What to Expect with a House Upgrade

March 7, 2022

Making changes to a home, new or old, can bring about unforeseen situations. Depending on what part of a house is being changed and improved determines the process, time frame, required materials, and difficulty. Some house improvements do not require much skill or work and can be done by DIY, including painting a room, changing handles and knobs, and changing fixtures. At home improvement stores in boulder, they will have all the necessary tools, equipment, and parts to implement and help with the process. Certain house upgrades should be taken on by a professional unless an individual has the required skill set for the job. Things like changing toilets, sinks, floors, removing walls, and more require more than one person and need certain equipment like plumbing supply in boulder and lumber in boulder.

What Tools are Required

Depending on the type of upgrade, tools including hammers, sanding machines, screwdrivers, wrenches, levelers, measuring tape, and Exacto Knives are usually needed and can be found at home in improvement stores in boulder. These tools are very basic but are necessary when renovating, upgrading, or building a home. Small house upgrades usually only require these types of tools, especially in doing a DIY project. A professional should be considered with any form of upgrade to ensure no damage happens and the outcome is correct.

What are the Different Types of House Upgrades?

Countless upgrades can be implemented in a house, from small fixture changes to large kitchen remodels. A few common upgrades include:

Kitchen

When upgrading a kitchen, getting the proper supplies and professional help for kitchens in longmont will make the process smooth. Kitchen upgrades are done to create a more functional space or re-enhance what’s already there. When it comes to kitchen designs, there are many different styles and types to go with. Whether looking for a simple and elegant design, modern, or craftsman, the right kitchen upgrade is possible. Kitchen upgrades may involve removing sinks and fixtures or changing the entire layout, which will require a plumbing supply in boulder and an expert to properly remove and reinstall appliances, including stoves, fridges, ovens, and sinks.

Flooring

Upgrading old and worn-down flooring is common, especially if the house is older. There are many things to consider when choosing to refinish existing floors or install new flooring, including the type of wood type, time frame, and method. Seeking a professional will ensure the process is done correctly and will avoid creating delays or carrying out the process incorrectly. The process is different for refinishing and installing floors, as refinishing is changing the appearance of the wood that is already installed compared to installing new floors. It can take up to 3-5 days to refinish floors, dependent on the square footage of the space. The installation process for floors that come prestained is a lot faster and takes between 1-3 days.

Decks

It is common for old and outdated homes to have worn-down decks that need to be replaced for not only appearance reasons but also safety reasons. Sourcing new wood for a deck can be done by visiting a boulder lumber yard and talking to professionals to help with the upgrade. Rotting and weak wood can pose potential problems if not removed or fixed and usually occurs due to the age and wear it faced over the years. A boulder lumber yard has a wide range of materials, but it is recommended to use redwood or cedar for decking since they are resistant to insects and factors that can cause certain types of wood to rot.

Exterior

An exterior upgrade can involve painting the outside of a home, landscaping, roofing, and lighting. Overgrown gardens or dead grass are common reasons to upgrade the landscape and can make a big difference for the front of a home. Landscaping methods include planting flowerbeds, displaying flower pots, improving grass, building fencing, and planting trees. Fencing requires lumber in boulder and is a service provided by professionals.

Bathrooms

A bathroom renovation will require a plumbing supply in boulder, and often a professional is involved to properly install new toilets, sinks, and faucets. There are many bathroom styles and designs that range from unique to traditional and modern. Common styles include tropical, transitional, modern, Mediterranean, and rustic. Each bathroom style has individual and distinct aspects that create a specific environment. Every bathroom serves a universal purpose, and with a bathroom upgrade it can become a space to relax and unwind from the day, and a clean and functional design will help to generate that feeling.

Basements

With older homes, basements are often dingy and reserved for storage. They can be dark and cold due to the concrete flooring but are more than capable of having an upgrade done. Installing flooring, painting the walls, and installing drywall can create a more inviting and appealing space.

Important things to Keep In Mind

Understanding the house and knowing what can be a DIY project versus a professional one will prevent any delays to the process and eliminate room for error. An older house is likely to have unforeseen situations arise when removing flooring or exposing electrical work, while a more recently built house has not experienced the same wear and tear. Certain upgrades can take time and may require relocation from the entire space for a few days or longer, depending on the project. Installing flooring can take a few days, while redoing a kitchen can take up to a couple of months.

Is it Costly?

With any upgrade, money is involved. The cost of a project depends on the required material and professional help, and the more extensive and vast a project is, the higher the cost will be. Basic tools and equipment are relatively priced, and a DIY upgrade is an option that is more cost-efficient. Typically, installation fees and professional assistance range from two to six thousand dollars. Before starting any sort of upgrades, considering the cost is important to feel secure.

