33:20-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2970Annual Fall Maintenance Schedule for Home Owners<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/AdobeStock_11171892.jpeg" alt="How to Prepare for Autumn Home Maintenance" />Whether you live in Boulder or own a <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/erie-real-estate/">home in Erie, Colorado</a> every season of the year yields unique events, activities and a special list worth untold dollars. Fall brings about what we like to call "The annual fall maintenance schedule for home owners!"
We start off with one important question you need to ask:
How Much Can You Save By Keeping Up With Fall Home Maintenance?
Let's take a look at some real numbers about not so much the cost, but more significantly, the SAVINGS of completing the autumn checklist of To Do items around our homes.
Small Routine Maintenance Necessities
1. Everybody's favorite, the gutters and downspouts clean out! Those clogged gutters can lead to damage to fascia, soffits and even cause roof damage. Repair or replacement can run from $50 per section and up into the thousands of dollars!
2. Change HVAC air return filters and furnace filters because a properly functioning system can save you BIG BUCKS on cooling and heating bills each and every month!
3. Shut down, drain and cover swamp coolers or AC units. Frozen water may cause incredible damage that may not be repairable, requiring replacement. Cleaning, draining and covering against weather and varmint damage saves you $100 - $2500 or more in repair or replacement costs!
4. Check the weather stripping around exterior doors and around the windows. Reducing the loss of cool or warm air can decrease your energy costs and save you anywhere from $25 to as much as $150 or more EVERY MONTH!
5. Remove screens and replace with storm windows – see above for the energy savings you can realize on a monthly basis!
6. Shut off and insulate outdoor spigots for the season. While a frozen spigot might thaw out, there's also the chance of burst pipes. Not letting that happen saves you $150 - $300 or more, depending on resulting damages!
7. This is a great time to test the smoke and/or carbon monoxide alarms. Install fresh batteries at a cost of about $3-$15 depending on how many units you have. This could save a life in the coming season and that is PRICELESS!
Bigger Fall Home Maintenance Projects
1. Clean outdoor furniture in preparation of storing for the winter. Savings add up fast, as new lawn furniture has increased dramatically. NOT buying new every year can save you big next summer, and that money, possibly as much as $1000 could go toward your vacation instead!
2. Drain fuel from lawn equipment before storing for the winter. Engine components can gum up or water mix with the gasoline causing damage. Savings are anywhere from $50 - $1500 when you don't have to purchase new equipment each year!
3. Examine sidewalks, walkways, stairways, patios and driveways for cracks, crevices or missing chunks. Keeping these in shape is a safety issue as well as a savings when kept in good repair!
4. Perform a visual roof inspection to catch any small spots needing repair to avoid water damage to rafters or leaks that ruin ceilings. Savings can be quite significant in the long term! A roof should only need replacing once every 20-30 years depending on the material used.
5. Seal any foundation cracks. Even small ones can allow further water damage to occur. Be sure any water runoff is directed away from the house and not allowed to pool along the foundation line.
6. And don't forget the landscaping! This is the time to prune those trees and bushes and aerate the yard for healthy new growth next spring. Savings include equity gains come sale time, since trees increase the market value of a home!
Special Fall Maintenance Efforts
1. Chimney inspection! Before opening up for the season, have chimney cleaned and serviced to make sure damper is operating properly. Cost to skip this maintenance chore? If the house burns to the ground it could run to the tens of thousands!
2. Clean the dryer vent as a fire prevention measure – see above for the value in this maintenance move!
3. Peeling paint isn't just unsightly, in some subdivisions with HOA rules it could cost you a fine of $100 or more! One small section left unattended allows weather to cause further peeling and further peeling until the $35 maintenance becomes a several thousand job to correct!
4. If you've got a humidifier, regular maintenance keeps you and your family's lungs clear of bacteria that can build up – PRICELESS SAVINGS MOVE!
5. Have a sprinkler system? Be sure to drain or have it blown out to avoid cracked pipes and water leaks next watering season. Savings are high in this area as a new system could run as much as $400 per zone to install a new system.
6. Is the doorbell working properly? Almost no one ever checks their own doorbell but you don't want to miss out on being alerted that YOU ARE THE PUBLISHERS CLEARING HOUSE WINNER OF $5000 A MONTH FOR LIFE! (Okay, we're joking around a little here ha ha), but seriously, a working doorbell may not seem a big deal now, but how important might it be to a potential buyer when the time to sell the home arrives?
7. This is a great time to get a Broker Price Opinion from your BoulderHomeSource agent to compare and prepare for your annual Tax Assessment. Having a go to agent can be a life saver in situations not related to buying or selling!
It takes about one weekend or maybe two to complete the items on a Fall Maintenance To Do list. And while it certainly isn't very inspiring to spend a couple of weekends during football season working around the house, how does spending a weekend increasing your wealth quotient sound? Perspective is reality, and your reality could be making you money when you view the To Do as an interest bearing savings account at your home address!
(All pricing is based on average costs advertised in the Front Range area and are not intended to be actual cost or savings, but only a representation of possible cost or savings on these items.)
The Annual Cost of Home Maintenance
A general rule of thumb that some experts recommended using to determine home maintenance expenses is to calculate 1-4 percent of the home's value. Ultimately, many factors ultimately determine how much it will cost to maintain a home throughout the year. A primary factor will depend on the size of the home, as more square footage will equate to more maintenance costs. The dimensions of the surrounding property is also to be considered, and landscaping and keeping up with multiple acres will certainly increase overall costs.
Another component of home maintenance costs is whether the need for any unexpected repairs arises throughout the duration of the year. Surprises such as foundation problems, roof damage or the need for new siding can result in equally surprisingly high repair bills. It is also wise to consider the age of the dwelling and be prepared to spend more each year as the home ages. While home maintenance expenses may be only 1 percent of the home's value initially, it's likely to climb in the future. One last consideration when figuring out how much money needs to be set aside in 'repair reserves,' is how much of the upkeep and repairs will be undertaken as DIY projects, as handy homeowners can save a good deal annually if they have the right skill sets.2019-04-11T23:34:00-07:002022-04-15T06:28:43-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3319How to Construct an Outdoor Living Space<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/should-you-build-an-outdoor-living-space.jpg" alt="Creating an Outdoor Living Space for Your Home" />From small urban apartments with quaint rooftop garden areas to large homes with ample property and plenty of room to roam, there are unique ways to construct an outdoor living space so that it is both functional and beautiful. Construction of an outdoor living space may <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/home-selling/" target="_blank">help a homeowner sell their home</a> faster and for more money. These tips can help any property owner make the most out of their outdoor space, whether it is a front yard or a backyard.
Use Architectural Style for Inspiration
The outdoor living space should be seen as an extension of the home itself—as a way to blend the interior design with the exterior architecture. Those who are looking to design or create an outdoor living space should begin by taking a look at the architectural design of the home. A Spanish Colonial, for example, should have an outdoor living space that complements its unique architectural style. Its outdoor living space would look much different from one found on a Tudor home.
Create a Gathering Space
Most people use their outdoor living areas to relax and entertain, so the gathering space should be a focal point of the overall design. An <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/g1444/fire-pit-ideas/" target="_blank">outdoor fire pit</a> or a fountain would be a beneficial feature to add to the space, as people are naturally inclined to gather near fire or water.
Include Functional Yet Comfortable Furniture
Looks aren't everything when it comes to the outdoor living space. Comfort should be a top priority. Hammocks, patio furniture sets and swings often make for the best furniture in any outdoor living area. These are furniture pieces that can be used and enjoyed by people of all ages, and they will enhance the overall appeal of the outdoor living space. Fortunately, many of these pieces are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing homeowners to use their own design tastes to create a space that looks nice and feels right.
Incorporate Natural Privacy Features
Given the fact that an outdoor living space is an extension of the home, it's not surprising that many people want it to be a private, quiet area. When fencing isn't an option, some will consider privacy plants, screens and gazebos to make the space intimate and inviting.
Any outdoor living space, regardless of its size or limitations, can be transformed into an oasis. For more information on how outdoor living spaces can add value to a property or enhance its appeal to qualified <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/superior-real-estate/" target="_blank">Superior home buyers</a>, contact a local real estate agent today.2019-04-03T15:06:00-07:002022-04-19T06:17:16-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3047Best High ROI Home Improvements<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/home-improvement-roi.jpg" alt="Best High ROI Home Improvements for Home Sellers" width="475" />Homeowners often want to make home improvements to improve their homes while they live there. Other homeowners improve their property to raise their homes property value. Good home improvements are important when it is time to sell so hopefully, the home will sell for more money. However, some home improvements improve a homes value more than others.
In addition to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/sellers/showing-your-home/">preparing a home for sale</a>, homeowners should consider which home improvements that have a high return on investment (ROI). The following high ROI home improvements are popular among homeowners who may want to list their home for sale.
Bathroom Addition
Lack of a second bathroom can be a big deterrent for most home buyers. Bathroom additions can be expensive, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/bathroom-laundry/bathroom-addition-investment/">costing around $70,000</a>. As a result of the high price tag, the ROI for a bathroom addition is usually only around 50%.
That said, a second bathroom can make a home easier to sell and can also improve quality of life for homeowners even before they decide to sell their property. As a result, bathroom additions are a common and favorite home improvement for homeowners who only have one bathroom. Those who want to save money can still install a partial bathroom and reap the rewards when they sell their home.
Deck Addition
A deck can improve the functionality of the backyard and also makes the house a better place for entertaining. For homeowners who like to have guests over for barbecues, a deck addition is one of the most useful home improvements.
A deck addition can cost anywhere from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/outdoor-remodel/budgeting-for-a-deck">$10,000 to $16,000</a>, and will recoup between 60 and 70% of the cost of the deck at the time that the home sells. Homeowners who want to get the most for their money can install a deck that is made from inexpensive pressure-treated wood. These decks cost the least and may recoup the most at the time of sale.
Kitchen Remodel
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and this is especially true for home buyers. Kitchen remodels can <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/minor-kitchen-remodel-major-return-on-investment">vary in price from $10,000 to $50,000</a> or more. Minor kitchen remodels have the best ROI over major <a href="https://nelsonkb.com/kitchens-on-a-budget-easy-remodeling-tips-for-under-7000-in-2021-2022/" target="_blank">kitchen remodels</a>, probably because it's much easier to recoup costs from a small expense versus a larger expense. Homeowners who remodel their home with a minor <a href="https://nelsonkb.com/how-to-save-money-on-your-next-kitchen-remodel/" target="_blank">kitchen remodel</a> may recoup up to 83% of their costs at the time that they sell their home.
