A wet bar is often the centerpiece of a basement. It can establish your space as a cozy corner bar or a luxurious hotel. But before you turn your basement into the set from Cheers, there are several factors, both practical and aesthetic, to consider.
What do you plan to use it for? This seems like an obvious question, but a lot of homeowners don’t have an answer. Are you looking for a place to host parties, a playroom for your kids, a second living room? If you’re the cool person at work, and you want to host big get-togethers, you might want to go all out with a big island wet bar with a big fridge and wine storage. If you just want a downstairs area to watch movies with the kids, a small dry bar against the wall may be enough. In that case, you probably just need a place to store food and prepare snacks and drinks.Â
If you’re into wine, a wet bar can be a good place store and show off your collection. Wine storage can be an opportunity to add a design element and make your wet bar feel more substantial.
Wet bar vs. Dry Bar The difference between a wet bar and a dry bar is exactly what it sounds like. A wet bar has a sink with running water, a feature that’s handy if you host parties, make food, or stock a full cocktail bar. If you don’t see the need to do dishes or use water from a tap, you might as well save the money and time spent on plumbing.
It’s a matter of space Beyond the use of your basement, you have to think about space. Many people want long, restaurant-style bars. They look great, but they’re going to take up a lot of room. It’s also, more surface area to clean and maintain. Maybe that’s fine with you and your situation, but it’s a factor that’s often overlooked. Even if your basement is large, there’s no need to take away from your living space if you don’t need to.
Above the bar, we often install floating cabinets. This is a great place to store small appliances, liquor bottles, and stuff you don’t want your kids getting into.
A space to show off This article is about thinking practically, but feel free to go all out. For some homeowners, a basement wet bar is a statement as much as it is a place to hang out and have drinks. We can do high-end marble countertops or gorgeous dark wood. We can install full farm sinks, ample wine storage, modern fixtures, and large cabinets for storage.
Materials set the tone Regardless of whether you want something small or a statement piece, materials establish the tone of the room. The aforementioned dark wood will can give off a country club or mancave vibe, while light-colored marble can give the impression of a high-end resort. Faucets and fixtures can be a fairly inexpensive way to show off your design tastes. Brass (brushed, not shiny ’90s style) can be a fun way to make a statement.Â
And of course, there’s cabinets. It’s often the first thing people think about. Light or dark? Painted or stained? Glass doors or all wood? Of course the look is important, but don’t forget about usage. Below the bar itself, you’re probably going to want space for a small fridge, drawers for silverware, etc. This is also a chance to install floating cabinets with your needs in mind, not something made by the previous homeowner.
Outside of a great place to hang out and host parties, basements are a great place for storage. Built-in shelves are both practical and a way to add style to your living space. Here are five popular options designed to look great and keep your basement uncluttered.
Built-in bookcase style Let’s start with the basics. A built-in bookcase is probably the most common way to add permanent storage, usually flanking a TV or projector screen. Sure, you can use them for books, but it’s also fun to mix different items that reflect the hobbies and interests of your family. A white or brightly painted built-in bookshelf can open up the room. Darker paint or a wood finish can be good for a man cave or rec room. Often people install cabinets underneath to conceal electronics or other items you don’t want exposed.
Glass cabinets The close cousin of the built-in bookshelf, glass cabinets are perfect for those who have valuable collectibles you want to protect from rowdy children or things you want to protect from dust and shifts in temperature.
Full-length This is great for a wall opposite or perpendicular to your entertainment center. You can place a single shelf over a piece of furniture or stack several along the same wall. These are often used by people who want to display sizable collections of figurines or books, as well as longer pieces that don’t fit within the confines of a bookshelf. These are great if you use part of your basement for a home gym as they can hold a ton of fitness equipment.
Floating Floating shelves offer a clean, modern look, but they also serve a practical purpose. Instead of covering an entire wall, floating shelves can be spaced out, giving your basement a more open feel. They’re versatile, too. Use them for practical things like books and lamps, or something fun like sports memorabilia. Materials vary from basic wood to fiberglass and stainless steel.
Under the stairs If the back of your staircase is accessible, consider some built-in shelves. First, it’s out of site, so you can use it for cleaning supplies, sports equipment, or other things you don’t want to put on display. This is also a great place for toys. They’re low enough for kids to access, and they keep them out of the way.
Corner shelving Although corner built-ins don’t give you much space, they can add a lot of style to your basement. Common items placed on this type of shelving include trophies, collectibles, and small pieces of art. Think of this as an aesthetic upgrade, not a practical storage option. They come in a variety of designs including tiered and floating.
Since a basement isn’t your main living space, it’s an opportunity for fun design and decoration choices. One trend that’s grown in popularity over the last few years is the idea of a decorative wall. While there’s no set rules of what and where a decorative wall should be, it’s typically a smaller section of wall next to a wet bar, fireplace, or entertainment center. In other words, most finished basements include an area ideal for one.
Here are five ideas for your basement decorative wall. Or you could just install a giant mirror for a trip back to the 1970s.
Shiplap If country chic is your vibe or you’re a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines, you’re surely aware of shiplap. The wooden board wall, often made of reclaimed planks, comes painted in a single color or varied in shade and weathering (see one of our projects above). It gives the room a nice compromise between modern and traditional. It’s affordable and fairly easy to install with grooves usually in the top and bottom to create a tight fit.
Be careful, though. Too much shiplap, especially dark shiplap, can make your space look like a grill and bar. To maximize the effect, we recommend using a smaller area with high quality planks. Although installation is fairly straightforward, we recommend hiring a professional.
Brick or Stone Installing a brick or stone wall is the most expensive out of these options. It’s also the most difficult to install. Another downside is that it’s super permanent and presents a surface that makes it difficult to hang photos and other decorations.
On the upside, it absolutely creates a statement. A well-constructed stone wall instantly makes a room feel important and substantial. And there are multiple options for different decorating styles. A lighter-colored stacked stone can give your basement a brighter, more modern feel, and a darker stone makes for a rustic feel. The cost of the stone combined with the expert installation we recommend equals a fairly high priced decorative wall. But it will last for a long time. It’s a classic get-what-you-pay-for situation.
3D Panels
If you’re going for an ultra-modern or high-end look, 3D panels might be the easiest and cost-efficient option. Often in mural form, they feature geometric shapes, wavy embossed lines, and funky patterns inspired by the custom art walls featured in multi-million dollar mansions.
