Most people store their water heater out of their sight, and keep using it without checking

regularly if there is any problem. If any glitch occurs then only they think about repairing it.

However, it seems that a lot of people don’t know that, like other mechanical systems, it is

also needed to check water heaters regularly, and then repair accordingly if there is any glitch to help in making it serve for the possible longest time. On a side note, if you are aware of

any kind of need to repair your water heater by now, then you must be thinking of investing in a water heater. So, if you are already looking for repair your water heater , we recommend you to check out the best water heater repair in San Diego.

Here, in this article, we have discussed some of the most common water heater issues you’re most likely to face, and there are some ways to solve these problems.

1. HAVING NOT ENOUGH HOT WATER :

There are a lot of problems that can be caused due to not having enough hot water such as : There should be some problems with the size of your tank, that is why your water heater is not able to provide enough hot water. To solve this problem you can easily change your

current water heater, and bring a larger one which can fulfill your demand with its sufficient amount of size.

The problem of having too little hot water can also be solved, you just need to manage the temperature on the tank’s thermostat. But keep in mind, while adjusting the temperature, be careful that you do not increase the temperature too high, as this can cause an accident.

Furthermore, if you have a tankless water heater, there could be a problem that your water heater might not be powerful enough. There is a chance that you might add more than the required number of fixtures to the unit’s power. You should always check the number of

fixtures that your unit is capable of running and adjust them accordingly.

So this type of problem may cause you to replace your water heater with a more effective one. Although, it is advised to talk to a local water heater repair for identifying the system and its ongoing problems before changing your water heater tank or buying a new one.

There is another problem that you might face is that your water heater is not producing any hot water, which is mostly dependent on what type of water heater you are using. First you need to figure out the issue, if it is a gas-powered water heater, and you are getting cold water even after switching on the hot water faucet, there is a high chance that a pilot light might have blown out. There is another chance that your thermocouple might have errors, and it

also needs to be replaced. Also, for an electrical water heater, the issue could be that your water heater has a wrong heating element that also needs to be replaced.

Again, it would be better to consult a repair professional to get this job done because replacing the thermocouple or the heating element is a risky task to do on your own.

2. NOISE AND LEAKAGE IN WATER TANK  

There are few things that could cause terrible noises from your water tank. The most common causes of this terrible banging sounds are some scales might have built up on the heating

elements inside the water tank. To solve this problem, you need to clean the tank monthly to get rid of scales. If you still face the noise problem even after cleaning the tank, you need to contact a water heater repair professional to fix the issue. This can also result in leakages.

Although, leaks are the problems that are caused from loose connections. To solve this problem, you need to tighten them. But if the leak is caused by your tank, that means again your tank needs to be replaced. Leakages can cause a huge problem, so do not ignore if such problems occur.

Therefore, to solve the problem of leakage always contact the best water heater repair in San Diego.

3.THE PROBLEM OF SMELLY WATER

If you’re facing the issue of having smelly water, then most probably, it’s because bacteria is present in your water tank. You can easily solve this problem by yourself just by cleaning the tank, and pouring a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. After that, let the solution stay in the tank for about more than two hours, and then clean the tank out with new water.

Even after cleaning your water tank you still face the same issue, then you need to reach out to your local repair professional to get help.

4.DIRTY WATER

If you find that water from your tank has a dirty, dark color, there is a chance that your water tank has some corrosion inside. You can simply replace the tank to get rid of this problem.

Also, a failing anode rod can also be the reason for this issue.

So, you need to flush the water tank to replace the anode rod to check if the problem will get solved, before heading to buy another tank. If the problem still occurs, then again contact your water heater repair professional.

5.    WATER TAKING TOO LONG TO REHEAT

THERE IS A HIGH CHANCE THAT THE HEATING ELEMENT IS FAULTY, AND THE THERMOSTAT, OR OTHER ELEMENTS IS DEFECTIVE, IF YOUR WATER TANK TAKES TOO MUCH TIME TO REHEAT. YOU NEED TO REGULARLY CHECK THESE ELEMENTS TO SEE IF THERE IS ANY ISSUE. IF SO, CONTACT YOUR WATER HEATER REPAIR PROFESSIONAL, AND DO THE NEEDFUL.

So, as you can see whatever your water heater issue is, it’s vital to identify and fix the error as soon as possible. But most of these issues should be handled by a professional, whether it is a leakage, or a heat issue. You are always free to contact us for the Best Water Heater Repair in San Diego.

