Category: Home Improvement

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Door & Windows

Take A Look At These Types of Gates For Your Home  

Gates

Finding a gate that matches your style and needs to keep yourself and your family safe needs a bit of effort. You should have an idea of what type of gate you need, its uses, and how it can benefit you. If you want to find out how you can choose the type of gate that ticks the right boxes, you should keep on reading.

Type of Gates

  1. Standard Gate

These gates are designed with a similar style and materials to suit your fence. First instance, if you have a wrought iron fence, you would most likely opt for a wrought iron gate. Generally, they are considered single-door gates that are designed for you to walk through. Standard gates are designed according to specific guidelines. For instance, your gate and fence should be the same height, you should prevent your gate from sagging, and you should strategically place your latch system.

  1. Specialty Gate

If you are looking for a gate that is out of the ordinary, then a specialty gate is your best bet. You normally find them in residential areas. If you install this gate, you can choose between one that you can operate manually or an automated one. However, they are popularly recognized by their automation system. Specialty gates can come in various designs and types. Below are the three common types that you may come across.

  • Swing gates
  • Rolling and Cantilever gates
  • Double gates
  1. Safety and Security Gates

When you are looking for a gate you want to find something that can serve a decorative purpose and protect you. In addition, you want to find a gate that can protect your family. For instance, if you have a pool, you want to protect your toddler from taking a dive when you aren’t watching. Pool gates are there to lower the risk of your child falling into the pool while you’re making them a snack.

  1. Automated Gates

An automated gate system enhances your home’s appeal while ensuring that you and your family are safe at all times. The best part is that you can simply add a motor-driven gate operator to your standard gate and viola! You don’t have to worry about being restricted by the style or design of your current gate. All that you need is a reliable access control system, and you are good to go.

In summary, choosing a gate takes a bit of consideration. You not only need to think of the style, but you should consider your fence and safety requirements. The best way to ensure this is by finding a reputable company to install like Gates Perth to install your gate.

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Door & Windows

Sash Windows — The Most Common Misconceptions

Sash Windows

Myths about Timber Windows

Many owners refuse to install or restore wooden windows in favor of PVC double-glazed windows, as many myths scare them. There is an opinion that natural wood does not withstand loads and serves less than plastic windows. However, this statement is not substantiated by anything. The original wooden window has a long service life – up to 100 years, and that’s why it is still popular today.

In the Scott James company, you can not only order timber windows restoration, but also the installation of a new glass unit made of natural wood. The constructions will have a presentable appearance and add value to your home.

Wood rot cannot be controlled

If you don’t pay due attention to your double-glazed window, it will quickly lose its appearance and functionality. Thorough washing of stains and treatment of your wooden surface will save you from unpleasant surprises. Not only paint is suitable for protecting your glass unit, but also a coating of a special varnish.

Regular repainting is required in areas with poor weather conditions, when the wood is constantly exposed to moisture and temperature changes. If you live in an area with a favorable climate, you can paint it once every 5-10 years. In order not to waste your own time updating your double-glazed window, contact sash windows specialists.

Sash window is expensive

At the first study of prices, it may seem that plastic windows are cheaper. Their distinctive feature from a wooden glass unit is their service life. High-quality natural wood windows will last up to 100 years if you carry out sash windows renovation from time to time. A PVC double-glazed window can be in use for up to 20 years, after which you will need to replace it completely.

Installing wooden windows is a great investment in the long term. They look very sophisticated and are great for both old houses and modern buildings.

Timber window is draughty

Wooden windows will reduce the energy efficiency of your home if you don’t look after them. To prevent this from happening, you just need to install a perimeter sealing system. This will bring you many benefits. In particular, it will help to:

  • get rid of drafts;
  • increase the level of noise insulation;
  • provide a comfortable temperature in your room at any time of the year.

This innovative system doesn’t affect the appearance of your windows. This is especially important in older buildings that are of historical value to the city.

Original sash windows cannot be double glazed

To add warmth to your home, add extra glazing to your wooden windows. You will notice that heating bills will go down after the refurbishment. If you have single glazing installed, you can improve it by adding another sash. In other cases, new sashes are used, which are equipped with double or triple glazing. A complete replacement of the box is not required, and the updated window will serve you for many years, providing comfort and coziness for the owners.

