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Jan
20

4 Ways to Make Your Home Greener

If you're currently mulling over home upgrade possibilities, you should consider going green. Green home improvement projects will not only keep utility costs down, but also they will make your home more attractive to potential buyers when the time comes to put it on the market. Consider the following ways to cut energy costs and improve you home's livability quotient.

Replace Your Roof

If it's time to replace your roof, using certain materials can keep energy costs down substantially. If you live in a region that enjoys a warm climate, roofing material that reflects sunlight will help keep your home interior cool during the hot season. On the other hand, cold climate dwellers can help their homes stay cozy by using roofing materials in dark colors that absorb interior heat.

Xeriscape Your Landscaping

Xeriscaping simply means choosing landscaping plants and materials that have a low environmental impact, particularly when it comes to water usage. You are probably already aware that municipal water bills have gone up substantially in most parts of the country during recent years. The days of cultivating high maintenance lawns is over for most homeowners. Native plants, rock gardens, and easy-care ground covers are rapidly replacing the traditional American lawn.

Install a Tankless Water Heater

Hot water costs account for roughly one-third of the household utility costs of the average American household. Having a tankless water heater installed can cut these costs dramatically because tankless water heaters heat water as it is used rather than keep it hot constantly in a large tank. Although tankless water heaters are somewhat expensive, you will probably recover the costs in lower utility bills, and you may be able to get a tax break if you purchase a water heater that qualifies under the federal government's Energy Star program.

Have an Energy Audit

Having your public utility company perform an energy audit on your home will identify its weak spots and point to the best ways that you can save on energy costs. Keep in mind that although there are many excellent ways to implement green home improvement strategies, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions for saving on energy costs because every household is different. For instance, a tankless water heater may not be the best investment for a senior citizen who lives alone, but it will definitely help large families to keep energy costs down.

 

 

 

Jan
13

The Benefits of Attic-blown Insulation

The attic is one of the weakest points in your home's energy envelope for three reasons. First, heat rises, so during the winter, heated air rises out of your home and cold air sinks in. Second, most attics have little ventilation, so during the summer, heat builds up inside your attic from the sun beating down on your roof, and this heat radiates down into your home. Third, most home builders leave the attic poorly insulated both to add storage space and to cut their construction costs.

If you're looking for a home improvement project that will slash your heating and cooling costs, blown in attic insulation will probably give you the best return on your money. The insulation works just like its name suggests — a layer of insulation is literally blown throughout your attic and into every nook and cranny. When the insulation settles, instead of having a thin layer of ceiling between your home and hostile attic temperatures, you have several inches of high quality insulation preventing heat loss. Most homes can be insulated for under $2,000, and if you can permanently slash your energy bills by 10 percent or more, the investment will very quickly pay for itself.

Attic Blown Insulation

In addition to the financial benefits, blown in installation is also one of the easiest home improvement projects. Insulation is delivered in a truck that's almost like a fire truck but with an insulation hose instead of a water hose. The hose is run up into your attic and the insulation is directly applied to it's existing surfaces. There's no need to tear up your walls or ceilings, and there's no clean up afterwards.

You also don't have to worry about losing any existing utility from your attic. If you use it for storage, you'll just need to temporarily remove your belongings. Once the insulation is added, new floorboards can be installed over the insulation to give you the same storage space and crawl space access to your heating and cooling ducts.

To get a quote for attic blown insulation for your home, contact Mike Sikora's Dayton Home Improvement today.

Jan
06

How Adding Insulation to Your Home Can Cut Down on Energy Costs

All homeowners have to deal with the burden of paying exorbitantly high amounts for their heating and cooling bills throughout the year. And while there are plenty of home improvement projects homeowners can take on that may improve their overall energy efficiency (installing new windows, upgrading the HVAC system, etc.), many of these projects tend to require a large up-front investment.

Fortunately, there's one option for cutting down on home energy costs that doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg: updating and adding insulation. This project can help you save up to $300 per year on your energy costs. Read on to explore a few noteworthy insulation options.

Fiberglass Insulation

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is one of the most common types used in homes, perhaps because it's among the most affordable yet effective options. Not to mention, because traditional fiberglass insulation typically comes in large rolls, it can easily be cut to fit any space (and can even be a DIY job for experienced homeowners). 

Ideally, fiberglass insulation should be used between joists, beams, and in between fitted studs for the best results. If you've got any unfinished walls or new drywall going up in your home, this is a great option to consider.

