Monday, February 25, 2013

Luxury and Efficiency in Your Floors....a Combination That Can’t Be Beat

There are a number of reasons why so many people prefer heated floor systems over more traditional types of heating systems. One of the main reasons is because radiant floor heating systems provide a very comfortable feel and are completely noiseless while in operation. The heat is distributed from the ground up giving warmth to the feet and the body first, dispensing heat evenly throughout the entire floor. This is what makes heated floors completely unique and different from other warming units such as wood stoves, hot air systems and radiators which only warm confined areas. Another great benefit to having heated floor systems is that they are energy efficient. Since the system allows you to heat room by room, use by use, where you want and when you want it, heating bills can be lowered substantially.

When a switch is made to this radiant floor heating system it prevents common problems such as drafts and the circulation of dust associated with forced air heating systems occurring. This is of special benefit to allergy sufferers who are looking to get rid of all the allergens lurking in their homes as well as prevent any future ones from gaining entry.
 
The Company Nuheat, manufactures an electric radiant floor heating system that provides clean, soundless heat through various types of flooring surfaces including tile, stone, granite, laminate and engineered wood. It is controlled by a thermostat which ensures that it is only in use when needed. As a result, energy consumption is greatly reduced. For example, a 30 square foot heated area of Nuheat will only use the same electricity as three 100-watt light bulbs. Nuheat does not generate any dust or airborne pollutants. The system itself has no particle or material decomposition and once installed is 100% maintenance free and will last the lifetime of your floors.
 
The actual cost of operating Nuheat Floor Heating Systems will depend on the size of the floor area, cost of electricity in your area and length of time the Nuheat system will be turned on. Traditionally, electric baseboard heaters are installed according to the rule of thumb that each room should be heated by 34 BTU (British Thermal Units) per square foot (given average insulation). Nuheat produces over 41 BTU per square foot. The table below shows a comparison of the BTU output at various square footages for Nuheat and electric baseboard heaters. BTU Sample Output BTU Sample Output BTU Sample Output.

Source: http://www.nuheat.com/home.html
If you are in need of long lasting warmth and comfort then heated floor systems are an excellent way to go. As with any major home renovation, making choices that improve the value of the home while increasing energy efficiency makes for a very smart investment.

Source: http://www.nuheat.com/home.html

All Nuheat Floor Heating Systems are covered by a 25-year warranty. For more details click here Nuheat Warranty Information.

For more information on radiant floor heating or to obtain a quote call Kruse Home Improvement at 860-877-0775.




Sources:
http://www.homeinsights.org/bathroom-floor-heating/
http://www.nuheat.com/home.html

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

How to Know When it's Time to Remodel a Bathroom

According to eHow.com's Home section, whether it’s structural or just cosmetic, some things in your bathroom will need upgrades every three to five years. Flooring or fixtures can begin to look dated or even worse; you may have water leaks and weak spots if the bath has not had attention for many years. Below are some reasons to consider updating your bathroom sooner than later.
 
You need to add light/fresh color or reduce mold growth
Your bathroom's makeover should correct darkness. Mold is a known health hazard that can grow on dark blue tile or dark green painted walls. Lighter colors and a skylight can help. You may want to add more light by installing a large window, hanging up lighter curtains or switch to a brighter light fixture. Light neutral walls in white or beige make the room look more spacious and allow you to add bold accent colors of your choice to make an exciting makeover that you will love.

Work done by Kruse Home Improvement

You need to fix broken fixtures or poor plumbing. 
Making crucial repairs to broken fixtures or poor plumbing can avoid water damage. Be sure to look under the sink cabinet and around the bathtub looking for drips, stains or leaks. If water damage is present, you may need to remove the old subflooring and moisture-laden wall framing. It may also be necessary to upgrade the water lines, drain lines and support material before installing a new sink cabinet or bathtub. Use the opportunity to improve fixtures while you're upgrading the bath's infrastructure.
 
You need to add squarefootage
Updating may allow you to increase bathroom floor space. If you redo a nearby bedroom or create a master bedroom, you will want the bath to fit the new makeover; a tiny bathroom with a large bedroom will detract from the value of the house. If possible, enlarge a cramped bathroom by borrowing space from a nearby closet or hallway.
 
To Upgrade
Maintaining contemporary fixtures will support the market value of your house. Over time, an old sink vanity or old shower can look greatly out of date, giving the impression that the room has been neglected. This can lead potential buyers to wonder what else has been neglected. Simple things like fresh paint, new flooring, and a couple of new fixtures can make a bathroom look totally made over.
Bathroom Renovation done by Kruse Home Improvement
To Correct a Poor Layout
At times, a bathroom's design doesn't work well.  A poor layout can cause a door to open against a vanity cabinet. By moving either the main bathroom door or the vanity cabinet, you can create a better balanced floor plan. Sketch your bathroom's design onto graph paper to determine the layout that will work best, or work with a remodeling or design professional to help out.


References/Resources: