Is It Normal For A Furnace To Run Nonstop

Having a furnace in your house to keep you warm and cozy when it is freezing outside is a blessing. However, just with anything, furnaces tend to experience problems as well. A common problem is that the furnace runs constantly. While it depends on the temperature, the furnace should not work continuously to maintain the temperature and you should check it yourself or by furnace repair services.

So, we are going to take a look at why your furnace might be running nonstop and what you can do about it.

Blower Issues

The first thing you need to check if your furnace is running nonstop is the blower. If you notice that the furnace is running but is blowing cool air, it means there is some issue with it. It might be that there is a shortage somewhere that is causing the blowers to malfunction.

Although, you can inspect the blower for any corroded wires or damage, etc. but do not attempt to fix the issue on your own. You can end up electrocuting yourself.

Dirty/Clogged Filter

If you observe that the air coming from the vents is warm but the airflow is weak, it means the filters are most likely clogged. Furnaces come with filters installed as well just like the air conditioners. These filters make sure toxicants are removed from the air before it is distributed inside the house.

As a result, these filters are prone to getting dirty and clogged with time. Furthermore, clogged filters prevent the necessary air from moving into the furnace. This leads to a failure in reaching the desired indoor temperature.

Consult the user’s manual and check the replacement or cleaning interval. It might be that the filters need to be replaced. So, make sure you opt for the exact replacements.

Thermostat Issues

Next, you will need to check for thermostat issues. Ensure that the thermostat is to “ON” settings instead of “Auto”. The reason is that if the settings are set to “ON”, the furnace might run constantly. However, if it is turned to the “Auto” position, the furnace should turn off as soon as it reaches the required temperature.

But if you notice that the furnace keeps running considering the thermostat settings are correct, it means that there is something wrong with the thermostat. In this case, you will need to consult a specialist who will replace it for you.

Pilot Light Issues

If you own an older furnace, it might have a pilot light that stays lit as long as the furnace is on. If that is the case, you will observe your furnace only blowing cool air and running constantly. So, if the pilot system has some issues, it might be causing the furnace to run constantly. You will need to contact a specialist to fix the issue.

The Furnace Is The Wrong Size

Another possible reason for your furnace to be running non-stop is if it is of the wrong size. This is one of the most common problems out there as homeowners ignore this basic factor. An wrong sized furnace will not be able to tackle a room that is either too small or big.

Choosing the correct furnace size is critical. This is why buyers are suggested to measure the room size and purchase the furnace accordingly. If the room happens to be big but the furnace is small, it will run constantly to achieve the desired temperature. This would only lead to higher energy bills in the future.

How Often Should My Furnace Cycle In The Winter?

The winter season can give your furnace a tough time. After months of being dormant, your furnace suddenly finds itself working overtime. So, it will undergo some stress. Prepare your furnace for winter before using.

Furnaces are designed to cycle multiple times during the day. However, if it cycles throughout the day, it might indicate a problem. There is no universal answer to how many times your furnace should cycle in a day. But it should not be cycling throughout the day. Anything between 3 to 8 times per hour is considered normal.

Final Word

In the end, a furnace running non-stop is not something normal. If that is the case, you will need to follow the tips mentioned above or consult furnace services Long Island if the situation seems more complicated.

Can You Put A Car Window Tint On Top Of A Tint

You will hardly come across any vehicle today without window tints. However, some people still want to take it to the next level by applying an additional layer of tint to the existing one. You can install a tint over tint on car windows but it is important that you follow the correct auto glass tinting techniques. Let’s discuss!

Is It Bad To Put Tint Over Tint?

If your car windows already have a tint installed from years ago, it might not be a good idea to add another layer. The reason is that two layers of tints applied on a window glass is called “double-dipping”. But it leads to air pockets and bubbles between film layers that create unsatisfactory results.

Are There Benefits To Applying Tint Over Tint?