Author Bio :- Angela Louise

Angela is a marketing manager at EZ Plumbing USA. She has a great interest in educating readers about various leakages that can happen in their home or offices through her articles. With extensive knowledge of water leak and slab leak detection techniques as well as HVAC systems, Angela wants to make readers aware about the warning signs indicating leakage and predictive AC and Heater maintenance and also how to fix them to refrain from dangerous and costly consequences. 

Read articles to get more valuable information about detection and damages of water and slab leak repair, techniques to fix clogging, and installation and maintenance of AC & Appliance in San Diego.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EZPlumbingUSA/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EZPlumbingUSA1

When looking for a new home or property, we often pay more attention to its location and aesthetics. However, you should also consider the structural integrity of the building. 

Most times, you will need the help of a professional to evaluate the “health” of the building. But what if you can’t afford to hire an inspector? How do you know if the property has been managed well?

SIGNS OF A WELL-CARED-FOR BUILDING

Surely, property managers and owners can conceal major issues with fresh paint or some minor upgrades, but they can’t totally hide major repair problems. 

Here are the five most important components of a house or building that can help you decide whether it’s worth investing in it.

A WELL-MAINTAINED ROOF

The roof is often the most susceptible to wear and tear as it is directly exposed to different elements. 

Well-maintained roofs can last thirty years or more, however, poor-quality shingles and tiles can significantly reduce their lifespan. You should be able to see from the ground if there are broken or missing shingles. 

Make sure to ask the seller how old the roof is, and inspect the gutters and drainage systems if they are in good condition. A well-maintained gutter system helps avoid water damage issues especially in ceilings, which can be difficult to detect in plain sight. If the roof isn’t old enough but still needs some repairs, ask the seller to lower the price so you can save money for repair work.

Don’t forget to check the sidings too. Like roofs, sidings are also prone to damage. You should be able to quickly assess the condition of the sidings by simply looking at them. Things like missing or rusty nails, cracking caulk or crooked joints, fading or missing paint, rotting, mold, and water stains are major issues to consider.

ABSENCE OF WATERMARKS AND MOLD

Mold is every homeowner’s toughest enemy. It is a fungus that comes in different colors, such as white, green, and black.

If there is water damage or leaks on the roof, the property most likely has an issue with mold, even if you can’t see it. You should also check for water puddles near the exterior walls of the house and look around for watermarks, which are a major sign of leaks.

Some other common places where mold is likely to take hold are around leaking pipes, windows, and basements. If you notice an unpleasant odor inside the house or building, it’s another tell-tale sign of mold problems. Ask the seller if the property has mold or water damage problems and make sure to add a mold-related contingency to your offer if you really are interested to buy the property.

RENOVATED BATHROOMS

An easy way to check if the previous owner of the house has taken good care of the property is by checking the bathrooms. A bathroom should be renovated every four or five years. Check to see if the fixtures are still in good condition, such as the shower, sink, toilet, and bathtub. 

WELL MAINTAINED INTERIOR 

It takes more than a quick freshening up to reveal how well-cared-for a building is. You can’t mask stains on tiles or floors, dirt stuck on walls, and a poorly organized interior space.

Look for a home or property that boasts a clean and well-maintained interior. This means the walls are freshly painted, and the floors have no stains and cracks, so do the countertops and tables.

A well-cared-for building will also have highly maintained furniture. Even if the furniture pieces are quite old, they are still very functional and have no sign of major damage or cracks. With such an interior, you won’t need to shell out more money on repair or renovations. In most cases, all you need is to add stylish home decor to make your new home more like “you.”

FULLY FUNCTIONING HVAC SYSTEM

Look for a home that has proper ventilation. Poor airflow is a common sign that the existing HVAC system is no longer functioning properly. This means that the previous owner hasn’t taken much effort to clean air filters or have their air conditioners or heating systems regularly checked by technicians.

A well-functioning HVAC system also suggests the absence of water leaks which can quickly damage a home and even lead to serious structural issues. Air conditioners that make low-level noise as they start up and shut down are okay, but any rattling or buzzing noise is a red flag.

CONCLUSION

Buying a home or property is no easy feat. You should take time assessing the building to make sure it’s free from costly damage and is worth your investment. Remember the pointers we discussed above when inspecting a property.

