Category: Home Improvement

Home Improvement

Energy Efficient Custom Blinds and Shades

Conner Shields

Boost your home’s energy efficiency while improving its appearance. Custom Blinds and Shades KY offers custom window shades that come in many different styles.

Blinds

Shoppers can customize their options by visiting a full-sized local showroom. The company also offers professional installation for added peace of mind.

Custom blinds and shades are designed to fit specific window sizes and specifications. This allows them to offer better light control, insulation, and aesthetics than ready-made options. Customized windows also provide an ideal solution for hard-to-fit windows and unusually shaped spaces.

Window shades can be customized with a wide variety of fabrics, textures and colors to match the existing aesthetic of rooms and homes. They can also be stacked, layered and configured for optimal privacy along bottom, middle or top portions of windows as desired. This flexibility suits both residential and commercial applications for offices, restaurants, hotels, and more. Additionally, shades can be fitted with child safety features to eliminate strangulation hazards in bedrooms and other sensitive areas.

Whether you prefer the clean lines of cellular shades or the natural look of woven woods, you can personalize your window treatments with colorful fabric tapes and tassels for added flair. They can also be paired with awnings and solar shades to protect indoor surfaces, furniture and décor from sun damage year-round.

Custom cellular shades offer energy efficiency by filtering sunlight and insulating interior spaces against cold and drafts. They can even reduce the demand for heating during the winter and help offset high energy bills. Conversely, in the summer, reflective materials and light-colored shades can deflect sun rays to reduce thermal load and minimize overreliance on air conditioning systems.

Blinds with slats can be tilted to adjust for light infiltration, while raising them for unobstructed views. They can be upgraded with motorization and smart home integrations for a fully integrated, tailored solution to your home needs.

Ready-made blinds are produced in a limited number of sizes and often do not fit properly due to a lack of accurate measurements. On the other hand, custom blinds are assembled to order at Stoneside, ensuring they will fit your windows perfectly. They are based on multiple precise measurements that are taken at your home or business, giving you the best possible look and performance. Our seasoned professionals conduct at-home design assessments, discussing issues like privacy shortfalls and light control capabilities to deliver exactly the results you’re looking for.

Light Control

Whether you prefer the look of blinds or shades, you’ll find options that control light, prevent glare, regulate temperature and more, all while complementing your home decor. And because they’re custom crafted, they fit your windows perfectly, eliminating unsightly gaps and ensuring privacy. They may cost more than ready-made window treatments, but they last longer and provide you with many more choices for style, functionality and features.

When choosing a color, keep in mind that there’s no right or wrong answer. You’re free to choose a shade that matches your walls or goes a step further and creates a dramatic contrast. You can even take advantage of our True Paint Matchmaker to find complementary or contrasting colors from thousands of real paint tones to create the effect you desire.

There’s also no such thing as a wrong fabric or color, either. In fact, your window coverings can be the focal point of a room’s decor. However, you’ll want to consider your lighting needs, as certain fabrics will reflect or absorb light differently than others.

In addition to providing a beautiful aesthetic, window shades can be an energy-efficient solution, helping to reduce your heating and cooling costs. They’re designed to block out the sun’s heat and rays, keeping your living spaces comfortable in both cold and warm weather.

They’re available in an array of colors and styles, including honeycomb-shaped cellular shades with distinct air pockets that add an extra layer of insulation. Sheer shades filter natural light for a soft, elegant look and are perfect for tall windows and large expanses of glass, such as sliding doors or patios.

If you love the appearance of a blind but require the privacy and functionality of a shade, consider the newer hybrid shades/blinds like our Serenity sheer shades and Cascade sheer verticals. These are both constructed with fabric “slats” that tilt open and closed, much like a blind.

Graber’s woven wood shades feature on-trend earthy weaves and mixed textures to enhance any decor. Their woven design naturally filters natural light, preventing glare and reducing fading while providing privacy and simple operation. They’re also a great option for adding a touch of organic character to your space and are available in a range of on-trend colors and materials.

