Green Projects

Spending Your Building Budget Wisely

(HIT)-You say your avocado-green refrigerator and orange Formica countertops are looking a bit dated? What a shame. They matched the orange shag carpet so well. Fads do come and go. Fortunately for you, appliances and carpeting are easily replaced, unlike a home’s infrastructure.

Homes are built just like they’re run—on a budget. That budget can be spent in countless ways. As you peruse home and décor magazines looking for ideas, the choices are mind-boggling. No doubt, it may be more fun—and easier—to splurge on unique hardware for the kitchen, exquisite Italian tile or a fancy bath.

But before you even think about his and her closets or a personalized home theater system, be sure you budget appropriately for the essential structural elements of your home that are difficult or impossible to change in the future. There are three elements that should not be compromised. Foundations, framing/roofing materials, and windows and doors are all essential to the long-term value of your investment. Your contractor plays a significant role when it comes to choosing the right foundation, framing and roofing materials.

When it comes to windows and doors, however, there’s more at stake for the homeowner. Windows and doors provide form and function. They affect how your home looks, feels and operates. They provide natural light that’s essential to our well-being. They can also provide safety, security and energy efficiency. So it’s no wonder that the choices are extensive. View Full article