Monday, April 29, 2019

Why Add A Sunroom To Your Home

room-addition-1-300x200.jpgImagine yourself on a cheering bright morning sitting and reveling at the marvelous view. Nature is slowly unfolding as the sun gradually rises. You take a sip of your hot coffee and return to whatever it is that you are reading while soft music plays in the background. You get to enjoy the tranquility and peace that it brings. However, something is missing. The papers on the table are not being blown off by the wind. There are no insects, no flies. You feel totally relaxed and comfortable. Why? Because you are sitting in your newly built sunroom while telling yourself that it was right to invest in such a room addition. It was always your dream to have a sunroom at home but it was only after you research your options that you were able to have one. It required prudent due diligence on your part before you were able to make an informed decision but it was all well worth it. Surely, you are now thinking about the advantages and the disadvantages of adding a sunroom to your house. You may even be wondering what a sunroom is for. Listed below are some important things you need to know so you can make an informed decision about this kind of room addition project.

Sunroom: A Special Room Addition

A sunroom is a special part of your home where you can bring the outdoors indoors but without some of nature’s elements like cold, heat, wind, rain, and bugs as well. Sunrooms are the ideal solution if you want to enjoy the outdoors will enjoying the comforts of your home. The structure is often surrounded by glass that has screen openings, which can be opened or closed depending on what you want. They are commonly referred to as solariums, patio rooms, and outdoor rooms. Sunrooms offer a different vibe from the rest of your home perhaps because of the glass walls that allow light to beam inside. Several homeowners decide to build sunrooms after their original homes were built. This room addition Myrtle Beach is considered a cost-effective living space that allows the inside of the house to extend outdoors. Sunrooms can be built in different configurations and styles. Be sure to choose a design that works well with your existing home structure and look like it is an original part of your home. Visibility and openness are only two of the many benefits offered by a sunroom. They are cost effective with the most sunroom additions being cheaper than regular construction. Sunrooms often use bases such as wooden decks or concrete patios. They have opaque roofs compared to solid shingles. Sunrooms have evolved as conversions of patios and porches. As the technology evolved, the materials that were available provided creative uses where outdoor areas were contained and captured for multi-weather living. Sunrooms or patios are now made of lightweight and advanced products like structural vinyl, aluminum, thermally broken, insulated glass, low-E glass, as well as air conditioning and heating devices.

Three Season Sunrooms

Three seasons sunrooms are made and constructed to be used during spring, summer, and fall. They use cost effective as well as light eight materials that work well in letting light in while keeping rain and wind out. They are not normally insulated and equipped with auxiliary heat sources. They could have fans for air circulation and offer a slight feeling of relief from high temperatures. They could also be equipped with temporary space heaters. Three season sunrooms are cheaper alternatives to more robust home remodel that can be used throughout the year. In areas with warmer climates, many three-season designs could be made into four. In cooler areas, winter conditions could prevent light as well as uninsulated sunrooms from being utilized during certain months.

Four Season Sunrooms

Just like what its name suggests, four season sunrooms can be enjoyed all year round. The primary difference between three season sunrooms and four season sunrooms is their insulation capacity or thermal resistance. These are durable and strong additions and use double pane glass that could have specialized treatments such as low emissivity coatings or argon filling. The walls, doors, and roofs, in a four-season sunroom, has enough protection and insulation against the weather condition in the place where they are installed in. Several year-round sunrooms seem like they are extensions of the house. They have the same roof with sidings.

Cons Of Sunrooms

The main issue that several people have about sunrooms is if having one is worth it. There is no right or wrong answer to this since it is based on the budget and needs of the homeowner. The personal lifestyle and enjoyment value that you will get from a sunroom addition is priceless. It is hard to convert the pleasure and peace that you get form your sunroom into figures. Depending on where you are located, there might be other disadvantages to consider before you add a sunroom to your home. These concerns include a possible rise in your property taxes, additional utility expenses, possible changes to your insurance rate, and limited privacy on that part of your home. For those homeowners who are concerned about property taxes, you have to consider that it also means an increase in home value. Several buyers put a high value on houses with sunrooms.

Costs of Sunrooms

Now that you already know what a sunroom is, as well as its benefits of having one constructed in your house, you might be thinking about its cost. The answer is it depends. The cost of the sunroom addition will be based on what it will be used for, how long per day do you wish to stay in your sunroom, and how you plan to use it will determine its size. Size is the main indicator of the cost of the sunroom as well as the quality of the materials used and the level of craftsmanship of the general contractor you employ. The cost may also be affected by the area where you live, location of the sunroom, energy efficiency, finished surfaces, and the sunroom contractor you hire.

Choosing A Dependable and Quality Sunroom Contractor

The sunroom contractor you hire might be your biggest consideration when planning this kind of home addition. Dependable, quality contractors have to charge a fair price for their work and they also earn it. Keep in mind that sunroom contractors are not the same. Be sure to check out the sunroom supplier as closely as you can, just like when you are investigating the materials and design that you like. Be sure to consider some important things when hiring a sunroom contractor. These include how long he has been in business, his specialization, customer service, work portfolio, and warranties.

Call Keystone General Contractor if you are looking for an experienced, trustworthy, and reputable contractor who can build your sunroom.

Keystone General Contracting Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 465-0685 https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com

https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com/why-add-a-sunroom-to-your-home/

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

7 Remodeling Ideas That Boost Home Value

home-remodel-4-300x200.jpgA growing number of homeowners have decided to not to sell their house mainly because the real estate market continues to remain in a slump. They have opted to stay put until things improve. Now that you have decided to stay in your house instead of moving to a new one, you may be planning different home improvement projects to make your house more comfortable. Several home remodeling projects do not add value to your house. In a down market, it could even cause a decrease in the asking price once you decide to sell your home. On the other hand, there are a few projects could add more value to your house.

Home Remodeling Ideas To Increase Your Home Value

There are many Myrtle Beach home remodeling projects that add value to your house and enhance the quality of life of your family. By working on these projects right now, you can enjoy the updates and benefits. In case you make green upgrades, you may also begin recouping your investment in these green energy technologies when you finish the projects.

Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen has long been thought of as the heart of a home. Given that, updating this part of your home always pays off. Homeowners are expected to recoup between 60% and 120% of the investment they made on a kitchen remodel provided that they do not go overboard. You must never make your kitchen more extravagant than the rest of the house or worse, the neighborhood.

Bathroom Addition

If your house only has a single bathroom, you can get back a large portion of your investment through the addition of another bathroom. Homeowners who go for a bathroom addition can recoup as much as 80% to 130% of whatever you spend when you add a bathroom. In terms of finding a room in your house for an additional bathroom, check out any extra rooms or underused spaces. Take into account these spaces like the areas under the stairs or closets as well. In case you would like to have a full bath that includes a stand up shower, you should have an available space of at least 30 square feet. In case you would like to have a bathtub, you need to have at least 35 square feet to work with. Just like any project, the cost of a bathroom addition is based on the kind of additions as well as accessories you would like to use as well as the cost of all these items. Reinventing A Room The addition of more square footage to your house with a brand new room could be an expensive undertaking. Even though you could get back some of your investment, between 50% and 83%, the costs of the project can easily go out of control. Just switch on any of those home renovation TV shows and see how easy it is for a $15,000 home remodeling project become $30,000 or more. You should reinvent the existing space in your house to save cash. You can transform an attic into a bedroom or maybe finish a basement. Several homeowners could also add tiny apartments in or even over their garages, and put it up for rent. Add Energy Efficient Windows Today, buyers look for houses wherein energy efficiency has been taken into account. Drafty, old single pane windows tend to drive home buyers away. According to Energy Star, homeowners who add Energy Star-rated windows can enjoy huge savings of up to $500 a year in their heating and cooling bills. Investing in energy efficient windows lets homeowners recoup as much as 60% to 90% of the costs. They may also get a green energy tax credit of 10% for this particular upgrade provided that Energy Star rated windows were installed. They may also qualify for other credits from the state or the utility company. Deck Addition Adding a deck will boost the value of your home. Outdoor living spaces are now more desirable since more people are staying home for vacation. You should also make your backyard and your deck more appealing if you want to attract more potential homebuyers when the time comes that you decide you wish to sell your house. You can recoup as much as 65% to 90% of your investment if you add a deck. The cost you have to cover when adding a deck to your house will depend on the size, the bells and whistles you add, and the deck’s size. Obviously, you can save a large amount if you decide to do the work yourself. But remember, deck construction is not easy. You should have specific tools and the cost of the tools you need are usually quite expensive. Buying them could just be a waste of money especially if you won’t be using them all the time. Energy Efficient Insulation In case your home has insufficient insulation, has outdated doors that allow the entry of hot and cold air, the home inspectors that are working with potential home buyers will include these details in their reports. Houses that have not been updated with energy efficiency in mind will cost more to maintain and live in. Updating your house to save energy does not need to cost you a fortune and it can also make your house more appealing to potential home buyers. Basic Updates Basic updates will add the most value to your house. These includes keeping the pain fresh, fixing the roof whenever it leaks, replacing the woods that are already rotting, and getting rid of mold. These kinds of chores will keep your house from deteriorating after some time. Potential buyers would like to have a solid, healthy, and safe home, plus they carefully search for signs of routine maintenance.

