Everyone loves a good party. Add in the company of friends and family with some good barbeque and the party becomes an instant hit. Barbeques are an informal setting where people can forget about the stresses and hassles of everyday life and relax for a change. Take the planning one step further by incorporating bbq islands into a backyard design.

Entertainment Value

Every outdoor kitchen should contain essential elements that are needed to enhance the entertainment value of any backyard social gathering. There are the obvious pieces of equipment that must be included such as a built in grill and a sink for easy food preparation and after dinner cleanup. Another must have piece of equipment for entertainment purposes is an outdoor kitchen pizza oven.

There is a flat surface pizza oven that functions similar to that of a brick pizza oven seen in many restaurants. Another option is a stainless steel pizza oven that resembles a microwave oven. Finally there is a combination option that stacks an oven and a microwave oven on top of one another. This is the perfect option for making pizza for the kids and hamburgers for adults.

No party would be complete without tasty beverages. Add in a stainless steel blender that is perfect for mixed drinks, salsa or other sauces for party foods. Take the beer straight from the refrigerator to the tap in one step with a beer tap refrigerator. Make cocktails easier with a cocktail center complete with divided sections for ice and garnishes for drinks. Keep everything ice cold with the help of a drop in ice chest. This is the perfect place to store drinks for the adults and popsicles for the kids.

Summer will inevitably turn to fall and the cooler weather is not too far behind. There is no reason the arrival of cooler weather should bring an end to backyard barbeques. Simply add in an Outdoor Fireplace or fire pit to any BBQ islands setup for great cold weather parties. Outdoor Fireplaces are available in gas, electric and wood burning formats. For a cozier feel, select an outdoor fire pit. These decorative pieces can easily be placed in the center of a gathering to bring warmth to a party once the sun has set for the evening.

Nothing creates a great party atmosphere more than a warm fire paired with music or television. Relive those old high school memories by blasting the favorite tunes of that year on a surround sound stereo system built right into the outdoor kitchen unit. Many of the outdoor stereos come complete with AM/FM stereo, CD and MP3 capabilities. There is even the opportunity to add in iPod and satellite radio capabilities.

Invite the guys over for the big game and relax in a comfortable backyard BBQ island setup complete with television. Select two or more televisions to be installed into the island layout to enhance the game even more. There will be plenty of room for storing ice, grilling up stellar burgers and popping a nice cold beer whenever the mood arises. It is a functional setting for family gatherings as well. Kids’ birthdays would not be complete until the latest kids show craze appeared on the outdoor kitchen television while hot dogs and fries were being cooked on the grill.

Design Factor

There are a variety of Outdoor Kitchens to select from in terms of layout design. A common selection is the standard straight line layout with at least two kitchen components. Rounded and L-shape layout designs provide additional countertop space and customized feature options. There is the opportunity to add bar stool seating around the counter. This provides BBQ guests with a front row seat to all the grilling action.

From a cost perspective, there are BBQ islands that fit within any budget. The overall price of an island depends greatly on what options an owner wishes to include. Economy cost islands consist of the straight line design with at least two kitchen components. From there the sizes and prices expand. A grand scale grill island layout can consume the better portion of outdoor patio areas and mirror that of a standard indoor kitchen.

Conclusion

There is nothing better in life than inviting friends and family over for a backyard barbeque. Outdoor kitchens complete with the essential entertainment features will make hosting a barbeque less work on the chef and ensure a good time will be had by all.

Angie Manson
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/let-bbq-islands-bring-home-entertainment-roaring-to-life-733922.html

When it comes to designing a green kitchen, evaluating stove cooktops for their energy efficiency can cause you to make a decision between convenience or your preferred method of cooking and being eco-friendly. But, if you really want to conserve energy and help to reduce your carbon footprint, your stove cooktop is something you need to consider in your kitchen design.

Unless you are going to cook in your Fireplace over an open flame, you’ve got to consider the energy usage of the model of stove or cooktop that you buy. Most cooks prefer a gas cook top. With gas, the heat is easier to control and this can make cooking a lot easier.

However, gas stoves are powered by natural gas which is a fossil fuel and, as we know, fossil fuels are not that environmentally friendly. On the other hand, the electricity that powers electric cook tops comes mainly from coal burning power plants which, once again, are not that environmentally friendly. So, what’s an environmentally sympathetic cook to do?

