Your pristine garage floor won’t stay that way for long without a protective coating. Epoxy coatings help keep your garage floor beautiful by protecting it from oil stains, gasoline spills, and more. Epoxy coatings are also available with anti-skid additives that can be your best friend during a rough winter.
Applying Epoxy to Your Garage Floor
Putting an epoxy coat on your garage floor is easier than you might think. These simple steps can be done in a weekend and can give you a garage you’re happy to show off!
- Prepare the garage floor very carefully. Repair all cracks, potholes, and other imperfections. Make certain the floor is scrupulously clean in order to have the perfect epoxy coating when you’re done.
- Apply plastic sheeting to the lower sections of the walls and seal it with painter’s tape. Check the floor one more time to make certain it is completely clean.
- Use an etching solution on new or bare concrete. Work in small sections, and take the proper precautions around the chemicals. Allow the solution to dry thoroughly before continuing.
- Blend the epoxy paint and epoxy hardener according to package directions. Be aware that the chemicals heat up as they react; this is normal. Set the can in a cool, dark place for 30 minutes or so.
- You must use the epoxy within two hours, so work quickly to paint the garage floor. Use a wide paintbrush to cut into seams, edges, and corners. Keep the area well-ventilated!
- Roll the paint onto the floor, covering small sections at a time, just as you would paint a wall in your home. Let it dry for 12 to 24 hours before you apply a second coat.
- As you apply the final coat of paint, pause after every section to apply the colorful flakes. Sprinkle them evenly through your fingers as if you were spreading seed on the floor.
- Mix the topcoat just as you mixed the hardener and epoxy. Let it sit for 30 minutes before use. If you want to use anti-skid additives, mix them in with the topcoat.
- Apply the topcoat in the same way you applied the epoxy paint. It has a chalky color when wet, but don’t worry–it dries perfectly clear.
Wait for up to 72 hours before walking on your new garage floor. When the topcoat has finished curing, your garage floor is gorgeous and ready!
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Turn a Cold Basement into a Cozy Living Area with Radiant-floor Heating
April 8th, 2010 by admin
If you’re thinking about a basement conversion, one of the biggest issues you are likely to face is how to heat the new area.
Although the basement is where your furnace is located, most cellars are not equipped with heat vents or registers. And that can make for a cold and clammy environment.
One way to make sure your basement renovation creates a cozy space for your home is to install radiant or hydronic floor heating. Radiant floor systems installed in a concrete basement floor can translate into warm winter nights and big-time fuel cost savings. This system is ideal for all types of slab construction, which is found in most basements.
Finishing a Basement With Radiant-Floor Heating
Radiant-floor heating comes in many forms–some circulate warm water through tubes under the floor, while others use solid-state electronics to distribute the heat. One thing they have in common is that they’re all more economical than central heat. And it doesn’t just keep your feet warm; radiant-floor heat keeps the whole room warm.
One of the advantages of installing radiant-floor heat during a basement renovation is that you won’t have to face the added cost that comes with retrofitting floor heat to another floor of your house. Basement tubing can be installed in a thin, new, concrete layer to your existing basement slab floor; however, in upper floors, many types of radiant heat have to be embedded in heavy mortar slabs that often require reinforced framing to support the extra weight.
With radiant-floor heating, your concrete basement floor becomes an asset rather than a liability because the concrete helps retain heat longer. It provides what the experts call a “thermal mass” that increases the efficiency of your heating system.
A Basement Remodeling Contractor Can Save You Money
It might also be cheaper to install. Tubing in concrete can be installed 12 inches apart, while heating tubes installed in the sub-floors of upper-floor rooms must be much closer together.
A large area of lower surface temperatures–such as a radiant heat floor in a basement renovation–transfers more heat into a room that a steam radiator or heating vent running at a much higher surface temperature.
Although some homeowners elect to install their own radiant-floor heating systems, others prefer to consult a basement remodeling contractor. In-floor heating systems–particularly if they are being installed beneath wood floors or into concrete–are not simple jobs. A basement remodeling contractor likely has experience installing these systems, and the necessary tools to do the job right.
Be sure to select a contractor who has references. Check them out with the Better Business Bureau and your state contractors’ board. A good contractor can save you time and money in the long run.
About the author: Jim Sloan is a freelance writer in Reno, Nevada.
