4 Parts of Your Old Home to Inspect to Make Sure It's Safe and Stable

The old saying goes that the three most important aspects of a home are location, location, and location. But when it comes to safety and stability, there are four key parts you need to inspect before buying or leasing your next abode.

These four crucial components will tell you how soundly built your new house is (and whether it'll be safe for both you and any pets), as well as how long ago those foundations were set down. That's why this article is going to cover these four areas in detail: footings, foundation walls, structural beams in the basement below grade level, and crawl spaces or lofts above grade level.

Footings

When you look at your potential home's exterior (the foundation wall), you need to see what's called footings. Footings are the four or more stones that form a rectangle on top of which your home was set down. These rectangles should enclose an area large enough so that all walls extend below grade level by at least 6 inches.

Foundation Walls

When you look at your foundation walls (the rest of the exterior), make sure that they're upright or straight up and down. You can do this by looking carefully at the mortar joints, which should be even all along each face. If the mortar is tumbling out from between the stones, the wall is probably settling. A plumb foundation wall is crucial because it will transfer weight from your home to the ground without sagging, and if you see that occurring, run for the hills before they collapse in on you. Check whether the foundation wall has signs of wall cracking, broken or missing mortar, and settling cracks near the corners of the home; all are signs that your house's foundation is unstable. A settlement crack (in which a wall has settled unevenly) can be spotted by looking at the trim around windows and doors – if it's no longer even with the rest of the border, there's a problem.

Beams

While inspecting basement structural beams, don't just look at them—feel them. You want to make sure the beam is sturdy by tapping it with your knuckles and listening for hollow sounds. If you hear a hollow sound, there's an empty space between the joists or rafters.

If you see this issue, start walking away immediately—the structure of your home could start to collapse as soon as someone walks on that floor. You also want to make sure the beams are anchored into the foundation walls and that they fit together tightly with no gaps in spacing while remaining level with each other.

Crawl Spaces or Lofts

If you're planning on living above grade level (above ground), watching out for a crawl space or loft is crucial to home stability and safety. If your crawl space or loft is above the ground, make sure it has walls, floors, a working door, and a solid roof before moving in. The ceiling of the loft should be at least 30 inches high under any vents.

When you check out any home for purchase, check out these four areas to make sure your new house isn't going to fall down around you. Be wary of houses with issues in these areas and walk away if they turn up. If the seller refuses to repair or address them, even after being asked nicely, try reporting it as a problem to your local code authority and see if you can get them to force it.

Expert Guide to Buying an Air Conditioning System

Do you want to know the average cost of a central air conditioning system for your home? Or are you thinking about getting a split system or other types of AC unit and want to ensure you get something worthy of your money? 

Air conditioners can help filter the air you breathe. Plus, they can make you cool down and feel comfortable, especially during summer. However, an AC unit can be costly, depending on what type you will purchase. So, you have to be wise when buying and know the best type for you. This blog will give you an expert guide on buying an appropriate air conditioner for your house, so keep reading.

Air Conditioner Vs. Heat Pump

If you are looking for units that will beat the heat and give you comfort, an air conditioner and heat pump will both give you cool air. While they have the same purpose, the energy, costs, and features are different. And so, you must now the factors that need to be considered before deciding to get one for your home or office.

In heat pumps, you can cool down and heat your room when you want to. While they have a dual function, they have a higher price than air conditioners. And this is understandable, given the fact that they serve more than one purpose. The service fee for the installation is also not that affordable although this depends on the installation service providers in your area. Having said all these, a heat pump is energy-efficient, allowing you to save on the costs of electricity so overall, it is still a smart investment.

On the other hand, air conditioners convert the heat into cool air through their systems. They don't heat up your environment, but they are definitely helpful in giving you a cool room temperature. This is what most people prefer in their homes especially during the summer days. Plus, they are more budget-friendly when you compare it to heat pumps. Ac units also last a lot longer than heat pumps simply because they only focus on one purpose. So if you are looking for an investment with a long lifespan and only to cool your room, then an air conditioner will be suitable for you.

When planning to buy an air conditioner, it is also best that you know what you are looking for. Are you more concerned of the quality of the unit, the price or the overall functionality? Know the different types of air conditioners and check each of their features. Before deciding on the average cost of a central air conditioning system for your home that you are willing to spend, having an idea of what types of air conditioners to buy should be your first step.

Types of Air Conditioners

There are different types of air conditioners to choose from, and they come with advantages and disadvantages. It would be great if you consider them first before getting an AC unit. Take a look at these common types of AC unit.

Window Type

A window-type air conditioner is best for small rooms and apartments. It takes out the heat from the area and brings it outside. However, its scope is not that wide, unlike other AC types. So, it's not suitable for wide houses. Its price is about $399, which is more affordable than split systems and central air conditioning units. If you are looking to cool down a room in your house, then this type should be your smart choice. 

Split System

A split-type air conditioning system has two main pieces of equipment. The first one has to be installed indoors, and the other one will be outside. It is attractive in the house, especially if you will purchase a modern one. It also has a longer lifespan since it is installed inside, and the other equipment outside is built to withstand weather conditions. In addition, a split-type has lower maintenance than the packaged units, and some models have a self-cleaning function. The price of a split-type unit is around $2500, depending on the model and features. If you are looking for the longevity of the product, choose a split type air conditioning system.

