 Photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash "When it comes to interior design, you can never go wrong with coherence." When it comes to interior design, you can never go wrong with coherence. A space where one area naturally flows into another is universally aesthetically appealing, no matter what your preferred style is. There are many ways to create a nice flow in your home. While hiring a designer is always an option, you can also make many design changes on your own; you just need to know what to pay attention to. To make it easier, we've compiled this guide of six ways to create better flow in your home. Consider the overall style of your homeOne of the most common mistakes people make is designing each room separately. We've all seen this before, as having a new theme for each room used to be a trend in the 80s. However, it's definitely long gone by now. In fact, it can make your home quite incoherent. For example, picking out one aesthetic for your kitchen and a completely different one for the dining room is not a good design idea. There is a certain everyday flow between these rooms, yet they will seem like two completely separate entities. To achieve a natural flow inside your home, you should look at your living space as a whole rather than just a bunch of rooms stuck together. In addition to that, think about your daily patterns. Consider which rooms are more connected to other ones and have more daily traffic. All of this is necessary for achieving the natural circulation of your living space. Be consistent with the style of your furnitureOne of the first things anyone notices in a room is furniture. Mismatched furniture can look rustic and quirky sometimes. However, in most cases, it will make your home seem inconsistent. Of course, buying a whole new set of furniture for your entire house can be financially challenging. Luckily, there's no reason to do that. Think about the style you'd like to see throughout your home and note which pieces of furniture you already own fit that. This approach is especially helpful when you're moving. You have a blank slate to work with, and you can take only what you need to your new home. Some people have reservations about handling bulky furniture when moving as they deem it to be unsafe. However, there are many ways to avoid injury while doing that, so there's no reason to worry. Reusing some of your old furniture will save you a bit of money too, which is always nice.  Photo by R ARCHITECTURE on Unsplash "Sticking to a uniform furniture style is always a good idea." Choose a matching color scheme for your wallsOne of the easiest ways to create better flow in your home is by using color the right way. Painting your walls is the best way to achieve this. It doesn't take too much time and effort; you can make it a fun weekend project. Still, it will change the looks of your home significantly. When you're looking to spruce up the place with paint, you have several options that will result in a coherent space. The first option is to use the same two or three similar colors throughout your house. Many people opt for different shades of beige, off-white, or grey. This is probably a safer bet, as you don't have to think it through too much. Another option is to pick out complementary color schemes. While the colors won't be similar, they'll work with each other really well. This will help you create an effortlessly flowing space.  Photo by Anshu A on Unsplash "Using the right wall paints is one of the best ways to create better flow in your home." Keep the flooring through your house as consistent as you canMany different types of flooring throughout your house can often break up the space visually. Carpets in one room, hardwood in another, and then tiles in the kitchen are natural flow's worst enemy. Different flooring makes the rooms seem disconnected from one another, which is exactly the opposite of what you want. Keeping the flooring consistent is key to overcoming this. Avoid breaks between the rooms where you can, and you can achieve a seamless transition. However, it's not completely realistic for all the floors in your home to be exactly the same. Some rooms function better with tiles, for instance, kitchens and bathrooms. In those cases, try to match the undertone and the general color scheme of two types of flooring, and that should get the job done. Use styling accents wiselyWisely chosen accents can do wonders for every room. Some people choose statement furniture pieces, while others prefer using the wall space to spice things up a bit. Whatever your style is, keep in mind that accents are your best friend when it comes to creating a flow inside your home. They're easy to use, and yet they can be very effective. One of the easiest ways to use accents is through color. You can start by picking out one or a few signature colors that will be the theme of your accents. This is what's going to tie your living space together. Using the same color accents in each room makes them resemble one another, creating a consistent space. Don't forget about the accessories to complete your roomWhile this is the last thing on our list, it doesn't mean it's any less important than the others. Using the right accessories is one of the most cost-effective ways to create better flow in your home. You just need to have an eye for what works together and what doesn't. Pillows and throw blankets are great examples of accessories that can tie the living space together. Using the same materials, styles, and colors in a few adjacent rooms will allow a seamless flow between them. Also, any type of decoration, such as vases or flower pots, can be really impactful here.  Photo by Kyoshi Reyes on Unsplash "Accessories are important for achieving a consistent look." Flow comfort and functionality completes a stylish homeAchieving a consistent flow can significantly impact the visuals, comfort, and functionality of your living space. It generally makes the space look larger and feel more comfortable to be in. While there are many ways to create better flow in your home, you don't have to implement all of them. Picking out the ones that work best for your household and budget can still work wonders for the overall appeal of your home. AuthorMichelle Goodman is an architect and an interior designer. She occasionally collaborates with moving companies like Four Winds KSA and helps their clients with design ideas for their new homes. Want more expert advice to help you design, build and renovate your home?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
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 "When tackling a home renovation project you want to know you are dealing with a trusted professional crew" There's nothing more irritating than finding out you're dealing with a somewhat shady contractor. Once you're trying to repair or improve something inside your home, you're in need of a trusty, professional crew, not someone who might do some extra damage to your property or take too long to finish the job. Luckily, there are ways one can utilize to handle shady contractors. In the text you're about to read, we'll show you the seven tips for dealing with a shady contractor. So that you don't have to endure all the issues that might occur in such a scenario, stay tuned! Are your expectations for your building project realisticFirst things first, let's see if there's something you can do to prevent putting unnecessary stress on everyone included in the project. In other words, there's something that you can do to avoid calling your contractors "shady". You'll need to make sure that your expectations are realistic: what's possible and what's not, considering the scope of the project and the budget you've prepared. Be upfront about your vision and guarantee everyone's on the same page. Also, you need to understand that potential issues might occur: the completion date is not always set in stone. The more you accept this mode of thinking, the smoother you'll go through the process. Read This Before Selecting Your Home Renovation and Building Contractor. However, we're not saying that you should easily accept that things went wrong beyond your modest expectations. Don't hesitate to talk with your contractor if that were to happen. Now, keep in mind that you should always have a respectful approach. Be open and specific about what you're not happy with and why. Talk to your contractor Image by Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay "You can always try to talk it