Spray foam insulation

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Spray-On Insulation

Another popular home insulation option these days is that of spray-on insulation. This particular type of insulation typically requires installation by a professional, as the material itself needs to be carefully sprayed on using a pressure-controlled container. Either way, spray-on insulation is ideal for areas with irregularly-shaped spaces that would otherwise be difficult to properly insulate with fiberglass insulation rolls. It's also a viable choice for adding insulation to unfinished areas of the home.

Attic-Blown Cellulose Insulation

Photo: Healthy Building Science

Attic-Blown Insulation

Finally, attic-blown insulation is specifically made for use in attics and crawl spaces that are otherwise not very well protected from the outdoor elements. This type of insulation also requires a professional, as it comes in small pieces of cellulose that need to be carefully blown into the desired space.

If you've got an attic with poor insulation, you could be wasting a lot of money. Consider having blown-in insulation added to your existing attic space for a significant energy savings.

These are just a few of the most popular insulation options worth considering for homeowners who want to improve energy efficiency within their homes without spending a fortune in the process. Be sure to give some of these options a try for yourself and begin enjoying the cost savings right away. No matter which type of insulation you're interested in, Dayton Home Improvement – Mike Sikora can help.

Dec
30

Add Function and Comfort to Your Home With a Sunroom

When you are considering a home improvement project, Mike Sikora's Dayton Home Improvement can help. A sunroom might be the perfect addition to your home. Affordable and versatile, a sunroom can turn a boring living space into a dynamic area where everyone wants to relax and wind down after a long day.

Sunrooms Add Value to Your Home

A solidly built sunroom creates additional, permanent living space that will add value to your home. Even if you can't count the square footage in a real estate listing, when potential buyers come to your home and see the space, they will fall in love with it. 

Create a Bright Space to Beat the Blues

Sunlight has a direct effect on your mood, and many people enjoy sunrooms because of the positive impact of the sun. Especially when there is a lack of sunlight during the winter months, many people do not get enough of this vital nutrient. Having a sunroom provides you with bright, energizing light throughout the day. The vitamin D you get from the sun will help you beat the blues.

Have a Space to Enjoy Time Alone

The available space in your home can get cramped. Especially if you have children, you may find that you have few places in your home where you can have a few minutes of alone time. With a sunroom, you can set up the room with beautiful plants and books and create an inviting atmosphere. Many families enjoy a sunroom as an additional living space, where mom or dad can go to enjoy some time alone.

With the variety of sunroom options available, you can find one that meets your needs and budget at the same time. Whether you want a structure built from the ground up or you are interested in a product that is premade, your contractor can work with you to create the sunroom addition of your dreams.

When you need more space, consider a sunroom for your living pleasure. Give Mike Sikora's Dayton Home Improvement a call, and we will find you the perfect sunroom for your home.

 

Dec
23

4 Excellent Ways to Add Value to Your Home

Owning your own home is a great goal to accomplish.  And if you’re looking for ways to add even more value to it, take comfort in knowing there are many home improvement options for you to take advantage of.  Best of all, you can carry out one improvement at a time, which is perfect if you’re on a budget.  

Patio Enclosure

Patio enclosures are perfect for a variety of reasons.  They can be used as rec rooms, home offices, fitness rooms, and much more.  The exact cost of adding on an enclosed patio will, of course, be based on the materials used, contractor expenses, and the size of the patio.  On average, though, homeowners spend anywhere between $9,660 to $15,027 when adding on a patio enclosure.  While this might seem a bit pricey, it’s important to note that the value of a home will significantly increase with this addition. 

Roof Replacement

Another excellent way to add value to your home is by replacing the roof.  There is an assortment of roofing materials to choose from, but it will depend on the structure of your house as well as climate factors that determine the best type to use.  Here at Mike Sikora’s Dayton Home Improvement, we can help you pick out the best roofing material for your home.  The average roof replacement costs about $12,000; however, higher-end materials and larger homes can cost $25,000+.  

Sun-room Addition

This home improvement option is quite similar to an enclosed patio, but there are a few differences to consider.  Sun-rooms are usually enclosed within three walls that are almost completely made of windows.  This allows for optimal sunlight to enter into the room, and at nighttime, you’ll be provided with impeccable views of your outside landscape, including the stars.  

Hardware Replacements

From replacing the faucets in your bathroom to the knobs on your kitchen cabinets, this extremely cost-efficient home improvement can add several hundred to thousands of dollars to your home’s value.  Best of all, hardware replacement is often a task that you can perform yourself. 

The Takeaway

You don’t have to empty your bank account to add value to your home.  With quality services from an experienced contractor, you can be well on your way to boosting your home’s amenities and value at the same time. 