Applying window tint over an existing window tint does offer some benefits. If the older layer is peeling off or has faded, the new layer will keep it from worsening or getting scraped. Plus, it increases the shade percentage so it become darker.

Moreover, even if the existing layer of tint is not peeling off, applying a new layer of tint will still offer some benefits. For instance, putting two layers of tint will improve heating prevention, abrasion protection, chemical resistance, etc.

In most cases, owners tend to apply a window tint over an existing one just to save money. However, they get diminished benefits in return. Then again, if there is already a tint installed on the windows of your vehicle that has started to peel off or worsen, you can install a new layer on top that will prevent it from worsening.

However, you will need to be sure that you opt for the same type and color to prevent a mismatch.

Can I Tint Over Factory Tint?

Factory-tinted windows are a lot different than the aftermarket ones. Factory-tinted windows tend to last a lifetime and hardly peel off or fade. At the same time, removing a factory tint is a painstaking task as well. So, if you want to darken the windows, you can install a new layer of tint.

But this should only be done by a professional. If you intend to do it on your own, you might end up scratching the factory tint.

Types Of Car Window Tints

Ceramic Tint

Ceramic window tints when compared to regular window tints cost a lot more. In fact, these are the most expensive types as compared to the rest of the types for all the right reasons. To begin with, ceramic tints have a higher visible light transmittance and are also scratch-resistant. On top of that, these tints have a longer lifespan as well.

As a result, ceramic tints are the most popular choice. Keep in mind that ceramic tints are divided into two categories: dyed and dyed-in. Dyed-in tints are colored with infrared dye whereas dyed tints are colored with pigment coating.

Carbon Tint

Carbon tint is usually dark and dull, resulting in a matte finish once installed on the windows. Carbon windows act the same way as other types of tints, reducing the amount of light entering the car while keeping the original color of the windows intact. But the only difference is that the finish is matte.

Metallic Window Tint

Metallic window tints are another option to keep your car cooler during hot days. Metallic window tints instead of absorbing the heat tend to deflect it. This is why metallic windows and tints are a popular sight in buildings and homes.

The reflective ability of these tints keeps the heat and UV rays out. There is simply no chance for the light to pass through. However, these tints are not usually found on vehicles but are mostly for commercial purposes. So, installing them over an existing layer of the film might not be a good option.

Final Word

In the end, installing a window tint over an existing window tint is possible. You will have to make sure there are no particles or bubbles that reduce the lifespan of the tints. And go to a reputable car window tinting shop Springfield instead of doing it on your own.

What Happens In Divorce Court Hearings

The divorce process is hard in itself, but you might want to know about the things that happen during the court hearings. Ensure to hire a divorce attorney who can give you an idea of what happens, but if you want to know immediately, keep on reading to find out more.

Witness Testimony

A divorce hearing can be quite similar in nature to a normal trial, but instead, families are dealing with issues that are the root causes of divorce. Usually, in a divorce hearing, the parties from both sides will bring forth witnesses to support the claims made by the party, which is the main ground for divorce.

The judge will listen to the testimonies and then a thorough study is done of the situation the two parties are in. Everything is discussed, from the length of the marriage, the number of children you both have, and the financial assets you both have in your names. After that, the agreement is done.

Financial Agreements

After the testimonies of the witnesses and the sealing of the verdict, you will be called to court on another date to go over the financial division. If you have been married for a long time, or even have assets in both names, then these need to be divided equally or provisionally, depending on the state or country you live in.

In some states, the assets are divided equally, whereas, in other states, they are divided among the two parties according to their financial situation. Whatever the case may be, you will need to discuss these details with your attorney, before making any decisions.

Child Custody

During the final verdict, the judge will also grant custody of the child to either one parent, or suggest co-parenting, in case the child is less than 18 years of age. If the child is 18, then she/he can make her/his own decision as to which parent they want to live with.

