TABLE OF CONTENTS How to Infuse Living Spaces with Color that Feeds the Soul............................. 5 National Study Shows What Homeowners Really Want From Their Roofs....... 7 7 Steps to Save Money on a Remodel.................................................................. 9 Create a Home Office that Works........................................................................ 12 Ways to Use Brick and Stone to Enhance Your Home........................................ 18
HomeFinder October 2021 • 3
Living Spaces
TO INFUSE
H O W
With Color That
(Family Features) From experiences to surroundings, the past year has brought a renewed focus on feeding the soul. In an era of overstimulation and information overload, many are finding a new appreciation for living life minimally but with maximum experiences.
Explore color combinations and get inspired to bring healing design elements into your own home at hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com.
Feeds the Soul Sherwin-Williams, colors work in perfect harmony in any combination. Thoughtful use of color is among the most effective design tools for reveal-worthy style in your home.
Appliances In the past, appliances were meant to blend into the decor to be less obvious, albeit essential, elements of a kitchen. A more contemporary approach: vibrant appliances that get noticed. You can find major appliances in a wide range of colors, but if you’re not sure about going that big and bold, many smaller countertop appliances, such as stand mixers and toasters, come in a range of colorful options, too.
Architecture When contemplating where and how to apply color to a space, avoid boxing in your options. Think beyond the traditional wall space when you’re planning ways to change the color in a space; be thoughtful with color and highlight architectural details to elevate the interest and charm in your home. Take a 360-degree immersive color approach, painting the same shade from floor to ceiling and all around to create a mood-boosting lift to a room. To infuse more color and boldness into your space, consider a timeless and elegant shade of red, like HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ 2021 Color of the Year. This paint color, “Passionate,” is
That mentality is increasingly evident in all aspects of life, especially with home design and decor. After all, spending more time at home means more time to discover what truly evokes happiness. At the same time, as the focus on physical and mental wellness heightens, design experts see those trends reflected in a more considered approach to design inspired by color therapy, which makes it possible to create beautiful spaces filled with healing color. With an expertly coordinated color palette, like the Color Collections from HGTV Home by
Home Finder October 2021 • 5
a deeply saturated hue that is daringly rich and invigorates the senses. This bold and empowering red is steeped in history, merging modern design with traditional charm.
cabinetry as a showpiece. These color palettes create inspiring spaces that invite you to get busy baking or simply pull up a chair and linger over a cup of coffee.
Furniture
If you’re concerned about how to Elements like window treatments, bring a color Whether you’re palette into project blankets, pillows and rugs lend together, consider pieces you important detail and character to a using a collection can transform room, and they’re also a relatively that has been into something intentionally curated to new or simply affordable way to make mix and match shades for shopping for noticeable changes. a perfect look no matter furnishings which hues you choose. that comYou can easily achieve a new plement your space, look with an option like the Delightfully be sure to consider how Daring Color Collection from HGTV the furniture fits into the overall color Home by Sherwin-Williams. With scheme. A space isn’t defined by the earthy tones inspired by color of its walls or floors alone. nature and a dose of vibrancy, the Selecting furniture that fits with the shades are simultaneously energizing design brings a more cohesive and and calming. The palette makes it easy stylized feel to the room. For example, to introduce statement colors in a desk and bookshelves in pale natural unexpected ways so you can feel hues can lend warmth to an office with confident in your selections. walls painted a cool dynamic blue.
Cabinets Painted cabinets are on-trend, and if you’re bored with basic whites and grays, you’re not alone. Designers are going bold in the kitchen and using
6 • HomeFinder October 2021
Textiles Elements like window treatments, blankets, pillows and rugs lend important detail and character to a room, and they’re also a relatively
affordable way to make noticeable changes. The key is to establish cohesion in the space so no one element is overpowering. Softer tones and natural textures can help bring balance to bold hues while vibrant shades create a colorful pop against a more neutral backdrop. To keep the balance, start with your color statement, whether it’s bold bedding in an otherwise neutral bedroom or softer shades in the accent pieces for a room with strong color applied to the decorative molding. Explore color combinations and get inspired to bring healing design elements into your own home at hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com.
Incorporate Color Like a Pro * Balance the boldness of red with soft whites and natural textures. * Rustic reds and natural wood elements add warmth to a cool backdrop. * An invigorating green hue pairs beautifully with brass, copper and rich wood tones. * For a soft, monochromatic look that’s full of complexity and dimension, add layers of texture with furnishings in the same color for a 3D color look. * Carry bold color onto ceilings for a truly immersive experience.