As cool as some of these panels look, they’re super specific. And because of their mostly white and gray surfaces, they’re not good for families with young children.
Kid Space Speaking of kids, if your finished basement is basically a playroom, why not give them a surface to be creative? Whiteboard and chalkboard panels, as well as wallpaper you can write on, encourage creativity and give your kids an outlet to draw on something other than the furniture. You can also turn your decorative wall into a play area with a fairytale or spaceship-themed wallpaper mural. Life-size Disney and other cartoon characters are also available.
When it comes to remodeling your basement, egress windows aren’t the most interesting feature to plan. However, they’re necessary and can actually add aesthetic value to your home. Before you dive into this aspect of your remodel, there are a few things you should know. Here is a quick guide to help you with the process.
Play by the rules
Window wells aren’t just necessary for basements; they’re required by law. Here are some basic requirements taken directly from the Johnson County, Kansas, Building Officials Association guideline book:
Basements and all sleeping rooms are required by code to have at least one emergency escape opening with a net clear area of 5.7 sq. ft. A separate egress opening for the adjoining area of the basement is not required if there is an egress opening in a basement bedroom. The minimum net clear opening may be reduced to 5 square feet if your emergency egress opening is a window with the sill not more than 44 inches below the finished grade level adjacent to the window. Emergency escape windows are allowed to be installed under decks, provided the location of the deck allows the window to be fully opened, and provides a path not less than 36 inches in height to a yard area. Note: Check with your local jurisdiction on the application and interpretation of this section. Some cities have adopted changes to this section of the building code. Â
PLEASE NOTE: As of this writing, we are seeing that Egress windows (or doors) are required in every habitable space. Especially in any room used for sleeping purposes, it will require its own egress window. Jurisdictions are beginning to require an egress window whether or not it contains a bedroom.
There are more specifications for the escape windows themselves, but you get the idea. Before you pursue any project, be sure to familiarize yourself with the building code and any logistics you may have to deal with. Often the biggest hurdles during a remodel occur because the homeowner doesn’t do enough research. Because of the highly specific measurements involved, this is especially true when it comes to egress windows. This is a project best left to experienced professionals.
Add some style
With all that math and the fact that egress windows are largely unseen, you may not associate this part of your basement with style. However, there is plenty you can do from a design aspect. Window wells can be fortified with a variety of stone patterns, gravel, and reclaimed wood. If your style is more modern, you can go for a minimalist approach with simple steel beams or white wood to frame your window well. Some choose to put a glass or iron hatch over the well to prevent children or pets from falling in.
As far as the windows themselves go, any design choice you can do above ground, you can do with egress windows. Just because it’s your basement window doesn’t mean it has to be ugly. Simple white frames are popular, but you can also go for more ornate options like stained wood or metal. If your well is big enough, you can even try a picture window that pushes out rather than just opening. These kinds of windows also add an extra element of safety.
Use a professional
As mentioned earlier, egress windows are best left to professionals. But what does installation involve, exactly? And how much does it cost?
To install egress windows, one needs to cut the hole, frame the window, put in the window, and smooth down the outside. And you still haven’t gotten to the fun design elements. And oh yeah, you’re going to need a concrete saw among other specialty tools. So you’re probably going to hire a contractor. You should expect to pay between $4,000 and $5,000 to install egress windows in your basement. The reason for the wide range is because basements vary in terms of the number and size of windows. Windows, depending on size and quality, can range from $100-$700. If holes need to be cut, this can cost up to $3,000 per wall. Labor is typically $100-$250 per window. Of course, all these costs can fluctuate based on your situation and factors like the age of your home and what work was previously done.
One of the hottest trends in home design is linear fireplaces. Unlike a traditional wood-burning fireplace, linear fireplaces use gas to light a row of flames behind a plate of glass. Installed flush with the wall, they can present an aquarium-like mood piece that can elevate any room.
Traditional fireplaces are beautiful. But they’re also bulky, high maintenance, and require a chimney. Linear fireplaces are stylish, warm, easy to maintain, and adaptable to just about every room. It’s a relatively simple way to give off high-end vibes without taking up much space.
Here are five good reasons to install a linear fireplace in your home.
Versatility Linear fireplaces, sometimes called modern or contemporary fireplaces, can be as short as three feet long. Have a big open room that requires a statement piece? They also can be as long as 20 feet. Because of the direct vent design, linear fireplaces can be installed into just about the outside-facing wall. There are also ventless models that can be mounted on any wall like a picture or television.
You can even insert a linear fireplace inside of an existing log burning fireplace. The fireplace sits inside of a metal box inside of another metal box. However, holes must be drilled for gas and electrical lines.
So, a linear fireplace is perfect for just about any room!
Usefulness Unlike that Yule log video that you currently enjoy, a linear fireplace actually produces heat, usually controlled by a wall-mounted thermostat. This is why they’re great for basements. Linear fireplaces also contain battery backup. In the case of a power outage, the fireplace can still be used as a source of light and heat.
Looks Let’s face it: the main reason anyone installs is for the looks. It may be the easiest way to turn a room from ordinary to luxurious. The flames create a realistic fire that can be customized in many ways. Tempered glass of different colors and ceramic coal are just a couple of the options to choose from. It really depends on the vibe you want to go for. Whether you’re going for a rustic decoration style or something more modern and sleek, there are linear fireplace designs for you.
Price This leads us to price. Linear fireplaces, like many home features, range in price from budget-friendly to big baller. A basic model can start around $2,000, with deluxe models going for close to $6,000. Besides adding length and burners, you can customize with decorative log sets, LED accent lights, and different types of stone.
Easy Maintenance There are no ashes to clean or soot buildup like in a traditional log burning fireplace. The main thing that needs to be cleaned is the glass. Over time, a white residue can build up. In most cases, the glass can be removed and clean with a special cleaner found online and at most major hardware stores.
Choosing a tile pattern, like choosing a paint color, can either be super easy or super hard. Before you jump in on choosing what’s going to be on your floors, shower, or backsplash, it’s good to know the basics of ceramic tile. The first thing you may think about is color
First, ceramic tile is best installed by experts like the ones we work with at Empire Basement Solutions. Second, there are several title patterns to choose from. Whatever your taste, whether you prefer simple or busy, there is a pattern that will meet your aesthetic.
