High-ROI Outdoor Living Components
Outdoor living has become a coveted feature for many homeowners and those looking to buy. In 2026, landscape architecture has shifted from something that is purely ornamental to features that are functional and resilient. The American Society of Landscape Architects says a professionally designed landscape can increase a home’s value by anywhere from 15 to 20 percent. Some projects can yield a return on investment of even more — even recuperating the entire cost.
Where is a homeowner to start when it comes to maximizing the potential of a landscape? These projects and components can be a good place to start.
Natural stone patios: A high-quality patio can o er a reat . hese patios may use the same stone levels and lines as the interior of the home.
Outdoor kitchens: HGTV says an outdoor itchen can ran e from per cent to 200 percent, depending on the location and comparable homes in the area. High-value versions include built-in grills, weather-resistant cabinetry, and stone prep areas.
Climate-controlled pergolas: Pergolas on their own can add interest and function to outdoor spaces. Those that feature motorized louvers that adjust for sun and rain have become a luxury essential for many
homeowners. They help extend the usability of outdoor spaces during various seasons.
Smart lighting systems: Integrated systems with LED lights controlled by apps are now major selling points for homes. These systems improve security and curb appeal at night. According to Urban Oasis Contracting, outdoor lighting doesn’t just show a space, but also transforms it. Adding carefully placed li hts can rede ne the prop erty in distinct ways.
Softscaping improvements: Mature trees can add character to a property and also reduce cooling costs via natural shade. Landscapes that require low irrigation are outperforming traditional lawns, according to Organic Valley.
Homeowners looking to get great returns on outdoor living investments can consider prized improvements that transform exterior living spaces.
Did You Know?
he market research experts at Business Research Insights report that the three-season sunroom market size is projected to nearly double between 2025 and 2035. BRI reports that 65 percent of homeo ners prefer cost e ec tive sunrooms when seeking to extend their living space. The popularity of sunrooms can be traced to a number of variables, including year-round access to a home’s surrounding landscape. That access might be hindered if the only spaces to experience nature is a patio, deck or another traditional type of outdoor living space. But sunrooms, particularly those equipped with heating and cooling, can bring homeowners in touch with nature during times of year when they might otherwise be compelled to steer clear of their outdoor living spaces due to less welcoming weather.
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Cost-E ective Curb Appeal Boosters
One shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. However, that often is hard to do, particularly when it comes to homes. Curb appeal ears si ni cant influence re ardin ho a property is perceived. A property that is neat and aesthetically appealing probably will be preferable to one that looks like the homeowners did not maintain it.
Boosting curb appeal is a common focus of sellers before listing a property. But what can those who don’t have big budgets for major overhauls do to improve their curb appeal?
lenty of pro ects can o er ma imum out put with minimal investment.
Refresh the front door
Painting the front door can add brightness and improve the look of a home s entry ay. ost e terior paint costs between $30 and $40 per gallon, so this is undeniably a budget-friendly improvement. If money allows, replacing the door altogether will generate bang for your buck. Improve or add landscaping elements
Landscaping should be designed to highlight the home’s best features. It should look symmetrical and feel manicured. If it’s not possi le to plant ne flo ers or ushes, simply cleaning up debris and weeds, and trimmin e istin reenery can make it feel neater and more polished.
Clean up
Power-washing the siding, cement walkways and garage door
can create instant impact. It’s amazing how much dirt and mildew can reduce the luster of a home. leanin o years of rime can e a fast and ine pensi e refresh.
Reseal the driveway
Make sure the driveway is clean and tidy. If it has cracks or discoloration, llin in crac s and applyin a ne coat of sealer ill ma e a i di er ence. Homeowners can hire someone to reseal the driveway or do the work on their own.
Add more lighting
Updating front porch lights and accent lights around the property will cast a more positive glow on a home, both literally and urati ely.
Add a seating area
If space by the front door allows, add a bench or some chairs to create a welcoming seating area. A potted plant or two nearby will help the area seem intentional. Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. A few easy touches can boost the look of any property.
What is the 3-5-7 Rule?
ome design trends come and go, but one that has inspired a legion of committed followers is the 3-5-7 rule.
The 3-5-7 rule is a formula for interior decorating that encourages
homeowners to group furnishings in odd numbers. The intention behind such groupings is to ensure homes feel balanced and intentional ithout sacri cin aesthetic appeal.
Adherents to the 3-5-7 rule feel that odd-numbered groupings allow for an ide-
al blend of scale and height that creates a natural rhythm within interior spaces. Some even insist that odd groupings appear more curated. Size can come into play when pivoting to the 3-57 approach to interior design.
