5 Different Ideas for a Home Remodel Project for This Year

There are many reasons people look to remodel their homes. Perhaps you want to add some personality to your home, boost its value, and improve its functionality. Whatever your reasons may be, a home remodel can be an exciting but challenging task. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of five different ideas for a home remodel project that will take your abode to another level.

Kitchen Remodeling

One functional remodeling idea is to update your kitchen. The kitchen is one of the most critical areas of the house, and it needs to have the most practical and appropriate features. You can replace the old flooring or countertops, repaint the cabinets, or redo the lighting fixtures. This modernization will give your kitchen a new and fresh look and improve its functionality.

Bathroom Remodeling

Another functional remodeling idea is to update your bathroom. Installing modern fixtures, replacing the old tiling, and painting the walls can give a completely new look to your bathroom. Consider adding a walk-in shower, a more oversized vanity sink, and better lighting for an efficient and sophisticated look. This remodeling idea will make your bathroom look great and increase your home's value.

Outdoor Remodeling

Incorporating outdoor remodeling is an excellent way to enhance your property's curb appeal and add more usable space for entertaining. Outdoor remodeling can include creating a beautiful garden or outdoor kitchen area or adding a deck, patio, or porch. You can also look at your landscaping, whether you could add larger plants, trees, or other vegetation to create a unique look for your yard.

Basement Remodeling

Transforming your basement into a playroom, gym, theatre, or guest room is an excellent way to add new living space to your home. It’s a game-changer to utilize a whole floor more effectively, and very little about home ownership feels better than cozying up on the couch in the basement after decking it out completely. You can work with an experienced contractor to remodel the basement and choose the best additions to meet your needs.

Home Office Remodeling

Working from home has become a norm, and having a designated work area that is comfortable and functional is crucial. You can convert any room or unused space into a home office. This remodeling might include a spacious desk, window treatments, lighting, and storage space. It’s also a good opportunity to invest in some quality appliances, such as a printer, a desktop computer, or even a TV for entertainment while working. A functional and comfortable home office can enhance productivity and reduce stress.

Your home should reflect your personality, and remodeling allows you to take your living space to the next level. Whether you go for a complete kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, basement conversion, outdoor remodeling, or a home office, the outcome will depend on your vision, budget, and willingness to embark on this exciting journey. It is essential to work with a qualified contractor, have great ideas, and execute your vision to get the best results. Happy remodeling!

Creating a Child-Friendly Home: Top Tips for Childproofing and Organization

Even if your home is a safe haven for you, it can be a host of many hazards for infants, babies, and toddlers. Children of any age can get into trouble around the everyday items we adults take for granted.

Fortunately, organizing and childproofing your living spaces ensures that kids are safe. Here are top room-by-room safety tips to protect kids in your home.

Kitchen 

The biggest area of concern for children's safety in the kitchen is the oven. You can make it more safe through hacks like removing stove knobs or making covers to prevent little ones from turning on the pilots. For more adventurous children, you may need oven locks.

Other kitchen hazards are less apparent. Your trash may contain items that are harmful or sharp. Develop the habit of discarding sharp objects in a secured bin in your garage. You should also properly dispose of hazardous chemicals and batteries or put a secure lock on your garbage container.

In kitchen and dining areas, ensure that heated and heavy items are always out of reach of children. You should also store cleaning products, medicine, and supplements high up. Secure stoneware in a hard-to-reach location. 

As your child grows, they may be able to wiggle out of the chair. Use a high chair with straps to prevent them from falling out.

Bathrooms

The most important rule in any bathroom is to be near your child whenever they are around water. Kids can drown in just a few inches of water, including toilet water. Use a toilet lid lock until your child understands potty safety.

Toiletries, like razors and chemical products, should also be kept high. If you don’t have any storage except underneath your sink, purchase a shelving unit that fits over your toilet to store these items.

Bathrooms are generally full of sharp edges and porcelain surfaces. Keep everyone safe by using non-slip mats on the floor and in the shower.

Living Spaces 

Before you know it, your baby will start to crawl. Put safety plugs in unused outlets before they reach that stage. Another hazard is window blind cords, which pose a strangulation threat. Replace hanging cords with cordless options.

Furniture and large appliances can pose safety threats if the pieces fall over. Secure big screen TVs and tall chest furniture to the wall, testing periodically to ensure the screws have not loosened. You can also get plastic guards for the corners of furniture with sharp edges.

Take additional precautions in your nursery. Keep your child’s crib free of pillows, large stuffed toys, or other items that can block their breathing during nap time. Finally, you can use baby gates once your child can walk to prevent accidents too.

Outdoors 

A back or front yard can provide hours of healthy entertainment for kids. However, there are several hazards to be aware of. Lock up items like gardening tools, pesticides, and other heavy outdoor equipment. You may want to buy a shed with a lock to store these items.

If you have a pool, you should invest in a pool alarm to protect kids and pets in the following ways: 

• A surface alarm works for any pool and sounds off when the water is disturbed. 

• In-ground pools can have a sub-surface alarm installed that detects water displacement. 