Homeowners who want to perform a minor remodel should focus on parts of their kitchen that are very dated or very inefficient. Both problems can be a big deterrent for homeowners, and thus are best addressed before putting the house on the market.
Siding Replacement
Siding replacement makes a big difference when it comes to curb appeal. New siding can make a home look new, clean and well-maintained. In fact, replacing a home's siding can recover <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/which-home-improvements-pay-off">over 90% of the cost</a>!
Homeowners who are thinking about replacing their home's siding with new siding must think hard about the color they choose for their home. A neutral color is the most likely to deliver a high return on investment among home buyers.
When Can You DIY vs Hiring a Contractor?
One of the most challenging aspects of home improvement is deciding when a job would be a good DIY project or if professional assistance is a must. A good rule of thumb is to always consider professional assistance on any project involving structural repairs, gas, plumbing or electricity. These are all jobs that most homeowners will feel more confident letting an expert tackle. Good DIY projects are those that are cosmetic in nature, such as changing out <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/kitchens">hardware on cabinets</a> or painting a room. However, it is important that every would-be renovator takes into account his or her own skills, knowledge and level of interest too.
Contact An Experienced Real Estate Agent
If you're a homeowner who would like to boost your property's value by making home improvements, there are many different types of projects that you can do to make your home worth more money. For more information about how you can boost your home's value, contact an experienced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/lyons-real-estate/">Lyons real estate</a> agent. Your real estate professional can help you decide which home improvements your home can benefit from most.2019-03-25T19:45:00-07:002022-04-13T09:11:27-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2630Reasons Why You Should Install a Pavestone Driveway Instead of a Blacktop One<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/pavestone-vs-concrete-driveways.jpg" alt="What's the Benefit of Choosing a Pavestone Over a Concrete Driveway?" width="475" />Most people use blacktop and concrete materials for their driveways. When initially laid both look great and high quality. After a couple of years, however, the two also have the inclination to crack. In order to lay the material into position, the two also usually require you to employ a specialist.
Why Choose a Pavestone Driveway?
The choice of installing a pavestone driveway exists on the other side of the spectrum. Especially for individuals who would like to install it themselves, pavestone, also known individually as pavers, is an increasingly well-liked material option for driveways. With a variety of various hues, dimensions and shapes, pavestones are portable concrete blocks. Driving them to become well-liked among homeowners, they are simple to obtain and are typically fairly cheap. They're also an intelligent choice for anybody who would like to conserve funds by not getting a specialist, because they're also generally extremely simple to install.
Pavestones also create a nice landscaping effect to your driveway additionally. You are able to also incorporate them into your landscape style, when you plan adequately ahead of time. Therefore, it also makes a fantastic area for family members and friends to gather. Just attempt to say a comparable statement about blacktop driveways!
The Advantages of Pavestone Driveway Installations
The weight of cars on the driveway is one major aspect you'll want to consider. Well before you mount the pavestone, you'll require about a 4 to 6 inch base to be set down. The base of the base is usually composed of crushed granite, with the top level made up of rough sand. The most effective approach to tamp the foundation down would be to lease tamper machine, too.
Utilizing the style you would like, you'll next have laying your pavestones down. This stage of laying the pavestones out should once more be pre-prepared. Knowing the number of pavestones you will want ahead of time can also be useful. To secure your pavestones in position, you will have to rent an additional device referred to as a plate compactor, once the pavestones are already laid.
Affordability of Pavestone vs. Concrete Driveways
As with all home improvements, the cost of any project depends on what the original structure and surface are, along with the local cost of labor and materials. When it comes to driveways, you'll also have to factor in the cost of removing the current driveway.
Generally speaking, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fixr.com/comparisons/pavers-vs-concrete">cost of</a> installing pavers will be a bit more than pouring a new concrete slab. For an average 120 square foot driveway, the materials for pavers will run between $560 and $850 whereas concrete will max out around $250. The labor to have pavers installed will be in the approximate range of $640 and $775; concrete will be between $540 and $650. Both applications may have other expenses associated with the installation such as tools, equipment, permits, and supplies.
Though pavestone has a higher upfront cost, the cost in repairs is significantly cheaper over time than concrete. Rather than pay for patching or resurfacing when there is damage, damage to a pavestone driveway can be repaired by replacing individual damaged stones.
Can You DIY a Pavestone Driveway Installations?
For those that are so inclined, laying your own pavestone driveway is completely possible overall. It is still wise to plan all things out beforehand, nevertheless. To acquire some advice on the best practices and most successful strategies, maybe also consult with a specialist. Before you know it, effective and aesthetically pleasing will be two things you'll be able to describe your driveway.
Learn more about real estate and <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/broomfield-real-estate/">Broomfield CO homes for sale</a>. You can learn more about Colorado cities and what they have to offer your in terms of homes for sale. Our team of agents can help you sort through the <a rel="nofollow">homes for sale in Boulder CO</a> and help you find the home of your dreams.2019-03-22T21:14:00-07:002022-04-19T08:02:29-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3321Tips for Remediating Unpermitted Work<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/what-is-unpermitted-work-on-a-home.jpg" alt="How You Can Fix Unpermitted Work in Your Home" />America was largely founded on the idea of personal liberty. The country sought to curb the power of government so its people could choose better paths for themselves. That may be why property owners of yesterday and today don't always pay attention to the permit laws of their state, county, or municipality. Unpermitted work is common, but there are ways that current homeowners can remediate the problem.
The Basics
Unpermitted work occurs when property owners make repairs or renovations to their property without first getting approval from the appropriate officials. An example of that might be <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/what-to-know-about-foundation-damage-and-repairs/" target="_blank">home foundation repairs</a>. There are a few things to keep in mind about the nature of building regulations:
They're inconsistent: What a homeowner is allowed to do in a small town in Idaho is vastly different than what a condo owner can do in downtown Manhattan. The inconsistency is such that many people don't even realize they're ignoring the law when they go about improving their home.
They change: What a homeowner was allowed to do in 1997 may be very different than what they were allowed to do in the same home in 1998. Unless people kept the records of their repairs, it can be difficult to prove that the improvements were made during the lawful time period.
They're made for safety: Some people think that permit laws are just a nuisance or a way to extract money from property owners, but they're designed to keep neighboring property safe. Features like plumbing and wiring are interconnected, so what one homeowner does can have a major effect on the other people in their area.
Finding the Laws
The first thing a homeowner can do to remediate unpermitted work is to look up the current laws. This may mean checking with an HOA, searching online, or visiting the local City Hall. This step won't tell homeowners what was and wasn't allowed when the work actually occurred, but it can give them a better sense of the priorities of the area. Or homeowners can talk to one of the local inspectors or officials in the neighborhood. They can provide more detailed information about the specific steps homeowners can take to remediate unpermitted work.
What to Expect
Most <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/nederland-real-estate/">Nederland homeowners</a> will be asked to prove what exactly occurred and when. They may need to produce original blueprints of the home to show how the configuration changed, or contact the past sellers for records of the repairs.
Sometimes, it's as easy as scheduling an inspector to come by and look at the home. <a href="https://icaschool.com/2015/02/13/what-does-a-home-inspector-do/" target="_blank">Inspectors will look for certain things</a>, including possible unpermitted work. As long as the renovations were performed correctly (whether they were done by a certified contractor or not), inspectors can issue a retroactive permit for homeowners.
A retroactive permit is usually the best case scenario. The other scenario is that the inspector finds the work is shoddy and potentially dangerous for the homeowner and their neighbors. That's why experts recommend taking care of unpermitted work as soon as possible. The longer homeowners wait, the more likely it is for hazards or structural damage to occur. New homeowners are responsible for taking the steps to get the home up to code, which may mean paying for the repairs, correcting and necessary permits themselves.
Taking Action
Unpermitted work can be frustrating to find for any number of reasons, especially if it was never discovered by the previous sellers. Homeowners do have a few options if they don't want to pay for the cost of the unpermitted work.
Contact the original sellers: The original sellers may be liable for costs of unpermitted work if the seller knew about the work. This may involve tracking down a lawyer or doing research for small claims court.
Sell as-is: Homeowners aren't usually required to get the home up to code to sell. (However, they may still be held legally liable if property destruction occurs to neighboring homes due to unpermitted work.) When it comes time to sell, they can sell the home as-is, which means the buyers purchase the property regardless of its flaws.
Many home buyers are nervous to purchase a home as-is, which can make the home more difficult to sell. If owners choose to hide the unpermitted work when they sell, they could potentially be held liable for the cost of any necessary permits, repairs, or renovations the new homeowners have to make.
Unpermitted work may feel like an unsolvable problem, but there are ways for homeowners to make it right. From research to remediation, homeowners have more power than they think. For most property owners, it can be as simple as paying for a retroactive permit. In more complicated cases though, they may have to contact the original sellers or sell their home as-is.2019-03-06T16:09:00-07:002022-04-19T10:00:24-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3303How Should You Renovate Your Kitchen Cabinets<img style="display: block; float: right; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 15px; width: 475px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/kitchen-cabinet-renovation-ideas.jpg" alt="How to Remodel Your Kitchen" width="475" />If you are thinking about remodeling your home for the best return on investment, the kitchen and baths are good places to start. Since both areas can be a challenge to work on while you are in the home, most buyers do not want to tackle the task themselves.
Kitchens are especially expensive. Countertop and appliance replacement are usually a buyer's prime concern and tend to be the area buyers focus. Cabinets are just as important, though, and arguably just as expensive. They can often account for between 50-70% of the cost of a <a href="https://kitchencapital.com.au/kitchen-designer/" target="_blank">kitchen remodel</a>. As a result, thinking through your design and cabinet choice can have a huge impact on the overall cost of the project.
Types of Kitchen Cabinets
There are three kinds of cabinets from which to choose. These options are stock, semi-custom and custom. Each has its own pros and cons.