Three large furnishings can be arranged (i.e., sofa, area rug and a large piece of all art , e mid si ed items chairs, co ee ta le, etc. and seven small pieces (candles, framed photos, etc.)
How Trees and Plants Can Change the Look of a Landscape
Spring
home renovation season, and no area of a home is o limits. hat includes home e teriors, particularly in re ard to landscapin .
a n and arden centers dra cro ds on sprin ee ends, as home o ners are an ious to et out in the yard after spendin more time indoors o er the inter. lants and trees pro ide a simple and uni ue ay to trans form the loo and feel of a property. s homeo ners ponder hat can e done to freshen up their landscapes, they can consider these ene ts of in corporatin ne plants and trees into their properties.
Add some pops of color. here s no shorta e of colorful plants to add some pops of color to a property. a leas, lilacs, pansies, and, of course, rose ushes can add a ide ran e of colors to a landscape, pro idin undenia le and a e inspirin cur appeal hen the plants loom.
Native plants won’t compromise their neighbors. hen choos in plants for a landscape, it s important to pic those accustomed to the local cli
mate. non nati e plant mi ht e a le to ithstand local conditions, ut it also mi ht compromise other trees and plants on a property. hen choosin ne plants and trees for a landscape, or ith professionals at a local la n and arden center to identify nati e plants that can handle local eather conditions and do so ithout puttin e istin plants on the property in eop ardy.
Trees can add considerable privacy. omeo ners ho don t ant fencin , or those hose to ns or homeo ners associations on t allo fencin , may loo to trees to add the pri acy typically pro ided y fences. he ro th rates of trees ary y spe cies, so homeo ners ho ant instant pri acy should loo for trees that are already tall and or fast ro in . ee dlepoint holly hich reach an a era e height of 10 to 15 feet) and sweet viurnum to feet at maturity are fast ro in species to consider hen plantin for pri acy. reen iant ar or itae are a popular pri acy tree, as they can reach si ni cant hei hts and idths ithin a fe years of ein planted. nd hile it s al ays ood to consult a la n and arden center for
Conservation
Various
Preserve Your Pile: Carpet Maintenance Tips
Carpeting adds warmth and comfort underfoot, but residential carpeting is a si ni cant nancial in estment. Homeowners should do all they can to ensure carpeting remains in ood condition for as lon as possi le. According to the Carpet and Rug Institute, properly maintained carpet may last et een and years. o e er, ithout the ri ht care, the durability of carpet can be slashed in half. aintainin carpetin is not ust a out preser in aesthetic appeal pro tecting carpeting from too much wear and tear helps manage indoor air quality and maintain home alue. hese guidelines can help any homeowner protect their pile.
ing shoes upon entering the home will cut down on the amount of soil that reaches the carpet. Utilize high-quality mats. lace mats oth outside and inside of e ery entrance to cut down on the amount of debris that is trac ed into a home. he industrial mattin company o ra indicates at least 15 feet of matting is required to remo e the ma ority of dirt and de ris from foot tra c. arpet industry e perts refer to this as the ule of .
Remove shoes when coming indoors. Industry experts say that the ma ority of the soil enterin a home is dry particulate matter that is brought in on the soles of shoes. articulates can act li e micro a rasi es that rind a ainst carpet ers, dullin the sheen and ea enin the structure. emo
Frequently vacuum the home. he recommends acuumin hi h tra c areas daily, hile other ar eas around the home may require less attention. acuumin remo es dry soil before it can be ground into the backin of carpetin . or the est results, a acuum cleaner ith a lter ill ensure the machine e ecti ely remo es dust instead of ust redistri utin it into the air hile acuumin . Get a deep cleaning. a or car pet manufacturers, including Shaw and oha , re uire ot ater traction e ery to months on
Western
Apply a protectant. While most new carpets come with a factory-applied nish to protect ers, this ears o o er time. eapplyin a carpet pro tector (like ScotchgardTM) creates a shield that lowers the surface tension of the ers, helpin homeo ners clean up spills fast before stains set in. educin dirt trac ed inside, acu
uming frequently and arranging for periodic professional deep-cleaning will help prolong the longevity of residential carpeting.
How to Make a Laundry Room a More Functional Space
unctionality is important when designing the interior spaces in a home. Homeowners who redesign their interior spaces can emphasize functionality to help reduce clutter and create a more e cient and e en calmin space.
