Blog : Do It Yourself | Flooring Supply Shop Blog - Part 19Flooring Supplies

Home Energy Audits

There are many home improvement measures taken by homeowners to enhance the aesthetics of their house. Apart from flooring, painting and other improvement measures taken to beautify the house, homeowners must also take steps to improve the energy efficiency of their house. Though there are numerous things that can be done to make the house more energy efficient, it is important to know about the best solution among the available options.

First step in making your home energy efficient is to get a home audit done which helps you assess the energy needs of your home. This helps you find out how much energy your home uses and what steps should be taken to optimally use energy and improve the efficiency of your home. Care must be taken to implement the recommendations because audits alone cannot save energy; you also need to take energy saving measures.

Some may recommend that you do the home energy audit on your own as hiring a professional may be an expensive affair, especially for those with already tight budgets. However, you need to realize that an audit done by you cannot be as precise as the one done by a pro. Hence, it is advisable that you hire a professional who has substantial experience in performing home energy audits. Once you have made the decision to seek help, contact a professional home energy auditor. The auditor will check your utility bills, examine your property and energy usage as well as perform certain tests.

The standardized tests employed by most of the professionals comprise blower door test and thermographic scan. In the blower door test, professional installs a large fan into the frame of an exterior door of your home and turns it on. As a result, air blows from inside to outside that creates a lower air pressure within the house as compared to outside. Owing to the lower air pressure, the outside air is drawn into the house through the gaps and vents in the structure of your house. In the thermographic scan, the professional makes use a camera or other scanning devices to take pictures of your home on an infrared spectrum. These pictures make it easy for the auditor to identify areas that have gaps or vents from where your home is losing heat or letting in cold.

With all the requisite data in hand, auditor will be able to recommend a detailed plan to improve the energy efficiency of your home. This plan will vary from one home to another as the energy requirements and use of your home will be differ from that of your neighbor’s house. However, most of the auditors recommend measures like improving insulation, upgrading appliances, as well as installing a programmable thermostat and weather stripping, among other steps.

Home energy audit along with the implementation of the recommended steps not only helps in making your home energy efficient but also saves money. On an average, 30% utility savings can be achieved on your pre-audit energy bills if adequate measures are taken to enhance the energy efficiency of your home. Hence, it is advisable to get a home energy audit done at the earliest and save energy as well as money.

Waterproof Flooring Safe and Hassle free

Choosing the right flooring for your home is an important decision which needs to be made wisely. You need to select a practical and affordable flooring option, which suits your requirements as well as budget. Moreover, different areas of the house require different types of flooring. For example, if you are planning to install flooring in your bathroom, patio or by the pool side; then the material chosen must be waterproof.

If the flooring in these parts of your home is not water resistant, it can lead to quite a few problems. One of the biggest concerns is that the floor becomes slippery, which can lead to accidents. It can also result in water logging, seepage, mold growth and other such problems, which can be dangerous and unhygienic, and may also adversely affect the look of the place. In order to avoid such inconveniences, you should consider installing waterproof flooring in areas with high exposure to water or moisture.

There are numerous waterproof flooring options available in the market. Linoleum, which is a ‘green’ flooring option, is quite popular with homeowners for its water resistant properties. This waterproof flooring option is available in a wide range of designs, colors and thicknesses. In addition, this easy to install flooring is also easy to maintain; you only have to wipe it with a damp cloth to remove different kind of stains.

Another waterproof flooring option that more and more homeowners are opting for is tiles. These are available in different sizes, colors, patterns, and designs; which suit diverse requirements of different homeowners. Further, the tiles are available in various kinds, such as porcelain tiles that are appreciated for their precise measurement. You can even choose natural tiles, which add to the aesthetic appeal by rendering a natural look to the room. Another great option is the ceramic tiles, which are available in assortment of colors, designs, and sizes. You can choose different colored tiles to create unique patterns that enhance the look of your home.

Vinyl, another waterproof flooring option, is durable, tough and affordable. The versatile material beautifully imitates the look of various expensive flooring options like wood and ceramic tiles, without having to deal with their drawbacks. Though it is water resistant, some vinyl floors can however become slippery. Hence, make sure that the vinyl you select is slip resistant, along with being water resistant. Furthermore, you have the option to select either single or roll flooring; where the latter proves a better option as it leaves less gaps and seams for water penetration.

