Things To Consider if Choosing a Solar Panel Roof for Your Home

 Solar panels are a great way to create an energy-efficient home. There are more options nowadays when it comes to style and options. Here are some things to consider if you are thinking about installing solar panels on your roof.

1. Solar Panels vs. Solar Shingles

There are two common options that most homeowners choose when it comes to solar options. They both do the same thing, convert sunshine into electricity that powers your home with clean energy.

Solar panels and solar shingles can end up saving you tons of money in the long run when it comes to energy costs.

Solar panels have been around for a long time and have improved over the years when it comes to aesthetics and efficiency improvements. Even though they still work the same, they require more than one installation. They have to also be installed by a solar company separate from your roofing company. Solar panels go over your existing roof.

Solar shingles only require one installation because they are installed much like a regular roof. They are installed like an architectural shingle and can be installed by a qualified roofer. Timberline Solar roofing system is made of an asphalt shingle that is combined with solar technology.

2. Return on Investment

There are actually online solar tools that can help you calculate how long it will take for your solar system to pay for itself. Since there are solar shingles, the cost of a solar roof can take the place of the cost of replacing or installing a new roof. Why? Because solar shingles come with solar already integrated. There will be only one installation cost and one material used on your roof.

This in turn makes it an addition to the long-term investment savings. You are saving on energy costs by powering your home from the natural sun. You can also gain federal incentives by installing solar panels or solar shingles. To see if you will qualify, visit https://www.dsireusa.org.

3. Roof Requirements

If you are adding solar to your existing roof, you need to make sure it is ready for solar. You will need to consider the existing roof location, condition, and age.

It would be a waste to add solar to a leaky roof. The existing roof’s condition can impact installation choices. It is never a good idea to put solar panels on an old roof. If you have to have any repairs done to the aging roof after solar panels are installed, then you will have to hire a solar contractor plus a roofing contractor.

4. Maintenance and Cleaning

Solar shingles age at around the same rate as regular roof shingles but solar shingles are lower in maintenance and do not require as much cleaning as a regular roof shingle. This also is true for solar panels. Natural soiling does occur but does not really impact energy production. In order to clean solar panels and solar shingles you just have to hose down or sweep debris from them.

5. Withstanding Weather

Ask the experts how solar solutions can hold up in different types of weather situations. They are built to withstand bad weather and the majority have warranties that will cover severe weather damage. Solar shingles in some occurrences are better at weatherproofing than solar panels. Sometimes secondary installation of solar panels on top of a roof can jeopardize your roof.

There are tons of advantages when it comes to solar roof solutions. GAF can link you to a GAF Certified Contractor who can help you with both your solar options and installation.

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Ideas for the Guest Bathroom

 A guest bathroom should be a nice area for guests to make themselves at home. A guest bathroom is not used as much as a primary or secondary bathroom so it is easier to keep it tidy and neat. Here are some tips from the professionals on how to turn your guest bathroom into a luxurious space for guests.

Keep It Simple and Fresh

A nice calming area is always fresh and simple. Guest want to be able to make it their own space. Some

guests might love fragrances while others might be allergic so keep aromas minimal. A great way to keep an area fresh and scent-free are to wash soft surfaces often, open a window and get a dehumidifier for the guest bathroom.

Invest in Digital Shower Fixtures

Southern Living offers this tip saying it offers your guests the highest level of convenience. Guest can enjoy their preferred setting with no hassle. When you are not familiar with a showerhead and handle fixture it can be frustrating and this eliminates this problem. Use an overhead rain shower for a spa-like feel.

Offer Posh Towels and Robes

Guests want to feel like they are in the lap of luxury. A good way to give them that pampered feeling is to use the highest quality towels and robes. Adding a soft guest robe and slippers adds the feel of a luxury spa or hotel. Examples of some luxury towels are Turkish bath towels, waffle weave, or quick-drying options.

Provide High-End Bath Products

When you visit a 5-star hotel, you always get the high-end bath and personal care products. You will want to do the same in your guest bathroom. Have an array of options for your guest from scent-free soap and lotion to fragrant shampoos. You can also go as far as adding loofahs and sponges made of all-natural materials for a spa-like feel.

Maximize a Small Guest Bathroom Space

Usually, a guest bathroom is not the biggest in the house. If you have a small area to work with use open shelves for storage and a recessed cabinet over the vanity. Decorate with light-colored materials making the space feel open and bright. Add a small vanity with some counter space and add hooks to hang a hairdryer, hairbrush, and other accessories.

Just Add Paint

You will want to paint in light natural hues that give a modern spa feel. Painting the walls and ceiling of a guest bath is an easy way to update your space. Along with the natural hues, add a bamboo bath mat for an earthy touch.

Put Essentials On-Hand

Keep toilet paper and necessities within hand reach for your guest. You do not want to tuck them away in a cabinet or a vanity out of sight and reach. If you do not have any place to store them, add a tiered bar cart. You want to make sure your guest’s bathroom has all the comforts so your guest does not have to ask.

With these few simple tips, you can make your guest bathroom an idyllic escape. You can take an ordinary space and transform it into a luxury bathroom with a spa-like feel.