Laundry rooms may not be the most glamorous rooms in a home, but they do get lots of usage, particularly in homes with children. Because laundry rooms tend to e ell tra c ed areas, it ma es sense for homeo ners to ma e them as functional and user-friendly as possible. With that in mind, homeo ners can consider these tips to ma e laundry rooms more functional spaces. Purchase laundry pedestals with storage capacity. Laundry pedestals ma e useful additions to a laundry room. Many homeowners place their washing machines and dryers on top of pedestals with storage drawers, which can be used to store e erythin from dryer sheets to clothes irons to stain remo al its. edestals can be particularly useful in cramped laundry rooms where the only means to adding storage is to go up
and not out.
Install a freestanding laundry sink. laundry sin also adds func tion to a laundry room by enabling homeowners to hand wash certain clothes and apply stain remo al prod ucts in the same space where the rest of their clothes are being cleaned. Installin a laundry sin is a relati ely in e pensi e o , ut the cost may o up if ne plum in , entin or electrical or is necessary.
Add a countertop workspace. If you already ha e ample stora e and won’t be placing the washer or dryer
atop a
A countertop workspace above a dry-
provides an accessible space to fold laundry the moment it
the likelihood that clothes will become
and ensuring you won’t put o foldin
n tall float n hel e . Floating shelves won’t cost a lot of money, but they can be ideal in cramped laundry rooms. Shelves provide a space to store detergent and other items that may not t inside laundry pedestals, includin baskets.
han n tora e. Some articles of clothing should not be dried in a dryer for fear of shrinking the fabric or destroying the item. In such instances, some readily accessible hanging storage capacity can make the laundry room more functional. Items can be hung on hangers or over a hanging rack suspended from the ceiling if space is minimal.
Laundry rooms are heavily used spaces in a home, so it makes sense to take steps to make these areas as functional as possible.
Put Some Spring in Your Cleaning Step
Spring is the season of nature’s re irth. rees and flo ers e in to loom ane each sprin , and youn animals can e seen frolic in ith their parents. urin a time hen it seems li e the entire planet gets a refresh, many homeo ners turn their thou hts to refreshin their homes as ell. s the days len then and the eath er arms, sprin cleanin ta es cen ter sta e. prin cleanin is more e tensi e than simply ashin a ay rime, as cleanin a home often o ers a psycholo ical reset for the comin months. clear strate y can ma e the tas of sprin cleanin feel less daunt in , and these tips can help cut do n on clutter and other interior annoy ances that ha e arisen after months spent indoors.
Declutter before cleaning he rule of thum hen startin on sprin cleanin is to com at clutter efore cleanin . ryin to clean around clutter is ine cient and may result in thro in in the to el prematurely. t is import ant to remo e as much as possi le from each room efore you
e in cleanin . s homeo ners mo e throu h each room, they can assess hether they e used items in the last year or hether they ser e any func tional or aesthetic purposes. f not, they can e trashed or donated. Move top to bottom t s important to follo the rules of science hen sprin cleanin . hat means that dust and de ris ill e af fected y ra ity. n a in in a top do n approach ill help ma e clean in more e cient. e innin at the ceilin and or in do n to ards the floors ill help people a oid ha in to clean the same surface t ice. sin a duster or a micro er cloth, indi iduals can clear co e s from corners and dust from cro n moldin . in er prints ill accumulate near li ht
surrounding
switches and door handles, so those areas should be wiped down, too.
Homeowners can conduct a thorough cleaning of heating and cooling output and intake vents as they likely have gathered dust over the winter. Do a kitchen reset
Focusing attention on the kitchen, which tends to be the busiest room in the house, is a wise idea for spring cleaning plans. This is the time for individuals to pull everything out of the refrigerator and pantry and check for expiration dates. Wiping down the shelves means cleaning away any accumulated food drips or spills.
Additional areas to consider include behind the
inside the
and inside
Focus on air quality
It’s key to replace the HVAC system lters come sprin time, as ell as any air puri ers in the home. his ill help reduce allergens and ensure that the coolin system ill run e ciently when it’s time to turn it on.
Spring cleaning takes place each year. Prioritizing decluttering and following a systematic path through the home helps people eliminate stress and mess at the same time.
Popular Kitchen Flooring Materials
t’s well-documented that kitchens are popular gathering spaces in homes. Perhaps that’s one reason why homeowners looking to sell their homes direct so much attention to the kitchen before listing their properties. The real estate experts at Trulia note that emphasis is well worth it, as buyers inspect kitchens and primary bathrooms more than any other spaces in a home.
Cabinets and countertops garner considerable attention when pondering kitchen renovations, but it’s equally important that homeowners pay attention to floorin hen planning a remodel. The following are some nota le floorin materials homeowners may want to consider as they plan to remodel their kitchens.
