Your
THE VALLEY’S REMODEL & DESIGN MAGAZINE
HOME REMODEL MAGAZINE SOUTHERN LEHIGH & NORTHAMPTON COUNTIES
Breathtaking bathrooms Luxurious trends to add to your remodel
Gorgeous Countertops Find the perfect fit for your home
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Your
HOME REMODEL MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Welcome
home!
And welcome to the
premier issue of Lehigh Valley Your Home Remodel
Magazine, your guide to local inspiration and resources to making your house the home of your dreams. Our goal is to share with our Lehigh Valley the best localized advice and info on maintaining your home’s value, increasing its efficiency and OF COURSE making it look absolutely gorgeous! We love home design and we can’t wait to inspire you with all the limitless possibilities at your fingertips. In every issue we’ll introduce you to local trusted home professionals who are happy to
Contents 8
share their expertise with you.
GORGEOUS COUNTERTOPS From granite to quartz, learn how to select the right countertop to fit your design dreams and your family’s needs
We began Your Home Remodel Magazine after a chance meeting reconnected us. We had worked together several years back at a magazine together. As
10 KITCHEN TRENDS TO SPICE UP 2020
What’s hot for the new year and beyond? Read
two working moms with a passion for home design
about our favorite kitchen trends that you’ll
and remodel, we saw an exciting opportunity to create
want to consider for your kitchen remodel.
something new for the community that combined digital and print into one seamless resource. Over count-
14 BREATHTAKING BATHROOMS
less diner breakfast meetings, Your Home Remodel
The latest bathroom innovations and designs
Magazine was born. I’ve worked for over 20 years in
make getting the spa treatment at home oh-so
publishing, both at the national level and locally within
doable.
the home improvement industry as advertising manager, while Jackie has led content for some of the region’s top publications. Together, we’re looking forward
17
FOUR STEPS TO THE CLOSET OF YOUR DREAMS
to bringing you the best this region has to offer! So let’s
Local experts give you the inside tricks to
get comfy and start getting inspired. What dream room
maximizing your space
do you want to create today?
20 WINTERIZING YOUR HOME IN THE LEHIGH VALLEY
Staying warm & cozy all winter long with these
Tina DeSantis Perrotta Publisher, Your Home Remodel Magazine 6
www.yhrmag.com
energy efficiency tips
Your
VISIT
HOME REMODEL
MAGAZINE
Serving Southern Lehigh & Northampton Counties A Remodeling and Design Magazine www.YHRMAG.com
YHRMAG.com
Publisher Tina DeSantis Perrotta tina@yhrmag.com
and check out our Resource Directory to ďŹ nd a local home improvement pro near you!
Editor Jacqueline Rupp jackie@yhrmag.com Contributors Lauren Austin Kyle Beauchemin Art Director Michael E. Balisi Production Deanne Janczak Director of Sales & Marketing Tina DeSantis Perrotta Tina@YHRMAG.com Digital Media/WEBSITE Vitris, LLC TryVitris.com Advertising Information Call: 215-297-5013
Your Home Remodel Media LLC DBA Your Home Remodel Magazine house and home reserves the right to determine the suitability of all material submitted for publication and to edit all submitted material for clarity and space. Your Home Remodel Magazine (YHR) is a news magazine with emphasis on home repair and remodeling YHR does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content nor does YHR or its staff, editors, or writers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publications. Readers are encouraged to notify YHR if they suspect false or misleading advertising. Before attempting any renovation or repair project mentioned in YHR, readers are advised to consult with professional home repair and renovation specialists for assistance and to take any and all appropriate safety precautions. Your Home Remodel Magazine has not independently tested any products or services advertised hearin and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. YHR Magazine makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding the services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and or other home improvement and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of advertisers’ products. Your Home Remodel Media PO Box 681 Abington, PA 19001 215-297-5013 www.yhrmag.com
Call 215-297-5013 for more information or email at INFO@YHRMAG.com
7
Gorgeous Countertops
by: Lauren Austin
Updating your countertops can completely change the overall
there is no shortage of material types from which you can
appearance of your kitchen. There are many variables you
choose. Some more popular options include granite, quartz,
should consider when deciding to install new countertops. You’ll
marble, onyx, and quartzite. Some fantastic benefits come from
need to find a material that suits your needs, as well as a color
each of these materials. It will definitely benefit you to see each
that will fit well into your kitchen’s color scheme. You may be
in person, so a few trips to local countertop suppliers will be
looking to achieve a sleek, modern look or maybe you want
time well spent. Here you can see how they look in real life and
to give a rustic update with your new countertops. Whatever
feel the differences in texture. Narrow down your favorites, then
you’re seeking to gain from replacing your kitchen surfaces,
weight out their qualities.