• If you have a fence around your pool, threshold alarms sound off when the gate is opened. 

Some of these alarms come in the form of matching wristwatches that can alert you at any point if your child has gone into the pool as long as they’re wearing the other one.

Safety in Every Room

Some safety tools make every area of your home safer for you and your family. You may not have considered this concept, but organizational tools promote safety. Bins, containers, and shelving allow you to remove toys and other items from underfoot. It’s also important to make sure there is proper lighting in dark areas. These tips prevent trip hazards. 

It is also an important element when creating a fire safety plan to protect children. Instructing your children in fire safety at the proper age is important, such as running fire drills with a clear, unobstructed path. It also includes reducing other fire hazards such as:

• Avoid storing too many flammable objects or products, like paint or cardboard, near your hot water heater or pilot lights. 

• Clutter, such as wood furniture, cardboard boxes, and paper items, can become a fire hazard too. Safely store and organize important documents in file cabinets or fire-proof boxes.

• If you have a fireplace, keep a gate around it so your child cannot get near the flames. 

Childproofing your home creates a safe haven for your kids. You can rest easy knowing that every area is free of danger. The peace of mind you’ll have once you do is worth the work.

Keeping Your Cool When Your Heater Cuts Out: 5 Solutions to Try

There’s nothing worse than being left feeling chilly when your heater cuts out. It’s not only uncomfortable but can also be dangerous if temperatures drop too low. What can you do if your heater stops working? In this article, we’ll explore five solutions that you can try to stay warm and keep your cool in case of a heating emergency.

Check the Thermostat

Sometimes, the issue might be as simple as a wrong setting on your thermostat. The first step should be to check if the thermostat is working correctly. Ensure it’s switched on, set to the right temperature, and hasn’t run out of batteries. If this does not work, it may be helpful to call a professional heating company to take a look.

Inspect the Air Filter

Another thing homeowners can do to improve heating performance is to clean or replace their air filters. Dirt and debris can clog the filter, making it hard for your HVAC system to circulate warm air around your home. Simply cleaning or replacing your air filter can do the trick and make you feel warm and toasty.

Unblock Air Vents

Have you checked that your air vents aren’t blocked? Check that all your vents and registers are open and clear of any obstructions. Dust and debris can easily clog the vents and registers, preventing warm air from circulating efficiently. Clearing any blockages and cleaning the vents may be enough to get your heater working again.

Try an Alternative Heat Source

If your HVAC system still refuses to cooperate, consider using an alternative heat source. For example, Electric or space heaters can be effective at warming up small spaces. Ensure you take the necessary safety precautions when using these alternatives and do not leave them unattended.

Call a Professional

If none of these solutions work, it’s time to call in the professionals. HVAC professionals have the knowledge and tools to diagnose and fix most heating problems. Companies like Air Rescue exist to provide such emergency assistance when things break. Whether it’s a faulty thermostat or an issue with your furnace or heat pump, they can quickly get your heating system up and running.

Ultimately, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable when your heater cuts out. Still, there are things that homeowners can do to stay warm and keep their cool in case of a heating emergency. Check the thermostat, inspect the air filter, unblock the air vents, use an alternative heat source, and call a professional. With some luck and persistence, you should be able to fix the issue or keep warm while waiting for an HVAC service provider to fix the problem. Stay warm, stay safe, and don't let winter get you down.

When Your Wardrobe Gets Out Of Hand: Exploring Clothing Storage Options

This post was developed via a partnership with BetterHelp. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Organizing your wardrobe is no small task. Between changing out collections for the season and impulse purchasing, things can get out of hand. Even people with small wardrobes may benefit from the right kind of closet.

People with large collections, fashion lovers, and even people who may shop a bit too much may find the most relief from a new closet. The more items we have, the more important the organization becomes.

How can you approach your growing clothing collection? When is it time to consider a new closet versus editing your shopping habits?

Learn how to assess your needs and when to choose a professional for your closet remodel. It's not a job you should do yourself.

Why Care About Home Organization?

There are scientific studies on how clutter negatively affects well-being. So you aren't being dramatic when you feel your stress rising at the apartment door.

Having a tidy, calming home can make a big difference in how we feel and that just makes sense. Being organized can also bring a sense of satisfaction. Most people feel good when a job is well done.

When things have a place, it's much easier to pick up around the house. That leaves more time to enjoy the surroundings or to go do something fun.

Our wardrobe is a particularly important thing to keep organized. When we see clearly what we have, we may buy fewer duplicates. It saves time when getting ready if things are close at hand. We may also get more enjoyment from our things if we can find and use them.

If your home feels a little disorganized you might be someone who could use some help. This means you might be looking into a closet remodel and a professional organizer. 

Imagine someone popping by and establishing a stress free system for you to follow.

Maximizing Closet Space

Before someone can organize your closet, however, you need a sufficient sized space. In many homes, that could mean a closet remodel.

Custom Closet Systems

You might consider investing in a custom closet system. A custom system is luxurious and functional. It's tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Your contractor will help you explore different configurations. You may be amazed at the modern options. There are many styles of shelving units, drawers, shoe racks, and accessories to create a functional and visually appealing storage space.

