Written by Christie Simon

One of the joys of designing your dream home is you get to customize as many elements of your home as you’d like, from top to bottom. Your home’s exterior can be a playground for all kinds of different design ideas, with the walls, windows, roof, and other features all working in harmony with each other.

The roof design you’ll choose will then, of course, be dictated in part by the colours and architectural elements of the rest of your home. In this piece, we’re going to discuss some of the factors you should consider when choosing the materials used to build your roof, as well as both its colour and style.

Choosing materials for your roof

There are a number of considerations you should keep in mind when choosing materials for your roof. They include:

• Cost
• Longevity
• Appearance
• Environmental efficiency

At one time, the materials you chose would largely dictate what colour your roof could be. Fortunately, that’s changed for many materials – for example, you can now get asphalt shingles in a wide variety of different colours.

And you can use different roofing materials for many distinct styles of roofs. Unless you’re opting for a flat roofing system or a green roof (more on those later), you can use asphalt, slate, clay, or any other kind of material for your roof – it just depends on the style you’re looking for.

You can use the materials seen on other roofs in your neighbourhood as a guideline for what kind of material you might choose. You may also consider environmentally friendly materials. As a rule of thumb, the most environmentally friendly materials, like metal roofing, are also the longest lasting. That’s because the longer a roof lasts, the less often it needs to be replaced. That means less waste.

When building a home, investing in energy efficient practices upfront is a good idea, as they’re less expensive to implement initially then they would be through retrofitting. 

Choosing your roofs colour

There are an incredibly wide variety of different colours available for your roof, provided you go with a material like asphalt. When you opt for materials like clay or slate, there are fewer choices in the colours you can get – you’ll want the natural colour of the material to shine through.

For certain styles of roof, it’s acceptable to use paint. Metal roofing is a good example of this – you can use paint to change the colour of your metal roof, as well as to increase its resistance to heat transfer.

As with roofing materials, it’s important to look at the colours being used in your neighbourhood if you want a roofing style that’s cohesive with your neighbours.

Picking the architectural style of your roof

It can be a bit daunting to choose from the wide variety of roofing styles available. Fortunately, your home’s overall architectural style will mostly dictate what kind of roof you’ll have. Additionally, your home’s roofing style will be informed by the climate in your area.

For example, gambrel (barn-style) roofs are rare here in Edmonton. We get high winds and snowfall, both of which can create too much stress on gambrel roofs. Mansard roofs are possible to build here, but they need to be built carefully to allow for sufficient drainage when the snow falls.

Most commonly in our area, you’ll see gable and hip style roofs. If, however, there’s a roofing style you prefer, let your contractor know. Roofs are incredibly customizable, and with the right protections, materials, and insulation, you can get almost any style you can imagine. 

As our friend at Martens Contracting put it, “Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements”. While aesthetic concerns are always important to keep in mind, the most important factor in your roof’s style is the level of protection that it offers your home.

Conclusion

There are a wide variety of different materials, colours, and styles that can be used when choosing your new roof. Think about the considerations we laid out in this piece, and talk to your contractor. Soon enough, you’ll have the roof of your dreams!

The post How To Pick a Roof Design For Your New Home appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

Types of Flooring Introduction

Choosing the correct types of flooring for your home can be a daunting task. With the many styles and hundreds of colours to choose from, figuring out which type of flooring works best for you is no simple undertaking.

On top of that, there are different types of flooring more suited for children and pets. These floors are scratch resistant and easier to clean than others. Furthermore, flooring can be selected on a room to room basis and by budget.

This guide on the different types of floorings will explain the pros and cons of each material, the costs associated with supply and installation and which rooms its best suited for. Below is a quick summary on the different flooring types in North America.

1. The Most Common Types of Flooring.

• Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood
• Luxury Vinyl Plank
• Tile
• Laminate
• Carpet

2. The Pros, Cons, and Costs of Each Type of Flooring.

• Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood
• Luxury Vinyl Plank
• Tile
• Laminate
• Carpet

3. Choosing The Right Flooring For Your Lifestyle.

• Families with Kids
• With Pets
• People with Allergies
• Sustainability

4. Best Flooring For Your Rooms.

• Bathrooms
• Kitchen
• Living Room
• Hallways
• Mudrooms
• Basement

5. What Works Best For You.

Remember: The material used for flooring can be affected by costs, ease of installation and the style you prefer. Some flooring is better for noise insulation while others are better for longevity and resale purposes. Moisture can greatly damage laminate but with LVP it is unaffected by it. You should always look at all the pros and cons of each type of flooring before making your selection.

Quick Definition: What is a subfloor? A subfloor is a substrate in which the flooring material is laid upon. It can be foam for carpet or plywood for hardwood. Flooring installed in the basement is usually installed on the concrete. The concrete in this scenario serves as the subfloor.

1. The Most Common Types of Flooring.

Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood.

Engineered wood flooring is very similar to wood flooring. The main difference is that solid wood floors are made from a single piece of wood while engineered wood is not. Engineered hardwood is comprised of plywood with a thin natural strip of wood finish on top. Because of this composition, engineered flooring can’t be refinished as many times as natural wood.

However, because plywood composition, it is made to be more resilient against moisture. It is subject to less shrinkage and will not warp with time. Natural wood can be sanded and refinished many times which is a positive but comes with a greater expense than engineered flooring. Engineered flooring is easier to install, is more environmentally friendly, and looks almost identical to wood. In the end of the day it’s near impossible to tell the difference.

The 2 Types of Hardwood.

Hardwood is made from dense wood species. These species include maple, birch, oak and walnut. Hardwood is also very resilient to scratches and stains. Thats why these floors are perfect in places with high traffic and homes with kids and pets. Hardwood is best installed in front entries, kitchens and mudrooms.

Softwoods on the other hand are made from soft wood species. These include cedar, fir, pine and spruce. Softwood is easily scratched and dented but will feel very soft compared to hardwood. Its only best to install this type of wood in bedrooms and areas of light traffic. If you have kids or pets, stay away from this type of wood.

Hardwood Shapes and Widths.

There are 4 basic shapes and patterns of hardwood. Planks, strips, parquets, and tile.

Planks are pieces of hardwood that are usually greater than 3 inches. It is the most common style installed.

Strips are narrow lengths of wood flooring that are predominantly installed in older homes. They are 2.5 inches and less in width.

Parquet floors are wood strips butted together to make geometric shapes.

Tile hardwood looks very similar to tile flooring and is rarely used.

Should you have a subfloor before installing hardwood?

The simple answer is yes. The most common subfloors are plywood, concrete and existing flooring. When it comes to installation, the most important factor to consider is to have a very smooth subfloor beneath. This will prevent warping and increase the longevity of the product.

Is hardwood nailed down or glued?

Hardwood can be nailed down and glued to the subfloor. It can be fastened with nails or staples or alternatively glued with an adhesive. The nail down method is the most common type of installation with a pneumatic nailer. An interlock floating system is rarely used.

Is wood flooring expensive?

Natural wood flooring is probably the most expensive type of floor. This is because it requires the most amount of labor to create and manufature. However wood flooring will hold its value for many years in a home.