GRANITE COUNTERTOPS Granite is an incredibly attractive countertop material, and it will add a gorgeous flair to your kitchen. Here’s a fun fact about granite: it resists heat. Therefore, if you’re using your range or stovetop very frequently during your time in the kitchen, granite might be the ideal countertop material. Also, granite is an incredibly durable surface material. It can stand up to lots of usages, so it should maintain quality and appearance despite many years of wear and tear. Also, granite countertops do not stain when they are adequately sealed. If you hire an installation expert, they can ensure that your granite countertops are effectively sealed so that you can live without fear of countertop stains. There are many cool aspects of granite, and the only major downside of granite countertops is that they tend to be on the more expensive side. However, investing in granite countertops and the services of an expert to see them appropriately installed will lead to satisfying, long-lasting results.
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MARBLE COUNTERTOPS Marble countertops are a porous surface, meaning that these countertops are likely to have different substances seep into them over time. If you cook frequently, you’ll need to repeat the sealing process for your marble countertops every six months. An installation expert can help you initially seal your marble countertops, but due to the structure of marble, you’ll need to keep it up to prevent staining. Marble is also much more prone to scratching than other kitchen surface materials. Marble is softer and less durable of a stone than granite. Marble is heat resistant, which is a nice plus. If you don’t mind taking extra care of your countertops, or if you’re not cooking in your kitchen very frequently, then marble countertops might be a good choice for you. Marble countertops can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen, and they’re definitely worth considering for your next kitchen update.
ONYX COUNTERTOPS Onyx is a rare, vibrant stone that will set the countertops in your kitchen apart. Onyx does tend to scratch easily, and many people feel that it does not age well because of this fact. Like marble countertops, you will need to reseal these countertops frequently to maintain and preserve its beauty. Light can shine through onyx, so you can opt to backlight your countertops to create a more dramatic effect in your kitchen. Onyx can be a striking addition to your updated kitchen; however, it is incredibly fragile and prone to scratches and marks. If you’re hard on your countertops, onyx may not be the best choice for you. Onyx countertops also tend to be on the more expensive side. If you’re curious to learn more about onyx countertops, it would be worthwhile to contact a home installation service and consult with them about whether onyx countertops are the best choice for you.
QUARTZITE COUNTERTOPS Quartzite countertops are actually more durable than granite. It is similar in appearance to marble, but offers the strength and lasting ability of granite. Quartzite also requires little to no sealing work, as it is one of the least porous countertop materials. Quartzite countertops are probably the most low-maintenance material option you could choose for your kitchen. Quartzite offers the stunning appearance of marble and the durability of granite. A professional can help you measure, select, and install your perfect new quartzite countertops.