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Door & Windows

Does Your Deadbolt Lock Really Need to Be Replaced?

Deadbolt Lock

The whole point of having locks on your doors is so intruders stay out, right? This is only possible when your locks are functioning properly. Sometimes you can notice random malfunctions in the way the lock functions and wonder if you just let it be, fix it, or replace it? This is complicated enough with regular locks, but when you’re talking about deadbolt locks, things get even more confusing.

Deadbolt locks are made in a way where springs are useless. The only way you can open a shut deadbolt lock is by unlocking it with the right key. Sometimes, these locks either don’t open or cause issues while opening. However, not all malfunctions need replacements. Some can be fixed too! So before you jump into it, we’re here to outline times you should replace a deadbolt lock, and times when you should just get it repaired!

Does Your Deadbolt Lock Really Need to Be Replaced?

Below are the common reasons your deadbolt lock might be causing trouble, and what you need to do to fix it!

  1. The lock won’t turn: This is one of the most common problems people have with deadbolt locks. When this happens, it seems like your lock and key might not be the same, but they are. The problem is usually with the lock mechanism here. Anything that’s damaged or not functioning properly in the lock can cause the entire lock to freeze up and not let the key turn. Sometimes, a repair is possible if the entire lock is taken apart and put back together again. Have a Handyman in NYC or a local handyman in your area come in and take a look at your lock. If it can’t be repaired, it might be a good time to replace the deadbolt lock altogether!

  2. There’s a misalignment: If your deadbolt was working perfectly fine, but suddenly the bolt doesn’t properly line up with the strike plate, it won’t let the lock latch on. This is usually a quick fix. All that’s needed is to see how misaligned the lock and the strike plate are, mark the correct position the two need to be in for the lock to function and move the strike plate accordingly. When you’re done, the lock should work just fine!
  3. The key won’t fit: If you’re inserting the key in the deadbolt lock, and noticing that it’s either “sticking” inside the lock like something is grabbing on to it, or gets jammed in a way that doesn’t let the key turn, it’s usually not the lock that’s the culprit, it’s the key!An old, worn-out key can start to stick in locks and sometimes won’t even turn the lock at all. The great thing is that fixing this is fairly easy, you just have to get a spare key made!

    If the key was the problem, the new key should let the lock function just fine, if it wasn’t, you can take a closer look at the lock too. If the lock is dirty, which can happen when years of dirt and grime get on it, it won’t work properly. This can be fixed by first spraying the lock with a cleaning solution. Special sprays are made just for this problem. If that doesn’t cut it, try taking the lock apart and cleaning each piece individually. If there was some sort of gunk messing with the way the lock works, cleaning every little piece and then putting the lock back together should fix your problem! No replacement would be needed!

Using this guide, you should be able to spot these three problems if your deadbolt is running into one of them. If it is, you’ll know whether it’s actually time to replace your deadbolt or is it a repairable issue immediately!

 

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Home Improvement

Custom Awnings: Attract People to Your Business

Custom Awnings

With many business establishments with awnings, you may observe that not all of them choose the custom ones. As a business owner, you can take the extra step of customizing your awnings.

When you invest in custom awnings, you will have a design that is distinctive to your brand. Besides providing shade as its primary function, it gives you the flexibility to incorporate elements to help attract your customers.

There are essential factors to consider when looking for the right awning for your business. These include:

Style

The style of your custom awning should match the structure of your building. There are a variety of awnings, from sleek and modern ones to creative models.

Function

Think about the purpose of your awning; it is for shade, protection, promotion, or another reason?

Materials

Popular awnings are usually made from polyester-coated PVCs, metal, and acrylic canvas.

Size

Determine how much available space you have that can accommodate your awning.

Retractable or Fixed awning

When you decide between the two, consider your preferences and needs.

Budget

When it comes to the pricing of your awnings, it mainly depends on the manufacturer and installer.

What Are the Benefits?

Many businesses install custom awnings because of the benefits they offer:

Added Space

Restaurants and cafes are common types of businesses that use their outdoor space by installing commercial awnings.