Easy Basement Renovations & Other Home Renovation Ideas
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Turn a Cold Basement into a Cozy Living Area with Radiant-floor Heating
Basement Remodeling: Choosing Between a Drop Ceiling and Drywall Ceiling
March 15th, 2010 by admin
You have already decided on the flooring and waterproof walls, but what kind of basement ceiling will you choose–a drop ceiling or a drywall ceiling? Your final choice depends on several factors, from style preferences to practical considerations such as access to wiring, pipes, and heating ducts. Read on to learn the pros and cons of each basic basement ceiling type. Be sure to discuss each option with your basement remodeling contractor.
Drop Basement Ceiling Details
Drop ceilings are also known as suspended ceilings. To create a drop ceiling, basement ceiling tiles or panels are placed in a grid of metal bars; these bars are then tethered to overhead joists via wires. Basement remodeling contractors may advocate drop ceilings for the following reasons:
- You will have easy access to the inner working of your home, including plumbing, wiring, and ventilation systems. When you need to fix a faulty pipe or install cable TV, you can simply drop out a few ceiling panels.
- Drop ceilings can function as sound insulators. Your basement remodeling contractor can easily install a layer of insulation between your drop ceiling and your basement joists. The panels themselves can also muffle noise, so sleeping children won’t be bothered by movie-night sounds.
- Drop ceiling panel choices can fit any style. Wood planks, painted tiles, vintage tin, faux metal, or wood are just a few of the numerous options available.
- Installation is usually cheaper than the labor costs of putting in a drywall ceiling.
Drywall Basement Ceiling Facts
Your basement remodeling contractor may point out the benefits of a drywall ceiling, including:
- Some people prefer the finished look of a drywall ceiling, or they want their basement ceiling to look like the rest of the ceilings in their house.
- Your basement may have more finished space and a higher ceiling. Drop ceilings take up a minimum of eight inches of overhead space.
- The materials costs are usually not as high as the supplies needed for a drop ceiling.
- You can add style to your finished look with a drywall texture finish, such as a drywall ceiling swirl texture.
Weigh your options carefully and talk with your basement remodeling contractor before you pick either a drop ceiling or a drywall ceiling for your basement renovation. You should be happy with your wise choice every time you look up.
About the author: Nancy Schatz Alton writes and edits in Seattle, Washington. Her circa 1925 home just underwent an extensive remodel.
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The Best Kitchen Lighting is Practical and Dramatic
December 5th, 2009 by admin
The proper kitchen lighting can turn your cooking space from ho-hum to “wow” in the time it takes to flip a switch. You already know you need ample lighting for your kitchen workspace, but what about lighting that adds that unique flair? Kitchen lighting is the finishing touch that makes your space warm and inviting.
By consulting with a kitchen remodeling contractor about both the practical and the artistic possibilities of your kitchen, you can have the best blend of the practical and the dramatic!
Kitchen Lighting Options
The options for lighting your kitchen are limited only by your imagination. Here are a few tips to get you started on the road to kitchen lighting:
- Make task areas a priority. The best kitchen lighting will be necessary where you work the most–countertops, sinks, tables, and rangetops. Installing bright lights underneath the kitchen cabinets can work well for directing light right where you need it. Don’t forget to install bright lights in the pantry as well.
- What about the kitchen island? Hanging pendant-style lighting, such as a wide chandelier directly over the island space, can work wonders for lighting up the room and the island countertop.
- Consider ambient lighting. If you are simply sitting at the kitchen table and talking among friends, ambient light from above can give the room a hearty glow. A central fixture works well for this, but recessed lighting often makes a grander statement.
- Accent lighting adds flair. Small lamps that highlight collectibles, wall scones that glow alongside artwork, and recessed lights that reveal elegant architectural details are all perfect for the dramatic kitchen.
- The fixtures matter. Unique kitchen lighting is not just about the light itself–how it is presented matters, too. An elegant chandelier or a striking antique fixture can make for a beautiful conversation piece.
- Dimmers offer more control. Does the light seem perfect before dinner, but too bright during the meal? Use a dimmer switch to tailor the light to the mood.
Ask Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractor
Though you may have a few great lighting ideas in mind, your kitchen remodeling contractor might be able to offer further insight. Monty Gilbertson of Lighting Design in Lacrosse, Wisconsin recommends letting a professional offer valuable tips. “There are many ways to light a kitchen, some better than others,” he says. “There are a lot of things an expert can bring to the party and make any room in the house more livable.”
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
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The Best Kitchen Lighting is Practical and Dramatic
Tie Everything Together with a Stunning Kitchen Backsplash
December 5th, 2009 by admin
When people think about kitchen design ideas they consider cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring as the major visual areas of the kitchen. The one area which can tie everything together in the kitchen is the backsplash, and it is often an afterthought in the design process of a custom kitchen.
Depending on what material and design you choose for your kitchen backsplash, you can create a subtle continuation as your eyes move from the kitchen flooring up over the base cabinets, countertop and continue up to the wall cabinets, or you can create an accent that captures your eyes as soon as you enter the kitchen. Your kitchen backsplash can convey the statement that you have a casual kitchen, or a country kitchen, a frivolous kitchen, or that a serious cook resides in your kitchen.
Kitchen Backsplash Materials
There are as many different different types of kitchen backsplash materials as you can imagine. When considering materials for the backsplash in your custom kitchen, a few things to consider are:
- Style
- Cost
- Ease of installation
- Ease of cleaning
Style
You may know what style you are seeking, or you may want to consult with a Kitchen Designer or Kitchen Remodeling Contractor for some help. Most kitchen backsplashes will extend from the top of the countertop to the bottom of the wall cabinets. Backsplashes can blend in or stand out, it is up to your kitchen design ideas.
Cost
Depending on what material you choose for your kitchen backsplash, it can be a costly item such as extending your granite countertop up the wall by using slabs of granite, or the backsplash can be relatively inexpensive if you decide to use sheets of mosaic tile or wallpaper.
Ease of Installation
This needs to be considered if you are installing your kitchen backsplash and don’t have a lot of practice, or if hiring a contractor, a difficult installation process can add to the cost.
Ease of Cleaning
Is your kitchen used on occasion, or is a full meal cooked in your kitchen every day? Are you going to need to clean grease and food off of your backsplash on a regular basis, or is your kitchen there for when you don’t feel like going out to eat?
Popular Kitchen Backsplash Materials
These are a very few of the more popular materials used for backsplashes in custom kitchens:
- Marble tiles or slabs
- Granite tiles or slabs
- Ceramic tile in all sizes
- Hand-painted tile
- Glass tiles
- Glass panels
- Stainless steel
- Wallpaper
- Wood bead board
Each of these materials, and the many others that are available, have pros and cons that should be considered when selecting them. A kitchen designer or kitchen remodeling contractor may be a big help when making your decision.
About the author: Jeffrey Anderson has a Degree in English from V.M.I. and served as an officer in the Marine Corps. He worked in Residential and Commercial construction management for 25 years before retiring to write full time.
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Tie Everything Together with a Stunning Kitchen Backsplash
Basement Remodeling from Start to Finish
December 5th, 2009 by admin
If you’re lucky enough to live in an area where basements are a common feature, you could have a hidden treasure located just under your house! Whether your basement is currently unfinished or it’s just being used for storage, those that put a little bit of time and energy into this area of their house will only end up reaping the benefits. Not only will finishing your basement increase the living size of your home, but it will also increase the value, making it a better investment for the future. Plus, the only limit to what the basement can become is your imagination: a home theatre, game room, bonus room for the kids, office space, or even an apartment for a member of the family, the possibilities are endless.
Creating a Plan
First is the enjoyable task of deciding what you want your basement remodeling project to be. Once you’ve made up your mind to install that bar and billiards table you’ve always wanted, it’s time to get down to brass tacks and think about what your basement is currently missing and what features you’d ultimately like to add. If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll have to keep basics in mind, including electricity, plumbing, heat for the winter and keeping the space cool in the summer, if you need it. You’ll also want to remember to have the floors and walls checked to make sure they are waterproof.
If your basement is already finished but in need of an update, important things to remember will be to have the electricity checked, especially if it hasn’t been used in quite a while. If the space has only been used for storage or has been forgotten for a long period of time, it may not be a bad idea to have the floors and walls checked to ensure they are still waterproof before starting your home improvement project.
Possibly the most important aspect of updating your basement will be finding the right solution for your flooring. Since basement floors are usually made of concrete, they can be uncomfortable and cold, especially in winter. Some ideas to consider include floor heating, adding a layer of insulation under hardwood floors, or choosing an extra-thick carpet to keep you warm and comfortable.
Last but not least, some areas will require certain permits for some home improvements, including finishing your basement. You should be able to confirm what paperwork will need to be completed by contacting your local government or visiting their website.
Hiring a Local Contractor
Finding a home improvement contractor for your basement remodeling project should not be a difficult or intimidating experience for anyone involved. You are certainly under no obligation to hire the first contractor you meet. In fact, it is recommended that you receive three estimates on your project.
In choosing your contractor, be on the lookout for those that try to pressure you into features that you don’t need or want. A good contractor will be one that listens closely to your wishes and will work to get as close as your initial plan as possible. He should be able to provide a written estimate and a written contract before starting and may even agree to take care of all necessary permits.
Large scale home improvement projects, like finishing your basement, can be intimidating, but the long term benefits far outweigh the relatively short amount of time spent on it. In the end, you will have increased the value of your home, so don’t be afraid to start working on creating your new space!
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Basement Remodeling from Start to Finish
Gain Livable Space with Basement Remodeling
December 5th, 2009 by admin
by Roger Diez
You may need some extra space because your family is growing or a relative needs to move in with you. Or maybe you need a place to entertain? You can’t add a second story and moving is out of the question, so what do you do? Well, with a little imagination and some ingenuity and hard work, finishing your basement can transform that dark, dank junk storage space into something usable and even elegant. And when you are ready to sell your home, a finished basement can add to its value.
Basement Remodeling Ideas You Can Use
A remodeled basement has many potential uses. You can make it a recreation/play room with a pool table or ping-pong table. If you work out of your home, basement remodeling can provide you with a home office or a craft room. Do you want to get in shape? A home gym is another excellent use for the space. You can also remodel your basement into an extra bedroom for your growing family or for in-law quarters, complete with bath and cooking facilities. If you have separate access to the basement, you could even create an apartment for rental.
Plan Your Basement Remodel
Now that you have decided on finishing your basement, you don’t want to head downstairs with a load of lumber, some nails, a hammer, and a bucket of paint. If you want your project to succeed, a little planning goes a long way. First, take measurements so you know the space you are dealing with. Then lay out what you have and what you want the finished product to look like. You can use graph paper and pencil for the layout, or you can use basement remodeling software for a more sophisticated plan.
How About a Basement Remodeling Contractor?
If you are good at home improvement projects, you might want to try finishing your basement by yourself. But there are many facets to consider, particularly if your basement is damp. Are you skilled in the use of special coatings used to keep basements dry? Do you know about using specially treated lumber? How do you block off your furnace and water heater from view, but still have easy access? Can you get the proper permits and install plumbing and electrical systems that meet building codes? If not, you may want to bring in a specialized basement remodeling contractor. The contractor can determine whether or not you need exterior grading or a sump pump to keep your basement dry. They will be able to advise you on materials such as flooring and paint, and help design a proper heating and ventilation system. Make sure you select a basement remodeling contractor who has references. Check them out with the Better Business Bureau and your state contractors’ board. A good contractor can save you time and money in the long run.
Enjoy Your New Space
Once the work is done, you will wonder why finishing your basement didn’t occur to you sooner. Now you can have fun furnishing it. Whether you put in bedroom furniture for guests or in-laws, a poker table or pool table for recreation, a stair-climber for exercise or a computer desk for work, your remodeled basement is likely to get a lot of use and give you a lot of pleasure.
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Gain Livable Space with Basement Remodeling
Look Before You Leap: Home Improvement Cost Versus Return on Investment
December 5th, 2009 by admin
By Roger Diez
Now is an excellent time to tackle that home improvement project you have been considering. Due to the slow economy, cost of materials and labor are down from just two years ago. But if you have several projects under consideration, you might want to concentrate on those that will give you the best return on investment (ROI).
Remodeling Costs and Average Returns
Remodeling Magazine’s most recent survey of remodeling costs indicates that projects that enhance the exterior of your home are generally less costly and yield a greater return on investment than interior improvements. Projects like an outside deck addition, window replacement, and vinyl siding cost on average between $10,000 and $15,000, and return 76 percent to 81 percent of their cost on resale. Higher cost projects typically yield a smaller return. A master suite addition, second story addition, or major kitchen remodel have an average cost of over $100,000 and generally return between between 61 percent and 70 percent of their cost.
Regional Return on Investment Differences: Your Return May Vary
The numbers quoted above are national averages, but there are significant differences in costs and returns depending on where you live. Here is what you can expect in various areas of the country.
New England: High Remodeling Costs, Lower Returns
The highest cost of remodeling in the country is in New England, leading to a somewhat lower return on investment in this area of the country. Remodeling costs can range from 2 percent to 10 percent above the national average, but return on investment can be 2 percent to 10 percent lower than the national average. Homeowners in this region may achieve the best payback on remodeling costs by focusing on high yield exterior home improvement projects.
Southeast: Lowest Home Improvement Costs, Good Value
Remodeling costs in the southeast are the lowest in the country, and the return on investment is significantly higher for some projects. Your deck addition may cost almost $1,700 dollars less than the national average, and your return may be