HIRE AN INSTALLATION PROFESSIONAL TODAY To get the absolute best results from your countertop update,
Garden State Tile Countertop file: Crossville Porcelain Countertops from Garden State Tile in Wheat Field Color available at Garden State Tile
you need to use the services of an installation professional. You can have help selecting the best material for your kitchen needs. Also, a professional can measure the stone of your choice so that it fits perfectly in your kitchen. Plus, an installation service can handle the hard work of actually putting your new countertops into your kitchen so that you can just simply enjoy the results. If you’re considering updating your countertops, hire
Resource Box Eastern Surfaces Allentown, PA 18103 (610) 266-3121 www.easternsurfaces.com
Garden State Tile Emrick Pkwy, Bethlehem, PA www.gstile.com
an installation professional today! www.yhrmag.com
9
K
itchen Trends To Spice Up 2020 By: Kyle Beauchemin
Home improvement trends can become outdated rather quickly, however, this year seems to be to the contrary. Mixing technology of the future with those smooth sleek textures of the past, modern is still going to be the trend designers are shooting for, but how will the past and future be incorporated into these modern layouts? Think smart on presentation and open up that cooking space for preparation. Soft metal accents are leaving kitchens looking exquisite, along with open shelving options to display remarkable kitchenware. What is going to be the number one remodeling trend for the kitchen in 2019? Here are some trending topics straight from designers.
Garden State Kitchen: White on white subway tile accented with gold hardware is very on trend for 2020. Photo courtesy Garden State Tile from their GSP Maritime Collection, clearwater color.
ISLANDS AND PENINSULAS Islands have been a vital part of the kitchen since they were first placed in homes, offering an incredible gathering place for family and friends. The addition of bar stools to this time-tested center piece allows for extra available seating. This is the perfect place to add those remarkable must have stools. The center of any room is where the action happens, it is a given why this design has lasted through the ages. Peninsulas are seated against a wall, offering three sides and freeing the room up a bit. The kitchen provides an opportunistic place to come together amongst the hectic lives of family members, frequently becoming the liveliest space in the house. 10
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BENCHES AND BANQUETTES The all in one seating option for the kitchen. This is like having a sectional placed around the kitchen table, talk about comfort. Offering a spectacular touch and making that kitchen space multifunctional. Bench and banquette style seating offer the perfect place to read and drink coffee each morning. Conventional seating can also be offered in conjunction, creating a warming place for everyone to sit back and relax. Expect to see more of this seating arrangement in houses everywhere, it is all about options when it comes to kitchen guests. Explore all the styles out there and be creative, this trend is a for sure in the future.
SOFT METAL ACCENTS Start thinking copper and brass, no wonder this trend is flowing so steady. These soft metals have a color comparable to rose gold and warm up any kitchen space. Sinks and faucets are one way to incorporate these old school metals into that modern update. Brighten the kitchen up with copper light fixtures; they are offered in various styles, which can be worked into almost any design. Trim work is also an option, along with that copper kettle. Quality trim will accent the rest of the kitchen quite nicely and showing off that copper cookware adds an intense old time feel.
FULL SLAB BACKSPLASH Looks are just one of the positive aspects to single slabs, that constant flowing surface makes everything look sleek and smooth. Easy clean up adds that must have practicality for the modern kitchen
(484) 901-5777 1314 W. Tilghman St., Allentown SchulerKitchensAndBaths.com
space. It is quite painless to wipe down a single surface compared to the never-ending lines of grout between each
CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INTIAL DESIGN CONSULTATION IN OUR NEW SHOWROOM
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11
tile. No matter if it’s marble, glass, wood, or metal that vast backsplash makes your kitchen appear larger, and a roomy cooking area is a must have for the future success of any at home chef. If looks and practicality are not enough, the simplicity of a continuous backsplash leaves the rest of the kitchen looking lavish.
OPEN SHELVING Forget those standard cupboards, open that shelving up to present that beautiful dishware of the past. Think of all that kitchen cookware, hidden behind closed doors. This new modern design allows homeowners to showcase all those kitchen essentials; presenting guests a place to feast upon innovation, while awaiting a delicious meal in preparation. Get those items out that make the kitchen heat up, after all, good money was spent so sport it. No matter the material, design, or color scheme, this trend for 2019 is sure to persist far into the future.