Here are 10 basic patterns and how to identify them:
Straight The most basic type of tile. It’s characterized by uniform rectangular or square tiles lined up so the grout forms a grid. This is very popular in both kitchens and baths. It looks good in simple white, solid colors, or alternating color patterns.
Herringbone This is a popular choice because it’s a perfect mix of simplicity and flair. The pattern, characterized by rectangular tiles laid in a V or perpendicular, adds energy to your space without being too distracting. This is very popular as kitchen backsplash.
Diagonal This pattern is similar to straight but with the tiles laid diagonally instead of straight across.
Pinwheel This pattern, with a small square surrounded by much larger squares, is one of the most distinctive. Though sometimes used on kitchen floors, it’s best as an accent or for outdoor patios.
Windmill This tile pattern is a busier one. It’s characterized by a small square tile centered around four larger rectangular tiles. It’s a versatile pattern that’s great for kitchen floors and basements.
Basket Weave For this pattern, two rectangular tiles are laid next to each other to form a square. Because it’s fairly simple, basket weave can be used in a variety of places.
Stretcher Bond This dynamic tile pattern uses square or rectangular to present a brick-style effect. This pattern can look great with bold colors.
English Bond Another great middleground between simple and busy, this pattern alternates rows of square and rectangular tiles. This looks good all white or with color.
English Cross Bond A combination of stretcher bond and English bond, this pattern has alternating rectangular and squares(or shorter rectangles), but offset for a brick look. This is a fun and versatile pattern that’s great for backsplash and showers.
Cobblestone A twist on herringbone, this pattern consists of rectangular tiles with smaller square tiles around the edges. This pattern is popular in more traditional homes.
Now you’re sort of a tile pattern expert!
Colors and patterns within the title itself is a whole other subject. However, a basic good rule of thumb here is to think about the vibe you want to give off. If you want your kitchen or bathroom to be more traditional or inviting, feel free to use colors. If you want a cleaner, more modern feel, try white, black or a single bold color.
Choosing a material for your basement floors may seem like a simple decision, but there are many factors that determine the best option. Finding flooring that’s practical, on-budget, and stylish can be a challenge. But it’s not impossible. Start with a few questions:
What’s your budget? What will the space be used for?
Who will be using the space? What is your preferred design style?
Another major factor is installation. If you plan to hire a professional to install it, you can choose based on your preference. However, if you plan to do the job yourself, you should limit your options to materials that are easier to install. Different laying patterns and designs require different levels of skill. Interlocking rubber tiles, for example, are totally doable for the weekend warrior. However, ceramic tile should be left to those with more experience. You should also make sure you have the right tools for the job. If this is a one-time project, you can rent tools from your local hardware store or purchase a floor installation kit online.
Here are a few of the most popular options, as well as the pros and cons of each.
Hardwood Floors Yes, hardwood floors look great, but they’re not very practical for basements. Wood can warp due to moisture and humidity. Also, basement floors are often uneven, making installation extremely difficult. Because of these factors, installation often requires adhesive, which adds to the cost of an already premium product. If you want the look of wood without the hassle, consider LVT (see below). Besides the cost and logistical issues, it’s also physically hard, so not ideal for spaces where children are present. If you’re really set on using actual wood, consider compromising by using wood in only part of your basement.
Carpet and Pad Although carpet in living spaces isn’t on-trend, about 55 percent of our clients choose carpet as their basement flooring material. It may not be super fashionable at the moment, but carpet has a lot going for it. It’s inexpensive, kid-friendly, and comes in an endless variety of designs and textures. Another benefit to carpet is that it creates a cozy, soft-to-the-touch living room feel. It might not be the best option for high-traffic basements as it can be challenging to clean. Some may want the room to serve as a den or family hangout spot, so this might be the way to go. If you want the look of carpet, but want something with easy installation, consider carpet tile squares. It may sound like something from elementary school, but the floor can look completely natural with skilled installation.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) The fastest growing flooring option is luxury vinyl tile, or LVT. Its purpose is to be the best of both worlds: the high-end look of ceramic tile at a budget-friendly price. It comes in a wide variety of designs and patterns that will align with any decorating style. If ceramic tile isn’t the look you’re going for, LVT can still be a good choice. It can also simulate the look of wood, or even concrete if you’re going for a more modern look. Because it’s easy to install, it’s a solid option for those who opt for our DIY option. Though not as inexpensive as old school vinyl tile, it’s still cheaper than wood or ceramic tile. LVT is about 40 percent of our flooring installation. With its combination of easy installation, looks, and price, it’s no wonder why.
Ceramic Tile It looks great but it isn’t very practical for the main area of most basements. Ceramic tile can be pricey. It’s also cold in the winter and unforgiving with drops. If you have kids, this surface is not recommended for large areas they may play in. However, it’s maintenance-free and great for small areas like kitchenettes, and we use it in all bathrooms. Often, installation requires at least some floor leveling, which adds to the cost. If you’ve never laid down flooring, installing ceramic tile isn’t recommended. The labor costs are relatively high because of the effort it requires to make the floor look perfect. So if you head in this direction, just know what you’re getting into. We like it as an accent around wet bars and in bathrooms. In other words, its best when used sparingly.
Alternative Flooring options These options aren’t as common but can be great in the right circumstance.Â
Rubber Flooring A great option for playrooms and home gyms, rubber flooring comes in sheets or pieces with interlocking edges. The cushioning it offers is nice for big weights or rambunctious kids.
Epoxy Floor Covering It’s completely water-sealed, but very hard. This is good if you plan to use your basement as a work room or home gym.
What about moisture? If you want a more living room type surface, consider floor tiles with a vapor barrier. These tiles include a small platform that creates a gap between the concrete and the floor. If you’re set on carpeting your basement, you might want to consider carpet tiles. By itself, the barrier makes for a more forgiving home gym or playroom surface.
Choose the right contractor for the basement you want After you’ve decided on the material that’s right for your basement, we recommend working with a contractor. When it comes to choosing the right person for the job, pick an installer that’s experienced laying the flooring of your choice. This is especially true if you wish to use ceramic tile. You’ll want someone who knows how to lay different patterns and sizes. It goes without saying (but we’re still saying it), that you should check references for anyone you hire, especially for a big project like basement flooring. Examples of past projects are also helpful. Keep in mind that most contractors ask for half payment up-front. If you purchase the flooring yourself, many retail outlets have installers available to do the work for you.
