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.

  • Stay Up to Date with These Traditional Bathroom Accessory Trends

    There has been a shift toward the traditional in bathroom design trends of late. Bathrooms in many Connecticut homes are being renovated and transformed into Victorian-style baths, which feature some of the elegance and simplicity of a revolutionary era. Using classic white as the foundation, these traditional bathrooms appear spacious, no matter the actual size…

  • Embracing the Elegance of White Kitchen Design

    Kitchen design trends come and go, but one that hasn’t gone out of style is that of the classic white or ivory design scheme. Whether you are looking for a full remodel or just a few adjustments, the simple elegance of a white kitchen is something to consider for your home in Connecticut. Minimalist Living…

  • The Basics of Green Building

    Many people have become committed to lessening their impact on the environment when building a new home. We at Country Club Homes specialize in guiding you through the process of designing and building your home using the latest environmentally-friendly products and systems. Green home building does not mean you have to give up having a beautiful…

  • Don’t Forget About the Foyer: Design Ideas for the Foyer

    Your foyer is your home’s first chance to stand out and make a lasting impression. Whether it serves as the greeting place to usher your guests into your home or the room where you park your umbrella or drop your keys and mail, it needs personality. Check out  these home design ideasto make your foyer…