Luxury Vinyl Plank

LVP flooring, or luxury vinyl plank is the most common type of flooring. The reason is that it is extremely durable, cost effective, and has the greatest selection of styles. LVP flooring is comprised of 4 layers. The bottom layer is the backing, the next is the core, and the next two are the photographic layer followed by the wear layer. The photographic layer is the design that mimics the wood or tile and the wear layer offers the protection. There are different thicknesses on the wear layer and core. The thickest will substantially increase the price of the product compared to the thinnest but offer the greatest durability.

Many people often confuse laminate and LVP. The biggest difference is that the core of LVP is made from plastic while laminate is wood. Because of this, laminate is very susceptible to warping and should not be installed in areas with moisture. Lastly LVP is more durable and should be installed in homes with kids and pets relative to laminate.

How is LVP installed?

Luxury vinyl plank is most commonly installed by floating it over the subfloor. Like laminate, the flooring system is interlocked and unattached to subfloor below. LVP can also be glued down directly as well.

Tile

Tile is a manufactured piece of hard wearing material found naturally in the world. It is most commonly made from ceramic stones, porcelain, and travertine materials. Other common materials include marble and clay. Tile is most predominantly installed in areas of high moisture content and rooms that have high traffic.

The most common places tile is installed in a home is:

1. Your kitchen
2. The bathrooms
3. In front entries and mudrooms

The reason why tile is used in areas of high moisture content is because it isn’t porous. Tile flooring is not subject to warping, can be very durable, and holds its value with time. Lastly, tile can be made to be slip resistant and can be installed outside. Many people are starting to install tile on porches and on decks with a slip resistant coating.

How tile is installed

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile – Whats the Difference

Ceramic tile is crafted from clay. It is then hardened using heat and shaped into patterns. The patterns are cut into specific sizes of tile before sold to the consumer. Porcelain on the other hand, is a type of ceramic tile but is manufactured more intensely to increase its durability. It is stronger than standard ceramic tile and is more resistant to cracking. Ceramic is more affordable and easier to cut. Porcelain tile is a better choice.

Laminate

This type of flooring is the second cheapest other than carpet. It is similar to luxury vinyl plank but does not offer the same protection against moisture. It is a lower end product that is usually installed by house flippers to save on costs while providing a beautiful looking floor for the potential buyer.

Laminate flooring consists of the same backing layer, core, photographic and wear layer like LVP. Since laminates core is made from wood, it warps and damages easily.

Does Laminate Require an Underlay?

Yes! Since Laminate flooring is made from wood material it can swell and shrink similar to hardwood flooring. The subfloor will keep the laminate flat and hold it in place when expansion and contraction takes place. The subfloor will prevent warping and provide a smooth surface to install the material. The most common underlays are foam, cork (for sound resistance), cement board and plywood.

How is Laminate Installed?

The most common type of installation method for laminate is called floating. This means the laminate is interlocked together above the subfloor below. It isn’t attached by any means and therefore is considered to float. The second most common way that laminate is installed is a glue down method. This is seldom done.

Carpet

Carpet flooring is made from individual carpet fibres that are bound together to make the rug. This type of flooring is used in bedrooms and living rooms. It is the cheapest to supply and install but wears easily. It offers a warm and comfortable feeling in the home and is very soft on the feet.This flooring comes in wool, polyester, and nylon materials. Carpet is installed indoors and will last up to 15 years before being replaced.

It is important to remember that quality of carpet is measured on the number of fibres per square inch. The more there are, the softer and more durable the carpet will be. Furthermore, It will be more expensive than carpet with less fibres.

Lastly, other than fibre count, carpet can be categorized into varying twists of the fibres. This is called the berber. The two main types of twists are looped (for high traffic areas like hallways) and multiple twisted (low traffic areas like bedrooms). Carpets come in 6, 12, 13.5 and 15 foot rolls.

How is Carpet Installed?

There are two ways carpet is installed. One is the tackless method and the other is the glue down installation. Tackless installation is the most common where a tacking strip in placed on the perimeter of the room with pins sticking out. The carpet laid out and stretched over the pins to be held in place. This method can be installed with baseboards on by using a tucking tool. The other glue down method occurs when you place a carpet adhesive over the subfloor and roll it onto place. This is becoming less common every day as the tackless method is the simplest and cheapest to do.

Carpet Underlay

The underlay for a carpet is a soft padding material. It is placed underneath the install to minimize noise, add softness and increase the comfort of the floor. It can vary based on density and include a memory foam layer to keep the shape consistent. Lastly, the density rating affects the softness and the longevity of the carpet. For example, the lower the rating, the softer the carpet feels but comes with a decreased longevity. The denser the padding is the longer it lasts.

2. The Pros, Cons, and Costs of Each Type of Flooring.

Hardwood and Engineered Hardwood

The Cost of Hardwood

• Uninstalled hardwood ranges from $4 to $18 dollars per square foot dependent on the woos.
• Installed wood flooring can range anywhere from $6 to over $22 per square foot

The Positives and Negatives of Wood Flooring

Positives:

• Can last for 20 to 50 plus years in a home
• Hardwood offers the best return on investment of any flooring
• It comes in many styles, shapes, and designs
• There are multiple woods to choose from
• Natural wood flooring is completely organic
• It can be used in any area of the home
• Engineered hardwood is very moisture resistant and extremely durable 

Negatives:

• Natural Wood floor can warp with time
• Wood flooring compared to engineered can be damaged by moisture and pets
• Wood and tile flooring are the most expensive materials of floor
• If the wood chosen is soft, it can be damaged by kids and pets quickly
• Engineered wood flooring can be seldom refinished
• Humidity has the greatest affect on wood flooring

Note: Make sure you have a consistent humidity and temperature in the home if using hardwood. If not, it will expand and shrink and warp the finished product. Don’t install this flooring without a humidifier.

Luxury Vinyl Plank

The Costs of LVP

• LVP Uninstalled can cost slightly over $1 a square foot to $8 a square foot
• Installing LVP can range from $2.50 to $13 per square foot with material

The Positives and Negatives of Luxury Vinyl Plank

Positives:

• It comes in a wide selection of thicknesses
• It can look to match almost any hardwood
• LVP is very waterproof
• This material is durable and scratch resistant
• Its a great selection of flooring for homes with pets
• Luxury vinyl plank can last over 20 years
• Its easy to install yourself
• LVP is one of the most used flooring materials

Negatives:

• It can’t be refinished
• LVP doesn’t have the same resale value as wood
• It can emit volatile organic compounds over long periods of time

Tile

The Costs of Tile

• Tile being uninstalled can range from $1 to over $18 per square foot for marble for example
• If it is installed, the prices can range from $5 to $30 per square foot

Positives and Negatives of Tile Flooring

Positives:

• It can last up to 50 years
• Tile comes in different sizes, shapes, and materials used to make it
• Its the best material installed in bathrooms and entryways
• It can be used on walls and decorative areas other than only floors
• It has the widest range in costs

Negatives:

• Tile can be very cold to walk on. It is very hard and can be slippery when wet
• Porcelain and ceramic tile are very brittle and crack easily when installing

Recommendation: Tile in bathrooms can be very cold. Consider installing electric heat below to increase the satisfaction with the flooring.