The decision can be appealed after the final hearing, but this will set you up for another court hearing and some trials until the issue is resolved. This can be time-consuming and it also comes at a cost, so you need to make your decisions wisely.

Appeals

Appeals can be made after the divorce hearings. The appeals are usually made on the grounds that one or both parties don’t see eye to eye with the court and its decision and they want to challenge these verdicts in court. Obviously, this means presenting more evidence to convince the court to overturn their decision and consider the case again.

An appeal can also be made due to the unjust division of properties and assets and even the custody of children. You will need to present a strong case to represent your appeal in court and to convince the judge or jury that the decision made by them is unjust.

Provision Of The Divorce Certificate

After the divorce hearing, if there are no oppositions against the decision given by the court, then the process moves toward the final step, which is making the divorce certificate. The divorce certificate is a certificate from the court that the two people are no longer married and they have no right to appeal this decision anymore. First, a divorce decree is issued, and later you can get a divorce certificate.

Obviously, the court does give you time to go over the decision and to apply for an appeal if you want, but if there is no response after the given time, then the procedure is moved further into the provision of this certificate.

Is A Trial Worth It?

Usually, divorce cases will go to court and the judge will be a mediator if the issues and dissolution of marriage are impossible to do through talks between the two parties. There can be many reasons for this. Either the couple is too volatile and won’t sit down to have a mature conversation or there is some ill intent from one or both sides.

Divorce without the involvement of judges and lawyers is ideal since it is not that expensive and mentally and physically draining.

Conclusion

There you have it! It’s good to know what kinds of things are discussed in a court hearing for divorce, so you can be better prepared for what’s to come next. Look for the best divorce lawyers Fairfax VA to improve your odds of winning the case.

6 Wedding Planning Tips No One Tells You

You might have heard all about the generic wedding planning tips from here and there, like not leaving anything for the last minute, being organized, booking tent rentals six months before the wedding day, and all that jazz, but here are some very useful tips, which no one ever tells you about.

Don’t Go For A Weekend Wedding

If you don’t want to give a hefty deposit for a venue, then it’s better not to go for a weekend wedding. While most of the time, that is what normally happens, you can save a lot more money if you have your wedding on a weekday. The rush hours won’t be crazy, the venue won’t be jam-packed, the rent won’t be that expensive and you will end up saving a lot of money.

Venues are the most extravagant thing on your wedding list and they cost a lot too, so you should always search for ways to cut the wedding cost as much as you can, without compromising the quality.

Defining Classic And Traditional

Classic is a diverse term. If you don’t convey your ideas perfectly to the wedding planner, then it might turn into a disaster of an event. The definition of classic and traditional is different for everyone, so it’s better to talk out things with your planner, vendors, and decorators about what you’re looking for at the end of the day.

This is going to save you from having a breakdown at your wedding, in case things don’t turn out the way you want them to.

A Simple Wedding Is No Joke Either

You might have heard this a lot: Plan a simple wedding, don’t fret too much about the details. Well, here is something that will shatter the illusion you have of a simple wedding. It takes just as much time, effort, and money to plan a so-called “simple” and “low-key” wedding. The details might not be there and the event might be simple at the end of the day, but it’s going to take just as much trial, research, and effort, if not more.

Don’t Let Opinions Get To You

Everyone has opinions and thoughts and while they are valid sometimes, you shouldn’t let them get to you. It’s your wedding day and you’re allowed to have all kinds of creative freedom when it comes to planning, how you want the wedding to go, etc.

It’s better to develop a thick skin and not let the opinions of other people hinder your big day. As long as you’re not overdoing anything and staying within budget, you are allowed to plan the perfect wedding for yourself. No one should come between you and the wedding planning.

Go For A Seasonal Menu

Here’s another tip that will save you money without compromising the quality of the food. If you are worried about your menu is too expensive, then it’s better to have a seasonal menu. It’s going to include all of the food which is in season.

