Green Home Benefits

An average 2,500 square foot home in Delaware will cost around $3,000 in electricity for an average year. While retaining the same quality of living, a green home will require a small fraction of that energy. Where do those savings come from?

Retrofits and New Homes

Many homeowners feel attached to their current homes and will want to retrofit rather than building new homes. While retrofitting current homes to be more energy efficient is certainly preferable to leaving them as is, conventional homes have some fundamental defects that will prevent them from reaching complete energy independence.

New home builders have many more options when it comes to building a green home. Because they're not retrofitting an existing property, they have complete control over every aspect of construction from the first day of planning through the project's completion.

Some sustainable home building practices are impractical for a simple remodeling. For example, thermal flooring is more efficient and cheaper to install when windows are planned around that feature. Living roofs are easier to install atop a new building rather than installing them over existing roofs.

Benefits to Homeowners

Government tax credits and other subsidies have made green homes especially attractive over the past few years. For example, the federal renewable energy tax credit covers 30 percent of the cost of a new solar panel system. The Delaware Green Energy Program Incentives can further reduce the cost of solar panels by 90 cents per watt of capacity.

Delaware new home builders will also benefit from historically low prices on solar panels, energy efficient lighting, and other green technologies. Combined with government subsidies, many of these products cost a fraction of what they used to just three years ago.

Green homeowners don't have to make any sacrifices to their lifestyles to save money. With a green home, they can afford to leave the temperature at a comfortable setting while taking hot showers and using the same consumer electronics as everyone else. The only difference is that their monthly utility bills are tiny or completely nonexistent.

Benefits to the Environment

Green building materials minimize any impact on the environment. They typically come from sustainable sources or recycled materials.

Energy efficient products require less electricity. When the power plants burn less coal or oil, they emit less carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.

Green homes recycle everything. Rainwater can be collected for irrigation purposes. Compost bins decompose organic waste for gardening and landscaping. Even the original building materials can be recycled for use in other construction.

Small Changes Add Up

One of the easiest ways to save money is to install energy efficient lighting. Compact fluorescent bulbs use about 25 percent of the energy of incandescent bulbs, but they include mercury, which is highly toxic to both humans and the environment. Better yet are LED bulbs that use even less electricity and contain no environmental toxins. While LED bulbs cost more upfront, a 75 watt equivalent LED will only use about $5.50 of electricity per year compared to $24.63 for an incandescent bulb.

By themselves, new windows, insulation, and exterior doors save some energy. Together, they can easily cut heating and cooling costs in half. Power strips, low-flow shower heads, low-flush toilets, and other energy saving appliances all add up, and the more homeowners invest in energy efficient products, the more they will save over time.


Kent Yuen is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement and green construction topics.  For more information on building energy efficient homes, click here.

Great Family Room Design that Works for Kids & Adults

A place to gather, play and hang out, the family room has something for everyone, so make yours special. You can easily design a family room that appeals to both kids and parents. Here are 6 decorating tips for setting up the perfect family room for you.

1.  A Cozy Sectional

There's plenty of room for relaxing on a comfy sofa sectional. When choosing one for your home, be sure to consider the size of the overall room. More is not better if the sectional takes up most of the space. A sofa plus chaise lounge combination works well and leaves plenty of room for end tables and an extra chair or two. And go for durable fabrics that can be easily zipped off and tossed into the washing machine.

2.  An Eye Catching Mural

Dedicate one wall of your family room for a huge wall mural- one that evokes the spirit of your family. If you love exploring and hiking in the great outdoors, a breathtaking mountain scene will make the perfect focal point. A family of scuba divers will love an underwater image of colorful coral and tropical fish. The sports loving family can choose a Yankee Stadium mural. Whatever your family's interests, there is a wall mural to depict it beautifully.

3. Kid Friendly Zone

A room that looks sophisticated but can stand up to the wear and tear of kids is key. Choose a rug that is not only beautiful, but is comfy to sit on and durable, like Persian wool. Table surfaces that wipe clean are great for snacks and do double duty for working on art projects. Beveled glass and laminate are better choices than say, using your Grandmother's heirloom antique coffee table.

4. Entertainment

Of course you want a great big TV set up and this is the room to do it in. A ceiling mounted projector, 6 by 9 foot screen and surround sound speakers turn your family room into a home theater in an instant. Ceiling mounted projectors start as low as $50 and are readily available at electronics stores. Use light blocking curtains for daytime movie watching and to add a cozy, theater feel.