Laminate

The Costs of Laminate 

• Uninstalled Laminate can cost anywhere from $1 to $6 per square foot
• If laminate is Installed, the price can range from $2 to $10 per square foot with labor included(don’t forget to get multiple quotes).

The Positives and Negatives of Laminate

Positives:

• Laminate is almost as affordable as carpet
• It is very easy to install yourself
• Its easy to clean and great for people with allergies
• Laminate flooring can come in a wide selection of designs

Negatives:

• The greatest negative with Laminate is that it is susceptible to water damage
• Laminate flooring swells when wet relative to all other types of flooring
• It is not durable and shouldn’t be used in homes with pets

Carpet

The Costs of Carpet.

• Uninstalled carpet costs from $1 to $4 a square foot
• Installed carpet can cost anywhere from $3 to $7 a square foot

Pros and Cons of Carpet.

Positives:

• It is very soft
• Carpet offers a warm feeling in the home
• It works great when installed on concrete in the basement
• It offers a cushion for kids

Negatives:

• Has the shortest life
• Is the toughest to clean
• The worst flooring for trapping allergens

3. Choosing The Right Flooring For Your Lifestyle.

Families with Kids.

The best flooring for kids is luxury vinyl plank. LVP is extremely water resistant, easy to clean and very durable. It’s near impossible to wreck and looks great with time. However, LVP can be cold if installed directly onto concrete and is a hard surface to land on. Parents should take this into consideration before installing this type of flooring.

Next to vinyl plank, engineered hardwood and carpet are the next alternatives for families with children. Carpet is very warm when installed in bedrooms and offers a cushion when falls happen. Its tough to clean but is the cheapest flooring out there.

Engineered hardwood is similar to LVP except that it is more expensive. This flooring is extremely water resistant, easy to clean but comes with a higher price tag than LVP.

People with Pets.

The worst flooring you could get while having pets is carpet followed by laminate. Carpet traps hair and stains when accidents happen on the flooring. Laminate will swell if the pet pees on the floor and scratches easily with their nails.

LVP and tile flooring are the top two choices for families with pets. Tile can be more expensive, but by selecting a porcelain or ceramic tile (hard surfaces) which are reasonably priced, won’t scratch and hold up with time.

Individuals with Allergies.

The best flooring for people with allergies and asthmatic conditions is LVP, laminate, and tile flooring. All three types of floorings are very easy to clean and won’t trap allergens and dirt. LVP and laminates wear layer makes the surface easy to sweep and vacuum while LVP you can mop. Tile is just as easy to clean and is the most water resistant flooring.

Carpet is the worst choice of flooring asthmatic and allergic conditions.

Types of Flooring that offer Sustainable Benefits.

The most sustainable type of flooring would be wood. Specifically, oak floors are considered the most eco friendly solution when choosing a flooring type. In North America, trees used for lumber and flooring must be replanted after harvesting is completed. Forest management and protection programs make sure that every tree taken is filled with a new sapling. Oak however has the smallest carbon footprint and releases the least toxic emissions during manufacturing compared to all other wood floors.

Second to wood is wool made carpet.

4. Best Types of Flooring For Your Rooms.

Different types of flooring have positives and negatives affects when installed in a home. Rooms throughout the home have specific uses with varying amounts of traffic. Your kitchen will be the most used room followed by the living room. Your bedroom will be used the least but is meant to offer a warm and comfy feeling relative to others. Because of these differences, below are the recommendations for flooring types in each room.

Bathrooms.

The bathroom floor should be waterproof and moisture resistant. There is no room in the house that has more moisture build up than a bathroom. With showers, sinks, spilled water and wet feet, the best recommendation for bathroom flooring is slip resistant tile or LVP.

Both of these floorings are extremely waterproof, durable, and can tied into flooring outside the room.

You would never put carpet or laminate in a bathroom, but can put engineered hardwood if you choose.

Bedrooms.

Your bedroom is meant for comfort and warmth. Therefore this room is up to your personal preference. Since there is low moisture content and people mainly wear socks, there is almost no possibility of damaging the floors in this room.

Carpets can add warmth and softness while hardwood will bring out beauty of the surround features. Laminate is a great choice of flooring for people on a budget and tile can add a sense of luxury to the room. Kids bedrooms should be installed with carpet or with a wood flooring to offer a greater protection against falls. Wood is softer than all flooring other than carpet and is easily cleaned.

Kitchens.

This room in the home receives the most amount of traffic. The kitchen is susceptible to moisture, spills, and falling utensils when cooking. Because of this the kitchen needs to be durable, scratch resistant and resistant to water.

Based on personal experience as custom home builders, the best flooring for the kitchen is tile, engineered hardwood and LVP. All of these flooring choices fit the criteria for being moisture resistant and extremely durable. Tile is the coldest floor to walk on while LVP is the most cost effective of the three. If you have an open concept kitchen tied to other rooms, having engineered hardwood throughout the area will tie the rooms together.

It’s important to remember that if you choose tile, make sure it is slip resistant and the grout colour hides stains. If you choose laminate flooring because of budget, the significant drawback is that it can warp with moisture.

Living Rooms.

Like bedrooms, the types of flooring selected for your living room flooring is your personal preference.

While kitchens and bathroom flooring need practical flooring, living room floors are a matter of personal preference. Since living rooms have a lower chance of moisture problems and  are typically low-traffic areas, you have a wider range of options. However, we think hardwood floors are ideal because they last for decades, match any style aesthetic, are easy to clean, and add value to your home.

If hardwood floors aren’t for you, then laminate, LVT, tile, or carpet tile are good options. You’re only limited by your budget, your personal aesthetics, and your imagination. Don’t forget to layer the room with area rugs to protect from scratches and furniture.

Hallways, Entries and Mudrooms.

These rooms are high traffic areas. The types of flooring selected for these areas must be durable and easy to clean. These places need to be swept, mopped and clean constantly. Thats why it important to select a stain resistant material that is resistant to water.

The best flooring for hallways and entries are tile, LVP and engineered hardwood. They all offer great protection against moisture and stains while are durable at the same time. Tile and LVP is very scratch resistant but hardwood adds value like no other type of floor. If you want to retain resale value in 10 years time, tile or hardwood flooring would be the floor to use.

Basements.

Most basement subfloors are made from concrete. These floors are cold and hard to walk on. Basments in homes are prone to flooding are an area in the home that experiences the most mold. Lastly, sewage backups are another concern to remember before installing flooring in an old house.

If you have bedrooms and basements in your basement, we recommend installing LVP on the floor. Make sure you add a layer of padding to separate the concrete from the planks. If in-floor heating is installed there is no concern. LVP is cost effect as your basement is your least used room and offers the protection against water and mold. If flooding occurs through cracks in your foundation, it is easily cleaned without being replaced.

5. Types of Flooring – How to Choose The Best Floor.

When choosing between the different types of flooring for your home, it’s important to look at the pros and negatives of each material. Your decision can be determined by personal preferences and body conditions. If you have pets, you want to stay away from carpet and laminate. If you have allergies, tile and LVP are great selections as they are easily cleaned. Lastly, when you decide on the flooring, make sure it fits you budget. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us to help your decision process seam seamless. Enjoy the ultimate guide to flooring material.