The awnings make the outdoor space more convenient and comfortable for employees and customers by protecting them from the rain and sun.

Even though your business is non-food, you can display some of your products outside and install an awning for protection.

Promote Branding

Putting your business logo and name on your awnings is a cost-effective way to increase brand awareness.

Those people who are walking or regularly driving will become familiar with your business, and your awnings are significant contributors to it.

As potential customers realize a familiar company that provides the services they need, your business would get more business continuously.

Increase Protection

During the daytime, the sunlight that enters through your windows comes with UV rays that cause damage to your furniture and products.

Fortunately, you can block these harmful rays with awnings; thus, protecting your wall details, floor coverings, and so on.

Moreover, the commercial awning will serve as a place for people to brush off their coats, shake their umbrellas, and scrape their shoes before entering your business.

This helps lessen the amount of rain, snow, and dirt that customers can track into your place.

Added Visibility

Custom awnings are capable of making your storefront more appealing enough to attract new customers. Because of the unique design, people can easily remember you from other businesses within the area.

Suppose your business is expanding and starting to have multiple stores in various locations. In that case, your custom awning is an excellent way to instil uniformity regardless if your business is in different buildings.

Energy-Efficient

As the awning blocks the sun, rain, and other outdoor elements, this translates to saving money in the long run. This is because installing those awnings will cause you to spend less on utility bills such as air conditioning.

Also, if you have retractable awnings, you can close them during the colder months but still feel the sun, thus supporting your budget.

Choosing custom awnings for your commercial business does not need to be complicated. Make your selection and purchase a fun time, keeping in mind how your customers, new and old, will appreciate them.

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Home Improvement

7 Necessary Concrete Tools for Contractors to Have

concreting tools

In the construction industry, concrete or cement is a fundamental part of building. It is used for its affordability and durability. Every contractor should know what tools best works with this element. It wouldn’t hurt to take time and research on concreting tools you can invest your money on. Opting for cheap or simple tools might sound convenient but acquiring more advanced tools could serve you better in the future.

If you are planning or thinking about purchasing or just renting out certain concreting tools for future use, this list of basic but necessary concrete tools might help you.

Rakes

After pouring concrete into your foundation, this is the go-to tool used to spread the mixture. Although you may use normal rakes, a come-along rake (concrete rake) would do the job better. This tool has a scooped blade that does the proper levelling of concrete. If concrete is properly spread, good results will reflect in drying, finishing and strength of the concrete.

Tampers

These come in various types, including rolling tampers and hand tampers. Its job is to push coarse concrete to consolidate it below the surface. Make sure that this process is done in low slump concrete; if done in high slump concrete, sinking will most likely happen, which could lead to separation in the aggregates.

Floats

These are used to level moist concrete surfaces. Floats are made up of materials like steel and wood. They help the concrete remain damp, particularly on the top of the layer, to make sure it keeps its strength and smooth appearance. Bull floats are the most common type of this tool. It has a large handle and wide blades and is used to fill in small gaps that might show up in the concrete. Smaller floats can be used in filling out voids or smoothing edges found in the concrete. These types are known as magnesium floats and usually in handheld sizes made for smaller, intricate areas.

Screeds

This tool is very easy to use but similarly as important as other concreting tools. It’s long, straight tubes or boards, and its job is to level and remove excess concrete after pouring to get a perfectly smooth finish.

Trowels

This one is the most basic tool you can find. Its use and purpose are very simple to achieve your desired concrete smoothness for the final look, but this is every contractor’s reliable tool.

Edger

When working on smoothing or flattening out concrete slabs on the corners, this is the tool to use for that job. However, using this requires timing as this makes concrete slightly hard, making the process slightly tricky.

Sealer Sprayer

This tool gives the perfect performance and finish during construction. The two most important factor to consider is its material and thickness. A sealer sprayer has low pressure.

Building and working with concrete may seem like an arduous task, so it’s important to look for tools that can help ease every process. It’s crucial to look at every aspect of the material of a tool before committing to buying or renting them. This is to ensure that every single one does the job correctly and results will lead to satisfaction. It helps you or your workers have adequate knowledge and enough skills to build to ensure success in every project.

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Home Improvement

Air Purifiers: Are They Useful?

