STORM DOORS: ADVANTAGES AND TIPS FOR YOUR HOME

The versatility of a storm door to transform your home and your comfort level, between the warm and cold months throughout the year, earns it a spot on most homeowners’ project lists.

Each season brings out something new from a storm door, and yet many consumers struggle with the benefits of and tips for buying a storm door.

Advantages:

* A Warm Welcome. Setting the tone of your home with the entryway is essential. Storm doors create a better first impression for guests and make your home feel warm and inviting. With the entry door open, natural light can create a bright and welcoming space for you and your guests.

* Better Air Circulation. This is one of the transformative features of a storm door. In the warmer months, it can become a screen door. Many storm doors feature either full- or half-glass panels that can be switched out with a screen at any time. Some doors, such as the Rolscreen Storm Door from Pella, feature hidden screens that are simply pulled into place when needed.

* Exterior Door Protection. A storm door can help protect your front entry door from rain, ice, and snow. And it can help protect your entry door investment and maintain curb appeal.

* Improved Energy Efficiency. Storm doors can help reduce energy loss by providing a buffer against summer heat and winter cold. With a storm door, the other systems in the home, such as the heater or air conditioner, don’t need to work as hard. Tips

* Sizes & Configurations. Ensure that you are getting the right size by measuring the opening for the storm door — between the door jambs, not the door itself. Most screen doors come in standard door widths of 30, 32, 34, and 36 inches and may be hinged on either side. But some can be specially designed to open to the right or left. Be attentive of the way the entry door opens.

* Designs. Want to see the whole entry door? Want a retractable screen or a screen that is removed every winter? With updated hardware styles, beautiful glass designs, including Low-E options, retractable screens and assorted colors to choose from, you can keep the architectural aesthetic as well as your functional goals in mind when shopping.

Comments

SPRING ROOF INSPECTION

The roof is the one thing between your home and the elements... doesn’t it deserve a little respect? Here are some roof maintenance tips to preserve your home’s value. Ah, the humble roof. We forget that the single most important structural element in our home is the roof. It provides shelter for those we love and the things we value. It’s easy to let maintenance slide on something we take for granted. With better weather days upon us, now is a good time to inspect the roof and make sure it’s up to the task of protecting your home’s value. Here are some crucial elements you’ll want to look for during a roof inspection: Are the gutters clean and in good shape? Organic debris building up in your gutters can cause water to pool and foster an environment for roof rot. Do you see any curling around the bottom edges? Are there any gaps or holes in the soffit? Are there surface cracks in shingles? Cracks warn you of impending disintegration or separati

BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME: SEVEN TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS

Now that you've made the decision to purchase your first home, a hearty congratulations is in order! Becoming a homeowner, especially for the first time, can stir up some feelings of anxiety and excitement. With the knowledge that you gain through individual research and the help of your REALTOR®, you will soon begin to feel like a seasoned house hunter. Tip # 1: Do Your Homework Did you know that there are a number of incentives available to first-time home buyers? In Canada, there is the First-Time Homebuyers' (FTHB) Tax Credit. The Government of Canada introduced a FTHB Tax Credit in 2009 — a $5,000 non-refundable income tax credit amount on a qualifying home acquired after January 27, 2009. For an eligible individual, the credit will provide up to $750 in federal tax relief starting in 2009. Another incentive is the Expansion of the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP). To provide first-time homebuyers with greater access to their RRSP savings to purchase or build a

A SPRING SPREAD ANY BUNNY CAN CREATE

(Culinary.net) With spring in the air, it’s the perfect time to invite guests over for a hopping party. It’s also a great opportunity to tackle that dreadful spring cleaning and spruce up your living spaces with vibrant decor for visitors to enjoy alongside a delicious recipe. With this sweet, colorful table arrangement, your whole family can get into the spring spirit. From festive utensils, a bright centerpiece and cute snacks, your spring setup can be fresh and fabulous. It’s simple to put together and easy on the budget. Pair it with appetizers or even a main dish for a full spring party spread that’s sure to impress. Find more springtime recipes at Culinary.net . Watch video to see how to create this Spring Table Spread! Chick Cheese Balls Recipe adapted from Hallmark.com Yield: 10 chicks 1 package cream cheese 1/4 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 lemon, juice only salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 cup fine

At Home With Valerie

Search This Blog