Every homeowner knows that time will come when they need to replace their furnace. Furnaces have a life expectancy that ranges from 15 to 20 years. The furnace may still be operational longer than 20 years, but that does not mean that it should continue warming your home. A furnace will lose efficiency every year that they age, which you will notice on your gas bill each month as your furnace approaches its 20th birthday.
The number one sign that it is time to replace a furnace is a sudden and unexpected increase in your utility bill each month. This usually means the furnace is losing efficiency and wasting fuel (and money). However, other reasons may cause your utility bill to increase. These factors will be discussed further in the guide.
When your furnace does eventually break or just becomes too inefficient will you know what to do to replace it? Not many homeowners know enough about replacing a furnace because furnace technology has rapidly developed over the past 20 years. It has developed so much over that past twenty years that different types of fuel sources are used nowadays that were not even in existence twenty years ago.
The following guide will show you five things you need to know before replacing your furnace. Some tips involve what furnace to choose, checking your insulation, and examining your ducts. In total, these tips could save you thousands of dollars in utility bills and needless furnace replacements.
HVAC Repair or replace?
Your furnace may not actually need to replacement. A few factors will determine whether your furnace will need to be repaired or replaced. Age and cost of future repairs are the two most important factors in deciding whether to repair or replace a furnace.
The first thing you should know is the age of your current furnace. It may be cheaper to repair a newer furnace than purchase a completely new system. In general, you should replace a furnace older than fifteen years because furnaces that old have lost a large amount of efficiency. Reduced efficiency leads to higher electric bills and gas bills, usually the number one sign that a furnace needs replacement.
If your furnace is less than fifteen years old, then repairing it will usually make the most sense. This will, of course, depend on the extent of the repair and the inefficiency of the furnace. Performing a simple repair on a relatively new furnace makes perfect financial sense. An expensive repair on an older furnace does not make financial sense, in that case replacing the furnace makes more financial sense. Especially when you factor in how much money you will save on your monthly utility bill just from upgrading to a modern and more efficient furnace.
If you don’t know the age of your furnace, then there is no need to worry. Many homeowners do not know the age of their furnace because it was installed by the previous homeowner or they simply forgot when they last replaced it. Thankfully, finding the age of your furnace is extremely simple in either situation.
All that is required to check the age is a quick glance at the serial number, which can be found on the inside of the removable door or on the fan blade. Look at the first four digits of the serial number, the first two digits of the first four indicate the week of the year that the furnace was built. The last two numbers of the first four numbers indicate the year the furnace was manufactured. For example, a serial number that reads “0599” shows a furnace that was built in the fifth week of 1999.
If you cannot find the serial number, then calling the manufacturer and asking about the furnace is the best option. A representative from the company should know the age of the furnace by looking at the model number or pictures of the furnace.
Overall, finding out the age of the furnace before deciding on replacing it is one of the most important steps. Such a simple step is often overlooked by most homeowners because of a lack of knowledge. This step alone could be the difference between a costly replacement and a relatively inexpensive repair. Make sure to always check the age of your furnace before replacing it.
What type of fuel source does the furnace use?
The type of fuel source your current furnace uses will make a difference in the type of replacement furnace to purchase. Any furnace originally made to burn coal should be replaced. The same applies to furnaces that have a pilot light instead of an electric start and furnaces that are missing vent dampers. Pilot lights can have potentially dangerous consequences if they burn out. Any furnace that is missing vent dampers will automatically fall into the category of a furnace older than twenty years, which is why you should immediately replace it.
If you have a normal, natural gas furnace, then you can simply replace the furnace with another natural gas furnace. However, keep in mind alternate fuel sources exist that may have cheaper sources of heat and operate more efficiently. Some of these alternatives include furnaces that burn wood pellets or oil.
Natural gas furnaces are known for their efficiency and low cost. Both those factors make them the most popular furnace option in America. However, not all areas of the United States have access to natural gas. These areas need to use one of the many alternative fuel sources available on the market to power their furnace.
The most common alternative fuel source for a furnace is oil. Oil furnaces are generally cheaper than natural gas furnaces and can heat more of the home. However, they tend to be more inefficient and require more maintenance. Oil furnaces also require the delivery of oil to the house. This is done by signing a service contract with an oil provider to deliver oil to the home. Oil prices tend to be higher than the equivalent natural gas prices, but market prices can change quickly.
A new alternative fuel source for a furnace is wood pellets. Wood pellet furnaces are more expensive than other types of furnaces however they have some very nice advantages. The wood pellets are much cheaper than oil and natural gas, which offsets the increased cost of wood pellet furnaces. The disadvantages of a wood pellet furnace are that new pellets must be added weekly and the ashes must be cleaned from the furnace. This is in direct contrast to a relatively low maintenance natural gas furnace, which requires zero daily maintenance or upkeep. Wood pellets can be purchased at locations all across North America or they can be delivered straight to the home.
Overall, each fuel system and type of furnace has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. They all do an excellent job at heating a home in the winter. The main difference is a factor of price, maintenance schedule, and efficiency.
Understand efficiency
Every furnace available on the market has its own efficiency rating. Efficiency, in this case, refers to the amount of consumed fuel used for heat vs. lost to other non-heating factors. It is measured as a percentage, so a furnace with an efficiency of 85% will use 85% of burned fuel for heat and lose 15% of the consumed fuel to non-heating factors.
Modern natural gas furnaces tend to have an efficiency that ranges from 90%-98%. Oil and wood pellet furnaces range from 80%-90%. This is quite the increase from furnaces manufactured twenty years prior that had an efficiency that hovered around 70%.
The difference in price between a furnace that has an efficiency of 97% vs. one with 90% could be almost one thousand dollars. Remember, a more efficient furnace will result in lower monthly gas bills, which could save you money in the long term. This is especially true in colder climates where it is common to use a furnace for five months of the year.
Computer programs exist that allow you to easily plug in the efficiency, cost of gas, and estimated use to give you an estimated monthly cost. These programs may be useful when deciding how efficient of a furnace you want to purchase for your home.
Check your whole system
Furnaces are complicated machines and will require a professional for any complicated fixes. However, there are some basic things every homeowner can do before calling a furnace repair contractor.
The first thing to check on the furnace is the air filter. Many homeowners never look at the air filter on their furnace. A clogged air filter could result in the airflow slowing down so much that it barely heats the home. Always check the air filter before deciding to replace your furnace.
