Some Ideas to Consider …

  • Stay Warm and Cozy This Winter with Heated Floors

    Heated floors are such a fabulous addition to any home, especially now that winter is fast approaching. The two most popular methods of installation are electric radiant heat and hydronic heat. Here are some ways to distinguish between these two methods:

    Electric Radiant Heat

    This is a less expensive and easier to install version, in which thin electrical heating cables are interlaced on mesh mats and then pressed between sheets of thinset before the primary flooring material is installed. Porcelain or ceramic tile, stone or concrete are the best conduits; wood (unless engineered flooring) is discouraged. A separate thermostat controls the temperature settings and programmable units are available and often used in bathrooms and kitchens. This type of radiant heat is typically supplemental to another heating system.

    Heated Tile Flooring
    Source: Houzz

    Hydronic Heat

    Hydronic Heat uses a network of closed loop tubing running under the flooring and then back to a water source. Generally, a dedicated boiler or hot water heater, is the basis of a hydronic heating system which pushes water heated to a temperature of 100 to 120 degrees through the tubing. This heavy duty tubing is held in place by a thin layer of concrete and then covered with the flooring material of your choice. Hydronic floor heat is also controlled by a separate thermostat and is considered the most energy efficient of the two choices.  This type of radiant heat is often designed to be the sole source of heat in a home, although it can also be used as a supplement in a master bedroom suite, as an example.

    Warm Up your Dining Room with Heated Floors
    Source: Jean Longpré (via Houzz)

    For more information on the latest trends in flooring and radiant heat systems please contact the professionals at Country Club Homes, Inc. today.

  • Steps to a Gorgeous Stairway

    A well-designed stairway takes the design of your home to new levels. Besides serving the very practical purpose of navigation, stairways are an architectural centerpiece and an opportunity to be creative on a grand scale.   Your stairway can set the tone for the aesthetic of your entire home so it’s important to determine at…

  • Set the Table for a Better Dining Room

    When the holidays arrive each year the dining room usually gets used more often as we welcome guests into our homes for seasonal celebrations. What makes the dining room inviting, comfortable and memorable?   Because it is typically one of the least used rooms in a home, the dining room can be a place to…

  • Design that Shines: Metallic Elements in Your Home

    The sheen of metallic elements is particularly evocative of warm and welcoming glamour in your home during the autumn months. Metallics present themselves in copper, gold, bronze, silver, brass and rose gold hues, each with its own unique characteristic to add to your decor. When decorating with metallics, it’s essential to choose your hues carefully…

  • The Path Followed: Interesting Walkways

    Trick or treaters will navigate many a walkway this weekend, which prompted us to review what makes an interesting path to a home. There are many options depending on a home’s style, climate, and neighborhood. Here are just a few ideas to consider:   Straight Lines or Curves and Angles: A straight walkway is the…