(StatePoint) Replacing your roof? Insights from a new nationwide survey may help you better understand the many facets involved in this important decision.
slate and shake tiles, which are guaranteed to hold up to severe weather conditions.”
• An increase in homeowners seeing their home exterior as a reflection of their personality (71% in 2011; 85% in 2021).
Contractors are Influential The “2021 Roof Purchasing Study” conducted by Signet Research Inc. for DaVinci Roofscapes, shows that consumers want durable roofs. Nearly 85% of those surveyed indicate that durability has a lot of influence in the type of roof they would purchase. Longevity of a roofing product was the second highest influencer, followed by resistance to severe weather. Mother Nature Match-Up Study results indicate that severe weather damage is the most likely event to prompt homeowners to replace their current roofs, followed by age of their existing roof. When it does become necessary to replace the roof, 32% of respondents indicate they are “very likely” or “likely” to consider a faux roofing product, such as composite slate or shake materials, which typically stands up to severe weather and is known for its longevity. “Mother Nature pounds roofs on a regular basis,” says Mark Pagel, general manager of DaVinci Roofscapes. “Homeowners recognize that hail, high winds and severe weather can take their toll on roofs. They’re reacting by seeking out roofing materials that will stand up to strong weather conditions. While price is an important consideration, respondents of the survey are focused more on value. They’re interested in investing in durable roofing materials, like synthetic
When it comes time to select a specific roofing brand, 61% of homeowners are looking for a quality product. To find that roofing brand, 57% are relying on their contractor for recommendations, which is more than they do on family and friends (35%), or even their own personal experiences with a brand (37%). “Homeowners understand they may choose a new roof only once or twice in their lives,” says Pagel. “They also understand that contractors make these decisions many times a year for their projects. The research indicates homeowners respect and value the recommendation of contractors who work regularly with different building products.” 10-Year Comparison A national survey sponsored by DaVinci Roofscapes in 2011 provides insights into changes in consumer attitudes toward their homes in the span of the last decade. In a comparison of the 2011 Color Study (conducted by Harris Research) and the 2021 Roof Purchasing Study, results show: • A strong growth in homeowners valuing the curb appeal of their personal properties in the past decade (78% viewing it as “extremely” or “very important” in 2011 as compared to 88% with similar feelings in 2021).
• While durability remains the biggest influencer of a roofing purchase, the second-most popular influencer has changed dramatically. In 2011, longevity was the second response. In 2021, that has changed to pricing, up from the number eight position 10 years ago. • Severe weather damage remains the number one reason for replacing a roof. However, is 2011, 65% said severe weather would prompt a new roof purchase (with 9% reporting current roof damage from a weather-related event), compared to 57% in 2021 (with 32% reporting a currently damaged roof from severe weather). • While 23% of homeowners reported replacing their roof due to old age in 2011, 44% (almost double) said old age was the reason to replace a roof in the 2021 study. • Color preference has remained consistent. Black is still the most popular roof color, followed by gray, brown and beige/tan. For more roofing insights, visit davinciroofscapes.com. Bottom line? A new roof can be a good, solid investment, especially when your roof is able to withstand the elements over the years and look great while doing it.
HomeFinder October 2021 • 7
7 STEPS
$AVE MONEY ON A TO
(Family Features) Every homeowner has a defined budget he or she can allocate toward a remodeling project. Even if funds were unlimited, it’s still in a homeowner’s best interest to secure the best value for each dollar invested in a remodeling project, ultimately increasing HomeFinder 2021 • 9 the value October of the home.
4. Pay attention to project details. It’s critical to ensure every detail of labor and material is specified in the agreement with the remodeler. If it’s not included in the written agreement, it’s likely not included in the work scope. Ask your remodeler what labor and materials are not included and determine what additional expenses you’ll likely incur to complete the project. 5. Ask how you can help reduce costs.
Consider these tips from the experts at the National Association for the Remodeling Industry to help save money on your next project. 1. Determine how far your budget will go. Create a wish list of everything you want to accomplish. Disregard cost and simply write down everything you can dream of. Prioritize items from “must haves” to “nice but not necessary.” Find a contractor who will work with you to determine whether your wish list is attainable for the funds you are willing to invest in your home. 2. Decide how to handle budget overages. If you can’t get far enough down the list with the available money, you could choose to stop the process and continue saving, investigate financing options, re-evaluate your wish list or consider material substitutions. 3. Make material selections you can afford. Every project will have a set of required materials, but there are options when it comes to variety, style and quality.