SHROUDED RANGE HOODS There is nothing worse than an astounding kitchen with a plain old hood placed overhead. It makes a warming home kitchen seem industrialized, and not in a good way. Cover things up a bit and create an appealing new look, concealed vents offer a modern solution. It is also a great way to add some fresh style to your kitchen and present a stark design over those standard range hoods. Sure to be on the rise in popularity for years to come, everyone knows the eye sore industrial vents end up being when left uncovered. Hopefully, ideas of that dream kitchen are brewing up inside and these lasting trends will confidently be incorporated into designs that are one of a kind. Which of these holds the highest value, is it technology, form, or function? A combination of all three facets make the difference between basic and inim-
CONTACT THESE LOCAL KITCHEN REMODELERS TO DISCUSS YOUR NEXT PROJECT: Garden State Tile Bethlehem, PA 610-694-9774 www.gstile.com Eastern Surfaces Allentown, PA 610-266-3121 www.easternsurfaces.com Schuler Kitchen & Bath Allentown, PA (484) 901-5777 www.SchulerKitchensAndBaths.com
Islands don’t need to just be a rectangle anymore. Adding extra square footage can increase not only their functionality, but like this example from Schuler Kitchen & Bath, can create a true centerpiece for the home. Photo Credit: Schuler Kitchen & Bath
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B
REATHTAKING athrooms
Whether it’s a simple addition to your current bathroom or a full bathroom remodel, here are just a few of the possibilities that are trending and easy for a professional contractor to incorporate into your design. Before starting your design, it pays to look at new bathroom remodels and create two lists: musthaves and wish-list items. This way you can let your bathroom remodeling pro know exactly the look you’re going for and the functions you need most. Here’s a few of our favorite trends we’re seeing popping up in new homes and in the retail market that are sure to make your bathroom extra functional and fashion-forward:
1. MAKE ROOM Let your bathtub be the centerpiece of your bathroom remodel and make a real impact. A bath can be the ultimatum luxurious statement piece, so give it the space to show it off. And if you’re looking for a way to incorporate a tub into your shower design, consider placing a stand alone tub inside your shower and take advantage of all the functional benefits of this water-safe space.
2. GLASS GLOW Glass We fear for the shower curtain industry because today every bathroom remodel seems to demand glass doors. And who can blame us for loving the look. Any size bathroom im-
Creating a focal point of a gorgeous tub accented by lighting and tile like these by Garden State Tile Stone Collection can transform a bathroom remodel
mediately feels more spacious with the addition of glass doors. Hardware also can give added gleam to an already glistening bathroom remodel. Easy to clean, they create an almost open floor plan and allow you to show off your gorgeous shower and tub fixtures.
3. TRICKED OUT SHOWERS Did someone say gorgeous shower and tub fixtures? Gone are the days when all you had to choose from was a few shower heads and faucet options. Now, you can get sprayed like you’re in the rainforest, massaged by jets and entertained by LED lights. The best part is that many of these options just require the right installation but are cost-effective ways to make your bathroom By adding on a little more space to your bathroom, you can add make-up vanity space and extra counter space, like in this bathroom remodeled by Schulers Kitchen & Bath.
more custom and much more fun.
4. GO BIG. If you have the option to expand out or build on to your bathroom, working with the right professional home remodeling can give you limitless possibilities. More space gives room for a double vanity, a walk-in shower or even a vanity area to store hair and make-up products with professional make-up application lighting. That’s not to say that if you have a small space you can’t get the bathroom of 14
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your dreams. There’s plenty of low-profile options now for vanities and sinks. But it’s definitely worth exploring options for expanding the bathroom with so many great features available to add.