Stock Cabinets For the Kitchen
Stock cabinets are the most reasonably priced. This means that if you can develop a design that allows you to use stock cabinets, you may have room left over in your budget for other items, like higher-end countertops. Stock cabinets also come fully assembled and are usually available immediately or only a few days after purchase. The downside is that stock cabinets are what they are and come in limited options. However, if you can find a design that works that are the most cost effective option and offer some great choices. Ikea is a great place to see what is possible with stock cabinet designs.
Semi-Custom Cabinets For the Kitchen
Semi-custom or built-to-order cabinets offer a more diverse range of options and can include some custom touches. If you have a very unique space, even semi-custom cabinets may not fit the bill.
Custom Cabinets For the Kitchen
As the name implies, <a href="https://nelsonkb.com/rta-vs-custom-cabinets-are-they-worth-the-extra-cost/" target="_blank">custom cabinets</a> offer the most flexibility. A good custom cabinet maker can build them to specific measurements. You also get the quality and expertise of a true craftsman. The cabinet maker will design cabinets to fit your particular tastes and the exact style of your kitchen. Unfortunately, they are the most expensive and can take the longest time to arrive after purchase, since they're custom-made.
Other Factors When Selecting Cabinets
If you choose stock, semi-custom or custom-built cabinets you still will have many choices and that's just the beginning. After deciding cabinet type, you will think about type of material and style for the cabinets, as well as the finish and hardware.
Do Research Before Embarking On Your Cabinet Renovation
Ultimately, doing your research and factoring in your overall budget is the best way to choose the right cabinets for your kitchen. Cabinets are the supporting cast when it comes to buyers the will look at appliances first, countertops second, and cabinets third so when considering return on investment plan accordingly.2019-03-05T14:02:00-07:002023-03-13T13:27:31-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2969Popular Energy-Efficient Upgrades for Home Sellers
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/popular-energy-efficient-upgrades.jpg" alt="How to Make Your Home Energy Efficient" />It's no secret that energy-efficient upgrades rank high on buyers' lists of desired home attributes these days. Many real estate agents are quick to ask sellers about a home's energy efficiency before suggesting a listing price. Prospective sellers who know well in advance when they plan to sell a residence are often also able to enjoy shrinking utility bills after making upgrades.
What Defines a “Green” Home?
More and more consumers are looking to reduce their impact on the environment and simplify their lives. Part of this movement is the building of "Green" homes.
But what does it take to make a home green? For some people the goal of using recycled materials and implementing strategies to lower their energy bill are all ways to build a green home and achieve the green label.
In reality, to truly be labeled green, homes have to pass stringent standards. The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) governs different sustainable practices and consists of the nation’s leaders in a variety of different industries. Its main goal is to encourage environmentally friendly building projects in which people can live and work. According to USGBC, performing a few sustainable practices in your home is just the beginning to getting your home considered green.
The national standard that has been set to define green homes or buildings is meeting or exceeding the guidelines defined by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). LEED originally began in 1998 and is a home rating system that encourages the design and construction of green homes. There are eight different categories used in its rating system. Each category has a certain number of credits which are worth one or more points. United States homes are given a certification rating by LEED based on the number of points they scored.
Criteria For a Green Home
What are some of these categories, then? Points can be awarded for innovation and design process. They can also be awarded for the home’s location and its relation to the larger community. In addition, there are points for sites that are sustainable and being fully used. So too are there points for water efficiency, materials and resources and energy and atmosphere. Points are awarded for the latter based on how energy efficient a particular home is. Lastly, points can also be awarded for relevant education to the homeowner or any other resident living in the building.
Popular Energy-Efficient Upgrades For Your Home
Buyers today are very savvy about the benefits of owning an energy-efficient home. Many are willing to pay more for structures with so-called green upgrades. Which <a href="https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/slideshows/energy-efficient-home-improvements-that-save-money" target="_blank">popular upgrades</a> should you consider without breaking the bank? Here are eight of the most important.
Low-flow Fixtures
They're easy to install as well as inexpensive. Beyond helping conserve the local water supply, low-flow fixtures can cut residential water consumption in half. A homeowner can buy a low-flow showerhead for around $20 at a home improvement or a big box store.
Efficient Lighting
Replace regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, which can last as much as 10 times longer. Although the initial purchase costs more, residents will reap rewards when energy bills arrive, and it is easy to see how efficient lighting is one of the most popular energy efficient upgrades in <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/fort-collins-real-estate/" target="_blank">Fort Collins homes</a>. Another option is the use of LEDs, which are more expensive but which can last as much as 25 times longer than regular bulbs and four times longer than fluorescents.
Tankless Water Heater
It can peel 20 percent from a residential water bill. Best of all, a tankless water heater will always have hot water available. It typically has a life expectancy that's five to 10 years greater than that of a water heater with a tank. In some cases, a purchase might be eligible for a federal tax rebate.
Weather Stripping for Doors and Windows
When installing new windows or doors appears to cost too much for a seller to recoup the benefits they provide, weather stripping is an affordable alternative. Air leaks are responsible for as much as 40 percent of heating/cooling loss in a home. Homeowners can buy weather-stripping products starting around $5.
Insulation
A good job of insulating a home will cut heating and cooling bills by up to 20 percent. Prospective sellers who are handy with installing insulation can buy a roll for as little as $15 at a home improvement store. Others will want to let a contractor handle the job.
Programmable Thermostats
Buyers love them for their cost- and energy-saving benefits. A programmable thermostat not only saves money. It is typically more accurate than a regular model. Upgrades such as these are one step down a long road to <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/smart-homes-the-future-of-home-construction-and-real-estate/" target="_blank">owning a smart home</a>.
Ceiling Fans
The cost of a ceiling fan starts at around $50. Not only does this upgrade save energy. It also adds a decorative touch to a room while providing a comfortable temperature.
Efficient Appliances
Most home appliances sold today bear energy ratings that express their efficiency <a href="https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/energy-efficiency/" target="_blank">in terms of water and power usage</a>. Prospective home sellers will want to determine how old their existing appliances are and whether to replace them. When a replacement seems a good move for marketing a home, consider that buyers prefer a product with an Energy Star symbol. Dishwashers currently sold use less than six gallons of water for each cycle as opposed to 10 gallons for older models.If the dishwasher in a home has only a few years of age, however, it could be cost-effective to clean and repair it to attract buyers.
How to Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
There have been a lot of commercials coming out lately advertising energy efficient appliances. They talk about how much money you can save, but a lot of these appliances have hefty price tags. For those interested in purchasing energy efficient appliances, it’s prudent to start at the beginning of understanding what they really are at all.
Energy Star is an international standard used to rate consumer products that claim to be energy efficient. It originated in the United States as a joint program of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and the U.S. Department of Energy. It was first created in the United States in the early 1990s, and many other countries have since adopted its standards for use in their own energy programs.
Appliances listed with the Energy Star logo use 20-30% less energy than federal standards require, in general. This can save American families about one-third off of their energy bill without sacrificing other features that have been deemed important, like the style of the product itself. All Energy Star-approved appliances have to meet the strict guidelines set forth by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy. When you purchase an appliance with an Energy Star logo, you can be assured that it has gone through rigorous testing and has met these standards before being placed on the market for sale. Appliances come in the form of stoves, dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves and more.
Live Green in Boulder, CO
Many people live in the Boulder Colorado are passionate about modern “green” living which is apparent by the increase in new energy efficient homes. The fact is that the real estate market in Boulder has called for improved methods of construction, greener building processes and materials, as well as energy efficiency as a standard.
This means in order to keep up with the communities demand, builders are constructing homes in and around Boulder that come equipped with energy-efficient appliances and renewable materials without drastically increasing the price of the home. Affordable green living is the future, and Boulder has made great efforts to be on the front line of this movement. Please check out our site for more information on green homes for sale in Boulder Colorado.
2019-02-26T23:38:00-07:002019-07-16T12:03:48-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3036Home Painting Guide for New Homeowners
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/home-painting-guide.jpg" alt="How To Paint a Room For Beginners" />When owning a home there are many ways to personalize and make it more comfortable, and one common way to do this is by painting its walls to better suit the people living there, as well as add to any <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/planning-to-sell-how-to-stage-a-home-for-maximum-impact/" target="_blank">home staging efforts</a> when the time comes to sell. While homeowners can hire a professional service to come paint the walls, they can also do the job themselves. For homeowners who may not know how to start with painting their home, here are the essential steps for painting a home.
Move Furniture Away From Walls
For beginners and pros alike, paint can be messy and accidents can happen. No one wants to get paint on their furniture, so the first thing a homeowner should do before anything else is to move the furniture. The best way to protect it is to remove it from the room completely, but this isn’t always possible. In these sorts of cases, homeowners can settle for pulling it away from the walls and protecting it with a tarp in case of accidental spills.
Clean Walls of Dirt and Dust
Many beginning painters don’t know about this step and think they can start painting immediately. However, <a href="https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/painting/how-to-prep-walls-before-painting" target="_blank">cleaning the walls</a> is a very important step because dirty, dusty walls can prevent the paint from sticking properly and can create an uneven texture. To clean walls, the homeowner can take an old rag and wipe the walls down, giving extra attention to the corners and upper parts of the walls where spiders and insects like to stay. A vacuum cleaner can also be helpful, especially when using an attachment that lets the user get into the hard-to-reach areas.
Use Painter’s Tape and Cut In
For a beginning painter, painter’s tape is one of the <a href="https://www.behr.com/consumer/how-to/interior/preparation/how-to-use-painter-tape-for-interior-painting" target="_blank">most helpful tools</a> around. It can be placed on the floor and crown molding or around the window and door frames to help the painter have clean lines that don’t accidentally get on anything they shouldn’t.
Next is cutting in, the most difficult step. Before the painter can pull out the actual brushes, they need to cut in, which is effectively outlining the area that they are going to paint by hand. In order to cut in, the painter should use a paintbrush that is 3-4” and paint the edges of the wall. Using painter’s tape can make this step much easier because it gives the painter some extra protection when painting delicate areas.
Paint the Walls
Now that the hard part is done, it is time to paint the wall. To do this, it is easiest to use a roller brush as it provides the most even coverage of all the brush options. When painting, try to make sure to always go up and down instead of side to side. Horizontal strokes can lead to the paint dripping downward and drying, leaving noticeable marks on the walls. Vertical strokes will help prevent these drips because the brush will have the opportunity to go over them as it’s moved.