Second, check the thermostat on the furnace. Sometimes the thermostat will just stop working, which also causes the furnace to malfunction. Other issues with the thermostat may involve corroded wires or loose connections. Both of those issues will cause the furnace not to function properly. If you have a battery powered thermostat, then try replacing the batteries even if the thermostat still appears to work. Sometimes the battery only has enough power to show the display and not enough to relay this information to the furnace.
Next, check the fuses on your home’s circuit board. If the fuse is tripped, then the furnace will not receive power and will not work. Keep in mind; a tripped fuse is often a sign of other electrical problems. If you constantly replace the fuse, then you should have an electrician look at your wiring.
Checking the duct system is also important if your furnace no longer warms your house. The ducts transfer the heat from your furnace to your rooms. A leaky duct system could cause the heat to never make it to your rooms. Don’t mistake leaky ducts for a furnace in need of replacement.
Finally, if your furnace has a broken or damaged heat exchanger, then you might need a new furnace. However, if you have a newer furnace, then it may be cheaper to have someone repair the furnace. This, of course, depends on the type of furnace, the age of the furnace, and the cost to repair the furnace. No two situations are ever the same.
Overall, a furnace is a massive system with many points of failure. Not all these points of failure will warrant the need for a replacement furnace. Examine the potential breakdown points, and if your furnace still does not work, then you might need a replacement furnace.
Check your insulation
Checking your insulation is the final thing you need to know before replacing a furnace. If your home is not warm, then you should check your insulation before replacing a furnace. It is still wise to check your insulation before replacing a furnace because a new furnace will not solve an insulation issue.
A basic way to check insulation is to look for any wetness. Insulation material will not work when wet and will need to be replaced. Wet insulation is also susceptible to mildew, which could be toxic. This gives two very important reasons for you to change any wet insulation.
Your insulation will also need to be changed if there has been any type of animal infestation in your roof. This could be opossums, rats, or squirrels. All these animals will tear up insulation. If you have ever had an infestation and did not replace your insulation, then you should replace your insulation around the same time you replace your furnace.
Other things to check on insulation include the seals on your home and the thickness of the windows. The seals on your home could be on the roof or on the windows. Any gaps in your home will allow warm air to escape. Some common places for seals to break include under the door and alongside the windows. Sealing every gap is impossible, but you want to eliminate any major holes in your home.
Older windows that are thinner will provide noticeable less insulation that modern windows that tend to be thicker and built with insulation as a priority. So, if you have thin windows from the 1950s, then replacing them with modern windows that provide good insulation may be a smart choice when you replace your furnace.
Never discount the importance that insulation has in keeping a home warm. A little insulation in a home can save thousands during the winter. Insulation also saves money in the summer too in a hot summer (such as the Midwest) because it will keep the cold air indoors.
Final Thoughts
These five things cover everything you need to know before replacing a furnace. The heating system in a home is complex, so the guide delved into everything from the duct system to insulation to the different types of replacement furnaces. The most important thing to know before replacing a furnace is the efficiency of the replacement furnace. The fuel source is also important as that will directly determine the monthly maintenance cost of the new furnace.
Every homeowner knows that time will come when they need to replace their furnace. Furnaces have a life expectancy that ranges from 15 to 20 years. The furnace may still be operational longer than 20 years, but that does not mean that it should continue warming your home. A furnace will lose efficiency every year that they age, which you will notice on your gas bill each month as your furnace approaches its 20th birthday.
The number one sign that it is time to replace a furnace is a sudden and unexpected increase in your utility bill each month. This usually means the furnace is losing efficiency and wasting fuel (and money). However, other reasons may cause your utility bill to increase. These factors will be discussed further in the guide.
When your furnace does eventually break or just becomes too inefficient will you know what to do to replace it? Not many homeowners know enough about replacing a furnace because furnace technology has rapidly developed over the past 20 years. It has developed so much over that past twenty years that different types of fuel sources are used nowadays that were not even in existence twenty years ago.
The following guide will show you five things you need to know before replacing your furnace. Some tips involve what furnace to choose, checking your insulation, and examining your ducts. In total, these tips could save you thousands of dollars in utility bills and needless furnace replacements.
HVAC Repair or replace?
Your furnace may not actually need to replacement. A few factors will determine whether your furnace will need to be repaired or replaced. Age and cost of future repairs are the two most important factors in deciding whether to repair or replace a furnace.
The first thing you should know is the age of your current furnace. It may be cheaper to repair a newer furnace than purchase a completely new system. In general, you should replace a furnace older than fifteen years because furnaces that old have lost a large amount of efficiency. Reduced efficiency leads to higher electric bills and gas bills, usually the number one sign that a furnace needs replacement.
If your furnace is less than fifteen years old, then repairing it will usually make the most sense. This will, of course, depend on the extent of the repair and the inefficiency of the furnace. Performing a simple repair on a relatively new furnace makes perfect financial sense. An expensive repair on an older furnace does not make financial sense, in that case replacing the furnace makes more financial sense. Especially when you factor in how much money you will save on your monthly utility bill just from upgrading to a modern and more efficient furnace.
If you don’t know the age of your furnace, then there is no need to worry. Many homeowners do not know the age of their furnace because it was installed by the previous homeowner or they simply forgot when they last replaced it. Thankfully, finding the age of your furnace is extremely simple in either situation.
All that is required to check the age is a quick glance at the serial number, which can be found on the inside of the removable door or on the fan blade. Look at the first four digits of the serial number, the first two digits of the first four indicate the week of the year that the furnace was built. The last two numbers of the first four numbers indicate the year the furnace was manufactured. For example, a serial number that reads “0599” shows a furnace that was built in the fifth week of 1999.
If you cannot find the serial number, then calling the manufacturer and asking about the furnace is the best option. A representative from the company should know the age of the furnace by looking at the model number or pictures of the furnace.
Overall, finding out the age of the furnace before deciding on replacing it is one of the most important steps. Such a simple step is often overlooked by most homeowners because of a lack of knowledge. This step alone could be the difference between a costly replacement and a relatively inexpensive repair. Make sure to always check the age of your furnace before replacing it.
What type of fuel source does the furnace use?
The type of fuel source your current furnace uses will make a difference in the type of replacement furnace to purchase. Any furnace originally made to burn coal should be replaced. The same applies to furnaces that have a pilot light instead of an electric start and furnaces that are missing vent dampers. Pilot lights can have potentially dangerous consequences if they burn out. Any furnace that is missing vent dampers will automatically fall into the category of a furnace older than twenty years, which is why you should immediately replace it.