Ceramic tile: Ceramic tile is a popular itchen floorin material. he floorin e perts at alon loor ing note that ceramic tile boasts an elegant and clean feel. Ceramic tile also is durable and easy to maintain. That simple maintenance includes ease of cleaning, as ceramic tile can
be quickly cleared of spills and dirt tracked into a kitchen from outside.
Ceramic tile also comes in a wide variety of colors, a versatility that undoubtedly adds to its popularity.
Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is another versatile option that can add instant aesthetic appeal to a kitchen. Porcelain tile is waterproof, which appeals to many homeowners looking to renovate their kitchens. Porcelain also is easily cleaned and dura le, as floorin e perts estimate that porcelain tiles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years. Porcelain tile also requires minimal maintenance, which appeals to busy homeowners.
Engineered hardwood: Engineered hardwood is a popular choice
that many homeowners appreciate due to its strength and aesthetic appeal. his floorin material is made with real wood that’s reinforced to make it even more durable and water-resistant. The result is an easily maintained product that also can last as lon as solid ood floorin so long as it’s well-maintained. Various shades, designs and textures are available, which makes this a versatile option.
a nate floor n Laminate floorin is a ud et friendly option that’s available in a wide range
of styles, colors and patterns. The smooth surface of laminate floorin makes it easy to clean, and it’s resistance to water is another characteristic that appeals to homeowners. ut spills on laminate floors are est cleaned up quickly, and the material is vulnerable to warping and staining if exposed to moisture for extended periods of time.
These are some of the options homeowners can consider as they ponder which material to install on their itchen floors as they remodel these popular rooms.
Prepare a Yard for Evening Entertaining
ven when the sun goes down, the opportunity to entertain outdoors is still possible. Transforming a backyard into an evening oasis does not necessarily require major renovations, but it should involve adjusting the atmosphere to facilitate comfort and visibility. The following tips can help hosts optimize outdoor spaces for nighttime events.
Layered lighting
Lighting is the main priority when hosting at night. Lighting establishes ambiance and creates safety in the space. osts should a oid floodli hts which can be too harsh and create a clinical feeling. Instead, melding different lighting options together can set the scene. String lights provide a warm, even glow that can outline the perimeter and “ceiling” of an outdoor room. Low-voltage LEDs or solar lights can make walkways more visible and call attention to changes in elevation. Ac-
Create focal points
cent lighting, such as small spotlights uplighting trees or architectural features, will create depth and keep the yard from feeling like an abyss beyond the patio or deck.
Individuals will gather around various focal points in the yard. These established zones will encourage conersation and other acti ities. re pit is a natural magnet for outdoor events. Arrange seating around the re pit to eep con ersation flo in . An outdoor bar also is a great place for people to gather, whether it’s stocked with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drin s. ar o an area here people can mingle and dance. Set up an outdoor speaker in this area. Outdoor comfort
Contending with bugs and weather is a natural side e ect of spendin time outdoors, particularly in the e enin . itronella candles can eep mos uitoes and nats at ay. simple electric floor fan also can e e ecti e a ainst mos uitoes, hich are ea fliers that can t fly a ainst the ree e. re pit, propane patio heater and a as et of lan ets can help tame the chills if the temperature drops. eepin pop up cano pies at the ready ill help if rain starts to fall.
Accessibility to food and drink
eyond the ar, ha in self ser ice stations in arious spots ena les uests to ra food or drin as needed in stead of ha in to tre indoors. a e sure these spots are ell lit. pace drin s a ay from the food to pre ent tra c ams. n est in some co ered containers that ill eep food safe from ants or flyin insects and trays to easily transport lass are and other items ac into the house. yard can e a ma ical place to entertain at night when hosts ta e a fe e tra steps to ready the space.
utdoor living spaces have become sought-after commodities among homeowners. A 2022 survey of homeowners conducted by the New Home Trends Institute found that open yards are less appealing to home buyers than they once were. The survey noted that just 28 percent of respondents chose open yards, while 65 percent preferred patios and 55 percent chose decks. Green spaces remain popular, but the survey indicates that many would-be home buyers also want an outdoor living area to make the most of their home exteriors.
these tips as they try to decide if a deck or pavers are for them.