Home air purifiers

Home air purifiers are becoming more common, owing in part to concerns about air quality. Although your home is intended to provide shelter, many of us spend much more time indoors than previous generations. As a result, you could be exposed to more indoor particles and toxins, which may cause or worsen lung-related diseases.

Despite their claims, some of the best air purifiers for smoke removal are a safe way to eliminate indoor pollutants. But is that true? The short response is, to some extent, yes. Continue reading to learn how these devices operate and if they are worth considering for your home.

How Do Air Purifiers Work?

Air purifiers operate primarily by sanitizing the air, which can contain pollutants, allergens, and toxins. They are the polar opposite of essential oil diffusers and humidifiers, all of which add pollutants to the indoor air. Air purifiers operate differently than filters. Purifiers can sanitize particles, while filters only eliminate them.

The precise particles extracted by an air purifier are essentially determined by the model you choose. Some models include filters to capture particles as air passes through them, while others can neutralize particles in the air without filtering them first.

Are they effective? The short answer is yes. Although, an air purifier is unlikely to kill or neutralize all irritants in your home. This is because many particles can settle on soft surfaces like furniture, bedding, and carpeting, as well as hard surfaces like your walls. An air purifier can be used along with a filter and other techniques to help remove the particles mentioned below.

Allergens

Allergens are compounds that can cause adverse immune reactions, such as allergies or asthma. Pollen, pet dander, and dust mites are some of the most prevalent allergens in the air. An air purifier can be used in combination with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, best known for trapping airborne allergens.

Mould

Indoor mould spores, like allergens, can be particularly harmful to people with asthma and other lung conditions. Air purifiers can help to some extent, but filtration is much more efficient at removing mould from the air. An air purifier with a HEPA filter would be ideal, as would lowering humidity levels in your home.

 Smoke

Filter-equipped air purifiers can also eliminate smoke from the air, such as smoke from forest fires and cigarettes. But, despite their use, air purifiers cannot stop the odour of smoke, and there may still be instances of smoke stains on walls and ceilings.

Indoor toxins

Your home may not be the source of only the airborne allergens and mould, but of indoor pollutants from cleaning products, personal care products etc. These particles can be toxic to your body if they remain in the air. Air purifiers can trap toxins, so the easiest way to get rid of them is to minimize using them in the first place.

Although allergy and asthma medications can help reduce symptoms and avoid reactions, air purifiers can help remove the cause of your symptoms in the first place. There is a possibility that with continued use, you will have fewer allergic reactions and asthma symptoms.

According to research, some of the best air purifiers for smoke removal can help eliminate harmful particles from indoor environments, such as allergens, smoke, and mould. Nonetheless, air purifiers perform best when combined with adequate filtration and house cleaning techniques. An air purifier may not improve indoor air quality on its own, but it can help.

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Kitchen

Smart ways for a complete kitchen makeover!

kitchen

Just like a living room and bedroom, the other rooms of your house too might need a renovation as time passes. But when planning for kitchen makeovers, you should add a personal touch and creative ideas into it. If you do the much-needed alterations to kitchen renovations, you can create a perfect family space to cook up and serve delicious meals and create memories that can last for a long time. If you live in Kitchen Renovations Melbourne and Kitchen Makeovers Melbourne are easy and efficient to come by and many reputed companies offer their expert services for re-modelling and alterations. Take a look at some smart ways in which you can renovate your kitchen and get a complete kitchen makeover!

Add cabinets and storage spaces: A kitchen is mainly about cabinets and storage spaces. You can easily and instantly provide a kitchen upgrade by changing the finishing to anti-fingerprint laminate so that you can avoid fingerprint marks on the cabinets that occur due to constant friction. It would reduce the need to clean the cabinets and can enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen.

Bring in colours: If you feel a kitchen with laminate counters and cupboards needs no colour, it’s time to reconsider your decision. Laminates come in bright and attractive colours such as orange, red or even silver! You can add unique colours to your kitchen. If you add art decals or wall art or a glass painting – this too would add colour to your kitchen and help elevate the interiors.