When it comes right down to it, choosing stoves and cooktops that are practical and good for the environment boils down to one thing – the efficiency of energy usage.

Which Stove Cooktops Are Most Energy Efficient?

When looking for energy efficiency, the electric cooktops are going to beat the gas ones hands-down. They are simply more efficient, so if the environment is tops on your list, go with electric.

But, there are many different types of electric cooktops that you’ll need to evaluate for your green kitchen. In today’s electric cooktops, there are many choices between the surface elements. These include induction elements, halogen elements and the traditional electric coil that seemed to be almost old-fashioned today. Each of these has it’s advantages and disadvantages and they are not all equal when it comes to energy efficiency.

Needless to say, the newer technology cooktops are going to be more costly but they will also be more energy-efficient. The induction stove is the most energy-efficient because it transfers energy electromagnetically right to your pan. Of course, these are the highest priced.

The ceramic glass cooktops that use halogen elements are the next best when it comes to using energy, however if you don’t have very flat pans, you will be wasting energy because they do not work efficiently if there isn’t good pan to cooktop contact.

The least expensive – the electric coils are also the least energy-efficient not to mention the least attractive so please cross these right off your list when shopping for new cooktops for your kitchen!

When considering stove cooktops for your kitchen, you’re going to have to weigh your budget with your desire to lower your carbon footprint. Just like most things in life, you have to compromise to achieve your goals. Going with a higher-priced and more efficient model might cost you more upfront but can save on your energy expense as well as your impact to the environment over time.

Sunny Miller
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/green-kitchen-guide-to-energy-efficient-stove-cooktops-725233.html

The time had come to light up the barbeque grill!  There was only one small problem. With all the preparations he had made for the cookout, Frank had forgotten charcoal lighter! Not to be detoured by such a small detail, he entered the tool shed at the back of his yard and returned with a large can of gasoline.
 
Frank had built a gorgeous new backyard barbeque pit, whom, to the disgust of the brick masons, supervised every detail of the project.  It was a beautiful Fireplace style grill with the Chimney just about head, high built of the same brick that covered his home.

Proud of owning the best looking barbeque pit in our neighborhood, Frank’s grill featured an arched flat black steel bonnet for enclosed cooking; with a warming tray built into the side of the brick pit to keep rare steaks from getting cold while others cooked longer. There was even a compartment built on the opposite side to house starter fluid for the charcoal.

 After dumping a large amount of charcoal into the bed of the grill, he picked up the can of gasoline.  By now the neighbors had begun to realize what Frank was about to do and began hollering at him to put down the gas can!

Several friends offered to run to their homes and get charcoal lighter fluid. No Way!  Frank was determined to kick off this celebration with a big fire!  He also guaranteed everyone that he knew what he was doing!  He was enjoying the spotlight; being the center of attention!

He dumped the container of fuel over the charcoal and continued pouring even after the briquettes had been thoroughly drenched.  Now came the moment of truth!  He lit a match and with a melodramatic flair and tossed it onto the charcoal! Whoooomp! 

Brick mortar is very porous and does not always bond perfectly to a surface without leaving a tiny crack in the joints between bricks. When gasoline fills that fissure, it will flow into the base of the structure, such as a barbeque pit.

Vapors from the gasoline that had flowed into the grill did what they do when they come in contact with a flame. The grill exploded!  Bricks and mortar blasted into pieces and rained down from the sky onto all of us who had observed the big bang! No one was hurt because most of the crowd had run for cover when they saw what Frank was about to do.

He was slightly hurt by a fragment of brick skimming across the top of his head.  Nothing serious, but his grill was destroyed! A few seconds before, it was a magnificent example of craftsmanship; something to be proud of and enjoy for years to come. Instantly it was just a pile of trash!  

Although Frank has recovered from last year’s calamity, he has made plans to build an even bigger charcoal cooker than the last one. I doubt he will ever use gasoline to start a fire again!

Bob Alexander
http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/dont-use-gasoline-to-light-up-the-barbeque-grill-1330160.html

In recent years deck amenities have become more and more popular in bringing many of the comforts of the indoors into the beauty and spaciousness of the outdoors. The ones chosen will depend a great deal upon how the deck space is to be used.