Flooring Types – Macarthur Custom Homes Flooring Guide.

The post Types of Flooring – How to Choose The Best Floor. appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

Maintaining a new home can be a big job if you let your simple fixes pile up year over year. With a new custom home, most deficiencies and problems will fall on the builder. Maintenance requirements however are the responsibility of the homeowner.

Taking care of your house will ensure that the internal systems function at full efficiency and improve the performance of your home. Furthermore, the resale value will be held and the life of your build will last longer.

That is why it is important to have a clear and systematic home maintenance checklist on hand. This will ensure that nothing gets missed and prevent problems from happening down the road.

Home Maintenance Checklist

There should be monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, annual and long term maintenance items.

We will go over the some of the key maintenance items that we recommend to be completed as a custom home builder.

Monthly Home Maintenance Items

While monthly maintenance items may seem like a nuisance, they will evidently save you time and money down the road. Trust us, they are simple and very fast fixes that prevent bigger problems later. These tasks should only take 15 minutes each month (in total).

Below are the recommend items.

• Clean your range hood and its filter.
• Tighten any loose handles or opening knobs. This will ensure that no handles break.
• Clean your garburator by putting in lemon slices. This will prevent smell down the road.
• Clean that glass on your stove to prevent fast build up of grease.
• Verify home alarms are functional.
• Clean out dryer and laundry machine filters.

Quarterly Home Maintenance Items

As a custom home builder, quarterly maintenance items are probably the most important to do. Performing these tasks will ensure the longevity of your homes internal systems and maximize the safety for your family.

• Replace you HVAC filters in your furnace and HRV.
• Remove debris from your air conditioning unit.
• Verify that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional.
• Turn on taps and faucets in places not used for months on end. This will ensure the gaskets and seals don’t dry.
• Clean the inside of your fridge and stove to prevent smells.
• Clean calking around frequently used showers and tubs.
• Perform appliance maintenance checks on coffee makers for example.

Semi-Annual Home Maintenance Items

Semi-annual home maintenance tasks will further keep your home in a good working order. Performing the tasks to date will improve the longevity and resale value of your home. Below are some common semi annual tasks for how to maintain a custom home.

• Wipe down walls and baseboard. Clean the grout in between tiles.
• Remove debris from your clothes dryer exhaust duct.
• Clean out the dishwasher and its filter.
• Perform maintenance on boilers, furnaces, and air conditioners.

Annual Home Maintenance Items

There are a few more tasks that need to be completed on our home maintenance checklist. The items below should be completed on an annual basis.

Some of the maintenance tasks can be performed in winter. However, the bulk of the list should be finished in the spring and summer months.

• Verify that the grading around the house slopes away.
• Clean the eaves and downspouts in the spring.
• Make sure there are no loose shingles or shakes.
• Inspect the exterior siding, windows and weatherstripping.
• Make sure to blow out irrigation in the fall and start up in the spring.
• Inspect exterior grout and mortar. Fix any places where it eroded.
• Clean door and window screens.
• Clean windows.
• Verify the weatherstripping on the front doors seals
• If you have a wood burning fireplace, clean the chimney.
• Perform preventative maintenance on the electrical and HVAC systems
• Fix and repair any loose door hinges
• Repair any areas where calking is coming off. Especially showers and the kitchen sink.
• Clean P-Traps on sinks.
• Verify all GFI’s are in working order.
• Clean out your furnace ducts (hire a cleaning About Us)

Life Long Home Maintenance Items

Lastly, there are some larger tasks that need to be completed on occasion. These are usually competed once every few years. These maintenance items below are probably the most important. Finishing these tasks will save you costly repairs in the future.

• Clean and repaint window casings, soffits and exterior trim. This will help prevent moisture from seeping in and rotting the material.
• Inspect the parging and exterior foundation for large cracks. Make sure all exterior penetrations are still sealed and repair if necessary.
• Make sure the exterior siding is still intact and check storm openings where the downspouts tie in.

Home Maintenance Checklist – How To Maintain A Custom House.

Building a custom home is one of the biggest investments people make in their entire life. Since you’ve invested your own dollars creating your dream house, why not make sure that it is properly maintained throughout its life.

Having a checklist on hand and completing the tasks will safeguard your investment and extend the longevity of the home. You will increase the resale value of the house and prevent costly fixes down the road.

The post Home Maintenance Checklist – How to Maintain a Custom House. appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

The top 10 neighbourhoods in Edmonton 2023 are subject to biases. That is why the 10 selected communities below are based on the most written about neighbourhoods and family favourites across many websites and articles.

Top 10 neighborhoods in Port Washington New York Canada to live in 2023

If you plan on relocating to Port Washington New York, make sure to find the most ideal neighbourhood to live in. Everyone has their own reasons why they prefer one neighborhood over the other. It could be due to different amenities, schools, crime rates, property prices, or even the type of properties in the area. However, certain neighbourhoods in Port Washington New York are very popular and will always find the top the list when ranked as favourites.

In this post, we are going to have a look at the top 10 neighbourhoods in Port Washington New York that are best to live in 2023. If you have more neighbourhood specific questions, or would like to further your search, you can contact Chloe or Clara from RE/MAX River City who would be happy to help.

1. Ritchie

Ritchie is one of the most popular residential neighborhoods in South-east Edmonton. It’s named after Robert Ritchie who was the first owner of the Ritchie Mill as well as a former mayor of Strathcona city.

Ritchie is a well-developed neighborhood that is ideal for millennials, young professionals, and young families. Residents here enjoy a very nice ambiance of nightlife thanks to nearby downtown, Mill Creek Ravine, and Old Strathcona. It has rich cafés and a cycling culture as Mill Creek Ravine is one of the top cycling spots.

Richie has a population of 4,194 according to the 2012 census statistics. The Ritchie community league was established in 1992 to represent the community. It’s responsible for running a community hall and other outdoor facilities along 98 Street and 77 Avenue.

Escuela Mill Creek Elementary school, Ecole Joseph-Moreau junior high school, and the Learning Store are the 3 popular schools in Ritchie. In the 2017 spring season, the Ritchie community joined hands to build the Richie market which is located along 96^th street and 76^th avenue. This modern trading facility houses the most popular cafes, restaurants, shopping stores, and a brewing company. 

Types of residence in the Ritchie neighborhood include; single-family homes, condominiums, and duplexes. The median home price in the Ritchie neighborhood is $311, 377.

2. Strathcona

For those who love nightlife, Strathcona is another great neighbourhood in Port Washington New York. It’s also a great destination for both international and local tourists thanks to its historic culture charm and unmatched entertainment joints.

Strathcona is known as the most romantic neighbourhood in Edmonton city as it offers some of the best live music and theatre performance. Strathcona is the headquarters of the Edmonton International Fringe Festival which is one of the biggest theatre festivals globally.

 It’s strategically located just next to downtown, Queen Elizabeth Pool, Whyte Avenue, and in close proximity to the University of Alberta campus and river valley. 