If you really like the property but you uncovered some issues, talk to the seller and negotiate the price so you can allocate budget for repairs.

 Guest Contributor: Leila Amber

Choosing an exterior paint color for your home is just one part of the paint-selection process. As a homeowner, you want to ensure that your exterior paint withstands harsh weather conditions and UV radiation. While exterior painters will expertly prepare your home for a smooth, long-lasting paint job, your chosen paint finish can either make or break the final look and longevity of the paint. This handy guide will help you choose the best paint finish for your home exterior.

BEST EXTERIOR PAINT FINISHES FOR YOUR HOME

Paint sheen is not just about aesthetics. Paint finishes affect how long exterior paint lasts on siding, trim, doors, and other exterior surfaces. There are four different types of paint sheens that professional painters typically use on home exteriors and each has unique benefits when used on the correct surfaces.

FLAT PAINT FINISH

While flat paint finishes used to be the most popular, they aren’t used much on exteriors these days. Flat paint is matte, porous, and susceptible to fading and mildew problems. Most customers desire paint finishes that are shinier and more durable, but flat paint doesn’t have to be ruled out completely. Because flat paint isn’t shiny, it can be a great option for disguising flaws on older homes. However, a flat finish is only recommended for exterior walls, and not areas that are touched often such as doors, railings, or windows.

When to use a flat paint finish: If your home has older wooden siding, or you need to conceal siding imperfections, flat paint can be a good choice.

EGGSHELL PAINT FINISH

Eggshell paint is the most popular exterior paint finish for the body of a home. Because eggshell isn’t dull like a flat finish, or too shiny like a high-gloss sheen, it looks great on a variety of siding types such as HardiePlank, stucco, horizontal wood, and others. Eggshell paint also offers more durability than flat paint, so it can easily be washed with occasional power washing. It’s also an ideal choice when you need to hide imperfections under the coating on older wood or stucco divots. Eggshell can also protect your home from precipitation and seasonal weather changes. This popular paint finish lays down nicely, so you won’t be able to see any brush strokes, roller edges, or spray marks after applying.

When to use an eggshell paint finish: If you’re repainting your house siding and want a low-reflective finish that also conceals minor imperfections. An eggshell finish is also perfect when you need to subtly bring out trim details.

SATIN PAINT FINISH

Satin paint has a nice sheen and is ideal for exterior trim areas that are used or touched often. This highly durable, stretchy paint resists peeling and mildew. A satin paint finish is perfect for use on a variety of trim areas such as eaves, soffits, overhangs, trim boards, porch ceilings/trim, door frames, window sills, and so much more. It’s important to note that satin paint magnifies imperfections like dents, dings, cratering, and ridges in older wood trim and wood siding.

When to use a satin paint finish: If you want a beautiful sheen on your trim that isn’t too shiny, this is the finish for you. This is especially true if you live in a hot, sunny climate as satin paint contains more UV protectant to prevent fading.

SEMI-GLOSS PAINT FINISH

A semi-gloss paint offers visible shine on home exteriors and is ideal for surfaces that require frequent cleaning. The glossier sheen makes semi-gloss paint more durable than satin, so it’s easier to clean. Semi-gloss paint can also endure harsh weather conditions and withstand excess moisture. While a semi-gloss paint finish can look beautiful on trim details, it isn’t a good choice if you need to conceal cracks, chips, or other surface imperfections.

When to use a semi-gloss finish: A semi-gloss finish is best for painting garage doors, front doors, exterior trim, gutters, shutters, metal lamp posts, railings, and window sills.

HIGH-GLOSS PAINT FINISH

If you want your exterior trim to really pop, then this is the paint finish for you. A high-gloss sheen offers extreme durability and adds a beautiful richness to paint color. You may be tempted to paint your entire home exterior with this easy-to-clean, highly durable sheen, but it isn’t a good idea! Painting all of your siding with high-gloss paint will make your home look “plastic” and magnify surface imperfections. Simply use this finish for highlighting ornate architectural details, trim, and doors. Professional painters will happily paint your exterior walls and siding with a semi-gloss or satin paint to complement the high-gloss finish of your trim.

When to use a high-gloss finish: Use this heavy-duty paint to highlight architectural details, decorative fixtures, accent trim, shutters, front doors, black metal railings, window frames, or anything else you touch on a regular basis.