Dec
16

Making Home Living Easier With Simple Home Improvement

Everyone wants a home they can be proud of and admire for a lifetime. By making simple home improvements, home living can be less of a challenge. Here are four simple home improvements that can encourage easier home living.

Roofing & Roof Replacement

Roofing is an essential part of the home. The roof provides shelter from outside elements. Mike Sikora's Dayton Home Improvement prides itself on providing high-quality roofing material to ensure every home is earth-friendly and energy efficient. When high-quality products are used to create or replace the roof, homeowners do not have to concern themselves with the roof for quite some time. Mike Sikora's Dayton Home Improvement offers attractive and affordable roofing solutions for all occasions.

The roof of a home may need to be replaced for many reasons, including a sagging roof deck, water damage and leaking, and light revealing itself from the outside through the roof. Roofing repairs and replacements are generally essential on a homeowner's to-do list. A new roof increases a home's property value and curb appeal and saves homeowners money. Without having to worry about the roof, homeowners can focus on other factors of their home, such as sunrooms and patio enclosures.

Sunrooms

Many people are interested in sunrooms for different reasons, primarily affordability and extra space. Sunrooms can be used as a breakfast, family, TV, or exercise room or playroom. Other uses for sunrooms include entertainment purposes and a room for your plants. There are a few benefits of sun-rooms that interest many people. Homeowners who have sunrooms can enjoy their beautiful garden regardless of the weather. Other benefits of sunrooms include health benefits, warmth and light from the sun, and the ability to capture natural light instead of increasing electric expenses.

Patio Enclosures

Patio enclosures are ideal for many homeowners for different reasons. Instead of paying to add a new room to your home, patio enclosures are more affordable than constructing a new one. Patio enclosures allow homeowners to enjoy natural sunlight and fresh air. Patio enclosures are often referred to as screen rooms. These rooms provide clear visibility without glare issues, and they have proven to be sturdy. Unlike traditional fiberglass, patio enclosures reduce sagging problems.

Here are four ways homeowners can take simple home improvement projects to enhance their home and make it more efficient while simultaneously making home living easier and better to manage.

 

Dec
09

Carports Add Form, Function and Security

In 2013, a couple in upstate New York died in their home when a car left running in their garage overcame them with carbon monoxide. Keyless ignition was blamed for the accident.

If that couple would have had a carport, they’d likely still be alive today.

If you are considering home improvement plans that include adding a garage or carport and that story isn’t enough to help you decide, then hold on for this “carport ride.”

Beauty and functionality

In the race between carports and garages, you don't have to sacrifice beauty to choose the safer and more efficient use of space. When making home improvement plans, a custom-built carport by Mike Sikora’s Dayton Home Improvement Center increases the value of your home without hiding or detracting from your home’s architecture.

Carports can add beauty and additional space for other life moments. Consider that summer or autumn party you’ve been planning but know your house would be too crowded. A garage would be just plain stuffy. Let’s face it; we put our tools and dogs in the garage, not our guests. A carport allows your guests to enjoy the beauty and scents of nature while being protected from the elements.

Insurance friendly

A carport by Mike Sikora can create a classy extension to your home while protecting your vehicles and you from hail, rain, snow and the hot sun. It does this all while costing you less in home insurance premiums.

In many states, garages attached to homes increase home insurance premiums and for good reasons. Car fires threaten homes and families, and accidental carbon monoxide poisoning is a real thing.

Security

While many people might believe the attached garage to be safer, it is not. Today, when making home improvement plans, one must consider the obvious winner where security is concerned. When leaving your home or just returning home, with one glance out of your home's window at your vehicle and one sweep of the eyes when returning home and pulling under your carport, you can do a simple security check. With a garage, you are leaving your home with the assumption no one is hiding there, with no visual way to make sure.

For more information or to visit with someone about your home improvement plans and what might work best for you, call 937-435-2000.

Jun
28

More of A Good Thing – Building A Screen Room Over an Existing Patio

A patio enclosure adds to the beauty and comfort of your home, especially in the summer time. When done properly, patio rooms provide a special area to dine, relax, or entertain guests outdoors.

Maybe you already have a patio or deck. Not a problem. You can build an enclosure onto an existing deck, after you take a few steps to secure the existing deck for the extra weight

The first thing to ensure for sturdily built patio rooms is the strength of the deck. Be sure that 4×4 studs (posts from ground to deck level) are secured to each corner. Place them on the inside corners of the existing posts with 3 ½-inch exterior wood screws. 4×4 provide extra strength for additional weight.

Some of the best wood for decking is 1×6 V-joint, or parquet wood. V-joint, also known as tongue and groove, interlocks tightly to seal out weather and insects. Treated V-joint carries the bonus of repelling termites.