Outdoor cooking and grilling areas provide opportunities for hosts to enjoy additional time with friends, family and guests. Outdoor kitchens with a propane grill and cabinetry will be almost as easy to use as one indoors. Entire meals can be cooked outdoors without moving in and out of the house if an outdoor working sink is available.

The outdoor kitchen can be equipped with facilities ranging from a plain charcoal grill to a gas range. Any grill or range must be located in the best location which combines safety and convenience. Whether the grilling or cooking device is portable or built-in, it should be out of traffic routes and views. Consider installing a small overhead shelter or locate the grill under overhanging eaves in case of rain.

An outdoor kitchen area needs to have enough room for food preparation, serving space and utensil storage. Permanent fixtures such as outdoor cooktops, ovens and refrigerators provide a wide variety of options. It’s important to select outdoor grade equipment that is manufactured to meet building codes and withstand all weather conditions. Waterproof cabinets are a useful and practical addition to an outdoor kitchen area.

The use of outdoor lighting can add many extra hours to the enjoyment of the deck while also adding decorative appeal to it. Low voltage systems which are simple to install are great at creating a special ambience, giving a deck an entirely different character than during the day.

Decorative and concealed light fixtures lend style and atmosphere to outdoor spaces. In addition they increase security. Concealed light sources focus attention on a particular area or object. They can be stategically placed among trees, shrubs, plants, in trees or at ground level to do the job. Decorative fixtures project a more diffused light and come in 2 forms: freestanding units mounted on short bases or types to be attached to posts or walls.

Uplighting is a technique in which concealed fixtures cast light up into an object from its base to draw attention to an area or decorative object. Position the fixture in from of the object or area so the beam shines away from viewing areas.

Downlighting casts a soft, indirect glow on horizontal surfaces such as paths, steps, deck floors and tabletops. The fixtures should be located out of sight so as not to draw attention away from the illuminated object. They can be mounted on arbor and pergola rafters, tree trunks and branches. Path lighting are short decorative fixtures that cast light downward along pathways, walkways and steps.

A firepit can easily become a cozy focal point for family gatherings and guests providing warmth on cool days and evenings. A Fireplace, chimnea or firepit is an addition that requires careful planning and installation.

Outdoor Fireplaces are generally freestanding and are usually constructed of mortared brick or stone. The hearth and fire screen provide fireproof safeguards while a damper controls drafts. A rotisserie and brick lined warming oven are possibilities too. The fireplace should blend with the style of the house and the deck.

Chimneas are portable fire sources that resemble potbelly stoves. These decorative fireplaces add comfort with their warmth as well as with the sound and scent of burning logs. They are not designed for cooking and are best stored indoors in colder winter months.

Free standing gas and wood burning firepits are other alternatives that provide firelight, warmth and a great place to toast marshmallows. Safety with these amenities should be a priority. A fire extinguisher is a necessity nearby as is a cover for covering the firepit in case the flames grow too large.

Any kind of water feature can add a great deal of charm to a deck area. A small pool with a fountain or a container fountain will provide hours of relaxing enjoyment for all who view them.

Many outdoor amenities require plumbing, electrical or natural gas lines. These items should be included in the planning stages of the deck design. Hot tubs, ponds, fountains and waterfall pumps require electrical outlets with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). Lighting systems require electrical lines.

A permanent natural gas line for a gas grill might be a better choice that a propane tank. An exterior phone jack is a useful possibility as is an exterior cable connection if outdoor activities on the deck include watching television.

For safety reasons and to avoid visual clutter, utilities are best run underground to the deck site. Plan the utility path so that it does not interfere with anything else in the area. Check with the local building department to make sure the plan meets code requirements. Rough in the systems after any deck excavations but before any of the foundation is put into place.

Luckily homeowners in search of ways to enhance the appeal of their decks have many options available to them. Research, careful planning and the use of some imagination can assist them as they take the steps to create deck amenities.

Richard Vande Sompel
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/how-to-create-deck-amenities-225984.html

The versatility of Propane gas means it can serve a lot of purposes in many fields, especially in residences. There is a large variety of different propane gas based products, which are used in homes, and they make life more convenient. These products are not only cost effective but also efficient and innovative and are designed to offer complete consumer satisfaction through continuous improvements. There are many companies that sell propane gas products and equipment. Besides the products, they also offer useful advice and consultation. Whenever you purchase a propane based product, it is important to get complete guidelines from the company along with any safety tips and assistance in installation if required.

Now there are so many companies offering innovative products, it has resulted in a lot of competition among these companies, which in turn benefits the customers because they not only have a lot more choice but there is continuous improvement, and the prices are much more reasonable than what they used to be in the past.

The propane gas products range from commercial to residential use to better suit the usage scale and the nature of the use. Some of the propane products are fireplaces, portable heaters, Fireplace inserts, lights and mantels, refrigerators, greenhouse propane heaters, weed burners, grills, thermostats, stoves, barbecue accessories and many others. The fittings for the products come with them, and you can get replacement items for your propane products from the same company. Another alternative is to get the repair equipment and fittings from a company which specialises in the equipment.

The variety of products available is very wide, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs. There are products which can be fitted permanently, while there are also products which are portable.

Greenhouse propane gas heaters are one item that is gaining a lot of popularity because of their convenience, plus their useful and reliable service. These heaters serve two important purposes. Firstly they radiate heat in greenhouses, which are moist. Secondly, during their burning process, they produce carbon dioxide which enhances and enriches the growth of the plants. The operation of these heaters is reliable and safe for using in a greenhouse. These heaters mostly have sensors and thermostat controllers. The controllers perform the function of turning down the pilot when the heat rises above the specified level. The sensors serve the purpose of cutting the gas in case the flame goes out. Most of the propane based fireplaces have a programmable thermostat and they can be operated with a remote control.

One thing that makes propane products like heaters and grills popular and somewhat a necessity is that they can be carried anywhere and are safe and reliable.

There are some products amongst the above mentioned ones that require installation and maintenance, which can be done by professionals. In such cases, the respective company should be contacted because there might be safety issues. All the products should be maintained so that you can get maximum convenience and use out of the product.

Florence Gasket
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/propane-gas-products-743169.html

When the weather is cold, it is everyone’s wish to have a fireplace in the home. The fireplace helps heat up the home, and provides warmth for the entire family. For homes that are located in areas with harsh winters, all the more a fireplace should be installed. There are many different types of Fireplace available. A popular option is corner gas fireplace.

You can easily install a gas fireplace in a corner of the house. Most people are more familiar with fireplaces that burn wood. But the problem with fireplaces that burn wood is that you need a constant supply of wood. It is always cumbersome to transport wood from one place to another.

Also, when there is burning in the house, there is always the possibility of soot and ashes. Soot and ashes may end up dirtying the house. In addition, when the fire is put out, all that is left in the fireplace is a pile of ashes. It is unsightly, and rather messy.

Gas fireplaces do not run into such problems. There is no need for wood, and all that is needed is gas. This means that the burning process is kept clean. No burning of wood means no soot and ash.

A gas fireplace can be connected to available gas pipes. And as long as you pay your bills, you will be able to turn on the fire in the corner gas fireplace any time you want, and enjoy the heat. You can enjoy the heat for as long as you want, without having to worry about gas running out.

However, not all areas or homes are equipped with gas pipes. If gas pipes are not readily available, portable propane gas tanks can still be used to provide gas to the corner fireplace. If you are expecting long winters, be sure to stock up enough propane gas tanks so that you don’t find yourself out of gas when the weather is cold. In areas where winter is harsh, the gas man may not be able to deliver propane gas to your home on demand.

Now that you know the pros and cons of gas fireplaces, you may wish to consider installing one in your home. You can easily source for contractors who specialize in heating solutions. They should be able to offer you professional advice on the size of the fireplace, the proper installation procedures, and of course, the price of the entire project.

Obtain advice and quotations from a few sources if possible so that you get a good feel of the market pricing. Better still, ask for referrals from friends and relatives. Usually, such sources are more trustworthy and reliable, since they have been tried and tested by the people you know.

A corner gas fireplace can provide a cozy place for the entire family and help keep the harsh cold weather at bay.