Strathcona was named after Lord Strathcona, the Hudson’s Bay Company governor (1889-1914). Strathcona’s population as of the 2012 municipal census was 8,984 persons. 

Some of the most popular parks and open spaces include; E.L Hill Park, End of Steel Park, Mill Creek Ravine Park, Strathcona  Park, and Queen Elizabeth Park.

Some of the best schools that one can take their children include; Elk Island public schools, Elk Island schools, and Conseil Scolaire Center. The median price for homes in the Strathcona neighbourhood is $384,781.

3. Garneau

Garneau is one of Edmonton’s most popular historic neighborhoods and it has an entire block that is dedicated to showing how the early inhabitants lived before modernization. It was named after Laurent Garneau who arrived here in 1874 together with his wife Eleanor.

The modern Garneau is now a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of both residential and business vibe. The University of Alberta is located here hence, giving it a university life. The famous 109 Street is a modern business hub where locals and visitors go shopping for a wide variety of products. The iconic Garneau Theatre which was built in 1940 by architect William Blakey is also located here.

88 Avenue is a popular spot for dining and entertainment with some of the most preferred joints being The Sugar Bowl, High-Level Dinner, and the Red Bike shop which is one of the cyclists’ favorites joint. 

Nearby schools include; Garneau Elementary School, St. John’s Institute, and the University of Alberta. According to the 2012 municipal census, Garneau had a population of 9,648 with the majority of them living in condominiums. The median price for homes in the Garneau neighborhood is $496,406.

4. Aspen Gardens

Aspen Gardens is a residential neighborhood in South-west Edmonton overlooking the famous Whitemud Creek Ravine. It was built between 1960 and 70s to serve as an alternative dwelling for a fraction of Edmonton residents who wanted to work in the city but live in a quiet, spacious, and luxury estate.

Aspen Gardens offered the required larger than average-sized lots that were ideal for building a luxury estate. Today, Aspen Gardens is home to some of the most affluent in the city and it’s not as densely populated as other neighborhoods. That’s why it has one of the lowest crime rates in Edmonton city.

Some of the best schools in Aspen Gardens include; The Vernon Barford Junior High School and Westbrook Elementary School. 

Aspen Gardens is represented by the Aspen Gardens community league. Residents can join the league at affordable rates and enjoy access to some of the best outdoor activities such as swimming, soccer, festivals, and music. It also offers a unique opportunity for residents to interact with each other.

Aspen Gardens prides itself of beautiful luxury homes mostly single-family dwellings. It also has fully grown trees, nice pathways for both pedestrians and cyclists as well as restaurants and entertainment joints. The median price for homes in the Aspen Gardens neighborhood is $688,475.

 
5. Greenfield

 Greenfield is also a residential neighborhood in Southwest Edmonton, Alberta Canada. Greenfield is also known as Petrolia since there is a famous small shopping center called Petrolia. It was named after Herbert Greenfield the premier of Alberta from 1921 to 1995.

The majority of residents here live in single-family homes although there are many apartments and duplexes for renting. Greenfield is easily accessible from 111 Street gate, LRT stations, and from Century Park.

According to the 2012 municipal census, Greenfield had a population of about 3,640 with a higher average household income than other Edmonton cities. Mobility in and out of the Greenfield neighborhood is enhanced thanks to the well-organized road network and public transport. 

The community is represented by the Greenfield community league which organizes events, games, and programs for both kids and adults as affordable membership rates.

Some of the best schools that serve young families in Greenfield neighborhoods are; Greenfield Public School, St. Stanislaus Catholic Elementary School, and Academy for Maths and Sciences. 

The average price for homes in the Greenfield neighborhood is $524,700. 

6. Glenora

Glenora is a residential neighborhood in Edmonton, Alberta Canada that is overlooking the magnificent North Saskatchewan River Valley. Glenora has a vibrant and active community. Royal Alberta Museum and Alberta Government House are some of the unique places that you should visit.

According to the 2012 municipal census, Glenora had a population of 3,514 persons. It has a high number of residents due to its close proximity to Downtown and River Valley. Most of the homes in the Glenora neighborhood are old-styled and they are single-family dwellings on large lots.  Glenora neighborhood features mature trees, pristine streets, and magnificent and spacious parks.

There are four schools in Glenora which are; Glenora Elementary School, Westminster Junior High School, St. Vincent Catholic Elementary School, and Progressive Academy ( private school).

The median price for homes in the Glenora neighborhood is $1,053,485.

7. Queen Alexandra 

Queen Alexandra offers a mix of both residential and commercial development. It was once part of Strathcona city and it was named Alexandra after the wife of Edward VII of England.

Queen Alexandra is located near Whyte Avenue on the North, 104 Street on the East, 109 Street on the West, and 70 Avenue to the South. This neighborhood is also near the University of Alberta and it has beautiful old-style homes. 

However, it has recently recorded new condominium development projects.  The median price for homes in Queen Alexandra is $ 391, 358. Residents of Queen Alexandra can easily access the downtown either through 109 or 104 street.

The total population according to the 2012 municipal census was 4,694. Four schools serve the Queen Alexandra neighborhood and they include; Duggan Street/Queen Alex School, Queen Alexandra Elementary School, Strathcona Composite High School, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Schools.

Some of the famous recreational facilities in Queen Alexandra neighborhoods are; Alexander Circle, Rollie Miles Athletic Field, Strathcona Leisure Center, Southside Athletic Grounds, and Southside Arena.

8. Downtown 

Downtown is the central business district of Edmonton, Alberta. It’s conveniently located at the geographical center of Edmonton city. When in Downtown, it’s easier to access other nearby neighborhoods via 109 Street on the West, 105 Avenue on the North, 97 Street to the East, and 97 Avenue to the South. Downtown is also adjacent to the North Saskatchewan River on the Southeast side. 

According to the 2014 Edmonton municipal council census, Downtown had a population of 13,148. Various institutions provide quality education in downtown. They include;  MacEwan University Campus, Alberta College, NorQuest College, Center High Public School, Boyle Street Educational Center, and Grandin Elementary school.

Downtown is the home to the Arts District, the magnificent Churchill Square among other historical landmarks, and reach cultural heritage. Some of the best bars and restaurants that one can dine and rave include; Underground Tap & Grill, Fionn MacCool’s, Baiju, Tzin Wine & Tapas, and Sorrentino’s Downtown.

The average price for homes in the Downtown neighbourhood is around one million.

9. Oliver

Oliver is a residential neighborhood in Edmonton, Alberta Canada. It was named after Frank Oliver one of the earliest residents and a politician. The neighborhood is densely populated because it’s centrally located and represents a good opportunity for both business and investment. 

According to Edmonton’s 2014 municipal census, Oliver had a population of 19,135. Oliver prides itself with some of the most beautiful walkways in Edmonton city. The Southeast part of Oliver is commonly known as Grandin and this is where you will find Grandin LRT Station and Grandin School.

Because, Oliver is centrally located, many residents here find it very accessible and many amenities and facilities are just a few meters away. You can choose to either walk or ride when exploring this neighborhood to discover recreational areas, restaurants, and entertainment joints.

