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.

  • Plan a Laundry Room in the Optimal Location in Your Home

    You may have never thought about the placement of your home’s laundry room. Is it in the basement? In the mud room? Home design has traditionally relegated the laundry room to these two locations, but many homeowners have discovered the benefits of relocating this essential space. Relocating the laundry room is easily integrated into a renovation project. Consider…

  • Designer Technology Opens Up New Options for Home Design

    Today’s home technology is advancing rapidly both in design and style. Gone are the days of bulky technology or incompatible components. Technology and design have begun working together to have a positive impact on a homeowner’s daily life. Homeowners now have access to a wide variety of technological advances in home design, including: Automation: Faucets, entertainment components,…

  • 4 Traditional Touches to Finish Your Home Design

    Do you love traditional design? Are you drawn to homes that highlight classic beauty and timeless architecture? Integrating a traditional design style into your home’s remodeling project will convey a modern approach to historic forms and features. Undeniable hallmarks of traditional design include: Classic millwork: A traditional home often features crown moldings, chair rail, and trim…

  • Try These Alternatives for Granite in your New England Home

    Granite has long been a staple for counter-tops in custom kitchen remodeling projects. Granite is beautiful but it may not fit your style. Never fear though, there are a lot of beautiful counter-top materials that would be perfect in your New England home. Traditional Kitchen with Marble Counter-Tops by San Francisco Interior Designers & Decorators Fiorella Design…