Gen Wright
http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/corner-gas-fireplaces-a-cozy-place-for-the-entire-family-689361.html

When the weather is cold, it is everyone’s wish to have a Fireplace in the home. The fireplace helps heat up the home, and provides warmth for the entire family. For homes that are located in areas with harsh winters, all the more a fireplace should be installed. There are many different types of fireplace available. A popular option is corner gas fireplace.

You can easily install a gas fireplace in a corner of the house. Most people are more familiar with fireplaces that burn wood. But the problem with fireplaces that burn wood is that you need a constant supply of wood. It is always cumbersome to transport wood from one place to another.

Also, when there is burning in the house, there is always the possibility of soot and ashes. Soot and ashes may end up dirtying the house. In addition, when the fire is put out, all that is left in the fireplace is a pile of ashes. It is unsightly, and rather messy.

Gas fireplaces do not run into such problems. There is no need for wood, and all that is needed is gas. This means that the burning process is kept clean. No burning of wood means no soot and ash.

A gas fireplace can be connected to available gas pipes. And as long as you pay your bills, you will be able to turn on the fire in the corner gas fireplace any time you want, and enjoy the heat. You can enjoy the heat for as long as you want, without having to worry about gas running out.

However, not all areas or homes are equipped with gas pipes. If gas pipes are not readily available, portable propane gas tanks can still be used to provide gas to the corner fireplace. If you are expecting long winters, be sure to stock up enough propane gas tanks so that you don’t find yourself out of gas when the weather is cold. In areas where winter is harsh, the gas man may not be able to deliver propane gas to your home on demand.

Now that you know the pros and cons of gas fireplaces, you may wish to consider installing one in your home. You can easily source for contractors who specialize in heating solutions. They should be able to offer you professional advice on the size of the fireplace, the proper installation procedures, and of course, the price of the entire project.

Obtain advice and quotations from a few sources if possible so that you get a good feel of the market pricing. Better still, ask for referrals from friends and relatives. Usually, such sources are more trustworthy and reliable, since they have been tried and tested by the people you know.

A corner gas fireplace can provide a cozy place for the entire family and help keep the harsh cold weather at bay.

Gen Wright
http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/corner-gas-fireplaces-a-cozy-place-for-the-entire-family-689361.html

With the economy coming to a slow down, the act of selling a home is becoming more and more difficult to do. Intrepid homeowners are looking for ways to improve their homes, setting themselves apart from the other homes on the market now, and increasing the value of their homes as the economy improves. And one of the leading tactics among home renovators is the Fireplace.

The theory behind adding a fireplace to a home is a sound one, and one that is backed up by numbers. The Hearth, Patio, and Barbeque Association states that the addition of a fireplace can add up to 10.8% to a home’s total value. And while that source might seem a little biased, the National Association of Home Builders lists a fireplace as one of the twelve factors that significantly impact the value of a standard home.

Why is such a premium placed on fireplaces? Well, there seems to be a break in the law of supply and demand. According to Dennis Nevius, President of the Oklahoma Association of Realtors, a fireplace is ”universally desired.” Supply, on the other hand, is limited. In 1971, the number of new homes built with fireplaces was only 36%. In the 1980s that number rose to around 55% and, despite a few off years, that’s where the number has generally stayed to this day. The break here, with supply being limited to a little over half of new homes over the past few decades, and demand being near-universal, means that houses with fireplaces command at least more attention than those without.

Adding a fireplace to an existing home is not nearly as difficult as it once was, and not nearly as expensive either. The traditional wood-burning fireplace, called a full masonry fireplace in industry terminology, can easily run up costs in excess of $20,000 in a new home, and double that in a remodeling project. The reason for this sky high cost has less to do with the attractive, outward appearance, the face work, and more to do with the extensive brick work and the addition of a chimney to a home. The gas fireplace, which has become a phenomenon over the past two decades thanks to advances in technology, can require only a vent to let heat out, or can even operate vent-free. This cuts costs from the tens of thousands to the just a few grand. The drop from $25,000 to $5,000 is a large drop indeed.