out and offer to assist if you notice that's necessary" There's no need to emphasize the fact contractors are busy people. Most of them typically juggle 2-3 projects at once, besides having a bunch of responsibilities with every single one of them. If there were to happen a total standstill, that would be no good. However, if we're talking about making slow progress, you can always try to talk it out and offer to assist if you notice that's necessary. For instance, a quick drive to a local hardware store might be a lifesaver. Of course, we don't recommend you do the work yourself; just check in as much as possible. Ask for periodic updates and schedule modifications. Good communication with your building contractors is vital Don't be afraid to talk with subcontractorsWe'll be quick here: don't hesitate to communicate with your subcontractors, too. That's because it's easy for a game of telephones to appear in this situation. Communicating with your subcontractors is a way out of it. You'll be able to fix these issues before they become big. A note though always direct instructions to subcontractors employed by the contractor through the contractor. But, it's ok to chat to subbies and ask them how things are and what problems they are experiencing on the project. Also point out any quality issues you see with their work, then remember to follow up with the contractor so they are aware of the issue also. What about contacting the state licensing board?A contractor without a license is a thing to avoid. Everyone knows that. Therefore, most of them take pride in the fact they're licensed. Let's say your contractors have done their job in a manner you're not pleased with. Or they've done something you disagreed on. In that case, you can always notify them that you'll reach out to the state licensing board. If they get involved, the contractor you've hired risks losing their license. Trust us; they won't have any objections to resolving all the issues ASAP. Read This Before Selecting Your Home Renovation and Building Contractor. Document everythingRight from the very start, once you sign any piece of paper together with your contractor, you should keep your copies. This will guarantee that you'll be able to back up your construction claims if necessary. Also, speaking of documentation, you should always take photos of areas your contractors haven't done a good job with. Make sure you include a date and time stamp. Lastly, here's a suggestion: back up these files digitally.  Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash "Keep a copy of all documents." Start with questions for your contractor (not accusations)That's right; your best bet is to begin by asking questions rather than immediately start with accusations. Sometimes, you mightn't know every little detail about the repair process. Asking your contractor to help you do away with any doubts you might have is the best thing to do. Also, asking them while they're still inside your place is ideal. Therefore, plan to be home while your contractor is there repairing the place to kick-start a conversation about this or that issue you've found. Payment holdbackIf you're thinking about tweaking the terms of the contract or modifying milestones, here's the best way to prevent any issues and protect your interests: notify your contractors that there will be a holdback of final funds until everything's done in a manner you find satisfying. Also, the more you're worried about your contractor doing a lousy job, the more you should hold back until you're happy with the work. You'll undoubtedly notice how money changes everything. But important note: you cannot hold back money legally due to the contractor for completed work. This could mean you are in default of the contract giving the contractor reason to terminate the contract. You must always formally notify the contractor of a fault and give them a period to rectify the issue. Always get expert advice. Understanding legal rights when building a new home.  Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash "If necessary, hold back the payment." More tips to avoid problems with your building contractorSince we still have some space left in this article, let's see how you can prevent dealing with a shady contractor in the first place. Try to be nice Since finding good contractors is difficult, you'll need to maintain a good working relationship with them. Once you do find them, that is. Therefore, try to be friendly right from the start, and you might find yourself a renovation partner for life. Common Issues Faced when Monitoring Contractors Make sure "everything's there", in the contract Anything you desire done should be in the contract: the labor, the appliance installations, electrical work, etc. Don't be afraid to be overly detailed. It's better to do that than end up with something you didn't want. If you have a specific vision, make sure that it's in the contact. Home build and renovation contracts part 2 - the rules of the project Is your contractor insured and bonded? Here's why this is important: if your contractor isn't insured, there's nothing you can do if things choose to turn awry. For instance, the state you're a resident of can't protect you in that case. However, if they're insured, you'll have a whole palette of options to choose from. Also, if your contract is "bonded", your lender will help you recover the money they've taken from you. Final thoughts on dealing with a problem contractorThat's all that we've prepared for today on the subject of dealing with a shady contractor. Now you have a set of tips ready once things turn ugly. However, we're hoping you won't find yourself in a situation where you need to use them. Until next time, read a little about various home improvement tips! AuthorMacaulay Lanford is a freelance blogger in love with everything that's got the tiniest bit to do with home maintenance. Much of his work can be seen at usmovingexperts.com Want more expert advice to help you design, build and renovate your home?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 "Some simple plumbing upgrades can help you save water." When conserving water, many think of taking shorter showers, turning off the faucet when brushing their teeth, and using a low-flow shower head. These are all great ways to conserve water, but some simple plumbing upgrades can help you save water too. This blog will tell you about a few of them. Benefits of Implementing Simple Plumbing UpdatesEven small changes to your plumbing can make a big difference in the value and comfort of your home. Upgrading plumbing fixtures, such as faucets, showerheads, and toilets, can dramatically improve your home's look, feel, and efficiency. Modern technologies like water filtration, leak detection, and a hot water recirculation system can be added to your plumbing system to save water, energy, and money. Not only can these upgrades add value to your home, but they can also make it more comfortable and efficient. Installing Low-Flow Fixtures Installing low-flow fixtures is an easy and effective way to save money on water bills while Using a water heater blanket is another good way to stop heat from escaping and save energy and money. conserving water. Traditional toilets, faucets, and showerheads use much more water than low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads. It means you can enjoy the same comfort and convenience without using as much water. Low-flow fixtures come in various styles and designs so that you can find the perfect fit for your home.  "Low-flow fixtures come in various styles and designs so that you can find the perfect fit for your home." Replacing Old Toilets Toilets are one of the most common sources of water waste in the home. If your toilet is over ten years old, it will likely use up to twice as much water as a newer, low-flow toilet. Replacing an old toilet with a new low-flow model can save up to 6,000 gallons of water per year. In addition to being more water-efficient, low-flow toilets are quieter, easier to clean, and more comfortable. Bathroom Design Essentials - What You Should Consider When Designing, Building and Renovating Your Ultimate Bathroom - Part 1 Inspecting and Repairing Leaky Faucets Leaky faucets are another common source of water waste in the home. Over time, even a tiny trickle can waste gallons of water. It's crucial to have a leaky faucet checked out and repaired as soon as you can. Plumbers can check and fix your faucets quickly and effectively, so you can start saving water again as soon as possible.  "Older plumbing pipes can be a major source of wasted water." Installing Water-Saving Devices Installing water-saving devices is a great way to reduce how much water and energy your home uses. There are many products, like water-saving shower heads and faucet aerators, that can help you save water without affecting how well they work. With a few small changes, you can cut your water and energy use by a lot. Installing a Pressure-Reducing Valve Installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) is smart for any homeowner. It reduces the water pressure of your home's main line—typically from 70 psi to 35 psi—and it also helps you conserve water. It's a simple installation for an experienced plumber, and the benefits are well worth it. You won't notice any difference in your showering, water-using appliances, or faucets, but you'll save a lot of water in the long run. Check your water pressure to make sure a PRV is right for you. Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater A professional plumber can easily upgrade your home to a tankless water heater. Not only will this upgrade save you space, but it will save you money as well. You'll always have access to hot water without having to wait for it to heat up. You won't regret making the switch to a tankless water heater! Read This Before Buying a Tankless Water Heater For Your Home Installing Recirculation Pumps Hot water recirculation pumps can be a great way to save energy and water. By putting in a circulator pump, homeowners can have hot water right away when they turn on the tap. They no longer have to run the water for minutes to get it to the right temperature. A recirculation pump is easy for a professional to install, so you won't waste time or energy. A quick and simple solution to cut down on energy and water waste in your home is to get a hot water recirculation pump. Home Hot Water Systems Replacing Old Plumbing Pipes Older plumbing pipes can be a major source of wasted water. If your pipes are more than ten years old, they may be rusted, cracked, or damaged, resulting in lost water. Replacing old plumbing pipes can help you save water and prevent future problems. A plumbing tune-up includes quickly and easily checking and replacing your plumbing pipes, so you can get back to saving water as soon as possible. Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your plumbing system in good working order. Professional plumbers offer full maintenance services for your plumbing that can help you save water and avoid problems in the future. Skilled plumbers can check for leaks in your plumbing system, fix any broken pipes, and replace old fixtures with new ones that use less water.  Image by esudroff from Pixabay "Conserving water is important for the environment and your wallet." Simple plumbing upgrades can help you save water and money.Conserving water is important for the environment and your wallet. More ways to make your home environmentally friendly. Fortunately, several simple plumbing upgrades can help you save water and money. You can save water without giving up comfort or convenience by doing things like installing low-flow fixtures or replacing old plumbing pipes. Contact a professional plumber today for more information about plumbing upgrades and how they can help you save water. AuthorShelby Bartz is the new Content Editor of Precision Air & Plumbing, a full-service HVAC, plumbing and home performance contractor operating in Chandler, Arizona. Want more expert advice to help you design, build and renovate your home?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 "If you’re a handy person, chances are you do a lot of DIY things. However, there are certain things you should never tackle by yourself." If you’re a handy person, chances are you do a lot of DIY things. You’re no stranger to small improvements, repairs, installations, and so on. However, there are certain things you should never tackle by yourself because the type of project is too dangerous or because you might cause damage to your home. In either case, you should get professional help instead of doing the project yourself. But what exactly are these projects that you should never tackle by yourself? Today we hope to help you answer that question, so you and your home can stay safe. We’ve put together a list of DIY home improvements you shouldn’t tackle yourself. You should not install heavy stuff on your ownOne of the DIY home improvements you shouldn’t tackle yourself is installing heavy things. For example, if you’re improving your kitchen and want to install granite countertops. Or any other type of stone countertop, to be honest. By doing it yourself, you risk injuring yourself and breaking the countertops, neither of which are good. On top of ruining your investment, you’d need to spend even more on repairs and hospital bills. So, consider contacting a contractor instead and letting the pros handle the changes. You could even think about changing the style of your kitchen and going through a bigger remodel. After all, it’s best to go through changes like this all at once instead of spreading them out over a long period. After all, a kitchen is something you need daily, so minimizing downtime is essential.  Photo by Mark McCammon www.pexels.com "Installing heavy things, around the kitchen can be risky." Don't add or remove walls by yourselfIt should be pretty self-explanatory, but unless you’re an expert in the area, you can never be sure if removing a wall will make your house structurally unstable. As such, it’s best to leave this sort of work to experts who know how to deal with it. When it comes to adding walls, there are a number of rules to follow in order to keep everything up to code. So, again, this sort of home improvement is best left to the professionals. And if you’re planning some bigger construction projects, make sure to hire a construction project manager. Hiring a professional project manager will help you keep everything on track and make sure everything progresses smoothly. And when it comes to construction projects, things being late can cause all sorts of issues. So, some help to make sure nothing goes wrong tends to go a long way.  "You can never be sure if removing a wall will make your house structurally unstable." Electricity is dangerous leave it to the expertsWhen it comes to DIY home improvements, you should never tackle yourself; electrical installations and repairs are near the top. Electrical systems are intricate, and doing anything with electricity is dangerous. Besides the obvious risk of electrocution, poorly installed electrical systems can easily cause house fires. All it takes is one stray spark for things to catch fire and cause all sorts of issues. So, whether it’s installing something new or repairing something around the house, contact a professional. Also, before you decide to hire someone, make sure to do your research and check they’re licensed. Amateurs can do much damage instead of fixing it, so it’s vital to ensure you’re hiring a reliable professional. Fortunately, in today’s world, it’s very easy to look into businesses like these. Poking around online is typically enough to find out who you’re working with.  Photo by La Miko www.pexels.com "Working with electricity is dangerous" Tiling can be very difficult in some areas Tiling projects are among the easier things to take on, depending on the details. For example, backsplashes are very easy and doing them yourself is typically fine. However, tiling around more critical areas, such as around a shower, can lead to a lot of water damage. So, generally speaking, whenever you need to ensure the tiling is properly waterproofed, you should contact a contractor and make sure it’s done correctly. For example, hiring professionals is the better choice if you’re planning on changing things around the bathroom. Additionally, when you do the tiling yourself, you’ll know precisely where the imperfections are. For example, if one tile is just an eighth of an inch shorter than the rest, you’ll know exactly where it is. And in cases like this, ignorance is usually bliss. So, if you’re bothered by imperfections, hiring professionals is also a good choice.  "Hiring professionals is a better choice if you’re planning on changing things around the bathroom." Avoid doing plumbing improvements yourself Doing small plumbing repairs by yourself is fine. Patching up leaks is something every homeowner should know in the long run. However, anything more than that can cause a lot of issues. For example, when replacing a fixture, or even a pipe, you can create a new leak or make an old one much worse. And, as we already mentioned, water damage is quite expensive to fix. As a matter of fact, water damage is one of the most expensive fixes to do around the house. So, avoiding any problems that could lead to water damage should always be a priority. So, at the end of the day, when fixing more serious issues with your plumbing, always hire a professional. A trustworthy plumber will be able to fix the damage and make sure it doesn’t get any worse. And, of course, do your research first to avoid amateurs.  Photo by Nithin PA www.pexels.com "Most plumbing repairs and installations should be left to professionals" DIY home improvements you shouldn’t tackle yourself wrap up There are quite a few things you can do by yourself around the house without too many issues. Small repairs and improvements here and there that don’t involve a lot of risks for you or your home. Other improvements and repairs, however, should be left to the professionals. This is either because they’re dangerous to you or have a risk of damaging your property. And when it comes to both of these, avoiding them in the first place is the best choice. We hope that this list of DIY home improvements you shouldn’t tackle yourself helps you out, and we wish you a good day. AuthorArthur Green is a contractor who works with Miami Movers for Less to ensure new homeowners are comfortable in their homes and spends his spare time writing articles to spread knowledge. Want more expert advice to help you design, build and renovate your home?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 Image by Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay "A manager coordinating work is one of the reasons to hire a construction project manager" If you've decided to build a home from scratch, or are planning a major addition or renovation in your current home, then you will face the decision of whether you want to hire a construction project manager. This can seem like a waste of money. Especially considering you are already paying contractors whom you can safely assume are professionals. However, before you conclude, check out our seven reasons to hire a construction project manager. Good Project Managers have connections in the industryThe first reason to hire a construction project manager is their connections. You see, planning out a project is all well and good. However, can you guarantee that you will be able to find the best experts to carry it out? What about finding a construction crew that has experience with a very similar project? Even finding a construction crew which has a stellar reputation can prove extremely difficult. After all, just how many contractors have you ever heard of in your city? Casual internet browsing can hardly reveal all of them. And even more, in-depth research can fail you. On the other hand, a construction project manager can help you find the ideal contractors for your needs. They will also be able to help you avoid making the mistake of hiring someone who is not reliable.  "Connections are crucial for finding the best experts in the industry" The right Project Manager has professional knowledgeOf course, one of the more significant reasons to hire a construction project manager is their knowledge. And we are not just talking about their understanding of how to best carry out a construction project. They will also be able to assist you with a whole bevy of other tasks. For example, they typically have great familiarity with local construction laws. You can avoid missing out on some of the required permits and applications. And it's a mistake which can make your entire build illegal! They can even offer design tips for building a fun home or constructing a particular addition or renovation. After all, they've seen plenty of other homes built, which makes them more than qualified to give casual advice on the subject.  "They've seen plenty of other homes built, which makes them more than qualified to give casual advice on the subject" Project Managers can help budget your home construction projectIf you are still not sold on hiring a construction project manager, consider this: their help with budgeting will be invaluable. Again, this is a scenario similar to finding the right company. You know what's needed, in theory. You also likely know the exact amount of materials you will need to build your home. However, how often does reality perfectly align with people's plans? Not very often, that's for sure. In the end, this means that you will frequently run into a situation where you need to make additional purchases. And purchasing small quantities of building materials is actually more expensive than when you buy them in bulk. So, experienced construction project managers can help you predict these problems and allow you to acquire the necessary materials you will need all at once. Project Managers can ensure your home reno project is finished on time "Project Managers can help keep your project on track" Yet another reason to hire a construction project manager is the fact that they will help keep your project on track and on time. There are many reasons why your project might start flagging and encounter delays. For example, your insistence on trying to make your home more pet friendly and the additions that stem from that can end up causing minor delays as they are incorporated. Your construction project manager can help spot these potential problems in advance and either call in more workers or simply organize their tasks better to compensate. This 'simple' adjustment can mean the difference between floundering to hit the deadline and finishing with leisure. Also, remember that construction crews rushing to complete a project are often liable to make mistakes. Mistakes that can easily compromise the quality of the build itself! Home building projects have problems - Project Managers can resolve issuesWe've hinted at it already, but construction project managers are highly valued for their problem-solving ability. A construction project rarely goes from start to finish without something going wrong. It is impossible to eliminate human error despite people's best efforts to do so. And this means that your own build will likely run into some kind of trouble sooner rather than later. Without a construction project manager, this might mean a lengthy and chaotic process of trying to untangle and fix the mess. If you even have the required knowledge for how best to do it at all, that is. With a construction project manager? You can relax and watch them do their job, turning a potential disaster into just another day of routine work. Coordinating construction crewsAnother reason to have a construction project manager on the job is that they are experts at crew coordination. Frequently, the biggest issues during a project result from bad scheduling and problems with your workers. This isn't to say it's necessarily their fault. For example, if a couple of your construction workers get sick, you can hardly blame them for missing their shifts. But, this would still mean facing a worker shortage, which in turn causes a string of delays and issues. A project manager can better communicate with the construction workers, help organize their shifts, and account for sudden changes such as the one we gave as an example.  "Frequently, the biggest issues during a project result from bad scheduling and problems with your workers" Build your home safelyThe final reason to hire a construction project manager is increased on-site safety. Everyone knows that construction work is often dangerous. Hauling heavy materials and construction equipment around, often at considerable heights, is not exactly easy or safe. And a regular person, even a professional with plenty of experience at their job, cannot constantly remain alert and careful. Admittedly, even a project manager won't be able to force the issue and get them to be at their best every moment of their workday. But, they can ensure they've taken all the necessary steps to mitigate the damage done to themselves and the building. Home building projects benefit from having a good Project ManagerKnowing about the seven reasons to hire a construction project manager, you can now make a more informed decision. The risks of refusing to hire a manager are apparent, so it is always best to have one backing you up if you face a more significant project. AuthorCiel Brown is an experienced construction worker, handyman, and mover currently associated with Number 1 Movers Canada. He likes to share his knowledge and experience with people who might find it helpful through informative blog posts. Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 Photo by Nothing Ahead: www.pexels.com "Finding a competent and honest contractor is one of the hardest parts of remodeling your home." Finding a competent and honest contractor is one of the hardest parts of remodeling your home. As a homeowner, you probably know that many unreliable contractors are out there. But you will never know how hard it is to find a good contractor until you start looking for one. Every contractor you speak to before you start your home renovation project will tell you how good of a contractor they are. But a short while after you hire them, you may realize they are no good. Maybe the contractor doesn’t show up when they say they will or don’t answer their phone. "If you hire the wrong contractor for your remodeling project, you could spend years trying to reverse the impact of that single wrong decision." Even worse, that contractor may use substandard materials on your house. If you hire the wrong contractor for your remodeling project, you could spend years trying to reverse the impact of that single wrong decision. (Will Your New Home Be Fit To Live In) That is why before hiring a contractor, you want to ensure they are the right fit for the project. How do you identify a great contractor from a bad contractor? Is there a system for filtering contractors to identify the bad ones before hiring them? What are the things to pay attention to when looking for a contractor to oversee your remodeling project? This post will answer those questions. Tips for finding a great contractor for your home remodeling project1. Build your contractor list The larger the number of potential contractors you speak to before you start the project, the greater the possibility of finding a good one. Talking to many contractors helps you gain perspective. Each contractor will behave differently; their words and actions become the basis for comparing one contractor against the other. How do you find contractors for your list?  Photo by Mikael Blomkvist: www.pexels.com "Talking to many contractors helps you gain perspective." 2. Deploy the power of your network The best way to populate your contractor list is to explore your connections. As a homeowner, you probably know other homeowners; talk to your neighbors and friends. Ask your handyman and the local real estate agent. Visit the hardware store and ask if they can recommend someone. Using your network makes it easier to find active contractors for your home building project in your locality 3. Prescreening the contractors Your opinion of a contractor starts to form the minute you speak to them on the phone or by the way they answer your email. When screening contractors, every little detail matters. If you find something you don’t like during those early interactions – maybe they are late or don’t like being asked many questions – you may be sure there will be more. 4. Experience and qualifications  Photo by Gustavo Fring: www.pexels.com "A good contractor will ask questions to understand your goals for the project and be happy to offer advice." The right contractor has experience working on similar projects or homes as yours. They should have operated in the city for a few years. They should show you their state contractor’s license. A good contractor will often have good standing with the local chapter of their professional body. They will ask questions to understand your goals for the project and be happy to offer advice. 5. Check online reviews If your first meeting with a contractor goes well, you can go ahead with this next step; Google them. Enter the contractor’s name and city, along with words like scam or rip-off, into the search bar to see what comes up. Check what others say about the contractor on services like Yelp and Google Business. Look for bad reviews and check how the contractor responds to them. "A reliable contractor should list past customers willing to vouch for them." 6. Ask for references A reliable contractor should list past customers willing to vouch for them. Ask the contractor to give you a list of past clients. These should be people who live around your area and be recent projects (maximum of three years). Call these customers and ask them to visit the project to see the contractor’s work. Ask them about their experience working with the contractor. (14 Questions to ask your building contractor's clients) 7. Employees, partnerships, and equipment  How many employees does the contractor have, and what are the qualifications of those employees? How many part-time versus permanent workers are on their payroll? Do they have binding contracts with subcontractors and suppliers? What kind of relationships and partnerships have they built over the years? What equipment do they have? 8. Insurance and bonding "The minimum you should expect regarding a contractor’s insurance policies is workers’ compensation, personal liability, and property damage insurance." You want to see and be able to verify the contractor’s certificate of insurance. The minimum you should expect regarding a contractor’s insurance policies is workers’ compensation, personal liability, and property damage insurance. A bonded contractor is even better. The bond ensures you will be compensated if the contractor abandons the project midway. 9. Request and compare prices You want to have a shortlist of 3-5 contractors for your project, companies that meet the above criteria. Ask each short-list contractor to give you a quotation for the project and a sample contract.  Compare the different documents; how materials are priced, how they charge for their work, the payment schedule, and how disputes will be resolved. Choose the contractor who demonstrates the most professionalism and shows the most transparency. Checking Your Contractor's Price (Quotation) Finding a dependable and skilled contractor for your home renovationHiring a reputable contractor for your upcoming home remodeling project is crucial. It can mean the difference between successful work and future financial and logistical hardships. The hardest element of home improvement projects is typically not the actual job itself. The real challenge is finding a dependable and skilled contractor to do the task. AuthorEnvy Property Management is a professional property management company in South Ogden, UT. We manage properties all over Northern Utah. You can find out more about us at http://www.envypropertymanagement.com. Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 "there's nothing quite like having a designated space for entertaining friends and family" If you're like most people, you have a home that you love. But if you don't have an area for entertaining, then it's time to think about making some changes. Even if your home is small or has other rooms that can be used as dining areas or lounging spaces, there's nothing quite like having a designated space for entertaining friends and family. This post will go over what makes the ideal entertaining home and how to achieve it in your own home. Dining with Style in your HomeTo host a dinner party, you will need a dining table that seats 8-10 people. You can never have too many guests over for dinner. The table should be long enough to cover the entire length of the table with a single white or black tablecloth. A cotton or linen cloth will breathe as well and won’t wrinkle easily if it gets folded up like synthetic fabrics do when they are ironed and pressed. Entertaining KitchenFor your home to be the ultimate entertaining space, you have to give your guests a place where they can feel comfortable and at home. This means ensuring the kitchen is large enough to accommodate everyone visiting (and possibly cooking) during the party. If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen, you should consider how many people you want to entertain. Here are a few features you should consider in your kitchen: · A kitchen island or peninsula is ideal because it serves as a gathering point for friends and family members while they enjoy their meals. It also gives you an opportunity to show off some of your cooking skills · A large pantry can hold all those extra bags of chips and dip guests bring over when they come for a party. This gives them somewhere safe to store them so that their favorite