If you have a normal, natural gas furnace, then you can simply replace the furnace with another natural gas furnace. However, keep in mind alternate fuel sources exist that may have cheaper sources of heat and operate more efficiently. Some of these alternatives include furnaces that burn wood pellets or oil.
Natural gas furnaces are known for their efficiency and low cost. Both those factors make them the most popular furnace option in America. However, not all areas of the United States have access to natural gas. These areas need to use one of the many alternative fuel sources available on the market to power their furnace.
The most common alternative fuel source for a furnace is oil. Oil furnaces are generally cheaper than natural gas furnaces and can heat more of the home. However, they tend to be more inefficient and require more maintenance. Oil furnaces also require the delivery of oil to the house. This is done by signing a service contract with an oil provider to deliver oil to the home. Oil prices tend to be higher than the equivalent natural gas prices, but market prices can change quickly.
A new alternative fuel source for a furnace is wood pellets. Wood pellet furnaces are more expensive than other types of furnaces however they have some very nice advantages. The wood pellets are much cheaper than oil and natural gas, which offsets the increased cost of wood pellet furnaces. The disadvantages of a wood pellet furnace are that new pellets must be added weekly and the ashes must be cleaned from the furnace. This is in direct contrast to a relatively low maintenance natural gas furnace, which requires zero daily maintenance or upkeep. Wood pellets can be purchased at locations all across North America or they can be delivered straight to the home.
Overall, each fuel system and type of furnace has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. They all do an excellent job at heating a home in the winter. The main difference is a factor of price, maintenance schedule, and efficiency.
Understand efficiency
Every furnace available on the market has its own efficiency rating. Efficiency, in this case, refers to the amount of consumed fuel used for heat vs. lost to other non-heating factors. It is measured as a percentage, so a furnace with an efficiency of 85% will use 85% of burned fuel for heat and lose 15% of the consumed fuel to non-heating factors.
Modern natural gas furnaces tend to have an efficiency that ranges from 90%-98%. Oil and wood pellet furnaces range from 80%-90%. This is quite the increase from furnaces manufactured twenty years prior that had an efficiency that hovered around 70%.
The difference in price between a furnace that has an efficiency of 97% vs. one with 90% could be almost one thousand dollars. Remember, a more efficient furnace will result in lower monthly gas bills, which could save you money in the long term. This is especially true in colder climates where it is common to use a furnace for five months of the year.
Computer programs exist that allow you to easily plug in the efficiency, cost of gas, and estimated use to give you an estimated monthly cost. These programs may be useful when deciding how efficient of a furnace you want to purchase for your home.
Furnaces are complicated machines and will require a professional for any complicated fixes. However, there are some basic things every homeowner can do before calling a furnace repair contractor.
The first thing to check on the furnace is the air filter. Many homeowners never look at the air filter on their furnace. A clogged air filter could result in the airflow slowing down so much that it barely heats the home. Always check the air filter before deciding to replace your furnace.
Second, check the thermostat on the furnace. Sometimes the thermostat will just stop working, which also causes the furnace to malfunction. Other issues with the thermostat may involve corroded wires or loose connections. Both of those issues will cause the furnace not to function properly. If you have a battery powered thermostat, then try replacing the batteries even if the thermostat still appears to work. Sometimes the battery only has enough power to show the display and not enough to relay this information to the furnace.
Next, check the fuses on your home’s circuit board. If the fuse is tripped, then the furnace will not receive power and will not work. Keep in mind; a tripped fuse is often a sign of other electrical problems. If you constantly replace the fuse, then you should have an electrician look at your wiring.
Checking the duct system is also important if your furnace no longer warms your house. The ducts transfer the heat from your furnace to your rooms. A leaky duct system could cause the heat to never make it to your rooms. Don’t mistake leaky ducts for a furnace in need of replacement.
Finally, if your furnace has a broken or damaged heat exchanger, then you might need a new furnace. However, if you have a newer furnace, then it may be cheaper to have someone repair the furnace. This, of course, depends on the type of furnace, the age of the furnace, and the cost to repair the furnace. No two situations are ever the same.
Overall, a furnace is a massive system with many points of failure. Not all these points of failure will warrant the need for a replacement furnace. Examine the potential breakdown points, and if your furnace still does not work, then you might need a replacement furnace.
Check your insulation
Checking your insulation is the final thing you need to know before replacing a furnace. If your home is not warm, then you should check your insulation before replacing a furnace. It is still wise to check your insulation before replacing a furnace because a new furnace will not solve an insulation issue.
A basic way to check insulation is to look for any wetness. Insulation material will not work when wet and will need to be replaced. Wet insulation is also susceptible to mildew, which could be toxic. This gives two very important reasons for you to change any wet insulation.
Your insulation will also need to be changed if there has been any type of animal infestation in your roof. This could be opossums, rats, or squirrels. All these animals will tear up insulation. If you have ever had an infestation and did not replace your insulation, then you should replace your insulation around the same time you replace your furnace.
Other things to check on insulation include the seals on your home and the thickness of the windows. The seals on your home could be on the roof or on the windows. Any gaps in your home will allow warm air to escape. Some common places for seals to break include under the door and alongside the windows. Sealing every gap is impossible, but you want to eliminate any major holes in your home.
Older windows that are thinner will provide noticeable less insulation that modern windows that tend to be thicker and built with insulation as a priority. So, if you have thin windows from the 1950s, then replacing them with modern windows that provide good insulation may be a smart choice when you replace your furnace.
Never discount the importance that insulation has in keeping a home warm. A little insulation in a home can save thousands during the winter. Insulation also saves money in the summer too in a hot summer (such as the Midwest) because it will keep the cold air indoors.
Final Thoughts
These five things cover everything you need to know before replacing a furnace. The heating system in a home is complex, so the guide delved into everything from the duct system to insulation to the different types of replacement furnaces. The most important thing to know before replacing a furnace is the efficiency of the replacement furnace. The fuel source is also important as that will directly determine the monthly maintenance cost of the new furnace.
Wood floors look great and are quite durable. However, the finish will eventually get damaged and worn down from normal wear and tear. Some examples of wear and tear include walking on wood floors with shoes, spilling water on the wood and dogs running across the floor.