Gold fixtures accent the neutral classic tones of these tiles by Garden State Tile Stone Collection
5. SMART TECHNOLOGY Whether it’s lights, temperature, water or sound, you can pretty much control everything in your bathroom these days with your phone. From simple exhaust fan/bluetooth speaker combos to more elaborate smart home technology that will warm you up after a shower or dim the lights in the evening, you’ll want to explore the options available to you with your remodeling professional. CONTACT THESE LOCAL BATHROOM REMODELERS TO DISCUSS YOUR NEXT PROJECT: Schuler Kitchen & Bath Allentown, PA (484) 901-5777 www.SchulerKitchensAndBaths.com Garden State Tile Bethlehem, Pa 18020 610 694-9774 www.gstile.com REBATH Quakertown, Pa 855-810-8280 www.REBATH.com/location/Quakertown
(484) 901-5777 1314 W. Tilghman St., Allentown SchulerKitchensAndBaths.com CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INTIAL DESIGN CONSULTATION IN OUR NEW SHOWROOM
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15
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STEPS TO THE CLOSET OF YOUR
Dreams
We’ve all seen those miles of closets in celebrity homes and wondered how the heck did anyone get such fabulous closets (followed by how does anyone own that many bags?). It doesn’t take a millionaire budget to get the look and functionality of a Hollywood Hills walk-in closet though. With some design pro experience and a few tricks of the trade, you too can have an envy-inspiring walk-in, tailored to your storage needs.
1. RODS OF DIFFERENT HEIGHT What sets professional designed closets apart from the standard issue organization is varying heights of rods. Instead of one stand-alone closet rod, in custom-designed closets, you’ll find much more utilization of space to expand on the quantity of items you can hang. Doubling up on hanger space means taking advantage of the bottom half of a closet (i.e. the bottomless pit of shoes) Now shirts and blouses can go on the upper rugs and pants on the lower. How organized! Bonus points for color grouping! But don’t forget to take into account your height, says Ellyn Elstein, “The Closet Lady” owner of Creative Closet. She suggests designing a truly custom closet for your height, so you don’t have trouble accessing the higher shelves.
2. SHELVING AND SHOE RACKS One of the best parts of getting your closet designed by a professional is the array of shelving options you’ll have to choose from. Shelves for shoes has to be high on everyone’s list whether you’re a lover of heels or sneakers, shelves just function so much better than any freestanding rack you’ll find at a big box store. They’ll also give you places to show off special pieces and maybe add a decorative lamp or vase. “Shelves should be made so that they hold full garments,” explains Elstein, “deep enough so you can put two stacks of sweaters side by side. Shelves that are too deep are as problematic as shelves that are too shallow.” Elstein also suggest measuring your shoes to have the right size shelving for them and avoid slanted shelves. “They cut down on the amount of shoes you can store.”
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17
TIPS
3. DRAWERS Wallets, purses, belts, jewelry, scarves -- the list of things you can house is drawers is practically endless -- so make
FROM THE PROS:
sure you and your closet designer save plenty of room for them in your space. Throw a few extra into any design and
Greg Ahart, Owner, Victory Closets:
we promise you they will be filled in no time. We love this idea from Elstein: “I believe drawers should only be used for underwear, socks and, pjs, Sweaters don’t go in there, t-shirts should be hung. It becomes too hard to find a t-shirt and they wrinkle easily. It actually takes longer to folder
The whole idea is to make it easy to see and access your things whether it your closet, garage, mudroom or pantry.
shirts rather than hang them, so why not just hang them right away?” She also has a great solution for our night table pocket clutter. “You can have a drawer on top in your closet that’s reserved for everything you’ve accumulated in your pockets during the day. Dump everything in there and you can even have a slot to collect loose change into.” Genius!
1. Purge. Get rid of
or donate things you just don’t use or wear
anymore. Try bagging clothing you haven’t worn in a few years and putting it aside. If time goes by and you haven’t thought about using them, maybe it’s time to make that donation. it feels great and tax deductible too.