snacks don't go stale in cabinets or on countertops · If you're hosting a big get-together, consider having one or two places where people can sit down while they're eating food straight from the oven  Photo by R ARCHITECTURE on Unsplash "A kitchen aisle is great for people to try out food while it's being prepared" Outdoor Spaces for EntertainingOutdoor spaces are the perfect venue for entertaining. They can be used in all seasons, day or night, with or without a roof. This means you can host a party at your home no matter what the weather is like outside. You can also create an area that's easy to keep clean after your guests leave so that it looks great all year long! Here are a few ideas: · A garden room: This can be a great space to create an outdoor dining area. It's also a great place to have your guests wait while you prepare for them inside · An outdoor kitchen: This is a great place to put your grill and other cooking equipment. You can also use it as a buffet table for serving food · A water feature: Adding something unique, like a pond or fountain, can make your backyard look more interesting. It's also great for entertaining because it gives guests something to look at while they're waiting for you to bring out the food  Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash "Good food, nice weather, and an inviting outdoor living space, will make for a joyous and memorable occasion with family and friends" Think about different types of outdoor spaces that you can create before you start this project. Some are more suited to a formal setting, while others are perfect for an informal get-together. Create Inviting Lounging AreasIt's important to create a comfortable area where your guests can relax, so you should use inviting and comfy furniture. Remember that the lighting in this room should be good for reading or watching television. The last thing you need is to have people squinting at their phones because they can't read their texts from across the room! Your lounge should be close enough to the kitchen so that it doesn't take too long to get snacks and drinks when everyone gets hungry. Create a Bar AreaWhen hosting a party or event, creating a space your guests will want to spend time in is important. A bar area is an excellent way to do this. If you have the space, it’s also helpful if the bar area can be accessed from other areas of your house so that guests don’t feel like they need to rush through before heading back out into the rest of your home. If you don't have room for an actual bar with stools and such, consider using part of an existing wall or creating something temporary with cardboard boxes. It should be noted, though, that this can get messy quickly! Now let's talk about some more permanent options Additional Home AmenitiesYou’ve already got a great place to host guests, but there are some other amenities you can add to your home that will make it even more inviting and comfortable. If you have the space, consider adding a fireplace or library. A fireplace is especially nice if it's cold outside because it adds heat as well as ambiance.  Photo by Robin van Geenen on Unsplash "A fireplace could bring a cozy atmosphere to your living room" A library is another great place for people to hang out and talk about books or movies. It's also a good way for your guests to feel like they're at home (feel free to bring along an extra blanket or pillow). In case your friends have kids, you should consider creating a kid-friendly area in your home, too. If you don't have room in your house for either of these, consider adding them to an outbuilding on your property. If neither of those options works for you, think about building an outdoor fire pit. It'll provide warmth while still being outside! An Entertaining Home Connects PeopleThe first thing you should do to design the ultimate entertaining home is to make sure you have an area to entertain people. This doesn't mean that you need a full bar or a fireplace, but having somewhere with comfortable seating and a TV or tablet will be essential. The next step is to choose the right furniture for your space. For example, if you're going for a modern look, you'll want to choose furniture with clean lines and bold colors. You could also choose leather or microfiber sofas for a more luxurious look. Designing a Home for EntertainingWe are sure you’re ready to get started on creating your own entertaining home. As with any other design project, it’s essential to begin by deciding what kinds of activities are going to happen where and how they will work together as a cohesive unit. We hope these tips have inspired you to make your home an inviting place where friends and family can gather for great times! AuthorStella Russel is an experienced blogger and copywriter. For the last six years, she’s been writing articles for various clients, including Kokusai Express Japan. Her topics of choice are related to travel, moving, transportation and lifestyle. Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 If you're a pet owner, then you have an additional family member you love unconditionally. As you want what's best for them at all times, you'll probably need to adjust your home to their needs. Whether you think that dangers wait around every corner, or you just want to make your residence more comfortable to them, it will take some effort and imagination. We want to help you with that, so here are some home improvement ideas to make your home more pet-friendly. Building a kitty highway in your homeIf you want to earn genuine affection and respect from the little Egyptian goddesses, set them free. Make sure they have a way to go on their mandatory secret meeting with the moon, grass, and other cats at night (at least, we think that's what happens every night when they wander around). Jumping and climbing are two of a cat's favorite activities. You can keep your cat active without giving up any valuable square footage by installing catwalks and perches in a few or all of your rooms. In reality, you install a cat highway that is higher than normal eye level, preserving considerable wall space open for windows, art, or pictures. When designing a cat freeway, you have many leeways. But there are a few features you should integrate to make it safe and enticing for kittens and older cats equally. Keep “in and out ramps” approximately two feet from the floor. In a small area, furniture like tables and cushioned chair backs are a must. There are also prefabricated cat structures like towers or scratching posts. Make sure the "entrance and exit ramps" won't tumble over under any circumstances.  Photo by Arina Krasnikova: www.pexels.com "You can provide an exciting and modernly designed highway for your cat with a little imagination" Built in dog beds are a neat space saver for your homeGiving your dog a specific bedtime spot is recommended by many pet experts. Dog cages are used by some homeowners to provide your doggo with its own bedroom. Crates, however, aren't necessarily aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, they may be somewhat bulky. Instead, put pet beds inside:
 "Give your furry friend a place to sleep and incorporate it into your design" Mud rooms are useful additions for a home with petsMudrooms are useful for both people and their household pets. Maintain a size that is appropriate for your household. A mudroom is a must if you have a large family or frequent visitors, such as children, grandchildren, or pets. Back or side entrances were the traditional locations for mudrooms. However, if the front door is the most often used entry, a mudroom is still a good idea. A mudroom that is both stylish and functional and that leads directly into the entryway may be made with little effort. You may have a classier entryway and a handy spot to clean off dirty paws with this layout. So, if you're building your family home from scratch, make sure to consider it. Place a bench with drawers below in the mudroom, no matter its size. Don't cut corners if you want everything to work properly—incorporate hooks, which serve well for hanging things like jackets, hats, and damp towels. Put goodies, trash bags, and playthings on shelves for easy access. A dog washing station is a handy addition in a pet-friendly houseWhen designing a mudroom, don't forget to provide a place to clean your shoes and other gear. However, one may be installed in a basement washing machine room as well. In both single-family homes and high-rise apartments, it's common practice to install a dog washing station in one of the units' bathrooms. Dog washing stations are the most popular kind of pet-friendly home upgrade right now. Owners of dogs like the convenience of dog-specific washing stations since they no longer have to lift their dogs into bathtubs or laundry tubs. A majority of them resemble miniature versions of standard shower cubicles. However, those who have tiny pets generally prefer a counter-height, tiled tub that gives the impression of being sunken. It doesn't have to be expensive but can pay offBoth hot and cold water, a spray nozzle, and a ledge or recess for shampoo and combs are standard features of washing stations. Including a dog washing station in your remodel doesn't have to break the bank. Realtor anecdotal data, though, suggests you'll more than get your money back if you sell to someone who already has a dog.  