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.

  • The Draw of Beautiful Solid Hardwood Floors

    No other element of a house exudes warmth and traditional style quite like a hardwood floor. Just entering a room with a rich, earth-toned foundation is enough to make you feel at home, isn’t it? But like many elements in home design, the looks are just the beginning. Hardwood floors have become the preferred option…

  • Make the Most of Your Porch This Spring in Fairfield County

    We are so overdue for some pleasant warm weather here in New England, don’t you think? And there’s no better way to enjoy those beautiful days outside than relaxing on your porch… perhaps with a great book and a steamy cup of whatever your heart desires. A front porch can add lots of curb appeal…

  • Have a Seat… in the Bedroom?

    What is it about seating in the bedroom that gives it an air of elegance? Perhaps because benches, chairs, chaises, sofas and love seats are so often seen in common living areas that it automatically becomes a visual interest when seen in a different type of space. Because a dedicated seating area in the bedroom…

  • Add Charm in the Kitchen with a Farmhouse Sink

    Farmhouse sinks, also referred to as apron sinks, are a great choice for kitchen design that’s one part country, but still completely traditional. While some may think that these sinks are outdated and completely old-fashioned, what really determines the look and feel of a farmhouse sink is what’s surrounding it. With the right backsplash, faucet,…