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.

  • Lush Garden Features for New England Homes

    As warmer weather and longer days head our way we can anticipate more time relaxing in our New England gardens. To fully enjoy your space, give special attention to your garden design this season with new features that nurture the natural beauty of the outdoors. A fountain is a classic and serene focal point for…

  • Vessel Sinks Make a Splash in Luxurious Bathrooms

    While today they are seen as an ultra-modern addition to your bathroom, vessel sinks are actually based on the centuries-old washbasin design in use before running water was commonly available. There’s nothing like a vessel sink to make a dramatic impression in your bathroom.

  • Home Style of the Month: Cape Cod

    The quintessential American home, the Cape Cod style communicates what most of us think of when we envision a row of homes in small town U.S.A. with front yards and white picket fences. The style actually came over from England with the first settlers who modified the design of their homeland’s modest thatched cottages to…

  • Daydream About Relaxing Porch Style

    Naturally conjuring a feeling of welcoming ease and comfortable leisure, a front porch connects your indoor space with your outdoor space, expanding your home for entertaining and relaxing. When you’re planning a front porch design, imagine ways you will use the space, during which seasons of the year, and how the design will integrate with…