Add Extra Coats
Sometimes, one coat of paint just won’t be enough to cover the old color completely. This can happen if the old color is particularly vibrant or if the painter uses a lower quality paint. It’s easiest to see if a wall has been painted completely by using a light to illuminate it. If any of the old paint is showing through the new color, add one coat of paint at a time until it is no longer visible.
The Value of Color When Painting a Home
There is science to choosing a color palette. Certain colors bring about particular feelings and have characteristics of their own. For instance they can invoke cheerful, warm, dismal, cold, soft, soothing, loud, or tranquil feelings.
When choosing a color scheme for a particular room in a home, homeowners need to consider what atmosphere the room should evoke. If insanity is the goal, paint the room bright red with black ceilings and install yellow carpet. If calm and classic is your goal, try light blues and greens with white ceilings and neutral carpet. What a difference!
Once the room's tone has been established, looking on a color wheel for complimentary colors is a great way to proceed. The rule of thumb is not to exceed more then three colors throughout the entire house. With that in mind, consider what walls can be seen from other rooms and make sure they do not clash.
Always be sure to paint a test strip before going all out. Some colors look different on a sample card compared to when they are on a wall. A great way to give a room a punch of color but not to close it in is to paint only one or two accent walls instead of the whole room. Whichever colors are chosen, remember, it's just paint, and even the blackest black can be covered up with a quality primer and two or three coats of good old fashion eggshell!
Get Started Painting Your Home Today
Painting may seem like a big job, and it is, but by following these instructions any <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/golden-real-estate/" target="_blank">Golden homeowner</a> can give their home a more personalized look without spending a lot of money on a professional.
2019-02-25T20:56:00-07:002019-07-16T10:17:01-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2815Give Your Kitchen a Facelift for Cheap!
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/kitchen_facelift_400.jpg" alt="How to Renovate Your Kitchen For Maximum Appeal" />The kitchen for most people is the single most place they spend the majority of their time in their homes. It is a place where friends and family members gather, and the place where you do endless dishes and prepare loving meals. Because of these reasons, having a functioning kitchen that inspires good feelings is important to most homeowners. A dull or dingy kitchen, that you cringe being in for more than 15 minutes at a time, is not likely to inspire culinary creativity. If you have an out-of-date kitchen, adding a cooktop is a great way to give a modern look to your kitchen. I have few easy and cost effective tips that might help. Here is how to give your kitchen a facelift on a budget.
Refresh the Kitchen With Painting and Refinishing
Painting and refinishing your cabinets is not an expensive project, but it does require hard work and a bit of forethought. Examine your cabinets to determine what materials they are made from and what kind of finish they already have. If you have real wood cabinet doors, refinishing them to restore there luster and shine will bring a whole new light into your otherwise bland room. If you are not sure what material or finish you are working with, remove one door and bring it to your local Lowes or Home Depot and ask for help from one of their kitchen specialist. They will be able to suggest what kind of products you will need in order to remove the old finish.
Replace Hardware and Strip Old Paint
When purchasing materials like paint, remember that your kitchen needs to function and painting multiple layers of new paint over crusty old paint is an absolute no-no! You will have to remove the old paint first to the best of your ability and then sand the surface down so that is allows for easy application of the new paint. Furthermore, replacing old hardware with a sleeker designs will go a long way to updating your drab cabinets. You can also purchase decorative moldings and finials that will spruce plain cabinets up, and make them look more expensive.
Clean Your Kitchen Before Renovating
After purchasing your supplies, <a href="https://coffeeatoz.com/how-to-clean-cuisinart-coffee-maker-step-by-step-guide/" target="_blank">clean</a> your kitchen from top to bottom, including all crevices and remove hardware. The tasks you perform in your kitchen on a day to day basis will leave residue on almost every surface which will overtime cause damage to relatively decent cabinetry. After scrubbing everything down, it is time to remove your existing cabinet faces. Be sure to number the doors when you remove them so that when you put them back in, the process goes quickly and everything fits the way it should.
Take Care of Countertops
Last but not least, do not neglect the countertops. There are several products out there that can be used to refinish these as well. After you have everything reassembled, bring in a few new items, maybe up-cycle something from around your house or add some baskets to the countertop to complete the look. If you are in dire need of extra storage, you can also find wire racks are Walmart or Target that will add an additional level in each cabinet.
Learn When You Can Do It Yourself For Cheap and When It's Best to Hire a Contractor
One of the most difficult parts of DIY is knowing when "do it yourself" is the best option and when hiring a contractor would make sense. We've put together a few tips that may help when deciding whether the job would be a good DIY task or not.
DIY works well when someone enjoys the work. For instance, a person may find painting kitchen cabinets fun but installing a new sink a huge undertaking.
DIY is a good choice if "good enough" works. If someone is getting ready to sell a house, for instance, it may make sense to hire a professional.
If permits are required, getting a pro involved is often the right choice.
When a mistake could be dangerous, utilizing the assistance of a contractor is always the right decision.
Renovating your kitchen can be as simple or as complicated of a task as you want. When renovating your kitchen, it's important to be honest about which projects you can handle yourself and which are best handled by an expert.
2019-02-15T19:52:00-07:002022-06-08T11:04:17-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2800Cleaning Tips That Will Really Make Your Home Shine!
<img class=" img_box_left" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/cluttered_and_confused_graphic_400.jpg" alt="Cleaning Solutions For Your Home" width="385" height="400" />Is clutter carrying you away? Leaving you dazed and confused in the midst of it all? Here are some easy solutions from organization to decluttering.
Organizing Clutter
Contain It And Label it
Baking supplies are a big space eater. Label two storage tubs, one Frosting Supplies and the other Baking Supplies. If it doesn't fit in the box it goes. The boxes stack for easy access and keep everything dust free and all together.
Queen Basket
In the movie "The Queen" her assistant places items for her Majesty in the "Queen Basket." Adapt the royal inspiration into a 4 inch deep letter size basket by your front door. Sunglasses, cell phones, unopened mail, random stuff, goes there until the weekend when you can deal with the items. It's limited space you touch often since daily supplies are stored there. This keep bills from getting away, countertops clear and makes things easy to find.
Clothing Management
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/istock_000054711548_small_400.jpg" alt="Cleaning Solutions For Your Home" width="400" height="281" />Hang all your clothes with the hanger facing the wrong direction. When you put them back hang them correctly. Now you know exactly what you wear and exactly what you can let go of. If it hasn't been turned around in a year, let it go!
One Of Everything
Clearly one of everything doesn't work for say... socks. However, 3 pairs of pink socks is probably excessive. Where this really makes a difference is in the kitchen. How many knives do you really need? How about platters, tupperware, cups? Keeping a limited supply keeps the dishwasher working while making it easy to access things and put them away.
Only Keep What Fits
Here is where we really wrangle the chaos. Socks seem to be the go to example. You have one drawer for socks. Keep as many socks as fit in that drawer. Period. Same goes for pens and silverware. You only have so many feet and hands!
Broken Equals Trash
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/istock_000048192554_small_400.jpg" alt="Cleaning Solutions For Your Home" width="400" height="264" class="img_box_left" />Despite best intentions, if it's broken it likely won't get fixed. Short of a car, major appliances or <a href="https://www.alefbet.com" target="_blank">jewelry</a>, bah-bye! If it's torn, permanently stained, missing a part, it's gone. This is a great guideline to inspire children. Once they learn it won't be replaced they are more likely to respect and clean up their own toys.
Sell It or Donate It NOW
We all have stuff we keep that's valuable. We don't like it. We don't use it, but we store it... at an average of $345 a square foot in <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/boulder-county/" target="_blank">Boulder County</a>! Even if you pay a service to sell it, you're probably saving money and space while alleviating stuff constipation. If it's not worth selling, donate it. Let someone else pay to store it.
Expired Items
Suntan lotion loses effectiveness, make up breeds bacteria, and expired medication, condiments and frozen food can be down right dangerous. Throw it away. You could save yourself thousands in medical bills.
Take It Out, Put It Back
Now that things have a clear, uncluttered place to be put away, put it away! It's easy to find one minute to return an item to it's home, but it's hard to find a day to put everything away. A convenient location ensures success. Consider a shoe storage system at your front door. Closet systems make great stand alone shoe storage.
<a href="https://www.plowhearth.com/en/" target="_blank"><img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/screen_shot_2015-04-15_at_11.26.27_am_400.png" alt="Cleaning Solutions For Your Home" width="364" height="400" /></a>
Bring One In, Take One Out
This is the hardest and the best. Unless you're living with loads of extra space, it's a good rule. 3 new socks, 3 old socks go. Before kid's birthdays and Christmas talk up all the new toys coming while cleaning out old toys. They can sell them at consignment stores and use the money for a favorite camp or tickets to the zoo.
Trade Parties with Friends
This is so fun. SO FUN, or is that the wine? Pick a theme: kitchen supplies, clothing, kids clothing, nail polish, sports equipment, get creative! It's a swap. Shop your friends' stuff and get rid of your own. If it's something you couldn't get a decent price on anyway, you may find yourself trading into something you really need. Better yet, leave with nothing and have nothing to put away.
The Hotel Clean
Company is coming and the house is a disaster. Pull out the "hotel" clean. Keep cleaning wipes in the kitchen and bathroom. It takes two seconds to sanitize and dust. Hang a reusable grocery bag on the door knob of children's rooms. Drop items left out there. If it gets full, they might need to do a chore to earn it back!
Cleaning Problem Areas in Your Home
If you’re big on having a house that sparkles, you will love these cleaning tips. Designed to help even the dingiest of corners gleam, these tips are great to use especially when you are spring cleaning, getting ready to put your home on the market, or moving into a new one.
Eliminate Limescale and Rust With Oven Cleaner
<img class=" img_box_left" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/cleaning_tips_400_01.jpg" alt="Cleaning Solutions For Your Home" />Transform a rusty and limescale built-up bathroom tube and shower by using oven cleaner.Make sure you open a window and turn on a fan to help ventilate the room while using these kinds of products.Let it sit for several hours and then wipe it off with a rag of some sort.If you have to scrub make sure you use a non abrasive sponge to prevent scratching.It’s important to rinse the tub thoroughly with hot water after.