Once the finish has worn off, you will need to have a contractor refinish the wood to keep it looking good. Neglecting to refinish your wood floor may result in costly or even permanent damage to your wood floor.
Here are five things to know about wood floor refinishing before your next refinishing project.
Find the right contractor
Refinishing floors is a very specialized task that requires the use of very specialized equipment to do it properly. It also has a low margin for error, which makes it very easy to mess up a floor with one minor mistake. Finding the right contractor is especially important when refinishing your floor.
The best way to find a contractor for wood floor refinishing is through a referral. Once you do pick a contractor, you should check references from previous customers and ask to see a few examples of their work. Any contractor that does respectable work will have no problem giving references or showing previous work.
Also, if the contractor has an NWFA Certified Sand and Finisher designation that is a definitive positive. An NWFA Certified Sand and Finisher designation requires two years of refinishing experience and passing a sanding and finishing test.
Finding the right contractor is one of the most important parts of refinishing your wood floor. A good contractor will explain all the steps involved in the refinishing process and answer any questions you may have.
You might not need a refinishing
Did you know you might not even need a refinishing? Your contractor will explain this further if this applies to your floor. If the finish of the floor hasn’t completely worn off, then you might not even need to get your floor refinished.
This process is called a maintenance coat, and it can save you a lot of money and time. For a maintenance coat, the contractor will simply sand the wood floor and then add a polyurethane coat to the top. A full refinishing involves removing wood with a drum sander, which a contractor can only do about six times before there is no wood left to sand. A maintenance coat does not remove any wood, which means there is no limit to the amount of maintenance coats a wood floor can have done to it.
Further than that, your floor may not even require a maintenance coat. Dust and dirt will often pile onto the floor and make it look dull after about a year. If this applies to your floor, then you will simply need a deep clean of your wood floor to make it look new again.
Knowing whether a wood floor needs a refinish, a maintenance seal, or a deep clean is oftentimes hard to know for the average homeowner. A reputable wood refinishing professional will know the difference and will recommend the best choice for you.
The color may change
If you have your floor refinished, then the color of the floor may change. The color may not change because it depends on whether your floor has staining or not. If it does have staining, then the refinishing will remove the stain and the color.
If you want to keep the current color of your floor, then ask your contractor if they can stain your floor to the original color. Most contractors will offer this service, but keep in mind that it could cost an additional 30%-50% of the project. The contractor can also stain the wood to a completely different color. Homeowners will often do this if they do not like the current color of their floor.
Remember, a maintenance coat does not remove any significant amount of wood and will therefore not change the color of your floor.
The color of your wood changing is just one of those things to keep in mind before you have your floor refinished. You do not want to unexpectedly have your floor change from a dark color to a light color.
The floor cannot be walked on during the refinishing process. If your whole house requires refinishing, then you will likely have to move out. Even if only some of your house needs to be refinished, then you still might want to move out for at least one day. The polyurethane smells very bad, and the drum sander makes a lot of noise.
Most people will move out of their house for at least one day during the refinishing process. Often that day will be the day when the contractor sands your floor down as that day involves the most noise and disruption. The rest of the days usually involve waiting for the polyurethane to fully dry and not stepping on the floor.
The total time it takes for refinishing a wood floor will vary. You can usually expect five to seven days for a refinishing job and three to five days for a maintenance job. You can expect an extra day for refinishing if you want the contractor to stain your floor.
The time estimates are just estimates. The actual time it takes will depend on the contractor and the size of the area you need refinished. The most important thing to remember is that refinishing a wood floor will take even the most experienced contractors more than one day. The sanding process might take one day, but the drying will take longer than a day. You simply cannot call a contractor and expect to have a wood floor fully refinished in one day.
Make sure to account for this time and expense before agreeing to have your wood floor refinished.
Not all wood floors can be refinished
Some wood floors just cannot be refinished. This mostly applies to older wood floors in older homes that have been refinished too many times. Removing any more wood from an older floor, the process involved in refinishing a floor, will result in permanent damage to the floor. A contractor cannot refinish brittle wood due to the likelihood it will crack during the process.
The damage that could result from refinishing these types of floors could be spots where no wood remains, which would make the foundation visible. No homeowner wants a wood floor that has spots with visible foundation. Thankfully, no reputable contractor would attempt to refinish a floor in that type of condition.
The good news is that most modern homes can still have their floors refinished.
In the unfortunate case that your wood floor cannot be refinished, then a maintenance coat can usually be applied to the floor. When the contractor inspects your floor they should let you know the best course of action.
Final Thoughts
Having your floor refinished is a large project and will require some degree of planning before moving forward with the project. Choosing a contractor is the most important step in this whole process.
A good contractor should tailor the project to your needs and wants. They will also have the knowledge to answer any question you might want to ask them. Knowing that you might not need a refinishing is one thing that not many homeowners will know about, but a good contractor will point you in the right direction.
Finally, knowing that you might have to move out of your home for a week will definitely save you from any unexpected headaches or possible conflicts.
Overall, refinishing a floor is a relatively simple and routine household project, but knowing exactly what it involves will hopefully save you time and money.
Carpet makes a great floor covering for a basement for several reasons. Carpet is warm and soft, which makes it much cozier feeling than a cold and hard cement floor that most basements have as the floor.
The other benefit of carpet is that it does not require a perfectly level surface. Many basements have a very uneven floor, which would make tiling a basement difficult. Carpet, however, is very flexible and can easily be added to very uneven surfaces.
Most people do not even realize that carpet can be added to a basement. They often wonder what type of carpet to choose for their basement. The other concern homeowners have relates to the higher than average humidity found in a basement and the subsequent mildew in their carpet.
Both of those are valid concerns. However, hundreds of thousands of people have carpets in their home with no mold or mildew problems. The following tips will help you choose the best carpet for your basement.
Remove Humidity from Your Basement
The first tip for choosing a carpet in your basement does not even involve choosing a carpet. It involves removing the humidity from your basement. Basements are the most humid location in a home because the lack of airflow and general moisture that occurs while underground. They also have no exposure to sunlight that would burn off humidity.
Other than the humidity, basements may also experience flooding or leaking. The water generally moves through the concrete floor and into the carpet. A high amount of water will destroy even the most moisture resistant carpet. It is recommended that you solve any flooding issues before installing a carpet in your basement due to the high risk of permanent damage to your carpet.