Seasonal vegetables, fruits, and other products will cost you a lot less and they will be delicious nonetheless. You can also have refreshments catering to this theme. You will be surprised at how much better the food will be and you’re also saving some money on the side, by avoiding super elaborate foods like ceviche and caviar.

Do You Really Want An Outdoor Reception?

A lot of people dream of an outdoor wedding. While the ceremony can take place outdoors, it’s really not that cheap to have an outdoor reception. You have to think about accommodation, comfort and the arrangement of the guests.

If there is no arrangement for bathrooms, light, and ventilation in an outdoor space, then it’s going to cost you just as much, if not more, to have an outdoor wedding reception. So, before you commit to something like this, make sure to do your math and then decide if this is a good idea or not.

Conclusion

There you have it! With these tips, your wedding will be a breeze. And if you go choose vendors early and browse through different wedding rental packages Damascus MD, you might also end up saving a lot of money as well, which is always a huge plus.

What Is The Best Countertop Color For Dark Cabinets

Countertop color selection can be a difficult task, especially when you have so much to choose from. Whether you’re choosing marble, granite, or quartz kitchen countertops, here is everything you need to know about matching the right countertop color with darker-colored cabinets.

Go With Contrast

The easiest and most foolproof way to match darker-colored cabinets with countertops is to go for a lighter-colored variant in countertops. This is going to give a great contrast and it will not be a hassle to match the colors, since light and dark go perfectly together. If you have black cabinets, then you can go for white countertops.

Similarly, if you have dark brown or ebony cabinets, then a lighter brown or taupe color on countertops will go amazing. Keep in mind the warmth and coolness of the colors as they will match and complement each other beautifully.

Why Not Dark Countertops?

If you really want to go bold with the color choice of countertops, then you can go for darker-colored countertops. There is nothing wrong with dark-on-dark color combinations, as long as you do everything in moderation.

If you’re going to have dark-colored cabinets and countertops, then it can make your kitchen look small and dark, so you want to compensate for that by introducing some light interior design in the rest of your kitchen. For example, going for a lighter-colored fridge, appliances, kitchen island, etc. will balance and mellow out the whole look of the kitchen perfectly.

Play With Patterns

If you don’t have any idea as to which color to go for with darker-colored countertops, then you can definitely play with patterns. Countertop materials like granite and quartz have beautiful veining on them, which is a perfect blend of light and dark colors, so it looks extremely beautiful against the darker-colored cabinets.

It’s not as harsh as darker-colored countertops and the color selection for veined countertops is also diverse, so you can choose from any color which looks good against the cabinets. It all depends on your personal preference.

Neutrals Are The Way To Go

If you don’t want to go for a stark contrast of black and white, then you can swap out the white color for neutrals. Neutral colors are very muted and have a warm undertone, so they look extremely cozy and welcoming in a kitchen.

They will also mellow out the harshness of the darker-colored cabinets and the whole contrast will look beautiful. As far as neutral colors go, you can go for light grays, taupe, ash colors, a variety of light browns, and more. Try to go for warmer colors if your kitchen is highly illuminated with natural light. The balance will be perfect.

Check The Undertones

The art of figuring out undertones and finding matching colors that way can be hard, but once you nail it, it’s going to look extremely breathtaking. You need to look at the color of your cabinets and figure out their undertones.

If the color looks extremely warm, then the cabinets have a warm undertone and you want to go for a similar undertone for the color of the countertop. The color doesn’t need to be the same. You can still have a light and dark color contrast even with matching undertones.

Light Up The Space

If you’re going for a bold and dark color for countertops, then it’s best to add some light to the rest of the space. Another way to do this is with light fixtures. Light can play a huge role in making your kitchen look more airy and roomy without having to put a lot of effort into it.

Try to go for lights that have a cooler undertone, because it will balance out the harshness of the dark colors perfectly. Also, if your kitchen doesn’t already have natural lighting, then this is a great way to light up your space.