5. Contain Clutter

Never leave too much "stuff" lying around.  Organize and store dvds, remotes, toys, and art supplies in decorative baskets or in an ottoman with storage. Once a day, take five minutes to pick up clutter and tidy up the room. And resist the urge to overdecorate. This will keep the room plan open and inviting and prevent it from looking and feeling cramped.

6. Let there be light

Use table lamps or standing lamps to provide adequate lighting for reading or a game of Monopoly. Consider recessed lighting over tall furniture such as bookshelves and entertainment centers to warmly brighten the room without a harsh glare

Your family room is the most lived in area of the home. Setting it up just right using these tips makes it practical for growing families and still allows it to be eye catching and sophisticated at the same time.

Choose from 1000s of wall murals for your family room or create custom wall murals from your digital photos at www.ArtisticHomeowner.com.

Tips on Decorating the Dining Room for an Elegant Feel

Our dining room is where we gather to eat, talk, and enjoy one another’s company. It’s where we bond together, commune with guests, as well as talk and laugh our hearts (and tummies!) out. Indeed, our dining room holds a very special place for us—it’s where we share some of the best moments in our lives. So, why not enrich that experience even more by making your living look more elegant! Believe me, it won’t cost you a small fortune, but the impact is way beyond any monetary benefits could give (although, of course, a refurbished dining room could boost your home’s value). If you want your family and friends to cherish every moment they spend dining with you, then, check out some of your best dining room decorating tips and make your dining room even more lo

1.  Look for inspiration

Elegant dining rooms all center in one motif or period theme. Decide what you want. Do you want a trendy, modern and eclectic design? Or you prefer a Victorian, Georgian, or perhaps, Federal theme? Try to check out books, magazines and the Internet for inspiration and make sure to incorporate these period themes on your dining room makeover.

2.  Choose a color theme.

Pick two or three main colors then additional complimentary colors to add more life and excitement to your dining room. For example, brown and green could perfectly work well as the room’s main color themes, while for complimentary colors lighter or darker shades of ivory, beige and light green are excellent additions.  

3.       Mount Elegant Corner Moldings in Dining Room Doorways

Corner moldings add a touch of class to any dining room, whether it’s big or small. You can attach them on corners and make a rather unnoticeable area more pleasing and interesting. To make the best of the design, make sure to splurge your corner molding with a nice paint that complements the color stream of the interior. Corner moldings that look complementary could leave the illusion that they are actually put in place from the start, thus, adding a more touch of elegance to your room.

4.       Change your centerpiece every now and again

Centerpieces serve as the focal point of everyone’s eyes when they step inside the dining room. As they say, first impressions last, everyone’s impression on your kitchen will really depend on what comes first into their sight. Elegant, unique, and eye-catching centerpieces have to grace your table setting, so always be creative enough to make a switch, perhaps, every month, or every season, whichever you prefer. Showcasing holiday centerpieces is also another way of making everyone fill the spirit of the occasion and you will always find them abundant and affordable in department, home improvement, and craft stores. If you have a fresh supply of blooms, fruits, or local produce in your garden, you may also opt to make them as your dining area’s main focal point, which adds a bit of warm and hospitality to your home.

A little bit of creativity could surely lead to a more elegant and chic room, even if you don’t splurge on your bucks on it. Check the internet, read home improvement magazines, or ask your friends to get some of the best, most unique and most eclectic ideas that you can incorporate in transforming your dining area from a mere space where everyone eats to the place where your family and friends want to be.

About the author – Manilyn Moreno writes tips on catering and event planning for Better Cater, a catering software company. For more catering tips, visit their website at http://www.bettercater.com/. 

A Guide to Home Security Improvements

Today, the people invest a lot of money on electronics and furniture while they don’t pay little or no attention to the home security. No matter what top class home theatre you have placed in the home, it would be insecure in the absence of a well-designed security system. Therefore, it’s strongly advisable to first secure your home in the best manner and after that you should equip with modern and latest equipments, tools and items. I’m going to shed light on a guide to home security improvements. I’m sure that after following this guide you can get every expensive item for home without concerning about its theft. It’s time to peep into a comprehensive guide which has 5 main steps steps.