Oliver is one of Edmonton’s oldest neighbourhoods and that’s why you will likely come across older homes mostly single-family in different parts of the neighborhood. There are newer apartments and condominiums which are coming up to accommodate the high demand for housing by renters.

If want to go and shop or have fun in Oliver, Jasper Avenue is the best place to go. It’s Edmonton main Street and it’s filled with shops, restaurants, entertainment joints, coffee shops among other key amenities that you may desire. Nearby amenities and recreational facilities include; Royal Glenora Club, Victoria Golf Course, and Park.

Oliver residents use the High-Level Bridge and Groat Bridge to access the Southside of the River Valley. Some of the schools that residents take their children include; Oliver School, Edmonton Catholic Schools, and Grandin Elementary School.

The average price for homes in the Oliver neighborhood is $353,842.

10. Westmount

Westmount is a well-developed residential neighbourhood located in Southwest Edmonton, Alberta Canada. It’s very close to the Downtown core and bounded by 111 Avenue to the north and Groat Road to the west. The Southern region of Westmount is also known as Groat Estates. 

Westmount’s construction history dates back to 1910 when there was a need to construct homes for young professionals. It has experienced gradual growth since then although this tight-knit community has remained unchanged since the 1980s.

It has a long-term record of active citizenship, civic pride, and friendly residents. Westmount is home to the famous West-Edmonton Mall. Residents of this neighborhood are welcoming and friendly. There are many social amenities including recreational parks, shopping malls, bars, and eateries. 124^TH Street and 102^nd Avenue are some of the best places that you can visit for shopping and entertainment.

There are different types of homes in the Westmount neighborhood to accommodate those individuals who prefer single-family residences, apartments, or modern condominiums. The median home price in the Westmount neighbourhood is $491,104.

The Top 10 Neighbourhoods in Edmonton 2023

The best 10 neighbourhoods in Edmonton for 2023 were based on written popularity and rankings from many different sites and articles. That is why it is completely subject to an individuals biases.

If there are any questions, feel free to reach out to Macarthur Custom Homes. If you are wanting to get more neighbourhood specific questions, feel free to reach out to Chloe or Clara from RE/MAX River city as they would be more than happy to help. As we are a custom home builder in Port Washington New York, we have extensive knowledge understanding what a neighbourhood can offer.

The post The Top 10 Neighbourhoods In Edmonton 2023 appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

For most homeowners in Canada, owning a home is one of the biggest financial investment decision they have ever made. Whether you own or rent a house, it’s very important to protect its valuable content against any unforeseen adversity. Whether natural or man-made, you do this by having home insurance coverage. If you are not familiar with home insurance basics, this Canadian home insurance article is for you.

We are going to have a detailed discussion of what home insurance is and the different types of home insurance. Lastly, we will talk about the best home insurance providers in Canada.

Let’s get started!

What is Home Insurance?

Home insurance is a policy package that provides protection against any loss or damage to the house structure. This includes its contents and the liability that the policyholder may face due to unavoidable perils. This could be falls on your driveway for example.

It covers the home and its valuable content against loss or damage caused by most disasters. There are exceptions such as natural calamities depending on the type of coverage you have.

Types of Coverage.

There are four main types of home insurance coverages in Canada. The wording and the specific item that is covered under each policy may vary from one home insurance provider to another. A home insurance policy also includes personal liability coverage.

1. Comprehensive Home Insurance Coverage.

Comprehensive home insurance is the most inclusive policy. It covers both the house structure and its content from all common risks. It excludes those that are specifically stated in the home insurance policy. 

The two types of risks that are normally excluded are; uninsurable risks and optional coverage. Uninsurable risks are those predictable happenings that are not generally covered. This could be building a home where landslides normally occur. You won’t get insurance against landslides!

Optional coverages are those risks for which one can buy insurance for. This includes sewer backups, earthquakes, and flooding.

The common insured risks which are covered under the comprehensive policy include; fire damage, theft, lightning, aircraft or vehicle impact, or window breakage. Individuals living in a condominium or mobile homes can also benefit from a customized comprehensive coverage. Make sure the provider knows your property type.

2. Standard Home Insurance Coverage.

A standard home insurance policy can also be referred to as basic or named perils coverage. It provides protection to your home and its contents against the risks specifically named in your written contract.

For instance, if a standard policy only listed fire, it can only cover the risk of fire damage. Lightning, earthquakes, theft and other associated risks are not covered.

A basic/named perils policy coverage works well for those individuals who are ready to take on some financial risks. You can agree to save money now by decreasing your coverage and protection.

Remember, if you incur a loss it can be costly without protection. More risk equals more reward.

3. Broad Home Insurance Policy.

Just as the name suggests, a Broad home insurance policy covers more liabilites than the basic/named perils plan. It is more affordable relative to a comprehensive policy. Broad home insurance policy is a compromise between the standard and comprehensive policy. 

4. “No Frills”

A “No Frills” insurance policy has the least coverage level. It provides coverage for homes that do not meet the recommended normal standards for insurance. If your house has some structural problems that hinder it from meeting the minimum insurance standards, this is for you. I would consider repairing it so that you can qualify for a better coverage. You will save money in the long-term.

Before you agree on signing any home insurance policy, make sure that you have reviewed it. Make sure you are clear on the liabilities that are covered.

Personal Liability Insurance.

Whether you are a homeowner or a tenant, you can be held personally liable for any bodily injury or property damage that is unintentionally caused to other people. In case such an event happens and you are held culpable, a portion of your home insurance under personal liability coverage is used to settle such claims.

However, liability coverage does not apply to injuries that have been sustained by the policyholder or any other member of your family.

Types of Home Insurance.

1. Condominium Insurance.

Condo insurance slightly differs from normal home insurance because it covers the loss or damage of components inside your unit within a condo building. In addition to offering internal protection, it also caters for personal liability coverage claims in the event of property damage or when a visitor is unintentionally injured in your condo unit.

Condo insurance is different from condo building insurance which is a master insurance policy that is purchased by the condo corporation. Condo building insurance covers the damage to the building plus the building’s common property like stairs, roof, pools, hallways, driveways, meeting rooms, and recreational areas.

It also includes liability on the property. Although condo building insurance differs from one building to another due to their varied needs and risks, it’s mostly included as part of a condo unit owner’s monthly maintenance fee.

Condominium insurance provides coverage for; damage to the inside unit structure, damage or loss of your belonging, damage to other units, and damage to improvements that you or the previous owner made to your unit.

2. Tenant Insurance.

This type of insurance provides coverage that is purchased by tenants to provide protection against damage or loss of personal content within their rental units. It also protects the homeowner and includes personal liability coverage.

Tenant insurance is also referred to as renter’s insurance and it covers contents such as clothing, items in a storage, appliances, and furniture. Tenant insurance will cover the tenant’s liability in the event of unintentional damage to the rental building such as a fire or any bodily injury inside the rental unit.

In addition to renter’s insurance, you can also provide this coverage on your seasonal/mobile home. For instance, if your seasonal home is a cottage in Edmonton, there are various Edmonton home insurance companies with a seasonal home insurance policy that can cover you for the short duration that you will be there.