You can also opt for cork flooring, which is appreciated for its resilience and flexibility. This natural, biodegradable as well as recyclable material is hypoallergenic as well as anti-static. Further, you can also select floating laminate flooring, which is not attached to the underlying surface, rather floats over it; thereby leaving no room for water to seep through.

With so many waterproof flooring options available, it can become daunting for homeowners to select the right one. Hence, while selection keep certain things, like durability, cost, and maintenance into consideration. Choose the flooring that meets your requirements, without making a dent in your pocket.

Benefits of Cemented Floors

The right kind of flooring can enhance the overall look of the place. There are different types of flooring options available in the market which makes it all the more daunting for homeowners to choose the one appropriate for their home. Cement flooring which is also referred to as ‘concrete’ flooring has been in the market for a very long time. Many homeowners are increasingly using cement flooring because of the numerous benefits it offers over other flooring options.

The biggest advantage of cement flooring is its strength and durability. With proper maintenance, these last a lifetime; making it a cost effective flooring option. Another great advantage of cemented floors is its versatility; it can be made to look like any other flooring material. The cemented floor can be treated with different stains or colorants to give it a variety of hues, textures and patterns to imitate other flooring options like slate and marble. Hence, with the new processes and technologies the ‘disguised’ cemented flooring as marble or tile, proves to be less expensive but long lasting.

With the help of various methods such as chemical staining, scoring, colored hardeners and concrete stamping, decorative finishes can be given to the cemented floor. Moreover, these decorative finishes can be applied to the existing cemented floors as well; which gives the house a whole new look. The cemented floor no longer needs to be Grey, it can be treated with different colors; amongst which you can choose the color which blends beautifully with the interiors of your home. Moreover, sealed cemented floors are also resistant to bacteria, allergen and moisture.

The cemented floors can be installed both indoors as well as outdoors. These can easily withstand high foot traffic, which makes it a great option for patios, walkways and driveways. It can enhance the look of any room of your house. Apart from coloring, there are other options which can make the room attractive. A popular option is the ‘Terrazzo’, mosaic flooring which is made out of granite, glass chips, onyx and marble embedded in cement. Because of the way the Terrazzo is made, no two Terrazzo’s are alike, which adds uniqueness to your flooring. Though it may cost a little more, it is still a beneficial option because of its extreme durability. Owing to its durability, this will probably be the only flooring you will ever have to invest in.

The cemented floors are also easy to maintain and do not demand frequent repairs or replacements. However, if you actually get tired of seeing the same cemented floor year after year, there are easy refurbishing options available. The simplest of the options is to paint it. There are several specially formulated concrete paints which are cost effective, easy to apply and last a very long time. Another popular option of changing the look of your cemented floor is by staining it, which permanently changes the color of the concrete. You can easily install tile, hardwood or marble over the cemented floor, which offers a strong base. These renovation measures offers a whole new look to the cemented floor. Hence, if you are looking for a durable, affordable, versatile and easy to maintain flooring option, concrete flooring is what you need.

Simple Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for DIY

Kitchen is an integral part of any house, where the family can sit together and enjoy fun time together. Kitchen thus should look attractive and enticing to every member of the family. One of the easiest ways of making a kitchen look appealing is by installing backsplash in the kitchen. The backsplash protects the wall at the back of the stove and the sink from heat and water splashes. Framing the sink and the stove, by installing attractive designs in this area can drastically change the overall look of the kitchen.

Kitchen backsplash is not difficult to design and one can use this option to add to the aesthetic value of the room. It is available in a wide range of options, in terms of material, colors, designs, patterns and others; thereby, suiting the preference and budget of several homeowners. One of the simplest and most affordable kitchen backsplash options is the ceramic tiles that are available in an array of attractive colors, patterns, and sizes. One can either select a color similar to the color of the wall or create contrast by using distinct colors. In order to avoid making the backsplash flat, one can use ceramic tiles with embossed designs, such as vegetables, fruits or some intricate geometrical patterns.

Homeowners may even choose slate, terracotta, marble, or other stones that gel with the decor of the kitchen. For a contemporary look with an ultra-urban appeal, homeowners can choose metal backsplash, which are often available in copper and tin. With the help of metal backsplash, especially stainless steel backsplash, one can easily achieve lean, sleek and smooth finish. The metal backsplash especially looks great with wooden cabinets and polished granite counter tops.