Homeowners aspiring to transform their home exterior spaces typically must decide between a deck or pavers when the time comes to plan such areas. That’s a personal choice homeowners must make, but those without strong feelings on either option can consider
Determine your budget. Budget is a notable variable with any home renovation project, and the addition of an outdoor living space is no exception. The materials homeowners choose will ultimately determine the cost of each project. For example, composite decking materials tend to cost si ni cant ly more than wood decks, but that higher price tag also comes with less maintenance and typically a longer life span. Pavers may prove less expensive than composite decking, but those cost savings may be negligible if a yard requires extensive excavation to prepare an area for a new patio. It requires patience, but gathering estimates of the various materials can serve as a good starting point when planning an outdoor living space. In addition, homeowners must recognize that material costs can fluctuate considera ly o er
time, as such prices are often contingent on a range of variables, including supply chain issues. So it’s best to gather estimates in a short period of time to make the most accurate price comparisons.
Identify your vision for the space. Homeowners who have a vision for their outdoor living space, even if they are not sure about hich material they prefer, may nd the process goes more quickly and even more smoothly than those who are unsure about what they want. hose ho prefer a fle i le multi use space may be best going with pavers, as the spaces can be easily converted and areas simply designated as one mi ht di erentiate e tween rooms inside the home. For e ample, an outdoor li in room can be separated with the installation of a pa illion and re place, while kitchen and dining areas can be separate spaces on the same patio. Decks tend to e less fle i le, hich mi ht make them ideal for homeowners who prefer an outdoor dining
area ut don t need a more e pan sive entertaining space. Of course, decks can be as big as homeowners choose, which can make the spaces more multi-functional.
Recognize both may be in your best interest. Homeowners also should know that many outdoor living spaces feature both a deck and a paver patio. Homeowners may like an elevated deck that steps down to a patio, which can easily distinguish between the spaces and establish the area as a multifunctional space.
Homeowners planning outdoor living space projects may nd themsel es choosin e tween a deck and pavers. Each option can work, and homeowners may even want to combine the two.
Plan a Playroom All Can Enjoy
There’s no shortage of ways to utilize interior spaces in a home. Interior spaces have grown considerably in recent decades. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median size of a new home in 1980 was 1,595 square feet. By 2018, the median size of a newly constructed home was 2,386 square feet. Though Realtor.com data indicates the median home size started to shrink between 2015 and 2025, modern homes continue to provide lots of room to maneuver.
When confronted with ample interior space, homeowners may wonder what to do with all that extra room. Playrooms can be a great way to utilize extra space to the fullest, particularly in homes with children. Parents planning a playroom in their homes can consider these tips to ensure the space becomes a fun room everyone can enjoy.
Measure the space. Measuring the dimensions in a prospec-
tive playroom can erase any doubts homeowners may have regarding how much space they have to work with. Taking measurements also makes it easier to identify which furnishings, including couches and stora e units, ill t comforta ly into the space. Homeowners who plan to install ne floorin or car peting also will need to know the dimensions to get an accurate idea of how much that portion of the conversion project will cost.
Keep in mind young children’s preferences to stay close. A basement playroom may work as children enter their tweens and early
adolescence, but such separation from the rest of the home may compel young children to avoid the space. Elementary school children and younger kids generally like to stay close to Mom and Dad, so a basement playroom may not be ideal for such youngsters. In such instances, converting a seldom-used formal dining room into a temporary playroom may be a better option. As children age, the basement can be utilized as a playroom with greater frequency until it becomes the lone play space in the home. Emphasize organization. Playrooms can quickly be overrun by toys. Though no two children are exactly the same, the professionals at Brain Balance Achievement Centers note the expected attention span of a two-year-old is four to six minutes. A four-year-old’s expected attention span may peak at 12 minutes, while an eight-year-old’s expected attention span is between 16 and 24 minutes. That means kids
will pivot from one toy to another with frequency, which underscores the need for ample storage. Storage should be built into the design of the space after measuring its dimensions. Avoid storage solutions that extend too high up the wall, as that’s hard for children to reach and might lead to accidents. Creative storage solutions abound online, and parents are urged to exercise due dili ence to nd the safest, most e ecti e units for their children and their space.
Make it multi-generational. Free play is important for youngsters, but kids will want Mom or Dad and even older siblings nearby even when they’re playing on their own. So it makes sense to equip the space with areas that accommodate everyone in the household. A reading chair for adults and a ping pong table and arcade game for older kids can ensure everyone gets to have fun in the playroom. A playroom can make for a fun way to utilize extra space inside a home.
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A Rundown on Roofing Projects
o two home renovation projects are the same. Some projects are highly detailed undertakings that take months if not years from start to nish, hile others can e tac led y s illed do it yourselfers o er the course of a single weekend. Though each pro ect is di erent, cate ori in renovations as needs or wants can help homeowners determine when the time is right to go forward.