Add dining space: For today’s space efficient homes, the kitchen is no longer just a space to prepare meals. It is a space where you can have your meal, relax, read a book and even work on your laptop. The best way to do all this is by adding a dining space to your lovely kitchen. You can use laminates that are made of special resin which is ideal for kitchen interiors. The laminates are durable, attractive and can be flexible to an extent which allows seamless corners.

Have a germ-free kitchen: To gain a germ-free kitchen, anti-bacterial kitchen laminates would be your best option. It contains biostatic and biocidal additives that keeps surfaces hygienic and also doesn’t remove the aesthetics and beauty of the finish.

Feature wall: Cold and functional kitchens used to be ideal back in time. With compact, smaller and efficient homes becoming the choice of most people, it’s important that the kitchen also shares the same features, warmth and happiness of a family that cooks, eats and spends time together. You can add a wall for the family to write important notes, quotes or play games – making it a perfect kitchen makeover. What’s more, it will help you spend time with your family!

Add lighting: Lighting can change the way your kitchen and interiors look. You are lucky if your home has a great deal of natural light and ventilation even without any kitchen renovations. However, lighting is essential when it becomes dark or if the kitchen looks dark. To combat this, lamps should be installed in the right places. When you plan your kitchen renovations and makeovers, make sure to add overhead lighting as it can help in showing off the interiors in the best possible way. If you’re not confident enough to carry out your own kitchen renovations and kitchen makeovers, you can always get in touch with the experts in the field. There are plenty of reputed companies in Melbourne that offer kitchen renovation and kitchen makeover services at affordable prices.

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Energy Efficiency

6 Benefits of Using a Home Solar Power System

How do you like the sound of conserving energy and helping the environment? If that sounds appealing, you need to consider implementing solar energy into your home. From solar panels to solar water pumps, there are plenty of ways begin. Before you get started though, you should understand the benefits of going solar below.

#1 – You Will Save Money

It is no secret that solar energy can save you plenty of money. Depending on where you live and  what your average electricity bill looks like, you could be saving more than $1,000 annually. While you’re looking for the best electricity company with the cheapest Texas electricity rates make sure the energy plan you choose is legitimate and trustworthy. Residential installation costs are down approximately 45% since 2010 according to the Solar Energy Industries Assocation.

With this in mind, it only makes sense to switch to solar eventually as it is cheaper than traditional electricity and saves you cash. The average panel lasts 25 years too so replacement won’t be a concern for literally decades. Overall it takes a reasonable investment to get started and most of it you will get back, but we’ll touch on that in a moment.

#2 – Increases Your Home’s Value

There are many characteristics that make a home more attractive in the real estate market. One of them just so happens to be the use of solar power. Potential buyers know that it will save them money and if the system is already installed and running, it’s even more convenient. If selling your home in the future has ever crossed your mind, solar energy can actually serve as an investment.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, or NREL for short, concluded that solar homes sell 20% faster and for 17% more. Just like houses with lower property taxes or ones in school zones, solar energy is a serious trait many home buyers are interested in. This means that you can potentially be generating money by switching over to renewable energy.

#3 – Enjoy Incentives

Did you know the government actually gives you incentives for using solar energy? Originally the cap on the Federal Solar Tax Credit in the US was $2,000 but this was lifted in 2009. Now you will earn 30% of your total solar system costs back. Add on rebates and you could be getting back more than half of your spending on equipment and installation.

In Canada, there are similar financial incentive and regulatory programs that support solar power. These incentives can heavily reduce the costs of getting a solar system up and running.

#4 – Help the Environment

Green home improvement trends are affecting everything from roofs to walls to ceilings.  The use of rapidly renewable materials like bamboo hardwood flooring and recycled decking materials is experiencing an explosion in growth.

One of the most important benefits of using solar energy is that it helps save the planet. In the United States, 37% of C02 emissions are caused by electricity that power homes and businesses. C02 is a greenhouse gas that has been proven to damage the atmosphere and environment.

By opting for solar energy, you harness the power of the sun which doesn’t create a carbon footprint. You might think that one home won’t make much of a difference but over a long period of time it will offset a large amount of C02. It has been proven to reduce 96% to 98% less greenhouse gases by the Energy Research Center of the Netherlands.