Besides these, homeowners can also use mosaic tiles that are available in glass, metal, and ceramic. Mosaic tiles provide the option to create a large number of interesting designs and add uniqueness to the kitchen. Other options include murals and hand-painted tiles in subtle colors and designs. Homeowners can even go for picture frame designs that can create a focal point above the cook-top for more elaborate tile pattern, mural or mosaic. Niches and ledges can even add interesting and useful elements to the kitchen. Generally placed behind cook-top or above the sink, these are used for displaying colorful bottles, plants or others.

With so many options, homeowners have a wide range of choices and can easily choose amongst them as per their preference. Since it is not such a daunting task, it can easily be done by DIY enthusiasts. In case you plan to install kitchen backsplash while remodeling your kitchen, you need to be methodical and organized. Having chosen the backsplash option, you need to measure the area carefully where you want to install the backsplash. Put down the math on paper and make sure to keep a consistent space in between tiles, which can easily be achieved with the help of tile spacers. Next, cut the tiles into desired dimensions, with the help of tile saw that can be rented from market. Thereafter, apply adhesive on the area as well as on the back of the tile and set it firmly on the desired area. It is generally advised to work from center towards the edges. Once the adhesive is dry and tile is set, grout between the tiles; leave it for 48 hours and thereafter apply a sealer over it, for protection against water.

With little bit of effort and planning, you can easily change the entire look of your kitchen to make it more appealing.

Different Siding Options for Your Home

Most homeowners feel that renovating a house means painting the house, updating landscape, or adding new features like windows. However, these are not the only ways to enhance the appearance of the exterior of one’s home. A convenient and not so tiresome option of improving the overall look of your house is to install new sidings. Sidings can dramatically change the appearance of the home’s exterior and there are many different types of sidings available in the market. Depending upon their preference and budget, they can easily choose among the numerous attractive options.

Amongst the various options available, vinyl sidings are probably the most widely used option. Available in a wide range of styles, colors and qualities, these prefinished sidings meet the expectations of many homeowners. The vinyl sidings have improved steadily over the past few years. The vinyl sidings look similar to horizontal wood sidings, but these do not require as much maintenance as latter. Though these can be applied over old sidings, it is much easier to apply these over solid sheathing.

Vinyl sidings are quite sturdy and do not rust or corrode, but as these get older, they tend to become brittle. These are available in a wide range of colors in different clapboard widths, textures, and horizontal & vertical styles. These resist humidity, sun, wind and rain, as well as do not attract termites. The vinyl sidings are also available in a wide range of decorative classic millwork, including shutters, dentil moldings, corner posts, as well as door and window surrounds.

Apart from vinyl sidings, one may even opt for metal sidings that are robust, sturdy, and durable. Mostly available as aluminum and steel sidings, these offer better energy efficiency that translates into lower heating and cooling costs. Another great siding option is the wood siding which is available in different patterns that can be applied horizontally as well as vertically. These sidings are generally applied over solid sheathing and building paper layer. The wood sidings are available in a wide range of lengths, widths, thicknesses, and patterns. One may choose amongst tongue and groove siding, wooden lap board, and split log siding, which are quite popular. Availability of so many different options help in adding uniqueness to the home’s exterior and can last for many years, with proper maintenance. One needs to take proper care of wood sidings to prevent damages caused due to pest infestation or mold growth.

Homeowners also have the option to choose stucco siding that is fabricated using Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. These sidings are long lasting, easy to maintain, and fire resistant. The stucco sidings are applied over a lath base in three coats, which ensure durable, strong, and seamless exterior. One may even install these over mesh, having an expansive acrylic-polymer finish, that contract and expand with the changing weather. This flexibility helps in minimizing cracks, thereby ensuring longevity. Besides these, there are many other siding options that homeowners can choose.

With so many different types of sidings available, it is easy for homeowners to create an attractive exterior of their home, as per their choice and budget.

Pictures provides by CertainTeed Corporation

Category: Do It Yourself

Home Energy Audits

Waterproof Flooring Safe and Hassle free

Benefits of Cemented Floors

Simple Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for DIY

Different Siding Options for Your Home

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