3. Insurance for a Home Based Business.

If you have a home-based business in Edmonton, your normal home insurance does not cover the business. You should consider getting business in addition to your policy. Any person operating a home-based business must inform their insurance provider to ensure you don’t invalidate your home insurance policy.

Although home insurance will not cover your home-based business, it can provide limited coverage for loss or damage of equipment related to your business if they were lost or damaged in your house. This limited coverage is in most cases less sufficient to cover the full cost of repair or replacement. That is why it’s advisable to seek a business insurance policy.

The Top 5 Home Insurance Providers in Canada.

Home insurance is very crucial for both homeowners and renters. If you want to buy Canadian home insurance, you can choose to work with;

• An insurance broker– Who works with various home insurance companies in Canada
• An insurance provider– Who sells home insurance policies for one insurance company only
• A direct writer– A Canadian home insurance company that sells its home insurance policies directly to its clients through a call center or website. 

All Canadian home insurance companies are not the same in terms of service provision, customer experience, and price. When searching for the best home insurance out there, always compare different packages before you commit to a certain provider. 

Below are the best home insurance providers in Canada.

1. The Co-operators.

The Co-operators is one of the oldest Canadian home insurance companies. It was established in 1945. It offers comprehensive home insurance coverage.

Canadians seeking home insurance quotes can do so either online or in-person. The Co-operators’ comprehensive home insurance policy provides more coverage compared to other similar policies. It includes unauthorized debit or credit card use, identity theft and coverage for personal property when moving. 

For individuals who would need extra safety, there is room to purchase extra liability protection.

Pros

• It has a high level of client satisfaction ratings.
• It offers a 24/7 emergency claim services with experienced staff who are always ready to assist.
• Co-operator home insurance offers some of the modern innovative features such as coverage of identity theft.
• Premium customers enjoy discounts and customized packages.

Cons

• Co-operators home insurance charges a higher rate compared to the majority of other Canadian home insurance companies.
• Their policies do not cover additional living expenses. This is becoming common with other home insurance providers in Canada.

2. RBC Home Insurance.

RBC is a popular brand in Canada as its one of the oldest and biggest banks that we have today. The home insurance package is administered by the bank. If you are purchasing a house through RBC, it may make sense to consider their home insurance package. 

RBC home insurance offers most of the basic coverage ranging to the most extensive protection. Clients can request customized packages depending on their needs and risks they are willing to take.

All you need is to engage an insurance agent either through email, phone, or in-person by visiting your nearest RBC insurance store location. You can’t mess up by choosing RBC as one of the top home insurance companies in Canada.

Pros

• They have an innovative home repair endorsement add-on that is unique and popular.
• They have a reliable and dedicated anonymous claims advice line.
• RBC home insurance is marketed by the biggest bank in Canada which gives it more reliability.

Cons

• In 2016, the RBC bank sold their home insurance branch to Aviva and it has continued to receive mixed reviews from their customers.
• It does not offer green coverage which pays for energy-efficiency upgrade as well as home-sharing options.
• It’s not possible for you to buy RBC home insurance from your local bank branch. It can only be done in an agent store, advice center, or via an insurance broker.

3. Allstate Home Insurance.

Allstate insurance company offers flexibility for Canadians who wish to customize their insurance package. They offer a wide variety of home insurance policy coverages to meet the needs of various categories starting from the basic plan all the way to the elite coverage with VIP packages.

They introduced “myLocker” feature to help their customers organize their home contents either by category or room. A basic Allstate home insurance policy will cover your house structure and its content, detached private dwelling, and personal liability.

In addition, they have 6 different types of optional coverages that a policyholder can choose from. This also includes protection from natural disasters.

Pros

• Allstate home insurance also includes some optional add-ons packages which can save you money such as claim-free clients.
• If you have a water detection device in your house, Allstate home insurance will give you a discount and lower your premiums especially if you are mortgage-free or approaching retirement.
• Allstate is more safe and reliable since all their insurance agents are employees of the company who are experienced and knowledgeable.

Cons 

• Clients have complained about the large premium increase in recent years affecting even the most loyal and claim-free clients.
• Allstate home insurance policies does not offer green coverage for environmentally conscious clients who want to switch to energy-efficient materials and appliances.

4. BCAA Home Insurance.

BCAA insurance is a British Columbia-based home insurance company with over 40 years of insurance experience. It offers coverage for homeowners, renters, condo/townhouse, vacation property, and mobile homes.

The comprehensive cover provides protection of your house and its contents against damage or loss arising from most perils such as fire, theft, or bad weather. There are other 4 optional coverage packages that clients can apply as well.

Pros

• Being a local BC-based home insurance company, it understands the unique needs and risks of British Columbians.
• The long industry experience and expertise makes BCAA insurance more reliable and trustworthy.
• Members of BCAA can save up to 20% and stand a chance to reduce their premium through the claims-free discounts.
• It offers 24/7 emergency claims support which increases efficiency and client’s satisfaction.

5. TD Home Insurance.

Another popular Canadian home insurance provider is TD insurance which is a subsidiary of TD Bank. It sells home insurance, auto insurance, life, and health insurance. TD is without a question one of the best home insurance providers in Canada.

Pros

• Being a subsidiary of one of the biggest Canadian banks, clients feel that their investment is safe and secure.
• It works better for Canadians who like online or phone call option instead of in-person meeting especially those who are already TD bank clients.
• It’s very easy to get an online quote at any time and it comes with a 5% discount when you use the online platform.
• Group homes get a lower rate compared to the others and it comes with a free consultation.

Cons

• TD insurance operates on an online platform and it does not have any physical branch location especially for home insurance policy coverage.
• Lack of in-person support. Most individuals complain that it takes longer to get customer care or agents on the phone.

Regardless of who you choose, home insurance is essential for all homes. Whether custom built or old, choosing the right provider to work with is essential for the protection of your livelihood. That is why it is so important to pick one of the best home insurance providers in Canada.

The post What is Home Insurance. The Best 5 Providers in Canada. appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

Energy efficient construction techniques can be used in the building of a home. This ultimately creates a sustainable end product the provides benefits for the client. It gives the homeowner an active role in preserving natural resources while protecting against climate change for the future. As natural resources become scarcer in the world, adopting efficient construction techniques can help preserve the beauty of our planet. There are endless benefits of an energy efficient home in Canada.

Not only are there benefits for the homeowner, adapting a sustainable building practice provides many benefits to the builder as well. For example, business can expect to have a lower operating costs, have improved health benefits, and create products that benefit the clients bottom line. As there are benefits to both builder and homeowner, energy efficient homes are far superior than the rest.

Positives of an Energy Efficient Home in Canada

Adopting green construction practices is important for generations to come. With the current state on climate change and the new environmental policies adopted by the government of Canada, playing our part to reduce emissions and waste in construction is ever so important today. While adopting efficient construction practices is one aspect of protecting our environment, many key benefits follow suit.

• The Reduction of Operating Costs

Energy efficient homes are designed with cost saving features, which ultimately lower the homes heating and cooling capacity. Green homes have higher levels of insulation, triple pane windows, and a reduced level of air leakage. Some other features such as energy efficient lighting, integration of renewable energy, and passive heating can further reduce operating costs. An energy efficient home designed in Canada can add significantly to the owners bottom line.