You might fall in love with your closet.

Closet Remodeling

Whether you go custom or choose a prefab option, you'll need to schedule a remodel.

A closet remodel will transform your closet into a luxurious retreat. Or, at least a more functional space. Forget stressing out before work or your next date. Everything will have a place and even the right lighting to help you see it.

Explore design ideas and layout options with your team. They'll walk you through options like built-in lighting and mirrors. You may be surprised to learn that it's possible to expand the size of your closet to accommodate your wardrobe.

Organization Techniques

Once your closet is structurally sorted, you'll probably need an organization technique.

Discover practical tips and tricks for organizing your closet space efficiently, from decluttering and categorizing items to utilizing storage solutions like shelves, bins, and hanging organizers.

If it feels a little overwhelming, that's ok! There are plenty of professional organizers, many who specialize in closets.

Embracing Minimalism in Your Wardrobe

While you're investigating what to do about your growing pile of clothes, you might be asking yourself some tough questions about your shopping habits.

Shopping is the kind of habit or behavior that may become compulsive. In that case, you might consider exploring professional therapy. 

Online therapy providers like BetterHelp have resources to help you understand your shopping habits.

If you want a little extra support after reading up on the subject, they have people ready to help.

If you don't feel out of control about your shopping and just want to learn how to be more efficient, minimalism might be the answer.

Understanding Minimalism

Minimalism is more than just a design aesthetic. It's a lifestyle choice centered around simplicity, intentionality, and mindfulness.

When applied to your wardrobe, minimalism encourages you to focus on quality over quantity. It suggests prioritizing items that bring you joy and serve a purpose.

By editing this way, you may clear your space from unnecessary clutter.

Embracing minimalism in your wardrobe can offer numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced decision fatigue: With fewer clothing options, you'll spend less time agonizing over what to wear each day.

• Streamlined shopping experience: By adopting a minimalist mindset, you'll be more discerning in your purchasing decisions. This can help you opt for items that align with your personal style and values.

• Environmental impact: By consuming less and investing in higher-quality, ethically-made garments, you can reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable fashion practices.

• Financial savings: By curating a capsule wardrobe of versatile pieces, you'll spend less money on impulse purchases and trendy items that quickly go out of style.

Building a Minimalist Wardrobe

To create a minimalist wardrobe, follow steps like these:

1. Assess your current wardrobe: Take inventory of your clothing and accessories, identifying items that you love and wear frequently, as well as those that no longer serve you.

2. Define your personal style: Consider the aesthetic and silhouettes that resonate with you, and prioritize pieces that reflect your unique preferences.

3. Invest in quality basics: Build your wardrobe around timeless essentials, such as a classic white shirt, tailored blazer, versatile denim, and comfortable knitwear. Think about what can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.

4. Choose versatile pieces: Opt for clothing items that can be easily layered and styled in multiple ways. This can maximize their wearability and versatility.

5. Curate intentionally: Be selective in your purchases. By prioritizing quality over quantity, you may find it easier to choose pieces that add value to your wardrobe and lifestyle.

6. Embrace slow fashion: Support ethical and sustainable fashion brands. These are brands that prioritize transparency, fair labor practices, and environmentally friendly production methods.

7. Practice mindful shopping: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item fills a gap in your wardrobe. Does it align with your values? Could it bring enjoyment? Avoid impulse buys and trendy pieces that may not stand the test of time.

Minimalism isn't about restricting or denying yourself. It's about being deliberate and getting true value from your wardrobe.

Signs of Compulsive Shopping

It's possible that you're facing challenges that rise above disorganization. In order to assess correctly, you may benefit from learning about compulsive shopping.

Understanding Compulsive Behavior

Compulsive shopping, also known as compulsive buying disorder, differs from typical shopping behavior. You may be able to tell just by how you feel. However, there are a few considerations that may bring clarity.

Potential Red Flags

Potential alerts that you may be shopping compulsively might include excessive spending. If your shopping puts you in a compromised financial position, it may warrant a closer look.

Do you feel you engage in a lot of impulse shopping? If you don't feel in control or feel disproportionately excited when shopping, this could also be something to pay attention to.

Feelings of guilt or shame or the inability to control your shopping behavior are also things you do not have to live with. With a little guidance, you and a professional therapist may be able to develop coping tactics to reduce any negative effects you're experiencing.

Seeking Support

If you suspect that your shopping habits may be impacting your well-being or financial stability, consider seeking support from a mental health professional before you reorganize your closet.

Therapy can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing compulsive behaviors and addressing underlying emotional triggers.

This might help your closet stay organized. But, more importantly, it may bring more relief and peace to your life.

Finding Balance

Ultimately, the key to improving the situation in your closet is all about balance. Find a process that promotes your well-being and financial stability.

Maybe that looks like a brand new closet, some organizational help, and a curated collection. However, your strategy might involve a different kind of professional support like therapy.

No matter which option you choose or a combination of the two, there are resources available to help you on your journey.

Enjoy that closet clarity!