Roof replacement projects typically fall into the need cate ory. de cayin roof can eopardi e the safety and security of a home and lead to additional issues, li e ater dama e. It’s unwise to delay roof replacement projects when signs of a decaying roof start to appear. Homeowners who are starting to see such indicators can look to this rundown of roof replacement pro ects as they e in the process of replacing their roof.
Cost
oof replacement costs ary con sidera ly dependin on a host of aria les. aterials, location and the cost of la or, dimensions of the roof, and e en choice of contractor all a ect the cost of the pro ect. he home reno a
tion e perts at n i indicate the a erage roof replacement project costs , . sphalt is amon the more a orda le roo n materials, costin an a era e of to . per s uare foot, accordin to erd allet. late roofs ill e more e pensi e, costin any here from to per s uare foot.
Life expectancy
omeo ners may lanch at the cost of a roof replacement pro ect, partic ularly if they choose a more expensive material. o e er, it s important to keep life expectancy in mind when recei in roof estimates. any home o ners ne er replace a roof t ice, ma in this a potentially costly ut ultimately one time e pense. hou h slate roofs are e pensi e, homeo ners may nd it reassurin that estimates from arious roo n resources indi cate slate roofs come ith a life e pec tancy ran in from to years. y contrast, erd allet estimates an asphalt roof lasts around to years, hile others su est such roofs can last as lon as years. Materials hoice of materials is ar ua ly the most si ni cant decision homeowners will make when
a roof. The experts at This Old House report that materials typically account for 55 to 65 percent of the overall cost of a roof replacement project. Decisions regarding roof materials ill e a ected y ud et, local climate (certain materials are better suited to particular climates than others , aesthetic appeal, and re uired maintenance. It’s also important that homeowners consider the material arranty of each roo n product. ome materials o er lon er arran ties than others, hich can pro ide a measure of security to homeowners investing so much in the project.
Tech Upgrades for Your Home Entertainment Space
Life in the twenty-first century can feel like it’s moving at breakneck speed. Perhaps nowhere is that feeling more pronounced than within the technology sector, where new products are often upstaged by more advanced models, sometimes within a few weeks of an item’s initial release.
The speed with which technology advances can make it difficult to keep up. However, it’s important to note that software updates can bring devices up to speed in a matter of minutes, often at no cost to users. That can quiet concerns some may have about investing in entertainment room technology. For those ready to move forward with their entertainment room remodel, these tech upgrades can take such spaces to the next level.
New television: Consumers who like to watch television but are not necessarily into what makes certain televisions more suitable to their viewing habits than others may find their heads spinning when they begin their
search for a new device.
Indeed, the alphabet soup of OLED, QLED, 4K, and other television styles can be difficult to navigate. If confusion reins over your television shopping trips, it might help to identify what you watch most often and then find the type of TV that most suits your viewing habits. Though opinions vary and consumers should always trust their own eyes, the United Kingdom-based Smart Home Sounds recommends OLED televisions for movie and television lovers as well as gamers who require fast response times. Sports fans may benefit by prioritizing refresh rate when shopping for a new television. Though refresh rate is not the only variable to consider, a faster refresh rate can ensure games don’t look fuzzy when the action picks up.
Speaker system: Surround sound can take any entertainment setup to the next level. Modern televisions are slim and that sleek design does not always
translate to great builtin sound. Though some recent models feature dramatically improved built-in sound capabilities compared to their slim screen ancestors, a home theater system featuring superior sound is still a must. A home theater surround sound system with subwoofer and Bluetooth connectivity can greatly improve the viewing experience no matter what’s on-screen. For consumers working on a tight budget, a soundbar that can be upgraded with additional surround sound speakers down the road can be a great way to slowly build a theater-like sound system in your living room. When purchasing a surround sound system, consumers also can consider speaker stands that hold larger rear speakers in place.
Lighting: Entertainment room lighting can be easy to overlook, particularly when consumers go down the television and sound system rabbit holes. But the right lighting can set the perfect tone in an entertainment room. The decision of which lighting to go with should include consider-
ation of how the space will (or won’t) be used when you aren’t watching the latest blockbuster or big game. If the room is exclusively for movies or big games, then lighting that calls to mind a movie theater, complete with LED strip lights on the walls, is an option worth considering. If the entertaining space is your living room and a space where you’re just as likely to read a book as enjoy a family movie night, then recessed lighting in the ceiling with dimmable bulbs allows you to pivot back and forth between lighting schemes depending on how the room is being used at any given moment. It’s easy to get lost when considering tech upgrades for an entertainment room. But pairing the right television with great sound and appropriate lighting can make for a consistently impressive viewing experience.