Ultimately you can be proud knowing that you are not contributing to the damage of the atmosphere or earth.

#5 – Energy you can Count on

Solar power is a renewable energy. Since we won’t be running out of the sun any time soon, you can count on solar energy for a lifetime. Wind, water, geothermal and other renewable energies are the exact same. Standard fossil fuels and forms of energy take from the environment and can eventually be exhausted. You can have the peace of mind knowing you don’t have to worry about any of that.

As well, homes on the electricity grid are at mercy of market, supply and economical fluctuations. If the costs go up, you have no choice but to spend more money out of your pocket. With solar, we have much more security.

#6- It’s Easy to get Started

A common concern when considering using solar power is how to get started. Not too long ago, the process used to be more difficult and costly. Nowadays with so many solar related businesses, you can get a solar system up in a single day. Everything from installation to consulting can be done to make the process as easy as possible for you.

These companies will help you decide what is the best choice for your needs along with recommendations. After that, a team of professionals will install the system and test it for quality assurance.

Don’t worry about maintenance either because solar panels require very little attention. Over time, it’s only natural for dirt and debris to collect on them. You’ll be looking at a single yearly inspection and cleaning to keep it in tip top shape. While you can do it yourself if you prefer, hiring professional cleaners can assure the best results. There are even systems that can be programmed to regularly wash the panels.

Putting it together

The proof is in the pudding. Investing into a solar power system for your home has endless benefits. With decreasing costs and government incentives, you will earn back upwards to half of what you spend getting started. Beginning has never been easier either with more businesses being able to handle installation and more. To know if solar power is right for your situation, ask yourself these questions:

  • Do I have high enough energy bills that would make using solar energy beneficial?
  • Is my roof in good enough condition to securely install solar panels?
  • Is my roof made out of Spanish tiles or shake which are difficult to do installation on?
  • What are my rights regarding solar energy? Am I in a state that forbids use or has restrictions?
  • Would I like just solar panels or other items such as thermal hot water panels or pool heating?

         

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Home Improvement

Basics of Estate Planning: What Happens to the House?

Estate Planning

Research shows that 68% of Americans die without leaving wills. A will is an essential estate planning tool, yet many people never take the time to make theirs.

One of the basics of estate planning is creating a will, but you can also use other tools to plan your estate.

The goal is to protect your things and family, and one of the questions people often wonder about is their homes. What happens to your home and belongings when you die?

With an estate plan, you can predict and plan for what will happen. Here is a guide to help you learn the basics of estate planning if you haven’t started yet.

Consider Your Assets and Family

As you begin learning about the basics of estate planning, you’ll need to start by considering your assets and family.

Do you have specific people in your life that you would like to give your things to after you die? Many people choose to leave their things to their kids. If you have kids, you might want to leave your things to them.

If so, how many kids do you have? Would you like to divide your things equally between them? If not, how do you want to divide your assets?

If you don’t have children, you might have close friends or family that could be your beneficiaries. You’ll need to think about this carefully before you begin planning your estate.

It’s also beneficial to think about your assets. If you don’t own a lot, an estate plan might not be necessary. If you have a house, though, you’ll need a plan.

One of the estate planning basics you’ll learn is that you must create a plan before you die if you want to have a say in what happens to your things.

Talk to Your Family About Your Home

After thinking about your things and family, it might be a good idea to speak with your beneficiaries about your house and things.

You might discover that one of your children wants to keep your house. You might also learn that no one wants your house. The way you handle your estate plan depends on what your beneficiaries want.

Considering your family’s desires and needs is one of the basics of an estate plan. You can help them avoid problems and challenges by considering their desires as you create your plan.

Decide the Best Route to Take for Your House

Next, you’ll need to learn more about the basic components of an estate plan so you can choose the right tools for your plan. Here are some options you can use to plan for your home after you die:

Use a Last Will and Testament

The most basic tool of an estate plan is a Last Will and Testament (also called a will). A will is a legal tool that you use to name your beneficiaries and state your wishes.

The downside to a will is that your family must go through the probate process, which is lengthy and costly. Your assets won’t instantly transfer to your beneficiaries without going through probate.