4. ISLAND OR SEATING... OR BOTH? If you have the room in your closet for an island, it’s definitely worth considering. Although it will add on to the price of the remodel, an island with not only offer the functionality of additional storage space (think rows and rows of jewelry drawers!!) but also give some much needed counter space for laying out items and folding clothes. If you don’t have the room for a full island, consider a small vanity desk or chaise lounge which can become a major focal point and standout statement piece. “Everybody deserves to own an island,” urges Elstein. “Islands should always have more than one purpose. It could be a folding area, a packing station, while providing extra storage underneath.” Elstein suggests running power to the island to create an ironing area and convenient charging station. “The surface of an island can be granite, laminate, I suggest using a leftover piece of countertop from a bathroom remodel to make a cohesive design.”.
2. Separate your clothing helps keep it organized and easy to find. Dividing by His-Her, types of garment (shoes, pants, shirts etc..), color coordinate or placing your most used clothing to the front of your closet are great ways to accomplish this.
3. Get the most out of your available closet space. Look into your closet and if you see open wall area, you aren’t using your entire closet.
4. Install a closet organizer. This is the best way to utilize your closet space while organizing what you have. It also helps increase your home value while making it enjoyable to use your closet every day.
5. Choose the right closet system.
There’s the DIY kits that
may be a little less expensive but you’ll need some skill, tools and a weekend to install and will be limited on design and options. Or leave it to the pro’s. When using a closet company you can get a basic system to full custom with every option. Most importantly you’ll get a design that best fits your needs, maxi-
Resource Box
mizes your space as well as installation. Whatever system you choose, be sure you have the ability to adjust the layout once it’s
Creative Closets, LTD 610-433-0933 www.creativeclosets.com
installed, your needs may change and so should your storage options.
Victory Closets, LLC 484-431-2391 www.victoryclosets.com
Victory Closets LLC 484-366-1836 victoryclosetsllc@gmail.com victoryclosets.com
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19
Winterizing
Your Home in the Lehigh Valley
It’s no secret that Pennsylvania winters can be very harsh on your home. If you don’t take the proper steps, you can expose both yourself and your home to devastating consequences. There are plenty of things you can do to fortify your home now before winter begins. More specifically, you should focus most of your winterizing efforts on your windows, siding, roof, and insulation. These areas are the most prone to long-term damage from long, harsh winters. To get the best results, you should consider hiring an installation professional. You can use professional assistance to create a cozy, heat-efficient environment that will keep you safe and warm all winter long!
WINDOWS
SIDING
Most home installation experts have a superb selection of win-
There are a lot of benefits to winterizing the siding of your home,
dow products that can maximize your energy efficiency. If you
including maintaining its beauty, reducing energy waste, and
don’t adequately prepare your windows for winter, they can
keeping the cold winter air outside. An experienced home in-
cause a lot of heat to escape your home. With the Lehigh Val-
stallation professional can help you figure out the best methods
ley’s hot summers and sometimes bitter winters, you want to
to winterize your siding by inspecting and correcting any prob-
make sure your windows perform double duty, keeping out
lems within its spaces and surfaces. A professional will know
the heat in the summer and the cold in the winter. Pella Win-
the best way to winterize any cracks or weak spots to ensure
dows’ AdvancedComfort Low-E Insulating Glass with Argon for
that you don’t have to deal with mold, pests, mildew, or ener-
example, delivers strong insulation with double paned glass
gy leaks due to wintertime damage. It is vital to address these
that also blocks out most of the sun’s UV rays. Many factors
kinds of issues promptly before further damage can occur. You
go into winter preparation, such as weather stripping, replacing
may even need to update your siding entirely to ensure your
the screens or even the windows, priming and painting the ex-
home is protected for the entirety of the upcoming long winter.
posed wood, etc... Therefore, by consulting with a home instal-
Most home installation professionals can offer products from
lation professional on the best methods to prepare your win-
brands that have exceptional, long-term warranties that protect
dows for winter, you could very well be saving yourself money
the value of your siding.
and time in the future. 20
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Performance solutions require upgrades to triple pane and mixed glass thickness. Reduction in sound based on OITC ratings of Pella Lifestyle Series windows to a single-pane wood or vinyl window with an OITC of 19. Doublehung windows are not available with triple-pane glass. Calculated by using the sound transmission loss values in the 80 to 4000 Hz range as measured in accordance with ASTM E-90(09). Actual results may vary.