Projects to Consider Before Moving into a Home
The day homeowners move into a new home is a unique experience. Firsttime home buyers may see such a day as the culmination of years of hard work, while those who are not new to the experience may nd their ne home is here they ll spend the rest of their lives.
Move-in day is indeed a notable milestone, ut there s much home owners can do between closing on a home and backing the moving truck into the driveway. In fact, it may be best for homeowners to complete several home interior projects while the residence is still empty.
Painting
Painting home interiors is among the more logical projects to consider before moving into a home. Simply put, an empty home is far easier to paint than one lled ith furniture and other items. Professional painters may even discount a project if they no they on t ha e to co er
and/or move any furniture before and after applying paint. Painting before anyone has moved in also saves residents the discomfort of living in a home overcome by the lingering aroma of drying paint. Simply open the windows and let the home air out throughout each painting session.
Flooring
Flooring projects are another undertaking to consider before moving in. hether you re tearin up old carpet and replacing it with new carpet, re nishin ood floors, or in stallin a holly ne floor, each tas is considerably easier if there is noth-
in on the floor. loorin pro ects are est left to the professionals, and la or costs may drop considera ly if contractors don t ha e to pause to mo e furnishin s or or around other items.
Deep cleaning professional cleanin ser ice should e amon the rst calls home o ners ma e after closin on a ne home. deep cleanin hen the home is empty and all lin erin dust and de ris is isi le to the na ed eye can ensure no spots are missed e fore mo e in day. e uest that the cleanin ser ice clean the interior of itchen dra ers and ca inets, hich ha e a tendency to accumulate rime o er the years.
Electrical work
odern homes are plu ed in, so addressin electrical issues prior to mo e in day can ensure there are no interruptions to internet connecti ity hen e eryone e ins to settle into the home. his is also a reat time to install additional electrical outlets, and homeo ners are ur ed to ta e the time to dra up plans for ho each room ill loo once all of their
furniture is in the house. oin so can identify here additional out lets should e installed. omeo ners also can isit their ne home at ni ht and turn on the li hts to see if e istin tures pro ide ample illumination. f not, installin ne tures prior to mo in in ma es cleanup easier and ensures there are no dar ni hts once e eryone is in the home.
Ceilings
eplacin ceilin s prior to mo in in is another sa y mo e. f the ceil in s are dated or unsi htly, remo in , repaintin or replacin them efore anythin is eneath them is a reat ay to protect alua les from dama e. nd contractors may not need as much time to complete such a pro ect in empty rooms as they ould in spaces here they need to ne otiate their ay around furniture and other alua les.
arious reno ation pro ects can e conducted prior to mo in into a ne home. uch an approach can sa e oth money and e ort.
A Rundown on Countertops
itchen renovations continue to top the list of improvements that o er a hi h rate of return on investment.
Buyers pay attention to kitchens, which undou tedly a ects the of itchen reno ations. ccordin to the ournal of i ht onstruction s ost s. alue eport , a minor itchen remodel o ers an of percent, hile a midran e remodel o ers an of percent. eplacin a itchen countertop can help homeowners see improvements to the functionality of their spaces and improve the value of their homes.
ccordin to data from rand ie esearch, the . . countertops mar et is pro ected to reach . illion in , dri en y homeo ners ho de sire hi h alue reno ations o er relocat in . hose thin in a out o erhaulin their spaces with new countertops can consider the leadin materials and ho they rank in cost, maintenance and durability.
Engineered quartz
he ational itchen ath ssoci ation reports that percent of desi n professionals expect quartz to be the preferred countertop material over the next several years. Quartz is non-porous, so it will resist stains, scratches and acteria in ltration ithout ha in to e sealed. nli e natural stone, uart o ers pattern uniformity, hich ma es
it easier to map out seamless transitions. uart costs et een and per square foot installed.
Granite ranite still holds a considera le chun of the countertops market and remains a solid standard for those who value a one-of-a-kind look of natural stone. ranite has e ceptional heat resistance and adds si ni cant resale alue. o e er, it re uires periodic sealin to main tain its ood loo s. osts ran e from
Porcelain
Porcelain tiles and slabs are projected to become the fastest-growing segment in the ceramic tiles market, according to reports from Yahoo Finance. High-precision printing technology enables porcelain to mimic rare marble and other stone with superior accuracy. Porcelain is even harder than granite and effectively impervious to UV rays. This makes the material a solid choice for outdoor kitchens. Plus, at a cost of $60 to $120 per square foot, it is competitive with other similar materials.
Butcher block
Those who appreciate a soft, organic texture and “warmth” in their spaces
can look to butcher block. Wood is making a comeback, as many homeowners are moving away from stark, white designs. Butcher block is self-healing, meaning scratches can be sanded out. Butcher block costs between $50 and $150 per square foot.