• Reduction of Greenhouse Gas

Another key benefit of an energy efficient home is that there is a significant reduction of greenhouse gas emission while living in their home. Most people don’t realize that the manufacturing of material and the entire construction process greatly contribute to ozone reduction. The structure once built, also releases CO2 through the HVAC systems. A non green home also has an increased demand for electricity which in turn increases the burning of coal. Owning an energy efficient home contributes to the protection of the environment

• Save Heating and Cooling Costs

Hedging against rising utility costs is another significant benefit of a green home. Due to design considerations, custom homes built with energy efficiency in mind are able to maintain lower utility costs. There is less air leakage while maintaining even temperature distribution. This is important in our country where monthly water and power bills are rising year over year.

• Improve Indoor Air Quality

An improved air quality is made possible due to the proper selection of HVAC equipment. These homes will employ a heat recovery ventilation system (HRV) that provides the continual supply of clean air, exhausting the old outside. In this machine, an air filter will reduce allergens and dirt, while also extracting air pollutants. Adding in an additional filter in the heating source will clean the air even further. Finally, green homes are built with materials and finishes that don’t produce volatile organic compounds.

• Reduce the Use of Water

Simply by having water saving fixtures in your home can reduce water usage upwards of 50%. Furthermore, less water used means less water heated. Heating less water will also save a significant amount of money on your utility costs.

• Green Construction Uses Less Material, and Has Less Waste

When building a home, it is important to adopt construction techniques that minimize waste material used in the home and during the build. Many companies that adopt these practices save debris from entering landfills, allowing products to be reused and recycled. This in turn reduces the environmental impact left on the earth.

• Energy Efficient Homes Have a Better Resale Value

One of the most important benefits of a green build is that it is shown that these homes have a greater resale value. Quickly pointing out, a greater reduction in utility cost transitions to a higher resale value.

• Increased Homeowner Satisfaction

In the end, when you can improve air quality, save on energy cost, and know you reduced waste in the build, you satisfaction will increase. That is a given. Energy efficient homes have more daylight, have better air circulation, and have a higher resale value. With all these benefits of an energy efficient home, the client will ultimately become happier.

Additional Features of a Green Home:

• Green homes can have a radon resistant basement.
• There may be solar photovoltaic or heating panels offsetting utility costs.
• Electric car charging can be integrated into the design.
• Solar shades can automatically let light into the home, which provides heating.
• Adding smart thermostats can increase utility cost savings.
• Upgrading the HVAC system to a higher efficiency

The greatest misconception of an energy efficient home is that it costs more money. At the beginning of the build, the additional costs of increased insulation and adding renewable features for example are evident. The savings are not shown out of the gates, but come to play years down the road. Energy costs will be lowered over time and health benefits will far exceed the other. The benefits of an energy efficient home far outweigh the negatives. That is why green construction shouldn’t be taken lightly.

The post Benefits of an Energy Efficient Home in Canada appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

At Macarthur Custom Homes, when a new individual asks us to help design the interior of their home, most people don’t realize that there are many different aspects that take place in the design process. It isn’t just an interior layout; like most people think. The designers act as a conductor when it comes to the overall planning of a custom home. They decide on home finishes and décor that match the homes unique features. Furthermore, their visionary skills can take a 2D drawing and project it into a 3rd dimension, avoiding potential pitfalls that may be missed by the builder and client.

Therefore, our answer is simple. We highly recommend having an interior designer on the team. We will layout some of their highly recognized skills that don’t come to mind at first thought.

An interior designer is a visionary:

Most custom home building companies start with an initial meeting with their client. They first understand what the client wants in a new home build and then takes their new found knowledge to come up with a preliminary drawing that exists 2D. Once the drawing is finished, the builder and client will interpret this blueprint and decide if they want to proceed with the new build. What a designer will do at this step is envision the 2D drawings all the way to the finished product. They can find problems that may arise during the construction while still in planning process. A designer will spend hours and hours with the client, walking them through every step, sparking discussions that will reveal how they would like to inhabit their custom home.

An interior designer knows their materials:

With the endless possibilities of materials that can go into a new home, it is important to have someone who is a guru when it comes to these decisions. For example, a kitchen will require designing the cabinet layout. The type of material and color of the panels must be decided as well. The floor must be picked, the backsplash, what appliances will be put in and where they are located. Decorative and cabinet lighting may also be selected, with the location of outlets and so much more. The interior designer will have the most up to date knowledge and pricing of the most recent material, and what fits with your custom home vision. They can explain the price differences between varying finishes, the longevity of the products, and the valued added to your bottom line if selected.

They plan to perfection:

Constructing a custom home on either an acreage or the city requires proper timing. Making sure the home build progresses as smoothly as possible will require that the builder and interior designer both have extensive knowledge on the details, specifications, and drawings from the build. This ensures nothing will be missed, and allows the builder and designer to make well informed changes during the construction that will bring greater satisfaction to the clients down the line. An interior designer will make critical decisions on behalf of their client, and will make sure materials arrive on site when appropriate. One of the greatest benefits is that they will help minimize work stoppages.

They know their prices:

Interior designers deal with various materials and products day to day. Therefore, they do not fall trap to purchasing the “newest” items that enter the market. They will understand the overall “practical application” of the product and know if it should be purchased to fit into your home. An interior designer will make sure you don’t regret your purchases in years time which will significantly add an intrinsic value to build. They can suggest lower cost alternatives to products that may be too expensive and will make sure that these items last the test of time. By having an interior designer, you will get the biggest bang for your buck.

With time, they will know your family:

This key trait of an interior designer is the greatest feature of all.

By having an interior designer on the team, they will spend endless hours with the client and their family looking over all the aspects of a home build. They will come to understand your family dynamic and perhaps find features in your new custom home that will bring greater satisfaction that you would not have found otherwise. Furthermore, if conflicts arise between partners or families, designers understand how to navigate though these challenges and can find a compromise to make everyone contempt. They think outside the box, and will take note of every family detail they see and project it into a better new home build.

Overall, having an interior designer on your team is one of the most beneficial things you can do while building a custom home. They will help clarify decisions in the planning stages and make sure nothing is missed along the way. They will make sure the clients dreams turn into reality, and guarantee that your home will be loved for the years to come.

The post Benefits of Having an Interior Designer for a Custom Home Build appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

The post The 5 Most Common Roofing Materials in Canada appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

1. Vinyl

Positives: Vinyl is probably the most inexpensive siding out there. It is durable and can be installed over existing cladding. Its quick to install, comes in almost any color, and can copy wood siding with a slightly higher material cost.

Negatives: The biggest negative of vinyl siding is that most houses in North America have it. If you want to differentiate your home from others, vinyl is not the choice for you. It can however, be subject to build up of dirt and debris on the exterior face of this material. Therefore, regular washing is required with this product.

The post The 8 Most Popular Types Of Siding For Your Home appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.

The post 5 Maintenance Tips in the Spring appeared first on Macarthur Custom Homes.