Home Improvement
Buying an old fixer-upper can be a great investment, but turning it into a modern, energy-efficient home requires careful planning. Whether you’re restoring a historic property or just giving an outdated house a fresh look, these tips will help you upgrade it with style and sustainability in mind.
1. Start with a Solid Plan
Before swinging a hammer, assess the home’s condition. Identify structural issues, outdated wiring, plumbing problems, and insulation needs. A detailed renovation plan will save time and money in the long run.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Systems
One of the best ways to modernize an old home is by improving energy efficiency. Consider installing solar panels to reduce electricity costs. Partnering with the best solar energy company in your area ensures high-quality installation and long-term savings. Additionally, upgrade to LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances.
3. Replace Old Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can make heating and cooling expensive. Swap them out for double-pane windows to improve insulation. For a sleek, modern look, consider installing custom glass doors in key areas like the patio or entryway. They enhance natural light while improving energy efficiency.
4. Open Up the Floor Plan
Many older homes have small, closed-off rooms. Knocking down non-load-bearing walls can create an open-concept living space, making the home feel larger and more contemporary. Just be sure to consult a structural engineer first.
5. Update the Kitchen and Bathrooms
These rooms add significant value to a home. In the kitchen, opt for quartz or granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and soft-close cabinets. In bathrooms, install water-saving fixtures, modern tiling, and frameless glass showers for a luxurious touch.
6. Refresh the Exterior
Curb appeal matters. Repaint the house in a modern color, replace old siding, and add landscaping for a polished look. If the roof is aging, consider a durable metal or asphalt shingle replacement.
...Do you ever have the feeling that there’s nothing better than coming home? We like opening the front door and knowing that, within minutes, our shoes will be off with warm socks on, and we’ll be leaning into the soft cushions of the sofa, ready for a relaxing break. The old saying, “There’s no place like home,” becomes more relevant as we age because we see the value of our home in terms of comfort, not merely in dollars. So, how does your home contribute to your overall health? Or, does it? Let’s look at a few ways to determine whether or not your home is contributing to your health.
Give Your Cleveland Home An Annual Check Up
We need to have annual medical checkups; why not give one to your home each year, as well? Your interior and your exterior may need some updating, repairs, testing for air quality, or other improvements, so a yearly check is the best way to prevent bigger problems. One of the most important health factors for anyone over the age of 65 is that of air quality. According to AirNow, a US government website, pollutants affect our aging population in significant ways.
Annual Check-Up: The Air Quality Of Your Home
How can you get ahead of any problems with the air quality of your home? The first test you’ll want to get is a mold inspection in Cleveland from a reliable mold inspection and air quality provider who will come to your home to conduct tests. Just like your own doctor, the inspector will test for indicators of issues that could affect your health. These might be pollutants that may be affecting your air quality or those that are affecting the health of your home. For example, the inspector will conduct tests to determine your air quality risk factor that may indicate mold, pollen, viruses and bacteria.
...Your roof is one of the most important structures of your home, protecting it from the elements year-round. Maintaining it seasonally will not only extend its lifespan but also prevent you from having to incur costly repairs.
By caring for this part of your home each season, you can ensure it will continue to shelter and safeguard you and your family for years to come. In this article, we outline some helpful tips for keeping your roof in top shape throughout the year.
Spring
Spring is the perfect time to assess your roof for any damage that the winter months might have caused. When carrying out a visual inspection, look out for the following:
- Check for missing shingles: Look for shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing entirely. These will need replacing to prevent any leaks.
- Clear debris: Spring storms often leave behind branches and leaves which can trap moisture, leading to mold or rot.
- Examine gutters: Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool, potentially damaging the roof’s edge.
Calling in local experts in the area like AllPhase Roofing & Restoration can ensure your roof inspection is thorough and any necessary repairs are handled professionally.
Summer
With the sun beating down, summer can be tough on roofs, especially in regions like Northeast Ohio, where summer storms can add an extra challenge. During this time of year it is important to:
- Inspect for heat damage: High temperatures can cause roof materials to warp or blister. A quick inspection can catch these issues early.
- Trim overhanging branches: Trees provide shade but can also drop branches onto your roof during storms. Trimming them will reduce this risk.
- Add ventilation: A well-ventilated attic can prevent heat from building up, extending the life of your roofing materials.
Born between 1946 and 1964, baby boomers are now mostly heading to retirement and are doing so in style. They are redefining how senior citizens’ homes should look, and most of the features they need are not things out of this world. They want homes that support their active lifestyles while not sacrificing other amenities. Here are the top four home features you should look for in a house if you’re helping a boomer acquire a home anytime soon.
Maximum Lighting
As we grow older, the sharpness of our vision tends to decline, making our eyes demand proper lighting if we are to have clearer vision. With boomers already in this stage, having an adequately lit house is one of the top features they look for in their old-age homes. This can be anything from installing large windows and adequate lighting fixtures to embracing translucent roofing.
Depending on the house’s design and location, some lighting features might be more necessary than others. For instance, you may hire a roofing company in Worthington to install a translucent sheet if that will bring in more natural light in a house you’re interested in. Check any additional lighting features are needed and weigh whether they’re worth investing in before choosing the house.
Easily Accessible Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Boomers aren’t here to endure the struggle of straining their already bad knees and aching backs, climbing staircases to a bedroom or bathroom upstairs. Their increased demand for easy-access bedrooms and bathrooms has seen a rise in the number of first-floor master ensuites in modern old-age homes.
Boomers’ ideal bedrooms are also large, with spacious walk-in closets allowing easy maneuverability for personal grooming. The bathrooms come with separate tubs, dual sinks, and a shower.
An Easy-to-Maintain Exterior
While boomers have options like independent living facilities and retirement homes, some choose private homes for their best interests.
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