10 • Home Finder October 2021
* Cabinets: Subtle changes like forgoing custom rustic cherry cabinets with plywood cabinet sides for regular cherry cabinets with furniture board sides can achieve the same look at a lower cost. * Countertops: Natural stone and quartz countertops are popular, but advances in the design options for lower-cost countertop materials have rejuvenated their popularity, too. With the proper usage and protection, nearly all countertop materials can support your everyday needs. * Millwork: Painted millwork has dominated the market for many years and solid maple is the preferred choice because the tight grain allows for a beautiful, smooth surface. However, the cost is multiple times that of vinyl and equally appealing when finished properly. * Flooring: Advances in synthetic materials make them difficult to distinguish from natural products. Synthetics generally come with lower cost and more durability, making them a simple substitute for natural products like stone, wood, brick and marble.
Talk to your contractor about tasks or materials you can provide that would reduce the project cost without affecting its schedule. This might include jobsite clean-up or obtaining certain materials the contractor would otherwise spend considerable time securing. 6. Plan ahead for project timing. Ask for a potential timeframe for completing the project, as well as any factors that could affect the schedule so you can anticipate costs such as eating out more often while the kitchen is being renovated or renting living or storage space. 7. Know how you’ll resolve disputes. Because of the unique stresses induced by remodeling projects, it’s a good idea to determine before you begin how disputes will be resolved, such as adding an arbitration clause to the agreement that eliminates expensive legal representation. A few deep breaths and a solution-minded approach can also save more than money if conflict arises. Find more money-saving advice for your next remodeling project at remodelingdoneright.com.
PLAN 1784
PLAN 1465 $199,500 $184,000
PLAN 2045
$214,900 $198,900
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
$227,900 $211,750
PLAN 2122
PLAN 1971
PLAN SR-Belton, TX: 1571 GNR-Killeen,TX:
$231,000 $212,900
$222,900 $201,900
PLAN 1594 SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
PLAN 1973
PLAN 2224
PLAN 1676
$203,500 $186,500
$246,900 $226,900
$223,900 $206,500
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
Specializing in Custom Homes and Commercial Construction
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
SR-Belton, TX: GNR-Killeen,TX:
$203,000 $184,900
$206,900 $189,900
(Family Features) Although a
growing number of businesses are reopening their in-person office spaces, many are maintaining remote workforces or implementing hybrid schedules. While the shift signals steps toward more traditional, familiar work environments, it also presents some challenges.
than everything else in a home printer, according to survey participants. You may also agree with the 52% of remote workers who indicated that if they were considering buying a new home printer in the future, it must be easy to use, and a simple set-up process was a leading demand. One convenient and simple option is the HP+ smart printing system, which is powered by a cloud-based ecosystem with enhanced security, productivity and sustainability features. Paired with an optional Instant Ink automated supplies replenishment subscription, an environmentally friendly solution to ensure you never run out of ink or toner, the system offers a perfect solution for hybrid workers and small businesses. Start Small If your temporary remote work schedule is headed for a more permanent status, or if you’ll be straddling both worlds indefinitely, it may be time to make some changes to ensure your home office is up to the task.
Another common challenge: access to a printer. More than one-fourth of desk-based workers ranked having access to the office printer among the top three things they miss about the in-office experience.
Do Your Research
If your home office isn’t already equipped with a printer or you need to upgrade, you may be wondering where to start. Convenience is more important
Before making any significant purchases, do some digging to learn all you can about the devices and equipment you’re considering, especially if you’re planning to create an efficient setup using smart technology. While many devices work well together, that’s not always the case. You should also be aware of the controls and how you’ll manage smart functions; choose the setup that’s most intuitive for you and fits best with your workflow.
Establishing a well-equipped home office takes time and money. Identify the equipment and essentials you need to get started then create a wish list with other items you can add over time. As you’re setting priorities, remember it can pay to invest in quality products from the get-go. If you have to make repairs, or upgrade or replacement equipment, you may actually spend more in the long run.
Identify Unique Requirements A successful home office needs to reflect the needs of your particular job, so you may need special equipment or tools specific to your role. For example, 63% of desk-based workers said having to collaborate with colleagues virtually is either a challenge or major barrier to working remotely, with 24% saying it is a major barrier, according to a survey by HP. If your job typically relies heavily on collaboration, you’ll probably need a video conference setup.
HomeFinder October 2021 • 13
Get a Strong Network At the office, you probably had an IT department responsible for keeping your network up and running. At home, you may still have some level of tech support, but your home connectivity is likely your own concern. A good network starts with a quality router. You’ll also want to shop for an internet provider with the best speeds at a rate you can afford. Just be conscious of any restrictions on volume or speed that could hinder your ability to do your job.