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Energy Efficient Materials To Use In A New Custom Home

 Having an energy-efficient home is a plus in the home industry. If you’re building a new home using energy-efficient materials, you not only can improve your utility bills and help the environment but also enhance your home’s value. Professionals in the industry report that energy efficiency is becoming so important that they’re developing more energy-efficient materials all the time.  These can be from using eco-friendly light bulbs to eco-friendly housing materials. If you are unsure of what to use for a new home here are 10 energy-efficient materials.

 

1. Recycled Steel

Metal is one of the most recycled materials out there and is very easy to recycle. Metal roofs and other metal construction materials can be made of recycled steel. Reports show that 60% of new steel is actually made from old steel. The benefits of using recycled steel are lower CO2 emissions, lighter weight, and durability. It is a perfect recycled material to use in the construction of your new home.

2. Spray Foam Insulation

Insulation is very important when it comes to insulating your home. Spray foam has a low energy leakage and is a great insulator year-round. Spray foam gives off no harmful emissions making it safe for the environment and for your home’s indoor quality. The benefits of spray foam are it is shrink-proof and water-resistant.

3. Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats can actually learn your climate preferences. This will help your home stay comfortable when you are home and less comfortable while you are away. This helps save energy and maintain a comfortable environment at the same time.

4. Low-E, Dual Pane, Or Triple Pane Windows

Reports say that around 30% of the heating and cooling costs in a home are due to the energy that seeps out through your windows. Low-E windows will reduce the energy that can be lost through windows. They can also block harmful rays such as UV rays and infrared rays.

Homeowners can purchase both dual-pane and triple-pane windows. These are very energy efficient. Dual-pane windows are more popular than triple-pane because they are lighter weight, thinner, and less expensive.

5. Cool Roof

A dark-colored roof can make an attic reach upwards of 150 degrees on a hot summer day whereas a white roof reflects light back keeping your attic cooler. Cool roofs are not just white roofs but can be made out of steel, asphalt, shingles, and more.

6. Solar Panels

Solar panels are great because they take the energy from the sun to generate power for your home. There are solar shingles now that are more aesthetically pleasing for your curb appeal. Solar panels can be purchased and even leased.

7. Plastic Composite Lumber

One problem with wood is that it can rot. Homeowners are very familiar with replacing rotten wood. A more economical way to preserve your home building materials is to use plastic composite lumber. Plastic composite lumber is made up of wood pulp and resins. This building material can look like wood but can withstand exposure to moisture. This material is perfect to use for decks or fences.

8. Thermostat Radiant Barrier

Thermostat radiant barriers function in ways that are similar to cool roofs. Thermostat radiant barriers reflect sunlight to keep your house cool. Your energy bill can go down as much as 17% during the hottest days in the summer.

9. Natural Insulators

Denim is a great natural insulator because it is made from recycled blue jeans. Wool is one that can be a great insulator and is fire resistant and will not mold or rot. Straw bales can be great insulators and can last for thousands of years if it is kept dry.

10. Plant-Based Polyurethane Insulators

Plant-based polyurethane insulators are great and environmentally friendly. These can be made from bamboo, hemp, and kelp. They are resistant to moisture and heat which is a plus.

Remember it is best to work with a contractor who is familiar with building a green home. These contractors are used to working with energy-efficient building materials.

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The Beginning of 2022 Sees An Upward Trend In Residential Construction Spending

 

The National Association of Home Builders analysis of Census Construction Spending reported a 1.1% rise in private residential construction spending in February. The brought the seasonally adjusted annual rate to $850.6 billion. The private residential construction spending total was 16.6% high than reported a year ago.

 

Most of the gains were from spending on single-family and multifamily construction. Single-family construction increased to a $465.4 billion annual pace which was up 2.5% in February. Multifamily was up 0.1% making it 7.8% higher than a year ago.

Private nonresidential construction spending also saw a spike. It increased 0.2% from January’s estimates making it a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $503 billion. This was 6.2% higher than the report this time last year. The increase stemmed from class of power at $1.5 billion, class of manufacturing at $0.5 billion, and class of transportation at $0.4 billion.

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Tips to Choosing The Perfect Paint Color

 

Everyone has different tastes but a good rule of thumb is to take your furniture and light into consideration when choosing a paint color for a space. Searching for a paint color can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to take when making your decision.

 

Figure Out What You Like, Not Just What’s Popular

Magazines and Pinterest boards are a great way to brainstorm ideas but it is important to choose a color you really like versus a color that is seen in all the trendy media. Trends of course should be used as inspirations. When you are browsing colors, look for something that provokes the mood of your space, speaks to your personality, and find appealing.

Take Your Furniture and Décor Elements Into Account

If you are living in your home now, then you do not have a blank space. You will need to take into account your furniture, hardwood, tile, or carpet. These are things that you will not change, so the paint color must compliment them. If you are starting with a new home, you still need to make sure the furniture that you choose and the decor elements fit with the paint color. You can choose a paint color and then choose furniture and accessories based on your color.