The benefit of a will is that you can include other instructions. For example, you can state your wishes for cremation or burial. You can also name someone to be the guardian of your kids if you have young children.

Create a Trust

A trust is also a common tool you can use when completing your estate plan. A trust is a separate entity that allows you to transfer your house and things to others without going through probate.

Using a trust simplifies the estate settlement process for your beneficiaries. When you make the trust, you place your assets in it. When you die, the trust makes it easy for your loved ones to take possession of all your things.

Add Your Beneficiaries to Your House Deed

If your home is the main asset you have, there is one other way to handle the transfer of it to your loved ones. If you have two children you want to give your house to, you can add their names to your house deed.

By adding their names to it, the house is already theirs. They won’t have to fight with a court to get the house. They will have immediate possession of it after you die.

This idea works great in many situations, but it doesn’t cover all the other assets and estate issues you must handle.

An Estate Plan Can Also Include Other Things

In addition to planning for the transfer of your home to your beneficiaries, you might have other items to transfer. For example, do you have vehicles, jewelry, firearms, or other valuable things?

If so, you’ll want to decide who you will give these things to after you die. Again, having a conversation with your beneficiaries can eliminate problems they might face after your death.

You can find out what items each person would like and include instructions on your will to accommodate these needs.

You might also want to include instructions for everything else you own. For example, you could include something on your will that states who inherits everything in your home. You can give it all to one person or many.

If you’re not sure how to proceed with your basic goals of estate planning, contact Johnston Shaw Inc for help. Creating an estate plan alone is not an easy feat, which is why most people hire experts for help.

The Basics of Estate Planning: Start Now

You might think you have plenty of time to plan your estate, but this isn’t always the case. Learning the basics of estate planning is vital, as it helps you realize that you should start now.

Using the right estate planning tools can help you protect your things and your loved ones.

If you enjoyed this article, you may like others on our blog. Check out the rest of our site!

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Roofing

How Much Does an Old Roof Affect Home Value?

Old Roof

Is the roof on your home getting close to the end of its life? If you’re hoping to sell your home soon, you may be wondering if it’s wise to seek out a roof replacement. After all, you want to make your home as marketable as possible.

Keep reading to learn how much an old roof affects home value!

Roof Replacement Offers More Energy Efficiency

An old roof can let in cold air and rain. So, going with energy-efficient shingles is one way to enhance the attractiveness of your home — and cut down on utility payments. With shingles that reflect sunlight, you’ll see your air conditioning expenses improve.

And a new roof can protect your home from water damage and leaks. Better sealants and enhanced insulation mean that you’ll stay warmer during the winter months, too. Good residential roofers should be able to guide you to a choice that will keep your home protected.

An Old Roof Diminishes Curb Appeal

With an aging roof, you may have cracked or curling shingles and discoloration. All of this detracts from the beauty of your home. You could have the best landscaping on the block, but a crumbling roof will become the focal point.

Another big reason to invest in a new roof is to make your home attractive to buyers. Add some fresh paint to the shutters and mulch to the flower beds, you’ll be able to make the sale.

Your Home Appraisal May Be Lower

With an old roof, you may get a lower appraisal on your home during the selling process. Worse yet, a roof that is near the end of its lifespan could spell trouble during a home inspection. A buyer might make an offer contingent upon repairs or even a roof replacement.

You can avoid this hurdle in the selling process by getting a new roof before listing your home. You don’t need to spring for a tile roof if every house around you is going with cheaper asphalt shingles. Stay within the range of your neighbors — and advertise your roof’s newness in your listing description.

You would be wise to get a roof replacement if your roof only has about 3 years left. When in doubt, ask an expert for their perspective.

A New Roof Increases Home Value

Generally, a roof should add the amount you invest in it to the value of your home. A roof replacement can run up to $10,000 — or more. But it’s a long-term investment.

Traditional asphalt shingles can last over two decades — if properly installed. Potential buyers will like knowing that they don’t need to spend a big chunk of change right away.

Do What’s Best for Your Property Value

It may be tempting to keep an old roof, but you risk hurting property value and curb appeal. When you’re preparing to list your home, you want to do what you can to elevate your property value. You may need to invest in a roof replacement.

When you need more tips to help your home flourish, check back for new articles.