You might not be able to keep water out of your basement, but preventing moisture and mildew in a basement is a relatively simple task. One way to reduce mildew is to consistently keep your ceiling fans in your basement turned on and circulating air through the basement. This will prevent stagnant air and greatly reduces the likelihood of a mold or mildew breakout in your basement carpet.
A dehumidifier in your basement will significantly reduce humidity. Humidity is the leading cause of mildew, so this will greatly reduce the likelihood of mildew forming on the carpet of your basement.
Stopping any flooding problems in your basement is a prerequisite to installing a carpet in your basement. While the humidity reduction methods are not a necessity, they are strongly encouraged. Humidity prevention is more necessary with some types of carpet than other types of carpets. Here are some tips to choosing the best carpet for a basement.
Basement Carpet Fibers
Carpet comes in two types: synthetic (man-made) fibers and natural fibers. Both fiber types have advantages and disadvantages.
Â
Synthetic carpet is the best choice for a basement because of its high breathability. Breathability, in this case, refers to the carpet not retaining moisture. The basement will still have more humidity than other parts of the house despite the humidity removal methods discussed in the above section. A synthetic carpet will help prevent mold and mildew in this higher humidity environment.
Natural carpets do not make a good choice for a basement carpet as they simply absorb too much water. This is unfortunate because natural carpets have been proven to filter the air. However, basements are nothing more than a hole in the ground surrounded by concrete. A hole in the ground will eventually have water seep into it no matter what measures are taken to prevent it. Natural carpets will absorb more of this water, often without the homeowner noticing in the case of wool and increase the humidity. This increased humidity will lead to mold and mildew. It will also destroy the very expensive natural carpet. Neither of those are issues that any homeowner will want to have occur in their basement.
What is the best synthetic carpet to use in a basement?
Synthetic carpet is by far the best carpet to use in a basement. However, there are three different types of synthetic carpet, and each one has advantages and disadvantages.
The three different types of synthetic carpet are nylon, polyester, and Triexta. The different types of synthetic carpets all have their advantages and disadvantages. The main disadvantage with synthetic carpets is that they fade very easily in sunlight. However, most basements have little or no sunlight, so this is not an issue.
The best type of carpet fiber for a basement really depends on what you plan to do with your basement. If you want a general entertainment area, then a nylon carpet will work well in your basement. Nylon carpets have durability, but lack stain resistance and moisture resistance. If you have humidity problems or a high likelihood of spills, then you should avoid a nylon carpet. Nylon is also not recommended if you have pets or small children. Pets and small children are notoriously rough on carpets and just do not mix well with a nylon carpet.
Triexta is the overall best synthetic carpet available on the market. It offers the durability of nylon and has the moisture and stain resistance of polyester. This makes it great for a basement that will get a high amount of foot traffic as it will last longer due to the durability. It also is much softer than the other types of synthetic carpet. Softness is especially important in the basement because of the hardness of the concrete.
Alternatively, Triexta can be installed on the staircase of a low use basement as that staircase may still receive a heavy amount of foot traffic. The basement itself can have a much cheaper nylon or polyester carpet.
Triexta does have one negative, which is the high cost compared to other carpets. Overall, it makes an excellent choice for a basement carpet and the quality of the carpet more than makes up for the higher than average price point.
Polyester carpet, or its variants, are not generally a good choice for a basement carpet because they will look flat after a few months of moderate use. These types of carpets also tend to be thinner than nylon or Triexta. It will basically feel like stepping on a concrete carpet because of the concrete under a basement carpet.
However, if you don’t mind the flat look of carpet, then polyester might be the right carpet for you. Polyester carpets also work well for a basement that will be used as a storage area with minimal use. They also have the lowest price point of any carpet, which does make them an enticing offer. Keep in mind that you do get exactly what you pay for with a polyester carpet, which is a flat and very thin carpet. The low price is convenient in the case of the basement having any water issues as destroying a polyester carpet is not as big of a financial hit as destroying a Triexta carpet.
Overall, choosing the right type of carpet fiber will depend on the purpose of your basement. If you plan to use your basement that for entertainment or other events, then a Triexta carpet will work best. Nylon also works well if you slightly less flexibility, but the price is more ideal. Polyester has the least flexibility.
Â
Carpet Padding
Padding a carpet in other parts of a house is often optional. In a basement, however, it is not an option. The cement foundation will be cold and moist. Cold and moist are not two things you want under your carpet, which makes padding a basement carpet an absolute necessity. The two types of carpet padding available for purchase are polyurethane and rubber pads. These two types are further divided into open cell and closed cell carpet pads.
Â
Closed cell carpet pads should be avoided in the basement as they tend to trap moisture between the pad and concrete. This trapped moisture could form mildew or go into your drywall. Moisture will almost always destroy drywall and lead to even more problems. The good news is that closed cell carpet pads are generally more expensive than open cell carpet pads. Rubber pads are almost exclusively closed cell, which means rubber pads should be avoided in the basement.
Open cell carpets do not trap moisture and are generally cheaper. You should only install open cell carpets in your basement. Also, look for open cell carpets that have an odor guard. This odor guard will eliminate the smells that sometimes occur in a basement. Carpet pads with an odor guard will generally cost an extra one or two dollars per square foot, but this is well worth the cost to protect against nasty odors.
Â
What types of carpet require a carpet pad?
None of the different types of carpet necessarily require a carpet pad. However, a carpet pad provides insulation from the cold concrete. The pad will also prevent some moisture from seeping through to the actual carpet.
Carpet padding is highly suggested for all types of carpet types for those two reasons. Polyester carpet is thin so that the extra carpet padding will add some softness. Nylon carpet has lower moisture resistance, which means a padding will help prevent any mold or mildew problems from arising. Finally, Triexta has some moisture resistance and is a fairly thick carpet, so a padding may not be entirely necessary. However, extra moisture resistance and added softness are always positives for any carpet.
Final Thoughts
Overall, choosing a basement carpet requires more than just selecting a carpet that looks pretty at your local store. It requires finding a carpet that looks good and solves the unique problems that arise in a basement.
Triexta carpeting with a polyurethane and rubber pad will work well for a basement that will get a high amount of use. A nylon carpet is an excellent, and cheaper, alternative to the more expensive Triexta carpet. Finally, a polyester carpet should be avoided except for basements that will receive little to no use. Even for those basements, a nylon carpet may still be better on the staircase because they tend to receive more use and require a more durable carpet to stay in good condition.