Test Your Colors in Your Specific Light

Lighting in every space is different. Light and color play off each other and can change throughout the day. You need to make sure you like the way the color looks both day and night. This basically means it looks good in both natural light and artificial light. Add a paint color to your wall and live with it for a few days. This can help with making the final decision. Remember northern exposure results in a cooler look so a warmer paint color will help balance out the lack of natural light. Southern exposure will go great with neutral colors.

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Today’s Market Is A Good Time To Sell Even With the Challenges of Buying A Home

 Weighing the pros and cons of selling your home in this market should be a no-brainer. Even if you have to buy a home because of selling, the incentives to sell are too good to pass up.

According to a 2022 Home Buyer Report, close to 89% of current homeowners does not want to list their homes in the current market. It is a challenge to find your dream home in this market. Reasons

include Buyer’s concerns about finding a new house and paying too much for a new house.

Competition over the small inventory is driving the prices up. It is not unusual to have multiple offers on a home. The good news is a seller will get more money in their pocket for their current home.

Remember there are buyers everywhere who are bidding on the same listing. In 2019 it was reported that 1.3 million homes were on the market, now inventory is down 57%! The pandemic caused a lot of inventory shortages. Today, homes sell within days, not weeks or months. According to NerdWallet, 26 million Americans plan to purchase a home in 2022.

Now is the time to sell and get a big profit. High demand in the face of low supply has made for record-high prices. This means you’re more likely to pay off your current mortgage and walk away with a profit than you would’ve been just a few years ago.  Homes are selling at or above the asking price 29% paid more than the list price.

The typical sales price whet from an average of $270,000 in 2019 to $344,000 in 2021. The National Association of Realtors reported that the average rose even higher in some areas of the country. Around 74% of sellers did not reduce their asking price in 2021, in 2019 60% didn’t and in 2011 only 39% didn’t reduce the price.

Homes are moving quickly as reported by the National Association of Realtors. They reported that the typical time on the market is around one week. This is down from around a month in 2019 and 11 weeks in 2012. Sellers are not having to wheel and deal as much with buyers.

You are not seeing as many warranties offered or money for repairs. In fact, three-fourths of sellers did not even offer any incentives to entice buyers. The National Association of Realtors said only 13% offered a home warranty in 2021 which was down from 23%. Sellers assisting with closing costs fell from 20% to 9%.

If you are still on the fence about selling because you do not want to turn around and become a buyer, here are a couple of questions to consider.

Are you willing and able to move somewhere more affordable?

If you answer yes, then you should look for a less competitive market because your money will go further. If you are willing to move to a rural setting, you might not have as much competition.

Are you ‘over’ homeownership?

If your answer is yes, then renting is a good option. Owning a home is not for everyone as it can be expensive and a financial stress factor. According to NerdWallet 2022 Home Buyer Report, 1 in 5 homeowners feel home repairs and maintenance are some of their top financial stressors.

Are you highly motivated?

If your answer is yes, then you will have what it takes to become a buyer in this competitive market. You can endure the frustrations of having to take a good bit of time to find your home and will more than likely have to make several offers on several homes before you go into escrow.

Selling a home in the current market is easier, however, you still would be wise to work with a Realtor. A Realtor can help you navigate the market.

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How To Buy a Home and Sell a Home at the Same Time

 

If you are buying a home or selling a home, they both can be very stressful. In this hot market, a seller may not have time to even find a new home before their home goes under contract. Here are a few tips to help you with both selling and buying a home.

 

Tips for Buying First

Did the chicken come before the egg? You can’t sell a home and buy a home at the exact same time.
You need to figure out what you should do first. Here are several advantages to buying a home first.

If you find a home and want to put a contract down, ask for an extended closing. A great recommendation is to ask for an extended 60-day closing to allow you time to get your existing home ready and listed. Remember it is critical to sell your home so you can move into your new one.

Another way to get a contract on your new home is to put an offer in with a contingent on the sale of your home. This will ensure that you will not be faced with two mortgages. Currently, this is a seller’s market, however, you can still ask for this contingency with a solid offer. If for some reason your current home does not sell, you will not be legally bonded to your new home.

If you are searching for a new home, you know you will need to sell. Make sure your home is ready to sell by doing it as you are searching. Start a checklist of what needs to be done before you list.

Tips for Selling First

If you have to sell your home before you start a search for a new home, consider finding temporary housing. This could include living with family or friends, at a hotel, an apartment, or a rental home. This will give you time to find your perfect new home. Allow at least 2 months to find temporary housing.

In this market, there is no time to procrastinate. If you find a new home you like, you have to jump on it. If your home sells, then you have to find a new home fast. Have a pre-approval in hand, know your budget and timeline beforehand. When you find your dream home, you won’t have to hesitate.

Know what you want before you shop. Again, in this fast-paced market, you have to make an offer on the spot. A good way to do this is to make a list of must-haves such as school location, number of bedrooms, and neighborhood amenities. This list can also help your Realtor narrow your search to make it more efficient.

Remember selling or buying a home can be less stressful when you use a Realtor. A Realtor will get you the best deal in the best area for you!

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