Energy Efficiency

The type of window treatments you choose plays a big role in your energy efficiency. Cellular shades, for example, are a great option to help conserve energy and keep your home cool and comfortable. These honeycomb-shaped window blinds offer an extra layer of insulation to prevent heat from escaping during colder months and warm air from entering during warmer ones, which cuts down on the strain on your heating and cooling system.

You can also improve energy efficiency by pairing cellular custom made window blinds with thermal drapes to create a multi-layered barrier against conditioned air loss and gain. These types of window treatment pair well with a variety of fabric colors and transparency levels to maximize light control and privacy while maintaining a high level of insulation.

Unlike ready-made window blinds, customized options are assembled to your exact measurements. This ensures they fit perfectly and eliminates the gaps, light leaks, and sags that can impact their overall look and insulating properties. Add to that the ability to have motorization installed to allow you to easily program them to open, close and adjust at specific times throughout the day, and you have a winning combination for both energy efficiency and style.

Additionally, if you opt for cordless alternatives like cellular shades or Serenity Sheer Shades, these will reduce the risk of children or pets tripping or getting tangled on the cords, which is especially important given the troubling statistic that nine young kids die each year from strangling on corded window treatments. For even more safety, consider a cord-free option like the LiteRiseTM, which operates similarly to a traditional vertical blind but does not use any strings or pull cords for operation.

Ready-made blinds are manufactured in a limited number of sizes and styles long before anyone ever buys them, which means that you’re likely to find that they don’t quite match your window. This is an inconvenient and costly mistake to make that can be avoided with the right customization options.

Aesthetics

When choosing custom blinds and shades, it’s important to consider how they’ll fit into your existing aesthetic. If the new window treatments clash with your color palette or are too dramatic a contrast to your walls and floors, they may become an eye-catching focal point rather than a complement.

Window treatments that blend in with your room’s color scheme create a seamless and cohesive look that elevates the entire space. Lighter colors are a great option, as they’re more neutral and less likely to clash with future redecorating efforts. In contrast, darker shades and blinds can add a more dramatic aesthetic to rooms with bolder decor elements.

Custom blinds and shades are available in a range of styles and materials to suit any home decor, from rustic to modern. For homeowners with a preference for more classic elegance, wood blinds are an excellent choice. Available in various stains and finishes to perfectly match any woodwork, these window coverings are a natural choice for homes with traditional or transitional style.

For a more contemporary aesthetic, custom blinds like roller or Roman shades provide a clean and streamlined look. They’re also available in a range of light-filtering fabrics to maintain an inviting ambiance and balance privacy.

Blinds with cordless designs are a smart choice for households with children, as they eliminate the strangulation hazards associated with traditional dangling cords. We even offer motorized options that allow you to adjust your custom shades from a distance, further enhancing safety and convenience.

Regardless of the style you choose for your custom window fashions, it’s important to keep in mind how they will impact your home’s energy efficiency. For instance, choosing a darker color shade can trap heat in the winter, while lighter shades will help to keep your home cool. In addition, dark shades will block more sunlight from entering a room, helping to lower energy costs and reduce harmful UV rays.

Home Improvement

Siding Installation And Maintenance Tips For Keeping Your Home Protected

Jasmine Perry

Siding is designed to keep your home safe from the elements and weather. However, over time it can suffer damage from a variety of sources.

siding

A few simple preventative measures can extend the life of your siding and save you from costly repairs in the future. These tips include cleaning, regular inspections, and addressing minor issues promptly. Learn More by calling us now.

Prevent Water Damage

As a homeowner, you can do a lot to prevent damage from forming on your home’s exterior. However, just because your siding is designed to endure the outdoor elements doesn’t mean that it won’t experience some wear and tear over time. Leaving minor issues unattended can lead to costly repairs, so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your siding needs some attention.