Call Keystone General Contracting if you need professional help in remodeling your home.

Keystone General Contracting Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 465-0685 https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com

https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com/remodel-ideas-boost-home-value/

Sunday, April 14, 2019

7 Home Renovation Ideas In Spring

home-remodel-3-300x225.jpgNow that longer days and warmer weather has come, you might be all set to prepare your home for the coming months. Spring has lots of bountiful opportunities to offer especially when it comes to working on your house and updating its visual aesthetics bot in and out. A few of the home remodel ideas that will boost not only your home’s appearance but also its functionality are provided below.

Top 7 Spring Home Remodel Projects

Kitchen Improvements A kitchen remodel may seem like a major and expensive renovation project this spring. However, a few little changes can transform your kitchen from drab to fab. If you do not want to get new cabinets, you can repaint the one that you have instead. Another option is to change the hardware on the cabinets with something fashionable and updated. Upgrade To Wood Flooring In case you are new to this project, a home renovation loan is the best method for homeowners to obtain the funds they require to repair and update their home. When you have received your renovation loan, you can begin the planning process. You can start by sanding and re-staining deteriorated or drab looking floors. Spring is the perfect time to take on this home improvement project since you will most likely kick up a significant amount of debris and dust in the process. Thanks to the warm weather, fresh air can come in because you can open the windows. You can also spend time outdoors between refinishing and sanding. Tackle The Drywall Perhaps you are changing the attic into another living space or maybe transforming your basement to an entertainment area, tackling the drywall is another excellent project you can take one when the weather becomes nicer. The warm temperature lets you open the windows and help hasten the time for the drywall compound to dry. Although the process of remodelling the room is slow, the spring season will provide the best conditions for taking on the project. Build A Room Addition Room additions are great projects especially for people who are in search for multi-generational living for elderly parents or a returning college student. Taking on this project during winter can be messy since your home’s walls might have to be demolished or knocked down. However, it is less of a nuisance when done during warmer temperatures. In case the job will run long, you don’t have to worry about winter breathing down your neck. Summer is likewise a great time weather wise especially if you are seeking to complete your remodel. Resurface Your Driveway Harsh weather, snow plowing, as well as natural deterioration can destroy your asphalt driveway. In case you are considering to redo or resurface your driveway, the warmer temperatures of spring are the best time for this kind of home remodel. Since materials like asphalt need moisture as well as warm weather, it is recommended that you wait until for the perfect conditions. Add Fresh and Bright Colors Another easy way to improve the look of your home once spring comes is through the color. In case you have area or throw rugs, or maybe an accent pillow, pick a small color in the design and add a new coat of paint to the walls to match. You may use neutral colors when repainting the walls and use accessories to bring in color. For spring, be sure to try some vibrant and bold shades. Use Affordable Window Treatments In case your funds are low and you don’t have that much cash to spend on new windows or doors or perhaps a major home remodel Myrtle Beach, you can try basic spring fixes like new window treatments. Bright colors as well as floral shades can make your windows look like a decadent art piece.

If you are thinking of remodelling your home this Spring and you want to work with a professional, call Keystone General Contracting now.

Keystone General Contracting Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 465-0685 https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com

https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com/7-home-renovation-ideas-in-spring/

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Top 5 Spring Home Improvement Projects

home-remodel-2-300x200.jpgAs the icy blanket of winter thaws over, comes the perfect time to make some home improvements or home remodel projects. In many parts of the U.S., warmer air is making way for spring and with the season comes the perfect time to make anything from minor to major upgrades to your home. Now that the snow and ice is melting away, you can do some home improvement projects that can not only give you a better home, but it could also boost its value. Here are the top 5 projects that you could do this spring:

Making roof repair a priority

While there are some easier areas to tackle, your roof is one part that you should never overlook and should always come first. It’s your home’s primary defense against the elements so it is only fitting that you give ample attention to it and do any necessary repairs. Heavy snowfall could put a great deal of stress on your roof. Sometimes, the weight becomes too great that the structural integrity of your roof becomes compromised. It is always important to check for signs of wear and damage when the snow melts. Do remember, small repairs could be done by your average DIYer, but bigger roof damage requires expert attention. Taking good care of the windows Along with some doors that lead outside your home, windows too can take a beating from the harsh winter weather. Broken window panes can be easily handled by your everyday homeowner. This part isn’t too complicated to handle but must be done with caution to avoid any unnecessary accidents. Pay close attention to your windows. Walk around your house and check all the windows to see if there are damages. Checking the sidings When temperatures drop below freezing, some areas of your home could get damaged and this includes your sidings. Check for any loose or warped pieces of sidings. If you’re using wooden sidings, you might want to consider the synthetic route. There are vinyl sidings available that not only boost your homes, value, they also make maintenance and cleanup a lot easier and they last longer too. It’s also one home improvement project that’s easy and gives your home a lot of value. Repairing gutters of installing new ones The gutters also takes a beating when heavy snowfall hits your area. The sheer weight of the snow could cause some serious damage to your gutters. Not only will damaged gutters impede water flow, it will also make way for other damages if left unrepaired. When cleaning your roof, check the gutters and see if there are any loose areas. Also check the downspouts for blockages. Upgrade your insulation If you’ve felt that your heating system was on full blast and yet you felt cold during the winter, maybe it’s time to an insulation upgrade. Beefing up your insulation is a good way to reduce your electricity bill as well as improve your home’s overall value. Remember, a properly maintained home sells better when the time comes you decide to put it in the market. Adding new insulation is also a mandatory part in every home remodel Myrtle Beach project.

Are you planning on making home improvements this spring? Call Keystone General Contracting for professional help.

Keystone General Contracting Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 465-0685 https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com

https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com/spring-home-improvement-projects/

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Top Kitchen Remodeling Trends For 2019

Kitchen-remodel-300x200.jpgIf a kitchen remodel is on your list of home improvements this year, you might consider not rushing things. There are new trends coming out that might be well-suited for your home. If you’re looking for long-term solutions, you don’t need to worry. These trends offer long-term value for your kitchen. Some of the trends in the list often incorporate both functionality and beauty without any tradeoffs.

Aging-in-place

A lot of the baby boomers this year are looking for a more functional kitchen where they would be comfortable growing old in. The changes made to the kitchen would potentially increase the resale value of the home as well as boosting its functionality. Included in the list of renovations is putting in a new lowered counter, cabinet lighting for ease of use, an oven with a French door, as well as widening the walkway for easier access and wheelchair use in the future. Although it seems to involve a lot of major changes, none of the improvements sacrifice aesthetics in any way. These are great additions to any kitchen remodel Myrtle Beach project you might have.

Quartz countertops

As granite countertops’ popularity continue to decline, Quartz countertops are getting more attention. Engineered quartz is gaining popularity fairly quickly and there’s a reason why. While natural stone materials edge out engineered quartz in beauty, it requires more maintenance to keep it in pristine condition. Also, engineered quartz is non-porous which gives it better longevity and easier cleanups.

Engineered flooring

Much like granite countertops, natural hardwood floors have also seen a decline in popularity. The main reason is cost. While both natural and engineered products provide premium aesthetics, it’s quite apparent that engineered flooring beats natural hardwoods in terms of cost. Vinyl and laminate are currently dominating the market due to its cost-effective nature.

Rising costs

While we all want to keep the costs down for any project, this year isn’t going to spare your budget from price spikes. It’s going to cost you more to remodel in 2019 and it is likely things will continue to go up in the coming years. The average cost of remodeling a kitchen this year would set you back $11,000 and $33,000 average cost for a major kitchen renovation. The reason for the increase in kitchen and home remodel costs include rising material costs, taxes, and shortage of skilled labor.

Hiring professionals for the job

Gone are the days of DIY – not applicable if you’re a contractor yourself – as 80% of kitchen renovators choose to hire a professional to take on the job for them. Kitchen remodelers as well as general contractors are among the favorites. One out of five homeowners hire a specialty provider for different areas of the kitchen. Baby boomers are among the group of individuals who opt to hire professionals. However, millennials are still opting to do the renovations themselves, relying on the internet for most of their construction know-how. According to surveys, millennials are also the most likely group of people who would go for such renovations.

Planning on renovating your kitchen? Call Keystone General Contracting today for all your renovation needs.

Keystone General Contracting Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 465-0685 https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com

https://www.keystonegeneralcontracting.com/top-kitchen-trends-for-2019/

KITCHEN REMODEL TIPS ON A SHOESTRING BUDGET

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