Conclusion

You need to think about how you can make different colors work in your kitchen. Complimenting the right colors with the right tones, so that the colors don’t look weird together. Go to a quartz countertops dealer Potomac to find out the different colors of various countertop materials.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Tap Water

A lot of people use tap water for mundane things around the house, but it doesn’t mean that you should be using it for consumption. Here are reasons why tap water is not good for you, your body, and your health and you should consider water filtration or get bottled water home delivery from relevant services.

It May Have Metals

Tap water comes from an arrangement of pipes and into your house. Sometimes, this water can have traces of heavy metals in it. They cannot be seen by the naked eye but they can easily transfer from the water and into your body when you drink this kind of infested water. These metals can be chromium, iron, copper, and other heavy metals, which may also impart a weird taste or even color to your water. This can cause a lot of issues in the body like skin lesions, infections, and even eczema.

Lead Exposure

One of the biggest dangers of drinking unfiltered tap water is being exposed to lead. Lead is not a common material found in water, but it can be a recurring element in water, especially if the supply is coming from somewhere near a dumping site or chemical waste plant.

Lead can actually cause cancer and other types of cell abnormalities in your body. This is why it is recommended to never use tap water for drinking without boiling or filtering it first. You will save yourself from a lifetime of diseases if you take these precautions.

It Can Lead To Stomach Ache

A very common problem that can occur in adults and children alike, from the consumption of tap water, is a bad stomach ache. There are so many hidden things in tap water that cannot be seen or identified just by looking at it, but these small organisms and bacteria can go into your body and cause weird things.

Stomach aches, diarrhea, and constipation are just some of the many stomachs and digestive issues which are caused by unfiltered tap water. Drinking this type of water can also lead to ulcers and blisters inside the stomach and those can be very painful and they take months to heal fully.

It Can Have Bacteria

Bacteria is kind of the most common thing which is found in tap water. There are so many different types of bacteria found in water. E. Coli, hepatitis-causing agents, tetanus-causing bacteria, and more, are just some of the many bacteria. This is why it is advised to boil your water before you use it for drinking.

Some bacteria are inert and they don’t react until they go into your bloodstream and from there, they start to cause issues in your body, like skin and stomach issues and also general health issues.

It May Have A Weird Taste

Metals and some other substances can impart a weird taste to the water, which may be very unpleasant to drink. Your water might have a dirt-like taste, it may taste metallic or even pungent. The dirt-like taste is because of the dirt mixed in with the water. The pungent smell is because of the high amounts of chlorine in the water.

The metallic taste may be due to the presence of iron or another heavy metal in the water. These things need to be removed in order to get tasteless water, which is how it should always be.

The Color Might Be Off

Clean water is usually clear. Sometimes tap water can have a tinge of color in it. It might be murky in appearance or it might have an orange hue to it. This is because of the dirt and metals mixed in the water.

These things make the water look weird in color and it needs to be cleaned in order for it to be clear in appearance and suitable for drinking. This is why charcoal filters are used to draw out the dirt and impurities from the water like a magnet.

Conclusion

There you have it! These are just some of the many dangerous effects of tap water on your body. It’s best to find a drinking water delivery service Meadville for getting pure water. If you really want to use your tap water, look for different types of water filters.

Are Persian Rugs Out Of Style

Rugs are a great way to add a little bit of flair to your room. Incorporating rugs can add more dimension and make the room look amazing. Persian rugs are totally the first rug that comes to mind when people want to add a touch of tradition to their room. If you are worried about these Persian antique rugs being outdated and out of style, then keep on reading.

Why Persian Rugs Are Still Famous And In Style?

Here are some top and extremely convincing reasons why Persian rugs are still famous and they are not going anywhere anytime soon.

It Is Unique

These rugs are unique in their own sense. The tribal patterns, the rich color scheme, and more are the very reasons why people are attracted to these rugs in the first place. The styles are unique and you can never get tired of looking at them.