Photo by Rob Waller: www.pexels.com "Your pet will be happier with a washing station, and you don’t have to spend much money on it." Creating a safe place for pets to eat in your homeThe vast majority of pet owners want their feline and canine companions to join the family at the dinner table. However, the kitchen is often the busiest part of the house, and pet bowls may be easily knocked over. Kibble, water, and even wet food might be tracked around the kitchen if your pet is a sloppy eater. A built-in feeding station is a fantastic addition to any pet-friendly house since it helps maintain a tidy space and provides structure during feeding times. Make sure to keep it in style with the rest of the space and pick a suitable color for it. Why is it important to make your home more pet-friendly?Your pet is another member of your family. Just like you would think about making your home appropriate and safe for your children, you need to take into account your pet's needs. After all, a little doggo or a kitty is just another child - curious, adventurous, and in need of additional care. So, make sure to consider all of these improvement ideas to make your home more pet-friendly. Your little furry friend will undoubtedly love it, and you'll enjoy having a happy pet in your household. AuthorJean Snow, a home renovation consultant at Next Stop Movers and a mother of two, dedicated her life to helping people get the homes of their dreams. Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 Photo by Zhengdong Hu: www.pexels.com "Basement remodelling can be exciting but there are dangers to be aware of" Basement remodeling is arguably the most exciting kind of remodeling. Everyone wants their basement to be a personal safe space (a cave, if you will), and there are many things you can do to get there. However, today, we're not talking about those things. Instead, we'll cover things you should not do in all that excitement. Here are six mistakes to avoid when remodeling your basement. 1# Don't disregard safety regulations when you renovate and remodelThe first and most important home improvement tip is - to follow the rules. Any work done in a basement must adhere to all applicable building regulations. Stair riser height and the need for railings are two aspects of construction that may be governed by such standards, along with those about fire safety. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure that all design elements comply with any local building regulations. Failure to comply with construction rules or get the necessary licenses might result in expensive penalties and make it harder to sell the property in the future. As a result, before hiring a contractor for a renovation, homeowners should get in touch with the city's local building authority. So, familiarize yourself with the regulations it enforces, and make sure your contractor files for the necessary permits.  Photo by Pixabay: www.pexels.com "Ensure the correct paperwork is done before starting alterations and home improvement projects" 2# Too many walls can make basements crampedWe get it. Most of the crucial machinery is stored below there. So, you do need to consider some separate space for storage. Also, if different persons in your family want to use the basement differently, you'll have to make some compromises. Maybe you want quiet and productive office space, but your kids want a playroom. And, of course, you'll have the urge to solve that problem by simply separating the room with walls. Nonetheless, it would help if you considered how the arrangement of the area would change after installing them. Adding too many walls might make the basement seem cramped and unwelcoming. Homeowners should choose fewer walls and more ingenious concealment solutions for all the excessive stuff. Put some stuff into a storage facility. Instead of letting all the excess stuff prevent you from having your dream basement, you should consider some other storage options. In cases like this, storage and moving professionals suggest looking for an appropriate storage unit. It's essential to pick the size that fits your needs so you can leave your belongings without any worry on your mind. 3# Don't use real wood floors in the basementA wooden floor in your home is a great way to improve the overall look. However, this flooring is better suited for more prominent areas of your house, such as the top stories. Again, this is because of the humidity-related problems with basement flooring made of wood. If you're a homeowner, the last thing you want is to see your brand-new hardwood flooring becoming moldy and ruined. However, you can find engineered wood and vinyl plank flooring that successfully imitates the look of real wood. This flooring and any adhesives you use with it is a better long-term option for a damp basement.  Photo by Pixabay: www.pexels.com "Real wood is not a good option for flooring in your basement – there are many scenarios where it ends up damaged" 4# Choose the proper insulation for your basementInsulation is crucial to making your basement livable, but many homeowners choose the wrong insulation. Houses must have walls with a minimum R-value to prevent air leakage, according to local building requirements. Because of their underground location, basements can get damp due to condensation. Fiberglass insulation may quickly turn moldy if exposed to this moisture, which can lead to more severe problems down the road. 5# Do not omit HVAC systems for your basementUnfortunately, that is one of the most overlooked aspects of home improvement projects. To be completely real and honest, the basement is the place in your house where moisture is most likely to build up over time. Typically, this is because it is placed below street level. Unfortunately, because basement mold usually develops slowly over time, it is seldom covered by homeowners' insurance. That implies that issues with air quality and hidden harm may not become apparent for months or even years. While GA building codes mandate heating, air conditioning is essential for dehumidifying the air and eliminating moisture vapor travelling through the walls from outside. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that the basement's ability to maintain a constant cool temperature throughout the year is the essential factor in the basement's value. However, the air conditioner's primary goal is to improve indoor air quality. 6# Basements require adequate lightingEvery room in your house needs proper lighting. However, this is particularly crucial for basements, which often have few windows and hence little natural light. Poor illumination in a basement may create an unwelcoming and frigid atmosphere. Therefore, the work homeowners invested in making their place more appealing might be undone by this. Basements often have low ceilings, making recessed lighting an excellent option for essential lighting. Homeowners may also add lamps and ambiance lighting to improve a room's ambiance. Doing something as simple as changing the lights in the basement can be one of the best home improvement projects. You can transform basements into inviting spaces that visitors won't want to leave with the help of strategic lighting design.  Photo by Vecislavas Popa: www.pexels.com "Proper lighting can significantly improve your interior when remodeling your basement" Remodeling your basement can be a blastNow, you might have understood that this kind of home improvement brings nothing but trouble. And that's so far from the truth. Of course, there are some things to look out for. But, if you avoid these six basic mistakes when remodeling your basement, the whole process can be a walk in the park. And a pleasant one, with a beautiful reward at the end of the road! So, don't be afraid to dive into this kind of project. Form an idea of your dream basement in your head and bring it to reality! AuthorAuthor and home remodeling blogger, Samantha Byrde loves to share her knowledge about all things home-related. Sam loves to design and create beautiful living spaces that help homeowners realize their dreams. Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