House painting tip! Semi-gloss and high-gloss paints can be brittle and chip if not applied to the right surface or with the right preparation. Gloss paints can look amazing on front doors that have been kept in great shape from porches and awnings, but won’t look nice if your door has dings, cracks, or other blemishes. Professional house painters will ensure your home is prepped and painted properly so that your paint job looks amazing and lasts a long time.

CHOOSING EXTERIOR PAINT FINISHES: GET EXPERT HELP

Paint finishes on your home are just as important as the colors you choose. This is why it’s critical to trust your exterior house painting project to a professional painting company. Not only will professional painters use the right painting tools and techniques to deliver a flawless finish, an expert paint color consultant will help you choose the perfect paint finishes for your siding and trim. Trusting your exterior home painting project to the professionals will provide you with beautiful, long-lasting results. Request your free exterior painting quote today!

Guest Contributor: Mark Sharp

Have you checked out our new Blue Collar Eats video over on Facebook where we reviewed Amigos Mexican Restaurant? “You guys know me, I’m always on the hunt for tacos, and we found somebody that’s giving Frankfort a run for their money”, says Kevin. This restaurant is definitely a hidden gem! We sat down and gave you the scoop, along with Ron and Jason who joined us for this delicious meal.

Ron, one of our plumbers, joined Kevin in reviewing this restaurant out. “The steak is real nice, tender, delicious, the cilantro is fresh, onions are fresh, everything is diced up real fine, it’s easy to eat. I like this taco a lot!”

Jason, another one of our plumbers, explained why everyone says this place is giving Frankfort a run for it’s money. “There’s no doubt in my mind that this place is gonna give places a run for their money.” Ron chimed in and agreed, saying, “No, definitely. Even the chicken is traditionally seasoned, not overpowering, really nice, juicy and tender. Pretty much everything you would want in a piece of chicken.”

All three agreed “now that’s a good taco!” as they cheered to the tacos and took a bite.

Kevin review a little bit of everything, from the tostados, chicken tacos, steak tacos, their guacamole, homemade salsa and burritos. He said everything was great, and the best tacos he’s ever had.

“The chicken tacos and the al pastor are great!” says Rasheed from Bear Down, he’s one of their best customers! He loves this place and talks very highly of them.

Another customer explained he loves the tacos, and his little brother likes the burgers. “There’s something here for everyone.”

Amigos reopened their doors on Thursday, October 14th at 20831 S. Lagrange Rd. in Frankfort IL. Keep in mind it is a cash only establishment, but they do have an ATM located inside of the restaurant.

Check out our video on Facebook on our page, Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing – Local Plumber and make sure to check out the restaurant whenever you’re in the area!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

If there was ever a good time to invest in a parcel dropbox, it is now. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the forefront the need for a sharper focus on health and safety. Social distancing and avoidance of crowded public places are critical steps.  

Imagine a mother having to go with the kids to pick a parcel at the post office drop box. With more than one child in tow, it can be difficult to contain them. How will she, for instance, keep them from touching surfaces. 

Maintaining the six feet distance will be another challenge. Such exposure can lead to the whole family contracting the dreaded disease.  

A home delivery parcel dropbox has so many advantages. The most obvious is the convenience of contactless deliveries. You can adhere to the social distancing calls but continue to shop as usual. 

But, do take note of how to handle home deliveries to avoid getting the virus. You should, for instance, let the package sit for up to 24 hours before touching it. Remove outer packaging and dispose of them. And, wash your hands thoroughly after touching the items.  

Investing in a secure lockable parcel delivery box ensures safety for your items. It does not matter whether anyone is home or not when the courier comes around. Once the item is in the delivery box, only you can access it using the lockbox key or combination.  

There is no shortage of parcel drop box suppliers or vendors. It can get rather confusing in choosing one. But, there are some considerations you must have in mind. So what are they?  

1. LOOK AT THE SECURITY FEATURES 

The first consideration when choosing the right parcel dropbox is by looking at the security features. As we mentioned, there are many delivery box options available.  

But, a strong selling point or differentiator is how they secure or assure the safety of your deliveries. At the very minimum, you want a lockable delivery box.  

Look for the type that uses the cantilever system. Once the item is in the parcel box, there is no way to get it out. The neighborhood burglar will have no luck using the entryway to access your purchases.   

Another key security feature is the material that makes up the body of the parcel drop box. You want sturdy, durable, and hard to breach. Do your part in making the burglars work a little bit harder. Heavy metal delivery boxes are a good option.  

2. GO FOR WEATHERPROOF MATERIAL

Since the delivery box stays outside it is prone to the effects of the elements. Metal rusts, depending on the moisture levels. Wood will rot due to the same reason. 

Delivery box manufacturers apply anti-weather material to weatherproof the boxes. Ensure critical parts like seals have the relevant protection. You want to avoid having to replace the box within a short period.  

3. PARCEL DROPBOX INSTALLATION 

Do take note of how easy it is to install the parcel dropbox. Some are pretty simple, and with a few tools, you can have them mounted. Carefully read the instruction manuals to avoid any mistakes.  

If you think it will be a challenge, ask for expert help. The vendors or manufacturers should have no problem availing someone from their team to help you.  
Improper installation can reduce the safety of the delivery box. If, for example, you do not securely mount it, the thief can carry the box. 

4. DETERMINE THE SIZE YOU NEED

There is no one-size-fits-all option when it comes to parcel delivery boxes. You are in the best position to determine what will work well for you.  

Look at what you typically buy as a guideline. If you stick to smaller purchases, there is no need for a large parcel dropbox.  

Heavy parcel delivery boxes work well for multiple packages. They are also fantastic if you share the home with others who receive items.   

5. DESIGN ASPECTS

You can place the parcel drop box almost anywhere outside of the home. Some favorite spots include driveways, front porch, garden, or gate posts. That means it is visible to anyone who visits. 

So, do look for an attractive design to add to the beauty of your outdoor space. There are many variations of colors and designs.  

Apply some creativity with a simple DIY painting job. It allows you to blend in the delivery box with your existing outdoor decor.  

You also have options with mounting or installation. You can go for those that you place on the wall, above the ground. Such are ideal for smaller parcels. 

The other option is the floor-mounted parcel delivery boxes. They can accommodate larger packages, and give more flexibility with placement. 

You could have it in the driveway, garden, or anywhere you choose. This is unlike wall-mounted options that require, well, a wall. But, again it comes down to your preference.  

6. CHECK FOR AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES 

Look out for available lockbox technologies.  Smart lockboxes, for instance, are becoming quite popular. Such will send notifications once the delivery man scans the barcode. 

You can set it up to send the alert to your mobile or other internet or Bluetooth-connected devices. Such allow for Integration with smart home technologies. You can lock, unlock or share access to the box using virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. 

They also allow for custom configurations depending on what you need. Other features include live streaming videos, sound recording, and motion sensors. This helps improve the safety of your deliveries.  

FINAL THOUGHTS

Enhance your safety during this pandemic period with a home delivery parcel dropbox. You avoid unnecessary exposure by having to make trips to the designated drop-off points. 

The right parcel delivery box comes down to what you need and your preference. But, do check out the security features the manufacturers offer.

Also, pay attention to the material of the parcel delivery box. It should be strong, durable, and weatherproof. Determine the best size depending on what you typically buy.  

Think about the installation as well. Do you want to mount it or have it on the floor? Whichever you choose should be convenient for you and the delivery. It should also be secure enough to make it hard for the local burglar to make away with the whole box

Guest Contributor: Daniel Martin

Have you thought about using solar power in your home? If not, you could be missing out. Want to know why? Well, you can save some good money from your electricity bills. 

Solar power reduces dependence on the national supply. No more blackouts or shutdowns when the electricity company is doing maintenance.  

When shopping, go for the best-looking solar panels. And no, it is not about vanity. Do you know solar panels can increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell? And, you will be doing your part in saving the environment. Solar energy is renewable and sustainable.  

Maybe you are not quite ready to rig up your whole home to solar power just yet. But, since you have embraced remote working, your energy bills have gone up quite a bit.

If you are looking for a solution, please read on. We will share some tips for creating a solar-powered home office. 

1. WORK WITH PROFESSIONALS

Powering your house using solar energy requires some expert advice. Yes, there are tons of resources, both online and offline,  you can use to educate yourself. YouTube is full of DIY solar panel installation tips. So, can you rig your home office yourself? Absolutely.  

But, look at it this way. A good solar installation kit is not exactly cheap. You will also void any warranty if you mess up the job. And remember, there are factors you may not know when shopping for solar panels.  