Clean Windows on Both Sides
When your windows are dirty, dusty and rusty they actually reduce the amount of the light coming to your home and make everything seem dull.Cleaning your windows on the inside and out will make them shine and add lots of light to your home.If the outside is particularly dirty consider power washing them.To achieve a streak-free finish, dry the windows off with a chamois and dust inside ledges.To clean your window screens use an aluminum car wheel cleaner to remove rust and buildup. Be sure to wear gloves when you do this and try not to get it on your lawn to prevent it from getting damaged.
Deep Clean The Floors in Your House
Cleaning your floors goes a long way to make your home look brand new.Chemical cleaning your carpets will yield the best results for those that have extensive damage.This method uses the power of carbonation and cleaning solution to really get into your carpets to neutralize odors and stains. Thoroughly cleaning and then polishing your floor will put back all the shine and luster they lost over the years.In addition it also helps to reduce the appearance scratches and stains.For large surfaces consider using a buffer or floor polisher for more universal results.
Thoroughly Clean the Fridge
Disinfect and remove stubborn odors from your refrigerator by detailing it and adding a fresh box of baking soda.Removing each panel, drawer and shelf and washing it with a light bleach solution will not only remove bacteria but it will also make white surfaces whiter. Clean the inside with a bleach solution as well and wipe it with hot water.Using a toothpick to get into crevasses is also a really good way to get into tight corners. Don’t forget the freezer too.Lastly, clean the coils in the back of the fridge and the vents on the bottom to finish the job.
Recruit Help With Your Cleaning Process
There are so many ways to get help. Trade a friend for a day of help cleaning out closets. In return let them keep any clothes they want. Hire help to clean your <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/" target="_blank">Boulder home</a>. There are many affordable cleaning services and college students who would love a few dollars for helping out. By setting a time and financial commitment you're sure to use your time wisely and make a big dent!
<br /><br />Related Links
<a href="https://chemdryboulder.com/" target="_blank">Learn more about Chem-Dry in Boulder!</a>
2019-02-14T21:41:00-07:002022-04-15T05:53:21-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3083What to Know About Foundation Damage and Repairs
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/all-you-need-to-know-about-foundation-problems.jpg" alt="Signs of Foundation Damage in a Home and Related Repairs" />Can foundation problems make for an expensive repair? While foundation damage can be serious, a large number of issues can be affordably fixed. As the foundation is important to the structure of a home, understanding more about foundation damage can help homeowners maintain the integrity of their property and make it less vulnerable to other types of damage.
Should Cracks Be a Worrisome Problem?
While some cracks may be indicative of serious damage, others are simply due to the natural settling of a house. In the case of thin cracks resulting from settling, it is best to seal them properly to prevent water intrusion. Homeowners can expect this to be one of the least expensive fixes when it comes to foundation damage.
However, not all cracks are the same. Homeowners seeing multiple cracks occurring over windows and having difficulty opening windows and doors may want to investigate further. Issues with the foundation may be starting to impact the functionality of the structure. Some homeowners may choose to ignore such issues. Homes with unaddressed foundation cracks or damage are more vulnerable to issues such as water seepage, mold growth and pest infestations.
Which Foundation Problems Need to Be Addressed?
When <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/home-buying-contract-contingencies/">looking to buy a home</a> or when reviewing its general condition, individuals should investigate the foundation's integrity. Easy chipping and breaking of the foundation material means that the composition of the material was not done properly and will need to be replaced. This can make for an expensive repair.
There are additional signs of foundation damage. In addition to problems closing doors and windows, indications of foundation issues include:
Cracks developing at intersections of the wall and ceiling as well as above windows or doorways; and
Cracks occurring in ceramic tiles laid over concrete.
Rather than just seal the crack, homeowners should find out the underlying cause which can be down with a professional inspection. Large cracks are generally more expensive to repair than thin ones. Multiple issues may be causing cracks to form, including natural settlement or concrete shrinkage.
How Much Can It Cost to Make Repairs?
A home is a significant investment and most homeowners do not want to reduce the potential value of their home. Paying around $700 for an inspection and potentially bringing in a structural engineer, depending on the extent of the problem, can be well worth it. Potential repairs of foundation damage include:
Replacing the foundation for up to $40,000;
Adding steel braces for $70 to $500 each; and
<a href="https://www.raiseandrelevel.com/which-method-of-underpinning-should-i-use/" target="_blank">Underpinning the foundation</a> at $1,200 or up for a single pier.
Professional assistance is often needed to repair serious foundation damage. <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/louisville-real-estate/">Louisville homeowners</a> who decide not to address the problem will need to disclose the issue when listing a home. In addition, unaddressed damage can allow for mold growth and water seepage, both having the potential to further impact the value of a home.
Options for Homeowners
Homeowners choosing to not repair a foundation problem can expect a potential buyer to want a significant discount on the property or walk away entirely from the deal. Some foundation issues are relatively easy fixes like <a href="https://onlinewaterproofingshop.com/product/drizoro-maxseal-super/" target="_blank">cement based waterproof coatings</a>, while others require professional attention. Either way, it is best to be proactive and make foundation repairs, retaining a home's value. Individuals who may need to but not be able to take out a loan may want to investigate the possibility of getting a government grant to be used toward making home repairs.
2019-02-13T20:46:00-07:002022-04-19T10:19:05-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2798Tips For Improving Your For Sale Home
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/kitchen_remodeling_400.jpg" alt="How to Successfully Renovate Your Home" />If you are considering selling your home, you may want to think about putting in a bit of work to improve its value before hand. There are some home improvement projects that will net more value than others. These would be the first projects you want to look into. Getting your home to a move-in ready condition will increase its attractiveness to potential buyers. As the market begins to pick up, this will help to make your home stand out above the rest of the properties in your particular price range. It is important to remember that when you are doing these renovations, repairs, and upgrades that they should appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers and not necessarily your own personal preferences.
Budget Home Improvements For Homeowners
Here are a few easy home improvements that will add value to your house on a budget.
Painting your home is probably the easiest and cheapest thing you can to do make it more attractive to buyers. A fresh coat of neutral paint will not only change the atmosphere of each room but will also cover up unwanted smells and unsightly dings and dents.
Cleaning your carpets or having brand new ones installed is next on your list of things to do. Carpets that are dirt ridden, stained and stinky will send potential homebuyer running. Most just can't get over the initial shock and will move on to another home that is less of a project.
The biggest selling point for most homes is their kitchens. The appearance, layout, appliances, and functionality of your kitchen will be a major consideration for buyers in this area. Changing out outdated fixtures and hardware in combination with a fresh coat of paint will do a lot to give old drab cabinets a facelift. Also if stainless steal is out of your reach, just making sure all appliances match in color and style will be enough for most homebuyers.
The outside appearance of your home says a lot about what people expect to see inside. Think about painting and repairing the exterior if there is considerable damaged or things are particularly dingy.
Decks and patios are great places for families to hang out and offer additional living space if done properly. Refinishing your deck and staging it for this purpose will make potential homebuyers see the additional value in this otherwise minimally used seasonal space.
Bathrooms are the most private place in your home so they can really hurt your properties attractiveness if they are out-of-date and dirty. Re-caulking and re-grouting your showers, tubes and sinks will at least transform a moldy looking bathroom into a clean one.
Home Improvements That Offer a High Return on Investment
Not all home improvement projects are created equal when it comes to the potential for a great return on investment. Certain projects can help drive up the price of your home when selling it on the market. If you want to get the most money back for your investment, you should focus on the <a href="https://www.tileclub.com/blogs/news/the-top-3-home-renovations-with-the-highest-roi" target="_blank">highest ROI home improvements</a>, such as kitchen and bathroom renovations.
With a simple kitchen remodel, you can enjoy an <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/best-home-fixes-for-the-money-1.aspx" target="_blank">80 percent return on investment</a> while bathroom remodels offer slightly less back. A renovated kitchen also helps catch prospective homebuyers' attention and gives them a chance to envision themselves in that space. Consider upgrading the appliances, replacing the cabinets and redoing the countertops to make the greatest impact on your buyers' perceptions.
Other high-ROI home improvements include wood deck additions, garage door replacements and stone veneer siding installations at 81 percent and above. The garage door replacement is particularly rewarding with a 98 percent return on investment potential. A good quality garage door can not only improve the aesthetic value of your home, but also boost its function and utility across the board.
Hire a Contractor For the Best Success in Your Home Improvements
To receive the greatest return on investment for all your projects, it is wise to work with a skilled contractor every step of the way. Your contractor will utilize the highest quality materials, tools and techniques to ensure your addition or renovation goes to plan. You can receive the assistance you need in planning and completing your home renovation projects in preparation for the sale of your home. Talk to your contractor and real estate agent today to start planning your renovations and get your home on the market right away.
2019-01-18T01:10:00-07:002021-06-11T09:54:29-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3076Best Home Flooring Options For Your Home
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/flooring-materials-guide.jpg" alt="Popular Flooring Materials You Should Use" />When renovating a home, it may be a good idea to consider a new floor. There are many different varieties that can fit a wide array of different lifestyles and needs, but some homeowners may be left wondering how to pick the one that is best for their home. For those homeowners, her are five of the most popular different flooring options for homes and how they can be bet be used.
Installing Carpet Flooring
For homeowners who like a floor that is easier on their feet, carpet has always been a popular option. It comes in just about any color or pattern, so it can easily fit into nearly any living room or bedroom, and it can also fit nearly any budget. The biggest downside of carpet is that it has a tendency to <a href="https://edwardscarpet.com/pros-cons-carpet-floors/" target="_blank">hold in allergens</a>, so people who are sensitive to dirt and dander would find it in their best interest to pick a different material.
Installing Hardwood Flooring
For a timeless look, hardwood floors are a classic that will never go out of style, much like classic landscaping lending itself to a <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/curb-appeal/" target="_blank">home's curb appeal</a>. Hardwood is easy to clean and durable when it comes to day to day wear. While hardwood floors are one of the more expensive options, they also have the added advantage of potentially adding value to a home when it’s time to sell it, so that alone can make it a good choice for some homeowners. Hardwood can fit into nearly any room, but it’s best to avoid laundry rooms and bathrooms.
Installing Tile Flooring
Like hardwood, <a href="https://www.tileclub.com/collections/floor-tile" target="_blank">tile is a durable and versatile material for floors</a>, and like carpet, it comes in a wide variety of colors and styles that can allow it to fit with any aesthetic. While tile is durable and should be difficult to damage, if something does happen to fall and crack it, it’s difficult to replace the broken tile because of how it’s installed. Tile can be a good addition to bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms that see a lot of moisture and spills.