Step #1 Lawn Moving is a Good Start

Overgrown lawn gives green signal to the thieves; they think that property is unoccupied so they can easily invade into it. Therefore, it’s better to go for lawn mowing tasks first.I know that daily work routine doesn’t allow us to do this task daily but you can do it on weekly basis. No doubt, shrubs offer good privacy to home owners but you should always keep shrubs near door and windows short. Actually, long shrubs give hiding spaces to the burglars. At the same time, you need to trim the extensive branches of the trees. Don’t give burglar a chance to find some hidden place near your home
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Step #2 Video Surveillance Protects Home in your Absence

I always advise my friends to equip their home with the latest video surveillance system. You can get help from an expert locksmith who will come and select the best system of the market and then install it in an accurate manner. He installed security cameras in such a manner that one can get the 360 view of home from his room. In addition, a person can connect this system with his cell phone through home automation application just to keep an eye on home even he isn't at home
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Step #3 Know the importance of Well-lit home

Do you know how dangerous a dark house can be? A dark house warmly welcomes thieves as they know that home owners aren't present at home and they can do their work without any kind of interference. So, it’s important that you maintain proper lighting system at home. Yard should be well-lit always and as far as rooms are concerned, you can turn on the lights of those rooms which windows are outside. This little carefulness will surely help you to avoid criminal attacks.

Step #4 Place Security Signs

When you get the security cameras and alarm from a company, they usually offer security sign stickers. You can place them outside the home in a prominent place. Such signs will tell the thieves that home owners have done with security preparations.

Step #5 Security Alarm is a Must

Your task is to check the market which is flooded with many security alarms. You can easily find an alarm which is of high quality and at the same quite affordable. Try to pick a budget friendly alarm and call locksmith for the installation. Your home without an alarm is simply insecure. Invest a little on alarm, this investment will save you from the loss of other precious goods and items.

Follow this guide and feel more secure at home than before.

Author Bio:

John Micheal is a designer and marketer. He knows the best tricks of marketing a site on the web. He also works as a marketing manager of Kirkland WA locksmith blog.

4 Kitchen Renovation Ideas to Give Your Kitchen a Face-lift

The kitchen is one of the busiest parts of the home. Whether it’s a small kitchen or a large one, there’s no denying the fact that we’re all at our busiest when we’re there. And since we spend quite some time in this well-loved space, we need to make sure that it’s organized, spick-and-span, and most of all, at it’s most immaculate look. If you think the heavy traffic and activities have made your kitchen a little bit worn out and messy, then, it’s time to give it a little make over. Indeed, you can transform your kitchen for the better! Here’s our top kitchen renovation ideas that will help you refurnish, refurbish and renew your kitchen without ever costing you big bucks.

     

1. Plan Smart

Having a well-drawn plan, especially on how to do the renovation is the main factor that will bring in more savings to your pocket. So, take time to decide what changes should be implemented. For example, you might skip moving your stove or sink to a different location since it’ll cost you quite some cash.  Likewise, you might want to simultaneously upgrade your lighting while getting the electricity installed. To save time and money while shopping for fixtures, don’t forget to bring a kitchen sketch so it’s easier to locate the right item. 

2. Space Enhancing Window Treatments

One of the cheapest and most effective ways to boost your kitchen’s new look and make more expansive is by enhancing your window treatment. This will do so much to give your kitchen a rather new look, even if you don’t touch most of the fixtures. You may consider getting a light-colored, perhaps neutral, roller-blind to let the natural light inside the kitchen, while still securing your privacy. If your window is located near a sink or where grease and food stains could easily reach it, choose a washable fabric that comes in a more versatile color

3. Repaint those drab wall

Another simple and very affordable face-lift that you can do for your kitchen is to repaint worn out walls to make them look brand new. You can apply it on any surface, from the cabinets and drawers to walls and ceilings. If your kitchen seems dark, then, opt for bright colored options. You will see a great difference on how you have transformed your kitchen from a rather drab, dark and boring space into a more exciting and colorful spot where you’d definitely want to spend more time preparing meals for your family. Since kitchen surfaces should be kept fast and easy to clean, choose satin and semi-gloss paints and don’t forget to apply tough-quality sealant if your timber and wooden floors are painted. This will prolong the aesthetic and quality look of your kitchen and, at the same time, prevent food and water from falling between the grooves. 

4. Reface or Replace Cabinets

If you think your old, wooden kitchen cabinets and drawers are putting a toll on your kitchen’s décor, you may either reface it or total replace it with brand new pieces. If you think they’re still worth giving a second chance, you can sand them and coat with polyurethane or applying a whole different color. If you opt to update your kitchen with brand-new cabinets that won’t cost you so much, opt for cabinets with stuffed particles and solid fronts and you’ll save up to $500.

About the author – Manilyn Moreno writes tips on catering and event planning for Better Cater, a catering software company. For more catering tips, visit their website at http://www.bettercater.com/. 

3 Simple New Home Improvements You Should Make

Too many new home buyers view their new purchase as a burden instead of a blank slate.  What many don’ understand is that a new home should be as homey as any pre-dated, vintage home.  But often new buyers are afraid to tap into their creativity with their new purchase, or think doing so will cost them too much.  Here are three very simple, and very affordable changes you should make to your new home.

Color

Nothing is worse than a new home with plain, bare walls.  Getting some color either through artwork or painting will help ad a unique feel to whatever space you have available in your home.  Consider accenting your furniture color and don’t be afraid to test the possibilities available to you.  Bare walls can become the centerpiece of your home if you take the time to make them unique to you.  We all know new homes can use a splash of color, and it’s never too soon to make changes.

Window Treatments

Windows are so often one of the most overlooked aspects of a home, yet one of the most beneficial to address, regardless of how new your home may be.  Shutters of blinds can provide improved aesthetics to a home as well as increased privacy and efficiency.  With the options available today shutters or blinds can be custom built to meet your visual and financial needs.  Not to mention the money you could be saving keeping the sun out on hot days and letting it in on cooler ones.

Curb Appeal

While many may think that a new home is in need of little improvement for ideal curb appeal, the reality is some easy work could lead to increased curb appeal, resale value and personal enjoyment.  Don’t be afraid to apply new lawn and garden possibilities to your home.  If you have the ability to build a new deck or stone a patio you can reduce your maintenance costs in mowing while increasing the livable and enjoyable space surrounding your home.  While this may be a larger expense than interior window treatments and painting, it can make a huge difference in how you view your new home.

If you’re in the market for a new home or have recently purchased a home don’t let it stay new without being unique to you.  Make the most of your new blank slate and spend some time making some unique improvements you know you’ll be able to enjoy.

Knowledge is Mandatory: The Bad Side of DIY Home Renovations

While working on your home, chemical exposure can be a serious danger. Many homeowners don't realize when getting into a DIY project that safety should the first priority rather than immediately jumping into a renovation. For DIY home renovations in structures built before 1975, the risks are even greater. Many homes during this time used materials made of asbestos. While undisturbed, intact asbestos is not particularly harmful, when these materials degrade or crumble, they release fibers, which are then breathed into the lungs and can lead to mesothelioma. Remaining knowledgeable and taking the necessary precautions helps DIY homeowners protect themselves and family members.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a widely used mineral-based material that resists heat and corrosion. While released into the air can be silken or rough, much of the fibers cannot be scene with the naked eye alone. These are the types of fibers that can cause serious damage to the human body. Exposure to asbestos leads to the scarring of human lung tissue and can result in mesothelioma, a deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and abdomen. It can also cause lung cancer and cancers of the esophagus. When working around older homes which include blow-in insulation, vinyl flooring, certain types of linoleum, HVAC dust insulation, siding materials, plaster and other common asbestos materials, you should always wear safety gear and contact a professional to remove exposed areas.

How to Protect Yourself Against Asbestos

 
If you're not sure what kind of materials you're working with, the first thing you should do is wear a respirator that covers your mouth and nose. In addition, you may want to wear safety goggles, gloves, heavy-duty clothing and boots. However, if you think that any part of your home may be infected with asbestos, the best thing is to have your home tested and monitored for asbestos. The inspector will give you a list of results, including recommendations on repair or removal. The process of removing asbestos is very controlled and careful, as disturbing asbestos can lead to more harm.

How to Remove Chemically Exposed Materials

 
With materials like asbestos, you can't simply pick up the issue and move it outside. Asbestos fibers are not harmful if intact but when disturbed, they turn to powder fibers that can't be seen in the air, easily breathed in through the nostrils and affecting the lungs. That's why asbestos must be carefully sealed with the right coating or sealant and removed by professionals. When hiring a contractor for this kind of work, remember to check references and previous experience. Any asbestos materials left behind or not sealed correctly can lead to even greater harm to yourself and your family. 

Brian Turner has been working with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance as an environmental health and toxic substance safety advocate since June of 2007. Brian brings a tremendous amount of research and awareness experience in environmental health risks, environmental carcinogens, and green building expertise. Brian is very interested in all types of cars; his favorites are classic, muscle, and imports. Brian is commonly found playing and watching various sports with his friends.