Lay them from one corner to the next. If you have space left that will not hold an entire board, split the board to the size of the leftover width, or buy molding to fill the gap. Adding several coats of high performance varnish keeps the wood weather and insect resistant.

Make the patio walls with bottom and top plate posts and studs of 4×4 and 2×4 respectively. Raise the first wall up and anchor in place with 2×6 inch plates making it flush with the top edge of the plate. Secure the corners of the other two walls to the front wall with the exterior wood screws.

Join the roof onto the porch with joist hangers. Cut the rafters from 2×6 if the pitch is shallow and make sure the roof extends one foot beyond the walls. Use blocking to anchor rafters; attach a fascia board to the front and side edges of the rafters.

For patio enclosures, vinyl screening is the easiest to use but is not as strong as metal screening. Pull the screen taut to prevent sags and fasten to the wood with staples. Then secure the screening with batten boards over the screen edges.

To complete your patio room, install metal or wood screen doors. Attach spring hooks to hold doors shut. Place splash boards along the bottom of the frame to keep out rain and mud.

Have questions about patio room kits, or about how you can expand your living space? Give us a call at (937) 435-2000, or message us through our contact page.

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Jun
28

Inside Out – The Benefits of Patio Enclosures

A little cabin fever is normal when the weather outside starts becoming nice. When you start to feel boxed in, then it may be time to start thinking outside the box with the addition of a patio enclosure to repurpose some of that unused space into a year-round oasis of shade, relaxation, and comfort. On top of that, a patio enclosure can also increase your home’s property value.

Benefits of a New Patio Room…

Even in the best of weather, a home’s patio space may tend to be underutilized, since bugs tend to be a problem point for some guests. Then there are those days when the rain, heat and/or humidity can limit the enjoyment of the outdoors. Thus, the decision to add a patio enclosure to an existing home can reap immediate benefits for you and for company.

Bugs and unbearable weather? Problem solved. Plus, you will expand your living space, and add to the beauty and functionality of your home.

The wide variety of available options allow for an enclosed porch solution for any home. From outdoor curtain systems that can be installed over a weekend to complex systems that are installed by factory-trained technicians, there is an outdoor patio solution for all tastes and budgets. Finally, a patio room is practically maintenance free, so that leaves plenty of time to enjoy the dramatic new space without having to worry about keeping it standing and in good condition.

Types of Patio Rooms

The versatility of patio rooms and enclosures is another big perk, since homeowners can customize their addition to fit in with the rest of the home – after all, it is an extension of the living space. These new enclosures come in a variety of colors and are resistant to mold. Aluminum  enclosures are less expensive for those on a budget.

Modern, professionally-installed patio rooms are available in a variety of different materials. Among these, vinyl is one of the most popular, because of its durability, low maintenance, and ease of installation. There is no shortage of ways to take on this project.

For more information on patio rooms and enclosures and which might be right for you, give us a call at (937) 435-2000, or message us through our contact page.

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May
30

Enhance Your Outdoor Space with a Patio Cover

Spring is here and that means it’s time to head outdoors. With warmer weather and more hours of sunlight each day, it makes perfect sense to spend more time outside — especially after being cooped up inside all winter.

For those who love the outdoors, this is the perfect time of year.

Many people entertain, eat and relax outdoors as often as weather permits. As a result, outdoor living areas have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many homeowners are utilizing their backyards to enjoy the outdoors by creating custom decks, patios and outdoor spaces that are an extension of the home. No matter how big or small, grand or casual, patio covers are a great way to enhance your outdoor living space.

In addition to being cosmetically appealing and increasing your home’s value, patio covers have practical uses. One of the biggest benefits is that they offer protection from the elements such as rain, light snow and the sun. By providing protection from the elements, you can read, cook, grill or dine outdoors no matter what the weather forecast is. Did you ever have to cancel a barbecue because of rain? Problem solved.

Another benefit of a patio cover is that it supplies shade to your outdoor living area, giving you an escape from the sun on a hot and sunny day – thus, blocking out the sun’s harmful UV rays, which allows you to fully enjoy the weather without the risks associated with direct sunlight. Plus, it will prevent fading on your grill and patio furniture. The additional shade for your patio or deck is also another layer of protection.

There are many options when it comes to choosing patio covers. They are available in many different sizes, or you can even custom-design them to fit your patio space. There are an assortment of styles, colors and materials to choose from as well.

You can expand your outdoor space and accentuate your home, while also fitting the project into your budget. It you’d like to explore some options, give us a call at (937) 435-2000.

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