Modern gas fireplaces provide the light and warmth associated with a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, modern gas fireplaces offer advantages that traditional fireplaces do not. The first, and most often noted, is that these fireplaces turn on with the flick of a switch; there is no need to nurse kindling into a blaze. Second, there’s no ash or mess associated with trudging wood from the wood pile to the fireplace. Gas fireplaces do not carry a significant risk of fire. And there’s no energy leak associated with heat drifting out of the top of a Chimney. There’s just fire on demand. And without the energy leak of a chimney, a gas fireplace is a more efficient means to heat a room. As the communications director for Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association noted to the Washington Post on the same topic, today’s fireplace buyers are more realistic than romantic.

Beyond the safety and efficiency, the modern gas fireplace allows homeowners to be more creative with where these fireplaces go. With directive vent units requiring an outside wall, and the vent-less variety requiring only a gas hookup, fireplaces have started to appear in places where they otherwise couldn’t go, such as the master bedroom on a second floor or even the master bathroom. The real trick is to make sure that your fireplace fits the room.

Unlike the home improvements of twenty or thirty years ago, in the modern home market, value isn’t necessarily derived directly from the type of fireplace installed. While yesterday’s homeowners often opted for a full masonry fireplace in the living room, technology has advanced to the point where a gas fireplace can make the perfect addition to a family room, a study, or even the master bedroom. The concept or romance has been offset by ease of use, safety, and creativity. Capitalizing on these three things, allows a homeowner to tap into the demand for a fireplace in the upcoming buyers market, and the enjoyment of one now.

Lawrence J. Reaves
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/investing-in-your-homes-future-with-a-gas-fireplace-714798.html

Over 80% of fire related deaths happen in the home and in a home without a fire sprinkler system, these fires can take over a house before you have time to do anything about it. Here are eight of the quickest and easiest ways you can reduce your house to a pile of ash-without even being aware of it.

1.Walk away from something cooking in the kitchen: The kitchen is often the most fire-prone room in the house. Unattended toasters & hotplates, dishes that are not microwave proof, cookbooks near naked gas flames are common causes of fires.

2.Let your electrical cords get worn out: Frayed or chewed electrical cords start many house fires. Exposed electrical wires will light your floor or rug on fire in no time. Pets often chew on electrical cords as well, causing serious fire hazards.

3.Overload your power strips: Overloaded power strips can also cause fire. When overloaded, they can spark. If they’re anywhere near anything flammable-and in most homes they are-a fire is very likely.

4.Buy a malfunctioning electrical appliance: Malfunctioning electrical appliances are a big source of fire. Most of us own more than a few electrical gadgets, all of which can malfunction at any time. Sparks from faulty toasters, coffee makers, televisions, computer monitors, or any electrical appliance you could name can cause serious fires.

5.Put something flammable near something hot: Getting anything flammable near a source of heat is a quick way to start a fire. Some dangerous examples include lamp shades that rest too close to the bulb, clothes or curtains too close to a radiator, or any flammable material close to a space heater.

6.Leave a candle unattended-just for a minute: Candles cause hundreds of fires every year. Even with a safe holder, candles should never be left unattended. It only takes a minute for a pet or child to knock a candle over-or just nudge it too close to flammable material.

7.Use a Fireplace or Wood Stove incorrectly: Fireplaces and wood stoves can be fire hazards when not properly used. Make sure your Chimney is clear and clean before burning anything. Never throw away ashes that aren’t 100% cool-even the tiniest smoldering coal could easily start a fire in your trash bin.

8.Leave burning cigarettes unattended: Cigarettes are a huge fire hazard. Smoking in bed, leaving a pipe or cigarette unattended, and emptying ashtray contents before they are cold cause hundreds of fires each year.

Once started, a fire can rage out of control in minutes. Many people don’t realize how quickly a fire can spread. But a small fire can become a large one in the time it takes you to read this sentence. A fire sprinkler is activated the moment a fire starts – extinguishing the fire out before it gets out of control.

Alan Price
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-security-articles/8-common-fire-hazards-in-your-home-which-ones-could-be-stopped-using-a-home-fire-sprinkler-121120.html

Home Renovations continue to be a popular area of investment for homeowners despite the current economic turmoil. It makes sense at a time when buying new doesn’t and building on what you have, does. Now that you’ve decided to renovate, there are still some things to consider before you go ahead. Yes, you believe that you’re adding value to your property, however, with some wise planning before the hammer hits the nail you can actually be saving money too.