 "Keep your child safe and keep everything else safe from your child" As a parent, you already know that most of the time, you are alternating between keeping your child safe and keeping everything else safe from your child. That is the main principle in mind when you renovate your new home to make it more kid friendly. Your kids' safety is a priority, of course. But you also need to think of the longevity of your new home features under the extreme conditions kids sometimes impose on it. Here are some tips on how to achieve just that. Make your kitchen more-kid friendly by making everything hard to reachWhen you renovate your home to make it more kid-friendly, there are several things you can do in your kitchen. Our most precious family members tend to be curious, and kitchens have a very high disaster potential. It is simply impossible to remove all dangerous objects as they are necessary for cooking. The best tactic to adopt here is to make whatever you can out of kids' reach. You can achieve this by making the following home adjustments. Push-to-open mechanisms deter the kids from opening cupboards A child is a marvelous creature with a curious mind that often tells them: "Oh look, there's a handle! Open it, open it, you must open it!". This is simply how they learn. The unconscious mechanism in their heads drives them to inspect everything they see. Instead of teaching them not to open your drawers and cabinets, why not try and remove the handles and install push-to-open mechanisms? Without handles, kids would have to search for the exact spot to push, which would be hard to locate without the adult's assistance. Most of them will give up. And there you go, no more open cabinets and spread dishes on your kitchen floor. A mid-mount wall oven is a safe way to bake A mid-mount wall oven is a safe and practical solution when you plan to renovate your new home to make it more kid friendly. Not to mention that you would not be bending over to get the food out of the hot oven. You can leave the kitchen and do other work using a mid-mount wall. On the other hand, using an oven installed on the floor requires you to watch your kids when they are in the kitchen so they wouldn't try to open it. So, the oven mounted on a higher level saves you time and is easier to handle.  pexels-max-vakhtbovych "Make whatever you can out of kids' reach" For homes with children, light colors and delicate materials are not a good fitEvery parent knows that his lovely child's tiny little hands are almost always dirty. Also, a human needs many years to fully develop their motor skills and pair them with enough caution to avoid spilling things. So there is a good chance that your child will spill juice or milk at least once on every surface they use, sofa included. For these reasons, light-colored furniture, where stains may decide to stay, is not a good choice. Also, delicate materials that need to be handled with care may find it hard to survive tiny (and often damaged) car races and similar play-date attacks. A robust, dark-grey sofa might be able to resist it all and would be a great choice, though. When you renovate your new home to make it more kid-friendly, all that is sharp must goAn active child that likes to run around is a joy to have, but it is a nightmare to keep safe. You can make it a lot easier if you refurbish your home to remove all sharp edges. Pay attention to tables, chairs, and even wardrobe doors and frames. Little girls running with their hair down can get stuck on the door handles. For that reason, maybe you should opt for doorknobs instead. As for glass and mirror components, it might be best to restrict them to the master bedroom and the bathroom, preferably the one your kid isn't using. And yes, it is very likely a child will accidentally fall straight through a closed glass door, as is the case with all unlikely accidents with sharp or breakable stuff. In general, our lovely babies tend to find unique ways to do just what we thought impossible, so it is best to eliminate the hazard points from your home as much as possible. Redesign your kid’s room to have sufficient space for all those toysHe who hasn't stepped on a Lego knows not of pain. Having a child often means you will find toys in all kinds of unusual places, especially on the floor. Yet, chances are better if they all have their place where they wait for another imaginative game to be part of. They will not spend their days on the floor and risk getting stepped on by you. There are many reasons one should choose to increase storage space when renovating a home. Bear in mind that having a child doubles the number of those reasons.  pexels-jonas-mohamadi Renovating and relocating is a good chance to declutter and regroupRenovating a newly purchased home is very exciting. But don't pass on the opportunity to declutter your kid's stuff. Children tend to cling to all their beloved toys. When you tell them to give some away, even those they are not using. They might even get upset. Decluttering your kid's stuff will go unnoticed and problem-free if done during the relocation. It might seem like unnecessary additional work, but it is a perfect opportunity you shouldn't miss. Even a local move may turn out to be a lot of work, yet you must make your kids a priority. If you have an attic, turn it into a playroomImagine the smile on your kid's face when you show them a room with the sole purpose of spending time playing in it. With a bit of remodeling, the attic can be that room. If you decide to renovate your home to make it more kid-friendly, and you have an attic, consider turning it into a playroom. Not only will your child be ecstatic, but you will also manage to relocate a large amount of your kid's stuff away from everyday living space. And most importantly, your own living space will be toy-free, and no one will complain.  "An active child that likes to run around is a joy to have, but it is a nightmare to keep safe." Renovating for a happy child and a happy youSo, to sum everything up, if you want to renovate your new home to make it more kid friendly, you need always to imagine your child running with dirty hands around the home. The design and colors that will last and will not hurt your kid are a top choice for families with kids. Also, don't forget the ton of toys you need to find a place for. With all that in mind, there's a good chance you will have both a tidy home and a happy child! AuthorBethany Walker is an interior designer and a parent of two. Over the years, she specialized in storage solutions and has worked for beltwaymovers.com, a moving company that offers relocation and storage services. Her advice related to creating the best home solutions has helped many. Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?
Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. ("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****) These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook. This article is a guest post and the owners of this website take no responsibility for the content or it's originality. The website publishes this article in good faith with the undertaking from the author and supplier that the content has not been plagiarised. Please report any errors in the article to the website owners. Should you prove the content is not original the article will be immediately taken down.
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AuthorI’m a construction professional, author of several successful construction management books, and a home owner. I’ve made mistakes in construction management, I’ve seen others make mistakes, but importantly I’ve had multiple successful construction projects and I’ve learned from the mistakes. I want to share these lessons and my knowledge with you. Also available from:
Amazon Au, Amazon DE, Amazon ES, Amazon CA, Amazon IT, Amazon FR, Amazon NL, Amazon India and 'An Introduction to Building Houses - Volume 2 Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home'
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