Yes, we did say above that you should buy the best-looking solar panels. But there is a lot more that goes into the process. It helps to know quality brands that will give you long-term usage. The experts will also advise on things like battery storage and positioning.  

And that’s not all. Try shopping for solar kits and the process can be overwhelming. There are so many brands coming in at different price points. It is a good idea to let someone with the knowledge guide you.  

Take your time to do your due diligence when looking for solar installers. Ensure the company has relevant certification, licensing, and proof of professionalism.  

Read customer reviews and talk to some happy customers. A reputable company should not have an issue availing references. Also, ask questions about maintenance and warranty for the solar equipment.  

1. LEARN THE BASICS OF SOLAR POWER INSTALLATION 

Take the time to learn the basics of solar power installation. It will make more sense for you when the experts talk about specific components or processes. Do you, for instance, know that wrong wiring can lead to fires or electric shocks? 

Familiarize yourself with the different components. These include solar panels, mounting brackets, charge controllers, batteries, and inverters. Do not be shy about asking the consulting company questions. A little knowledge never hurt anybody.  

1. DETERMINE YOUR ENERGY NEEDS

It helps to know how much energy you will need to run your home office. Start by listing down any appliances that need power. You may have laptops, printers, a scanner, a fridge, and a coffee maker. Also consider other factors like lighting, heating, and air conditioning.  

The requirements will depend on the type of work you do. Take the example of running a printing press. It will need more power than the basic office equipment we have listed above. The more energy you will need, the more panels you will buy.  

The experts will calculate your power needs by taking into consideration all the appliances you will use in your home office. 

1. SOLAR PANEL PLACEMENT

Some factors will determine the solar panel placement. Let’s say your home office is in a building separate from the main house. You must consider the following. 

• The direction of the roof – the more the orientation of the roof to the sun, the better. 
• Shade from trees around the home office. Consider the different seasons, in winter the sun stays pretty low in the sky. The result is longer shadows which will block the sun from hitting the panels. The type of trees also matter. Take the Example of Evergreens that keep their leaves all year round. 
• Surrounding infrastructure that could cast shadows on the roof. 
• Roof angles and protrusions could interfere with the placement of panels.

The type of solar panels you buy matters. Some reduce output in low sunlight conditions. Others will go off. But the basic principle is the more direct sunlight, the higher efficiency you achieve in energy production. 

Also, if you are planning any roof renovations, do them before installing the solar panels.  

1. COMPONENT PLACEMENT

Components placement is also critical. The experts may recommend putting the AC/DC inverter right next to the electric meter. The electricity in the panels is direct current (DC). It will need to convert to alternating current (AC) so that you can use it to power your office and appliances. The consulting company will ask for a site visit to determine the best placement.  

A good solar kit should also come with a backup battery. It allows you to store energy during peak sunshine hours for use when you need it. You can save a lot by switching to the stored power in the evening or at night. 

The solar installation professionals must adhere to building codes when placing the batteries. Some places do not allow for the mounting or installation of batteries in interior spaces. You may need to upgrade the structure first to accommodate them. 

Do not ignore the permit requirements. It would be unfortunate to rig up your home office, only to have to bring it down due to noncompliance.  

FINAL THOUGHTS

Solar power will save you money and is very dependable. You can run your home office without having to worry about blackouts or other power disruptions. The best piece of advice we can give is to let professionals handle the installation. 

They have the expertise and in-depth knowledge to do the work. You also get advice on the best quality from the tons of options available.  

But, this is not to say that you should not take an active part in the process. Do your due diligence before hiring professional solar installers. Check licensing, customer reviews and talk to a few references. 

Also, educate yourself on the basics of solar power. There are tons of resources available online. The professionals should also be comfortable answering any questions you have. 

Guest Contributor: Daniel Martin

Many people think “too expensive” when they hear “home renovation.” However, updating your home does not have to cost an arm and a leg. We’ve compiled a list of quick and easy budget upgrades to help you get started on your next home improvement project. Here are a few suggestions for cost-effective upgrades to update your home.

BEGIN WITH SIMPLE FIXES

There are numerous inexpensive ideas to update your home decor without spending large sums of money. Here are four innovative ideas:

●      Redecorate a room in a modern color with a fresh coat of paint. It is a low-cost way to remodel a room for maximum impact.

●      Wooden floors look great but are expensive to have sand and varnish, so consider using a less expensive option like durable floor paint to spruce up the floor.