Central Air Conditioning System

If you have properly sized ductwork that is connected to different rooms, a central air conditioning system is suitable for you. Like other types of AC units, a central air conditioner can filter the air coming into your house and give you a cool feeling. It is advisable to be installed if you have a large indoor area as long as your ductwork is properly sized and in excellent condition. You can get one for about $4000 or more.

Things to Consider Purchasing an Air Conditioner

When buying an air conditioner, there are many things you need to consider, and not the price of the unit alone.

Installation fee

Even if you manage to get an affordable one, you would still need to provide more money if the installation is costly. For this reason, you also have to include the installation fee you'll have to pay for the professionals. Depending on what type you need, you have to choose the suitable one but be wise about the other things you have to pay for.

Efficiency and Lifespan

The money you'll spend won't end on getting an AC unit and having it installed. You have to check the efficiency of the unit you will buy to ensure you save money on electricity bills. Besides that, you should also check the lifespan and, as much as possible, make a purchase that will last long. This will give more value to your money in the long run.

What is Appropriate to Your House

Of course, you have to know what is the most appropriate one for your house. Otherwise, you won't get the maximum benefits of your air conditioning unit. So, if your home has a big space and ductwork, a central air conditioner will be a great option. But if you don't, it would be better to choose a split type or window type if you only have to use it in a small room. 

4 Innovative Yard Design Ideas for Unique Homeowners

We often only think about the interior of our homes when it comes to expressing our unique sense of style through hand-made furniture and beautifully woven rugs. While the unique possibilities of interior design see no end when we have the money set aside to make our visions come true, the exterior parts of our home, like the front and backyard, are left abandoned.

You shouldn't have to set aside too much for the extra cost of decorating your yard when you have these four ideas in mind. They'll tell that neighbor passing by that you really do care about your home and its upkeep. Look to these four ways of bettering your home's yard before even beginning to look at that vacant wall situated above your living room couch.

Recycling an Old Bed

I'm sure your first go-to when looking to furnish your yard is an outside lunch bench or table to make all of your backyard barbecues possible. While needing a little place to have an evening latte with your friends in the summer sun besides Starbucks is more than necessary, you're forgetting about other furniture pieces that could look great in your backyard. A flower bed was once thought of as something that was soil surrounded by a pretty frame like stones. Now a flower bed can be an old bed-frame that flowers sprout through. It can range from elegant to tacky, depending on how you take care of the bed.

Creating Your Own Stone Gravel Path

The only thing you really need to complete a stone gravel path, at its most amateur level, is a hoe to remove grass and some gravel from a well trusted supplier of it. A stone gravel supplier can give you the amount of rock necessary to weave a trail through your rose bed and vegetable garden. It'll allow you to not step on those little flower buds that will soon render mighty squash. You can create a unique trail in any type of shape. Want to create a trail that's heart shaped? It'll look lovely with a rose garden in the middle of it.

Fire Pits Are the Latest Fashion

Fire pits are the latest fashion as more people are desiring a fireplace that can be taken into the backyard for S’mores and something to add light to the darkness. Do you enjoy starting a fire near your campsite to cook your latest catch after fishing? You can install a fire pit into your backyard. They typically come in square or circular.

String Lights

String lights are an excellent way to add a unique style to your backyard as they come in many different shapes and colors. If you're looking to add a girly touch to a sweet 16 party, they have pink unicorn ones that serve the purpose of lighting up the cake's table and add a sweet, soft, pink hue to all of its surroundings.

Enhancing your yard isn't challenging with all the ideas that have been used to date. Understanding what you already have in your yard can help you match its decor with the latest ideas. Creating a yard with your own unique ideas can expand on the ones presented in this article.

Blinds Styles to Choose From for Your New Home Design

When planning your new home design, it is exciting to focus on the big decisions and leave the smaller ones for later. Windows play an important role in your home by controlling the amount of heat and sunlight that enter from outdoors. They also contribute to the decor of your home by adding visual appeal and coordinating with the rest of the house. Here are some window blind styles to consider as you think about window treatments and use.

Faux Wood Blinds

This style of window treatment adds elegance and class to any room or nook in your home. Built in a substantial design that is easy to manage, they come in various colors and textures to enhance windows of various sizes and shapes. The slats are easy to dust and readily wipe clean of fingerprint smudges.

Mini-Blinds

Cordless mini-blinds lend a subtle effect as a type of window covering. With simple styling and a delicate appearance, they fit any type of home decor and can either fit in with the background or become a focal point. You can buy them in different widths and colors to go with your home's design.

Room Darkening Blinds

If you love sleeping in a dark room without the interruption of bright moonlight or sunshine, you may want to install room darkening blinds in the bedrooms of your new house. They can be opened when desired but will keep out disruptive bright lights from outside your home.

Light Filtering blinds

You might be interested in window blinds that filter outdoor light to avoid a stark glare entering your home to interfere with computer monitors and television screens. The natural light will be diminished to brighten your home in soft rather than vibrant ways. They can be useful in any room of your new home to control the amount of outdoor light that comes through the windows.

Pleated Shades

Another style of possible interest is pleated shades that come in different colors. These work well with many kinds of home decorating and window designs. Like other blinds, they are cordless and can be easily raised or lowered by hand.

Vertical Blinds

Traditionally used for larger windows and patio doors, vertical blinds fit many window sizes and styles. Once installed, they are durable and easy to maintain. They require similar window blind installation as other styles of window treatments.

With many styles of window treatments to choose from, look for those that will complement your new home's design. You will love the way they add to the overall decorating scheme of your house.