Create a Detailed Plan

It is of the utmost importance to properly create a plan, budget, and time frame for your home renovation job. Such preparation is crucial to the enterprising DIYer and it’s also useful to those counting on professionals. Get a very clear picture of all estimated costs that will account for everything from materials to labour. Not only that, but it’s also important to figure in backup funds for situations which may arise as the project progresses. A safe estimate is 15% on top of the initial projected budget. If you have a realistic figure to work with that corresponds with very detailed drawings and plans, you are preparing a contingency for those unforeseen issues. Just being aware of this possibility can keep you from future migraines and possible bankruptcy.

Cut Down on Material Costs – Not Quality

Materials of course account for a large portion of the expenses in any renovation project. And although you may want to get the best price you can, you may not wish to sacrifice quality just to save a few bucks. This is your home after all, (where you might be living for 20 years to pay off a mortgage).

Companies that sell recycled material from demolition sites such as Happy Harry’s give you both a budget conscious and green option. “Found” wood is another trendy yet wonderful option – imagine creating a unique hardwood floor from an old wood cabin or antique ship. If however, you are more inclined towards higher-end materials but want to pay a fraction of the cost, consider Habitat ReStores. These affiliate stores found across Canada and the United States offer surplus and used building materials for much less than retail. ReStores get their supplies from donated goods provided by: building supply stores, local contractors, demolition crews, and others wanting to support the cause. Not only are you saving money, or being green, you are also helping to raise funds that let Habitat for Humanity build 10 or more additional homes a year.

Implement Green into Your Renovation

It’s shocking to consider that your home may be a toxic place. Do you know what went into the finishes of your hardwood flooring or kitchen cabinetry where you cook, or even the paint on the walls in every room in the house? Making green choices for your home renovation is not only important for your health and the health of our planet, it can actually save you money. Although the initial costs may be higher, using ethical and non-toxic materials that are longer lasting, as well as installing energy efficient components will save you money over time. From more complicated aspects like redesigning your home, to being conscientious about product selection, consider these options suggested by Rob Wright, owner of Citadel Renovations.

* ICF foundations
* Composite floor, roof, and wall framing
* Low e film, argon gas, and triple pane glass in windows
* Compact fluorescent and LED lights
* Lots of natural light
* Reduced and/or no formaldehyde cabinetry
* Low or no VOC paints and finishes
* Composite material exterior finishes
* Recycled material roofing: metal, rubber, cement
* Wood or linoleum floors
* Heat pumps: ground, water, and air

The money you’ve saved on heating, lighting, and water once you’ve made your home more energy efficient will over time actually pay for those improvements.

Decide If It’s a Worthy Investment

It may seem like a no-brainer to first figure out if the investment you plan to make in upgrading your home is one of value, but it may come as a surprise that some are less financially beneficial than others. CMCH, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Canada’s federal housing agency, is a great resource for homeowners who are considering a renovation project. Their website offers a host of useful information, such as this break-down of renovation payback ranges:

Top four greatest payback potentials

* Bathroom renovation (75 – 100%)
* Kitchen renovation (75 – 100%)
* Interior painting (50 – 100%)
* Exterior painting (50 – 100%)

Versus:

Ten average payback potentials

* Roof shingle replacement (50 – 80%)
* Furnace/heating system (50 – 80%)
* Basement renovation (50 – 75%)
* Recreation room addition (50 – 75%)
* Installing a Fireplace (50 – 75%)
* Flooring (50 – 75%)
* Constructing a garage (50 – 75%)
* Window/door replacement (50 – 75%)
* Building a deck (50 – 75%)
* Central air conditioning (25 – 75%)

Repairs or beautification are the most prevalent ideas that come to mind, however, safety improvements are another way to go that will your wallet happy. Check with your insurance company if they offer lower premiums when you add or upgrade a home security system, fire prevention measure, or improve the existing wiring.

We’ve all heard the renovation horror stories that look like something out of that 80’s movie The Money Pit. It’s not something we like to think about; the possibility of your hard earned $10,000 renovation budget ending up being but a drop in the bucket. Like any other investment, you wouldn’t blindly drop ducats on any random man in a suit with a smile – you do your homework first. Not only will you bring added value to your home with your new renovation, you will also save money with your carefully laid out plans.

Susan Hu
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