• Allowing the fresh air in : ‘ Tis the season for spring cleaning ! When you ’ re working in the garage this spring , you may find it helpful to have a retractable screen door for the garage . Whether you are doing projects , or using the space as a place to hang out , garage screens keep fresh air in and bugs out .
• Smart windows with auto tinting : Gone are the days of having blinds to dust , with the introduction of auto-tinting windows . Newer on the market , smart windows are equipped with sensors that can read room occupancy , sunlight , and weather conditions to tint your windows appropriately . While they are still a somewhat costly option , manufacturers are marketing them as a way to save up to 20 percent on monthly energy bills .
• Going solar : The cost of going solar has dropped every year since 2009 , providing more homeowners with the option of harnessing solar energy to power their homes . Solar installations are increasing in Pennsylvania , but solar currently produces less than one percent of net electricity generation , according to the state Department of Environmental Protection . The main type of technology used to turn sunlight into energy is photovoltaics ( PV ). You ’ ll see PV devices in fields or on the rooftops of homes where panel cells absorb sunlight and create an electric field that allows electricity to flow into the home . Individual PV cells , each producing up to two watts of power , are connected to form differentsized modules to fit any home ’ s needs . The module is then connected to an electrical grid , converting direct-current electricity into alternating-current electricity that is used to power your home . Although Pittsburgh may seem to be often cloudy , there is enough sun to make investing in the technology worthwhile .
THINKING OF MAKING THE INVESTMENT ? BE SURE TO FOLLOW THESE TIPS :
1 . Shop around – As you would for any big purchase , shop around for quotes . Your first contractor may not offer you the best price for materials and installation .
2 . Do your research – There are many different options of solar panels for your home . Assess your electricity needs to determine how many panels would provide you with what you need . Whether it be solar panels installed in your yard , or solar shutters on your windows , there are several options available .
3 . Look for savings – Tax credits and incentive programs are available for those looking to lessen their carbon footprint .
INDOOR
Mixed materials are making their way into kitchens and bathrooms , thanks to a variety of new finishes available for appliances , countertops and fixtures . What were once rooms tucked away and never mentioned are now becoming gathering places for entertaining and spa-like sanctuaries sought after for relief from a long day . The kitchen and bathroom are really feeling the love this season , with punch and pizazz being added to personalize the spaces .
Bathroom
Bathrooms continue to gain importance as a space used for relaxation and meditation . Bathroom sizes are larger than they once were , bringing in more room for added features such as soaker tubs and extended shower stalls . No room to expand the bathroom walls ? Opt for an illusion of space with large tile sizes on the floor and practical storage solutions to make room for your calming sanctuary .
• Brass is back : Have brass hardware from the ‘ 90s in your bathroom ? Don ’ t get rid of it just yet ! With rose gold and copper making their way into the hardware scene last year , brass is also making a comeback . Chrome and satin are still the frontrunners , but switch up the classics for a trendier look .
• Natural stone sinks : Granite is so 2016 . Countertops are now boasting durable quartz and hand-carved stone sinks . Porcelain will always be a classic crowd favorite , but the trend is moving toward the natural look and feel of stone .
• Patterned tiles : Ceramics are enhancing bathroom floors , accent walls , and shower stalls with geometric designs and wood-like patterns . These tiles are adding a decorative touch to a room that doesn ’ t often get much decorating love .
Kitchen Although homes are trending smaller , kitchens are getting bigger and becoming the preferred gathering point for families . Formal dining room walls are being blown out to create an
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