Whether you have vinyl, fiber cement, or wood siding, there are a few things that you can do to help prevent water damage. If you have vinyl siding, check that the seams between panels are tight and free from cracking or gaps. In addition, check for any warped or loose panels and replace them as soon as possible. Similarly, for wood siding, make sure that the trim around windows and doors is well-installed. If it’s not, moisture can get entrapped and cause mold or rot.

Your siding contractor can help prevent water damage by installing the proper flashing during the installation process. This is done to help direct water away from any areas where it might collect or travel, such as behind walls or around window frames and doors.

If your siding is painted, you can protect it by having a professional paint touch-up done every few years. This will ensure that all of the paint is evenly applied and helps to prevent the paint from fading over time.

When it comes to cleaning your siding, always be careful not to scratch or scuff the surface. Instead, try using a gentle cleaner or a damp cloth to gently remove dirt and grime. If you do use a stronger cleaning solution, test it on a small area first to ensure that it won’t damage or discolor your siding.

If your siding has been damaged by a severe storm or impact, it’s a good idea to contact a professional to have the damage repaired as quickly as possible. A repair done right away will prevent water damage and will also help to extend the lifespan of your siding.

Keep Your Home Clean

Whether your home’s siding is wood, vinyl, or fiber cement, it’s important to keep up with maintenance tasks. This helps prevent moisture penetration that can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and more and ensures that your home’s exterior looks beautiful. It’s also essential to identify and address minor repairs promptly, which can help protect your home from more extensive deterioration and save you money on costly replacements.

Inspecting your siding can seem daunting, but fortunately, the vast majority of issues are relatively minor and easy to address. For example, if you notice any cracks or loose panels, simply fill them in with caulk to prevent water and pests from getting inside. If you see any signs of mold or mildew, you can use a mix of warm water and mild detergent (or bleach) to remove it. Be sure to scrub tough spots thoroughly, and rinse the area to avoid damaging your home’s exterior.

Other common issues that can occur with any type of siding include dents and rust stains. While these problems can be caused by a variety of factors, they usually signal an underlying problem such as moisture or structural damage. Typically, it’s best to contact the siding contractor who installed your home’s siding to repair these issues, as they have the experience and knowledge necessary to effectively address them.

Other potential issues to look out for are sagging or warped vinyl, and any gaps or cracks around pipes, vents, or electrical outlets. If you see any of these issues, it’s important to have them fixed right away to prevent further deterioration and potential water or pest damage to the rest of your home.

Identify Minor Repairs

During the installation process, a top-quality contractor will spot issues that require repairs or replacement of siding panels. These minor fixes can prevent costly damage in the future.

For instance, a nail or screw that protrudes from the surface of a siding panel may need to be hammered back in. This will help prevent the exterior walls from separating and creating a gap that allows outside air to enter your home and cause mold and mildew problems, among other things.

Another early sign of siding damage is a change in color or slight discoloration. This could be a result of the weather or a sign of moisture causing rot. The best way to catch these issues is to conduct regular inspections, especially after harsh weather.

Inspecting Siding for Pests

If your siding is showing signs of insect damage, such as holes or wood shavings, it’s time to call a pest control professional. In addition, it’s important to keep potential food sources, like firewood or plants, away from your house and trim back any vegetation that may hide rodents. Keeping the environment around your siding free of insects, rodents and other pests will prevent them from gaining access to your house.

It’s also a good idea to inspect your siding for any mold or mildew, which can be removed with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Mix the solution and apply it to the affected area, then use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the dirt off. Be sure to test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to your siding.

You should also inspect your siding for any areas that are warping or buckling. While these problems aren’t as serious as cracks or missing panels, they need to be addressed right away to avoid further deterioration and protect the structure of your home. Identifying these issues requires the assistance of an experienced professional, so don’t hesitate to contact an expert. They can provide the necessary maintenance and repair services to keep your siding looking beautiful throughout its lifetime.

Schedule Regular Inspections

As the project progresses, there may be unforeseen issues that need to be addressed. Your contractor will likely be able to address these issues quickly and efficiently.

Inspecting your home regularly and addressing minor repairs promptly can help prevent costly future damage to your siding. This will also prevent minor problems from turning into major ones, as the longer you wait to address them, the worse they can become.