The fraying on the edges is rustic and beautiful and it sometimes matches the patterns and colors of the rug. Regardless, these rugs are very beautiful and they have a huge demand all over the world.

The Handmade Appeal

These rugs are only ever made by hand. They are a labor of love, which is why each rug is different from the other. No two Persian rugs will ever be the same. Usually, one rug can take 8 to 10 months to be completed and the work is fine and very intricate, so people are bound to fall in love with this beautiful rug at first sight.

They Are Durable

Not only are these rugs beautiful, but they are also quite strong and durable. They last for years and they are quite sentimental, in the sense that they can be handed down to generation after generation and it will still be spotless.

Expensive But Worth The Cost

Persian rugs are highly expensive. They are quite labor-inducing and cannot be made on a large scale in big manufacturing factories, so they are quite costly. But, with that being said, they are still worth the splurge and you can get your money’s worth by seeing how long-lasting they are and how durable and strong they are. Pets cannot ruin this rug, it can be dry cleaned only and if you maintain it properly, you will see how long this rug lasts.

The Patterns And Colors Are Rich

There is nothing more appealing than the rich colors and patterns of a Persian rug. It is quite different from the muted and modern rugs which people have around their houses. It is a great introduction to vibrant patterns, but it doesn’t look obnoxious either. It is very understated yet it stands out in the most beautiful way possible.

There are a lot of colors and pattern varieties that are available in Persian rugs and every rug have its own statement of beauty. It is a great way to add a pop of color to your neutral room and it makes for a great entryway rug or even a rug that you can use in the living room. It will blend itself with the décor and interior design, but it will also make its own statement and it will look amazing against any type of room décor and design.

Provides Great Heat Insulation

Persian rugs are made out of wool, which is a vast insulator of heat. Wool rugs keep the floors warm and they are perfect for trapping heat and keeping your feet cozy, especially in the colder months when everything seems to be freezing. This rug is also naturally thick, so you don’t need to worry about putting an underlay beneath it. It will stay put because of its hefty weight. You will see how great this rug performs in the winter when you want the floors and your feet to be cozy and Persian rugs will save the day for you.

Conclusion

There you have it! Persian rugs are timeless and classic. They have an appeal to them that cannot be mimicked by other rugs and it is definitely a popular option when going out to buy rugs. Make sure you go to choose reputable Persian rugs stores Alexandria that display original Persian rugs.

What Is Mold Allergy – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, And Prevention

Allergies are caused by triggers and these can be simple things around you. Pollen, pet hair, dust, food, and even some insects can cause allergies. Here is everything you need to know about allergies caused by mold and when you should go to an allergy specialist doctor.

What Is Mold Allergy?

Mold can cause severe allergic reactions in the body. It is a unique type of allergen that can cause fever, red rashes on the skin, and swollen eyes and face. It is usually caused by the inhalation of spores or molds. These molds can go into your body and your bloodstream and it may cause severe issues like coughing fits, watery and itchy eyes, and more, which will leave you feeling restless, and quite frankly, it’s a very unpleasant situation to be in.

You need to prevent your exposure to mold and spores as much as possible because these things can get aggravated very easily and if things get out of control, it’s hard to normalize things with medicine and prevention.

Causes Of Mold Allergy

The main cause of mold allergy is mold and spores from fungus. These things can look pretty harmless from afar, but if you inhale the spores or even touch them, it can cause an allergic reaction to the body, if you have mold sensitivity.

The best way to find out if you have a fungus or mold sensitivity is to do a patch test. You need to see an allergist for that. They will take some amount of the allergen and put it on your skin and then they will wait to see the reaction of the allergen on your skin. If there are red patches forming on the skin and you are beginning to feel quickness in breathing, then it is highly likely that you might have a mold or spore sensitivity. Here are some common places where mold and fungus tend to thrive.

Moistened wood panels are a perfect breeding ground for molds and fungus and you can easily see them growing on the wet wood if you look closely.