Installing Vinyl Flooring
Sometimes, a homeowner wants to stick to a budget or just wants to be cost effective, and for that, vinyl can be a good choice. Vinyl is softer than options like hardwood and tile, but not as soft as carpet, so it can also be a good choice for people with allergies as it doesn’t hold in dirt and dander. Vinyl’s biggest downfall is that <a href="https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/vinyl-flooring-101/" target="_blank">it can be fragile</a> and may rip if furniture is moved across it haphazardly, but if taken care of, it can be a good choice for common areas, kitchens, and so on.
Installing Concrete Flooring
With the right type of flooring, you can improve the appearance and function of your home. Both a <a href="https://prosoco.com/5-steps-to-a-beautiful-colored-polished-concrete-floor/" target="_blank">polished concrete floor</a> and linoleum are fantastic flooring options for busy homes. These flooring options look great in every room and clean up nicely with very little effort.
Concrete and can mimic the appearance of many different types of flooring. With concrete, you just have to <a href="https://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/stenciling_concrete/" target="_blank">utilize stencils</a> and stain to match the appearance of marble, granite and other stone flooring with ease. The concrete can even be made to look like exquisite brickwork with the right stenciling tools and techniques.
Installing Linoleum Flooring
In recent years, linoleum manufacturers have started to take the same approach by making their products look like other types of flooring. The linoleum can be made to look like hardwood and tile in a wide range of colors. Unlike these materials, linoleum is really easy to clean and looks nice without a lot of maintenance.
Installing Bamboo Flooring
A more cost-effective substitute for hardwood, bamboo is also more eco-friendly because bamboo is a highly renewable resource that takes only a fraction of the time to grow to the point where it can be harvested when compared to trees. Bamboo can give homeowners the look of hardwood floors, but <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/lyons-real-estate/" target="_blank">Lyons homeowners</a> interested in it should know that because it isn’t a hard wood, bamboo is damaged much more easily. However, if taken care of, it can be a good choice for any room where hardwood floors would fit.
These are just five of the different popular flooring options on the market. For more information about these and other materials available for homes, be sure to consult a flooring expert at a local hardware store who will be able to give the best advice possible for the project and home.
2019-01-11T00:53:00-07:002021-07-28T06:57:46-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3073How to Improve the Air Quality in Your Home
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/home-residential-air-quality-contamination.jpg" alt="What to Know About Indoor Air Quality" />There has been a lot of talk in recent news about the worsening condition of the air we breathe, particularly in large cities. Discussions of pollution and overpopulation lead to talk about the ozone layer. At times, it can be difficult to see how this directly applies to and affects you in your own personal life. The air quality outdoors should not be your only concern, however.
Why is Controlling Indoor Air Quality Important?
Indoor air quality is also something important to consider. We spend a lot of time within our own homes, particularly during the winter months of the year. Poor air quality can affect our lives in very real ways. It can lead to the development of asthmatic symptoms in both children and adults. Certain funguses and molds can also initiate the development of dangerous health problems.
Common Air Quality Contaminates
There are many different <a href="https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/introduction-indoor-air-quality">indoor air contaminates</a> that are found in homes. These contaminates vary from one house to another. Some of the most common contaminates include:
Pets. Pets release dander into the air, which can exacerbate allergies and leave a difficult to remove odor in some homes.
Cigarette smoke. Cigarette smoke contains contaminates that can have serious ill health effects.
Cleaning products. Cleaning products can release unhealthy chemicals and sharp odors in the air.
Mold. Mold can create musty odors and can cause serious health problems for some people.
One more type of indoor air contaminate is known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs. VOCs are found in certain household products like paint. Homeowners who want to reduce their exposure to VOCs can do so by buying VOC-free products, like <a href="https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/construction/materials/low-voc-paint.htm">low VOC paints</a>.
Some of the most common indoor air quality problems include dust, mold, bacteria, chemicals and other contaminates. People who come into contact with these types of household problems often experience a myriad of symptoms. Some include eye, nose, ear, throat and skin irritation, headaches, dizziness, nausea and sinus problems. If you work outside your home and notice that these symptoms are disappearing after several hours outside of your home, it's possible one of these contaminates is affecting the quality of the air inside your home.
Strategies to Improve Indoor Air Qualities
There are several basic strategies to improving air quality in your home. The first is source control. Eliminating the individual sources of contaminates in your home, or finding a way to reduce their emissions, will go a long way in improving your home's air quality. Next, make ventilation improvements to increase the amount of outdoor air that enters your home. This will also lower the indoor contaminate levels in your home. Lastly, you can also purchase an air cleaner for your home. There are a variety of sizes available on the market to fit any budget.
Air contaminates in your home may be difficult to notice if you're not looking for the symptoms they induce in your home's residents. Keep an eye out for physical symptoms that could be a result of poor air quality, and you'll be halfway on your way to being able to improve the situation by using the strategies detailed above.
Keep Air Quality in Mind When Buying a New Home
Searching for <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/louisville-real-estate/">real estate in Louisville CO</a> or considering buying <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/niwot-real-estate/">Niwot CO real estate</a>? You can find more information and access real estate listings from any region or city in Colorado. Our team of real estate agents is ready to assist you with any request you may have about properties you find listed on these sites.
2019-01-04T01:06:00-07:002022-04-19T06:20:12-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2593Achieving Energy Efficiency Through Mechanical Heating And Cooling HVAC systems
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<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/energy-efficiency-hvac-system.jpg" alt="What to Know About Installing a Hybrid HVAC System" />
<a href="https://activerain.com/blogsview/2059003/achieving-energy-efficiency-through-mechanical-heating-and-cooling-systems" target="_blank">Achieving Energy Efficiency Through Mechanical Heating And Cooling HVAC systems</a>, that cover heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning all in one, offer significant environmental considerations due because they directly consume a lot of energy in many modern structures. The ventilation these systems provide is to a certain extent, a significant indicator of the condition of indoor air.
How You Can Improve the Energy Efficiency of the HVAC System
Hybrid heating provides an alternative for homeowners who seek to combat the inflated prices of natural gas and heating charges in the same fashion as hybrid cars act as a buffer versus the astronomical cost of gas. Even as the prices on fuel go up, electronic technology has made these hybrid heating systems much more efficient and attractive to house owners than they once were.
Mechanical systems are restricted by the design and construction of the structure in which they operate. An optimum amount of insulation and a well-integrated design can reduce any structure's requirement for additional heating, ventilation, or air conditioning.
How to Figure Out the Energy Efficiency of Your HVAC System
To achieve optimal efficiency, a home heating and cooling system requires many different parts to work together in unison to deliver the highest levels of comfort while utilizing a minimum amount of energy. The simplest way to determine the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-heating-systems/furnaces-and-boilers" target="_blank">efficiency of your HVAC system</a> is to look for its AFUE rating. AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, represents how much energy is converted to heat versus how much is lost. The higher the percentage, the greater the efficiency of your unit. In the United States, the minimum conversion percentage is 81 percent, and Energy Star rated appliances have an AFUE rating of at least 90 percent. Maintaining such a high level of energy conversion year after year requires diligent maintenance as malfunctioning parts, dirty filters, or a failure to perform annual maintenance will result in decreased efficiency of the system.
When is a Hybrid HVAC System the Right Choice?
One of the most important elements determining the need to purchase a HVAC or hybrid system is the amount of heat your house uses. If you live in a warmer climate, Florida for example, you will never recoup the money you spent to put in such a system since heating a home in that area of the country is rarely necessary.
HVAC or hybrid systems allow the consumer to choose what kind of heat is desired during the colder months of the year. When temperatures first start to fall, HVAC's electronic pump technology comes into play and when winter actually arrives, gas furnace technology is utilized. The outdoor temperature dictates what heating technology will be employed by a hybrid heating system. The gas furnace with its warmer, toasty air turns on automatically as soon as the temperatures drop significantly. Ultimately, operating costs are reduced and comfort is provided.
2019-01-02T02:04:00-07:002019-03-02T12:15:43-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3038Should You DIY? A Homeowner's Guide
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/diy-home-improvement.jpg" alt="When to DIY and When to Hire a Professional" />The choice to DIY can be a tough one for homeowners. Many homeowners like to save money by making home improvements themselves, others like the satisfaction that they get from working on their own home. Still, not all projects are right for homeowners. Knowing which home improvement projects are good for homeowners and which are best done by contractors is important.
When to DIY
For the standard homeowner, the <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/smart-homeowner/diy-home-improvement/affordable-home-improvement-ideas/" target="_blank">best DIY projects</a> are those that do not alter the structure of the home, and cannot make the house a danger to the occupants if done incorrectly. Interior painting is a good example of an appropriate DIY project, because a bad paint job can be redone. To finish the job, the homeowner needs the right tools, enough time and a can-do attitude.
Other good DIY projects include:
Wall shelf installation.
Blinds and curtain rod installation.
New landscaping.
Installation of a pathway in a garden or on the lawn.
Repair of loose bricks in a garden bed.
Installation of new hardware on cabinets and doors.
These projects beautify the house, improving curb appeal for potential buyers, and even when done incorrectly will not usually cause major damage to the home.
How to DIY
Even with a simple DIY project, homeowners must follow a plan to complete their work. Doing the research and having the right tools on hand can help the project go smoothly.
Make a Plan
The first step in any DIY project is to research the process and make a plan. There are hundreds of tutorials and videos online that can help homeowners learn how to complete a home improvement project. Homeowners are encouraged to look for tutorials from well-known sources. How to articles that provide detailed, specific instructions are best.
Gather the Tools
DIY projects can involve many tools. Homeowners must gather the proper tools at the beginning of each project. Tools can be quite expensive, depending on what's needed. Sometimes the cost of tools alone can make completing a DIY project more expensive than hiring a contractor, so <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/louisville-real-estate/" target="_blank">Louisville homeowners </a> who prioritize money savings must research the cost of tools before making a final decision.
Give Yourself Time
The average DIY project will take far more time than a project completed by a contractor. Contractors have tools, employees and skills that make it much easier for them to complete home improvement projects. DIYers must give themselves additional time to complete their projects. Those who have a tight timeline for project completion should consider working with a contractor to stay on schedule.