Laminate
Laminate is a budget-friendly option for homeowners at $20 to $80 per square foot, but is not as durable as other materials. Some laminates mimic the look of high-end materials, and they don’t require much maintenance.
ountertops a ect the loo and feel of kitchens and other interior and exterior spaces. Choosing materials comes down to cost, durability and maintenance.
How Growing Families Can Create More Space
Mha e utility.
any people will admit that home ownership tops their lists of longterm goals. Finding a home that is a orda le may re uire moving into what many real estate a ents ill as a starter home. ut the arrival of a child, and then more children thereafter, could ma e a home that as perfectly functional for t o or three feel too close for comfort.
nyone ho ould li e to raise a family in the future mi ht ant to con sider certain factors when choosing a residence or designing living spaces. A home that can grow with life changes can truly e a fore er home. he fol lowing strategies can expand space when a family grows.
Reassess your existing storage. oo at di erent ays to ma imi e e istin stora e. tili in ertical space is one way to do so, so an investment in shel es, hoo s and stora e systems that ma imi e space in an up ard direction can et items o the floor. a e use of stora e under the stairs or in ea es. oft eds ith open space underneath are reat for children s rooms ecause they ma imi e floor area.
Think about toy storage. Children lo e to play ith toys, and once ids are in a home, toys ill accumulate uite uic ly. a e a plan for eepin toys neat and sto ed a ay hen not in use. nder the ed stora e, toy armoires that are secured to the all and furni ture that can dou le as stora e, such as storage ottomans, are ideal.
Declutter. It is important to go throu h elon in s re ularly and re move anything that is no longer needed. his can e the rst step to free up physical space in a room or the home in general. Donate any items that still
Revamp a closet. lthou h clos et space may e at a premium, par ticularly in older homes, a closet can e turned into a noo to hold a des
and or
a ay hen not in use y closin the door.
Utilize room dividers. pen floor plans ha e een the norm for some time. ut at some point as a family ro s, pri acy and multi functional spaces may e needed. t can e costly to put up permanent alls, ut oo cases or pieces of tall furniture can e used as room di iders to cordon o ar eas as speci c spaces, li e a child s play area.
Convert a basement or garage. ara es and asements ha e a repu tation for ein catch alls for stora e o es and holiday decorations. o e er, such rooms ha e plenty of poten tial as functional li in spaces. n est in transformin a ara e or asement into a room that can ro ith the family. t rst it may e a play area for youn ids. fter ards, it can e a amin or home or han out. s children ro older, spaces can e con erted to a family media room. a in this e tra space can free up room in the rest of the house so people can en oy alone
time hen they need it.
Maximize outdoor space. yard or another outdoor space can add alua le s uare foota e to a home. co ered patio or dec can ma e the outdoor areas more usa le throu hout the year and ones can e created for family meals, play and rela ation. family home ill need more space as the years o on, and homeo ners should eep that in mind hen ma in reno ations or choos in a property
Daily Tasks to Keep Your Kitchen Clean
The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but health experts note it’s also the dirtiest room in the house.
In fact, the following daily cleaning tasks can help keep people safe and healthy.
Wash dishes. Hand wash all dishes or load them into the dishwasher promptly after use.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation, areas where food is stored and prepared have more fecal contamination and bacteria than other places in a home, like the bathroom. The NSF found more than 75 percent of dish sponges and rags tested positive for salmonella, E. coli and fecal matter. This is a much higher percentage than bathroom faucet handles, 9 percent of which were found to contain these harmful microorganisms.
Kitchens also are vulnerable to additional pathogens. Since food is found in kitchens, there may be higher rates of insect and animal pests, which come with their own health dangers.
Clean away clutter. Remove unnecessary ingredients, tools and other items that do not need to be on countertops, as such items may be vulnerable to contamination.
Address surfaces. Use an all-purpose cleaner to clean countertops and the stovetop. Clean up spills as they happen. oo for cleaners that o er microbial protection, but warm, soapy water also works.
Pest droppings can be a serious health hazard that contaminate food sources and spread airborne pathogens that can trigger asthma and allergic reactions. Pest waste also can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Kitchens require frequent cleaning.
Clean frequent-use items. Cuttin oards, the co ee ma er, the kitchen sink, and areas of the refrigerator that come in contact with uncooked and unwashed food require frequent, thorough cleaning.
Soak sponges. Sponges can collect germs. Heating damp sponges in the microwave for a minute can kill bacteria, o ers ealthline. pon es also an be soaked in a quart of warm water