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Why Wood Decking is Better Than Composite Decking for Your Home

October 28, 2024

Why Wood Decking is Better Than Composite Decking for Your Home Thinking about sprucing up your backyard with a stunning deck? When it comes to choosing the right material for your deck , the decision often boils down to wood vs composite decking. Each option has its advantages, but many homeowners still prefer the classic appeal of wood decking for homes. If you're considering building a deck, we can explain why wood decking might be the perfect fit for your home. It offers a budget-friendly and beautiful outdoor oasis. Timeless Beauty of Wood Decking One of the most compelling reasons to choose wood decking is its natural beauty. Wood has a rich, warm appearance blends naturally with most outdoor environments. While composite decking has come a long way, it often can't replicate the organic feel and timeless charm of wood. Each wood plank is unique, offering varied grains, knots, and colors that make your deck one-of-a-kind. Additionally, wood decking can be easily stained or painted in various shades to match your home's aesthetic. If you ever want to change the look, refinishing wood is relatively simple, allowing you to switch up the vibe of your outdoor space without replacing the entire deck. Affordability When you compare wood vs composite decking, wood generally wins on price. Although composite decking materials have become more affordable, they can still be significantly more expensive than wood. Wood decking is a smart option if you're working with a tight budget but still want a high-quality deck. Budget Home Supply offers various wood types at competitive prices, making it easier to choose a cost-effective material without compromising quality. If you're handy, wood decking allows for a more budget-friendly DIY project. Eco-Friendly Option For environmentally conscious homeowners, wood decking is often the more sustainable option. Most wood used for decking is harvested from responsibly managed forests, making it a renewable resource. With proper care and maintenance, a wood deck can last for decades, reducing the need for frequent replacements that could add to waste. Composite decking, on the other hand, is made from a combination of plastic and wood fibers. While some composite products use recycled materials, many still rely on plastics, which can have a higher carbon footprint. If sustainability is a priority for you, choosing wood could help reduce your environmental impact. Comfort and Temperature If you plan on spending a lot of time on your deck, comfort is key. In the battle of wood vs composite decking, wood is often cooler underfoot, making it a more comfortable choice during hot summer months. Composite decking materials, especially darker colors, tend to absorb heat, making them uncomfortable to walk barefoot. This is vital to consider if you live in a warmer climate or if your deck gets direct sunlight. Wood's natural texture also makes it feel more inviting, giving it an organic softness that enhances the outdoor experience. Plus, wood won’t retain heat as much as synthetic materials, ensuring a more enjoyable space for entertaining and relaxing. Repairability Over time, wear and tear are inevitable, but wood decking is easier to repair than composite. If a section of your wood deck becomes damaged, you can typically replace individual boards or sand them down to restore the surface. With composite decking, repairs can be more complicated. Matching colors and textures in composite materials can be difficult, and some types of composite decking don’t allow for spot repairs, meaning you might need to replace larger deck sections. Wood's natural composition allows for refinishing, giving your deck a second life and saving you money in the long run. Regular sanding and staining can breathe new life into your deck, making it look almost brand new again. Classic Appeal There's something undeniably classic about wood decking for homes. It's a choice that has stood the test of time. From rustic to modern homes, wood can complement any architectural style. It's versatile, allowing various design options like custom railings, built-in seating, or intricate woodwork. The flexibility of wood as a material gives you endless possibilities when designing your outdoor space. While durable and low-maintenance, composite decking may not offer the same level of flexibility when it comes to customization. Wood is often the better option if you want a deck that feels like a true extension of your home. Customization Options When it comes to wood decking, you have several options, whether it’s pressure-treated wood, cedar, or exotic hardwoods like ipe or mahogany. Each type of wood offers unique qualities in terms of durability, appearance, and price. For instance, cedar is very resistant to rot and insects, which makes it a long-lasting option for outdoor decks. Additionally, Budget Home Supply offers a range of wood materials , allowing you to pick the right fit for your climate, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Maintenance It’s no secret that wood decks require more maintenance than composite decking, but it’s often overstated how much work wood needs. Basic care, such as annual cleaning, occasional sealing, and periodic staining, can keep your wood deck looking fantastic for years. Maintaining wood is straightforward with the right products and a little elbow grease. If you enjoy outdoor projects or take pride in keeping your home in top shape, maintaining a wood deck can be a satisfying experience. Plus, wood's ability to be sanded and refinished gives it an advantage over composite, which can show irreversible wear after years of use. Value and ROI When considering the long-term value of wood vs composite decking, wood often provides a better return on investment. Many homebuyers are drawn to the natural beauty of wood decks, which can enhance curb appeal and increase the overall value of your home. While composite decks may last longer and require less maintenance, they may not offer the same aesthetic appeal to prospective buyers. Wood decking provides a sense of craftsmanship and tradition, which can be especially appealing in homes with natural landscapes or older architectural styles. Refreshing your wood deck with stains or paints allows you to keep it looking fresh and appealing, further adding to its value. Bottom Line: Wood Decking Wins for Many Homeowners In the debate of wood vs composite decking, the natural beauty, affordability, and repairability of wood decking make it a standout choice for many homeowners. Whether you want to create a cozy backyard retreat or an elegant outdoor entertaining space, wood offers flexibility, timeless style, and a solid return on investment. At Budget Home Supply, we offer various wood decking materials to suit every need and budget. Consider wood if you want to build a deck that combines beauty with durability. Visit us at Budget Home Supply to explore your options and make your outdoor space the best it can be. So, why wait? Start planning your dream wood deck today!