When Not to DIY
Some home improvement projects are just <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/diy/10-home-remodeling-projects-you-shouldn%E2%80%99t-diy/ss-AA3gHcj#image=1" target="_blank">too important or dangerous</a> for homeowners to try on their own. Working with a professional contractor can help ensure that these projects are completed safely and within budget. Some examples include:
Foundation repair.
Electrical work.
Home addition.
Plumbing.
Demolition.
Roof repair or installation.
Homeowners who do this work on their own could cause structural damage to their home. Some of these <a href="https://bellacontractingservices.com/the-dangers-of-diy-demolition-in-your-home/" target="_blank">projects can even be dangerous to complete</a> (like demolition and roof work). Hiring a licensed and experienced contractor can help ensure that these projects are done properly and safely.
How to Search for and Screen a Contractor
Finding a <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/find-good-contractor-home-improvement/" target="_blank">qualified contractor</a> can be a challenge. Many homeowners start by getting referrals from friends and family, or byT contacting material suppliers and contractor associations in the area.
Once a homeowner has a list of 5 to 7 contractors, then it's time to start contacting candidates. It's important to meet with candidates in person and come to meetings with questions to ask. Asking contractors the same questions at each meeting makes it easier to compare one contractor to another. Questions should include:
How much will this cost?
When can you start work?
How long will this take?
What methods will you use to get the job done?
Are you licensed or certified to do this work?
Once homeowners have gotten quotes from contractors, then it's <a href="https://www.angieslist.com/research/hiring-a-contractor/" target="_blank">time to pick</a>. The lowest bid is not always the best. Some contractors will underbid other contractors by using poor quality materials or inexperienced labor. The best contractor for the job is one who will do the work for a fair price and who has a reputation for excellence.
Contact an Experienced Contractor
Homeowners who are undecided about whether or not a home improvement project is appropriate for DIY can find out by contacting a licensed contractor. A good contractor can answer homeowner questions about how something can be done, what tools are needed and how long it will take. This can help homeowners gauge whether or not they should hire a contractor or if they can do the project on their own.
2018-12-06T22:55:00-07:002021-07-21T09:18:10-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:3033How Much Will Solar Panels Save You?
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/solar-panel-value.jpg" alt="The Real Value of Residential Solar Panels" />Solar panel technology has been evolving for several decades which has led more and more homeowners to look into how they can use green technology to save both their wallets and the environment. But there are still plenty of people who may not have even considered solar panels for themselves—especially if they live in an area with plenty of cloud coverage. They may not realize just how much more efficient solar panels have become or how much the price has come down. The real value of solar panels can be substantial, but homeowners may have to do some digging to really find out just how much money can be saved.
Starting Up With Solar Panels
It's true that solar panels are a serious investment for any homeowner. The returns on their investment are also heavily dependent upon where the home is located. The retail price to purchase solar panels is about $19,000, and even with tax credits and community incentives, the homeowner will still be out of pocket about $11,000 (on average). In addition, if the home doesn't get enough sunlight to power the home, the residents will have to rely on traditional electricity to power their <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/boulder-real-estate/" target="_blank">Boulder home</a>. So there's no use denying that the panels will require a major commitment of time, money, and lifestyle.
Long-Term Considerations
For the most part, homeowners should be planning to stay in their home for several years to really get the most out of their panels. But with the way the economy works today, people are moving more so than they ever have before. This can make it difficult for anyone to plan to be in their home for 20 years or more—even if that's what they want. But it's clear that panels can save a homeowner far more than they initially cost if a person can stick it out in the home for that long.
While estimates do vary depending on the source, most experts put the average savings for sunny Southern California <a href="https://news.energysage.com/much-solar-panels-save/" target="_blank">at close to $30,000 </a>over 20 years. Even in the cloudier state of Massachusetts, homeowners can expect to save roughly the same amount.
Location of the Solar Panels
Solar is a trend more suitable for certain areas and demographics. Another factor to consider when evaluating a solar system is what area the house is located within. Certain neighborhoods and cities value clean energy more than others, making a solar power system more valuable to the home.
Electricity Generation
Another important factor determining the value a solar power system brings to your home is how much electricity the system is able to generate. The amount of electricity generated from a system depends heavily on the amount of sunlight available, typical weather patterns, and even the angle of your roof. Additionally, power companies will offer different bids dependent on available power generation.
Tax Credits and Incentives
Part of the return on investment for any homeowner is tied up in the priorities of their neighborhood. Some areas in the US are simply more motivated to implement green technology, and they show it by giving homeowners a very attractive financial boost. The <a href="https://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program" target="_blank">website, DSIRE</a> can tell owners more about their eligibility for opportunities in their area.
Even if solar power seems prohibitively expensive in a certain state, there may be enough credits to substantially bring down the out-of-pocket cost. It's also possible to sell excess power back to the grid at the market rates, which can make it even easier to start seeing the true rewards of solar power.
Buying vs Leasing
Solar is not cheap. Homeowners have the choice of purchasing a system outright, or entering into a leasing contract. If you choose to buy a system it can set you back $12,000-$20,000 which you may not see a full ROI once you sell the home. Another option is to lease a system, however typical contracts will lock you in for up to 15 years, making the transfer to a new homeowner tricky.
Additional Options
Homeowners who can't shell out five figures for panels regardless of how much they'll save over time may still be able to use the power of the sun to power their home. Community solar is a program where everyone in a neighborhood invests in panels and then collectively shares the benefits. When solar cells are grouped together, like they are with community solar, they're able to generate more power.
Putting everyone on the same system is a way to tap into this additional power so everyone can enjoy equal returns on their investment. So far, community solar is still a somewhat rare program in the US, but this will hopefully change as property owners and neighborhood authorities alike wake up to the possibilities of green energy.
The Seller's Touch
Even people who do need to move unexpectedly may come up short when it comes to their panels. Solar power not only helps distinguish a home from a sea of competition, it can also be one of the top qualities sought out by home buyers. With the green movement only continuing to pick up speed, some people estimate that a homeowner's resale value can be increased by up to $20,000. Not only are homeowners willing to pay to reduce their own carbon footprint, they're also looking to save money on their own utility bills.
Age of the Solar Panel System
Technology is constantly changing and improving, and the same goes for solar power. Simply put, the newer a system, the more desirable, and therefore more valuable it is.
Unfortunately, there is no clear answer on whether or not a solar power system will increase or decrease the value of your home. Solar should be a personal choice on whether or not you want it for your home at the time being!
When it comes to solar panels and their savings, homeowners need to look past the initial costs to both the direct and indirect savings of solar panels. Between neighborhood incentives, utility bills, and the eventual resale value of the home, there are plenty of ways to get more out of solar power.
2018-11-12T21:00:00-07:002019-07-16T10:22:08-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:30574 Common Landscaping Mistakes Homeowners Make
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/Landscaping-errors-selling-a-home.jpg" alt="4 Landscaping Mistakes You Might Be Making" />When <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/home-selling/">selling a home</a>, landscaping is often cited as one of the most important things to draw in buyers as it directly helps or hinders a home’s curb appeal. However, good landscaping is a little trickier than just slapping down a few flowers in the garden. There are a few different pitfalls that homeowners can accidentally stumble into without even realizing it. Here are some of the most common landscaping mistake that homeowners make and how to avoid them.
1. The Gardens Require a Lot of Work
While curb appeal is essential for attracting buyers, not every home buyer is going to be interested in spending a lot of time maintaining a large garden. In order to appeal to the widest audience possible, homeowners should consider using some of these strategies:
<a href="https://www.plantnative.org/how_intro.htm" target="_blank">Use native plants</a> that survive easily with little additional help.
Utilize stepping stones to fill empty space.
Use low-maintenance trees and shrubs instead of just flowers.
Lay down a layer of mulch to help prevent weed growth.
Using any of these ideas can be good ways to cut down on the amount of upkeep a garden requires, which can make a home more attractive to busy buyers who can’t devote very much time to weeding and pruning.
2. The Gardens Are Dying or Overgrown
On the opposite end of gardens that require too much work are gardens that need some extra help. If a garden more closely resembles a jungle than a curated collection of plants and flowers, it can put off buyers because they will feel like the responsibility of getting the garden back in order will be their responsibility. The same goes for gardens that look like graveyards. The homeowner needs to take the initiative to fix up their home’s exterior before selling in order to draw buyers in, and forgetting to maintain a home’s gardens does the opposite of that.
3. Fixtures Are Old and Outdated
Buyers love seeing a home that has been kept up to date. Just like with gardens that have been neglected, if a home’s fixtures such as porch lamps, mailboxes, fences, and so on, go without the occasional cleaning or repairing, they can look dingy, old, and even start to break down. Keeping up with this sort of upkeep and replacing fixtures as needed is a good way to show potential buyers that the home is being well cared for, and that’s always a big plus for buyers.
4. The Yard Is Cluttered
When preparing to <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/broomfield-real-estate/">sell a Broomfield home</a>, it’s easy to let a yard get cluttered, especially if the homeowner is actively making repairs or doing work to make the home look as good as it can. However, homeowners need to be cautious when it comes to leaving yard bags or piles of mulch in the yard. This sort of clutter can be off-putting to buyers because it detracts from the home itself. Not only should homeowners make sure their yard is decluttered for home showings, but for listing photos as well. A home’s listing should have <a href="https://www.slrlounge.com/10-real-estate-photography-mistakes-avoid/" target="_blank">the best pictures possible</a>, and if the frame is being shared with kids’ toys or the latest yard project, it gets in the way of buyers seeing the home.
Staying out of pitfalls is easy when sellers know what to keep an eye out for, and by following these four landscaping tips can help homeowners get their home’s yard in shape for selling by customizing it to what buyers love to see.
2018-11-07T20:16:00-07:002022-04-19T06:40:33-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:30544 Smart Devices Homeowners Should Install Before Selling
<img class=" img_box_right" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/uploads/agent-1/home-tech-and-smart-devices.jpg" alt="4 Smart Devices Home Buyers Want" />These days, smart technology is everywhere. Our lives revolve around it both at work, and more recently, at home, so it’s no wonder that many home buyers actively seek out homes that already have all of their favorite pieces of smart tech built in. Fortunately for sellers, installing smart technology in their homes isn’t a big hurdle to cross. Here are some of the most popular pieces of smart home tech that homeowners can use to help draw in buyers.