Regularly clean your siding to remove dirt and other debris from your house. This will protect your siding from damage and make it look newer. Also, it is a good idea to inspect your siding regularly for signs of mold or mildew, which should be treated immediately to prevent damage.

Before the start of your siding replacement, clear your driveway to allow contractors easier access to your home. Also, park your vehicles away from your home to avoid any potential damage from loose debris. Additionally, it is a good idea to remove pictures, shelves, and other valuables from the interior walls of your home, as the construction work can cause them to shake. Ask your contractor if you should also remove downspouts, shutters, and caulking in advance of the project.

While the siding crew is working on your home, you can help protect yourself by wearing gloves, safety goggles, and long pants. It is also important to use a ladder only when necessary, as overreaching can lead to accidents and injury. Additionally, you should always use a ladder on a stable surface and be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as improper shoes can lead to blisters.

During your siding replacement, it is also important to keep your children and pets inside for their safety. This will also keep them from getting in the way of the workers and potentially being hurt by loose debris. Additionally, you should trim any shrubbery or trees that are near your house before the start of the project. This will prevent the contractors from hitting them with debris and nails during the project.

You should also make a point of getting to know your siding installation and maintenance crew. Learn their names, talk with them daily, and make them aware of any concerns that you have about the work they are doing on your home. This will allow you to communicate effectively and ensure a smooth installation.

Home Improvement

The Process of Remodeling a Mobile Home

Ria Robbins

Whether you want to accommodate a growing family or simply improve your mobile home’s appearance, a well-executed remodel can increase its resale value. However, before beginning any renovations, it is important to understand the process involved.

The first step is to determine your budget. This will help you decide what projects to prioritize and which areas need a more significant overhaul. Contact Mobile Home Remodeling Tacoma WA now!

There are a number of factors that affect the cost of remodeling a mobile home, including renovation expenses and contractor fees. Understanding how these factors impact your budget will help you make informed decisions about which upgrades are most appropriate for your home. For example, a complete overhaul of the kitchen could include expensive electrical and plumbing upgrades that are more costly than simply replacing the flooring in a single room. Likewise, choosing premium materials like wood floors may significantly increase the cost of your remodel project.

When it comes to mobile home renovation costs, the first thing you need to determine is how much you are willing to spend. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure that the work is done to a high standard. Moreover, it will also allow you to set realistic expectations about the timeframe and cost of your renovation.

Generally speaking, it is possible to renovate a mobile home without breaking the bank. For example, you can replace the carpets or paint the walls to give your home a fresh look. You can also install new vinyl floors or upgrade the existing ones. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your home, these upgrades will add value and functionality.

It’s also important to consider any additional expenses that might be associated with the remodel, such as permit fees or inspections. Lastly, it’s essential to hire a reputable contractor who has experience working on mobile homes. This will save you a lot of headaches in the long run and ensure that your remodel is completed on schedule.

One of the most affordable ways to improve the look of your mobile home is to change the flooring. Replacing the old, worn-out flooring with new materials will dramatically improve the look and feel of your home. For example, YouTuber LittleLyman used Baird Brothers wood flooring to transform a 1979 double-wide manufactured home and completely changed the look of the entire space. The result was a modern, beautiful floor that added significant value to the property.

Changing the ceiling in a mobile home can be an expensive project, but it’s worth it if you want to add value to your home. The cost of a ceiling renovation depends on the type of material and labor costs, but it’s typically around $2,000 for a typical mobile home.

Design

A mobile home is a popular choice for homeowners who value affordability and flexibility. But they can also come with outdated features and limited space that can make living in them less than ideal. That’s why some mobile home owners choose to remodel their homes. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, bathroom, or living room, there are plenty of remodeling options that will give you the perfect look.

Mobile home remodels can add a lot of value to your home, and they’re an affordable option that can be done on a tight budget. To get started, decide what changes you want to make and create a budget that includes the cost of materials and labor. Once you have a budget in mind, you can begin to plan the remodeling project and find a contractor.

Many people choose to remodel their mobile homes because they want to change the interior design and make it more modern. There are a number of different ways to do this, including painting, adding new flooring, and upgrading lighting fixtures. You can also replace cabinets and countertops for a more updated look. In addition, you can add crown molding or shiplap to your mobile home for a more luxurious look.

Another way to improve the interior of your mobile home is by installing a new roof. Experts recommend using a roof pitch of at least 4/12, which will give your home a great look from the outside and help prevent water leaks. Before making this upgrade, it’s important to check the roof supports to ensure they’re in good condition.

If your mobile home’s doors are old and dingy, replacing them with new ones can make a big difference. There are many options available, including sliding glass doors that open up more space and let in more light. You can also add a barn door for a more rustic look, and there are even options that include sliding mirrors to increase functionality.

Another easy DIY mobile home remodel is painting. A fresh coat of paint can make your entire home feel brand new. Be sure to use a color that will brighten up your space and make it feel larger. You can also add other decorative touches, such as wainscoting or vertical batten, to enhance the beauty of your home.

Contractor

When remodeling a mobile home, it is important to choose the right contractor for the job. A quality contractor will be able to handle the complexities of the job and deliver an excellent result. In addition, they will have experience working with different types of homes. They will also be able to provide you with tips and tricks on how to remodel your mobile home.

A good contractor will be able to communicate clearly and answer your questions in a timely manner. They will also be able to offer you an accurate estimate of the timeframe and costs of the project. You should also make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured. If you are unsure about the reputation of a particular contractor, ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. It is also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against a particular contractor.

The best way to start a mobile home remodel is to determine your budget. You should also decide on a style and stick to it. Trying to change styles too frequently will end up costing you more money. It is also a good idea to start with the most critical parts of your mobile home, such as the kitchen and living area. Once these areas have been remodeled, you can move on to other rooms.

Remodeling a single-wide or double-wide mobile home can be an exciting venture. This type of home offers many opportunities to customize the space and make it a truly unique and comfortable abode. Many people choose to remodel their mobile home for a variety of reasons, including adapting to a growing family or seeking a more modern look.

A mobile home is a great investment, but it’s not immune to the effects of aging and weather damage. It is essential to take regular maintenance steps to keep your mobile home in good shape. For example, routine inspections of plumbing and electrical systems can help prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs down the road. Additionally, maintaining a clean and well-organized mobile home can help extend its lifespan.

Permits

Some people mistakenly assume that mobile homes are exempt from local building codes. In reality, though, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. When it comes to remodeling a manufactured home, you may need a permit to ensure that the work is done properly and to code. A permit can also help protect you from potential issues down the road. For example, if you decide to sell your mobile home in the future, the buyer will likely search for records of any previous permits you obtained for the renovations. Having these documents can help put the buyer’s mind at ease and show them that the renovations were performed properly.

In addition to a permit, you will need to have a survey or plat of your property and submit a site plan with the application for the construction of a new home or addition. The county will use the site plan to verify that the home is located on the property in compliance with building codes and zoning regulations. In addition, the county will inspect the foundation of the mobile home and perform on-site inspections to determine whether the home is anchored correctly.

A permit is also required for any remodel that changes the structure of the mobile home. This includes alterations to electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. However, some minor upgrades do not require a permit. For example, replacing windows and doors is considered a repair rather than a remodel. In addition, you don’t need a permit for replacements of appliances that are similar in size and standard to the original ones.

If you are unsure of whether or not you need a permit for your mobile home remodel, you should consult with a professional. They can give you advice on the rules and regulations for your specific municipality. They can also tell you what steps to take to obtain a permit.

Another consideration is the effect that a lack of a permit might have on your mortgage. For instance, if you attempt to sell your home and the lender finds out that you didn’t pull the necessary permits, they might refuse to advance the loan or even cancel the mortgage. In such a case, you would have to redo the entire project and pay fines and other related expenses.