Food that tends to go bad is also a common breeding ground for fungus and molds. It’s better if you don’t touch it or if you end up touching it, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, nose, or your face, in general.

Symptoms Of Mold Allergy

Here are some symptoms which can indicate that you are suffering from a mold allergy:

You will experience a lot of coughing, to the point where you will believe that you are having extreme coughing fits.
You will have difficulty in breathing, since inhaling the spores can make the airways swell from the inside, making it impossible to breathe without facing difficulty.
You will have red and itchy patches on the skin. This is due to touching the mold and not washing the area right away.
Your eyes will be swollen and red and there will be water coming out of them too.
You will also have a fever, which will not go down unless you take your allergy medication.

Treatment And Prevention

Here are some treatment and preventative measures for mold allergy.

Try to avoid exposure to spores and molds as much as you can.
Wear a mask when going to places where spores are abundant.
Have your allergy medication on hand, and if you haven’t been to the doctor yet, then it’s high time you should.
Consider immunotherapy or allergy shots. They tend to work on mold allergies and it is a sound treatment for many allergies.
Have good personal hygiene. This is important for most people who suffer from allergies, but especially important for spore and mold allergies since they can easily spread through contact and in places where there is poor ventilation, molds tend to thrive more.
Take antihistamines for the symptoms, like swelling, itchy skin, and eyes. This will alleviate these symptoms and you will feel much better.

Conclusion

There you have it! Mold allergy is also a very common type of allergy and it can be treated with medicine and preventative measures. For diagnosis and treatment, never delay your visit to an allergy clinic Germantown.

What Do I Need To Do To Add On To My House

A home addition is an exciting yet stressful experience. With so many options, homeowners often find themselves struggling to come up with the right additions. Since the rate of returns on practical home additions is comparatively more than homes without one, it is logical that more and more homeowners are looking for home additions and spending time on home addition designs. So, let’s take you through the process of what you need to do to transform your old house into a dream home.

Ask Yourself How Much Are You Willing To Spend?

The first and most important thing you should ask yourself when it comes to home additions is the amount you are willing to spend. Surprisingly, the majority of homeowners ignore this question, which leads to trouble down the road. The thing is that a home addition is a broad idea. This means that you can pretty much do anything as long as you are willing to spend money.

However, not everyone has an unlimited budget. That said, you will need to consider the foundational, labor, and other additional costs. Having an estimate of the project will give you a better idea of what you can and cannot do considering your budget. The last thing you would want is the total cost surpassing your planned budget, turning your savings to zero.

Do I Need A Contractor?

Yes, a home addition without a contractor will simply be a silly mistake. Depending on your home addition, you may require permits from the local authorities and this is where a contractor comes in. Plus, contractors have sufficient experience and skills along with expert labor who will make sure the work is done properly and according to the standards.

However, finding a good builder is difficult. You will need to put in some time and effort until you can find a trustworthy contractor. Once you have found one, interview them and share your ideas. Finally, close the deal via a mutual contract so that you are protected by law as well.

Check If You Can Remodel An Existing Space

Remember, a home addition does not come cheap. It is going to cost you money one way or the other. Therefore, it is not wise to jump straight to planning a room addition. If you are a bit smart and clever, you should look around if you can remodel an existing space. The reason is that remodels are relatively cheaper and more affordable than home additions.

Maybe you have a basement or an attic that needs a bit of renovation and upgrades to turn it into a living space. Plus, if you want to expand a particular area of the house such as the kitchen, you can remodel it and make some space for new additions.

Check If Foundation Work Needs To Be Done

Before you can begin building the foundation, you will need to consult an architect too. Regardless of the size of the project, an architect will help you use the available space most effectively and efficiently. In most cases, room additions get a full-scale foundation so, building the foundation is a pre-requisite. It can take many days or weeks and is carried out by experts.