Keep Security in Mind Smart devices collect a lot of information and because much of the technology is still so new, it’s relatively vulnerable to hackers. Get familiar with privacy settings on all your devices and adjust accordingly so you’re not divulging proprietary data or other information that could be used inappropriately. Learn how to make your home office work for you at hp.com.
Tips for Finding the Right Printer Features: A basic printer simply prints documents, but if you need to also copy, scan and fax, there are many all-in-one models that offer those capabilities, as well. Inkjet vs. Laser: If you normally print text with few images, opt for a laser printer. If your work involves a lot of graphics and photos, an inkjet printer may be a better choice. Supplies: Depending on how much you print, you may go through a lot of ink, and the cost can add up. Comparison shop to find the best ink prices, which brands offer features like recycling for used cartridges and whether you can access a subscription to ensure you never run out of ink or paper before a big deadline. Cord Connections: Some printers require a wired connection to your computer while others can connect to your computer using Wi-Fi or an app like HP Smart App. Aside from personal preference, your decision may hinge on the space you have available.
14 • HomeFinder October 2021
JWC RENTALS #12713
W ays
Brick e and s to U Stone to
(Family Features) Choosing the right materials is an essential step in planning a home remodel or renovation. Options like brick and stone can add style, comfort and beauty to homes. With a diverse array of colors, textures and sizes to choose from, there are options to suit practically any design aesthetic, whether it’s traditional, contemporary or somewhere in between. Because brick and stone materials provide strength, permanence, sustainability and beauty, it’s possible to balance function with appearance.
Before choosing your brick or stone material, it’s a good idea to explore the vast color options, varying textures and sizes. You might even consider combining different materials to create accents that add interest and support the design of your home. If you like the idea of incorporating brick or stone into your design but are not sure where it fits, consider these popular choices: Accent Walls: If you’re concerned about overpowering a room, an accent wall is a simple way to add the
appealing look of brick or stone in moderation. The wall can add character and dimension that either stands out or blends into the overall design, depending on the colors and textures you choose. Kitchens: From flooring to island accents, backsplashes and beyond, the options are plentiful for introducing brick or stone into kitchen design. Whether you’re going for a modern look or something more traditional, quality is a top priority in high-use areas like the kitchen. Choose materials from a reliable source like Glen-Gery, which
HomeFinder October 2021 • 19
any structural damage after a fire and can be re-used, even as load bearing walls. Design Flexibility: Brick comes in styles to suit any building project and is a popular material choice among architects and designers because of its design flexibility, strong structural capabilities and intricate detailing. Noise Cancelling: Whether between rooms within a home or from outside noise, brick provides sound insulation. Durable: Brick is long-lasting. Unlike other man-made materials, brick doesn’t get tired, so your brick home remains weather- and age-proof over time. Energy Efficient: Brick is a high-density material, meaning it can effectively absorb and store heat energy to help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Its ability to average temperature extremes can make a noticeable difference in comfort while also reducing energy bills. offers more than 600 brick and stone products in a vast variety of sizes, textures and colors. Bar Surrounds: This feature tends to be a focal point in its own right but adding brick or stone can make your bar area a real showstopper while capturing the color tones of the rest of the room. Archways: Defining the transition from one space to the next adds an architectural design element that can either carry your design theme from one room of the house to the next or signal a transition toward a new motif, depending on the material you choose. Find more ideas for a home upgrade using brick or stone at glengery.com. UNBEATABLE BENEFITS OF BRICK Resilience: Brick is incredibly resilient. It’s weather and storm proof. As a result, it’s better able to withstand the diverse weather conditions across North America from natural disasters to extreme heat in fire prone regions. Brick is also termite resistant.
20 • HomeFinder October 2021
Low Maintenance: Brick does not require any painting, coating or varnishing in order to maintain its aesthetic and durability. Fireproof: Brick is non-combustible and doesn’t assist the spread of fire, making it ideal for building in wildfire-prone areas. Clay bricks normally don’t suffer
Natural: Brick is manufactured from naturally occurring materials and does not emit volatile organic compounds as many lightweight products do. With virtually no emissions and high thermal mass, brick is also a good choice for health-conscious homeowners with acute allergies or sensitivities to weather.
22 • HomeFinder October 2021
ADVERTISING YOUR HOME SERVICES IN THE
DAILY HERALD CLASSIFIEDS?
Ask your sales representative for more information or contact (254) 501-7500.
HomeFinder October 2021 • 23