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Based on comparing written limited warranties of leading national wood window and wood patio door brands. See Pella written Limited Warranty for details, including exceptions and limitations, at pella.com/warranty, or contact Pella Customer Service at 877-473-5527.
ROOF There is so much planning that goes into preparing the roof of your home for winter. A professional can come in handy when it comes to winterizing your roof. They will be aware of the most efficient method to use in completing the long list of tasks that are required to winterize a roof correctly. You will have to keep all of the following in mind: reinforcing your roof to prevent ice damage, insulating pipes, sealing air leaks, weather stripping the attic, pruning trees, inspecting your fireplace and chimney, and sealing the attic. While the number of tasks required to prepare your roof for winter best may seem daunting, a professional will know how to handle them in stride. Your winter will be much more enjoyable when you know that your home is secure from the snow, ice, and cold.
INSULATION Different walls in your house may need to be patched with insulation. This can be a complicated process, as there are multiple methods you can use to get into your walls to effectively access your insulation. A home installation expert can help you figure out the most appropriate way to access the interior of the walls in your home. This way, you can negate potential damage from accessing the interior insulation incorrectly. There are a multitude of benefits to be gained from adding or implementing insulation into your home, as it will create a more energy-efficient environment. This means your home is both warmer throughout the cold winter as well as saving money on your energy bill. Updating or adding insulation to your home as a preemptive measure to prepare for the winter cold is a great way to invest your time and money.
WINTERIZE YOUR HOME TODAY There are a lot of areas of your home you should be focusing on to prepare your home for winter. A home installation expert can help you narrow down the areas you should focus on the most, whether it be your windows, siding, roof, or insulation. Also, a professional can figure out the most energy-efficient, cost-effective, and best-performing methods and products to give you the most bang for your buck. One of the smartest things you can do for yourself and your home is to prepare it for anything the upcoming Pennsylvania winter may bring. If you are in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania area, consider hiring a home installation expert today!
Resource Box Pella Windows & Doors Whitehall, PA 484-484-8702 www.pella.com/window-door-showrooms/whitehall-79102
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www.yhrmag.com
With the recent lower interest rates, many homeowners are wondering if they should refinance. To decide if refinancing is the best op�on for your family, start by asking yourself these ques�ons:
Why do you want to refinance? There are many reasons to refinance, but here are three of the most common ones: 1. Lower your interest rate and payment – This is the most popular reason. If you have a 4.75% interest rate or higher, it might be worth seeing if you can take advantage of the current lower interest rates. 2. Shorten the term of your loan – If you have a 30-year loan, it may be advantageous to change it to a 15 or 20-year. 3. Cash-out refinance – With home prices increasing, you might have enough equity to cash out and reduce other debt or invest in something else, like your children’s educa�on, a vaca�on home, or a new business.
Bo�om Line
To find out what’s right for your family, please contact me so I can help you understand your op�ons and guide you toward the best decision. Frank Mancuso, Managing Partner
NMLS# 122891 (215) 801-8799 (direct) Frank@NortheastEquitable.com www.FrankMancusoNEM.com
Northeast Equitable Mortgage, LLC is licensed by the Pa Department of Banking and Securities, the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance and the FL Office of Financial Regulation, NMLS# 894392.
fine art
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The area’s leading fabricator of natural stone, quartz & solid surface COUNTERTOPS for residential & commercial use.
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610.266.3121 easternsurfaces.com