1. Smart Security Systems
Everyone likes the feeling of being safe, especially in their own home. Normal alarm systems have been available to homeowners for many years now, but many people don’t like having to hire a company to make sure their home is safe. This is where <a href="https://www.vivint.com/resources/article/pros-and-cons-of-smart-home-systems" target="_blank">smart home security systems</a> step in. Smart cameras, sensors, and more are able to notify homeowners directly when a window opens at night or a shadowy figure is spotted walking across the yard, so the homeowner doesn’t have to rely on a company calling them, which can take extra time. Smart cameras also have the advantage of allowing homeowners to check their feed from anywhere in the world so long as they have a smart device on hand, making them excellent for vacations or just the normal daily schedule.
2. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are a convenience that many homeowners love to have in their home. Not only can smart thermostats be accessed from anywhere in the world to adjust the home’s temperature, but they also learn the schedule of the homeowner so they don’t have to think about adjusting it as often. Smart thermostats also save energy because of this, leading to lower energy bills every month, meaning one of these thermostats has the potential to pay for itself over time on top of helping to draw tech-savvy home buyers in.
3. Smart Appliances
While they haven’t hit the mainstream like thermostats and security systems, large appliances like refrigerators, <a href="https://www.lifewire.com/best-smart-washer-and-dryers-4160413" target="_blank">washing machines, and drying machines</a> all have smart counterparts now. A smart refrigerator, for instance, can keep track of all of the food inside it and notify homeowners when it’s running out of something like milk or eggs, or it can even have a digital screen that can be used to display recipes or used as a message board for people to leave notes on. While there aren’t many buyers who are actively looking for smart appliances, something like this, along with <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/home-showing/">other things to improve the look and feel of the home</a>, can be a tipping factor for buyers who are interested in smart technology when it comes to making a final decision on a home.
4. Smart Locks
Back to smart security features, smart locks are a handy feature that is now on the rise. Everyone knows the frustration of getting locked out of a home on accident, and smart locks take all that frustration away. There are two types of locks: ones with fingerprint scanners, and ones with a numeric pad. Smart locks help ensure that only people who are permitted to enter a home have the ability to do so while those who don’t can’t take advantage of a door without a lock.
If a <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/wheat-ridge-real-estate/">Wheat Ridge home buyer</a> is intentionally looking for a home that already has smart technology in it before buying, adding one or more of these smart devices can potentially help make a sale. And on top of that, these are just four of the different types of smart technology. For more ideas, be sure to check out a local electronics store or read blogs about all the must-have up-and-coming gadgets.
2018-10-10T20:00:00-07:002022-04-19T08:17:07-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2879How to Remove Wallpaper the Right Way!<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/how_to_remove_wallpaper_the_right_way_550.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="550" class="img_box_right" />There are a few different ways to remove wallpaper, but the only real way to know for sure what you need to do, is to start getting into the project and figure out what you are dealing with! Newer wallpaper that has a vinyl top layer tends to be the easiest to remove, so if that is what you determine you have, consider yourself lucky. If you have got the old stuff, multiple layers, painted over wallpaper or an unfinished wall behind everything, you have quite the little project on your hands. Ah but don’t fret, worst case scenario it’s really nothing that a sander, chemical remover-solution and a good scraper can’t get off. Of course when things go down that path, you might also be looking at a few repairs to the wall as well. <br /> <br />Here is our guide to removing wallpaper the right way!
Prepare the surrounding area, because you are about to make a big mess! Consider doing sections at a time to make large projects more manageable.
Pull up a section anywhere that looks like it will give. Use this little spot to determine which tools you will need to use for the job based on what kind of surface you are working with. If you can peel the first layer of “paper” off easily, get that section of backing paper wet with regular water, letting it soak in for a few minutes, before you start to scrape away at it with a plastic spatula. If you see normal knockdown wall texturing below, say a Hail Mary and grab a regular spackle knife, because your job just got a whole lot simpler.
If you see unfinished drywall or another layer of paper, you know you have some additional planning to do. Walls that are not finished will require a delicate hand and minimal applications of liquid substances since plain drywall can be easily damaged. You will also want to make sure you keep using a plastic scraper so you don’t make huge gouges.
Wallpaper that doesn’t peel off automatically will usually need to be scored with a special tool, and/or steamed, soaked with a chemical remover solution, or sanded off.
Do your best to remove what you can in large pieces.
Come at the task from several different angles with the scraper to pick up small lifts in the paper more efficiently.
Use a rough sponge and clean off the residue left behind from the backing paper or any solutions chemicals.
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/">BoulderHomeSource</a> ...It's A Lifestyle2013-12-03T02:11:00-07:002019-03-04T02:44:18-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2824Tips for Hosting the Perfect Open House<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/openhouse_301.jpg" alt="How To Stage Your Open House" width="202" height="135" class="img_box_right" />Open houses are the best opportunity for homeowners to get their house noticed in a competitive market. When homes are selling within days of hitting the market, an open house could just be the ticket for starting a bidding war on your home. Planning an open house requires forethought and good timing. It is important to get your home out there in front of buyer's eyes as quickly as possible, but you want to make sure you are prepared for it first. Once your home is ready to present, talk to your realtor about hosting an open house. Here are our top tips for making your open house stand out above the rest.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/staging_the_dining_room_301.jpg" alt="staging your Dining Room" width="202" height="135" class="img_box_right" />Stage and set the scene. I'm sure you have already been staging your home and de-cluttering it for showings, but for an open house you will want set the scene by staging different rooms to appear as if they are in the midst of being used. For example, set your dining room table like you are about to serve a holiday meal. This includes placemats, napkins, silverware, and a centerpiece as well as service pieces and glassware. In addition, set out a coffee and cookie station for open house guests. Believe it or not, the smell of cookies and coffee will help guests visualize themselves living there.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/staging_the_bathroom_301_01.jpg" alt="staging your Bathroom" width="202" height="135" class="img_box_right" />It’s also a good idea to set up the bathroom with fresh towels, fragrant candles, and fresh flowers. Furthermore, stage your living room as if someone just walked out from having tea and reading their favorite book. The bedrooms should be clean and tidy, but should feel comfortable not sterile. Use accent pillows, decorative throws, more fresh flowers, and candles to achieve this. Throughout the house you will also want to open up blinds and scatter more flowers and candles.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/staging_your_front_door_201.jpg" alt="Staging Your Front Door" width="201" height="134" class="img_box_right" />When preparing for an open house, don't forget your front and back yards. Set out attractive planters on either side of your door or add a wreath to make your entrance inviting. Also set up your picnic or patio table so that it looks like a barbeque is about to happen. Stage any children's play areas to be inviting to your guests if they bring their kids along with them.
If your home has particularly cool features, make sure you highlight those as best as possible by using simple signage. Because not every open house guest will feel comfortable looking in your closets, adding a sign to the door that says, "Large walk-in closet with plenty of storage, please take a look," will help your guests experience all your home has to offer. Likewise if you have a brand-new water heater, adding signage that says that will help buyer to remember that specific feature.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/open_house_packets_302.jpg" alt="RE/MAX Open House Packets" width="202" height="202" class="img_box_right" />
Besides adding signage throughout your home, it is important that you have information to give attendees as they leave. In this information packet you can include a page of the home’s best pictures, specific listing details, HOA contact and community information. If your community hosts an annual 4th of July block party or Easter egg hunt, those are the kinds of thing buyers would be interested in knowing. Likewise, add any information about the surrounding community that is unique and special; like walking trails, nearby lakes, and playground locations. If you do all of these things to highlight your home's best features, there is a good chance that you will come away from your open house with several legitimate offers!
Click <a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/sellers/" target="_blank">here</a> to view our seller's guide!<br /><br />Related Links
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/cleaning-tips-that-will-really-make-your-home-shine/" target="_blank">Cleaning tips that will make your for sale home shine!</a>
<a href="https://www.boulderhomesource.com/blog/give-your-kitchen-a-facelift-for-cheap/" target="_blank">How to give your kitchen a face lift for cheap!</a>
2013-04-02T03:43:00-07:002019-07-16T12:13:32-07:00Boulder Home Sourcetag:boulderhomesource.com,2012-09-20:2752How to get the biggest bang on your Colorado kitchen remodelHow to get the biggest bang on your Colorado kitchen remodel
<img title="sunset_kitchen_400" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1183/image/sunset_kitchen_400.jpg" alt="sunset_kitchen_400" width="400" height="266" class="img_box_center" />
If you are thinking about remodeling your home for the best return on investment the Kitchen and Baths are good places to start. Since both areas can be a challenge to work on while you are in the home most buyers do not want to tackle the task themselves. Kitchens are especially expensive. Countertop and appliance replacement are usually a buyer’s prime concern and tend to be the area buyers focus. Cabinets are just as important, though, and arguably just as expensive. They can often account for between 50-70% of the cost of a kitchen remodel. As a result thinking through your design and cabinet choice can have a huge impact on the overall cost of the project.
There are three kinds of cabinets from which to choose. These options are stock, semi-custom and custom. Each has its own pros and cons.
Stock cabinets are the most reasonably priced. This means that if you can develop a design that allows you to use stock cabinets you may have room left over in your budget for other item, like higher-end countertops, for example. Stock cabinets also come fully assembled and are usually available immediately or only a few days after purchase. The downside, stock cabinets are what they are and come in limited options. But if you can find a design that works that are the most cost effective option and offer some great choices. Ikea is a great place to see what is possible with stock cabinet designs.
Semi-custom or built-to-order cabinets offer a more diverse range of options and can include some custom touches. If you have a very unique space, even semi-custom cabinets may not fit the bill.
As the name implies custom cabinets offer the most flexibility. A good custom cabinet maker can build them to specific measurements. You also get the quality and expertise of a true craftsman. The cabinet maker will design cabinets to fit your particular tastes and the exact style of your kitchen. Unfortunately, they are the most expensive and can take the longest time to arrive after purchase since they’re custom-made.
If you choose stock, semi-custom or custom-built cabinets you still will have many choices and that’s just the beginning. After deciding cabinet type, you will think about type of material you want for your countertops, sink and fixtures. Ultimately, doing your research and factoring in your overall budget is the best way to choose the right cabinets for your kitchen. Cabinets are the supporting casts when it comes to buyers the will look at appliances first, countertops second, and cabinets third so when considering return on investment plan accordingly.
Happy Remodeling!!
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