●      To give a room a boost, replace old or outdated light fixtures with modern lighting.

●      Installing wider profile skirting and architraves will look more luxurious than thin skirtings and architraves.

FOCUS ON THE KITCHEN AND BATHROOM

Concentrate on increasing the value of the kitchen and bathroom, as these are the rooms in your house that will increase the value of your property when the time comes to sell. Even on a low budget, you can make changes to a kitchen and bathroom that will have a significant impact. Consider updating cabinet handles, repairing chipped tiles, or replacing outdated faucets with more modern options. Adding a splashback and drawer organizers or extra shelves will give the space a different feel without costing a fortune.

If your kitchen or bathroom has dark laminated cabinets, the interior will appear dreary and outdated. Apply an undercoat and paint right over the top to give them a fresh, new look using laminate paints. Another suggestion is to replace old fixtures and fittings with new ones that seem high-end but aren’t too expensive.

SEARCH FOR GOOD DEALS

When it comes to decorating a house on a budget, online auctions and dealers are your best friends. While it may take a little longer to find what you need, buying rebranded goods or second-hand materials can save you hundreds of dollars. However, not everyone is comfortable with purchasing a previously owned item. In this case, you can save or invest to afford to buy brand-new items that cost more. Have a look at the best investment apps for beginners online, and consider trying your hand at investing as an option to generate the funds for your renovation.

INCLUDE AN AREA FOR OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING

An area for outdoor entertaining is high on many buyers’ wish lists most times, and it may make or break a home’s sale. If you already have a patio, you can quickly transform it into an outside entertainment space by adding inexpensive furniture, lighting, and a grilling area. If you do not have a patio, consider building a deck off the lounge to create an indoor-outdoor flow. If the project is small enough, it doesn’t have to be expensive or require official permits.

DIY WHERE POSSIBLE

Do these jobs yourself to save money if you’re handy with a paintbrush or complete a simple tiling job. When it comes to electrical, plumbing, and structural work, always hire professionals, get at least three quotes, and check recommendations. Doing your homework can save you a great deal of money on labor. While not hiring a contractor can help you save money on your home renovation project, make sure you have the necessary skills and tools to complete your entire to-do list. If you need to hire a contractor for some work, bear in mind the cost of the contractor’s fees and materials.

Completing renovation projects yourself can help you save money in a variety of ways. It’s also a good idea to enlist the help of family and friends for gardening tasks such as weeding, painting fences, and planting trees. They shouldn’t mind too much, especially if you order pizza and have cold drinks waiting for them!

Don’t be afraid to look into sustainable alternatives when renovating! You’re not only helping the environment, but you’re also saving money in the long run.

MODIFY A FIREPLACE

A fireplace is a focal point to any room, and it can be a challenging task to renovate one. However, it does not have to be as daunting as it appears, and you do not need to spend a lot of money!

You may be able to modify the fireplace on a shoestring budget, or you may need to replace the existing furnace. In any case, you should be aware of today’s modern furnaces and which alternative will best meet your needs and keep your family warm in winter.

In the same vein, the most common type of heating system installed in homes across the country is a gas furnace. This type of furnace operates through central air ducts and requires a connection to a municipal gas line. The gas heats the air, which then travels through the ductwork to different rooms in your house. Gas heating is the most cost-effective furnace type, and natural gas is generally less expensive than oil and electricity.

FURNITURE REARRANGEMENT AND REFURBISHMENT

Rearranging furniture can completely transform a room’s look and feel, and it’s a crucial part of completing a home remodel on a budget. Choose a focal point in a room and arrange your furniture around it. You can also spruce up old furniture by refinishing the wood or reupholstering couches and chairs for a fresh look.

INNOVATIVE LIGHTING

Overhead fixtures and portable lamps are only a matter of perspective when it comes to lighting. You can use pops of illumination to give your home a warm glow—and a personalized touch—in addition to providing functional task lighting on a friendly budget. Hang a pendant light bedside your bed in place of using a traditional lamp or highlight a bookshelf with mini lights that showcase artwork or other display pieces. You can also uplight a plant by placing a small spotlight next to a large container and angling it up toward the foliage at about a 45-degree angle.

CONCLUSION

The key to renovating or redecorating your home beautifully while staying within your budget is to set a goal for yourself, paint an entire picture of what you want, and then renovate each part of your home one by one, as described above.

Guest Contributor: Ellie Lott