But it might be that you do not need any foundation work. This will cut costs. However, you cannot be so sure until you have consulted your contractor and architect. If you have a slightly old house, the foundation might be intact and the contractor won’t need to correct it before adding new space to your house. That said, make sure if your home addition project requires any foundation work to be done.

Decide If You Want To Build Up Or Out

Building up is less expensive as it does not require any foundation and excavation work. But you will need the help of an architect since building up is relatively more complicated than staying on the ground.

However, if you want to build out, that is going to save you money as well but such additions are usually used as home offices, garages, and guesthouses.

Final Word

Home additions can make your money worth it if done the right way. But if you are careless, you might find your investment going down the drain. Therefore, ask yourself the questions mentioned above before planning a home addition so that you are aware of the pros and cons, and then contact architects builders DC.

Pros And Cons Of Dolomite Countertops

There are so many natural stone materials for countertops to choose from such as marble and granite countertops. Sometimes, the choice of material can become difficult. So, here is everything you need to know about another natural stone, dolomite.

Pros Of Dolomite Countertops

It Is Similar To Marble In Looks

If you are looking for a countertop material that is strikingly similar to marble in looks and feels but is stronger and more durable than it and also less expensive, then dolomite is the perfect stone to go for.

It is a great stone that has similar veining and pattern on its surface which is usually found on marble. You will love the look of dolomite and your kitchen will also look extremely beautiful. The colors of dolomite countertops are also quite the same as marble, so it’s safe to say that both stones have a lot of similarities in appearance.

It Resists Heat Well

One of the great things about dolomite is that it resists heat like a champ. It is one of the few materials which will not have those pesky dark heat stains which are a pain to remove. It is a great material if you are someone who handles hot things directly on the countertop surface.

With other natural stones and materials, you need to be careful not to let the hot stuff touch the surface of the countertop, otherwise, they will stain and crack over time. Not with dolomite though, you have complete liberty to use hot pots and pans directly on the surface.

It Is Less Expensive

As mentioned before, dolomite is a great alternative to marble. It is also a great substitute for expensive stones which are all about looks and have no durability. Dolomite is not only reasonably durable, but it is also a great material price-wise.

You don’t need to spend a huge fortune on a countertop material when you have the option of dolomite. It is extremely reasonable in price and it also lasts longer, so you have yourself a great deal which shouldn’t be missed.

It Is Available In Ample Quantities

Dolomite is found in the depths of the Earth. It is a sedimentary rock and is made up of sediments or small particles of different stones. Pulverized marble, limestone, and other stones make up dolomite.

One of the reasons why dolomite is so reasonably priced is that it is available in ample quantities all over the planet. It is not a precious or rare stone and it can be mined from anywhere. It’s available in huge quantities and there are tons of manufacturers which take these huge slabs of dolomite and convert them into slabs for kitchen countertops.

Cons Of Dolomite Countertops

It Is Prone To Scratches

Dolomite is durable, but one of the biggest drawbacks of dolomite is that it is prone to scratches. Sedimentary rocks are soft on the outside and any sharp object can produce a nasty scratch which will be a hassle to get fixed.

You need to be careful that you are not letting any sharp object like a knife or needle get in contact with the surface of dolomite, otherwise, it will scratch and then you will need to have the scratch filled, which is just another task to maintain the countertop. If you don’t fill in the scratch on time, it may penetrate deeper and cause further damage.

It Is Porous

Dolomite is a sedimentary rock, so it is porous. If you are familiar with the types of rocks, you will know that sedimentary rocks are extremely porous and water or any other substance can go into the rock and penetrate to its core. The same goes for dolomite. This is why you need to have them sealed if you want to use them in the kitchen.

Sealing the countertop will make it waterproof and will make it last longer, but it can be tedious for some people, which is totally understandable.

Conclusion

There you have it! Now you know all of the good and bad about dolomite countertops, so, you can decide more easily what material should you select for your countertops. Visit the store of granite countertop installers Durham NC to find different types of natural stone and engineered countertop materials.